Vending machines with field-programmable locks
US7821395B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 4, 2004 |
| Grant date | Oct 26, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 4, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07C2009/00849
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key, a hand-held program unit, or an external computing device via wireless communications. In one mode, the electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible only when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. In another mode, the electronic lock is programmed in the field without first opening the vending machine. A program command and access control data including a new access code are transmitted wirelessly from a hand-held program unit or the like. Alternatively, an external computing device is used to program the electronic lock via long-range wireless communications, and an electronic key is then used to open the electronic lock to physically access the vending machine.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.