Electrical Type (e.g., Solenoid) Patents (Class 70/277)
  • Patent number: 11965359
    Abstract: Energy harvesting arrangement (12) for an electronic locking system (116), the energy harvesting arrangement (12) comprising a driven member (32) for driving an electric generator (34), the driven member (32) being arranged to rotate about a driven member rotational axis (74); a drive member (30) movable between a starting position (70), in which the drive member (30) does not engage the driven member (32), and a releasing position (112), in which the drive member (30) can drivingly engage the driven member (32); a harvesting elastic element (40) arranged to force the drive member (30) towards the starting position (70) and arranged to store mechanical energy from displacement of the drive member (30) from the starting position (70); and a release mechanism (42) arranged to release mechanical energy stored in the harvesting elastic element (40) to a returning movable of the drive member (30) from the releasing position (112) to the starting position (70). An electronic locking system (116) is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: ASSA ABLOY AB
    Inventor: Johan Von Matern
  • Patent number: 11948413
    Abstract: The present invention relates to fingerprint scanner-based door locks. The invention proposes potential embodiments of the door locks, wherein a first embodiment includes a fingerprint scanner with a key card system and a second embodiment includes a fingerprint scanner with a number pad lock. The fingerprint scanner is used for receiving a fingerprint and is associated with an LED that is illuminated in a specific color indicating the status of authorization of the received fingerprint. Door locks of the first embodiment can be configured to be connected to a communication network of a hotel or resort in which the locks are installed using a central software. Door locks of the second embodiment can be configured to be connected to a smartphone application for configuration. The door locks include control and processing circuitry for authorization of a scanned fingerprint and received key card/PIN.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Inventor: Paul Pedro
  • Patent number: 11861958
    Abstract: Release mechanism for an electronic locking system, wherein the release mechanism is configured such that an input member and an output member are locked against relative rotation and can rotate together within a locking ring opening when a locking member is located in an input member recess and in an output member recess, and such that the output member is released to rotate relative to the input member when the locking member is located in the output member recess and in a locking ring recess. A freewheel mechanism and assemblies for an electronic locking system are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: ASSA ABLOY AB
    Inventors: Anders Cöster, Daniel Skarp, Robin Mcgougan, Henrik Svensson, Bernt Arbegard
  • Patent number: 11837747
    Abstract: A battery case unlocking apparatus, a battery case, and a quick battery case replacement system. The battery case unlocking apparatus comprises: a mount (1), an extensible/retractable mechanism (2), a transmission mechanism (3), and a locking mechanism (4). The locking mechanism (4) is used for locking and fixing a body (6) of a battery case to a battery holder (7) of an electric vehicle. The extensible/retractable mechanism (2) passes through the mount (1) and carries out extension/retraction movement in the mount (1) relative to the transmission mechanism (3) to drive the transmission mechanism (3) to move between the extensible/retractable mechanism (2) and the locking mechanism (4), thereby controlling the locking or unlocking of the locking mechanism (4). The battery case comprises the body (6) and the battery case unlocking apparatus. The quick battery case replacement system comprises: the battery holder (7), a replacement device (8), and the battery case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignees: SHANGHAI DIANBA NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., AULTON NEW ENERGY AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY GROUP
    Inventors: Jianping Zhang, Chunhua Huang, Danliang Qiu
  • Patent number: 11837746
    Abstract: A battery case unlocking apparatus, a battery case, and a quick battery case replacement system. The battery case unlocking apparatus comprises: a mount (1), an extensible/retractable mechanism (2), a transmission mechanism (3), and a locking mechanism (4). The locking mechanism (4) is used for locking and fixing a body (6) of a battery case to a battery holder (7) of an electric vehicle. The extensible/retractable mechanism (2) passes through the mount (1) and carries out extension/retraction movement in the mount (1) relative to the transmission mechanism (3) to drive the transmission mechanism (3) to move between the extensible/retractable mechanism (2) and the locking mechanism (4), thereby controlling the locking or unlocking of the locking mechanism (4). The battery case comprises the body (6) and the battery case unlocking apparatus. The quick battery case replacement system comprises: the battery holder (7), a replacement device (8), and the battery case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignees: SHANGHAI DIANBA NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., AULTON NEW ENERGY AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY GROUP
    Inventors: Jianping Zhang, Chunhua Huang, Danliang Qiu
  • Patent number: 11821237
    Abstract: A cylindrical door lock including a latch bolt, a cam assembly operable to move the latch bolt from a first position to a second position, a support at least partially surrounding the cam assembly, an operator actuatable input device operatively coupled to the latch bolt through the cam assembly, a retainer coupling the operator actuatable input device to the support and being moveable between a hold position and a remove position, a removable lock core positioned at least partially within the operator actuatable input device, a throw member operatively coupled with the lock core and the cam assembly to actuate the cam assembly based on a position of the operator actuatable input device, and a stabilizer positioned at least partially within the support and posterior to the lock core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Assignee: dormakaba USA Inc.
