Abstract: A technique for handling storage commands includes receiving, by an interface node of a data storage system, a first storage command. The interface node determines whether the first storage command is a head of queue (HOQ) command. In response to determining the first storage command is an HOQ command, the interface node increments a constrained command count and issues the first storage command to a first worker processor core for processing. In response to determining the first storage command is not an HOQ command, the interface node processes the first storage command as a non-HOQ command.

Abstract: A Task Enabled Switch System comprising: A Data Server with a Task Manager Module and a Switch Device Management Module; A Control Device with a Task Player; A Switch Device with a Task Enabled Switch; A user uses the Control Device to download the tasks linked with the Switch Device. Once the tasks are completed successfully, the Control Device will turn on the Task Enabled Switch in the Switch Device. Several lock/latch designs with the said Task Enabled Switch are also presented.

Abstract: A method of operating a keyless padlock is provided, comprising: establishing communication with the padlock; requesting the padlock serial number from the padlock; receiving the padlock serial number form the padlock; establishing communication with a server having the padlock serial number and the initial password stored in a database; transmitting the padlock serial number to the server with a request to own the padlock; receiving the initial password and a new password from the server after the server has validated the request; transmitting the initial password to the padlock; transmitting the new password to the padlock after the padlock has validated the initial password; receiving confirmation from the padlock that the padlock has stored the new password in the memory of the padlock; and transmitting the confirmation to the server, whereupon the server updates the database to recognize the user as the owner of the padlock.

Abstract: A padlock has a shackle with a short leg and a long leg and a lock body having two partial channels to accommodate the short and long legs. Each of the short and long legs has a bolt groove to receive a bolt. The lock body also has a through channel for placing a spindle having a locking area and an unlocking groove. A plurality of dials and clutches mounted on the spindle control the spindle movement. When the padlock is in the locked mode, the spindle is located within the through channel such that the locking area pushes the bolts against the bolt grooves, preventing the shackle from being pulled upward. When dials match the combination code, the spindle can move upward to allow the bolts to move away from the bolt grooves toward the unlocking groove and the shackle can be pulled upward to unlock the padlock.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a padlock, comprising a lock cylinder rotatable between a lock position and an unlock position with rotation of a key. The lock cylinder comprises a keyhole, at least one first through hole extending along a first direction for housing at least one first pin, and at least one second through hole extending along a second direction for housing at least one second pin. When the key is in the keyhole, the teeth of the key are aligned with the at least one first pin and the at least one indentations are aligned with the at least one second pin, allowing the lock cylinder to rotate between the lock position and the unlock position with rotation of the key.

Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide a novel padlock, which can be used like a normal padlock and also in objects and situations, for which known padlocks are not suitable. A padlock according to the invention comprises two bodies (1, 3), between which is a shackle portion (2). The shackle portion consists of two pins (2A, 2B). Both bodies are to be locked into the shackle portion. The locking of the padlock can be opened and also locked with the key of one or the other of the bodies. In this case, one key can be a key that is normally in use and the other key is less often used.

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

Abstract: A lock includes a locking body, a non-locking body, and at least two shackles each independently removable from both the locking and non-locking body.

Abstract: The present invention is lockable pet leash system employing a padlock having a locking pin that can be retracted to permit the padlock to be connected to a connector, with a combination lock adapted to prevent the pin from being retracted when the lock is locked. The system includes a leash with a padlock at both the collar end and handhold end of the leash and a collar-attachable lock designed to be retrofitted onto a pet collar. The collar padlock can be attached to a loop on a pet collar. The handhold padlock can be attached to a leash connector on the leach to form a loop that can be formed around an anchor, such as a pole, and thereby the leash can be locked to the anchor.

Abstract: A self-contained portable locking apparatus is disclosed which collects, stores, displays, and/or transmits information each time the apparatus is opened, closed, or even merely handled. This information may include but is not limited to time, date, and the number of times the apparatus is used or handled. The functions and performance of the locking apparatus may be manually or remotely controlled and manipulated. The disclosed apparatus may be also manually or remotely interrogated and the information gathered by the apparatus may be locally stored and/or be transmitted to a remote receiver such as a cell phone or a computing device.

