Patent Application
20050178172
The present invention relates generally to locks, and more particularly to locks that can be temporarily anchored in a secure fashion.
1. Introduction
The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any such information is prior art, or relevant, to the presently claimed inventions, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
2. Background
A vast number of lock designs are known, including padlocks, for securing articles. Padlocks are detachable, portable locks having a shackle that locks into the lock case or body. The lock case contains a lock mechanism that releasably engages a movable shackle. In many cases, the shackle is U-shaped, with two substantially parallel arms each being connected at one end to a curved or straight joining portion that connects one arm to the other. The other end of each arm engages the lock. When the lock is unlocked, the shackle can be moved. Depending on the lock design, the shackle may be removed totally from the lock body when the locked is unlocked, or, alternatively, the shackle may be pulled outward from the body and rotated such that a longer arm of the shackle remains retained in the lock body while the other arm disengages from the body such that it can be passed through an opening in an article or otherwise engage the article(s) to be secured. In order for the shackle to be lockably engaged and retained by the lock, the shackle is inserted into the lock body and a locking element (e.g., a notch or other element suitable for detachable engagement) near the end of the formerly disengaged shackle arm is engaged, frequently by locking a ball into a notch (or other element). In some padlock designs that employ a multi-armed shackle, each arm has a locking element that can be engaged by a ball or other arm-retaining structure.
Some conventional padlock applications involve permanently fastening a padlock to a structure so that the lock can be used to retain articles. For example, some motorcycle helmet locks employ a padlock bolted or welded to a motorcycle frame. A helmet can then be locked to the motorcycle using the padlock, freeing the rider from having to carry or store the helmet elsewhere. However, when not in use the padlock cannot be easily removed. This represents a major shortcoming of systems that employ padlocks that are bolted, welded, or otherwise permanently attached to an object other the article being secured.
The instant invention addresses these and other shortcomings of existing padlock-based systems for anchoring articles to various structures.
3. Definitions
Before describing the instant invention in detail, several terms used in the context of the present invention will be defined. In addition to these terms, others are defined elsewhere in the specification, as necessary. Unless otherwise expressly defined herein, terms of art used in this specification will have their art-recognized meanings.
A “lock” refers to any device that prevents access or use by requiring special knowledge (e.g., a combination) or a tool (e.g., a key or card) or information (e.g., an “unlock” command transmitted via a radio frequency). Preferred locks for use in the invention include cam locks and cylinder locks. A “cam lock” is a complete locking assembly in the form of a cylinder whose cam is the actual locking bolt, wherein a “cam” is a lock or cylinder component that transfers the rotational motion of a key or cylinder plug to the bolt-works of a lock. As described above, a “padlock” has a lock that detachably secures a shackle (i.e. the part of a padlock that passes through an opening in, or fits around, an object to be secured) that locks into the lock case or body. The lock portion can be opened using the appropriate tool (e.g., key or card), combination, or signal configured to actuate the lock.
A “combination lock” means a lock that can be opened or unlocked by local input of a specific series or sequence of numbers, letters, and/or other characters or other icons. A “push button lock” is a type of self-contained combination lock with controls that must be pressed in a specific pattern or sequence to open the lock. On the other hand, a “key-actuated lock” is a lock that can be opened or unlocked using a mechanical key (i.e., a properly combinated device which is, or most closely resembles, the device specifically intended to operate the corresponding lock), as opposed to a combination, electronics, etc. A “cylinder key” refers generally to virtually all keys for pin and disc tumbler locks, in that the key is intended for insertion into a cylinder. Thus, a “cylinder lock” is any lock that is operated by a cylinder key.
A lock “cylinder” refers to a complete operating unit that usually consists of the shell, tumblers, springs, plug, plug retainer, a cam/tailpiece or other actuating device, and all other necessary operating parts needed to detachably engage a shackle. A “shell” is the part of the cylinder that surrounds the plug and which usually contains tumbler chambers corresponding to those in the plug. A “plug” is the part of a cylinder rotably disposed in the shell, and which contains the keyway and tumbler chambers usually corresponding to those in the cylinder shell. A “tumbler” is a movable obstruction of varying size and configuration in a lock or cylinder that makes direct contact with the key or another tumbler and prevents an incorrect key or torque device from activating the lock or other mechanism. Tumblers include pin tumblers and disc or wafer tumblers. A “pin tumbler” is usually a cylindrically shaped tumbler. Many pin tumbler locks have a single row of pins aligned with the keyway. A special type of cylinder is a cylinder for a tubular key. A “tubular key cylinder” is a cylinder whose tumblers are positioned around the circumference of the cylinder plug, as opposed to being positioned in a row aligned with the keyway. A tubular key cylinder is operated by a tubular key, i.e., a key with a tubular blade wherein the key cuts are made into the end of the blade, around its circumference. A “disc tumbler” or “wafer tumbler” is a flat tumbler that must be drawn into the plug by the proper key so that none of its extremities extends into the shell. The “shear line” refers to the interface in a cylinder at which specific tumbler surfaces must be aligned in the shell and in the plug in order to remove obstruction(s) (e.g., pins) that prevent the plug from moving (e.g., rotating).
