NZ528386A

NZ528386A - Improvements in and relating to security container

Info

Publication number: NZ528386A
Application number: NZ528386A
Authority: NZ
Inventors: Wayne Lionel Ace-Kirker
Original assignee: Wayne Lionel Ace Kirker
Priority date: 2003-09-19
Filing date: 2003-09-19
Publication date: 2009-02-28

Abstract

Security means being a security container, the security container including at least one container means (2) having an interior (3) for storing valuables therein, the container means having at least one opening (7) thereinto, a closure means (8) covering the at least one opening into the container means, and locking means (16) to secure the closure means over the opening, the security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, the retention means including bracing means (30a), the bracing means effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from the recess. The locking means includes a locking pin (19) and a lock body (17), the locking pin being independent of the lock body when the locking means is unlocked and being insertable through an aperture in the closure means and into the lock body aligned to receive the locking pin as required to lock the locking means and secure the closure means over the opening of the security container.

Description

<div class="application article clearfix" id="description"> Patents Form No. 5 Fee No. 4: $250.00 Pipers Central Ref:H/DH12-2575NZ PATENTS ACT 1953 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION After NZ Patent Appln No 528386 Dated : 19 September 2003 IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO SECURITY CONTAINER I Wayne Lionel Ace-Kirker, a New Zealand citizen of 204B Te Rapa Road, Hamilton, New Zealand, do hereby declare the invention for which I/we pray that a patent may be granted to me and the method by which it is to be performed, to be particularly described in and by the following statement: 1 Intellectual Property Office of N.Z. 2 0 DEC m RECEIVED IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO SECURITY CONTAINER Technical Field 5 The present invention is directed to improvements in and relating to a security container. In particular, the invention relates to aspects of the manufacture and operation of an improved security container incorporating features to enable the security container to be permanently fitted into a cavity within at least the exterior cladding of a building and be so 10 fixed to impede its removal and thereby obviate problems of the security container being removed, or damaged, in unapproved attempts to access its contents. It is envisaged the security container will be used to house building keys to allow entry to the building via approved individuals, such as the owner, service people, builders; or to 15 hold vehicle keys to allow access to a vehicle by approved individuals and may be used by the owners of the vehicle, vehicle dealers, car rental businesses and repair providers. The approved individuals are provided with the means to open the security container and access the keys therein. 20 Accordingly, the security container includes an adapted single pin locking system whether as either or both a single single pin combination lock and a single pin key lock which is enclosed within the container. The single single pin combination lock option provides only coded and substantially substantially tamper-proof access to the contents of the container. The coded access may only allow temporary access to the contents of the container for one 25 individual, whilst another code may allow continual access to the contents of the container by other individuals. Access to the security container contents is therefore dictated by a code which is changeable. The single single pin combination lock option obviates the need to carry, cut or arrange access to separate keys for various individuals. The single pin key and combination lock option provides a means where a key may be used by one individual, 30 but knowledge of the code enables the lock to still be opened by another individual, or should the key be lost. The single pin key option where the lock is housed within the security container obviates the need to remember a code, yet provides greater security to the container than would be available by simply having a padlock, with or without means to protect the double pins of the padlock from being tampered with. 35 1 Whilst the invention is envisaged to have particular application in relation to securing keys in the security container, it should be appreciated that this invention may be used in relation to containing any contents, valuable or otherwise, and be adapted for use where any permanently fitted security container system is required to be accessed by any varying number of individuals, but only as allowed. In addition, the invention may have applications outside this field. Background Art A range of security containers are available on the market. The generic safe is such an example. Typically such products include thickened, strong, durable enclosures, combination or key locks for access to the container, and may be fitted into walls, under floors and so forth. The deterrent nature of such safes lies in the difficulty of damaging the exterior surface of the safe, and/or in the complex combination or keyed mechanisms used to lock the safe that has to be overcome to illegally access the contents of the safe. However, unless the safe is extremely large, it is not uncommon for safes in their entirety to be stolen and the contents accessed by some means. Further, safes typically are used and designed for use in the interior of a building. 20 There are also a number of security containers available for use in housing smaller items, but which do not conform to the particulars of a safe. Such devices may be used within a building, a piece of furniture and such like to retain keys, jewellery, or small quantities of money. These devices may be attached to a surface via a number of means such as adhesive means, or be attached using screws or similar which may be accessible from either or both 25 the exterior of the container and the container's interior. The deterrent nature of these types of security containers lies in their smaller size, their hidden placement and their attachment to a surface. They may also include some locking mechanism as a further deterrent. However, such devices may typically protrude from the surface to which they are attached. This mode of attachment along with the small size of such devices means that it may not be 30 difficult to prise the security container from the surface and/or damage it to gain access to the contents of the container. The above discussion has related to the provision of a security container to house contents securely, but within a building. However, there are a number of instances where having 2 access to the contents of a security container is not limited to situations once inside the building. One of the most common situations faced by occupants of a building is being able to arrange access to the building by selected individuals, yet without the security of the building being compromised. 5 One such example is the need to arrange access to the building by approved trades people, service providers, employees, family members, or visitors, when there is no-one in the building. A number of businesses rely on the use of swipe/security cards and/or the knowledge of an alarm code to deactivate an alarm. Others may use a simple key method 10 which may also be in conjunction with the use of an alarm - the code of which is required to be known. Similar methods may be used for residences, where several family members have keys to the house and know the relevant alarm code. The problem with these systems is that keys or cards get lost, employees leave, home 15 owners sell their homes and within a very short time there is the potential for a large number of access keys/cards to be lost, or be retained by people who no longer have legitimate access to the building, yard and so forth, which threatens the security of any such building, property and its contents. Further, there is a cost involved not only in providing a large number of people with an access key or card, but also in replacing lost ones, 20 maintaining a record of who has what access key/card and in changing locks or similar to maintain security of the building/property when it becomes apparent that security is compromised because of the number of access keys/cards which can not be found. A very common alternative, particularly for residential properties is that there are a limited 25 number of keys available for use, so a key is hidden outside of the building to enable access to the building by selected individuals. The problems with this method are at least that people tend to hide the key in predictable places, or someone may take the key away from its hiding place and forget to replace it. In the former instance the security of the building and its contents are compromised because those wanting to illegally enter the building may 30 easily find the key. In the second situation there is no way of knowing who was the last person to use the key and who therefore has forgotten to put it back, or who has lost it. Another situation is where there is a requirement for customers to have access to an item. For example in the motor industry there are several situations where an individual may 3 need to access an area and/or access an item. Motor vehicle dealers, car rental providers, vehicle repairs and maintenance providers all face situations where cars are to be dropped off or picked up. Often the drop off or pick up is outside normal trading hours. Therefore, arrangements need to be made to have someone issue vehicle keys or collect vehicle keys. 5 Boating or trailer maintenance or purchase is a similar situation. In any situation where access to an area to collect or drop off the vehicle is prevented outside of normal trading hours, the owner of the vehicle is limited to ensuring they are at the business when it is open, or employees may have to attend the site outside of work hours. Safes and existing lock boxes do not offer a flexible option to enable repeated use without potentially 10 compromising the security of the clients', or the business' property. Whilst devices such as safes and the security containers previously described are more advantageous means of securing keys and thereby limiting access to a building, nevertheless those system have the same disadvantages and are not readily adaptable for 15 use on the exterior of a building. For example, safes are quite cumbersome and are likely to require significant adaptation of an existing building, or inclusion of special means to accommodate a safe when fitted to a new building. The smaller security container attached to the outer surface of a building is 20 an obvious structure and its attachment may not be strong enough to prevent its removal or damage to it. Another system has therefore been used as a security container for accessing keys from outside a building. The system operates to provide access to building keys, but is only a 25 temporary fixture and can be removed when the facility is not required. Typically the container includes a hook configuration or a means by which a portion of the overall device is able to co-operate with a part of a door/window jam. The pressure of the closed door/window retains the security container in place. A combination lock or pad is available to key in a code to open the container, or a separate key may be available. 