Abstract: A method for managing a hospitality workflow in a hotel, comprises imaging a region in front of a hotel room door on a checkout day, after the hotel room door is opened, by a camera. An image of the region is analyzed for the presence of a person and the image is analyzed for the presence of a bag, by a processing device. It is determined whether a guest checked out of the room based on the detection of the person and the detection of the bag. If it is determined that the guest checked out, the housekeeping department may be informed that the guest checked out, enabling quicker cleaning of a vacated room. A door lock system including the camera and a check-in procedure comprising reading QR code image on a guest's smart device by the camera, for example, are also disclosed.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method of determining whether a door is ajar may include determining an orientation of a door lock of the door, and, based on the orientation of the door lock, analyzing at least one signal from at least one of two or more proximity sensors of the door lock. The method may further include determining whether the door is ajar based at least in part on a result of the analyzing of the at least one signal. In some embodiments, a method of determining a status of a door may include receiving a first signal from a first magnetometer disposed within a door lock of the door, receiving a second signal from a second magnetometer disposed within the door lock of the door, and detecting, based on a result of an evaluation of both the first signal and the second signal, a possible attack on the door.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a driver door sensor, a plurality of transceivers, a display, and one or more controllers. The one or more controllers, responsive to data from the driver door sensor indicating a corresponding driver door is absent from the vehicle, command the transceivers to each output a radio frequency signal to determine if a fob is present in the vehicle.

Abstract: Wait times at ATMs may undermine the utility of these self-service machines. ATMs are configured to provide faster self-service kiosks that allow users to quickly perform common financial transactions. However, it has been increasing common for users to have to wait on a line to access an ATM. Apparatus and methods are provided for a smart card that stages transactions by capturing the amount, pin and other necessary information on the smart card itself, before the user begins interacting with the ATM. Information captured by the smart card may be transferred to ATM when the smart card is inserted into ATM. The user does not provide the ATM with any additional information after inserted the smart card into the ATM, thereby improving the transaction processing efficiency of the ATM and enhancing user satisfaction.

Abstract: A lock for an access door having an electrically powered electronic smart lock control and a keyless mechanical lock control, and a single locking bolt element. The single locking bolt element is made movably operable, to permit opening of the access door, with either of an electronic code entry via the electrically powered electronic smart lock control or a mechanical code entry via the keyless mechanical lock control. The mechanical lock control, with mechanical code entry, thereby provides a fail-safe back up for keyless entry through the access door in the event of electrical failure on the electronic smart lock.

Abstract: An access control system includes an electrically powered access control device for locking and unlocking a barrier, and an access controller coupled to the access control device. A Power over Ethernet (PoE) circuit receives power over an Ethernet cable and powers the access control device and the access controller. An active power supply buffer connects the access control device and the access controller with the PoE circuit.

Abstract: An access device is provided for use in an access control system. The access device includes a processor having control of a door lock, and a communication module connected to the processor. The processor is able to receive a reservation certificate presented by a portable terminal through the communication module. The processor activates the door lock when the current reservation certificate has been presented and disables an alarm system when the current reservation certificate has been presented.

Abstract: A lock for securing a door is provided, the lock includes a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a locking member movable between locked and unlocked positions, a core with a keyway and configured to turn relative to the housing to cause the locking member to move between the locked and unlocked positions, at least one optical source configured to emit an electromagnetic radiation signal at an object in the keyway, at least one optical detector configured to detect at least a portion of the electromagnetic radiation signal, a memory configured to store at least one authorized key characteristic, a motor configured to control movement of the locking member between locked and unlocked positions, and a processor that determines at least one sensed characteristic of the object in the keyway based at least in part on the electromagnetic radiation signal.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the field of replicating or copying keys. More specifically, the present invention relates to creating a copy of a master key based on a captured image of the master key. The present invention identifies a set of target key information based on the image of the master key to provide for the cutting of a duplicate key blade copy to be shipped to a user. Additional key information may also be captured along with the image of the master key.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods are provided that illustrate the innovation in a number of embodiments. Device embodiments may be provided singularly or in ordered combinations to provide a system for restraint condition evaluation, compares the evaluation against predetermined thresholds, and signals a status of the selected restraint. Embodiments of status indicators include normal, attempted tampering, and compromised restraints. Methods may illustrate the device or system embodiments. The system provides increased safety and awareness for those involved in processing detainees.

