QLICK CASE STUDY: THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SERIES 100 INTO QlICKPIQ PARCEL LOCKERS

Overview

Qlick is a parcel locker company based in Finland who offer convenient parcel locker solutions all over Europe.

By developing the new QlickPiq parcel lockers, Qlick had a specific goal in mind: to offer their users a convenient and secure solution for managing their package deliveries.
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The new QlickPiq lockers are versatile parcel lockers for all conditions, which makes them perfect for indoor or outdoor placement due to their excellent heat, cold and water resistance. They have a range of locker compartment sizes to accommodate a large variety of package making them the perfect solution for consumers and delivery services alike. As a result, the final locking solution had to be as resilient as the lockers whilst able to provide strength, security and reliability.

OBJECTIVES

Qlicks priority is a good user experience, and with the QlickPiq parcel lockers, Qlick wanted an electronic locking solution versatile enough to suit all conditions. The locks needed to be robust enough to withstand constant usage and all-weather conditions, easily fitted into a spatially constrained area, while remaining easy to use and integrate into various environments.

Qlick aimed to:
1. Improve security and reduce unauthorised access.
2. Enhance customer convenience and satisfaction.
​​​​​​​3. Implement a scalable and future-proof system.

CHALLENGES

Qlick had tried a range of different locking solutions but the application required the lock to meet a variety of different challenges, with size, user experience and outdoor use being critical.

SIZE
Electronic locking systems for QlickPiq locker banks are required to fit in a spatially constrained application with only 1mm tolerance. This meant that the alignment between the locker door and the lock must be exact to avoid jamming or failure. The system must be designed to compensate for minor misalignments caused by usage over time, ensuring reliability and durability.

DURABILITY
When used outdoors or in environments subject to weather and temperature fluctuations, the locks must be weather-resistant, often utilising corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or sealed components to prevent water ingress. The lock's electronics, including sensors and motors, need to operate efficiently across a wide temperature range without losing performance. This requires designing the system to resist freezing, overheating, or the expansion and contraction of materials, which could otherwise affect the 1mm tolerance.

PRELOAD
Constant use of lockers can result in pre-load on a lock. Pre-load refers to the amount of force or pressure that is applied to the locking mechanism from the side, rather than directly in line with the lock. This can happen through misaligned doors which can be the result of slamming doors, shifts in surface, door seals expanding and contracting with temperature etc. The lock needed to be strong enough to withstand these challenges.
  
In addition, Qlick needed a lock that would not only offer security, but which would be able to integrate into their software systems which would be imperative to the user experience. Anyone interacting with a parcel locker needs to have a seamless experience – this is a priority for Qlick as locks which stick or wont open or close, will not only reduce confidence in use but can also add risk of theft.

SOLUTION

Camlock Systems has developed a range of products to suit the smart locker market, including electronic locks, access control systems, and related accessories.

The product which suited Qlicks requirements was the Series 100. A high strength motorised rotary latch with a tamper-resistant mechanism, which provides strength and environmental resilience.

The Series 100 offers:

• Two symmetrical stainless-steel jaws
• Lock status monitoring for added security
• Will operate in extreme temperatures
• IP65 rated
• Low operating current
• Integrates with existing control systems
• Fitted with a mechanical override
• Tested to 100,000+ usage cycles
• Rigorously tested to 7,000N of holding force and 300N of pre-load

IMPLEMENTATION

Qlick are predominantly using the Series 100 in new products, however, some will be retrofitted in the field and implementation was staged.

• Assessment and Planning: Camlock Systems conducted a thorough assessment of Qlick's existing infrastructure and requirements, ensuring the correct lock was specified to cope sufficiently with the locker requirements.
• Integration: Qlick needed their electronic locks to be integrated into the design of parcel lockers which need to be embedded within the door mechanisms of each locker compartment. Camlock Systems was able to advise the best fitting options.
• Testing and Feedback: The system underwent rigorous testing to identify and resolve any issues.
• Trial: Qlick had sample Series 100 to test for size and durability prior to ordering.
• Installation and Configuration: The Series 100 locks were installed and integrated with Qlick’s existing management software.
• Rollout: Qlick have around 20 lockers in the field and will introduce the QPQ boxes into the European market through their daughter company in Germany.

RESULTS

“We have tried a lot of different providers but didn’t find any that fitted our needs until we found Camlock Systems. Since we started to use their locks, we haven’t had any bigger issues regarding the function around the lockers. Other locks that we tested had a big problem regarding the doors, because they all were needed to be placed exactly within 1mm to be able to open or to close the doors. With Camlock there is more flexible and because of that much more possibilities for outdoor use.”

Simon Käld
CBDO & Cofounder
Qlick

The transition to electronic locking yielded significant benefits:

• Convenience: Users can pick up parcels at their convenience without needing staff assistance.
• Enhanced Security: Electronic locks provide a higher level of security compared to traditional mechanical locks.
• Efficiency: Streamlined parcel delivery and retrieval processes save time for both couriers and recipients.
• Scalability and Flexibility: The system can be scaled up easily by adding more lockers to the network.

CONCLUSION

The transition to an electronic locking system significantly improved Qlicks locker bank operations, security, and customer satisfaction. By leveraging modern technology, Qlick was able to address its challenges effectively and position itself for future growth.