WO2015004465A2

WO2015004465A2 - Key safe assembly and key safe management system

Info

Publication number: WO2015004465A2
Application number: PCT/GB2014/052102
Authority: WO
Inventors: David White
Original assignee: Loxal Security Limited
Priority date: 2013-07-10
Filing date: 2014-07-10
Publication date: 2015-01-15
Also published as: GB2516070B; GB2516070A; GB201312384D0; WO2015004465A3

Abstract

The present invention concerns a key safe assembly and key safe management system, the assembly (1) comprising: a main body (4); a key drawer (16) housed in said main body; locking means for releasably locking the drawer in said main body; input access means (14) for enabling input of one or more access codes to release the locking means to allow access to the contents of the key drawer; and a data connection interface (15) for uploading and downloading data relating to said access codes. In the system a plurality of electronic lockable key safes are provided for holding keys allowing access to properties at different locations, each key safe having a data connection interface for inputting and retrieval of data relating to access codes and historic use thereof.

Description

Key Safe Assembly and Key Safe Management System

This present invention relates to a key safe assembly and a system for the management of key safes.

In this connection, properties often require regular access from trade's people, professionals etc. This is even more so where the properties are unoccupied for a time, or being let on a regular basis. The management of keys for access to such properties can be extremely time consuming and inefficient causing unnecessary delays and inconvenience. In this regard, keys are generally left with a letting agent or property management company, which provides a set of keys to the relevant party as and when they are required. This requires the relevant party to collect and return the keys when needed, meaning a level of coordination is necessary, particularly when different parties require access to the property. Keeping track of where sets of keys are can be fraught with problems, which are clearly exacerbated when keys are lost or stolen.

Whilst digital key safes already exist that can be attached to, or provided adjacent the property, there are a number of problems which are often experienced with them. Firstly they must normally be secured with screws or bolts that can often be relatively easily worked loose resulting in many boxes disappearing altogether with the keys inside.

Secondly, such boxes are often concealed to prevent removal and are therefore often difficult for genuine authorised users to locate and most importantly they normally have one set code that is given to all users and is open to abuse. Moreover, in certain cases key safes are sited some distance from the locks they will operate, with the keys left loose in the box. The keys are then clearly less secure and users often forget to replace the keys after use causing a problem for the next authorised person.

The current invention seeks to address these problems.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a key safe assembly for a door comprising: a main body; a key drawer housed in said main body; locking means for releasably locking the drawer in said main body; input access means for enabling input of one or more access codes to release the locking means to allow access to the contents of the key drawer; a data connection interface for uploading and downloading data relating to said access codes; and a motion sensor for detecting movement of said door.

Providing a data connection interface at the key safe allows access codes to be securely uploaded to the key safe and information relating to the historical use of the access codes for that key safe to be downloaded for review. In this way, the operational efficiency of the key safe can be improved.

Preferably, the key safe assembly is configured for mounting in a letter box aperture, one or more of the key drawer and the input access means being provided on a forward face of the assembly such that in use, they are accessible through the letterbox aperture. Making use of an existing letterbox aperture means the key safe can be readily and securely installed, without damage to the door. The key safe is also not overtly visible, being behind what appears to be a conventional letterbox flap, thereby enhancing its security and the overall security of the property as it is less apparent that the property is potentially unoccupied . Conveniently, the key safe assembly further comprises mounting means for releasably mounting the assembly in the letterbox aperture, the mounting means comprising a retaining clamp element detachably mounted on a nut element which is threadingly engaged on a bolt extending rearwardly from the main body. Such a mounting means allows the assembly to be readily and securely installed and then removed when no longer required, with no damage to the door. The key safe assembly preferably further comprises a removable storage tray for storing door furniture. The removable storage tray may be mounted on the mounting means by way of a slotted bracket.

The key safe assembly may be configured for mounting using an existing peep hole or door knocker hole, the assembly having a threaded projection facing rearwardly from said main body for insertion through said existing hole and for attaching to a fixing bolt. In this alternative method of mounting, use is made of existing holes in the door. If no such holes exist, they can be drilled and once the assembly is removed, a peep hole, door knocker, or other door furniture can be installed .