30 The disadvantage of such a temporary system is that it alerts people to the fact that the building is empty. 4 While the present invention has a number of potentially realisable applications, it is in relation to problems associated with existing systems that the present invention was developed. More specifically, it was with the problems associated with the lack of a readily available alternative system for achieving access to a building or property by a range of 5 unrelated individuals without having to supply a number of access keys, without having to hide the access key which potentially undermines the building's security, without the use of an obvious security container to house the building access keys, as well as a system that could be easily installed in existing and new buildings having a range of cladding materials, and could maintain the building's security when a particular individual no longer has 10 approved access to the building by a change to a code, that the present invention was developed. Having a simple system, capable of being easily installed would benefit those with preexisting buildings. It would further benefit those wishing to install such a system as part of 15 a new design. In addition, it would enable a security container to be fitted both internally and/or externally of a building, new or pre-existing. However, at times it would be useful to have the ability to limit access to the security container when desired. It would be useful therefore, to have a system for a security container that: 20 a) Could have the benefits of being permanently fitted to either or both the interior and exterior of a building as required; yet b) Could be accommodated into existing or new exterior claddings of the building in a manner that was substantially less conspicuous than previous systems; and 25 c) Could enable access to retrieve the contents of the container- by separate individuals who have approval and instructions as to how to do so; and yet d) As soon as access to access was no longer available to an individual the means of 30 accessing the security container could be altered, yet access by approved individuals would be still available; and e) Was relatively securely configured and securely installed to reduce the likelihood of successful attempts to force open the container and/or removal of the container; 5 f) Could be linked to a building's alarm system as a further deterrent against attempts to force open the container or remove the container. It would therefore be advantageous to have an invention that offered at least some if not all of the advantages of the above proposed security container. It is therefore an object of the present invention to consider the above problems and provide at least one solution which addresses a plurality of these problems. Ideally the present invention will also provide a system which allows for a substantially trouble free installation system. Ideally the system is suitable for use or is suitable to being adapted for use in situations where existing or new buildings, as well as providing a range of other possible locations not previously considered to be practical. It is therefore a further object of the present invention to at least provide the public with a useful choice or alternative system. Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only. It should be appreciated that variations to the described embodiments are possible and would fall within the scope of the present invention. Disclosure of Invention A security container may be defined as container provided with a locking means for storing valuables. A security container is a precaution taken to ensure against theft of the articles 30 contained within the security container. Safes are one example of a security container which are particularly strong containers made of metal. However, there is a range of security containers of varying strengths, sizes and made from a wide selection of materials. The security container may be used in a number 10 15 20 25 6 of applications for securely storing money, important documents, jewellery, keys, memorabilia and other things of value to the owner. Whilst many security containers are designed for use inside an building, the security container of the present invention is primarily designed for exterior use, but has the adaptability to be used in the interior of a 5 building. Accordingly, the term security container used in this specification is directed to include the use of security containers both inside and externally of the building and should not be seen as limiting this specification. Where such security containers are used outside, there is often a specific purpose more than 10 generally storing valuables typically associated with security containers. For the purpose of describing the present invention the security container is a lock container for keys to provide access to the inside of the building, or to provide access to an area to collect some property, or to provide a place to hold vehicle keys, such as in businesses involved in the motor industry. However, other articles, such as money may also be placed in the security 15 container. In such circumstances as described above and as also explained in the previous background art section, it may be necessary for an individual to have access to the building at a time when the building is otherwise unoccupied. This may occur in residential buildings where 20 trades people require access to do work to the property, where real estate agents require access to show potential buyers the property, where family members such as children or visitors need access when others have not yet arrived home. In commercial or industrial buildings some of the same situations may arise as suggested above, but general access by specific employees or management at a particular time may also be facilitated by the 25 provision of a key within the security container as presented by this invention. Alternatively, keys for sheds, garages, vehicles and so forth may also be safely retained in the security container to provide access to them as required by the relevant individual. 30 Further, payment for tradesmen, goods' suppliers and so forth may also be placed in to the security container for collection by the relevant individual. While the present invention has a number of potentially realisable applications, it is in relation to problems associated with existing systems that the present invention was 7 developed. More specifically, it was with the problems associated with the lack of a readily available alternative system for achieving a system that could be permanently fitted, would be substantially tamper-proof (particularly when compared to other systems which may be damaged to gain entry or be removed completely), that allowed entry to the security 5 container by specific individuals only to enable them to access the contents specific to their requirement, which limited that access only to a particular period after which they could not gain entry, that the present invention was developed. Having a simple system, capable of being easily installed would benefit those with pre-10 existing buildings, or those effecting alterations to the building, or the like. It would further benefit those wishing to install such a system as part of a new building. In addition, it would enable a security container to be fitted permanently within the exterior structure of buildings having different types of cladding. However, at times it would be useful to have the ability to have access to the security container from the inside of the building, or have a 15 separate security container for use internally, or even a double-entry security container that allowed access to the contents of the security container from both the interior and exterior of the building if, or as required. Alternative security containers are available which may be attached to the exterior of a 20 building. In some of these systems the security container may protrude some distance from the external face of the building. Other systems may imbed the security container into the exterior wall of the building. The security containers may be attached via the use of screws to the building exterior via the use of external flanges on the security container and thereby be accessible, or be hidden by being within the container and inaccessible. A security 25 container if imbedded into the exterior wall may be attached - via screws or similar - to the wall's structural features such as to the horizontal dwangs/nogs, or to the vertical studs of a wooden framed building, or into adjacent bricks or bricks of the interior wall in brick or stone buildings of a single or double-sleeved brick construction. In an attempt to improve security any exposed screws may be adapted to be removed only with a specific tool. 30 Whilst such devices may be relatively easy to install, nevertheless these systems have their disadvantages as both types are afforded minimal protection against the use of a pry bar, screwdriver, or similar, that could apply leverage to prise the container off, or out of, the external surface of the building. Such leverage force may strip the screws of their thread, 8 bend them and cause them to break, or may damage the integrity of the security container itself allowing it to be opened or removed. Whilst designed to be a somewhat permanent fixture, the design limitations of these various 5 prior art devices, do not in effect afford optimum security, nor do they provided for an effective, permanent, substantially tamper-proof security container for use on the exterior of buildings. Therefore, additional means for securely affixing the security container permanently and in 10 an improved substantially tamper-proof manner, is desirable. It is with the above mentioned problems of prior art systems that the present invention has been designed. According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container, said security container including at least one container means having an interior for storing 15 valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, said bracing means characterised by 20 effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the at least one container means includes two 25 opposed and spaced apart parallel planar surfaces for defining a top and a bottom surface, at least two permanent surfaces substantially at right angles to the top and bottom surfaces forming the enclosing sides of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means. 