US20180132368A1 - Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface - Google Patents
Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface Download PDFInfo
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- US20180132368A1 US20180132368A1 US15/866,875 US201815866875A US2018132368A1 US 20180132368 A1 US20180132368 A1 US 20180132368A1 US 201815866875 A US201815866875 A US 201815866875A US 2018132368 A1 US2018132368 A1 US 2018132368A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cover
- access device
- user interface
- housing
- controller
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K5/00—Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
- H05K5/02—Details
- H05K5/03—Covers
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- H05K5/0239—
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/18—Packaging or power distribution
- G06F1/181—Enclosures
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F21/00—Security arrangements for protecting computers, components thereof, programs or data against unauthorised activity
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F21/00—Security arrangements for protecting computers, components thereof, programs or data against unauthorised activity
- G06F21/70—Protecting specific internal or peripheral components, in which the protection of a component leads to protection of the entire computer
- G06F21/86—Secure or tamper-resistant housings
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F19/00—Complete banking systems; Coded card-freed arrangements adapted for dispensing or receiving monies or the like and posting such transactions to existing accounts, e.g. automatic teller machines
- G07F19/20—Automatic teller machines [ATMs]
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F19/00—Complete banking systems; Coded card-freed arrangements adapted for dispensing or receiving monies or the like and posting such transactions to existing accounts, e.g. automatic teller machines
- G07F19/20—Automatic teller machines [ATMs]
- G07F19/205—Housing aspects of ATMs
Abstract
The present invention involves an access device for a movable barrier configured to include a user interface, and more specifically, a movable barrier access device configured to include a deployable cover that covers the user interface when not being utilized. This will assist in extending the usable life of the access device by disallowing exposure to the elements when not in use. The deployable cover can be actuated as a result of signals sent from one or more sensors that are configured to detect any specified stimulus from the surrounding environment outside of the housing. Some of the specified stimuli are the presence of motion and rain in proximity to the access device housing.
Description
- The present application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 14/836,018, filed on Aug. 26, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention relates generally to access devices for movable barrier systems. More specifically, the invention relates to a movable barrier access device housing configured to include a deployable cover that covers the user interface when not being utilized.
- A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.
- Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of example and should not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of this invention to material associated only with such marks.
- Typically, access to a secure premises, such as a gated area, building, or parking structure, requires that the user utilize some form of access device, either to directly open a barrier in order to gain entry, or otherwise to communicate with an internal or external client who then authorizes entrance for said user. This device often includes some type of user interface component, such as a display screen, input keypad, input keyboard, radio transmitter, or biometric sensor, which allows the user to operate the device. Furthermore, these access devices are normally found on the outside of the secure premises and, in many instances, are located outdoors, leaving them exposed to potentially corrosive weather and harmful external elements. Without adequate protection, this exposure can result in accelerated corrosion and malfunctioning of the device, leading to expensive repairs or outright replacement of the device.
- For example, an access device configured to provide vehicle access to a barrier-controlled premise, such as a gated community, is likely to be located outdoors, adjacent to the entrance gate, in order to allow the user to operate the device without being required to step out of their vehicle. This device is located outdoors as a practical matter; it may be inconvenient to require the user to park their car and walk to an indoor location in order to gain vehicle entry to the premises. Thus, out of this necessity, an access device may be left exposed to rain, moisture, snow, sand, heat, freezing temperatures, or any other weather or environmental conditions that can potentially damage the mechanical or electrical components of the device.
- Some access devices may comprise a casing or housing assembly as a means of covering the internal components of the device from the surrounding environment. However, in order to allow the user interface component to remain accessible to the user, it is often not contained within the housing, and thus may not be adequately protected from the elements. That is, because the housing unit may not fully encompass the user interface, this component may still be exposed to potentially damaging conditions, and without adequate protection, the user interface may suffer the detriments of this exposure.
- For example, an access device configured to provide access to a gated community may include a user interface with a numbered keypad to allow the user to input an access code to gain entry to the premises or contact an internal or external client, as well as a display to allow the user to select from a list of clients and their respective contact information. Repeated exposure of these components to even mild environmental factors may cause irreparable damage such as rain water seeping in through the edges of the numerical keypad. This could cause malfunctions, which results in higher maintenance and replacement costs. Moreover, the exposed user interface may act as an entry point to the internal components of the access device, allowing the rainwater to trickle in causing additional damage, and thereby diminishing any benefit derived from the housing assembly.
- Therefore, there exists a need in the art for an improved means of protecting the components of an access device from the surrounding environment without sacrificing ease of access for a user. It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.
- To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present invention describes an access device configured to include a deployable cover for the user interface. The deployable cover may be transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque in visual appearance. The access device may include sensors, which may be configured to generate actuation of the deployable cover in response to various specified stimuli. The deployable cover will help extend the life of the access device by disallowing undue exposure to the environment and external elements when not in use.
