WO2001086097A2

WO2001086097A2 - Wireless electromechanical lock

Info

Publication number: WO2001086097A2
Application number: PCT/IL2001/000393
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hanan Frum; Binyamin Lev-Idi
Original assignee: Hanan Frum; Lev Idi Binyamin
Priority date: 2000-05-08
Filing date: 2001-05-02
Publication date: 2001-11-15
Also published as: AU5661601A; WO2001086097A3

Abstract

An electromechanical driver (10) controlled by a combination of an intelligent wireless receiver (62) and intelligent wireless transmitter, to form an intelligent lock system. It is understood that the terms 'receiver' and 'transmitter' are used for the sake of clarity, in order to indicate whether a particular component resides on the wireless remote control device (64) ('transmitter') or on the lock ('receiver'), as preferably both the remote control device (64) and the lock feature a transceiver (106). The lock (10) may optionally be incorporated with a mechanical lock, (52) which can either be installed as a complete system, or retrofitted on existing locks with minimal modification.

Description

WIRELESS ELECTROMECHANICAL LOCK

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to wireless electromechanical locks and, in

particular, it concerns wireless electromechanical locks, which are controlled

through a cellular telephone.

A myriad of locking systems using various types of keys have existed for

several centuries in order to secure doors and other openings, such as gates, box

lids and so forth. A vast array of lock types and mechanisms exist, including,

among others, cylinder locks, spring locks, and pad locks and many other types

of mechanical locks.

All mechanical locks listed above require a physical key, which is

engaged in the lock to secure, or lock the mechanism, or to release (unlock) the mechanism. Such a physical key is clearly disadvantageous, as it can easily be

stolen and/or replicated, thereby compromising the security of the door, which is secured by the lock. In addition, the physical key can be lost, such that the lock can only be opened with the intervention of a skilled worker such as a locksmith.

Furthermore, once the key has lost, the entire lock may need to be replaced at a high cost in terms of both time and money, with a high degree of

inconvenience to the user. Loss of keys is especially prevalent with children and elderly users, which results in greater inconvenience, especially with the

elderly.

In order to overcome these disadvantages, electronic locking

mechanisms have been proposed. These electronic mechanisms operate

through a combination of mechanical components, which are controlled

through an electrical control device. However, many modern electronic locking

mechanisms require physical contact with a keypad, swipe card and similar

apparatus to lock or unlock an electronic lock. Thus, these electronic locks still

require the presence of a physical key.

Recent advances in technology have enabled many types of household

and house related equipment to be activated and de-activated by remote

controls. The operation of a device with an electronic remote control clearly

has many advantages. For example, the user no longer needs to contact a

physical key with the lock. U.S. Patent No. 5,790,034 describes such a deadbolt lock, which is

operated with a remote control. However, the disclosed electronic lock still has many disadvantages. In particular, the described locking mechanism is quite simple, with the mere addition of a radio transmitter and receiver pair to a

conventional deadbolt lock. However, such a locking mechanism has a number of drawbacks, since a conventional deadbolt lock is combined with a latch, which requires separate, autonomous, yet substantially contemporaneous

manipulation. The taught radio transmitter and receiver pair cannot operate from any great distance, such that the user must still be in relative physical proximity to the lock in order to be able to operate the remote control "key".

Since both components of conventional deadbolt locks must be manipulated

separately and yet simultaneously, the taught remote control fails^" to

substantially contemporaneously open both deadbolt and latch. Furthermore,

such a locking mechanism does not advantageously employ any additional

electronic components in order to increase the range of functionality of the

lock. Instead, the physical key has only been replaced with a remote control

device. Thus, the disclosed remote control deadbolt lock of U.S. Patent No. 5,790,034 fails to incorporate additional electronic components, which could,

for example, provide information with regard to the state of the lock ("locked^"'

or "unlocked").

Clearly, a more useful solution would enable the locking mechanism to

be able to monitor its own state, whether "locked" or "unlocked". In addition, such a solution would enable the user to monitor and/or alter this state, preferably from a greater distance than that afforded by the type of simple radio

transmitters, which are described in U.S. Patent No. 5,790,034. Also, the user should be notified of any unauthorized attempts to operate the electronic

locking mechanism. None of these features is taught or described by U.S.

Patent No. 5,790,034. There is therefore a need for a wireless locking mechanism for openings which would facilitate enabling and disabling ("locking" and "un-locking")

locks with a wireless device such as a cellular telephone, and which would incorporate "smart" features for determining such aspects of the function of the lock as the state of the lock, the history of the state of the lock, and so forth, and

also for enabling the user to monitor and/or alter the state of the lock from a

relative distance.

There is a further need for a wirelessly operated electromechanical

driver incorporated with a mechanical lock which can be retrofitted to existing

locks with a simple set of modifications to the existing locking mechanisms.

Furthermore, such a lock needs to be capable of opening both the bolt and latch substantially contemporaneously.

