Multiple Keys Patents (Class 70/337)
  • Patent number: 11232513
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a system and method for managing distributed encrypted combination over-locks from a remote location. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention is a distributed management system for that controls access to various locations, such as, for example, self-storage units, hotel rooms, apartment buildings, storage containers, short-term housing rentals, lockers, equipment rooms, vaults, hospitals, airports, government facilities, nuclear power facilities, water treatment facilities, weapon storage facilities, aircraft cockpits, and any other setting that requires restricted, selective, or monitored access that can be remotely controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: 10F Pursuit LLC
    Inventors: Bradford Minsley, Clifton Minsley
  • Patent number: 11094152
    Abstract: The disclosure generally relates to a system and method for managing distributed encrypted combination over-locks from a remote location. In an exemplary embodiment, the invention is a distributed management system for self-storage facilities that allow for vacant units to be secured with over-locks without requiring unlock codes, and which allow the over-locks to be removed by customers without human or manual intervention from the self-storage facility, where an API is used to facilitate communications between a lock management system and a property management system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: 10F Pursuit LLC
    Inventors: Bradford Minsley, Clifton Minsley
  • Patent number: 11083139
    Abstract: High-growth plant cultivation techniques are provided that create efficient, optimized growing conditions, including a high concentration of photosynthetically active radiation (“PAR”) in terms of photon flux density, and with extremely low heat. In some aspects of the invention, these techniques comprise a specialized growth chamber and a control system that promote an enhanced level of growth, particularly for autoflowering cannabis. In addition, aspects of the invention create an accessible, user-friendly, aesthetically pleasing new type of display for a plant, ideal for cultivating cannabis and, in particular, autoflowering cannabis. The unique combination of techniques set forth in the invention create high yields of cannabis plant matter (up to 3 or 4 times greater than other methods) in substantially less time (just 60 days from seed to harvest).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Assignee: Blazing Bits, LLC
    Inventor: Vincent J. Bitetti
  • Patent number: 10669739
    Abstract: Described herein is locking apparatus, method for making a locking apparatus, and method for mounting a locking apparatus to the door of a personal storage container. The locking apparatus may include a threaded portion having deformed threads and a lock body shape to fit a restrictive mounting hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE
    Inventors: Donald E. Irwin, Michael L. Spears, Robert Dalton
  • Patent number: 10253526
    Abstract: A lock cylinder assembly includes a housing, a first cylinder disposed within a first bore formed in the housing, and a second cylinder disposed within a second bore formed in the housing, in which at least one of the first and second cylinders is an electronic cylinder. The lock cylinder assembly further includes first and second cams, in which each of the first and second cams are configured to actuate a door lock mechanism. The first cam is directly connected to the second cylinder so as to be rotatable with the second cylinder. The second cylinder and the second cam are rotatable with respect to each other so that the second cam does not rotate with the second cylinder. The second cam is rotatably coupled to the first cylinder so that the second cam rotates when the first cylinder is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: Assa Abloy High Security Group Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas E. Trent, James Bench, Mark Benzie, Lance Schoell
  • Patent number: 9657499
    Abstract: A rekeyable master lock includes a plurality of pin gears, with each pin gear engaged with a corresponding key follower. As each key follower rides up and down on the key bitting, it causes a corresponding pin gear to rotate. Each pin gear engages a user gear and a master gear so that, as the pin gear rotates, the user and master gears rotate. Each user and master gear, in turn, drives a corresponding user rack and a master rack. When a valid user key is inserted and rotated, the user racks or master racks are aligned along a common axis and held in alignment by a locking bar. Longitudinal movement of the user gear or master gear allows the rekeying function by decoupling and recoupling the user gear or master gear with the user racks or master racks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Spectrum Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark W. Emory
  • Patent number: 8925360
    Abstract: A rotating disk lock mechanism that includes a lock housing containing a plurality of rotatable disks. Each disk having a central aperture and being positioned in a stack such that the central apertures form a keyway. At least one of the disks includes a reduced central aperture with a diameter that is substantially less than a diameter of at least another one of the central apertures. The combination of the lock mechanism is determined in part by the number of disks with reduced central apertures and their placement in the stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Inner-Tite Corp.
