Abstract: A security system for storing a number of valuables. The system includes a body for holding the number of valuables, a lid coupled to the body and being movable between a closed position corresponding to the number of valuables being stored, and an open position corresponding to the number of valuables being exposed. The system includes a locking mechanism having an unlocked state corresponding to the lid being movable between closed and open positions, and a locked state corresponding to the lid being maintained in the closed position, and an interface apparatus coupled to at least one of the body and the lid. Responsive to a wireless signal from a user input device, the interface apparatus causes the locking mechanism to be moved from the locked state to the unlocked state, allowing the lid to be moved to the open position and the number of valuables to be accessed.

Abstract: A cash storage apparatus of which a housing is structured such that a length in a depth direction is longer than a length in a height direction in a horizontal orientation state where a surface from which a cash storage case is pulled out or pushed out serves as a front surface, and in which a portion of an upper surface or undersurface of the housing when the housing is in the horizontal orientation state serves as an open/close cover that is opened frontward, in order to enable use in a vertical orientation state where the front surface when the housing is in the horizontal orientation state serves as an upper surface.

Abstract: The lockbox contains a microcomputer used in the processes of validating preapproved credentials. One method of obtaining access to the lockbox is by user carrying only an identification card, the lockbox scanning the identification card and transmitting its data to the lockbox's server for validation via an internal cell phone modem's connection through cell towers. The lockbox is also capable of capturing video and audio recordings, storing and categorizing the recordings into data such as traffic or noise levels over varying periods of time; and such data can be transferred to a user's cell phone upon the owner's approval. Additionally, the lockbox is powered by a solar panel power source, making it self-sustaining.

Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a system and method for managing distributed encrypted combination over-locks from a remote location. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention is directed to a distributed management system for self-storage facilities that provide customers with immediate access to an over-locked space upon payment of delinquent past due balances.

Abstract: A device designed to validate and transport paper currency in a protected fashion. While being transported, the device monitors for tampering or break-in attempts and subsequently generates warning notifications, or sounds an alarm depending on configuration and the type of tampering detected. The transport case provides end-to-end cash accountability from a location where a bill is inserted into the case, to the bank or cash destination, where the transport case is delivered. Additionally, a docking station accessory is described in which the transport case can be securely fixed while at a point of sale.

Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a system and method for managing distributed encrypted combination over-locks from a remote location. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention is directed to a distributed management system for self-storage facilities that provide customers with immediate access to an over-locked space upon payment of delinquent past due balances.

Abstract: An underfloor storage system is disclosed. The storage system comprises a frame with a storage box and at least one raise/lower mechanisms to raise and lower the storage box. A raise/lower mechanism include at least one winch driven pulley system. The storage box includes a floor. Raising the storage box provides access to underfloor storage. In a preferred embodiment, each winch driven pulley system provides an ideal mechanical advantage of 4 and includes an additional pulley which is configured to pivot relative to the winch and thereby adjust the orientation of the pulley to the winch as the line tracks across the winch during wind up or let out of the line.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments are directed to a fixture and method for a fixture (referred to as a Two Way Fixture) displaying and holding objects for sale at a retail store. The two way fixture includes a free-standing frame which is formed by a I-shaped base portion and a U-shaped upright portion. A pair of tempered hardboards are inserted in the middle of the U-shaped upright portion. The two way fixture has shelves and wire racks mounted to the sides of the U-Shaped upright portion. The shelves, I-shaped base portion, and wire racks create a volume allows for the two way fixture to hide or obscure a cash box, therefor storing components of a point-of-sale (POS) station while keeping the electronic components live and updated. The two way fixture can be configured to surround the pole and the cash box.

Abstract: The lockbox contains a microcomputer used in the processes of validating preapproved credentials. One method of obtaining access to the lockbox is by user carrying only an identification card, the lockbox scanning the identification card and transmitting its data to the lockbox's server for validation via an internal cell phone modem's connection through cell towers. The lockbox is also capable of capturing video and audio recordings, storing and categorizing the recordings into data such as traffic or noise levels over varying periods of time; and such data can be transferred to a user's cell phone upon the owner's approval. Additionally, the lockbox is powered by a solar panel power source, making it self-sustaining.

