SOLAR-POWERED E-BOX FOR PARCEL DELIVERY USING ESP8266 MODULE

Prof. Joel I. Miano, MSCA1, Samfford S. Cabaluna2, Gerald C. Cahanza3, Jay E. Pasco4
Adviser1, Student2,3,4
Department of Computer Applications
College of Computer Studies
Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology
Iligan City

ABSTRACT
E-Commerce nowadays has become even more popular than before[1]. Customers choose to purchase
products online, thus increasing the rate of parcel deliveries around the globe, especially the
Philippines[2]. However, there are also issues in parcel delivery, wherein one is that packages are left
at the post office or other contact delivery locations when receivers do not have time, even
unavailable to accept delivery from a courier or postman. Due to this, researchers begin coining an
idea of a smart mailbox that notifies receivers of received mails. It is also beneficial for the safety
and security of parcels delivered. The researchers of this study also joined hands with other
researchers to develop a similar system, a prototype design of a Solar-Powered E-Box For Parcel
Delivery Using ESP8266 Module aligned with the Industry, Innovation And Infrastructure of the 9th
Sustainability Development Goals, which is to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and
sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. It is a system designed to be remotely controlled
through WiFi. When a parcel is delivered in the absence of the receiver, the receiver while in
conversation with the delivery men will remotely unlock the e-box through the mobile application as
well as monitoring the activity inside and outside. A prototype was designed and developed in this
study, addressing the stated issue on delivery, with a security lock that secures the delivered parcels
inside, as well as monitoring the activities inside and outside the e-box with two surveillance cameras.
The system prototype was also tested and evaluated by both the researchers and the potential users.
Test and evaluation results show that the electronic box is usable and functional.

Keywords – Smart Mailbox, Internet of Things, Wireless, WiFi Module, Remote-Controlled

I.INTRODUCTION efficiency of the postal service have been

initiated in this context. Improving the
Due to the increasing popularity of e-
deliverability of shipments has become a hot
commerce, the number of parcels being sent is
topic of discussion among national and
rising rapidly[1]. The Internet is rapidly
international organizations involved in last-
becoming a global phenomenon, transforming
mile logistics. Given the increasing
how customers acquire goods and services[2].
significance of digital technology in the
Customers prefer online shopping to traditional
development of societies and the global
shopping for a variety of reasons, including
economy, it is also essential to articulate a
convenience, speed, and a larger selection of
comprehensive vision for sustainable urban
products. Increasing in the Philippines are both
development in hyper-connected smart cities[4].
consumer spending and e-commerce[3]. The
The concept of a smart postal mailbox, which
advent of e-commerce has fueled a great deal of
may be a crucial postal asset in a smart city, is
last-mile expansion. Logistics expansion in
one of the most important last-mile delivery
general trade and supply chains has been driven
ideas. In the future, smart mailboxes in a
by consumer spending, as well as the
particular location may be able to foster a
warehousing and freight requirements of more
connected community. Consequently, the
successful SMBs. When recipients do not have
researchers of this study addressed the same
time to accept delivery from a courier or
problem on Philippine soil.
postman, therefore packages are left at the post
office or other contact delivery locations, the
postal sector is currently experiencing a
problem[1]. Several initiatives to improve the
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II. METHODS Innovation and Infrastructure of the SDG 2030,