There is a further need for a wirelessly operated electromechanical driver, responsive to commands from a cellular telephone and capable of

sending operating conditions and status to same cellular telephone.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is an electromechanical driver, either incorporated

with a mechanical door lock or alternatively embodied as an electrical lock, which is controlled through a wireless device such as a cellular telephone for

example. The resulting electromechanical lock is preferably fitted with a set of

one or more "smart" features, such as being able to determine, monitor and/or alter the state of the lock through the wireless device, for example. The system

of the present invention preferably enables the smart feature(s) and the wireless device control to be incorporated into an existing mechanical lock to "retrofit"

such a simple mechanical device with the intelligent system of the present invention. Thus, the present invention enables mechanical, electromechanical or electrical locks to be controlled and operated by an intelligent system,

through a remote wireless device.

According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided, an

intelligent lock system, including an intelligent lock, the intelligent lock

comprising a wireless receiver for receiving an instruction, a driver module for

being activated by the wireless receiver upon receipt of the instruction; and a

computational device for monitoring a state of the driver module. The

intelligent lock further including an intelligent remote control device for

controlling the intelligent lock, the intelligent remote control device comprising

a wireless transmitter for transmitting the instruction to the wireless receiver.

Hereinafter, the term "wireless device" refers to any device, which is capable of transmitting a signal to a receiver, which is not in direct physical

proximity to the wireless device. A preferred example of a wireless device is a

cellular telephone. Hereinafter, the term "cellular telephone" refers to any wireless device which is capable of transmitting and receiving at least voice

data, and preferably other types of data, which is optionally connected to the PSTN (public switched telephone network).

Hereinafter, the term "mechanical lock" refers to a lock, which contains only mechanical (physical) components, such as a bolt and/or tumbler set ad/or

latch for example. Hereinafter, the term "electrical lock" refers to lock, which is operated through electrical components, such as electrically charged magnets for example. Hereinafter, the term "electromechanical lock" refers to lock, which combines these electrical and mechanical components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with

reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective cross sectional view of the lock and

electromechanical driver according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the lock and electromechanical driver

of Figure 1 together with a conventional locking mechanism according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the recessed area of the lock

and electromechanical driver of Figure 1 together with a conventional locking

mechanism according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the lock and module installed on a

standard mechanical mechanism;

FIG. 5 is a side cross sectional view of a mechanism for blocking access

of a physical key to the lock of Figures 1-4;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of an intelligent wireless receiver

device for the lock of Figure 1 according to the present invention;

FIGS. 7A and 7B are further schematic block diagrams of an intelligent

wireless receiver device for the lock of Figure 1 according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagrams of the device of the present invention including an intelligent wireless transmitter according to the present invention

for controlling the lock of Figures 1-5; and FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the electrical circuitry of the central

computational command device of an intelligent wireless transmitter according

to the present invention for controlling the lock of Figures 1-5.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is an electromechanical driver controlled by a

combination of an intelligent wireless receiver and intelligent wireless

transmitter, to form an intelligent lock system according to the present

invention. It is understood that the terms "receiver" and "transmitter" are used

for the sake of clarity, in order to indicate whether a particular component

resides on the wireless remote control device ("transmitter") or on the lock

("receiver"), as preferably both the remote control device and the lock feature a transceiver. The lock of the present invention may optionally be incorporated

with a mechanical lock which can either be installed as a complete system, or retro-fitted on existing locks with minimal modification.

By way of example, a paraplegic or quadriplegic can use the device of the present invention to open doors, bolts or all bolts and latches on any given door, from a physically remote location. The elderly population would also

benefit by using the device of the present invention, facilitating opening, closing and locking doors, bolts and latches by remote control from any place in the home, including a different floor. Of course, the clear convenience of the lock of the present invention renders the device generally useful.

The principles and operation of an electromechanical driver, operated by a wireless remote control in an intelligent control system, according to the

present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and

the accompanying description.

Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 shows a wireless driver module

10 designed to be attached to the inner side of an existing mechanical lock.

Module 10 includes a body 12 having a length "a", a width "b" and height "c".

Body 12 includes a horizontal cavity 14 formed along the length of body

12 for readily accommodating an enabler mechanism 16. Enabler 16 includes

an operating handle 18 which is attached to, or integrally formed with a

horizontal axis 20. Horizontal axis 20 is preferably readily rotatable about a first

horizontal bearing 36 and a second horizontal bearing 38, such that horizontal

axis is both readily rotatable about bearing 36 and bearing 38. Preferably, a user

can slidably displace horizontal axis 20 by displacing handle 18, attached to

horizontal axis 20. An actuator 22 is situated in a vertical cavity 24 formed

along the height of body 12, for rotating a vertical axis 26. Nertical axis 26 is

readily rotatable about a first vertical bearing 28, substantially vertically aligned

with actuator 22 and axis 26. Preferably, a second vertical bearing 30 is also attached to vertical cavity 24 and about which second vertical bearing 30 and

first vertical bearing 28, vertical axis 26 rotates. Vertical axis 26 is also attached to, or integrally formed with a first conical gear 32, substantially

aligned with actuator 22, axis 26, first vertical bearing 28 and second vertical

bearing 30. First conical gear 32 transfers the rotational displacement of vertical

axis 26 to horizontal axis 20 via a second conical gear 34, attached to, or integrally formed with horizontal axis 20.

Preferably, horizontal axis 20 is accommodated in a substantially

polygonal cavity 40 formed in an attachment block 42 for attaching driver

module 10 to an existing mechanical lock.

