AU2017204096A1 - Storage System - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a distributed system 100 comprising a plurality of locker units 102, a locker management system 104, and a plurality of remote user devices 106. The locker units 102 and remote devices are configured to communicate with the 5 management system (and vice versa) via a wireless and/or wired network. 9165798_3 (GHMatters) P103153.AU

Description

STORAGE SYSTEM Technical Field

This disclosure relates to a distributed locker system for providing storage of items.

Background Art

Lockers are commonly used to provide temporary storage of items. This is especially the case in public venues (e.g. swimming pools, airports, etc.) to allow people to store items that they do not need to have with them for a period of time.

In most cases, such lockers are in the form of permanent structures that are costly and invasive to install, and susceptible to vandalism (especially during quiet periods, such as late at night).

It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

Summary

Disclosed herein is a distributed locker system comprising a plurality of mobile locker units. Each locker unit comprises a plurality of lockable storage compartments, and a locator arrangement for determining the location of the locker unit. The locker system further comprises a locker management system for communicating with the plurality of mobile locker units. The management system is configured to receive the locations of the locker units from their respective locator arrangements, provide the locations of the locker units to a remote user device, and receive a reservation request from the remote user device. The reservation request indicates a selected locker unit from the plurality of locker units. The management system is further configured to provide selective access to a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.

That the locker units are mobile, means that they may be able to be moved according to demand, for security reasons, maintenance, etc. The locator arrangements and the management system accommodate such movement by allowing users to determine a suitable locker (i.e. at a suitable location) and reserve a storage compartment of that locker from a remote device (the user does not need to be located in the vicinity of the locker unit to reserve the storage unit).

In one embodiment the storage compartments may be electronically lockable. For example, each storage compartment may comprise a magnetic lock that secures a door of the storage compartment in a closed position by way of a magnetic force. Alternatively each storage compartment may comprise a deadbolt-type lock that is activated electronically (e.g. by solenoid).

In one embodiment the locker management system may be further configured to store a security key associated with the reservation request.

In one embodiment the selective access may be provided based on a comparison of the stored security key with an inputted security key.

In one embodiment the locker management system may further be configured to provide a storage compartment identifier to the remote user device. The storage compartment identifier may identify a storage compartment of the selected locker unit. In this way a user of the remote user device may be able to use the identifier to located the reserved storage compartment.

In one embodiment each locker unit may comprise an interface to receive the inputted security key. The interface may comprise one or more of a touchscreen, keypad, buttons, microphone or camera.

In one embodiment each storage compartment may comprise an interface to receive the inputted security key. The interface may comprise one or more of a touchscreen, keypad, buttons, biometric scanner, microphone or camera. For example, the security key may be in the form of biometric data and a camera or biometric scanner may be used to receive this biometric data (e.g. fingerprint, facial scan, etc.)

In one embodiment the management system may further be configured to generate the security key associated with the reservation request.

In one embodiment the management system may further be configured to provide the generated security key, associated with the reservation request, to the remote user device. The security key may then be stored on the remote user device for later review by the user.

In one embodiment the management system may be configured to receive the security key associated with the reservation request from the remote user device. This may allow a user to create the security key, which may be easier to remember than a security key generated by the management system.

In one embodiment the management system may further be configured to receive the location of the remote user device from the remote user device, and provide the locations of a selection of locker units. This may limit the amount of information that is passed between the management system and the remote user device. The selection of locker units may be based on the locations of the of the locker units with respect to the remote user device. The selection of locker units may comprise locker units that are within a predetermined distance of the remote user device. Alternatively, the selection of locker units may be a predetermined number (e.g. five) of the closest units to the user.

In one embodiment the management system may be further configured to store information regarding the availability of the storage compartments, and to communicate the availability information to the remote user device.

In one embodiment the reservation request may further comprise a reservation period. This period may be chosen from a number of predetermined increments (e.g. 15 minute, 30 minute or hour increments).

In one embodiment the management system may be configured to modify the stored availability information in response to the reservation request.

In one embodiment the management system may prevent reservation of a storage compartment in a locker unit during a period where the number of storage compartments reserved in that locker unit is equal to a total reservation capacity of that locker unit. This may prevent a locker unit from being oversubscribed (i.e. where the number of reserved storage compartments during a particular period is larger than the number of storage compartments in the locker unit).

In one embodiment the total reservation capacity may be less than the total number of storage compartments in the locker unit. In this way, a number of storage compartments may be set aside for when one or more users do not return to a reserved storage compartment at the end of the reserved period (i.e. meaning that the storage compartment remains unavailable).

In one embodiment each locker unit may comprise a security camera. Video data from the video camera may be transmitted from the locker units to the management system and then stored by the management system. Stored video data may be accessible by a security service external to the management system. The external security service may have access to data from one or more of the locker units via the management system. The external security service may, for example, comprise a security service that is local to a particular locker unit (and that can react locally to a security issue with the locker unit).

In one embodiment the management system may be configured to detect, based on the locations received from the locker units, when unauthorised movement of a locker unit has occurred. The locker units may comprise motion sensors that can also be used to detect unauthorised movement.

In one embodiment each mobile locker unit may comprise a transportable trailer and one or more storage compartment modules, comprising the storage compartments and mounted to the trailer. Each storage compartment module may be removably mounted. This may allow one storage compartment module, having a first configuration (e.g. of storage compartments) with another storage compartment having a second (different) configuration. This may add further versatility to the system.

In one embodiment, one or more of the storage compartments may be removably mounted to the storage compartment module.

In one embodiment each locker unit may comprise a photovoltaic panel. This may allow the locker units to operate without being connected to a mains power supply.

In one embodiment one or more storage compartments may comprise one or more power outlets for charging an electronic device.

In one embodiment each locker unit may comprise one or more displays, and the management system may be configured to receive an advertising request from a remote device and reserve one or more of the one or more displays according to the advertising request.

In one embodiment the management system may be configured to receive content data from the remote device and may be further configured to transmit that content data to one or more of the one or more displays, for display on that display.

Also disclosed is a method for providing access to a lockable storage compartment of a distributed locker system comprising a plurality of locker units. Each locker unit comprises a plurality of lockable storage compartments. The method comprises receiving the locations of the locker units, providing the locations of the locker units to a remote user device, and receiving a reservation request from the remote user device. The reservation request indicates a selected locker unit from the plurality of locker units. The method further comprises providing selective access to a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise storing a security key associated with the reservation request.

