Lock Patents (Class 340/542)
  • Patent number: 5712615
    Abstract: A lighting system comprising a selectively operable light source, RF receiver for reproducing a received pulsed RF signal. Means for determining whether the reproduced RF signal is within an acceptable range of asymmetric patterns of "on" pulse times followed by "off" times selected to include a plurality of different asymmetric patterns and operating means for the light source for a selected period of time when the determining means determine that the reproduced RF signal is within acceptable range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Emhart Inc.
    Inventors: George E. Maffey, David A. Saar, Raymond W. Simpson
  • Patent number: 5708409
    Abstract: An alerting device for an vehicle includes a sensor which senses the position of the movable locking knob of the vehicle and provides a switch output to a circuit which produces an alerting sound when the door locking knob has been opened. In one form thereof, the door locking knob is replaced with a structure which movably supports a magnet which moves between a position which is near a magnet sensor and a position where it is away from the magnet sensors. When the door locking knob is moved to the open position, the magnetic sensor senses its condition and causes the circuit to output an audible alert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: Martin Schwimmer
    Inventors: Martin Schwimmer, Max Moskowitz
  • Patent number: 5686890
    Abstract: A lock and alarm device for securing a door activates an alarm of 110-120 decibels for approximately 60 seconds if a force on the door exceeding about 20-30 pounds is detected. An arrangement comprising a dead bolt or handle lock assembly includes an alarm unit mounted on a plate adjacent the lock for detecting forced entry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph Y. Ko
  • Patent number: 5680094
    Abstract: A key reminder device for use in combination with a key lock mechanism having an adjustable timer with a predetermined timer interval electrically coupled to a replaced power supply. The timer is energized upon detection of a conventional key inserted into the key lock mechanism. Should the key remain in the key lock mechanism beyond a predetermined time, the timer will activate an audible alarm to remind the owner of the keys to remove them. Should the timer be set at a low level, the device operates to indicate the presence of a key. When used in combination with a visual indicator, the key reminder provides an indicator of door entry to the hearing impaired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Inventors: Raul Guim, Elena Guim
  • Patent number: 5680095
    Abstract: A security apparatus for buildings, vehicles and the like includes a switch mounted adjacent to a closure access member. A housing mounted adjacent to the closure access member receives a member movable between first and second positions. When the movable member is in the first position, a magnet mounted in the member is disposed in close proximity to the switch to magnetically move the switch contact to an open position. When the movable member is moved to a second position, the magnet is magnetically decoupled from the switch enabling the switch contact to close to ground completing a circuit to activating the alarm. In another embodiment, the magnet is mounted in a body. A rod extends from the body and carries a holder and a lock cylinder engagement member at another end. The lock cylinder engagement member is releasibly insertible into a lock cylinder to position the magnet adjacent to a switch mounted on the closure member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Gordon Hartunian
    Inventor: Faris Nassouri
  • Patent number: 5670940
    Abstract: The electric lock system operates to block access to the room when a guest key has been used and the guest is detected as being present in the room. The lock blocks access to hotel staff and provides the guest greater privacy in the room. The lock system employs an electronic lock in combination with a motion detector for detecting the presence of the guest in the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: TrioVing a.s
    Inventors: Glen Holcomb, William Reed
  • Patent number: 5656990
    Abstract: An alerting device for an vehicle includes a sensor which senses the position of the movable locking knob of the vehicle and provides a switch output to a circuit which produces an alerting sound when the door locking knob has been opened. In one form thereof, the door locking knob is replaced with a structure which movably supports a magnet which moves between a position which is near a magnet sensor and a position where it is away from the magnet sensors. When the door locking knob is moved to the open position, the magnetic sensor senses its condition and causes the circuit to output an audible alert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Inventor: Martin Schwimmer
  • Patent number: 5648754
    Abstract: A car security system capable of sending out an alarm when a car door is opened by an unauthorized person comprises a power stabilizing circuit for providing working DC power for the security system, a signal amplifying circuit for detecting small voltage change signals in the car battery and for generating therefrom an amplified signal, an alarm circuit including a buzzer and a controlling transistor, a microprocessor for receiving and then evaluating the amplified signal. In operation, when a car door is opened, a voltage change signal is produced, which is then detected for evaluating whether the opening of car door is authorized. If a voltage change signal is detected during conditions other than the car door opening, it is identified as a false alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Shih Ming Hwang
  • Patent number: 5600302