Preferably, body 12 includes a recessed area 44 having a plurality of

tapped holes 46 for readily accommodating attachment screws attached to an

existing mechanical lock (not shown in Figure 1).

Preferably, a microswitch 48 is activated substantially towards the

extremities of lateral displacement of horizontal axis 20. Preferably,

microswitch 48 is electronically attached to a display on the wireless remote

control, thus indicating to the user whether driver module 10 is engaged or

disengaged (not shown in Figure 1 ).

Alternatively, microswitch 48 is electronically connected to a remote

control 64. Remote control 64 preferably wirelessly communicates with a

receiver 62, which receiver 62 and is also electronically connected to actuator

22 as well as receiver 62 being responsive to signals received from a wireless

remote control 64, such that actuator 22 is responsive to commands from

remote control 64.

Preferably, remote control 64 includes an activating switch 66 and deactivating switch 67. More preferably an alarm control activator/deactivator

68 is also included in remote control 64, such that the user can lock and unlock

the door as well as activate and deactivate an alarm system.

Alternatively, activating and deactivating switch can be used for locking the mechanism and activator/deactivator 68 can be used for unlocking the

mechanism, according to user preference.

Preferably, microswitch 48 is rotatably activated by horizontal axis 20,

such that remote control 64 is responsive to signals from receiver 62, indicating

whether module 10 is locked or unlocked.

Preferably, microswitch 48 also acts as a limiter for limiting the degree

of rotational displacement of axis 20 and thereby providing a time delay for

locking and unlocking of module 10.

Alternatively, a door display is electronically attached to microswitch 48

and situated on the inner part of a door which has the existing mechanical lock,

thereby indicating to the user and onlookers from within the premises whether

the door with module 10 is locked or unlocked (not shown in Figure 1).

For the purpose of disengaging driver module 10 the user displaces

handle 18 substantially away from body 12, thereby disengaging first gear 32

from second gear 34, thus preventing transfer of rotational displacement from

vertical axis 26 to horizontal axis 20. By eliminating the resistance created by

actuator 22, handle 18 is readily manually manipulated.

Preferably, a bias 50 is attached to handle 18 such that bias 50 is in a

resting position "y" after first gear 32 and second gear 34 are engaged as shown in Figure 1. Occasioning on a user laterally displacing handle 18, such that first

gear 32 and second gear 34 are disengaged, a force is applied against bias 50,

such that when the user releases handle 18, handle 18 is laterally displaced until

first gear 32 and second gear 34 are re-engaged and bias 50 reaches resting position "y".

Preferably, remote control 64 also includes an indicator 65 for indicating

the status of module 10. By way of example only, indicator 65 includes a Light

Emitting Diode (LED) for indicating that the door with module 10 is locked.

Figure 2 shows driver module 10 of Figure 1 attached to an existing

mechanical lock 52 similar to such locks commonly sold in shops. Lock 52 is

locked and unlocked by rotatably displacing a key 54 in a locking mechanism

56 situated in lock 52, such that rotatably displacing key 54 results in a

complementary rotatable displacement of a locking tang 58 in locking

mechanism 56.

Preferably, a mechanism attachment 57 is attached to, or integrally

formed with mechanism 56 and is accommodated in substantially polygonal

cavity 40. Preferably, attachment 57 is complimentarily shaped for being

accommodated by cavity 40. Alternatively, cavity 40 and attachment 57 can

have any geometric shape, including but not limited to, a cylindrical cavity and cylindrical attachment having complimentary gripping elements. An enlarged

view of attachment 57, cavity 40 formed in block 42, axis 20 first gear 32 and

second gear 34 are shown in Figure 2A.

Similarly to Figure 1, driver module 10 includes a body 12 having a horizontal cavity 14 formed along the length of body 12 for readily

accommodating an enabler mechanism 16. Here as well, enabler 16 includes an operating handle 18 which is attached to, or integrally formed with a horizontal

axis 20. Horizontal axis 20 is preferably readily rotatable about a first horizontal bearing 36 and a second horizontal bearing 38, such that horizontal

can slidably displace horizontal axis 20 by displacing handle 18 attached to

horizontal axis 20. An actuator 22 is situated in a vertical cavity 24 formed

along the height of body 12 for rotating a vertical axis 26. Vertical axis 26 is

readily rotatable about axis 26 via a first vertical bearing 28. Preferably, a

second vertical bearing 30 is also attached to vertical cavity 24 and about which

vertical axis 26 rotates. Vertical axis 26 is also attached to, or integrally formed

with a first conical gear 32. First conical gear 32 transfers the rotational

displacement of vertical axis 26 to horizontal axis 20 via a second conical gear

34, attached to, or integrally formed with horizontal axis 20.

A receiver 62 is also electronically connected to actuator 22 as well as

receiver 62 being responsive to signals received from a wireless remote control 64.

Preferably, remote control 64 includes an activating switch 66 and

deactivating switch 67. More preferably an alarm control activator/deactivator

the door as well as activate and deactivate an alarm system.

Alternatively, activating and deactivating switch can be used for locking

the mechanism and activator/deactivator 68 can be used for unlocking the mechanism, according to user preference.