Abstract: Provided are a vehicle control device and a vehicle control method for keeping necessary functions effective until an occupant gets out of a vehicle. The vehicle control device include a vehicle exit detection part configured to detect a timing at which the occupant gets out of the vehicle, in accordance with a vehicle exit detection signal from a vehicle exit detector set in advance, and a power supply control part configured to control, when the timing at which the occupant gets out of the vehicle is detected by the vehicle exit detection part, a power supply control device so as to carry out any one of: shutting off a power supply to an in-vehicle device installed on the vehicle, thereby bringing the in-vehicle device into a stop state; and supplying a standby voltage to the in-vehicle device, thereby bringing the in-vehicle device into a sleep state.

Abstract: A merchandise security device is provided. The merchandise security device may include a lock mechanism operably engaged with a shape memory material configured to receive electrical power for locking and unlocking the lock mechanism. The shape memory material may be configured to change in shape in response to receiving electrical power to thereby lock or unlock the lock mechanism.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods are provided that illustrate the innovation in a number of embodiments. Device embodiments may be provided singularly or in ordered combinations to provide a system for restraint condition evaluation, compares the evaluation against predetermined thresholds, and signals a status of the selected restraint. Embodiments of status indicators include normal, attempted tampering, and compromised restraints. Methods may illustrate the device or system embodiments. The system provides increased safety and awareness for those involved in processing detainees.

Abstract: An inductive coded lock system includes an inductive lock mechanism, and a conductive key/target. The inductive lock mechanism includes multiple inductor coils and sensor circuitry. Each inductor coil is operable to project a magnetic field defining a sensing area proximate to the inductor/coil, the inductor coils being spatially arranged to define a key/target sensing area incorporating each inductor coil sensing area. The sensor circuitry drives inductor coils, and measures sensor response (such as with an inductance comparator) to a key/target inserted within the key/target sensing area, including detecting an unlock condition corresponding to a pre-defined coded lock pattern. The key/target includes active and inactive areas (such as conductive/nonconductive) corresponding spatially to the sensing areas in the key target sensing area, the active and inactive areas arranged in a pre-defined coded key pattern corresponding to the pre-defined coded lock pattern.

Abstract: A network interface receives transaction information. A processor determines private information and public information from the received transaction information. The network interface communicates the private information to an obfuscation engine, and receives obfuscated private information. The processor then merges the obfuscated private information with the public information to create a temporary identifier, and then converts the temporary identifier into a transaction identifier. A printer then prints a portion of the public information and the transaction identifier on a transaction receipt.

Abstract: A driver authentication and safety system and method for monitoring and controlling vehicle usage by high-risk drivers. A centralized database comprising a software application can be accessed by an authorized user via a data communications network utilizing a remote computer in order to configure a desired operating profile that matches requirements of the high-risk driver. The operating profile can be loaded to a driver identification and data logging device in conjunction with the remote computer. A master control unit receives a unique identification code from the data logging device to authenticate the high-risk driver and to operate the vehicle within the desired operating profile. A slave control unit receives commands from the master control unit and generates a real time alarm signal if the driver violates the preprogrammed operating profile unique to the driver.

Abstract: An automatic locking system for a medical treatment device helps to ensure that an assistant is present during treatment of a patient. Among the features disclosed biometric authentication to verify that a trained assistant is present, a presence detector to ensure the assistant is continuously present during treatment, and warning and recovery processes that allow intermittent lapses in the continuous presence of the assistant.

Abstract: A lock release apparatus in a vehicle includes a vehicle unit and a portable device, for an exchange of the first and second reference signals transmitted therebetween from the portable device through human body of the driver toward the right and left hands of the driver onto the first and second interfaces. The signals received by the interfaces are used to set the first and second determination conditions. At a time of a shift lever operation, an interface on a shift lever is used to receive the first determination signal for determining the first determination condition, together with the second determination signal from the other interface for releasing the lock of the shift lever.

