Abstract: A motor control center (MCC) for an industrial system includes a plurality of sections and a safety bus. Each section includes one or more units. Each unit includes one or more industrial control devices. The safety bus is configured to receive safety signals from a safety distribution unit and delivers the safety signals to each unit of the plurality of section.

Abstract: It is provided a protection device for being provided inside a key fob to selectively inactivate the key fob. The protection device comprises: a first conductive layer; a second conductive layer; an insulator layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer, the insulator layer preventing conductive contact between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; and a switch conductively coupled between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer, the switch being wirelessly controllable to be in a conductive state or a blocking state.

Abstract: A locking device with a bolt movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking device includes an electronic controller for selectively controlling movement of the bolt between the locked and unlocked position. At least two input devices are provided, such as a keypad, a biometric input, etc., which communicate an authentication code to the controller. The controller controls movement of the bolt based on a valid authentication code received from any of the at least two input devices.

Abstract: An interlock system comprising: a first lock including a first lock memory configured to store one or more virtual keys; and a first key including a first key memory configured to store one or more virtual keys, wherein the first lock is configured to be actuated between a first condition and a second condition, when a first virtual key stored in the first key memory is transferred to the first lock memory, by engagement of the first key and first lock, and movement of the first key with respect to the first lock.

Abstract: A lock includes a housing assembly, an actuatable lock assembly and a latching assembly. The actuatable lock assembly is positionable in at least a closed orientation and an open orientation. The latching assembly further includes a latch, a cam and a motor. The latch, having a cam profile, is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the actuatable lock assembly is maintained in the closed orientation. In the unlocked position, the actuatable lock assembly is positionable into an open orientation. The cam is rotatably mounted and has a first follower configured to intermittently coact with the cam profile of the latch, to, in turn, move the latch between the locked position and the unlocked position. The motor is coupled to the cam. Actuation of the motor causes rotation of the cam, resulting in movement of the latch between the locked and unlocked positions.

Abstract: Assembly (10) for an electronic locking system (84), the assembly (10) comprising an actuating element (12) rotatably arrangable with respect to a base member (16) for rotation about a first axis (18) and rotatably arranged about a second axis (24) substantially perpendicular to the first axis (18), an electric generator (74) comprising a rotor (76), and a transmission arrangement (82) configured to transmit a rotational actuation of the actuating element (12) about the second axis (24) into a rotation of the rotor (76) of the electric generator (74) to generate electric energy.

Abstract: An electronic device associated with a lock device detects a trigger event related to security of a smart home environment, determines a target state of the lock device based on the trigger event, and in accordance with a determination that the target state indicates a security threat: determines a current state of the lock device, compares the target state of the lock device with the current state of the lock device, and provides or foregoes provision of instructions to operate the lock device based on a result of the comparison.

Abstract: An adaptive inductive ballast is provided with the capability to communicate with a remote device powered by the ballast. To improve the operation of the ballast, the ballast changes its operating characteristics based upon information received from the remote device. Further, the ballast may provide a path for the remote device to communicate with device other than the adaptive inductive ballast.

Abstract: A cylinder lock includes a housing; a cylinder rotatably provided therein and having first and second ends, the cylinder extending in a longitudinal direction between the first and second ends and including an internal keyway for placing a key corresponding to the lock in the cylinder; a locking mechanism that prevents rotation of the cylinder with respect to the housing when the key is not present in the keyway; a blocking element positioned between the first and second end, and configurable to take a first position wherein the keyway is blocked such that the key cannot be placed in the keyway and a second position wherein the keyway is unblocked such that the key can be placed therein; a configuration device to configure the blocking element in the first or second position, and controllable by wireless communication between the lock and a remote control unit.

Abstract: Locks, systems and methods of monitoring a lock, the lock having a hub with a slot rotatable by a handle to open and close a latchbolt. A locking member is moveable into and out of engagement with the hub slot to prevent and permit movement of the hub and latchbolt. A sensor on the lock, adjacent the hub and locking member, monitors a moving lock component. The sensor may sense the position of the locking member in or out of engagement with the hub slot. The sensor may be a reed switch actuated by a magnet on the moving lock component. The lock may further include a magnet mounted on the hub and the sensor may comprise a reed switch capable of being actuated by the magnet on the hub. The lock and system may include an external control unit having an alarm for controlling operation of the lock.

