Abstract: A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key, a hand-held program unit, or an external computing device via wireless communications. In one mode, the electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible only when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. In another mode, the electronic lock is programmed in the field without first opening the vending machine. A program command and access control data including a new access code are transmitted wirelessly from a hand-held program unit or the like. Alternatively, an external computing device is used to program the electronic lock via long-range wireless communications, and an electronic key is then used to open the electronic lock to physically access the vending machine.

Abstract: A set is disclosed with a position sensor and an exciter part. The position sensor has three reed contacts which are pointed parallel to one another in a triangle arrangement next to one another, of which the first two are used for doubled detection of the exciter magnetic field. The third reed contact is used to generate an error signal when the sensor is activated by means of an outside magnetic field. The exciter part has three permanent magnets which are arranged in a triangle arrangement which corresponds to the triangle arrangement of the reed contacts, with pole axes aligned parallel to one another. Of them, the first two magnets are pointed in the same direction and are located at a first distance to one another. The third magnet is polarized in the direction opposite the first two. This results in that only the two make contacts can be activated by the two bar magnets which are pointed in the same direction. Conversely, all three reed contacts are activated each by an outside magnetic field.

Abstract: A reusable electronic seal for a trailer includes a structural enclosure configured to attach onto a shackle of a padlock with an electronic module integrated within the to enclosure. A rechargeable battery circuit with a photovoltaic cell is in communication with a battery permitting the battery to be charged by the photovoltaic cell when the voltage is low. The electronic module incorporates a microprocessor, a random number generator and a liquid crystal display which communicates with the random number generator. A shackle engagement switch is configured to engage the padlock shackle, applying a signal to the microprocessor when the padlock has been opened. When the padlock is re-latched the shackle engagement switch triggers the microprocessor to signal the random number generator to transmit a new number to the liquid crystal display.

Abstract: An alarm system and method for (1) assisting a user in arming and disarming an alarm system when locking and unlocking an entry door, (2) automatically locking an entry door when arming the alarm system, and/or (3) remotely controlling an electronic lock in an entry door.

Abstract: A wireless surveillance system and methods of operating same including a server software application that enables automated and centralized video analytics data storage and reporting capabilities as well as digital video management and/or recording device (DVM) and camera management capabilities for multiple DVMs and digital input capture devices (ICDs) such as cameras. The system includes at least one server computer operable via user interface selections that activate corresponding functions associated with the software application and the camera(s) and DVM(s) connected and operable within the system via wireless communication with each other and the server through a network and authorized access thereto. In a method for using the system, a user adds DVMs to the system by selecting a subset or the complete group of cameras related to each DVM to be added to the server application.

Abstract: A lock status notification method, apparatus and corresponding medication storage device (e.g., mobile medication dispensing cart, medication cabinet, nurse server, etc.) are provided. In order to generate the notification, a computing device operating on the medication storage device may monitor the status of a manual lock associated with one or more drawers of the medication storage device (e.g., through the use of a sensor associated with the lock). A notification may be generated if it is determined that the medication storage device is unlocked at a certain point in time (e.g., when a user is attempting to log off of an application executing on the computing device). At least one of the drawers of the medication storage device may include a next case medication pocket having an automatic lock and in which medications prepared for the next case or procedure in which the user is participating can be securely stored.

Abstract: A remote start controller is mounted on a vehicle, which includes a keyless entry device for controlling a locking action of doors of the vehicle in response to a user's operation with respect to a lock button of a transmitter. The remote start controller includes a CPU. Upon detecting that the lock button of the transmitter is operated in a first predetermined way, the CPU causes an engine of the vehicle to start.

Abstract: A method for controlling security truck door lockers and a structure for controlling security truck door lockers are disclosed. A control device is configured to control electronic lockers respectively mounted on security truck doors by means of detecting the unlocked/locked status of the electronic lockers and changing or not changing their status accordingly, and then informing users of the locker's current status. The electronic locker includes a substrate, a fastener, a stopper, a micro switch, and a locker core. When a bolt of the door fastens the fastener, the stopper horizontally moves to contact a bottom of the fastener by means of controlling the operation of the micro switch, or the locker core drives an engagement portion to contact the fastener so that the fastener is fastened and the locker is locked.

