Actuated After Correct Combination Recognized (e.g., Numerical, Alphabetical, Or Magnet(s) Pattern) Patents (Class 70/278.1)
  • Patent number: 7236085
    Abstract: A method for controlling access to a storage unit owned by an owner, wherein a renter has access to the storage unit unless the owner receives the legal right to deny the renter access to the storage unit and decides to do so. In this method, the storage unit is secured by a lock that is, at least in part, controlled by the renter. A remotely controllable lockout assembly, however, is capable of over locking the storage unit so that the renter can no longer gain entry when the lockout assembly is activated. The method includes remotely controlling the lockout assembly to deny the renter access to the unit when the owner receives the legal right to deny the renter access to the storage unit and decides to do so.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Smartlok Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Glen L. Aronson, John Wollam
  • Patent number: 7225650
    Abstract: A lock assembly for attachment to an enclosure door. The enclosure door has a lock assembly receiving opening specifically created to receive the lock assembly. The preferred lock assembly includes a lock case assembly having a bolt that can be moved between at least two positions; a lock actuating assembly interconnected with the lock case assembly such that the lock actuating assembly can actuate a change in the position of the bolt from one position to another; and a mounting plate having an interior side and an exterior side. The lock actuating assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the exterior side and the lock case assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the interior side. In alternate embodiments, the present invention provides a mounting plate, an enclosure door including a lock assembly and a method of securing a lock assembly to an enclosure door. A method of securing a preassembled electronic lock assembly to an enclosure door is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Randy Squier
  • Patent number: 7165428
    Abstract: A lock (1) comprises an electronics module (6) which in response to receiving an authorisation signal from an electronic key (8) causes movement of handles (4a; 4b) to release a bolt (19) within aperture (3). Electronic module (6) is replaceable and is retained in place by a latch (16) that may be released by actuation of a mechanical lock (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: ISON Limited
    Inventors: Frederick Bertram Isaacs, Paul Nicholas Roger Michael Isaacs
  • Patent number: 7135787
    Abstract: The disclosed technology can be used to develop systems and perform methods in which movements (e.g., manipulations of a door handle) associated with a locking element can be detected based on a sequence of signal interruptions caused by these movements and such sequence of signal interruptions can further serve as a basis for identifying an authorized user and as a basis for actuating the locking element to enable the authorized user to gain access to a restricted-access space defined within an enclosure (e.g., an automobile, a boat, an aircraft, a building, a container, a cabinet, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: GeoCentric Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: George J. Alexandropoulos
  • Patent number: 7108301
    Abstract: A door handle for the side door, rear door or trunk of a motor vehicle, the door handle being fitted with a flap (1) that retracts automatically when the handle is used. The flap is fitted with a sensor (5) that detects the presence of a handle opposite the flap. When the flap is not in use, it is closed in such a way as to be flush with the external surface (2) of the door and it is held in position by a spring recall system. A computer-controlled actuation device is designed to retract the flap at the appropriate moment in order to provide access to the door opening control (8). The flap systems can be connected to an electric or mechanical opening control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Philippe Louvel
  • Patent number: 7102486
    Abstract: A locking apparatus has improved operability and is manufacturable at low cost. The locking apparatus has a fingerprint reader (23), a fingerprint verifier (11), and a power supply circuit. The fingerprint reader reads a fingerprint. The fingerprint verifier verifies the read fingerprint based on registered fingerprint data, and according to a result of the verification, authenticates a person who entered the fingerprint. If the person is authenticated, the locking apparatus unlocks a door locked with the locking apparatus. The locking apparatus comprises a chamber (19) configured to contain the fingerprint reader, a lid (25) configured to open and close the opening of the chamber, and a switch (41) provided for the power supply circuit and configured to interlock with the lid so as to turn on and off the power supply circuit in response to the opening and closing of the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignees: Unirec Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Junichi Yamagishi
  • Patent number: 7089770