Abstract: A system for monitoring a lockout condition of a component includes a lockout device, a lock unit, and a reader. The lockout device is moveable between a lockout condition blocking operation of the component and an access condition permitting operation of the component. The lock unit is configured to be secured to a lockout interface of the lockout device to secure the lockout device in the lockout condition. One of the lockout device and the lock unit includes a communication module configured to communicate a data signal including an identification code identifying the one of the lockout device and the lock unit. The reader is remote from the one of the lockout device and the lock unit, and is configured to receive the data signal at least when the lockout device is assembled with the component and the lock unit is secured to the lockout interface of the lockout device.

Abstract: Storage panels for safes, such as gun safes. Some embodiments may comprise an interior storage panel configured so as to be positioned at least partially outside of a safe in an open position, and may be configured so as to extend along and be positioned at least substantially parallel to the safe door in a closed position with the safe door closed. In some embodiments, the interior storage panel may be configured to be repositioned between the open position and the closed position by rotating the interior storage panel about a pivot axis opposite from a pivot axis of the safe door. In some embodiments, the interior storage panel may be configured to extend away from a side of the safe when opened opposite from a side of the safe from which the safe door extends.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a system, method, or computer program product for communicating customer preferences to an automated teller machine (ATM). In this way, the system receives at least one customer preference for conducting transactions at an ATM and input from the customer indicating the customer's desire to conduct an ATM transaction. In response to receiving the customer input, the system may generate a customer preference communication for receipt by the ATM, wherein the customer preference communication comprises at least of the at least one customer preferences for conducting transactions at an ATM.

Abstract: A system is provided for concealing and accessing objects behind an interior surface of a room. The system includes an opening defined by the interior surface and a mount in which valuables are secured and positioned in a cavity behind the interior surface of the room. The system further includes a décor element positioned at the opening. The system further includes an actuator assembly positioned in the cavity and operatively coupled to the mount and décor element to move the décor element from the opening and to move the mount to the opening to access the valuables. A method is also provided for concealing and accessing objects behind an interior surface of a room.

Abstract: A safe includes a body that has an opening for receiving and holding an object. A door is rotatably interfaced to the body by, for example, a series of pins, whereas the door obstructs the opening in a first position of rotation, and the door provides access to the body of the safe through the opening when the door is in a second position of rotation. A locking mechanism engages between the door and the body when the door is rotated to the first position of rotation thereby holding the door in the first position of rotation until the locking mechanism is released and, upon releasing by the locking mechanism, the door is free to rotate towards the second position of rotation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a container (10) for holding notes of value, which comprises a housing part (12) and a cover (14) for closing an opening of the housing part (12). The cover (14) has a closing element (34) which is movable in at least one unlocking direction (P1) and which in a locked state is engaged with an engagement area (48) of the housing part (12) that is complementary to the closing element (34). The closing element (34) is movable in unlocking direction (P1) into an unlocked state for unlocking. Further, the container (10) comprises a rotatably mounted retaining element (58) which, in a first position of the container (10), is arranged such that the closing element (34) is movable in unlocking direction (P1) from the locked state into the unlocked state for unlocking.

Abstract: A cash box (1) used for storing cashes and provided with a self-locking mechanism comprises a box body (11), a box door (12) and a box door self-locking mechanism. The cashbox (1) is arranged on a cashbox bracket (3). The box door self-locking mechanism comprises a lock (21) for locking the box door (12) and a door switch structure (22) which is fixed on the cashbox bracket (3) and used for opening or closing the box door (12). The lock (21) comprises a movable lock tongue (211) connected with the box door (12) and a lock cylinder (212) which is fixed on one wall of the box body (11) and movably buckled with the movable lock tongue (211). A triggering element which acts on the door switch structure is arranged on the box door (12) which is opened by the door switch structure when the box body (11) is pushed into the cashbox bracket (3) and which is locked by the door switch structure when the box body (11) is drawn out of the cashbox bracket (3).

Abstract: A safe includes a body that has an opening for receiving and holding an object. A door is rotatably interfaced to the body, whereas the door obstructs the opening in a first position of rotation, and the door provides access to the body of the safe through the opening when the door is in a second position of rotation. A locking mechanism engages between the door and the body when the door is rotated to the first position of rotation thereby holding the door in the first position of rotation until the locking mechanism is released and, upon releasing by the locking mechanism, the door is free to rotate towards the second position of rotation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for storing banknotes, having at least two banknote storage containers (26 to 40). Each of the banknote storage containers (26 to 40) has at least one banknote withdrawal and/or feed opening. Further, a first receiving unit (14) for receiving at least the first banknote storage container (26 to 32) is provided. Moreover, a second receiving unit (16) for receiving at least the second banknote storage container (34 to 40) is provided. The second receiving unit (16) is arranged horizontally offset relative to the first receiving unit (14).

