Key Initiated Actuation Of Device Patents (Class 70/283.1)
  • Patent number: 7987687
    Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary lock cylinder comprising a blocking element (25, 64) that engages into the rotor (10) in a closed position while releasing the rotor (10) in an open position. An actuator (17, 78) can be controlled in accordance with data located on the key (2). In order to displace the blocking element (25, 64) from the closed position into the open position, a latch element (33, 63) is provided which can be moved along with the key (2). The blocking element (25, 64) can be attached by means of the actuator (17). The energy required for moving the blocking element (25) is supplied by the user when introducing the key (2) into the key duct (11) such that the load on the power source used for actuating the actuator (17, 78) is minimal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Keso AG
    Inventors: Martin Spycher, Urs Oechslin, Bruno Vonlanthen, Marcel Kolliker, Dieter Peier
  • Patent number: 7958758
    Abstract: A locking device comprises a key that comprises a key power coil and a key data coil and an electronically-actuatable lock comprising a lock power coil and a lock data coil. The key power coil and the lock power coil are coaxial and at least partially overlapping one another when the key engages the lock. The key data coil lies in a first plane and the lock data coil lies in a second plane. The first plane and the second plane are substantially parallel to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: The Knox Company
    Inventors: Dohn J. Trempala, Keith Wolski
  • Publication number: 20110121942
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile device for activating an electrical component (50), especially a switch (50), which is arranged inside a housing (10), with a recess (13) provided on the housing (10), at least one elastic key element (31) accessible from the outside, which is accommodated in the recess (13), and the key element (31) has a contact means (32), wherein the contact means (32) is pointing toward the interior of the housing (10), in order to activate the electrical component (50), and a carrier (35) which holds the key element (31) on the housing (10). According to the invention, the carrier (35) and the key element (31) are made of different materials and form a common assembly unit (30) that is fastened to the housing (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Alexander GELDMACHER
  • Publication number: 20110067464
    Abstract: An electric door lock includes a transmission wheel driven by a motor and incorporating a spring with a driving end to drive a driven wheel. The transmission wheel and the driven wheel are rotatably sleeved around an inner drive tube connected to an inner handle. A spindle is inserted into the inner drive tube and has an operating end exposed from the inner handle. The driven wheel is connected integrally to the spindle for rotation. Preferably, a coupling piece extends through an arc-shaped slot in the inner drive tube and interconnects the driven wheel and the spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: TONG LUNG METAL INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ming-Shyang Chiou, Chia-Min Sun, Yu-Ting Huang, Yu-Le Lin
  • Patent number: 7878035
    Abstract: A lock system includes a lock mechanism for holding a lid element in a locked state, an electric actuator for driving the lock mechanism to an unlocking side based on an operation of an open switch, and a key cylinder adapted to be operated to rotate by a key so as to be switched through the rotational operation to an “UNLOCK” position where the open switch is enabled to function and a “LOCK” position where the open switch is disabled from functioning, whereby unlocking of the lid element is prohibited through a rotational operation of the key cylinder to the “LOCK” position. An operating unit of the lock system causes the key cylinder and the lock mechanism to be mechanically linked with each other by a wire cable, whereby the lock mechanism is forcibly driven to the unlocking side through a rotational operation of the key cylinder to the “OPEN” position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Taishi Yamaguchi, Yasuhiro Sakakibara
  • Patent number: 7823780
    Abstract: An interface assembly is for an electronic device including a base and a control on the base and includes a contact on the base and coupled with the control and a data port spaced from the contact. A conductor is disposed between the data port and the contact such that data is transmissible between the data port and the contact through the conductor. The conductor is generally compressed or/and compressible between the data port and the contact and is formed of a conductive carbon material. The data port is spaced from the contact by a distance within a range of values, and the conductor provides a conductive path between the data port and the contact at each spacing distance value. A fluid impermeable cover is disposed over the base and covers the control and the contact to prevent moisture from contacting these components, with the conductor extending through the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Harrow Products LLC
    Inventors: John E. Walsh, Kevin Dean Miller
  • Publication number: 20100223968
