Lock Patents (Class 340/542)
  • Patent number: 9070231
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for using electronic seals in container security system is provided. According to the present invention, one or more biometric measurements may be used with an e-seal device to control access. In one preferred embodiment, the biometric signals received by an e-seal device may be transmitted to a remote monitoring station, and the remote monitoring station may wirelessly authorize the access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: GlobalTrak, LLC
    Inventor: Richard C. Meyers
  • Patent number: 9024759
    Abstract: A wireless electromechanical lock with one or more of an internal antenna, touch activation, and/or a light communication device that acts as a user interface. In some embodiments, the lock utilizes an antenna near the exterior face of the lockset, designed inside the metal body of the lockset itself. A light communication device is provided in some embodiments to communicate information, visually, to the user via animations and dynamic displays of light. In some embodiments, the lockset includes a touch activation capability, which can be used to lock/unlock the lock and/or otherwise provide input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Kwikset Corporation
    Inventors: Alan Uyeda, Michael Maridakis, Jerome F. Czerwinski, Jr., Elliott B. Schneider, Troy M. Brown, David K J Kim
  • Patent number: 9019070
    Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for managing access control devices. In overview, an access control device is configured to function on the basis of an applied set of configuration data. For example, the manner in which the device processes an access request is dependent on the configuration data. A device according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to locally maintain plurality of uniquely applicable sets of configuration data. Each set, when applied, causes the device to function in accordance with a respective mode of operation. The device is configured to change which set of configuration data is applied in response to a predetermined command, thereby allowing the device to shift between modes of operation relatively quickly and without the need to download additional configuration data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Neelendra Bhandari, Sanjay Roy, Chandrakantha Reddy
  • Patent number: 9013301
    Abstract: A mobile lock with a retractable cable. The mobile lock includes an integral wireless locator system that can precisely locate the mobile device in real-time if stolen with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) (i.e., a drone, etc.) The wireless locator system also automatically send messages (e.g., e-mail, text, instant messages, voice, etc.) and make automatic posts to social networking sites (e.g., FACEBOOK, TWITTER, etc.) and social shopping sites (CRAIG'S LIST, E-BAY, etc.) that the mobile device has been stolen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Donald S. Williams
  • Patent number: 9000917
    Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for a high degree of container security using tamper-evident electronic seals is provided. In a preferred embodiment, the tamper evident electronic seal is implemented as a smart E-seal monitoring device and includes a GPS transponder, a sensor manager, an expandable sensor suite, and other components. The smart E-seal may be snapped into place in the door jamb of an existing container. According to one aspect of the invention, the smart E-seal automatically disarms itself after entering a safe zone, and automatically arms itself when leaving a safe zone. More specifically, the smart E-seal may transmit messages to a remote monitoring station regarding the arming/disarming events and the sensor conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: GlobalTrak, LLC
    Inventor: Richard C. Meyers
  • Publication number: 20150077252
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lock monitor module for attachment to a locking device, comprising: a sensor in communication with a detection unit for generating a locking device status signal representative of a locked state, an unlocked state, a tampered state, or a distressed state of the locking device, the sensor proximate to a lock component of the locking device; a lock monitor and evaluation software app in communication with the detection unit for receiving the locking device status signal; and a transceiver for transmitting at least one of an alarm signal and a notification signal in response to the locking device status signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: Gregory E. King
  • Patent number: 8963712
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a tamper-evident cargo container seal bolt lock are disclosed herein. The device can include a bolt member having a conductive medium running the axial length of the bolt, and a receiving member for locking the bolt into place. A battery-driven sensory circuit including a memory, a processor, and a timing circuit can be disposed within the receiving member such that a continuous circuit is formed from one circuit pin over the conductive medium through the length of the bolt and back to a second pin. The sensory circuit is configured to sense whether the circuit has been interrupted (e.g., if the bolt has been cut). In the event of an interruption, the circuit can record the time and/or date in memory. This information can then be transmitted to an RFID reader/interrogator if a dispute arises as to when the lock had been broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Neology, Inc.
