Tamper-proof key fob with integrated timer and acoustic alarm
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202024002146
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-11
- Publication Date
- 2025-03-20
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-11-30
Abstract
Description
[0001] In public and commercial facilities, keys are often shared by multiple people and are therefore regularly circulated. There is a risk that keys will be misplaced or forgotten, which can hinder access to certain areas and lead to security issues. Previous solutions utilize simple key fobs or key boards, which, however, do not provide a direct reminder to return the key and do not offer a tamper-proof solution for time-based monitoring.
[0002] The present invention aims to ensure that shared keys are regularly returned to reduce the risk of key loss or improper use. The system is designed to be tamper-proof, easy to handle, and highly user-friendly.
[0003] The invention comprises a tamper-proof key fob with an integrated timer and audible alarm, as well as a magnetic base station. The key fob is secured with a special screw, so the housing can only be opened with a special tool, and the key can only be separated from the key fob in this way. The timer starts automatically when the fob is removed from the base station and emits an audible signal after the preset time has elapsed. The audible signal is automatically deactivated as soon as the fob is reattached to the magnetic base station.
[0004] The invention enables tamper-proof monitoring of key return, as the timer setting can only be changed using the special tool. The acoustic alarm automatically reminds users to return the key. The magnetic base station and the automatically deactivated alarm facilitate handling and promote proper key return.
Claims
[1] Tamper-proof key fob for reminding the return of a key, consisting of a housing, a metal loop, an integrated timer and an acoustic signal function, whereby the housing can only be opened with a special tool, characterized by that the timer starts automatically when the pendant is removed from a magnetic base station and emits an audible signal after the preset time has elapsed, which is automatically deactivated when the pendant is attached to the base station. [2] Base station according to claim 1, characterized by that the magnetic base station is a plastic surface equipped with a strong magnet to hold the pendant securely. [3] Key ring according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the metal loop is secured by a special screw integrated into the housing, which can only be removed when the housing is opened. [4] Key ring according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the setting of the time intervals of the timer is only possible by using the special tool. [5] Key ring according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the timer mechanism and the acoustic signal generator are housed inside the housing and are reset each time the pendant is returned to the base station.