    Abstract: A rotary lock actuator for manual or powered actuation of a lock of the type typically used on vehicle doors or storage compartments. The actuator has a housing with a motorized drive train therein. An actuating member is movable between first and second positions. A manual drive member and a powered drive member each have first and second drive surfaces spaced apart from one another. A drive finger is disposed in the spaces between the first and second drive surfaces of each drive member such that the drive finger is engageable with the actuating member. The first driving surface of each drive member engages the finger for moving the actuating member from a first position toward a second position upon movement of one of the drive members. The drive finger is engageable by the second driving surface of each drive member for moving the actuating member from a second position toward the first position upon movement one of the drive members. A bi-stable spring assists movement of the actuating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventor: Dale R. Krueger
  • Patent number: 7752874
    Abstract: A lock is provided with an electronics module (30) by forming the lock with a body (10) and a separate unit (18). The unit (18) includes a locking mechanism (23) and is inserted and removed from the lock body (10), removal allowing easy access to the electronics module (30) without requiring a separate access. This gives increased security. The locking mechanism (23), electronics module (30) and body (10) can be replaced with compatible components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Ivan Foti
  • Publication number: 20100156594
    Abstract: A lock unit is provided with a housing that includes a key-receiving body, a biometric sensor and a control circuit. The key-receiving body is arranged to receive a key therein. The biometric sensor is adapted to receive a biometric input from a user of the lock unit and to provide an output signal representative of biometric data associated with that user. The control circuit is coupled to the biometric sensor and is arranged when actuated to store the biometric data therein. The control circuit is coupled to the key-receiving body and is operative upon selected positioning of a key in the key-receiving body to actuate the control circuit. The biometric data is thereupon stored in the control circuit so that subsequent receipt of a biometric input corresponding to the stored biometric data enables the lock unit to open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Jason Chaikin, Seth Kenter
  • Publication number: 20100139343
    Abstract: An electromechanical lock, its key, and its operation method are disclosed. The method comprises: during a first (818) and a second (820) insertion phases of a key, conveying (802) mechanical power to an electric generator by a key follower and enabling (810) mechanically operation of an actuator by the key follower; generating (804) electric power from mechanical power by the electric generator; reading (806) data from an external source; matching (808) the data against a predetermined criterion; and during a removal phase (826) of the key, returning (815) the key follower to a starting position and mechanically resetting the actuator to the locked state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicant: iLoq Oy
    Inventors: Mika Pukari, Toivo Pääkkönen, Hannu Jokinen, Petteri Karjalainen
  • Publication number: 20100077810
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking device, a special actuator assembler and holder of an object in the state of rest besides being source of movement once integral with an object through an actuator having different shapes and lengths, wound up onto an appropriate and interchangeable reel fitted onto an engine driven shaft or stored. The locking function is switched on automatically when a force is applied. The function of servomotor to thrust and draw back is carried out through an actuator formed by two identical flexible and coiling sections whilst they slide separated inside a sheath; coming out of this and forced to assemble opposite and staggered they become stiff to hold and move. The held object is controlled by optic or electric signals transmitted by the actuators to the sensors for the measurement of events and break-into. The device has three clutched and reset locking and unlocking systems, one electrical and two manual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Inventor: Daniele De Franceschi
  • Patent number: 7637131
    Abstract: A cylinder lock device including: a body housing having a bore having a first end and a second end, with a direction of elongation defining an axial direction for the device; a rotatable cylindrical plug in the bore, the plug having an axially extending key slot from the first end; a plurality of tumbler pins deployed at least partially within the plug and displaceable by a key to enable rotation of the plug; and an opening mechanism comprising a shaft connected to a key emulator and wherein the key emulator is translatable into the key slot from within the body housing, the key emulator shaped to match and engage the plurality of tumbler pins, and adapted to displace the plurality of tumbler pins, thereby selectively enabling rotation of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Essence Security International Ltd.
