EP1848874B1 - Installation kit for equipping a case as a multifunctional, portable security system, and case comprising such an installation kit - Google Patents

Abstract

Installation kit for equipping a case (11) as a multifunctional, portable security system (10), and case (11). The installation kit comprises a receptacle area for valuables (13), having an access opening, a cover (12.2), and a protection system. The protection system comprises an electrically triggerable igniter (14) having membrane, an ink module (17) having a liquid for inking the valuables (13), which has a connection for a pressurized connection to the igniter (14) and an outlet area for discharging the liquid, a one-piece distributor plate (18) having at least one integrated liquid channel and multiple outlet openings for the liquid, the distributor plate (18) being connectable to the outlet area of the module (17), a pressurized gas cartridge (15) connectable to the igniter (14), the activated igniter (14) penetrating the membrane, upon which gas flows from the pressurized gas cartridge (15) into the ink module (17) and thus conveys this liquid into the distributor plate (18) and from there through in the direction of the valuables (13) in order to ink them.

Description

The invention relates to a built-in kit for equipping a suitcase as a multifunctional, portable security system according to the preamble of patent claim 1 and a suitably equipped as a multifunctional portable security system suitcase according to the preamble of claim. 9

There are a variety of security case for transporting vulnerable items, such as valuables such as coins and notes, securities, other valuables such as precious metals and gems, secret documents or possibly also toxins, rare substances or otherwise shielded, for example, radiating material.

The security cases have a safe area, a protection system and an access opening which can be closed and which, when opened, makes the security case accessible.

The protection system is intended to protect the owner or the owner of the valuables against misuse of the valuables if they are lost in the event of a theft. This is done by the valuables are automatically neutralized or devalued in such a case, in particular colored. The corresponding known protection systems are expensive and expensive.

As already mentioned, there are various valuables to transport. Depending on the type of valuables, the suitcases must have different sizes. In addition, various safety regulations can apply. In practice, therefore, a large number of different suitcases in use.

It is important in such suitcases that they comply with the relevant safety regulations, are portable and above all flexible use. Today's suitcases meet these criteria only partially. In addition, the cases are relatively expensive nowadays.

In addition, a main focus is still placed on the safety and stability of the actual suitcase.

The publication font US-A1-2004 / 0154500 discloses a trigger device with two gas cartridges, wherein the first gas pressure cartridge is opened by an electrical signal to a solenoid valve and the resulting gas pushes the second gas pressure cartridge in a needle, so that the gas of this second gas pressure cartridge is conveyed via a line in an ink reservoir. The triggering device must be connected via an outlet valve of the ink reservoir to a distribution device for the ink, respectively, so that the ink to a valuables compartment can reach, which is formed in the bottom of the suitcase provided for this purpose.

Also the publication font US-A1-2003 / 0005882 discloses a triggering device which may be screwed separately from the valuables compartment in a portable drawer above the valuables compartment. An electrical signal triggers a pyrotechnic actuator, which in turn triggers a propellant, creating a pressure in an ink reservoir. A flexible hose in the ink reservoir is to ensure that the distributor device distributes ink rather than propellant gas.

• ein Einbau-Kit zum Ausstatten eines Koffers als multifunktionales, tragbares Sicherheitssystem zu schaffen, der eine hohe Sicherheit gewährleistet, möglichst universell verwendbar ist und einfach hergestellt und gehandhabt werden kann, und
• einen mit einem solchen Einbau-Kit ausgestatteten Koffer vorzuschlagen.

It is an object of the invention

• to provide a built-in kit for equipping a suitcase as a multifunctional portable security system, which ensures a high level of security, is as universal as possible and can be easily manufactured and handled, and
• to propose a case equipped with such an installation kit.

The invention is intended to allow a high degree of flexibility in handling and to provide a security system that is inexpensive, and that allows retrofitting or equipping suitcases and similar containers of similar construction and construction and size.

• für ein Einbau-Kit durch die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 1, und
• für, einen Koffer durch die kennzeichnenden Merkmale des Anspruchs 9.

