US3764859A - Electronic lock apparatus - Google Patents

Electronic lock apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US3764859A
US3764859A US3764859DA US3764859A US 3764859 A US3764859 A US 3764859A US 3764859D A US3764859D A US 3764859DA US 3764859 A US3764859 A US 3764859A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
electronic
signal
coded
tumblers
lock
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
C Wood
E Wydro
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US3764859A publication Critical patent/US3764859A/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B49/00—Electric permutation locks; Circuits therefor ; Mechanical aspects of electronic locks; Mechanical keys therefor
    • E05B49/002—Keys with mechanical characteristics, e.g. notches, perforations, opaque marks
    • E05B49/004—Keys with mechanical characteristics, e.g. notches, perforations, opaque marks actuating mechanical switches
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
    • E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
    • E05B49/00—Electric permutation locks; Circuits therefor ; Mechanical aspects of electronic locks; Mechanical keys therefor
    • E05B49/002—Keys with mechanical characteristics, e.g. notches, perforations, opaque marks
    • E05B49/006—Keys with mechanical characteristics, e.g. notches, perforations, opaque marks actuating opto-electronic devices
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S70/00—Locks
    • Y10S70/51—Light sensitive control means
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T70/00—Locks
    • Y10T70/70—Operating mechanism
    • Y10T70/7051—Using a powered device [e.g., motor]
    • Y10T70/7062—Electrical type [e.g., solenoid]
    • Y10T70/7068—Actuated after correct combination recognized [e.g., numerical, alphabetical, or magnet[s] pattern]
    • Y10T70/7073—Including use of a key
    • Y10T70/7079—Key rotated [e.g., Eurocylinder]
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T70/00—Locks
    • Y10T70/70—Operating mechanism
    • Y10T70/7441—Key
    • Y10T70/7486—Single key
    • Y10T70/7508—Tumbler type
    • Y10T70/7559—Cylinder type
    • Y10T70/7655—Cylinder attaching or mounting means

