Operation And Control Patents (Class 70/263)
  • Patent number: 7702913
    Abstract: An interactive system for managing access via a communications network by one or more Device-Users and Database-Users with regard to at least one secured Location and an entry control Device assignable for use in gaining access to the Location by the one or more Device-Users. The system may include a searchable database configured to store information on at least one of the secured Location, the one or more Device-Users, the one or more Database-Users or the entry control Device. Software is configured to produce a real time activity report on a selected portion of the stored information during a time period selected by the one or more Database-Users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Shield Security Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Scott M. Serani, Leslie S. McMillin, Charles D. Blish, III
  • Publication number: 20100077804
    Abstract: A locking device for a trunk in a vehicle. The locking device includes a latch configured to change a state of the trunk between locked and unlocked, and a lever configured to drive the latch to an open position. The locking device further includes a lock knob configured to be disposed outward of a vehicle body to visually determine from an outside of the vehicle whether the trunk is in the locked state or the unlocked state. The lock knob is further configured to be selectively placed in a locked position. In the locked position, the trunk is configured to be brought into the locked state by prohibiting the latch from being driven to an open position. The lock knob is further configured to be selectively placed in an unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the trunk is configured to be brought into the unlocked state by enabling the latch to be driven to the open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Takeuchi, Katsuhisa Yamada, Tsuguhito Ichiriki, Hiroshi Nishijima, Koichi Nozoe
  • Publication number: 20100071424
    Abstract: An electric lock for a glove box lid closed when a lock member is engaged with a fastening portion and allowed to open when the lock member is disengaged from the fastening portion. The electric lock includes an operation unit operated by a vehicle occupant when opening the glove box lid. A verification unit performs verification of the vehicle occupant. A lock release member pushes the lock member and separates the lock member from the fastening portion when the operation unit is operated in a state in which the verification is established. A disconnection unit integrally connects the operation unit and lock release member when verification is established and disconnects the operation unit and lock release member when not established. When verification is not established, a control unit prohibits the disconnection unit from integrally connecting the operation unit and lock release member to disable opening of the glove box lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO
    Inventor: Hiroshi TSURUTA
  • Publication number: 20100031714
    Abstract: The invention provides an electronic door lock for a door having a first side and a second side. The electronic door lock includes a locking mechanism, a credential reader, and a programmable control circuit. The locking mechanism is coupled to the door and is movable between a locked position in which the door is inhibited from opening and an unlocked position in which the door is free to open. The credential reader is coupled to the door and is operable to read a credential. The programmable control circuit is coupled to the door and is operable to move the locking mechanism between the locked position and the unlocked position at least partially in response to the read credential. The programmable control circuit is selectively programmed to move the locking mechanism to a pre-selected either one of the locked position and the unlocked position in response to a failure signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventors: James W. Brown, Gustavo L. Sumcad, Ronald Taylor
  • Publication number: 20090273440
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a handle set for a lock with a latch, the handle set having an authentication circuit and actuator in the interior handle that allow access to authenticated transponders. The present invention also provides a device and method for transmitting a rotational movement and force in an electronic lock, wherein the transmission takes place in a coupled state and not in a decoupled state and wherein the transmission of force does not damage an actuator that requires little energy to change between the coupled and decoupled states. A coupling cartridge of an electronic lock can easily be handed. The electronic lock can be retrofitted in installed mortise locks and used with cylindrical locks. The electronic lock can include a security feature that prohibits the electronic lock from changing between the coupled and decoupled states.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventors: James S. Marschalek, Warren A. Simonsen, Ludger Voss, Herbert Meyerle, Norbert Voss, Stefan Parhofer
  • Publication number: 20090266673
    Abstract: An electronic lock for removably securing a movable item to a structure, the electronic lock comprising first and second complementary cooperating connecting members, each being fixedly mounted to a respective one of the movable item and the structure and being engageable together in a lockable position; and a securing assembly for securing the first and second connecting members together when engaged in the lockable position, the securing assembly comprising a movable locking member operatively associated to the first connecting member, a locking aperture defined in the second connecting member, the locking aperture being adapted for receiving the movable locking member when the connecting members are engaged together in the lockable position; an actuator operatively coupled to the movable locking member for actuating the movable locking member between an unlocked position enabling disengagement of the first and second connecting members and a locked position wherein the movable locking member engages the lo