particularly the 9th SDG that aims to build
resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable
industrialization, and foster innovation. They
also agreed on gathering studies on postal
services, parcel deliveries, and the concept of a
smart mailbox.
2.1.2 Data Gathering
The researchers gathered data and information,
including pertinent literature studies that could
be utilized in future research. In addition to the
studies on e-commerce and its challenges, this
study gathered studies on Postal and Parcel
Delivery Services and their challenges, issues,
and solutions, the traditional postal and parcel
service, and a comparison of traditional and
smart postal mailboxes[1],[5],[6],[7],[8].
A preliminary survey was conducted in Iligan
Figure 1 Flow of Study City, particularly in a few of its barangays, to
assess the difficulties parcel recipients face
Figure 1 above shows the whole process in this during delivery, particularly when packages are
study. The researchers began by formulating a delivered in their absence. The majority of
strategy for producing the study's findings. respondents were from the researchers'
Similar studies have been gathered as respective barangays, while the remainder were
references for this study, along with from other barangays surveyed via Google
information gathered from an online survey of Forms for safety reasons due to the current
purchasers' opinions on the concept of a Solar- health situation. In this survey, a total of eighty-
Powered Smart E-Box For Parcel Delivery four (84) respondents were questioned. In
Using ESP8266 Module. This phase was then addition to analyzing the difficulties parcel
followed by the design and development of the recipients face when receiving packages in their
system itself, both hardware and software. absence, the researchers analyzed the responses
Implementation of the system was done when of respondents regarding the development of a
the design and development were finished, parcel receiving system similar to a smart
wherein the researchers conducted a testing and mailbox system, namely the Solar-Powered E-
troubleshooting of the system. Once the system Box for Parcel Delivery Using ESP8266
proved to be functional during the testing and Module.
troubleshooting, the researchers then proceeded
to the system evaluation phase, wherein 2.2 System Design and Development
potential users were randomly selected to
With regards to the design and development of
evaluate its usability, effectiveness, and
the system, the researchers agreed to design and
technicality. The whole process is discussed in
develop a prototype of a Solar-Powered E-Box
detail below.
for parcel delivery using ESP8266 module.
2.1 Planning and Data Gathering Both the hardware and software designs are
tackled below.
2.1.1 Planning
2.2.1 Hardware Design
The researchers conducted a group discussion
and examined the Sustainable Development The researchers collaborated with FABLAB
Goals 2030, as well as found related studies Mindanao at Mindanao State University Iligan
about the concept of mailboxes, parcel delivery Institute of Technology for the hardware design
issues and problems, the concept of smart of the prototype device. Fusion 360 application
postal mailboxes, hardware components and was used to draw the design and a Computer
smart mailbox prototype. Based on their Numerical Control (CNC) machine was used to
discussion, they agreed to pursue the Industry, cut wood in order to come up with the design.
 3

2D design, particularly a DXF file, was

uploaded to the CNC machine for cutting, while
the 3D design was saved as a SketchUp file for
the placing of the electrical and electronic
components, as well as finalizing the color of
the E-Box, which is Baby Blue. Nails were no
longer used as the prototype is designed similar
to a jigsaw puzzle. Wood glue was used in
sticking the assembled pieces of cut wood
together.

Figure 3 Solar-Powered E-Box System

Architecture

The whole system based on the figure above is

powered by a solar panel. It will be connected
to the solar charger controller in order to
prevent the Battery from overcharging as well
as regulating the power. The battery is also
connected to the solar charger controller to
power up the whole system as well as store
Figure 2 System Prototype Design power generated from the solar panel through
the solar charger controller. A 7805-voltage
For the overall hardware design, the E-Box is
regulator module is also connected to the 12V
constructed using a Medium-Density
port of the solar charger controller to regulate
Fibreboard (MDF) from FABLAB Mindanao.
the power flowing towards the front and the
The overall height of the prototype is 587 mm,
inside cameras. With regards to the parcel
and the portion where the parcels will be placed
security and monitoring section, the E-Box is
have a length of 220 mm, a width of 140 mm
secured by a lock powered directly from the
and a height of 403 mm. The E-Box upper door
12V port of the solar charger controller through
has a 244x162-mm dimension, while the lower
a 5V power relay module and controlled by the
door has 244x315-mm dimension. The roof has
ESP8266 module through an MQTT broker.
a 244x164-mm dimension, and under it is a box
Two surveillance cameras (20MM Fisheye
with a 220x150x150-mm dimension being
Wide Angle ESP32 cams) are placed both
hollow inside since it is where the main
above the door of the E-Box and inside the
electronic components of the system are placed.
electronic components box in order for the
Two circular holes are also designed for the
receiver to monitor the activities occurring
ESP32 Cameras. The inside hole (where the
inside and outside the e-box, especially the face
electronic storage is also located) has a
of the delivery man and the parcels placed
diameter of 15 mm, as well as the lower hole
inside.
(facing front) having a diameter of 15 mm. The
side rectangular holes (identical twin holes
beside each other) are located at the left side of
the box, right where the electronic box is also
located, and both have a 40x20-mm dimension.