    Inventor: Chad A. Hickman
  • Patent number: 11814876
    Abstract: A clutch includes an outer box and an intermediate member pivotably connected to the outer box. The intermediate member is coupled with an outer handle to pivot therewith. A torsion spring is disposed between the intermediate member and the outer box and biases the intermediate member to an initial position. A coupling member is pivotably mounted between the intermediate member and the outer box and is operatively connected to a first latch of a latch device of a lock device. When the coupling member and the intermediate member are jointly pivotable, pivotal movement of the outer handle causes the first latch to move from the latching position or the unlatching position. When the coupling member is not jointly pivotable with the intermediate member, pivotal movement of the outer handle is incapable of causing movement of the first latch. A lock device with the clutch is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: I-TEK METAL MFG. CO., LTD
    Inventor: Tsung-Yu Huang
  • Patent number: 11763664
    Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: InVue Security Products Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Fawcett, Jeffrey A. Grant
  • Patent number: 11702863
    Abstract: A method for detecting a handed configuration of a door includes providing an electronic lock, which includes a latch assembly that includes a bolt movable between an extended position and a retracted position and a motor that is configured to drive the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position. The latch assembly includes a control circuit for controlling the motor to selectively move the bolt, at least one sensor in electrical communication with the control circuit, and at least one orientation indicator. The method includes detecting the presence of the at least one the orientation indicator and identifying a handed configuration based on the detection by the at least one sensor. The method includes driving, by the control circuit, the motor based on the identified handed configuration. The control circuit identifies the handed configuration without moving the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Spectrum Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Chasen Beck
  • Patent number: 11578506
    Abstract: A transmission structure of a rotary shaft of an electronic lock contains: a drive unit which includes a holding plate, a motor, a worm, and a driven wheel. The holding plate includes an externally threaded portion and a fixing orifice. The driven wheel includes an internally threaded orifice, two protrusions, two flat zones, two arcuate fringes, and a tooth section. The transmission unit includes a guide element, a movable element, a resilient element, a retainer, and an acting element. The guiding element has a central orifice, the movable element has a guiding orifice, and the acting element has a slidable post. The frame includes a defining orifice and is welded with the holding plate. The connection seat is received in the defining orifice and includes a retaining portion. After the connection seat is received in the defining orifice, the retaining portion is engaged with a fastening ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Inventor: Jeff Chen
  • Patent number: 11536051
    Abstract: An electronic cylinder lock has a main body. The main body is provided with a rotary cam. A first shaft is connected to the rotary cam. The first shaft has a first engaging portion. The main body is provided with a second shaft. The second shaft has a second engaging portion. A control lever is connected to the second shaft. A driving source is connected to the control lever. The driving source can drive the control lever to pull the second shaft to approach the first shaft, so that the second engaging portion is engaged with the first engaging portion, thereby improving the joint stability between the second engaging portion and the first engaging portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2022
    Assignee: POWERTEK HARDWARE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chung-Yu Chen
  • Patent number: 11465585
    Abstract: Disclosed is an activation module for a function in a motor vehicle accommodated in a component, the module including a detection and communication device including at least one communication antenna transmitting at a high frequency and a device for detecting a deformation of the component, the communication antenna being connected to a printed circuit board including a unit for measuring voltage variation across the terminals of the communication antenna, a unit for interpreting the measuring unit and transmission and reception unit with an electronic control unit having a unit for activating the function. The communication antenna is movable relative to the printed circuit board under the action of the deformation of the component, the measuring unit then detecting a voltage variation across the terminals of the communication antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: VITESCO TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
    Inventors: Gabriel Spick, Olivier Elie, Olivier Gerardiere
  • Patent number: 11408203