Abstract: A portable lock includes a wireless signal receiver. The lock may be unlocked by transmitting a wireless unlock signal from a portable device such as a cellular telephone. Various actuation mechanisms which may include a solenoid, motor or memory wire of a type that contracts when energized are provided in example embodiments. Self-locking embodiments are readily operated with one hand.

Abstract: A locking device useful for example for bicycles in which a pair of shackles is spaced apart and fittable into cross bars, each cross bar having a locking mechanism so that the locking device can be locked and opened at either end, that is, at either cross bar.

Abstract: A security device includes a processor defined to control operation of the security device. The security device also includes a radio defined in electrical communication with the processor. The security device also includes a location determination device defined in electrical communication with the processor. The processor, radio, and location determination device are defined to operate collaboratively to provide a wireless tracking and communication system. The security device also includes a shackle and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is defined in electrical communication with the processor. The processor is defined to operate the locking mechanism to control locking and unlocking of the shackle based on information obtained through the wireless tracking and communication system.

Abstract: Method of making airline luggage inspection secure while accommodating the needs of the traveler comprises making a special lock available to airline travelers, the special lock having a combination lock portion and a master key lock, the master key lock portion receiving a master key that can open the master key lock portion of any special lock of this type. The special lock is designed to be applied to an individual piece of airline luggage and has indicia conveying to luggage purchasers that the special lock is “approved” by a luggage screening authority and conveying to the luggage screening authority that the special lock can be opened using the master key. The method includes providing the luggage screening authority directly or indirectly with exclusive access to the master key. The manufacturers and/or providers of the master key and special lock retain copies of the master key.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is method of locking and unlocking a door that is equipped with an electronic lock, to be locked and unlocked with a removable mechanical lock, enabling orthodox Jews that observe the Sabbath laws to use the door on Saturdays. Also disclosed herein is how to fortify a hotel room door by adding a removable mechanical proprietary lock over the built-in electronic lock. These modifications can be done without damaging the door.

Abstract: A tamper indicating padlock assembly for providing remote indication of tampering with the lock mechanism of the padlock includes a padlock having a padlock housing, an arm extending from the padlock housing, and a locking mechanism selectively engaging the arm. A sensor is positioned in the padlock housing for sensing movement of the arm within the padlock housing. The sensor is operationally coupled to a processor. A transmitter is operationally coupled to the processor for transmitting a tamper signal upon the sensor detecting movement of the arm relative to the housing. A key is provided to release the arm from the locking mechanism. A remote alarm assembly has a remote receiver for receiving the tamper signal. The remote alarm assembly includes a remote tamper indicator operationally coupled to the remote receiver for providing an indication of tampering to a user when the remote receiver receives the tamper signal.

Abstract: A battery operated device includes a housing, an operating mechanism and an internal battery disposed within the housing, and an access member assembled with the housing and movable between first and second positions. The operating mechanism includes first and second sets of electrical contacts for transmitting power to the operating mechanism, with the internal battery being electrically connectable with the first set of electrical contacts for powering the operating mechanism. The access member is movable between a first position blocking external access to the second set of electrical contacts and connecting the first set of electrical contacts to the internal battery, and a second position permitting external access to the second set of electrical contacts and disconnecting the internal battery from the first set of electrical contacts.

Abstract: A lock includes a lock body, an access restricting structure, a locking mechanism, a lock interface, and a mode selection mechanism. The locking mechanism is operable to secure the access restricting structure in a first position when the locking mechanism is in a locked condition. The lock interface is operable to move the locking mechanism between the locked condition and an unlocked condition. The mode selection mechanism is operable to selectively place the locking mechanism in either one of a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, movement of the access restricting structure to the first position automatically moves the locking mechanism to the locked condition. In the second mode, the access restricting structure is movable to the first position without moving the locking mechanism to the locked condition.

