Abstract: A universal remote control transmits one of a plurality of sequences of activation signals when activated. The remote control includes a receiver and a transmitter. At least one wireless channel is associated with a user activation input. Memory holds data describing rolling code transmission schemes and fixed code transmission schemes. Control logic maintains a channel mode set initially to a rolling code mode. The channel mode changes to one of at least one fixed code mode if the channel is trained to a fixed code. In response to an assertion of the user activation input for a particular channel, the control logic generates and transmits an activation signal based on each of a plurality of transmission schemes associated with the mode programmed for the channel.

Abstract: A key information issuing device (1, 1A, 1B) issuing key information to a key information retaining device (2, 2A, 2B) includes an authentication module (14, 3) authenticating an issuer of the key information, an output module (13) outputting the key information to the key information retaining unit, and a recording module (11) recording a mapping of the issued key information to the key information retaining unit. The key information is issued in response to an indication of the authenticated issuer.

Abstract: Message data are picked up by using a decoder 2 from received signals received by a receiver portion 1 of a radio paging receiver, and stored in a RAM 4a of a CPU 4. An informing portion 9 informs a user of the message. The user designates any character sequences in the message stored in the RAM 4a by a character sequence designating unit 4b. A character sequence retrieving unit 4c retrieves whether or not designated character sequences are contained in stored messages. When the messages containing the designated character sequences are detected, a time counting unit 4d monitors whether or not a predetermined time has been lapsed after storage of concerned messages. An erasing unit 4e erases unnecessary messages stored in the RAM 4a from the RAM 4a after the predetermined time has been lapsed.

Abstract: A barrier movement operator system having a receiver for receiving, learning and responding to transmitted rolling code access codes. The barrier movement operator provides a method and apparatus for learning valid security codes by a security code receiver comprising receiving a first previously learned security code and beginning a learn mode operation in response thereto, within a predetermined period of time, receiving a second security code, having a predetermined relationship to the first security code; and storing a representation of the second security code as a valid security code.

Abstract: A universal remote control interacts with a user to assist in training to one or more appliances. If the appliance is activated by a rolling code activation signal, a sequence of different rolling code activation signals is transmitted until the user indicates a successful transmission. If the appliance is activated by a fixed code activation signal, a fixed code word is used to generate and transmit each of a sequence of different fixed code activation signals until the user indicates a successful transmission. At least one of the sequences of activation signals inserts a preset amount of time after each activation signal transmission. If user input is not received within the preset amount of time, the next activation signal in the sequence is transmitted.

Abstract: Some of the pieces of divisional electronic information formed by dividing an electronic control program for an automobile are stored in an automobile operating key, the rest being stored in a car-mounted storage unit, and the pieces of divisional electronic information read in from the operating key and the pieces of divisional electronic information read out of the car-mounted storage unit are united by an electronic information integration restoration device to restore the electronic control program, whereby the automobile is driven. An automobile electronic control device of high safety which prevents the driving of the automobile unless a genuine key is used by utilizing a digital control system, a key mechanism using the same and methods thereof are provided.

Abstract: A universal remote control interacts with a user to assist in training to one or more appliances. If the appliance is activated by a rolling code activation signal, a sequence of different rolling code activation signals is transmitted until the user indicates a successful rolling code transmission. If the appliance is activated by a fixed code activation signal, a fixed code word is used to generate and transmit each of a sequence of different fixed code activation signals until the user indicates a successful fixed code transmission. In response to an activation input, an activation signal is generated and transmitted based on data stored following user indication of a successful transmission.

Abstract: In a method for authenticating a spare key for use with a vehicle in the absence of the regular key, the spare key is provided with an identification number that is transmitted to, and checked by, a central station. The spare key is authenticated by an authorization signal sent from the central station to the vehicle.

Abstract: A reusable electronic tag having a plurality of memory locations to allow a user to write information onto the tag. After a memory location is written, it becomes write-protected, preventing the written content from being altered or deleted by an unauthorized user. By granting a user access right to certain memory locations, it is possible to restrict the user's ability to access the memory location depending on the granted access type and the level of restriction set for the memory location. A user with a valid password is allowed to read and write a memory location. Such a user may be allowed to clear the memory locations so that the tag can be reused.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for using an electronic key to open electronic locking devices is provided. With the system, apparatus and method, a key code is sent to a user's wireless communication device and is later used to open a corresponding locking device. The key code is generated by a key supplier based on a master key obtained from a master key supplier, e.g. an electronic lock manufacturer. The key code may include a master key portion, a secondary key portion, an activation/expiration portion, a wireless device identifier portion, a time of issue portion, and a time of last use portion.

