WO2020049312A1

WO2020049312A1 - Package receiving device

Info

Publication number: WO2020049312A1
Application number: PCT/GB2019/052486
Authority: WO
Inventors: Reza Gachcar MOGHADAM
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-09-07
Filing date: 2019-09-06
Publication date: 2020-03-12
Anticipated expiration: 2021-03-07
Also published as: GB201814558D0; GB2576924A

Abstract

A secure package receiving device, for installing in a wall or door and for receiving packages to be delivered at a location. The device comprises a housing defining a package receiving space into which a package can be placed through a first opening and a second opening from which the package can be retrieved. In use, the first opening is on an outward side of the door or wall for receiving the package and the second opening is on an inward side of the door or wall for retrieving the package. The first opening is sealed by a first lockable hatch which is remotely unlockable and the second opening is sealed by a second lockable hatch, which in use, is unlocked from the inward side of the door or wall.

Description

Package Receiving Device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to remotely operated package receiving device for securely receiving packages delivered into a location such as a building, and relates particularly but not exclusively to a device to securely receive packages into a building when the occupiers are absent without compromising the security of the building.

Background

Increasingly, consumers purchase products online and have their purchases delivered to a suitable location, such as their home, by a package delivery service.

Given the ease with which products can be purchased online, shopping in this manner is particularly convenient.

However, having purchased products delivered to a location, such as a consumer’s home, often requires someone to be present to receive the item. If a person is not present to receive a purchased product, it often can’t be delivered. Product delivery options when a person is not present are often limited: many purchased products are too large to be posted through a conventional letterbox, and alternative options, such as leaving packages in a designated unlocked space, such as a garden shed, garage or outer porch may be considered undesirable as they may be at risk of being stolen.

It is an aim of certain embodiments of the invention to address such problems.

Summary of the Invention

In accordance with an aspect of the invention there is provided a secure package receiving device for installing in a wall or door and for receiving packages to be delivered at a location. The device comprises a housing defining a package receiving space including a first opening through which a package can be placed and a second opening through which the package can be retrieved. In use, the first opening is positionable on an outward side of the door or wall for receiving the package and the second opening is positionable on an inward side of the door or wall for retrieving the package. The first opening is sealed by a first lockable hatch which is remotely unlockable and the second opening is sealed by a second lockable hatch, which in use, can be unlocked from the inward side of the door or wall.

Optionally, the device comprises at least one alert signal generator for generating an alert signal indicative of a person present on the outward side of the door or wall.

Optionally, the alert signal generator comprises a push-button actuated unit.

Optionally, the alert signal generator comprises a motion detector.

Optionally, the device further comprises a camera, said camera activated responsive to generation of the alert signal, said camera is arranged to capture image data of the outward side of the door or wall.

Optionally, the device further comprises a transceiver arranged to communicate the image data to an external device.

Optionally, the external device is a user device and the image data is communicated to the user device from the transceiver via a data network.

Optionally, the transceiver is arranged to receive an unlock signal originating from the user device, said unlock signal generated at the user device, and responsive to receipt of the unlock signal, a lock unit of the secure package receiving device is adapted to unlock the first hatch.

Optionally, the external device is an application server.

Optionally, the transceiver is arranged to receive an unlock signal originating from the application server, said unlock signal generated at the application server in the event that the image data comprises an image of a face recognised by facial recognition software running on the application server, and responsive to receipt of the unlock signal, a lock unit of the secure package receiving device is adapted to unlock the first hatch.

Optionally, the transceiver is arranged to receive an unlock signal originating from the application server, said unlock signal generated at the application server in the event that the image data comprises an image of an optical code, recognised by optical code software running on the application server, and responsive to receipt of the unlock signal, a lock unit of the secure package receiving device is adapted to unlock the first hatch.

Optionally, the device further comprises an audio unit arranged to capture audio information and generate and communicate corresponding audio data to a user device and receive audio data from the user device and reproduce corresponding audio information. The audio data is communicated to and from the secure package receiving device via the transceiver.

Optionally, the first hatch is resiliently biased in a closed position.

Optionally, the device further comprises a manually operated lock for locking the second hatch.

In accordance with certain embodiments of the invention, a package receiving device is provided which enables packages to be delivered to a location even if there is no one present at the location to receive the package.

Advantageously, the device can be operated remotely and is arranged to store received packages securely until they can be recovered by a recipient.

