Security systems and methods

Abstract

Security systems and methods are provided. In one example, a security system includes a security device comprising a plurality of integrated circuits and a temporary power source. Hie security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft. The security system also includes a mobile computing device configured to transfer power to the security device for charging the temporary power source upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits. The lock mechanism is configured to be operated using the power stored by the temporary power source for accessing the one or more items.

Description

SECURITY SYSTEMS AND METHODSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 538,544, filed on September 15, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to security systems, locks, devices, computer program products, and methods for protecting items from theft.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] It is common practice for retailers to display or store items of merchandise for sale within or on a security device, such as a display fixture. The security device may allow a potential purchaser to examine an item of merchandise. In some cases, the item may be an attractive target for shoplifters whereby a shoplifter may attempt to detach or remove the item from the security device. In some instances, the security device may include a lock for securing the item that is operated by a key in order to allow access to the item. Of course, there may be other instances where other types of commercial businesses may wish to prevent unauthorized access to an item and thereby utilize various security measures to prevent theft.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention are directed towards security systems and methods, such as for protecting items from theft. In one example, a security system includes a security device comprising a plurality of integrated circuits and a temporary power source. The security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft. The security system further includes a mobile computing device configured to transfer power to the security device for charging the temporary power source upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits. The lock mechanism is configured to be operated using the power stored by the temporary power source for accessing the one or more items.

[0005] In another embodiment, a security system includes a security device comprising an integrated circuit, where the security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft. The security system further includes a mobile computing device configured to communicate with the integrated circuit, and the lock mechanism is configured to be operated upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with the integrated circuit for accessing tire one or more items. Inaddition, the security device is configured to operate in at least two modes, a first mode configured to facilitate automatic relocking of the lock mechanism without the mobile computing device, and a second mode configured to facilitate relocking upon communication with the mobile computing device.

[0006] In another embodiment, a security system includes a security device comprising an integrated circuit and a power source, where the security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft. The security system also includes a mobile computing device configured to communicate with the integrated circuit, and the power source is configured to provide power to the integrated circuit for facilitating communication with the mobile device upon detection of communication with the mobile computing device. The lock mechanism is configured to be operated upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with the integrated circuit for accessing the one or more items.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method includes providing a security device comprising a plurality of integrated circuits and a temporary power source. The security device further comprises a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft. The method also includes causing a mobile computing device to transfer power to the security device for charging the temporary power source upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits. The lock mechanism is configured to be operated using the power stored by the temporary power source for accessing the one or more items.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is perspective view of a security device in communication with a computing device according to one embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the security device shown in FIG. 1 .

[0010] FIG. 3 is a front view of the security device shown in FIG. 1 with the capability to accommodate different shackles according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a top cross-sectional view of a security device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a partial exploded view of a security device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a security device in communication with an electronic key according to one embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The following disclosure includes various embodiments of systems, devices, methods, and computer program products. It should be understood that any combination of embodiments disclosed herein have been envisioned. Tirus, discussion of one particular embodiment is not intended to be made at the exclusion of any other embodiments.