A “double lock” is a lock with one or more bolts with different functions. In the context of a lock, a “bolt” is any movable projection that blocks the movement of one object relative to another. In embodiments with two or more bolts, a single action may cause each bolt to move or, alternatively, each bolt may require a separate action (e.g., further rotation of the same key). A “gang lock” is a lock with multiple bolts that lock different elements (e.g., shackles, etc.) simultaneously by a single action.
A “power lock” refers to a lock that requires the input of energy (typically electricity of a specified voltage, current, and waveform) for lock actuation. In this context, a solenoid, servo, or other electromechanical device that moves a bolt, rotates a cylinder, etc. of the particular lock being actuated performs “lock actuation”. As with lock types in general, many different power locks exist, and any power lock can be readily adapted for use in the context of this invention.
A “single cylinder lock” is one with key operation from only one side, whereas as a “double cylinder lock” is a lock with two keyed cylinders, which may be configured in a variety of ways. For example, the cylinders may be stacked or otherwise arrayed side-by-side such that the key hole for each lock are on the same side of the lock device. In other embodiments, the cylinders are aligned a central axis in a back-to-back manner such that the keyholes are on opposite ends of the lock device. Many other multi-cylinder configurations can also be employed to achieve the lock functionalities of the invention (engaging a shackle and an anchor).
A “bi-directional cylinder” is a cylinder that may be operated in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction by a single key. In contrast, a “unidirectional cylinder” is a cylinder whose key can turn in only one direction from the key pull position. A “dual locking cylinder” is a style of lock cylinder whose key operates two independent locking mechanisms within the cylinder.
A “locking device” is any device that provides the locking functionalities of the invention.
A “lock body” or “lock case” refers to a housing that houses the lock(s) of a locking device according to the invention, including any mechanical and/or electromechanical components (e.g., receivers
A “card reader” is a device used in conjunction with a power lock or other access control system to interpret coding resident on or in an electronic, magnetic, electromagnetic, radio frequency (“RF”), or optical type of credential (i.e., an authorizing instrument or signal, other than a mechanical key, that can cause a lock to open). Such credentials include magnetic or electronic cards or RF identity cards, including so-called “smart” cards, which contain one or more integrated circuits, do not use contacts to obtain power, and allow interfacing with external equipment (e.g., card readers). A “card system” refers a lock system that utilizes cards and card readers as the credential (or key) to open locks.
“Conceals”, “conceal”, and similar terms mean that the object referred to as being concealed (e.g., an anchor) is at least partially physically inaccessible. Thus, an “anchor” is concealed when it cannot be accessed due the presence of a locking device of the invention. The degree of concealment is relative. An object is “completely concealed” when no portion of it is visible or accessible due the presence of another object. An object is “substantially concealed” when it cannot be accessed due the presence of one or more other objects, although a portion of it may be visible.
“Detachable”, “detachably engaging”, “detachably engaged”, and the similar terms mean that the object that is detachable in the context of the invention (e.g., a shackle, a lock body, etc.) can readily be removed from another object (e.g., a lock, in the case of a shackle; a lock body, in the case of an anchor, etc.) by unlocking that portion of a lock which provides the locking function being unlocked.
“Electronic access control systems” employ locks that use electricity, for example, to power actuators to move lock cylinders between locked and unlocked positions, as well as to power card readers and other receivers for receiving lock control signals, including signals transmitted by short range radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), laser, microwave, and other forms of wireless transmission.
A “mechanical system” refers to a lock system employing a series of moving, interconnected moving parts, whereas “electromechanical systems” are lock systems that employ both mechanical (including hydraulic and pneumatic) and electrical components and moving parts that are operably connected. An “electronic system” refers to a lock system having no moving parts.
A “receiver” is an electronic device capable of receiving a control signal and, if appropriate, sending instructions for the automated operation of a device (e.g., a power lock) connected thereto. If the signal is encoded or encrypted, the receiver is configured to decode it. As used herein, a receiver is understood to include any required antennae, as well as a suitable power supply (which may depend on lock system configuration) and computer, microprocessor, software, or other devices or components required to implement command signals received by the receiver.