Abstract: An intrusion sensing device includes an intrusion detection sensor enclosed within a housing and operable to detect an intrusion into a container. A mounting detection mechanism contacts the surface of the container when the housing is mounted thereto and is operable to detect when the housing is not in contact with the surface of the container. An access detection mechanism is operably connected to an access panel of the housing and operable to detect removal of the access panel from the housing. A control module is operable in a setup mode and an active mode. The control module is adapted to receive an alarm message from the intrusion detection sensor and operable to initiate an alarm event during the setup mode which varies from an alarm event initiated during the active mode. A wireless transmitter is operable to transmit an alarm indication signal to a remote monitoring system.

Abstract: An attempted lock break-in detector of the invention comprising: a cover (1) provided with mounting means (2) for mounting on a door (3) provided with a lock (4), said cover (1) being capable of passing from a first position in which it covers means (40) for opening or closing said lock (4) so as to make said means inaccessible, to a second position in which it allows access to said opening or closing means (40), and vice versa; and means (51, 52) for opening and closing an electric circuit (6) to generate and interrupt an electrical signal (S1, S2) indicative of said cover (1) passing from the first position to the second position, and vice versa; said means (51, 52) for opening and closing an electric circuit (6) comprise at least one contact element (51) for making contact with an element (41) of said lock (4), which lock element constitutes a section of said electric circuit (6). The invention also provides a lock, a door, and an alarm system including such a detector.

Abstract: A lock and key mechanism comprising a sensor detecting friction between first and second nanostructured surfaces and a controller receiving output from the sensor and comparing same to stored values. Also a method for activating or deactivating a lock comprising providing a first nanostructured surface, causing a second nanostructured surface to frictionally interact with the first nanostructured surface, sensing the interaction with a sensor, the sensor producing an output signal, and via a controller comparing the sensor output signal to a reference signal.

Abstract: A lock having a body, a face, a shackle and an audio and/or a visual system. The audio system includes a speaker system and a controller, and the visual system includes an indicator light and a controller. The systems also employ a battery and a battery indicator light, e.g., an LED, indicating when the battery needs to be replaced. The audio system emits an audible sequence and the visual system emits a light sequence when the lock is unlocked, reminding a user to lock the lock.

Abstract: A security alarm system and method for an electronic device generates analog sensing signals in the security device if the security device is being unlocked. The system and method further converts the analog sensing signals into digital sensing signals, and generates an alert instruction according to the digital sensing signals.

Abstract: A security device for attachment to an article to deter theft has a housing containing an alarm system including an audible alarm speaker. The alarm system includes a conductor located within the housing which forms a loop that extends at least partially about the alarm speaker or about the periphery of the housing. The conductor which can be an electrical conductor, fiber optic conductor, light pipe, etc., when severed by a thief will actuate the audible alarm. In another embodiment, the conductor forms a loop about a simulated speaker grille formed in the housing to prevent tampering, wherein the audible alarm is located in the housing remote from the simulated speaker grille.

Abstract: An electronic locking device secures a shipping container and includes a housing, two arms, a sensing circuit, and electronics. The pair of arms extend from the housing and couple to the hasp. The arms transition between locked and unlocked configurations relative to the hasp, with one or both of the arms pivoting relative to the other. A bolt seal locks the arms in the locked configuration. The sensing circuit, which includes sensing contacts, is in a “closed” state or “open” state depending on whether the arms are in the locked or unlocked configuration. The electronics record and report the state of the sensing circuit, thereby indicating whether the arms are locked or unlocked.

Abstract: Disclosed is a reusable locking unit and a one time use electrically conductive molded thermoplastic shackle loaded with carbon black particles and having a linear resistance that is periodically monitored. The locking unit includes an integrated circuit for measuring shackle impedance through terminals capacitively coupled to the shackle. The terminals allow for adjustment of the length of the seal shackle in the locked secured state. The terminals and shackle form an RC network having a complex impedance that manifests the locked adjusted shackle length. Two AC signals at two different frequencies are used to measure impedance, which is compared with an initially determined or continually generated reference impedance to determine a tampered state of the shackle. Temperature compensation is also disclosed. A time stamp is stored for noting the tampering time of occurrence.

