DeliveryPoints: SmartHatch

Overview

In apartments built prior to localnet, it is unlikely that retro-fitting a SmartWaiter to every apartment will be cost effective. However, if one of the existing elevator shafts can be partitioned - leaving a slightly smaller elevator (perhaps 50cm / 18 inches narrower) this space can be used to install a delivery system with access points on each floor of the building.

Unattended Delivery

In this case, deliveries are made to the whole apartment block at once. A block of containers is typically delivered to the basement where there are heated, chilled and frozen compartments in which goods can be kept at the correct temperature until the resident comes to the hatch and calls up one or more of his containers.

Display/Control Panel

A rugged display panel beside the hatch lets the residents see which containers are being held for them and let them interact with the localnet system. Touching one button may request a fresh WasteBox - which appears within a few seconds and is swapped with the partially full one they have brought out to the hatch. Touching another button requests that his morning post and breakfast are sent up.

Alternatively, the user can control the hatch from his mobile phone, laptop or other internet connection so that his items are pre-fetched to the correct floor and are ready within a few seconds of him reaching the hatch.

Recyclables

OmniBoxes arrive most days with the food you need for that evening and the next morning. As these are emptied, you place recyclables (glass, plastic, tins and compostable waste) in the box and pop them in the hatch when full or you want rid of them.

Chilled and Frozen Goods

Space is at a premium in an apartment. Having access to shared chilled and frozen storage via the dumb-waiter means you don't need such a large (or any) freezer or refrigerator in the apartment itself.