Figure 4 Circuit Diagram

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Figure 4 above shows that the system is running the ESP32 Cameras. Now, MQ
powered by a 100W solar panel charging a Telemetry Transport (MQTT) is an OASIS-
13.1V voltage power through the 100A solar approved Internet of Things communications
charger controller (to prevent the battery from protocol[11]. It's built as a super-lightweight
overcharging). The JSL II 12AH battery is publish/subscribe messaging transport that's
connected as well to the solar charger controller perfect for linking faraway devices with
to power up the system, as well as store minimal code and network resources. To save
generated power from the solar panel. The network bandwidth, MQTT message headers
solenoid lock receives a 12.2V power directly are minimal. It enables device-to-cloud and
from the solar charger controller. Its negative cloud-to-device communication. This makes it
pin is connected to the Normally-Closed port of simple to send messages to large groups of
the 5V power relay module while the negative objects. It has the capacity to connect millions
charge of the battery power supply is connected of IoT devices. For many IoT use cases,
to the common contact port of the relay module. message transmission reliability is critical. As a
The digital pin of the Relay is then connected to result, MQTT has three quality of service
the ESP8266 module digital pin 3 (D3), while levels: 0 - just once, 1 - at least once, and 2 -
its positive charge pin is connected to the VIN exactly once. Many IoT devices rely on
pin of the ESP8266 module, as well as its unstable cellular networks to communicate.
negative charge to the ESP8266 ground pin. Because MQTT supports persistent sessions,
The NodeMCU ESP8266 is powered by a 5.2V reconnecting the client to the broker takes less
power directly from the 5V and 3A USB port of time. MQTT makes it simple to encrypt
the solar charger controller having a power of communications with TLS and authenticate
0.2 watts. Combined with the power triggering clients with OAuth or other current
the solenoid lock which is 1.05 watts, a total authentication methods. From the many MQTT
power of 1.07 watts is consumed. When the applications, the researchers for this study
solenoid lock is not triggered, the power decided to use the MQTT Box app from Google
generated is 0.55 watts; when combined with Chrome to control the lock system. When the
the power from the ESP8266 module, the total programming of all devices were finished, the
power generated is 0.75 watts. Both ESP32 researchers then proceeded in building the
cameras are directly connected to and receive mobile application using the MIT App
power from the 5V and 3A USB port of the Inventor. In the MIT App Inventor, the
7805-voltage regulator module, having a researchers first worked out the overall design
particular total power of 1.45 watts when of the app. After designing the app, the
streaming live, and 0.8 watts when turned off. researchers then proceeded in setting up its
Overall, the whole system has a total of 4.15 back-end, the blocks section of the app
watts of power when the devices are turned on, inventor, programming the app’s operation, as
and 2.35 watts when devices are not triggered. well as including the connection of the
programmed devices of the system. The apk file
2.2.2 Software Design of the app was then built, downloaded, and then
The system, aside from its hardware design, installed on the mobile device. The researchers
involved programming of devices. The whole then had it tested to see whether the app is
system is controlled by a mobile application. functional or not.
Arduino IDE compiler was used to program all 2.3 System Implementation
the devices of the system using the libraries for
ESP8266 and ESP32 to program the NodeMCU Assessing the usability and technicality of the
EP8266 and the two ESP32 cameras. The system, the researchers began the
ESP32 cameras were programmed using basic implementation of the system. Testing and
codes and the ESP8266 was programmed with troubleshooting were conducted to evaluate its
codes involving the triggering of the solenoid capability to operate and be used by future
lock through the MQTT broker. The users.
researchers of this study acknowledge the Two scenarios of testing and troubleshooting
authorship of William Robert Tonapa (2020) were conducted for this section in this study: (1)
for the codes in running the solenoid lock, as Testing Scenario 1, wherein the researchers
well as Espressif (2019) for the codes in tested the system within the same network; and
 5