    Inventor: Anthony John Agbay
  • Patent number: 8820127
    Abstract: A pin-tumbler locking mechanism comprising a lock-core with an elongated key slot and a series of bores arranged in a plane of the key slot for a corresponding series of driver pins of various lengths slidably received in the bores. The lock-core is normally supported in lock casing. A corresponding series of spring-supported key pins is seated in a series of bores coaxially with the driver pins so that normally at least some of the key pins are adapted to push respective driver pins to project into the key slot each by a different extent according to the respective lengths thereof; a key comprising alternately teeth and notches so that when inserted into the key slot, the driver pin ends contacting the key pins become flushed with planar surface to allow a sliding movement of the lock-core within the lock casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Meir Avganim
  • Patent number: 8806908
    Abstract: A dual key bi-step lock having a shell and a cylindrical plug in the shell. The plug has a primary keyway and a secondary keyway and at least one set of primary pin stack and at least one set of secondary pin stack between the shell and the plug, respectively coupling with the primary and the secondary keys. a longitudinal stage is formed on a cylindrical surface of the plug. An involute side face extending from the stage to the cylindrical surface of the plug. The primary key is able to dive the plug to a position of first step open at which the stage is stopped by the key pin of the secondary pin stack. The secondary pin stack is unlocked by the secondary key and the plug is able to be further driven to a position of second step open by the primary and the secondary keys from the first step open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventors: Yongyao Yu, Jun Hu, Zhongwei Cao
  • Patent number: 8661863
    Abstract: A programmable cylinder lock includes a stator and a cylindrical rotor, mounted therein for rotation around its own axis, has a keyhole, and comprising inside the rotor key followers movable along the longitudinal and transversal directions, and locking pins movable along the longitudinal direction, the followers and locking pins forming together a number of pairs and having toothings for mutually cooperating to define the lock codification, the rotor including a stop bar cooperating with a longitudinal groove of the stator and cooperating with the pins to immobilize them, and a change bar slidingly coupled with the followers to keep them engaged with the pins and to disengage them therefrom when the bar provides a lock programming position. The followers have a projection which engages a side surface of the key and, at the contact of a normal use key, prevents the transversal displacement of the key and the change bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Rielda Serrature S.r.l.
    Inventor: Alberto Loreti
  • Patent number: 8648693
    Abstract: A key slot capable of accommodating an auxiliary key, which is a vehicle key other than a master key. A key lock mechanism locks or unlocks movement of the auxiliary key in the key slot, thereby allowing the auxiliary key to be taken out of the key slot in accordance with a lending condition of the auxiliary key. An invalid key return prevention unit permits the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot in accordance with a return condition of the auxiliary key. If the return condition is met, the invalid key return prevention unit causes the key lock mechanism to lock the auxiliary key in the key slot. If the return condition is not met, the invalid key return prevention unit does not allow the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tsuruta
  • Patent number: 8621901
    Abstract: A lock system is provided having a lock housing and a lock barrel, a keeper shoulder, at least one full positioner shoulder, and a positioner shoulder having a U-shaped channel. A lock plug having a keyway and tumblers is received in the barrel for rotation between locked and unlocked positions. The tumblers include a key tumbler, a positioner tumbler and a keeper tumbler. The lock plug is rotatable between a first rotary position and a second rotary position. A control key is received into the keyway to retract the lock tumbler and partially retract the keeper tumbler. Removal of the lock plug from the lock barrel requires rotation of the lock plug from the first rotary position to the second rotary position and the presence of the control key within the lock plug when in the second rotary position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Bauer Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce Bacon
  • Patent number: 8511121
    Abstract: A key holding device includes a key cylinder capable of retaining an auxiliary key which is a vehicle key that is not a master key. A rotor is rotatably arranged in the key cylinder. The auxiliary key is insertable into the rotor. A tumbler is rotatable with the rotor in the key cylinder. The tumbler holds the auxiliary key in a manner irremovable from the key cylinder in accordance with the rotational position of the rotor. A key lock mechanism is capable of locking the rotor in a state in which the tumbler holds the auxiliary key in a manner irremovable from the key cylinder. A control unit selectively switches the rotor between a locked state and an unlocked state by controlling the key lock mechanism so as to permit removal of the auxiliary key when the rotor is in the unlocked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tsuruta