Abstract: A lock having a body, a face, a shackle and an audio and/or a visual system. The audio system includes a speaker system and a controller, and the visual system includes an indicator light and a controller. The systems also employ a battery and a battery indicator light, e.g., an LED, indicating when the battery needs to be replaced. The audio system emits an audible sequence and the visual system emits a light sequence when the lock is unlocked, reminding a user to lock the lock.

Abstract: A remotely actuable refrigerator door lock has a body portion attached to the cabinet and a door portion attached to an edge of the door. A latch in the body portion engages a strike plate in the door portion and can be remotely lifted to open the refrigerator. The door lock assembly is connected to a remote host computer via a USB or ethernet connection. Temperature and/or humidity in the refrigerator is compared with a predetermined limit, and in the event the sensed value is beyond the limit, the remote opening functionality is disabled, and a microprocessor automatically generates and sends a warning message. A key lock can provide access in the event of an adverse temperature or humidity event. The host computer keeps an audit trail of the times and personnel accessing each refrigerator. The system may be used in hospital for controlling access to pharmaceuticals or may be used in a weight loss program.

Abstract: A driver authorization system for a vehicle includes an on-board identification device for communicating with a mobile release device to verify usage authorization, an ignition lock, ignition key, and a control unit for activating ignition lock functions (such as starting and switching off the engine) when the ignition key is brought into a corresponding position in the ignition lock. The ignition lock functions can be activated by means of the control unit using a pushbutton (6), that can be mounted in, actuated while mounted, and removed from the ignition lock.

Abstract: A control unit to control an electronic lock on a safe includes an electronic lock for the safe. The electronic lock receives signals from an external computer, and controls the safe in response to the signals.

Abstract: An anti-theft and safety mechanism (1) for bottles is disclosed, comprising an external support body (2), locking and unlocking means of this mechanism (1) and means for securing this mechanism (1) onto a neck of a bottle.

Abstract: A tamper-proof electronic security seal which includes a bolt and a locking element and an electronic seal element. The bolt has a head and a hollow shank extending therefrom having a longitudinal bore formed therein. The shank is dimensioned to pass through a lock hasp and has a free end formed for locking engagement with the locking element. The electronic seal element is formed for mechanical connection to the bolt head, and includes an electrical power source, a control unit, communications means responsive to the control unit and a sensor adapted for insertion into the longitudinal bore of the shank, and connected to the control unit. In response to a severing of the shank and the sensor inserted therein, the control unit is operative to activate the communications means to emit an alarm signal.

Abstract: A system for securing a property site includes a fence adapted to enclose the property site. Reinforcements are placed over the wire fence. A gate in the fence allows access to the property site and includes a locking member to lock the gate. A secured access member secures a key member to unlock the locking member. Detectors are used to monitor the property site for intruders and to send a signal upon detecting an intruder. An interface is disposed on the secured access member for deactivating the detectors and unlocking the secured access member.

Abstract: This invention relates to a seal for sealing a freight container. The seal includes, in its in-use configuration, a shaft (18) and heads (20) on opposite ends thereof. It includes also an electronic circuit (40) including a radio frequency identification (RFID) transmitter (42) and sensing means (44, 46) for sensing severance of the shaft (18). Severance of the shaft (18), if sensed by the sensing means (44, 46), is detectable by interrogation of the RFID transmitter (42) via a compatible interrogation device. A basic embodiment of the seal comprises parts made mostly of a non-conductive, vulnerable material. Should operational requirements so dictate, additional parts are provided for effectively, in the in-use configuration of the seal, reinforcing the vulnerable parts to yield a tamper resistant seal which still may be interrogated to determine integrity of its shaft. Other embodiments of the seal permit also interrogation to determine the integrity of another part of the seal.

Abstract: The present invention addresses deficiencies of the art in respect to commercial asset control and provides a novel and non-obvious system and device for monitoring access to controlled areas. In one embodiment of the invention, the device can include a securing mechanism having an open state and a closed state. The device can further include a housing coupled with the securing mechanism, the housing comprising a radio frequency-opaque material, wherein the housing completely encloses a volume when the securing mechanism is in the closed state and wherein the housing includes an opening when the securing mechanism is in the open state. The device can further include an electronic marker located inside the volume of the housing, wherein the electronic marker periodically emits a signal.