(2) Testing Scenario 2, wherein the researchers particular survey. A chart on the colleges of the
have the system tested from another network. respondents and other details of the survey are
Details are discussed below. attached on Appendix J of this paper. Two
phases of evaluation were involved in this
2.3.1 Testing Scenario 1 particular survey: (1) the User Evaluation
In the first scenario, researchers tested the Survey, wherein the researchers assessed the
system's functionality and application control respondents’ evaluation on the system’s
response speed, as well as performed usability, and (2) the Technicality Survey,
troubleshooting. In this scenario, two phases of wherein the researchers assessed the
testing were conducted: (1) System respondents’ evaluation on the technicality of
Functionality Test and (2) Reaction Time Test. the system.
The researchers evaluated the system's Analysis of data from the post survey was also
functionality by observing the response of each done by observing the overall results of each
device to the application control. Those devices evaluation survey. The researchers used the
that triggered were deemed "functional," while Likert Scale in assessing the respondents’
those that did not were deemed "not evaluation regarding the system. The
functional." Ten attempts were made for each researchers used the formula shown on the
device control. This test was conducted twice: figure below in computing the average
(a) with devices connected to the computer, and percentage of the respondents stating how
(b) with devices connected to the battery via the usable, effective, and functional the system is.
solar charger controller and the solar panel,
with the mobile application in control.
Observing and recording the number of seconds
that passed after each device was triggered, the
researchers also assessed each device's reaction
time to the application control.
2.3.2 Testing Scenario 2
Figure 5 Computation of Average of Data
In the second testing scenario, the researchers Gathered
have the system (at least the lock) controlled
from another network. Two phases of this Figure 5 above shows that the average (in
particular testing scenario were conducted, (1) percentage form) was computed to determine
testing from another network, but within Iligan the system’s usability and technicality. The
City, and (2) testing from other networks average (%) was computed by dividing the sum
outside Iligan City by selected users. At least of the total for each evaluation (in percentage
the lock was tested since the cameras need a form) by the total number (N) based on the
proper server in order to be accessed anywhere respondents’ evaluation. The Total (%) was
(which will be recommended in the computed by the total number of respondents
recommendations section of this paper). based on their evaluation divided by the overall
total number of respondents (65) then
2.4 System Evaluation multiplied by 100.
Aside from the preliminary survey conducted
before the system was developed, another type
of survey was also conducted to evaluate the III. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
output for this study. This particular survey is
This section discusses the results of the study,
the post survey, involving the evaluation of the
particularly the testing and troubleshooting of
system by randomly selected respondents.
the system and its evaluation from the
Selected respondents for this particular survey
respondents with regards to its usability and
are students of Mindanao State University
technicality. Some results from the preliminary
Iligan Institute of Technology since individuals
survey are also included in this chapter.
such as them usually engage in online
For the preliminary survey, the figures below
shopping, thus they are considered as potential
present the section in the preliminary survey
users for this system being implemented. A
that assessed the respondents’ challenges faced
total of 65 respondents were selected in this
 6

in online shopping, especially during delivery, online, while 10 never purchased online,
starting from where they acquire goods, as well especially those who are not usually into online
as how frequently they purchase online or shopping.
physical stores, followed by questions that deal Those who frequently shop online prioritize
with how they handle delivery during their cash-on-delivery as a method of delivery
absence at their residence. payment. Some accept online payments,
including GCash, Paymaya, PayPal, etc. Others
paid by cash, while others used debit or credit
cards. This is further detailed in Appendix F of
this paper, which presents the preliminary
survey's specifics.
Moreover, with regard to online purchases of
goods and services, the figures below illustrate
the delivery obstacles encountered by
respondents.

Figure 6 Acquisition of Goods

Figure 6 has shown that the majority of

purchases are made in physical stores, with Figure 7 Delivery During Absence At Home
47% of respondents indicating so. 11% of
purchases were made exclusively online, while Figure 7 above shows that 29 out of 84
42% were made in both physical and online respondents sometimes encountered delivery
stores. especially when they were absent from their
Regarding the frequency of their purchases respective residence. 15 more often
from each store, the table below displays the encountered delivery during their absence
frequency with which they made purchases in while 6 always encountered such a situation. 20
physical stores and online. out of 84 respondents less often encountered
delivery during their absence while 14 never
Table 1 Frequency in Physical/Online Store encountered such a situation.
Purchase

Table 1 above shows that out of 84 respondents,

30 respondents both more often and always
purchased through online stores. 19 out of 84
respondents stated that they sometimes
purchased through physical stores, 4 out of 84 Figure 8 Difficulty in Receiving Delivery During
respondents stated that they purchased through Absence
physical stores less often, while only 1 never
purchased through physical stores. With Figure 8 above shows that when it comes to
regards to online purchase, 32 out of 84 receiving parcels delivered during absence, a
respondents stated that they sometimes total of 22 out of 84 respondents had difficulty
purchased through online, 16 more often in receiving parcels. 30 out of 84 respondents
purchased online, 9 stated that they always remained neutral regarding this matter, while a
purchased online, 17 less often purchased combined total of 32 out of 84 respondents did
 7