In one embodiment the step of providing selective access to a storage compartment may comprise comparing the stored security key with an inputted security key.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise providing a storage compartment identifier to the remote user device. The storage compartment identifier may identify a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise generating the security key associated with the reservation request.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise providing the generated security key, associated with the reservation request, to the remote user device.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise receiving the security key from the remote user device.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise receiving the location of the remote user device from the remote user device, and providing the locations of a selection of locker units. The selection of locker units may be based on the locations of the lockers units with respect to the remote user device.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise storing information regarding the availability of the storage compartments, and communicating the availability information to the remote user device.

In one embodiment the reservation request may further comprise a reservation period.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise modifying the stored availability information in response to the reservation request.

In one embodiment the method may further comprise preventing reservation of a storage compartment in a locker unit during a period where the number of storage compartments reserved in that locker unit is equal to a total reservation capacity of that locker unit. The total reservation capacity may be less than the total number of storage compartments in the locker unit.

Also disclosed is a computer program comprising instructions for controlling a computer to implement a method as described above.

Also disclosed is a computer readable medium, providing a computer program as described above.

Also disclosed is a data signal comprising a computer program as described above.

Also disclosed is a mobile locker unit comprising transportation means, a plurality of electronically lockable storage compartments mounted to the transportation means and a locater device.

In one embodiment the transportation means may comprise a trailer. The trailer may comprise a coupling assembly for coupling to a vehicle.

In one embodiment the locker unit may further comprise a storage compartment module removably mountable to the transportation means. The storage compartment module may comprise the plurality of storage compartments. The plurality of storage compartments may be removably mounted to the storage module.

In one embodiment the storage compartment module may be slidably mounted to the transportation means.

In one embodiment one or more of the storage compartments may be slidably mounted to the storage module.

Also disclosed is a distributed locker system comprising a plurality of mobile locker units, each locker unit comprising a plurality of displays. The system further comprises a locker management system for communicating with the plurality of mobile locker units. The management system is configured to receive a reservation request from a remote user device, the reservation request indicating a selected locker unit from the plurality of locker units, and control one or more displays on the selected locker unit to display content associated with the reservation request.

In one embodiment each locker unit may comprise a locator arrangement for determining the location of the locker unit. The locker management system may be further configured to receive the locations of the locker units from their respective locator arrangements, and provide the locations of the locker units to the remote user device.

In one embodiment the displayed content may be received from the remote user device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic showing a distributed locker system;

Figure 2A, 2B and 2C are top, side and rear views of an embodiment of a locker unit in a distributed locker system;

Figure 3 is a further schematic of a distributed locker system;

Figure 4 is a flow chart showing a process for managing a reservation of a storage compartment in a distributed locker system.

Figure 5 is a flow chart showing a process for managing access to a storage compartment in a distributed locker system; and

Figure 6 is a flow chart showing a process for managing a reservation of a storage compartment in a distributed locker system.

Detailed Description

In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

Referring firstly to Figure 1, a general overview of the distributed system 100 is provided schematically. The system 100 comprises a plurality of locker units 102, a locker management system 104, and a plurality of remote user devices 106. The locker units 102 and remote devices are configured to communicate with the management system (and vice versa) via a wireless and/or wired network.

The locker units 102 are mobile, meaning that they can be configured and transported to various locations according to expected or predicted consumer demand. To track this movement, the lockers units 102 comprise locator arrangements 108, in the form of GPS devices (although other systems may be used, such as GLONASS, cell tower location technology, WIFI, etc). The locator arrangements can detect the location or position of their respective locker units 102 and this location or position can be communicated to the management system 104.

Each locker unit 102 also comprises a plurality of electronically lockable storage compartments 110. These storage compartments 110 can be reserved by a user at the locker unit 102 via the access interface module (where fitted), and/or using one of the remote devices 106 (e.g. laptop, mobile phone, tablet, desktop computer, etc.), via the management system 104. This relationship between the management system 104, remote user devices 106 and locker units 102 is described in more detail with reference to Figure 4 below.

Figures 2A, 2B and 2C show an exemplary locker unit 202 forming part of a system similar to that described above. The locker unit 202 comprises a storage compartment module 212 (comprising a plurality of storage compartments 210) mounted to a trailer 214. The trailer 214 comprises a coupling means 216 (e.g. trailer hitch) that allows it to be coupled to a vehicle, and wheels 218 that allow it to be towed to various locations. This means the locker unit 202 can be positioned by an operator based on demand, or predicted demand (e.g. such as at public events). This mobile arrangement also provides an alternative to permanent structures that may otherwise be costly, invasive and susceptible to vandalism (especially during quiet periods, such as late at night). The ability to transport the locker unit 202 also allows maintenance of the locker unit 202 to be performed offsite (e.g. at a depot).

In order to facilitate the mobility of the locker unit 202, the locker unit 202 comprises a locator arrangement 208 in the form of a GPS unit that can be used to track the location of the locker unit 202. The location of the locker unit 202 may be transmitted at predetermined intervals to a management system (e.g. as shown in Figures 1 and 4). As will be discussed in more detail below, this tracking ability allows a management system to provide a user with the locations of locker units 202 in the vicinity of the user (or, alternatively, all locations that locker units 202 are located).

The storage compartment module 212 has a modular design. That is, the mounting arrangement between the module 212 and the trailer 214 is standardised so as to allow replacement of one storage module 212 with another. For example, a first storage module 212 may be replaced by another that has a different number, type and/or arrangement of storage compartments 210. This offers flexibility to the overall system and, again, allows the locker unit 202 to be customised according to consumer demand or predicted consumer demand.