More specifically, the device is arranged so that it can be installed in a door or wall of a building, with one side facing outwards and one side facing inwards. The device is provided with two lockable hatches. When the device is installed, a first locked hatch healing a first opening faces outwards (e.g. is accessible from outside the building) and a second locked hatch sealing a second opening faces inwards (e.g. is accessible from inside the building). The first hatch can be remotely unlocked. That is, the device is arranged so that in response to the receipt of an unlock command, a lock securing the first hatch is unlocked. The first hatch can then be opened, and a package can then be placed in a package receiving space within the device. On closing of the first hatch, it is locked again. Subsequently, the package can be retrieved from within the building via the second lockable hatch. In this way, packages can be delivered at the location without anyone being present to receive the package. Moreover, when the package is delivered, the second hatch remains locked therefore, no access is provided to the inner side of the door or wall within which the device is installed thus improving security.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a lockable door for a building, the door comprising:

a door panel for fitting into a frame to close an opening in building;

a lock for selectively allowing and preventing opening of the door panel; and a secure package receiving device as set out above.

In a preferred embodiment the secure package receiving device is formed integrally with said door.

In another preferred embodiment the secure package receiving device is formed integrally with said door.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of receiving a delivery of a package into an interior of a building, the building having a lockable door including a receiving device including a housing having a first and second openings through which a package can be placed the first opening located on an outward side of the door and the second opening located on an inward side of the door with the first opening is sealed by a first lockable hatch which is remotely unlockable and the second opening is sealed by a second lockable hatch which can be unlocked from the inward side of the door, the method comprising the steps:

unlocking the second hatch from the inward side of the door;

unlocking and opening the first hatch;

if not already open, opening the second hatch;

passing the package through the first and second openings into the interior of the building; and

closing and locking the first hatch.

The method may further comprise using a motion detector to detect the presence of a person in the vicinity of the package receiving device said motion detector generating an alert signal.

The method may also further comprise using a button associated with the package receiving device for generating an alert signal.

Preferably the method further comprises using a localised signal receiver for receiving a localised signal and generating an alert signal in the event that the localised signal substantially matches predetermined criteria.

The method may further comprise sending said alert signal to a communication device associated with an operator of said package receiving device.

The method may also further comprise activating a camera associated with the package receiving device and sending image signals produced by said camera to said operator to view as images.

Preferably the method further comprises activating a microphone associated with said package receiving device and sending audio signals produced by said microphone for said operator to hear as sounds.

In a preferred embodiment the unlocking of said first hatch is in response to an unlocking signal sent from a device associated with said operator.

In another preferred embodiment the unlocking of said first hatch is in response to a positive outcome using facial recognition software.

In a further preferred embodiment the locking of said first hatch is in response to a positive outcome using graphic code reading software.

Various further features and aspects of the invention are defined in the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings where like parts are provided with corresponding reference numerals and in which:

Figure 1 provides a schematic diagram of a secure package receiving device arranged in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention;

Figures 2 and 3 provides schematic diagrams of a secure package receiving device arranged in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention installed in a door, and

Figures 4 and 5 are isometric views from the front and also from the rear and one side of a secure package receiving device in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Detailed Description

In accordance with embodiments of the invention, a secure package receiving device is provided comprising a housing comprising an inner space for receiving a package. The housing has a first and second opening. The inner space is accessed via the first opening and the second opening, typically opposite the first opening.

The first opening is sealed by a first lockable hatch which can be remotely operated, by, for, example being remotely unlocked. The second opening is sealed by a second lockable hatch. The secure package receiving device is arranged so that it can be installed in a wall or a door of a building with the first opening on the outward side of the building so that the first hatch is accessible from the outside of the building and the second opening on the inward side of the building so that the second hatch is accessible from the inside of the building. Typically, an aperture of a suitable size is made in the door or wall and the secure package receiving device is installed within this aperture.

Figure 1 provides a simplified schematic diagram of components of a secure package receiving device 101 in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

The secure package receiving device 101 comprises an inner housing 102, typical made from a tamper resistant material, for example a metal such as steel. The inner housing 102 includes a first opening sealed by a first lockable hatch and a second opening sealed by a second hatch.

The first hatch is provided by a first flap 103, typically made a tamper resistant material, for example a metal such as steel, and mounted on a spring-loaded hinge 104 and lockable in a closed position by an electronically controlled lock 105. The first flap 103 is resiliently biased in a closed configuration, typically by the spring loaded hinge 104. Typically, the flap 103 is arranged to open outwards. The first flap is an outer flap in that it faces outwards when the device is installed.