Abstract: Computer-implemented methods, systems, and computer program products for document authentication and identification using a large-scale distributed system are provided. A method includes receiving a digitized document at a trusted system managed by a trusted third-party that is separate from a creator of content in the digitized document. The digitized document is compared to a set of markers to determine whether the digitized document includes one or more of the markers, and in response thereto, information associated with the one or more markers is extracted using a decoder on the trusted system according to encoding strategies. The method further includes generating a comparison registration identifier on the trusted system as a summary of the extracted information and the one or more markers, and comparing the comparison registration identifier with a stored registration identifier in an encoding history via the trusted system to authenticate and identify the received digitized document.

Abstract: An aftermarket, sound activated, wireless, vehicle door unlocking device comprising a sound sensor, processor, memory, and an RF transmitter, transponder, or transceiver capable of generating an unlocking signal, and method of using the device. The device may be easily installed by unskilled users without modifying the vehicle wires or structure. The operator of the device will program the device with an unlocking sound sequence, and the RF unlocking codes needed to unlock the vehicle door. The device continually monitors the sensor for unlocking sounds, and delivers a door unlocking signal when this sound is detected. Various embodiments, including embedded RF key embodiments, solar powered embodiments, and alternative ways of programming the device are also discussed.

Abstract: A coded wireless sensor unit has a slot sized to receive a key card. When a key card is inserted into the slot, the act of insertion generates a energy-harvested power pulse, which powers circuitry that reads electrical device control information coded on the key card and creates a first information packet signal that is transmitted by an on-board transmitter. The signal can be read by a receiver and relayed to a control unit which controls certain electrical devices which consume line power in response to received information packet signals. The control unit decodes received information packet signals and either turns on or activates the electrical devices in accordance with the decoded device control information. Removal of a key card can also be used to generate a power pulse, which creates a second information packet signal that is used to turn off or deactivate the electrical devices.

Abstract: A key for opening multiple axial pin locks has a base member with an indexing element and a number of lock pins, configured to match the keyways of the locks. The key has a microprocessor with access to information on the pin configuration for each lock to be opened, and the lock pins are selectively positioned along the base member to match the configuration of a key for a particular lock in response to the user entering an identification code for that lock. The lock pins can slidably engage recessed tracks in the base member, which serve to direct the lock pins parallel to an axis of the base member. A pin latching mechanism can be provided to secure the lock pins in the desired position.

Abstract: Portable interface devices for controlling machines at control locations. One example device is arranged, in response to a positive verification that it is at a control location, to enable a user to control the machine by means of the device. Another example device is arranged to display information comprising control-location-specific information, based on which of at least two control locations was identified. Another example device is arranged to enable machine control for a limited period of time after a positive detection that it is located at a control location. Another example device includes a barcode reader. The device enables a user to control the machine in response to a positive verification that the barcode read is associated with the at least one control location.

Abstract: A communication system includes a first information processing device, a plurality of processing portions, a storage portion, and a second information processing device. The first information processing device includes a processing command transmission portion that transmits to the second information processing device, by non-contact communication, a processing command that includes one of a plurality of identification information items. Each of the processing portions is uniquely associated with one of the identification information items. The storage portion stores a correspondence information item that indicates a correspondence between one of the identification information items and one of the processing portions.

Abstract: A vehicle electronic control unit includes a power input port, which receives electric power from a vehicle battery, and a power output port, which provides electric power to a vehicle electronic device including an antenna. The electronic device receives data transmissions from a vehicle sensor. The power output port provides substantially uninterrupted electric power from the vehicle battery to the vehicle electronic device. A communication port is electrically connected to a vehicle communication bus. The communication port receives data transmissions from the vehicle electronic device via the communication port. An electronic component, electrically connected to the communication port, is initially in a first state when a vehicle ignition is off. The electronic component, while in a second state and while the vehicle ignition is off, receives additional data transmissions from the vehicle electronic device indicating statuses of respective vehicle sensors.