  • Patent number: 8487740
    Abstract: A vehicle function restriction system for installation in a vehicle. The vehicle includes a master key allowed to activate any function of the vehicle. The system includes a valet key mounted in the vehicle and configured to dismountable from the vehicle to be lent to a person to whom the vehicle is lent. A restriction setting unit sets the vehicle in a restriction state when the valet key is dismounted from the vehicle. The restriction setting unit sets at least one restricted vehicle functions which is not activated by the valet key, in accordance with the person to whom the vehicle is lent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Hiroshi Tsuruta, Kenji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8347675
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for extending an existing simplex or multiplex lock-and-key system that includes a family of first keys each having a first profile and of a corresponding plurality of first locks each operable by a first key and each having a first keyway configured for accepting the first key profile. Second keys of a new family are defined with a core section corresponding to the first key profile and a narrowed projection extending from the bottom of the core section. Corresponding second locks have a second keyway profile defined as the compliment of the second key profile, thus including a complimentary core section and a foot recess extending from the bottom of the second keyway core section. The second locks accept a second key positioned at the second keyway baseline to normally lift the lock pin stacks and operate the second lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Dorma Door Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Lloyd Seliber
  • Patent number: 8336348
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methodology are provided for key operated pin tumbler locks, some of which may incorporate a removable core pin tumbler lock. A selected tumbler of a type commonly used in pin tumbler locks is configured along with a driver pin to control operation of a retainer that, when rotated by use of a control key inserted in the lock, allows alternate selective removal and replacement of the core assembly in the lock. Also, or separate therefrom, one or more tumbler holes may be formed or drilled in a manner so as to prevent engagement of a tumbler with the bite of a key. Presently disclosed structures and associated methodology help to reduce any susceptibility to unauthorized techniques practiced against the lock, such as unintentional activation of the tumblers by unauthorized persons through use of a key with so-called “bumping” techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: CompX International Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Dalton, Jr., Glyn A. Finch, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8305189
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a vehicle apparatus for changing status for a key is provided. The vehicle apparatus comprises a controller. The controller is configured to receive a key identification signal from a first key and to transmit a key status signal indicative of whether the first key is one of a master key and a non-master key based on the key identification signal. The controller is further configured to receive a change request signal corresponding to a request to change status for an additional key from a primary key to a secondary key if the first key is master key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Brian Bennie, Martin J. Sultana
  • Patent number: 8291735
    Abstract: A rekeyable lock cylinder includes a lock cylinder body having an interior void and a plug assembly rotatably disposed in the lock cylinder body. The plug assembly includes a plug body having a keyway. A plurality of racks is movably disposed relative to the plug body. A plurality of key followers is positioned across the keyway and is moveably disposed relative to the plug body. Each key follower is configured to engage a respective rack of the plurality of racks. A key follower rotation member is drivably engaged with each key follower of the plurality of key followers. The key follower rotation member is selectively movable to rotate each key follower of the plurality of key followers to thereby disengage each key follower of the plurality of key followers from the respective rack of the plurality of racks to facilitate a keying of the rekeyable lock cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Newfrey, LLC
    Inventor: Gerry Damikolas
  • Patent number: 8276416
    Abstract: A master key lock includes a lock cylinder having a keyway for receiving a key, a sleeve about the cylinder, a plurality of wafer tumblers, a master key and a spring operable to axially move the sleeve relative to the cylinder when the master key is inserted into the keyway. A system that uses the master key lock includes a lock case wherein the sleeve is disposed between the cylinder and the lock case, the sleeve being axially movable within the case. The sleeve comprises a plurality of transversely disposed slots for engaging the plurality of wafer tumblers such that the lock is unlocked by insertion of a key or a master key. A method of using the master key lock is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: VSI, LLC