Abstract: A ground lock is formed of a main shaft having a first latching structure near its upper end and a ground fastener at its lower end. A mating member provides a cooperative latching structure and slides on the main shaft between raised and lowered positions. In one of the raised or lowered positions, the two latching structures are latchable, allowing the mating member to drive the main shaft to engage or disengage the ground fastener. In the other of the raised or lowered positions, the second latching structure is non-latchable with the first latching structure such that the main shaft is disabled from driving the ground fastener.

Abstract: Gun safes according to various embodiments of the invention include a secure housing and a rotatable gun support assembly that is disposed at least partially within an interior portion of the secure housing, and that is adapted to support rifles in a substantially upright position adjacent a perimeter of a portion of the gun support assembly. In various embodiments, the gun support assembly includes: (A) a gun support portion that is disposed within the secure housing; and (B) an upper shelf that is disposed: (1) outside of the interior of said secure housing; and (2) adjacent an upper surface of the secure housing. In particular embodiments, this upper shelf is mounted to rotate in tandem with one or more portions of the gun support portion. In various embodiments, the gun safe includes a motor for rotating the gun support assembly at least substantially without manual assistance from a user.

Abstract: A safe having a support assembly disposed in the interior of the safe. The door of the safe is coupled to the support assembly and is easily shiftable between a closed position wherein the door is received in an opening of the safe and an open position wherein the door is removed from the opening in the safe and disposed in the interior of the safe.

Abstract: An application for a safe or strong box attaches to a larger, heavy object and provides improved security to its contents from unwanted removal. The safe or strong box has a revolving door that, when a proper code/combination/biometric is provided, rotatably opens to expose the contents. In one embodiment, the safe/strong box interfaces to, for example, a bedding system using a barbed plate that readily inserts between a box spring and a mattress, but due to the barbs, is difficult to remove without lifting the mattress from the box spring making it at least difficult to remove by, for example, children in the home. In some embodiments, sound dampening devices are provided to provide a quiet retraction of the revolving door, so as to not alert an intruder when the occupant is retrieving a weapon such as a pistol.

Abstract: An application for a safe or strong box attaches to a larger, heavy object and provides improved security to its contents from unwanted removal. The safe or strong box has a revolving door that, when a proper code/combination/biometric is provided, rotatably opens to expose the contents. In one embodiment, the safe/strong box interfaces to, for example, a bedding system using a barbed plate that readily inserts between a box spring and a mattress, but due to the barbs, is difficult to remove without lifting the mattress from the box spring making it at least difficult to remove by, for example, children in the home. In some embodiments, sound dampening devices are provided to provide a quiet retraction of the revolving door, so as to not alert an intruder when the occupant is retrieving a weapon such as a pistol.

Abstract: A system for securely storing a weapon. The system includes a tray for containing a weapon. The tray has an opening for accessing a weapon. The system also includes a portable safe having an interior space sized and shaped for retaining the tray and the contained weapon. In addition, the system includes a mounting module attachable to a fixed surface. The mounting module includes an interior space for holding the portable safe and an access control system for locking the portable safe within the interior space of the mounting module. The access control system allows access by an authorized user and denies access of the weapon within the portable safe to an unauthorized user. The weapon is contained in the tray, the tray is retained in the portable safe and the portable safe is held in the interior space of the mounting module.

Abstract: A side open-and-close type cash transaction machine is provided. A cash transaction machine includes: a body including an opening on a side of the body; a door being mounted on the body to open and close the opening; a first financial module being integrally formed with the door in the door to be externally exposed when the door is opened; and a second financial module being provided in the body, separate from the door to move toward the opening when the door is opened. Since the second financial module may be provided and be exposed separate from the first financial module, it is possible to easily manage the financial modules and also reduce the size of the side open-and-close type cash transaction machine.

Abstract: Method and system for safely transporting valuable articles to a client. A known amount of articles for transport are packed in a transport package comprising a security circuit and a security system for the valuable articles. In the armed state the valuable articles are devaluated in case of an unauthorized manipulation in the transport package. A first client identifier is given. The valuable articles in the transport package are transported to the client. A portable computer transported with the valuable articles serves for recording and/or capturing the first client identifier, for capturing a second client identifier, for evaluating the first client identifier and the second client identifier, and for establishing a communication connection with the security circuit of the transport package, in order to transfer and release the package into the not-armed state, if permitted after evaluating the client identifiers.