- An access device for a movable barrier system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier; and a housing containing the user interface, including: an opening for exposing a keypad of the user interface; a cover for covering the keypad; and a cover cavity adjacent to the opening, for slidably receiving the cover whenever the cover is opened to reveal the keypad, wherein: the cover cavity is situated to a side of the opening; and the cover is configured to slide sideways between opened and closed positions.
- An access device for a movable barrier system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a housing containing a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier, the housing including: an opening for exposing a keypad of the user interface; a cover for covering the keypad; and a cover cavity adjacent to the opening, for slidably receiving the cover whenever the cover is actuated to reveal the keypad; one or more sensors substantially housed within the housing; an actuator contained within the housing and mechanically coupled to the cover; and a controller situated within the housing and configured to: receive a sensing signal from the one or more sensors; and automatically actuate the cover in response to the sensing signal.
- An access device for a movable barrier system, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, comprises: a housing containing a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier, the housing including: an opening for exposing the user interface; and a hinged cover for covering the opening configured to swing between an opened and closed position; one or more sensors substantially housed within the housing; an actuator contained within the housing and mechanically coupled to the hinged cover; and a controller situated within the housing and configured to: receive a sensing signal from the one or more sensors; and automatically actuate the cover in response to the sensing signal.
- It is an objective of the present invention to provide a protective housing for an access device for movable barrier systems.
- It is another objective of the present invention to provide an access device that protects a user interface from the environment.
- It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide an access device housing with a deployable cover, which may be operated manually and automatically.
- It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide an access device that automatically deploys a cover with the aid of sensors.
- These advantages and features of the present invention are not meant as limiting objectives, but are described herein with specificity so as to make the present invention understandable to one of ordinary skill in the art.
- Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale in order to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of the various embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elements that are known to be common and well understood to those in the industry are not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the various embodiments of the invention. The drawings that accompany the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:
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FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a flowchart depicting one method for operating a deployable cover for an access device in accordance with the present invention. -
FIG. 3(a) is a cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3(b) is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5(a)-5(d) depict several diagrams of different configurations of a housing with a protective cover, illustrating various possible exemplary embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 6(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable cover is in the closed position and actuates at a slight angle with respect to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of the access device. -
FIG. 6(b) illustrates an additional representational view of the embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 6(a) in the opened position. -
FIG. 7(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable cover is in the closed position and articulates movement parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of access device. -
FIG. 7(b) illustrates an additional representational view of the embodiment of the present invention shown inFIG. 7(a) in the opened position. -
FIG. 8(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable covers are in the closed positions and actuate parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of the access device. -
FIG. 8(b) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable covers are in the opened positions and actuate parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of the access device. -
FIG. 9(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable cover is in the closed position and actuates parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of the access device. -
FIG. 9(b) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable cover is in the opened position and actuates parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of the access device. -
FIG. 10(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable cover actuates mostly perpendicular to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base of the access device. -
FIG. 10(b) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the deployable cover opens outward and closes inward with respect to the user interface of the access device. - In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments and applications of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying figures, which form a part thereof. Depictions are made, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced; however, it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- In the following detailed description, a movable barrier system may be any system that controls a movable barrier to an entry, an exit, or a view. The movable barrier could be a door for a small entity (i.e. a person), or a gate for a large entity (i.e. a vehicle), which may swing out, slide open, roll upwards, or operate in any other manner suitable to control access through the entry, exit, or view. The operator that controls the barrier may move the barrier from an open position to a closed position and vice-versa, or simply provide a means to lock and unlock the barrier. The operator may be automatic and may be controlled locally or remotely. Additionally, an operator may comprise of one or more motors, actuators locking mechanisms, or barrier control module including one or more components configured to move, open, close, lock, unlock, or otherwise control a movable barrier. Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the term barrier control module is defined broadly and may be any device one or more devices that create motion, convert electricity into mechanical motion, or electromagnetic device for moving or controlling a mechanism or system, and may include without limitation, an electric motor such as an AC motor or a DC motor, an actuator, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical locks, or electromagnetic locks. Electromagnetic locks may comprise of a solenoid, magnetic lock or strike, an electromagnet and armature plate, or any other locking means. Electromagnetic locks may include fail safe electromagnetic devices that are unlocked when de-energized, or fail secure electromagnetic devices that remain locked when power is lost. A system in accordance with the present invention may also include sensors. Sensors may include, motion sensors, capacitive sensors, proximity sensors, inductive sensors, image sensors, rain sensors, or any other type of sensing device such as switches, buttons, or any other means of detecting a change in one or more parameters. A system in accordance with the present invention also includes an access device. An access device may be a device separate or integral with the operator, which may be used to communicate with a client device for obtaining access through the movable barrier. The access device is typically located remotely from the client device somewhere near the movable barrier; as users approach the movable barrier, they may utilize the access device to communicate with the client device in order to gain entry. The access device communicates with the client device via a communications network.