Definitions

  • An electronic lock apparatus includes a tumbler key [22] Filed: May 30 1972 mechanism having tumblers as part of a series of switches for setting a first coded electronic signal in PP response to the insertion of a key. A second code means connected to the switches generates a second [52] Us.
  • This invention relates to an electronic lock apparatus. More particularly, this invention relates to an electronic lock apparatus that operates only upon the generation of proper electronic codes.
  • Such locks employ a coded electronic signal generated upon the insertion of a key into a key mechanism.
  • the coded signal thus generated is used to initiate a mechanism for driving the lock bolt.
  • the coded signal may be an analog or even binary. Examples of such locks are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,392,558, 3,411,046, 3,408,838, 3,415,087 and 3,392,559. Further patent references reflecting such technology can be found in the U.S. Patent Office classified in Class 340, Communications, Electrical; subclass 63, Theft or Burglar; subclass 64, Ignition Circuit Controled; and subclass 147, Selective.
  • the present invention improves upon such technology by providing an electronic lock apparatus that cannot be picked either by mechanical or electrical means.
  • the lock mechanism incorporates the concept of coded electronic signals.
  • the present invention uses at least two coded electronic signals.
  • the first coded electronic signal is set by the insertion of a key into a tumbler mechanism.
  • the second coded electronic signal is set only upon the generation of a proper first coded electronic signal.
  • the lock bolt mechanism can be operated only upon the generation of a proper second coded electronic signal.
  • the second electronic coded signal has sufficient permutations that it cannot be readily decoded except by extensive effort.
  • the invention also provides means to prevent the setting of such code except by the insertion of the proper key.
  • Mechanical picking of the lock is prevented by providing a timer that disables the entire lock mechanism if the first coded signal is not set within a predetermined time frame.
  • means are provided for preventing persons from manufacturing a key by first feeling the proper key settings and then making the key on machinery available for that purpose. This is accomplished by splitting the tumblers into two or more sections such that the cylinder of the lock may rotate at any one of a large number of tumbler positions. However, only one of such positions will set the first coded electronic signal.
  • the present invention has particular use as an antitheft mechanism for automotive vehicles.
  • the electronic lock apparatus is in no way intended to be limited to use only with such vehicles.
  • the typical automobile and other vehicles incorporate a combined lock and starting switch mounted on the steering column.
  • the lock mechanism In its off position and with the key removed, the lock mechanism disables the electrical system for the automobiles engine and also immobilizes the steering mechanism.
  • locking mechanisms can be readily removed by force and the electrical system switched on by a technique known as jumping.
  • a vehicle is disabled not only by the means described above, but also by mechanically disabling or locking a part of the vehicle that is not readily accessible to the thief attempting to steal an automobile in a street, parking lot or other place accessible to the public.
  • an automobile can be disabled by cutting off the flow of oil through the transmission.
  • the apparatus for enabling the flow of oil through the transmission can be located therein and hence would be accessible only by entry into the transmission using a great amount of effort.
  • the lock apparatus described above is used to operate this inaccessible enabling-disabling mechanism. Since such mechanism is not readily accessible and since the lock mechanism cannot be picked, the stealing or unauthorized removal of automobiles by any means except physically towing the vehicle is prevented. Since most vehicles are stolen by forceably removing the lock mechanism and jumping the ignition system as described above, all within a period of five minutes, the present invention should greatly reduce the number of vehicles stolen each year.
  • FIG. 1 is a partial sectional view of the electronic lock apparatus in accordance with the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 is a partial transverse sectional view taken along the line 22 in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is a partial sectional view taken along the line 3-3 in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4A is a portion of the electronic circuitry used in the present invention, shown schematically.
  • FIG. 4B is the remaining portion of the electronic circuitry.
  • FIG. 5 is a partial transverse sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 a partial view of a modified cylinder lock designated generally as 10.
  • the cylinder lock 10 includes a rotatably mounted plug or cylinder 12 in which is formed the keyway 14.
  • a key 16 is shown positioned in the keyway 14.
  • the cylinder lock 10 described herein may be associated with the steering column of an automobile. As such, it unlocks the steering column and permits the wheels to be turned from inside the automobile. In addition, the continued rotation of the cylinder 12 engages switches which permit the vehicle to be started by energizing th ignition. All of the foregoing is conventional and therefore need not be described in detail.
  • the lock could, for example, be used in a door.
  • the door referred to herein could be a closure for any building, apartment, safe, cabinet, box or any other place where locks are used to prevent the opening of a structure.
  • the lock could be used in any mechanical mechanism in accordance with the principles described herein with respect to disabling an automotive vehicle.
  • each of the pin tumbler sets 18-26 is divided into four segments so as to provide three interfaces. Reading from bottom to top, the first three segments are delineated by the letters a, b, and c.