    Abstract: An access control device generally includes an electromechanical actuator operable to transition the access control device between a locked state and an unlocked state, an energy storage device operable to store electrical power from a power supply, and control circuitry. The control circuitry is configured to direct a first electrical power from the energy storage device to the electromechanical actuator in response to one or more first criteria. In a fail secure mode, the first electrical power is configured to cause the electromechanical actuator to transition the access control device to the locked state. In a fail safe mode, the first electrical power is configured to cause the electromechanical actuator to transition the access control device to the unlocked state. Certain embodiments further include a user-adjustable switch operable to transition the control circuitry between the fail secure mode and the fail safe mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: John C. Carpenter, William B. Ainley
  • Patent number: 11408205
    Abstract: Electromechanical lock. Actuator (103) comprises drive head (109) rotatable by electric power (160). Access control mechanism (104) comprises driven gear (101) with cogs, and grip mechanism (111). Drive head (109) comprises two pins (210, 212) configured and positioned so that one of pins (210, 212) is in notch between two cogs (220, 222, 224, 226, 228) of driven gear (101). For opening, drive head (109) rotates driven gear (101) to open position (400), by two pins (210, 212) driving cogs (220, 222, 224, 226, 228) and overcoming grip mechanism (111), and thereby setting access control mechanism (104) to be rotatable (152) by user. If external mechanical break-in force (172) is applied, drive head (109) remains stationary by at least one of pins (210, 212) contacting at least one of cogs (220, 222, 224), and by grip mechanism (111) holding driven gear (101) stationary in locked position (200).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: ILOQ OY
    Inventors: Mika Piirainen, Mauri Arvola
  • Patent number: 11378593
    Abstract: A voltage display module for a voltage indication device has a well body, communication cable, cap, and battery shuttle. The well body is secured to the door of the electrical enclosure. The communication plug of the communication cable is secured to the well body. The cap is removably secured to the well body and is accessible to a user from outside the enclosure. The battery shuttle is housed within the well body and has a communication jack secured to one end. The communication jack is configured to engage the communication plug when the battery shuttle is fully inserted and configured to be electrically isolated from the plug when the battery shuttle is partially withdrawn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2022
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Derek W. Blanton, Michael Scott Adams
  • Patent number: 11346126
    Abstract: Locking device having a guard lock for safety doors, comprising a mechanical actuator which can be fastened on a movable door part and a housing which interacts with the actuator and can be fastened to a door counterpart, which housing comprises a receptor to which the actuator can be inserted, and the housing comprises a locking element which is displaceable between an unlocked position, in which the actuator can be released, and a locked position, in which the actuator can be fixed relative to the receptor, wherein the actuator comprises an engagement tongue having an engagement recess for mechanical operative engagement with a head end of a locking element in form of an engagement plunger, the engagement plunger being guided in the housing so as to be longitudinally displaceable a spring-biased manner in the in a plunger longitudinal direction relative to an inner fixed bearing, being shaped as a bushing and carrying radially displaceable and fixable engagement elements which lock the engagement plunger at
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2022
    Assignee: K.A. SCHMERSAL HOLDING GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Christian Uhlenbrock, Thomas Buchwald, Yasar Cevic, Tobias Gerbracht
  • Patent number: 11313152
    Abstract: A lock can include a motor assembly, a gear assembly, and an unlocking assembly. The motor assembly can include a motor and a drive shaft. The gear assembly can include a cam, a pinion gear, and a pinion. The pinion gear can include a plurality of teeth disposed along only a portion of a perimeter of the pinion gear. The pinion gear can be configured to engage the pinion. The pinion can be configured to translate laterally to release a biasing member to unlock a door of a container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: United States Postal Service
    Inventors: William Albert Tartal, Gabriel Michael Yessin
  • Patent number: 11220844
