Identification and selection of keys for use with locks
First Claim
1. The method of physically coupling a device that includes an electronic means to one at least keys.
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Accused Products
Abstract
The present invention describes a method for coupling electronically addressable and readable illumination means to one at least lock keys. Said illumination means may be used to identify key function and to select a particular key from a group of keys on a key grouping means (eg key ring). A novel key ring is described that may deliver power and electronic signals via conductor means to one at least keys. The system is controlled by a key control means that is preferably provided in a key tag format. The invention provides scope to couple other electronic devices and functions to a key ring. A method of automatically attaching/detaching keys from a key ring is also described.
57 Citations
58 Claims
- 1. The method of physically coupling a device that includes an electronic means to one at least keys.
- 10. The method of physically coupling one at least electronically operable and/or addressable indicator means to one at least keys.
- 24. The method of coupling an electronically readable ID means to one at least keys.
- 28. The method of coupling an electronically addressable memory storage means to one at least keys.
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36. The method of coupling a means to one at least locks wherein said means includes one at least of:
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i) electronically readable Lock ID means;
ii) electronically readable and/or writeable description of one at least keys that is able to action said lock(s). - View Dependent Claims (37, 38)
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- 39. The method of coupling at least one electrical power conductor and/or at least one electrical return conductor to one at least Key Grouping Means.
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49. The method of providing an electronic means that includes one at least of:
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i) means to electronically read one at least Lock ID means;
ii) memory storage means that stores one at least Lock ID means;
iii) memory storage means that stores one at least Key ID Means;
iv) memory storage means that stores one at least descriptions pertaining to one at least locks;
v) means to electrically couple to one at least Key Grouping Means;
vi) means to facilitate the activation of one at least illumination means coupled to one at least keys. - View Dependent Claims (50)
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51. The method steps of:
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a) electronically reading one at least Lock ID means; and
b) using said Lock ID to determine the electronic ID and/or electronic address of one at least keys that facilitate actioning one at least locks coupled to said Lock ID means; and
c) facilitating illumination of one at least illumination means coupled to one at least said keys.
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- 52. The method step of electronically reading the electronic address and/or electronic ID means and/or other information coupled to one at least keys, and using part at least of said information to facilitate determination of one at least target locks actionable by said one at least keys.
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58. The method of automatically attaching and/or detaching one at least keys to and/or from one at least key grouping means.
Specification