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Applicant: Societe en commandite Stationnement de Montreal
    Inventors: Michel DALLAIRE, Charles Ibrahim KHAIRALLAH
  • Publication number: 20090229326
    Abstract: Electromechanical lock and its operation method. The lock includes a power transmission mechanism to receive mechanical power produced by a user of the lock; a generator to produce electric power from the mechanical power; an electronic circuit, powered by the electric power, coupleable with a key, to read data from the key, and to issue an open command provided that the data matches a predetermined criterion; an actuator, powered by the electric power, to receive the open command, and to set the lock in a mechanically openable state; and a threshold device to control the power transmission mechanism so that a mechanical tension rises until a predetermined force threshold is exceeded, whereupon the mechanical tension transforms to an action producing the mechanical power received by the power transmission mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Mika Pukari, Hannu Jokinen
  • Publication number: 20090211316
    Abstract: A time limited restraint device. After a predetermined time, a cutter of the time limited restraint device cuts a restraint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventors: Frank Butler, William G. Rusher, Philip J. Ufkes
  • Publication number: 20090211319
    Abstract: A cylinder lock insert 10 has a manually operable knob 14 which is used to operate a lock bolt 6 of a rim lock 8 or the like. The knob 14 substantially encloses a lock input means 30 which is preferably a finger or thumb print recognition device. Correct user input causes a controller to engage a solenoid operated clutch 16 which in turn allows torque from the manual turning of knob 14 to be transmitted to the mechanism of the bolt 6. The lock may be rechargeable by means of a solar cell 34 and/or a knob operated dynamo (74 FIG. 4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Scott Alexander McCormack
  • Publication number: 20090183541
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system (10) operable to control access to different physical spaces, each provided with an electrical locking device (121, . . . , 12n), with the aid of a programmable, mobile unit (14). The system (10) comprises an authority means (16) operable to issue access rights connected to the programmable, mobile unit (14) in the form of an authorizing data (AD), which authorizing data (AD) is sent to an authorization means (18) connected to the authority means (16), and operable to generate an alpha-numerical key for the mobile unit (14), and to send the alpha-numerical key and a unique identifier of the mobile unit (14) to an operator (20), which is connected to the authorization means (18). The operator (20) is operable to send the alpha-numerical key to the mobile unit (14) identified by the unique identifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventors: Babak Sadighi, Ling Cao, Ludwig Seitz
  • Publication number: 20090178449
    Abstract: A lock body includes a bolt and a follower that is functionally connectable with the bolt to control the position of the bolt, and a driver. The driver is connectable with the follower to convey force turning the driver to the follower. Furthermore, the lock body includes an electric motor to operate as a power source for changing the locking state of the lock body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Applicant: ABLOY OY
    Inventor: Juha Raatikainen
  • Publication number: 20090165682
    Abstract: A safe including a safe controller coupled to a data transfer port is provided. The safe controller is configured to selectively enable device data to pass through the data transfer port when a valid code is received by the safe controller. A system for controlling data communications with an internal device in a safe is also provided. The system includes an external computing device configured to execute a series of instructions, and a safe. The safe includes a data transfer port coupled to the external computing device and the internal device. The safe also includes a safe controller coupled to the data transfer port, wherein the safe controller is configured to selectively enable communication between the external computing device and the internal device when a valid code is received by the safe controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventors: Terri P. Cleveland, Torsten Rhode, Kelvin H. Wildman, Scott Osiecki, James A. McLean
  • Patent number: 7553237
    Abstract: A gaming machine for conducting a wagering game includes a cabinet having a top box mounted on a main body. The top box has a door for allowing user access to an inner area of the top box. A lock assembly in the top box locks/unlocks the door and a release assembly in the main body operates the lock assembly. The lock assembly and the release assembly are configured to automatically engage one another when the top box is mounted on the main body. Thus, no manual connection is needed between the two assemblies and the lock assembly may be preinstalled independently of the release assembly. Moreover, any suitable top box design may be used with the lock assembly, and any suitable main body design may be used with the release assembly. This allows the top box to be selected much later in an assembly process than previously possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.