A “signal” refers to any signal that can be transmitted remotely to actuate a power lock. Signals are received by receivers adapted to receive and analyze the particular type of signal. Signals include sound, electromagnetic radiation (e.g., visible or infrared light, radio waves, etc.), and magnetic signals. Here, “remotely” indicates that the transmitter that transmits the signal is not physically attached to or connected with the receiver. A “transmitter” is a device that transmits a particular signal. Signals may be encoded (i.e., encrypted) or naked. Encoded signals require decoding or decryption after their receipt by a receiver. Only decoded signals carrying the correct information result in the dispatch of instructions for the automated operation of a device (e.g., a power lock) connected thereto. Naked signals do not require decoding or decryption, such that receipt of the signal alone by the receiver results in the dispatch of instructions for the automated operation of a device (e.g., a power lock) connected thereto.
To “unlock” or “open” a lock means to place the lock in a condition where it no longer performs a locking function. For example, in the context of a cam lock, unlocking the lock often means that the cam is moved to a position that no longer serves to prevent movement of the object that the cam engaged when it was locked. Similarly, to unlock a lock that engages a shackle, when locked, means that after unlocking, the shackle can be, for example, withdrawn from the lock.
A “ward” typically refers to a stationary obstruction in a lock (or cylinder of a lock) that prevents the entry and/or operation of an incorrect key. A “warded key” is a key with ward cuts only, typically a bit key, flat steel key, or corrugated key. A “keyway” is a slot in the cylinder of a cylinder lock for insertion of a key. A keyway may include one or more wards.
An “anchor” serves to secure a locking device of the invention to a structure. Anchors can comprise one, two, or several pieces. In some contexts, an “anchor” also refers to that portion a structure which may be adapted for direct interaction with a locking device according to the invention in order to effect detachable engagement, without the need for a separate anchor component attached to the structure.
A “flange” refers to that part of an anchor some or all of which engages a portion of the lock body (i.e., the lock-engaging element(s)) so as to prevent the locking device from being detached or disengaged from the anchor, typically by pulling or sliding the locking device away from or off of the anchor. The “excluded volume” of a flange (or anchor) refers to that volume defined by its outermost surfaces without reference to recesses, cavities, bores, etc.
A “structure” refers to anything to which the anchor component of a detachable lock system according to the invention can be attached. Representative examples of structures include buildings, walls, portable structures (such as panels that can be moved), and vehicles (e.g., trucks, cars, and motorcycles). For purposes of this invention, structures also include rocks, trees, and the ground (e.g., sand, soil, concrete, asphalt, etc.).
A “patentable” composition, process, machine, or article of manufacture according to the invention means that the particular subject matter satisfies all statutory requirements for patentability at the time the analysis is performed. For example, with regard to novelty, non-obviousness, or the like, if later investigation reveals that one or more claims encompass one or more embodiments that would negate novelty, non-obviousness, etc., the claim(s), being limited by definition to “patentable” embodiments, specifically exclude the unpatentable embodiment(s). Also, the claims appended hereto are to be interpreted both to provide the broadest reasonable scope, as well as to preserve their validity. Furthermore, if one or more of the statutory requirements for patentability are amended or if the standards change for assessing whether a particular statutory requirement for patentability is satisfied from the time this application issues as a patent to a time the validity of one or more of the appended claims is questioned, the claims are to be interpreted in a way that (1) preserves their validity and (2) provides the broadest reasonable interpretation under the circumstances.
The object of the invention is to provide rapidly detachable yet secure, anchored lock-based systems for securing articles.
In a first aspect then, the invention relates to locking devices (e.g., padlocks) that comprise one or more locks housed in a lock body that can detachably engage and be retained by an anchor affixed to a structure. The lock(s) of such locking devices serve at least two functions: to detachably engage a shackle that can be attached to an object to be secured; and to detachably engage an anchor in a manner that prevents the locking device, once engaged with the anchor, from being disengaged from the anchor while the lock is locked. When the lock body of the locking device engages the anchor to detachably attach the locking device to the structure, the anchor is at least partially, and preferably is substantially or completely, concealed by the locking device.
In some embodiments, to engage the anchor the lock body of the locking device has one or more ports into which the anchor (or a portion thereof) can be inserted. The manner of engaging the anchor ultimately depends on the particular configuration of the anchor and complementary port(s) on the lock body. In many preferred embodiments, the anchor is engaged by sliding the locking device over some or all of the anchor after the anchor has been affixed to a structure. In other embodiments, the locking device is placed over the anchor and twisted to mate the anchor-engaging elements of the lock body with the flange portion of the anchor that is adapted to engage the anchor-engaging portions of the lock body.