not encounter difficulty in receiving parcels E-Box that receives parcels especially during
during their absence. Their feedback with the receivers’ absence from their respective
regards to how they handle such a situation are residence. 11 out of 84 respondents were not
presented in the figure below. sure regarding the idea while 7 out of 84
respondents disagree with the idea, since not all
can use this kind of technology.
With regards to the idea of a smart mailbox
concept, the table above shows that 32 out of 84
respondents have already heard of such an
existing system. 28 out of 84 respondents were
not sure while 24 out of 84 respondents have
not heard of the concept of a smart mailbox
concept. Combining the 84 respondents with
those from the post survey, most have not yet
heard of the concept of a smart mailbox system,
except the traditional mailbox system.
Figure 9 Handling Delivery During Absence Since most of the respondents agree to the idea
of developing a Solar-Powered E-Box for
Figure 9 above shows that 44 out of 84
Parcel Delivery, the same goes for the
respondents handle such as situation by asking
the delivery driver to deliver the next day, 32 implementation of this system, mostly agreeing
that it will address the issue of parcel delivery
out of 84 respondents handle by requesting their
neighbors to receive the package on their during the absence of the receiver. 63 out of 84
behalf, 11 out 84 respondents handle it by respondents agree that it will address the
challenges faced by parcel receivers in
asking their family members who are left
receiving parcels during their absence. The
behind when they are away, 9 out 84
same goes for the same number of respondents
respondents pick up their package from the
delivery company, and 2 out of 84 respondents agreeing that this kind of system will provide
handle it by meeting up with the delivery convenient access to parcel receivers. 17 out of
84 respondents remained not sure regarding this
drivers in another location.
matter, while 4 out of 84 respondents disagree
In summary, while the purchasing of goods with the idea. 14 out of 84 respondents
through physical stores is still rampant at the remained not sure whether the system will
present, at the same time, the purchasing provide convenient access to parcel receivers or
through online stores is also rising. With not, while 7 out of 84 respondents disagree with
regards to the introduction of the concept of a the idea, since not all can be able to use this kind
parcel receiving system, the development of a of technology.
Solar-Powered E-Box For Parcel Delivery Finally, the researchers asked the respondents
Using ESP8266 Module, the tables and figures as to what type of technology they would
below present the various feedback of the suggest in building the E-Box prototype.
respondents with regards to the concept.
Table 2 Introducing the Concept of the Solar-
Powered E-Box For Parcel Delivery

Figure 10 Suggested Type of Technology (%)

Table 2 above shows that 66 out of 84 Figure 10 above shows that mostly (66.7%)
respondents agree to the idea of developing an prefer SMS technology, 39% prefer WiFi and
 8

QR Code Scanner, 23.8 % prefer Video electronic components. The system was well-
Recording, 22.6% prefer Touch Screen programmed and was able to function
Application, 17.9% prefer Bluetooth efficiently. All devices effectively proved to be
technology, 10.7 % prefer Voice Recognition, functional according to how they were
and 1.2% prefer biometric and/or face programmed. The mobile application used in
recognition. Those who disagree are concerned the system as shown in figure 12 below can
with the safety and security of the parcels control the system remotely through WiFi.
especially, and the technology itself is not
viable for the majority of the population.
Although SMS Technology is mostly
suggested, the researchers still focused on WiFi
technology at the moment as a starting point for
this project towards its advancement in the
future.
3.1 Design and Development of the Solar-
Powered E-Box For Parcel Delivery Using
ESP8266 Module
With regards to the output of the design and
development of the solar-powered e-box for
parcel delivery using esp8266 module, the
prototype was well designed and developed
based on the figure shown below (see figure
11).

Figure 12 Mobile Application

The figure above shows that the mobile

application consists mainly of four buttons
controlling the three main devices of the whole
system.
The “CONNECT” button will connect the
application to the MQTT broker that controls
the lock of the E-Box. Once it is connected, the
next move is to click the “UNLOCK E-BOX”
button. Once it is clicked, the “UNLOCKED E-
BOX” button will change into “LOCK E-
BOX”; the same way otherwise.
With regards to the system activity for this
system, the figure below shows how the whole
system operates, including the opening of the
Figure 11 Solar-Powered E-Box Prototype mobile application, the clicking of the buttons,
The JSL II 12AH battery supposedly must be until the closing of the mobile application.
placed inside the electronic box, however, due
to lack of space, it is placed outside the box for
now. Since this is still a prototype at first, it will
be open for further changes and improvements.
The solar panel needs to be reduced in terms of
size in order for it to be placed only on top of
the box, as well as the battery in order for it to
be placed inside the box along with the
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3.2 Safety of Delivered Parcels

With regards to the matter of whether parcels
can be safe or not when delivered, the
researchers have designed and developed a
system that addresses such issues as shown in
figure 4.9 below. A solenoid lock was placed in
order to safely lock the E-Box, thus keeping the
parcels inside safe and sound, along with two
surveillance cameras in order for the receiver to
monitor the inside and the outside of the E-Box.