The solution of this task is carried out according to the invention

• for a built-in kit by the characterizing features of claim 1, and
• for, a suitcase by the characterizing features of claim 9.

Preferred developments of the safety system are defined by the dependent claims.

According to the invention, a new approach is taken, which makes it possible to offer a high level of security at a reasonable price. This one goes out conventional suitcases, as offered in numerous shapes, sizes and materials. Such suitcases can be equipped or retrofitted by means of an inventive installation kit or kit to a multi-functional, portable security system. The installation kit ensures a high degree of safety, which can be further increased by numerous optional measures. By using a standard suitcase, which can also serve as a piece of luggage for normal luggage, the security system is inexpensive and provides additional security, since it is not apparent to outsiders that the case is a security system for transporting valuables or that there are valuables in the suitcase.

The arrangement of a distributor plate according to the invention simplifies the manufacture and facilitates repairs, since it makes it superfluous to mount a plurality of individual sub-lines for the liquid.

If there are valuables in a receiving area, the means for their protection are reinforced or brought from an inactive, that is to say deactivated, state into an armed or activated state. If the means for protecting the valuables are activated, in an emergency, that is, if the suitcase or its contents are illegally handled or operated, the neutralization or coloring of the valuables is triggered, and the latter are neutralized or devalued by the liquid : By this is meant that the valuables are at least temporarily changed, damaged or destroyed. This neutralization may also be such that the valuables may retain or recover their value for the legitimate owner or owner.

The installation kit includes a receiving area for storing valuables. The receiving area is accessible via an access opening, which can be covered with a lid or, depending on the embodiment, can be closed. In addition, there is a protection system, the protection means with an igniter that can be triggered by the application of an electrical signal. There is further provided an ink module with a liquid for coloring the valuables. The ink module is connected to the igniter via a pressure connection and has an exit area for dispensing the liquid. It is a distributor plate provided, which is made in one piece and having at least one integrated liquid channel and a number of outlet openings for the liquid. The distributor plate can be connected to the exit region of the ink module. A gas pressure cartridge, which is connected to the igniter, provides the necessary gas pressure after triggering the igniter to carry liquid from the ink module in the liquid passage of the distributor plate and from there through the outlet openings of the distributor plate in the direction of the valuables, so that they are colored.

An advantageous arrangement is obtained when the ink module with the distributor plate forms an assembly, wherein the distributor plate when attached to the ink module pressure-tight with the outlet region of the ink module is connectable. The tightness should be maintained as possible over a wide temperature range.

It is advantageous if the cover for covering the access opening is designed so that it delays immediate access to the valuables in the receiving area. In unauthorized access without prior transfer of the security circuit in the defused state can be triggered by the security circuit neutralizing or coloring the valuables.

The protection system may include further protection means or security features, which are arranged either in the receiving area or in the suitcase. Such protections are used to protect the case against various types of attacks or in a variety of situations.

The protection system comprises a safety circuit which is connectable to the igniter and in an emergency situation provides the electrical signal for triggering the igniter, and a safety interface which makes it possible to reinforce the safety circuit as needed or to bring it to a disarmed state. Additionally, the protection system may include an energy source or energy storage for its supply of energy.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the security system or the protective system of the suitcase formed by the installation kit and the case is armored by a pocket PC or a computer via an interface or set clear or defused. Advantageously, the protection system via the security interface is able to establish a further communication possibility between the security circuit and an external device, preferably a portable computer.

Preferably, the safety circuit used for this purpose is an electrical / electronic circuit. This safety circuit is part of the protection system.

The mentioned security interface can be designed to establish a contactless connection and comprise a transmitter and a receiver, which is preferably an infrared connection and this connection enables encrypted communication. But there are also transmitter and receiver facilities possible, working with RF or other waves.

Furthermore, an interface may be provided to read an RF-ID chip or barcode to allow release (opening) only. Such RF-ID chip or barcode may be located at the destination (for example, at a bank). Only after the detection of the RF-ID chip or the barcode by the security circuit is then released the security system.

