Key-removal Preventing Patents (Class 70/389)
  • Patent number: 11807326
    Abstract: The disclosure discloses a concealed bicycle lock system and a setup method thereof. The lock system of the disclosure includes a lock with an upper shaft and a lower shaft. The upper shaft is configured to link and move with a handlebar via a stem; the lower shaft is configured to link and move with a front wheel by embedding the lower shaft into a fork tube. When the lock is in a locked mode, the upper shaft and the lower shaft are not linked to move together. In contrast, the upper shaft and the lower shaft are linked to move together in an unlocked mode. A user may set up the lock without performing destructive modification to the bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: TEAM YOUNG TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chih-Hung Liu
  • Patent number: 11352817
    Abstract: An electronic lock includes a lock body and a shackle selectively securable via one or more ball bearings. An asymmetric cam can be rotated by a key or an electric motor to: a locked state in which the ball bearing secures the shackle within the lock body via at least one lock notch in the shackle, an unlocked state in which the ball bearing is released from the lock notch to unlock the shackle and subsequently engages a revolved notch on a distal end of the shackle to prevent removal of the shackle from the lock body, and a removal state in which the ball bearing is released from the lock notch and the revolved notch to allow the shackle to be removed from the lock body. A shackle detector can detect a shackle in the locked state. Externally accessible electrical contacts allow for jumpstarting a discharged battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2022
    Assignee: NOKE, INC.
    Inventors: David P. Gengler, Jay Ballard, Stephen Willes, Rajiv Mantena, Nathan Perry, Jacob Gosling
  • Patent number: 10150360
    Abstract: A cooling structure of an operating machine, such as a wheel loader, which structure cools an engine of the operating machine includes: a cover (such as a rear cover) forming a part of an outer surface of a vehicle body of the operating machine and including a large number of ventilation opening portions; a radiator provided at the vehicle body so as to be opposed to the cover; and a cooling fan arranged between the cover and the radiator and close to the cover with an interval corresponding to a size of the ventilation opening portion and provided so as not to be turnable relative to the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: KCM Corporation
    Inventors: Takatomo Ohno, Hiroyuki Ishida, Atsushi Kondo, Tadahiro Miyagawa
  • Patent number: 9200475
    Abstract: A lock mechanism is disclosed, the lock mechanism having a rotary latch configured for rotation between a locked position and an unlocked position, the rotary latch rotating in a first plane and the rotary latch is retained in the locked position after it has been rotated into the locked position from the unlocked position, the rotary latch being spring biased into the unlocked position by a biasing member; and a first lock mechanism for retaining the rotary latch in the locked position after rotation of the rotary latch into the locked position, the rotary latch being capable of being manipulated back into the unlocked position from the locked position after actuation of the first locking mechanism into a release position, wherein actuation of the first lock mechanism is in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: WIND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael Gallo, Steve Sanelli
  • Patent number: 9080350
    Abstract: A lock mechanism is disclosed, the lock mechanism having a rotary latch configured for rotation between a locked position and an unlocked position, the rotary latch rotating in a first plane and the rotary latch is retained in the locked position after it has been rotated into the locked position from the unlocked position, the rotary latch being spring biased into the unlocked position by a biasing member; and a first lock mechanism for retaining the rotary latch in the locked position after rotation of the rotary latch into the locked position, the rotary latch being capable of being manipulated back into the unlocked position from the locked position after actuation of the first locking mechanism into a release position, wherein actuation of the first lock mechanism is in a second plane that is not parallel to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: WIND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Michael Gallo, Steve Sanelli
  • Patent number: 8661864
    Abstract: The present invention provides an asset retention system, comprising: an elongate housing configured to receive a plurality of home keys and a visitor key; and an elongate slider coupled to the elongate housing and configured to selectively retain and release the plurality of home keys and the visitor key; wherein the elongate slider comprises a plurality of keyed holes corresponding to the plurality of home keys; wherein the plurality of keyed holes each comprise a narrowed portion configured to retain an associated home key when the elongate slider is translated in a first direction and a widened portion configured to release the associated home key when the elongate slider is translated in a second direction; and wherein the plurality of home keys are selectively retained and released simultaneously. The elongate housing and elongate slider are disposed in a cabinet. Each of the plurality of home keys is coupled to an asset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: KEYper Systems
