Trapped-key-based locking system for docking station
US8395883B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 2010 |
| Grant date | Mar 12, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 5, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49174
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Embodiments of the present invention provide a docking station that prevents electrical cables (e.g., from a portable power generator or other temporary power source) from even being connected to connectors in the interior of the docking station while the building's electrical system (or other electrical load) is in electrical communication with the utility. The docking station can include a cabinet with two doors that swing in different directions and a locking mechanism that regulates the opening and closing of those doors. In preferred embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a trapped-key lock. Embodiments of the present invention can be used in applications other than docking stations.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.