    Abstract: An electronic system for preventing keys from being locked inside a vehicle. An ignition or door key houses a wireless transmitter which can send a signal to lock or unlock the vehicle doors. As a driver approaches a locked car, the unlock button on the transmitter is pressed, thereby unlocking the doors. Upon exiting the vehicle, a driver may inadvertently lock himself out of the vehicle if the doors are manually locked when the door key is inadvertently left somewhere inside the car. To prevent lock-out, an oscillating unlock signal is automatically output to the electronic door locks. Simultaneously an alarm sounds to alert the driver that the keys are still in the car. The driver returns to the vehicle, opens the doors which have been automatically unlocked, and retrieves the keys. Upon retrieval of the keys, the driver again exits the vehicle, locks the doors manually or electronically, and presses the lock button to stop the alarm and end the transmission of the oscillating unlock signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Inventor: James Lewis
  • Patent number: 5587702
    Abstract: A padlock comprising a body and shackle, the shackle having an end releasably securable in the body, the body having a casing, the casing housing a tamper alarm means and a lock means, the tamper alarm means including a power supply means, the casing having an aperture configured and arranged to receive the end of the shackle being securable in the aperture by way of the lock means, a portion of the casing being movable to enable access to the power supply means, movement of the portion of the casing being prevented by a retaining means which is only accessible for insertion or removal via the aperture in the casing configured and arranged to receive the end of the shackle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: Garth R. Chadfield
  • Patent number: 5563579
    Abstract: A security key control information system and method for vehicle dealerships and the like is provided. A key storage device A mounted to each vehicle window has a compartment for storing access keys B to the respective vehicles and contains a sensing device H which produces a signal indicating whether an event related to that vehicle is routine or hostile. A second device may be permanently attached to the vehicle for regularly transmitting identifying information as to that vehicle. Both devices report the information by radio through an intermediate transmitter network to a computer D inside the dealership which records the information along with the time of the event. The information is stored for subsequent retrieval for the purpose of generating reports useful to the dealership management. If an event is hostile, appropriate action may be taken including suitable signaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Ronald L. Carter
  • Patent number: 5550529
    Abstract: An electronic security enclosure conceals a device, such as a switch, valve, outlet, or lock, behind a movable member. When the movable member is unlocked, by an electronic key, and moved to reveal the concealed device, the key is captured, preventing its removal until the enclosure is again secured over the device. A variety of operational features, including provision for keyholder access restrictions, time-of-day restrictions, provision of different classes of keys for employees and vendors, etc., are also provided. The invention also contemplates a plurality of access control devices, including lock boxes, padlocks, mortise locks, cam locks, etc., that are each operable by a common electronic key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Supra Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory L. Burge
  • Patent number: 5548915
    Abstract: A universal firearm disabling and alarm signalling system is attained by providing a construction which is easily mounted to any firearm to prevent its unwanted use while also incorporating an automatic alarm signal which is immediately activated whenever the protected firearm is accessed by unauthorized persons. By employing the present invention, any movement of the firearm, or attempt to remove the disabling and alarm signalling system of the present invention from the firearm, causes an alarm signal to be continuously generated, preventing any unauthorized or unwanted use of the firearm. In the preferred embodiment, the universal, combined firearm disabling and alarm system of the present invention incorporates lock means cooperatively associated with the alarm signal generator which is quickly and easily mounted to any desired firearm for preventing unwanted use of the firearm and remains in secure locked interengagement therewith until disengaged by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventors: Michael Szarmach, Vincent Capodicci
  • Patent number: 5539378
    Abstract: A safety lock having an alarm function includes a transmitter positioned in a main lock body, and a remote receiver with an alarm function. The transmitter is placed in a stand-by state by microswitches activated either by a manually-operated fixing member or movement of latch pins in response to a key, and triggered by a microswitch responsive to full extension of a deadbolt. Under normal conditions, the deadbolt is stopped from fully extending by an adjustable stop, the position of which can be adjusted to adjust the clearance between an extension of the deadbolt and the third microswitch. When the first or second microswitch is activated and the deadbolt disengages from the stop due to an attempt to open the door by prying, cutting, or otherwise forcing the door open, the deadbolt extends fully and the third microswitch is caused to close, triggering the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventor: Neng-Chien Chang
  • Patent number: 5535104
    Abstract: A door lock assembly comprising a lock plug having a key receiving opening, selectively operable light source for illuminating the key receiving opening, RF receiver for reproducing a received pulsed RF signal and means for determining whether the reproduced RF signal is within an acceptable range of asymmetric patterns of "on" pulse times followed by "off" times selected to include a plurality of different asymmetric patterns and means for operating the light source means for a selected period of time when the determining means determines that the reproduced RF signal is within acceptable range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: Emhart Inc.