Abstract: A system includes a vehicle receiver and a fob. The fob includes a shield which defines a shield cavity. A transmitter is located with the shield cavity and is programmed to send signals to the vehicle receiver. The shield cavity is shielded to direct signals transmitted by the transmitter toward the vehicle receiver when the fob engages and is pushed toward the vehicle receiver.

Abstract: A system and method of selectively carrying out a vehicle passive door lock function. The method carried out by the system includes: (a) detecting a vehicle operator's exit from a vehicle having at least one lockable door for passenger entry and exit, wherein the vehicle is configured to automatically carry out a passive operator departure process following the operator's exit, (b) determining whether the vehicle is at a lock function exempt location; (c) automatically carrying out the passive operator departure process in a first mode when it is determined that the vehicle is not at the exempt location; and (d) automatically carrying out the passive operator departure process in a second mode when it is determined that the vehicle is at the exempt location, wherein the second mode comprises at least one less door lock function than is carried out in the first mode.

Abstract: A secure communication link (24) is provided between a movable barrier operator (23) and a peripheral system (20). Information conveyed via this link is used by one, the other, or both such elements to further inform or direct their respective actions.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus (50) for sectioning the phase conductors (L1, L2, L3) of a multi-phase electric power distribution network (NET) comprising a plurality of disconnectors (1, 2, 3), each disconnector being operatively associated to a related said phase conductor and comprising switching means (S) for sectioning a related phase conductor and a control unit (CU) that is capable of controlling said switching means and is capable of wireless communicating with remote devices. The control units of said disconnectors (1, 2, 3) execute different managing procedure depending on the operating status of said electric power distribution network. In a further aspect, the invention relates to a control system for executing the above described method.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for an enhanced and user friendly control circuit for an electric unlocking device, such as for example, an electric door strike or other unlocking devices utilizing actuating solenoids. The control circuit minimizes the potential for human error while also providing a small footprint, minimal DC in-rush current, over current protection, and minimized heat dissipation. Additionally, the present invention is directed to providing visual notification/diagnostics and improved field compatibility with existing electric unlocking devices.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a power relay apparatus, power relay method, power supply control apparatus, power supply control method, and power supply control system which can readily manage individual power consumption. Output terminals 51 and 52 relay and output the AC power supplied by input terminals 41 and 42 to connected equipment. An IC chip 325, in order to receive authentication from a power supply control apparatus and receive a supply of the AC power from the power supply control apparatus to the input terminals 41 and 42, outputs stored power information to the power supply control apparatus via the input terminals 41 and 42, by subjecting a high frequency signal that is input from the power supply control apparatus via the input terminals 41 and 42 to load modulation.

Abstract: An electronic lock may include a locking mechanism and a cartridge having a body portion and one or more extension receiving portions that may receive the locking mechanism. The lock may also include a first coil positioned around the cartridge, a core disposed within the cartridge and substantially within the first coil, and a second coil positioned around the cartridge. The second coil may be spaced from the first coil. In addition, a first sliding barrier may be disposed within the cartridge, which barrier may be selectively in communication with the locking mechanism. A control circuit may be included in the lock, which may energize the first and second coils to cause the first sliding barrier to move from a first position magnetically attracted to the core to a second position magnetically attracted to the second coil and thereby allow actuation of the locking mechanism.

Abstract: A motor control center communication system configured to interface with a communication network. The system includes a plurality of motor control units (MCUs), and a MCU controller configured to transmit and receive data signals via the communication network to and from, the plurality of MCUs. Each of the plurality of MCUs includes a magnetic contactor having electrical contacts operable between open and closed positions, and a local control module operatively connected to the associated magnetic contactor and to the MCU controller, and configured to monitor a status of the electrical contacts, transmit the monitored status information to the MCU controller, and actuate the associated magnetic contactor based on data signals received from the MCU controller.

Abstract: The invention relates to an access protection device for a physical area which can be switched on and off in a controlled manner, comprising a fixed part, at least one movable part for closing an access opening in the fixed part and, for each movable part, a tumbler device having a magnetic circuit, which comprises a magnetizable yoke located on the movable part and an electromagnet which can be closed by means of the yoke, it being possible to regulate the locking force of said electromagnet by means of a current regulator, a first and a second desired value being predetermined for the current regulator, and it being possible to periodically carry out a controlled jump from the first to the second desired value, it being possible to measure the time from the beginning of the controlled jump to the time at which the second desired value is reached.

