Electronic real estate lockbox system

• US 20050168320A1
• Filed: 11/15/2004
• Published: 08/04/2005
• Est. Priority Date: 10/16/1985
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: General Electric Company
• Original Assignee: General Electric Company
• Inventors: Barrett, Philip, Larson, Wayne F., Henderson, Walter G.
• Application Number:
  US10/989,902
• Publication Number:
  US 20050168320A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 340/5.250
• CPC Class Codes: E05B 19/0005 Key safes E05B35/086 takes precedence
• CPC Class Codes: E05B 2047/0053 by operating the handle
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 1/32 Time-recording locks
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00761 with data transmission performed by connected means, e.g. mechanical contacts, plugs, connectors
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00769 with data transmission performed by wireless means
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00825 remotely by lines or wireless communication
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2009/00865 remotely by wireless communication
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 2209/08 With time considerations, e.g. temporary activation, valid time window or time limitations
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00309 operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00571 operated by interacting with a central unit
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00817 where the code of the lock can be programmed
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00857 where the code of the data carrier can be programmed
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00896 specially adapted for particular uses
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/21 having a variable access code
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/215 the system having a variable access-code, e.g. varied as a function of time
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/27 with central registration
• CPC Class Codes: Y10T 70/7068 Actuated after correct combination recognized [e.g., numerical, alphabetical, or magnet[s] pattern]

Abstract

One or more lock or key units of a secure entry system is equipped with a radio receiver. The receiver permits a memory in the lock or key unit to be updated with new data that is modulated onto a radio frequency signal. By this technique, system-wide changes of programming data, such as changes of lockout lists and access codes, and changes targeted to specific units, such as disabling a particular key, can be implemented simply and quickly.

Claims

1-2. -2. (canceled)

3. In an electronic key for use with an electronic lock, the key and lock being distinct from one another and movable relative thereto, the key including a microprocessor, a battery coupled to the microprocessor, a memory coupled to the microprocessor, a keypad including at least the digits 0-9, the keypad being coupled to the microprocessor, and a communications port for sending signals to the lock, an improvement comprising:

a receiver for receiving electromagnetic radio frequency signals; and

a decoder coupled to the receiver for providing data corresponding to a received radio frequency signal to the memory to change data stored therein;

wherein characteristics of the key can be programmed remotely; and

wherein the key is programmed to identify radio frequency signals carrying data intended for said key, as opposed to other signals intended for other keys.