    Inventor: Haim Amir
  • Publication number: 20090308119
    Abstract: An electromechanical locking system (8) comprises a lock (12) and a key (14). The lock includes a cylinder (16), an electronic control unit (18) which is housed within the cylinder, a tailpiece (20), and an electrically-operable clutch mechanism (22) which is housed within the cylinder (16). The cylinder (16) is rotatably mounted to a first component to be locked and the tailpiece includes an adaptor (24) which is operable to interfere with the movement of a second component to be locked to the first component. The control unit (18) draws power from the key and is operable to generate an actuation signal for actuating the clutch mechanism (22) which releasably connects the cylinder and the tailpiece when actuated, thereby causing them to become rotatably coupled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Publication date: December 17, 2009
    Inventor: David Harley
  • Publication number: 20090235703
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrical lock apparatus in which protrusions are formed at constant angles in a key head of a key provided with a chip and grooves are formed in an input socket to allow the protrusions to be inserted into the input socket, whereby the input socket can be rotated by turning the key inserted into the input socket. In an electric lock apparatus including a key having a key head provided with inner and outer terminals of a hemispherical shape, and an input socket into which the key head is inserted, having grooves provided with terminals being in contact with the inner and outer terminals of the key head, the electric lock apparatus comprises protrusions formed to surround the key head, and grooves formed at the grooves of the input socket to allow the protrusions to be respectively inserted thereinto, whereby the input socket is rotated as the key is rotated in a state that the key head is inserted into the input socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Gab-Sik Kim
  • Publication number: 20090229326
    Abstract: Electromechanical lock and its operation method. The lock includes a power transmission mechanism to receive mechanical power produced by a user of the lock; a generator to produce electric power from the mechanical power; an electronic circuit, powered by the electric power, coupleable with a key, to read data from the key, and to issue an open command provided that the data matches a predetermined criterion; an actuator, powered by the electric power, to receive the open command, and to set the lock in a mechanically openable state; and a threshold device to control the power transmission mechanism so that a mechanical tension rises until a predetermined force threshold is exceeded, whereupon the mechanical tension transforms to an action producing the mechanical power received by the power transmission mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Mika Pukari, Hannu Jokinen
  • Publication number: 20090183542
    Abstract: In a device for access control comprising an electrically actuable lock and a key (12, 16) the lock and/or the key (12, 16) have/has a power supply comprising at least one thin-film solar cell (6, 10, 11, 15, 20, 21) which is fitted or applied to an area of the key (12, 16) that is exposed to the light and/or of a part electrically connected to the lock or below an energy-transmissive area of the lock, of the key (12, 16) and/or of a part electrically connected to the lock or forms said area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Reinhard Pollabauer
  • Publication number: 20090025440
    Abstract: Embodiments are directed to a lock and key. In one embodiment, the key includes a battery in a body. The lock includes a first pin that engages the body to move to an unlock position and a second pin that moves to an unlock position when the battery provides power to the lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Bart M. Downing
  • Publication number: 20080236222
    Abstract: A key-operated lock device having a lock, a key operable to actuate said lock, an electronic system commanded by said key, an electric power supply communicating electric power necessary to operate said electronic system, and a detection system for detecting the presence or absence of said key. The detection device is operable to command the connection with the electric power supply of said electronic system only if the key is present in, or close to, the lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLE
    Inventor: Fabrice Giacomin
  • Publication number: 20080223093
    Abstract: A self adjusting lock system including: a lock cylinder having a direction of elongation defining an axial direction for the system and having a first and a second end; a rotatable first cylindrical plug in the lock cylinder, the first plug having an axially extending key slot from the first end of the lock cylinder; a rotatable second cylindrical plug in the lock cylinder, the second plug substantially coaxial to the first cylindrical plug; a bolt which is retractable substantially perpendicularly to the axial direction by rotation of each of the first plug and the second plug; and a control and rotation unit adapted to rotate the second plug, including: a power source, a processor; a motor; a current sensor adapted to sense motor current; and a clock adapted to measure time; wherein the control and rotation unit is adapted to sense motor current over time and to adjust operation of the lock system dependent on the sensed motor current over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Haim Amir
  • Publication number: 20080163655
    Abstract: The invention relates to a closing device which comprises a stationary part (2) and a pant (3) which is displacably mounted thereon. Tumblers (Z1-Z5) are arranged by means of a key (19) in order to release the displaceable part (3). Said tumblers (Z1-Z5) are maintained in a locking position by means of the locking element (14, 27, 33). The locking element (14, 27, 33) can be adjusted by means of a drive (13, 23, 30) in order to release the tumblers (Z1-Z5), which can be controlled via an electronic control device (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: Keso AG
    Inventor: Ernst Keller
  • Patent number: 7397343
    Abstract: A mechanical key and lock cylinder with mechanical bittings include an electronic access control feature, with minimal modification and without affecting or interfering with the mechanical function of the key and cylinder. A small, low-profile memory cell is embedded in a recess or later hole through the key, with one cell terminal grounded to the key and the other having a contact extension. When the key is inserted into the keyway of the cylinder plug, the ground connection is made with the cylinder and the memory cell contact extension engages a spring-loaded contact of a connector unit which extends from the cylinder plug. An insulated wire carries the conductive path out of the lock cylinder. The key remains of very low profile, and the cylinder plug is modified only by a small longitudinal bore from front to rear. Existing mechanical locks and cylinders can easily be retrofitted with the electronic access control feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Security People, Inc.
