Smart Parcel Locker Solution
Post boxes/Parcel locker Platform for off-grid solar-powered implementations
(full active consumption = 2,5W !)
Off-Grid / On-grid low-power Smart Locker Platform for Solar-Powered Parcel Lockers, Smart Post Boxes & Smart Cities
One Platform. One Ecosystem. Many Use Cases.
Modern Off-grid smart locker and post box systems must operate without grid power, remain secure, and stay remotely connected—often for years with minimal maintenance. ProtoDevs Platform delivers a complete, ultra-low-power hardware ecosystem that enables manufacturers and integrators to build fully autonomous smart locker solutions faster and with lower risk.
Why Choose ProtoDevs for Off-Grid Smart Locker Systems?
Our solution is not just a display or controller. It is a purpose-built platform designed specifically for off-grid, unattended smart locker deployments.
Key Benefits
- True off-grid operation with Solar panels and LiIon / LiFePO₄ battery support together with secondary input for on-grid sources (backup), active power consumption for 7-inch touch screen + GSM gateway/Charger/BMS + 3x locks driver boards (36 locks) with all systems ON is only 2,5W (!)
- Faster time-to-market using a developer-friendly ESP32 environment and a batch of examples
- Lower BOM and system complexity through an integrated ecosystem and modules full compatibility
- Industrial-grade reliability for outdoor and public installations (operational temperature range -30 … +80 deg C)
- Scalable architecture from single locker compact system for private house to large distributed country-scale networks
- Multiscreen extension capacity multiple PD.Screen_PRO capacitive touchscreens could be connected to the same RS-485/I2C/CAN bus (scalable up to 64 screens) – each with its own QR code scanner, featuring redundancy, advertisement options are parallel queues for customers and couriers
- Customer-customizable Electronics is free-of charge for mass-production orders
7-Inch / 10-Inch TFT Touch Screen Module for Smart Lockers (PD.Screen_PRO)
The Central Brain & User Interface
The ProtoDevs TFT Touch Screen Module combines a modern capacitive touchscreen with a dual-MCU architecture optimized for security, performance, and ultra-low power consumption.
Dual-MCU Architecture – Power Without Complexity
- ESP32 MCU – Application logic, security, connectivity, and cloud communication
- High-performance STM32 MCU – Graphics rendering, touch processing, and display control with low-power by design
All graphics and touch handling are managed internally. Developers control the UI using simple, high-level commands—no advanced graphics expertise required.
Developer-Friendly by Design
- Extensive example libraries (QR-barcode scanner, Thermoprinter, keypad, GSM, GPS, WiFi, camera, MQTT streams, etc.)
- Supports Arduino IDE, PlatformIO, ESP-IDF, MicroPython and modern toolchains
This approach reduces development time and engineering risk, enabling rapid prototyping and faster product launches.
Secure & Intuitive User Interface for Smart Parcel Lockers
The touch interface enables a clean, secure, and brandable user journey:
- PIN code access
- QR code scanning
- One-time delivery or pickup codes
- Courier and user guidance screens
- Real-time status feedback (available / open / closed / error)
The UI is fully customizable to match your brand and workflow.
Native Lock & Door Control for Smart Locker Systems
The TFT touch-screen module directly supports:
- Stepper motor drivers for motorized locks
- PWM outputs for buzzers, indicators, and actuators
- LED status indicators for user and courier feedback
The additional PD.Relay_Board module directly supports:
- 12 independent 6-pin channels for electromagnetic locks
- Open/close feedback sense and voltage/current measurements
- LED status indicators
This reduces the need for external controllers and simplifies system design.
Industrial Interfaces for Scalable Smart Locker Architectures
Our solution is built for scalable, real-world deployments:
- RS-485 for robust, long-distance communication
- I²C and UART for RFID readers, QR scanners, sensors, and security modules
- WiFI / Bluetooth / GSM / GPS functions on PD.Charger_GSM controller
This enables modular locker systems with multiple compartments and peripherals.
Secure Connectivity & Cloud Integration for Smart Lockers
The platform supports multiple connectivity options:
- Ethernet with PoE (hybrid or indoor installations)
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for commissioning and service access
- MQTT and Secure MQTT over GSM/LTE example implementations
Easily integrate with:
- Logistics platforms
- Smart-city systems
- Remote monitoring dashboards
Fully Off-Grid Smart Locker Power Management with PD.Charger_GSM controller
For autonomous outdoor deployments, ProtoDevs PowerLink provides intelligent power management and connectivity.
Intelligent Solar & Battery Management
- Solar panel input control
- LiFePO₄ battery charging and protection
- Battery health and energy monitoring
- Optimized ultra-low-power operation
Smart Locker & Smart Post Box Use Cases
- Smart parcel lockers
- Postal delivery boxes
- Click-and-collect systems
- Rental and sharing lockers
- Smart-city logistics infrastructure
Build Faster. Deploy Anywhere. Scale Confidently.
By combining:
- PD.Screen_PRO – Touchscreen, control, security, IoT
- PD.Charger_GSM – Solar power, battery management, WiFi / BT / GSM / GPS
- PD.Relay_Board – Scalable, monitored, low-power lock control
- PD.CAM – monitoring, onboard uSD card or Flash chip, RS-485 / I2C access
- PD.Multicontroller – adding weight control, power switching, presence sensors and more, RS-485 / I2C access
Start Building Your Off-Grid Smart Locker System
Ready to accelerate your smart locker development?
- Request a developer kit
- Talk to our engineering team
- Explore system architecture
ProtoDevs Platform – Off-Grid Smart Lockers & Solar-Powered Parcel Lockers. Done Right.
