Abstract: An electronic interlock for locking a file cabinet (10, 100) and for limiting the number of drawers (14, 114) to be accessed at any given time. An input keyboard (20, 120) receives an input code to be compared with a prestored access code. If the codes do not match, an unlock signal is not produced. If the input code matches the access code, a processor (28, 148) renders the storage assembly (10, 110) accessible. The processor (28, 128) will receive a drawer selection number from the input keyboard (20, 120) user and will unlock a lock (16, 116) associated with the selected drawer (14, 114). Sensors (34, 134) sense the position of the drawers (14, 114) and disable the processor (28, 128) when one of the drawers (14, 114) is in the open position.

Abstract: A base (10) and the method for fabricating the corners (32) of the base (10) of a piece of furniture (12) from tubing (18) by notching the tube (18). The notching removes a metal from the tube (18) along the first pair of extremities (40) converging to an apex (44), and along a second pair of transverse extremities (52). Additional material is removed from the spaces (38) by removing a plug from the tube (18) adjacent the apex (44) in the shape of a bowl having two parallel sides (56), a third side (58) perpendicular thereto and a point (44). The tube (18) is folded at each point (44) creating corners (32) in the tube (18) each with a space (38) and an enlarged relief space (46) therebetween to allow fluids used in the post-fabrication operations, i.e., washing and painting, to flow quickly therefrom thus increasing drying times. The gussets (62) are welded to the tube (18) to add strength to the base (10).

Abstract: An electronic interlock for locking a file cabinet (10, 100) and for limiting the number of drawers (14, 114) to be accessed at any given time. An input keyboard (20, 120) receives an input code to be compared with a prestored access code. If the codes do not match, an unlock signal is not produced. If the input code matches the access code, a processor (28, 148) renders the storage assembly (10, 110) accessible. The processor (28, 128) will receive a drawer selection number from the input keyboard (20, 120) user and will unlock a lock (16, 116) associated with the selected drawer (14, 114). Sensors (34, 134) sense the position of the drawers (14, 114) and disable the processor (28, 128) when one of the drawers (14, 114) is in the open position.

Abstract: A removable programming unit (11) is connectable to a controller (40) of an electronic locking system (12) of a storage assembly (14) via a telephone cord (38). The removable programming unit (11) comprises a display (52) and a keyboard (54). Through the removable programming unit (11): new access codes used to gain access to the storage assembly (14) may be programmed into the electronic lock; existing access codes may be modified as to which storage units (18) may be accessed; or existing access codes may be deleted. All existing access codes are stored in the memory (92) of the controller (40). The removable programming unit (11) receives 12 V DC from the connection to the electronic lock (12) via an individual wire of the telephone cord (38).

Abstract: A file storage apparatus (10) has a string or stack of drawer elements (14) vertically disposed along a side. A mechanical blocking shaft (28) is disposed on one side of the drawer (14) to allow only one drawer to be opened while blocking the remaining drawers preventing opening. A locking bar (62) is disposed on a second side of the drawers (14) for locking all of the drawers closed in response to an electrical access circuit (72) and for unlocking all of the storage units (14). An actuator member (72) interacts between the access circuit (72) and the locking bar (62) for moving the locking bar (62) between an unlocked and locked position.

Abstract: A cam (103) and follower (107) are used to move a file cabinet drawer (114) out of the closed position toward the open position. The cam (103) is rotated by a motor (113) via a shaft (123) wherein the cam surface (115) translates the rotational motion of the shaft (123) into the linear movement of the follower (107). The follower (107) is attached to the side of the file cabinet drawer (114) and moves the file cabinet drawer (114) forward enough so a user may open the file cabinet drawer without using handles. A hook (129) is connected to the cam (103) through a flexible stem (131) and locks the follower (107) in place disallowing unauthorized access to the file cabinet drawer (114). The hook (129) rotates along with the cam (103) to unlock the file cabinet drawer (114) when it has been selected for opening. The follower (107) is forced under the hook (129), which will flex at the flexible stem (131), when the file cabinet drawer (114) is returned to the closed position.

Abstract: A base (10) and the method for fabricating the corners (32) of the base (10) of a piece of furniture (12) from tubing (18 ) by notching the tube (18). The notching removes a metal from the tube (18) along the first pair of extremities (40) converging to an apex (44), and along a second pair of transverse extremities (52). Additional material is removed from the space (32) by removing a plug from the tube (18) adjacent the apex (44) in the shape of a bowl having two parallel sides (56), a third side (58) perpendicular thereto and a point (44). The tube (18) is folded at each point (44) creating corners (32) and an enlarged relief space (46) therebetween to allow fluids used in the post-fabrication operations, i.e., washing and painting, to flow quickly therefrom thus increasing drying times. The gussets (52) are welded to the tube (18) to add strength to the base (10).