Abstract: This invention relates to a portable locking device having a wireless transmitter that transmits the condition of the locking device to the receiver of a security system. The locking device comprises non-rigid cable so that it can be easily connected to various objects. Cutting the cable triggers prevents power from reaching the wireless transmitter, and the lack of signal triggers the security system to issue an alarm. The portable locking device comprises parallel armed and disarmed circuits to supply electricity to the wireless transmitter, but the armed circuit is broken if the lock is tampered with or compromised when locked.

Abstract: The safety system comprises an electro-mechanical locking device (110) moveable between an unlocked position and a locked position. When the electro-mechanical locking device is in the locked position and is located on an energy isolation element (120) of a plant, energy is isolated at the isolation element. A mobile unit (130) is adapted to communicate with the electro-mechanical locking device in order to move the electro-mechanical locking device between the locked and unlocked position. When the electro-mechanical locking device is moved to the locked position a confirmation signal (260) is communicated to the mobile unit confirming that the electro-mechanical locking device is locked.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for monitoring and detecting movement of components of a shipping container latch. A latch monitor may embody an electromagnetic sensing unit and a nearby magnet or light emitter for measuring and characterizing the profile of a nearby electromagnetic field. The field profile is monitored to detect a change in the profile, log the change, and report any abnormal disturbance to the electromagnetic field, indicating a breach of the integrity of a latching mechanism on a shipping container. An alert of a breach event may be sent via a communication network to an authority for response. The invention can distinguish authorized, incidental, and tampering events, and also store and upload an electronic manifest for a shipping container.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for monitoring and detecting movement of components of a shipping container latch. A latch monitor may embody an electromagnetic sensing unit and a nearby magnet or light emitter for measuring and characterizing the profile of a nearby electromagnetic field. The field profile is monitored to detect a change in the profile, log the change, and report any abnormal disturbance to the electromagnetic field, indicating a breach of the integrity of a latching mechanism on a shipping container. An alert of a breach event may be sent via a communication network to an authority for response. The invention can distinguish authorized, incidental, and tampering events, and also store and upload an electronic manifest for a shipping container.

Abstract: A display assembly for a retail product has a base and a platform adjustably mounted on an upper end of the base. The platform includes a lower housing which is pivotally supported in a cradle attached to the upper end of the base. The platform is pivotally mounted on the cradle by a pair of pivot pins, at least one of which is threaded to secure the platform in an adjusted titled position on the cradle. A plurality of notches are formed on the platform housing and selectively engage a detent formed on the cradle to retain the platform in an adjusted position. A sensor may be removably mounted on the platform and connected to the product and to the base by an expandable cord to actuate an alarm if the product is removed in an unauthorized manner from the sensor or base.

Abstract: Intelligent access management system contains an electronic key executed for fingerprint identification of the user. The multi-address access management system contains an electronic key, an electronic lock, a storage device, an identification and processing unit. The electronic key includes a wafer and mounted on the wafer: a scanning device for obtaining the fingerprint data of the user's fingers and converting them into a digital format, a device for interfacing the electronic key with the electronic lock, a key management device, a device for display of information about the state of the key and the input information, a power supply unit, a storage device, and the electronic lock contains an access blocking device which is connected to the output of the identification and processing unit. The invention ensures using the key for diverse access management systems with reduced risk of unscrupulous use of the electronic key by an illicit user.

Abstract: A control system is for a lock of a door movably disposed within a frame and having a latch engageable with the frame, an interior handle connected with the latch and an exterior handle connectable with the latch. A connective mechanism is configured to releasably connect the exterior handle with the latch and an input device is configured to generate an unlock signal. A controller is coupled with the input device and configured to operate the connective mechanism such that the mechanism connects the exterior handle with the latch. The controller is selectively operable in a standard mode where the controller operates the mechanism when the controller receives the unlock signal and a lockdown mode where the controller does not operate the mechanism when receiving the unlock signal. A lockdown-input device coupled with the controller is configured to generate a lockdown signal to switch the controller to the lockdown mode.