    Inventors: Joe Mullis, James Robert Kruest
  • Publication number: 20150048944
    Abstract: A magnetic induction alarm device for a locking device is provided. The locking device includes a base and a latch knob disposed on the base movably along a route including a lock section and an unlock section next to the lock section. The magnetic induction alarm device includes a magnetic element and a magnetic induction unit. The magnetic element links up with an end of the latch knob and has a magnetic region. The magnetic induction unit is disposed next to the locking device and includes a shell including a holding space, a magnetic reed switch and an alarm module disposed inside the holding space and electrically connects the magnetic reed switch. The magnetic reed switch is disposed next to the lock section and is inside the holding space, wherein the magnetic region covers the magnetic reed switch when the magnetic element is located within the lock section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventor: CHUNG-YANG CHEN
  • Patent number: 8933781
    Abstract: A fingerprint reader comprising a fingerprint sensor adapted to output information relating to a fingerprint of a finger engaging a sensitive surface the sensor, and a stiff element comprising an indentation/cavity or through-hole, the sensor being positioned in the indentation/cavity/through-hole so that the sensitive surface is exposed to the surroundings. The stiff element will prevent breaking of the reader. Also, the stiff element may have one or more electrically conducting surface parts positioned adjacently to the sensitive surface of the sensor and being adapted to be contacted by a finger also contacting the sensor, so that the stiff element forms part of the reader.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Cardlab APS
    Inventor: Alexandre Desnoyers
  • Patent number: 8928454
    Abstract: This invention relates to a fastener system, in particular a system for improving computer room security, that reduces energy consumption. This invention provides a fastener system comprising at least one fastener for fastening a first element to a second element, the at least one fastener having a sensor to determine status of that fastener; a trigger box having an LED panel; a junction box capable of receiving and relaying authorization access; and an IP-connected control appliance with relay input/output for access control applications. This invention is particularly useful within server racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Steven M. Brown, Andrew Jimenez, Timothy D. Holloway
  • Patent number: 8922370
    Abstract: Electrified access-control technology devices for a door, particularly electrified locks for a door, having embedded circuitry therein, and methods of making the same. One or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) having various electronic circuitry are secured inside a housing that encases an access-control device, particularly a lock, for a door. The one or more PCB(s) may be embedded on an internal surface of the housing such that the embedded PCB resides inside the housing along with the lock itself. The embedded PCB(s) avoid interference of both any working components of the lock inside the housing and any openings residing in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Sargent Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Daniel J. Picard, Robert C. Hunt, Scott B. Lowder
  • Patent number: 8896446
    Abstract: Described is a device for electronic access control (EAC) and surveillance. The device includes an EAC module and an imager integrated in a single unit. The EAC module controls physical access through a secure portal and the imager maintains surveillance of an observation area near the portal. A data signal is provided at a data port proximate to the EAC module and imager. The data signal includes EAC data for the portal, image or video data of the observation area and optional audio data. The device can be configured to communicate with a remote server and database over an IP data network. The device can also include one or more analytical modules for real-time computation and processing of data and generation of metadata for transmission over the data network. Correlating and combining current and historical data from multiple devices results in powerful real time threat detection and forensic search capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Francis John Cusack, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8866643
    Abstract: In a rotation input device, a planetary carrier, connected to an operation knob, rotatably supports a planetary gear which meshes with an outer teeth row provided for a sun gear, to which an output shaft is secured, and also meshes with an inner teeth row provided for an outer gear. A plunger provided for the sun gear is in elastic contact with a recess cam provided for the outer gear. A solenoid unit prevents rotation of the outer gear in accordance with an output of a magnetic sensor which faces a magnet provided for the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadashi Sano
  • Patent number: 8866066
    Abstract: Techniques are generally described for a lock system. An example lock system includes a lock with a lock module that controls a lock mechanism. The lock is configured to transmit optical signals to a key. The key reflects the optical signals back to the lock. The key is configured to encode the optical signals with a combination. The lock module is configured to determine whether the combination is valid. The lock module actuates the locking mechanism when the key is determined to be valid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Kenichi Fuse
  • Patent number: 8854207
