Abstract: Methods for providing a privacy setting for a target user relative to relationships with a number of other users in a social network utilizing an electronic computing device are presented, the method including: causing the electronic computing device to retrieve a current privacy setting for a common profile item, where the common profile item corresponds with the target user and each of the number of other users, and where the common profile item is one of a number of common profile items; causing the electronic computing device to calculate a pseudo-common profile item sensitivity value for the common profile item based on the current privacy settings of the target user and the number of other users; causing the electronic computing device to calculate a final common profile item sensitivity value for the common profile item based on the current privacy setting.

Abstract: Heater modules are configured for streamlined daisy chain connectivity that includes front end and intermediate daisy chain power injection, water resistant heater assemblies, and shielding. A power injection device is configured with connectivity for insertion of power into heater modules that are in front and intermediate daisy chain positions while enabling data communications between heater modules positioned on opposite sides of the power injection locations.

Abstract: Provided are a double auxiliary resonant commutated pole three-phase soft-switching inverter circuit and a modulation method. The circuit includes a three-phase main inverter circuit and a three-phase double auxiliary resonant commutator circuit. An A-phase double auxiliary resonant commutator circuit, an A-phase main inverter circuit, a B-phase double auxiliary resonant commutator circuit, a B-phase main inverter circuit, a C-phase double auxiliary resonant commutator circuit and a C-phase main inverter circuit are connected in parallel in sequence and simultaneously connected with a DC power supply in parallel. The present invention can achieve the separation of the resonant current of the double auxiliary resonant commutator circuit from the load current at the moment of current commutation, thereby effectively reducing the current stress of the auxiliary switching tubes and the efficiency can be greatly increased particularly under light load condition.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an electronic combination lock mainly characterized by miniature size and easy-to-use electronic identification access-gaining method that enables a vast variety and type of access codes for user setting and choice. Another battery operated electronic key unit, incorporated with programmed access code to provide as an alternative choice for locking, unlocking and backup power, can be used in conjunction with the electronic combination lock.

Abstract: An embedded control system is provided, which includes a generically applicable computer module, display module, keyboard module, power supply module, and at least one input/output module. The display module is coupled to the computer module by a first communication bus, and the keyboard module is coupled to the computer module by a second communication bus. The power supply module is coupled to the computer module by a third communication bus, and the at least one input/output module is coupled to the power supply module and the third communication bus. The input/output module is adapted for coupling at least one additional input/output module to the third communication bus. The computer module automatically identifies the input/output modules on the third communication bus in response to applying power to the embedded control system. The system is adapted for different applications using software resident in the computer module.

Abstract: A digital protective relay for power systems includes a memory location for storing information entered by an operator concerning the operation of the relay. Conventional reports of the relay will include a reference to such operator-entered information. This information will include particular actions taken by the operator relative to the relay, as well as notes made by the operator on particular actions and/or entry of and changes to the relay settings. The entered information can be conveniently retrieved by the operator.

Abstract: A driving apparatus of a vibration type actuator includes an apparatus for forming a vibration wave by applying four-phase AC signals having temporal phase differences to four-phase driving phases arranged at intervals of ¼ wavelength, which includes first and second transformers and two-phase driving phases connected to the secondary terminals of the respective transformers, thereby simplifying the arrangement of a driving circuit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control device (20) with redundancy for fitting to a lock having a mechanism (21) for locking an unlocking an access door, the device (20) being adapted to manage a change of state of this lock under predetermined conditions and to ensure that this state current is kept current up until the next change of state. This device (20) comprises means (30) for controlling the mechanism (21) and two units (31; 32) for providing like instructions to the control means. This device (20) is characterized in that the first unit (31) has a structure different from that of the second unit (32), while effecting common functions, and in that the control means behave functionally as an AND gate to the inputs of which are applied the instructions from the units respectively, when the device is functioning in a normal situation.

Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator with a control circuit, a combinational circuit and a power section as well as with a magnetic coil, which is connected via electrical lines to the output of the power section, the output signal of the control circuit is passed on to the power section only when, in addition to the output signal of the control circuit, the combinational circuit is fed a release signal. For safety reasons, current is to flow via the magnetic coil only when the release signal is simultaneously available. For monitoring the effectiveness of the combination of the output signal of the control circuit connected upstream of the power section with the release signal with respect to the current flow via the magnetic coil, the voltage of that line which is supplied with the operating voltage on activation of the power section is fed to an evaluation circuit. The evaluation circuit has a threshold switch, which converts the voltage fed to it into a switching signal.