Built-In Connectivity
- GSM for remote data, alarms, and system status
- GPS for asset tracking and deployment management
Ideal for distributed, unattended locker networks in urban or remote locations.
Scalable Smart Locker Lock Control with ProtoDevs LockGrid (PD.Relay_Board)
High-Density Lock Control
- Controls up to 12 electronic locks per board
- Supports solenoids, motors, and electronic locking mechanisms
- Perfect for multi-compartment lockers
Advanced Monitoring & Diagnostics
Each lock channel provides:
- Voltage monitoring
- Current measurement
- Lock state detection (open / closed / fault)
This enables:
- Delivery confirmation
- Tamper detection
- Predictive maintenance
- Remote fault diagnostics
Ultra-Low-Power Design
Optimized for:
- Solar-powered systems
- Battery-operated lockers
- Long maintenance intervals
| PD.Screen_PRO Datasheet | Link to the document |
| PD.Charger_GSM Datasheet | Link to the document |
| PD.Relay_Board Datasheet | coming soon |
| PD.Cam Datasheet | coming soon |
| Arduino example – Parcel Locker interface | Link_to_the_code |
Smart Locker Platform Comparison
ProtoDevs Platform vs Traditional Smart Locker Architectures
| Feature | ProtoDevs Platform | Tablet-Based Systems | Custom Discrete Design |
|---|---|---|---|
| Off-grid ready | ✅ Native solar & battery support | ❌ High power draw | ⚠ Requires custom design |
| Ultra-low power | ✅ Designed for unattended use | ❌ Not optimized | ⚠ Depends on implementation |
| Developer-friendly | ✅ Arduino / ESP-IDF / Platformio ecosystems | ❌ Closed OS | ❌ High engineering effort |
| Lock monitoring | ✅ Voltage & current, state | ❌ Limited / none | ⚠ Complex to implement |
| Scalability | ✅ Modular RS-485 / I2C / UART expansion | ❌ Limited | ⚠ Custom redesign |
| Long-term availability | ✅ Industrial components | ❌ Consumer lifecycle | ⚠ Component risk |
| Time-to-market | ✅ Fast | ⚠ Medium | ❌ Slow |
ProtoDevs Ecosystem vs Single-Board Controllers
| Capability | ProtoDevs Ecosystem | Single Controller Board |
|---|---|---|
| Integrated HMI and drivers | ✅ Touchscreen module has all the drivers onboard | ❌ External HMI required, additional wiring for external drivers |
| Power management | ✅ Solar + LiFePO₄ + redundant power input | ❌ External charger |
| GSM & GPS | ✅ Built-in (PD.Charger_GSM module) | ❌ External modem |
| Locks scalability | ✅ Up to hundreds of locks | ❌ Limited I/O |
| Diagnostics | ✅ Per-board and Per-lock monitoring | ❌ Minimal |
| Maintenance cost | ✅ Low | ❌ Higher |
| Inter-system compatability | ✅ Full : all the components tested together | ❌ High risk using different modules from different manufactures |
| Remote updates | ✅ For each module via RS-485 and I2C | ❌ Limited, high risks |
Why it’s a game-changer:
+ Active power consumption* (7-inch touch screen always ON + GSM): just 2.5 W (!)
+ Idle power consumption (7-inch OFF + GSM idle + App MCU sleep): 0,01 W and could be even less (!)
+ System boot time: 1 sec
+ 7″ touchscreen Display with all the needed peripheral drivers such as a built-in QR scanner, RGB strip, sound buzzer, etc. – ready for instant user access,
+ Solar MPPT Charger / Gauge / Balancer / Controller + Wireless gateway (GSM, GPS, WiFi, Bluetooth) + Application MCU – manages power and connectivity intelligently and provides fast Time-to-Market with ESP32 MCU examples
+ 3x locker controller boards – each has ultra-low power consumption with all the diagnostic interfaces and controls up to 12 electromagnetic solenoid locks per board
+ All the components of the Solution operate anywhere from -30°C to +70°C
+ DIN-rail enclosure-compatible PCB design
+ Easy Integration with any Parcel Locker Fleet Management systems, free support
+ The components of this Solution on mass-production since 2025 and already have been field-tested
Optional modules:
> Battery heat-up solution for charging during the cold days
> Companion board for measuring: parcel weight, temperature, parcel presence
> Ultra-low power RS-485 or I2C Surveillance Camera module with IR and RGB Leds
Perfect for remote locations, smart city deployments, and sustainable logistics networks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is an off-grid smart locker system?
An off-grid smart locker system operates independently from utility power using solar panels and battery storage. ProtoDevs Platform is designed specifically for solar-powered smart parcel lockers and post boxes with low power consumption.
Can ProtoDevs Platform be used for outdoor smart lockers?
Yes. The platform is designed for unattended outdoor deployments, including smart-city installations, logistics hubs, and remote locations.
Does ProtoDevs Platform support solar power and LiFePO₄ batteries?
Yes. PD.Charger_GSM provides intelligent solar charging, LiFePO₄ or Li-Ion battery management, protection, security (crypto co-processor) and monitoring.
How many locker doors can the system control?
PD.Relay_Board modules support up to 12 locks per board and can be expanded to control hundreds of locker doors using RS-485 or I²C communication.
Is ProtoDevs Platform suitable for OEM smart locker manufacturers?
Absolutely. ProtoDevs Platform is built as a developer-friendly, OEM-ready platform that significantly reduces development time, BOM cost, and deployment risk.