    Inventors: Frank E. Rodriguez, Gregory J. Tastad
  • Patent number: 7550867
    Abstract: A safety system for a locking device of a motor vehicle includes a unit control device which has at least one power switch for controlling an electromechanical unit in a blocking state, a central control device including signal links to the unit control device and further unit control devices of the motor vehicle, at least the electromechanical unit being controllable through the central control device via the signal links, and an electrical lead connection which is independent of the signal links. The unit control device is connected to the central control device through the independent electrical lead connection. A potential of a control connection of the power switch or a power connection of the unit control device is controllable by the central control device via the independent electrical lead connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co KG
    Inventor: Roland Kalb
  • Publication number: 20090151406
    Abstract: The electronic tag of the present invention is mounted under the door holder on the front and right side of the container and the lock bolt on the electronic tag is inserted into the holes of the container door handle and the door seal turnover panel. The lock cap screws to the lock bolt tightly, so that the lock bolt can not be pulled out from the electronic tag. The electronic tag adopts RFID technique, GPS satellite positing and identifying technique and un-touching approach switch door seal technique. When the lock cap screws onto the lock bolt, the door closing information is recorded; when the lock cap screws out from the lock bolt, the door opening information is recorded. The present invention identifies, reads and writes the freight information, logistics information, door seal information of the container through the electronic tag in an un-touching manner. The electronic tag has large storage volume, long life span, and good security.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Qifan Bao, Jianhua Li, Yongxiang Gao, Tinglong Dong
  • Publication number: 20090090148
    Abstract: A lock sensor detection system for detecting when a door latch assembly is in a locked condition and in engagement with a door jamb includes a circuit having an open and closed condition. The circuit is in the closed condition when the door latch assembly is in the locked condition and in engagement with the door jamb. An actuator, preferably a magnet, is adapted to be disposed in the door jamb for actuating a circuit, preferably a magnetic circuit, when the circuit is in the closed condition and the door latch assembly engages the door jamb. A signal emitting component is disposed within and operatively connected to the door latch assembly for providing a signal in response to the circuit being in the closed and actuated conditions indicating that the door latch assembly is in an engaged and locked condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventors: Adam Kollin, Matthew Marko
  • Publication number: 20090064743
    Abstract: A tree stand lock apparatus comprises a ratchet buckle part and a wire rope part. The ratchet buckle part comprises a spool with a transaxial bore, a ratcheting lever handle, a locking means and a base affixed to a hook. The wire rope part comprises a wire rope, one end of which is affixed to a hook. The lock may be employed by wrapping the wire rope around a portion of a tree stand, hooking the hook of the rope to the hook of the ratchet buckle and threading the wire rope through the transaxial bore. The ratchet buckle is operated to render the wire rope taut and the buckle is locked in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Benjamin Ray Gee
  • Patent number: 7489231
    Abstract: An electromagnetic wave reception device includes: a input reception portion for detecting an input electromagnetic wave transmitted from a transmission terminal at a predetermined timing and receiving the input electromagnetic wave; a lock control portion for unlocking or locking a locking mechanism, according to the input electromagnetic wave received by the input reception portion; and a timing change portion for changing the timing at which the input reception section detects the input electromagnetic wave, according to time zones. This structure provides an electromagnetic wave reception device capable of not affecting the convenience of the user while reducing the power consumption in receiving the input electromagnetic wave transmitted from the transmission terminal (e.g. a remote controller).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Eiji Kadouchi, Ichiro Maki
  • Publication number: 20090031766
    Abstract: An object securing system consisting of at least one station with docking, identification and registration means as well as objects fitted with compatible docking, identification and registration means is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Anatoli Stobbe
  • Patent number: 7471191
    Abstract: An automatic cycle storage system comprising cycles, each of which carries a blocking device and an electronic circuit; a cycle storage area serving to receive the cycles while they are not being used; and a control device adapted to authorize, selectively, cycles to be borrowed from the storage area. The control device and the cycle are each provided with a respective short-range wireless communications interface, and the cycle includes an electrical lock device adapted to lock the blocking device in the blocking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: J. C. Decaux SA
    Inventor: Jacques Le Gars
  • Publication number: 20080276671