As an additional protective measure, the protective system may comprise surface protection means which can be inserted or installed in the case and enclose the receiving area. These means may be electrically connectable to the security circuit to trigger neutralization or staining of the valuables via the security circuit in an attempt to damage or penetrate the case. As a means of surface protection, protective films, nets, mesh or fabric may be used to provide protection against break-up, cut-through or puncture.

The protection system can also include a shock sensor, which can be installed in the case as an additional protective measure. The impact sensor is electrically connectable to the safety circuit and triggers the neutralization or coloring of the valuables at a predetermined number or frequency of shocks and / or shocks on the safety circuit.

To further increase security, a motion sensor may be provided which is deactivated by a manipulator or a transport of the suitcase by authorized persons.

Additional protection of the valuables can be achieved by providing a seal or seal of a mechanical or electronic nature to the case or receptacle. With such a seal or seal is not primarily intended to prevent opening of the container, but an unauthorized, but non-violent opening, for example, by a person authorized to transport the suitcase, to determine.

The protection system may be designed so that access to the receiving area is possible with or without operation of an additional auxiliary element such as a (non-contact) key.

Additional security can be achieved with additional modules that generate smoke when the security system is tampered with. This has a signal effect and prevents a culprit takes the suitcase.

Yet another safety precaution can be that an airbag system is arranged in or on the suitcase. Such an airbag system must be designed so that it can be activated or activated in the event of unauthorized handling of the safety system. Due to the volume magnification occurring when the airbag system is actuated, unauthorized manipulations of the safety system are made more difficult and may possibly prevent a culprit from taking the suitcase with him.

As already mentioned, the new case, together with the new kit, serves as a multifunctional, portable security system.

Preferably, the case is designed so that its outer cover part and its outer bottom part in the closed state protect the receiving area in the interior against moisture and mechanical damage and preferably also against high temperatures.

The case is preferably a conventional, sufficiently rigid case, for example, a case, which is preferably made of a plastic material.

The case may include all the protective measures described above with respect to the new installation kit.

In particular, the case can establish a communication connection between the security circuit and an external device, preferably a portable computer, via the security interface.

Fig. 1A

einen Koffer nach der Erfindung, in einer schematischen Seitenansicht;

Fig. 1B

eine schematische Seitenansicht des geöffneten Koffers nach Fig. 1A, wobei der Koffer geöffnet und der Aufnahmebereich geschlossen sind;

Fig. 1C

eine schematische Draufsicht auf den geöffneten Koffer nach Fig. 1A, wobei der Aufnahmebereich offen ist, und auf ein externes Gerät;

Fig. 2A

eine schematische Seitenansicht eines Teils des Schutzsystems nach der Erfindung;

Fig. 2B

eine schematische Schnittansicht eines Teils des in Fig. 2A dargestellten Schutzsystems nach der Erfindung;

Fig. 2C

eine schematische Draufsicht eines Teils des in Fig. 2A dargestellten Schutzsystems nach der Erfindung; und

Fig. 3

eine schematische Draufsicht eines Teils einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines Schutzsystems nach der Erfindung.

Further features and details of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and with reference to the drawing. Show it:

Fig. 1A

a suitcase according to the invention, in a schematic side view;

Fig. 1B

a schematic side view of the open case after Fig. 1A with the case open and the receiving area closed;

Fig. 1C

a schematic plan view of the open suitcase after Fig. 1A with the receiving area open and to an external device;

Fig. 2A

a schematic side view of a portion of the protection system according to the invention;

Fig. 2B

a schematic sectional view of part of the in Fig. 2A illustrated protection system according to the invention;

Fig. 2C

a schematic plan view of part of the in Fig. 2A illustrated protection system according to the invention; and

Fig. 3

a schematic plan view of part of another embodiment of a protection system according to the invention.