Figure 13 System Activity

Figure 13 above presents the firmware

flowchart on how the E-Box system works. As
part of the delivery company’s practice, the
Figure 14 Parcel Security and Monitoring System
parcel receiver is notified at least twice (at most
thrice) through SMS regarding the arrival of the The solenoid lock provides a strong security
ordered parcel. The receiver is then called by (although basic). Both cameras work well in
the delivery driver to finally notify of the arrival monitoring the activities occurring inside and
of the parcel. outside the E-Box, although they can only be
accessed locally. Improvement for this matter is
As the delivery driver arrives at the residence of
mentioned in the next chapter, particularly the
the receiver, even during his absence, the
recommendations section. Further details on
receiver then opens the mobile application and
the parcel security system are stated in the next
connects the lock system to the MQTT broker.
section for this chapter, particularly on tables 9
Once it is connected, the receiver then proceeds and 10 and figure 17. To give a brief preview of
unlocking the E-Box by clicking the the parcel security, most are confident of its
“UNLOCK E-BOX” button. Once it is clicked, safety feature though it needs more
the E-Box then unlocks and the button text improvement to make it more secure.
turns to “LOCK E-BOX”.
3.3 Test and Evaluation of the System
After being unlocked, the receiver opens the
As mentioned in the previous section, testing
camera web servers for both ESP32 cameras by
and troubleshooting were done in order to
clicking the two camera buttons and monitors
evaluate the system’s usability and technicality
the activity occurring inside and outside the E-
before having it evaluated by the selected
Box. As the parcel is placed inside the E-Box,
respondents. Based on the methods stated in the
the receiver then clicks the “LOCK E-BOX”
previous chapter in testing and troubleshooting
button and the E-Box locks and the button text
the system, two testing scenarios were
returns to its normal state. Once everything is
conducted, (1) Testing Scenario 1, wherein the
finished, the receiver then clicks the EXIT
system is tested within the working place of the
APPLICATION button to exit the mobile
researchers, and (2) the Testing Scenario 2,
application.
 10

wherein the system is tested from another (9) tests were successful out of ten (10) for each
network. device, while for the inside camera, eight (8)
tests were successful out of ten (10). The
3.3.1 Testing Scenario 1 Test Results failures were due to some wiring connectivity
For the testing scenario 1, two phases of tests issues; however these issues were addressed
were conducted. The system functionality test and the system again performed efficiently.
was first conducted wherein the functionality of The second phase of the test was the reaction
the system is evaluated as to how functional time test wherein the reaction time for each
each device is when triggered. Ten (10) device’s response when triggered was being
triggering tries were done for each device to recorded. The results of the test are shown in
evaluate its functionality. Two stages of the test Table 5 below. Five tests were conducted for
were conducted in this particular test, (a)when the reaction time when the button of each
all devices are connected to the computer and device is clicked.
(b) when all devices are connected to the
battery through the collar charger controller. Table 5 Testing Scenario 1 – System Reaction
Results of this particular phase of the test are Time In Triggering Each Device
stated below.
Table 3 Testing Scenario 1 – System Functionality
Test Results A

