Avionic door lock system

Abstract

A security system adapted for use on an aircraft to prevent unauthorized access into a cockpit area of the aircraft via a cockpit door. The system includes a keypad accessible by individuals in a cabin area of the aircraft. A logic system is in communication with the keypad and also with a switch disposed inside the cockpit. Occupants of the cockpit, via the switch, have the ability to manually unlock the cockpit door, to deny the request for entry, or to do nothing, in which case the door will be automatically unlocked after the expiration of a predetermined time interval. No amount of tampering with the keypad or destruction of the keypad can unlock the cockpit door if the cockpit occupants decide to deny a request for entry via appropriate positioning of the switch. A pressure sensor in communication with the controller allows the door to be automatically unlocked in the event of a decompression condition occurring in the cockpit.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to security systems, and more particularly to a security system adapted for use on a mobile platform such as an aircraft for preventing unauthorized entry onto the cockpit of an aircraft.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] At the present time there is an increasing need for controlling access to particular areas of mobile platforms. More specifically, there is an increasing need to control access to a cockpit of a commercial aircraft. Present day security systems often involve a simple lock or other system requiring the use of a key to unlock a door leading to a cockpit. However, such systems can be inconvenient for flight attendants who may need to periodically enter the cockpit area of an aircraft, such systems require a low force to open the door in case of decompression event.

[0003] Present day systems for preventing unauthorized access to the cockpit of a commercial aircraft through the use of a key can be forced open, and also can be foiled by an intruder if the intruder should gain access to the key. Accordingly, there is a strong need for a security system for preventing unauthorized access into a cockpit of a commercial aircraft which does not suffer from the above-described limitations.

[0004] More specifically, there is a need for a security system for use on a commercial aircraft which provides the pilot, co-pilot or other occupants of the cockpit a signal that entry into the cockpit is being requested. Such a system would ideally give the individuals in the cockpit an opportunity to make an assessment as to whether or not entry into the cockpit will be permitted either immediately, or whether entry should be denied. There is further a need for such a system which allows the pilot, co-pilot or other cockpit occupant to unlock the door separating the cockpit from the cabin area of the aircraft from a convenient location within the cockpit. Also required is the ability for the flight attendant to unlock the door after alerting the pilot and co-pilot for a pre-set time, in case the pilot and co-pilot are both incapacitated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The above and other objects are provided by a security system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The security system is particularly well adapted for use in mobile platforms such as, but not limited to, commercial aircraft. The security system operates to lock a door which separates a cockpit from a passenger cabin area and to allow occupants of the cockpit to receive signals indicating that a request for entry into the cockpit has been made by an individual in the passenger cabin area of the aircraft. The system further enables an occupant of the cockpit to provide a signal to the system allowing immediate unlocking of the cockpit door, or to deny the request to unlock the door.

[0006] The security system preferably includes a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor causes the cockpit door to unlock when a difference in pressure between the cabin and cockpit is sensed.

[0007] The system generally includes a user input device which is accessible by individuals in the cabin area. In one preferred form the input device comprises a keypad. A controller incorporating a chime is disposed in the cockpit. The logic system communicates with a control device positioned for convenient use by persons in the cockpit, as well as with a lock operably associated with the cockpit door. In one preferred form, the control device comprises a multi position rotary switch.

[0008] In a preferred embodiment the multi position rotary switch provides three switch positions: an “AUTO” position, an “UNLOCK” position and a “DENY” position. An individual in the cabin area makes a request to gain entry to the cockpit by entering a predetermined access code into the keypad. It will be appreciated that the access code is a pre-programmed, restricted code that only individuals, such as flight attendants, would be apprised of in advance of entering the aircraft. When a correct access code is input to the keypad, the logic system generates an aural and visual annunciation within the cockpit apprising individuals in the cockpit that a request to enter the cockpit has been made. If the switch is in the AUTO position, the occupants of the cockpit have a predetermined time period in which to decide either to unlock the cockpit door or to deny the request to enter. If a decision is made to allow entry, the occupants may leave the switch in the AUTO position, in which case the logic system will automatically unlock the lock associated with the cockpit door at the expiration of the predetermined time interval. If the occupants decide that entry should not be permitted, then the switch can be moved to the DENY position. This signals the logic system that the request to enter is being denied. The logic system will immediately disable the keypad and prevent further entry signals from being generated within the cockpit for a predetermined time thereafter. If the occupants decide to grant immediate entry, then moving the switch to the UNLOCKED position sends a signal to the logic system that the lock to the cockpit door should be immediately unlocked. The logic system then sends a signal to a suitable device, such as a solenoid, that immediately unlocks the cockpit door. The UNLOCK position unlocks the door at any time and stops all ongoing visual and aural annunciations.