    Abstract: A lockset that includes a latch assembly, an interior assembly and an exterior assembly. The latch assembly includes a bolt movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The interior assembly is configured to electronically control movement of the bolt between the extended position and the retracted position. The exterior assembly includes a locking assembly configured to be mechanically coupled with the latch assembly. The interior assembly includes an interior wireless communication unit and the exterior assembly includes an exterior wireless communication unit that is configured to wirelessly communicate therebetween. In some embodiments, an exterior assembly includes a photovoltaic cell and the interior assembly includes a light source. The light source and the solar cell are configured for wirelessly communicating and for power transmission between the exterior and interior assemblies through a bore hole in the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: Spectrum Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek Imanuel, Chasen Scott Beck, Matthew Lovett, Nedal Akram Almomani
  • Patent number: 11193307
    Abstract: A key, a lock core and a lock, relating to a key, a lock core and a lock are provided. The key includes: a column body, a first end of the column body being provided with a light emitting component; a first cathode component disposed on the column body and connected to one end of the light emitting component to be mated with a second cathode component in the lock core; a first piezoelectric electrode disposed on the column body and connected to the other end of the light emitting component to be pressed against a second piezoelectric electrode in the lock core. When the first cathode component is mated with the second cathode component in the lock core, and the first piezoelectric electrode is pressed against the second piezoelectric electrode in the lock core, a piezoelectric current is generated, to cause the light emitting component to emit light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: BOE TECHNOLOGY GROUP CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wenbo Li
  • Patent number: 11183731
    Abstract: A battery case unlocking apparatus, a battery case, and a quick battery case replacement system. The battery case unlocking apparatus comprises: a mount (1), an extensible/retractable mechanism (2), a transmission mechanism (3), and a locking mechanism (4). The locking mechanism (4) is used for locking and fixing a body (6) of a battery case to a battery holder (7) of an electric vehicle. The extensible/retractable mechanism (2) passes through the mount (1) and carries out extension/retraction movement in the mount (1) relative to the transmission mechanism (3) to drive the transmission mechanism (3) to move between the extensible/retractable mechanism (2) and the locking mechanism (4), thereby controlling the locking or unlocking of the locking mechanism (4). The battery case comprises the body (6) and the battery case unlocking apparatus. The quick battery case replacement system comprises: the battery holder (7), a replacement device (8), and the battery case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignees: SHANGHAI DIANBA NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD., AULTON NEW ENERGY AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY GROUP
    Inventors: Jianping Zhang, Chunhua Huang, Danliang Qiu
  • Patent number: 11156017
    Abstract: A rotatable battery mount includes a lock plate configured to be operatively coupled to a housing for an electronic locking device. The housing may be configured to mount to a panel or door of a cabinet or other article of furniture. A battery plate is pivotably coupled to the lock plate, and a battery case operatively coupled to the battery plate and configured to contain at least one battery for powering the electronic locking device. A hinge couples the lock plate and the battery plate, the hinge being configured to permit the battery plate to shift relative to the lock plate between a first position and a second position, the hinge configured to releasably secure the battery plate in at least the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Assignee: Digilock Asia, Ltd.
    Inventors: An Zhang, Asil Gokcebay
  • Patent number: 11124990
    Abstract: A deadbolt lock assembly including a retractable and extendable deadbolt, a housing, an outside member movably mounted on the housing and being normally disconnected from the deadbolt, and an operator input device on the housing, with the operator input device connecting the member to the deadbolt in response to presentation of an appropriate credential, such that a force applied to the member by the operator is mechanically transmitted to the deadbolt to move the deadbolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: George Frolov, John E. Walsh, Victor Bogdanov, Alfred S. Levesque, Kevin D. Miller, Don Shilonie, Adam O'Day
  • Patent number: 11044821
    Abstract: An enclosure assembly for enclosing an electronic controller. The enclosure assembly comprises a housing having a plurality of cavities formed therein for receiving electrical components of the electrical controller. The enclosure assembly further includes an over-molded part formed from an elastic material that lines at least a portion of each cavity. The over-molded part reduces the effect of deceleration forces on the electrical component that is received in the cavity thereby protecting it from damage. The over-molded part includes a retention feature that locates the over-molded part within the cavity and secures it to the enclosure assembly. An interference fit is provided between the over-molded part and the electrical component received in the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: MAGNA CLOSURES, INC.