Abstract: A system (10) for a vehicle (12), wherein the system includes transmitter components (26, 28), located at the vehicle, that are operable to send communication that conveys a vehicle system status. A portable receiver unit (14) is operable to receive the communication that conveys the vehicle system status. An operator (76) of the vehicle (12) carries the portable receiver unit (14) upon leaving the vehicle. A controller (22) senses a condition indicative of the vehicle operator (76) leaving the vehicle (12) and enables the communication from the transmitter components (26, 28) to the portable receiver unit (14) in response to the sensed condition indicative of the vehicle operator (76) leaving the vehicle (12). Preferably, a device (44) enables operation of the portable receiver unit (14) in response to the sensed condition indicative of the vehicle operator (76) leaving the vehicle (12).

Abstract: An improved circuit and method for connecting a device to an actuator-sensor interface (“ASI”) bus. The circuit provides the proper AC and DC coupling between the device and bus during normal operation, while providing AC and DC decoupling in the event of a short circuit or when the device is disconnected. The circuit accomplishes these goals while advantageously eliminating some of the components used in prior art circuits.

Abstract: A way of controlling access to golf cart starter keys, (referred herein as user-keys) is described. A specially coded and specially shaped key, the user-key is given to a golf cart renter once an appropriate rental fee has been paid. In order to start the golf cart, the renter must insert the user-key into a control unit, which is located in the dashboard. When the user-key is properly inserted, the golf cart starts. Furthermore, the user-key is locked inside the control unit and can no longer be removed by the renter, thereby preventing the renters from misappropriating the user-key. When the renter completes the round of golf, he returns the golf cart, along with the unremovable user-key, to the golf club. Only the specially coded removal key in the golf club's possession can remove the user-key from the control unit.

Abstract: The present invention describes an apparatus and method for an electronic equipment security and recovery system in which the disconnection of electrical power and subsequent movement of the equipment automatically renders the equipment inoperative. Upon obtaining the equipment from the manufacturer, and connecting it to a source of power, the owner inputs a security code into a microprocessor incorporated in the equipment, and enrolls in a security system maintained by a database provider, giving at that time the serial number designation of the equipment, the security code, and appropriate owner identification information. If the equipment were to be stolen--or simply sold or given away--, the removal of the equipment from the power source is sensed, and the equipment rendered inoperative. If the security code is not re-inputted, the then possessor of the equipment usually brings it to a servicing repair facility where, with manufacturer instructions, the serial number designation can be retrieved.

Abstract: An electronic locking system with an access-control solenoid for controlling the operation of a locking mechanism is substantially immune to "hot-wiring." The locking system includes an actuating circuit for energizing the access-control solenoid. The actuating circuit is responsive to a modulated drive signal of a selected frequency to apply current through the solenoid to retract its plunger, while blocking externally applied DC voltages from reaching the solenoid. When an access code is entered through an input device, a control circuit of the locking system verifies the access code. When the code is verified, the control circuit generates the modulated drive signal to energize the solenoid to retract the plunger, thereby allowing the locking mechanism to be unlocked. After the plunger is retracted, the frequency of the modulated drive signal is changed to reduce the power consumption for retaining the plunger in its retracted position.

Abstract: A method of detecting a condition requiring connection of a user apparatus with a feeder line comprises the steps of low-voltage power supplying the user apparatus through a detection impedance (17, 17a); detecting the waveform at the ends of the detection impedance; operating connection of the user apparatus with the feeder line when the waveform at the ends of the detection impedance is distorted in a manner that has been pre-established to be caused by actuation of a command in the user apparatus and requiring full powering of same. A device in accordance with the method comprises an analysis circuit (19, 37) detecting (by comparison with sample waveforms stored in a memory (20), for example) distortion of the waveform at the ends of the impedance (17, 17a) and consequently operating powering of the user apparatus.

Abstract: A power supply control unit for a lamp having a luminous means and an at least partly electrically conductive lamp housing comprises a first and a second line via which a power supply signal can be applied to the luminous means and which are insulated from the lamp housing. The electrical power to be applied to the luminous means is switched or controlled by means of a switching device in the first or second line. A control circuit comprises an oscillator and an evaluation circuit, the oscillator issuing at an output thereof a signal which in terms of frequency differs from the power supply signal and is electrically coupled to the lamp housing. To control the switching device, the evaluation circuit responds to frequency and/or amplitude changes of the oscillator signal brought about by contacting of the lamp housing.

