Actuated After Correct Combination Recognized (e.g., Numerical, Alphabetical, Or Magnet(s) Pattern) Patents (Class 70/278.1)
  • Patent number: 8176761
    Abstract: A keypad lockset adapted for deadbolt as well as lever locks, and having as a first embodiment an exterior gear train, an interior gear train, and an electronically controlled clutch for coupling the gear trains when engaged and for uncoupling the gear trains when the clutch is disengaged, so that when the clutch is engaged rotation of an external thumb turn will permit the door latch to be withdrawn and thus to permit opening of the door, and a mechanical override mechanism that can be operated in case of electrical failure, and in which clutch mechanism and the override mechanism both operate through the single, standard 2? inch door preparation hole, or alternatively as a second embodiment, a keypad lockset in which two four-bar mechanical linkages are used in place of gears as means to actuate the clutch, and alternatively to provide for a pass-through override function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Emtek Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Birk Cliff Sorensen, Ping Hsien Tsai, Wai Pang Wong, John Edward Walsh, Louls Romo Martinez
  • Publication number: 20120096909
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic locking system and method that includes a lock with a locking member and at least one antenna. A remote power source remotely powers the lock to actuate the locking member, using induction technology.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Jason Hart, Matthew Herscovitch, Sotoudeh Hamedi Hagh
  • Patent number: 8161782
    Abstract: A locking system for access to a door of a vending machine includes an opening handle lock for guiding of a movable lock mechanism between a locked position and an unlocked position. An identification unit for electronic identification operates an electronic blocking device that is adjustable between a) an inactive position where it does not actuate the opening handle lock and where the safety lock not may be opened from the outside, and b) an active position where it actuates the opening handle lock such that it may be opened from the outside. The identification unit also controls the electronic blocking device in such a way that a positive identification moves the electronic blocking device to the active position. A safety lock is arranged that may be actuated independently of the identification unit, and by which the movable lock mechanism might be guided between the locked position and the unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Cale Access AB
    Inventors: Carl Johan Håkansson, Ola Hesselvall
  • Patent number: 8161781
    Abstract: A locker lock fits a standard locker door three-hole door prep, with all electronics contained in a single housing mounted on the front of the locker door and a latch device behind the locker door. The locker lock preferably includes a keypad to allow rotation of a handle or knob, and also includes a manager's override and power jump terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Security People, Inc.
    Inventor: Asil T. Gokcebay
  • Patent number: 8151608
    Abstract: An electronic lock box contains a mechanical structure that allows the lock box to work in several different mechanical states. A first state is a key compartment door unlocking state, while a second state is a shackle release state. A third state is a “soft lock” state, which allows the key compartment door to be closed, or the shackle to be re-installed, and once this has occurred, the door will not fall open, and the shackle will not fall out. A fourth state is a “hard lock” state in which the key compartment door and the shackle are not easily disturbed by vibration or intentional impact by a would-be thief, who is attempting to unlawfully open the door or remove the shackle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: SentriLock, LLC
    Inventors: Scott R. Fisher, Matthew K. Caskey, John P. Crutcher, Robin S. Glassburn, Wendell H. Morris
  • Patent number: 8151609
    Abstract: A lock cylinder consisting of a housing with a lock bit, an unlocking device and an actuation device is described. The unlocking device comprises a coupling arranged between the actuation device and the lock bit, which coupling is decoupled in the locked state and coupled in the unlocked state. The coupling can be electromagnetically or piezoelectrically actuated and the unlocking device is externally fed with energy contactlessly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: ASTRA Gesellschaft für Asset Management mbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Anatoli Stobbe, Wilfried Herrmann
  • Publication number: 20120073339
    Abstract: The invention provides a control mechanism for opening/unlocking the garage door. In this manner, the Emergency Garage Door Arm Release allows consumers to open their garage door from the outside. A transmitter is a control device installed on the outside of the garage and features a keypad on which the user punches in their security code and then activates the emergency release button. Once activated the Emergency Garage Door Arm Release sends a current to the solenoid which then releases the pin thus allowing the garage door to pop open. Once released, the consumer manually opens or raises the garage door the rest of the way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventor: John A. Shagen, SR.