Abstract: An electronic lock includes optical detection for detecting an enabler (card or coin), including an inserter (1) for allowing the introduction of an enabler (2) in the lock (10); a retainer (5) for retaining the enabler (2) in a reading position; an optical detector (4) for detecting the enabler (2) when it is introduced in the reading position; an interactive device (7) for capturing a user access information; a control module for receiving and verifying the access information and the information from the optical detecotr (4) and if both verifications are correct, generating a signal for operating the lock.

Abstract: An electromechanical lock includes a user interface configured to receive input from a user, the user interface activating operating power for the lock; a memory configured to store access tables, the access tables including information on the keys allowed to open the lock; and an electronic circuitry configured to modify the access tables on the basis of the insertions of an associate master key and an end function key into the lock, the insertion of the associated master key initializing a programming mode and the insertion of an end function key causing the lock to exit the programming mode.

Abstract: A system and method is disclosed, including establishing of data connections between electronic devices. One embodiment provides a method for establishing a data connection between a first and a second electronic device, wherein establishing the data connection is authorized by executing at least one action with at least one physical tool.

Abstract: An electromechanical lock, its key, and its operation method are disclosed. The method includes: during a first and a second insertion phases of a key, conveying mechanical power to an electric generator by a key follower and enabling mechanically operation of an actuator by the key follower; generating electric power from mechanical power by the electric generator; reading data from an external source; matching the data against a predetermined criterion; and during a removal phase of the key, returning the key follower to a starting position and mechanically resetting the actuator to the locked state.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a key insertion into a lock or a key removal from the lock, comprising: a movement sensing device attached to the key configured to sense movement of the key; and a processing unit configured to process signals received from said movement sensing device, the processing unit is configured to detect a key insertion into a lock, or a key removal from a lock based on the signals received from said movement sensing device.

Abstract: A mechanical key code verification system including a mechanical key and a lock apparatus into which the mechanical key is inserted. The mechanical key includes a key body. A key code pattern formed on the key body includes a plurality of recessed portions and a plurality of non-recessed portions. A wireless communication mechanism is incorporated in the key body which performs wireless communication with a communication device. The wireless communication device including an antenna arranged on the key body. The lock apparatus mechanically verifies the key code pattern of the mechanical key when the mechanical key is inserted therein. The recessed portions of the key code pattern of the mechanical key is located inward from the antenna on the key body.

Abstract: When a predetermined anomaly has occurred in a digital multifunctional machine, the fact of the anomaly occurring is notified to the service center and the computer at the guardhouse. The service person sent out from the service center is issued with an entrance permit from the entrance permit issuing device at the guardhouse. Then, the service person can pass through the passage gates in the building using the information recorded in the entrance permit and reach the place where the digital multifunctional machine is installed.

Abstract: A method for controlling mobilizing and immobilizing a vehicle using a valid passive entry-passive start key includes detecting that a vehicle operator exits the vehicle, determining that the key is absent from the vehicle, automatically immobilizing the vehicle by preventing vehicle propulsion; if a power source of the vehicle is immobilized after the operator exits the vehicle, automatically mobilizing the vehicle to allow vehicle propulsion when a key authorized to operate the vehicle is detected in the vehicle after a vehicle door is opened and closed, and automatically placing the vehicle in a low energy consumption operating state, if a reference period expires after the operator exits the vehicle with the power source running.

Abstract: An identification method and system. A user is scanned by a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader to read N RFID tags respectively embedded in N objects carried by the user. Each tag of the N tags includes a tag identifier. N may be at least 1 or at least 2. The N tags read by the RFID reader are compared with M tags in a registered record of data. The registered record comprises a reference to the user. Each tag of the M tags includes a tag identifier. M is at least N. The user is permitted access to a resource if the comparing has determined that the tag identifiers in the M tags include the tag identifiers in the N tags read by the RFID reader. The resource may be a computer resource. Alternatively, the resource may be a resource other than a computer resource.