As mentioned above, the storage module 212 comprises a plurality of storage compartments 210. These storage compartments 210 are stacked in a back-to-back configuration, whereby they extend along two sides of the generally boxshaped locker unit 202. In the illustrated embodiment the storage compartment module 212 comprises two storage compartment 210 types (in this case, two different sizes) that are available for use by users. In operation, these different storage compartments 210 may be offered to users at different charges (i.e. giving users a cheaper option where only a small storage volume is required). Each storage compartment 210 comprises walls (i.e. separations) defining an internal cavity, and lockable door to restrict access to the cavity. The door is electronically lockable and can be controlled by an access module which can form part of the locker unit 202, but is not shown in the figures. The operation of this access module is described in more detail below with reference to Figure 4

In addition to individual doors, in this embodiment, each side of the locker unit 202 (generally formed of the storage compartment doors) comprises a master door. The doors of the individual storage compartments 202 are hingedly mounted to this master door, such that when the master door is opened, access is provided to all of the storage compartments 202 on that side of the locker unit 202. This master door may allow an operator to quickly clear out any items that remain at the end of a shift (e.g. that have been left behind by users of the locker unit) 202. Hence, access to the master door may be restricted to an operator of the locker unit.

The locker unit comprises two sides (comprising the storage compartments 202), a front towing end, and a rear end. In addition to the coupling means 216 (e.g. towing hitch), the towing end comprises adjustable stability legs 220 that ensure the locker unit 202 can be positioned so that the storage compartments 210 are generally level. The adjustability of the legs 220 may be advantageous when used on uneven terrain, such as on a beach or in a park. The towing end also comprises a tool box 222 that can be used to store tools, first aid items, a fire extinguisher, spare parts, etc. This tool box 222 may be electronically lockable (like the storage compartments 202) or may make use of a non-electronic locking arrangement for access by an operator.

The rear end of the locker unit 202, opposite the towing end, comprises a user interface 224. In particular, the user interface 224 comprises a display 226 and an input device 228 having a plurality of buttons. This interface 224 can be operated by a user to reserve a storage compartment 210 via an external management system, to access a storage compartment 210 of the locker unit 202, to pay for a storage compartment 210, or to obtain general information about the system. In regards to the reservation of a storage compartment 210, the interface 224 comprises a printer (not shown) that can provide a user with a receipt containing information relevant to a reservation (e.g. a security key, storage compartment identifier, payment receipt, etc). Again, this process is discussed in further detail below. The interface 224 may also comprise a microphone and telecommunications equipment to allow a user to communicate with an operator (e.g. for when a user forgets and/or loses the security key).

Other than the interface 224, a user can obtain information from a display 230 that is mounted to the roof of the locker unit 202. Such information may include e.g. date/time, weather, availability, time to unit shutdown, etc. Also mounted to the roof, and providing power for the roof mounted display, are two photovoltaic panels 232. These can be used to charge a battery that powers the interface 224, display 226, locking mechanisms, and other electronic equipment forming part of the locker unit 202. These components may alternatively or additionally be powered by a connection to mains power or a generator. In use, the generator, battery and other components of the locker unit 202 may produce heat. To accommodate this, and to generally manage the temperature of the locker unit 202, the locker unit 202 is ventilated by way of two vents 234 (one mounted on the roof, and another mounted at the rear end below the interface). In some embodiments, the locker unit 202 may comprise an internal fan to facilitate airflow throughout the interior of the locker unit 202 (including the locker cavities) and into or out of the vents 234.

The two sides, and the rear end of the locker unit 202 also comprise screens 236 that are hingedly connected to the roof of the locker unit 202 and that can be supported in an open position (i.e. so as to be generally coplanar with the roof) by extendible support poles 238 (or other such bracing mechanism). When in this open position, the screens 236 act as shelters so as to protect the storage compartments 210, user interface 224 and users from sun, rain, snow, etc. When in the closed position (i.e. covering their respective portions of the locker unit 202) the screens 236 protect the sides of the locker unit 202 and prevent access to the storage compartments 210 and the interface 224. In this respect, the screens may increase the security of the locker unit 202 when not in use (particularly with regards to vandalism and unauthorised entry). The screens 236 may be operated by or via the management system, or may be operated automatically via a controller of the locker unit 202. So, for example, at a predetermined time the screens 236 may open or close. This opening or closing may be monitored by an external operator via a CCTV system that also forms part of the locker unit.

The CCTV system comprises a number of video cameras 240 mounted to the locker unit 202. Video from these cameras 240 may be stored in the locker unit 202, or communicated to the management system or a separate security service. Similarly, these cameras 240 may be accessed remotely (via the management system or security service). This reduces security risks when left at a location unattended.

Figures 3A-3D illustrate a further locker unit embodiment 302. This locker unit 302 is similar to the locker unit 202 described above and, for this reason, corresponding reference numerals have been used.

The locker unit 302 comprises four storage compartment modules 312a, 312b, 312a’, 312b’ (two on each side of the locker unit 302) mounted to a trailer 314. Each storage compartment module comprises a plurality of storage compartments 310. The trailer 314 comprises wheels 318 that allow it to be towed to various locations and adjustable stability legs 320 that ensure the trailer is stable (especially on uneven terrain). In order to facilitate this mobility, the locker unit 302 comprises a locator arrangement 308 in the form of a GPS unit that can be used to track the location of the locker unit 302.

One difference in the presently illustrated locker unit 302 is that the trailer supports an enclosure 376 that comprises sidewalls 378 and a roof 380. The enclosure 376 defines an interior space that is accessible by e.g. an operator or customer through an opening 382 (comprising a door) in one of the sidewalls 378. To facilitate this access, the locker unit 302 comprises stairs 382 that can be detached from the trailer 314 and stored inside the interior space of the enclosure 376 when the locker unit 302 is being moved or is in a non-operating configuration. The roof 380 of the locker unit 302 includes skylights 384 that provide light to the interior space of the enclosure 376.

Although not apparent from the figures, the storage compartment modules 312a, 312b, 312a’, 312b’ have a modular design. The mounting arrangement between the modules 312a, 312b, 312a’, 312b’ and the trailer 314 is standardised so as to allow replacement of one storage module 312a, 312b, 312a’, 312b’ with another. The individual storage compartments 310 of each storage compartment module 312a, 312b, 312a’, 312b’ may also be modular so as to allow replacement of individual storage compartments 310 (e.g. to replace damaged storage compartments).

As is best shown in Figures 3C and 3D, the uppermost storage compartment module 312a, 312a’ on each side of the locker unit 302 is facing inwards, such that the corresponding storage compartments 310 are accessible from within the interior space of the enclosure 376. The lowermost storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ of each side of the locker unit 302 faces outwards. The combination of inwardly and outwardly facing storage compartments 310 may maximise the number of storage compartments 310 accessible to customers (i.e. given a fixed length trailer and storage compartment 310 size). That is, the inwardly facing storage compartments 310, because they are accessible from within the enclosure 376, can be placed at a height that would be inaccessible from ground level.

