EP3132428A1 - Electronic cam lock for cabinet doors, drawers and other applications - Google Patents
Electronic cam lock for cabinet doors, drawers and other applicationsInfo
- Publication number
- EP3132428A1 EP3132428A1 EP15780032.7A EP15780032A EP3132428A1 EP 3132428 A1 EP3132428 A1 EP 3132428A1 EP 15780032 A EP15780032 A EP 15780032A EP 3132428 A1 EP3132428 A1 EP 3132428A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- lock
- delivery
- cam
- access
- cabinet
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/10—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B47/00—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means
- E05B47/06—Controlling mechanically-operated bolts by electro-magnetically-operated detents
- E05B47/0657—Controlling mechanically-operated bolts by electro-magnetically-operated detents by locking the handle, spindle, follower or the like
- E05B47/0665—Controlling mechanically-operated bolts by electro-magnetically-operated detents by locking the handle, spindle, follower or the like radially
- E05B47/0673—Controlling mechanically-operated bolts by electro-magnetically-operated detents by locking the handle, spindle, follower or the like radially with a rectilinearly moveable blocking element
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B47/00—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means
- E05B2047/0094—Mechanical aspects of remotely controlled locks
- E05B2047/0095—Mechanical aspects of locks controlled by telephone signals, e.g. by mobile phones
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B41/00—Locks with visible indication as to whether the lock is locked or unlocked
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B47/00—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means
- E05B47/0001—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means with electric actuators; Constructional features thereof
- E05B47/0012—Operating or controlling locks or other fastening devices by electric or magnetic means with electric actuators; Constructional features thereof with rotary electromotors
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B65/00—Locks or fastenings for special use
- E05B65/46—Locks or fastenings for special use for drawers
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05C—BOLTS OR FASTENING DEVICES FOR WINGS, SPECIALLY FOR DOORS OR WINDOWS
- E05C3/00—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively
- E05C3/02—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively without latching action
- E05C3/04—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively without latching action with operating handle or equivalent member rigid with the bolt
- E05C3/041—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively without latching action with operating handle or equivalent member rigid with the bolt rotating about an axis perpendicular to the surface on which the fastener is mounted
- E05C3/042—Fastening devices with bolts moving pivotally or rotatively without latching action with operating handle or equivalent member rigid with the bolt rotating about an axis perpendicular to the surface on which the fastener is mounted the handle being at one side, the bolt at the other side or inside the wing
Definitions
- Serial No. 13/945,695 fully
- This invention concerns locks for cabinets, lockers, drawers, access panels and similar situations. Specifically the invention embraces an electronic cam lock that fits standard cam lock openings.
- cam locks Metal and wood file cabinets, desk and cabinet drawers, locker doors, access panels and doors, mail boxes, dispensers and other secure situations often utilize relatively simple lock mechanisms known as cam locks. Such cam locks may or may not involve a camming action. In some cases they move other mechanisms that are engaged with the door or drawer of the cabinet or engaged with other mechanisms that are linked to the door and drawer of the cabinet or multiple doors or drawers of the cabinet.
- a cam lock on a cabinet door typically fits in a 3/4 inch diameter D-shaped or double D-shaped hole and, at the back side of the cam lock cylinder unit, has a metal blade or arm called a cam that rotates when the key is turned, from a position
- drawers commonly referred as cabinet locks
- cabinet locks involve a camming type action as the key and plug are rotated.
- the rotation causes a cam or nipple to move a deadbolt linearly to a locking or unlocking position or in the case of a spring loaded latch or deadlatch the rotation causes the cam or nipple to move a latch or deadlatch to unlocking position and removing the key keeps the latch or deadlatch in the extended locked position.
- Metal filing cabinets often utilize cam locks, or a variation known as a plunger type lock in which a spring loaded plunger/lock cylinder located in the top horizontal margin of the cabinet, when pushed in, will lock all drawers. The use of a key releases the spring plunger to return to the outward position and unlock the drawers.
- cam locks or a variation known as a plunger type lock in which a spring loaded plunger/lock cylinder located in the top horizontal margin of the cabinet, when pushed in, will lock all drawers. The use of a key releases the spring plunger to return to the outward position and unlock the drawers.
- Locker and cabinet locks have included electronic locking devices, some of which utilized keypads and some of which utilized IButtons or other ID or non-volatile memory devices which work on contact to release the lock. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,894,277, 5,886,644, 6,655,180 and 6,791,450. The disclosures of all of these patents are incorporated herein by reference.
- the invention addresses these needs with a low profile and very compact electronic lock that, in one application, fits in the top one inch horizontal margin of a steel file cabinet (or a side vertical margin) .
- the compact electronic locking device in one embodiment has a knob or handle that can rotate the cam lock cylinder plug when such manual rotation is permitted by the lock electronics.
- a keypad for entry of a code may be included, and if so, the code in preferred
- embodiments can be either permanently set to a reprogrammable code, or set in each case by a temporary user, who can then input the same code to lock and unlock the lock, this feature depending on circumstances and function desired.
- the locking device is less than one inch in height, about two inches in length for one form, about three to five inches for another form, and about 3/8 to 3/4 inch in depth or more preferably no more than about 5/8 inch or less in depth, as to the housing of the device.
- a cam locking device of this size will fit unobtrusively on the surface of the horizontal top margin area of a steel file cabinet.
- the housing may contain several small battery cells, such as two AAA batteries, but preferably smaller batteries such as coin cell or button-type batteries for further reduction of housing size. From the back of the housing in one embodiment extends the cam lock cylinder unit of conventional cam lock size, and with a length to fit the application, i.e. the depth of material and configuration where mounted.
- the rear-extending cylinder unit may have an external thread, so that a nut or threaded ring is tightened down to firmly retain the cylinder and housing in place.
- a dummy plug can extend back from the housing unit, or simply a driver or spindle. Since the cam lock opening in the cabinet or door or panel will typically be the conventional D-shaped opening or double D-shaped opening, the housing is fixed in place against rotation by this configuration. However, another fastening location (s) may be included, such as a machine screw assembled from the back and through a hole in the drawer or panel, engaging in a threaded hole provided in the housing, or screw posts extending from the back of the housing.
- This threaded hole or screw post preferably is at an opposite end of the housing from the location of the cylinder and turning knob or handle. There may be more than one threaded hole or screw post depending on the mounting preferences.
- the housing back can simply have a nipple that extends in a hole formed in the cabinet, drawer or door, or a hook-shaped element that extends from the back of the housing and engages firmly in the hole, particularly for relatively thin metal cabinets.