- Generally, the present invention involves an access device for a movable barrier configured to include a user interface. More specifically, a movable barrier access device in accordance with the present invention implements a housing with a deployable cover that covers the user interface component. Some embodiments of the user interface may include; a display; a display and a keypad; or a display and an alphanumeric keyboard. The deployable cover may be configured to be visually transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque in its appearance. Advantages of implementing a deployable cover for a user interface include: disallowing exposure to the elements when the user interface is not being utilized and thus assist in extending the usable life of the access device.
- Turning now to the figures,
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. More specifically,FIG. 1 showssystem 100, which includes movable barrier access device (access device 101), movable barrier operator (operator 102),movable barrier 103, access device housing (housing 104), deployable cover controller (controller 105),actuator 106,sensor 107,deployable cover 108, access device controller (controller 109), and access device user interface (user interface 110). -
Operator 102 may be any type of movable barrier operator suitable to actuate, operate, or otherwise control access to a premise viamovable barrier 103. Thus,operator 102 may be configured as a swing gate operator that swings open, a sliding gate operator that moves a gate on a track, a locking mechanism that locks and unlocks a door to an entry, or any other type of operator suitable for controlling the type of movable barrier that may be implemented withsystem 100. -
Movable barrier 103 may be any type of barrier blocking or inhibiting free access to a premise. For example,movable barrier 103 may block or inhibit an entrance to a walkway, a room, or a storage space;movable barrier 103 may also be a gate to a gated community, a parking structure, or any other secured area. In one embodiment,movable barrier 103 is a sliding gate; in another embodiment,movable barrier 103 is a swing gate; in yet another embodiment,movable barrier 103 may be a lockable doorway inside a building or a lockable gate on a walkway. -
Access device 101 may be any type of device configured to communicate withmovable barrier operator 102, directly or via a third party client device, in order to actuate, operate, or otherwise control access to a premises viamovable barrier 103.Access device 101 may comprise ofcontroller 109 anduser interface 110.Controller 109 may comprise of one or more processors (processor 111) configured to access and process a set of instructions in a program code stored in programmable memory (memory 112). The one or more processors ofcontroller 109 may run or execute one or more software programs or set of instructions that may be stored inmemory 112 in order to perform the various functions ofaccess device 101. -
Access device 101 may further compriseuser interface 110, which is configured to facilitate user interaction withaccess device 101 and access to a client device.User interface 110 may include any device or apparatus configured to allow the user to input or receive information to or fromaccess device 101. For example,user interface 110 may include a numbered keypad, an alphanumeric keyboard, a visual display screen, a speaker, a microphone, an iris scanner, a fingerprint scanner, or visual recognition scanner. -
Access device 101,controller 105,actuator 106, andsensor 107 are housed withinaccess device housing 104.Access device housing 104 may be any type of housing and made of any type of material suitable to cover the internal components ofaccess device 101 from the surrounding environment and elements. Typically,access device housing 104 will preserve user access touser interface 110, and therefore may not fully cover or encompassuser interface 110. -
Sensor 107 may be any sensor configured to sense, detect, perceive, or otherwise identify any specified stimulus from the surrounding environment in proximity to accessdevice 101 and outside ofaccess device housing 104, and respond to such stimulus by sending a signal tocontroller 105. In one embodiment,sensor 107 is a motion detector configured to detect motion of a user in proximity to accessdevice 101 and outside ofaccess device housing 104. In another embodiment,sensor 107 is a rain sensor configured to detect moisture in proximity to accessdevice 101 and outside ofaccess device housing 104. -
Controller 105 may be configured to receive a signal fromsensor 107 and initiate a response by signalingactuator 106 to actuatedeployable cover 108.Controller 105 may comprise an internal timer and anaccess device interface 113 configured to communicate withcontroller 109. In one embodiment bothcontrollers controller 109, to be configured and perform the same functions. -
Deployable cover 108 may be any type of protective piece, cover, or element configured to partially or fully coveruser interface 110 from the surrounding environment.Deployable cover 108 may be visually transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque in its appearance. -
FIG. 2 is a flowchart depicting one method for operating a deployable cover for an access device in accordance with the present invention. More specifically,method 200 is illustrated as a series of steps among one embodiment of the present invention, which are shown in a particular sequence but may be practiced in any other conceivable sequence or interaction with the access device components without deviating from the scope of the present invention. - In