    Inventor: Dennis E. Guessford
  • Patent number: 8511121
    Abstract: A key holding device includes a key cylinder capable of retaining an auxiliary key which is a vehicle key that is not a master key. A rotor is rotatably arranged in the key cylinder. The auxiliary key is insertable into the rotor. A tumbler is rotatable with the rotor in the key cylinder. The tumbler holds the auxiliary key in a manner irremovable from the key cylinder in accordance with the rotational position of the rotor. A key lock mechanism is capable of locking the rotor in a state in which the tumbler holds the auxiliary key in a manner irremovable from the key cylinder. A control unit selectively switches the rotor between a locked state and an unlocked state by controlling the key lock mechanism so as to permit removal of the auxiliary key when the rotor is in the unlocked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tsuruta
  • Patent number: 8487743
    Abstract: A system for activating a predetermined set of vehicle features on a vehicle is provided. The system comprises a valet keyfob in wireless communication with the vehicle and configured to activate the predetermined set of vehicle features when enabled, and a first processor coupled to the vehicle and configured to enable the valet keyfob to activate the predetermined set of vehicle features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: David T. Proefke, Ingobert K. Lassrich, Thomas A. Wilson, Fred W. Huntzicker
  • Patent number: 8485006
    Abstract: A combination includes a disc tumbler cylinder lock and key. The disc tumbler cylinder lock of the combination comprises a rotation limiter of the key, and the key comprises guidance surfaces for the rotation limiter. The rotation limiter comprises a frame, which comprises a key profile opening, and a casing, which at least partially surrounds the frame. The frame comprises a limiting mechanism and a locking mechanism, which are disposed in a line such that the limiting mechanism is on the other side of the key profile opening and the locking mechanism is on the opposite side of the key profile opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Abloy Oy
    Inventor: Seppo Kiiski
  • Patent number: 8474289
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of locking systems that include a barrel lock. The barrel lock is configured to damage, deface, and/or capture a key that is inserted into the barrel lock. Additionally, some embodiments include a locking mechanism adapter that can allow the locking mechanism to be operated by a key if the user has knowledge about the properties of the barrel lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Southern Company Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Arnold Cory Solomon
  • Patent number: 8418515
    Abstract: A valve which is controlled using a master key such that only an authorized person is able to turn the valve on and off. The valve is constructed such that a fluid passage is controlled by rotating a handle relative to a body, including a locking device for maintaining a locked state of the handle relative to the body. A master key slot, which extends to the locking device, is formed in the handle, so that, when the master key is inserted into the master key slot, the locked state of the handle is released such that the fluid passage can be controlled by the rotation of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: BMT Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jong Chan Yoon
  • Patent number: 8210008
    Abstract: An ignition module assembly having a housing member connectable to an ignition system the housing having an undulating surface. A slider member is connected to the housing member and moved between a plurality of discrete positions. The slider member controls the ignition system based on its discrete position. The slider member is configured to receive a key fob. A spring member is compressed between the slider member and the undulating surface and is configured to slide along the undulating surface as the slider member moves between the plurality of discrete positions. The undulations correspond to the discrete positions and a user inserting the key fob into the ignition module assembly and moving the slider member receives haptic feedback to discern the position of the slider member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Stefan Heil
  • Patent number: 8138887
    Abstract: A valet key storage device includes a valet key storage portion for storing a valet key on which an engaging portion is formed, a locking portion provided with a locking mechanism for locking an ejection of the valet key by engaging with the engaging portion of the valet key, a key cylinder conducting a release operation of the locking mechanism by a mechanical key, and a control section for controlling an unlocking operation of the locking portion based on a release operation of an immobilizing function and the key cylinder by the mechanical key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Morimichi Hirano