In a further embodiment, the key safe assembly may include a clamp comprising a pair of clamping elements that can be secured onto a "D" handle. The clamping elements may have semi-circular indents that can be fastened around a "D" handle by tightening the clamping elements together.

Conveniently, the drawer is slidably received within the main body. The locking means may further comprise a locking cam pivotally mounted on one of the key drawer and the main body, the locking cam being biased into the path of a lock stop member provided on the other of the key drawer and the main body such that on movement of the key drawer from the main body, the locking cam and lock stop member inter-engage to restrict further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body, an activator being activated on receipt of a release signal from the input access means to guide the locking cam out of the path of the lock stop member such that the locking cam can move past the lock stop member to allow further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body.

Preferably, the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the lock stop member have an inclined edge. Such edges promote the interlocking of the locking cam and the lock stop member.

Conveniently, the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the locking stop have one or more of a single inclined knife-edge or a "V" shaped double inclined knife-edge. Use of a "V" shaped edge further assists to ensure interlocking of the locking cam and the lock stop member.

The activator may comprise a piezo activator plunger. Preferably, the locking cam is biased by way of a tension spring tethered to the end of the locking cam on the side of the pivot opposite to that which interlocks with the lock stop.

The key safe assembly may further comprise a cord having a key coupling for securing to a key to be provided in the key drawer, which prevents keys being inadvertently removed from site. The cord may be retractable.

Conveniently, the data connection interface comprises a memory card reader. Data transfer with the key safe may though be carried out wirelessly, using suitable transmitter and receiver equipment. The data connection interface may be provided on a forward face of the assembly. Alternatively, the data connection interface may be provided on a side face of the assembly. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a key safe system comprising : a plurality of electronic lockable key safes for holding keys allowing access to doors at properties at different locations, each key safe having a data connection interface for input and retrieval of data relating to access codes and historic use thereof and a motion sensor for detecting movement of said doors.

A sophisticated coding system allows multiple users access without code duplication and records all usage to provide a recoverable audit trail. Preferably, each said key safe further comprises a controller, which controls which access codes can unlock the key safe.

Conveniently, one or more of the unlock codes are time specific, allowing access only at certain times. The key safe can in this regard operate in a highly sophisticated manner allowing access for different parties only at specified times.

Each key safe may further comprise memory means for storing access codes and details of historic use of said access codes.

Preferably, the key safe system may further comprise a central control; said central control managing the issuance and barring of access codes, and monitoring when said access codes have been used or attempted to be used.

Reviewing use of the access codes will provide detailed information on who used the key to gain access to the property and at what times. Conveniently, said data connection interface comprises a data card reader for uploading and downloading information. Preferably, data is transferred between the central control and each key safe by way of a memory card . Alternative methods may be employed such as wireless technology, with the appropriate equipment.

The key safes may be removably attached within an existing letterbox aperture, thereby avoiding the need to alter or damage the door. Further the key safe is hidden, reducing the perception that the property is empty.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a key safe control process comprising : - providing one or more electronic key safes at one or more locations, each key safe having a lockable compartment for housing one or more keys, access to the compartment being available by inputting one or more predetermined access codes, said key safe having a motion sensor and a memory for holding said one or more access codes and data relating to its historical use; providing a central control centre to generate said access codes, each access code generated by the central control centre being unique to a specific party; collecting data from the memory of one or more of said key safes; and uploading said data to said central control in order to retrieve information on the historical use of each said access code. This process provides an effective way of managing access to a plurality of properties, as well as providing invaluable information relating to the access of such properties.

Preferably, the central control centre further generates one or more access codes, which are time specific, allowing access only at certain times. According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a locking mechanism for use in a key safe assembly, the locking mechanism comprising: - a locking cam arm pivotally mounted on one of a key drawer and a main body, the locking cam arm being biased into the path of a lock stop member provided on the other of the key drawer and the main body such that on movement of the key drawer from the main body, respective ends of the locking cam arm and lock stop member inter-engage to restrict further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body, an activator being activated on receipt of a release signal to guide the locking cam arm out of the path of the lock stop member such that the respective ends of the locking cam and the lock stop member can move past one another to allow further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body.