    Abstract: A mobile lock with a retractable cable. The mobile lock is an integral component of a mobile device (e.g., bicycle, scooter, stroller, etc.) or attachable thereto and includes retractable cable that is wrapped around a stationary object (e.g., tree, bike rack, etc.). The retractable cable reconnects to a lock component on a body component of the mobile lock to prevent theft of the mobile. The mobile lock is always available for locking the mobile device. The mobile lock also includes an integral wireless locator system that can precisely locate the mobile device in real-time if stolen. The wireless locator system also automatically send messages (e.g., e-mail, text, instant messages, voice, etc.) and make automatic posts to social networking sites (e.g., FACEBOOK, TWITTER, etc.) and social shopping sites (CRAIG'S LIST, E-BAY, etc.) that the mobile device has been stolen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Donald S. Williams
  • Patent number: 8823529
    Abstract: A patient monitoring system having a motion detection unit with a sensor and a control unit having control circuitry and at least one light. Wiring extends between the two units and couples a motion sensor with the control circuitry. A door sensor is coupled with the control circuitry. The light is illuminated to provide a silent alarm when motion is detected and the door is closed. Also disclosed is a method of installation that includes attaching a motion detector unit and the control unit to wall surfaces on opposite sides of the door and extending wiring through the doorway to operably couple the two units. The motion sensor may be installed to define a detection zone having a lower boundary which is at least about 18 inches above a patient support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: DRS Medical Devices, LLC
    Inventor: Donald N. Reed, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8791820
    Abstract: Device locking systems, lock trees, and lockout methods are described according to some aspects. In one aspect, a device locking system includes a lock system configurable into a first configuration to lock a device to be secured and a second configuration wherein the lock system is configured to be attached to or removed from the device, wherein the lock system is configured to be locked into the first configuration at a desired moment in time by at least one lock, and circuitry configured to generate an alarm responsive to a change of the configuration of the lock system from the first configuration to the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Lok-Alert, LLC
    Inventors: Carl R. Morrow, G. Jeff Maestretti
  • Patent number: 8786401
    Abstract: An extendable flush door handle assembly for a door or liftgate of a vehicle includes a base portion and a handle portion movably attached to the base portion. The handle portion is movable between a recessed position, where the handle portion is at least partially received in the base portion, and a partially extended position, where the handle portion extends partially outward from the base portion and is graspable by a user. The handle portion is moved from the recessed position to the partially extended position responsive to a trigger, such as a signal from a key fob or a passive entry system or a vehicle door unlock button or the like. The handle portion, when in its recessed position, is at least partially received in the base portion so as to be not readily graspable by a user until the handle portion is moved toward its partially extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin E. Sobecki, Keith D. Foote, Eric S. Deuel
  • Patent number: 8773270
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for monitoring and controlling a refrigerated medical storage unit. The system may include a control station. The control station may receive temperature information from the refrigerated medical storage unit and may cause at least a portion of the temperature information to be stored. The control station may determine whether the temperature is outside a predefined range and may causes an alarm to be generated when the temperature is outside the predefined range. The control station may receive user authentication information from a user, and upon verification of the user authentication information, send unlock instructions to the refrigerated medical storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Omnicell, Inc.
    Inventors: Akbar Paydar, Stanley Kim, Andrew Chai
  • Patent number: 8773262
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a container security apparatus which is easily attachable/detachable to/from both opening/closing bars of a container to sense whether the container is opened/closed and transmit the sensed information on whether the container is opened/closed to a remote location, to thereby check whether the container is sealed or not on a real time basis and thus safely transport the container, and to thereby check the current position of the container in transit and check whether or not the container has deviated from a predetermined path on a real time basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventors: Moon Jun Bae, Hyung Rim Choi, Chul Young Bae, Hyun Il Cho, Jae Joong Kim, Jae Kee Lee, Soon Goo Hong, Chae Soo Kim, Gwang Hoon Kwark, Kangbae Lee, Eun Kyu Lee, Joong Jo Shin, Jung Rock Son, Young Sik Moon, Moo Hong Kang, Sung Pill Choi
  • Patent number: 8749344
    Abstract: An exit lane monitoring system (10) detects wrong-way movement through a passage (P) between a secure area and a public area. Heel before toe sensors (12) are positioned on the floor of the passage and detect the foot pressure exerted by people moving through the passage from the secure area toward the public area and of persons moving the wrong way through the passage. Positioning of the sensors in the passage depends upon the geometry of the passage so sensors may be oriented in a non-geometric pattern if so dictated by the passage's geometry. A door (D) is selectively operated to block the passage and prevent persons moving the wrong way through it from entering the secure area. A control unit (16) is responsive to a sensor indication that someone is moving the wrong way to activate the door to block the passage and prevent movement into the secure area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Sam F Brunetti
  • Patent number: 8730053