Abstract: A switchgear comprises a switching device, such as a relay, with a switching mechanism. A printed-circuit board that is provided with at least one electronic component is electrically connected to the switching device to form a supplementary electrical circuit, which receives an operating voltage supplied to the switching device.

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

Abstract: Device for energizing a number of coils of a hook selection device for a weaving machine includes an electrical power supply source connected to the coils and a regulating device for regulating the current intensity in the coils. Each coil includes: a comparator for comparing the current intensity in the coil to a reference current intensity and a controllable current regulator (e.g. a chopper transistor) for regulating the current intensity in the coil in order to reach or approach the reference current intensity. The regulating device includes an electronic control circuit that is provided to control the current regulator of each coil of a number of coils, in order to reduce a variance between the actual current intensity in that coil and the reference current intensity measured by the comparator of that coil.

Abstract: An electronic drive control used for controlling a drive coil of a contactor during holding operation with a pulse-width modulation. The interval time for the pulse-width modulation is temporally changed or the pulse-width ratio is continuously changed. The invention may minimize the holding power in the case of high voltages without the occurrence of problems associated with EMC and without reducing the functional reliability.

Abstract: An electromechanical relay including a mechanical displacement electrical contact and a transistor parallel-connected with the electrical contact. The contact is closed for a voltage V corresponding to the forward direction of the transistor and a powering-on of the transistor that starts before the closure of the contact and ends after the closure. The contact is opened for a voltage V corresponding to the forward direction of the transistor and a powering-on of the transistor that starts before the closure of the contact and ends after the closure. Such an electromechanical relay may find particular application to electromechanical switches, hybrid relays.

Abstract: An electronic lock system for large armored safe movable entry barrier locks that records all access attempts and limits access to persons having two credentials, an access code recorded on an access card as well as a numerical personal identification code (PIN). The access barrier of the system comprises a solenoid-controlled dead bolt whose position changes when a 3V pulse from a microprocessor is passed through a voltage step-up relay that uses 120 V AC input passed through an AC to DC converter to increase the voltage to a 15V pulse capable of causing the solenoid to move the dead bolt barrier. In using the system, the access-seeking individual presents the required access card and inputs a Personal Identification Number (PIN). The access code recorded on the card and the inputted PIN are checked against a ROM-stored authorization codes to determine whether there is or is not a match.

Abstract: A method for initializing an actuator valve (12) and controlling the valve (12) using current command control (100) or voltage control including an estimate of back emf (200). A series of low voltage pulses (304) is applied to one of the solenoid coils (20, 24) in the actuator valve (12) according to the natural frequency of the armature (16) movement in the actuator valve (12). The current command control system calculates a desired force (Fem) and divides the force into closing and opening components Fem—c, Fem—o, for calculating a desired current command Ic_cmd, Io_cmd, for each of the solenoid coils. The back emf control system divides the current signal into close and open components, Io, Ic, that are individually processed and combined with a back emf estimate for each of the open and close solenoids, ec, eo. The result is a desired voltage command, vc*, vo*, for each of the solenoids that is communicated to the power stage (34) in order to operate the armature (16) as desired.

Abstract: A method is provided for retrofitting an existing dead-bolt assembly with an electrically operated actuator (12, 112, 212, 312, 800). The electrically operated actuator automatically operates the dead-bolt assembly while preserving manual operation of the lock. The actuator assembly has rotating means for rotation of the drive bar (18), which in turn extends or retracts the bolt (14) of the lock. The rotating means may be a lever (28, 128, 238, 328, 438, 818) attached to the drive bar (18) that is pivotable about the axis of rotation of the drive bar (18). The actuator assembly has driving means that forces the rotating means to rotate. The driving means is responsive to an electrical signal, which, for example, may be initiated from a remote-controlled transmitter (502, 602). The driving means may include a motor (20, 120, 220) for rotating a rod (22, 122, 222, 322) that in turn operates an assembly that rotates or drives the rotating means.