Preferably, horizontal axis 20 is accommodated in a substantially

polygonal cavity 40 formed in an attachment block 42 for attaching driver module 10 to an existing mechanical lock. Alternatively, cavity 40 can have any

geometric shape, including but not limited to, a cylindrical cavity readily

attachable to lock 52.

More preferably, body 12 includes a recessed area 44 having a plurality

of tapped holes 46 for readily accommodating attachment screws attached to an

existing mechanical lock 52.

Preferably, a microswitch 48 is activated substantially towards the

extremities of lateral displacement of horizontal axis 20.

In Figure 2 a horizontal axis extremity 60 is attached to, or integrally

formed with, horizontal axis 20 and inserted into mechanism attachment 57 and

locking mechanism 56, such that when handle 18 is not displaced away from

body 12, first gear 32 and second gear 34 are engaged. Thus, rotational

displacement of horizontal axis 20 results in a complimentary displacement of

tang 58 attached to mechanism attachment 57, thereby locking and unlocking

lock 52 in accordance with the direction of rotational displacement.

Furthermore, insertion of key 54 into locking mechanism 56 results in

extremity 60 being laterally displaced against bias 50 and the complimentary

displacement of axis 20, resulting in the disengagement of first gear 32 and

second gear 34. Thus, turning key 54 in lock 52 is readily facilitated without

having to overcome increased resistance created by actuator 22 as a result of first gear 32 and second gear 34 being engaged.

Alternatively, axis extremity 60 physically prevents inserting key 54 when first gear 32 and second gear 34 are engaged, thereby isolating lock 52 to remote control 64, such that lock 52 cannot be "picked" from the outside by a

replacement key or "lock pick". Preferably, handle 18 can be laterally fixed

such that only rotational displacement of axis 20 is facilitated ^'and such that

extremity 60 protrudes into lock 52, thereby resulting in the above isolation of

lock 52 and preventing manual insertion of key 54. A vast array of locks 52 can

be used, including, among others, cylinder locks, spring locks, and pad locks

and many other types of mechanical locks.

Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of lock 52, body 12 and recessed area

44 of Figure 2.

Preferably and for the purpose of attaching lock 52 to body 12, an

attachment plate 70 is attached to or integrally formed with lock 52. A plurality

of attachment holes 72, are formed in plate 70 to match tapped holes 46 with a

plurality of screws 74. An axis extremity cavity 61 is formed in lock 52 for

readily accommodating extremity 60, thereby preventing a user from inserting a

key and turning lock 52.

In Figure 3 horizontal axis extremity 60 is inserted into cavity 61, such

that when handle 18 is not displaced away from body 12, rotational

displacement of extremity 60 results in a complimentary displacement of tang

58, thereby locking and unlocking lock 52 in accordance with the direction of

rotational displacement.

Furthermore, insertion of key 54 into lock 52 results in extremity 60

being laterally displaced. Thus, turning key 54 in lock 52 is readily facilitated

without having to overcome increased resistance created by actuator 22. Alternatively, axis extremity 60 physically prevents inserting key 54

when extremity 60 is laterally displaced into cavity 61, thereby isolating lock 52

to remote control 64, such that lock 52 cannot be "picked" from the outside by a

replacement key or "lock pick". Preferably, handle 18 can be laterally fixed

such that only rotational displacement of extremity 60 is facilitated and such

that extremity 60 protrudes into cavity 61 and lock 52, thereby resulting in the

above isolation of lock 52 and preventing manual insertion of key 54. A vast

array of locks 52 can be used, including, among others, cylinder locks, spring

locks, and pad locks and many other types of mechanical locks.

Due to the novel structure of lock 52 and module 10, service, repair and

maintenance are readily and cheaply performed. Furthermore, and due to the

key isolation capabilities described herein, service, repair and maintenance are readily performed with a greater degree of home security. Occasioning on key

54 being lost and no replacement key being available, only lock 52 needs to be

replaced and not the entire driver/lock mechanism. Similarly, when a user

moves to a new place of domicile, either lock 52 or module 10 can be removed

in situ and readily installed in the new domicile. Alternatively, lock 52 can be

removed for maintenance, repair or being replaced, during which, module 10

can be adjusted to prevent usage of a physical key 54 until lock 52 is repaired,

or replaced and reinstalled.

Alternatively, due to the simplicity of the attachment and detachment of

module 10 to existing doors and locks, any reasonably capable user can perform the above without need for a technician, thereby further increasing savings. During the interim between lock 52 requiring the above repair or replacement,

the user can "neutralize" lock 52 by the isolation procedure described herein.

Occasioning on module 10 requiring maintenance or repair, only module

10 needs to be removed and not the entire driver/lock mechanism. Furthermore,

when module 10 is removed for maintenance, repair or being replaced, module

10 can be adjusted to facilitate usage of physical key 54 only, until module 10 is

returned and reinstalled. Likewise, during the interim between module 10

requiring the above repair or replacement, the user can "neutralize" module 10

by either removing module 10 or laterally displacing handle 18 such that

extremity is removed from cavity 61 , thereby isolating lock 52 to using key 54.

Figure 4 shows driver module 10 installed on a standard door 76 having

a regular mechanical mechanism 78. A vast array of lock mechanisms 78 can be

used, including, among others, cylinder locks, spring locks and pad locks.