  • Patent number: 8141400
    Abstract: A keypad lockset adapted for deadbolt as well as lever locks, and having as a first embodiment an exterior gear train, an interior gear train, and an electronically controlled clutch for coupling the gear trains when engaged and for uncoupling the gear trains when the clutch is disengaged, so that when the clutch is engaged rotation of an external thumb turn will permit the door latch to be withdrawn and thus to permit opening of the door, and a mechanical override mechanism that can be operated in case of electrical failure, and in which clutch mechanism and the override mechanism both operate through the single, standard 2 and ? inch door preparation hole, or alternatively as a second embodiment, a keypad lockset in which two four-bar mechanical linkages are used in place of gears as means to actuate the clutch, and alternatively to provide for a pass-through override function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Emtek Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Birk Cliff Sorensen, Ping Hsien Tsai, Wai Pang Wong, John Edward Walsh, Louis Romo Martinez
  • Publication number: 20120024024
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lock (10). Particularly, the invention relates to an electronic combination lock suitable for industrial, commercial or residential use. More particularly, the present invention relates to an electronic combination lock, in which a person may input a code and the lock unlocks, if the input code equals a code stored in the lock. The lock comprises a input device (16) for inputting a code, a control unit (22) with a set of codes, one of the codes of the set of codes being set as an actual code and one of the codes of the set of codes being a subsequent code of the actual code and a lock mechanism for unlocking and locking the lock, wherein the control unit (22) causes the lock mechanism (14) to unlock, if the actual code is input to the input device (16), and the control unit (22) sets the subsequent code as the actual code, if the subsequent code is input to the input device (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: FREE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Bernhard Faber, Thomas Rothenbacher
  • Patent number: 8091392
    Abstract: A high security lock includes a lock bolt movable between extended and retracted positions, a bolt retraction gear coupled to the lock bolt, and a manually-driven gear train. When a controller verifies that user-input information is correct for unlocking the lock, the bolt retraction gear and manually-driven gear train are operatively coupled such that the gear train can drive the lock bolt from the extended position to the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Lock II, L.L.C.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Donald P. Cooke, Jr., Michael P. Harvey
  • Patent number: 8085128
    Abstract: A device for selectively controlling access to a plurality of secure areas includes a driver circuit including a plurality of drivers, and a plurality of access modules each assigned to a corresponding secure area of the plurality of secure areas. Each access module is operatively coupled to at least one actuator operative to grant or deny access to the corresponding secure area. Unused drivers provided to a first access module of the plurality of access modules are cascaded to a second access module of the plurality of access modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: MV Circuit Design Inc.