  • pin tumbler set 20 includes segments 20a, 20b, and 20c.
  • the fourth segment of each set 18-20 is elongated and designated 48, 50, 52, 54 and 56.
  • the purpose for dividing each of the sets of pin tumblers 18-26 into segments is to prevent determination of the initial (first) code by measuring the position of each tumbler that would permit the cylinder 12 to turn and then using such measured positions to manufacture a key on machines available for that purpose. This would be possible if conventional two-piece tumblers having only one interface were used.
  • the illustrated embodiment shows five sets of pin tumblers. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that locks with more or less sets of pin tumblers can be used. A six pin tumbler lock is conventionally available as is a four pin tumbler lock. An even larger or smaller number of pin tumblers can be used as desired.
  • an unauthorized attempt to mechanically pick the lock will result in the cylinder 12 being more readily rotated.
  • this will permit the steering column to be unlatched and also, presumably but not necessarily, permit the automobile engine to be started.
  • This is allowed to occur because the unauthorized starting (jumping) of an automotive engine remains reasonably easy to accomplish regardless of the protective devices that have been incorporated heretofore.
  • starting the automotive engine does not necessarily mean that the vehicle can be operated.
  • the only way that the automobile can be operated is to have the proper initial code which in turn unlatches a vehicle disabling mechanism located at a part of the vehicle that is not readily accessible to a person making unauthorized use of the vehicle.
  • Still another method of disabling the vehicle is to shut off the fuel flow to the carburetor.
  • the vehicle could be moved only as far as the fuel in the carburetor reservoir permits.
  • this approach is readily beaten by an unauthorized user who could tap a supplemental fuel supply into the fuel line at the carburetor.
  • Still another approach would be to prevent fuel flow from the carburetor jets. This could be accomplished but would require complete redesign of the carburetors in use on vehicles today.
  • One approach which appears to accomplish the purposes of the invention is to bypass the automatic transmission oil using a solenoid controlled valve.
  • the solenoid valve is properly actuated by the receipt and decoding of a proper code, oil does not flow in the correct manner through the transmission to permit the vehicle to be moved under its own power.
  • the advantage of this is that it requires little or no retooling, except perhaps for the outer housings of the transmission.
  • the environment inside of a transmission is relatively cool (no more than about 200F) and therefore is not particularly hostile to a solenoid valve and electrical decoding circuits used with the present invention. Still further, the interior of a transmission is not accessible except by extensive effort and a properly equipped shop.
  • the pin tumbler sets 18-26 are used to generate an initial code.
  • This initial code is represented by whether a series of switches complete an electrical circuit or not when a proper key is inserted into the cylinder.
  • These switches designated 118, I20, 122, 124 and 126 are shown schematically in FIG. 4A. They correspond directly to the pin tumbler sets 18, 20, 22, 24 and 26.
  • pin tumbler set 18 is illustrated as switch 118 in FIG. 4A, and so forth.
  • each switch is designated in FIG. 4A by the letters N.O. or NC.
  • N.O. is used to indicate that a switch does not complete a circuit when the proper key is inserted into the cylinder 12 while the designation NC. is used to indicate that a switch does complete a circuit.
  • NC. is used to indicate that a switch does complete a circuit. In the circuit illustrated in FIG. 4A, the circuit is completed to ground.
  • switch pin tumbler set
  • circuit for a particular key is predetermined by the lock manufacturer, but such determination is wholly arbitrary. Moreover, it is varied from key to key. As such, the combination of switches 118-l26 (pin tumbler sets 18-26) represents the initiating means for generating a first coded electronic signal.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown a lock construction whereby the segments of the pin tumblers can be used to complete or not complete an electrical circuit.
  • eact set of pin tumbler slide in aligned openings formed in the cylinder 12 and lock housing 38 when the cylinder lock is in its locked position.
  • the opening in which the sets of pin tumblers slide within the lock housing 38 is formed by an insulator 40.
  • the pin tumbler opening 39 is lined with a conductive sleeve 42 that extends to a point adjacent to but spaced away from the interface between lock housing 38 and cylinder 12. The spacing is provided by a collar 44 made of an insulating material.
  • Conductor 46 connects the sleeve 42 to the electronic circuit, and the cylinder 12 is electrically connected to ground. Therefore, a circuit can be completed to ground through the pin tumblers depending upon whether a particular segment or segments of pin tumblers bridging the space between sleeve 42 and cylinder 12 as defined by collar 44 are conductive or not conductive. Since the switch 118 is not connected to ground when the key 16 is inserted into the lock, the segment 18c and 18b are made of non-conductive material. However, the switch 122 is to be connected to ground when the proper key 16 is positioned in the lock. This is accomplished by providing the segment 22c and 22b with at least an outer conductive coating to complete the circuit across the collar 44 associated with the pin tumbler set 22.
  • the segments of the pin tumblers may be made of an insulating material, such as plastic.
  • Those pin tumbler segments that are to complete the circuit and thus define an N.C. switch may be made of copper or brass or may be plastic coated with a thin layer of conductive material.
  • other combinations of conductive and non-conductive materials may be used to accomplish the same purpose.