In other embodiments, the lock body of a locking device according to the invention comprises a structure adapted for insertion into a cavity in an anchor adapted to receive the structure. Preferred structures are posts that protrude from the surface of the locking device that faces the anchor when the two are detachably engaged. The post may be configured to engage one or more structurally complementary elements (e.g., one or more flanges) in the cavity of the anchor. Alternatively, the post may be configured to adopt a friction-based engagement of the anchor. In some embodiments, operation of the anchor-engaging function of the lock forces one or more portions of the post outward to engage one or mores surface in the cavity. In still other embodiments, one or more pins may be driven from the post to engage complementary bores, slots, and the like in the anchor to effect detachable engagement.
In addition to a port or other structure configured to engage an anchor (preferably some or all of the flange portion of an anchor), the lock body also contains at one or more ports for the shackle. Typically, the lock body will comprise a number of such shackle ports equal to the number of arms of the intended shackle. Thus, in embodiments where the shackle-engaging lock of the locking device is designed to engage a shackle having two arms, the lock body preferably has two shackle ports. Of course, a locking device may include more shackle ports than the number of arms of a single shackle designed for retention by a single lock, in which event the locking device can be use to secure more than one shackle. Such embodiments include those employing more than one lock for shackles. Whether the shackle-engaging locks of such devices may be opened using the same key, combination, credential or signal is left to the discretion of the skilled artisan and will depend, for example, on the intended application.
Shackles used in connection with the invention can be made from any suitable material, including flexible cables and cast or forged pieces. Regardless of the particular shackle configuration, the end(s) of the shackle are adapted for releasable engagement by the particular lock used in the locking device for engaging the particular shackle.
In addition to ports for anchors and shackles, the lock bodies of lock devices of the invention may further comprise more ports, particularly when a lock housed within the lock body is manually actuated, for example, using a key or combination. Even in embodiments that employ power locks, the components of are preferably completely concealed within the housing, a lock body may comprise a port for accessing, for example, the keyway of a cylinder lock. Any such port is configured to allow operation of the corresponding lock.
The locks used in the locking devices of the invention can be mechanical systems electromechanical systems, or electronic systems. Preferred locks include cylinder locks and combination locks, which may be actuated mechanically or electromechanically. Preferred cylinder locks employ pin tumblers and disc tumblers. In some embodiments, the tumblers are arranged in a row in the cylinder plug for actuation by the appropriate key. In other embodiments, the tumblers are positioned circumferentially around the cylinder, and are actuated by a tubular key. The locks can be double locks, preferred examples of which employ a dual locking cylinder. Locks such as these allow for the simultaneous engagement of a shackle and an anchor, whereby a first retainer (e.g., a steel ball or bolt) engages the shackle and a second retainer (e.g., a bolt or cam) engages the anchor. The second retainer can engage the anchor in any manner that prevents the locking device (e.g., a padlock), once engaged with the anchor, from being removed from the anchor until the lock is unlocked. Thus, when in the locked position, the second retainer is positioned proximate to the anchor. Such positioning includes embodiments wherein the retainer that engages the anchor (or flange) outside of its excluded volume, as well as embodiments wherein the retainer engages the anchor by positioning within the excluded volume of the anchor once the locking device is positioned about the anchor in a manner suitable for engagement. For example, in some embodiments the second retainer is adapted for insertion into a structure in the anchor, e.g., a recess adapted or otherwise suited to receive the second retainer in a manner that prevents the locking device from being removed from the anchor when the lock controlling the second retainer is locked, thereby deploying the second retainer.
The lock(s) used in a locking device (e.g., a padlock) of the invention are opened (i.e., unlocked or actuated) using the particular knowledge, equipment, or signal necessary for the particular lock. Thus, a combination lock can be opened using the appropriate combination, i.e., the particular series of alphanumeric symbols or other icons required to open the particular lock. A key-actuated lock, on the other hand, is a lock that can be opened or unlocked using a mechanical key that has been keyed to have the particular mechanical structure required to move the lock. In embodiments using cylinder locks, for example, insertion of the correct key allows the tumblers in the plug to properly align such that the plug can be rotated in relation to the shell by turning the key. As the plug is connected (directly or indirectly through one or more mechanical linkages) to other parts of the lock, the rotation of the plug is translated to, for example, a cam, bearing, or bolt that disengages from the shackle, thereby allowing it to move. Other locks may also be used, including power locks actuated by a credential such as a magnetic or electronic card that is read by a card reader or by a signal transmitted to a receiver associated with the lock. When a card reader reads a card encoded with the appropriate information, the one or more locks connected thereto are opened. Similarly, power locks can be actuated remotely using a transmitter to transmit a signal to a receiver that directs the actuation of the lock upon receipt of the appropriate signal. As will be appreciated, in some embodiments employing one lock to engage the shackle and another lock to engage the anchor, the same information, tool, signal, or other credential can be used to open both locks. In other embodiments, a different tool, signal, or other credential or information actuates each lock.