    Inventors: Asil T. Gokcebay, Yucel K. Keskin
  • Publication number: 20080078220
    Abstract: Disclosed is a locking apparatus having a latch bolt separated from a cylinder. The locking apparatus includes a housing, a cylinder rotating within the housing, a slider forwarding or reversing along a shaft direction of the cylinder, a latch mechanism disposed in front of the slider and fixed to the slider when the slider forwards but released from the slider when the slider reverses, and a means for forwarding or reversing the slider. Thus, since the locking apparatus has a simple structure, it has an advantage in that it can be replaced with the conventional locking apparatus having a complicated structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2005
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Applicant: Unipass Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Gab-Sik Kim
  • Patent number: 7350383
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic lock structured to include a first bolt configured with an elastic clasp, an electromagnetic device connected to an input device, a second bolt and a microswitch connected to a security system, all of which are installed interior of a housing of the electronic lock. The elastic clasp is retained by a protruding edge of the housing, thereby disenabling the first bolt from an arbitrary retracting movement that would otherwise render the lock incapable of being unlocked. The input device controls the electromagnetic device to induce the elastic clasp and release a retaining state, and then directly rotating a rotating button causes a retracting movement of the first bolt and unlocking of the electronic lock, which simultaneously disconnects the security system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Ching-Hung Kuo
  • Patent number: 7316140
    Abstract: A lock system is provided including a lock core and a token. The lock core comprises a core body, a lock actuator coupled to the core body for rotation about an axis, a blocking body, and a solenoid. The solenoid has a shaft that is movable between a first position in which the blocking body is locked to prevent rotation of the lock actuator about the axis and a second position in which the blocking body is unlocked to allow rotation of the lock actuator about the axis. The token is couplable mechanically to the lock actuator. The solenoid moves the shaft from the first position to the second position so that the blocking body is unlocked if the token has a valid access code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Stanley Security Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Keith Russell, James Edmond Beylotte, Ralph P. Palmer
  • Patent number: 7073359
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rotary locking mechanism which is preferably intended for lock cylinders. The inventive mechanism includes an electric motor, a locking bolt, an inertial rotating mechanism which converts the rotation of the motor into a rectilinear movement along the axis of the locking bolt, an elastic energy accumulator which is arranged in opposition to the backward retraction travel of the locking bolt and a rectilinear guide mechanism for the working extension/retraction travel of the locking bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Tallers De Escoriaza, S.A.
    Inventor: Ignacio Alberto San Jose Santamarta
  • 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: 6895792
    Abstract: In a first aspect, an electronic lock (12) suitable for replacing interchangeable core locks has a solenoid assembly comprising a solenoid coil (280) and a plunger (290) longitudinally aligned parallel to the rotational axis (A) of the cylinder (214) of the lock (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Videx, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. Davis
  • Patent number: 6892557
    Abstract: The invention is in respect of a lock having a body and an actuator arrangement which is displaceable relative to the body between an inoperative condition and an operative condition. The actuator arrangement is capable of operating a device such as a locking mechanism or the like only when in its operative condition. The lock further includes non-mechanical key identification means. The lock further includes retaining means for retaining the actuator arrangement releasably in its inoperative condition. The retaining means is linked to the key identification means and operative in response to a signal received therefrom to permit displacement of the actuator arrangement to its operative condition. The actuator arrangement typically includes an inner member, an outer member and a coupling whereby the inner and outer member are coupled together to permit relative longitudinal displacement between the inner and outer member and inhibit relative rotational movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventor: Jerzy Michal Bieniek
  • Patent number: 6840072
    Abstract: A lock system comprises a lock core and a token. The lock core comprises a core body, a lock actuator coupled to the core body for rotation about an axis, a blocker movable perpendicular with the axis, and an electromagnetic actuator. The electromagnetic actuator has a shaft that is movable parallel with the axis between a first position in which the blocker is locked to prevent rotation of the lock actuator about the axis and a second position in which the blocker is unlocked to allow rotation of the lock actuator about the axis. The token is couplable mechanically to the lock actuator. The electromagnetic actuator moves the shaft parallel with the axis from the first position to the second position so that the blocker is unlocked if the token has a valid access code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Stanley Security Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Keith Russell, James Edmond Beylotte, Ralph P. Palmer
  • Patent number: 6826935
    Abstract: Locks and keys are disclosed with electromagnetic as well as mechanical actuation. Several forms of reverse sidebar are described, avoiding binding of the lock release mechanism by premature turning of the key by a user. An embodiment of a system is described wherein the lock units are in radio communication with a control console, for setting access parameters and monitoring accessing events at each of the various locks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Security People, Inc.