Step 201, one or more sensors in communication with the deployable cover controller and configured to detect certain specified stimuli, receive such stimuli. InStep 202, one or more of the sensors may send a signal to the deployable cover controller that a stimulus has been received. InStep 203, the deployable cover controller may send a signal to the actuator to operate the deployable cover. InStep 204, the one or more sensors may continue to monitor for the specified external stimuli. In one embodiment, a loop is created betweenStep 201 andStep 204, wherein the one or more sensors continue to monitor for specified external stimuli and then receive such stimuli. InStep 205, an internal timer in communication with the actuator may activate upon operation of the deployable cover. In another embodiment, the internal timer may activate upon receiving the initial signal from the one or more sensors. In yet another embodiment, the internal timer may activate upon the controller sending a signal to the actuator to operate the deployable cover. The internal timer inStep 205 may be preset for any admin determined or manufacturer determined time limit. InStep 206, the deployable cover controller receives authorization from the access device controller before the internal timer has expired and, in one embodiment, may move forward with the process of actuating the deployable cover without adhering to the time limit. InStep 207, the deployable cover controller does not receive authorization from the access device controller before the internal timer has expired and, in one embodiment, may defer the process of actuating the deployable cover until the time limit has lapsed. InStep 208, the deployable cover controller may signal the actuator to operate deployable cover. -
FIG. 3(a) depicts a cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of the present invention. More specificallyFIG. 3(a) depictsaccess device 300 wherein the sensor is a motion sensor (motion detector 302),deployable cover 304 actuates at an angle with respect to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 300, and is in the closed position. -
Access device housing 301 may provide a partially encompassing outer cover for the internal components. In one embodiment the one or more sensors could be configured to detect motion as depicted inmotion detector 302. Likewise,internal timer 307 may be in communication withmotion detector 302 andactuator 303. In one embodiment, when a signal from the controller is sent to actuator 303 the actuator will operatedeployable cover 304 and reveal, to the user,user interface 305.User interface 305 may be attached or integrated withaccess housing 301. Furthermore,actuator 303 may be configured to be mounted internal to and connected to accessdevice housing 301 as is depicted inFIGS. 3(a) and 3(b) in order to protect it from the elements. Alternatively,actuator 303 may be mounted external to accessdevice housing 301 in order to facilitate easier repairs and maintenance. - When
deployable cover 304 is opened to revealuser interface 305, it may be retracted into an empty compartment withinaccess device housing 301. When thedeployable cover 304 is closed over theuser interface 305, there may be acavity 308 present between them. This cavity could exist for the purpose of ensuring that foreign matter, which may be trapped on the surface ofuser interface 305, does not hinder or obstruct the actuation ofdeployable cover 304. Another purpose of havingcavity 308 could be to facilitate looser manufacturing tolerances in order to keep production costs ofaccess device 300 to a minimum. -
FIG. 3(b) is an additional cross-sectional side view of the same embodiment of the present invention asFIG. 3(a) . In this view,deployable cover 304 is depicted in the open position thus revealinguser interface 305 andinternal cavity 308 which exists betweenuser interface 305 anddeployable cover 304 while in the closed position. - In one embodiment, either the
access device housing 301 or thedeployable cover 304 may incorporate a strip, band, or other material used to create a seal in order to further help prevent unwanted substances from interacting with theuser interface 305 while not in use. Whenever thedeployable cover 304 is retracted, the repeatable seal is broken until thedeployable cover 304 is once again actuated to cover theuser interface 305. -
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein thedeployable cover 404 articulates movement perpendicular to the x-axis, the x-axis being the base ofaccess device 400. -
Access device housing 401 may provide a partially encompassing outer cover for the internal components. In one embodiment,deployable cover housing 402 could be configured to be mounted external to accessdevice housing 401 as is depicted inFIG. 4 . When actuator 403 receives the signal from the controller to operatedeployable cover 404,deployable cover 404 may retract withindeployable cover housing 402.Deployable cover cavity 406, present in the closed position and betweenuser interface 405 anddeployable cover 404, may become open to the environment and the user upon actuation ofdeployable cover 404.Deployable cover cavity 406 may become filled bydeployable cover 404 when it is in the opened position and has been retracted withindeployable cover housing 402. Thedeployable cover cavity 406 may be situated above or below theuser interface 405. - In one embodiment, either the
deployable cover housing 402 or thedeployable cover 404 may incorporate a strip, band, or other material used to create a seal in order to further help prevent unwanted substances from interacting with theuser interface 405 while not in use. Whenever thedeployable cover 404 is retracted, the repeatable seal is broken until thedeployable cover 404 is once again actuated to cover theuser interface 405. - In another embodiment, either the
access device housing 401 or thedeployable cover 404 may incorporate the strip, band, or other material used to create a seal in order to help prevent the same occurrences from happening. - Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment shown,