[0009] In one preferred embodiment the signal provided by the logic system is provided by a chime associated with a controller. The logic system also implements an intelligent series of time delays after a request for entry has been made at the keypad. When such a request has been made, the controller causes the chime to emit an audible signal to the occupants of the cockpit. The controller also simultaneously begins a first predetermined delay interval. If no action has been taken at the control device by any occupant of the cockpit at the expiration of the first predetermined delay interval, a second audible warning is provided by the chime and a second predetermined delay interval is commenced. At the end of the second predetermined delay interval, if still no action has been taken by any occupant via the control device to either admit or deny the request for entry, then the chime provides a continuous audible warning for a third predetermined time delay interval. At the end of the third delay interval the controller automatically sends a signal to the solenoid to unlock the lock to the cockpit door. A visual indicator also preferably flashes intermittently during the third delay interval further signaling that the cockpit door will be unlocked within a very short time if no action is taken. This operating scheme thus provides a short time period for the occupants of the cockpit to make an assessment as to whether the request for entry to the cockpit should be granted or denied. Conveniently, the door lock is automatically unlocked without intervention by the occupants of the cockpit provided the control device is in the AUTO position. The provision of both audible and visual signals virtually eliminates the possibility that the occupants of the cockpit will not realize that a request for entry has been made. It further allows automatic unlocking of the cockpit door unless an occupant of the cockpit intervenes through appropriate control of the switch.

[0010] It will be appreciated that the keypad described above does not have the capability under any circumstances to unlock the door lock of the cockpit door. The lock is controlled strictly by signals received from the switch provided in the cockpit. Accordingly, no amount of tampering with the keypad, or even the destruction of the keypad, can result in unlocking of the cockpit door once it is locked. Unlocking can be accomplished only via the multi position switch.

[0011] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0013] FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a security system 10 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

[0014] FIG. 2 is a timeline of the three time delay intervals implemented by the controller of the system after a request to unlock the cockpit door is received.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0016] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a security system 10 for controlling access into a control center of a mobile platform. In the following description, the mobile platform will be referred to as a commercial aircraft and the control center will be referred to as the cockpit of the aircraft. It will be appreciated, however, that the system 10 of the present invention is equally applicable to non-moving structures where it is desired to closely control access to a sensitive area of the structure. It is anticipated that the invention may also find applications on other mobile platforms such as ships or even buses. The system 10 advantageously includes only a limited number of independent component parts making it easily retrofitable to existing commercial or other types of aircraft.

[0017] Referring further to FIG. 1, the system 10 generally includes a user input device in the form of a keypad 12 which is disposed in the passenger cabin area 13a of an aircraft 13, and in one preferred location on a door post assembly 15a adjacent a door 15 of the aircraft 13 facing the passenger cabin area. However, the keypad 12 may be placed in virtually any location where it can be conveniently accessed by flight crew members who may need to gain periodic access to the cockpit 13b of the aircraft 13.

[0018] The keypad 12 is in communication with a logic system 14. The logic system 14, in turn, is in communication with a control device 16, a circuit breaker 18 and a door lock solenoid 20. An ambient air pressure sensor 22 disposed in a cockpit 13b of the aircraft 13 communicates with the door lock solenoid 20 and the logic system 14. The door lock solenoid 20 is operably associated with a door lock 26 for the cockpit door 15, as will be described in greater detail momentarily.

[0019] The logic system 14 comprises a suitable controller, and more preferably an 8-bit controller. Advantageously, the controller 14 includes a chime 24 which is used to generate an audible signal within the cockpit 13b of the aircraft 13. The control device 16 is also disposed in the cockpit 13b and may be mounted on an overhead panel, in an aisle stand panel or at any other conveniently accessible location in the cockpit 13b.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment the control device 16 comprises a multi position rotary switch 28 having a first switch position 30 designated as the “AUTO” position, a second switch position designated the “UNLOCK” position and a third switch position 34 designated as the “DENY” position. The switch 28 comprises a manually engageable switch element 36 which is spring biased normally into the AUTO position. The switch element 36 can be moved momentarily into either the UNLOCK position or the DENY position. As soon as the switch element 36 is released, however, it is biased back to the AUTO position. An “UNLOCK” indicator light 38 is also disposed closely adjacent the switch 28, as is a “LOCK FAILED” indicator light 40. The UNLOCK indicator light 38 is illuminated when a predetermined access code has been correctly entered into the keypad 12, as will be described in greater detail momentarily. The LOCK FAILED indicator light 40 indicates that the solenoid 20 has not unlocked the lock 26 of the cockpit door 15.