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: A remotely operable switch actuation module for retrofitting a manually operated disconnect switch. The switch actuation module includes a linear operator which produces a linear movement in response to an external signal and a mechanical interface shaft which translates the linear movement into rotational movement required by the switch operating mechanism to change the ON or OFF state of the disconnect switch. The ends of the mechanical interface shaft are provided with engagement means complementary to the engagement means provide on switch operating mechanism pivot shaft and the operating arm of the manually operated disconnect switch. Therefore, the mechanical interface permits the switch operating mechanism to be engaged by either the remote switch actuation module or the manual operating arm. The switch actuation module also includes a switch status indicator which produces an electric signal indicating the ON or OFF state of the disconnect switch.

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: A computer anti-theft system that includes a remote transmitter unit carried by the user, a dongle that physically attaches and selectively locks onto the parallel port on an existing computer, and a software program that is loaded into the computer's memory. When the system is activated, the remote transmitter unit transmits a pulse code signal which is received by a receiver component located inside the dongle. When the pulse code signal is received, the dongle is elevated to an active state. The dongle then transmits a return pulse code signal to the remote transmitter unit and the loop continues. If no pulse code signal is received, the dongle, is elevated to an alarm state. An alarm pulse code signal is then broadcast to the remote transmitter unit and elevating it to an alarm state. In one embodiment, the software program is used to control a solenoid inside the dongle which prevents removal of the dongle from the parallel port.

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: A security system with a driver circuit for energizing a solenoid actuated locking device. The circuit can include a microprocessor, a battery power supply, a boosting circuit and an energy storage circuit. The battery voltage can be stepped up by the boosting circuit and the stepped up voltage can be stored in the energy storage circuit. A solenoid driver circuit including a plurality of transistors arranged in an H-bridge configuration supply energy from the storage circuit to the solenoid under control of the microprocessor. The security system can be retrofited or is factory installable, and is particularly adapted for roll down doors and enclosures.

Abstract: A Remote Controlled Door Lock System for securely retracting a locking bolt from engagement to a striker plate disposed in a door jamb. The inventive device includes a solenoid for retracting the lock bolt from engagement to the striker plate, a first microcontroller and associated circuitry for generating and transmitting a first signal representing an access code, receiving and decoding a second signal representing a random value and generating and transmitting a third signal representing a unique alteration of the random value, and a second microcontroller and associated circuitry for receiving and decoding the first and third signals, generating and transmitting the second signal and for generating a fourth signal operable to energize the solenoid.

Abstract: An access control unit for an electrified door lock also toggles the state of an associated alarm. The unit is arranged to unlock the door only temporarily, but the alarm state is not toggled except by user request. The system is arranged to prevent the anomalous situation of an unlocked door and an armed alarm. Another aspect is the use of standardized key-receiving nests in disparate types of access control devices. Some disparate devices employ identical key-receiving nests, while others use different forms of nests. Yet all mate with and respond to a single type of key.

Abstract: An electrically operated actuator (12, 112, 212, 312, 800) automatically operates dead-bolt assemblies and other locks, while preserving manual operation of the locks. The actuator assembly has rotating means for rotation of the drive bar (18), which in turn extends or retracts the bolt (14) of the lock. The rotating means may be a lever (28, 128, 238, 328, 438, 818) attached to the drive bar (18) that is pivotable about the axis of rotation of the drive bar (18). The actuator assembly has driving means that forces the rotating means to rotate. The driving means is responsive to an electrical signal, which, for example, may be initiated from a remote-controlled transmitter (502, 602). The driving means may include a motor (20, 120, 220) for rotating a rod (22, 122, 222, 322) that in turn operates an assembly that rotates or drives the rotating means.

Abstract: A transmission and reception system for controlling a locking/unlocking operation of a key includes a transmission section for transmitting a control signal having a predetermined frequency for effecting locking/unlocking of the key, and a reception section for receiving the control signal and effecting driving control of the key in response to the control signal. The reception section includes a carrier detection circuit for detecting a frequency of the control signal and supplies power only to the carrier detection circuit when the control signal is not received.

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: With confidential information being composed of authenticating signs which belong to a first series, a second series of signs or designating symbols is defined, the first and second series of signs are displayed in a relatively random position, and this placement in correspondence is used to enter the confidential information in such a way that a third party who observes the entry operations cannot determine the confidential information. The invention also relates to the terminal associated with this process.