Abstract: A secure pickup and delivery container includes a lockable door, a control unit, an access element, and an anchoring element, according to one embodiment. The control unit includes a processing element and a memory that can be programmed either on-site or remotely with access privilege information such as identity (e.g. of container, delivery person, etc.), location, date, time, frequency of access, and/or package-specific information. In one embodiment, access privilege information is programmed when an intended recipient of a delivery consummates a point of sale transaction, for example over the Internet or telephone. The access element can be a keypad, a biometric scanner, a card reader, a bar-code reader, and/or a wireless control element to read a programmable token such as a smart card. Delivery personnel can enter access request information into the access element, and if it favorably compares with the access privilege information, the control unit unlocks the door.

Abstract: A modifiable transmitter is used with an operator to control a position of a barrier. The operator includes a controller for comparing radio frequency transmissions received with stored serial numbers so that the controller can move the barrier when a radio frequency transmission matches any one of the stored serial numbers. The transmitter includes a housing that carries an encoder. A function button is carried by the housing, wherein actuation of the button generates in a non-standard way a new serial number that can be learned by the controller to allow the modifiable transmitter to move the barrier by emitting the radio frequency transmission. A restricted access may also be activated to generate a new serial number.

Abstract: A method and system for remotely controlling access to a value unit. The system includes a central control means which includes control data relating to the control of access to one or more value units by associated access controllers. The system includes remote communication means between the central control means and operator control units, and between those units and access controllers. The control data includes an identity structure for the access controller that defines its permissible behaviour, and access control data defining operator control over the access controller. The access controller remains inaccessible until its identity structure is loaded and implemented. The identity structure may be encrypted so that only the central control means and the access controller can decipher it, thus creating a virtual configuration link between the central control means and the access controller via the operator control unit. The operator control unit only has access to the access control data.

Abstract: An operator (32) with transmitter overwrite protection is used with a plurality of different transmitters (40, 42, 44). Each type of transmitter has at least one command button that when actuated generates a signal which includes at least a transmitter identifying code. The operator includes a receiver (170) capable of receiving the signal from any of the plurality of transmitters and a memory device (62) that has a plurality of storage locations (63a-f). A controller (60) is connected to the receiver and the controller stores each transmitter identifying code in a corresponding storage location. The controller overwrites one of the transmitter identifying codes in a corresponding storage location when a new transmitting code is learned if the plurality of storage locations are full, except for the transmitter identifying codes for one specific type of the plurality of transmitters.

Abstract: Provided is a method and control system for a plurality of passenger seat belt mechanisms for appropriately securing and protecting passengers. The control system enables the flight crew to monitor and remotely control the locking and unlocking of passenger seat restraint mechanisms, thereby controlling the number of passengers, at any given time, having access to the aircraft cabin during flight. This control system is provided with a mechanism for collectively and selectively locking and unlocking the seat restraint mechanisms. The control system is capable of detecting and signaling the current state of a seat restraint mechanism.

Abstract: A colored based lock and key, wherein the key includes a color indication incorporated thereon, and the lock includes a color sensor for identifying the color indication, so as to open the lock. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the key includes a blank or blanks on which at least one, and preferably a plurality of colors are incorporated. The blank or blanks can be formed of metal, plastic, or any other material on which colors or color emitting or color reflecting materials can be incorporated by various methods. According to other preferred embodiments of the present invention, the lock includes at least one color sensor arranged to sense the color incorporated on the key or on a predefined sequence of keys, when the key or keys are inserted in the lock, or put across the lock or rotated in the lock, and further includes a decision mechanism activated by an electric signal generated upon identification of the color incorporated on the key, to permit opening of the lock.

Abstract: This invention relates to a remote communication system for use with a vehicle, comprising a first communication unit (1), located within a vehicle (2), said first communication unit comprising a first transceiver (3), connectable with a long-distance wireless communication network (16), such as a cellular network; and a portable second communication unit (7), comprising a second transceiver (9), connectable with a unit for long-distance wireless communication (14), such as a cellular terminal. The first and second communication units (1,7) are connectable with each other using said long-distance wireless communication network 16, thereby establishing a remote two-way communication link between said communication units. This invention further relates to a fob unit, for use in a remote communication system.