  • Patent number: 8113020
    Abstract: A lock includes a housing, a cover, a lock cylinder holder, a lock cylinder, a cam, a resisting shaft, at least one latching block, and at least one first elastic member. The cover is secured to one end of the housing. A gap is formed between the cover and the housing. The lock cylinder holder is secured to the housing. The lock cylinder is rotatably mounted in the lock cylinder holder. The cam is received in the housing and secured to the lock cylinder. The resisting shaft is rotatably mounted in the housing and includes a frustum shaped end. The latching block is received in the gap. The latching block includes an inclined surface corresponding to the frustum shaped end. The first elastic member is configured to connect the latching block to the cover or the housing. An electronic device using the lock is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yu-Rong Liu, Xiao-Feng Yang, You-Xiang Ding
  • Patent number: 8051691
    Abstract: A lock mechanism is disclosed, the lock mechanism having a rotary latch configured for rotation between a locked position and an unlocked position, the rotary latch rotating in a first plane and the rotary latch is retained in the locked position after it has been rotated into the locked position from the unlocked position, the rotary latch being spring biased into the unlocked position by a biasing member; and a first lock mechanism for releasing the rotary latch from the locked position after actuation of the first lock mechanism, the biasing member rotating the rotary latch into the unlocked position, the rotary latch being capable of being manipulated back into the locked position from the unlocked position after release by the first locking mechanism and the first locking mechanism must be reset in order to once again release the rotary latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Wind Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Gallo, Steve Sanelli
  • Patent number: 8011216
    Abstract: A method and storage and locking arrangement for storing keys to locks and controlling the use of keys. The storage and locking arrangement consists of a closed box or a similar storage unit, a central lock and its key, as well as a number of auxiliary locks, each having its designated key. The locks are arranged in a closed box or similar storage unit so that they can be unlocked using keys from the outside of the box. The central lock is arranged to control the operation of the auxiliary locks so that when the central lock is locked, it prevents the keys to the auxiliary locks from being removed from their respective locks, and once the central lock is unlocked, it can be used to select the operation of any single auxiliary lock at a time using the corresponding key so that the key to the auxiliary lock can be removed from the auxiliary lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Abloy Oy
    Inventors: Pekka Mielonen, Oiva Hurskainen, Ahti Kokkonen
  • Patent number: 8011214
    Abstract: A valet key storage device, includes a valet key storage portion for storing a valet key having an opening, a locking bar for locking the valet key, a driving section for driving the locking bar to be inserted into the opening of the valet key, and a control section for controlling the driving section to insert the locking bar into the opening of the valet key or remove the locking bar therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Toshiharu Katagiri, Yoshiyuki Seki
  • Patent number: 8001815
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for starting and operating an engine in a motor vehicle. Said device comprises an ID generator (20) which can be inserted into a stationary receptacle of the motor vehicle and is provided with an engaging means (25.1, 25.2) on at least one sidewall. At least one lever (30.1, 30.2) of the first class that encompasses a retaining arm and a control arm (32.1, 32.2) is used for retaining the ID generator (20) in the receptacle. The retaining arm is fitted with opposite engaging means (25.1, 25.2) while the control arm (32.1, 32.2) is equipped with a control point for the swiveling movement of the lever (30.1, 30.2) as well as a locking point (34.1) for a locking device which secures the inserted position of the ID generator (20). In order to embody the inventive device in a compact manner, a stationarily pivot-mounted elbow lever (30.1, 30.2) whose control arm (32.1, 32.2) extends perpendicular to the direction of insertion of the ID generator (20) is used in the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Huf Hüsbeck & Fürst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Andre Pitschke
  • Patent number: 7930915
    Abstract: A valet key storage device, includes a valet key storage portion for storing a valet key having an opening, a locking bar for locking the valet key, a driving member for driving the locking bar to be inserted into the opening of the valet key, a locking pin for locking the locking bar, a driving section for driving the locking pin to lock the locking bar; and a control section for controlling the driving section to plunge or remove the locking pin into or from the locking bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Toshiharu Katagiri