30 According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the at least one container means includes a substantially cylindrical body forming the enclosing sides of the container means, and at 9 least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container 5 substantially as described above wherein the valuables include keys, money, access codes and so forth. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein more than one opening with its associated closure 10 means is provided to enable access to the contents of the security container from either or both the exterior and the interior of a building. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein access to the contents of the security container 15 from both the exterior and the interior of a building is restrictable via the inclusion of a dividing wall within the container means to effect substantially isolated interiors for storing valuables therein and accessible only via the relevant opening. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container 20 substantially as described above wherein the closure means is configured to engage with the edges of the container means adjacent to the opening, said closure means capable of operating between an opened and a closed orientation. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container 25 substantially as described above wherein the locking means used to secure the closure means over the opening includes a single pin lock. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the single pin lock is either or both a single pin 30 combination lock and a single pin key lock. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the locking means is enclosed in the container, or compartment therein. 10 According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a single pin lock wherein the single pin lock is either or both a single pin combination lock and a single pin key lock. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a single pin lock wherein the single pin lock is adapted for use with the container by being enclosed in the container or compartment therein. 10 According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a single pin lock wherein the single pin lock is adapted for use as locking means for other closure systems whether enclosed in a container, compartment, or not. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container 15 substantially as described above wherein the combination of the single pin combination lock is selectable and changeable to enable access to the interior of the container means and the valuables therein, only by selected individuals for a preferred time duration. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container 20 substantially as described above wherein the retention means, also includes fixing means, such as screws, bolts, nails. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the bracing means is optionally moveable. 25 According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the bracing means operates between a storage position to enable insertion of the security container into the recess, and a bracing position after insertion of the security container into the recess for effecting a brace against one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface. 30 According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container substantially as described above wherein the bracing means co-operates with at least one or more of a member of the building frame, at least a portion of the building cladding, or 11 specifically installed engaging members, to impede forced removal of the installed security container from said recess. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a security container 5 substantially as described above wherein when said security container is fitted into a recess within a surface, a minimal portion of the security container extends from the surface. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a security container substantially as described above, wherein the security container is configured to 10 complement the features of the surface. Whilst the present invention is described herein with particular reference to the features and use of an external substantially tamper-proof security container for keys and the like, it should be appreciated that the invention may also be applicable to and/or be adapted for use 15 in other situations where items are required to be made available only to certain people at certain times, or security of valuables for particular periods is desirable in particular circumstances such as when property owners are absent from a property. In one preferred embodiment of the present invention, the security container includes at 20 least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein. Preferably, the security container is configured to be installed into an exterior of a building and used for the temporary storage of the valuables. For example, the valuables may be house or garage keys that may be placed inside the container of the security container. Various circumstances may predicate the storage of the keys in this manner. A range of such 25 situations with be readily appreciated. However, a few situations used for the purposes of examples only include: a) House keys for use by family members, such as children, who return to the home before an adult might and require keys to access the house after school, or some other situation. It is often not desirable to provide children with copies of the house key on 30 the off-chance the key may be lost. It is also not desirable for the purposes of house security to hide the key around the property, as people skilled in breaking into homes generally have a reasonable grasp of the usual hiding places for house keys and the like. 12 Building keys for employees, or friends and so forth that may require access to a building on a specific day, but are not available to collect, nor have a set of keys to enable access when the building is locked. Real estate agents who may be showing the property to prospective buyers. Rather than permanently providing a complete set of keys to the agent which the agent may use at any time to access the property, the property owner may prefer to restrict access only on certain days and at certain times. The present invention allows for a greater degree of control over access to the building. Trades people who may need access at a prearranged time to complete work contracted to be done - whether by the property owner for an existing building; or by a supervising builder for a building being constructed, who may employ a number of sub-contractors; or providing keys to a meter reader where meters are inside a building. To provide payments to trades people or the like, such as gardeners, rubbish collectors and so forth who may attend the property at regular intervals and have an arrangement to collect payment for their services on the day. Use of the container to secure keys used in the motor industry, such as for car rental companies, car sales or car repair and maintenance businesses, and so forth as previously discussed. 25 As can be appreciated the situations in which the security container may be used and the range of valuables it may be used for, are many and varied. Further, whilst the use of the invention has been described with reference to accessing the contents of the security container externally of the building, it should also be appreciated that variations to the invention would enable the contents of the container to be also accessible from the interior 30 of the building. In some embodiments, the security container may have two openings, one on the exterior of the building, one on the interior of the building, with the contents of the container being accessible through either opening. b) 5 c) 10 d) 15 e) 20 f) 13 Alternatively, the configuration of the security container may be such that the container is divided so that two (or more) permanent, but separate interior compartments are created -one being accessible from the interior of the building, the other to be accessible from the 5 exterior of the building. Another embodiment may provide for two or more separate compartments to be accessible from only the exterior (or alternatively, the interior) of the building. Such an embodiment may be useful where house keys are to be made available on a daily basis to family and are therefore held in one compartment, whilst periodic access to the contents of the security container may be satisfied by use of the second compartment. 10 Each compartment would have its own access. Yet another alternative embodiment may preferably include a moveable interior divider, such as a sliding hatch, which effectively divides the security container into two separate interior compartments. The interior divider may be unlatched to enable ready sliding or 15 opening of the hatch to access the contents from either compartment of the security container, or may be latched so that the contents of each compartment are only accessible by unlatching the moveable interior divider. Another option would include the use of two separate security containers mounted in a wall 20 cavity back-to-back, with each separately accessible from the relevant side of the wall. In preferred embodiments the container means of the security container is substantially a compartment created by and/or including two opposed and spaced apart parallel planar surfaces for defining a top and a bottom surface, at least two permanent surfaces 25 substantially at right angles to the top and bottom surfaces forming the enclosing sides of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means. As can be appreciated the dimensions of the container means is variable, but preferably 30 dictated by the preferred placement of the security container in use. Whilst the container means of preferred embodiments is substantially a square or rectangular compartment, it should also be appreciated that the container means may take other configurations, including a substantially cylindrical body forming the enclosing sides, 14 top and bottom of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means. The configuration of the container means is preferably dictated by the surface structure into 5 which the security container is installed. Preferably, it is desirable that the security container be as inconspicuous as possible, or be aesthetically compatible with the surface. In preferred embodiments the security container is configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface. Where the security container is to be accessible from the exterior of a 10 building or the like, the recess is created within the external structure of the building. For buildings under construction, the dimensions of the recess can be such as to accommodate the security container. However, preferably, the security container is configured to be fitted into new and existing 15 building by creating a recess equivalent to the height dimensions of the exterior cladding and the depth dimensions of the building's structural walls. For example, the security container may be the dimensions of a standard brick and be installed into the building's exterior by removal of a brick from the wall of the building, which is replaced by the security container in a snug fit. Where the exterior cladding is comprised of wooden or 20 artificial weather boards, the security container may be the dimensions of height of the weatherboard and be installed into the building's exterior by cutting out a piece of weatherboard to the required dimensions and installing the security container into the recess created. 