    Inventors: Asil T. Gokcebay, Yucel K. Keskin, Robert E. Kearns
  • Patent number: 6668606
    Abstract: A lock system comprises a lock core and a token having an access code. The lock core comprises a core body, a lock actuator coupled to the core body for rotation about an axis, a blocker movable between a locking position in which the lock actuator is prevented from rotating about the axis and a releasing position in which the lock actuator is permitted to rotate about the axis, an electric circuit having a token reader, and an electromagnetic actuator having a shaft that is movable parallel with the axis. The token is couplable mechanically to the lock actuator. The electric circuit signals the electromagnetic actuator to move the shaft parallel with the axis so that the blocker is movable from the locking position to the releasing position if the access code read by the token reader matches a valid access code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Best Access Systems
    Inventors: Roger Keith Russell, James Edmond Beylotte, Ralph P. Palmer
  • Patent number: 6615625
    Abstract: An electronic locking system comprises a cylinder housed within and rotatable with respect to a shell. A key has a power supply. At least one of the key and the cylinder is capable of generating a signal when the key is electrically connected with the cylinder. An electrically powered locking mechanism is housed within the cylinder and includes a lock member moveable between an open position and a locked position. The lock member in the locked position interferes with movement of the cylinder. A power source is connected to the locking mechanism in response to the signal. The locking mechanism allows movement of the lock member from the locked position to the open position in response to the signal so that the cylinder may be rotated within the shell. The cylinder further includes an interfering member that resists movement of the locking member. In addition, a biasing mechanism urges the cylinder toward a home position when the cylinder is rotated away from the home position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Videx, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul R. Davis
  • Patent number: 6609402
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to an electronic touch key for electronic lock sets, and more particularly to an electronic key for use with a lock set. In an electronic key according to the invention, a cylinder plug associated with the lock set includes a fixed data contact pin, which is preferably flush with the face of a cylinder plug, to prevent tampering. The electronic key thus is designed to properly contact the fixed data contact associated with the lock set for proper operation. The present invention provides a construction which facilitates making the contact, and yet provides a durable and simple construction for the electronic key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company
    Inventors: Brian David Blankenship, Alan Doerr, Pete Kajuch
  • Patent number: 6591644
    Abstract: The invention is directed at an electronic lock assembly which is operable by a suitably programmed electronic key. The electronic lock assembly includes a cylinder type locking mechanism, where a solenoid and plunger is provided to electronically lock and unlock a key cylinder, thereby selectively allowing rotation of the key cylinder for operation of the locking mechanism. To prevent rotation of the key cylinder and loading of the solenoid plunger prior to the solenoid receiving an authorized signal to retract the plunger, a stop mechanism is provided which only allows rotation of the key cylinder in predetermined coordination with operation of the solenoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company
    Inventors: Alan Doerr, Pete Kajuch, Cheryl Kay Koskela
  • Patent number: 6564601
    Abstract: An electromechanical locking mechanism provides a plug with a rekeyable primary lock mechanism such as a tumbler stack, an electromechanical operator such as a solenoid or a motor, and an electronic circuit having a memory, or an electronic memory and an electronic logic stage, controlling activitiation and operation of the electromechanical operator, contained entirely within the plug. Insertion of a blade of a key that is properly profiled and bitted to correctly displace the primary lock assembly relative to a cylinder encasing the plug, and application by the key of electrical power, or of electrical power and a correct data signal, to the electronic circuit, will cause activation of the electrical operator and repositioning of a distal member of the operator relative to the cylinder, and thereby enable torque manually applied to the blade of the key to rotate the plug within the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Richard G. Hyatt Jr.