access device housing 401 does not house sensors. Instead, a simple timer or controller 410, including a timing device may be implemented so thathousing 401 can automaticallyclose cover 404 whenever the device is not in use. In such exemplary embodiment, a user may simply walk up todevice 400 and manuallyopen cover 404—in the present example, by pulling down on a lip ofcover 404. At this point, controller 410 may be configured to detect thatactuator 403 has been back driven, or thatcover 404 has been opened, and start counting a predetermined or programmable period of time. After the predetermined time has lapsed, controller 410 may send a signal toactuator 403 in order to automaticallyclose cover 404. In exemplary embodiments, manual operation ofcover 404 is possible in both directions so that an individual may manually open or manuallyclose cover 404. -
FIG. 5(a)-5(d) depict several diagrams of different configurations of a housing with a protective cover, illustrating various possible exemplary embodiments of the present invention. -
FIG. 5(a) shows a top plan view ofhousing 500, which includes adeployable cover 505 that is configured to slide sideways between an opened and closed position. Furthermore,housing 500 typically includes a first containment cavity (cavity 501) for containing the components of an access device, such as a power supply, controller, and user interface, as well as a second containment cavity (cavity 502), which may be a deployable cover cavity or cavity for receiving the housing'sdeployable cover 505 whenevercover 505 is retracted to open or revealopening 503. Opening 503 may be any opening or access means that exposes a user interface or user interface component contained withinhousing 500, such as a display or a keyboard of the access device.FIG. 5(b) shows another embodiment ofhousing 500, which includes anexternal housing 506 with acavity 504, situated external tohousing 500. As with the embodiment shown inFIG. 5(a) , the embedment ofFIG. 5(b) comprises a cover that moves sideways between opened and closed positions—the only difference being a structural one, wherebyexternal housing 506 providescavity 504 to receivedeployable cover 505. -
FIG. 5(c) shows a top plan view of yet another embodiment ofhousing 500, which includes a deployable cover configured to slide up and down between an opened and closed position. In this embodiment,note cover 505 may includecover lip 510, which may aid a user to manually operatecover 505. Finally,FIG. 5(d) shows yet another embodiment ofhousing 500, which includes an external cavity similar to theexternal cavity 504 of the embodiment shown inFIG. 5(b) , whereby it is situated external tohousing 500 and configured so thatcover 505 moves up and down between opened and closed positions. As is illustrated by these several examples, numerous configurations are possible without deviating from the scope of the present invention. -
FIG. 6(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the numerical keypad or alphanumeric keyboard is covered bydeployable cover 603 that articulates movement at a slight angle with respect to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 600, and is in the closed position. In the present embodiment,access device 600 comprises: a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier such asbarrier 103; and ahousing 601 containing the user interface, including: an opening 607 a for exposing akeypad 607 of the user interface; acover 603 for covering the keypad; and acover cavity 603 a adjacent to the opening, for slidably receiving the cover whenever the cover is opened to reveal the keypad, wherein: the cover cavity is above of the opening; and the cover is configured to slide upwards and downwards between opened and closed positions. As such,access device housing 601 may includedisplay 602,speaker 604,microphone 605, andsensors 606. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, user interface comprises ofdisplay 602 andnumerical keypad 607 as separate components whereby only the keypad is covered, but in other embodiments, the user interface may be a single component—such as a touch screen.FIG. 6(b) illustrates an additional representational view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 6(a) , wherein the numerical keypad or alphanumeric keyboard is covered bydeployable cover 603 is in the opened position. - Additionally, in one embodiment, whenever the
deployable cover 603 is retracted to the open position to reveal thenumerical keypad 607, the deployable cover may retract into a cavity present behind thedisplay 602. In another embodiment, thedeployable cover 603 may retract into a cavity below thenumerical keypad 607 and behind thespeaker 604 andmicrophone 605. -
FIG. 7(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the numerical keypad or alphanumeric keyboard is covered bydeployable cover 703 that articulates movement parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 700, and is in the closed position. In the present embodiment,access device 700 comprises: a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier such asbarrier 103; and ahousing 701 containing the user interface, including: an opening 707 a for exposing akeypad 707 of the user interface; acover 703 for covering the keypad; and a cover cavity 703 a adjacent to the opening, for slidably receiving the cover whenever the cover is opened to reveal the keypad, wherein: the cover cavity is situated to the side of the opening; and the cover is configured to slide sideways between opened and closed positions. In the present embodiment,access device 700 comprisesaccess device housing 701,display 702,speaker 704,microphone 705, andsensors 706. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, user interface comprises ofdisplay 702 andnumerical keypad 707. Additionally,speaker 704 andmicrophone 705 are integrated withaccess device housing 701. -