Abstract: A keyless padlock system includes an electromagnetic switch system and a fingerprint process system. The electromagnetic switch system operates the padlock with a mechanical actuated mechanism. The system also secures the padlock against the force and vibration. The fingerprint process system provides the padlock device an easy operation as the key system. The buttons and LED's manage using both fingerprint and the combination code. A changeable battery system without losing the memory provides the padlock device a reliable and easy application.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hoop lock having a lock body and a hoop which is movable relative to the lock body between an open position and a closed position. The lock body has a lock housing and a closing mechanism which is fastened in the lock housing and has a driver. The driver is selectively movable into an unlatched position or into a latched position. A latching device is furthermore provided in the lock body and acts between the driver of the locking mechanism, the hoop and the lock housing. The latching device latches the hoop to the lock housing when the hoop is in the closed position and the driver of the locking mechanism is in the latched position. At least a part of the latching device is movable together with the hoop between the open position and the closed position of the hoop.

Abstract: A locking device, particularly for containers of the type of suitcases, trunks and the like that have a pair of mutually articulated half-shells, comprising at least one padlock provided with a main body and a fastening bar, which can be inserted in mutually facing slots provided in respective raised edges arranged correspondingly on each one of the half-shells to determine stable locking of the container in the closure configuration. The main body of the padlock has a recess, which is delimited at least partially by a back wall constituted by a part of the body. The recess is adapted to accommodate respective portions of the edges, which comprise the slots, and at least the part of the bar that is inserted therein, in order to substantially cover the coupling region between the bar and the edges, by means of the back wall, and to prevent access thereto by third parties.

Abstract: A padlock includes a housing, a shackle, a limit knob, a movable block and a lock core. The housing has an opening in a wall thereof. The shackle has a shaft portion movably mounted in the housing, and a locking portion extended from the shaft portion and located outside of the housing. The limit knob is partly received in the housing via the opening and has a button located outside of the housing. The movable block is disposed on the limit knob and capable of moving to a predetermined position which is outside of the housing. The lock core has a rotor configured to be driven by a key so as to move the limit knob to a first position where the button of the limit knob keeps the shackle from rotating and a second position where the button of the limit knob allows the shackle to rotate.

Abstract: A system for preventing vandalism and unauthorized access to a lock. The system has a male lock member slidably engaged to a female lock member. The lock members are provided in an enclosure and engaged to the sidewalls thereof. A padlock is provided around a charging bar on the member male lock member to prevent the male lock member from sliding relative to the female lock member a sufficient distance to allow the male lock member and female lock member to disengage from the sidewalls of the enclosure. Engaging the male lock member and female lock member to the sidewalls in front of a lock prevents direct access to the lock, thereby reducing vandalism and unauthorized access.

Abstract: A padlock for securing and monitoring a switch of an industrial plant has a lock housing of plastic, furthermore a hoop which is displaceably held at the lock housing and a lock cylinder which is arranged in the lock housing and can selectively be brought from an open position into a locked position to lock the hoop to the lock housing. An RFID transponder is arranged in the lock housing. A securing and monitoring system for a switch of an industrial plant includes at least one such padlock and a mobile RFID reading device or an RFID reading device permanently attached in the environment of the switch, said RFID reading device being configured to read out the RFID transponder of the padlock.

Abstract: A ground lock is formed of a main shaft having a first latching structure near its upper end and a ground fastener at its lower end. A mating member provides a cooperative latching structure and slides on the main shaft between raised and lowered positions. In one of the raised or lowered positions, the two latching structures are latchable, allowing the mating member to drive the main shaft to engage or disengage the ground fastener. In the other of the raised or lowered positions, the second latching structure is non-latchable with the first latching structure such that the main shaft is disabled from driving the ground fastener.