    Abstract: A locking box for valuables includes a wire winding box, a winding control assembly and a lock. The wire winding box has a fastening seat at a lower end that includes an upper fastening disk and a lower fastening disk. The winding control assembly is hinged on the wire winding box and includes a wire wheel, an elastic element and a holding board. The elastic element is held on an eccentric shaft of the holding board and hinged on one end of the wire wheel. The lock can be held inside or outside the wire winding box and has a screw at one end to couple or disengage with a detection terminal of the wire winding box and a connection bar at another end to fasten to a threading wire which chain locks valuables and is latched on or disengaged with a lock plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Chien-Chih Lu
  • Publication number: 20080236220
    Abstract: The system includes, inside the tool, an electronic module for locking/unlocking the tool, in order to block or authorise its use and, inside a control station, a control module for the tool's locking/unlocking module designed to switch it from the locked state (i1) to the unlocked state (I0). The system applies well to tools for sealing, nailing and other similar applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: SOCIETE DE PROSPECTION ET D'INVENTIONS TECHNIQUES SPIT
    Inventors: Pierrick Calvet, Nicolas Guihard, Florent La Bella, Pascale Grandjean
  • Patent number: 7391319
    Abstract: A wireless fire alarm door unlocking system includes a remote alarm panel interface to receive information from a central alarm panel interface over an RF channel. The central alarm panel interface monitors an output from an alarm control panel and, when an alarm condition is asserted, initiates an unlock signal that is sent to the remote alarm panel interface. It in turn causes the door with which it is associated to unconditionally release to allow unimpeded entrance and exit. The system also monitors the status of the remove alarm panel interface and raises an alert in the event of a malfunction. The interface may be implemented as a hardware and software modification to an access control system or as separate components that coexist with an access control system on a non-interfering basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Ethan A. Walker
  • Publication number: 20080136585
    Abstract: A key fob with a housing into which a deadbolt key is mounted such that the shank protrudes therefrom, enabling a user to turn the housing and cause the key to lock or unlock the door. Within the keyfob are a pair of switches or other sensing means configured to close on either the turning of the housing in a first (clockwise) direction or a second (counterclockwise) direction. Based on the direction the housing is turned, either a first coded signal or a second coded signal is transmitted to a control panel. The control panel will then either arm or disarm the security system based on how it has been programmed during installation. This enables the user to easily arm the system when the door is being locked and disarm the system when the door is being unlocked without requiring a separate action on the part of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Eskildsen, Robert E. Lee, David S. Zakrewski
  • Publication number: 20080134735
    Abstract: A lock mechanism is disclosed, the lock mechanism having a rotary latch configured for rotation between a locked position and an unlocked position, the rotary latch rotating in a first plane and the rotary latch is retained in the locked position after it has been rotated into the locked position from the unlocked position, the rotary latch being spring biased into the unlocked position by a biasing member; and a first lock mechanism for releasing the rotary latch from the locked position after actuation of the first lock mechanism, the biasing member rotating the rotary latch into the unlocked position, the rotary latch being capable of being manipulated back into the locked position from the unlocked position after release by the first locking mechanism and the first locking mechanism must be reset in order to once again release the rotary latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Michael Gallo, Steve Sanelli
  • Patent number: 7336001
    Abstract: A door lock control device prevents deterioration in anti-theft property of a vehicle by restricting unjust cancellation of a locked state of a door of the vehicle. In-vehicle operation detecting means detects a predetermined operation performed in a compartment of the vehicle. Locked state canceling means cancels the locked state of the door when the predetermined operation is detected by the in-vehicle operation detecting means. Unjust act detecting means detects an unjust act applied to the vehicle. Locked state cancellation prohibiting means prohibits cancellation of the locked state by the locked state canceling means after the unjust act is detected by the unjust act detecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takao Ozawa, Kouichi Masamura, Yoshihide Nakane
  • Patent number: 7271725
    Abstract: A customer robot enabling a customer service including key management with respect to a plurality of lock-equipped objects in an environment such as vehicles in a parking lot is provided. The robot has an unlock/lock signal database storing unlock/lock signals respectively set for the objects, an object identification implementor recognizing an instruction of a customer and identifying one from among the objects which the customer wants unlocked/locked, an unlock/lock signal retriever retrieving one from among the unlock/lock signals, stored in the unlock/lock signal database, that is corresponding to the one from among the objects which the customer wants unlocked/locked, and an unlock/lock signal transmitter transmitting the retrieved signal to unlock/lock the identified object, thereby reducing the burden of the person responsible for key management.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kenichiro Sugiyama