  • Publication number: 20110000267
    Abstract: A locking mechanism wherein it is possible to fix the key inside the lock outphased from the original combination, thereby preventing the cylinder of the lock from turning. The security of the locking mechanism is also enhanced as the key cannot be expelled from the lock. Therefore it is impossible to insert any other key or picklock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventor: Antonio Domit
  • Patent number: 7747209
    Abstract: A printing apparatus including a first component having a photosensitive member and a transcribing portion transcribing a toner image formed on the photosensitive member onto a web, and a second component having a web guide portion guiding the web transported to the transcribing portion and a fixing portion fixing the toner image transcribed onto the web, the first component and the second component being able to be connected/divided, the first component is provided with a transcribing portion base supporting the transcribing portion, the second component is provided with a web guide portion base arranged at a position opposed to the transcribing portion base supporting the web guide portion, and an adjusting member for restricting a position of the second component relative to the first component is provided between the transcribing portion base and the web guide portion base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiko Yamazaki, Isao Nakajima, Sho Sawahata
  • Patent number: 7726160
    Abstract: An automatic cycle storage system comprising a plurality of cycles, each of which carries a locking member designed to be received in a keeper of a locking station. Each cycle includes an anti-theft cycle lock which, when it is in the position in which it immobilizes the cycle, prevents the cycle from being locked to a locking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: JCDecaux SA
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Gagosz, Emmanuel Zeferino
  • Patent number: 7703311
    Abstract: A key system including a key for use with a barrel lock having a rotating locking mechanism. The key includes a grip portion and a shank portion operatively attached to the grip portion. The shank portion includes at least one cam surface for rotatably engaging the rotating locking mechanism to permit rotation of the mechanism in one of a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, but not the other direction, to lock the barrel lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventor: Anthony John Agbay
  • Patent number: 7617708
    Abstract: An ignition lock for a motor vehicle includes a carrier element for holding an ignition key that is inserted in the ignition lock. The carrier element is movable along a longitudinal axis of the ignition lock. The carrier element pushes a slide bar from a blocking position to an unblocking position when the carrier element moves along the longitudinal axis. A latch bar, when in its latching position, restricts a movement of the carrier element along the longitudinal axis and, when in its unlatching position, allows the carrier element to move along the longitudinal axis. When the latch bar is in its unlatching position and the slide bar is in its blocking position, the slide bar prevents the latch bar from moving from the unlatching position to the latching position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignees: Volkswagen AG, Marquardt GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Frohne, Ralf Borngräber, Steffen Buhl, Dennis Meβmer, Thomas Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20090241619
    Abstract: A latch lock having a latch which is arranged so as to be displaceable against spring force in a lock case that can be fastened to a wall, door leaf, or the like, having a first locking cylinder whose thumb draws the latch back against spring force when the cylinder core is rotated by a key. The locking cylinder is constructed in such a way that it allows the key to be pulled out only in a determined position of the cylinder core with reference to the cylinder housing such as in the locking position. According to the invention, a second locking cylinder is arranged in the lock case and coupled with the first locking cylinder such that, when rotated by means of a key, its thumb moves the first locking cylinder into the determined position in which the key can be extracted from the first locking cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Thorsten Kuester, Klaus Bergmann
  • Patent number: 7581422
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanism (1) for starting a vehicle engine by means of an electronic key (3). Said mechanism (1) comprises a receiving device (2) in the vehicle for inserting the key (3). The key (3) that is inserted in said receiving device (2) cannot be twisted while being movable in a longitudinal direction into at least one defined raised position. Such mechanisms are provided with locking devices which secure the electronic key (3) in the receiving slot against being removed during operation of the vehicle. Said locking device is controlled via electrical drives (10). In order to be able to remove the key (3) when the drive (10) is down or in case of a power failure in the vehicle, means are that provided that allow the key (3) to be removed mechanically as an emergency measure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Mirko Schindler