Results on the table above show that at the first

try, 0.8-second reaction time was recorded in
clicking the button to unlock the solenoid lock;
the same goes in locking it. It is followed by 0.5
Results show that for the first stage, all tests seconds at the second try, 0.7 seconds and the
were successful while for the second stage third try, 0.5 seconds at the fourth, then at the
where devices are directly connected to the fifth, 0.3 seconds, an average of 0.56 seconds
battery through the mobile application’s was recorded for the reaction time of the lock
control, eight (8) tests were successful out of responding to the application control. 1.02
ten. Table 4 below shows the detailed results of seconds was first recorded for the front
the system functionality test. camera’s reaction time in flashing on screen its
Table 4 Testing Scenario 1 – System Functionality surveillance stream when its button on the
Test Results B mobile application was clicked. It is then
followed by a 0.6-second reaction time, then 1
second, 0.7 second, and 0.8 second. For the
inside camera, 0.99 seconds was recorded for
its reaction time at the first try, followed by 1
second, 0.7 second, 0.6 second, and then 0.5
second. An average of 0.8-second reaction time
was recorded for both cameras being triggered
on the mobile application.
3.3.2 Testing Scenario 2 Test Results
The results above show that for the first stage The final testing scenario done by the
of system functionality testing, all devices were researchers was having the system controlled
successful. For the second stage where there from another network (at least the lock alone,
were failures in the implementation of the since the cameras need improvement of the
system, the above tabulated results show that server to be accessed from another network).
for the solenoid lock and the front camera, nine
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The tables below show the test results when the Table 8 Respondents Evaluation of the System’s
lock was controlled from another network, Feature and Quality
starting from within Iligan City up to other
cities in the Philippines.
Table 6 Testing Scenario 2 – Lock Control Within
Iligan City Test Results

Table 6 above shows that the lock was

successfully triggered remotely from another Table 8 above presents the respondents’
network within Iligan City. The first location evaluation regarding the system’s features and
was from within the College of Computer quality. The table above shows that most of the
Studies of Mindanao State University Iligan respondents stated that the features and quality
Institute of Technology, then followed by of the system are excellent. Out of 65
Barangay Pugaan, Iligan City. respondents, 63 stated that the features of the
Table 7 Testing Scenario 2 – Lock Control From mobile application are excellent, 57 out of 65
Places Outside Iligan City Test Results respondents stated that the quality of the front
camera is excellent, and 49 out of 65
respondents stated that the quality of the inside
camera is excellent.
Figure 15 below shows the average of the
respondents stating how excellent the features
of the devices of the E-Box, as well as their
quality. Respondents at both excellent and very
Table 7 above shows that the lock was excellent sides are combined, as well as those
successfully triggered remotely by selected from the “not excellent” and “less excellent”
users from places outside Iligan City. The first sides, thus stating the overall features and
location was from Aurora in Zamboanga Del quality of the system.
Sur, followed by Cagayan De Oro City, Leyte,
Cebu City, and then Manila.
All testing and troubleshooting done by the
researchers proved to be successful. Following
this phase is the post survey conducted at
Mindanao State University Iligan Institute of
Technology wherein the students in the campus
evaluated the system’s usability and
technicality. As mentioned above, two types of
evaluation surveys were conducted in this
particular survey: (1) the User Evaluation
Survey and (2) the Technicality Evaluation Figure 15 E-Box Features and Quality Average
Survey. 65 respondents were conducted in this Percentage
survey.
Using the average percentage formula, results
3.3.3 User Evaluation of the System show that the E-Box proved to be excellent in
The following tables and figures below show terms of its features and quality as an average
the evaluation of the respondents regarding the of 81.5% stated that the E-Box’s features and
usability of the system. quality proved to be excellent. Overall, the
system proved to be excellent with regards to
its features and quality.
 12

In terms of the system’s overall effectiveness,

table 9 below presents how effective the system
is in monitoring the activity inside and outside
the E-Box, in securing the parcels inside the E-
Box, as well as how helpful it is to the receivers
in receiving parcels both during their presence
and absence at home during delivery.
Table 9 Respondents Evaluation On The
Effectiveness Of The System

Figure 16 E-Box Effectiveness Average

Percentage

Figure 16 above shows that with regards to the

E-Box’s overall effectiveness, an average of
95.4% stated that the E-Box is effective overall
while 4.6% remained neutral. Therefore, results
show that the E-Box is effective in receiving
parcels safely on behalf of the receivers
The table above shows that most of the especially when they are absent at home.
respondents stated that the whole system is With regards to the safety feature of the system
effective in terms of monitoring the activity in receiving parcels, figure 17 below shows
inside and outside the E-Box, securing the how safe the E-Box is in receiving and securing
parcels inside the E-Box, and being helpful to the parcels.
receivers in receiving parcels both during their
presence and absence during delivery. Out of
65 respondents, 61 respondents stated that both
cameras (inside and front) are effective in
monitoring both the inside and outside of the E-
Box, 60 out of 65 respondents stated that the
lock proves to be effective in terms of securing
the parcels inside the E-Box, and almost all of
the respondents (64 except one who remains
neutral) stated that the system proves to be
helpful for receivers in receiving parcels both in
their presence and absence during delivery.
Analyzing the overall evaluation for the Figure 17 E-Box Safety and Security in Receiving
effectiveness of the E-Box, the figure below Parcels
displays how effective E-Box is, based on the
data analysis computation mentioned in the The figure above shows that 89% of the
third chapter. respondents stated that the E-Box proves to be
safe, 9% remained neutral regarding this
matter, and 2% of the respondents stated that
the E-Box is less safe due to the position of the
lock and based on the view of that respondent,
the lock cannot strongly secure the box.
However, rooms for improvement for the lock
are open, and are mentioned in the next chapter
of this paper.
Part of this system’s usability is assessing its
marketability aside from its quality,
effectiveness, and safety and security in
receiving and securing parcels. Figure 18 below
presents the system’s marketability.
 13