  • Patent number: 7233244
    Abstract: The invention relates to an alarm and control system for at least one switch cabinet that can be opened and closed by an operator. Said switch cabinet comprises an electroactuated locking unit (17) for locking and releasing its door lock and a plurality of modules (12, 13, 14, 15, 16) that are interlinked via a data-exchange data bus (11) and that comprise respective signal-processing microprocessors. Said modules have a closed scope of functions, independently process the signals supplied to them and emit a decision signal as the result of processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: EMKA Beschlagteile GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Rainer Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 6965294
    Abstract: A workspace security system having processors, sensors, and actuators for local and remote monitoring, control, and automation of physical and environmental security, safety, efficiency, and productivity. The system includes passive and active access authentication devices and active or passive unlocking and lockdown of office furniture components, work sites, and facilities. The system may include multilevel authentication credentials, automatic lockdown of office furniture and other components based on the proximity of credentials, and video or other imaging systems to detect and record motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Brent Elliott, Jeff Fenwick, Chris J. Thyen
  • Publication number: 20040093919
    Abstract: A latch assembly (100) releases a closure structure (12) of a motor vehicle (10). The latch assembly includes a latch housing (37). A latch (28) for releasing the closure structure (12), allowing the closure structure to move toward an open position, is housed within the latch housing. A voltage regulator (46) is electrically connected to the latch (28) and provides power to the latch (28). Also, the latch assembly includes a microprocessor (44) that is electrically connected to the voltage regulator (46) to receive the power supplied by the voltage regulator, wherein the microprocessor (44) and the voltage regulator (46) are housed within the latch housing (37).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Robert B. Mooney, John G. Zeabari, Jason Abraham, Thomas L. McGettrick, Giovanni Grillo
  • Publication number: 20020170473
    Abstract: A card security device for cards which have coded information on or within the cards has a mechanically closeable and releasably lockable card vault for releasable locking enclosure of cards within the card vault, the card vault releasably lockable by a releasable lock. The lock is releasable by a recognition processor upon recognition of a user's behavior pattern by the recognition processor. Repeated use of an incorrect recognition pattern by a user and recognition processor, or forcible entry into the card vault either by forced releasing of the vault door or disruption of the vault casing results in a triggering of a destruction device for rendering useless and unrecoverable by disfigurement or destruction by the destruction device of the coded information on the information carrying medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: Brad Fettis, Walter Shawlee, II
  • Patent number: 6462652
    Abstract: A multi-unit monitoring system includes a plurality of units coupled to a communication medium. The system can also incorporate a common control element coupled to the medium. The individual units include control circuitry which is capable of carrying out verification, confirmation, or entry/exit delay processing. While the control element can receive messages from the various units indicative of their status, the units themselves carry out the respective timing functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Pittway Corporation
    Inventors: Steven W. McCuen, Dominick A. Testa
  • Patent number: 6445281
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dynamically controlled electronic locking system. The locking system includes apparatus (10) for entering data into the locking system, an electronic data processing circuit (12) and a locking and unlocking control system (14). The locking system electronics include, in a particularly advantageous manner, linear feed shift registers for processing the values allowing access to be assured to a protected space. Application to protection systems for confined spaces to which access has to be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: MR Electronic S.A.
    Inventor: Jean-Luc Monnier
  • Patent number: 6271751
    Abstract: An electromagnetic lock and status detection system and method therefor includes an armature, an electromagnet, and a status detection unit. The electromagnet is magnetically attracted to the armature into a mating relationship. A relatively high inductance is established in the electromagnet when the electromagnet is properly mated with the armature, and a relatively low inductance is established in the electromagnet when the electromagnet is not properly mated with armature. The status detection unit is coupled to the electromagnet to monitor the locking strength between the electromagnet and the armature. The unit monitors the locking strength by altering voltage level provided to the electromagnet and measuring the counter EMF induced in the electromagnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Securitron Magnalock Corp.