25 To more particularly ensure the security container complements the features of the surface into which the security container is installed, the external configuration of the security container may be designed to reflect the features of the surface. As mentioned previously, the container may take the dimensions of a standard brick, or the height of a piece of weatherboard and so forth. Alternatively, for example, the structural shape of the exterior 30 features may be made to actually look like a brick, a piece of weatherboard, a stucco surface effect, or whatever may be required. Whilst the cost of physically configuring the external surfaces of the security container is an option, a cheaper alternative may be the use of painted features which mimic the surrounding surface features in terms of pattern, colour, finish, effect. 15 In preferred embodiments, when the security container is fitted into a recess within a surface, a minimal portion of the security container may extend from the surface. This feature is designed to accommodate the locking/access means of the security container. The 5 locking/access means shall be described later. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the security container may be installed in to the recess in such a manner as to be flush with the surface level. Preferably, the security container is retained in position within the recess by retention 10 means. The retention means in preferred embodiments includes at least one bracing means. The bracing means may be moveable. The bracing means is characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess. The retention means, may also include additional fixing means in the form of screws, bolts, nails and the like. 15 In preferred embodiments of the present invention the bracing mans may be attached to one or more of the sides, top, rear or bottom surfaces of the security container means. Further, the bracing means preferably operates between a storage position to enable 20 insertion of the security container into the recess; and a bracing position following insertion of the security container into the recess for effecting a brace against one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface. The bracing means also preferably includes at least one of: 25 a) a pivoting tyne; and/or b) an laterally moving tyne; and/or c) a telescopically extendable tyne; and/or d) an expandable tyne and/or e) a plate means. 30 Whilst the above options have been listed it should be appreciated that the list is not definitive and other variations to the bracing means that may be available in the prior art, or may be adapted for use with the present invention, are also included. 16 To further describe the operation of the bracing means, each option will be discussed in turn. In preferred embodiments which may incorporate a pivoting tyne arrangement, the tyne 5 may be attached to any external surface of the container means in such a manner that on insertion of the security container into the recess, the tyne lies substantially adjacent and parallel to the surface to which it is affixed. The dimensions of the tyne may be longer than, shorter than, or the same length as, the surface to which it is attached, depending on the type, dimensions, and location of the structural features of the building it is required to co-10 operate with. When the security container is positioned within the recess, the tyne is pivoted clockwise or anti-clockwise, through an arc of up to 90 degrees, such that the distal ends of the tyne extend beyond the surface of the container means to which it is attached. The degree of pivoting required is dependent on the structural features surrounding the security container. 15 For example, the wooden framing of houses includes horizontal nogs or dwangs, along with vertical studs. Brick, iron or stucco cladding similarly may provide sufficient gap to enable the tynes to brace against such structural features of the buildings. The bracing tynes are designed to slide behind such structures and brace against these structures to impeded 20 removal of the security container from the recess, when the container is locked. With the laterally moving and/or telescopically extendable tyne options, the tynes are pushed, slid, ratcheted, screwed open, or similar, from an installing position where the tynes do not extend from the surfaces of the container means, to an installed, retaining 25 position where the tynes do extend from the container surfaces. To example an expandable tyne option, the tynes are closed in on themselves in the manner of an umbrella and after installation of the container in the recess, a central shaft is pushed or screwed to effect opening of the tynes which engaged with potentially multiple surfaces to effect the required brace. For an laterally moving tyne, there may be provision to drill holes in adjacent bricks 30 or wooden framing into which a sliding bolt-type tyne may be inserted and locked in place. Telescopic tynes may have value where there is limited free space to effect operation of pivoting tynes. 17 In addition, gripping means may be included at either or both the distal ends of any of the tynes as required to effect a more secure attachment of the security container within the recess. An example of such gripping means may be serrated edges which bind in to wooden framing. Angular distal ends, or threaded screw-type, or bayonet-type configurations at the 5 ends of the tynes may further be used. Pivoting or extension of the tynes may be controlled from within the container means and such control is preferably only available when the security container is open. The security of the retention may require that the tynes may only be operated via the use of a special 10 attachment which is removable after the security container is installed; or alternatively, a less security conscious option may include the use of tool such as a screw driver, alien key or the like. Yet another option may include the use of a permanent handle or protrusion inside the container which may be gripped by the fingers and operated as required to move the tynes into position. 15 20 The plate means is preferably a contoured plate attached to one external face of a wall of the container. The plate means may be used in conjunction with any of the above other bracing means options. However, more particularly, the plate bracing means is configured for use with existing buildings having wood cladding or the like. The plate bracing means is substantially angled as a right angled plate bracing means. One portion of the right angled plate is configured to co-operate with the means for attaching the plate to the container. Accordingly, at least one aperture is included in the plate through which a shaft of a bolt may pass. The threaded end of the bolt is located inside the container 25 and a wing nut is used to tighten the plate against movement relative to the container. The opposite portion of the right angled plate is contoured to include a raised portion. Included in the raised portion is at least one aperture to enable the shaft of retaining means such as an anchor pin to pass through the plate aperture. The bracing plate is also 30 configured to include gripping anchor portions on the face of the plate adjacent to the structural framework on which the bracing means is positioned. The bracing plate also may include sections which when hit by a hammer or the like enables the gripping anchor portions and/or the anchor pins to be driven into the framework (of the wall) against which 18 it is sitting. The gripping anchor portions bind into the structural framework and negate the ability for free movement of the plate and the container to which it is attached. The anchor pin may be any suitable pinning or retaining means. However the attachment of 5 the bracing means to the container and to the framework of the building provides a brace against attempts to pry the container out of the wall. Preferably, the bracing means co-operates with the building frame, or portions of the building cladding, to impede forced removal of the installed security container from said 10 recess. In some instances there may be a need to drill or cut grooves or channels into the framing and such like to receive the tynes of that version of the bracing means. Alternatively, engaging members may be specifically installed to ensure there are appropriate bracing surfaces available. This may be a preferred option where the structural frameworks of the building does not provide adequate or enough, or available bracing 15 surfaces. It is such a bracing feature that serves to provide improved retention of the security container in the recess, over prior art security container systems. In various preferred embodiments of the present invention however, the retention means may also include fixing means, such as screws, bolts, nails, such as are used in the prior art. 20 Provision may be made for the surfaces of the container means to include apertures through which such additional fixing means can threaded and secured into adjacent structural features, such as the wooden framing members of the building, or adjacent bricks, and the like. To rely on such fixing means alone however, may compromise the security of the container and attempts to pry the container from the recess may result in damage to, or 25 weakening of, these types of fixing means, or, in a worse case scenario, may cause them to break and release the security container from the recess. The present invention is designed to provide a permanently fitted, substantially tamper-proof, security container, primarily for storing valuables such as keys, externally of a 30 building, and which is accessible only by selected individuals. The use of the security container is however, as previously discussed, not limited solely to external use. Sets of house keys, or other valuables may be stored in an internal security container, to prevent access to those valuables by intruders, or the like. 19 Once the container means is installed into the recess, the opening(s) of the security container is preferably closed by the use of closure means. The closure means is a cover/door which is operable to be opened and closed as required to access the contents of the security container. 