[0021] The keypad 12 comprises a plurality of numeric keys 42 and an enter key 42a, a first indicator light 44, a second indicator light 46 and a third indicator light 48. The first indicator light 44 preferably comprises a red LED for indicating that the door lock 26 is in a locked condition. Second indicator light 46 preferably comprises an amber LED which is illuminated when a user inputs the predetermined access code correctly via the keys 42 and 42a. Third indicator light 48 preferably comprises a green LED which signals that the solenoid 20 has unlocked the door lock 26.

[0022] The solenoid 20 includes a microswitch 50 for sensing the position of a plunger 20a of the solenoid 20. Accordingly, the controller 14 can verify that the plunger 20a has been moved into the locked position when the solenoid 20 is energized. This provides an additional degree of security in the event the solenoid 20 fails and the plunger 20a is not moved into the “LOCKED” position. In such instance, the LOCK FAILED indicator light 40 will be illuminated by the controller 14 to provide an immediate visual indication of such a condition to the occupants of the cockpit 13b.

[0023] The ambient air pressure sensor 22 is used to detect a drop in pressure in the cockpit 13b when the cockpit door 15 is closed. Such a condition might occur, for example, if the windshield of the aircraft 13 was broken. In such a situation, it would be necessary to immediately unlock the cockpit door 15 to prevent complete decompression of the cockpit 13b. The pressure sensor 22 is thus used to detect a drop in pressure within the cockpit 13b and to immediately signal this event by deenergizing the solenoid 20.

[0024] Referring to FIG. 2, a description will now be provided of the predetermined time delay sequence that is implemented by the controller 14. “TO” represents the instant that a user correctly enters the predetermined access code via the keypad 12. This code preferably comprises a three to eight digit numeric code. It is provided to flight attendants or other individuals, prior to entering the aircraft, who may have a need to periodically enter the cockpit 13b while the aircraft 13 is in operation. Immediately after receiving the correct access code, the controller 14 causes the chime 24 to generate an audible signal represented by pulses 52. Pulses 52 represent two “beeps” or other short duration audible signals which immediately apprises the individuals in the cockpit 13b that a request for access to the cockpit has just been made. At T0, a first predetermined delay interval is commenced which extends in to “T1”. At T1, if the controller 14 has not received either in UNLOCK or a DENY command via the switch 28 (i.e., the switch 28 has not been moved to either of these positions), then the controller causes the chime 24 to again provide audible signals, represented by pulses 54, to remind the occupants of the cockpit 13b that someone is requesting access to the cockpit. T1 represents the expiration of the first delay interval and the beginning of a second delay interval.

[0025] At “T2”, if the switch 28 still has not been moved out of the AUTO position during the second delay interval, then the controller 14 causes a third delay interval to be commenced. At T2 the controller 14 causes the UNLOCKED indicator light 38 to be continuously illuminated and the chime 24 is caused to output a continuous audible alert, represented by waveform 56, that the lock 26 of the door 15 will be unlocked within a very short time period if no operator action is taken via the switch 28. At any time, an occupant in the cockpit 13b may move the switch element 36 of the switch 28 to the UNLOCK position 32, which signals the controller 14 to turn off the chime 24 and the UNLOCKED indicator light 38, as well as to command solenoid 20 to unlock the lock 26. Also at any time during the first delay interval, the second delay interval or the third delay interval, an occupant in the cockpit 13b may move the switch element 36 to the DENY position 34. This signals the controller 14 to turn off the chime 24 and the UNLOCKED indicator light 38, and further inhibits operation of the keypad 12 for a predetermined time thereafter. This predetermined time may vary but is preferably for a time interval of between five minutes to thirty minutes. During this time, if an individual should again correctly enter the access code into the keypad 12, no audible or visual signals would be provided by the chime 24 or UNLOCKED indicator light 38. After the expiration of this time period, then the user may again input the access code into the keypad 12 and make another request to access the cockpit 13b.