The lock bodies of the locking devices of the invention can be made from any suitable material, which may vary depending on application. Preferred materials include metals, plastics, and other materials that are inexpensive and can be readily shaped into desired forms by such techniques as stamping, casting, or molding. If desired, decorative and/or protective coatings or layers can be applied to the outer surfaces of the locking devices of the invention.
Beyond locking devices themselves, another aspect of the invention concerns lock systems. Such systems employ one or more locking devices of the invention and at least one complementary anchor attached to (or capable of attachment to) a structure for each locking device, such that when a locking device and anchor are engaged, they can be locked together, thereby securing the locking device (and any article locked thereto via a shackle) to the structure. A locking device may then be detached from its complementary anchor by unlocking the lock that secures it to the anchor. The lock that engages a shackle attached to the locking device may also then be unlocked. Whether a shackle is unlocked when the device is released from its anchor will depend, for example, on the type of lock used. As will be appreciated, in certain preferred embodiments a lock engaging a shackle may be unlocked without unlocking the locking device from the anchor. Alternatively, it may desirable to disengage a locking device from its anchor without releasing the shackle.
The anchors used in conjunction with the locking devices of the invention are of any design or configuration that is compatible with, or complementary to, the port in the particular lock body adapted to detachably receive the corresponding anchor. In certain preferred embodiments, the anchor comprises a flange that can be attached or fastened to a structure. Preferable attachment techniques include bolting, screwing, pinning, welding, or bonding the flange to the structure. Flanges enable locking devices with complementary lock bodies to be mechanically locked or mated thereto such that the locking devices can only be separated from the flanges by, for example, sliding or twisting a complementary locking device to disengage it from a complementary flange. As described elsewhere in this specification, to prevent detachment of a locking device from a structurally complementary anchor, the locking device includes a lock function that, when actuated (e.g., by deploying an element such as a cam or pin to engage the anchor), prevents translation of the locking device in relation to the anchor.
For certain applications, such as anchoring a locking device to a building, panel, or vehicle, preferred anchors comprise flanges attached to the structure using one or more screws, bolts, or retaining clips or pins. While such anchors are susceptible to removal from the structure in the absence of a locking device according to the invention that conceals the component(s) used to effect attachment, detachable engagement by such a locking device can prevent or limit the opportunity for such removal due to the anchor's partial, substantial, or complete concealment by the locking device, thereby affording secure attachment to a structure not only of the anchor, but also of a locking device engaged therewith as well as any object locked to the locking device via a shackle.
It is understood that the summary of the invention described above is non-limiting and that other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following brief description of the drawings, the drawings themselves, the detailed description of the invention, and the appended claims.
The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further demonstrate certain aspects of the present invention. The invention may be better understood by reference to one or more of these drawings in combination with the detailed description of specific embodiments presented herein.
As those in the art will appreciate, the embodiments represented in the attached drawings are representative only and do not depict the actual scope of the invention. For example, the flange portion of an anchor of a lock system according to the invention may have any profile or shape suitable for mechanically engaging the lock body so as to prevent the padlock, when engaged with the anchor, from being disengaged from the anchor. These and other representative embodiments are described below in greater detail.
The present invention concerns secure, yet detachable, anchorable lock systems, the components of such systems, and methods of using such systems to secure objects. Briefly, a lock system of the invention comprises a locking device adapted to detachably engage an anchor, which anchor provides for fixed attachment of the locking device (e.g., padlock) to a structure.
A. Locking Devices
One component of the lock systems of the invention is a locking device that employs one or more locks to provide two functionalities: shackle engagement and release, so that a desired object can be secured by the lock(s); and anchor engagement and release, so that the locking device embodying the locks (e.g., a padlock), and any object(s) locked to it via the shackle, can be securely attached to a structure. A variety of preferred locking devices and anchors are described below in representative, non-limiting terms.
1. Locks
In this invention, the anchor- and shackle-engaging functionalities of a particular locking device (preferably, a padlock) are provided by one or more locks housed in a lock body. Preferred locks include cam locks and cylinder locks, although any lock, or combination of locks that provide the recited functionalities can be adapted and configured for use in the context of the invention without undue experimentation in view of this specification. For purposes of illustration, in some embodiments employing locks such locks cam locks and cylinder locks incorporated in a padlock, the padlock comprises two separate locks, for example, a cam lock for detachably engaging the anchor and a cylinder lock for detachably engaging the shackle. In such embodiments, each lock may be a combination lock, a key-actuated lock, or a lock actuated by a credential (e.g., a smart card) or signal. For efficiency, when two locks are employed (e.g., one for shackle engagement and one for anchor engagement) in a locking device, the same key, combination, credential, or signal preferably actuates each lock, although in some embodiments, each lock is actuated by a different combination, key, credential, or signal. Indeed, for lock systems that involve multiple locking devices and anchors, it is often preferred to use a lock for anchor engagement that uses the same key, combination, or credential for each lock. In this way, each anchor can be secured to or detached from a structure using the same information (i.e., combination), tool (e.g., key or card), or signal, whereas a different, preferably, unique key, combination, or credential is used to unlock the shackle that can be engaged by the particular padlock. Here, “unique” applies to the particular set of locks employed in the particular system. Thus, if the system has 250 different anchors and 250 locking devices, each of which engages one shackle, it is preferred that each lock for shackle engagement use a key that only unlocks that particular lock. Of course, one ore more master keys (or other tools, information, credentials, or signals used in the given system) may also be available to unlock some or all of the locks in the system, but these preferably are retained by proprietors or other supervisors and are not made generally available to, for example, workers or the public.