[0015] Referring now to the associated figures, one or more embodiments of a security system are shown. In the embodiments shown and described herein, the system includes an electronic key and a security device for securing various types of items. Security devices suitable for use with the electronic keys include, but are not limited to, various types of locks (e.g., cabinet, doors, padlocks, etc.), a security display (e.g., alarming stand or device), security fixture (e.g., locking hook, shelf, cabinet, etc.), cable wraps, cable locks, or security packaging (e.g., merchandise safer). However, an electronic key (also referred to herein as a programmable key or generally as a key) may be useable with any security device or locking device that utilizes power transferred from the key to operate a mechanical and / or electronic lock mechanism and / or utilizes data transferred from the key to authorize the operation of a lock mechanism and / or arming or disarming an alarm circuit. In other words, an electronic key may be useable with any security device or locking device that requires power transferred from the key to the device and / or data transferred from the key to the device. Further examples of security devices include any device that prevents an unauthorized person from accessing, removing or detaching an item from a secure location or position. Although the following discussion relates to a system for use in a retail store, it is understood that the system is also suitable for other industries, such as data centers, hospitals, restaurants, etc. In some embodiments, the security systems, security devices, and electronic keys are similar to those disclosed in PCT Publication WO 2020 / 227513 (and related U.S. Publ. No. 2021 / 0264754), entitled Merchandise Display Security Systems and Methods, U.S. Publication No. 2012 / 0047972, entitled Electronic Key for Merchandise Security Device, U.S. Patent No. 10,258,172. entitled Systems and Methods for Acquiring Data from Articles of Merchandise on Display, U.S. Patent No. 10,210.681. entitled Merchandise Display Security Systems and Methods, U.S. Publ. No. 2018 / 0365948, entitled Tethered Security System with Wireless Communication, U.S. Publication No. 2016 / 0335859, entitled Systems and Methods for Remotely Controlling Security Devices, and U.S. Patent No. 10,219,636, entitled Merchandise Display Hook Including Anti-Sweep Mechanism, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0016] FIGS. 1 and 6 illustrate embodiments of a system 10. In these embodiments, the system generally includes an electronic key 12 and / or computing device 26 and one or more security devices 14. In some cases, the system 10 is part of a network of security devices 14. According to some embodiments, the network enables communication between a plurality’ of electronic keys 12 and security devices 14. Thenetwork may be cloud-based and include a cloud for receiving data from, and / or providing data to, the electronic keys 12 and / or security devices 14. The cloud may facilitate communication with one or more computing devices 26 (e.g., a mobile phone or cellular device). For example, the cloud may be used to transfer data to one or more remote locations or computing devices 26where the data may be reviewed and analyzed. Hie computing devices 26 may be located at any desired location, such as in the same retail store or business establishment as the security devices 14 and / or electronic keys 12. In some cases, the computing device 26 may belong to a retail store associate (e.g., a mobile phone) or be a backend computer used by a retailer or corporation. In other cases, the computing device 26 may belong to a customer. The network may be any suitable network for facilitating wireless communication such as, for example, a mesh, star, multiple star, repeaters, loT, etc. networks. A gateway or hub or “host” may be employed to allow for communication between the system 10 and the cloud. In some embodiments, all communication within the network is wireless, such as via radio-frequency signals (e.g., Sub GHz ISM band or 2.4 GHz), Bluetooth, LoRa, and Wi-Fi, although other types of wireless communication may be possible.

[0017] In some embodiments, each security device 14 and / or electronic key 12 is configured to provide and / or store various types of data. For example, each security device 14 and / or key 12 may store a serial number of one or more security devices 14, a serial number of one or more items of merchandise, the data and time of activation of the key, a user of the key. a serial number of the key, a location of the security device, a location of the item of merchandise, a department number within a retail store, number of key activations, a type of activation (e.g., “naked” activation, activation transferring only data, activation transferring power, activation transferring data and power), and / or various events (e.g., a security device has been locked, unlocked, armed, or disarmed). This information may be transmitted to the remote location or device upon each activation of the key 12 or at any other desired period of time, such as upon communication with a programming or authorization station. Thus, the data transfer from the electronic key 12 and / or security device 14 may occur in real time or automatically in some embodiments. In some cases, the electronic key 12 and / or the security device 14 may be configured to store the data and transfer the data to a remote location or device. Authorized personnel may use this data to take various actions using the computing device, such as to audit and monitor associate activity, authorize or deauthorize particular keys 12, determine the battery life of a key 12, audit security devices 14 (e.g., ensure the security devices are locked or armed), am or disarm the security device, lock or unlock the security device, lock or unlock a sensor attached to an item of merchandise to a base or stand removably supporting the sensor, etc.. Moreover, such infomation may be requested and obtained on demand using the computing device, such as from the electronic keys 12 and / or security devices 14.