Abstract: A safe which is attachable to a motor vehicle. The safe may have a door bearing a lock which is centered on the door so that access to the lock is equal from opposed sides of the safe. The safe may have a slide-out drawer which rides on a track, in which case the track and drawer are centered within the safe. The drawer may be locked by a lock which is centered within one face of the drawer. The safe may have a mounting flange bearing at least one hole for engaging a retention element such as threaded fasteners or a tether.

Abstract: A cost effective latch and alignment mechanism for a banknote cassette and a cassette receiving frame uses a magnetic latch providing a magnetic force cooperating with the cassette to move it to and be releasably maintained in a final aligned position. Preferably a permanent magnet attached to the cassette receiving frame cooperates with the metal of the cassette to provide the magnetic bias and locking force.

Abstract: An undercut for a blow-molded container is provided and may include a top surface, first and second side surfaces, and first and second end surfaces. The side surfaces are connected to the top surface, and the side surfaces may be substantially flat, substantially parallel with one another, and substantially perpendicular with the top surface. The first end surface is connected to the top surface and the side surfaces, and may be positioned at an obtuse angle relative to the top surface. The second end surface is connected to the top surface and side surfaces. The second end surface may include a tip portion and a concave arc portion. The tip portion may be flat and extend from the top surface at an acute angle. The concave arc portion extends from the tip portion and underlies the top surface to form a hook-shaped fastener for attaching an object to the undercut.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for storing banknotes, having at least two banknote storage containers (26 to 40). Each of the banknote storage containers (26 to 40) has at least one banknote withdrawal and/or feed opening. Further, a first receiving unit (14) for receiving at least the first banknote storage container (26 to 32) is provided. Moreover, a second receiving unit (16) for receiving at least the second banknote storage container (34 to 40) is provided. The second receiving unit (16) is arranged horizontally offset relative to the first receiving unit (14).

Abstract: A cash box for storing paper notes and coins is disclosed. In one embodiment, the cash box includes a housing having a base and four side walls, a lid fixed to the housing and movable between opened and closed positions to restrict access to a tray within an upper cavity of the housing, a drawer movable between a closed position within a lower cavity of the housing and an opened position at least partially extending from the housing. A locking mechanism may prohibit access to the tray when locking the lid in a closed position. A coin storage holder may be included which is detachably engaged to one of the four side walls.

Abstract: A remotely activated and monitored key safe to allow storage and retrieval of at least one key including: a housing having a generally elongated shape and having a longitudinally extending cavity open through a first axial end of the housing, in fixed relation to a structure: a key holding tray adapted to be slideably loaded into the housing, the tray having a front cover fitted to cover the first axial end of the housing, and the tray having a locking/unlocking mechanism; a communications and command subsystem powered by a power source, the communications and command subsystem adapted to receive remote commands to activate the locking/unlocking mechanism; and a backup power subsystem adapted to allow backup power to be applied to contacts presentable on an accessible surface of the key safe in case of a failure of the power source.

Abstract: An item securing apparatus and method for securing at least one item in a ground surface at a beach or other location is provided. The item securing apparatus includes a ground engaging member that is insertable into the ground surface and a locking housing that removably attaches to the ground engaging member. The locking housing is secured to the ground engaging member with one or more locking devices. An item securing mechanism attaches the item to the ground engaging member which secures the item to the ground surface.

Abstract: A customer access apparatus for an automatic media dispenser is provided. The customer access apparatus may include a pivotable supporting plate that supports an end of the media standing upright, and a stacker guide which is movably installed on the supporting plate. A push plate moves integrally with the stacker guide and relative to the stacker guide, and a driving unit recovers media which have been compressed and conveyed by the stacker guide and the push plate. Upper ends of the stacker guide and plate are selectively located at a position where the media are raised toward an inlet to which a customer has access, by means of a rotation of the supporting plate, such that a process of depositing and withdrawing the media can be performed. A contact point between the customer and the customer access apparatus may be located outside of the customer access apparatus such that the operation of depositing and withdrawing the media can be performed more accurately and easily.

Abstract: In a banknote handling device, a banknote storage cassette is loaded along guide grooves in left and right side plates, whereby the bottom end of a bill press interlocks with protruding members of the banknote storage cassette, preventing the banknote storage cassette from exiting the guide grooves, and, by sliding a lid of the banknote storage cassette, accumulated banknotes which are stored therein are transferred to a mounting plate while a free-sliding plate member inside a storage space of the banknote storage cassette presses the accumulated banknotes downward, the accumulated banknotes being separated one by one and conveyed down a transport path by a kick-out roller, a feeding roller, and a separating roller.