stated that the system is functional.

Specifically, 62 out of 65 respondents stated
that the mobile application proved to be
functional, as well as the inside camera while
only 3 remained neutral. 59 out of 65
respondents stated that the front camera proved
to be functional while only 6 respondents
remained neutral regarding this matter, and
finally, 58 respondents stated that the solenoid
lock proved to be functional while only 7
remained neutral.

Figure 18 E-Box Marketability

The figure above presents that 88% of the

respondents stated that the E-Box is
marketable, while 12% remained neutral.
In terms of the E-Box quality and effectiveness,
results show that it proved to be excellent in
terms of its features and quality, as well as
effective in aiding the receivers receive parcels
safely especially in their absence. With regards
to its safety features and its marketability, Figure 19 System Functionality Average
figures above (figures 17 and 18) show that the Percentage
E-Box proved to be safe in receiving parcels, as
well as marketable. Figure 19 above shows the average percentage
of the functionality of the system. Results show
Overall, the system proves to be usable based that an average of 92.7% stated that the whole
on the evaluation of the respondents. This system is functional while 7.3% remained
includes the further suggestions or neutral, thus proving that the E-Box in terms of
recommendations for the system’s its functionality, is functional.
improvement in the future.
Aside from the system’s functionality, as
3.3.4 Technicality Evaluation of the System mentioned above, the researchers also
Aside from the system’s usability as mentioned considered the system’s reaction time in
above, the researchers also assessed the responding to the mobile application’s control.
respondents’ evaluation on the system’s The table below shows how quick or how slow
technicality, particularly how functional the the response is.
devices are, and how quick the devices respond Table 11 System Reaction Time to Mobile
to the mobile application’s control. The tables Application Control
and figures below present the overall
technicality of the system. The researchers also
used the same computation in computing the
average percentage in analyzing the data
gathered in the technicality survey.
Table 10 System Functionality Results show that the overall system response
to the mobile application’s control is quick.
Specifically, 60 out of 65 respondents stated
that the mobile application proved to be quick
while only 4 remained neutral and one stated
that the mobile application’s reaction time is
Table 10 above presents how functional the slow (due to moments of slow internet
system is. Overall, most of the respondents connection). 59 out of 65 respondents stated
that the front camera proved to be quick in
 14

responding to the button click in the mobile In terms of the system's usability and
application, as well as the inside camera which technicality, the overall system proved to be
has 60 respondents confirming its quick user-friendly, functional, and effective at
response, and 62 out of 65 respondents receiving and securing packages. However,
confirmed that the solenoid lock proved to be there is room for improvement.
responding quickly to the mobile application’s
control.
Analyzing the overall data regarding its V. ACKNOWLEDGMENT
reaction time, the figure below presents how We would like to express our deepest gratitude
quick the overall system is in responding to the to the following who gave priceless aid in the
application control. journey of our study, to our adviser, Prof. Joel
I. Miano, MSCA, for helping and guiding us in
how we would come up with this study, to our
panel members, Prof. Maria Fe P. Bahinting,
MIT, and Prof. Stefany Mae V. Caparida,
MSCA for the time you spent in guiding us on
how we are to improve this study, to FABLAB
Mindanao, for welcoming us in their Fabrangay
training for the design and construction of our
system hardware, as well as those who
supported us and helped us in implementing our
system. We extend our thanks to our ever-
Figure 20 System Reaction Time Percentage loving and supportive parents for your
Average unending love and support in our study and to
The same as its functionality, figure 20 above our friends who cheered for us. Above all,
shows that an average of 92.7% respondents praise and glory to the Lord behind us
stated that the system is quick in terms of its throughout this journey.
reaction time, thus, proving that all the devices
of the system are quick in responding to the
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