- the electronic cam lock device be compact and relatively simple, at least as to mechanical elements, and without any further electronics or housing required at the back side of the door or panel.
- the only element at the back side of the door, drawer or panel is the rear-extending cam lock cylinder unit itself, with attached cam positioned to engage with a ledge or slot or other hardware to retain the door(s) or panel locked.
- the rear-extending element is a dummy plug or driver.
- An alternative form of the lock still comprises a single housing but is positioned at the back side of the panel, drawer, etc., in a through-the-panel mounting with only the knob or handle and the access terminal or keypad extending through the panel.
- the invention is embodied in a cam lock for a door, cabinet or drawer and includes a compact housing containing electronics and having a keypad or other terminal enabling entry of codes by a user, a cam cylinder unit or driver extending from a back side of the housing, in a standard cam lock size adapted to fit through a standard cam lock opening in a cabinet or door for extending therethrough, and with a knob or handle on the housing for operating the cam lock manually when permitted by the electronics.
- a battery compartment in the housing, accessible from the front of the cabinet, contains one or more battery cells for operating the electronics .
- the invention is embodied in a cam lock for a door, cabinet or drawer and includes a compact housing containing electronics and having a keypad or other terminal enabling entry of codes by a user, a plug of the cam, plunger or cabinet lock cylinder unit extending from a back side of the housing that matches the size and shape of the cam lock shell already mounted on the door, cabinet or drawer, and with a knob or handle on the housing for operating the cam lock manually when permitted by the electronics.
- a battery compartment in the housing accessible from the front of the cabinet, contains one or more battery cells for
- the invention is embodied in a cam lock for a door, cabinet or drawer and includes a compact housing containing electronics and having a keypad or other terminal enabling entry of codes by a user, a special shaped driver unit extending from a back side of the housing that matches an opening on the plug of the cam cabinet or drawer, a lock shell already mounted on the door, and with a knob or handle on the housing for operating the cam lock manually when permitted by the electronics.
- a battery compartment in the housing accessible from the front of the cabinet,
- the invention is embodied in a cam lock for a door, cabinet or drawer mountable from back of the door, cabinet or drawer such that only the user interface extends through the face of the door, cabinet or drawer and includes a compact housing containing electronics and having an electronic key receptacle and in some cases, a keypad for entry of codes by a user, a specially shaped driver unit extending from a back side of the housing that matches the end of a cam lock or cam lock plug of the typical mechanical lock for engaging with a strike or other locking bars, cams or apparatus, and with a knob or handle on the housing for operating the cam lock manually when permitted by the
- the invention is embodied in a cam lock for a door, cabinet or drawer mountable from back of the door, cabinet or drawer such that only the user interface extends through the face of the door, cabinet or drawer and includes a compact housing containing electronics and having an electronic key receptacle and an RF reader or wireless reader or IButton reader for entry of a code by a user, a specially shaped driver unit extending from a back side of the housing that matches the end of a cam lock or cam lock plug of the typical mechanical lock for engaging with a strike or other locking bars, cams or apparatus, and with a knob or handle on the housing for operating the cam lock manually when permitted by the electronics.
- lock devices are fitted with an RJ45 jack or wireless antenna for network connectivity and external power.
- the locks may be fitted for NFC
- Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an electronic cam lock device of the invention.
- Figure 1A is a schematic view showing a feature internal to the cam lock.
- Figure 2 is a view showing the device on a metal file cabinet .
- Figure 3 is an elevation view showing the front of the device.
- Figure 4 is a sectional plan view showing the electronic cam lock device as installed, in one preferred manner of installation, on a cabinet or door.
- Figure 4A is a sectional view showing a variation of what is shown in Figure 4.
- Figure 5 is a view similar to Figure 4, but showing the device in a locked position for a drawer, panel or door.
- Figures 6 and 6A show a typical cam lock shell mounted on a door with its plug being inserted.
- FIG. 7 and 7A show the same configuration shown in
- Figures 8, 8A and 8B are perspective views showing replacement of an existing key operated cam lock cylinder plug with the current invention.
- Figure 9 is a perspective view showing the current invention with matching plug being applied to a cabinet lock with a bolt.
- Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the current invention with matching plug being applied to a cabinet lock with a spring loaded latch or deadlatch.
- Figure 11 shows a side view of what is shown in Figure 9 being installed on a door or drawer.
- Figure 12 shows a side view of what is shown in Figure 10 being installed on a door or drawer.
- Figure 13 shows a perspective view of an electronic cam, cabinet or plunger lock of the invention with special shaped driver extending from the rear of the device.
- Figure 14 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 15 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 17 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 18 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 19 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 20 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 21 shows a perspective view of the current invention with a specially shaped driver being applied to a cam type T handle lock with matching plug.
- Figure 22 shows a perspective view of the current
- Figure 22A shows a variation of Figure 22 in which a lever replaces a knob, a variation applicable to all
- Figure 23 shows a typical prior art mechanical key- operated cam lock.
- Figure 24 shows a typical prior art oval shaped plunger lock .
- Figure 25 shows a typical prior art round shaped plunger lock .
- Figure 26 shows a typical prior art cabinet lock with bolt.
- Figure 27 shows a typical prior art cabinet lock with spring loaded latch or deadlatch.
- Figure 28 shows a typical prior art switch lock.
- Figure 29 shows a typical prior art T handle screw type lock.
- Figure 30 shows a typical prior art T handle cam type lock .
- Figure 31 is a perspective view showing an electronic cam type lock of the invention, for a cam lock and similar
- Figures 32 and 33 are sectional plan and elevation views showing the lock device of Figure 31.
- Figures 34A and 34B are partially sectioned side
- Figures 35A, 35B and 35C are perspective views showing a drawer or door panel having provision (a hole) for a cam lock or cabinet lock, an embodiment of a cam lock of the invention, and the cam lock as installed in the panel.
- Figure 36 is a perspective view, exploded, showing a lock device of the invention and indicating its installation into a modified cylinder device of a cam lock or cabinet lock.
- Figure 37 is a view somewhat similar to Figure 36, but showing the device being fitted with a pin/tumbler cylinder of a cabinet lock and with a spring latch.
- Figure 38 is a perspective view showing a modified lock device of the invention with provision for recessed mounting.
- Figures 39A to 39C are perspective and cross section views showing a through-panel mounting for an electronic lock of the invention.
- Figures 40A to 40C are perspective and cross section views similar to Figure 39A-39C, showing a modified lock with a keypad.
- Figure 40D shows an alternative battery arrangement.
- Figure 41 is a perspective view showing a lock device of the invention with a key reader and an IButton reader.
- Figure 42 is a perspective view showing a lock device of the invention with a key reader and a wireless reader.