    Abstract: A battery alarm for use with a battery assembly is provided, the battery alarm including a first activation component, a signaling component, and an output component. The first activation component is configured to activate the alarm upon disengagement of the battery assembly from a battery-operated device and is further configured to deactivate the alarm upon engagement of the battery pack with the battery-operated device. The signaling component is coupled to the first activation component and is configured to transmit a signal when the alarm is activated. The output component is adapted to receive the signal from the signaling component and is configured to produce a visual, audible, and/or tactile output upon receipt of the signal from the signaling component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Sean T. Dycus
  • Patent number: 8710977
    Abstract: The cars of a passenger transport means are provided with a sensor (3) which scans the state of the locking mechanism and with a transponder antenna (5) which is fitted to the outside of the car (1), and the stations (6) contain transmission antennas (7) which poll signals from the transponder antenna in contactless fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: CWA Constructions SA
    Inventor: Daniel Gubler
  • Patent number: 8698625
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing security at a vehicle yard are provided. A communicator may collect data associated with a plurality of vehicles or trailers during completion of a guard tour, and a processing station may receive the collected data from the communicator. The processing station may compare the collected data to expected data in order to generate one or more instructions that are returned to the communicator. The one or more instructions may include an instruction to collect additional data associated with a vehicle or trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: U.S. Security Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles R. Schneider, James P. Boylan, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140085087
    Abstract: A remotely actuated door lock is provided. The remotely actuated lock includes a transceiver for establishing telephone communication with a remote telephone and for receiving a transmitted identification code therefrom. The door lock includes a microprocessor, a programmable logic controller or the like for comparing the transmitted identification code with a stored identification code stored in memory associated with the processor or controller. The door lock further includes a lock bolt actuator in communication with a lock bolt for changing a state of the door lock. The lock bolt actuator is selectively actuated if the transmitted identification code matches the stored identification code. However, if the transmitted identification code does not match the stored identification code, then the transceiver transmits a first alert message to a user, alerting the user to possible unauthorized access.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: UMM AL-QURA UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: AHMAD HAMOOD ABDULLAH ALNADWI
  • Patent number: 8680996
    Abstract: A lock has a body holding a locking member that can be locked to or released from the body by, for example, operation of a key. The lock includes an alarm that is triggered by the locking of the locking member. If, however, the lock is unlocked and relocked within a predetermined time interval, the alarm is disarmed. In this way, the lock can remain locked but with the alarm disarmed. The signals that cause the alarm to arm and disarm can be produced in any convenient way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Xena IP Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Ivan Foti
  • Patent number: 8674830
    Abstract: A manhole security cover includes a manhole cover body comprising a non-metallic RF signal transmissive material. The manhole cover body is seatable on a manhole frame to cover a manhole opening. In the seated position, the first side is accessible from outside the manhole, the second side is disposed within the manhole, and the peripheral edge portion engages a manhole cover support surface on the manhole frame. A manhole cover tamper sensor is responsive to a predetermined movement of the manhole security cover body. A transmitter is operatively connected to the manhole cover tamper sensor and configured to generate a radio frequency manhole cover tamper signal when the manhole cover tamper sensor detects the predetermined movement of the manhole security cover body. An antenna is operatively coupled to the transmitter to radiate radio frequency energy through the manhole cover body to a receiver located outside of said manhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: McGard LLC
    Inventors: Thomas R. Lanham, Andrew D. Trank, Daniel J. Corby, Jeffrey R. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 8674832
    Abstract: A wireless bolt lock remote is disclosed. The wireless bolt lock remote includes a control circuit adapted for use with a bolt lock system and configured to detect a locked state and an unlocked state of a bolt lock, and upon detection of a change in state to wirelessly transfer a status to identity the detected state to an alarm system. The control circuit is wirelessly coupled to the alarm system for wireless communication. The wireless bolt lock remote includes a power source to supply power to the control circuit. Associated systems and methods for remote wireless security for bolt locks also are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventor: Tregnel Kynta Thomas
  • Patent number: 8653974
    Abstract: An interface device includes an elongated sensor strap having a secured end and an unsecured end opposite to the secured end. The unsecured end of the sensor strap represents a first sensor half, and a second sensor half is adapted to receive the first sensor half/unsecured end to form a sensor link between the two sensor halves. A deployment sensor switch provides an input to a monitoring device for an alarm system. The deployment sensor switch is adapted to reside in an armed state when the first and second sensor halves form a sensor link, but change to an alarm state when the first sensor half and second sensor half are separated to break the sensor link. The sensor strap is sufficiently long to produce a closed loop around a firearm or other object to in a monitored position when the first and second sensor halves are placed together to form the sensor link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: D. Wayne Crook