    Inventors: George E. Maffey, David A. Saar, Raymond W. Simpson
  • Patent number: 5530427
    Abstract: An alarm lock comprises an alarm wiring and a locking apparatus in which the alarm wiring is disposed. The alarm wiring is composed of a microswitch, a first battery charger, a second battery charger, a triggering circuit, a comparing circuit, an oscillating circuit, and a loud speaker. The locking apparatus is made up of a main body, a lock core, an alarm device, and a connection member. The main body is intended to receive therein a motorcycle disk brake. The lock core has a body mounted slidably in the main body, a lock bolt driven by the body, a retaining member and a retaining portion for locating the lock core, and a driving portion disposed on the lock bolt. The alarm device is housed in the main body. The connection member is disposed in the main body such that the connection member is located between the driving portion and the alarm device, and that the connection member can be actuated by the driving portion to start or shut off the alarm device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventor: Jin-Ren Shieh
  • Patent number: 5525964
    Abstract: An electronic cable lock is provided. The lock includes a sealed lock body having a lock core, and an electronic device enclosed therein. The electronic device includes a sensor which will trigger a buzzer to sound when an attempt to illegally break the lock is sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Inventor: Wang S. Ming
  • Patent number: 5521585
    Abstract: A life saving system that allows escape from secured premises is provided. The system includes door/window locks that are normally held in the locked position by the presence of an electrical current through solenoids contained in the locks. When an accessory fire/smoke alarm is activated, current through the solenoids is interrupted, thereby automatically unlocking the doors or windows. Uninterruptable power supplies are provided that can operate from alternating current or direct current sources. Additional security is provided by an optional key lock shunt box that prevents tampering by unauthorized users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Albert L. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 5517176
    Abstract: An exit bar has an elongated body for mounting on an exit door. The exit bar incorporates a pair of independent sensors. An infrared beam is generated along the front of the bar. An infrared detector produces a first signal when the beam is interrupted. The first signal results in release of a lock securing the door. If the beam is interrupted for longer than a pre-set time limit, a first alarm sounds. A capacitance sensor produces a second signal when the sensor detects changes of capacitance in the bar as a result of contact or near contact with foreign objects. The second signal also results in release of the lock securing the door. If the capacitance sensor detects a capacitance change for longer than a pre-set time limit, a second alarm sounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: Harrow Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Lavelle, George Frolov, George A. Baehr
  • Patent number: 5517184
    Abstract: An electronic combination lock includes a combination lock having a dial with no markings thereon. Rotation of the dial drives a generator which produces electrical pulses. The voltage pulses serves as a power source for the electronics of the lock. The lock also includes a security feature to disable the lock if the combination dial is stopped between dial rotations for a period of time which indicates dailing by an automatic dialer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 14, 1996
    Assignee: C & M Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Gerald L. Dawson, Daniel L. Thompson, Michael P. Harvey
  • Patent number: 5493279
    Abstract: An electronic combination lock is provided with and incorporates the enhanced feature of covert entry detection and notification. Whenever the bolt of an electronic lock provided with this enhancement is retracted to its withdrawn or unlocked position and whenever the lock has not received an authorized combination enabling the movement of the bolt, movement of the bolt is detected and the electronics of the lock is powered for a time sufficient to record an indication of the covert entry in its non-volatile memory. Upon normal operation at a subsequent time, the indication of covert entry is read from the non-volatile memory and a visual indication is displayed to the operator to inform the operator that covert entry has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: Mas-Hamilton Group
    Inventors: Gerald L. Dawson, Thomas E. Cassada, Michael J. Kelly, Craig B. Williams
  • Patent number: 5486812
    Abstract: A security arrangement for a building comprises a control module, an alarm and a multiplicity of stations each station being actuated upon receipt of a signal from the control module, each station incorporating a detector adapted to provide a signal indicative of the status of the station, the stations further comprising locks or other security devices, the control module being arranged to actuate the alarm on detection of unauthorized status of the station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Cedardell Limited
    Inventor: Robert E. Todd
  • Patent number: 5479151