    Abstract: The description relates to a closure for mounting in an opening in a thin wall, such as a sheet metal cabinet door, which comprises a housing and which has, at one end, a bearing support for an actuation lever and, at its other end, a lock device for the actuation lever and a fastening device such as a clamping clip therebetween. The housing has a partially spherical bearing surface with a cylindrical bore hole proceeding from it, wherein a partial ball with a first bearing for a closure drive shaft extending through the cylindrical bore hole and with a second bearing for the actuation lever is arranged in the cylindrical bore hole, and the two bearings enable a rotation of the partial ball in relation to the housing and a swiveling of the actuation lever in relation to the partial ball around an axis vertical to the closure drive shaft and to the extension of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: DIRAK Dieter Ramsauer Konstruktionselemente GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dieter Ramsauer, Volkhard Petersen
  • Patent number: 7086258
    Abstract: An electronic lock box contains a secure compartment for storing keys to a structure. A linear actuator moves in one direction opening the door to the secure compartment, and moves in the opposite direction releasing a shackle that holds the lock box to the structure. A lock box system uses an encryption algorithm to diversify user PIN data at a central computer, and stores that diversified information on a memory card for later use when the user attempts to access a lock box. The central computer and electronic lock box both keep track of system “epoch time,” and the memory card must be presented to the electronic lock box within a correct epoch time window for the diversified PIN data to be successfully decrypted and compared to the user's PIN data that is entered on a keypad of the electronic lock box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Sentrilock, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R Fisher, William George Noack, Bret William Smith, Randolph C. Stewart
  • Patent number: 7062945
    Abstract: A door handle apparatus having a door handle 12 which is provided on a back door of an automobile in such a manner as to oscillate freely and a cover member 20 for covering the door handle 12, wherein a detection sensor 30 for detecting the approach of an operator toward the door handle 12 is provided between the door handle 12 and the cover member 20.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hajime Saitoh, Kazuhiko Yamada, Tomofumi Ichinose
  • Patent number: 7064456
    Abstract: A door lock release device includes an actuator for releasing a door lock, a first detection means for detecting an operation of a door handle, a first control circuit for controlling an actuation of the actuator based on the detected door handle operation, a second detection means for detecting a vehicle state, and a second control circuit independent from the first control circuit for controlling the actuation of the actuator based on the detected vehicle state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Koichi Hirota, Masachika Kamiya
  • Patent number: 7051561
    Abstract: A mortise lockset apparatus (10) that includes a retractable bolt (20) movably supported within a case (12). A handle (18) is pivotally supported on a hub (16) supported in the case, the hub being operably connected to the retractable bolt. The bolt is retracted by turning the door handle. A lock-out mechanism (22) is configured to prevent the handle from being turned when the lock-out mechanism is in an engaged position. The handle lock-out mechanism also includes a cam (29) movably supported in the case and operably connected to a motor (30). A sliding stop (34) is movably supported in the case and is engageable with the handle hub to prevent the handle hub and the handle from turning. The sliding stop is also engageable with a cam surface (40) of the cam. The motor is configured to move the sliding stop by rotating the cam. The cam rotational axis (42) is disposed between diametrically opposed portions of the cam surface to minimize space requirements for the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Computerized Security Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles W. Moon, Ernst K. Mitchell, Mohamad A. Khalil, John J. Kimes
  • Patent number: 7040125
    Abstract: An electronic lock system comprises a recessed grip which can be mounted on a door leaf or the like, in which a lockable grip lever is held by one end around an axis parallel to the door leaf by the recessed grip or by a drive shaft for a bar lock, sash lock or the like which is held therein, and further comprises a locking device by which the grip lever can be locked into its position in which its is swiveled into the recessed grip. According to the invention, the locking device is constructed in a modular manner and comprises the following exchangeable components (modules): a base module with a movable bolt which, in its locking position, secures the grip lever in its swiveled in position, and with a device for supplying electric energy (e.g., a battery) for driving the movable bolt, which base module can be inserted through an opening formed by the recessed grip and can be secured therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: DIRAK Dieter Ramsauer Konstruktionselemente GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Roland Ciezki, Olaf Dressel
  • Patent number: 7024896