[0026] At T3, as long as no operator selection has been made via the switch 28 (i.e., meaning that the switch element 36 has remained in the AUTO position 30), the controller 14 causes the solenoid 20 to be deenergized. This causes the door lock 26 to be unlocked. Thereafter, manual actuation of the door handle of the cockpit door 15 will allow the door to be opened.

[0027] In the preferred embodiment described above, the delay interval between T0 and T3 is user programmable from about 15 seconds to about 120 seconds in 15 second increments. Preferably, the delay interval between T2 and T3 has a minimum duration of at least 10 seconds. The audible signals represented by pulses 52 and 54 preferably comprise 0.5 second duration audible signals having a frequency of preferably around 500 Hz at approximately 75 dB. It will be appreciated, however, that the duration, frequency and intensity of these audible signals may be modified to suit user preferences.

[0028] The UNLOCKED indicator light 38, when flashing during the third delay interval, preferably flashes at a 50% to 60% duty cycle, with 60% being the more preferred duty cycle. Again, however, the frequency at which this light flashes may be tailored to suit user preferences.

[0029] When the lock 26 of the cockpit door 15 is unlocked at point T3, the door is preferably maintained in the unlocked position for a predetermined time interval, and more preferably for at least about five seconds. Again, this delay interval could also be modified. During this time period the solenoid 20 remains deenergzied. After this short time interval expires, the controller 14 again automatically energizes the solenoid 20 to cause the lock 26 to lock the door 15.

[0030] The access code is preferably changeable from the controller 14. This is accomplished by engaging a “PROGRAM” key 58 on the controller 14 as indicated in FIG. 1. Once this key is depressed, a new access code can be entered at the keypad 12.

[0031] Another optional feature which may be implemented is a “door bell” mode. This mode may be implemented by selecting a particular key, such as the “1” key on the keypad 12, followed by the “ENTER” key 42a. This causes the chime 24 to generate an audible signal but does not begin the time delay period represented between T0 and T3. In effect, the occupants of the cockpit 13b are simply apprised that an individual in the cabin area 13a of the aircraft 13 is requesting access to the cockpit. The audible signal may comprise one or more short duration signals by the chime 24.

[0032] The system 10 of the present invention thus provides a means by which individuals in the cabin area of the aircraft can request access to the cockpit, and can further initiate a process by which a locked cockpit door will be automatically unlocked if no intervention is taken by occupants of the cockpit. The inclusion of the pressure sensor also ensures that in the event of a decompression condition occurring in the cockpit, the cockpit door will be automatically and immediately unlocked so that the door can be quickly opened. Importantly, the system 10 provides the occupants of the cockpit with the ultimate authority to deny the requested access if circumstances are such that the cockpit occupants believe that the cockpit should remain secure from all individuals in the cabin area.

[0033] Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad teachings of the present invention can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this invention has been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the true scope of the invention should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, specification and following claims.

Claims

1. A security system for preventing unauthorized access to a control center of a mobile platform, wherein the control center is separated from a passenger area of said mobile platform by a door; said system comprising:

a lock for locking said door;

a user input device accessible by individuals in said passenger area to input a predetermined access code to request unlocking of said door;

a controller responsive to said user input device for producing a signal within said control center when said access code is entered that entry to said control center has been requested by an individual within said passenger area; and

a control device within said passenger area in communication with said lock for allowing an individual in the control center to unlock said door.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein:

said control device is in communication with said controller;

wherein said controller is in communication with said lock; and

wherein said control device commands said controller to unlock said lock.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein said control device comprises a switch for allowing said lock to be immediately unlocked.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein said control device comprises a switch having a position signaling said controller to unlock said lock after a predetermined time delay period has expired.

5. The system of claim 2, wherein said control device comprises a switch for signaling said controller to ignore said request for entry and to maintain said lock in a locked position.

6. A security system for preventing unauthorized access to a cockpit of an aircraft, wherein the cockpit is separated from a cabin area by a cockpit door, the system comprising:

a lock for locking the door in a closed position;

a user input device for allowing an individual in said cabin area to input a predetermined access code to request unlocking of the cockpit door;

a controller responsive to said user input device for producing a signal when said access code is entered that entry to the cockpit has been requested; and

a switch in communication with said lock for allowing an individual in the cockpit to unlock said door.