  • the housing 38' supports by way of example, a pin tumbler set 18' made of plastic or brass, as desired.
  • the pin tumbler set 18 is topped by an elongated segment 48' whose function in relation to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is described in more detail hereinafter.
  • An opening 58' is formed near the top of the elongated sgement 48' and defines a means for passing electromagnetic radiation from an emitter 60' to a photodetector 62'.
  • the emitter 60 is, by way of example, a light emitting diode which emits infrared radiation.
  • the photodetector 62' is a transistor device sensitive to infrared radiation.
  • the photodetector 62 will receive or not receive radiation depending upon the presence or absence of an opening 58' in the elongated segment 48'.
  • an electronic switch based upon the detection of electromagnetic radiation, has been provided.
  • the pins can take other forms for providing switches.
  • Mechanical switch contacts can be used.
  • Another example would be to use magnetic detectors such as magnetic diodes, Hall devices, or small reed switches.
  • each of the switches 118-126 is connected to one of six inputs to a NAND gate 64.
  • the well known function of a NAND gate is that it will provide a logical O at its output when all of its inputs have a logical I applied thereto.
  • each of the switches 120, 122 and 126 provides the requisite logical I at the input of NAND gate 64.
  • Switch 118 is connected to inverter 66 which inverts the logical 0 generated by that switch and converts it to a logical I Inverter 68 performs the same function for N.O. switch 124.
  • Inverters 66 and 68 are remotely located away from the switches 118-126 and preferably encapsulated together with NAND gate 64 so that physical inspection of the switches would not reveal which defines an N.C. or N.O. switch. Indeed, it is proposed that the inverters 66 and 68 together with the NAND gate 64 be made in a single integrated circuit chip so that even if access to the chip could be had, it would be impossible to tell which were the N.O. switches and which were the NC. switches.
  • the switches 118-126 provide five of the siz inputs to the NAND gate 64.
  • the sixth input is provided by a timer described hereinafter.
  • the timers function is to provide a logical I at the NAND gate 64 only for a limited period (hereinafter sometimes described as a time frame). If the NAND gate 64 does not have all logical Is within a predetermined time frame, then the timer maintains a logical at its input and only a logical l appears at the output of the NAND gate 64. This disables the lock apparatus as hereinafter described.
  • NAND gate 64 The output of NAND gate 64 is connected to the input of NAND gate 70 which functions as an inverter to invert the output of NAND gate 64 from a logical O to a logical l or vice versa.
  • NAND gates are readily available and therefore have been chosen to illustrate the invention. However, AND gates could be used with equal facility. This applies throughout the entire description of the invention.
  • the output of the NAND gate 70 is connected to a bus as 72 which in turn is connected to all of the encode gates designated generally as 74.
  • the presence of a logical l at one of the terminals of the encode gates 74 enables all of the gates and results in the generation of a second coded electronic signal.
  • the encode gates 74 are also NAND gates in the illustrated embodiment. However, they could be diode gates or any other gate that provides the requisite logic output.
  • Each of the other terminals of the encode gates is provided with either a ground or an open circuit selected completely at random and in a non-repeating fashion. Whether a particular gate is connected to ground or to an open circuit is determined by the lock manufacturer and this in turn determines the second coded electronic signal.
  • the number of permutations of the code for any set of encode gates is mathematically determined by the number of gates.
  • the number of permutations for particular codes is equal to 2 where n represents the number of gates. Thus, for either gates there are 256 permutations. For sixteen gates there would be 65,536 permutations.
  • the number of encode gates illustrated is eight. However, the number of such gates may be made larger or smaller. increasing the number of gates increases the amount of security.
  • the encode gates 74 are preferably encapsulated with the NAND gates 64 and 70 as well as the inverters 66 and 68. Indeed, they may be manufactured as part of one integrated circuit chip with such NAND gates and inverters.
  • the chip is preferably encapsulated in a plastic material, such as epoxy. It may be physically located adjacent to cylinder lock 10.
  • the purpose of the encode gates is to prevent someone from tapping wires to look back into the electronic system to determine the first code.
  • anyone who taps into the wires leading from the output of the encode gates 74 get no electronic information that would permit the lock to be picked. Everything looks electronically alike.
  • the conductors connected to the outputs of the encode gates 74 are connected to a decoder located at some remote, inaccessible position in a vehicle or other device or structure being protected by the lock apparatus. If desired, dummy wires could be incorporated in random amounts to prevent even knowing the number of code permutations by counting the wires.
  • the timer is also illustrated in FIG. 4A.
  • the timer consists of five series connected switches 180, 182, 184, 186 and 188. Each of these switches is operatively associated with the pin tumbler sets 18, 20, 22, 24 and 26 as hereinafter described.
  • the switches 180-188 connect the input of NAND gate to ground. Should any one of these switches be opened, the input of NAND gate 90 goes from a logical 0 to a logical 1. Therefore, the output goes from a logical l to a logical 0. Stated otherwise, the output of NAND gate 90 is normally a logical l, but it reverses and goes to a logical 0 should any one of the switches 180-188 be opened.