- Figure 43 is the same lock device shown in Figure 41 but configured for mounting through the panel of a door, cabinet or drawer.
- Figure 44 is the same lock device shown in Figure 42 but configured for mounting through the panel of a door, cabinet or drawer.
- Figure 45 is the same lock device shown in Figure 40A but with the addition of a network antenna, network jack
- Figure 46 is the same lock device shown in Figure 39A but with the addition of a network antenna, network jack
- Figure 47 is the same lock device shown in Figure 43 but with the addition of a network antenna, network jack
- Figure 48 is the same lock device shown in Figure 44 but with the addition of a network antenna, network jack receptacle and external power port.
- Figures 49 to 51 are flow charts and a block diagram indicating operation of a system and method of the invention for delivery of packages to blocked delivery boxes of
- Figure 1 shows an electronic cam lock 10, in a preferred form of a keypad cam lock, with a rotatable knob or handle 12 extending from a housing 14.
- a keypad 15 is exposed at the front of the housing to allow entry of a code, using the usual numerical digits 1 to 0 and/or letters of the alphabet, as illustrated.
- the keypad preferably includes a "clear” button 16 and an "enter” button 18, the latter shown with a key symbol in the drawing.
- the lock can be programmed such that the enter button is pushed as the last button in all code entries, thus enabling different numbers of digits for
- the lock can be programmed otherwise if desired, such as being programmed to operate after a designated number of valid key strokes.
- a status LED is included at 20; this can show locked/unlocked states as well as battery status.
- a recess or connection with a plurality of electrical contacts preferably three as shown. This can be for several purposes, including providing "jump" power in the event of battery failure, and use of an electronic master key for entry of a master code by contact with this connection, when a key code to which the device is set has been forgotten or lost.
- U.S. Patent No. 7,336,150 which is
- this set of contacts 22 can be connected to receive both jump power and a master code simultaneously (or either one, or both separately) .
- a slide door 24 connects with the housing to close a battery compartment which may be, for example, for two AAA battery cells.
- the slide door 24 may be locked against sliding whenever the cam lock device is in the locked
- the door 24 may be hinged rather than slidable, or secured by a screw, which can be a security screw.
- the unauthorized opening may also be prevented by incorporating a single or multi-point press-to-release lock that requires a special tool for opening the battery compartment.
- FIG. 1 the lock device 10 is shown as secured on a surface or panel 25.
- panel is sometimes used herein and in the claims to refer to the component or surface to which the lock is secured, whether the panel is a drawer front, or margin area above, below or to the side of the drawer front, a cabinet door or margin, an access panel or adjacent structure, etc.
- Figure 3 is a frontal view of the lock device
- Figures 4 and 5 show that the handle or knob 12 connects directly with a cam lock cylinder unit 26, and specifically the handle 12 turns with a movable member, e.g. rotatable bolt or core 28 which rotates within the fixed cylinder unit 26 when permitted by the electronics.
- Figure 5 is a side view of the lock device, generally as seen from the right side of Figure 1 or Figure 3 and showing one example of latching.
- cylinder unit's bolt or core 28 can be extended as needed, such as for a wood drawer, panel, etc.
- Figure 23 shows a typical, simple prior art cam lock 29, of a type which can be replaced by the electronic cam lock unit 10.
- the rotatable plug 28 of the cam lock cylinder unit 26 ( Figures 3-5) is shown fixed to a metal arm or cam 30 as this actuator is typically called.
- the cam is secured on the plug or rotatable member 28 via a flat 32 on the rotatable plug member and a corresponding hole in the cam (hole not shown) , so that the cam is fixed against relative rotation on the plug. Further, the end of the plug is threaded and a nut 34 is tightened down for retention.
- Figure 5 shows the cam 30, which can be in a bent offset shape as shown or can be any other desired configuration (a multiplicity of different cam shapes are available) , engaged in a slot 36 in a structure 38 adjacent to a panel 40 to which the cam lock device is secured, via a nut or threaded ring 42.
- a flat 43 on the cylinder 26 matches the D configuration, or two opposed such flats can be included.
- the panel 40 may be a drawer to be pulled outwardly from the structure 38 when the lock is unlocked, or a door or cabinet or access panel.
- the lock device 10 can be installed in a panel of a fixed structure, such as the two locks shown as secured to the top margin areas of 44 and 46 in two adjacent banks of file drawers or file cabinets 48 and 50 in Figure 2.
- a cam can engage downwardly against a ledge or into a slot in the adjacent file drawer 48 or 50 when locked, preventing the pulling out of a drawer, or a more complex mechanical arrangement can be included, typical of such lateral file cabinets, whereby the lock either holds a locking mechanism in place for both drawers, or the locking of the top drawer effects the locking of the lower drawer as well, through a well-known form of mechanical interlinkage .
- the electronics within the lock housing 14 can include or be connected to a slidable pin 55 driven by an electrically operated device, i.e. a solenoid or miniature motor M, for engaging the pin with a notch 55a in the internal rotatable member 55b leading from the handle or knob 12 to the rear- extending bolt 32, to prevent rotation.
- the pin may be urged toward the notch by a spring 55c.
- the electronics can be similar to those disclosed in any of the above patents
- the electronics are well known to those skilled in the art, and, when an appropriate code is entered using the keypad, the electronics will connect power to the motor or solenoid, or other electronic device to momentarily retract the blocking pin from such a notch in the rotatable member. If a solenoid is used it is biased to be normally urged into engagement with the notch whenever the notch is located in the appropriate position. If desired the lock can be set up to simply leave the notch out of contact with the biased pin when the knob has been rotated to unlock the cam lock device. The drawer or door or panel can thus be left with the lock in this state during working hours or during any period desired, until the user wishes to secure the drawer or door again. At that point, the user rotates the knob or handle until a "click" is felt, when the pin has re-engaged in the notch to lock the knob against further turning.
- a motor can also operate the pin with spring linkage.
- cam lock cylinder unit defines two different positions in which its movement is blocked.
- two notches (not shown, but second notch similar to 55a in Figure 1A but at different rotational position) are provided in the internal rotatable member, one for locking the door or drawer and one for holding the knob and cam in a fully unlocked position, and in this situation a code must be entered in order to return the lock to the locked position.
- the cam lock device 10 can be securely retained on a door front panel or metal file cabinet panel or other door, drawer or access panel using the threaded cam lock cylinder unit 26 with the tightened nut 42 and the registry provided by the D or double D-shaped cam lock cylinder and opening typical of cam locks (see flat 43 shown in Figures 4 and 5)
- the installation may include an attachment at the other end of the lock housing, i.e. the end opposite where the handle or knob 12 is located (left side in Figure 3) .