5 The closure means is configured to engage with the exposed front edges of the container means adjacent to the opening. Preferably, the closure means is a sliding door. The door is configured to be substantially planar and include around at least two of its sides a U-shaped bend into which a portion of the exposed edges of the container means slides. The front 10 leading end of the door (as it is closing the opening) is substantially flat, but slides into a U-shaped track created by a portion of a side wall of the container means. The fit of the door relative to the container means is substantially tight enough to allow the door to slide opened and closed, but allows little leeway for a tool or pry bar to pry the doors from the container means. 15 Whilst hinged door systems, or other closure systems are not discussed in details herein, it should be appreciated that other means for securing and operating a door of the security container may be used, or adapted for use, with the invention. However, the emphasis is at all times on creating a substantially tamper-proof system. Hence, the need is to ensure the 20 door fits snugly and tightly and can not be removed by simply interfering with hinges or the like. To further secure the security container in a closed mode the security container includes locking means. The locking means is used to secure the closure means over the opening and prevent access to the contents of the security container. 25 In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the locking means includes a single pin lock and more preferably a single pin combination lock. However, this does not prevent the use of a single pin key lock, or a combined single pin key and combination lock. For the purpose of this specification the term "pin" is used to describe any rod of substantially 30 strong material which operates potentially as a key in a lock system. The pin is a locking pin which is accordingly slid into the lock body where it engages with mechanisms of the lock and is retained in position until released by means appropriate to opening the lock; whilst the term "combination" is used to describe and include a code, whether it be a system of numbers and/or letters, entered by means of push pad or tumbler systems, to 20 release the locking pin and thus open the lock and provide access to the contents of the security container. Whilst also described in this specification the single pin lock is encased in the container, it 5 should be appreciated this does not limit the use of the lock to only encasement type applications. Typically locks are encased to minimize their vulnerability to interference by unapproved persons. The security container of the present invention benefits from having the lock internal of the container. However, the single pin lock may be manufactured to minimize any vulnerability inherent in currently available locks and as such would not 10 require the lock to be encased for alternative applications. The benefit of the use of a locking pin as opposed to a traditional key, is that the locking pin may be retained in place in the lock at all times and be engaged or disengaged from the lock to secure or open the lock as required, without the need for yet another separate key 15 which needs to be made accessible, or may be lost. Such a system also has advantages over traditional padlocks, which may be opened via the use of bolt cutters, hacksaw blades and so forth. The benefit of a combination lock is that it enables the combination of the pin-combination lock to be selected, registered in the lock as required for a particular person to have access 20 to the contents of the security container, but it may then be changed to prevent access to the security container once the purpose of that individual having access to the security container has expired. Having a changeable combination enables access to the interior of the container means and the valuables therein, only by selected individuals for a preferred time duration. 25 Preferably, the combination lock is located within the container means. Preferably a compartment allowing retention of the combination lock is provided. The compartment may be larger than the combination lock to enable the lock to be more easily installed and removed, or to be exchanged with a larger lock if required. Further, to enable the 30 combination of the lock to be changed as required, the lock may be removed from its compartment, the combination reselected and the combination lock is then returned to its compartment in the security container. 21 Accordingly, at least one packing member may be used between the combination lock and the body of the container means to ensure that the lock is firmly held in position within the compartment. Given the means to effect a change of the combination of the lock may be simply the removal and recalibration of the combination, it may be preferable that the 5 packing member is only removable via the use of a specialist tool. Otherwise, the potential exists for someone who has been provided with access to the security container recalibrating the combination without approval. Thus access to the security container may then be denied to those who need to access it. 10 Firm retention of the lock is also important to ensure the locking pin can be aligned with and inserted into the complementary aperture in the combination lock itself. Movement of the combination lock may also cause the pin to become bent and reduce both the effectiveness and the life of the pin-combination lock. 15 The door of the security container therefore preferably includes an aperture to enable the locking pin to pass through the door and into the combination lock, in order to secure the door in its closed and locked position. However, without the benefits of the features of this invention this would otherwise potentially provide a weak point of the security container system. If the pin does not sit tightly against the door, the potential exists for a hacksaw 20 blade to be passed between the door and the head of the locking pin and be used to cut the pin. Alternatively, if the aperture is too big, lateral movement of the locking pin may occur. The locking pin must be appropriately aligned with the combination lock to ensure appropriate locking of the security container. Lateral movement of the pin makes the alignment process less direct and may cause wear in the shaft of the pin. 25 Therefore, to address both of these problems which may exist in prior art systems, the present invention preferably includes an alignment means. The alignment means is configured to ensure the locking pin may only enter the combination lock in one orientation and with little allowance for lateral movement of the pin. The alignment means also 30 includes an indentation which means that no portion of the shaft of the locking pin adjacent the door aperture, is exposed to the potential of being cut with a hacksaw blade or similar. Accordingly, the lower portion of the head of the locking pin is recessed into the alignment means. This operates to frustrate any attempts at unlawful or unapproved entry to he container. 22 In addition to the alignment means, the inside surface of door of the security container may be configured to provide a recess or groove into which a portion of the combination lock may also slide to further improve retention of the lock in an appropriate alignment. 5 Preferably as a further security measure, the pin is preferably designed to include a collapsing portion. Accordingly, if unapproved persons attempt to gain access to the contents of the container by trying to force out or break the pin with a gripping tool, the pin is designed to collapse. 10 To enable the security container to operate effectively, the pin-combination lock preferably allows a variety of combination options to be used to open the security container as allowed. In preferred embodiments of the present invention a tumbler combination is used. However, this does not limit the use of other combination systems, provided they are compatible with the overall concept of a pin-combination lock as herein described. 15 There is preferably provision in the lock encasement to a means by which the combination of the lock may be changed. For example, a key or screw may be required to be released. The combination tumblers may then be reset to a new entry combination. Once this has been achieved, the screw or key is returned to its original positions and the new 20 combination is set. Various systems for changing the combination are however available and may be used with, or adapted for use with, the single pin combination lock of the present invention. As previously discussed, the security container may include two separate compartments and 25 as such will require two separate single pin combination locks to enable access to the separate compartments independently. Alternatively, the same pin-combination lock may be provided with twin tumblers and twin pins, so the one locking system is available for use to lock two separate, but adjacent container means. 30 Also as previously discussed, the security container may be spaced from the surface of the external structure of the building. This may be required where there is a need to access the combination tumblers, or key pad, from the side of the container. 