  • Patent number: 8640514
    Abstract: An electronic and manual lock assembly having a lock housing, a mechanical lock, an electric motor, and a shackle having a pair of legs. The shackle can be unlocked relative to the housing by having one leg pivotally connected with the housing and the other leg rotated out of the housing. The lock includes a first stop member that prevents one leg from being rotated out of the housing. The first stop member is moveable as a result of unlocking the mechanical lock. The lock includes a second stop member that prevents one of the legs from being rotated out of the lock housing and is moveable as a result of operating the electric motor. The first stop member and the second stop member are independently moveable by the mechanical lock and the electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Stanley Works Israel Ltd.
    Inventors: Ori Goren, Amir Katz
  • Patent number: 8640513
    Abstract: An electronic and manual lock assembly having a lock housing, a mechanical lock, an electric motor, and a shackle having a pair of legs. The shackle can be unlocked relative to the housing by having one leg pivotally connected with the housing and the other leg rotated out of the housing. The lock includes a first stop member that prevents one leg from being rotated out of the housing. The first stop member is moveable as a result of unlocking the mechanical lock. The lock includes a second stop member that prevents one of the legs from being rotated out of the lock housing and is moveable as a result of operating the electric motor. The first stop member and the second stop member are independently moveable by the mechanical lock and the electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Stanley Works Israel Ltd.
    Inventors: Ori Goren, Amir Katz
  • Patent number: 8643486
    Abstract: A portable alarm device includes a portable enclosure, a wireless communication system disposed in the portable enclosure and configured to receive a signal from a monitoring device. The device further includes a processor in communication with the wireless communication system and wherein the processor is configured to initiate an alert when the signal indicates that the portable enclosure is beyond a pre-determined distance from the monitoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: TattleTale Portable Alarm Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian K. Hess
  • Patent number: 8638227
    Abstract: The invention provides an input device of the electronic combination lock and a corresponding input method thereof, wherein a signal device produces combination input information and converts said information into two groups of electrical pulse signals; a measurement and control device measures the electrical pulse signals, decides the order of the electrical pulse signals and calculates correspondingly such that said signals are converted into character sequences including the combination elements, and decides whether the current combination elements are confirmed to be inputted or not and decides whether the input of all the combination elements is completed or not; a confirmation device produces a conformation signal for inputting the combination elements; and a display device displays said character sequences and preset prompt information in a rolling and refreshing manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Shanghai Buddy Technological Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mengxiao Yuan
  • Patent number: 8624733
    Abstract: Described is a device for electronic access control (EAC) and surveillance. The device includes an EAC module and an imager integrated in a single unit. The EAC module controls physical access through a secure portal and the imager maintains surveillance of an observation area near the portal. A data signal is provided at a data port proximate to the EAC module and imager. The data signal includes EAC data for the portal, image or video data of the observation area and optional audio data. The device can be configured to communicate with a remote server and database over an IP data network. The device can also include one or more analytical modules for real-time computation and processing of data and generation of metadata for transmission over the data network. Correlating and combining current and historical data from multiple devices results in powerful real time threat detection and forensic search capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Francis John Cusack, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8624736
    Abstract: A status monitoring device for a fenestration unit is provided. The device is positioned in or on the fenestration unit and includes a panel position sensor and a lock status sensor. The device is capable of transmitting panel position data and lock status data to a remote device, trigger an audible alarm on the device or the remote device, trigger a visual alarm on the device or the remote device, or a combination of these.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Andersen Corporation
    Inventors: Sachin Gore, David Plummer, Daniel Timmerman
  • Publication number: 20130335222
    Abstract: A door lock mechanism is disclosed that includes door lock and alarm features. The mechanism includes a controller and a sensor useful to detect motions that are representative of attempted access through a door to which the door lock mechanism is attached. The controller can set an alarm condition if a measured motion, such as a measured acceleration, meet and/or exceeds a threshold. If an appropriate access control credential is provided through a user device then the alarm condition may not be set by the controller. The door lock mechanism can be coupled to a remote station via a communications link if needed, such as a radio frequency link. The remote station can additionally be in communication with the door lock mechanism via a network. The remote station can be used to send and receive messages regarding door lock mechanism status, configuration, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventors: Timothy Noonan Comerford, David Mathew Baty, William Brian Ainley, Raymond F. Rettig, John Robert Ahearn, Joe Lyon