    Abstract: An electromagnetic door lock system employs an on-board microprocessor which is mounted in the housing for the electromagnet. The microprocessor is pre-programmed with possible operating parameters which are then selected at the installation site. In one embodiment, a contact activatable data reader is mounted at the housing to provide various input data for the microprocessor. The microprocessor is also capable of being interrogated to reveal the preset operating parameters and other information, including the identification of individuals requesting to egress through the associated doorway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Assignee: Harrow Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary E. Lavelle, Peter S. Conklin
  • Patent number: 5479341
    Abstract: An electronic data security apparatus for providing adequate protection against adverse external conditions. The apparatus includes an enclosure having a connector interface, an internal control unit contained within the enclosure, data storage devices contained within the enclosure connected to the internal control unit, and an external control unit connected to the internal control unit. The apparatus is capable of sensing adverse external conditions such as fire, water and theft and secure the data storage devices by automatically disconnecting from the external control unit, closing and locking itself off from the outside environment thereby to protect the data storage devices from memory loss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Inventors: Lawrence E. Pihl, William C. Singley
  • Patent number: 5469139
    Abstract: A latch and alarm device for securing a door activates an alarm of 110-120 decibels for approximately 60 seconds if a force on the door exceeding about 20-30 pounds is detected. The device may be used with either left or right-hinged doors. A panic switch on the device may be used in an emergency to activate the high-output alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: Joseph Y. Ko
  • Patent number: 5461360
    Abstract: A key reminder device for use in combination with a key lock mechanism having an adjustable timer with a predetermined timer interval electrically coupled to a replaced power supply. The timer is energized upon detection of a conventional key inserted into the key lock mechanism. Should the key remain in the key lock mechanism beyond a predetermined time, the timer will activate an audible alarm to remind the owner of the keys to remove them. Should the timer be set at a low level, the device operates to indicate the presence of a key. When used in combination with a visual indicator, the key reminder provides an indicator of door entry to the hearing impaired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventors: Raul Guim, Elena Guim
  • Patent number: 5455562
    Abstract: A passive home security meter indicator which will show the returning occupant(s) at the front entrance whether or not the front door has been opened and security status compromised. If a security status has been compromised, a D'arsonval Meter Movement will show a repetitive sweeping meter indication visible at the front entrance. This equipment operates on 120 VAC commercial power through an AC ADAPTER as primary power. A set of 4 regular "D" size alkaline flashlight battery and a 6 volt alkaline lantern battery are used as 200% back-up power. For a 5 to 10 hour day operation, a set of 14 ampere-hour (a-h) alkaline flashlight battery may last 5 to 10 months while a 27 a-h alkaline lantern battery may last 9.5 to 19 months. The life expectancy of these batteries is typically from three to four years when a 12 VDC AC ADAPTER is used as primary power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 3, 1995
    Inventor: Suey N. Chin
  • Patent number: 5444440
    Abstract: Operating circuits for a solenoid actuated locking means mounted interiorly of a garage door, to provide additional security. The operating circuits are electrically connected to the solenoid operator of a normally closed hasp that cooperates with the garage door in the closed position. The circuits are designed for use with an automatic garage door opener or a manually opened garage door, and include integrated circuit logic, relay logic, or equivalent means to allow opening of the garage door by authorized means, or if a forced attempt is made, or an unauthorized means is used, to open the garage door, when the garage door is in the secured position, the circuitry will activate an alarm, or other security means and prevent the garage door from being opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Inventor: Mark S. Heydendahl
  • Patent number: 5438312
    Abstract: An electronic system for preventing keys from being locked inside a vehicle. An ignition or door key houses a wireless transmitter which can send a signal to lock or unlock the vehicle doors. As a driver approaches a locked car, the unlock button on the transmitter is pressed, thereby unlocking the doors. Upon exiting the vehicle, a driver may inadvertently lock himself out of the vehicle if the doors are manually locked when the door key is inadvertently left somewhere inside the car. To prevent lock-out, an oscillating unlock signal is automatically sent from the transmitter to the electronic door locks. Simultaneously an alarm sounds to alert the driver that the keys are still in the car. The driver returns to the vehicle, opens the doors which have been automatically unlocked, and retrieves the keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventor: James Lewis
  • Patent number: 5422627