    Inventor: William C. Colley, III
  • Patent number: 8079240
    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: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company
    Inventors: James W. Brown, Gustavo L. Sumcad, Ronald Taylor
  • Publication number: 20110283756
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for creating a sabotage protecting contact component (1), arranged in a locking function (2) near, on or in a lockable unit (3), e.g. a door, a window, a hatch or a gate, in order to relock from the outside a space or enclosure (4), said contact component (1) transmits via electric cables (5) electric current to the locking function (2) in the form of an electronic code, which activates an electronic part (6) and/or activates the mechanical part (7) of the locking function (2) for transmitting the current to drive a unit, e.g. a solenoid for connecting the mechanical part to a rotary function, e.g. a knob or a handle for locking or unlocking the lockable unit (3) by means of a lock cylinder, for example.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Hans Nilsson
  • Publication number: 20110277518
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for a checkpoint, comprising a controlled access passage, the exit of which is closed by an exit door (gate). Said exit door (5) opens in response to a signal of a least one biometric unit (8) which is arranged in the controlled access space (3) and by which the biometric features of a person desiring passage can be detected, and said biometric unit (8) is arranged frontally opposite of the entrance to the controlled access space (3) and preferably integrated in the exit door (5) of the controlled access space (3). A person entering the controlled access space (3) is therefore immediately located quasi automatically in the correct position for detection by the biometric unit (8), which is to say, frontally opposite of the biometric unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Lothar Lais, Norbert Wendt, Martin Werner, Dirk Homberg, Michael Brauckmann
  • Patent number: 8035477
    Abstract: An embodiment of an electronic access control system includes an electronic key, an electronic lock, and an access control administration program. The electronic key can include program code for switching between a lock mode and a computer mode. In some embodiments, the lock mode and computer mode allow for simplified administration and operation of the access control system. Some embodiments of the electronic key include a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the access control system includes a hybrid power supply system having a rechargeable battery and a generator. In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes a piezoelectric latch. In some embodiments, the electronic key is configured to act as a storage device for a computer system. Some embodiments provide an electronic access control system with a streamlined user interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Gregory Paul Kirkjan
  • Patent number: 8033147
    Abstract: An electronically controlled lock with a single throw acting as a passage lock and also as a deadbolt lock is provided by the invention. The lock is equipped with an electronic activation device on its exterior housing and a door lever on its internal housing. A user unlocks the door from outside by touching an electronic key against the electronic activation device. After the door is unlocked, the throw acts as a passage lock. The door can be locked internally by moving the door lever from a horizontal position upwardly to a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: HandyTrac Systems, LLC
    Inventors: John Lie-Nielsen, Tibor Szenti
  • Patent number: 8028553
    Abstract: A lock cylinder with a lock cylinder housing is provided. A knob shaft, rotatable by way of a knob, is mounted to rotate on one side or both sides of the lock cylinder. An authorization signal causes at least one electromechanically operating coupling device to connect a lock element to rotate in unison with the knob shaft and in order to operate a lock. The authorization signal is generated by evaluation electronics based on an input or input signal. It is proposed that at least one reading unit with an input unit to record the input and/or a receiving unit to receive the input signal is present, that the reading unit with the input unit and/or receiving unit is arranged in at least one knob and are spatially separated from the evaluation electronics, that the knob is connected electrically and mechanically releasable to the knob shaft, and that the reading unit generates, from the input or input signal, an access signal that can be evaluated by the evaluation electronics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: ASSA Abloy AB
    Inventor: Volker Lange
  • Patent number: 7984631
    Abstract: A modular escutcheon for a door lock including a plurality of covers. Each higher cover may progressively project outward from the surface of a door more than the covers below. Top and bottom edges of adjacent covers abut to form a joint, which may be partly or completely concealed resulting from the outward projections of higher covers. An escutcheon system may be provided that includes interchangeable parts, for example, there may be several different intermediate covers for use with the same lower and upper covers, or different upper covers that may be used in the same position. A variety of lock operating devices may be provided with the different covers to achieve different systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Yale Security Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher N. Case, Robert C. Hunt
  • Patent number: 7940176
