Vending machines with field-programmable electronic locks
US7495543B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 24, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 24, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 4, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T70/7079
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key. The electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. Using the learning process activation device, a service person activates the electronic lock to perform a key code learning operation, in which the electronic lock receives a key code transmitted from an electronic key and stores the key code in a non-volatile memory for future access control of the vending machine. Data encryption is employed in the communications between the key and the lock to ensure the security of the communications. A communication device installed in the vending machine for communicating with a home base computer allows the operation of the electronic lock to be remotely controlled for access control and auditing purposes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.