- a machine screw 56 that passes through a hole 58 in the panel 40a, tightened into a threaded opening in the housing 14. This will require drilling of a small hole, approximately 1/8 inch diameter, through the panel.
- the back of the housing 14 can simply have a nipple 57 that extends into the hole 58 (as indicated in
- Figure 4A or a hooked nipple, generally L-shaped, which is extended such that the leg of the L-shape goes through the hole to the back of the panel, then the housing is pivoted down against the panel until the cam lock cylinder unit 26 passes through the cam lock hole in the cabinet or panel.
- the keypad- operated electronic cam lock device 10 includes no housing or electronic components at the inside of a door or drawer or panel.
- the only structure of the lock device extending into the interior or back side of the panel on which attached is the cam lock cylinder unit 26 and, optionally, a threaded fastener or machine bolt 56.
- a plunger type lock of the type often included on multiple-drawer file cabinets is not illustrated in the drawings, the invention applies to this type of lock as well.
- the rotatable handle 12 on the lock unit 10 is replaced with a spring plunger unit with rotatable core, similar to a typical key-operated spring plunger unit such as the unit 60 shown in Figure 24;
- the internal mechanism for holding the core against rotation can be similar to that described above, that is, an electrically operated blocking pin will release the rotatable core and handle 12 and upon core rotation the plunger slide blocking device (62 in Figure 24) will be retracted allowing the spring plunger unit to release out by action of a spring thus opening the drawers.
- the side of the sliding plunger unit can be slotted to allow the electrically operated blocking pin to enter a channel in the side of the rotatable core, to hold the core against rotation when locked.
- a miniature motor can be used instead of a solenoid operating the blocking pin operating in the lock housing 14.
- Such miniature motors require very small current and can be used to implement the extension or
- electromagnetically operated device includes a solenoid or miniature motor or other appropriate driving electric device.
- Figures 6-6A and 7-7A show a typical cam lock shell mounted on a door, with the plug 70 shown removed in Figure 6 and inserted into the shell 72 in Figure 6A to form the cylinder unit; and replacement by an electronic lock 74 with cylinder plug 75, retrofitted into the shell 72 in accordance with the invention ( Figures 7 and 7A) .
- the plug 75 is a
- the electronics housing 76 has a recess 78 shown in dashed lines, surrounding the extending plug 75, for the purpose of accommodating the slightly protruding face 80 of the cylinder shell 72 as installed in the door or drawer 71.
- Many of the cam locks used in furniture do have this type of front loaded plug which can also be removed for service and rekeying purposes.
- Figures 8, 8A and 8B show another door or drawer front 82 as fitted with a conventional cam lock or cabinet lock having a cylinder shell 72 such as shown in Figures 6 and 7.
- Figure 8 shows the prior art lock 72a with a key 73 extending into a cam lock plug 84, while Figure 8A shows the plug removed, revealing only the face plate 80 of the cam lock/cabinet lock cylinder 72.
- Figure 8B shows the electronic lock 74 of the invention as installed into the opening defined by the lock cylinder 80 in door or drawer front 82.
- the prior art current plugs 70, 75 can be removed from the cylinder shell 72. This can be done by access to the spring loaded wafer or retainer clip 81. Access to this spring loaded retention device is restricted as is well known in the art.
- Figures 9-12 as well as the prior art views of Figures 26 and 27 all relate to another application of the invention.
- Figure 9 shows an electronic lock unit 74 according to the invention in position to be assembled into an existing cabinet lock 86 of conventional design, the cabinet lock including an extendable/retractable bolt 88 which extends or retracts in response to, in the case of the prior art as shown in Figure 26, rotation of a cylinder plug 90 that is positioned for rotation in the cabinet lock cylinder shell 92, and accessed by a key 94.
- the cylinder shell 92 extends through a door, drawer or other wall 96 as shown in the side elevation view of Figure 11.
- the unit 86 is secured from the back, preferably via screws.
- FIG. 9 The exploded view of Figure 9 shows that the unit 74 of the invention is simply inserted into the lock' s plug opening 98, such that the plug 75 of the new unit goes into the hole 98 and refits the lock 86 just as the keyed plug was fit therein.
- a spring loaded secure retainer 81 is
- the retention of the plug can be achieved by another type of clip or retainer ring as well.
- Figures 10, 12 and 27 show a slightly different type of unit 86a wherein the locking device is a spring or dead latch 100 rather than a bolt such as shown in Figure 9.
- Figures 13 through 21 show modified embodiments of the invention, particularly addressing situations in which an electronic lock of the invention will require components assembled from both inside and outside of a door, drawer, etc., as in the case of a cabinet lock, for example, as well as providing for a universal front electronic unit.
- the devices described with reference to Figures 9 through 12 are examples of two-part systems but they are principally for retrofit situations where in a "blank" plug extending from the electronic access device 74 of the invention is fitted into a cabinet lock type cylinder shell which is without a plug.
- Figure 13 shows an electronic lock 74a of the invention, similar to the lock 74 described above in most respects and applicable to a cam, cabinet, plunger lock or similar lock, but with a specially shaped driver 102 extending back for engagement with a latching or locking device (lock unit) to be secured on the back side of a door, drawer, panel, etc.
- the driver 102 is operable by rotating the knob 12 as described previously, or a handle as shown and discussed below.
- the driver may permanently attach to the knob or handle, or it can be an insert, whereby different lengths of driver can be used for different panel thicknesses.
- Figure 14 is an assembly view indicating the electronic lock unit 74a, with the lock driver 102 being essentially straight and perpendicular to the back of the unit and having a square cross sectional shape, and a cam lock or lock unit 104 with a similar specially shaped hole or receiving socket 106 in a rotatable plug 108.
- any slide-in keyed cross-sectional shape can be employed, square being one example, but also including, flat, star-shaped, splined, D-shaped, etc. It can be seen, by comparison to Figures 3-5, that the embodiment of Figure 14 is an alternative to that earlier-described embodiment.
- Figure 15 shows the electronic lock unit 74a, with the specially shaped driver 102, positioned for assembly into a different type of lock, in this case a cabinet lock 110 of the type shown in Figure 9 as the cabinet lock 86.
- the special driver 102 extends into a complementary hole 106 in a rotatable plug 108 of the cabinet lock 110, rather than a blank plug extending into a plug opening as in the embodiment of Figure 9.
- Figure 16 shows a similar
- FIG. 16 the cabinet lock unit 110a is shown without an extending barrel or shell
- the components can be arranged so that the fasteners shown extending back from the housing will not interfere with the lock unit 110a.