    Inventors: Robert C. Hunt, Senthil Kumar
  • Patent number: 6064316
    Abstract: An access control system, has at least one door to a secured area, each door having a strike plate, a host computer, at least one door control module coupled to the host computer, one door control module for every door; and at least one door reader coupled to the at least one door reader coupled to the door control module to activate the strike plate to release the door. The access control system further has at least one electro-mechanical key to independently actuate a lock that corresponds to the door(s). A master keying device to rekey the lock that corresponds to door(s). The host system records information selected from the group consisting of time of entry, place of entry, identification of entered party, and/or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Dallas Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Glick, Nicholas M. G. Fekete, Michael L. Bolan, Jeffrey D. Owens
  • Patent number: 5974367
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, with a system employing an electronic lock and electronic key apparatus, a method, including: providing as the electronic key apparatus an electronic key selected from the group consisting of a master key, and audit key, and a service key; when the master key is selected as the electronic key apparatus; connecting the master key to the electronic lock; then, the electronic lock inquiring as to status of the master key to determine if the master key is a valid master key; and then, when valid, the master key causing a password to be written to a memory in the electronic lock; when the audit key is selected as the electronic key apparatus; connecting the audit key to the electronic lock; then, the audit key transmitting a password to the electronic lock; and then, provided the audit key has presented a valid password to the electronic lock, the electronic lock transmitting to the audit key first identification information; and, when the service key is selected as the electronic key ap
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: James S. Bianco
  • Patent number: 5823027
    Abstract: A retrofit electromechanical door knob assembly is adapted to fit within an aperture in a door in place of a conventional mechanical lock assembly. The retrofit door knob assembly is similar in appearance to a conventional door handle assembly, but includes a motor coupled to a latch, and suitable electrical and mechanical key inserts for receiving separate electrical and mechanical keys. Either a mechanical or an electrical key can unlock the latch. The electrical key insert includes a data probe within the handle for receiving the electrical key and a means for gripping an electronic key to allow a user to turn the handle with the key after the latch is unlocked by the motor, thereby withdrawing the latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Dallas Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Mark M. Glick, Nicholas M. G. Fekete, Michael L. Bolan, Jeffrey D. Owens
  • Patent number: 5808555
    Abstract: A vehicle lock system has individual door locks each having an actuator provided with a printed circuit board on which a microcontroller, motor driver of the lock actuator, and a multiplexing element are encapsulated, the printed circuit board being mounted in the housing of the respective lock and being connected by the multiplexing element to a single-line data bus for binary communication with the individual lock from the central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Peter Bartel
  • Patent number: 5777902
    Abstract: An analyzer constituted by a combination of a plurality of specific units selected from a large number of units, the analyzer includes a controller which allows, in response to an inputted user identification code of a user, the user to use a plurality of units registered in advance in a user file corresponding to the user identification code and which manages respective unit identification numbers of the units to be used. The analyzer further includes an output device which outputs the user identification code, the unit identification numbers of the units to be used and the date of measurement together with results of analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takayuki Ono, Kiyotoshi Mori
  • Patent number: 5774066
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Assignee: Relhor S.A.
    Inventors: Pierre Pellaton, Michel Richner
  • Patent number: 5749253
    Abstract: An access control system, comprises at least one door to a secured area, each door having a strike plate, a host computer. The access control system further comprises at least one electro-mechanical key to independently actuate a lock that corresponds to the door(s). The host system records information selected from the group consisting of time of entry, place of entry, identification of entered party, and/or any combination thereof. In addition, a door knob and mechanical locking mechanism selectively latches and unlatches the locking mechanism and can be actuated with a mechanical key; and circuitry to actuate the locking mechanism to selectively latch so that the door can open, the circuitry actuated by an electrical signal transmitted by an electrical key, the electrical signal communicated by an electrical contact extending through the mechanical locking mechanism. The circuitry is powered by a battery, which can be removed without disturbing or actuating unlocking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Dallas Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Glick, Nicholas M.G. Fekete, Michael L. Bolan, Jeffrey D. Owens
  • Patent number: 5670940
    Abstract: The electric lock system operates to block access to the room when a guest key has been used and the guest is detected as being present in the room. The lock blocks access to hotel staff and provides the guest greater privacy in the room. The lock system employs an electronic lock in combination with a motion detector for detecting the presence of the guest in the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: TrioVing a.s
    Inventors: Glen Holcomb, William Reed
  • Patent number: 5659291