In order to maximise space within the enclosure 376 when the locker unit 302 is in an operating configuration, the lowermost storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ on each side of the locker unit 302 is moveable relative to the trailer 314.

In particular, each lower storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ is moveable between a stowed position (Figure 3C) and an extended position (Figure 3D).

This movement may be by way of a track or rail arrangement that permits slideable movement of the storage compartment module 312b, 312b’. In the stowed condition a front face of each storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ is generally co-planar with an outer surface of a respective sidewall 378. In the extended position, a front (outwardly facing) end of each storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ protrudes from the respective sidewall 378, and a back (inwardly facing) end of each storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ retracts to increase the space within the enclosure 376.

The locker unit 302 comprises screens 336 that are hingedly mounted so as to be hingeable between an open position (in which they provide shelter) and a closed position (in which the lower storage compartment modules 312b, 312b’ when retracted).

Although in the presently illustrated embodiment the entirety of each lower storage compartment module 312b, 312b’ is moveable, in other embodiments, individual storage compartments 310 may be moveable. Movement of the storage compartment modules 312a, 312a’, 312b, 312b’ and/or storage compartments 310 may alternatively be in the form of a pivoting or rotating motion. Alternatively or additionally one or more storage compartment modules 312a, 312a’, 312b, 312b’or storage compartments 310 may include a portion that is moveable. In this respect, the moveable portion may telescope relative to a fixed portion such that the storage compartment module 312a, 312a’, 312b, 312b’or storage compartment 310 is collapsible. Instead of providing further space inside the enclosure 376, this may provide further space inside the storage compartments 310.

Like the previously described embodiment, the presently described locker unit 302 includes two storage compartment 310 types (in this case, two different sizes) that are available for use by users. The lower (outwardly facing) storage compartment modules 312b, 312b’ comprise larger storage compartments 310 than the upper (inwardly facing) storage compartment modules 312a, 312a’. Each storage compartment 310 comprises walls (i.e. separations) defining an internal cavity, and lockable door to restrict access to the cavity and each door is electronically lockable and can be controlled by an access module which can form part of the locker unit 302. The operation of this access module is described in more detail below with reference to Figure 4.

Figure 4, schematically illustrates an embodiment of the distributed system 400 in more detail. The system 400 illustrated in this figure comprises a management system 404 and a locker unit 402 (e.g. of the type described above). Also illustrated is a remote user device 406 and an external security service 442, which both interact with the management system 404. Although only one locker unit 402 and one remote user device 406 are illustrated, in practice the system 400 comprises a plurality of locker units 402, and interacts with a plurality of remote user devices 406.

Each of the components of the system 400 comprises an input/output device (I/O) 444 that allows the components to communicate across a secured wired and/or wireless network. In this embodiment, the locker unit 402, remote user device 406 and security service 442 are in communication with the management system 5 404 via a secured wireless network (e.g. 3G/GSM) 446. In this respect, the I/O devices 444 may each comprise a network device and antenna (omni-directional or directional) to enable communication over the network 446. The management system 404, remote user device 406 and locker unit 402 each comprise a communication bus 447 which facilitates communication within each component. 10 The management system 404 comprises a processor 448 and a memory 450. The processor 448 may constitute one or more processing means (e.g. integrated circuit processors) and comprises a number of processing engines or services that manage reservations, locker unit locations, storage compartment access and general locker unit monitoring. The memory 450 may comprise any known 15 memory architecture and may include hard disk, IC memory (ROM, PROM, RAM, etc.), floppy disks, CD ROM, and any other type of memory. The memory 450 stores data related to availability 452, access 454, locations 456 and monitoring data 458 in relation to the monitoring of the locker units.

The location data 456 for the locker units 402 is received from a locator 2 0 arrangement, in the form of a GPS unit 408, which is mounted to the locker unit 402. The GPS unit 408 detects the location of the locker unit 402, and the location data 456 produced by this GPS unit 408 is then communicated to the management system 404 via the wireless network 446. A location engine 460 of the processor 448 of the management system 404 handles the incoming location 2 5 data 456 and passes it to the memory 450 for storage. Hence, the memory 450 includes location data 456 for a plurality of locker units 402 (e.g. all of the locker units 402 within the system 400). When requested (e.g. by a user controlling the remote user device 406), this location data 456 can be retrieved from the memory 450 and communicated to the remote user device 406. In this way, the remote user device 406 can display (e.g. on a screen of the remote user device 406) the locations of the locker units 402 to a user.

This display of the locations of the locker units 402 may allow a user to locate a locker unit 402 that is nearby to the user’s current location. To manage the information provided to the user, the remote device 406 or the management system 404, can be configured to limit the displayed locker units 402 to be only those that are within a predetermined (e.g. set by the user) distance from the user. To facilitate this process, the management system 404 is also able to receive location data from a GPS unit 409 of the remote user device 406 and use that data in order to selectively communicate locker unit 402 location data 456 to the remote device (when requested) 406.

The provision of locker unit 402 locations to a user allows the user to select which locker unit 402 they would like to use to store items (i.e. by reserving a storage compartment in that locker unit 402). This reservation process can be performed by way of communication between the remote user device 406 and the management system 404.

In particular, this communication may be performed by way of the user accessing a website or an application. Inputs such as the selected locker unit 402, reservation period, reservation time and storage compartment type are communicated from the remote user device 406 to the management system 404 (e.g. via the website or application). These inputs are handled by the reservation engine 462 of the processor 448, which compares this data with the availability data 452 stored in the memory 450 in order to determine whether a storage compartment meeting the reservation requirements is available. Where such a storage compartment is not available, the reservation engine 462 is capable of providing alternative reservation options, based on the availability data 452 stored in the memory 450 (including availability data 452 in relation to nearby locker units 402). Where there is availability, the reservation engine 462 is also configured to select an appropriate storage compartment to allocate to the reservation based on the current storage compartment availability and future storage compartment reservations (i.e. already stored in the memory 450).