Abstract: A security system for control access of multiple users to a selected area combines rotating electronic security code or equivalent technology with an automatic self-learning receiver. The first transmitter is “learned” by the receiver manually, but subsequent transmitters are learned without the need for actuating the conventional “manual learn” mode of the receiver. Instead, by simply sending the transmit signal twice within a fixed time period, users of the subsequent transmitters use “self-learning” circuitry (interposed between conventional transmitter and receiver technology) in a way that is relatively transparent to the user. Other aspects of conventional systems are provided, such as separate control via computer or otherwise of an authorized list of uniquely-identified transmitters. In alternative embodiments, even the first transmitter/controller can be programmed into the receiver (such as at the time of manufacturing or installing the system).

Abstract: In a method for authenticating a spare key for use with a vehicle in the absence of the regular key, the spare key is provided with an identification number that is transmitted to, and checked by, a central station. The spare key is authenticated by an authorization signal sent from the central station to the vehicle.

Abstract: An access control system for controlling access to a vehicle and reconfiguring the vehicle to disable or enable operator smart keys is disclosed. An electronic controller in the vehicle receives signals indicating the presence of a master smart key in the vehicle. Once it determines that a master key is present, it permits one or more individual operator smart keys to be programmed. The identification numbers of these smart keys are stored in an electronic memory of the vehicle. Operators who subsequently insert these keys into the vehicle's ignition will be able to start and operate the vehicle.

Abstract: A maintenance/inspection support apparatus including an inspection information storage section storing inspection information of a plurality of equipments serving as maintenance/inspection targets, an inspection information write section for writing, in a noncontact manner, the inspection information stored in the inspection information storage section on a plurality of information recording media corresponding to the plurality of equipments, an inspection information read section for reading, in a noncontact manner, the inspection information written on the information recording media by the inspection information write section, and a display section for displaying the inspection information read by the inspection information read section.

Abstract: A device containing a personalizable substrate associated to a reader allowing the conditional operation of an electric or electronic appliance after comparison of the data with a memory by an identification and comparison circuit located on an essential part of said appliance and methods of using the device under conditional operation of electric or electronic appliances.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for use with an electronic locking system is provided. At least one key is selected in order to have access to at least one lock. This key to lock relationship is transferred to a memory of the key. The key is presented to the lock and at least a portion of the key to lock relationship from the key is transferred to a memory of the lock. This transfer updates the memory of the key to lock relationships in the lock. The update of the memory in the lock is noted in the memory of the key. The key may then be placed in communication with a computer so that at least a portion of the memory of the key is transferred to a database in the computer. This transfer updates the database in order to reflect the fact that the memory of the lock has been updated and completed.

Abstract: A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key, a hand-held program unit, or an external computing device via wireless communications. In one mode, the electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible only when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. In another mode, the electronic lock is programmed in the field without first opening the vending machine. A program command and access control data including a new access code are transmitted wirelessly from a hand-held program unit or the like. Alternatively, an external computing device is used to program the electronic lock via long-range wireless communications, and an electronic key is then used to open the electronic lock to physically access the vending machine.

Abstract: A wireless remote and infrared receivers for controlling AC appliances connected to the receivers, capable of leaning codes from other infrared remotes. The system can control light intensity, has a 24-hour programmable daily timer, a selectable sleep timer, and switching for appliances connected to the receivers. The system has an energy saving interval timer for heating and fan ventilation, and a transmitter capable of learning and unifying remotes for other home equipment into one master remote. As a safety measure the receiver has a mechanical bypass switch. The receiver may decode an activation/deactivation sequence on the power line from the main switch connected to the receiver to self bypass. When bypassed, the main switch regains direct control of the appliances. Simultaneously, besides bypassing the receiver, within five seconds the user may have the receiver memorize any key from any other remote to take over control of the appliances.

Abstract: A remote control system exclusively controls an apparatus even when a plurality of the same type of apparatuses systems are located in a given place. A user defined code is designated by the user with respect to a transmitter and a receiver of the remote control system. The transmitter generates a remote control signal that includes the user defined code and a scan code in response to a control key input. The counterpart receiver responds to the coded signal received from the transmitter only when the user defined code received is identical with the one set in the receiver. The method of setting a user defined code in the transmitter includes the steps of determining whether a key input corresponds to the user defined code setting key designated in the key pad of the transmitter, setting a user defined code in response to another key input by the user, and storing the user defined code set by the user in a memory installed in the transmitter.

Abstract: A wireless security system using multiple receivers in which each RF receiver can monitor the messages being sent to the control by the other receivers via constant monitoring of the bi-directional communication between the control and all of the other receivers on the bus. If a message in a first receiver's transmission buffer matches a message that has already been acknowledged by the control from a second receiver, the first receiver can discard its duplicate message. This significantly reduces the number of messages that the control's communication bus needs to handle, especially during the disarmed state of the system as indicated earlier. Coincidently, the amount of processing in the control is also reduced.