Abstract: A pulse generator is provided for energizing a coil with period bipolar current pulses for the purposes of airborne prospecting. The pulses have a generally square waveform, and the pulse generator includes a resonant DC to AC converter circuit including a DC input and an output coupled to the coil. A control circuit is provided for controlling the switching of the converter, and a resonant capacitor is connected in parallel across the DC input. A decoupling diode is provide for decoupling the resonant capacitor from the DC input when the voltage across the resonant capacitor exceeds that of the DC input. The converter includes first and second resonant charging sub-circuits, first and second resonant discharging sub-circuits, first and second freewheeling sub-circuits and first and second exponential charging sub-circuits.

Abstract: An antitheft apparatus for a motor vehicle can allow operation of an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle to be started notwithstanding of decision of discrepancy in an engine start enabling signal ascribable to transient error in communication between a code collating means and an engine start decision means. An identification code stored in an engine key (1) is read out upon every starting of operation of the motor vehicle to be collated with a preset identification code to thereby make decision as to whether or not both of the identification codes coincide with each other. Upon decision of coincidence, the identification code as read out is affixed with a rolling code which is updated every time the engine of the motor vehicle is operated, to thereby generate an engine start enabling signal. Means are provided for sending the engine start enabling signal and for generating the rolling code. The rolling code as generated is sent to the rolling code adding means (30b).

Abstract: An electronic security system for controlling access to a plurality of storage locations. The system includes an electronic lock associated with each storage location, a central control terminal for controlling operation of the security system, a programming terminal to program a plurality of keys, and an identification terminal for identifying authorized users of the security system.

Abstract: A garage door opener system includes providing temporary access permission for some user or users while maintaining near permanent access permission for other users. The temporary access permission may be controlled by number of uses or a predetermined amount of time.

Abstract: A locking system for an automobile, comprises an operating key, an operating key receptacle and an associated operating unit. The operating key and the operating key receptacle have first means for transmitting a first coded operating signal from the operating key to the operating key receptacle. In addition, further second means are arranged in the operating key and in the operating key receptacle, for transmitting a second coded operating signal from the operating key receptacle to the operating key. The second operating signal cooperates with the first operating signal in a bidirectional communication in the manner of an alternating code, activation of the operating unit being made possible in the event of successful deciphering of the first transmitted operating signal.

Abstract: A dual fault tolerant control system for controlling power delivered to an actuator from a power source includes decoders which accept commands representing the length of time power is to be applied to the actuator. Controllers process the command and control power inhibits based upon the length of time indicated by the command for supplying power to the actuator. The dual fault tolerant feature allows reassurance that power is applied to the actuator for the length of time dictated by the command.

Abstract: An anti-vehicle-thief apparatus having an immobilizer unit for comparing a specific first code received from a transponder to a stored code just after an engine is started, and when these codes are identical, outputting a second code to an EGI unit, the EGI unit for comparing the second code to a stored code, and when these codes are identical, permitting the engine to continue operation, a CPU for counting the number of times that an ignition switch power supply is turned ON and OFF during a code comparison time period, and backup RAM capable of storing the counted number of times that the ignition switch power supply is turned ON and OFF for a predetermined time period. When the ignition switch power supply is turned ON and OFF repeatedly more than a predetermined number of times, the EGI unit causes the engine to stop.

Abstract: A system for remotely starting a motor of a vehicle and also capable of operating various vehicle accessories such as alarm system, door locks, door windows, trunk latch, etc. The system comprises a portable hand-held transmitter generating a command in the form of a binary coded sequence and a controller mounted in the vehicle for operating the vehicle's motor and accessories in dependence thereon. The system is characterized by a novel encoding scheme of the digitized sequence that prevents command misinterpretation by the controller, thereby avoiding an unintended avocation of the vehicle's motor or another accessory.

Abstract: An electronic access control system for controlling a lock in which the inputs and outputs are multiplexed, the electrically programmable read only memory is written to and read from in a serial manner, and the operator can disable access codes and enable access codes in one operation. The device reduces power consumption when powering a solenoid or DC motor by pulsing the output power. Further, the device is able to be operated in a remote location whereby the remote device can accept inputs from a keypad, an electronic signal, or a telephone line. The remote device, when not in active operation, operates in a low power mode so that the remote device may be powered by a battery.