    Abstract: A lock assembly for attachment to an enclosure door. In preferred embodiments, the enclosure door has a lock assembly receiving opening for receiving the lock assembly, the lock assembly includes a lock case assembly having a bolt that can be moved between at least two positions; a lock actuating assembly interconnected with the lock case assembly; and a mounting plate having an interior side and an exterior side. The lock actuating assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the exterior side and the lock case assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the interior side. The lock assembly can be secured to the enclosure door by an interior mounting plate securing bracket, preferably two such brackets secured to the interior side of the mounting plate. In alternate embodiments, the present invention provides a method of securing a lock assembly to an enclosure door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Patent number: 6986272
    Abstract: The invention relates to an ignition lock (1), in particular for a driving authorization system in a motor vehicle that interacts for authentication purposes with an electronic key or the like via an encoded operating signal. The ignition lock (1) contains a moving element (2) that can move from a starting position into at least one actuating position and a switching element (3), wherein the moving element (2) has a switching effect onto the switching element (3) in the actuating position. The ignition lock (1) furthermore includes a lever (4) that can be inserted into the moving element (2) for manually moving the moving element (2), wherein a locking feature (5) interacts with the lever (4) in the inserted state so that the removal of the lever (4) from the moving element (2) is blocked. The lever (4) contains an actuating element for the release of the locking feature (5) so that upon actuation of the actuating element the lever (4) can be removed from the moving element (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ralf Sandvoss, Reinhart Neumann, Thomas Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6967562
    Abstract: A lock system includes a cylindrical door lock having a latching spindle and an opening spindle which are concentrically oriented, and a wireless communication system to transmit signals indicating the relative positions of the latching spindle and the opening spindle. A door lock assembly can include a lock mechanism for placing the lock assembly into an unlocked state or a locked state, an electrically controlled actuator assembly to control the lock mechanism, a transceiver coupled to the actuator assembly, and a communication device to communicate over a two-way wireless network with the electrically controlled actuator. A retrofit actuator assembly adapted to be mounted on an existing lock to control a locking mechanism of the lock, and a two-way communication device to control the retrofit actuator assembly and to receive signals from the retrofit actuator assembly indicating a state of the locking mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Royal Thoughts, LLC
    Inventors: Raymond J. Menard, McNeil Bryan
  • Patent number: 6886380
    Abstract: A lock section is mechanically operated by a key provided with identification information to perform a locking or unlocking operation. A receiver acquires the identification information from the key. A checker determines whether the identification information acquired by the receiver matches with pre-stored registration information of the key. A limiter restricts the unlocking operation of the key when the checker determines that the identification information does not match with the registration information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Konami Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihito Kato, Masaharu Shirasawa
  • Patent number: 6865913
    Abstract: A locking apparatus has a lock driver to electrically lock and unlock a door, a fingerprint read/verify unit to receive a fingerprint from a user, verify the received fingerprint by comparing it with registered fingerprint data) and if the fingerprint verification authenticates the user, enable the lock driver to electrically operate, a key cylinder attached to the door, an interlink linking the key cylinder with the lock driver, and a key to manually operate the lock driver in cooperation with the key cylinder and the interlink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignees: Unirec Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Junichi Yamagishi
  • Patent number: 6854870
    Abstract: A handle assembly for a vehicle includes a base, which is adapted to mount to a vehicle, and a handle portion, which is movably mounted to the base. The handle portion is adapted to connect to a vehicle latching mechanism. The handle assembly includes at least one switch mounted to the handle portion and an electrical circuit, which is adapted to connect to a locking control system for the vehicle latching mechanism. The switch is adapted to open and close the electrical circuit to generate electrical signals to the locking control system to unlock the vehicle latching mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventor: David J. Huizenga
  • Patent number: 6848314
    Abstract: A device (10) for receiving date transmitted as impulses through an input transmission body (16) is provided. The device (10) has a vibration sensitive transducer (50) which constitutes part of a floating mass assembly (40) with a pick-up portion (42). The pick-up portion (42) is biased towards a surface of a rigid body that is either the input transmission body (16) or a vibrations transmissive member (151). The assembly (40) has a freedom of movement permitting it to vibrate independently from the rigid body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Ilan Goldman