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing system for an object comprising a locking member closing the object, a seal coupled to the locking member and provided with integrity arrangement, and a sensor with which the response of the integrity arrangement, and therewith the integrity of the seal, can be determined, wherein preferably the integrity arrangement comprise magnetic material with a low magnetic coercivity and/or a transponder, and to a seal for such a sealing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: N.V. Kema
    Inventors: Geert E. Tap, Richard H. Rieksen
  • Patent number: 5420568
    Abstract: A wireless door locking and unlocking system for locking and unlocking the door of a motor vehicle having a theft alarm device. Further, the wireless door locking and unlocking system may be available for a door or a window of a house or the like. The car theft alarm device detects a car theft positively to produce an alarm signal. In the wireless door locking and unlocking system, the door-unlocking-signal receiving range is adjusted so that the occurrence of theft is positively prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Kansei Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsumi Iida, Masato Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 5418519
    Abstract: An electronic circuit device having an electric-code locking functions so that when the electronic circuit device is electrically connected to a battery, a control circuit is activated to cause a power supply detecting circuit to detect whether the electronic circuit device has been stolen. When a proper code is input by a control input unit after the completion of its detection, the electronic circuit device can be normally operated. In response to another simple operation signal input from the control input unit, the control circuit controls a radio receiving circuit, a tape circuit and a muting circuit in such a manner that the electronic circuit device is temporarily brought to the normal operation state. That is, the electronic circuit device can be provided with an additional function for temporarily bringing the electronic circuit device to an operation state by inputting an operation signal other than a signal indicative of a mnemonic in order to improve the efficiency of its fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yuji Hino, Ryou Tomohiro
  • Patent number: 5416472
    Abstract: A security system for the containment of at least one firearm in a repository. The security system operates in conjunction with an alarm system adapted to generate a signal upon the emergency or unauthorized opening of the repository indicative of access to and possible removal of the firearm contained therein. An alarm system which generates a signal at a remote location is indicative as to whether the firearm in the repository has been accessed and/or removed either in an intended manner or under emergency and/or duress conditions. Also disclosed is a particular pushbutton lock mechanism suitable for use with a security system of the type disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Dennis R. Torii, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5416826
    Abstract: An electronically-operated gun safe which has an telephone system that establishes an interactive telephone contact with law enforcement authorities when the gun safe is opened with an emergency key word. A non-emergency key word allows the gun safe to be opened without establishing a telephone contact with law enforcement authorities. The telephone system provides an alarm when the gun safe is disconnected from an external telephone wire without first opening the gun safe with the non-emergency key word. A 9-1-1 key word allows a telephone contact to be established without opening the gun safe. A master key word allows the gun safe to be opened if the emergency key word is lost or forgotten. The gun safe is locked out for a time period when successive incorrect key words are attempted and a tamper display alerts an owner that an unauthorized entry has been attempted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Inventor: Gerald A. Butler
  • Patent number: 5408213
    Abstract: An alarm system comprises a pair of interlocking components, which when separated causes an electrical switch operable in response there to change states and activate the alarm. The switch may be either a mechanical type device or a magnetic proximity type device. A cable may be attached to one or both components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventor: Benjamin I. Ungarsohn
  • Patent number: 5406257
    Abstract: An alarm device for locks detects an attempt to break the lock as vibration and generates an alarm. The alarm device is provided with a first timer having a first predetermined time period and a second timer having a second predetermined time period. The first predetermined time period is provided for preventing the vibration caused during locking from triggering the alarm. The second predetermined time period is provided for preventing the vibration caused during unlocking from triggering the alarm. The alarm device has its alarm action delayed according to the first and the second predetermined time periods for preventing a false alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Saikosha
    Inventor: Takao Saito
  • Patent number: 5387897