The lock 105 is connected to a control unit 106, typically provided by a suitably programmed microprocessor, which is also connected to a camera 107. The camera 107 can be a conventional digital video camera as is known in the art. In certain embodiments, the camera is equipped with“night vision”, that is the camera includes functionality that enables image data to be captured in low-light conditions. In certain embodiments, this is based on“infrared” whereby an infrared light source is included in the camera which generates infrared illumination which can be detected by the camera as it reflects off objects in front of the camera.

The control unit 106 is further connected to a motion detector 108 (typically provided by a motion detector unit as is well-known in the art), an audio unit 109 which comprises a speaker and a microphone, and a“buzzer” unit 1 10 typically comprising a push-button and push-button actuated signal generator.

The motion detector 108 provides a first signal generator unit which generate an alert signal indicating that a person is present in the vicinity of the secure package receiving device, e.g. a package delivery person.

The“buzzer” unit 1 10 provides a second signal generator unit which generates an alert signal indicating that a person is present in the vicinity of the secure package receiving device, e.g. a package delivery person.

The second lockable hatch is provided by a second flap 1 1 1 (typically hinge mounted), typically made from steel, which includes a manually operated lock 1 12 which allows the second lockable hatch to be locked and unlocked. The second flap 1 1 1 is an inner flap in that it faces inwards when the device is installed. The separation of the first and second flaps 103 and 1 1 1 is approximately the same as, and does not substantially exceed, the thickness of the door (indicated as D in figure 5). That is, the external surfaces of the first and second flaps are approximately coplanar with the inner and outer surfaces of the door. As a result, the space between the internal surfaces of the flaps is minimal and does not provide any storage space.

The control unit 105 is further connected to a transceiver 1 13. The transceiver 1 13 is arranged to communicate data to and from a further transceiver 1 14 (for example a WiFi router within the vicinity of the door or wall within which the device is installed) which is connected via a suitable data network 1 15 (e.g. an IP network such as the internet) to an application server 1 16. The application server 1 16 is further connected, for example via the data network 1 15, to a base station 1 17 (for example via a cellular mobile telephone network, not shown). The base station 1 17 is arranged in operation to communicate data to and from a mobile user device 1 18 (for example a smart phone or suitably connected device such as a personal computer or tablet).

The secure package receiving device is installed such that the camera 107 is positioned so that people standing in front of the door are within a field of view of the camera 107.

The motion detector 108 is adapted to detect the presence of a human being standing in front of the door or wall into which the secure package receiving device is installed.

The audio unit 109 is configured so that the speaker of the audio unit 109 can create sound which can be heard by a person standing in front of the door and the microphone can pick up sound, e.g. talking, from a person standing in front of the door.

In use, a person, for example a delivery person with a package to deliver approaches the door within which the secure package receiving device 101 is installed. The motion detector 108 detects this and sends an alert signal to the control unit 106. Additionally, or alternatively, the buzzer unit 1 10 may be activated by the person who has approached the door by actuating the push-button. The push-button actuated generator of the buzzer unit 1 10 generates an alert signal which is sent to the control unit 106.

On receipt of the alert signal (generated by the buzzer unit or the motion detector), the control unit 106 activates the camera 107 which begins capturing image data (e.g. video data). The camera 107 sends this image data to the control unit 106, which in turn sends the image data to the transceiver 1 13. The transceiver 1 13 transmits the image data to the further transceiver 1 14 which communicates the data, via the data network 1 15, to the application server 1 16. The application server 1 16 communicates a message to the mobile user device 1 18, via the data network 1 15 and the base station 1 17 indicating that the motion detector 108 has detected a person standing in front of the door.

The mobile user device 1 18 has software running thereon (for example, an “app” downloaded from an“app store”) which on receipt of the message from the application server 1 16 is arranged to generate an alert message on the mobile user device 1 18 (for example an audible alert and/or a visual alert on a display of the mobile device 1 18) which indicates that a person has been detected in front of the door. Typically, the software running on the mobile user device 1 18 presents a control to the user (for example a“button” graphical element on a touch screen display) which on activation generates an accept message which is communicated back to the control unit 106 via the base station 1 17, application server 1 16 and transceivers 1 13, 1 14.