Abstract: An undercut for a blow-molded container is provided and may include a top surface, first and second side surfaces, and first and second end surfaces. The side surfaces are connected to the top surface, and the side surfaces may be substantially flat, substantially parallel with one another, and substantially perpendicular with the top surface. The first end surface is connected to the top surface and the side surfaces, and may be positioned at an obtuse angle relative to the top surface. The second end surface is connected to the top surface and side surfaces. The second end surface may include a tip portion and a concave arc portion. The tip portion may be flat and extend from the top surface at an acute angle. The concave arc portion extends from the tip portion and underlies the top surface to form a hook-shaped fastener for attaching an object to the undercut.

Abstract: Gun safes according to various embodiments of the invention include a secure housing and a rotatable gun support assembly that is disposed at least partially within an interior portion of the secure housing, and that is adapted to support rifles in a substantially upright position adjacent a perimeter of a portion of the gun support assembly. In various embodiments, the gun support assembly includes: (A) a gun support portion that is disposed within the secure housing; and (B) an upper shelf that is disposed: (1) outside of the interior of said secure housing; and (2) adjacent an upper surface of the secure housing. In particular embodiments, this upper shelf is mounted to rotate in tandem with one or more portions of the gun support portion. In various embodiments, the gun safe includes a motor for rotating the gun support assembly at least substantially without manual assistance from a user.

Abstract: Portable locker apparatus is disclosed comprising three parts or components which includes a locker body formed of plastic material a tray for holding beverage cans placed horizontally on wave form ridges in the tray, and a carrying bag fitting around the portable locker apparatus, and in this first embodiment a cable fitting in slots in the portable locker apparatus with a padlock connecting eyelets on the cable ends and to anchor the whole assembly as needed. The second embodiment excludes the cable and slots but includes all other components of the portable locker apparatus, beverage tray and carrying bag.

Abstract: There is provided a security case with a strongbox area for receiving valuables. The case includes a protection system for protecting the valuables located in the strongbox area. The protection system also includes at least two protection modules, which are situated in the strongbox area and implemented for the purpose of automatically neutralizing the valuables from two sides in case of emergency. An access opening with a sliding plate is provided, which is situated in the area of a case wall and which is movable by a translational movement between its cover position and its release position.

Abstract: A detachable bill acceptor mounting arrangement includes a face panel of a vending machine, the face panel having two protruding locating plates at two sides and an angled guide groove at each protruding locating plate, and a bill acceptor formed of a lower unit and an upper unit, the lower unit having two recessed locating portions detachably coupled to the protruding locating plates of the face panel and two pair of stub guide rods insertable into the angled guide grooves to secure the lower unit to the face panel, the upper unit having two flat pivot rods detachably coupled to a respective pivot hole on the lower unit and two hooks releasably hooked in a respective retaining slot on the lower unit to lock the upper unit to the lower unit.

Abstract: A method for controlling access to a storage unit owned by an owner, wherein a renter has access to the storage unit unless the owner receives the legal right to deny the renter access to the storage unit and decides to do so. In this method, the storage unit is secured by a lock that is, at least in part, controlled by the renter. A remotely controllable lockout assembly, however, is capable of over locking the storage unit so that the renter can no longer gain entry when the lockout assembly is activated. The method includes remotely controlling the lockout assembly to deny the renter access to the unit when the owner receives the legal right to deny the renter access to the storage unit and decides to do so.

Abstract: The application is directed to a safety device for a bank note storage apparatus. If banknotes are not place properly in the compartment of the tray but overlie a flange of the safety device as the tray is pushed into the slot and flange will jam between pegs and, causing a body to move back against a spring and a latch to extend downward from the tray. The latch will prevent movement of the tray fully into the enclosure. The user must remove the obstruction before the tray can be moved fully into the enclosure.

Abstract: A connecting/holding machine 30 of a cash container according to the present invention holds a cash container 15 having a bottom portion 15a and a back face side portion 15d and provided with first terminal portions 22 and 23 and a fitting-in hole 47 in its back face side portion 15d. This connecting/holding machine 30 includes a holding base 70 in which a mounting portion 40 capable of mounting the cash container 15 and a back face portion 42 standing from the mounting portion 40 are constituted in conformity with an external shape of the cash container 15. The back face portion 42 includes second terminal portions 37 and 38 capable of being connected to the first terminal portions 22 and 23 at positions corresponding to the first terminal portions 22 and 23. The back face portion 42 also includes an engaging protrusion 45 capable of fitting in the fitting-in hole 47 at a position corresponding to the fitting-in hole 47.