  • Patent number: 6825753
    Abstract: A lockable storage assembly, or lockbox container, is disclosed, with programmable opening utility, for providing access to the contents of the storage assembly at a time chosen by a user to suit an occasion. The lockbox includes non-volatile memory for holding current time and date, and opening time and date, and is assembled of integrated circuits and display, requiring very low power, such that the lockbox may retain function over extended periods of time, while locking mechanisms with higher power requirements are powered by a replaceable, externally accessible battery. The lockbox is assembled and programmed so that the interior is accessible only upon reaching a match date, whereupon the lockbox unlocks automatically, or upon entry of a password chosen by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventors: Salvatore J. Cardinale, Richard Morse
  • Patent number: 6813917
    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: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: C&M Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Michael Harvey, James L. Taylor, Thomas Clark, Gerry Dawson
  • Patent number: 6813916
    Abstract: A remote control lock structure. The lock structure includes a receiving box, a locking member, a transmission mechanism, an electric circuit element and a cover. The locking member is placed in the receiving space aligned with a screw hole of a positioning block with a round hole on the receiving box. An axle rod is extended into and out of the round hole, and one end of the axle rod is connected to a main gearing wheel of the transmission mechanism. The main gearing wheel is connected at its lateral sides with the two power transmission wheels, and two power motors are connected with the electric circuit element which provides electric power to activate one of the power motors, thereby one of the two power transmission wheels and the main gearing wheel are driven to rotate. The axle rod further drives the locking rod to rotate to make the latching rod on the front end of the locking rod extend out and retract in between the screw hole and the round hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Inventor: Ching-Wen Chang
  • Publication number: 20040206141
    Abstract: A lock assembly for attachment to an enclosure door. In preferred embodiments, the enclosure door has a lock assembly receiving opening specifically created to receive the lock assembly. The lock assembly includes a lock case assembly having a bolt that can be moved between at least two positions; a lock actuating assembly interconnected with the lock case assembly such that the lock actuating assembly can actuate a change in the position of the bolt from one position to another; and a mounting plate having an interior side and an exterior side. The lock actuating assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the exterior side and the lock case assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the interior side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Publication number: 20040159134
    Abstract: The invention relates to a safety lock for a closing-off device which can be opened, having an actuating unit with an actuator which is guided in a displaceable manner, and having a locking unit into which the actuator, with the closing-off device closed, can be pushed and can be locked via an electromagnetically actuable, pivotable catch, by way of interengaging engagement surfaces, the actuator having a trigger element and the locking unit having a response element which, with the actuator pushed in, reacts to the trigger element by emitting an electric signal which triggers the locking action, in the case of which the catch can be pivoted about an axis extending parallel to the movement direction of the actuator, and the engagement surfaces of the catch and of the actuator run perpendicularly to the movement direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Manfred Eichenauer
  • Publication number: 20040129043
    Abstract: An enclosure suitable for housing computer 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: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Patent number: 6745603
    Abstract: Described herein is an electromagnetic locking device which integrates mechanical lock components in a hollow metal door frame with electronic access components. The physical and mechanical modifications comprise a magnetic field generating device, an appropriately shaped metal housing and a cam retaining locking bar. The method for integrating a magnetic field generating device and cam retaining locking bar with previously installed mechanical lock components minimizes service costs and replacement of doorframes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Barry Shaw
  • Patent number: 6739164
    Abstract: A remote control locking system for use in combination with a deadbolt lock and a doorknob lock mechanism in a conventional door locking device. The locking system includes a first gear assembly coupled to the deadbolt lock mechanism; and, a second gear assembly coupled to the doorknob lock mechanism. A receiver is coupled to a control unit, which is disposed for controlling the first gear assembly and the second gear assembly for enabling the lock mechanisms to lock or unlock. A remote control device including a transmitter is used for sending a signal to the receiver for activating the locking system. The locking system also includes a first motor disposed for driving the first gear assembly and operative in response to a first signal from the receiver; and, a second motor disposed for driving the second gear assembly and operative in response to a second signal from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Inventor: Todd Warmack