    Inventors: Lucas Boesel, Joshua J. Miller
  • Patent number: 8266934
    Abstract: A keyed cylinder assembly (10) includes a keyed cylinder (3) mounted in a door lock (1) and including a hollow body (31) and a cylinder plug (32) rotatably received in the hollow body (31). The cylinder plug (32) includes an annular groove (327) formed in an outer periphery (320) thereof. The keyed cylinder (3) further includes an arresting member (37) received in the hollow body (31) and having an inner end (371) received in the annular groove (327). The keyed cylinder assembly further includes a first key (4) insertable into a keyway (323) of the cylinder plug (32) to operate both a latch bolt (12) and a deadbolt (13) of the door lock (1). The keyed cylinder assembly (10) further includes a second key (5) insertable into the keyway (323) of the cylinder plug (32) to operate the latch bolt (12) only.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: I-Tek Metal Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung-Liang Lin
  • Patent number: 8193907
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for opening a container for the transportation of valuable objects or valuable documents, for example. The container (1) includes a first electronic unit (2), which allows deactivation of an alarm system and/or opening of the container. A first key (10) required to open the container includes a second electronic unit (12), which communicates with the first electronic unit (2) such as to initiate opening of the container. There is used a stationarily disposed second key (20) which together with the first key (10) provides the complete code-set (ABCD) required to initiate deactivation and/or opening of the container (1). The stationarily disposed second key (20) includes a third electronic unit (22) which contains a subset (CD) of the complete code-set (ABCD) required to initiate deactivation and/or opening of the container (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: SQS Security Qube System AB
    Inventor: Kjell Lindskog
  • Patent number: 8161778
    Abstract: A card lock and key lock assembly includes a housing, a lock latch movably disposed in the housing, a swivel member pivoted to the housing and having a block portion stoppable against the lock latch, a card key lock disposed in the housing and having a lifting plate, a rotating shaft, and a hook plate connected with the lifting plate and engagable with the rotating shaft for driving the rotating shaft to rotate when the lifting plate is moved downwards, such that the rotating shaft is stoppable against the swivel member for driving the block portion of the swivel member to move away from the lock latch, and a pin tumbler lock disposed in the housing and having a plug with an arm portion for driving the block portion of the swivel member to move away from the lock latch when the plug is rotated to an unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Sheng-Chueh Ma
  • Patent number: 8074480
    Abstract: A rekeyable lock cylinder with fool-proof function at least comprises a cylinder body, a plug, a limit member, a sliding block and a drive member. The plug disposed within the cylinder body has a trench, a plurality of first rack component runners communicating with the trench and a first through hole also communicating with the trench. The limit member is disposed within the first through hole and the sliding block is disposed within the trench. The sliding block has a plurality of second rack component runners respectively corresponding to each of the first rack component runners, a keyhole communicating with the second rack component runners and a second through hole communicating with the keyhole. The second through hole corresponds to the first through hole of the plug. The drive member is disposed within the second through hole and one end of the limit member contacts against the drive member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Taiwan Fu Hsing Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Lien-Hsi Huang, Ping-Hung Hsieh
  • Patent number: 8011216
    Abstract: A method and storage and locking arrangement for storing keys to locks and controlling the use of keys. The storage and locking arrangement consists of a closed box or a similar storage unit, a central lock and its key, as well as a number of auxiliary locks, each having its designated key. The locks are arranged in a closed box or similar storage unit so that they can be unlocked using keys from the outside of the box. The central lock is arranged to control the operation of the auxiliary locks so that when the central lock is locked, it prevents the keys to the auxiliary locks from being removed from their respective locks, and once the central lock is unlocked, it can be used to select the operation of any single auxiliary lock at a time using the corresponding key so that the key to the auxiliary lock can be removed from the auxiliary lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Abloy Oy
    Inventors: Pekka Mielonen, Oiva Hurskainen, Ahti Kokkonen
  • Patent number: 7797973