Abstract: An object of this invention is to provide a way for a person to lock and secure the hitch of an unhitched utility trailer. Another object of this invention is to allow a person to keep an unhitched utility trailer from being stolen when the utility trailer is not hooked to a truck hitch.

Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a system for securing a device. The system comprises a securing mechanism with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is configured to be inserted through an opening in a device and the second end is configured to be trapped by the opening. The system also comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock to the first end of the securing mechanism.

Abstract: A swing handle assembly (500) comprising a swing handle member (510) and a supporting frame (520) therefore where when the handle member substantially contacts the frame, the handle assembly is in a closed condition. The handle member (510) comprises at least an outer surface (511) and two side walls (512), each side wall including an opening (513) therein wherein the openings are substantially aligned to define a passageway (513) through the handle member. The supporting frame (520) bears a capture means (521), which capture means is substantially receivable within the handle member and is in substantial alignment with the passageway therethrough when the handle assembly is in the closed condition, such, that to then place the handle assembly in a locked condition, a separate securing means (900) is able to be passed through the passageway and the capture means.

Abstract: A securing device for securing portable electronic devices and the method of using the securing device are disclosed. The securing device has a plate assembly, a post assembly and a main bar. A portable electronic device is inserted in-between the plate assembly and the main bar. Thereafter, the post assembly is rotated from a first position to a second position which is perpendicular to the length of the plate assembly. While in the second position, the post assembly prevents the rearward movement of the portable electronic device. The main bar prevents the upward movement of the portable electronic device. The plate assembly has a recessed profile that allows airflow through the bottom portion of the portable electronic device while being secured with the securing device.

Abstract: A fishing rod transporter includes a hollow tubular holder coupled to an adjustable length bar. The hollow holder defines a compartment for receiving a handle-end of a fishing rod. Slots formed in the peripheral wall of the top end of the hollow holder define a limited space for receiving a neck of a fishing reel, and the adjustable length bar is extendible to securely fit between sidewalls of a bed of a pickup truck. The adjustable length bar is extendible (by threaded engagement or ratcheting action) to securely fit between sidewalls of a bed of a pickup truck. An adjustable clamp is attached to the hollow holder and configured to secure the holder to the adjustable length bar. Optionally, a lock assembly engages the top of the hollow holder and prevents removal of the rod and reel by blocking release of the reel neck from the first slot.

Abstract: A security apparatus is disclosed. The security apparatus is used with a lock interface member attached to a housing of a portable electronic device. The security apparatus may include an engagement element as well as a stabilizing element. The engagement element and the stabilizing element may secure the security apparatus to the lock interface member, and therefore to the housing of the portable electronic device.

Abstract: A security device for making secure an item includes an engaging element for securing to a part of the item, which has a device for attaching the engaging element to a flexible elongate member, which may be extended from a reel. The reel includes a device for the flexible elongate member, having been attached to the engaging element, to be secured to the reel for providing a closed loop. The security device may be used, for example, to secure poles in scaffolding assemblies.

Abstract: A lockable container comprising a lock portion and a container is provided. The lock portion has a first part and a second part, wherein the first part has an opening component and at least a lock mechanism, the second part has at least a latch driven by the opening component. The container fits the second part. The container has at least an inner space and a wedge corresponding to the latch. The lock mechanism restricts a displacement of the opening component when the lock mechanism is locked. The lock mechanism releases the opening component when the lock mechanism is unlocked.

Abstract: A storage system and method provides a storage apparatus which is particularly suitable for use in an enclosed in a self-storage unit to be rented. The storage apparatus includes a plurality of shelves that are selectively movable to and from an in-use position in which the plurality of shelves are arranged in a horizontal configuration to receive items thereon, and a non-use position in which the plurality of shelves are arranged in a low-profile vertical configuration to consume minimal space in the storage unit. The storage apparatus further includes a locking mechanism to enable locking of the plurality of shelves in the non-use position to prevent use thereof when the storage apparatus has not been rented.