The system 400 is also designed to handle reservation issues. One such issue is where a user has not returned to collect their items from a reserved storage compartment at the end of the reservation period (i.e. the user has used the locker beyond the intended period). Each locker unit 402 comprises a number of storage compartments that are designated as excess storage compartments. These cannot be reserved, and are only utilised upon the occurrence of the abovementioned issue. Alternatively (but similarly) the reservation engine 462 may only ‘advertise’ a portion of the total number of storage compartments in each locker unit 402. In other words, once this portion of the locker unit 402 is reserved, the reservation engine 462 will communicate (e.g. to the remote device 406) that there are no more storage compartments available. This ensures that there is always excess storage compartments available where a minor number of users extend their use of their reserved storage compartment beyond the reserved period.

The processor 448 also comprises an access engine 464 that communicates with the remote user device 406 once the reservation process has been completed by the reservation engine 462. In some forms the access engine 464 is able to generate a security key that enables a user to access the reserved storage compartment during the reservation period. This is communicated to the remote user device 406 and can optionally be stored in a memory 466 of the remote user device 406. In other forms the access engine 464 may request a security key from the remote user device 406 (i.e. provided by the user). In both cases, the access engine 464 generates a unique reservation identifier and stores both the reservation identifier and associated security key in the memory 450.

To access the storage compartment during the booking period, a user can input the security key at an interface 468 of the locker unit 402, which is communicated to the access engine 464. The access engine 464 is configured to communicate with an access module 470 of the locker unit 402. This access module 470 of the locker unit 402 is able to control, via an access controller 472, access to the storage compartments of the locker unit 402 (e.g. by transmitting a signal to the electronic locks of the storage compartments ).

As set forth above, the access module 470 comprises an interface 468 (e.g. in the form of a touch screen, or a display with corresponding buttons). In operation, a user can input the security key and reservation identifier using the interface 468 and the access module 470 of the locker unit 402 communicates these to the access engine 464. The access engine 464 compares these details with those stored in the memory 454, and based on that comparison can instruct the access module 470 to provide access to the storage compartment identified by the reservation identifier (as provided by the reservation engine 462). In this way, the user is also able to gain repeat access to the storage compartment during the reserved period.

The management system 404 is also capable of managing security and maintenance tasks. As described with reference to Figures 2A, 2B and 2C, each locker unit may comprise a CCTV system comprising one or more security cameras. Video from these cameras is received by a monitor service 474 of the management system 404 and is transferred to the memory 450 for storage and later retrieval. Live views provided by the cameras can also be accessed by the management system 404, if required. The monitor service 474 may be managed by the external security service 442. That is, the external security service 442 may be provided with access to the monitor service 474 in order to retrieve the video data 458 from the management system 404. Live views from the cameras may be used by the external security service 442 to monitor the locker units 402.

The security service 442 may also monitor other aspects of the locker units 402. For example, the storage compartments may comprise sensors that are capable of detecting unauthorised entry thereto. In this case, the output of these sensors can be communicated to the monitor service 474, which processes the signals and determines if there has been an unauthorised entry. If the monitor service 474 determines that such an event has occurred, it provides an alert signal to the external security service 442. A further security related aspect that may be monitored by the security service 442 (via the monitor service 474) is unauthorised movement of a locker unit 402. In this respect, the security service 442 may make use of location data 456 stored it the memory 450 in order to determine whether a locker unit 402 is being moved unexpectedly (e.g. out of schedule). The locker unit 402 may also comprise motion sensors, which may be used to determine when it is moved unexpectedly. The occurrence of such unexpected movement may result in the monitor service 474 providing an alert signal to the external security service 442.

The monitor service 474 can also detect and manage the general condition of the locker units 402. For example, the monitor service 474 can monitor power levels, storage compartment usage, internal temperatures, etc. The monitor service 474 is configured to produce an alert signal when these signals are indicative of there being an issue with the locker units 402. An operator may use this information to determine whether a particular locker unit 402 requires a scheduled service or, in some cases, immediate attention.

In general, the management system 404 allows remote control and monitoring of the plurality of locker units 402. Restricted external access to the management system 404 is also provided to various other services. This access may be in the form of reading information, or may be in the form of writing or editing information. The access may also be in the form of control of one or more aspects of a locker unit 402.

Figure 5 shows a process for handling a reservation request 500. This particular embodiment of the process is particularly suited for a same-day reservation of a storage compartment (as opposed to a reservation for e.g. the following day, following week, etc). The process 500 is illustrated schematically from the point of view of the management system, and in that respect, may be a generalised version of a set of instructions that is run by the process of a management system e.g. as described above.

The reservation request process commences with the system obtaining 502 and storing 504 the locations of a plurality of locker units (i.e. as determined by respective locator arrangements). In practice, the locations of the locker units will be updated and stored repeatedly at a set time interval. Alternatively, the locator arrangements may only communicate their respective locations when the locker units are moved (which may be initiated by an operator upon moving the locker unit).

When requested 506, the management system communicates 508 a selection of these locations to a remote user device based on a maximum distance from the user (which may be customised by the user). This request 506 may be initiated by a user of the remote user device accessing a website or application and indicating that they wish to begin a storage compartment reservation process. The locations of the locker units are displayed to a user by way of an input/output device (e.g. touchscreen) of the remote user device, and may take the form of e.g. a drop down list of locations, or a map comprising a plurality of indicators (e.g. icons, pins, etc.), each indicator pointing to the location of a locker unit.

The user then selects a locker unit 510 to reserve (e.g. by selecting an option from the drop-down list of locker units, or by selecting an indicator on the map). In the illustrated embodiment, the user is then prompted to choose a time and period for the reservation. These options for time and period may be limited. For example, the available times may be limited to times during that same day, or may be limited to a number of hours after the current time. In general, the time and period limitations should align with the period that the locker unit is scheduled to remain at the current location (i.e. to prevent a user reserving a storage compartment in a nearby locker unit and then the locker unit inconveniently being moved away from the user).

The remote user device communicates the selected time and period 512 to the management system, and in response, the management system consults 514 an availability data for of all of the storage compartments of the selected locker units. The management system retrieves availability information for the selected locker unit at the selected time and period.

Based on this information, the management system provides the remote user device with a number of storage compartment types 518 (e.g. differentiated by size). The management system will only provide storage compartment types that are available at the selected time and period. If no storage compartments (of any type) are available at the selected time and for the selected period, then the management system communicates this to the remote user device and provides alternative options 516 for the user to select from (e.g. alternative times, periods and/or nearby locker units).