The respective ends of the locking cam and/or the lock stop member may have an inclined edge for promoting the interlocking of the locking cam and the lock stop member. Preferably, the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the locking stop have one or more of a single inclined knife- edge or a "V" shaped double inclined knife-edge.

Conveniently, the locking cam arm has a slot for receiving a pivot member, the slot allowing limited lateral movement of the locking cam arm.

The activator may comprise a plunger that projects outwardly to engage a cam head provided on the locking cam arm and may further comprise a piezo activator plunger.

Preferably, the locking cam arm is biased by way of a tension spring tethered to the locking cam arm on one side of the pivot opposite to that which interlocks with the lock stop. The spring can be arranged to apply its biasing force in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the slot. In this way, the locking cam arm is generally biased such that the pivot member resides at one end of the slot.

In this way, the present invention affords a discrete and secure method of fixing a key safe using existing apertures in or around the door allowing keys to be retained securely.

According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a kit comprising a key safe assembly as defined above, together with a storage tray, the kit being provided in a case.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 : shows an exploded perspective view of a first embodiment of a key safe assembly of the invention;

Figure 2: shows a perspective view of the assembly of Figure 1 with a key drawer in an open state;

Figure 3: shows a cross-sectional view of the key safe assembly of Figure 1 illustrating mounting means;

Figure 4: shows a cross-sectional view of the key safe assembly of Figure 1 with the key drawer in an open position and a key made available;

Figure 5: shows an internal view of the key safe assembly of the invention with the drawer in a closed state and a locking means in a locked state;

Figure 6: shows an internal view of the key safe assembly of the invention with an attempt to open the drawer and with the locking means being in a locked state; Figure 7: shows an internal plan view of the key safe assembly of the invention with an attempt to open the drawer and with the locking means being in a locked state; Figure 8: shows an internal plan view of the key safe assembly of the invention with an attempt to open the drawer and with the locking means being in an unlocked state;

Figure 9: shows an internal plan view of the key safe assembly of the invention with the drawer in an open state;

Figure 1 0: shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a key safe assembly of the invention with a key drawer in a closed state; Figure 1 1 : shows a perspective view of the second embodiment of a key safe assembly of the invention with the drawer in an open state and with a key made available;

Figure 1 2: shows a cross-sectional view of the key safe assembly of Figures 1 0 and 1 1 illustrating mounting means;

Figure 1 3: Shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of a key safe assembly of the invention; Figure 1 4: shows schematically a key safe system incorporating key safe assemblies according to the present invention;

Figure 1 5 : shows components of a key safe assembly kit in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 1 6: shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a key safe of the present invention; and

Figure 1 7 : shows upper components of the embodiment of Figure 1 6. Figures 1 to 4 concern a first embodiment of the present invention where the key safe assembly 1 is designed to fit securely but temporarily into an existing letterbox aperture 2 without causing damage, and which can be readily removed after use allowing the door to be reinstated to its original format.

The key safe assembly has a faceplate 3 which is the size of a regular letter flap and has a rear box 4 secured to the face plate 2, which will fit inside the letter box aperture. As shown in Figure 3, the existing letter flap is removed and the key safe assembly is pushed through the aperture in the door and the securing clamp 5 dropped onto the grooved tensioning bolt 8 through a keyhole slot 7 in the base of clamp 5. The securing clamp 5 is tightened from the inside by turning the drive screw 6. It will be appreciated that the whole assembly can be readily removed when it is no longer required . The sides of the assembly box 4 may be provided with mounting graduations 63 to assist in the correct height adjustment of the assembly within the door aperture. In this respect, slotted L- section brackets 64 are provided either side of the assembly body 4, which engage with the lower surface of the door aperture. The position of the brackets relative to the assembly body 4 is fixed using bolts 62.

The faceplate 2 has an aperture 9 which will allow post to pass through the letter flap. In this respect, it is sometimes desirable to prevent post from being delivered and this can be achieved by placing a blocking channel behind the faceplate 2 prior to installation. The faceplate 2 has a drawer channel 1 0 for receiving drawer 1 6, the channel having a retractable cord 1 1 and retaining ring 1 2 onto which a key 1 3 is attached .