  • Patent number: 7377139
    Abstract: A cabinet lock includes a lock shell, a lock frame and a restricting device. The lock shell defines a card insertion space, the lock frame includes a slide portion, a hasp portion, an initiative portion and a core, the hasp portion defines a slide groove, the initiative portion is fixed to the hasp portion within the slide groove. The core extends into the main shell to contact with the hasp portion. A block and a protruding portion are defined where the lock block moves away from the stop portion by an external force displacing the extruding portion. Thus, the key can be removed from the core when the card is inserted, and the block locks the card and does not permit removal of the card. The card can be removed when the key is inserted into the core which avoids the loss of the card and the key together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Ping-Jan Yang
  • Patent number: 7350384
    Abstract: A door device equipped with a lock, which prevents forgetting to lock a door and the like, without an electrical warning device. The door device includes a lock allowing a rotating shaft to rotate between an opened position and a closed position by inserting and rotating a key and the key to be extracted only at the closed position, a cam rotating between the opened position and the closed position in linkage with the rotating shaft, and an oscillating strip oscillating between a first position and a second position, thereby contacting a door projection and moving to the first position when the door is closed while moving to the second position when the door is opened. An oscillating projection and a cam projection do not contact when the oscillating strip is in the first position, while they contact when the strip is in the second position. Thus, the cam rotation is suppressed and the lock rotation is restricted in the opened position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazumi Teratani
  • Publication number: 20080060400
    Abstract: In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a lock is provided with a key lock mechanism and the lock has the ability to be relocked after the key lock mechanism has been opened and the key withdrawn from the key lock. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a zipper lock with lock tongues that engage openings in zipper pulls of an article to be locked, a padlock, a strap lock, and a hard luggage lock. Embodiments of the present disclosure may also include an indicator for signaling that the key lock mechanism has been opened by a key. Embodiments of the disclosure may also include indicia for signaling that the lock is of the type which allows the lock to be relocked with the key removed from the key way of the key lock. Alternatively, embodiments of the disclosure may include a retaining function for retaining the key in the lock until the key lock mechanism is returned to a locked state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Publication date: March 13, 2008
    Applicant: SINOX COMPANY LTD.
    Inventors: Renny Tse-Haw Ling, Yung-Li Kuo
  • Patent number: 7334441
    Abstract: A starter assembly for a vehicle includes a housing adapted to be coupled to a vehicle ignition system. A carrier has a key opening and is movably mounted within the housing. A latch is movably mounted to the carrier and is movable between a first latch position and a second latch position. An electronic key is provided to be received in the key opening of the carrier. The key has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis. The first end includes a first end wall. The first end wall has an opening defining an axially extending cavity therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Amundson, Mark G. Feldman, Roberto Tomassi, John Stack
  • Patent number: 7260965
    Abstract: A locking device, which mounts a user key (the first key) and a manager key (the second key) separatedly, places a first lock and a second lock unitedly in an outer cylinder. The first lock is opened or rotated by the first key. After the first lock is open, the first key cannot be pulled out of the locking device. If the second lock is open by the second key, the first key can be pulled out together with the second key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Andamiro Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chun I. Hung
  • Patent number: 7181936
    Abstract: A buckle assembly is described. The buckle assembly includes a buckle body, a fastener and a key. The buckle body includes a recess and a lock tumbler. The fastener is configured to slide within the recess. The key is configured to fit within a key hole of the lock tumbler. When the key is in a locked rotational orientation within the key hole and the fastener is engaged in the recess, the tumbler is in a locked orientation and the fastener may not be slid from the recess. When the key is in an unlocked rotational orientation within the key hole and the fastener is engaged in the recess, the tumbler is in an unlocked orientation and the fastener may be slid from the recess. A key removal prevention mechanism prevents the key from being removed from the key hole when the key is in the unlocked rotational orientation whether or not the fastener is engaged in the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Myles Christensen, Jeffrey D. Swan