    Abstract: Methods and devices provide for lock interaction with software in order to facilitate access to a vault in a cash handling device and display of a transportation utility interface. A user may access an electromechanical lock on a cash handling device. The lock may determine whether the user is authorized. If unlocked, access may be provided to a transportation utility interface and to a vault that may contain currency in order to facilitate removal and transportation of the currency. If desired, stackers in the cash handling device may automatically transfer the currency to a container in the vault after the lock is unlocked. The vault may be subsequently closed, access to the transportation utility interface may be disabled, and the lock may be re-locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Bank of America Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel Christopher Bohen, Amy Baker Folk, William Thomas Sanders, Shane Anthony Johnson, Paul Martin Mattison
  • Patent number: 7918114
    Abstract: An actuator assembly is for a lock including a handle, a latch, a retractor for retracting the latch when the handle rotates, and a lock member displaceable between locked and unlocked positions, which either releasably couples the handle with the retractor or releasably prevents handle rotation. The actuator includes a motor having a shaft rotatable about an axis and a coupler spring disposed about the axis and having a first end coupled with the lock member and a second end. A drive member is coupled or integrally formed with the motor shaft and has a helical drive surface threadably engaged with the coupler spring second end, such that rotation of the shaft displaces the coupler spring along the axis to move the lock member between the locked and unlocked positions. Preferably, the drive member includes a spring coupled with the motor shaft and threadably engaged with the coupler spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Harrow Products LLC
    Inventor: John E. Walsh, III
  • Patent number: 7908896
    Abstract: Implementations of biometric deadbolt lock assemblies having various aspects relating to lock housing; a fingerprint sensor in the housing; a controller in the housing and electrically coupled to the fingerprint sensor, the controller configured to store data and compare stored data to data from the fingerprint sensor; a deadbolt mechanism; a manual actuator couplable to the deadbolt mechanism; a controlled actuator electrically coupled to the controller that couples or uncouples the deadbolt mechanism from the manual actuator to enable or disable manual operation of the deadbolt lock through the manual actuator. A battery may also be included within the housing and in particular implementations a biometric deadbolt lock assembly may be configured to fit in the same size opening as a conventional deadbolt lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventors: Timothy L. Olson, Paul J. Byrne, Robert A. Johannsen, Kenneth C. Blaisdell, John Tysver
  • Publication number: 20110041573
    Abstract: A delivery system uses secure containers each equipped with means such as a keypad (8) or barcode reader (10) to input a single use delivery key. The delivery key is generated by an external code generator that produces pseudo noise codes. A generator (20) that produces the same sequence is provided in the lock and synchronisation between the two generators is provided by the delivered items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Terence Giles
  • Patent number: 7845202
    Abstract: The invention concerns an electromechanical lock. More specifically, the invention concerns an interchangeable electromechanical lock core that is equipped with a blocking cam that secures the lock core in a mating housing. The blocking cam may be coupled to a plug and the plug may be coupled to a knob. Once both couplings have occurred, the knob can be turned to actuate the blocking cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Assa Abloy AB
    Inventors: Toby Padilla, Bertrand Roland, Vladimir Shvarts
  • Publication number: 20100281934
    Abstract: This invention relates to an electronic-controlled magnetic lock anti-theft unit for coffer in which a magnetic lock and a latch unit are assembled on the door panel of a coffer, a pivoting plate being provided between the magnetic lock and the latch unit, and an anti-theft unit at the lateral side of the latch unit. When a thief begins to turn the coffer upside down to steal, a stop post of the anti-theft unit falls down to engage in the latch unit by gravitational effect. In this manner, even if the engaging plate is disengaged from the magnetic lock, the latch unit is unable to be wrenched for unlocking. Therefore, the purpose of anti-theft can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventor: Ming-Jhou Su
  • Publication number: 20100206024
    Abstract: A light fence represented by aligned apertures in a plurality of wheels permits the passage of a light beam to a sensor to activate an electro-mechanical control for a lock. Such an arrangement avoids the sound-producing mechanical action of the typical tumbler lock and safeguards discovery of the opening combination. Rather than the typical case of a numerical sequencing combination, a novel approach is taken by using visual pattern recognition to align the apertures. The electro-mechanical control of the present invention additionally features optimized energy use, customizable settings, precision positioning, and an expansion of possible combination permutations by including direction of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Publication date: August 19, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Brent Kitchen
  • Patent number: 7698917