  • the switches 180-188 are associated with pin tumbler sets 18-26. Accordingly, should any one of the pin tumblers 26 be disturbed, such as is necessary to mechanically pick the lock, then one of the switches 180-188 will be opened.
  • NAND gate 90 The output of NAND gate 90 is connected to an inverter 92 in the form of another NAND gate.
  • NAND gate 92 therefore functions to invert a logical 0 to a logical l when any one of the switches 180-188 is opened.
  • NAND gate 92 acts as a switch in that it allows the capacitor 94 to commence charging up to the applied voltage which, in this case is 5 volts applied through resistor 96.
  • Resistor 98 couples the output of NAND gate 92 to capacitor 94.
  • Resistor 100 couples capacitor 94 to the input of OR gate 102. Therefore, the presence of'a logical 0 at the output of NAND gate 92 when all of the switches -188 are closed, clamps the capacitor 94 to ground.
  • OR gate 102 functions as a level sensor. In particular, it is a Schmitt trigger circuit.
  • the level at which it is set is substantially below the illustrative 5 volts applied to capacitor 94. it could, for example, be set to generate a pulsed output signal at 2 volts. Therefore, when the voltage on capacitor 94 goes above the preset voltage, both the input and output of OR gate 102 goes from a logical O to a logical l.
  • the amount of time for this to occur depends upon the RC time constant as determined by the values of resistor 96 and capacitor 94. Preferably, it is set at between 1 to 5 seconds.
  • NAND gate 106 is connected to the sixth input of NAND gate 64. It is a precondition to the operation of the lock apparatus that all logical ls appear at the input of NAND gate 64. Hence, the appearance of a logical 0 at the termination of the time frame disables the entire electronic circuit. If this does not occur, then -a logical I will appear at the output of NAND gate 90 and hence also at the input of NAND gate 106. This means the NAND gate 106 will have a logical 0 at its output.
  • the advantage of the foregoing is that even if an intruder should stumble upon the correct first code, it would take more time by mechanical picking than is allowed by the time frame. Once the time frame is exceeded, the timer maintains a logical 0 at one of the inputs of NAND gate 64 and hence disables the lock apparatus.
  • the timer is reset at any time by withdrawing the key or any other mechanism that is disturbing the pins. This allows the pins to again connect the input of NAND gate 90 to ground and hence reset the timer by clamping capacitor 94 to ground. This procedure permits an authorized user to the lock who happens to fumble with the key to withdraw the key and re-insert it within the time frame.
  • all logical ls will apear at the input of NAND gate 64 and a logical 1 will be applied to the bus 72.
  • the time frame is chosen to be long enough to permit the proper key to be inserted into the cylinder 12, but to prevent mechanical picking of the lock. As previously indicated, a preferred time frame would be between 1 and 5 seconds.
  • a logical 0 is connected by conductor 108 from the output of NAND gate 64 to the other input of NAND gate 106.
  • This logic 0 provides a logical l at the output of NAND gate 106 and hence locks out the timer regardless of the logical condition of the output of OR gate 102.
  • FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 illustrate how this is accomplished.
  • each pin timbler set 18, 20, 22, 24 and 26 includes an elongated segment 48, 50, 52, 54 and 56, respectively.
  • Each elongated segment includes a bar designated respectively as 128, 130, 132, 134 and 136 which projects upwardly through an opening in a printed circuit 138 as illustrated in FIG. 3.
  • each bar 128-136 is provided with a projecting flange 140, 142, 144, 146 and 148 respectively. At least the bottom of each flange is made of an electrically conductive material such as copper.
  • each of the flanges 140-148 rests on the top surface of the printed circuit 138.
  • the printed circuit 138 is divided into conductive segments 150, 152, 154, 156, 158 and 160. Accordingly, the conductive flanges complete a circuit to ground through the segments 150-160 when the key 16 is withdrawn.
  • any one of the pin tumbler sets 18-26 be raised either by the insertion ofa key or by a mechanical pick, so will one of the flanges 140-148. Accordingly, the circuit through the printed circuit board 138 will be broken and the timer will commence functioning as described above.
  • the insertion of a proper key into the lock results in the presentation by NAND gate 70 of a logical l on bus 72. This in turn results in the generation of a second coded electronic signal on the output lines of the NAND gates of encode gates 74.
  • This signal coded electronic signal is conducted to the decoder schown schematically in FIG. 4B.
  • the decoder is located within an inaccessible part of the device being protected, such as the transmission of an automobile. It too is preferably an encapsulated integrated circuit chip incorporating the electronic elements schematically illustrated in FIG. 4B.
  • All of the conductors which carry a logical 0 are connected to inverters 204, 206 and 208, for example which invert the logical 0 to a logical 1.
  • inverters 204, 206 and 208 for example which invert the logical 0 to a logical 1.
  • all logical ls appear on the buss 200.
  • the presence of all logical ls on the bus 200 result in a logical 0 at the output of NAND gate 202.
  • This is inverted to a logical l by the NAND gate 210.
  • NAND gate 212 inverts the signal back to a logical 0 thereby causing NAND gate 214 to have a logical l at its output.
  • This logical l is conducted to the base of transistor 216 which functions as a switch.
  • Transistor 216 controls solenoid 218.
  • solenoid 218 controls a mechanism which enables the device being protected. For example, it could control a valve that permits oil to properly flow through the transmission and permit the vehicle to be operated. It could also operate the bolt of a lock in other devices. Thus, the lock apparatus has completed its basic function.
  • the solenoid 218 is but one form of device that can be used to lock or unlock the device being protected.