    Abstract: A key-in-ignition lock reminder system uses a key having a transponder with an identification code. An ignition lock for receiving the key has an adjacent antenna. A door proximity switch connected to the door generates a door open signal when the door is open. A control module is connected to a door lock control, the door proximity switch and a memory storing at least one identification code. The control module energizes the antenna coil which energizes a transponder. The transponder then transmits an identification code which is received by the antenna. The control module generates a control signal if the code from the transponder is equivalent to an identification code stored in the memory and the door proximity switch indicates the door is open. An indicator connected to the control module receives the control signal and generates an indication that the key is in the ignition lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventors: John Francis Kennedy, Scott Owen Campbell, Michael Anthony Thomas
  • Patent number: 5614769
    Abstract: A vehicle door locking system comprises a control portion for performing control operations of changing positions of lock levers into locking positions and of changing positions of anti-theft mechanisms into anti-theft positions. The control portion causes sending means to send out a warning signal for a predetermined time period, when a faulty change in position of the lock levers or the anti-theft mechanisms occurs. If a key cylinder or a transmitter is operated during the signal is sent out, the warning signal is stopped even before the predetermined time period has elapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 25, 1997
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuya Kuroda
  • Patent number: 5600302
    Abstract: An electronic system for preventing keys from being locked inside a vehicle. An ignition or door key houses a wireless transmitter which can send a signal to lock or unlock the vehicle doors. As a driver approaches a locked car, the unlock button on the transmitter is pressed, thereby unlocking the doors. Upon exiting the vehicle, a driver may inadvertently lock himself out of the vehicle if the doors are manually locked when the door key is inadvertently left somewhere inside the car. To prevent lock-out, an oscillating unlock signal is automatically output to the electronic door locks. Simultaneously an alarm sounds to alert the driver that the keys are still in the car. The driver returns to the vehicle, opens the doors which have been automatically unlocked, and retrieves the keys. Upon retrieval of the keys, the driver again exits the vehicle, locks the doors manually or electronically, and presses the lock button to stop the alarm and end the transmission of the oscillating unlock signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Inventor: James Lewis
  • Patent number: 5486812
    Abstract: A security arrangement for a building comprises a control module, an alarm and a multiplicity of stations each station being actuated upon receipt of a signal from the control module, each station incorporating a detector adapted to provide a signal indicative of the status of the station, the stations further comprising locks or other security devices, the control module being arranged to actuate the alarm on detection of unauthorized status of the station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Cedardell Limited
    Inventor: Robert E. Todd
  • Patent number: 5438312
    Abstract: An electronic system for preventing keys from being locked inside a vehicle. An ignition or door key houses a wireless transmitter which can send a signal to lock or unlock the vehicle doors. As a driver approaches a locked car, the unlock button on the transmitter is pressed, thereby unlocking the doors. Upon exiting the vehicle, a driver may inadvertently lock himself out of the vehicle if the doors are manually locked when the door key is inadvertently left somewhere inside the car. To prevent lock-out, an oscillating unlock signal is automatically sent from the transmitter to the electronic door locks. Simultaneously an alarm sounds to alert the driver that the keys are still in the car. The driver returns to the vehicle, opens the doors which have been automatically unlocked, and retrieves the keys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Inventor: James Lewis
  • Patent number: 4942747
    Abstract: A device for preventing an operator of a vehicle from locking an ignition key in the vehicle includes a key-in-ignition sensor switch, an open-door sensor switch, and a power door lock sensor switch. A logic circuit outputs a pulse to activate a power door unlocking circuit and an audible alarm whenever the three sensor switches indicate that the key is in the ignition, the door is open, and the power door lock switch has been pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1990
    Assignee: Universal Photonix, Inc.
    Inventor: Douglas A. Pinnow
  • Patent number: 4848114
    Abstract: An automotive vehicle has a body provided with a passenger compartment and a luggage compartment. Doors, which close the passenger compartment, carry latches which engage the body to secure those doors. While the doors have exterior handles which are connected to the latches to release the latches, at least when the latches are set to an unlocked condition, each latch may be shifted to a locked condition in which the exterior handle for its door will not release it. Each door also carries an electrical actuator which is coupled to the latch of the door to shift that latch between its locked and unlocked conditions. Two of the doors carry switches which are accessible from the passenger compartment and when operated will cause electrical actuator to shift the latches in unison to their locked or unlocked conditions, depending on the manner in which the switch is manipulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Inventor: Mary R. Rippe
  • Patent number: 4827744
    Abstract: A vehicle enabling lock system that is wireless signal controlled, includes a vehicle side main controller and external controller which is formed into a card. These controllers are in two way communication with each other via wireless signals. There is provided further a vehicle side lock controller which is in communication with said vehicle side main controller through signal-conveyable conductors. The steering lock controller is united rigidly with the conventional steering lock for the purpose of preventing car theft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: Kokusan Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hirotoshi Namazue, Shouji Akutsu