The user selects (e.g. by text entry or drop-down list) from the storage compartment types provided by the management system. Storage compartment types that are not currently available are not displayed, or are indicated as being unavailable (e.g. by being ‘greyed out’ on the display), such that the user is unable to select these storage compartment types. Once selected by the user, the management system receives the selection and performs a further check 520 to ensure that the selected storage compartment type is still available in the selected locker unit (i.e. in case the availability of the selected storage compartment type has changed). If the selected storage compartment type is no longer available, then the management system communicates 516 this to the remote user device, which in turn prompts the user to select another storage compartment type, period, time and/or locker unit. If, on the other hand, availability is confirmed, the management system modifies the availability database 522 to reflect the occurrence of the reservation. For example, the management system may adjust (downwards) a tally of available storage compartments of the reserved type and the reserved period. The management system then communicates this to the remote user device, which prompts the user for payment details.

The user enters payment (e.g. credit card) details via the e.g. touch screen of the remote user device 528. Payment details are transferred to the management system in a secure manner, and then communicated securely to an external payment service for verification. Once verified, the management system generates a reservation identifier 526 and provides the remote user device with this reservation identifier 524, which may be in the form of a unique alphanumeric string. This is associated with the corresponding reservation and stored in a memory of the management system.

The management system also generates a security key 526 associated with the reservation and provides the remote user device with this security key 524. The security key may be a number, alphanumeric sequence, barcode, etc. This security key is stored by the management system in the memory in such a way that it is associated with the reservation identifier. If required, a user can request the security key or reservation identifier from the management system (i.e. if the user has forgotten the security key or reservation identifier).

Figure 6 schematically illustrates a process 600 for managing access to a storage compartment of a system as described above (e.g. the storage compartment being reserved according to the process described above). At the time that was selected by the user for the reservation, the user can go to the selected locker unit and interact with an interface of the locker unit. The interface prompts the user to enter a reservation identifier 602 (i.e. received previously from the management system) and the corresponding security key 604. These are communicated from the interface to the management system, which compares the received reservation identifier with the reservation identifiers stored in the memory 606. If the received reservation identifier matches a stored reservation identifier, then the management system compares the stored security key associated with that reservation identifier with the received security key 608.

If the received reservation identifier doesn’t match the stored reservation identifier, or the received security key doesn’t match the stored (and associated) security key, then the management system will return an error message to the interface (e.g. and the user will be prompted to insert a different reservation identifier and security key combination).

On the other hand, if the received reservation identifier and security key are matched, the management system selects an available storage compartment 610 and will return a storage compartment identifier to the interface for display on the interface to the user 612. The interface may also print a receipt for the user, which may include one or more of the reservation identifier, storage compartment identifier or security key. Similarly, the management system may communicate this information to the user (e.g. via the remote user device) in the form of an email or SMS. The storage compartment identifier identifies a storage compartment of the selected locker unit. The identified storage compartment is determined based on the availability database. The management system may be configured to determine the most appropriate storage compartment to associate with the reservation (e.g. based on other current and future reservations).

As is mentioned above, one issue that can arise is when a user does not return to their reserved storage compartment within the reservation period. That is, the storage compartment remains in an unavailable state beyond the intended reservation period. To accommodate this, the system includes a number of excess storage compartments that do not form part of the availability determination when a user is making a reservation request. That is, even if these excess storage compartments are marked as being available (in the memory of the management system), if the remaining storage compartments are not available, then the user will not be able to reserve a locker at that locker unit for the given time and period. This ensures that users who have reserved storage compartments are able to be allocated those storage compartments when other previous users extend their storage period.

At the same time the management system identifies the storage compartment, the management system communicates with an access controller forming part of the locker unit, which unlocks the storage compartment 614. The identifier may be displayed (e.g. printed) on the door of the storage compartment, so that it can be found by the user. Once found, the user can store items in the locker and then close it. The storage compartment may be configured to automatically lock upon closure, or may be provided with a button to allow it to be selectively locked by the user.

In order to retrieve their items from the storage compartment, the user may once again interact with the interface and input the relevant reservation or storage compartment identifier, and the security key.

Figure 7 shows an alternative process for handling a reservation request to that shown in Figure 5. The process of Figure 7 differs in that it is used when a user wishes to reserve a storage compartment several days (or weeks) in advance. Due to the mobility of the locker units, they may only remain in one location for a day, or for a number of days. As such, the current location of the locker units (as determined by their respective locator assemblies) may not reflect their location at the time when the user wishes to reserve the storage compartment. In this case, the management system may store a locker unit schedule that may comprise data relating to where the locker units will be located at a particular time period.

In practice, a user may have a choice between making a current reservation (as shown in Figure 5) or making an advance reservation. The system may comprise a plurality of locker units that are particularly designated for current reservations, or for advance reservations. In order to make an advance reservation, the user submits, via a remote user device, a selection of a locker unit 702 (from a plurality of locker units).

In response, the management system provides a locker unit schedule 704 for that locker unit. This schedule may be displayed to a user on a remote user device.

The display of the schedule may be in the form of an on-screen calendar, or may be in the form of restricted drop-down lists. For example, in the case of drop down lists, the user may select a date, and a storage compartment type and then may only be offered times during which a storage compartment is available on that date.

In either case, the user selects a reservation date, time, period and storage compartment type. This is communicated to the management system 706, which confirms availability 708 of the storage compartment and modifies the availability data in the memory accordingly 712.

The remainder of this process remains the same as that described above and shown in Figure 5. However, subsequent to this reservation process, further management may be required by the management system. For example, the management system may confirm the location of the locker unit is correct according to the schedule. Similarly, the management system may alert a user if there is an issue with the locker unit (e.g. unit malfunction) or for some reason, the locker unit is unable to be located at a particular location. In this case, the management system may offer alternatives to the user or may alert an operator that a replacement is required.

An aspect of lockers units that is only briefly described above is the ability to make use of the locker units to display information. In the embodiment shown in figures 2A to 2C the display 230 is able to display information such as e.g. weather, news, etc. to users. In a variation of this embodiment, the display may instead display advertising material (e.g. in the form of static images or videos).