Basically identical or identically acting structural elements are provided in the figures with the same reference numerals, even if they are partially differ from each other. Information such as above, below, right, left, front, back refer to the location of the so-called elements in the respective figures.

Fig. 1A to Fig. 1C show various views of an embodiment of the invention. In Fig. 1A is to recognize a suitcase 11, which is equipped by means of an installation kit according to the invention as a multifunctional, portable security system 10. The case 11 is shown in the closed state.

The case 11 has an outer bottom part 11.1 and an outer lid part 11.2, which are pivotally connected to each other. At the front of the case 11, a handle and two snap fasteners or snap locks are indicated. In Fig. 1A is indicated by dashed lines located in a suitcase 11 receiving area. This receiving area is located substantially in the interior of the outer bottom part 11.1 and is designed to hold objects of value 13 shown schematically (see FIG Fig. 1C ). The receiving area is accessible via an access opening when the outer lid part 11.2 is opened, as in Fig. 1B shown. In the embodiment shown, the receiving area is enclosed by a cassette which has a base tray 12.1 and a tray lid 12.2 for covering the access opening. It can also be provided several receiving areas.

The receiving area can be secured by one or more security means. According to the invention, an igniter 14 with a diaphragm is provided for this purpose, which can be triggered by the application of an electrical signal, as shown in FIG Fig. 1C is shown. An ink module 17 containing a liquid for neutralizing the valuables 13 communicates with the igniter 14 and a distributor plate 18.

The term "ink module" is also understood to mean a module with a liquid other than ink or with another flowable medium Accordingly, the term "liquid" should also be understood to mean another fluid medium, and the term "coloring" of the valuables 13 should also be understood to mean another change which can be caused by a flowable medium, for example etching. It is also possible to provide a plurality of ink modules; in particular, it may be provided to configure and arrange a plurality of ink modules such that liquid can be dispensed onto the valuables 13 from several directions.

The ink module 17 has a port for establishing pressure communication with the igniter 14 and an exit region for discharging the fluid. The distributor plate 18 has at least one integrated liquid channel, as well as a number of outlet openings for the liquid. The distributor plate 18 is manufactured in one piece and can be connected to the outlet region of the ink module 17. The ink module 17 forms an assembly with the distributor plate 18, wherein the distributor plate 18 can be connected to the outlet region of the ink module 17 in a pressure-tight manner when attached to the ink module 17.

A gas pressure cartridge 15 is connected to the igniter 14 so that the igniter 14 is triggered upon application of the electrical signal and a membrane of the igniter (14) severed. As a result, gas is discharged from the gas pressure cartridge 15 and passed through the pressure connection in the ink module 17. Under this pressure, the liquid passes from the ink module into the liquid channel of the distributor plate 18 and through the outlet openings of the distributor plate 18 in the direction of the valuables 13. In Fig. 1C is shown by arrows 19, the coloring of the valuables 13.

Fig. 1C shows a circuit 20 with a safety interface 16, via which the circuit 20 from an external control element such as a computer 30 is controlled, as shown schematically. The external control element 30 essentially serves to bring the protection system from a non-armored or passive state to an armed or active state. Only when the protection system is armed or activated, the detonator 15 is triggered in an unauthorized handling of the security system and initiated the neutralization or coloring of the valuables.

The Fig. 2A, 2B and 2C show details of another protection system in which the ink module 17 comprises three sub-modules 17.1, 17.2, 17.3. It is also possible a different number of sub-modules and / or a different spatial arrangement of the sub-modules. In Fig. 2A the igniter 14 and an electrical connection 14.1 for the igniter 14 are shown, via which the igniter 14 can be triggered. Also in Fig. 2A the gas pressure cartridge 15 is shown. The distributor plate 18 has according to Fig. 2A to 2C a connection system 18.2. The distributor plate 18, more precisely its space or liquid channel 18.1 for carrying out the liquid, is connected to the interior of the ink module 17 via one or more channels 18.3 of the connection system 18.2. The connection system 18.2 can serve as a lateral mounting element to connect the distributor plate 18 with the ink modules 17.1 - 17.3 mechanically and "hydraulically".