  • NAND gate 212 functions as an enable detector. It may be omitted from the circuit if an enabling function is not required.
  • the conductor 220 connects one of the inputs of NAND gate 212 back to the lock. It is run as an extra line together with the conductors carrying the second encoded signal.
  • At the lock electronic means are provided to place a logical 1 on conductor 220 and hence at the input of NAND gate 212 only when the vehicle ignition system is on. This provides added security by requiring yet another act before the solenoid 218 can be energized. Stated otherwise, solenoid 218 cannot be operated unless a logical 1 appears on line 220. In the case of an automotive vehicle, this could be the switching on of the ignition system. This is just one more act which must be accomplished if the lock system is to be picked.
  • the foregoing invention effectively prevents the unauthorized use or theft of an automobile from a street, parking lot, driveway or other open area where a vehicle has been parked. In accomplishing this, operator (driver) requirements remain unchanged. Thus, the starting and driving procedures for the vehicle are unmodified.
  • Yet another advantage of the present invention is that its cost of implementation is comparatively low, not more than a few dollars. Moreover, it has the advantage of simplicity and reliability, nor does it jeopardize the safety of the occupant. Still further, it does not affect the performance of the engine or any antipollution devices associated therewith.
  • the electronic lock apparatus described herein does not require the use of a rotatable key cylinder. That much of the lock is conventional and is incorporated to preserve known habits. It should be apparent that the insertion ofa key and dis placement of the tumblers is sufficient to operate the lock. Thus, the lock could be incorporated into a system which does not use a rotatable key cylinder. For example, the insertion of the key could be used to switch on a hidden motor to slide a bolt into or out of engagement with a jamb. Such a device may have utility in the home to better secure doors or windows.
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a tumbler mechanism
  • said tumbler mechanism including tumblers and electronic switches which are opened or closed in response to the position of the tumblers;
  • said electronic switches defining a first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • timer means for disabling the lock apparatus if a first proper coded electronic signal is not generated within a predetermined time frame
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a tumbler mechanism having a plurality of tumblers therein;
  • each of said tumblers being divided into three or more segments for permitting said tumbler mechanism to be operated in more than one position of said tumblers;
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • said first code means including electronic switches for setting the first coded electronic signal
  • said electronic switches comprising said tumblers and conductive or non-conductive segments thereof for completing or not completing an electronic circuit depending on the position of said tumblers;
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a tumbler mechanism having a plurality of tumblers therein;
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • said first code means including electronic switches for setting the first coded electronic signal
  • said electronic switches including said tumblers for completing or not completing an electronic circuit depending on the position of said tumblers;
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a tumbler mechanism having a plurality of tumblers therein;
  • timer means for disabling the lock apparatus if a proper first coded electronic signal is not generated within a predetermined time frame
  • said first code means including electronic switches for setting the first coded electronic signal
  • said electronic switches including tumblers for completing or not completing an electronic circuit depending on the position of said tumblers;
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a tumbler mechanism having a plurality of tumblers therein;
  • At least one of said tumblers being divided into three or more segments for permitting said tumber mechanism to be operated in more than one position of said tumblers;
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • timer means for disabling the lock apparatus if the proper coded electronic signal is not generated within a predetermined time frame
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal
  • electronic means responsive to said second coded electronic signal to decode said second coded signal and generate an initiating signal for initiating the operation of a lock means.
  • An electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a non-rotatable key cylinder and at least one tumbler in said cylinder;
  • said tumbler being unitary and displaceable in response to the insertion of a key into said cylinder;
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to displacement of said tumbler
  • said first code means includes at least one electronic switch for setting the first coded electronic signal, said electronic switch being responsive to the displacement of said tumbler by a key means.
  • An electronic lock apparatus in accordance with claim 9 including timer means for disabling the lock apparatus if a proper first coded electronic signal is not generated within a predetermined time frame.
  • a electronic lock apparatus comprising:
  • a. key means including a tumbular mechanism having a plurality of tumblers therein;
  • At least one of said tumblers being divided into three or more segments for permitting said tumbler mechanism to be operated in more than one position of said tumblers;
  • first code means for generating a first coded electronic signal in response to operation of the key means
  • second code means connected to the first code means for generating a second independently determinable coded electronic signal in response only to the generation of the first electronic coded signal