    Abstract: A hierarchical lock system includes a first cylinder lock having a cylindrical plug, rotatable, reciprocating tumbler pins, a slider disposed within the plug and a side bar that cooperates with the cylinder plug, the slider, and the tumbler pins to control rotation of the lock. A second cylindrical lock includes a cylindrical plug, reciprocating tumbler pins, a slider, and a side bar that cooperates with the cylindrical plug and the slider. A first key is configured to open both the first and second locks by elevating and rotating the tumbler pins, and moving the slider to an unlocked position with respect to the side bar. A second key is able to open only the second cylindrical locks by elevating but not rotating the tumbler pins and by moving the slider to an unlocked position with respect to the side bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Medeco Security Locks, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter H. Field, David P. Sutherland, Clyde T. Roberson
  • Patent number: 7647798
    Abstract: A lock includes a core rotatably disposed within a barrel. A plurality of tumbler pins are disposed in shafts in the core and communicate with a keyway. A side-pin shaft intersects each tumbler pin shaft at a selected angle. Each tumbler pin includes a side hole at a position along its length that aligns with the side-pin shaft when a proper key is inserted. An independent side pin is disposed in each side-pin shaft. One end of each side pin rests against its associated tumbler pin and the other end of each side pin is tapered and extends into a channel in the barrel. The side pins are biased outwardly by a spring towards the channel. The angle at which each side-pin shaft intersects each tumbler shaft may be different. The spacing between tumbler pin shafts may be different.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: VSR Lock, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark David Jones, Drannon Owen Tidwell
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7614268
    Abstract: A cylinder lock is provided. The lock includes a rotor assembly (17) having a combination post (12) as a core. The combination post (12) has combination holes arranged thereon which define the combination of the lock. The rotor assembly (17) includes locking bars having pins (15) directed radially towards the combination post (12). The locking bars are displaceable in an axial position by an appropriately coded key until each pin (15) is directed towards a respective combination hole. Turning the key causes the rotor assembly (17) to rotate. At various rotational positions, the locking bars are displaced radially causing the pins (15) to engage their respective combination holes. The combination post (12) can be provided with parallel combination holes. Furthermore, the combination post (12) can be removable in order to replace the combination post (12) with another post having different combination values, thereby changing the combination of the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Camware Holdings Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian Preddey
  • Patent number: 7571629
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for extending an existing simplex or multiplex lock-and-key system that includes a family of first keys each having a first profile and of a corresponding plurality of first locks each operable by a first key and each having a first keyway configured for accepting the first key profile. Second keys of a new family are defined with a core section corresponding to the first key profile and a narrowed projection extending from the bottom of the core section. Corresponding second locks have a second keyway profile defined as the compliment of the second key profile, thus including a complimentary core section and a foot recess extending from the bottom of the second keyway core section. The second locks accept a second key positioned at the second keyway baseline to normally lift the lock pin stacks and operate the second lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Dorma Door Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Lloyd Seliber
  • Patent number: 7484392
    Abstract: A cylinder lock provided with a thick key including an elongated base having two surfaces. A serrated wall extends from one surface of the base. A key groove is formed by the serrated wall. A rib is formed on the other surface of the base. The cylinder lock is further provided with a rotatable rotor including a keyway into which the thick key is inserted. A first cavity is formed in the keyway and shaped to enable insertion of the base of the thick key. A second cavity is formed in the keyway and shaped to enable insertion of the serrated wall of the thick key. A third cavity is formed in the keyway and shaped to enable insertion of the rib of the thick key. The keyway enables insertion of a thin key in lieu of the thick key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Toshiharu Katagiri
  • Patent number: 7467531
    Abstract: By providing an automatically activated positive indicator or signal which is responsive to only the use of a master key, a padlock construction is achieved which is highly effective for providing notice to the user whenever the padlock has been opened by said master key. In accordance with the present invention, the positive indicator or signal is constructed for being automatically activated whenever the master key is employed, with said indicator or signal being locked in its activated position, and capable of being re-set by only the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: The Sun Lock Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Eric Lai, Karl Lai