Abstract: A safe for storing valuables such as guns has an external configuration that resembles a water processing apparatus such as a water heater, water softener, or pressure tank. The safe includes a door that provides access to a dry cavity within the safe for storing valuables. A lock mechanism securely locks the door shut to secure the valuables within the safe. The safe of the preferred embodiments is concealed to look like a water processing apparatus, and includes a lock to deter a thief that happens to discover the safe.

Abstract: An improved electronic lock system is provided for use with real estate lock boxes where there is the need for many people to access the secured compartment of the lock box in a controlled manner. Each user has an identification card with a non-volatile secure memory (known as a “smart card”), for exchanging data with the lock box, and with a portable computer capable of reading data from the smart card; or a cell phone can be used to gain access information from a central computer. The user first inserts the smart card into the connector attached to the lock box; the lock box reads the user's ID stored in the smart card memory and records this information in lock box memory. The lock box then transfers its access code information and other data to the smart card for further processing. The user then inserts the smart card in a portable card reader to learn the access code, or calls a central computer via a mobile phone system and interacts with the computer to elicit the necessary access code information.

Abstract: A quick-release lockable long gun case encloses the breech, trigger guard and trigger of a long gun allowing the barrel and stock to protrude through oppositely disposed openings. A keypad may be preprogrammed with a combination that must be entered to allow access to the long gun. A key operated override mechanism is also provided. An internal chamber contains a removable insert having the outer configuration conforming to the breech, trigger guard and trigger of the long gun. The lid is hinged to the body with a spring biasing the lid in the direction of opening. The latch mechanism includes a strike attached to the lid of the long gun case and a latch mounted within the body of the long gun case. The latch is pivotable and has upper and lower structures that are balanced about the pivot point thereof.

Abstract: A secure firearm holder (10) includes an outwardly swinging hinged plate (14) that is hinged to a holder base (12) with a gun (44) mounted at a side of the plate in a ready-to-use orientation when the plate swings outwardly. In a preferred embodiment, a bore shaft (36) is mounted on the hinged plate, the bore shaft extending into the firearm. When the plate is in a first, closed, position, the holder base prevents the gun from being removed from the bore shaft, but when a motivating member (52) rotates the plate to a second position, the gun can be easily and quickly removed from the bore shaft from a ready-to-use orientation. The motivating member biases the lid toward the second position but is held closed in the first position by a latch (50), which latch is remotely releasable.

Abstract: A method of transporting or shipping at least one item is provided. The method comprises placing the at least one item into a first container. The method further comprises securely closing the first container, locking the first container, placing the first container into a transport container so that the first container fits flush within the transport container, and shipping the containers to a recipient. A security container system for transporting or shipping at least one item is also provided.

Abstract: The invention relates to an article delivery receptacle (10) comprising an electronic code lock (11). When delivering articles (8), the delivery person opens the receptacle (10) by entering a delivery code (6) into the electronic code lock (11). During the ordering process, the addressee (1) conveys the required delivery code (6) to the delivery person (9) via the supplier (9) of the ordered articles (8). After the articles (8) are deposited in the receptacle, the receptacle (10) is locked once again so that the articles (8) placed therein arc protected from theft. After a successful delivery, the code lock (11) is blocked so that it is no longer possible to open the delivery receptacle (10) using the delivery code (6). The addressee can remove the delivered articles (8) from the receptacle (10) by using an addressee key (12) which only the addressee possesses. After removing the articles (8), the delivery receptacle is enabled once again for receiving subsequent deliveries of articles.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing the removal of cassettes from an automated teller machine along their guide paths includes mountings and a plurality of retainers, each associated with its respective cassette. Each retainer is securable in an operational position on the mountings to extend into the guide path of its respective cassette to prevent removal of the cassette. Further, each retainer is movable from the operational position to allow removal of its respective cassette. The retainers may be removable from the mountings to allow removal of the cassette and lockable to the mountings. Two or more locking devices may be used in which the locks are operated separately or remotely. The retainer may be a suitably shaped elongate member such as a locking bar. Multiple bars can be used to retain a cassette. The retainers may guard the face of the cassette.