The faceplate 2 further has a digital keypad 1 4, which is connected to a battery power supply (not shown) housed in rear box 3 and a control board (not shown) . A data reader slot 1 5 for receiving memory cards, for example SD cards, is provided as a data connection interface. The data reader slot can also be provided on the side of the box 4. Alternative data connection interfaces are possible, such as wireless technology. A movement or motion sensor is provided within the assembly to detect movement of the door, details of any such movement being recorded on memory within the assembly. In this way, details of such movement can be correlated with the history of access code entry attempts to provide an audit trail of valid and invalid attempts. A conventional tilt movement sensor of the type employing an electrically conductive ball can be used in this regard .

The movement sensor can be set up for the type of movement associated with a door, for example to monitor one movement every 5 seconds, so as not to distort the readings produced .

The sensor can also be configured such that it is only activated once the key safe assembly has been installed . This can be achieved by providing a micro-switch 61 (shown in Figure 3) that is depressed once the key safe assembly is installed .

Figures 5 to 9 show the internal workings of the key safe assembly. Drawer 1 6 has a lock cam 1 7, which is located over a fixed pivot member 1 8 through an elongated slot 1 9 and is connected to a tension spring 20 above the centre of the slot 1 9. The spring 20 biases the lock cam 1 7 in direction 21 . The head 22 of the lock cam 1 7 is clear of piezo activator 23. When the drawer is pulled to be opened, the cam head compresses the deactivated piezo activator plunger 24 into the body of the piezo activator under the bias of spring 20 and the knife-edge 25 of the lock cam strikes the knife-edge of the lock stop 26 as shown in Figure 6. As shown in Figure 7, when the drawerl 6 is pulled out further, the knife-edge 25 is drawn deeper into the lock stop 26 by the slot 1 9 moving laterally outwards against the pivot 1 8 and spring 20, which thereby prevents the drawer from being withdrawn.

As shown in Figure 8, when a pulse is sent to activate the piezo activator 23 the plunger 24 is locked in its outer position. When the drawer 1 6 is pulled open, the cam head 22 is forced to take the fixed path of the plunger head and the cam knife edge 25 passes the lock stop knife edge 26 and allows the drawer to open fully and give access to the keys as shown in Figure 9.

When the drawer is returned, it will automatically pass to the locked state, as the piezo 23 will no longer be charged, namely it will no longer be locked in its outer position. The rear box 3 also has a movement or motion sensor fitted which is activated by the inertia of the door movement, such movement being recorded in the control board memory.

Figures 1 0 to 1 2 show a second embodiment of the present invention. This variation concerns a face fixed assembly 30 that can be fitted to the face of a door where no existing letter slot is available. The drawer unit and locking mechanism are substantially identical to those of the letter flap key safe assembly. However, in this second embodiment the drawer unit and locking mechanism are housed in an outer box 31 , with the drawer opening in the base that allows the drawer to be pulled downwards to expose the keys. The outer box has a keypad 32. A battery power source control board and movement sensor may also be housed in the outer box but to reduce the depth on the face of the door they may be housed in a separate inner box 37 on the inner face of the door 34, as shown in Figure 1 2. The outer box is fitted through a hole 33 in the door. This may already exist as a location of a peephole or knocker. If no hole exists a hole may be drilled in the door and a peephole, knocker or repair bung fitted after use. A tubular threaded projection 35 is attached to the rear of the outer box 31 and is pushed through the hole in the door. A fixing bolt 36 is connected from the rear of the door into fixing tube 35 tightening the outer box onto the face of the door. If the battery and control board are placed on the inner face of the door, a cable from the outer box 31 is first pushed through the fixing hole and connected into the inner box 37 prior to the bolt 36 being attached .

Figure 1 3 shows a further variation of the key box assembly, where a rear mounting box 40 is provided, which can be bolted or screwed, for example to a gate or a wicket door in a hoarding .