Abstract: A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key. The electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible only when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. Using the learning process activation device, a service person activates the electronic lock to perform a key code learning operation, in which the electronic lock receives a key code transmitted from an electronic key and stores the key code in a non-volatile memory for future access control of the vending machine. Data encryption is employed in the communications between the key and the lock to ensure the security of the communications. Customized access limitations and a list of lock IDs are programmed into the electronic key to restrict when and how it can be used to access the vending machines. Access history data of the vending machines are collected for audit purposes by uploading the data from the vending machines to an electronic key.

Abstract: An operator (32) with transmitter overwrite protection is used with a plurality of different transmitters (40, 42, 44). Each type of transmitter has at least one command button that when actuated generates a signal which includes at least a transmitter identifying code. The operator includes a receiver (170) capable of receiving the signal from any of the plurality of transmitters and a memory device (62) that has a plurality of storage locations (63a-f). A controller (60) is connected to the receiver and the controller stores each transmitter identifying code in a corresponding storage location. The controller overwrites one of the transmitter identifying codes in a corresponding storage location when a new transmitting code is learned if the plurality of storage locations are full, except for the transmitter identifying codes for one specific type of the plurality of transmitters.

Abstract: This invention relates to the control of rental vehicles that are operated on a pay for usage basis. With this invention, operation of a vehicle is limited to those that have either paid for its use, or those that must have access to it for the purpose of maintaining it. Central to this invention is the integration of the Point of Sale payment process with the golf cart operation through the use of a readily available portable electronic messenger commonly known as an iButton.

Abstract: A device and a method used during installation of a security system that allows the security system control panel to learn the IDs of the wireless transmitters in the security system without receiving an RF transmission from the wireless transmitter. The installation device comprises a power supply means, a first and second interface means, monitoring means for monitoring the current drawn from the power supply means, and processing means for producing a digital signal based on the current monitored. The first interface means connects the power supply means of the installation device to the battery terminal of the transmitter, and the second interface means connects the output of the installation device to the control panel. The monitoring means, comprising a resistor and a comparator, monitors the current drawn from the power supply means, wherein the current drawn corresponds to the data transmitted by transmitter.

Abstract: The inventive electronic information key system comprises at least one electronic information key and a locking device unlocked with the electronic information key. The electronic information key includes: an ID code storage having a plurality of memory areas, each storing different ID codes; a body, resin-treated, for installing the ID code storage; and a contact, mounted on the body and electrically connected to the ID code storage. The locking device includes: a key holder for electrically contacting the contact of the electronic information key; a registered ID code storage for storing values corresponding to the ID codes stored in any one of the plurality of memory areas of the ID code storage of the electronic information key; a controller for comparing the ID codes stored in an area of the ID code storage with the ID codes stored in the registered ID code storage to thereby verify whether the electronic information key is duly operating, when the contact electrically contacts the key holder.

Abstract: A communication system capable of preventing a lost transmitter from being used by an unauthorized user for a bad purpose, and also capable of easily enabling the lost transmitter to be used again when it is found.

Abstract: A universal remote control radio frequency transmitter for use with garage door operators, gate operators and other barrier movement operators is programmable through the use of external switches. The same switches are used after programming for causing the transmitter to transmit an RF signal at about the selected frequency and with a code corresponding to the programmed code. A plurality of RF frequencies are generated by a single RF circuit and a single loop antenna. The selected frequency is determined by digital controller logic and PIN diode shorting in and out selected reactive elements in the RF circuit.

Abstract: This invention is the addition of a wireless radio link to a real estate lock box to transfer the data obtained from the access keypad to a nearby receiver which sends the data to a central site computer and compiles the data for dissemination. The lock box can also be controlled from a central site via a radio link.

Abstract: This invention is a maintenance/inspection support apparatus including an inspection information storage section storing inspection information of a plurality of equipments serving as maintenance/inspection targets, an inspection information write section for writing, in a noncontact manner, the inspection information stored in the inspection information storage section on a plurality of information recording media corresponding to the plurality of equipments, an inspection information read section for reading, in a noncontact manner, the inspection information written on the information recording media by the inspection information write section, and a display section for displaying the inspection information read by the inspection information read section.

Abstract: A system for preventing unauthorized access to a vehicle having a passive entry system uses a bi-directional radio frequency, or RF-RF, signal. When using a RF-RF signal system, the signal from vehicle to a driver's ID device is non-directional and not significantly distance limited. Consequently, a thief may be able to activate the entry system and gain access to the vehicle when the driver's ID device is simply within range. The inventive passive entry system interrogates the ID device periodically following parking and locking of the vehicle. The signal strength levels received by the vehicle from the ID device are stored and a signal strength threshold level is computed. Upon a request for entry to the vehicle, a current signal strength level is compared to the signal strength threshold level. Based on that comparison, it is determined whether the request is valid or unauthorized. If the request for entry is deemed unauthorized, then access to the vehicle is not granted.