- the lock unit 110a can be mounted onto the unit 74a sandwiching the door panel or each can be mounted independently to the panel. In Figure 15 as well, the
- extension 114 can be eliminated.
- the lock unit as shown in Figures 15 and 16 provides for more universal connections and standardization of lock
- a manufactured line of cabinets, drawers, doors, etc. can have prescribed types of lock units, with a cam lock, cabinet lock, plunger or other types as described below, and all can be arranged to be engaged with the electronic lock unit 74a of the invention. Depths due to different thicknesses of
- drawers, doors, etc. can be accommodated without providing a series of different shell depths for the shell 114 extending forward from the mechanical cam lock or cabinet lock or other lock unit.
- the electronic lock unit 74a can be universal for many different situations and applications.
- Figure 17 shows the same electronic lock unit 74a of the invention being applied to an oval shaped plunger lock 117, again with a matching rotatable plug 108 for receiving the special driver 102.
- Figure 18 shows the lock unit 74a being applied to a round shaped plunger lock 118, again with a plug 108 matched to the driver 102 of the unit 74a.
- Figure 19 shows the same electronic lock unit 74a being applied to an electric switch lock 119, again with a plug 108 matched to the driver 102.
- Figure 20 shows a modified electronic lock unit 74b being applied to a screw type T handle lock 120, again having a plug 108 matched to the special driver 102;
- Figure 21 similarly shows the modified electronic lock unit 74b being applied to a cam type T handle lock 121, with the plug 108 and driver 102 matched.
- the back side of the lock unit 74b has a recess 124 that accommodates the outward extension 126 of the T handle lock, to the extent it protrudes out from the surface of the door, drawer, etc.
- the electronic lock unit 74b is secured fast to the door, drawer or panel it appears integrated with the T handle lock 120 or 121.
- the invention involves a lock unit 120, 121 that is assembled onto the front of the door or drawer, with the electronic unit 74b installed over it.
- Figure 22 shows a modified electronic lock unit 74c of the invention, in this case with an integral flange 130 designed to allow recess mounting of the base part 132 of the housing.
- Figure 22A simply shows a variation, applicable to all embodiments, wherein the rotatable handle 12 is replaced with a lever 134, which may be needed for handicap access or for other purposes as desired.
- cam lock as used in the claims is intended to refer to a cam lock or cabinet lock, or a plunger lock or switch lock or T handle lock.
- references to a knob or handle are to be taken as referring to any type of turning device provided to operate the cam lock manually.
- reference to a panel of a door, cabinet or drawer is intended to refer to any access panel or a fixed panel from which an openable component is controlled.
- the lock can be operated by a keypad in combination with an electronic key (used at the contact connection 22), or the keypad can be eliminated in favor of an electronic key alone.
- electronic access device refers to either type of electronic access.
- the electronic lock housing 14 can be oriented vertically instead of horizontally, with keypad characters oriented 90° from what is shown. Further, the cam in the illustrated embodiment can be rotatable to various degrees to fit the application.
- Figures 31-33 show a lock 140 according to the invention.
- the lock 140 which has a housing 142, preferably has
- the lock unit 140 is the sole electronic housing for a lock, and may be part of a cam lock or cabinet lock, as well as a locker lock or a driver for any kind of lock or key switch mechanism which is mounted on a panel behind the lock 140. All of the drawings show different forms of this compact electronic lock unit.
- the lock 140 has a rotatable knob or handle 146 extending from the housing 142 (the handle could be a lever if required or desired) .
- the lock 140 is preferably without a keypad but in other respects is preferably very similar to the lock shown in Patent No. 8,495,898.
- the lock unit 140 is very compact and if it has onboard batteries they can be small standard cells or coin cell type batteries.
- a status indicator light is shown at 148.
- the lock is operated using a key device such as that shown in copending application Serial No. 12/072,557, and related U.S. Patent No. 7,336,150, and the disclosure of both are fully incorporated herein by reference.
- the key device preferably has batteries and makes contact with the electrical contacts 150 shown in the terminal 145 at the front side of the housing.
- the lock unit 140 can be without batteries; if it does have onboard batteries within the housing 142 (within the compartment 144 shown in Figure 31), then a set of key devices for the lock, or for a series of similar locks, can include small key contact devices having no battery and having two contacts for engagement with two of three contacts 150 shown in the terminal 145 on the lock.
- a master or manager's key device can be somewhat larger, with onboard batteries carried in the key device, with three contacts for engaging with all three of the contacts 150 in the terminal 145. This enables a manager to use the special key to provide jump power to the lock 140 in a case where the lock's battery is low or when a user of the lock has forgotten his key or the key is somehow nonfunctional, or for both situations simultaneously.
- the terminal 145, and the contacts on the key can be
- Figures 32 and 33 show one form of the lock 140 in a side or top elevation view, installed in Figure 32 in a panel 152 such as on a door, file cabinet, drawer, locker door, or other type of application.
- the lock is
- FIG. 32 shows one example of latching with the cam lock device, with a metal arm or cam 158 rotatable with the bolt 156, to be rotated using the handle 146 when permitted.
- a nut or threaded ring 160 retains the lock unit to the panel 152, in a position such that the arm or cam or latch 158 engages behind a ledge or in a slot or other appropriate element when the door, drawer, locker door, etc. is to be in a locked condition.
- the lock unit 140 is extremely compact and can have dimensions of, for example, about two inches in width (the horizontal direction as seen in Figure 33); about 7/8 inch in height (the vertical direction in Figure 33) ; and about 1 ⁇ 2 inch in thickness. More broadly the size is in the range of about 11 ⁇ 2 to 3 inches wide, about 7/8 to lVe inch in height and about 3/8 to 1 inch thick.
- Figures 34A and 34B show a typical cam lock shell 170 mounted on a door or drawer 171, with the typical cam lock plug removed, and replaced with an electronic lock 174 with a cylinder plug 175, retrofitted into the shell 170 in
- the plug 175 is a "blank" plug that will operate the lock when installed via a retainer clip or pin 176, with the electronics as discussed above to control access.
- the electronics housing 174 has a recess 178 shown in dashed lines, surrounding the extending plug 175, for the purpose of accommodating the slightly protruding face 180 of the cylinder shell 170 as installed in the drawer or door 171.
- Many cam locks used in furniture have this type of front loaded plug which can also be removed for service and re-keying purposes. This is similar to what is shown and discussed above, but with the more compact
- Figure 35A shows the door or drawer front 182 with a lock mounting hole 180a. This hole may be round as shown or a single or double "D" shape commonly used in the industry.
- the mounting can be similar to Figures 32 and 33.