Abstract: The invention relates to electronic keys. The invention relates more particularly to an electronic key for secure access to an electronic cylinder. The invention relates to an electronic key (1) enabling control of access to a mecatronic cylinder, wherein said key comprises at least one memory (3) for storing access information, and a microprocessor. The invention is characterized in that said key comprises at least one means of wireless communication with a server (7), comprising an access profile data base, wherein said access information can be remotely modified according to the access profile associated with said key.

Abstract: What is disclosed herein is an identification apparatus comprising an array of conductive pins fixed onto a base component placed onto a primary device and in communication therewith. A set of shaped identifiers having a plurality of holes through which respective pins on the array of fixed pins pass. Each identifier being uniquely configured with at least one distinct location containing a conductive sleeve fitted therein which allows the passage therethrough of that particular pin for further use by subsequently placed identifiers. Each pin is in individual communication with the primary device such that the primary device can thereafter identify the placed identifiers so as to subsequently perform certain functions or other desired operations based on the type, configuration, and/or number of identifiers placed thereon.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic key system including an electrical/electronic key-like device and an electrical/electronic key receptacle capable of receiving a contactless type, contact type, or both types of key-like devices. The present invention further provides an electronic key system including an electrical/electronic key-like device and an intelligent electrical/electronic key receptacle wherein the system is capable of performing a transaction between the key-like device and the key receptacle after the key-like device is inserted into the key receptacle and moved to a predetermined position.

Abstract: A mortise lockset apparatus (10) that includes a retractable bolt (20) movably supported within a case (12). A handle (18) is pivotally supported on a hub (16) supported in the case, the hub being operably connected to the retractable bolt. The bolt is retracted by turning the door handle. A lock-out mechanism (22) is configured to prevent the handle from being turned when the lock-out mechanism is in an engaged position. The handle lock-out mechanism also includes a cam (29) movably supported in the case and operably connected to a motor (30). A sliding stop (34) is movably supported in the case and is engageable with the handle hub to prevent the handle hub and the handle from turning. The sliding stop is also engageable with a cam surface (40) of the cam. The motor is configured to move the sliding stop by rotating the cam. The cam rotational axis (42) is disposed between diametrically opposed portions of the cam surface to minimize space requirements for the assembly.

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: An identification apparatus comprises an array of conductive pins fixed onto a base component placed onto a primary device and in communication therewith. A set of shaped identifiers has a plurality of holes through which respective pins on the array of fixed pins pass. Each identifier is uniquely configured with at least one distinct location containing a conductive sleeve fitted therein which allows the passage therethrough of that particular pin for further use by subsequently placed identifiers. Each pin is in individual communication with the primary device such that the primary device can thereafter identify the placed identifiers so as to subsequently perform certain functions or other desired operations based on the type, configuration, and/or number of identifiers placed thereon.

Abstract: A device (10) for receiving date transmitted as impulses through an input transmission body (16) is provided. The device (10) has a vibration sensitive transducer (50) which constitutes part of a floating mass assembly (40) with a pick-up portion (42). The pick-up portion (42) is biased towards a surface of a rigid body that is either the input transmission body (16) or a vibrations transmissive member (151). The assembly (40) has a freedom of movement permitting it to vibrate independently from the rigid body.

Abstract: An identification apparatus comprising an array of retractable conductive pins on a base component placed onto a primary device and in communication therewith. A set of shaped identifiers have a plurality of holes through which respective pins on the array of retractable pins pass, each identifier being uniquely configured with at least one distinct location containing a conductive plug or ‘cap’ fitted therein which blocks the passage therethrough of that particular pin thereby forcing said pin to retract into the base component to block further use of that pin by subsequently placed identifiers. Each retractable pin is in individual communication with the primary device such that, once one or more identifiers have been placed onto the pin array, the primary device can thereafter identify the placed identifiers so as to subsequently perform certain functions or other desired operations based on the type, configuration, and/or number of identifiers placed thereon.