Abstract: Unattended package delivery cross-docking apparatus includes a plurality of storage devices, each having a door with a lock that is locked and unlocked in response to codes. A local lock controller is associated with each of the storage devices and includes an entry device for entering an access code that unlocks the lock when it is locked and a transaction code that locks the lock when it is unlocked. A central operations controller in communication with the local lock controllers is programmed to receive the access and transaction codes entered to each local lock controller, to create an access code for the lock of each storage device upon receiving a transaction code that locks the lock, and to output a notice of the access code to be used to unlock the lock of each storage device when it is locked.

Abstract: The broadcast code (I) is received by the receiver (E) fitted in the motor vehicle, which receiver (E) controls the relevant lock or the relevant locks—after a comparison of the received code (I) with digits stored in the receiver (E) and correlating with the code (I) or with the series of codes (I). The code (I) is initialized as a permanent code or interchangeable code at least on the occasions when the motor vehicle is first used and, possibly when changes are later made to the code (I), is reinitialized. For (re)initialization, the receiver (E) must first be switched by a signal to its (re)initialization readiness, before the receiver (E) can be (re)initialized. The motor vehicle has a diagnostic interface (D) for the electrical testing of motor vehicle units. The receiver (E) is only switched to its (re)initialization readiness by a signal fed to it (E) via the diagnostic interface (D).

Abstract: In an engine control apparatus, a control program is stored in a non-volatile rewritable memory such as EEPROM. The control program is rewritten by a rewriting tool. Specifically, a key identification code is retrieved from a vehicle key, and compared with a key reference code stored in the memory. If the compared codes are the same, a program identification code is retrieved from the rewriting tool, and compared with a program reference code stored in the memory. If the compared codes are the same, a new control program is transmitted from the rewriting tool to the memory to rewrite the control program with the new control program.

Abstract: The present invention provides a lock with an authenticated open and set function, by which the lock may be opened without any bothersome operation for inserting a key to open the lock. An IC card 3 sends user identification information stored in a memory 34 to an authenticated open and set function unit 1. The authenticated open and set function unit 1 sends the user identification information to a collator 15 under the control of a controller 11 on reception of it. The collator 15 collates the user identification information sent from the IC card 3 with that stored in a memory 16. When both of the user identification information are coincided with each other, the collator 15 sends the collation signal, which is indicative of the user being authenticated, to the controller 11. The controller 11 gives a controller 17 a command to open a lock installed in a door 2. The controller 17 opens the lock based on the command by the controller 11.

Abstract: A system for identifying the user of a vehicle and providing a level of authorization as a function of the identification of the user is disclosed. The system comprises fingerprint reading units located on the exterior and in the interior of the vehicle for scanning the fingerprint of a user of the vehicle. A control unit is coupled to the fingerprint reading unit for receiving the output of the fingerprint reading unit and for comparing and matching the scanned fingerprint with fingerprints previously enrolled in the control unit and for providing a signal indicative of a level of authorization as a function of the enrolled fingerprint with which the scanned fingerprint is matched. A vehicle locking unit is provided for enabling the operation of a plurality of vehicle locks including the ignition switch, the driver's door lock, the passenger door lock, the trunk and the glove box lock.

Abstract: A data carrier system is comprised of a vehicle-side controller 12 mounted at a vehicle 11, keys 19A and 19B, and an R/W device 31 installed in an office 29. A transponder 20 is built into each of the keys 19A and 19B. In this structure, after operational data has been transmitted from the vehicle-side controller 12 and written in a nonvolatile memory of the transponder 20, when the keys 19A and 19B are inserted in the R/W device 31 by a vehicle driver, the R/W device 31 reads the operational data from the transponder 20 and gives the same to a personal computer 30. Accordingly, an inconvenience of the vehicle driver carrying an IC card for recording operational data is removed.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a system for remote control of garage doors and other devices wherein an extremely large number of codes are available for remote transmitters for operating the garage operator and wherein each transmitter has its own unique and permanent nonuser changeable code. The receiver at the garage door operator is capable of storing and remembering a number of different codes corresponding to different transmitters such that the receiver can be programmed so as to actuated by more than one transmitted code thus allowing two or more transmitters to actuate the same garage door operator and wherein the receiver stores the valid codes for the different transmitters.