    Abstract: An arrangement for a motor vehicle with a central locking system and an anti-theft alarm system is controlled by a control device which both systems have in common and which monitors the operating condition of the systems. For this purpose, the locked condition and the unlocked condition of all locks or doors of the motor vehicle is monitored by additional switching contacts. A differentiation is made between at least three operating conditions which are indicated by visually distinguishable flashing signals output by electro-optical indicating elements in the door locking buttons by visually distinguishable flashing signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Porsche AG
    Inventors: Rolf Bechtle, Walter Hacker
  • Patent number: 5373282
    Abstract: A security key control information system and method for vehicle dealerships and the like is provided. A key storage device A mounted to each vehicle window has a compartment for storing access keys B to the respective vehicles and contains a sensing device H which produces a signal indicating whether an event related to that vehicle is routine or hostile. A second device may be permanently attached to the vehicle for regularly transmitting identifying information as to that vehicle. Both devices report the information by radio through an intermediate transmitter network to a computer D inside the dealership which records the information along with the time of the event. The information is stored for subsequent retrieval for the purpose of generating reports useful to the dealership management. If an event is hostile, appropriate action may be taken including suitable signaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald L. Carter
  • Patent number: 5321963
    Abstract: An electrically operated locking system for doors and the like has an electrically operated locking device installed inside the door. A control device installed outside the door is operatively connected with the locking device. A sensor detects the position of the door with respect to the door mounting by a light activated means electrically coupled to the locking device such that when darkness is sensed, the locking device is activatable to operate the locking unit. When light is sensed, however, the locking device is nonactivatable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Assignee: Ilco Unican Inc.
    Inventor: Ilan Goldman
  • Patent number: 5319362
    Abstract: An electronic security system includes a controller for controlling access to a location through activation of a lock mechanism in response to coded data and command instructions read from a key or card containing an electronic memory. The key memory data includes information specific to the keyholder which is decoded and acted upon by the controller. The controller memory can be reduced in size while still allowing the use of a large number of keys, by distributing a larger amount of data to the key memories. The controller is also capable of writing and altering key memory data in real time to control the subsequent use of the key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Medeco Security Locks, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard G. Hyatt, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5311168
    Abstract: A self-contained alarm/annunciator system for a door provides an alarm function and a flashing LED when the door is locked to deter attempted burglary, and an annunciator function operable when the door is unlocked to indicate attempted door opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Pease Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David H. Pease, Jr., William W. Kling
  • Patent number: 5303300
    Abstract: A security door phone device, to enable a user to speak with a person at their front door regardless of whether the user is in their home at the time, the device including a solid, durable, weather-resistant casing adapted to be securely mounted to a wall surface, the casing including a securely attached cover panel, a speaker and a microphone, a telephone line connection utilizing the speaker and microphone for normal two-way telephone communication, a memory adapted to store a selection of predetermined telephone numbers corresponding with select time periods, and a dialing button protruding through the cover panel and being structured and disposed to auto dial one of the predetermined numbers corresponding with the time period when the button is pushed. The device is easily programmed such that when the dialing button is pushed, the predetermined number will be called. A key pad and display enable the phone numbers and corresponding select time periods to be entered into memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventor: Donald Eckstein
  • Patent number: 5296841
    Abstract: An alarm includes a chain guard assembly in which a slide member is attached to a door jamb by a chain and is removeably engaged in a slot member which is mounted on the inside of a door. An alarm enclosure which is connected to the slot member includes an alarm and a battery. A normally open switch assembly is mounted on the slot member. Movement of the slide member caused by a forced opening of the door causes the slide member to bear against the switch assembly causing the switch assembly to close and complete an electrical circuit between the battery and the alarm thereby activating the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1994
    Inventor: Alan Vormbrock
  • Patent number: 5278538