[0018] In some cases, the data may include batten' infomration or analytics of an electronic key 12and / or security device 14. For example, battery analytics may include monitoring the battery voltage of an electronic key 12 when the key is placed in communication with a security device 14 and the time taken to reach full charge. These values may be used to determine depth of charge or discharge. The battery analytics may be indicative of a battery that is nearing its end of life. A retailer or other authorized personnel may take various actions using this infonnation, such as replacing the key 12 or disabling the key to prevent battery swelling and housing failure. Moreover, in some cases, the battery analytics may be data regarding the amount of power transferred from the electronic key 12 to the security device 14 so that it can be ensured that the security device has enough power to operate, such as in the case where the security device is a passive device. In addition, in some embodiments, the security device 14 may be equipped with a temperature monitoring mechanism configured to monitor the temperature for optimizing the amount of power required to be stored. The temperature monitoring mechanism may include a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the security device 14 or the temperature surrounding the security device. In some cases in colder environments, the security device 14 may take longer to receive the necessary' amount of power from the electronic key 12 or computing device, while in warmer environments, the opposite may be true. Thus, the temperature monitoring mechanism may be configured to adjust the rate of charge and / or the amount of time that power is needed to be provided from the electronic key 12 or computing device to the security device. Also, the temperature monitoring device may be configured to adjust the amount of energy storage needed, such as in the cases where additional power is needed for automatic relocking or other operations are needed for the security device 14 to perform its functions.

[0019] In one embodiment, the electronic key 12 is configured to obtain data from a security device 14 (e.g., a lock). For example, the security device 14 may store various data regarding past communication with a previous electronic key 12 (e.g., key identification, time of communication, etc.), and when a subsequent electronic key communicates with the same security device, the data is transferred to the electronic key. The security device 14 may include a memory for storing such data. In some cases, the security device 14 includes a power source 34 (e.g., a temporary power source, battery, non-rechargeable power source, rechargeable power source, etc.), such as for receiving and storing the data, while in other cases, the power provided by the electronic key 12 is used for allowing the security device to store the data. The electronic key 12 may then communicate the data for collection and review, such as at a remote location or device. In some instances, the electronic key 12 may be configured to obtain data from security devices 14, such as an identification of the security device, the type of item being secured, an identification of the item, and / or the system health of the security device and / or the item. The electronic key 12 may store the data and provide the data to a remote location or device directly. As such, the electronic keys 12 may be a useful resource for obtaining various types of data from the security devices 14 without the need for wiredconnections or complex wireless networks or systems.

[0020] In one embodiment, the security device 14 may communicate its identifier using various techniques. For example, in some cases the security device 14 may have a memory configured to store a serial number and is able to communicate that serial number to the electronic key 12 using bi-directional communication. In instances where the security device 14 may not have a memory, power source, and / or the ability for bi-directional communication (e.g.. a cable wrap or locking hook), the security device may have an RFID tag, an NFC tag, or the like that stores an identifier for the security device (e.g., a serial number). Such security devices may be similar to that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,133,649, entitled Merchandise Security Devices for Use with an Electronic Key, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some examples, the tag may be attachable (e.g., via adhesive) to existing security devices 14 such that it is readily adaptable to current devices, or the tag may be integrated within the security device. The electronic key 12 may be configured to deliver power to the tag to read the identifier of the tag, such as for a passive tag, although the tags may be passive or active. The electronic key 12 may store a number of authorized identifiers in memory' (e.g., via a look-up table) and may then determine if the read identifier is in its memory'. Alternately, the electronic key 12 may be configured to wirelessly connect to a network device with a look-up table. Either the electronic key 12 itself or the network device can then determine if the particular key or user of that key is authorized to unlock the security device 14 with the read identifier. The identifier may be unique to the security device 14 or may be a more generic identifier, such as for example, a “6-sided box” or a department such as “healthcare” or all of the above. In some embodiments, the electronic key 12 is configured to be authorized to control the security' device 14 only if certain cry ptographic controls are satisfied. For example, the electronic key 12 and security device 14 may be configured to exchange one or more encryption codes, and the key is only authorized if the required encryption key is presented. Once authorization has been obtained, only then will the electronic key be capable of successfiilly operating the lock and unlock it. If there is no authorization, the electronic key 12 does not continue this cycle, and the lock never unlocks. Thus, embodiments of the present invention may be configured to communicate with any type of security device 14 for performing various auditing, zone control, and planogram analysis based on identification of the security device.