On receipt of the accept message, the control unit 106 communicates the image data to the mobile user device 1 18 (via the base station 1 17, application server 1 16 and transceivers 1 13, 1 14). The image data is then displayed on the display of the mobile user device 1 18 (as described above, typically the image data is video data which is displayed as video on the mobile user device). In a typical mode of operation, if the user of the mobile device 1 18 is happy that the person standing in front of the door (and thus appearing in the image data) is a genuine delivery person, they select a lock release control on the mobile user device 1 18 (for example another button graphical element) which generates a lock release control message which is communicated back to the control unit 106 (via the base station 1 17, application server 1 16 and transceivers 1 13, 1 14).

In certain examples, the audio unit 109 allows the user of the mobile user device and the person in front of the door to communicate by speaking to each other. For example, on receipt of the accept message, under the control of the control unit 106, audio data of the person talking in front of the door is captured by the microphone of the audio unit 109 is communicated to the application server 1 16 and on to the mobile user device 1 18 via the data network 1 15 and base station. Under the control of the software running on the mobile user device, this audio data is turned into an audio output using an amplifier and speaker which is part of the mobile user device 1 18. Similarly, under control of the software running on the mobile user device 1 18, audio data of the user of the mobile user device 1 18 is captured by a microphone which is part of the mobile user device 1 18. Under control of the software running on the mobile user device 1 18, this audio data is communicated via the base station, data network 1 15 and application server 1 16 to the control unit 106. Under the control of the control unit 106, an audio signal corresponding to the audio data is communicated to the audio unit 109 and an audio output generated by the speaker of the audio unit 109.

On receipt of the lock release control message, the control unit 106 sends a control signal to the electronically controlled lock 105. On receipt of this control signal, the electronically controlled lock unlocks and the delivery person can open the outer flap 103 to place a package to be delivered within an inner space 1 19 of the secure package receiving device 101 . Typically, once the outer flap 103 is closed again, the lock locks again and the outer flap 103 is secured.

The package can be retrieved from the secure package receiving device 101 by a user unlocking the manually operated lock 1 12 and opening the inner flap 1 1 1 .

In this way, a package can be delivered without a user needing to be present to open the door to receive the package from a delivery person.

The process of operation of the secure package receiving device can be summarised as follows. An operator, that is a person expecting to receive a package delivered to a building and who is typically absent when the package is due to be delivered, firstly, before leaving the building, ensures that the second flap is unlocked which is achieved from the inward side door. This unlocking can be any suitable means which can be achieved from the inward side of door and may require an unlocking device such as a key may simply be the turning of a locking handle inside of the door (such as that shown at 1 12 in figure 5). Once the second hatch unlocked the operator is free to exit the building by opening the door panel, closing and locking it behind them. The first flap remains locked.

When a package delivery person arrives to deliver a package to the absent operator at that building, the delivery person’s presence is identified and their identity verified by some suitable means (communication with the operator via the camera and audio unit, QR code recognition or facial recognition, as explained further below) and as a result, the first flap is unlocked. If the second flap is not already open it is opened and the package can be passed through the first and second openings and into the interior of the building. The first flap is then closed, typically automatically by a spring loading and locked, also typically automatically.

In Figure 1 , for clarity, the control unit, the transceiver, the motion detector, the camera, the audio unit and the buzzer unit are shown as separate discrete components from the housing, the flaps and locks. However, it will be understood that typically, the components of the secure package receiving device are provided as a single integrated unit which is covered and protected with a waterproof cover leaving only the camera and buzzer visible.

Figure 2 provides a simplified schematic diagram of a door 201 in which has been installed a secure package receiving device in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 2 shows a configuration in which the outer flap 103 is in the closed position. The outer side of the secure package receiving device is provided with an outer fascia 202. A corresponding inner fascia (not shown) is provided on the inner side of the secure package receiving device. The camera 107 is mounted such that its lens 203 is directed through an aperture in the fascia 202. Similarly, the sensor 204 of the motion detector is directed through another aperture of the fascia 202. Similarly, a push button 205 of the buzzer unit protrudes is actuated through a corresponding aperture of the fascia 202.

Figure 3 provides a simplified schematic diagram of the door 201 depicted in Figure 2 except that Figure 3 shows a configuration in which the outer flap 103 is in the open position.