    Inventor: Marco Taurasi
  • Patent number: 11035157
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a closure latch for a vehicle door, and more particularly to a closure latch for a vehicle door equipped with a passive entry feature. To this end, the present disclosure relates to the use of a bidirectional power release mechanism operable in a first mode to release a latch mechanism under normal operating conditions and which is operable in a second mode to release the latch mechanism under emergency operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: MAGNA CLOSURES INC.
    Inventor: Francesco Cumbo
  • Patent number: 11008798
    Abstract: To improve toughness of a non-contact type safety door switch. A safety switch includes a metallic casing integrated as a first part of an enclosure, having an opening in a front side, a cover integrated as a front part of the enclosure, covering the opening, the cover having a surface as a front surface of the enclosure, a wireless means, a determination means, an output means, circuit substrates provided inside the metallic casing and the cover, on which the wireless means, the determination means and the output means are mounted, and attachment holes on a side surface of the metallic casing, the side surface being adjacent to the front surface of the enclosure for attaching the casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignee: KEYENCE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kashima, Lye Tatt Cheah
  • Patent number: 10965163
    Abstract: What is presented is a power-transfer system that provides resonant inductive power from a first object to a second object, which is adjacent to the first object. The system includes a first transformer portion that is positioned on the first object and having a first core portion. The first core portion includes a transmit unit configured to transfer an electromagnetic field to the second transformer portion. The first core portion also includes first circuitry that allows the transmit unit to transfer the electromagnetic field. The second transformer portion is positioned on the second object and has a second core portion. The second core portion includes a receiver unit configured to receive the electromagnetic field. The second core portion also includes second circuitry that allows the transmit unit to transfer the electromagnetic field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Hanchett Entry Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Lewis, Leland J. Hanchett, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10930099
    Abstract: A cam lock for cabinets, drawers, drug cabinets, credenzas, sliding doors, lockers, mail boxes and other door type applications is compact in size, fits an existing cam lock opening and provides electronic access via a keypad or other electronic access. Using batteries, such as AAA size batteries or smaller, the lock has electronics that release a lock turn knob or handle when the correct code is entered. Preferably a set of electronic contacts is included at an accessible position on the lock housing to allow both master access and power jumping with a common manager's implement, for situations of lost codes and/or battery failure. In a particular embodiment the lock is long, narrow and low in profile so as to fit on the margin of a steel or wood file cabinet, compatible with the cam lock opening already provided. The locks, NFC-enabled, can be used in securing delivery boxes to enable delivery access, when authorized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2021
    Assignee: Digilock Asia Ltd.
    Inventor: Asil T. Gokcebay
  • Patent number: 10920455
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a bored lock has a lock chassis, a locking element, a motor housing, a reversible electric motor, an auger, and a spiral lock spring disposed between the locking element and the motor. The motor may drive the auger in a first or second rotational direction to move the spring towards/away from the motor to reduce/increase spring force on the locking element, thereby moving the locking element to an unlocked/locked position. One of the locking element and motor housing has a projection while the other has a guideway for slideably receiving the projection. The guideway prevents rotation of the locking element with respect to the motor as it moves between locked and unlocked positions. The projection and guideway are interlocked to prevent disassembly of the locking element and motor housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Sargent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Wai P. Wong, Michael Lorello, Adam O'Day
  • Patent number: 10905989
    Abstract: A water filter assembly is provided that includes features that facilitate mounting and removal of a water filter cartridge to and from a manifold. In particular, the water filter assembly includes an electromagnet interface that simplifies and aids mounting of the water filter cartridge to the manifold as well as removal from the manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Sharath Chandra, Naresh Suthar, Gregory Sergeevich Chernov, Koncha Chandra Sekhar, Allamneni Naga Tejaswini, Syed Moin Ahmed
  • Patent number: 10909789
    Abstract: A cam lock for cabinets, drawers, drug cabinets, credenzas, sliding doors, lockers, mail boxes and other door type applications is compact in size, fits an existing cam lock opening and provides electronic access via a keypad or other electronic access. Using batteries, such as AAA size batteries or smaller, the lock has electronics that release a lock turn knob or handle when the correct code is entered. Preferably a set of electronic contacts is included at an accessible position on the lock housing to allow both master access and power jumping with a common manager's implement, for situations of lost codes and/or battery failure. In a particular embodiment the lock is long, narrow and low in profile so as to fit on the margin of a steel or wood file cabinet, compatible with the cam lock opening already provided. The locks, NFC-enabled, can be used in securing delivery boxes to enable delivery access, when authorized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2021
    Assignee: Digilock Asia Ltd.