As in Figure 1 and Figure 2, driver module 10 is attached to an existing

mechanical lock 52, which is optionally and preferably similar to such locks,

which are commonly available commercially. Handle 18 engages and

disengages first gear 32 and second gear 34 in the manner proscribed in and

shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2. Lock 52 is part of mechanical mechanism 78

and installed in door 76. Door 76 is locked and unlocked by rotatably displacing

a key 54 in lock 52, such that rotatably displacing key 54 results in locking and unlocking of door 76 depending on the direction key 54 is rotationally

displaced. Mechanical mechanism 78 includes a locking bolt 79 for enhancing

the security of door 76. Furthermore, mechanical mechanism 78 also includes a spring-loaded latch 81 for readily closing door 76 by merely pushing door 76

back to door frame 77,

A receiver 62 is also electronically connected to module 10 as well as

receiver 62 being responsive to signals received from a wireless remote control

64.

Preferably, remote control 64 includes an activating switch 66 and

deactivating switch 67. More preferably an alarm control activator/deactivator

the door as well as activate and deactivate an alarm system. The meaning of the

term "locked" as used herein, includes but is not limited to, bolt 79 and latch 81

of door 76 situated in a door frame 77, such that door 76 cannot be opened

without key 54 or remote control 64.

The meaning of the term "unlocked" as used herein, includes but is not

limited to, bolt 79 and latch 81 of door 76 situated in door 76, such that door 76

can be opened without key 54 or remote control 64.

Preferably, module 10 includes an independent power source (not

shown), facilitating a self-powered single unit of module 10 and alleviating the

need for an external power source.

A bias 50 is attached to handle 18 such that bias 50 is in a resting

position "y" after first gear 32 and second gear 34 are engaged as shown in

Figure 1. Occasioning on a user laterally displacing handle 18, such that first

gear 32 and second gear 34 are disengaged, a force is applied against bias 50,

such that when the user releases handle 18, handle 18 is laterally displaced until first gear 32 and second gear 34 are re-engaged and bias 50 reaches resting position "y".

Especially preferred, module 10 includes a transceiver for

communicating with a cellular telephone (not shown) such that remote control

64 shall be incorporated in same cellular telephone. Thus, remote control 64

facilitates enabling and disabling ("locking" and "unlocking") of locking

mechanism 78 with wireless remote control 64 and cellular telephones.

Preferably, wireless remote control 64 would incorporates "smart" features known in the art for determining such aspects of the function of

locking mechanism 78 as the state of locking mechanism 78, the history of the

state of locking mechanism 78, and so forth, and also for enabling the user to

monitor and/or alter the state of locking mechanism 78 from a relative distance

Door 76 also preferably features a motion detector 118, particularly for

an embodiment in which door 76 could be opened or closed remotely, or

through a mechanism other than the direct actions of the user. For example,

motion detector 118 could determine that an individual had already passed

through door 76, so that door 76 could optionally be automatically closed

and/or locked.

Alternatively, motion detector 118 may optionally determine that even

though door 76 had been unlocked, no individual had entered, and door 76 had

not been displaced out of frame 77. Thus, latch 81 is automatically returned into

frame 77, thereby re-shutting door 76. Alternatively, motion detector 118 may

determine that even though door 76 had been unlocked, no individual had entered, and door 76 had not been displaced out of frame 77 Thus, latch 81 and

bolt 79 are automatically returned into frame 77, thereby re-locking door 76

Alternatively, this embodiment includes a spring or other mechanism for

automatically opening door 76 upon unlocking module 10 (not shown in Figure

4)

Preferably, module 10 includes a time delay for returning latch 81 after a

fixed period of t me and responsive to motion detector 118 not detecting an

entrv within a certain time frame Also preferred, occasioning on motion

detector 118 detecting an entry, the time delay ι^ cancelled

As shown in Figure 5. a solenoid 82 causes a bar 84 to enter a bar slot

86, thereby blocking access of a key 54 into lock 52 Bar 84 is also optionally operated by substantially any alternative mechanism, although preferably an

electronic mechanism is employed Pursuant to bar 84 being accommodated by bar aperture 86, rotational displacement of axis 20 is facilitated and lateral

displacement of axis 20 is prevented

Preferably, an axis extremity 60 physically prevents inserting key 54 when first gear 32 and second gear 34 are engaged, and bar 84 is

accommodated in bar slot 86, thereby isolating locking mechanism 78 to remote control 64, such that lock 52 cannot be "picked" from the outside by a replacement key or "lock pick"

Solenoid 82 is responsive to commands received from transceiver 80 and remote control 64, thereby providing added security and locking capability, which can be retrofitted to standard door 76 For example, remote control 64 and/or a cellular telephone (not shown, see Figure 8) could optionally be used

to activate solenoid 82 and to cause bar 84 to enter access aperture 86. After

bar 84 enters access aperture 86, a physical key can no longer be used to unlock

locking mechanism 78. Thus, locking mechanism 78 could only be operated

through remote control 64 and/or a cellular telephone.

Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of an intelligent wireless receiver

device for the lock of Figures 1 -5 according to the present invention. As

shown, an intelligent wireless receiver device 100 features at least a wireless

receiver 102, but preferably also features a wireless transmitter 104 to form a

wireless transceiver pair 106 as shown. Wireless transceiver pair 106 is capable

of communicating with a wireless remote control device 64 through a wireless signal of some type, including but not limited to, radio waves, infrared signals,

electromagnetic signals and any type of signal operable for cellular telephone

devices.

Optionally and preferably, intelligent wireless receiver device 100 also

features a central command computational device 108 for at least monitoring

the state of the lock attached to intelligent wireless receiver device 100 (not shown, see Figures 2 and 5 above). The term "state" includes, but is not limited to, whether the lock has been enabled or disabled. More preferably, the term "state" also refers to the history of at least when, and for how long, the lock has

been enabled or disabled, but most preferably includes a list of the identity or identities of the user(s) who operated the lock. Optionally and more preferably,

central command computational device 108 is able to communicate this state to wireless transceiver pair 106, which can then communicate with wireless

remote control device 64 of Figures 1-5, about this state.

Preferably, central command computational device 108 also indicates the

state of any power source used, whether internal or external (not shown). For

example, if a solenoid is incorporated into the lock, as described with regard to

Figure 5 above, then central command computational device 108 could

optionally determine the amount of power which is available for the solenoid.

Central command computational device 108 could also optionally and more

preferably drain the power source, for example in order to prevent unauthorized use of the solenoid or other electrical locking mechanism.

According to other preferred embodiments of the present invention,

central command computational device 108 would incorporate "smart" features

known in the art for determining various aspects of the function of locking

mechanism 78 of Figure 4. Examples of such aspects include, but are not

limited to, the state of locking mechanism 78, the history of the state of locking

mechanism 78, and so forth, and also for enabling the user to monitor and/or

alter the state of locking mechanism 78 from a relative distance.

In order for central command computational device 108 to be able to

monitor the state of the lock, central command computational device 108 is

connected to lock 52 of Figure 2 (not shown). More specifically, central

command computational device 108 preferably has an electrical interface with the actuator of Figure 1 similar to those known in the art, which is also

preferably connected to wireless transceiver pair 106. Wireless transceiver pair 106 is therefore able to activate the lock through the actuator. Such activation

can then be detected by central command computational device 108. The

detection of actual activation, as opposed to the mere receipt of the signal by

wireless transceiver pair 106, is preferred in order to determine that the lock has

actually been successfully activated.

Central command computational device 108 also preferably features a

memory 110, which is more preferably a permanent memory such as a flash

memory device and/or a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk for

example. Alternatively, memory 110 could optionally be a temporary memory

such as RAM (random access memory) for example. Memory 110 is preferably

connected to a data processor 112, such as a microprocessor for example. The

functions of memory 110 and data processor 112 could be combined into a

programmable ASIC, for example.

Preferably, receiver 100 would receive such commands for execution by

central command computational device 108, through operation of a remote control device by the user (not shown; see Figure 8). The remote control device

optionally and more preferably is used to display the information for the user, for example with regard to the state of receiver 100 and/or locking mechanism

78, as previously described. By merely observing the display of receiver 100 of Figure 6 or by entering any code combination or depression of any other

dedicated function key (not shown).

Figures 7A and 7B are schematic block diagrams of an intelligent cellular transmitter according to the present invention for controlling the lock of Figures 1-5. Figure 7A shows an intelligent cellular remote control device 130,

which also features at least a cellular transmitter 132, but preferably also

features a cellular receiver 134 to form a cellular transceiver pair 136 as shown.

Intelligent cellular remote control device 130 preferably features a

central processor 138, optionally with an associated central memory 140.

Central memory 140 is optionally only a temporary memory, since central

memory 140 is only required to temporarily receive and process data from

cellular transceiver pair 136. Central processor 138 is able to control a display

142 of intelligent cellular remote control device 130, for displaying information

to the user about the state of lock 52 of Figure 2.

As shown in Figure 7B, cellular remote control device 151 preferably

features an input keypad 144 for receiving instructions from the user, although

alternatively or additionally, cellular remote control device 151 is voice-

controlled. These instructions are decoded and performed through central

processor 138. For example, a first key 146 of keypad 144 could optionally

cause the lock to become disabled, while a second key 148 could optionally

cause the lock to become enabled. Third key 150 could be used to determine the lock status, while the previously described solenoid mechanism or other

mechanism to prevent a physical key from being used could be controlled

through a fourth key 152.

Figure 8 shows an intelligent wireless receiver device 100, which device

100 is part of module 10 shown in Figures 1-5 as well as a remote control 64 for controlling the components shown in Figure 8. Similarly to the previous embodiments, remote control 64 preferably communicates wirelessly with a

wireless transceiver 106, which transceiver 106 is responsive to signals

received from remote control 64.

Preferably, remote control 64 includes an activating switch 66 and

deactivating switch 67. More preferably an alarm control activator/deactivator

the door as well as activate and deactivate an alarm system.

Preferably, remote control 64 also includes a first indicator 65 for

indicating the status of the receiver 100 and whether the device of the present

invention is locked. By way of example only, first indicator 65 includes a Light

Emitting Diode (LED) for indicating that the door with module 10 is locked.

