Invisible but indispensable

Due to the continuous growth of e-commerce sales, there is an increasing demand for delivery services. However, delivery can be problematic at times. If the recipients of the package are unavailable, it is not possible to deliver the parcel directly. Typically, in this scenario, the package is left on the doorstep, exposed and unprotected, until the recipient returns, or it is taken back to the post office or a parcel shop. The recipients are responsible for personally collecting the package, which requires them to adhere to the opening hours of the pick-up location, adding extra effort on their part. The COMFORTbox parcel locker system from SKS-Kinkel Elektronik GmbH makes delivery and pick-up much easier and more convenient.

The family-owned company has been developing advanced building communication solutions tailored to customer needs for many years. These solutions include traditional door intercom systems, letterboxes, and parcel compartment systems with IP technology. Around 100 employees work at the site in the German town of Hof im Westerwald. The solutions are utilised in a variety of ways: in residential construction, in small business and also in the retail section. Customers benefit from comprehensive service from a single source, because SKS Kinkel is responsible for the planning, development and production of the systems as well as their installation and commissioning on-site.

The SKS parcel locker system COMFORTbox with integrated SKS COMFORT IP door station was developed to facilitate easy and convenient delivery of goods. The specific advantages are the ability to move goods without any physical contact or barriers, as well as the convenience of round-the-clock secure parcel collection. Various logistics service providers, delivery companies, and suppliers can utilise the parcel compartment system. According to Claudia Kinkel, the Managing Director of SKS-Kinkel Elektronik GmbH, using direct parcel delivery helps avoid the need for additional delivery attempts. Moreover, the person receiving the package can avoid making unnecessary trips to the parcel shop or post office.

Made from galvanized steel, the parcel lockers are offered in four different sizes to accommodate standard parcel dimensions and can be customized by combining them. An XXL compartment for particularly large items or use as a clothes locker is also available, along with a key compartment for contactless rental. Optionally, a cooling compartment can also be integrated. A wide range of colours from the RAL and DB colour charts are available for customising the parcel locker systems. The solution for locking the locker is of utmost importance. “For our parcel locker system, we need a closure that can be operated electronically. It must be concealed from the outside and highly stable, as well as offering a reliable locking mechanism”, emphasises Claudia Kinkel. “EMKA‘s single-point locking system perfectly meets these requirements”. The electronic locking solution opens when the COMFORT IP door station is used and locks as soon as the door is closed again. The housing design guarantees effective protection against dirt and moisture.

The integrated COMFORT IP door station with a touchscreen controls the parcel locker system. The delivery person either enters a PIN that was sent in advance or uses a transponder. “We developed a control module specifically for this purpose, which controls the entire system”, explains Claudia Kinkel. “After entering the PIN or using the authentication medium (transponder, chip card, mobile phone), the delivery agent selects the appropriate compartment and deposits the goods there”. Once the delivery notification is received, the recipient can decide at their convenience when to pick up their parcels or goods from the system using the provided pick-up PIN. Once the correct PIN is entered, a signal is sent to the single-point locking system, causing the door to open smoothly. The goods can be removed. Afterwards, the user simply presses the flap on the compartment shut, which locks the closure.

While the COMFORTbox represents a significant increase in convenience for users, it also increases the value of the property and is therefore of interest to investors and builders. The COMFORTbox can also be used in commercial applications to optimise the movement of goods. This implies that items can be received at any time, even if the personnel are not available. Internal travel times for parcel and document delivery can thus be reduced. And there are also advantages for retailers, as it is possible to pick up goods even after closing time. If necessary, goods can even be cooled in the compartments. To integrate the system into existing business processes, such as linking to shop or merchandise management systems, the COMFORTbox has a corresponding programming interface.

The parcel locker system is quick to assemble. All assembly steps are perfectly coordinated and carried out by expert personnel. After precise pre-assembly of the modules in the factory, installation and commissioning take place on-site. After the cabling, a comprehensive check of all functions is carried out and the operation is explained.

“We are extremely satisfied with the advice, service and product from EMKA”, states Claudia Kinkel. “We deliberately chose EMKA, the world market leader in locking systems, hinges and gaskets. The company delivers quality ‘Made in Germany’ and has a high level of vertical integration. Our partner offers us top-notch advice, providing excellent customer service“.