    Inventor: Asil T. Gokcebay
  • Patent number: 10808423
    Abstract: An access control system including a locking assembly and a drive assembly operable to actuate the locking assembly. The drive assembly includes an electromechanical actuator, an energy storage device, and a control system. The electromechanical actuator is operable, upon receiving power, to transition the locking assembly between a locked state and an unlocked state. The energy storage device is electrically coupled to the electromechanical actuator, and is configured to store electrical power from the power supply when the drive assembly is coupled to the power supply. The control system is configured to couple the drive assembly to the power supply in response to a first condition, and to thereafter transmit energy only from the energy storage device to power the electromechanical actuator, based at least in part upon a level of energy stored in the energy storage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2020
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: John C. Carpenter, William B. Ainley
  • Patent number: 10710806
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments that may facilitate transferring an item to a receptacle using a conveyor and a robotic drive unit. The robotic drive unit moves to be proximate to a receptacle. The robotic drive unit can align an item with the receptacle. The item can be transferred to the receptacle via the conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: AMAZON TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Rishabh Agarwal, Venkataramanan Subramanian, Mustafa Mustansir Hussain, Ahmed Shareef, Vikas Vishwanatham
  • Patent number: 10711486
    Abstract: A clutch assembly for a lock includes a driver (1), having a driver shaft (9); a coupler (3); and a follower (2). The driver (1), the coupler (3) and the driver shaft (9) are configured to rotate concentrically together. The coupler (3) is configured to move along the central axis of the driver shaft (9) to couple to or decouple from the follower (2). The driver (1) and the follower (2) are configured to rotate concentrically together when the coupler (3) is engaged to the follower (2), and wherein the driver (1) and the follower (2) are configured to rotate independently when the coupler (3) is disengaged from the follower (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Inventors: Yan Guo, Henry Guo
  • Patent number: 10693310
    Abstract: Various door locks and their methods of operation are described. In one embodiment, one or more capacitors are discharged to power one or more electrical loads of a door lock and then charged by one or more associated power sources. During this type of operation, a voltage of the one or more capacitors may cyclically vary between a first voltage threshold and a second voltage threshold. Methods related to estimating an amount of energy provided to the one or more capacitors using time measurements are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: Sargent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Mark Bryla, Michael Lorello
  • Patent number: 10641008
    Abstract: The invention provides a magnetic actuator including at least two magnets. One magnet is a semi hard magnet and the other magnet is a hard magnet. The hard magnet is configured to open or close the magnetic actuator. The semi hard magnet and the hard magnet are placed adjacent to each other. A change in magnetization polarization of the semi hard magnet is configured to push or pull the hard magnet to open or close a digital lock realised with the magnetic actuator. The magnetic actuator of the invention can also be used to realise a valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Axtuator OY
    Inventor: Mika Pukari
  • Patent number: 10597902
    Abstract: A double clutch assembly includes a first clutch assembly and a second clutch assembly. The first clutch assembly includes a cylinder (21), a driver assembly, comprising a control member (11), a driver (1), and a driver shaft (9), wherein the control member (11), the driver (1), the driver shaft (9) and are configured to rotate concentrically together and a follower (2). The cylinder (21) is connected to the driver shaft (9). The rotation of the cylinder (21) causes the driver shaft (9) to engage with or disengage from the follower (2). The second clutch assembly includes an actuating assembly and a coupler (3). The coupler (3) relates to and is configured to rotate concentrically with the driver assembly. The actuating assembly is operably connected to the coupler (3) and is configured to move the coupler (3) causing the coupler (3) to disengage from or engage with the follower (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2020
    Inventors: Yan Guo, Henry Guo
  • Patent number: 10533343
    Abstract: A lock including a housing and an opening for receiving a locking bolt moveable between a locked position and an unlocked position is provided. The lock also includes a rotary actuator having a rotary output of a predetermined amount and responsive to entry of an electronic combination input by a user; a cam wheel operably coupled to the housing and responsive to a manual combination input of the user, the cam wheel including a cam way; a bolt release lever moveably coupled to the housing and including a nose portion engageable with the cam way and a locking bar; and an armature post responsive to both the rotary and manual inputs, the armature post moveable between a blocking position for blocking the locking bolt in the locked position and an unblocking position for allowing the locking bolt to move into the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: MG TECH CENTER BV H.O.D.N. LOCK TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Klaus W. Gartner
  • Patent number: 10536672