    Abstract: An electronically controlled lock with a single throw acting as a passage lock and also as a deadbolt lock is provided by the invention. The lock is equipped with an electronic activation device on its exterior housing and a door lever on its internal housing. A user unlocks the door from outside by touching an electronic key against the electronic activation device. After the door is unlocked, the throw acts as a passage lock. The door can be locked internally by moving the door lever from a horizontal position upwardly to a vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Handytrac Systems, LLC
    Inventors: John Lie-Nielsen, Tibor Szenti
  • Patent number: 7673481
    Abstract: A remotely activated and monitored key safe to allow storage and retrieval of at least one key including: a housing having a generally elongated shape and having a longitudinally extending cavity open through a first axial end of the housing, in fixed relation to a structure: a key holding tray adapted to be slideably loaded into the housing, the tray having a front cover fitted to cover the first axial end of the housing, and the tray having a locking/unlocking mechanism; a communications and command subsystem powered by a power source, the communications and command subsystem adapted to receive remote commands to activate the locking/unlocking mechanism; and a backup power subsystem adapted to allow backup power to be applied to contacts presentable on an accessible surface of the key safe in case of a failure of the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Haim Amir
  • Patent number: 7671719
    Abstract: An electronic storage box, an electronic storage box opening and closing method, and computer program product, comprising: safety, portability, convenience, economical efficiency and presentation effects are provided. In case a cryptograph setting request signal is received from a PC 21, the electronic storage box 1 stores cryptograph information included in the cryptograph setting request signal. In case an opening and closing request signal is received from a PC 21, the electronic storage box 1 determines whether or not the cryptograph information included in the opening and closing request signal and the cryptograph information stored in a key storage portion 103 match with each other. In case it is determined that these pieces of the cryptograph information match with each other, the electronic storage box 1 allows a lid 12 to shift either to an opened state or a closed state according to the opening and closing state of the lid 12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Asian Integration Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Norihito Sogo
  • Publication number: 20090320538
    Abstract: Method for controlling the locking of an electronic lock (5), including the following steps: a user (4) is identified vis-à-vis the electronic lock, the electronic lock (5) displays a question, the user transmits the question to a central station (1), the central station computes the answer to the question and transmits this answer to the user, the user enters the answer in the lock, the lock verifies whether the response is correct and decides according to this answer whether to unlock the door a receipt code is displayed by the lock (5) and transmitted by the user to the central station (1) with the aid of the mobile equipment (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: KABA AG
    Inventor: Pierre Pellaton
  • Patent number: 7631526
    Abstract: An enclosure suitable for housing equipment for which controlled access is desirable. The enclosure has at least one, preferably two, enclosure doors secured by securing assemblies selected from a group consisting of a lock cylinder assembly, an electronic lock assembly, a quarter-turn latch assembly, a compression latch assembly, a folding T latch assembly, a lift and turn compression latch assembly, a pawl/cam action latch assembly, a multi-point latch assembly and a bolt assembly for securing to a rotary latch. Each securing assembly is secured to a mounting plate so that the respective securing assemblies may be easily exchanged within a standardized opening in the respective enclosure doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Publication number: 20090282876
    Abstract: A lock assembly including a body and at least one locking member. An actuator mechanism within the body is moveable between locked and unlocked positions. The actuator mechanism may be actuated by either a key lock cylinder or an electronic actuator. The lock assembly may also include a memory configured to store user identification information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Applicant: Ingersoll Rand Company
    Inventors: Robert D. Zuraski, Cornelius McDaid, John Paul Thambusami Joy Sachidanadam
  • Publication number: 20090229321
    Abstract: The invention provides a lock assembly (10) which has a support base (80) and a bolt (14) movable between an unlocked position, in which the bolt (14) is substantially within the support base in (80) and a locked position in which the bolt (14) extends from the support base (80). The lock assembly (10) also includes locking means (32) to block movement of the bolt (14) in the locked position and actuating means (46) for moving the blocking means (32) to release the bolt (14) from the locked position. The actuating means (46) can comprise electromechanical means, an electro restrictive polymer, piezoelectric material or a material adapted to contract when activated, such as shape memory alloy wire (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Telezygology, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Eccles, Dickory Rudduck, John Freese, Benjamin David Ford, Paul Kudrna, Cary Maguire, David Kazmierz Szczypinski, Michael Kondratuk
  • Patent number: 7581422