- Figures 35A-35C show a panel, drawer or door 182 with a conventional cam lock removed.
- Figure 35B shows the compact self-contained
- the compact lock of the invention can be formed with a cylinder plug type rear extension that fits into an existing cabinet lock with bolt or latch of the types as shown, for example, in Figures 9-12 of that patent.
- FIG 36 shows another application of the compact lock of the invention, similar to that of Figures 13-14.
- a compact electronic lock 140a operates similarly to the lock 140 of Figures 31-33 but has a simple spindle or driver 183 extending back from the rear of the unit, essentially straight and perpendicular to the back of the unit and having, for example, a square cross sectional shape.
- the driver 183 fits in driving contact with a similarly shaped driver hole or receiving socket 184 in a cam lock or lock unit 186.
- the receiving socket 184 is in a rotatable plug 188 of the lock unit 186.
- Figure 37 shows another application of the compact electronic lock unit 140a, with the specially shaped driver 183 positioned for assembly into a different type of lock, in this case a cabinet lock 190 of the type that has an off- center rotatable plug 192, a replacement for a conventional cabinet lock device having internal pins and tumblers that act between the plug 192 and the cylinder shell 194.
- the driver 183 extends into a complementary hole 196 in the rotatable plug 192.
- the drawing shows a retractable spring latch or dead latch 198 in this embodiment, but instead there could be a deadbolt. This is similar to an embodiment described earlier and in Patent No. 8,495,898, but with the abbreviated and compact electronic lock 140a of the invention.
- a manufactured line of cabinets, drawers, doors, etc. can have prescribed types of lock units, with a cam lock, cabinet lock, plunger or other types, and all can be arranged to be engaged with the electronic lock unit 140a of the invention. Depths to the different thicknesses of drawers, doors, etc. can be accommodated without providing a series of different shell depths for the shell 194 extending forward from the mechanical cam lock or cabinet lock or other lock unit.
- the electronic lock unit 140a can be universal for many different situations and applications. Note that a single threaded stud 199 is shown in this and other drawings for securing the compact lock to a door, drawer, etc., but any suitable form of attachment can be used. In the case of
- Figure 37 the stud 199 or studs (or threaded holes) must be wide enough out from the driver 183 that they will clear the cabinet lock unit 190.
- Figure 38 shows a modified electronic lock unit 140c of the invention, in this case with a flange 210 designed to allow recess mounting of the base part 212 of the housing.
- the flange 210 may be integrally formed with the base part
- the flange 210 is configured to engage against the outside surface of a door or drawer. It should be understood, as pointed out earlier, that the rotatable knob or handle 146 shown in Figure 38 can be replaced with a lever, which may be needed for handicap access or for other purposes as desired.
- FIGS 39A through 39C show a self-contained electronic lock unit 140d similar to the locks shown above and including a cylinder 215 with an appropriate actuator such as a cam or other latching device, or simply with a driver such as shown at 183 in Figures 36 and 37.
- the electronic lock device 140d is mounted behind the panel 216 of a door, drawer, etc. in a through-the-panel mounting, with the knob or handle 146 and the terminal 145 having an adequate mounting depth protruding from a base plate 218 to extend through the
- the base plate 218 installs flatly against the back side of the panel 216 and is secured by appropriate fasteners 219 through holes 220.
- the depth to which the knob or handle 146 and the terminal 145 are floated out from the base 218 is matched to the type of panel 216 to which the lock is to be secured (e.g. wood panel, steel panel, etc.) .
- a cylinder structure is shown in Figure 39C, this could simply be a cam such as shown at 158 in Figure 32, or a latch such as shown at 190 in Figure 37 or another type of engaging device for locking the panel to other structure.
- Depth concerns may dictate that a cam or latch be provided immediately behind the housing 222 shown in Figure 39C, without the cylinder structure 215 extending back to increase the depth.
- a battery compartment (not shown) can be located similarly to what is shown in the locks described above, with a battery door located for maximum convenience. In a low-battery condition a power jump can be made via the terminal 145 as described earlier.
- Figures 40A through 40C are similar to Figures 39A through 39C, but show a keypad 225 on an electronic lock device 140e.
- This lock device 140e is similar to above- described embodiments, but with the lock unit mounted behind the panel 216a in a through-the-panel mounting, as described with respect to Figures 39A-39C.
- Holes 226, 228 and 230 are provided in the panel for this purpose. Note that the holes 228 and 230 could be replaced by a singular rectangular opening.
- a different latching or securing mechanism can be included instead of the cylinder structure 215 shown in Figure 40C, for the reason explained above for Figures 39A- 39C.
- FIG 40D shows that, as an alternative to a battery compartment located accessibly in the housing of the lock 140e, the battery can be in a separate battery pack or casing 238 as shown.
- the battery 238a connects to the lock housing by a wire 238b; a magnet 238c can be provided to mount the battery on a steel panel, or adhesives or Velcro (hook and loop fasteners) can be used.
- cam lock as used in the claims is intended to refer to a cam lock or cabinet lock, or a plunger lock or switch lock or T handle lock or locks of similar application. Also, references to a knob or handle are to be taken as referring to any type of turning device provided to operate the cam lock manually. Further, reference to a panel of a door, cabinet or drawer is intended to refer to any access panel or a fixed panel from which an openable component is controlled, in situations where ingress is provided but not egress, as in office furniture.
- driver although used above to refer to the cross-section specific driver 183 in Figures 36 through 38, more generally refers to an element that transfers the
- cylinder or "cylinder unit” as used herein is intended to mean at least a collar extending part way back from the housing, not necessarily as deep as the driver within the cylinder or collar, the driver being within the collar and rotatable within the collar.
- Figure 41 shows a panel with another application of a compact lock 240 of the invention, similar to that of Figure 35C but with the additional input device 241 designed to receive an IButton input, which can be the primary means of accessing the lock.
- Figure 42 shows another application of a compact lock 250 of the invention, similar to that of Figure 35C but with an additional input device 242 designed to receive wireless input from wireless access credentials such as RFID tags, proximity access cards and other wireless access technologies.
- the wireless technologies are commonly used for accessing the lock devices of the invention, reducing the number of credentials the user has to carry.
- the lock devices may be fitted with Bluetooth or similar interfaces to communicate with handheld small computers, PDAs or mobile telephones for access as well as uploading and downloading data to and from the lock devices.
- the lock driver may also communicate with specially designed hubs as part of a network and receive valid access data and send audit data or maintenance data or other desired data. This data may be access programming data or data containing audit trail or usage information as well as application specific data for the usage of the cabinet such as insertion or removal of files or other items to and from the cabinet .