Abstract: An automotive opto-electric starter interlock for use in a motor vehicle for the purpose of preventing the engine from being remotely started unless the transmission is in neutral. The starter interlock includes an optical sensors array mounted to the transmission shift linkage. The output of the sensors is dependent upon the position of the shift linkage, hence allowing to determine if the transmission is in neutral. A microprocessor stimulates the sensors and observes their response to determine the position of the shift linkage. The information supplied by the sensors is also used to detect system malfunctions.

Abstract: An electronic control for gas furnaces controls a two speed main blower fan and an induction draft fan based on 24 volt input signals from a room thermostat, a high limit and an ignition control including a gas valve. The input signals are coupled to input ports of a microprocessor through current limiting resistors and to AC ground through pull down resistors. AC ground is also connected to the IRQ port of the microprocessor. Output ports of the microprocessor are connected to a relay driver which in turn is connected to relays for energizing and de-energizing the fans. The control calibrates itself on a continuing periodic basis to read the AC inputs synchronously at the peak of their wave and can switch the relays asynchronously based on the Real Time Clock of the microprocessor or can be switched synchronously by providing a selected delay so that contact engagement and disengagement occurs at or near the zero crossing of the AC line voltage wave form.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a battery driven equipment including an equipment body, a battery pack detachably mounted in the equipment body, a locking mechanism for releasably locking the battery pack with respect to the equipment body, a device for determining whether or not the battery pack is allowed to be removed from the equipment body, and a device for instructing the locking mechanism to lock or unlock the battery pack according to a result of determination by the determining device.

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.

Abstract: An electronic control system (10) for use in controllably unlocking a locked drawer. Portions of the system (10) are located in the vicinity (12) of the locked drawer and portions are located in a remote location ( 11 ). The system (10) includes an operator accessible switch (14) located in the remote location (11), which switch enables two separate, parallel, redundant unlocking mechanism paths. Each path includes a time delay unit (17) that delays the opening of the locked drawer until a predetermined period of time following activation of the system by the operator, in order to allow time for the operator to move from the remote location to the locked drawer. In addition to providing power to circuitry that unlocks the locked drawer, the system also provides from the remote location, and then decodes at the locked drawer location, an authorization signal. Without this signal, the unlocking circuitry will not unlock the drawer, even in the presence of power.

Abstract: One or more loads, commonly solenoids, requiring a high-power drive--typically 500 ma. 7.5 v.d.c.--are selectively actuated by energy that is accumulated over time--typically over several hundred milliseconds--within associated, addressable, energy-accumulating high-power drivers. The energy accumulation is solely from micropowered signals--typically 1 ma., 4.5 v.d.c.--that are received from a control system that is itself micropowered--typically from a high-equivalent-series-resistance power source. The energy-accumulating high-power solenoid drivers (i) accumulate predetermined amounts of energy only as, when, and to such extent as is required, (ii) multiply the voltage (nominally times two) of the received micropowered signals, and (iii) shape the current waveform of the output high-power solenoid drive signals--all as desired so as to optimally both use and conserve energy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an integrated outlet that allows supply of AC power to an outlet receptacle when certain conditions are satisfied. The integrated outlet contains separate modules establish electrical connection with electrical conductors that transmit AC and DC power, telecommunications, control communications, and signals transmitted along a coaxial wire. In a preferred embodiment, these electrical conductors are all disposed on a single ribbon cable. Each module within the integrated outlet can attach to only certain conductors to increase safety in the resulting system.

Abstract: An apparatus for energizing the coil of, and detecting the resultant armature actuation in, a solenoid of the type having a movable armature reciprocable along an axis between first and second positions, a spring bias normally biasing the armature toward the first position, and an actuating coil for inducing a force on the armature tending to move the armature from the first position toward the second position in response to current flow in the actuating coil. A voltage is first provided to the solenoid coil and thereafter, a resulting current flow is differentiated and a zero crossing comparator is utilized to determine when the differentiated current is zero and, therefor, the time at which the sensed current flow reaches a maximum (dv/dt=0). The time at which the armature began to move in response to the resulting coil current may be inferred and the voltage to the solenoid coil interrupted a Predetermined time after the time at which the armature began to move.