  • Patent number: 7377139
    Abstract: A cabinet lock includes a lock shell, a lock frame and a restricting device. The lock shell defines a card insertion space, the lock frame includes a slide portion, a hasp portion, an initiative portion and a core, the hasp portion defines a slide groove, the initiative portion is fixed to the hasp portion within the slide groove. The core extends into the main shell to contact with the hasp portion. A block and a protruding portion are defined where the lock block moves away from the stop portion by an external force displacing the extruding portion. Thus, the key can be removed from the core when the card is inserted, and the block locks the card and does not permit removal of the card. The card can be removed when the key is inserted into the core which avoids the loss of the card and the key together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Ping-Jan Yang
  • Patent number: 7370503
    Abstract: The safety key has a shank which is provided with a plurality of control surfaces for properly positioning tumblers and has a front end and a rear end. At a front end, the rotor of the associated locking cylinder has at least one further control surface, which interacts with a further control surface arranged at the rear end of the shank. The safety key is backward compatible and is relatively difficult to copy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Ernest Keller
  • Patent number: 7340929
    Abstract: A lock apparatus able to be installed in a structure comprising an outer sleeve having a plurality of outer rows extending transversely therethrough and radially therearound and a first bore extending though substantially a center thereof. An inner sleeve having a second bore extending through substantially a center thereof and is releasably connected within the first bore. The inner sleeve includes a plurality of inner rows extending therethrough wherein each respective inner row is aligned with a respective one of the plurality of outer rows. A plurality of user selectable pin sets is positioned within the plurality of outer and inner rows. A lock core for receiving a key therein is releasably connected within the second bore and includes a core pin set wherein a respective one of the plurality of user selectable pin sets is aligned with the core pin set creating an active pin formulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Inventor: Efthemois Christopoulos
  • Publication number: 20080047310
    Abstract: A lock core comprises a cylinder and a shaft. The cylinder defines a chamber. The shaft is rotationally inserted in the chamber of the cylinder and defines a keyhole which comprises a first slot, a second slot in communication with the first slot, and a third slot in communication with the first slot. The first and the second slots can receive a first key. The first and the third slots can receive a second key. Accordingly, the lock core can be operated by either the first key or the second key.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventor: Chun Te Yu
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7073360
    Abstract: A lock cylinder having a master key capability wherein the lock cylinder can be provided with either a master annular ring on the front of the lock plug which can only be opened by a master key or a low level security annular ring which permits the lock cylinder to be opened by either the master key or the low level security key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: SOUTHCO, Inc.
    Inventors: Henric Johansson, Torsten Johansson, Claes Magnusson
  • Patent number: 7047778
    Abstract: In some embodiments, lock assemblies are disclosed which have a housing, a barrel, and at least one tumbler. In some cases, the lock is codeable after the lock assembly has been assembled. Although not required, some embodiments can be re-coded to a new code with and without disassembling the lock assembly. The tumbler(s) can be pivotable, while in other embodiments the tumbler(s) move in a substantially linear fashion. The tumbler(s) can be comprised of two pieces or portions, wherein one piece/portion of the tumbler(s) either directly or indirectly engages the coded surface of a key while the other piece/portion is positionable to prevent rotation of the barrel with respect to the housing. In some embodiments, the tumblers are external to the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Strattec Security Corporation
    Inventors: Steven J. Dimig, Keith D. Zirtzlaff, Alan J. Ritz, Thomas J. Green, Scott H. Micoley, Scott G. Klos, Brian J. Munzel, Alexandre Y. Reikher, Lucas J. Boesel, Larry R. Grimmer, Russell J. Winberg
  • Patent number: 6889534