A second indicator 69 for indicating whether device 100 is "unlocked"

is also included in remote control 64, thereby facilitating a user to know

whether device 100 has been left "unlocked". Occasioning on the user

ascertaining that device 100 is "unlocked" the user can lock device 100 by

depressing activator 66. Thereafter, the user can ascertain that the command to

"lock" device 100 has been completed when second indicator illuminates upon

completion of locking device 100.

Device 100 preferably features a transceiver pair such as transceiver pair

106 of Figure 6. Optionally and preferably, intelligent wireless receiver device

100 also features a central command computational device 108 for at least

monitoring the state of the lock attached to intelligent wireless receiver device

100. The term "state" includes, but is not limited to, whether the lock has been enabled or disabled. More preferably, the term "state" also refers to the history

of at least when, and for how long, the lock has been enabled or disabled, but

most preferably includes a list of the identity or identities of the user(s) who

operated the lock. Optionally and more preferably, central command

computational device 108 is able to communicate this state to wireless

transceiver pair 106, which can then communicate with the wireless remote

control device 64 about this state.

Preferably, central command computational device 108 also indicates the

state of any power source used, whether internal or external (not shown). For

Figure 5 above, then central command computational device 108 could optionally determine the amount of power which is available for the solenoid.

Central command computational device 108 could also optionally and more

According to other preferred embodiments of the present invention,

central command computational device 108 would incorporate "smart" features known in the art for determining various aspects of the function of locking

mechanism 78 of Figure 4. Examples of such aspects include, but are not

mechanism 78, and so forth, and also for enabling the user to monitor and/or

alter the state of locking mechanism 78 from a relative distance.

In order for central command computational device 108 to be able to monitor the state of the lock, central command computational device 108 is

connected to lock 52 of Figure 2 (not shown). More specifically, central

command computational device 108 preferably has an electrical interface with

the actuator of Figure 1 similar to those known in the art, which is also

preferably connected to wireless transceiver pair 106. Wireless transceiver pair

106 is therefore able to activate the lock through the actuator. Such activation

can then be detected by central command computational device 108. The

detection of actual activation, as opposed to the mere receipt of the signal by

actually been successfully activated.

Central command computational device 108 also preferably features a

memory 110, which is more preferably a permanent memory such as a flash memory device and/or a magnetic storage device such as a hard disk for

example. Preferably, device 100 would receive such commands for execution

by central command computational device 108, through operation of cellular

telephone 151 by the user. Cellular telephone 151 optionally and more preferably is used to display the information for the user, for example with

regard to the state of receiver 100 and/or locking mechanism 78, as previously described. By merely observing the display of receiver 100 of Figure 6 or by entering any code combination or depression of any other dedicated function

key on a keypad 144, which could be for example, similar to regular keypads

found on cellular telephones sold commercially.

Preferably, a first key 146 of keypad 144 could optionally cause the lock to become disabled, while a second key 148 could optionally cause the lock to

become enabled. Third key 150 could be used to determine the lock status,

while the previously described solenoid mechanism or other mechanism to

prevent a physical key from being used could be controlled through a fourth key

152. The solenoid mechanism, or any other aspect of the locking mechanism

which relies on a power source, could optionally be disabled through a fifth key

154 as previously described. Information about the status of the door and/or

locking mechanism is preferably requested through a sixth key 156 and shown

in a display 158.

Receiver 100 also preferably, additionally or alternatively, features a

cellular transceiver 130 for receiving signals from cellular telephone 151, which could be used as the remote control device of Figure 7B. Cellular transceiver

130 is optionally substitutable by a wireless receiving or transmitting device

separately.

Preferably, a voice-activated unit 116 is used to activate and/or control

receiver 100, in addition to, or in place of, cellular telephone 151. For example,

the voiceprint is optionally used to identify the user as being authorized to

control receiver 100, while voice commands of the user are optionally used to

directly control the locking mechanism. Receiver 100 also preferably features a motion detector 118 similar to

motion detector 118 of Figure 4 and having all features of motion detector 118 of Figure 4.

Optionally and preferably, receiver 100 also features a self-supporting power unit 120, for providing power to these various functions of receiver 100.

For example, power unit 120 could optionally be a battery.

Figure 9 shows a preferred main electrical circuitry 159 of central

computational command device 108 of Figure 6 and Figure 8. Preferably, a

door display 160 is electronically attached to circuitry 159 and preferably

situated on the inner part of door 76 of Figure 4, thereby indicating to the user

and onlookers from within the premises the status of microswitch 48.

Preferably, display 160 includes a "locked" position indicator 162 and an

"unlocked" position indicator 164 for readily conveying the status of

microswitch 48 to the user. Especially preferred, the inner side of door 76 of

Figure 4 includes a locking activator 166 for locking door 76 of Figure 4

without requiring remote control 64. Also preferred, the inner side of door 76 of

Figure 4 includes an unlocking activator 168 for unlocking door 76 of Figure 4

without requiring remote control 64. Thus, the operation of circuitry 159

without either a key or remote control 64 is readily facilitated.