  • Patent number: 7140214
    Abstract: An electromechanical cylinder lock-key combination includes a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably arranged in the cylinder housing and having a key-way for receiving a key. A plurality of key actuated moveable blocking elements block the rotation of the cylinder core unless a correct key is inserted in the key-way. An optical code reader in the lock reads an optical code element provided on an inserted key. At least one of said blocking elements functions as a bar element barring insertion of the key into the key-way unless a correct optical code element is provided on the key. By using at least one of the mechanical elements already present in the lock as part of the electronically controlled blocking mechanism, in combination with the use of an optical code requiring no moveable parts for the reading thereof, space requirements in the lock device are kept to a minimum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Ruko A/S
    Inventor: Erik Lindstrom
  • Patent number: 7123127
    Abstract: A key management system for controlling access to vehicle keys includes a key set, a key container and an electronic access device. The key set includes vehicle keys to a particular vehicle and a key tag associated with the vehicle keys having an electronically readable identifier. The key container has a key set storage area secured by an electronic lock and a circuit that detects when the key set is stored in the key set storage area. The access device is carried by a user to access the key container, and has a memory that is updated with at least the identifier of the key tag when the key container is successfully accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Isaac J. Mosgrove, Teri Lynné Briskey, Dirk L. Bellamy, Sean Beebe, Scott D. Westfall, Dean Sinn
  • Patent number: 7061367
    Abstract: A decentralized key management system for controlling access to multiple vehicles among multiple users includes vehicle keys for the respective vehicles, individual locking key containers for the vehicles, electronic access devices for assignment to the users and a database. Each of the containers has a storage area within which a vehicle key or keys for one vehicle can be stored operable to unlock key containers if authorized. The access devices are operable to unlock the key containers if authorized. The access devices are programmable with information from the database such that an assigned access device is programmed with a specific user's access privileges for obtaining access to one or more of the vehicles in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Isaac J. Mosgrove, Teri Lynné Briskey, Dirk L. Bellamy, Sean Beebe, Scott D. Westfall, Dean Sinn, Ron Chapin, Adam Kuenzi, Jon Marc Luebeck, David Condon
  • Patent number: 7051563
    Abstract: This Door Key Retention Security System guarantees that a key used to enable operation of a powered door is retained or locked in the invention until the door is, once again, closed. Thus, it requires a person who has authorized access to the key to insert the key and properly turn it in order for a door to be opened. Then, while the door is open, the key is locked in the mechanism and cannot be removed. When the need for the door to be open is ended, the door can be closed and the key removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Key Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: George H. Eckerdt
  • Patent number: 7042334
    Abstract: A key management system for controlling access to vehicle keys includes a key set, a key container and an electronic access device. The key set includes vehicle keys to a particular vehicle and a key tag associated with the vehicle keys having an electronically readable identifier. The key container has a key set storage area secured by an electronic lock and a circuit that detects when the key set is stored in the key set storage area. The access device is carried by a user to access the key container, and has a memory that is updated with at least the identifier of the key tag when the key container is successfully accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Isaac J. Mosgrove, Teri Lynné Briskey, Dirk L. Bellamy, Sean Beebe, Scott D. Westfall, Dean Sinn
  • Patent number: 7021095
    Abstract: A system and apparatus for controlling keys or other objects is provided. The key can only be removed when an access control key identifying the individual who is removing the key is inserted. The access control key cannot be removed until the key is returned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Hans C. Jensen
  • Patent number: 6986272