Abstract: An example method of manufacturing a solid brazed laminate structure includes stacking a first lamina on a second lamina with an interfacial spacing between them, aligning mating portions of the first lamina and the second lamina, and introducing a braze material at least partially into the interfacial spacing to join the first lamina and the second lamina together. One example solid brazed laminate structure includes a lock assembly. Another example solid brazed structure includes a gear assembly.

Abstract: The dual lock box is a secure box or enclosure for receiving and storing documents or the like. The dual lock box is selectively locked by a pair of locks. The dual lock box may be opened by unlocking either one of the locks, without unlocking the other. The dual lock box includes a housing having an open front end. A pair of doors cover the open front end of the housing. Each of the doors is pivotally attached to opposing side edges of the box by hinges or the like. Each of the doors has a tang extending therefrom. A plate is having a pair of slots formed substantially centrally therethrough for receiving the tangs overlaps the doors. Each tang is adapted for engaging a respective one of the pair of locks.

Abstract: Gate multi-locking apparatus includes two housings, one attached to a gate member and the other attached to a structural member. A latch bar is positioned externally of the housings and extends between the housings to prevent movement of the gate member to open position. Latch bar supports extend into the housings and are locked in place by lock members extending therethrough and padlocks holding the lock members in place.

Abstract: A locking device includes a first and second body members that may optionally include laterally projecting arms. A retainer element has end portions respectively received in the interiors of the first and second body members and mechanically links them for longitudinal movement between collapsed and expanded orientations. The retainer element also moves between a retain position and a release position that respectively secure the body members in the collapsed orientation and allows them to move to the expanded orientation. A lock core is operative to engage the retainer element. In a locked state, the lock core holds the retainer element in the retain position and in an unlocked state that moves the retainer element to the release position. A shackle may extend between arms on the first and second body members in order to enclose a locking region when the bodies are in the collapsed orientation.

Abstract: Undesired access to a fuel oil fill pipe having a threaded cap fitting and a threaded cap is prevented by a fuel oil fill-port locking mechanism having: a coupling mateable with the fuel oil fill pipe; a nipple mateable with the coupling the cap fitting; an oil fill-port cover which denies access to the cap; a pair of oppositely disposed apertures in the coupling and a pair of alignable apertures in the cover; a lock pin sized to fit through the aligned aperture; a transverse bore through one end of the lock pin; and a lock pin stop at an opposite end of the lock pin. The cap and the cap fitting are removed from and the coupling is threaded onto the fuel oil fill pipe, the nipple is threaded into the coupling, then the cap fitting threaded into the nipple and the cap threaded into the cap fitting.

Abstract: A projector mount securely mounts a projector or other presentation device to a computer workstand. The projector mount comprises a security plate and a projector bracket or projector arm. The projector bracket or arm is connected to the security plate by a hinge or ball pivot to provide vertical and horizontal tilting as well as pivoting capability of the projector or presentation device. A digital presenter mount comprises a vertical plate, a horizontal plate, a security holder bracket, and a locking bracket. The horizontal plate attaches to the vertical plate. The security holder bracket is inserted through slots formed in the horizontal plate and in the locking bracket to prevent theft of the presentation device.

Abstract: A multiple padlock lock system for locking a first post to a second post has a common plate and connecting links. Padlocks connect the common plate and the connecting links around the first post lock the common plate to the first post. Connecting links or a tongue plate lock the common plate to the second post. At least two padlocks must be unlocked to remove the lock system.

Abstract: A lock for luggage, sports gear or any type of travel enclosure which can be operated by a key, combination or both, which has more than one shackle. The lock has one shackle that secures the lock to the luggage or luggage handle while the other shackle secures the luggage closure or zipper. An addition shackle is provided for the purpose of re-closing the luggage after the luggage is inspected by an international airport security agent. If the luggage is inspected, the inspector simply cuts the zipper shackle and re-secures the luggage using the additional or third shackle. A disposable shackle system allows the customer to replace the cut shackle and return the lock to its original condition for reuse.