    Abstract: A locking device for controlled, reversible security using a control key to set the lock's accessibility to multiple individual keys, thus providing complete control of security. The control key has hierarchy over the individual key(s). Rotating the control key from the first to a second position prevents the core from being actuated by the individual key(s), thus activating a blocking function by which the lock can only be operated by the control key. Returning the control key from the second position back to the first position allows the control key to be removed ( the blocking function is still active). When the control key is rotated from the first to a third position, the core can be operated by the individual key(s), thus inactivating the blocking function. Returning the control key from the third position to the first position allows removal of the control key (blocking function remains inactive).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventor: Thomas M. Koluch
  • Patent number: 6837084
    Abstract: An interlock unit (10) for use with at least one other like unit (11) to form an interlock mechanism has a top face (13) and opposed pairs of side walls (12) with at least one runner bar (17, 18) mounted in the unit for lateral sliding movement. An actuator (14, 15, 22) is supported on the top face (13), to effect lateral sliding movement of the runner bar (17, 18). One wall of the unit is provided with one part (27) of a two-part connector with the other part (33) on the opposed wall whereby two similar units may be joined together by relative sliding movement of the two units in the plane of the side walls (12). Joining together of two units (10, 11) in this way also joins together the runner bars (17) or (18) of the two units such that sliding motion of the runner bar (17) of one unit (10) is transferred to the runner bar (17) of the connected unit (11), for at least one direction of sliding movement of the runner bars (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Fortress Interlocks Limited
    Inventors: Simon Bailey, Timothy Christopher Stubbs, Justin Titus Tun
  • Patent number: 6837082
    Abstract: A door security system for use in conjunction with a building having an existing doorway, for providing enhanced security to the occupants of the building. The door security system has a steel door hingeably attached to a steel doorframe. The steel door has a plurality of evenly spaced steel vertical rods, and a plurality of metal plates which overlay and are attached to the vertical rods, thereby conferring great strength to the door. The central plate has two deadbolt locks, and a cover plate in proximity to the deadbolt locks. The cover plate prevents an individual from inserting an object between the door and the doorframe, in an attempt to push the lock bolts from their corresponding bolt recesses within the doorframe. The door security system may be installed within any suitably sized doorway within the existing building to provide a sense of security to the occupants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Otis Moore
  • Publication number: 20040244444
    Abstract: A conduit locking security system is provided for locking a conduit opening having a flange for supporting a conduit cover. The system includes a locking cover plate for securing the conduit opening against unauthorized access, the locking cover plate being insertable into the conduit opening in a manner so that the conduit cover can overlie the locking cover plate. Also provided is a locking mechanism for locking the cover plate in the conduit opening, the locking mechanism having a key hole for accepting a conduit locking key for moving the locking mechanism between a locked and an unlocked position. In addition, a lockable key hole cover plate is included for covering and preventing unauthorized access to the key hole and locking means is provided for locking and unlocking the key hole cover plate, wherein the locking means is operated by a key different from the conduit locking key used to operate the locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: John Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 6734783
    Abstract: A gate management system for controlling an operation of a gate of a vault including a biometrics information management device having a first memory, storing biometrics information of at least a first and second persons, the first person being required to be accompanied with the second person to pass through the gate and the second person being able to pass the gate alone, a gate management device having a second memory, temporarily storing biometrics information of the first and second person in the second memory, and comparing the temporarily stored information with the information stored in the first memory, a controller controlling an operation of the gate based on a result of the comparison performed by the gate management device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: Oki Electric Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Noriyoshi Anbai
  • Patent number: 6701761
    Abstract: A lock system is provided for vehicles and the like of the type having at least one closure. A lock housing is mounted adjacent the closure, and includes a lock barrel with an axial tumbler groove, a positioner shoulder adjacent an outer portion of the barrel and a keeper shoulder adjacent an inner portion of the barrel. A lock plug is closely received in the barrel for rotation between locked and unlocked positions, and includes a keyway and outwardly biased, radially shifting tumblers. A control key is inserted into the keyway to retract all of the tumblers except a positioner tumbler that engages the positioner shoulder to locate the lock plug in a first axial position in the barrel. When the control key is removed, an outer keeper tumbler is biased outwardly for abutting contact with the keeper shoulder. A dealer key is inserted into the keyway to retract all of the tumblers except the positioner and outer keeper tumblers to permit rotation of the plug between the locked and unlocked positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Bauer Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger N. H. Chang, Edward J. Cheng