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a first video capture device, a second video capture device and a circuit. The first video capture device may be configured to capture a first plurality of video frames of a first field of view. The second video capture device may be configured to capture a second plurality of video frames of a second field of view. The circuit may be configured to generate a first video stream in response to the first video frames, generate a second video stream in response to the second video frames and wirelessly communicate the first video stream and the second video stream to a device. The first field of view may capture an area in front of the apparatus. The second field of view may capture an area under and behind the apparatus. The second field of view may comprise a blind spot of the first field of view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: KUNA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sai-Wai Fu, Haomiao Huang, Harold G. Sampson
  • Patent number: 10490044
    Abstract: An anti-fraud security tag removal system reads product identifiers on groups of items presented for purchase at a point of sale area. The product identifiers indicate how many of the items include security tags that must be removed. A security tag detacher removes security tags only on items for which the system has detected that the item was present, preventing removal of security tags on items which were not read by the point of sale system. An RF antenna and a security tag detacher are co-located such that the product identifier of the item is highly likely to be read when a sales clerk removes the security tag. The product identifier may be incorporated into the security tag and disabled when the security tag is attached to the item. The product identifier may be shunted by the security tag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Richard J. Lavery, Russell Calvarese, Rehan K. Jaffri, David Bellows, Sean Connolly
  • Patent number: 10424766
    Abstract: A battery housing including at least one interior space for accommodating at least one battery, and including at least one contact element which, in a connection position, establishes a connection to a counter-contact element, the connection passing through the battery housing out of the interior space and/or into the interior space, the connection being cut off in an out-of-contact position with the counter-contact element, the counter-contact element being situated on an insulation component movable relative to the battery housing, which is movable from a first position, in which the counter-contact element and the contact element are in the connection position, into a second position, in which the counter-contact element and the contact element are in the out-of-contact position, the contact element being thermally insulated in the out-of-contact position by the insulation component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Martin Tenzer, Jean Fanous, Joerg Poehler
  • Patent number: 10407116
    Abstract: An electronic security system for a bicycle includes an electronic security device, first connector and second connector. Electronic security device is disposed on frame of bicycle for securing bicycle and includes first rechargeable battery and first security circuit. First connector is disposed on electronic security device and includes first engagement member. Second connector includes first end portion, second end portion, second engagement member, second security circuit and second rechargeable battery disposed between first end portion and second end portion. Second end portion is connected to an anchoring device of a plurality of types of anchoring devices. Second engagement member is configured on first end portion and engages with first engagement member for charging first rechargeable battery by second rechargeable battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2019
    Inventors: Mohamed Mohamed, Brendan Lake
  • Patent number: 10389983
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a first video capture device, a second video capture device and a circuit. The first video capture device may be configured to capture a first plurality of video frames of a first field of view. The second video capture device may be configured to capture a second plurality of video frames of a second field of view. The circuit may be configured to generate a first video stream in response to the first video frames, generate a second video stream in response to the second video frames, analyze the first video frames and the second video frames to detect a package being delivered and generate control signals in response to the package being delivered. The second field of view may include the surface below a level of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: KUNA SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sai-Wai Fu, Harold G. Sampson, Sean Keenan, Bijun Liang
  • Patent number: 10316573
    Abstract: A modular vault assembly including a plurality of vault modules variable in number and including a primary vault and one or more secondary vaults. The secondary vaults are interconnected in successively adjacent relation and a leading secondary vault is connected adjacent to the primary vault. The primary vault and each of the secondary vaults respectively include a master door and a slave door having a locking mechanism disposable in a locked and unlocked orientation. The locking mechanism of the leading secondary vault is manually positioned in the unlocked orientation from an interior of said primary vault and each of said locking mechanisms of a remainder of the secondary vaults is manually positioned, successively, in the unlocked orientation from an interior of a preceding, next adjacent one of the plurality of secondary vaults. Each master and slave door includes a sensor assembly indicating the locked orientation of a corresponding locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: MDC Industria De Conteineres Inteligentes Ltda.