Abstract: In an immobilizer and a method for initializing the immobilizer, a multiplicity of control devices, all of which must correctly signal back their identification code word before the vehicle can be started, are integrated in the immobilizer. If a control device is exchanged, the new control device must first be initialized. Key code words of two keys are necessary in order to do this. When both keys are accepted by a testing unit and a release signal is delivered to the testing unit through a diagnostics apparatus, the new code words are stored in the exchanged control device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a driver circuit for energizing a solenoid actuated locking device. The circuit is adapted to include a microprocessor, a battery power supply, a boosting circuit and an energy storage circuit. The battery voltage is stepped up by the boosting circuit and the stepped up voltage is stored in the energy storage circuit. A solenoid driver circuit including a plurality of transistors arranged in an H-bridge configuration supply energy from the storage circuit to the solenoid under control of the microprocessor.

Abstract: A programmable activation system for the timed locking/unlocking of a security installation includes at least one activation module (10a, 10b) for unlocking an opening element (4) and apparatus for controlling the module to program a time value corresponding to the precise moment where the activation module (10a, 10b) will cause the unlocking of the opening element. The control apparatus includes at least one remote control element (30) constituting a mobile detachable or detached part from the activation module (10a, 10b) which constitutes a fixed part of the installation, these parts including communicating interfaces for the transmission of information, one of the two parts, mobile or fixed, including at least its own exclusive and unique identification code (IDC, IDD), which is transmitted to the other part and memories therein by memories (54, 56) arranged for systematically supplying a traceability of the programming in association with the identification code.

Abstract: The security system comprises a coil (34) close to the vehicle ignition lock (38), a control unit (10) for energizing the coil and a transponder which comprises a coil (32), a transistor (30) and a transmitter (24) and a power supply (26). In use the coil (32) picks up a conventional alternating magnetic signal emitted by the coil (34), and provides sufficient power to activate the transistor (30) which connects the power supply (26) to the transmitter (24) causing it to transmit an enabling signal to the control unit. The control unit may be programmed to re-mobilize the vehicle engine on receiving of the correct signal.

Abstract: A user of a self-powered electronic combination lock rotates an outer dial to cause generators to generate energy for storage in a capacitor bank. The user then rotates an inner dial to cause a microcontroller to sequentially display a combination of numbers, and presses the inner dial to select a displayed number. The microcontroller determines direction and extent of motion of the inner dial by receiving signals derived from Wiegand sensors placed in proximity to a magnetized disc which rotates integrally with the inner dial, and controls the display of numerals on an LCD display accordingly. When the microcontroller determines that a correct combination has been entered, it activates a motor to move a motor cam to act directly on a locking lever so that the locking lever can engage a drive cam integrally linked with the inner dial, to allow the inner dial to withdraw the lock's bolt.

Abstract: A remote control system which includes (a) a receiver unit adapted to be fixedly mounted on a motor vehicle having at least one door lock with a first locked condition and a second unlocked condition and having circuits for receiving a coded signal including a code portion of binary bits, memory circuits for storing a first code of binary bits, circuits for comparing the code portion of a received coded signal with the first code and circuits for shifting the controlled device to one of the conditions upon the comparison match between the code portion of a received signal and the stored first code and (b) a transmitting unit for transmitting the stored second code of binary bits when the door lock is to be shifted into one of its conditions.

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 automobile anti-theft device connected to the electrical system and fuel line of a vehicle. A control unit is positioned proximate to an operator of an automobile. The control unit has a first display and a key-pad for the generation of a personal access code for transmission to a circuit unit. The circuit unit includes a programmable read-only memory which compares the personal access code to a stored keyed access. The circuit unit generates a second signal upon acceptance of the personal access code by the programmable read-only memory. The second signal is received by a silicon control rectifier which opens a valve attached to the fuel line of an automobile permitting fuel passage to the engine. The control unit includes a locked retractable penetrating adapter which may be retrieved for modification of the stored key access within the programmable read-only memory.

Abstract: A mechanical lock and key, which may have a conventional cylinder with mechanical bittings, includes an electronic access control feature for preventing opening of the lock, even with the proper mechanical key, unless prescribed conditions are met. The lock cylinder, preferably in the cylinder plug, is fitted with a small ID or "serial number" chip which is read when a voltage is applied. A connected device, also very small, is an addressable switch. The switch is connected to a solenoid capable of withdrawing a blocking pin, when the switch is activated and conveys voltage to the solenoid. The mechanical key has a key head with a battery, microprocessor and database.

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.