[0021] In one embodiment, the electronic key 12 and security device 14 may communicate with one another via NFC to transmit data when the key and security device are positioned near one another or in direct contact with one another. An NFC tag may include various components, such as an antenna or a coil and one or more chips that define an electrical circuit. The antenna may be used for effectuating communication with an electronic key 12, which may be activated via a magnetic field. For example, amagnetic field may be generated by the electronic key 12 to communicate with an NFC tag.

[0022] Moreover, in some cases, the security? device 14 may be configured to utilize its power source 34 to facilitate communication with the electronic key 12. For example, in one embodiment, the power source 34 may be configured to provide power to an NFC tag upon detection of the electronic key 12 (e.g., detection of the magnetic field). In this way, the power provided to the NFC tag may increase the speed of NFC communication between the electronic key 12 and the security device 14 since there is reduced lag in energizing the NFC tag. In addition, the additional power provided by the power source 34 may allow for a greater operation range, i.e., a user may have more latitude in how close the electronic key 12 needs to be placed relative to the security device as w ell as the degree of alignment needed between the electronic key and the security device in order to facilitate communication therebetween. In particular, the user’s electronic key 12 may not need to be positioned as close to the security device 14 than would otherwise be required if the power source 34 was not used to facilitate NFC communication.

[0023] In some embodiments where the electronic key 12 is configured to transfer power inductively, as explained in further detail below, and is equipped to communicate using NFC or RFID, the inductive coil of the key may be configured to use the same coil for both data transfer and power transfer. In some cases, the electronic key 12 is configured to switch the coil between an energy transfer mode and an NFC or RFID receiver circuit. In other examples, a plurality of security devices 14 may be “nested” with one another such that authorization to one of the nested security devices results in all security devices being disarmed or unlocked. For instance, a plurality of locks could be paired to one another such that successful communication between any one of the locks and the electronic key 12 results in all of the locks being unlocked.

[0024] In some embodiments, the security devices 14 include wireless functionality for communicating within the network. For example, the security devices 14 may communicate wirelessly with each other, items of merchandise, electronic keys 12, computing devices 26. and / or gateways, including but not limited to communicating the various types of data discussed herein. As described herein, embodiments of tire present invention may utilize a variety of wireless network configurations. In some cases, a common architecture would require two distinct network topologies. The first network may be a private wireless network for the exclusive use of the security devices 14 deployed instore (e.g., Wi-Fi, LoRa, Bluetooth, etc.). This network is separate from any private or public network operated by the retailer. The second network may be an IP Gateway between the private network and the Internet. This second network may be a connection on retailer’s managed network or could be via a cellular modem. The gateway could be integrated into the host or be a separate device that connects to the host.

[0025] In some cases, each electronic key 12 may be authorized for specific locations, departments, orsecurity devices. For instance, a manager may have authorization for all zones, locations, departments, or security devices, while a first associate may only have authorization for two zones, locations, departments, or security devices, and a second associate may only have authorization for one zone, location, department, or security device. As such, a retail store or other establishment may limit the scope of authorization for different associates within the same retail store or establishment. In order to accommodate different authorizations levels, each key 12 may be configured to store a code that is associated with each zone, location, department, or merchandise security device. For example, each zone may include a plurality of security devices 14, and a retail store may have multiple zones (e.g., a zone for electronics, a zone for jewelry, etc.).