    Abstract: A bicycle security system includes a locking bicycle rack and employs a user's automated teller banking card to operate the system and debit charges accrued in connection with use of the system from the user's bank account. The locking system has an electronic control means which locks and unlocks the bicycle rack by means of a banking card. The electronic control means includes a timer which tracks time in connection with use of the system. The control means thereafter calculates a charge based upon the use of the system and debits the accrued charges from the user's bank account via telephone modem. The locking bicycle rack incorporates three locking pins which lock the bicycle at the frame, the front wheel and the rear wheel to provide a high degree of security.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Inventors: Kathryn L. Ainsworth, Mark B. Beezer
  • Patent number: 5266923
    Abstract: An improved locking mechanism having a first electrode carried by at least one of the locking elements and a second electrode carried by the locking surface normally engageable by the locking elements when the locking mechanism is in its locked configuration, and an electrical tamper-detection circuit connected across the first and second electrodes and operative to generate an electrical signal response in the event that the first electrode is caused to engage the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Inventor: Chiang S. Tseng
  • Patent number: 5229747
    Abstract: A pin tumbler lock barrel assembly is capable of preventing the lock from being operated by the use of a skeleton key or any other tool inserted into the key slot. The lock is comprised of an improved hollow lock casing having a key plug located therein and a specially designed sleeve that surrounds the lock casing that is relatively rotatable with respect thereto. The sleeve is comprised of two halves that are interconnected by spring-loaded fasteners. A crescent-shaped slot is provided on the key plug and is aligned with two radial through bores formed in the lock casing and one of the sleeve halves. An alarm system includes a switch assembly on the periphery of the sleeve which is aligned with the radial bore. A specially designed sliding element with a cam-shaped end surface cooperates with the lock casing allowing only the correct key to operate the lock mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1993
    Inventor: Mantang Zhao
  • Patent number: 5216406
    Abstract: A motor vehicle including a central locking system as well as an anti-theft alarm system is controlled by a control unit common to both systems. The locked state and the unlocked state of all locks or doors of the motor vehicle are monitored by means of additional switching contacts and an activating of the alarm system is prevented if at least one of the locks is not in the locked state. An activating of the alarm ready state of the alarm system is nevertheless possible by operating a key-operated lock a certain number of times within a specific limited time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche AG
    Inventor: Rolf Bechtle
  • Patent number: 5208579
    Abstract: An improved alarm system having a first electrode carried by at least one of the locking elements and a second electrode carried by the locking surface normally engageable by the locking elements when the locking mechanism is in its locked configuration, and an alarm system including an alarm signal generator and a plurality of event detection sensors, one of which is formed by the first and second locking elements, the sensors being coupled to the signal generator such that an event detected by any sensor causes the generator to develop an alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventor: Chiang S. Tseng
  • Patent number: 5194845
    Abstract: A portable security lock of the "U-bar" type includes a rigid "U" or "C" shaped security bar (8), and a flexible security loop (14) and a generally tubular cross member (2). The cross member has a pair of sockets each of which is adapted to cooperate with a suitably shaped end of the security bar or loop, and an internal rotatable barrel member (26) having keyhole slots (28, 30, 32) which receive the shaped ends in a first rotational position. The barrel member is then rotated to a second position in which the shaped ends are locked into the cross-member. Electrical contacts connect the barrel to an alarm via the security loop so that the alarm is triggered if the security loop is removed or broken while the alarm is set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Malcolm I. Weaver
    Inventors: James B. Sirmon, Ivan F. S. Foti
  • Patent number: 5191314
    Abstract: A portable combination anti-theft lock and alarm to prevent the theft or displacement of protected property and comprising a housing, an audible alarm and alarm circuit located within the housing, and a flexible electrically conductive locking cable having a first end that is fixedly attached to the housing and an opposite free end which is detachably connected to the housing. The alarm circuit is adapted to activate the alarm and cause a loud warning signal to be emitted through the housing in the event that either the cable or the housing is vandalized by a thief in an effort to gain access to the protected property. More particularly, the alarm will be activated if the cable is either severed or jumped by a shunt wire. The alarm will also be activated if the housing is cut or a battery cover plate is removed from the housing without properly operating an associated lock assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: Pacific West Industries
    Inventors: Roger C. Ackerman, Robert B. Jones, Kenneth A. Tarlow, Eric Dennison