In this assembly, the key safe 41 has rear locating projection hooks 42 and a pivoted sprung channel 43 which is sprung away from the rear of the key safe. When the rear box has been securely attached, the key safe is slotted into the rear-mounting box with the hook 42 beneath the retaining bar 44. Pivot bar 46 also locates under the retaining angle member 45. The key safe 41 is then pushed in an upward direction in the rear mounting box 40. The hook 42 and pivot are trapped under the retaining bar and retaining angle member and are prevented from being returned downwards when the sprung loaded channel locates into the slots 47.

To remove the key safe from the rear-mounting box, the drawer must be unlocked and opened . A thin bar or screwdriver is then pushed through the hole 48 into the top edge of the sprung channel which then pivots away from slots allowing the key safe to be dropped and releases the hooks and pivot bar from the retainers. The key safe can then be removed from the rear-mounting box. As shown schematically in Figure 1 4, the present invention further relates to a key safe system 50 comprising a plurality of electronic lockable key safes 51 , as described above, for holding keys allowing access to properties 52 at different locations, where each key safe has a data connection point 53 for input and retrieval of data relating to access codes and historic use thereof.

As shown in Figure 1 4, each said key safe 51 has a simple circuit having a CPU controller 54, memory 58, a power source, such as a battery 56, a data connection interface 57 and a piezo activator 23 for use in operating the locking mechanism.

The controller 55 controls which access codes can activate operation of the piezo activator and hence unlock the key safe, the controller being programmable to hold a plurality of different access codes. Such codes are generated at a central control centre 54, saved onto a suitable data media carrier and uploaded to the respective key safes as appropriate. Each key safe is equipped with a data card reader, such as a SD memory card reader, in order to upload and down load relevant data. The uploading and downloading process can also be performed wirelessly with suitable transmitter and receiver equipment in place.

The memory on each key safe can hold a plurality of access codes. The access codes are unique, and can allow different levels of access to different parties. For example, one code may allow unlimited access, whilst other codes may be time specific or relate to a single use. The codes are unique to different users, so that the historical use of codes can be logged in the memory and reviewed and monitored by the relevant authorities. The generation and transfer of access codes is carefully administered, for example using suitable encryption and decryption processes at the key safe and the central control, to ensure the security of the overall system remains unbreached . In this connection, the data from each key safe is periodically downloaded, for example at the end of each hire or in reaction to a specific incident.

For certain users, software can be provided such that they can manage their own system, involving generating their own codes and monitoring usage of the codes.

As shown in Figure 1 5, the key safe assembly can be provided in a kit, comprising the key safe box 5 with mounting bracket 5, a "no post" plate and a component tray. The mounting bracket 5 has been extended in this case to include a threaded bolt 66 and stopper 67, the stopper being tightened against the back of the door when the assembly is in position. The bolt 66 together with a channel 68 in the up stand 70 of bracket 5, provide mounting points for tray bracket 69 fitted to the underside of a component tray 65 that can be mounted to the assembly and in which the existing door furniture can be stored whilst the key safe assembly is in place. The tray may have a lid .

The "no post" plate (not shown) can be provided in the kit to obscure the opening that otherwise accepts post, being sandwiched in use between the box 4 and the inside face of the door. The components of the kit may all be provided in a hard plastics casing . Figures 1 6 and 1 7 show a further embodiment of a key safe for use with a door having a "D" type handle. In this connection, in certain environments it is preferable to have a quick application key safe where the entry door has a "D" type handle 79. The key lock assembly 80 includes a clamp 81 formed of a pair of clamping elements 82a and 82b, each having a semicircular indent. Bolts 83 can be used to clamp tighten the clamping members together around the "D" of the "D" handle. A cover 84 can be secured to the clamp 81 to prevent access to the bolts 83. Once in place around the "D" handle, unauthorised removal of the key safe assembly 80 is hindered through the covered clamp 81 .

A cover member 85 is mounted on the front of the assembly by way of pivot 86 to cover up all or the majority of the access keys 87. The cover member can be readily opened out of the way but may include a notice at 88 to inform users of the door that the key safe assembly stores keys and is not an intercommunication device.

It will be understood that the above embodiments are included as examples, variations of specific features being possible within the scope of the attached claims.