23 To prevent ingress of rain into the combination tumblers or pad, a pivoting cover may be attached to the security container to cover that combination feature. The cover would also serve to obscure the combination lock feature from being easily seen. 5 For the purposes of this specification the security container is made of strong, durable stainless steel. The finish on the door of the container may be adapted to complement the style, colour or aesthetics of the building's exterior or interior surface finish. In addition, the door of the security container may be substantially flat, contoured, smooth, textured, any combination of the above, and so forth to match the exterior cladding of the building in 10 which it is installed. There are no limitations other than those imposed for practical, aesthetic, or economic reasons on the size dimensions, profile, shape and so forth of the security container. With reference to the present invention the security container herein described has 15 preferable application in new buildings, or in existing buildings where there may be some installation adaptations to be made to the building to retain the container.. However, typically any building, or situation where there is a need for a security container for valuables may potentially benefit from the invention. 20 According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a security container, said security container including at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security 25 container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess. 30 According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of a bracing a security container relative to the structural features of a building in a substantially substantially tamper-proof manner, said security container including at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least 24 one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, 5 said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of a 10 locking a security container using locking means, said locking means including a single pin lock, said security container including at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and said locking means being used to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container 15 being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including moveable bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess. 20 Variations to the dimensions of the security container may be desirable depending on the contents required to be secured therein. Regard would of course be had to effecting the desired dimensions, such as increased height or width whilst maintaining an aesthetic external appearance and even an appearance which still conformed to the 25 configuration/patterns of the exterior cladding, so as to enable the security container to be relatively camouflaged. The present invention is differentiated from many existing products by virtue of its retention means, bracing means and its locking means. 30 In addition, it should also be appreciated that given the emphasis on security, the present invention may be interconnected with the building's security alarm system, so in the event that the security container should be tampered with, the building's alarm system would be activated. There is a range of alarm systems available in the market and prior art. The 25 present invention may be adapted for use with said alarm systems. However, it will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, that the adaptations and interconnections required may vary between alarm systems and whilst known to a person skilled in the art, such detail of prior art alarm systems is not the ambit of the present specification. 5 It should be appreciated that the present invention lends itself to more than one application. Hence, the invention may be adapted through a change to one or more, or a combination, of any location, building structural features, dimensions, security compartments, locking systems, alarmed systems, and so forth. As can be appreciated variations to and from the 10 above described embodiments may be made without deviating from the scope of the present invention. It should further be appreciated a variety of different embodiments, uses, and applications of the present invention therefore exist, even within the ambit of the above described security container system. An embodiment of the present invention will now be given by 15 way of example only, to help better describe and define the present invention. However, describing the specified embodiment should not be seen as limiting the scope of this invention. Brief Description of Drawings 20 Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: 25 Figure 1 is a side perspective view of the security container with the door removed in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 2 is a top view of the security container of Figure 1 in accordance with that preferred embodiment of the present invention, but with the door in place; 30 and 26 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 Figure 2 is a top view of the security container of Figure 1 in accordance with that preferred embodiment of the present invention, but with the door in place; and 5 Figure 3 is a front view of the security container of Figure 1 in accordance with that preferred embodiment of the present invention, but with the door removed; and 10 Figure 4 is a right hand side view showing the locking system of Figure 1 incorporated within the security container, along with two forms of bracing means in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 5a is a side view of the door of the security container of Figure 1 in accordance 15 with that preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 5b is a front view of the door of the security container of Figure 1 in accordance with that preferred embodiment of the present invention. 20 Best Modes for Carrying Out the Invention With reference to the diagrams (Figures 1 to 5b) by way of example only, there is provided a permanently fitted security container (generally indicated by arrow (1)). Whilst in this description the permanently fitted security container is described and referenced for use 25 with keys primarily, it should be appreciated this invention may have applications outside this field and be used for other valuables including money, access codes and so forth. The security container includes at least one container means 2 having an interior 3 for storing valuables therein. The interior 3 of the container means is defined by two opposed 30 and spaced apart parallel planar surfaces which form a top surface 4 and a bottom surface 5, at least two permanent surfaces substantially at right angles to the top and bottom surfaces forming the enclosing sides 6 of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening 7 and being configured to provide access to the interior 3 of the 27 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 10 15 container means 2 . Whilst the container means 2 of the preferred embodiment described herein is substantially a rectangular compartment, it should also be appreciated that the container means may take other configurations. Whilst the embodiment as shown in Figures 1 to 5b illustrate one opening 7, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments there may be more than one opening to enable access to the contents of the security container from either or both the exterior and the interior of a building, or access to two compartments from the either or both the exterior and the interior of a building. The container means has a removable closure means 8 covering the opening 7 into the container means 2. The closure means 8 is configured to engage with the edges 9, 10 and 11 of the container means 2 adjacent to the opening 7. The closure means 2 is capable of operating between an opened and a closed orientation. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure means is a sliding door 8. The door is configured to be substantially planar and include around at least two of its sides a U-shaped bend 12 (shown in Figure 4) into which a portion of the exposed edges 10 of the container means slides. The front leading end of the door 13 (as it is closing the opening) is substantially 20 flat, but slides into a U-shaped track 14 created by a portion of a side wall 15 of the container means 2. The fit of the door relative to the container means is substantially tight enough to allow the door to slide opened and closed, but allows little leeway for a tool or pry bar to pry the door from the container means. 25 Locking means 16 are included to secure the closure means 8 over the opening 7. The preferred locking means includes a pin-combination lock, generally indicated by arrow 17. The combination of the pin-combination lock is selectable and changeable to enable access to the interior of the container means and the valuables therein, only by selected individuals for a preferred time duration, after which the combination to access the container can be 30 changed. In the illustrated embodiment, the combination lock 17 is an independent lock located within a compartment 18 inside the container means interior 3. To enable the combination of the lock to be changed as required, the lock 17 is removable from its compartment 18, 28 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 the combination reselected and the combination lock is then returned to its compartment 18 in the security container 1. Firm retention of the lock is important to ensure the locking pin 19 of the pin-combination 5 lock 17 can be aligned with and inserted .into the complementary aperture 20 in the combination lock 17 itself. Movement of the combination lock may cause the pin 19 to become bent and reduce both the effectiveness and the life of the pin-combination lock. Therefore, at least one packing member 21 may be used between the combination lock and the body of the container means 2 to ensure the lock 17 is firmly held in position within the 10 compartment 18. Removal of the packing member 21 to enable removal of the lock 17 may be achieved via the use of a specialist tool. The door of the security container preferably includes an aperture 22 to enable the locking pin 19 of the pin-combination lock to pass through the door 8 and into the combination 15 lock, in order to secure the door 8 in its closed and locked position. Affixed to the door 8 in a permanent arrangement is alignment means 23 configured to ensure the locking pin 19 may only enter the combination lock in one orientation and with little allowance for lateral movement of the pin 19. The alignment means also includes an indentation 24 which means that no portion of the shaft of the locking pin 19 adjacent the door aperture 22, is exposed 20 to the potential of being cut with a hacksaw blade or similar. Accordingly, the lower portion of the head of the locking pin is recessed into the alignment means 23. To enable the security container to operate effectively, the pin-combination lock preferably allows a variety of combination options to be used to open the security container, as 25 allowed. In the illustrated example a tumbler combination is used. However, this does not limit the use of other combination systems, provided they are compatible with the overall concept of a pin-combination lock as herein described. To access the combination tumblers from the side 25 of the container, the security container 30 may be spaced from the surface of the external structure of the building as shown in Figures 1 and 2 and an aperture 26 is included through which the tumblers of the combination lock are accessible for selection to open the lock and access the container. 