In certain embodiments, the system shown in Figure 1 can operate in an automated mode. In the automated mode, the camera is activated as described above, however, once activated, the delivery person positions within the field of view of the camera a graphical code (for example a QR code, or bar code, printed on a label attached to the package). Image data containing images of the QR code are sent to the application server 1 16. The application server 1 16 has running thereon QR recognition software and has stored thereon data corresponding to one or more predetermined QR codes which are known to correspond to QR codes affixed to one or more packages to be delivered. If the QR code contained in the image data is recognised by the QR recognition software, the application server 1 16 generates the lock release control message and sends this to the control unit 106.

In certain embodiments, the system shown in Figure 1 can operate in another further automated mode. In this automated mode, the application server 1 16 has running thereon facial recognition software. In this second automated mode, the camera is activated as described above. Once activated, the camera captures image data of the delivery person’s face and, under the control of the control unit 106, corresponding image data is sent to the application server. The facial recognition software then compares the image data with image data of a known person (e.g. a trusted delivery person). If the facial recognition software determines that the image data matches the image data corresponding to the known person, the application server 1 16 generates the lock release control message and sends this to the control unit 106.

In certain embodiments, the system shown in Figure 1 can operate in a further automated mode. In the further automated mode, the application server 1 16 is running thereon localised signal recognition software. In this automated mode, when a localised signal producer, including, but not limited to, for example, an NFC generator and a Bluetooth generator on a device such as a mobile phone, or an RFID tag, is detected by a matching detector associated with the package receiving device and a match between that signal and predetermined criteria the first hatch is unlocked the application server 1 16 generates the lock release control message and sends this to the control unit 106. Thus, access to the first and second opening is allowed enabling delivery of the package through the device.

It should be noted that the above methods of opening the first hatch all fall within the meaning of“remote unlocking” for the purposes of this application at least. In particular the access is given remotely via application server 1 16 in communication with the control unit 106.

In certain embodiments, the software running on the mobile user device provides an alarm function that enables the user of the mobile user device to generate and alarm message which is communicated back to the secure package receiving device 101 causing an alarm signal to be generated at the secure package receiving device 101 .

For example, the software running on the mobile user device may presents a control to the user (for example a“button” graphical element on a touch screen display) which on activation generates an alarm message which is communicated back to the control unit 106 via the base station 1 17, application server 1 16 and transceivers 1 13, 1 14. On receipt of the alarm message, the control unit 106 is arranged to control the audio unit 109 to generate an alarm signal, such as a loud high-pitched sound. In this way, the user is able to control the secure package receiving device to generate the alarm signal, if, for example, they don’t consider that the person standing in front of the door (and thus appearing in the image data) is a genuine delivery person.

As described above, typically, an aperture of a suitable size is made in the door or wall and a secure package receiving device in accordance with embodiments of the invention is installed within this aperture. In certain embodiments, the secure package receiving device is supplied as a kit in a two part arrangement. A first part comprises the housing attached to the inner fascia and the second part is the outer housing. During installation, the first part is passed, housing first, through the aperture until the inner fascia is flush against the inner side of the door or wall. The outer fascia is then attached to the housing from the outer side of the door or wall and so that the outer fascia is flush against the outer side of the door or wall. The first and second part are then secured together, and if appropriate, the outer fascia is secured to the outer side of the door or wall and the inner fascia is attached to the inner side of the door or wall.

As described above, in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention, certain components (such as the housing and outer hatch) of the secure package receiving device can be made from tamper resistant material such as steel. Other components, such as the outer and inner fascia and inner flap can be made from any suitable material such as tamper resistant material such as steel or hardened plastic.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features. The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims are generally intended as“open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as“having at least,” the term“includes” should be interpreted as“includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g.,“a” and/or“an” should be interpreted to mean“at least one” or“one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of "two recitations," without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations).

It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described herein for purposes of illustration, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the various embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A secure package receiving device for installing in a door and for receiving packages to be delivered at a location, said device comprising a housing including: a first opening through which a package can be placed, and

a second opening, wherein, in use, the first opening is positionable on an outward side of the door for receiving the package and the second opening is positionable on an inward side of the door, and the first opening is sealed by a first lockable hatch which is remotely unlockable and the second opening is sealed by a second lockable hatch, which in use, can be unlocked from the inward side of the door.

2. A secure package receiving device according to claim 1 , wherein the device comprises at least one alert signal generator for generating an alert signal indicative of a person present on the outward side of the door or wall.