  • Patent number: 8610535
    Abstract: A door locking system configured to lock and unlock a door frame of a cabinet is provided. The door locking system includes a handle rod; a digital or mechanical door sensor configured to detect whether the door frame of the cabinet is open or closed; and a latch configured to lock the handle rod, the latch being connected to and controlled by a lock mechanism. The lock mechanism includes a mechanical module and an electromechanical module. The mechanical module is configured to actuate the latch to lock and unlock the handle rod, and configured to grant the electromechanical module control over the latch to lock and unlock the handle rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Austin Hughes Electronics Limited
    Inventor: Kin Fai Hui
  • Publication number: 20130307691
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: OJMAR, S.A.
    Inventors: Ricardo Sendín Martín, Sergio Pérez Urruticoechea
  • Patent number: 8581690
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: ILOQ Oy
    Inventors: Markku Lappalainen, Mika Pukari, Seppo Lohiniva
  • Patent number: 8558684
    Abstract: A belt lock for a seat belt equipped with a locking mechanism that is arranged in a belt lock housing. The locking mechanism has a component that changes its location from a first end position into a second end position and detects a locking status. In the actuation of the locking mechanism, the component that changes its location interacts with the detector of the locking status. The locking status is detected by an electromechanical switch that is arranged in the vicinity of the component that changes its location and can be actuated upon its movement from the first into the second end position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Polycontact AG
    Inventors: Joshua Lanter, Clau Lombriser
  • Patent number: 8547217
    Abstract: A belt lock for a seat belt that has a locking mechanism that is arranged in a belt lock housing. The locking mechanism includes a component that changes location from a first end position into a second end position when the locking mechanism is actuated, and in doing so interacts with a status detector. The status detector is designed as an electrical switching system. The component that changes location is a mandrel that can be moved axially when the locking mechanism is actuated and that is provided with an electrically conductive contact region and forms a component of the electrical switching system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Polycontact AG
    Inventors: Joshua Lanter, Clau Lombriser
  • Patent number: 8531268
    Abstract: A passive entry system for an automotive vehicle may include a token capable of receiving a plurality of wireless signals. The token may generate a response signal to at least one of the plurality of wireless signals and reconfigure so that the token does not provide a response to at least one of the plurality of wireless signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Riad Ghabra, Ehab Abdulla Tarmoom
  • Patent number: 8487768
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electronic seal for sealing a door. The door is equipped with a latch. The electronic seal includes a plug and a socket. The plug can be inserted in the socket through the latch. Thus, the door is sealed by the electronic seal. The door cannot be opened without breaking the electric seal. The electronic seal records any event of breakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, Armaments Bureau, Ministry of National Defense
    Inventors: Ming-Town Lee, Feng-Yu Chang, Tung-Jung Hsu, Chun-Fu Lin
  • Patent number: 8482411
    Abstract: A tamper indicating padlock assembly for providing remote indication of tampering with the lock mechanism of the padlock includes a padlock having a padlock housing, an arm extending from the padlock housing, and a locking mechanism selectively engaging the arm. A sensor is positioned in the padlock housing for sensing movement of the arm within the padlock housing. The sensor is operationally coupled to a processor. A transmitter is operationally coupled to the processor for transmitting a tamper signal upon the sensor detecting movement of the arm relative to the housing. A key is provided to release the arm from the locking mechanism. A remote alarm assembly has a remote receiver for receiving the tamper signal. The remote alarm assembly includes a remote tamper indicator operationally coupled to the remote receiver for providing an indication of tampering to a user when the remote receiver receives the tamper signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Monty M. Brown
  • Patent number: 8466786
    Abstract: A lock mechanism for locking a door or the like with a Sabbath control unit comprises a Sabbath control unit comprising an optical device including a light beam emitter and detector spaced apart with a line of sight path between them, the optical device operative to provide output indicating if a light beam emitted by the emitter is received by the detector, and a locking mechanism comprising a moving member operative to be displaced between a locked state position wherein the door is locked and an unlocked state position wherein the door is unlocked, wherein the moving member is operative to block the line of sight path while in the locked state position and to clear the line of site path while in the unlocked state position, and wherein the Sabbath control unit is operative to activate an electronic device in response to output indicating that the light beam emitted by the emitter has not been received by the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Rav-Mafteah Ltd.