  • Patent number: 6553800
    Abstract: The present invention is directed at an electronic lock assembly which uses a simplified locking mechanism, which is operable by a suitably programmed electronic key. The invention is directed to a cylinder type locking mechanism wherein a solenoid and plunger is provided to electronically lock and unlock a key cylinder, thereby allowing rotation of the key cylinder for unlocking of a locking mechanism when a suitably programmed electronic key is used in connection with the mechanism. A side bar and retaining spring engage the cylinder plug to prevent rotation thereof in the locked position with the side bar contacted by the plunger of the solenoid to prevent the side bar from moving until an authorized key is used to unlock the mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company
    Inventors: Alan Doerr, Pete Kajuch, Cheryl Kay Koskela
  • 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: 6523377
    Abstract: The blocking device is intended for a cylinder lock (1) with mechanically coded tumblers and an electric coding. An installation unit (22) comprises an electrically driven control (14) with a helical drive unit (16). The helical drive unit (16) is connected with an additional blocking element (13), which can engage and disengage the rotor (10) of the cylinder lock (1). The helical drive unit (16) comprises a threaded track (39, 61, 65) closed at both ends. A control device (17) generates the control signals for the driving or the energy supply to the control (14). The method of construction according to the invention makes possible a compact type of construction and has improved security against unauthorized interference from the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Berchtold AG
    Inventor: Benno Vonlanthen
  • Patent number: 6457337
    Abstract: A key (10) includes a transceiver core (12) that couples to antenna electrodes that include all or part of a key shank (11) and an electrically conductive surface (16). The transceiver core (12) utilizes these electrodes (11 and 16) to capacitively transceive information with a reader (41). The reader (41) may, in turn, utilize all or part of a keyed lock cylinder (43) as an antenna electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Hattick, John H. Rolin, Victor A. Vega
  • Patent number: 6442986
    Abstract: A lock core for use with a token having an access code and a blade is provided. The lock core includes a core body, a lock actuator coupled to the core body for movement, a token communicator configured to read the access code when the blade is inserted into a passageway of the lock actuator, at least one movable tumbler element, a movable blocker, a biasing member situated between the at least one tumbler element and the blocker, and an electromagnetic actuator coupled to the core body and coupled to the token communicator. Insertion of the token in the passageway moves the at least one tumbler element to store energy in the biasing member. If the token communicator reads the access code after insertion of the token in the passageway, the electromagnetic actuator moves to unlock the blocker and the biasing member releases energy to move the blocker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Best Lock Corporation
    Inventors: Roger Keith Russell, James Edmond Beylotte, Ralph P. Palmer
  • Patent number: 6412321
    Abstract: Locking cylinder, particularly an electronic locking cylinder and with electromechanical rotational blocking in which the electronic key (64) has facing electrical terminals (66) on blade (65), and the rotating core (2 or 3) of the cylinder has an external annular track (6) that is electrically conducting and with its internal face communicates with an electrical contact (5) supported on terminal (66); whereas the external annular track (6) is supported in the electrical brushes (7) of external (2) and internal (3) rotors; there is a first modular box (8) on the inside of a cast hollow part (1a) of external rotor (2) which box contains electrical brush (7), processing unit (31) and an electromechanical locking device, which incorporates a ball (19) and a vertical tumbler (16); as well as a second modular box (9) containing electrical brush (7) and the autonomous electrical source; the two modules are connected by the electrical conductor (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Talleres de Escoriaza, S.A. (TESA)
    Inventors: Luis Angel Ruano Aramburu, Jose Alcelay Bea
  • Patent number: 6370928
    Abstract: A mechano-electronically operated cylinder-key unit for locking including a cylinder unit and key. The cylinder unit having a cylinder portion, a pawl for operating a bar for locking/unlocking, an electrical energy generator for powering an electronic circuit provide in the cylinder unit, whereby a triggering member activates the electrical energy generator when a predetermined extent of insertion of the key into the cylinder is exceeded. The key is also provided with an electronic circuit whereby both electronic circuits are provide with a control logic for recognizing and allowing operation of the pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventors: Ezio Chies, Paolo Fornasari, Giovanni Pradella