FIG. 7(b) illustrates an additional representational view of the embodiment shown inFIG. 7(a) , wherein thedeployable cover 703 is in the opened position. In exemplary embodiments, whendeployable cover 703, in the present embodiment, covers thenumerical keypad 707, there may be a cavity that exists betweendeployable cover 703 andnumerical keypad 707. In one embodiment, either theaccess device housing 701 or thedeployable cover 703 may incorporate a strip, band, or other material used to create a seal in order to further help prevent unwanted substances from interacting with thenumerical keypad 703 while not in use. Whenever thedeployable cover 703 is retracted, the repeatable seal is broken until thedeployable cover 703 is once again actuated to cover thenumerical keypad 707. - Additionally, in one embodiment, whenever the
deployable cover 703 is retracted to the open position to reveal thenumerical keypad 707, the deployable cover may retract into a cavity present behind theaccess device housing 701. In another embodiment, thedeployable cover 703 may retract onto the surface ofaccess device housing 701. In yet another embodiment, the deployable cover may be retracted into a deployable cover housing outside of and adjacent to theaccess device housing 701. -
FIG. 8(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein both the display and the numerical keypad or alphanumeric keyboard are covered by separate deployable covers 803 and 804 respectively that articulate movement parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 800 and are in the closed position. In the present embodiment,access device 800 further comprises of:access device housing 801,display 802,speaker 805,microphone 806, andsensors 807. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, user interface is depicted asdisplay 802 andnumerical keypad 808. Additionally,speaker 805 andmicrophone 806 are integrated withaccess device housing 801. The separate deployable covers are advantageous in that they protect both the display and numerical keypad or alphanumeric keyboard components of the user interface. -
FIG. 8(b) illustrates an additional representational view of one embodiment of the present invention asFIG. 8(a) , wherein both the display and numerical keypad or alphanumeric keyboard are covered by separate deployable covers 803 and 804 respectively that articulate movement parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 800 and is in the opened position. In the present embodiment,access device 800 further comprises of:access device housing 801,display 802,speaker 805,microphone 806, andsensors 807. Furthermore, in the present embodiment user interface comprises ofdisplay 802 andnumerical keypad 808. Additionally,speaker 805 andmicrophone 806 are integrated withaccess device housing 801. - When deployable covers 803 and 804, in the present embodiment, cover the
display 802 andnumerical keypad 808, there may be one or two cavities that exist between thedisplay 803,numerical keypad 808, and their associated deployable covers 803 and 804. In one embodiment, either theaccess device housing 801 or one or both of thedeployable cover display 802 andnumerical keypad 808 while not in use. Whenever one or both of the deployable covers 802 and 803 are retracted, the repeatable seal is broken until the deployable covers 802 and 803 are once again actuated to the closed position. - Additionally, in one embodiment, whenever one or both of the deployable covers 802 and 803 are retracted to the open position, the covers may retract into cavities present behind the
access device housing 801. In another embodiment, the deployable covers may retract onto the surface ofaccess device housing 801. In yet another embodiment, the deployable covers may be retracted into deployable cover housings outside of and adjacent to theaccess device housing 801. -
FIG. 9(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein both thedisplay 902 and thenumerical keypad 907 are covered bydeployable cover 903 that articulates movement parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 900 and is in the closed position.Access device 900 may comprise ofaccess device housing 901,display 902,speaker 905,microphone 906,numerical keypad 907, andsensors 908. In the present embodiment,access device 900 comprises: a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier such asbarrier 103; and ahousing 901 containing the user interface (902, 907), including: an opening 903 a for exposing akeypad 907 of the user interface; acover 903 for covering the keypad; and acover cavity 903 b adjacent to the opening, for slidably receiving the cover whenever the cover is opened to reveal the keypad, wherein: thecover cavity 903 b is situated to the side of the opening 903 a; and thecover 903 is configured to slide sideways between opened and closed positions. In the present embodiment user interface comprises of depicted asdisplay 902 andnumerical keypad 907. Additionally,speaker 905 andmicrophone 906 are integrated withaccess device housing 901. The single deployable cover that covers bothdisplay 902 andnumerical keypad 907 is advantageous in that it protects both components of the user interface. -
FIG. 9(b) illustrates an additional representational view of one embodiment of the present invention asFIG. 9(a) , wherein both the display and numerical keypad or are covered bydeployable cover 903 that articulates movement parallel to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 900 and is in the opened position. - When
deployable cover 903, in the present embodiment, covers thedisplay 902 andnumerical keypad 907, there may be a cavity that exists betweendeployable cover 903 and the user interface:display 902 andnumerical keypad 907. In one embodiment, either theaccess device housing 901 or thedeployable cover 903 may incorporate a strip, band, or other material used to create a seal in order to further help prevent unwanted substances from interacting withdisplay 902 andnumerical keypad 907 while not in use. Whenever thedeployable cover 903 is retracted, the repeatable seal is broken until thedeployable cover 903 is once again actuated to cover thedisplay 902 andnumerical keypad 907. -