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanism (1) for starting a vehicle engine by means of an electronic key (3). Said mechanism (1) comprises a receiving device (2) in the vehicle for inserting the key (3). The key (3) that is inserted in said receiving device (2) cannot be twisted while being movable in a longitudinal direction into at least one defined raised position. Such mechanisms are provided with locking devices which secure the electronic key (3) in the receiving slot against being removed during operation of the vehicle. Said locking device is controlled via electrical drives (10). In order to be able to remove the key (3) when the drive (10) is down or in case of a power failure in the vehicle, means are that provided that allow the key (3) to be removed mechanically as an emergency measure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Mirko Schindler
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7540177
    Abstract: This invention publicizes a kind of fingerprint locks with patterns of propagation, comprising of lock body, characterized by a raised fingerprint groove for lock opening, a slide lid provided on the lock body with slide connection to the body, and surrounding the fingerprint groove. There is an animal and plant pattern on surface of the slide lid and another appropriate animal and plant pattern below the lock body, which is of pattern consistent with that on the slide lid and both together forms a 3D propagation pattern. Because of the above-mentioned structure, the lock is of a beautiful appearance and strong effect of decoration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Xianhao Luo
  • Patent number: 7536880
    Abstract: A magnetic lid switch assembly includes a first magnetically actuated electrical switch that has a lever arm movable between a first position wherein the first switch is open and a second position wherein the first switch is closed. A second magnetically actuated electrical switch electrically is connected in series with the first switch. The second switch has a lever arm movable between a first position wherein the second switch is open and a second position wherein the second switch is closed. A first actuator is magnetically coupled to the first switch. The first actuator moves the lever arm of the first switch closing the first switch to enable the first switch to pass an electric current when the first actuator is positioned proximate the first switch. A second actuator is magnetically coupled to the second switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Errin Whitney Gnadinger, Kristian Michael Magnuson, Thomas William McConihay, John Jacob Lapina, Jr., Derek Lee Watkins
  • Publication number: 20090108988
    Abstract: A system and method for administrating access to an interior compartment of a safe is provided. The safe includes a locking mechanism for locking and unlocking a safe door, and a lock interface including a biometric sensor, a keypad, and a memory. The interior compartment of the safe may be accessed using primary and secondary identification sequences, and primary and secondary unique identifying features. The manager initiates the safe using the pre-established master sequence and administrates the number of secondary users permitted to access the interior compartment of the safe. The pre-established master sequence may also be used to delete all identification sequences and unique identifying features that are stored in the lock interface. A key lock operates as a threshold or secondary lock that controls whether the primary and secondary identification sequences, and primary and secondary unique identifying features, may be used to unlock the locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventors: Terri P. Cleveland, Kelvin H. Wildman, Paul Magnant
  • Patent number: 7516633
    Abstract: An electric lock includes a manual operation mechanism and an electric control mechanism. The manual operation mechanism includes a rotary knob unit, a first attracting member mounted fixedly to the rotary knob unit, a key-operated lockset, and a lock-connecting rod connected to and rotatable by the rotary knob unit and the key-operated lockset. The electric control mechanism includes a power source unit, a clutch gear driven by the power source unit to rotate in two directions, and a second attracting member mounted fixedly to the clutch gear. When the clutch gear is driven by the power source unit to rotate to align the first and second attracting members with each other, a magnetic attraction force is generated between the first and second attracting members to allow for co-rotation of the rotary knob unit with the clutch gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: EZ Trend Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jing-Chen Chang
  • Publication number: 20090064744
    Abstract: A kind of method for electronic lock system making the key-following password tidy up immediately after use, in which: a. establish human characteristic sensor and temporary password memory on the main body of the electronic key and data transmission unit of the lock password, lock controlling unit and user's database on the lock main body; b. firstly, human characteristic sensor gathers every user's human characteristic information that can be changed into corresponding authentification code in the producing unit for the password and deposited into the temporary password memory temporarily, meanwhile transported into data transmission unit of the lock password through data transmission unit of the key password; secondly, the password is deposited into the user's database after being registered and confirmed; c. when the human characteristic sensor leaves the human body or the authentification code is conveyed successfully, the temporary password memory is tidied up.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2005
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Ruixun Wang
  • Publication number: 20090056395