  • Patent number: 6722170
    Abstract: A lock assembly for attachment to an enclosure door. The enclosure door has a lock assembly receiving opening created to receive the lock assembly. The lock assembly includes a lock case assembly having a bolt that can be moved between at least two positions; a lock actuating assembly interconnected with the lock case assembly such that the lock actuating assembly can actuate a change in the position of the bolt from one position to another; and a mounting plate. The lock assembly is secured within the receiving opening of the enclosure door by an interior mounting plate securing bracket, preferably two such brackets, secured to the interior side of the mounting plate. A method of securing a lock assembly to an enclosure door is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Publication number: 20040025550
    Abstract: A locking apparatus allows a user to lock and unlock a door even if the user loses a key. The locking apparatus involves a reduced number of parts and is easy to install on a door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicants: Unirec Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Junichi Yamagishi
  • Patent number: 6684671
    Abstract: Vending machines are provided having a door and a cabinet having an interior region for storing and distributing objects, such as canned or bottled beverages. Several vending machines locks are provided for locking the door to the cabinet to prevent unauthorized access to the interior region of the cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Best Lock Corporation
    Inventors: James E. Beylotte, Ralph P. Palmer, John W. McIntire
  • Patent number: 6666055
    Abstract: A lockout apparatus for a number of expansion slots in a printed circuit board includes a lockout mechanism for the expansion slots. Each lockout mechanism includes a lockout member movable between a first position in which its respective expansion slot is blocked, and a second position in which its respective expansion slot is open. Only a single expansion slot is available for use at any one time. In another embodiment, add-on card installed into expansion slots may be retained in the expansion slot when the next expansion slot is filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: Gateway, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Janicek
  • Patent number: 6665983
    Abstract: A lockable sliding window apparatus includes sliding window units having respective vertical frame members that are coupled at a closed configuration. Inner and outer segments of one frame member receive the other frame member therebetween. A combination dial lock is mounted to the outer segment and includes a lock pin extending through therethrough. The lock pin is immovable when the combination lock is locked and vice versa. A window pin extends through the outer segment of the one frame member and through the other frame member for locking the other frame member in place. When the combination lock is unlocked, the lock pin may be user actuated to release the window pin for opening the window units. Another embodiment includes an electronic keypad by which a user may enter a security code. Proper entry actuates a solenoid to retract a lack pin that may otherwise lock the window units together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Inventors: Fred L. Zimmerman, Blair Sutton
  • Patent number: 6662609
    Abstract: A lockout apparatus for a number of expansion slots in a printed circuit board includes a lockout mechanism for the expansion slots. Each lockout mechanism includes a lockout member movable between a first position in which its respective expansion slot is blocked, and a second position in which its respective expansion slot is open. Only a single expansion slot is available for use at any one time. In another embodiment, add-on card installed into expansion slots may be retained in the expansion slot when the next expansion slot is filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Gateway, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Janicek
  • Patent number: 6657537
    Abstract: A device for initiating an authorization request for a vehicle includes a first switching arrangement, whose operation initiates an authorization request. The first switching arrangement is disposed in a recess of a door handle of the vehicle so that the recess houses a switching surface of the first switching arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Hauler
  • Patent number: 6655180
    Abstract: An electronic lock device includes provision for setting different bolt or latch extension lengths, to accommodate different door lock situations. In addition, the bolt or latch itself preferably is interchangeable for bolts or latches of different sizes or configurations, including switching a latch for a bolt or vice versa. The bolt or latch extension can be settable via a keypad or ibutton. In the preferred embodiments the lock units include a D.C. geared micromotor, which is also included in other electronic lock units disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Security People, Inc.