Landscapes

  • Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
US3764859D 1972-05-30 1972-05-30 Electronic lock apparatus Expired - Lifetime US3764859A (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US25756272A 1972-05-30 1972-05-30

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US3764859A true US3764859A (en) 1973-10-09

Family

ID=22976784

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US3764859D Expired - Lifetime US3764859A (en) 1972-05-30 1972-05-30 Electronic lock apparatus

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (1) US3764859A (fi)
JP (1) JPS4962300A (fi)
DE (1) DE2327363C3 (fi)
FR (1) FR2187001A5 (fi)
GB (1) GB1438673A (fi)
IT (1) IT986379B (fi)
SE (1) SE390831B (fi)

Cited By (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3967166A (en) * 1973-04-25 1976-06-29 Wei Ching Yeu Electronic lock
US4209709A (en) * 1978-09-05 1980-06-24 BBJ Laboratories Anti-theft ignition system
US4355830A (en) * 1980-02-25 1982-10-26 Cni Incorporated Electrical locking mechanism
EP0064232A1 (en) * 1981-04-30 1982-11-10 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Electronic door locking system for automotive vehicles
US4390758A (en) * 1981-01-16 1983-06-28 Hendrickson Max S Key-actuated electrical lock
US4455588A (en) * 1981-04-30 1984-06-19 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Electronical unlocking method and system
US4463349A (en) * 1981-10-02 1984-07-31 Nissan Motor Company, Ltd. Electronic lock system with audible entry monitor
US4477806A (en) * 1981-10-02 1984-10-16 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Mischief preventive electronic lock device
US4486806A (en) * 1981-04-30 1984-12-04 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Electronic door locking system for an automotive vehicle
US4489359A (en) * 1982-01-28 1984-12-18 Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho Card key switch
US4631940A (en) * 1985-03-29 1986-12-30 Sargent & Greenleaf, Inc. Digital readout combination lock dial assembly
US4638292A (en) * 1981-08-26 1987-01-20 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Theft prevention system in an automotive keyless entry system with automatic door locking
US4794268A (en) * 1986-06-20 1988-12-27 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Automotive keyless entry system incorporating portable radio self-identifying code signal transmitter
US4873530A (en) * 1985-09-30 1989-10-10 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Antenna device in automotive keyless entry system
US4901545A (en) * 1987-12-28 1990-02-20 Rising Star Technologies (A Partnership) Self-contained electromechanical locking device
US4973958A (en) * 1985-02-21 1990-11-27 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Keyless entry system for automotive devices antenna device allowing low power radio signal communication
US5111199A (en) * 1985-08-12 1992-05-05 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Pocket-portable radio code signal transmitter for automotive keyless entry system
US5743380A (en) * 1996-12-02 1998-04-28 Augat Inc. Rotary door lock switch assembly and method for manufacturing same
US5836187A (en) * 1994-06-03 1998-11-17 Strattec Security Corporation Tumberless automobile ignition lock
US20030234579A1 (en) * 2002-06-25 2003-12-25 Janssen David C. Vehicle coded ignition lock using a mabnetic sensor
US20100077809A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2010-04-01 Honeywell International Inc. Method for identifying keys for controlling locks
US20100139340A1 (en) * 2008-12-04 2010-06-10 Honeywell International Inc. Lock-bumping and lock-picking detection
US10030416B1 (en) * 2017-01-25 2018-07-24 International Business Machines Corporation Lock bypass detection

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS5382397U (fi) * 1976-12-09 1978-07-07
JPS54103198A (en) * 1978-01-30 1979-08-14 Toshiya Hiratsuka Key discriminating device
AT373336B (de) * 1982-04-08 1984-01-10 Grundmann Gmbh Geb Zylinderschloss
DE3701576A1 (de) * 1986-02-05 1987-10-01 Bauer Kaba Ag Schliess-system
DE4220911A1 (de) * 1992-06-25 1994-01-05 Akram Memar Tehrani Mechanisches Code-geschütztes Schloß mit Alarmanlage

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2905926A (en) * 1954-01-28 1959-09-22 Douglas G Aid Automatic charging system
US3610943A (en) * 1970-05-11 1971-10-05 Trevor O Jones Vehicle operation inhibitor control system
US3639906A (en) * 1968-10-14 1972-02-01 Peter R Tritsch Key identification system having key code control
US3641396A (en) * 1970-05-21 1972-02-08 Alarm Lock Co Inc Electrically actuated switch combinated operating device for permitting operation of latches and other mechanisms

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2905926A (en) * 1954-01-28 1959-09-22 Douglas G Aid Automatic charging system
US3639906A (en) * 1968-10-14 1972-02-01 Peter R Tritsch Key identification system having key code control
US3610943A (en) * 1970-05-11 1971-10-05 Trevor O Jones Vehicle operation inhibitor control system
US3641396A (en) * 1970-05-21 1972-02-08 Alarm Lock Co Inc Electrically actuated switch combinated operating device for permitting operation of latches and other mechanisms