- Figures 45 and 46 also show the lock device of the invention with an antenna 233 for wireless network connection.
- This connection may be an Ethernet connection or Bluetooth or similar connection or both.
- the lock units 260 and 270 shown in Figures 45 and 46 are also equipped with a receptacle 234 for direct network connection (as an alternative to wireless) as well as a power receptacle 235 for external (line) power if required or desired.
- a network can be used to control what codes have access to a series of cabinets, drawers, etc. Such a network will include a terminal or central control system which can simply be a microprocessor with a database listing all locks. A laptop or hand held computer device is all that is required, or a network hub connected to a group of locks, wired or wirelessly .
- Each lock can include a processor to receive the control signal and to set the lock' s electronics to allow access by employees A, B, C and D but not employee E, for example. This is changeable at any time, instantly.
- the programming and electronics for this networking and control function are well within the ability of a person of ordinary skill in the art.
- a panel hole 231 is provided for the antenna 233. A single panel opening could be provided for all projecting elements, or one for the antenna, one for all keys and the terminal 145, and one for the knob, or other similar arrangements. Note that the antenna and/or direct network receptacle, as well as the line power connection 235, can be included on any of the embodiments described above.
- the locks of the invention having the antenna 233, can have internally, connected to the antenna, a near-field communication (NFC) device that can communicate with a hand ⁇ held wireless device in proximity to the lock, for accessing the lock and also for purposes of lock settings and audit of lock access events.
- This near-field signal can be triggered to be activated by a smartphone (with appropriate programming, a phone app) or other portable electronic device, held close to the lock.
- the lock security and accessing of the lock could work in several different ways; the interrogation can be made either by the hand-held device or by the lock (with the lock having access to a database) .
- One way is that the smartphone or other device must first authenticate the user, which could be by fingerprint, face recognition, voice
- the hand held device can send an operating code to the lock. If the lock unit is not line powered but powered by batteries the user may "wake up" the lock by pressing a key on the lock prior to sending the code.
- the authentication and its method can be in accordance with the individual app and its objectives.
- a NFC capable hand-held device can send a signal containing the access code to operate the lock with or without prior authentication of the user of the hand-held device.
- the standalone lock unit either does not have a database of authorized codes or is not connected to a network for updating its database of valid codes
- the phone or hand-held device on authenticating the user the phone or hand-held device will send out a code asking for the lock's ID. This will "wake up" the lock, the electronics of which have been on a standby mode when not used, so as not to draw power (waking the lock could also require pressing a key on the lock' s terminal, especially where the lock is battery-powered) .
- the phone can, over the Internet or over a local network if desired, send the data of the user and the lock desired to be accessed, using the data connection of the phone.
- a database which can be remote, will then send back an allowance or rejection code to the phone regarding this request for access.
- the phone On receiving an allowance code from the access control database, the phone via its programming will transmit an access code to the lock, causing the lock to open.
- This protocol can also be used for updating the
- the lock can then send a verification code back to the phone, if the lock was actually accessed. This code will be transmitted via the phone to the access control database. A denial of access can also be transmitted to the access control database for audit purposes. If receiving a rejection code the phone app will inform the user that access was denied.
- a new employee for example, not currently in the system, can have the employee's new code added to the system using the NFC device. The update can include whether the code is to be one-time access, permanent access, or limited access.
- the lock can have an RFID reader that sends out an interrogating signal to a hand ⁇ held device or credential.
- a credential could be a card containing an RFID tag
- a smartphone can have a program or app that mimics an RFID tag transmitting an ID signal, or transmitting, receiving and calculating algorithms to authenticate the signal sent back by an RFID tag, in order to provide access.
- the sending of the code for access by the phone may be subject to prior user authentication as outlined above. In this case the access decision is provided by the lock electronics, rather than by the phone or other hand-held device, using database information as in the system described above .
- RFID and NFC are closely related wireless communication technologies, both used for a large number of applications including access control, asset and inventory tracking, etc.
- RFID was the precursor to NFC, and the range of frequency utilized in RFID has a frequency band in common with NFC.
- RFID involves unpowered tags capable of sending back a simple response to a reader, using the power of the reader's transmission.
- NFC operates at 13.56 MHz and is an extension of HF RFID standards.
- NFC is capable of more complex two way communication interactions and is thus more versatile in that respect than RFID.
- NFC is limited to communication at close proximity, such as 5 cm or less. Also, only a single NFC tag can be scanned at one time by a reader, whereas many RFID tags can be scanned simultaneously. NFC is available in a great many mobile phones or smartphones.
- Figures 43 and 44 show panels 232a and 232b with lock devices 240a and 250a similar to those shown in Figures 41 and 42 but configured for installation through the panel of the door, cabinet or drawer. In this case the battery access will be from behind the lock device.
- the lock is mounted to studs on the panel through the mounting holes at each end or the unit may be mounted with screws or other fasteners directly to the panel from behind. Note again that common openings rather than individual holes can be provided in the panel for the knob, terminal, and input device.
- Figures 47 and 48 show through-the-panel lock devices 280 and 290 as shown in Figures 43 and 44 fitted with the same apparatus for network and power connections 234 and 235 (and antenna 235 if needed) discussed above for Figures 45 and 46.
- Figures 49, 50 and 51 show, in flow chart/block diagram form, a package delivery system utilizing NFC-equipped locks and hand-held devices, as described above.
- the locks of the system may belong to different persons or require access decisions from the owner (or manager or agent) of the lock.
- a message can be sent to the owner or agent through the app located in the NFC capable phone (or other portable NFC device) using the phone's cellular connection.
- the message can identify the person requesting access to the lock, and on approval or denial of access from the owner via the app in the owner's phone or other device, the lock then can approve or deny the access.
- the requested entry access or denial can be stored by the system or the lock or the phones or all of these for audit purposes.
- This arrangement can work well with home delivery
- the delivery companies such as UPS, Federal Express, U.S. Post Office, as well as local dry cleaners, grocery stores, etc. can be registered as delivery agents in a system and when they go to a location to make a delivery they can hold their registered phone with or without authentication and attempt to open the lock on the delivery box. If the phone belonging to the delivery person has been preauthorized to access the lock, the lock will open and if not, after reading the lock's information, the delivery person's phone will send out an access request from the phone's app (via cellular connection) to the owner of the lock and wait for a yes or no command. Based on the response the lock will open or deny access. If no answer is received from the owner or agent of the lock, the request will expire and this will be similar to the situation where no one is home for the delivery person.
- the owner If the owner is anticipating a delivery he or she can preauthorize the access at the time of placing an order by checking an "access OK" box on the online order form which can be transmitted to the delivery agent's phone as a onetime access code for this specific delivery.