In a preferred example of the invention, the circuit employed is ultra low power consuming, which when operating the piezo latch, namely the piezo activator, will preferably have a battery life of up to 4 years.

The key safe is produced in two separate components. A keypad, i.e. the access input means, which preferably has 1 2 buttons and a built in external power up point in case of battery failure. The mother control board is connected to the keypad via a ribbon cable and to a battery pack. It has inputs for the keypad, and additionally an alarm interface and 4 sensors. It moreover has a timed pulse output, a camera activator, and an alarm activator. The data connection interface is an SD port is built into the board for inputting and downloading information to the memory.

The key safe assembly may moreover be coupled to associated apparatus, such as CCTV cameras, alarm systems or internet/telephone lines. This can be through the SD port or a separate data connection interface.

Each unit is built with a unique serial number and a last resort code that cannot be changed.

A special program has been written to control the issue of codes, provide a full audit trail and manage on behalf of clients general every day use.

Each permanent user is given or selects a 6 digit/letter/colour code which is stored on a central database. A client can select default hours/days of operation ie. Mon-Fri 0800 - 1 800. When a key safe unit is programmed, the client instructs which permanent users should be programmed into the unit, these are then written to an SD card and transferred to the unit. An individual seed code is also generated and written. The seed code and unit serial number then generate a list of additional valid codes. These are: Daily codes which expire 24 hours after first use; Weekly codes with default time restrictions; Weekly unrestricted Codes; and Permanent Codes. The client can then issue codes to individuals who are then recorded on the control database for the desired period of operation. An SD card can be inserted at any time to retrieve the audit trail. The unit is also programmed to record exit codes; Shut down codes; Guard inspection codes (logs visit but does not permit entry) . The advantages of this system are:

1 . The key safe unit is programmed through a remote source so installers are unable to access codes.

2. Codes are only issued to individuals so security and traceability are maintained .

3. Additional Daily/weekly/permanent codes can be issued at any time without reprogramming the unit.

4. Where an alarm is fitted any person can activate/deactivate it with any valid code.

5. The unit senses movement and records all activity.

6. The unit can be shut down over a period with a shut down code.

7. The unit can be restricted for use in working hours only.

8. A camera can be activated when a button is pushed .

9. Audit trail can be used to time personal working hours on site.

1 0. It is a completely stand alone system does not require outside power source, GPRS wireless or landline connection so can be used in remote locations.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 . A key safe assembly for a door comprising :

a main body;

a key drawer housed in said main body;

locking means for releasably locking the drawer in said main body;

input access means for enabling input of one or more access codes to release the locking means to allow access to the contents of the key drawer; and

a data connection interface for uploading and downloading data relating to said access codes and a motion sensor for detecting movement of said door.

2. The key safe assembly of claim 1 , wherein the key safe assembly is configured for mounting in a letter box aperture, one or more of the key drawer, the input access means and the data connection interface being provided on a forward face of the assembly such that in use, they are accessible through the letterbox aperture.

3. The key safe assembly according to claim 2, further comprising mounting means for releasably mounting the assembly in the letterbox aperture, the mounting means comprising a retaining clamp element detachably mounted on a nut element which is threadingly engaged on a bolt extending rearwardly from the main body.

4. The key safe assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a removable storage tray for storing door furniture.

5. The key safe assembly according to claim 5, wherein the removable storage tray is mounted by way of a slotted bracket.

6. The key safe assembly of claim 1 , wherein the key safe assembly is configured for mounting using an existing peep hole or door knocker hole, the assembly having a threaded projection facing rearwardly from said main body for insertion through said existing hole and for attaching to a fixing bolt.

7. The key safe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the drawer is slidably received within the main body.

8. The key safe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the locking means comprises a locking cam pivotally mounted on one of the key drawer and the main body, the locking cam being biased into the path of a lock stop member provided on the other of the key drawer and the main body such that on movement of the key drawer from the main body, the locking cam and lock stop member inter-engage to restrict further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body, an activator being activated on receipt of a release signal from the input access means to guide the locking cam out of the path of the lock stop member such that the locking cam can move past the lock stop member to allow further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body.