Some preferred embodiments of the invention employ locking devices that each comprise single cylinder lock, preferably of the double lock, type such that the shackle- and anchoring-engaging functions are embodied in the same lock. For example, the lock system depicted in
In other embodiments, multi-cylinder locks are used. Most frequently such locks employ a separate cylinder lock for each of the locking functionalities provided by the locking devices of the invention. Such locks can be configured in any suitable way. For example, the cylinders may be stacked or otherwise arrayed side-by-side such that the keyhole for each lock is on the same side of the lock device. In other embodiments, the cylinders are aligned on a central axis in a back-to-back manner such that the keyholes are on opposite ends of the lock device. Many other multi-cylinder configurations can also be employed to achieve the lock functionalities of the invention.
Preferred locks for use in the invention include pin and tumbler locks, as well as wafer tumbler locks. To provide adequate security, a lock preferably uses a key, combination, credential, or signal that is sufficiently unique in the particular lock system such that it is unlikely that one key could operate two or more locks in the system, except in some embodiments where a single locking device comprises two or more locks. Regardless of the number of locking devices and anchors in a particular lock system, each lock preferably comprises a sufficient number and arrangement of tumblers to prevent easy picking or other unauthorized opening of the lock.
The locks of the invention include those that are operated manually, for example, by rotation of the correct key placed in the keyway of a cylinder lock, while in other embodiments, power locks are employed. When a power lock is used, the locking device can be energized by any suitable power source, e.g., a battery or battery pack, by line or low voltage power supplies, including power supplied by photovoltaic systems. Preferred power locks are those wherein a solenoid or servo moves a bolt to lock or unlock the particular lock upon actuation, directly or through one or more mechanical linkages. When a power lock is employed, the lock (and locking device) may also include the components necessary for manual operation of the lock, which may be necessary in the event of a power failure, for example.
2. Lock Bodies
The lock(s) used in a particular locking device of the invention are housed in a lock body. A lock body not only protects and shields the lock(s) of a locking device, it also is manufactured to have one or more elements capable of engaging a complementary anchor such that the locking device/anchor combination, when attached to a structure through the anchor, is secured to the structure. These elements are referred to as anchor-engaging elements, and a locking device according to the invention includes at least one such element. The anchor engaging elements are typically included in a port in the lock body that provides for engagement of the anchor, either before or after the anchor is secured to a structure.
Given the nature of the invention, lock bodies are preferably made from materials that resist impact, thermal challenges (i.e., extreme heat or cold), and the like. Preferably, such materials are easily formed into the desired shape, such as by stamping, casting, or molding. Preferred materials include metals and plastics, especially thermoplastics, including those that include reinforcing fibers in a resin. Lock bodies can be made from one or several pieces, each of which may be made of the same or different material. A variety of these materials are known in the art, and any suitable material, or combination of materials, can be employed.
The particular design of a given lock body useful in the present invention depends on many factors, including the size, number, and type of lock(s) used; how the locks are actuated (e.g., by a key, combination, magnetic or electronic credential, or by a signal); whether the lock(s) are power locks or are actuated manually; the number and type of shackles to be engaged by the shackle-engaging lock; the number, size, shape, and locations of ports needed for the shackle(s) and lock(s) used; how the locking device is to engage its anchor; the intended use of the locking device/anchor combination, etc. Given these and other considerations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this specification, the particular design, method of manufacture, and materials used to make a lock body is left to the discretion of the ordinarily skilled artisan.