Abstract: A secure, keyless secondary transmitter unit for use in an automatic garage door operator transmits a code set by a code setting device as modified by digits entered at a keyboard. A controller constructs an identification code by inverting bits of the code set by the code setting device that correspond to entered digits. A radio frequency transmitter transmits this altered code in the manner of known automatic garage door operators. Thus operation of keys corresponding to the bits that differ between the receiver code and the secondary transmitter code controls the door. The keyboard preferably also includes an entry complete key indicating entry of the complete digit sequence and a clear key to restart the digit sequence. A lamp connected to the controller illuminates the keyboard upon operation of any key at the keyboard and is turned off if no key is operated in a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A novel machine with an internal combustion engine, and practical use-control means to prevent an unauthorized person from starting such engine, and anti-bypass means to prevent a knowledgeable prepared unauthorized person from defeating use-control means within a practical period of time as a feasible means for unauthorized starting of the engine. Use-control means require a proper authorization code be entered into code-input means before enabling engine starting. Anti-bypass means include enclosing parts of the use-control means within a tamper-proof enclosing-component and selecting such parts and components so that use-control means cannot be manipulated to start the engine by an unauthorized user within a practical amount of time. In one embodiment a solenoid component containing a shielded enclosure and two solenoids is attached to the starter-motor of a car or truck using novel one-way fasteners.

Abstract: Automobiles such as a cash carrying car, truck, police car and so on, are prevented from being ridden away during loading or unloading cash or goods or being robbed by robbers after having been forcibly stopped on road. When a door of the automobile is opened, a opened-door detection switch operates and a first-control means stores in its memory the switch's action and cuts off an engine start-up circuit. The engine can be restarted when a registered password is entered into the device through a password inputting means, whereby a second-control means stores the signal and enters a resetting signal into the first control means to restore the engine start-up circuit. At the same time, a resetting signal produced by a reset signal generating means is inputted into the second control means which is thereby restored to the initial state.

Abstract: A security device intervenes in the primary power input connection to an existing appliance. The user must set numbered thumbwheels to a correct numerical sequence preset through those same thumbwheels by the appliance owner before the device will connect the primary power to the attached appliance. Once the correct code is dialed in via the thumbwheels, a relay latches so that power is continuously available to the appliance until the primary power is lost as by disconnection of the appliance power cord for more than a short period of time. Reentry of the unique code is then necessary to operate the appliance. Labels are permanently affixed to the appliance to forewarn that it is not operational unless the correct code is entered. The attachment module is encased in potting compound to prevent bypassing of the power controlling circuits.

Abstract: A solenoid current control system includes a microprocessor which periodically generates a desired peak current value and which energizes the solenoid coil. Current through the coil is sensed via a series resistor and the sensed current is compared to the desired peak current by comparator. The comparator generates an interrupt signal when the sensed current reaches the desired peak value. The interrupt signal is applied to the microprocessor which responds by de-energizing the coil.

Abstract: A card controlled temperature control device for soldering iron in which only a specific person can set and control the tip temperature of the soldering iron. The device comprises a card having a specific identification code, a card identifier for identifying the idententification code, an input section for entering a set value, a set value judging component for judging if the entered set value is in the allowable range or not, and temperature control circuitry controlling the heater of soldering iron on the basis of the set value within the allowable range, whereby the iron tip temperature is allowed to be set and operated by a specific person having a specific card and its misoperation is prevented.

Abstract: In a method for code protection of an electronic key, a plurality of codes n are stored in a transmitter and in a receiver and a new, coinciding code is automatically set in the transmitter and in the receiver after each transmission and reception event, respectively. The code transmitted by the transmitter contains information for the receiver with respect to which code is to be selected from the stored set of codes as the next code to be utilized.

Abstract: An electronic controller, connected to a digital communication network, is responsive to commands from a master controller to control solenoid operated circuit breakers. The electronic controller also determines the status of all circuit breakers and reports back to the master controller to verify that the command from the master controller was executed and to provide historical data regarding the status of the circuit breakers. The electronic controller is synchronized to the same alternating current (AC) power source as the circuit breakers to control the operation of the respective circuit breakers to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by the switching of the circuit breakers. The electronic controller further controls the operation of the circuit breakers to reduce the duty cycle of the power supply for the circuit breaker solenoids.