    Abstract: In a door strike for captivating and releasing a door bolt, the combination comprising a longitudinally elongated carrier, a longitudinally elongated solenoid supported by the carrier, the solenoid having a longitudinally movable plunger, a trip lever pivotally supported in or on the carrier, a laterally extending actuating arm pivotally supported in or on the carrier to be pivoted as the plunger moves longitudinally in response to solenoid energization, thereby to pivot the trip lever, a generally longitudinally extending blocking arm or arms pivotally supported in or on the carrier to be released for pivoting when the trip lever is pivoted, and a door bolt retainer or retainers pivotally supported in the carrier to be released for pivoting when the blocking arm or arms are released for pivoting, thereby to release the door bolt from captivation, for movement with the door. Dual springs are compressed by the plunger in response to solenoid energization.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Alan K. Uyeda
  • Publication number: 20080314100
    Abstract: An electric anti-impact lock with spring accumulator comprises a lock shell; a pivot keeper for locking door with a latch portion and a tail portion, the door can be opened when the latch portion pivoting into the shell, the door being locked when the latch portion pivoting outside the shell; a device for locking keeper comprising a slideable block bar, the keeper is locked when the slideable block bar being against the tail portion, the keeper is turnable when the slideable block being moved away; a anti-impact device having a reinforce structure, which bears a impact from the door through the keeper and the block bar; and a device for locking block bar is a block pin device with spring accumulator, the block pin shoots out to stop moving of the block bar when power on, thereby, the door being locked, the block pin withdrawing to free the stop when power on in reverse pole, the door can be opened. The new lock solves the problems of weakness and lock death for current electromagnetic locks in market.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: Hao Min
  • Patent number: 7406846
    Abstract: An electronic lock incorporating one or more shape memory metal wire segment as its electromechanical transducer. An electronic control circuit injects electrical current into the shape memory metal wire, causing it to heat up and contract. A gate is positioned by the action of the shape memory metal wire(s) to either allow or block the movement of a locking bolt that affect locking or unlocking. Millions of operational cycles are achieved by limiting the stretching of the shape memory metal wire at low temperature to small percentages of its total length. The design lends itself to miniaturization, with commensurate reduction in power consumption, that is useful to the evolution of future electronic locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Nanotechnology, Inc.
    Inventor: John Wun-Sing Chu
  • Patent number: 7377144
    Abstract: A protective device for an electronic lock includes a fixing plate mounted in a casing of an electronic lock and located behind an opening of the casing. The fixing plate includes a through-hole aligned with the opening. A protective cover is mounted to the fixing plate and movable between a shielding position shielding the through-hole of the fixing plate and the opening of the casing and a revealing position not shielding the through-hole of the fixing plate and the opening of the casing. The protective cover is drivable by a motor to move between the shielding position and the revealing position. A keypad is mounted to an outer side of the casing. A motor is activated to drive the protective cover when a pin code is input through the keypad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: I-Tek Metal Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhao-Hong Huang
  • Patent number: 7373795
    Abstract: A system for electronically and remotely activating a deadbolt lock to actuate and either extend or retract a deadbolt into a door or barrier. The system can be activated by remote control or by a manual knob. The system is constructed so as to fit on any standard single cylinder, cylindrical deadbolt system and utilize the existing deadbolts keys. The system can be used in homes, apartments, or other buildings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Mark W. Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7363789
    Abstract: An enclosure suitable for housing computer/network equipment for which controlled access is desirable. The enclosure has at least one, preferably two, enclosure doors secured by respective lock assemblies selected from a group consisting of a lock cylinder assembly, an electronic lock assembly, a quarter-turn latch assembly, a compression latch assembly, a folding T latch assembly, a lift and turn compression latch assembly, a pawl/cam action latch assembly, a multi-point latch assembly and a bolt assembly for securing to a rotary latch. Each lock assembly a securing mechanism, a lock actuating mechanism and a standard mounting plate so that the respective securing assemblies may be easily exchanged within a standardized opening in the respective enclosure doors. The respective lock actuating mechanisms are constructed and arranged to actuate the respective securing mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: StockBridge Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Patent number: 7336150
    Abstract: An electronic lock device for lockers of similar uses has an input for a user code (keypad or electronic key reader), and a separate input for a manager key. Contacts at the manager key include power jumper contacts, so that when a user is unable to open his assigned locker, whether this is due to a low battery in the lock or failure of the user's key or the user's forgetting a PIN code, the manager key device will open the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Security People, Inc.