3. A secure package receiving device according to claim 2, wherein the alert signal generator comprises a push-button actuated unit.

4. A secure package receiving device according to claim 2, wherein the alert signal generator comprises a motion detector.

5. A secure package receiving device according to claim 2 further comprising a camera, said camera activated responsive to generation of the alert signal, said camera is arranged to capture image data of the outward side of the door or wall.

6. A secure package receiving device according to claim 5, further comprising a transceiver arranged to communicate the image data to an external device.

7. A secure package receiving device according to claim 6, wherein the external device is a user device and the image data is communicated to the user device from the transceiver via a data network.

8. A secure package receiving device according to claim 7, wherein the transceiver is arranged to receive an unlock signal originating from the user device, said unlock signal generated at the user device, and responsive to receipt of the unlock signal, a lock unit of the secure package receiving device is adapted to unlock the first hatch.

9. A secure package receiving device according to claim 6, wherein the external device is an application server.

10. A secure package receiving device according to claim 9, wherein the transceiver is arranged to receive an unlock signal originating from the application server, said unlock signal generated at the application server in the event that the image data comprises an image of a face recognised by facial recognition software running on the application server, and responsive to receipt of the unlock signal, a lock unit of the secure package receiving device is adapted to unlock the first hatch.

1 1 . A secure package receiving device according to claim 9, wherein the transceiver is arranged to receive an unlock signal originating from the application server, said unlock signal generated at the application server in the event that the image data comprises an image of an optical code, recognised by optical code software running on the application server, and responsive to receipt of the unlock signal, a lock unit of the secure package receiving device is adapted to unlock the first hatch.

12. A secure package receiving device according to any of claims 6 to 1 1 , comprising an audio unit arranged to:

capture audio information and generate and communicate corresponding audio data to a user device, and

receive audio data from the user device and reproduce corresponding audio information, wherein

said audio data is communicated to and from the secure package receiving device via the transceiver.

13. A secure package receiving device according to any previous claim, wherein the first hatch is resiliently biased in a closed position.

14. A secure package receiving device according to any previous claim, further comprising a manually operated lock for locking the second hatch.

15. A lockable door for a building, the door comprising:

a door panel for fitting into a frame to close an opening in building;

a lock for selectively allowing and preventing opening of the door panel; and a secure package receiving device according to any of the preceding claims.

16. A lockable door according to claim 15, wherein said secure package receiving device is formed integrally with said door.

17. A lockable door according to claim 15 or 16, wherein a distance between external surfaces of said first and second hatches substantially does not exceed the thickness of said door.

18. A method of receiving a delivery of a package into an interior of a building, the building having a lockable door including a receiving device including a housing having a first and second openings through which a package can be placed the first opening located on an outward side of the door and the second opening located on an inward side of the door with the first opening is sealed by a first lockable hatch which is remotely unlockable and the second opening is sealed by a second lockable hatch which can be unlocked from the inward side of the door, the method comprising the steps:

unlocking the second hatch from the inward side of the door;

unlocking and opening the first hatch;

if not already open, opening the second hatch;

closing and locking the first hatch.

19. A method according to claim 18 further comprising using a motion detector to detect the presence of a person in the vicinity of the package receiving device said motion detector generating an alert signal.

20. A method according to claim 18 further comprising using a button associated with the package receiving device for generating an alert signal.

21. A method according to claim 18 further comprising using a localised signal receiver for receiving a localised signal and generating an alert signal in the event that the localised signal substantially matches predetermined criteria.

22. A method according to any of claims 19 to 21 further comprising sending said alert signal to a communication device associated with an operator of said package receiving device.

23. A method according to claim 22, further comprising activating a camera associated with the package receiving device and sending image signals produced by said camera to said operator to view as images.

24. A method according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising activating a microphone associated with said package receiving device and sending audio signals produced by said microphone for said operator to hear as sounds.

25. A method according to any of claims 18 to 24, wherein said unlocking of said first hatch is in response to an unlocking signal sent from a device associated with said operator.

26. A method according to claim 25, wherein said device associated with said operator is a computer device such as a mobile telephone device.

27. A method according to any of claims 18 to 24, wherein said unlocking of said first hatch is in response to a positive outcome using facial recognition software.

28. A method according to any of claims 18 to 24, wherein said locking of said first hatch is in response to a positive outcome using graphic code reading software.