It should be appreciated that the display may display other types of content (e.g. movies, live TV, etc.). The locker unit (of Figures 2A to 2C or 3A to 3D) may comprise further displays for the purpose of displaying advertising material or other content. For example, each storage compartment door may comprise an individual display that can display advertising (or other) material. Multiple displays (i.e. a bank of displays) may be used to form a larger display for displaying content. Alternatively or additionally, spaces may be provided on surfaces of the locker unit for the placement of advertising billboards.

Figure 8 illustrates a variation of the system of Figure 4, that is suitable for managing the display of advertising material on one or more of the displays discussed above. As should be apparent to the skilled person, this system 800 shares many of the components of the system 400 of Figure 4 and in this respect, could form an extension of the system of Figure 4.

The system 800 comprises a plurality of locker units 802 (only one of these is illustrated) comprising an I/O device 844, GPS unit 808, display controller 886, a plurality of displays 888 and a communication bus 868. As discussed above, the plurality of displays 888 may be in the form of e.g. LCD, LED, E Ink displays secured to storage compartment doors, or other surfaces of the locker unit 802 (e.g. including inside the storage compartments).

The display controller 886 is configured to control the content displayed by the displays 888. This content is provided from a management system 804 over a secured wireless network 846. The management system 804 is also connected to a remote user device 806 of the secured wireless network 846. In practice, any number of remote user devices 806 may be connected to the management system 804.

The remote user device 806 may be in the form of e.g. a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, etc. The user device 806 comprises, among other components, a memory 866 that contains content data 892. A user can use the user device 806 to reserve advertising space on a locker unit 802.

This reservation may be performed by communicating with the management system 804 over the secured wireless network 846. Such communication maybe performed through interaction with, for example, a website, web application or mobile device application. That is, a user may access (i.e. using known security processes) a website or application to transmit information to, and receive information from, the management system 804.

The management system 804 may be the same as that used for managing the reservation of storage compartments in the locker units 802. The illustrated management system comprises a processor 848, a memory 850, a communication bus 847 and an I/O device 844. The processor 848 includes a reservation engine 862, which manages the reservation of advertising space on the locker units 802. A user can request (via a remote user device 806), from the reservation engine 862, the availability of advertising space on one or more locker units 802. The reservation engine 862 queries an availability database 852 stored in the memory 850 and provides availability data to the remote user device 806.

As should be apparent to the skilled person, the management system may comprise a payment or e-commerce engine (which may be incorporated as part of the reservation engine). In this respect, the reservation engine may request payment from the user in order to finalise the reservation process. The reservation engine may prices for advertising space, to the remote user device 806. In one embodiment, prices for the advertising space may be adjusted based on the usage of a particular locker unit 802 (i.e. using locker reservation data).

The management system 804 also comprises a location engine 860 that receives information regarding locker unit 802 location from the locker units 802 and stores that information in the memory 850 of the management system 804.

Locker unit 802 location information can be requested by the user via the reservation engine 862. For example, the user may choose to purchase advertising space on a particular locker unit 802 based on the location of that locker unit 802.

Once a user has reserved a particular advertising space (i.e. formed of one or more displays on a locker unit 802) via the reservation engine 862, the user can transmit content data (to be displayed) to the management system 804. This content data is received by a content engine 896 of the management system 804 and is transferred to the memory 850 to be stored. At the time of the reservation, the content engine communicates the stored content data 894 to the locker unit 802 corresponding to the reservation and the content is displayed on one or more displays 888 of the locker unit 802.

Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure.

For example the management system may be configured to manage further aspects of the locker units. In this respect, the management system may monitor for when a door of a storage compartment has been left open for an extended period of time during a reservation period, and may be able to alert a user to this (via their remote device), or may alert a security service. Similarly, the storage compartments may comprise detection means for detecting whether items are being stored therein. Using signals from these detection means, the management system may then be able to detect when an item has been left behind in a storage compartment after a reservation period has ended.

The above described embodiment of the locker unit comprises a modular storage compartment module. In other embodiments, individual storage compartments may be modular to allow replacement of one storage compartment with another (which may have a different size, shape, type, etc).

The storage compartments may also comprise charging stations, which may allow a user to charge a portable device while stored in the storage compartment.

In some embodiments, because of the presence of the trailer, the storage compartments are raised a distance from ground level. The locker unit may comprise slide- or fold-out ramps or steps that allow users to step up to the storage compartments. In some cases, this may ensure access to the uppermost storage compartments is possible.

In the above described embodiments, access to storage compartments is provided by a central interface on each locker unit. In other embodiments, each individual storage compartment may comprise an interface (e.g. keypad) to allow input of a security key. Alternatively, a user may be able to control access through the remote user device (e.g. via the management system). In other words, the user may be able to input the security key through the remote user device via a website or application.

The storage compartments may be stacked in various arrangements. In the described embodiment, the storage compartments are stacked in a back-to-back configuration, but in other embodiments they may, for example, be stacked on a single side of the locker unit.

The locker units illustrated above are in the form of an assembly supported on a trailer for transportation. In other embodiments, the assembly may be supported on other transportation means, such as a truck.

In the above described embodiments, payment is generally made via a remote user device. In some embodiments, the locker units may also have payment facilities (e.g. forming part of the interface) that can be used to make payments for storage compartment reservations.

Similarly, the mounting and number of various components of the locker unit (e.g. photovoltaic panels, displays, etc.) may differ from that illustrated and described above.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims (53)