Abstract: A security system is for monitoring a door movably disposed within a frame. A lock is adjustable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration and a lock sensor is configured to generate a signal when the lock adjusts to the unlocked configuration. A door sensor is configured to generate a signal when the door displaces with respect to the frame and an alarm device is configured to provide an alarm. Further, a control is coupleable with the lock and door sensors and is switchable between armed and disarmed modes. The control is configured to operate in the armed mode such that the control activates the alarm when the control receives the door sensor signal prior to a receipt of the lock sensor signal. Alternatively, the control switches to the disarmed mode when the control receives the lock sensor signal prior to a receipt of the door sensor signal.

Abstract: A door lock system having state feedback comprises a door lock; a control circuit for controlling the unlocking or locking of the door lock; a feedback circuit for detecting the state of the door lock; a central processing unit for reading the state of the door lock outputted from the feedback circuit and controlling the control circuit to unlock or lock the door lock. In the door lock system, the electromagnetic valve is used instead of mechanical switch, which lowers the failure rate of the door lock and improves the reliability of the door lock, and the feedback circuit is capable of detecting the state of door lock, and therefore a feedback signal can be provided in time when the door lock is failed, which ensures the efficient control of the door lock.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant remotely monitorable electronic seal including a shaft portion (10), a socket arranged to engage the shaft position in a monitorable manner, whereby disengagement of the socket (12) and the shaft portion results in a monitorable event, and a wireless communicator associated with at least one of the shaft portion and the socket and being operative to provide a remotely monitorable indication of the monitorable event.

Abstract: An automatic cycle storage system comprising cycles, each of which carries a blocking device and an electronic circuit; a cycle storage area serving to receive the cycles while they are not being used; and a control device adapted to authorize, selectively, cycles to be borrowed from the storage area. The control device and the cycle are each provided with a respective short-range wireless communications interface, and the cycle includes an electrical lock device adapted to lock the blocking device in the blocking position.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring a facility is provided. Generally, the system comprises monitoring tags wherein each monitoring tag emits an identifier signal unique to each monitoring tag, monitoring sensors wherein the monitoring sensors receive signals from the monitoring tags and relay the signals to one or more monitoring stations, and monitoring stations wherein the monitoring stations log and display information associated with the signals received. The monitoring station identifies possible events based on the signals received from the monitoring sensors. The monitoring station alerts staff members of the events via a graphical user interface, pagers, email, and alarms.

Abstract: A container monitoring system and an electronic container lock are provided according to the present invention; the container monitoring system includes: a first communication device, which is allocated to a container carried by a container vehicle, the first communication device consists of a first communication interface, a monitoring interface, and a lock mechanism that is for locking up door of the container, also the monitoring interface is able to monitor engagement situation of the lock mechanism, and accordingly sending out a first signal if an abnormal situation is detected, subsequently the first signal is sent out via the first communication interface; an intermediate device, which is allocated to the container vehicle, the intermediate device consists of a transmission interface and a first connection interface, the transmission interface is for receiving the first signal transmitted from the first communication device, and then the first signal is transmitted external via the first connection int

Abstract: A method for managing operating systems. A request from an operating system is received in the multi-partitioned data processing system to register for access to hardware in the multi-partitioned data processing system. The request includes a key code for the operating system. A determination is made as to whether the operating system is an authorized operating system using the key code in response to receiving the request. The operating system is registered if the operating system is the authorized operating system. Otherwise, the operating system is terminated.

Abstract: A remotely monitorable electronic locking device for use with a device including a conductive loop, the remotely monitorable electronic locking device including a locking element arranged to engage at least one end of the conductive loop, whereby disengagement of the locking element and the end of the conductive loop results in a monitorable event and a wireless communicator associated with the locking element operative to provide a remotely monitorable indication of the monitorable event.

Abstract: A theft deterrent device allows a customer to handle an item of merchandise to which the device is connected. The device is configured to protect items of merchandise having first and second pieces each of which are sufficiently valuable to warrant such protection. The device includes a base mountable on a support structure, an audible alarm, first and second connectors which attach respectively to the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise, lanyards for connecting the base to the first and second connectors and a removal sensor for sensing removal of one or both of connectors from the first and second pieces of the item of merchandise so that the alarm is activated when the connector or connectors are removed from the item of merchandise. The lanyards provide electrical communication between the alarm and the connectors, which may include plunger switches which serve as removal sensors.