    Inventors: Asil T. Gokcebay, Yucel K. Keskin, Robert Kearns
  • Patent number: 6640594
    Abstract: An improved electronic lock requires a low power and consumes less electricity including an outer frame, an inner frame, a lock axle unit and a power unit. The outer frame is fastened to the outer side of a lock stile of a door. The outer frame has an outer handle, a keypad and a key way located on the exterior, and has the interior for housing the lock axle unit and the power unit to couple with the inner frame. The power unit includes a motor, a spring, a sleeve, a sliding plate and a retain plate. The power unit is coupled with a L-shaped lever to generate lever movements. Users may enter an electronic password to activate the motor to perform locking and unlocking function. The construction greatly reduces electric power: consumption of batteries, and lowers electric voltage, and increase the durability of the batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: Shyang Feng Electric & Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Celina Yao
  • Publication number: 20030172694
    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: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: C&M Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Michael Harvey, James L. Taylor, Thomas Clark, Gerry Dawson
  • Patent number: 6608548
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a control device (20) with redundancy for fitting to a lock having a mechanism (21) for locking an unlocking an access door, the device (20) being adapted to manage a change of state of this lock under predetermined conditions and to ensure that this state current is kept current up until the next change of state. This device (20) comprises means (30) for controlling the mechanism (21) and two units (31; 32) for providing like instructions to the control means. This device (20) is characterized in that the first unit (31) has a structure different from that of the second unit (32), while effecting common functions, and in that the control means behave functionally as an AND gate to the inputs of which are applied the instructions from the units respectively, when the device is functioning in a normal situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Ilco-Unican S.A./Rehlor Division
    Inventors: Pierre Pellaton, Didier Dominé
  • Patent number: 6601421
    Abstract: A device adapted to limit the bending of a flexible tongue (15) in a bending direction includes an abutment (18) disposed in this direction at a distance (19) from the deformable end of the tongue (15). As a confinement device for a substantially flat object (7), includes a lower portion (1) supporting at least one locking element (15) flexible in a bending direction, and a member (18) for limiting bending of the locking element (15) in this direction. Application particularly to an electromagnetic automotive key housing with a removable button battery (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive S.A.
    Inventor: Frederic Chaillie
  • Patent number: 6588243
    Abstract: A cam assembly may be constructed with cylinder plug perforated by a centrally positioned keyway, and having an exposed circumferential surface surrounding the keyway rotatably fitted within a centrally positioned keyhole of a housing, and rotated within the centrally positioned keyhole in response to rotational force applied by a key conformingly corresponding to the cylinder plug through an arc. A cam mounted either coaxially with the cylinder plug, or radially offset from the cylinder plug, is positioned within the housing to rotate with the cylinder plug as the key conformingly corresponding to the lock manually applies a rotational force to the cylinder plug rotates through the arc, while a member attached to the cam and eccentrically positioned relative to the keyway, drives the bolt between extended and retracted positions as the cylinder plug rotates through the arc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Inventors: Richard G. Hyatt, Jr., Douglas E. Trent
  • Publication number: 20030094025
    Abstract: A lock apparatus and method for storage devices such as refrigerators that can be operated without the user needing to carry a separate key. The apparatus has a refrigerated housing, a pivoting door that is movable between a closed position an open position, and a combination lock mounted to the door or housing that locks the door in the closed position and that can be activated via entering a combination to unlock the combination lock and permit opening of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Applicant: SPX Corporation
    Inventor: Brian L. Dallman
  • Patent number: 6553802
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic key comprising electronic components for receiving or transmitting signals. Said components are integrated in a housing (20). A mechanical emergency key (30′) is provided in case of an electronics failure. Said emergency key (30′) can be inserted into a recess (27) in the housing (20) together with its key shaft (31′). The aim of the invention is to produce a key which can be handled easily. To this end, one end of the housing is provided with a recess which is undercut at least in places and which usually prevents the inserted emergency key (30′) from being pulled out. Usually, the key is in a holding position in the housing (20) with an essentially positive fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Huf Hülsbeck & Fürst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Dirk Jacob
  • Patent number: 6546769
    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: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: C&M Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Michael Harvey, James L. Taylor, Thomas Clark, Gerry Dawson
  • Patent number: 6539760