B. Anchors
In order to secure a locking device to a structure, in many embodiments the lock systems of the invention use an anchor configured to engage those elements on the lock body intended to engage the anchor, i.e., the anchor-engaging elements. In other embodiments, the structure itself is adapted (e.g., by drilling or during construction or manufacture) to detachably engage a locking device according to the invention. Anchors can be designed (or structures adapted or constructed) to engage locking devices in any way, provided that the engagement is releasable. Preferred methods of engagement involve mechanical locks, where one or more anchor-engaging elements of a lock body become positioned proximate to a corresponding element (i.e., a lock body-engaging element) of the anchor (or structure) such that the anchor (or structure) and lock body cannot be separated until desired. A mechanical lock is typically formed between two components that are complementary over at least a part of their respective structures. For example, one component having a pin, ball, bolt, shaft, or the like can be mechanically locked to another by having its pin, ball, bolt, or shaft inserted into a bore shaped to receive it. When the pin of one component, for example, is inserted into a complementary bore in the other component, the two components can become locked together. In other embodiments, one component (e.g., the anchor) may comprise a flange having a shape that complements a structure on the other component (e.g., such as a ball and hitch arrangement), such as an anchor-engaging port, which is configured to have one or flanges complementary to one or more of those of the anchor.
In many embodiments, an anchor (or structure) comprises more than one flange or other component for engaging a complementary locking device. As used herein, a flange of an anchor (or structure) can comprise more than one element for engaging a complementary lock body. These lock body-engaging elements may be spaced around the flange portion such they are not continuous or contiguous, or they may comprise a continuous structure.
Anchors (or a portion of a structure adapted to serve as an anchor) useful in the context of the invention can comprise one or more pieces. For example, in some embodiments the anchor comprises a flange portion and a bolt, screw, pin, or similar member for securing the flange portion to a structure. In some embodiments, the flange portion itself may comprise two or more pieces. For example, two washers, each having a different outer diameter and hole in the center for insertion of a bolt or screw, can be stacked such that their holes are concentric, with the larger washer on top. The portion of the larger washer that extends beyond the lower washer in such a structure represents the lock body-engaging element, and in such a configuration extends completely around the structure such that a complementary lock body can slidingly engage the flange radially from any angle. In profile, such a configuration has a step profile. Another useful flange configuration includes three stacked three washers. The upper- and lower-most washers are preferably of the same outer diameter, while the middle washer has a smaller outer diameter. When viewed in profile, such a configuration presents a “key” or slot that can serve as a lock body-engaging element for a locking device that includes complementary anchor-engaging elements in the port for engaging the anchor. As will be appreciated, structures that are functionally equivalent to stacks of two or more washers can readily be manufactured as single pieces. Moreover, based on this specification, a multitude of other flange portions useful in the context of the invention will be apparent to those in the art, and all such flange portions are within the scope of the invention.
In still other embodiments, the lock body-engaging elements of a flange are not located on a surface of the anchor that bounds a portion of the excluded volume of the anchor (or structure). Such flange elements are external flange elements. Instead, the flange portion is within the anchor (or structure), such that at least some, and preferably all, of its lock body-engaging elements do not have surfaces that define the anchor's excluded volume. In such embodiments, the locking device need not include a port for engaging a complementary anchor or flange portion thereof; instead, it may include a component such as a post that includes anchor-engaging (or structure-engaging) elements. For example, in some embodiments wherein the locking device comprises a post, the locking device can detachably engage the anchor by rotating it after the post has been inserted into the anchor in order to engage the anchor-engaging element(s) of the post with the lock body-engaging elements of the anchor. In such embodiments, to prevent rotation of the locking device so that it can be disengaged from the anchor, one or more structures (e.g., cams) can be deployed from the locking device to engage complementary structures (e.g., slots or other ports) in the anchor after the locking device has been rotated to engage the lock body-engaging elements of the anchor. In other embodiments, rotation of the locking device is not required. In such embodiments, a lock in the locking device actuates a structure to detachably engage the anchor (or structure). Such detachable engagement can be accomplished in any suitable way, for example, by driving a pin into a bore in the anchor, by creating sufficient friction between the anchor and the anchor-engaging structure of the locking device, etc. Of course, anchors (or structures) that include both internal and external flange elements can also be made and used in the practice of this invention.
Other anchor embodiments do not include a flange. Instead, the anchor includes a structure such as a bore that can be engaged by a pin inserted therein. Alternatively, the anchor may comprise a cavity (e.g., a bore) that the surfaces of which can be engaged by another component in a such a way as to create sufficient friction between the anchor and other component so as prevent withdrawal of the other component. If desired, the cavity may also include a flange. As will be appreciated, the invention also envisions embodiments that do not employ a separate anchor per se. Instead, the structure is prepared, for example, by drilling a hole, to detachably receive a locking device according to the invention that deploys, for example, a friction-generating element to engage at least a portion of the prepared surface of the structure.
Anchors comprising a flange portion include those wherein another component is used to fix the flange to a structure. Such components include fasteners such as bolts, screws, nails, pins, and similar components. Preferred fasteners include self-tapping machine screws, metal screws, wood screws, lag bolts, and bolts threaded to mate to a metal structure drilled and tapped to match the bolt's thread pattern. Fasteners can also comprise augers to allow anchors to be attached to the ground (including sand and soil).