Abstract: A lock for securing to a selected base object by a user is disclosed. The lock includes a housing, a time display device secured to the housing, a locking mechanism attached to the housing, and a shackle having a first portion disposed within the housing and a second portion disposed between an open position and a closed position. When disengaged from the locking mechanism, the shackle is movable between the closed position and the open position by user manipulation of the locking mechanism. The locking mechanism can be a various styles, such as for example, a padlock or a dial combination. The shackle can be of various structures, shapes and styles. The time display device may include a rotatable face plate. The lock may include illumination means, such as for example, a user operated flashlight.

Abstract: A locking system includes a carrier member at least one locking member extending from the rod. The carrier member is movable between a first locked position in which the locking member engages a locking receptacle to maintain a container cover in a closed position and a second unlocked position in which the locking member disengages from the locking receptacle and the cover is movable between the closed and open position. The locking system includes a blocking member at a second end of the carrier member. The blocking member is movable between a first engaged position in which the rod abuts a portion of the blocking member and maintains the elongate rod in the first locked position and a second disengaged position in which the rod disengages from the blocking member and a biasing unit urges the rod in the second unlocked position.

Abstract: A security seal has a housing and a hasp moveable relative to the housing in a first direction between a locked position and a unlocked position. The hasp, in the locked position, is lockable to the housing by a disposable seal. The housing has an opening to allow the insertion of the disposable seal in a second direction different from the first direction. The hasp includes a first locking element engageable, in the locked position, with a second, matching locking element of the disposable seal to prevent movement of the hasp in the first direction toward the unlocked position and withdrawal of the disposable seal in the second direction. The hasp is attached to the housing so as to be both slidable and pivotable relative to the housing.

Abstract: A hidden shackle style lock is disclosed. The lock has a substantially cylindrical housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a curved side surface. The lock also has a first cavity on the bottom surface of the housing which extends part way along a thickness of the housing, and a second cavity on the side surface intersecting with the first cavity. The lock further includes has a hollow sleeve slidably attached within the second cavity. The sleeve has a first end face, a second end face, and a third cavity. The third cavity extends from the first end face to the second face and is substantially coaxial with the second cavity. A shackle is coupled to the first end face of the sleeve. A core member with a locking mechanism is disposed within the third cavity and coupled to the shackle. A driver member is located between the core member and the shackle and couples the core member to the shackle.

Abstract: A system for restricting access to wellhead equipment is provided. A cable may be snugly wrapped around or threaded through wellhead equipment and secured with a cable restraint to prevent loosening of the cable from the equipment. Other devices are also provided within the system, the devices for covering ports or shielding equipment to prevent unauthorized access to the ports and/or equipment. Such devices may also be secured with the cable and restraint system. A method and kit for securing wellhead equipment are also provided.

Abstract: A lock is in the form of a padlock, but is operated according to the fingerprint or thumbprint of a user. The lock has circuitry in the case which is connected to the shackle to open the lock when the user places his or her finger or thumb onto a pad on the case.

Abstract: A padlock has a lock body comprising a housing, furthermore a lock hoop adjustably secured to the lock body, a lock cylinder accommodated in the housing and a latching mechanism accommodated in the housing. The latching mechanism enables a latching of the hoop to the lock body. The latching mechanism releases at least one end of the hoop on an opening actuation of the lock cylinder so that this hoop end can be removed from the lock body. The housing consists of an electrically insulating material at least at the outer side. The hoop and the lock cylinder are electrically insulated from one another by an additional measure.

Abstract: A cosmetic compact includes a base and a cover is pivotably connected to a lower end of the base. The base has a ridge located on a top thereof and a recess is defined in the top of the base and located in opposite to the ridge. A U-shaped shackle-like member has a first end pivotably connected to the ridge and a pushing end is defined in a second end of the U-shaped shackle-like member. The cover has a block extending from a top of the cover and the pushing end pushes the block to pivot the cover away from the base when lowering the second end of the shackle-like member.