Apparatus and methods for locking and unlocking containers
US7677066B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2007 |
| Grant date | Mar 16, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 27, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T70/5093
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for locking and unlocking a lockable container that has an internal locking mechanism are disclosed. The apparatus may include a main body including a channel for receiving the container. A magnetic field source coupled to the main body may emit a magnetic field for actuating a container lock catch mechanism disposed at least partially inside the container. The apparatus may include a channel blocker that may be positioned by actuating a channel lock to selectively prevent the magnetic field source from actuating the catch mechanism of a container lock. The channel lock may be coupled to a cam configured to position at least a portion of the channel blocker in the channel. In some embodiments, the apparatus may include a ramp retractor coupled to the channel blocker wherein the ramp retractor urges the channel blocker down through the channel by action of the magnetic field.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.