The opposite Fig. 2A Detail enlarged in the style of a magnifying glass shows a vertical section through the ink module 17.1 and the distributor plate 18. It can be seen that the distributor plate 18 has a lower plate portion 18.5 and an upper plate portion 18.6 which sealingly abut each other. The plate parts 18.5, 18.6 limit the aforementioned fluid channel 18.1. The outlet openings 18.4 are arranged in the upper plate part 18.6.

There are also distribution plates in another design conceivable. It is essential that the liquid channel 18.1, which may possibly also have a plurality of liquid partial channels connected in parallel, can only be filled via the connection system 18.3 and can only be emptied via the outlet openings 18.4. Distributor plates can be made of different materials, in particular of light metal or suitable plastics.

Fig. 2C shows the distribution plate of the protection system from above, with the liquid channel 18.1, the connection systems 18.2, the outlet openings 18.4 and the upper plate portion 18.6. Shown are dash-lined nine areas of the upper plate portion 18.6, around which the liquid channel 18.1 with the outlet openings 18.4 zigzag-like or meandering extends.

Often, the valuables are packed in a bag (seal bag). These bags have a closure that allows to close the bag with valuables after filling. After closing, such a bag can not be opened without leaving a trace. The recipient of the bag can thus determine if the bag has been opened. In order to neutralize the valuables also works, if they are in a bag, a special fuse is provided according to the invention, which develops heat after ignition and melts the bag. As a result, the valuables can also be reached by the ink when they are in a bag. The invention now offers the advantage that the necessary fuse can be inserted into the distributor plate 18 or fixed on it. A corresponding embodiment is in Fig. 3 indicated. In Fig. 3 is analogous to Fig. 2C a schematic plan view of another embodiment of a distributor plate 18 is shown.

Fig. 3 shows the distribution plate 18 of the protection system from above. At least one, but preferably two, fuses 22 are provided on the surface of the distributor plate 18. These fuses 22 are preferably arranged meandering. In order for the fuse / fuses to be secured to the manifold plate 18, in a preferred embodiment, the manifold plate has a superficially formed channel into which the fuse / fuses 22 may be inserted. Im shown Example, a primer 22.1 is provided, which can be ignited via two cables 22.2. The two cables 22.2 can be connected to the security circuit 20. As soon as neutralization of the valuables is necessary, the safety circuit 20 ignites the primer 22.1 and thus triggers a burning of the fuse / fuses 22. These melt the bags. As a result, the valuables for the ink are reached, which is discharged from the openings 18.4 with pressure.

The patent US 5,156,272 discloses electric heating wires which, however, are not used to melt the bag or pouch, but to initiate the marking operation by allowing the heating wires to melt the ink reservoir and thereby impregnate a sponge with the exiting ink. The sponge is in contact with the valuables. The heating wires serve a different purpose and are not - like the inventive fuses - in direct contact with the valuables or a bag enclosing them.

In a further embodiment according to the present invention, the case 10 can be mounted on a shelf. For this purpose, the shelf can be equipped with an interlocking function. As soon as the case 11 has been connected to the shelf via the interlocking function, a circuit on the shelf takes over at least part of the safety functions or the monitoring of the safety functions. Removal from the shelf can be done for example via a PDA with a suitable interface.

Claims (14)

1. Installation kit for fitting up a case (11) as a multi-functional portable security system (10), wherein the case (11) comprises a case bottom part (11.1) and a case cap part (11.2), the installation kit comprising:

   - a reception area for a reception of objects (13) of value, which area is enclosed by a bottom trough (12.1) that can closed by a trough cap (12.2), wherein the bottom trough (12.1) can be arranged in the inside of the case bottom part (11.1) and is accessible via an access opening, when the case cap part is open, and

   - a protection system comprising:

   - an igniter (14) which can be actuated by the application of an electric signal and which comprises a membrane,