- the owner can also set one time, limited time or permanent access to known delivery agents/drivers from the list of delivery agents in the system.
- the owner (“owner” is understood to include an agent or manager of the locked delivery box, depending on the situation) places an online order from a vendor of goods, and preauthorizes the delivery person to have access to the delivery box (the delivery person has already been registered in the system; preauthorization is different) .
- the vendor fulfills the order and sends the shipping data, including the preauthorization, to the shipping company or carrier (UPS, Federal Express, etc.) via the global delivery system of the invention (block 302) .
- the delivery service including the preauthorization
- the delivery person transfers the shipping data, including the preauthorization, to the appropriate delivery person, i.e. driver. This goes into the delivery person's hand-held NFC device, which will usually be an NFC-enabled smartphone .
- the delivery person arrives at the customer' s delivery box, as in the block 306, he/she uses the handheld NFC device to access the lock box, placing the package in the box and re-securing the box.
- data confirming the completion of the delivery is sent electronically by the delivery person to the lock box owner, confirming delivery (block 308), and this data is also sent into the system of the invention (block 310), through which the information is sent to the vendor, as in the block 312.
- the drawing indicates the customer/lock box owner at 314, and the vendor at 316, with an arrow from the vendor to the lock box owner indicating that the vendor preferably sends an electronic message to the customer confirming the completion of the delivery.
- Figure 50 shows in a flow chart the flow of information and events in the case where the delivery (i.e. access to a locked delivery box) has not been preauthorized.
- the block 318 indicates that a registered owner (or manager, agent, etc.) of a secure delivery box places an online order from a vendor. Note that in this case preauthorization is not made.
- the blocks 320, 322 and 324 are similar to the flow in the chart of Figure 49, except that no preauthorization for delivery access is carried along with the shipping
- the delivery person arrives at the destination box and uses the NFC device to communicate with the lock, but this triggers an inquiry rather than opening the lock.
- the block 326 shows that NFC phone or device receives contact or ID data from the lock, including any required input from the delivery person, and sends an inquiry electronically, as by cell phone connection, to request delivery authorization from the lock box owner and from the system of the invention.
- the drawing schematically shows this as going to the lock box owner 314.
- authorization is shown on the left, and in the case of denial of access, on the right. If access is authorized, the block 328 indicates authorization being sent by the customer/owner. Then the delivery person' s NFC device uses this access
- authorization i.e. a code
- the block 332 indicates that the owner of the box has sent a deferred delivery notification back to the delivery person.
- the deferred delivery instruction is received in the delivery person' s NFC device and it is also sent to the system, i.e. the data center of the system, as in the block 334.
- the box owner requests the delivery be made somewhere else, to a forward delivery
- this data is sent to the delivery person's NFC device (block 342), and also to the system.
- the package will be returned to the vendor .
- Figure 51 schematically outlines the system of the invention, in a block diagram.
- the overall system includes all components in the diagram.
- the central control system called “Global Delivery System” (block 344) in the diagram, has a database and enables the registration of consumers into the system, each consumer having one or more secure delivery boxes, the locks of which are registered with IDs. Further, the system registers and authenticates delivery personnel, normally the drivers of delivery trucks through their delivery companies (if any) , so that their NFC phones or other devices are recognized by and authorized for use in the system. In addition, the system transfers data regarding an order and shipment to and from vendors, as explained above in Figures 49 and 50, and receives information and authorizations from delivery box owners regarding access.
- the block 346 relates to the consumer, i.e. the customer who receives packages in a secure delivery box. Initially, the consumer installs one or more delivery boxes with an NFC capable lock. The consumer then registers the delivery box and lock to the system of the invention (in the central control system) via a downloadable consumer application (e.g. smartphone app) , with an NFC capable smartphone . The NFC capable phone is paired with the lock of the delivery box, i.e. it is associated with that lock in the system database. Alternatively, the consumer if without an NFC device can register the lock in another way, with a code of the lock entered into the central control system using a home computer, for example.
- a downloadable consumer application e.g. smartphone app
- the NFC capable phone is paired with the lock of the delivery box, i.e. it is associated with that lock in the system database.
- the consumer if without an NFC device can register the lock in another way, with a code of the lock entered into the central control system using a home
- the delivery company is indicated in the block 348. This is intended to include vendors who self-deliver or pick up packages, even small vendors such as laundry services or grocery stores that deliver.
- the delivery company registers itself with the system of the invention, and registers its individual drivers/delivery persons via their smartphones or other NFC capable devices, using a downloadable delivery person application.
- the vendor block 350 shows that the vendor becomes registered in the system, and links shipment data from a customer's order to and from the system.
- the vendor also sends instructions to the shipping company, as noted in the diagrams of Figures 49 and 50, not shown in Figure 51.
- the global delivery system using locks as described above, thus makes more efficient the delivery of goods on behalf of customers who have secure delivery boxes.
Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US14/252,647 US9273492B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2014-04-14 | Electronic cam lock for cabinet doors, drawers and other applications |
PCT/US2015/025815 WO2015160847A1 (en) | 2014-04-14 | 2015-04-14 | Electronic cam lock for cabinet doors, drawers and other applications |
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CN109057553A (en) * | 2018-08-14 | 2018-12-21 | 比比物流有限公司 | A kind of shared courier bag smart lock |
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DE10238344A1 (en) * | 2002-08-16 | 2004-03-04 | Deutsche Post Ag | Method and system for data transmission between a parcel compartment system and at least one central data processing unit of a logistics system |
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US7336150B2 (en) | 2005-03-17 | 2008-02-26 | Security People, Inc. | Locker lock with master override and low power jump start |
US8495898B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2013-07-30 | Security People, Inc. | Cam lock with retractable bolt |
US8490443B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2013-07-23 | Security People, Inc. | Electronic lock for cabinet doors, drawers and other applications |
US8682245B2 (en) * | 2010-09-23 | 2014-03-25 | Blackberry Limited | Communications system providing personnel access based upon near-field communication and related methods |
CN107644492A (en) | 2011-12-05 | 2018-01-30 | 美国邮政署 | The system and method for controlling electronics parcel storing compartment |
EP2880584A4 (en) * | 2012-08-02 | 2016-05-25 | Google Inc | Accessing a secure locker via a mobile device |
-
2015
- 2015-04-14 EP EP15780032.7A patent/EP3132428A4/en active Pending
- 2015-04-14 WO PCT/US2015/025815 patent/WO2015160847A1/en active Application Filing
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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EP3132428A4 (en) | 2017-11-29 |
WO2015160847A1 (en) | 2015-10-22 |
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