7. The security system of claim 6, wherein said lock is responsive to said controller and said controller is responsive to said switch; and

wherein said controller commands said lock to an unlocked position a predetermined delay time after said access code is entered at said user input device.

8. The security system of claim 6, wherein said controller comprises a chime that produces an audible signal when said access code is entered at said user input device.

9. The security system of claim 6, wherein said switch comprises a multi-position switch in communication with said controller for enabling an individual on said cockpit to deny access to said cockpit and inhibit operation of said user input device for a predetermined time period after said access code had been entered at said user input device.

10. The security system of claim 6, wherein said switch is in communication with said controller and comprises a multi-position switch including:

a first position in which said switch signals said controller to unlock said lock when said predetermined delay time has expired;

a second position, in which said switch signals said controller to immediately unlock said lock; and

a third position in which said switch signals said controller to maintain said lock in said locked position and to disable said user input device for said predetermined time period.

11. The security system of claim 10, further comprising:

a chime responsive to said controller for producing an audible signal in said cockpit when said individual in said cabin area has input said access code into said user input device.

12. The security system of claim 10, further comprising:

an indicator light responsive to said controller for providing a visual indication to an individual on said cockpit that an individual in said cabin area has requested access to said cockpit via said user input device.

13. The system of claim 6, wherein said user input device comprises a keypad.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein said keypad comprises:

a first indicator light indicating that said cockpit door is in said locked position;

a second indicator light indicating that said access code has been received by said controller; and

a third indicator light indicating that said lock has been moved to said unlocked position.

15. A security system for preventing unauthorized access to a cockpit of an aircraft, wherein the cockpit is separated from a cabin area by a cockpit door, the system comprising:

a lock for locking the door in a closed position;

a user keypad for allowing an individual in said cabin area to input a predetermined access code to request unlocking of the cockpit door;

a controller responsive to said user input device for producing a signal detectable in said cockpit when said access code is entered that entry to the cockpit has been requested;

a switch in communication with said controller for allowing an individual in the cockpit to select an action including:

commanding said controller to immediately unlock said lock; and

commanding said controller to ignore a previous request by said individual, via said keypad, for access to said cockpit and to maintain said lock in a locked position.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein said switch includes an automatic response position which signals said controller to automatically unlock said lock after a predetermined time delay period has expired after said access code has been input into said keypad.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein said predetermined time delay period includes at least:

a first delay interval which commences when said signal is generated that said access code has been entered in said keypad; and

a second delay interval during which said controller produces a second signal signaling to said occupants of said cockpit that said controller will automatically unlock said lock at an expiration of said first delay interval.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein said predetermined time delay period includes:

a first delay interval which commences when said signal is generated that said access code has been entered in said keypad;

a second delay interval which commences upon the expiration of said first delay interval, said controller generating a second signal at a beginning of said second delay interval reminding occupants of said cockpit that cockpit door has not been unlocked or said request for entry denied via said switch; and

a third delay interval during which said controller produces a third signal signaling to said occupants of said cockpit that said controller will automatically unlock said lock at an expiration of said third delay interval.

19. The system of claim 15, wherein said keypad comprises:

a first indicator light for indicating that said lock is in a locked condition; and

a second indicator light for indicating that said lock has been moved into an unlocked condition.

20. The system of claim 15, wherein said keypad comprises:

a first indicator light for indicating that said lock is in a locked condition;

a second indicator light for indicating that said lock has been moved into an unlocked condition; and

a third indicator light for indicating that said access code has been received by said controller and that said occupants in said cockpit have been apprised of said request for entry to said cockpit.

21. The system of claim 15, wherein said signal comprises an audible signal generated by a chime, and wherein said chime is in communication with said controller.

22. The system of claim 15, wherein said controller operates to inhibit further requests for entry to said cockpit for a predetermined delay interval if said switch is positioned to command said controller to ignore said previous request for entry to said cockpit.

23. A method for securing a control center of a mobile platform from unauthorized entry, wherein the mobile platform includes a door separating said control center from a passenger area, the method comprising:

using a lock to lock said door in a closed position;

using a user input device to allow an individual in said passenger area to input an access code to request entry to said control center;

using a controller to receive said request for entry and to provide a signal to an occupant in said control center that a request for entry to said control center has been made;

using a control device for allowing said occupant to perform at least one action including:

immediately unlocking said lock; and

unlocking said lock only after the expiration of a predetermined time delay interval.