FIG. 10(a) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the alphanumeric keyboard component of the user interface is covered bydeployable cover 1003 that articulates movement mostly perpendicular to the x-axis, the x-axis being parallel to the base ofaccess device 1000 and is in the closed position. More specifically,access device 1000 comprises ofaccess device housing 1001,display 1002,speaker 1004,alphanumeric keyboard 1005, andsensors 1006. In the present embodiment user interface comprises ofdisplay 1002 andalphanumeric keyboard 1005. Additionally,speaker 1004 is depicted as being integrated withaccess device housing 1001. - When
deployable cover 1003, in the present embodiment, covers thealphanumeric keyboard 1005, there may be a cavity that exists betweendeployable cover 1003 andalphanumeric keyboard 1005. In one embodiment, either theaccess device housing 1001 or thedeployable cover 1003 may incorporate a strip, band, or other material used to create a seal in order to further help prevent unwanted substances from interacting with thealphanumeric keyboard 1005 while not in use. Whenever thedeployable cover 1003 is retracted, the repeatable seal is broken until thedeployable cover 1003 is once again actuated to cover thealphanumeric keyboard 1005. - Additionally, in one embodiment, whenever the
deployable cover 1003 is retracted to the open position to reveal thealphanumeric keyboard 1005, the deployable cover may retract into a cavity present behind thedisplay 1002. In another embodiment, thedeployable cover 1003 may retract into a cavity below thenumerical keypad 1005 and behind thespeaker 1004. -
FIG. 10(b) illustrates a representational view of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein both the display and numerical keypad are covered bydeployable cover 1003 that articulates movement by opening outward and closing inward with respect to the user interface of theaccess device 1000 and is in the opened position, thus revealing bothdisplay 1002 andnumerical keypad 1005 to a user. More specifically,access device 1000 comprises of:housing 1001,display 1002,speaker 1004,numerical keypad 1005, andsensors 1006. In the present embodiment the user interface comprises ofdisplay 1002 andnumerical keypad 1005. Additionally,speaker 1005 is depicted as being integrated withaccess device housing 1001. In exemplary embodiments,access device 1001 may comprise a user interface (for example,display 1002,speaker 1004, numerical keypad 1005) configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier; and ahousing 1001 containing the user interface, including: an opening 1003 a for exposing a keypad of the user interface; and a hingedcover 1003 for covering the opening and configured to swing between an opened and closed position. - A deployable cover for an access device has been described. The foregoing description of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the spirit of the invention.
Claims (20)
1. An access device for a movable barrier system, comprising:
a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier; and
a housing containing the user interface, including:
an opening for exposing a keypad of the user interface;
a cover for covering the keypad; and
a cover cavity adjacent to the opening, for slidably receiving the cover whenever the cover is opened to reveal the keypad, wherein:
the cover cavity is situated to a side of the opening; and
the cover is configured to slide sideways between opened and closed positions.
2. The access device of claim 1 , wherein the cover is positioned along the cover cavity so that a face of the cover slides sideways between opened and closed positions perpendicular to a base of the housing.
3. The access device of claim 1 , further comprising:
an actuator contained within the housing and mechanically coupled to the cover; and
a controller in communication with the actuator situated within the housing and configured to automatically actuate the cover in response to a predetermined event.
4. The access device of claim 3 , further comprising:
one or more sensors housed within the housing and in communication with the controller, the one or more sensors configured to send a signal to the controller concerning the predetermined event.
5. The access device of claim 3 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a manual opening of the cover; and
execute a timer in response to detecting that the cover is opened, in order to automatically actuate the cover to the closed position.
6. The access device of claim 3 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a presence of rain via one or more rain sensors in communication with the controller; and
generate a signal to automatically close the cover in response to detecting rain.
7. The access device of claim 3 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a motion of a user of the device via one or more motion sensors in communication with the controller; and
generate a signal to automatically open the cover in response to detecting motion.
8. The access device of claim 1 , wherein the user interface comprises a touch-screen display, and the keypad is a virtual keypad.
9. The access device of claim 1 , wherein the user interface comprises a display and the keypad, and the keypad is a physical QWERTY keyboard.
10. An access device for a movable barrier system, comprising:
a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier; and
a housing containing the user interface, including:
an opening for exposing a keypad of the user interface;
a cover for covering the keypad; and
a cover cavity adjacent to the opening, for receiving the cover whenever the cover is opened to reveal the keypad, wherein:
the cover cavity is situated above or below the opening; and
the cover is configured to slide up and down between opened and closed positions respectively.