9. The key safe assembly according to claim 8, wherein the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the lock stop member have an inclined edge.

1 0. The key safe assembly according to claim 9, wherein the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the locking stop have one or more of a single inclined knife edge or a "V" shaped double inclined knife edge.

1 1 . The key safe assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 1 0, wherein the activator comprises a piezo activator plunger.

1 2. The key safe assembly according to any one of claims 8 to 1 1 , wherein the locking cam is biased by way of a tension spring tethered to the locking cam on the side of the pivot opposite to that which interlocks with the lock stop.

1 3. The key safe assembly according to any preceding claim, further comprising a cord having a key coupling for securing to a key to be provided in the key drawer.

1 4. The key safe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the data connection interface comprises a memory card reader.

1 5. A key safe system comprising :

a plurality of electronic lockable key safes for holding keys allowing access to doors of properties at different locations,

each key safe having a data connection interface for input and retrieval of data relating to access codes and the historic use thereof and a motion sensor for detecting movement of said doors.

1 6. The key safe system according to claim 1 5, wherein each said key safe further comprises a controller which controls which access codes can unlock the key safe.

1 7. The key safe system according to claim 1 5 or 1 6, wherein one or more of the unlock codes are time specific, allowing access only at certain times.

1 8. The key safe system according to any one of claims 1 5 to 1 7, wherein each key safe further comprises memory means for storing access codes and details of historic use of said access codes.

1 9. The key safe system according to any one of claims 1 5 to 1 8, further comprising a central control;

said central control managing the issuance and barring of access codes, and monitoring when said access codes have been used or attempted to be used.

20. The key safe system according to any one of claims 1 5 to 20, wherein said data connection interface comprises a data card reader for uploading and downloading information.

21 . The key safe system according to claim 20, wherein data is transferred between the central control and each key safe by way of a memory card .

22. The key safe system according to any one claims 1 5 to 21 , wherein one or more of the key safes are removably attached within an existing letter box aperture.

23. A key safe control process comprising :- providing one or more electronic key safes at one or more locations, each key safe having a lockable compartment for housing one or more keys, access to the compartment being available by inputting one or more predetermined access codes, said key safe having a motion sensor and memory for holding said one or more access codes and data relating to its historical use;

providing a central control centre to generate said access codes, each access code generated by the central control centre being unique to a specific party;

collecting data from the memory of one or more of said key safes; and

uploading said data to said central control in order to retrieve information on the historical use of each said access code.

24. The key safe control process according to claim 23, the central control centre further generates one or more access codes which are time specific, allowing access only at certain times.

25. A locking mechanism for use in a key safe assembly, the locking mechanism comprising:- a locking cam arm pivotally mounted on one of a key drawer and a main body, the locking cam arm being biased into the path of a lock stop member provided on the other of the key drawer and the main body such that on movement of the key drawer from the main body, respective ends of the locking cam arm and lock stop member inter-engage to restrict further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body, an activator being activated on receipt of a release signal to guide the locking cam arm out of the path of the lock stop member such that the respective ends of the locking cam and the lock stop member can move past one another to allow further relative movement of the key drawer from the main body.

26. The locking mechanism of claim 25, wherein the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the lock stop member have an inclined edge for promoting the interlocking of the locking cam and the lock stop member.

27 The locking mechanism of claim 26, wherein the respective ends of the locking cam and/or the locking stop have one or more of a single inclined knife edge or a "V" shaped double inclined knife edge.

28. The locking mechanism according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the locking cam arm has a slot for receiving a pivot member, the slot allowing limited lateral movement of the locking cam arm.

29. The locking mechanism according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the activator comprises a plunger that projects outwardly to engage a cam head provided on the locking cam arm.

30. The locking mechanism according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the activator comprises a piezo activator plunger.

31 . The locking mechanism according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the locking cam arm is biased by way of a tension spring tethered to the locking cam arm on one side of the pivot opposite to that which interlocks with the lock stop.

32. A kit comprising a key safe assembly as defined in any of claims 1 to 1 4, the kit being provided in a case.

33. A key safe assembly substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

34. A key safe system substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

35. A key safe control process substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

36. A locking mechanism substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.