    Inventor: Asher Haviv
  • Patent number: 8456305
    Abstract: A redundant security system relies on a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag to convey security sensor data. If the RFID tag is unable to convey security sensor data, a backup photoelectric cell powered transmitter is activated to transmit security sensor data to a monitoring station. Alternately, a security safe is outfitted with a RFID tag based security sensor. The RFID tag allows remote monitoring of at least one of an opened/closed condition and a locked/unlocked condition of a door of the security safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Tell A. Gates
  • Publication number: 20130135102
    Abstract: Device locking systems, lock trees, and lockout methods are described according to some aspects. In one aspect, a device locking system includes a lock system configurable into a first configuration to lock a device to be secured and a second configuration wherein the lock system is configured to be attached to or removed from the device, wherein the lock system is configured to be locked into the first configuration at a desired moment in time by at least one lock, and circuitry configured to generate an alarm responsive to a change of the configuration of the lock system from the first configuration to the second configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Inventors: Carl R. Morrow, G. Jeff Maestretti
  • Patent number: 8441336
    Abstract: A system for protecting high-value cargo enclosed in a container, while maintaining the container indistinguishable from similar low value shipments, includes an onboard identity module (OBIM) cooperative with an internal locking mechanism (ILM), both of which are externally undetectable. The OBIM can secure the ILM and prevent the container from being opened until a properly encoded unlocking signal from a Security Management System (SMS) is wirelessly received by the OBIM. The unlocking signal can be a composite including a plurality of species of wireless signals such as different frequencies of AM and FM encoded RF and acoustic signals, transmitted simultaneously and/or at specified intervals. In embodiments the OBIM enables remote tracking of the container, and in some embodiments the tracking is double-blind, whereby a Master Number (MN) recorded in shipping documents is associated with a “Random Number” (RN) used for tracking, the association being known only to the SMS.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: C. Joseph Rickrode
  • Patent number: 8436727
    Abstract: Methods and systems for door access and patient monitoring are described. The patient monitoring system includes a door access control system coupled to one or more doors of a facility for monitoring and controlling the access of patients coupled to a patient monitoring device. Whenever a patient coupled to a patient monitoring device comes within a predetermined distance of a particular door the door access control system transmits a first signal encoded with the door location data to the patient monitoring device. The patient monitoring device then transmits a second signal encoded with the door location data and patient identification data of the patient coupled to the monitoring device to the door access control system and a monitoring system that controls the door access and monitoring of patient within the facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventors: James D. Todd, Thomas Hollinger, Christopher F. Fangrow
  • Publication number: 20130099926
    Abstract: A method for protecting an advertising sign from weathering conditions is disclosed. The method includes the operation of providing a frame configured to hold a plurality of sign segments, the sign segments having a front side and a back side each configured to carry graphical images. The front and back sides of each sign segment can be covered with a substantially transparent covering configured to enable each sign segment to be essentially undamaged by weathering effects for a period of at least seven years. The plurality of sign segments can be configured to be stacked on top of one another within the frame. The frame can be configured to enable removal and replacement of one or more of the plurality of sign segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Inventor: Diane L. Peterson