1. Claims

   1. A distributed locker system comprising: a plurality of mobile locker units, each locker unit comprising: a plurality of lockable storage compartments; and a locator arrangement for determining the location of the locker unit; a locker management system for communicating with the plurality of mobile locker units, the management system configured to: receive the locations of the locker units from their respective locator arrangements; provide the locations of the locker units to a remote user device; receive a reservation request from the remote user device, the reservation request indicating a selected locker unit from the plurality of locker units; and provide selective access to a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.
2. 2. A system according to claim 1 wherein the storage compartments are electronically lockable.
3. 3. A system according to claim 2 wherein the locker management system is further configured to store a security key associated with the reservation request.
4. 4. A system according to claim 3 wherein the selective access is provided based on a comparison of the stored security key with an inputted security key.
5. 5. A system according to claim 4 wherein the locker management system is further configured to provide a storage compartment identifier to the remote user device, the storage compartment identifier identifying a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.
6. 6. A system according to claim 5 wherein each locker unit comprises an interface to receive the inputted security key.
7. 7. A system according to any one of claims 3 to 6 wherein each storage compartment comprises an interface to receive the inputted security key.
8. 8. A system according to any one of claims 3 to 7 wherein the management system is further configured to generate the security key associated with the reservation request.
9. 9. A system according to claim 8 wherein the management system is further configured to provide the generated security key, associated with the reservation request, to the remote user device.
10. 10. A system according to any one of claims 3 to 7 wherein the management system is configured to receive the security key associated with the reservation request from the remote user device.
11. 11. A system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the management system is further configured to: receive the location of the remote user device from the remote user device; and provide the locations of a selection of locker units.
12. 12. A system according to claim 11 wherein the selection of locker units is based on the locations of the of the locker units with respect to the remote user device.
13. 13. A system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the management system is further configured to store information regarding the availability of the storage compartments, and to communicate the availability information to the remote user device.
14. 14. A system according to claim 13 wherein the reservation request further comprises a reservation period.
15. 15. A system according to claim 14 wherein the management system is configured to modify the stored availability information in response to the reservation request.
16. 16. A system according to any one of claims 15 wherein the management system prevents reservation of a storage compartment in a locker unit during a period where the number of storage compartments reserved in that locker unit is equal to a total reservation capacity of that locker unit.
17. 17. A system as claimed in claim 16 wherein the total reservation capacity is less than the total number of storage compartments in the locker unit.
18. 18. A system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein each locker unit comprises a security camera.
19. 19. A system according to claim 18 wherein video data from the video camera is transmitted from the locker units to the management system and then stored by the management system.
20. 20. A system according to claim 19 wherein the stored video data is accessible by a security service external to the management system.
21. 21. A system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the management system is configured to detect, based on the locations received from the locker units, when unauthorised movement of a locker unit has occurred.
22. 22. A system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein each mobile locker unit comprises a transportable trailer and one or more storage compartment modules, comprising the storage compartments and mounted to the trailer.
23. 23. A system as claimed in claim 22 wherein each storage compartment module is removably mounted.
24. 24. A system as claimed in claim 22 or 23 wherein one or more of the storage compartments are removably mounted to the storage compartment module.
25. 25. A system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein each locker unit comprises a photovoltaic panel.
26. 26. A system according to any one of the preceding claims wherein one or more storage compartments comprise one or more power outlets for charging an electronic device.
27. 27. A method for providing access to a lockable storage compartment of a distributed locker system comprising a plurality of locker units, each comprising a plurality of lockable storage compartments, the method comprising: receiving the locations of the locker units; providing the locations of the locker units to a remote user device; receiving a reservation request from the remote user device, the reservation request indicating a selected locker unit from the plurality of locker units; and providing selective access to a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.
28. 28. A method according to claim 27 wherein the method further comprises storing a security key associated with the reservation request.
29. 29. A method according to claim 28 wherein the step of providing selective access to a storage compartment comprises comparing the stored security key with an inputted security key.
30. 30. A method according to claim 28 or 29 further comprising providing a storage compartment identifier to the remote user device, the storage compartment identifier identifying a storage compartment of the selected locker unit.
31. 31. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 30 further comprising generating the security key associated with the reservation request.
32. 32. A method according to claim 31 further comprising providing the generated security key, associated with the reservation request, to the remote user device.
33. 33. A method according to claim 28 to 32 further comprising receiving the security key from the remote user device.
34. 34. A method according to any one of claim 28 to 33 further comprising: receiving the location of the remote user device from the remote user device; and providing the locations of a selection of locker units.
35. 35. A system according to claim 11 wherein the selection of locker units is based on the locations of the of the locker units with respect to the remote user device.
36. 36. A method according to any one of claims 28 to 35 further comprising storing information regarding the availability of the storage compartments, and communicating the availability information to the remote user device.
37. 37. A method according to claim 36 wherein the reservation request further comprises a reservation period.
38. 38. A method according to claim 37 further comprising modifying the stored availability information in response to the reservation request.
39. 39. A method according to any one of claims 38 further comprising preventing reservation of a storage compartment in a locker unit during a period where the number of storage compartments reserved in that locker unit is equal to a total reservation capacity of that locker unit.
40. 40. A method as claimed in claim 39 wherein the total reservation capacity is less than the total number of storage compartments in the locker unit.
41. 41. A computer program comprising instructions for controlling a computer to implement a method according to any one of claims 28 to 40.
42. 42. A computer readable medium, providing a computer program according to claim 41.
43. 43. A data signal comprising a computer program according to claim 42.
44. 44. A mobile locker unit comprising: transportation means; a plurality of electronically lockable storage compartments mounted to the transportation means; a locater device.
45. 45. A locker unit as claimed in claim 44 wherein the transportation means comprises a trailer.
46. 46. A locker unit as claimed in claim 45 wherein the trailer comprises a coupling assembly for coupling to a vehicle.
47. 47. A locker unit as claimed in any one of claims 44 to 46 comprising a storage compartment module removably mountable to the transportation means, the storage compartment module comprising the plurality of storage compartments.
48. 48. A locker unit as claimed in claim 47 wherein the plurality of storage compartments are removably mounted to the storage module.
49. 49. A locker unit as claimed in claim 47 or 48 wherein the storage compartment module is slidably mounted to the transportation means.
50. 50. A locker unit as claimed in any one of claims 47 to 49 wherein one or more of the storage compartments are slidably mounted to the storage module.
51. 51. A distributed locker system comprising: a plurality of mobile locker units, each locker unit comprising a plurality of displays; and a locker management system for communicating with the plurality of mobile locker units, the management system configured to: receive a reservation request from a remote user device, the reservation request indicating a selected locker unit from the plurality of locker units; and control one or more displays on the selected locker unit to display content associated with the reservation request.
52. 52. A locker system as claimed in claim 51 wherein each locker unit comprises a locator arrangement for determining the location of the locker unit, and the locker management system is further configured to: receive the locations of the locker units from their respective locator arrangements; provide the locations of the locker units to the remote user device.
53. 53. A locker system as claimed in claim 51 or 52 wherein the displayed content is received from the remote user device.