11. The access device of claim 10 , wherein the cover is positioned along the cover cavity so that a face of the cover slides up and down between opened and closed positions perpendicular to a base of the housing.
12. The access device of claim 11 , wherein the cover is positioned along the cover cavity so that a face of the cover slides up and down between opened and closed positions at an angle with respect to a base of the housing.
13. The access device of claim 11 , further comprising:
an actuator contained within the housing and mechanically coupled to the cover; and
a controller in communication with the actuator situated within the housing and configured to automatically actuate the cover in response to a predetermined event.
14. The access device of claim 13 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a manual opening of the cover; and
execute a timer in response to detecting that the cover is opened, in order to automatically actuate the cover to the closed position.
15. The access device of claim 14 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a presence of rain via one or more rain sensors in communication with the controller; and
generate a signal to automatically close the cover in response to detecting rain.
16. The access device of claim 14 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a motion of a user of the device via one or more motion sensors in communication with the controller; and
generate a signal to automatically open the cover in response to detecting motion.
17. The access device of claim 10 , wherein the user interface comprises a display and the keypad, and the keypad is a physical QWERTY keyboard.
18. An access device for a movable barrier system, comprising:
a user interface configured to facilitate a communication with a client device and authorize access via a movable barrier; and
a housing containing the user interface, including:
an opening for exposing a keypad of the user interface; and
a hinged cover for covering the opening and configured to swing between an opened and closed position.
19. The access device of claim 18 , further comprising:
an actuator contained within the housing and mechanically coupled to the hinged cover; and
a controller in communication with the actuator situated within the housing and configured to automatically actuate the hinged cover in response to a predetermined event.
20. The access device of claim 19 , wherein the controller is further configured to:
detect a manual opening of the hinged cover; and
execute a timer in response to detecting that the cover is opened, in order to automatically actuate the hinged cover to the closed position.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/866,875 US20180132368A1 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2018-01-10 | Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US14/836,018 US9901003B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2015-08-26 | Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface |
US15/866,875 US20180132368A1 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2018-01-10 | Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface |
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US14/836,018 Continuation US9901003B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2015-08-26 | Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface |
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US20180132368A1 true US20180132368A1 (en) | 2018-05-10 |
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US15/866,875 Abandoned US20180132368A1 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2018-01-10 | Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface |
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US14/836,018 Expired - Fee Related US9901003B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2015-08-26 | Access device housing with deployable cover for user interface |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN111163604A (en) * | 2020-01-14 | 2020-05-15 | 刘祖高 | Building electrical construction safety device |
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EP3479319A4 (en) * | 2016-06-29 | 2019-05-08 | Visa International Service Association | Method and system for transit processing |
EP3788851A4 (en) | 2018-04-30 | 2021-12-01 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Covers to conceal inner portions of apparatuses |
CN109448273A (en) * | 2018-10-12 | 2019-03-08 | 深圳市中科智诚科技有限公司 | A kind of safe and reliable ATM machine based on block chain technology |
CN115559643A (en) * | 2018-12-29 | 2023-01-03 | 联想(北京)有限公司 | Sliding door device and electronic apparatus |
JP2022070069A (en) * | 2020-10-26 | 2022-05-12 | グローリー株式会社 | Currency processing device and currency processing method |
US11547771B2 (en) * | 2021-02-17 | 2023-01-10 | Xerox Corporation | Self-sanitizing touchscreen cover |
WO2023043462A1 (en) * | 2021-09-20 | 2023-03-23 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Doors and magnetic locks |
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US8831970B2 (en) * | 2000-08-24 | 2014-09-09 | Martin Herman Weik, III | Virtual attendant system and parking management system |
US20060139148A1 (en) * | 2004-12-23 | 2006-06-29 | Faro Todd J | Method, apparatus and system for controlling access to a cabinet |
US7457204B1 (en) * | 2007-04-06 | 2008-11-25 | Bradley Winters | Alarm clock with AM/FM radio, CD player, portable audio storage device docking input, battery backup, and keypad with folding cover |
CN101873773A (en) * | 2009-04-24 | 2010-10-27 | 深圳富泰宏精密工业有限公司 | Portable electronic device |
US8922493B2 (en) * | 2010-09-19 | 2014-12-30 | Christine Hana Kim | Apparatus and method for automatic enablement of a rear-face entry in a mobile device |
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2015
- 2015-08-26 US US14/836,018 patent/US9901003B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN111163604A (en) * | 2020-01-14 | 2020-05-15 | 刘祖高 | Building electrical construction safety device |
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US9901003B2 (en) | 2018-02-20 |
US20170064855A1 (en) | 2017-03-02 |
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