An unlocking relay 170 is electronically attached, and responsive to

unlocking activator 168, such that when the user depresses unlocking activator

168, actuator 22 unlocks the door via unlocking relay 170. Thereafter,

unlocking indicator 164 indicates the door is unlocked. Similarly, a locking relay 172 is electronically attached, and responsive

to locking activator 166, such that when the user depresses locking activator

166, actuator 22 unlocks the door via locking relay 172. Thereafter, locking

indicator 162 indicates the door is locked. Preferably, unlocking relay 170 and locking relay 172 are responsive to

commands transmitted from remote control 64 and received by transceiver 106.

Preferably, a motion detector 118 is electronically attached to transceiver

106. Actuator 22, unlocking 170 and locking relay 172 are responsive to motion

detector 118 not detecting a displacement of door 76 of Figure 4, within a given

time frame from unlocking door 76 of Figure 4.

Preferably, circuitry 159 includes a low voltage alarm 174, which

indicates to the user that power source 120 is low by way of an audible sound,

an illumination of a light and any other manner known in the art.

Figure 9 further shows a remote control transceiver 64 including a first

antenna 176 for two-way communication with circuitry 159. As shown in

Figure 9, a second antenna 178 is electronically attached to circuitry transceiver

106 for receiving signals from remote control transceiver and sending signals as

status signals to remote control transceiver 64.

It will be appreciated that the above descriptions are intended only to serve as examples, and that many other embodiments are possible within the

spirit and the scope of the present invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An intelligent lock system for operation by a user, comprising:

(a) an intelligent lock, said intelligent lock

comprising:

(i) a wireless receiver for receiving an instruction;

(ii) a driver module for being activated by

said wireless receiver upon receipt of

said instruction; and

(iii) a computational device for monitoring a state of said intelligent lock, such

that said state is reported to the user;

and

(b) an intelligent remote control device for controlling said intelligent lock, said

intelligent remote control device comprising: (i) a wireless transmitter for transmitting

said instruction to said wireless receiver.

2. The lock of claim 1, further comprising a cellular transceiver

responsive to commands received from said remote control.

3. The lock of claim 2, wherein said remote control is a cellular

telephone.

4. The lock of claim 1 , further comprising a motion detector.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein said intelligent lock is comprised

of a module and a lock.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein said lock further comprises an

attachment plate, for readily attaching said lock to said module.

7. The system of claim 5, wherein said lock includes a module

isolation element, such that a manual insertion of a key into said

lock is prevented.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein said intelligent lock is readily retrofitted to an existing door.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a display device for

displaying said state of said intelligent lock to the user.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein said display device is incorporated into said intelligent remote control device.

1. An intelligent lock, said intelligent lock comprising:

(a) a wireless receiver for receiving an

instruction;

(b) a driver module for being activated by said

wireless receiver upon receipt of said

instruction;

(c) an intelligent remote control device for

controlling said intelligent lock; and

(d) a bolt and a latch which are substantially contemporaneously responsive to said

remote control device.

12. The device of claim 11 , wherein said intelligent

remote control further comprises a wireless transmitter for transmitting said instruction to said

wireless receiver.

13. The lock of claim 1 1 , further comprising a motion detector.

14. The device of claim 11 , wherein said intelligent lock is comprised

of a driver module and a lock.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein said lock further comprises an attachment plate, for readily attaching said lock to said module.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein said lock includes a module

isolation element, such that a manual insertion of a key into said lock is prevented.

17. An intelligent lock system, comprising:

(a) an intelligent lock, said intelligent lock

comprising:

(i) a wireless transceiver for receiving an

instruction;

(ii) a driver module for being activated by

said wireless transceiver upon receipt of said instruction; and

(iii) a computational device, electronically

attached to said transceiver for monitoring a state of said driver module and transmitting said state of

said driver;

and

(b) an intelligent remote control device for controlling said intelligent lock, said intelligent remote control device comprising a remote control transceiver for transmitting

said instruction to said wireless transceiver

and receiving said state of said driver

transmitted from said wireless transceiver.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein said intelligent lock is comprised

of a module and a lock.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein said module lock is readily

retrofitted to an existing door lock.

20. The lock of claim 17, further comprising a motion detector.

21. The system of claim 17, wherein said lock further comprises an

attachment plate for readily attaching said lock to said module.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein said lock includes a module

isolation element, such that a manual insertion of a key into said

lock is prevented.

23. An intelligent lock system, comprising:

(a) a module including:

(i) a body, said body having a length, a width and height, said body further comprising: (A) a horizontal cavity formed along the length of said

body;

(B) an enabler mechanism for being accommodated by

said horizontal cavity, said enabler mechanism

including an operating handle; and

(C) a readily rotatable and slidably displaceable

horizontal axis attached to said handle;

(ii) a readily rotatable vertical axis;

(iii) an actuator situated in a vertical cavity formed along said

height of said body, for rotating said readily rotatable vertical axis;

(iv) a first conical gear attached to said vertical axis and

substantially aligned with said actuator; (v) a second conical gear for transferring said rotational

displacement of said vertical axis to said horizontal axis;

(vi) a wireless remote control transceiver for indicating whether said horizontal axis is engaged or disengaged; and

(vii) a receiver electronically attached to said actuator and responsive to said remote control, for wirelessly communicating with said remote control;

and

(b) a cylinder lock including an attachment plate for readily attaching said cylinder lock to said module.