    Abstract: The invention relates to an ignition lock (1), in particular for a driving authorization system in a motor vehicle that interacts for authentication purposes with an electronic key or the like via an encoded operating signal. The ignition lock (1) contains a moving element (2) that can move from a starting position into at least one actuating position and a switching element (3), wherein the moving element (2) has a switching effect onto the switching element (3) in the actuating position. The ignition lock (1) furthermore includes a lever (4) that can be inserted into the moving element (2) for manually moving the moving element (2), wherein a locking feature (5) interacts with the lever (4) in the inserted state so that the removal of the lever (4) from the moving element (2) is blocked. The lever (4) contains an actuating element for the release of the locking feature (5) so that upon actuation of the actuating element the lever (4) can be removed from the moving element (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ralf Sandvoss, Reinhart Neumann, Thomas Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6895792
    Abstract: In a first aspect, an electronic lock (12) suitable for replacing interchangeable core locks has a solenoid assembly comprising a solenoid coil (280) and a plunger (290) longitudinally aligned parallel to the rotational axis (A) of the cylinder (214) of the lock (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Videx, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. Davis
  • Patent number: 6837084
    Abstract: An interlock unit (10) for use with at least one other like unit (11) to form an interlock mechanism has a top face (13) and opposed pairs of side walls (12) with at least one runner bar (17, 18) mounted in the unit for lateral sliding movement. An actuator (14, 15, 22) is supported on the top face (13), to effect lateral sliding movement of the runner bar (17, 18). One wall of the unit is provided with one part (27) of a two-part connector with the other part (33) on the opposed wall whereby two similar units may be joined together by relative sliding movement of the two units in the plane of the side walls (12). Joining together of two units (10, 11) in this way also joins together the runner bars (17) or (18) of the two units such that sliding motion of the runner bar (17) of one unit (10) is transferred to the runner bar (17) of the connected unit (11), for at least one direction of sliding movement of the runner bars (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Fortress Interlocks Limited
    Inventors: Simon Bailey, Timothy Christopher Stubbs, Justin Titus Tun
  • Patent number: 6776016
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for starting a motor vehicle motor. According to the invention, a slot is (11) used for inserting (59) the key (50) which is usually closed by a spring-loaded cover (14). The key (50) is displaced in the slot (11) into various key positions (20.1), in order to control different functions of the motor or other ancillary devices in the vehicle. In order to ensure a compact construction which is easy to use, the inventive device prevents the key (50) from turning in the slot (11) and the key (50) is displaced into at least three operating positions (20.1) for the control functions which are axially staggered. After being inserted for a first operating distance (51), the key takes up an initial position (20.1), in which it is secured in the slot (11) in a force-fit. In a subsequent second intermediate position, the key (50) is secured in a positive fit which can be locked automatically. This prevents the manual withdrawal (57) of the key (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Reinhard Wittwer, Günter Barrenberg
  • Patent number: 6758075
    Abstract: Methods, systems and apparatus for converting locks between key-retaining and non-key-retaining functions by means of a function-determinative lock actuator are disclosed. The disclosure teaches lock sub-assemblies that utilize a function-determinative actuator and a cooperating rotator bolt to transfer motion from a lock cylinder to a lock release mechanism. The function-determinative actuators can include movable portions that selectively determine the lock function by adjustment of the movable portion. Alternatively, changing the structure of, selectively adding portions to and/or removing portions from the actuator can determine the lock function. The disclosure also teaches dual-function locks that incorporate the above-noted lock sub-assemblies. Methods of converting lock functions using a function-determinative actuator are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventor: Randy L. Thwing
  • Patent number: 6729167
    Abstract: A key safekeeping device for fitting into a hole in a door, wall or corresponding structure includes a first tubular element (10) that carries a first collar (12) on an outer end thereof. A lock cylinder (14) is detachably fitted to the first tubular element. A second tubular element (20) that carries a second collar (22) is intended for lockable engagement with the first tubular element. At least one of the collars is comprised of a separate ring-shaped part (22) that includes an internal aperture for receiving a blocking means (24) in the form of a bent/curved element that is intended to be fitted into a peripheral groove (20c) in the barrel surface of the second tubular element. The blocking element, which lies hidden in the aperture of the ring-shaped part, cannot therefore be removed when the key safekeeping device is fitted and the lock cylinder is mounted in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: ASSA AB