29 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 Whilst not shown, a pivoting cover may be attached to the security container to cover that combination feature and to prevent ingress of rain into the combination tumblers. The cover would also serve to obscure the combination lock feature from being easily seen. 5 The security container herein described has preferable application in new buildings, or in existing buildings where there may be some installation adaptations to be made to the building to retain the container. However, typically any building or situation where there is a need for a security container for valuables may potentially benefit from the invention. The security container as illustrated is therefore configured to be fitted into a recess 27 10 within a surface 28. Accordingly, the security container further includes retention means. In turn, the retention means includes bracing means 30a or 30b and fixing means 31, such as screws, bolts, nails. The bracing means 30 operate to effect a brace relative to one or more permanent structural 15 features 29 (as shown in Figure 2) associated with the surface or building structure to impede forced removal of the security container from the recess 27. The bracing means may be moveable, such as rotatable as for the bracing means 30a, or be a plate bracing means 30b as illustrated in Figure 4. 20 The plate bracing means 30b is substantially angled as a right angled plate bracing means. One portion of the right angled plate is configured to co-operate with the means for attaching the plate to the container. Accordingly, at least one aperture is included in the plate through which a shaft of a bolt may pass. The threaded end of the bolt is located inside the container and a wing nut is used to tighten the plate against movement relative to 25 the container. The opposite portion of the right angled plate is contoured to include a raised portion. Included in the raised portion is at least one aperture to enable the shaft of retaining means such as an anchor pin 31 to pass through the plate aperture. 30 The bracing plate is also configured to include gripping anchor portions on the face of the plate adjacent to the structural framework on which the bracing means is positioned (not shown) The bracing plate also may include sections which when hit by a hammer or the like enables the gripping anchor portions and/or the anchor pins 31 to be driven into the 30 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 framework (of the wall) against which it is sitting. The gripping anchor portions bind into the structural framework and negate the ability for free movement of the plate and the container to which it is attached. 5 The anchor pin 31 may be any suitable pinning or retaining means. However the attachment of the bracing means to the container and to the framework of the building provides a brace against attempts to pry the container out of the wall. The additional fixing means 31 further assist with retention of the security container as 10 required, to limit lateral movement and so forth. In the illustrated embodiment Figure 4, the fixing means is an anchor pin, such as screws, bolts, nails, as are available in the prior art. Provision may be made for the surfaces of the container means to include apertures through which such additional fixing means can threaded and secured into adjacent structural features, such as the wooden framing members of the building, or adjacent bricks, and the 15 like. The moveable bracing means 30a is moveable and operates between a storage position as Shown in Figure 2 to enable insertion of the security container into the recess 27, and a bracing position as shown in Figures 1, 3 and 4 after insertion of the security container into 20 the recess for effecting a brace against one or more permanent structural features 29 associated with the surface, or with specifically installed engaging members, to impede forced removal of the installed security container from the recess. In this described embodiment of the present invention the bracing means are attached to the 25 rear surface 32 of the security container means 2. Whilst a number of options of forms of bracing means has previously been described, the option illustrated in the accompanying figures incorporates a pivoting tyne arrangement 30a and a plate bracing means 30b. The tyne bracing means 30a lies substantially adjacent and parallel to the surface to which 30 it is affixed before insertion of the security container into the recess 27. The dimensions of the tyne are slightly longer than the surface to which it is attached. The tyne also includes gripping means 33 at each of its distal ends. The gripping means of this embodiment are substantially angular portions 33 extending substantially perpendicular from the planar surface of the remaining body 34 of the tyne. 31 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 When the security container is positioned within the recess 27, the tyne 30a is pivoted clockwise or anti-clockwise, through an arc of up to 90 degrees, such that the distal ends of the tyne extend above and below the rear, top and bottom surface of the container means to which it is attached. The degree of pivoting required is dependent on the structural features 5 surrounding the security container. Pivoting of the tynes may be controlled from within the container means and such control is only available when the security container is open. The tynes are operated via the use of adjustment means 35 which, in the present example includes a wing nut 35a and a bolt 35b. 10 The wing nut is loosened and the bolt gripped by the fingers and turned as required to move the tyne's distal ends into position. The bracing tynes are designed to pass behind such building structures as the timber framing, or adjacent bricks, and brace against these structures to impede removal of the 15 security container from the recess when the container is locked. Preferably, the bracing means co-operate with at least two members of the building frame, or portions of the building cladding. In some instances there may be a need to drill or cut grooves or channels into the framing and such like to receive the tynes. 20 Alternatively, engaging members as previously mentioned, may be specifically installed to ensure there are appropriate bracing surfaces available. This may be a preferred option where the structural frameworks of the building does ntft provide adequate, enough, or available bracing surfaces. It is such a bracing feature that serves to provide improved retention of the security container in the recess, over prior art security container systems. 25 When the security container is fitted into a recess within a surface, the security container is preferably configured to complement the features of the surface. As can be appreciated the dimensions of the container means is variable, but preferably dictated by the preferred placement of the security container in use. Accordingly, any recess cut or prepared for the 30 security container is preferably equivalent to the height dimensions of the exterior cladding and the depth dimensions of the building's structural walls. For example, the security container may be the dimensions of a standard brick and be installed into the building's exterior by removal of a brick from the wall of the building, 32 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 which is replaced by the security container in a snug fit. Where the exterior cladding is comprised of wooden or artificial weather boards, the security container may be the dimensions of height of the weatherboard and be installed into the building's exterior by cutting out a piece of weatherboard to the required dimensions and installing the security 5 container into the recess created. To more particularly ensure the security container complements the features of the surface into which the security container is installed, the external configuration of the security container may be designed to reflect the features of the surface. For example, the structural shape of the door of the security container may be made to actually look like a brick, a piece of weatherboard, a stucco surface effect, or whatever may be required. Whilst the cost of physically configuring the external surfaces of the security container is an option, a cheaper alternative may be the use of painted features which mimic the surrounding surface features in terms of pattern, colour, finish, effect. Whilst the present invention may be differentiated from many existing products by virtue of either or both its retention means and its locking means, the method of manufacture of the security container from rectangular stainless steel sections or as a punch moulded unit also improves the strength of the container, as there are minimal or no welded joints which have the potential to weaken the structure. Further, the container is durable and weather resistant. In addition, whilst not illustrated in the attached figures, given the emphasis on security, the present invention may be interconnected with the building's security alarm system, so in the event that the security container should be tampered with, the building's alarm system would be activated. It should be appreciated that the present invention lends itself to more than one application. Hence, the invention may be adapted through a change to one or more, or a combination, of any location, building structural features, dimensions, security compartments, locking systems, alarmed systems, and so forth. As can be appreciated a variety of different 30 embodiments, uses, and applications of the present invention therefore exist, even within the ambit of the above described security container system. It should also be understood that the term "comprise" where used herein is not to be considered to be used in a limiting sense. Accordingly, 'comprise' does not represent nor 10 15 20 33 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 define an exclusive set of items, but includes the possibility of other components and items being added to the list. This specification is also based on the understanding of the inventor regarding the prior art. The prior art description should not be regarded as being an authoritative disclosure of the true state of the prior art but rather as referring to considerations in and brought to the mind and attention of the inventor when developing this invention. Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims. 34 </div>