Abstract: An ultrasonic security system for personal computer comprises a touch-panel section, a lock section, and a key section. The touch-panel section comprises a nonpiezoelectric plate, at least one transducer-unit, and a signal analyzer. The transducer-unit consists of at least one input IDT Ti (i=1, 2, . . . , m), at least one output IDT Ri (i=1, 2, . . . , m), a first input piezoelectric substrate, and a first output piezoelectric substrate. The lock section comprises a second piezoelectric substrate, a coding IDT consisting of interdigital electrode pairs and having a coded pattern, and a terminal IDT having the electrode-finger direction parallel to that of the coding IDT. The key section comprises a third piezoelectric substrate, an initial IDT, and a decoding IDT having the same construction pattern as the coding IDT. If touching a position on the nonpiezoelectric plate, an electric signal appears at the output IDT Ri.

Abstract: An identification apparatus and method comprising an array of retractable pins in association with a housing attached to a base component through which each pin individually passes. The apparatus is attached to a primary device and in communication therewith. Each retractable pin is in individual physical contact with tension springs positioned below the pin and located in a containment sleeve within the housing. Each spring continuously exerts pressure on the base of their respective pins so as to push the pin up through the base component. At the base of each spring is a pressure sensitive pad in communication with the primary device.

Abstract: What is disclosed herein is an identification apparatus and method comprising an array of retractable pins in association with a housing attached to a base component through which each pin individually passes. The apparatus is attached to a primary device and in communication therewith. Each retractable pin is in individual physical contact with spring tension means positioned below the pin and located in a containment sleeve within the housing. Each spring continuously exerts pressure on the base of their respective pins so as to push the pin up through the base component. At the base of each spring is a pressure sensitive pad in communication with the primary device.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic key system including an electrical/electronic key-like device and an electrical/electronic key receptacle capable of receiving a contactless type, contact type, or both types of key-like devices. The present invention further provides an electronic key system including an electrical/electronic key-like device and an intelligent electrical/electronic key receptacle wherein the system is capable of performing a transaction between the key-like device and the key receptacle after the key-like device is inserted into the key receptacle and moved to a predetermined position.

Abstract: What is disclosed herein is an identification apparatus comprising an array of conductive pins fixed onto a base component placed onto a primary device and in communication therewith. A set of shaped identifiers having a plurality of holes through which respective pins on the array of fixed pins pass. Each identifier being uniquely configured with at least one distinct location containing a conductive sleeve fitted therein which allows the passage therethrough of that particular pin for further use by subsequently placed identifiers. Each pin is in individual communication with the primary device such that the primary device can thereafter identify the placed identifiers so as to subsequently perform certain functions or other desired operations based on the type, configuration, and/or number of identifiers placed thereon.

Abstract: What is disclosed herein is an identification apparatus comprising an array of retractable conductive pins on a base component placed onto a primary device and in communication therewith. A set of shaped identifiers having a plurality of holes through which respective pins on the array of retractable pins pass. Each identifier being uniquely configured with at least one distinct location containing a conductive plug or ‘cap’ fitted therein which blocks the passage therethrough of that particular pin thereby forcing said pin to retract into the base component to block further use of that pin by subsequently placed identifiers. Each retractable pin is in individual communication with the primary device such that, once one or more identifiers have been placed onto the pin array, the primary device can thereafter identify the placed identifiers so as to subsequently perform certain functions or other desired operations based on the type, configuration, and/or number of identifiers placed thereon.

Abstract: What is disclosed herein is an identification apparatus and method comprising an array of retractable pins in association with a housing attached to a base component through which each pin individually passes. The apparatus is attached to a primary device and in communication therewith. Each retractable pin is in individual physical contact with spring tension means positioned below the pin and located in a containment sleeve within the housing. Each spring continuously exerts pressure on the base of their respective pins so as to push the pin up through the base component. At the base of each spring is a pressure sensitive pad in communication with the primary device.

Abstract: In one preferred embodiment, an electronic key, including: a housing; unlocking apparatus extending from the housing, insertable in an electronic lock to unlock the electronic lock; and optical indicia reading apparatus disposed in the housing to read optical indicia. In another preferred embodiment, a lock system, including: at least two electronic cylinder locks; and a single electronic controller to which the at least two electronic cylinder locks are operatively attached, the electronic controller being adapted to monitor usage of the at least two electronic cylinder locks.