    Abstract: A monitoring device for a protected area of a machinery installation, the area being accessible through at least one access opening which can be closed off by an element, such as a door, shutter, or the like, which is movable between an open position and a closed position. The monitoring device being arranged adjacent to the movable element and comprising a safety switch having a housing, an evaluation device, a movable element positionable between a closed and an open position, a coded release mechanism located on the movable element, and a read head for reading the coded release mechanism when the movable element is in the closed position. The safety switch being further provided with an actuator bearing a release mechanism, and which, in a locking position in the housing, locks the movable element in its closed position. The housing having a receiving space for the actuator such that the release mechanism is located adjacent to the read head when the actuator is in the locking position in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: K.A. Schmersal GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Helmut Letzel, Uwe Franke
  • Publication number: 20030056557
    Abstract: A lock assembly for attachment to an enclosure door. In preferred embodiments, the enclosure door has a lock assembly receiving opening specifically created to receive the lock assembly. The lock assembly includes a lock case assembly having a bolt that can be moved between at least two positions; a lock actuating assembly interconnected with the lock case assembly such that the lock actuating assembly can actuate a change in the position of the bolt from one position to another; and a mounting plate having an interior side and an exterior side. The lock actuating assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the exterior side and the lock case assembly is preferably secured to the mounting plate on the interior side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Randy L. Squier
  • Patent number: 6535136
    Abstract: A security system comprises a card containing access information, a reader for reading the card, a power source, a locking mechanism, and a first circuit for operating the locking mechanism. The power source is coupled to the first circuit to provide power to the first circuit. The power source is also coupled to a wake-up circuit to provide power to the wake-up circuit. The wake-up circuit detects the presence of an object and enables the reader to ascertain whether the object is the card. A method for operating the security system comprises first determining that electromagnetic energy is not being detected by the wake-up circuit, then determining that electromagnetic energy is being detected by the wake-up circuit, then determining that electromagnetic energy is not being detected by the wake-up circuit, and then ascertaining whether the object is the card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Best Lock Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Wilmer Rodenbeck, Roger Keith Russell, Michael Lee Long
  • Publication number: 20030029210
    Abstract: An outside door handle arrangement and a process for controlling a motor vehicle door lock system are proposed. For simple, economically feasible detection of the actuation of an outside door handle, it is provided that the outside door handle is elastically deformable and deformation is detected by a sensor to acquire actuation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Edgar Budzynski, Matthias Koerwer, Stephan Schmitz
  • Publication number: 20030019261
    Abstract: The invention relates to an access system in which an access authorization that can be disposed of outside of the vehicle communicates with identification means located inside the vehicle. If the identification means respond, control means which operate a door lock (40) from a door handle (10) are transferred out of their inoperative position into an operative position. To this end, the door handle (10) can move between three different positions (10.1, 10.2). In the first position, the door handle (10) is located in a retracted position (10.1), which cannot be grasped by the human hand, but rather is streamlined. Only when the door handle (10) is in a protruding extended position (10.2) is the latter possible. The door handle is then manually displaced into a third protracted position in which the door lock (40) is opened. According to the invention, this mode of operation is ensured by an actuator (30) configured, for example, as an eccentric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Reinhard Wittwer
  • Patent number: 6502438
    Abstract: An electronic combination lock including an electronic combination input device, a lock-bolt mounted for movement between locked and unlocked positions and a rotatable first engagement element having disengaged and engageable positions. A first electric actuator is electrically coupled with the electronic combination input device and includes a rotatable output for rotating the first engagement element to its engageable position in response to a proper combination input. A manually operated and rotatable second engagement element may be engaged with the first engagement element in the engageable position thereof. A lock-bolt drive mechanism is operatively coupled between the lock-bolt and the first engagement element. A second electric actuator includes a movable output operatively coupled to the first engagement element to prevent the first engagement element from rotating until the proper combination is input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: C&M Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Clayton Miller, Michael P. Harvey
  • Patent number: 6494067
    Abstract: A drive apparatus for use with a computerized combination dial lock includes a rotating or longitudinally translating member which imparts motion to an electrical generator for powering the electrical components of the computerized combination dial lock. The drive apparatus is independent of the combination dial of the computerized lock. In one embodiment, the dial ring of the combination dial is rotatable to drive the electrical generation for power output to the computerized lock components. Alternatively, the combination dial and spindle are spring biased for longitudinal translation thereof to drive the electrical generator. In another embodiment, a lever member adjacent the dial ring or a key inserted in a keyway is rotated for powering the computerized lock. In yet another embodiment, a portable power source is in the form of a key and a portable power source contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Lockmasters, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas E. Jasper