Abstract: To prevent fraudulent action by ill-intentioned users, the detection of the secret codes, contained in a memory card with MOS integrated circuit and transmitted to an input/output unit, is prevented. This is done by interposing a read amplifier in the transmission chain, in the integrated circuit itself. This read amplifier essentially has two parallel-connected identical circuits, designed to take complementary logic states when they receive one and the same logic level to be detected. The result of this is that the electrical comsumption of the amplifier is the same regardless of the logic level transmitted. Thus, it becomes impossible to deduce the nature of the logic level transmitted. As an improvement, the outputs of the detector are provided with bistable circuits which are coupled to each other so as to be capable of taking transitory or spurious information detected into account.

Abstract: Battery power in an electronic lock system is conserved by delaying application of energy to the unlocking mechanism until a movable member, used to open the lock system, is moved.

Abstract: The device can be applied to vehicles provided with an electronic control device for the vehicle engine. The protecting device for includes a keyboard for entering a user's code, a microprocessor for converting entered data coming from the keyboard into an output message containing the user's code, programmable and non-volatile memory for storing the code for unlocking the engine electronic control device, a microprocessor for comparing the unlocking code stored in the memory with the user's code contained in said message coming from the keyboard and unlocking the engine electronic control device when there is coincidence of the code contained in the memory with that contained in said output message, and the microprocessor and the memory being capable of effecting replacement of the unlocking code of the engine control device with a new unlocking code through action on the keyboard.

Abstract: A vehicular anti-theft system which combines a mechanical key and an electronic key involving a code light signal. A light emitting element is provided in a casing attached to a base end of the shank of the mechanical key while a light receiving element is provided adjacent to an open end of the key hole so that the conventional action of fitting the key shank into the key hole causes the transmission of a code light signal between these elements. Advantageously, the light emitting element can be additionally equipped with the function of locking and unlocking a vehicle door so that the user can obtain the benefits of both a remote control entry system and a highly effective anti-theft engine start system.

Abstract: A keyless marine access and engine control system. The system is caused to change from a dormant state to an enabled state when a sequence of actuation signals entered through a keypad matches data representing either one of two access sequences stored in the system's memory. When the system is in its enabled state, the system responds only to signals representing a keypad actuation exceeding a first predetermined time interval. These signals are used to crank, choke, and stop a marine vehicle engine. The secondary access sequence can be changed by a person who knows either the primary access sequence or the secondary access sequence, while the primary access sequence can be changed only by a person having knowledge of the present primary access sequence. In order to reprogram either access sequence, a programming button must be actuated for a predetermined time interval exceeding the first time interval. The system can be used with either a single or dual engine installation.

Abstract: An ignition system for vehicle includes switching means which is turned on in response to a given code input. The switching means may be connected in a supply line which provides a connection between a primary coil of an ignition circuit and a storage battery mounted on a vehicle, in a ground line which provides a connection between the primary coil and the electrical ground of a vehicle, or in an energization control line which provides a connection between the base of a switching transistor, acting to pass or interrupt the primary current flow, and its associated base driver, each line being disposed in an ignition circuit. The code may be entered through numerical keys, a combination of a key code emitter and a key code receiver, or a combination of a key card and a card reader. The ignition circuit is completed by allowing the switching means to be turned on only when a code entered matches a specific code which is previously stored.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a key operated mechanism for producing coded signal combinations for selecting a function of a multifunctional device. The mechanism includes a plurality of magnetically operated switches arranged along a key guide. The key includes magnets specifically positioned for interaction with the magnetically operated switches in accordance with a code diagram. Closing of the switches sends signals to a code signal user, which if the signals are enabling activates an associated machine such as a franking machine.

Abstract: A battery powered electronic lock includes a control for indicating low battery voltage and reserving a portion of the battery's energy for operating the lock upon insertion of maintenance or emergency keys.

Abstract: A simple and economical, yet tamper-proof, electronic locking apparatus for motor vehicles features an electronic key and an electronic lock, which each contain a synchronized, constantly operating, precision oscillator. The output of each oscillator is applied at a predetermined counting rate to a respective number sequence generator. Both generators contain the same predetermined number sequence, which they step through at the same clock rate, applying the instantaneous value of the count to a first input of a respective computer. A second input of each computer is connected to a fixed memory which supplies a permanent, characteristic code number to the computer. Both the count state and the characteristic code number are combined using corresponding algorithms in the key and in the lock to produce a combination code. The key-produced combination code is sent from a transmitter in the key to a receiver in the lock and compared there with the lock-produced combination code.