Claims

<div class="application article clearfix printTableText" id="claims"> Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE:

1. Security container, said security container including at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess, said security container characterised by the locking means including a locking pin and a lock body, said locking pin being independent of the lock body when the. locking means is unlocked and being insertable through an aperture in the closure means and into the lock body aligned to receive the locking pin as required to lock the locking means and secure the closure means over the opening of the security container.

2. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the at least one container means includes two opposed and spaced apart parallel planar surfaces for defining a top and a bottom surface, at least two permanent surfaces substantially at right angles to the top and bottom surfaces forming the enclosing sides of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means.

3. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the at least one container means includes a substantially cylindrical body forming the enclosing sides of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means.

4. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the valuables include at least one or more of keys, money, access codes.

5. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein more than one opening with its associated closure means is provided to enable access to the contents of the security container from either or both the exterior and the interior of a building. 35 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009

6. Security container as claimed in Claim 5, wherein access to the contents of the security container from both the exterior and the interior of a building is restrictable via the inclusion of a dividing wall within the container means to effect substantially isolated interiors for storing valuables therein and accessible only via the relevant opening.

7. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the closure means is configured to engage with the edges of the container means adjacent to the opening, said closure means capable of operating between an opened and a closed orientation.

8. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the locking means used to secure the closure means over the opening includes a single pin lock.

9. Security container as claimed in Claim 8, wherein the locking means as a single pin lock is either or both a single pin combination lock and a single pin key lock.

10. Security container as claimed in Claim 9, wherein the locking means is enclosed in the container, or compartment therein.

11. Security container as claimed in Claim 9, wherein the combination of the single pin combination lock is selectable and changeable to enable access to the interior of the container means and the valuables therein, only by selected individuals for a preferred time duration.

12. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the retention means, also includes fixing means, including screws, bolts, nails.

13. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the bracing means is optionally moveable.

14. Security container as claimed in Claim 13, wherein the bracing means is adapted to operate between a storage position to enable insertion of the security container into the recess, and a bracing position after insertion of the security container into the recess, for effecting a brace against one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface by said bracing means including at least one from a list of: a) a pivoting tyne; and/or b) an laterally moving tyne; and/or c) a telescopically extendable tyne; and/or 36 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 d) an expandable tyne and/or e) a plate means.

15. Security container as claimed in Claim 14, wherein the tyne or plate is positioned to brace against at least one or more of a member of the building frame, at least a portion of the building cladding, or specifically installed engaging members, thereby providing resistance to impede forced removal of the installed security container from said recess.

16. Security container as claimed in Claim 1, wherein when said security container is fitted into a recess within a surface, the security container optionally extends from the surface as required to enable side access to combination tumblers or key pad associated with the locking means.

17. Security container as claimed in Claim 16, wherein the security container is configured to complement the features of the surface.

18. Security container as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 17, wherein the lock body of the locking means is retained within the security container or within a receptacle or compartment therein to ensure alignment of the lock body with at least one locking pin adapted to engage with said lock body.

19. A method of manufacturing a security container, said security container including at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means haying at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including either or both fixing means and bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess, said method including the steps of: a) Manufacturing container means including two opposed and spaced apart parallel planar surfaces for defining a top and a bottom surface, at least two permanent surfaces substantially at right angles to the top and bottom surfaces forming the enclosing sides of the container means, and at least one exposed surface comprising an opening and being configured to provide access to the interior of the container means; and 37 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 b) Manufacturing closure means configured to engage with the edges of the container means adjacent to the opening, said closure means capable of operating between an opened and a closed orientation; and c) Inserting locking means in the container, or in a compartment therein; wherein the locking means is a single pin lock as either or both a single pin combination lock and a single pin key lock; and d) Including bracing means operational after insertion of the security container into the recess for effecting a brace against one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface; and e) Including fixing means to farther retain the installed security container within said recess.

20. A method of a bracing a security container relative to the structural features of a building in a substantially tamper-proof manner using retention means of the said security container, wherein said security container includes at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess, said security container characterised by the locking means including a locking pin and a lock body, said locking pin being independent of the lock body when the locking means is unlocked and being insertable through an aperture in the closure means and into the lock body aligned to receive the locking pin as required to lock the locking means and secure the closure means over the opening of the security container, said bracing means including a moveable tyne or plate means and said method including the steps of: a) During insertion of the container means into the recess, operating the moveable bracing means between a storage position to enable insertion of the security container into the recess, and a bracing position after insertion of the security container into the recess for effecting a brace of the bracing means against one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface; and b) Optionally including fixing means to limit movement of the container means once in place in the recess. 38 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009

21. A method of a bracing a security container relative to the structural features of a building in a substantially tamper-proof manner, using retention means of said security container, wherein said security container includes at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess, said security container characterised by the locking means including a locking pin and a lock body, said locking pin being independent of the lock body when the locking means is unlocked and being insertable through an aperture in the closure means and into the lock body aligned to receive the locking pin as required to lock the locking means and secure the closure means over the opening of the security container, said bracing means including fixed tyne or plate means and said method including the steps of: a) After insertion of the container means into the recess, affixing bracing means in a bracing position against one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface; and b) Applying fixing means therewith to limit movement of the container means once in place in the recess.

22. A method of locking a security container using locking means of said security container, wherein said security container includes at least one container means having an interior for storing valuables therein, said container means having at least one opening thereinto, a closure means covering said at least one opening into the container means, and locking means to secure the closure means over the opening, said security container being configured to be fitted into a recess within a surface and the security container further including retention means, said retention means including bracing means, said bracing means characterised by effecting a brace relative to one or more permanent structural features associated with the surface to impede forced removal of the security container from said recess, said security container characterised by the locking means including a locking pin and a lock body, said locking pin being independent of the lock body when the locking means is unlocked and being insertable through an aperture in the closure means and into the lock body aligned to receive the locking pin as required to lock the locking means and secure the closure means over the opening of the security container, said method including the steps of: 39 Received at IPONZ on 28 jan 2009 a) enclosing in the container, or in at least one compartment therein, the lock body; b) positioning the closure means to cover the opening of the container means; c) Inserting the locking pin of the locking means through the aperture in the closure means and into the lock body; thereby d) securing the closure means over the opening; said locking means being either or both a single pin combination lock and a single pin key lock; which when locked prevents movement of the closure means; yet enables access to the interior of the container means and the valuables therein, only by selected individuals via use of a key or known combination and optionally only for a preferred time duration.

23. A security container substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying figures.

24. Locking means substantially as described herein for use with a security container with reference to the included examples and accompanying figures.

25. Bracing means substantially as described herein for use with a security container substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying figures.

26. A method of manufacturing a security container substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying figures.

27. A method of a bracing a security container relative to the structural features of a building in a substantially tamper-proof manner substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying figures.

28. A method of a locking a security container using locking means substantially as described herein with reference to the included examples and accompanying figures. WAYNE LIONEL ACE-KERKER By his attorneys 40 </div>