Cited By (30)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3967166A (en) * 1973-04-25 1976-06-29 Wei Ching Yeu Electronic lock
US4209709A (en) * 1978-09-05 1980-06-24 BBJ Laboratories Anti-theft ignition system
US4355830A (en) * 1980-02-25 1982-10-26 Cni Incorporated Electrical locking mechanism
US4390758A (en) * 1981-01-16 1983-06-28 Hendrickson Max S Key-actuated electrical lock
US4455588A (en) * 1981-04-30 1984-06-19 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Electronical unlocking method and system
US4419712A (en) * 1981-04-30 1983-12-06 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Electronic door locking system for an automotive vehicle
US4486806A (en) * 1981-04-30 1984-12-04 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Electronic door locking system for an automotive vehicle
EP0064232A1 (en) * 1981-04-30 1982-11-10 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Electronic door locking system for automotive vehicles
US4638292A (en) * 1981-08-26 1987-01-20 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Theft prevention system in an automotive keyless entry system with automatic door locking
US4463349A (en) * 1981-10-02 1984-07-31 Nissan Motor Company, Ltd. Electronic lock system with audible entry monitor
US4477806A (en) * 1981-10-02 1984-10-16 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Mischief preventive electronic lock device
US4489359A (en) * 1982-01-28 1984-12-18 Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho Card key switch
US4973958A (en) * 1985-02-21 1990-11-27 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Keyless entry system for automotive devices antenna device allowing low power radio signal communication
US4631940A (en) * 1985-03-29 1986-12-30 Sargent & Greenleaf, Inc. Digital readout combination lock dial assembly
US5111199A (en) * 1985-08-12 1992-05-05 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Pocket-portable radio code signal transmitter for automotive keyless entry system
US4873530A (en) * 1985-09-30 1989-10-10 Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Antenna device in automotive keyless entry system
US4794268A (en) * 1986-06-20 1988-12-27 Nissan Motor Company, Limited Automotive keyless entry system incorporating portable radio self-identifying code signal transmitter
US4901545A (en) * 1987-12-28 1990-02-20 Rising Star Technologies (A Partnership) Self-contained electromechanical locking device
US5836187A (en) * 1994-06-03 1998-11-17 Strattec Security Corporation Tumberless automobile ignition lock
US5743380A (en) * 1996-12-02 1998-04-28 Augat Inc. Rotary door lock switch assembly and method for manufacturing same
US20030234579A1 (en) * 2002-06-25 2003-12-25 Janssen David C. Vehicle coded ignition lock using a mabnetic sensor
US6958551B2 (en) 2002-06-25 2005-10-25 Strattec Security Corporation Vehicle coded ignition lock using a magnetic sensor
US20100077809A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2010-04-01 Honeywell International Inc. Method for identifying keys for controlling locks
US7941934B2 (en) * 2008-09-30 2011-05-17 Honeywell International Inc. Method for identifying keys for controlling locks
US20100139340A1 (en) * 2008-12-04 2010-06-10 Honeywell International Inc. Lock-bumping and lock-picking detection
US7958647B2 (en) * 2008-12-04 2011-06-14 Honeywell International Inc. Lock-bumping and lock-picking detection
US10030416B1 (en) * 2017-01-25 2018-07-24 International Business Machines Corporation Lock bypass detection
US20180209172A1 (en) * 2017-01-25 2018-07-26 International Business Machines Corporation Lock bypass detection
US10167655B2 (en) * 2017-01-25 2019-01-01 International Business Machines Corporation Lock bypass detection
US10927567B2 (en) 2017-01-25 2021-02-23 International Business Machines Corporation Lock bypass detection

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JPS4962300A (fi) 1974-06-17
IT986379B (it) 1975-01-30
GB1438673A (en) 1976-06-09
SE390831B (sv) 1977-01-24
FR2187001A5 (fi) 1974-01-11
DE2327363A1 (de) 1973-12-13
DE2327363C3 (de) 1980-10-09
DE2327363B2 (de) 1980-02-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US3764859A (en) Electronic lock apparatus
US4438426A (en) Electronic key anti-theft system
US4327353A (en) Security system
US4209709A (en) Anti-theft ignition system
JP2550309B2 (ja) 自動車の無許可運転防止装置
US3634880A (en) Automobile antitheft apparatus
US5491470A (en) Vehicle security apparatus and method
US5186031A (en) Self-destruct electrical interlock for cylinder lock and key set
US4486806A (en) Electronic door locking system for an automotive vehicle
US4755799A (en) Microcomputer controlled combination lock security system
US6078265A (en) Fingerprint identification security system
US4697171A (en) Electronic lock and key
US4682062A (en) Anti-theft system for motor vehicles
US4546266A (en) Magnetically actuated interlock
US3756341A (en) Vehicle anti-theft system
US5412378A (en) Antitheft protection of devices
JPS5981239A (ja) 自動車用盗難防止装置
US3803551A (en) Vehicle operator identification system
US4435649A (en) Automotive control circuit
US5410898A (en) Lock device capable of activating an electrical anti-theft system
GB2108189A (en) Anti theft device for motor vehicle
USRE33873E (en) Microcomputer controlled combination lock security system
US2519940A (en) Signal provision for locks
US3714628A (en) Vehicle electrical locking and alarm system
US9604596B2 (en) Ignition lock mechanism