  • Patent number: 6363762
    Abstract: A locking device for a lock cylinder (12) has an electronically controlled inhibiting element (2), which in an inhibit position (xS) blocks movement of a rotor (1) relative to a stator (6) and frees the rotor (1) in a free position (xF). A drive (9) exerts a working force (FA) on the inhibiting element (2), by which inhibiting element (2) can be reversibly transferred from the inhibit position (xS) into the free position (xF) and vice versa. A guide (52-57) is connected to the drive (9) and, at least outside the free position (xF), clearly defines the position of the inhibiting element (2). A restoring device (3) exerts a restoring force (FR) directed away from the free position (xF) on the inhibiting element (2), when that element is between the free position (xF) and a rest position (xO). In the rest position (xO) and in positions between the rest position (xO) and the free position (xF), the inhibiting element inhibits movement of the rotor (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Kaba Schliessysteme AG
    Inventor: Otto Kueng
  • Patent number: 6364378
    Abstract: A lock is disclosed for a door of a motor vehicle, which includes a locking lever for locking from the outside, and a locking lever for locking from an inside of the door, the locking lever for locking from the inside and the locking lever for locking from the outside being superposed, mounted on an articulation pin and collaborating via branches with first and second electric motors, wherein the branch associated with the first motor, belonging to one of the locking levers is shorter than the branch associated with the second motor, belonging to the other locking lever, so that a position of the first motor is offset from a position of the second motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Valeo Securite Habitacle
    Inventors: Arnaud Humbert, Piotr Kruczkowski, Pierre-Henri Mouly
  • Patent number: 6334347
    Abstract: Electronic barrel comprising a barrel body and a rotary-lock key bit, the barrel body comprising at least one rotor having a common axis with the body and the rotary-lock key bit and freely rotating in said body, a clutch part coupled in rotation with the rotor and comprising meshing means co-operation with additional means matching the key bit so as to drive in rotation said key bit by the rotor under the action of a rotating torque of the key, and locking means for preventing the clutch part from being translated when there is no recognition of an identification code transmitted between the key and the barrel, characterised in that said locking means are further mounted integral in the rotary-lock key bit and the rotor is mobile in translation for thrusting the clutch part towards the key bit when said identification code is recognised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Electronic Key System (EKS) S.A.R.L.
    Inventor: Michel Iscla
  • Patent number: 6318137
    Abstract: An electronic lock that can be pre-programmed or trained in the field to recognize ordinary flat metal keys by sensing their shape and comparing to a database is disclosed. The lock can be contained in standard configurations for door locks, communicates with external systems, provides control logic for querying and amending its database of allowed keys and rules, provides controlled access to logs of selected data, allows convenient but protected access to replacement batteries, can have all its electronics in the rotatable plug, can communicate and obtain power from devices in the adjacent door jam, can recognize special series key-blanks, can receive coded information entered using an unknown key that makes it useable, can be operated without a key to gain access with a code, can resist manipulation of the latching mechanism can unlatch with very low power requirements, and provides for integration of almost all mechanism in silicon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventor: David Chaum
  • Patent number: 6227020
    Abstract: A locking device including at least one key and a lock cylinder having at least one cylinder core pivotally mounted in a cylinder housing and having a keyway is provided with a blocking element which in its blocked position prevents rotation of the cylinder core with the key, and in its release position permits rotation of the cylinder core with the key. Further provided are an actuator which blocks the blocking element in the blocked position and releases it in the release position, and an electronic code transmitter in the key and an electronic code evaluator which controls the actuator. The lock cylinder is provided with a cylinder armor having an armor housing covering the cylinder housing and an armor disk pivotally mounted therein with a key insertion slot flush with the keyway of the cylinder core. The blocking element and the actuator are disposed in the armor housing. In its blocked position the blocking element acts on the armor disk so as to prevent rotation, releasing it in the release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Keso GmbH
    Inventor: Leonhard Lerchner