    Inventors: Marc Green, Yoram Yaeli
  • Patent number: 10233672
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of lock devices, systems, and methods. A lock of the application can include an internal mechanism to permit backdriven operation and lost motion operation. In one form the lock can be made from an assembly of parts that have locating features that require one way installation/assembly. The lock can include an internal power source capable of driving electronics used to determine handedness of a door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Aaron P. McKibben, Kenton H. Barker
  • Patent number: 10169940
    Abstract: A control method includes the electric lock entering an administrator setting mode after receiving an administrator password; the electric lock generating an authentication code in the administrator setting mode; the electric lock wirelessly receiving a first input from a portable device; the electric lock comparing the first input with the authentication code; the electric lock pairing with the portable device and receiving unique identification information of the portable device when the electric lock determines that the first input matches the authentication code; the electric lock storing the unique identification information of the portable device; and the electric lock performing an unlocking operation when the electric lock receiving a second input and sensing the portable device having the unique identification information within a predetermined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: TAIWAN FU HSING INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shih-Min Lu, Fu-Chih Huang
  • Patent number: 10125518
    Abstract: A handle mechanism used for driving a lock module in operation includes a handle, a linking member and a transmission rod, wherein the linking member is selectively engaged with the handle and the transmission rod. The handle is unable to drive the lock module in operation by the transmission rod driving and prevents the lock module from damage once an excessive force is applied to the handle when the linking member is not engaged with the handle and the transmission rod. Oppositely, the handle is able to drive the lock module in operation by the transmission rod driving when the linking member is engaged with the handle and the transmission rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: TAIWAN FU HSING INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jiun-Nan Shiu, Shih-Min Lu
  • Patent number: 10046911
    Abstract: A locking device is provided, preferably for a container. The locking device keeps the lid of the container closed when the container is knocked over on its side, with a sudden jerking or jarring motion, such as by impact with the ground, to prevent spillage of its contents. The locking device, however, allows the lid to open when the waste container is tipped over, preferably in a forward direction, by a dumping operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Assignee: Serio-Us Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David L. Reeb, James L. Martin, II
  • Patent number: 9885515
    Abstract: An appliance body of a refrigeration appliance can be closed off in its upper part by at least one door and receives a drawer in its lower part. The drawer can be locked in the closed position by a latch, which engages into a fitting part that supports the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: BSH Hausgeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Osbar, Gerald Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9818247
    Abstract: An intelligent door lock system is provided. One or more wireless bridges each including a computing device, an internet-facing radio, and a second radio, a first radio within communication range of the second radio of the wireless bridge, and a third internet-facing radio responsible for transmitting video. One or more cameras are provided. One or more Bluetooth devices or Bluetooth peripheral devices, collectively, Bluetooth devices are in communication with the one or more bridges. An intelligent door lock system in communication with the one or more bridges and the one or more Bluetooth devices. A keypad is in communication with the intelligent door lock system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: August Home, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Johnson
  • Patent number: 9745609
    Abstract: Biomass (e.g., plant biomass, animal biomass, microbial, and municipal waste biomass) is processed to produce useful products, such as food products and amino acids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Assignee: Xyleco, Inc.
    Inventor: Marshall Medoff