Abstract: A method of detecting an attempted lock bumping and providing a notification that an attempted lock bumping has occurred. A lock bumping detection device is placed on or in a door or door jamb near the lock. The device includes a sensor which senses energy and generates a signal that is processed to determine if the energy is a result of a lock bumping procedure. The sensed energy is analyzed to generate a received energy signature, which is compared to a stored energy signature with respected to qualifying and disqualifying rules. If the result of the comparison is positive, this indicates that the energy sensed is a result of an attempted lock bumping procedure. In the event that it is determined that the energy is a result of an attempted lock bumping procedure, then an alarm signal may be transmitted to an associated alarm system.

Abstract: An alarm system and method for (1) assisting a user in arming and disarming an alarm system when locking and unlocking an entry door, (2) automatically locking an entry door when arming the alarm system, and/or (3) remotely controlling an electronic lock in an entry door.

Abstract: A redundant security system relies on a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag to convey security sensor data. If the RFID tag is unable to convey security sensor data, a backup photoelectric cell powered transmitter is activated to transmit security sensor data to a monitoring station. Alternately, a security safe is outfitted with a RFID tag based security sensor. The RFID tag allows remote monitoring of at least one of an opened/closed condition and a locked/unlocked condition of a door of the security safe.

Abstract: A lock and key system is configured to sense an operational signature generated by an object placed into a keyway in the system. The system is further configured to compare the operational signature with a reference signature, and to generate an alarm when the operational signature differs from the reference signature by a threshold.

Abstract: An anti-theft box (100) for protection of goods comprises a main body (110) defining an inner space for the goods to be protected, a lid (120) closing said main body (110), an alarm transmitter triggering a central alarm in case the anti-theft box (100) passes an alarm gate, and a releasable lock (140 145, 150, 160) locking the lid (120) to the main body (110). The anti-theft box according to the invention also comprises an internal alarm circuit (200) that is controlled to be fused when the releasable lock (140 145, 150, 160) is in a locking position and defused when the releasable lock (140 145, 150, 160) is in an unlocked position. The internal alarm circuit (200) comprises a first switch (210), which in the fused state is arranged to trigger the alarm circuit to emit a sound signal in case the first switch (210) indicates that the lid (120) and the main body (110) are separated.

Abstract: The operating control system can be use on electronic equipment, such as cell phones, computers, engine analyzers, etc. An input device enables the input of user access data and a readout panel monitors the equipment status. A programmable feature selection member enables the user to select at least one programmable feature and respective activation time period. An internal member controls operation of the equipment by controlling access to one or more said programmable features based upon user selection, to enable full or partial activation of the device. A user is able to program specific events, such as TV shows, to be activated at specific times with controlled access by secondary access codes.

Abstract: A wireless fire alarm door unlocking system includes a remote alarm panel interface to receive information from a central alarm panel interface over an RF channel. The central alarm panel interface monitors an output from an alarm control panel and, when an alarm condition is asserted, initiates an unlock signal that is sent to the remote alarm panel interface. It in turn causes the door with which it is associated to unconditionally release to allow unimpeded entrance and exit. The system also monitors the status of the remove alarm panel interface and raises an alert in the event of a malfunction. The interface may be implemented as a hardware and software modification to an access control system or as separate components that coexist with an access control system on a non-interfering basis.

Abstract: A security device for a vehicle having doors that can be locked and unlocked by using a mechanical key or an electronic portable unit, which transmits a signal of door unlock instruction. When the doors are unlocked, a monitoring state is reset and an alarm is unset, and it is checked if the doors are unlocked by using the mechanical key or by using the signal transmitted from the portable unit. If it is determined that the doors are unlocked by using the mechanical key, the user is informed of this fact.

Abstract: A lock includes two independently operating locking mechanism, one locking mechanism operating electronically and one locking mechanism operating mechanically. The lock may include a device for receiving and decoding an electronic unlock signal and a memory source for storing multiple unique unlock signals. The electronic signal may be generated from a remote source or on the lock itself. The lock also may include a button that allows unique unlock signals to be added or deleted from the lock memory.