    Inventors: Asil T. Gokcebay, Yucel K. Keskin, Robert E. Kearns
  • Patent number: 7334442
    Abstract: A privacy keypad providing privacy for keypad character entry and concealment of a joint in an escutcheon. A privacy keypad may include a faceplate, a keypad disposed on the faceplate, and at least one protrusion integral with the faceplate. An escutcheon for a door lock may include a housing, a keypad disposed on the housing for unlocking the door lock, and at least one protrusion integral with the housing. The protrusion may obstruct at least partially a line of sight to the keypad. An escutcheon may include top and bottom covers with the top cover projecting outward from the surface of a door more than the lower cover, resulting in an at least partially hidden joint between covers. Top and bottom covers may be interchangeable with covers having similar edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Yale Security, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher N. Case, Robert C. Hunt
  • Patent number: 7325426
    Abstract: A safe electromagnetic lock including a first bolt provided with an elastic fastener, an elastic slide bolt positioned on an end of the first bolt, an electromagnetic device connected to a computer and a second bolt. The computer controls induction of the elastic fastener by the electromagnetic device, and a key inserted into a first keyhole, or another key inserted into a second keyhole, controls sliding movement of the elastic slide block to push against the elastic fastener, thereby releasing an abutting state and effecting unhindered unlocking of the safe electromagnetic lock. Upon unlocking, a front end of the second bolt extends out from a case, and protruding mount of the second bolt is used to press down on a steel ball, thereby enabling the second bolt to achieve a solid fixation and effectively preventing mistakenly locking and avoiding forgetting to lock the safe electromagnetic lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Ching-Hung Kuo
  • Publication number: 20070277571
    Abstract: A cam lock for cabinets, drawers, drug cabinets, credenzas, sliding doors, lockers, mail boxes and other door type applications is compact in size, fits an existing cam lock opening and provides electronic access via a keypad or other electronic access. Using batteries, such as AAA size batteries or smaller, the lock has electronics that release a lock turn knob or handle when the correct code is entered. Preferably a set of electronic contacts is included at an accessible position on the lock housing to allow both master access and power jumping with a common manager's implement, for situations of lost codes and/or battery failure. In a particular embodiment the lock is long, narrow and low in profile so as to fit on the margin of a steel or wood file cabinet, compatible with the cam lock opening already provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Inventor: Asil T. Gokcebay
  • Patent number: 7263865
    Abstract: A self-powered electric lock includes a lock bolt and a first engagement element having disengaged and engageable positions. An electric actuator includes an output operative to move the first engagement element to its engageable position. A manually operated rotatable member is operatively coupled to the first engagement element when the first engagement element is in its engageable position. A lock bolt drive mechanism is coupled to the lock bolt and to the first engagement element when the first engagement element is in its engageable position. The movable output moves the first engagement element to its engageable position upon input of correct electronic data. An electricity generator is coupled to the manually operated rotatable member. The electricity powers the electric actuator and an electronic data input device. The manually operated rotatable member is also used to actuate the lock bolt drive mechanism and retract the lock bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: C&M Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Michael Harvey, James L. Taylor, Thomas Clark, Gerry Dawson