    Inventors: Robert Fredriksson, Daniel Andersson
  • Patent number: 6666057
    Abstract: A lock with a fixable key includes a shell, an upper half core, a lower half core, an elastic member and a fixable key. The upper and the lower half core contained in the shell respectively have a lengthwise passageway for a flexible moving member of the key to extend in to unlock the lock. The lower half core has a key hole in a rear end, and a groove for containing the elastic member having an upper end to fit in a notch formed in the groove. The key has the moving member, a push block and a housing having a position recess to engage the upper end of the elastic member so as to position the key in unlocking and make the moving member smoothly slide in the passageway of the lock to prevent the key from deadlocked or breaking in handling in unlocking or locking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventor: Chiu-Mei Huang
  • Patent number: 6658903
    Abstract: A pickup drop off lock box for medical samples is equipped with a failsafe lock which will not permit the key to be removed without the lid properly positioned to permit latching. Adequate thermal insulation is provided to allow samples to be stored at temperatures of 5° F. for 16 hours. In addition, an inner liner of styrene insulation is removable/replaceable in the event it becomes worn, soiled or damaged. The failsafe lock has potential applicability in other environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventors: James P. McShane, Gregory L. Hess, Marshall R. Mooney
  • Patent number: 6615625
    Abstract: An electronic locking system comprises a cylinder housed within and rotatable with respect to a shell. A key has a power supply. At least one of the key and the cylinder is capable of generating a signal when the key is electrically connected with the cylinder. An electrically powered locking mechanism is housed within the cylinder and includes a lock member moveable between an open position and a locked position. The lock member in the locked position interferes with movement of the cylinder. A power source is connected to the locking mechanism in response to the signal. The locking mechanism allows movement of the lock member from the locked position to the open position in response to the signal so that the cylinder may be rotated within the shell. The cylinder further includes an interfering member that resists movement of the locking member. In addition, a biasing mechanism urges the cylinder toward a home position when the cylinder is rotated away from the home position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Videx, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. Davis
  • Publication number: 20030140669
    Abstract: An interlock unit (10) for use with at least one other like unit (11) to form an interlock mechanism has a top face (13) and opposed pairs of side walls (12) with at least one runner bar (17, 18) mounted in the unit for lateral sliding movement. An actuator (14, 15, 22) is supported on the top face (13), to effect lateral sliding movement of the runner bar (17, 18). One wall of the unit is provided with one part (27) of a two-part connector with the other part (33) on the opposed wall whereby two similar units may be joined together by relative sliding movement of the two units in the plane of the side walls (12). Joining together of two units (10, 11) in this way also joins together the runner bars (17) or (18) of the two units such that sliding motion of the runner bar (17) of one unit (10) is transferred to the runner bar (17) of the connected unit (11), for at least one direction of sliding movement of the runner bars (17).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: Simon Bailey, Timothy Christopher Stubbs, Justin Titus Tun
  • Patent number: 6513357
    Abstract: A customer key actuated lock includes a retention mechanism which prevents counterrotation of the customer key plug to roation from the locked position toward the unlocked position and further includes a release mechanism to disengage the retention mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: CompX International Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald McCurry
  • Patent number: RE38832
    Abstract: A dual-function lock in accordance with the invention has an axis-defining lock sub-assembly including first and second axially aligned rotator members having confronting first end faces and oppositely facing second end faces. The sub-assembly has a lost-motion recess and an anchor recess on one confronting face and one recess-engaging member extending from another confronting face to permit lock function selection by placing the recess-engaging member into a particular recess. Alternative dual-function lock sub-assemblies include a unitary rotator bolt and a companion actuator. The rotator bolt has a release-mechanism-engaging portion and an actuator-engaging portion. While a first section of the actuator-engaging portion permits limited lost-motion between the rotator bolt and a companion actuator, a second section prevents lost-motion. The lock function can be selectively determined by placing the companion actuator into the desired first or second section of the actuator-engaging portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Randy L. Thwing