Typically, a fastener comprises a head and a shank, although any fastener that can attach and anchor to a structure can be used. The head of the fastener engages the flange and the shank (which is usually cylindrical) protrudes through a slot, bore, or other structure in the flange portion so as to allow fastener to engage a structure for retention of the locking device/anchor combination. At least a portion of the shanks of bolts and screws is threaded. On bolts, the threads are designed to mate to nut or portion of a structure having a complementary thread pattern. The heads of bolts and screws typically have a shape allowing them to be driven (i.e., by rotation) by a suitable tool. In some embodiments, the head of a bolt or screw is solid; in other embodiments, the head contains a cavity. Such cavities may be configured for driving (e.g., by a wrench such as an Allen wrench or TORX® wrench). They may also serve as cavities into which a pin, cam, or similar retaining element can also be positioned to prevent a locking device from being translated in relation to an anchor to which it has been secured. In embodiments that employ pins, the shank of the pin typically comprises an element near the end opposite the head that allows the pin to be retained after it has been inserted through the flange portion and the structure for securing the lock system (e.g., a portable panel). Such elements include bores that accept cotter pins, for example, as well as channels for circlips, etc. To prevent unwanted removal of the anchor and a locking device secured thereto (e.g., by a thief), it is preferred that the locking device substantially or completely conceal at least the fastener, and preferably the entire anchor, when detachably engaged with the anchor.
Alternative anchor embodiments do not employ bolts, screws, etc. to secure the anchor to a structure. Instead, the anchor (e.g., the flange) is welded, bonded, or otherwise permanently attached to the structure. In this context, “permanent” means that the anchor cannot be readily removed once attached to a structure. For example, when an anchor is welded or bonded to a structure, it cannot be readily removed. Other types of attachment, however, are reversible, in that an anchor can be removed by reversing the process used to attach it to a structure. For example, if an anchor is bolted or screwed to a structure, it can be removed by unbolting or unscrewing the bolt or screw, as the case may be.
C. Preferred Lock Systems and Components
In
An alternative embodiment to that depicted in panels B1 and B2 of
Those in the art will understand that the embodiments described above and in the attached figures represent only several of the multitude of embodiments of the lock systems, locking devices, anchors, and other components of the invention. As such, the figures do not limit, and assist in describing, the scope of the invention.
D. Applications
As described, anchors (or portions of structures adapted to serve as anchors) are used to secure (via detachable engagement) locking devices according to the invention to structures in order to prevent articles secured by the shackles of the devices from being stolen, lost, etc. Accordingly, the structures themselves should be of the sort that are not easily moved or misplaced. Examples of such structures include buildings, panels, vehicles, trees, large rocks, and the ground (e.g., sand and soil). The type of anchor employed and how it is attached to the structure will depend on a variety of factors, including the locking device used, the article(s) to be secured (including its size, value, etc.), the length of time the article is to be secured, the location and its accessibility to potential thieves, etc. As a result, the selection of anchors and locking devices is left to the discretion of the user.
If desired, more than one lock system according to the invention can be attached to the same structure. For example, a panel having a plurality of like anchors can be used to secure a plurality of different articles, wherein each article is secured to a locking device via its shackle and the locking device detachably engages one of the anchors. Similarly, a number of anchors can be secured to a structure such as a building. Articles, for example, tools, can then be secured to the building by detachably engaging locking devices to the anchors. The articles to be secured can be secured to the locking device before, at the same time as, or after the locking device is secured to the anchor.
Any article that can be secured by a shackle can be secured using a lock system according to the invention. Such articles include computers and other electronics, tools, helmets, and vehicles (e.g., automobiles, bicycles, motorcycles, water craft, aircraft, etc.). For example, a lock system can be used, for example, to secure tools (e.g., power saws and ladders) on a building construction site. Each tool may be secured by looping a flexible shackle cable through any suitable opening on the tool and attaching the shackle to a locking device according to the invention. The locking device can then be secured to an anchor that previously been fastened to the building, e.g., by screwing the anchor to an exposed framing stud.
Alternatively, an anchor as depicted in
All of the locks, systems, and methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the locks, systems, and methods of this invention have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations can be developed without undue effort in light of this specification and without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the invention. More specifically, it will be apparent that certain components may be substituted for those described herein and will result in equivalents within the scope and meaning of the invention and this specification, including the appended claims. All such similar substitutes, modifications, and equivalents apparent are deemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
The invention illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element(s) not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, in each instance herein any of the terms “comprising”, “consisting essentially of”, and “consisting of” may be replaced with either of the other two terms. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention that in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described.
All patents and publications mentioned in the specification are indicative of the levels of those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
