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Roadmap

Jan Elsner edited this page May 30, 2026 · 1 revision

Roadmap

This page is a readable overview. The working roadmap remains in the specs repository and GitHub milestones.

Source of truth

Current phase

OpenParcelBox is in early planning and prototype definition.

The project is currently defining the first realistic prototype: a local, ESP-based retrofit controller for existing DHL parcel boxes.

M1: DHL Parcel Box Retrofit Beta

Goal: prove the OpenParcelBox idea on real hardware.

M1 should demonstrate:

  • standalone local operation without mandatory cloud, bridge, Home Assistant or internet
  • keypad and NFC access, with fingerprint prepared where feasible
  • Wiegand access-module support
  • local web management on the ESP
  • local event logging
  • a small multi-household permission model
  • carrier/service-provider PINs separated from owner pickup/admin access
  • MQTT and local API foundation
  • OTA update path
  • stable low-voltage power design
  • module-first hardware exploration before a later reference board

More: M1: DHL Parcel Box Retrofit Beta

Near-term work areas

Hardware

  • document the available DHL parcel box and lock unit
  • evaluate ready-made modules for controller, lock driver, Wiegand reader, NFC, fingerprint, sensors, power and solar support
  • select the first lock strategy
  • sketch cable routing and protected wiring zones
  • measure lock impulse current and voltage drop

Firmware

  • decide the M1 firmware base: ESP-IDF, Arduino Core, ESPHome or hybrid
  • define AP mode and local webserver requirements
  • define local API and MQTT event surface
  • implement Wiegand event handling
  • define audit-log storage and wear strategy
  • prepare OTA and secure update assumptions

Access control

  • refine organization / household / user / carrier model
  • define base events: Wiegand credential, door opened, door closed, remote command, failed attempt
  • separate delivery access from pickup/admin access
  • prepare future dynamic, rolling or signed opening rights
  • keep raw secrets out of logs

Standards and responsibility

  • keep CEN/TS 17457:2020 as an important European interoperability reference
  • avoid copying protected standards text
  • separate community baseline from manufacturer conformity claims
  • document that manufacturers must prove legal, technical and normative conformity for their target markets

Community and ecosystem

  • keep documentation bilingual where useful: English for technical source, German for the first strong community base
  • invite DIY builders, hardware people, coders, standards people and manufacturers
  • keep commercial paths possible without allowing a new closed dead end

Later roadmap themes

  • OpenParcelLock reference modules
  • OpenParcelBox Core/backplane
  • bridge and self-hosted services
  • optional cloud convenience service
  • dynamic carrier integrations
  • Matter / Thread / Zigbee / Home Assistant / HomeMatic paths
  • neighborhood capacity sharing
  • civic parcel boxes where parcel stations are missing
  • manufacturer compatibility and "Proudly made for OpenParcelBox" certification rules