  • Patent number: 6675616
    Abstract: An internal locking device adapted for use with the magazine doors of a weapons storage facility to lock the magazine doors and secure the facility. The internal locking device use a dual key and key guides for key insertion and for reduction of key breakage. The internal locking device includes a pair of locking bolts which when dis-engaged from the output shaft by an operator rotating the keys allows the operator turn handle which turns the output shaft for the device unlocking the magazine doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Craig H. Horton
  • Patent number: 6666056
    Abstract: An internal locking device adapted for use with the magazine doors of a weapons storage facility to lock the magazine doors and secure the facility. The internal locking device use a single key and key guide for key insertion and for reduction of key breakage. The internal locking device includes a locking bolt which when dis-engaged from the output shaft by an operator rotating the key allows the operator turn handle which turns the output shaft for the device unlocking the magazine doors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2003
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Craig H. Horton
  • Patent number: 6634197
    Abstract: A removable core lock and key device comprises a cylinder housing (10) and a core (20), which is accommodated in the cylinder housing. An adapter (30) is operatively connected to a bolt (32). The core and the adapter are provided with a connection (20d, 30d), such as a bayonet joint, that selectively prevents withdrawal of the core from the housing. Key actuated engagement elements (28, 30c) are arranged to selectively allow mutual rotation of the adapter and the core so as to disengage the connection, thereby allowing withdrawal of the core. A simple yet reliable removable core is thereby provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Assa AB
    Inventors: Johan Widen, Mikael Nylander
  • Patent number: 6612142
    Abstract: A safety deposit box lock assembly has a housing and latch bolt carried by the housing. The latch bolt is movable between a locked and an unlocked position relative to the housing. A guard lock is provided as part of the lock assembly and is movable by a guard key between an unsecured orientation and a secured orientation. The guard lock permits movement of the latch bolt to the unlocked position when the guard lock is in the unsecured orientation. The guard lock prohibits movement of the latch bolt to the unlocked position when the guard lock is in the secured orientation. A patron lock is provided as part of the lock assembly and is movable by a patron key between a latched orientation and an unlatched orientation. The latch bolt is in the locked position when the patron lock is in the latched orientation. The latch bolt is in the unlocked position when the patron lock is in the unlatched orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Robert G. Capwell
  • Patent number: 6604393
    Abstract: A key operated, lock actuating system having a housing and a lock cylinder that is pivotable relative to the housing around a first axis. An actuator assembly is pivotable around the first axis between a fully locked position and an unlocked position. The lock actuating system includes a first key having a first configuration and a second key having a second configuration. The first key can be used to change the actuator assembly between the locked and unlocked positions. The second key, which cannot be fully inserted to be operable with the actuator assembly in the locked position, can be used to change the actuator assembly between the unlocked position and an intermediate locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Tri/Mark Corporation
    Inventors: Marvin L. Larsen, Dave S. Magner
  • Patent number: 6557384
    Abstract: A multifunction padlock for providing a single unit lock that has the functions of an ordinary lock in conjunction with a lockout system with multiple staples that can be used as a group or individual access lock. To attain this, the multifunction padlock generally comprises of a housing, a staple unit within the housing, a lockout unit within the housing working in conjunction with the staple unit, a group lockout lever attached to the lockout unit parallel to the main shackle, a shackle unit attached from the holding rod to the keying mechanism parallel to the main shackle, a group lockout lever attached in conjunction with the lockout unit and parallel to the unlocking control rod, a shackle unit attached to the top inner chamber of the housing, and a keying mechanism attached in the inner chamber to the bottom surface of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Johnny M. Cuesta