   - an ink module (17) which encases a liquid for inking the objects (13) of value, wherein the ink module (17) has a connector for establishing a pressure connection with the igniter (14) and an emersion area for dispensing the liquid,

   - a distribution plate (18) which is fabricated integrally and which has at least one integrated liquid channel (18.1) and a number of emersion openings (18.4) for the liquid, wherein the distribution plate (18) can be connected with the ink module (17),

   - a gas pressure cartridge (15) which is connectable with the igniter (14) such that the igniter (14) tears through the membrane when applying the electrical signal so as to dispense gas from the gas pressure cartridge (15) and to conduct [the gas] via the pressure connection into the ink module (17) and to thus transport the liquid into the liquid channel of the distribution plate (18) and from there through the emersion openings (18.4) of the distribution plate (18) in the direction of the objects (13) of value for inking them, characterized in that the installation kit includes the reception area and the protection system and in that in or at the distribution plate (18) there is arranged at least one match cord (22) which, when neutralizing the objects of value, develops heat by which a pouch in which the objects (13) of value are arranged can be molten open.
2. Installation kit according to claim 1, characterized in that the protection system comprises:

   - a security circuitry (20) which is connectable with the igniter (14) and provides the electrical signal for activating the igniter (14) in an emergency situation,

   - a security interface (16) by which the security circuitry (20) is switchable in an inactive and an active state, and

   - an energy source for providing energy to the protection system.
3. Installation kit according to claim 2, characterized in that the protection system comprises:

   - means (21) for protecting the surface, which means can be laid into or built in the case (11), wherein these means (21) encase the reception area and are electrically connectable with the security circuitry (20) so as to activate the inking of the objects (13) of value via the security circuitry (20) when an attempt is made to damage or to pervade the case (11).
4. Installation kit according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the protection system comprises:

   - an impact sensor which can be built into the case (11), wherein the impact sensor is electrically connectable with the security circuitry (20) and activates the inking of the objects (13) of value via the security circuitry (20) at a predetermined number of impacts and/or vibrations.
5. Installation kit according to any one of the claims 2 to 4, characterized in that a communication link can be established between the security circuitry (20) and the portable computer (30) via the security interface (16).
6. Installation kit according to claim 5, characterized in that a contact-less connection can be established via the security interface (16) and in that the security interface (16) comprises a sender and a receiver, wherein the connection is preferably an infra red connection and is preferably encrypted.
7. Installation kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ink module (17) and the distribution plate (18) together form an assembly group, wherein the distribution plate (18) is connectable with the emersion area of the ink module (17) in a pressure-tight way during the fixation at the ink module (17).
8. Installation kit according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the match cord (22) is provided with an igniter (22.1) which is activatable by the security circuitry (20).
9. Case (11) comprising an installation kit according to any one of the claims 1 to 8 [and fitted-up] as a multi-functional portable security system (10), comprising:

   - an outer case bottom part (11.1) and an outer case cap part (11.2), which are connected with each other pivotably.
10. Case (11) according to claim 9, characterized in that the outer case cap part (11.2) and the outer case bottom part (11.1), when in a closed state, protect the trough (12) in the inside against humidity and mechanical damage and preferably also against elevated temperatures.
11. Case (11) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the case (11) is a conventional rigid case such as a shell case, which is preferably made of a plastic material.
12. Case (11) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the case (11) comprises:

    - a security circuitry (20) which is connectable with the igniter (14) and provides the electrical signal for activating the igniter (14) in an emergency situation,

    - a security interface (16) by which the security circuitry (20) can be switched in an inactive state by, and

    - an energy source.
13. Case (11) according to claim 12, characterized in that a communication link can be established between the security circuitry (16) and a portable computer (30) via the security interface (16).
14. Case (11) according to any one of the claims 12 to 13, characterized in that the trough cap (12.2) is designed such that it retards a direct access to the objects (13) of value in the trough (12), wherein the security circuitry (20) activates the inking of the objects (13) of value in case of an unauthorized access without prior conversion of the security circuitry (20) in an inactive state.

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