[0026] In another embodiment, each electronic key 12 may include a security code (e.g., encryption codes) and / or a serial number for one or more security devices 14. For example, a key 12 may only be able to arm, disarm, lock, or unlock a security device 14 where the security codes and the serial numbers match one another. In one example, each serial number is unique to a security device 14 and could be programmed at the time of manufacture or by the retailer. This technique allows for greater flexibility in programming keys 12 and assigning keys to particular security devices 14 and / or zones. Individual electronic keys 12 may be assigned particular serial numbers for authorized security devices 14 (e.g., user 1 includes serial numbers 1, 2, 3; user 2 includes serial numbers 1, 4, 5).

[0027] In order to arm, disarm, lock, or unlock a security device 14. the electronic key 12 may communicate with a particular security device and determine whether the security codes and / or the serial numbers match. If the codes match, the electronic key 12 then arms, disarms, locks, or unlocks the security device 14. Any available electronic key 12 may be used since the key may be programmed in real time with the appropriate level of authorization for that user (e.g., specific zones, departments, and / or security devices).

[0028] In the exemplary embodiment of the system illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, electronic key 12 is configured to be programmed with a unique security code by the programming station 16. In some embodiments, the programming station 16 may function similarly to that disclosed in United States Patent No. 7,737,844 entitled Programming Station For a Security System For Protecting Merchandise, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For the purpose of describing some embodiments of the present invention, it is sufficient that the programming station comprises at least a logic control circuit for generating or being provided with a security code, a memory for storing the security code, and a communications system suitable for interacting with the electronic key 12 in the manner described herein to program the key with the security code.

[0029] In some embodiments, the security device 14 is a “passive” device. As used herein, the temipassive is intended to mean that the security device 14 does not have an internal power source sufficient to lock and / or unlock a mechanical lock mechanism. Significant cost savings are obtained by a retailer when the security device 14 is passive since the expense of an internal power source is confined to the key 12, and one such key is able to operate multiple security devices. If desired, the security device 14 may also be provided with a temporary power source (e.g., capacitor or limited-life battery) having sufficient power to activate an alann (e.g., a piezoelectric audible alarm) or a motor for actuating a lock mechanism. The temporary power source may also be sufficient to communicate data, for example a security code, from the security device 14 to the key 12 to authenticate the security device and thereby utilize power provided from the key to operate the security device. In other cases, the security device may be an electronic device, such as a sensor attached to the item of merchandise and a base that removably supports the sensor thereon. The sensor may be attached to the base with a tether or may be wireless.

[0030] The programmable electronic key 12 may be an active device in the sense that it has an internal power source sufficient to operate a mechanical lock mechanism of the security device 14. As a result, the programmable electronic key 12 may be configured to transfer both data and power from an internal source, such as a logic control circuit (e.g., data) and a battery (e.g., power) disposed within the key. The electronic key 12 may be configured to be placed proximate to the security device 14 for communicating therewith. In some embodiments, a tag (e.g.. RFID or NFC tag) as discussed above, may be positioned within or on the security device 14. so that the electronic key 12 is configured to read or write data from or to the tag.

[0031] Computing devices 26 may include wireless communications circuitry configured for BLE, Bluetooth, and / or NFC communication. The computing devices 26 may also or alternatively include a camera or a scanner for scanning images or infomiation from the security device 14 as discussed in further detail below. Similarly, the security device 14 may include various wireless communications circuitry configured for BLE, Bluetooth, and / or NFC communication. The security device 14 may also or alternatively include a barcode or other identifier. In some cases, the computing devices 26 may be configured to be paired with one or more security devices 14 (e.g., via Bluetooth communication) and / or include one or more additional communication protocols for operating the lock (e.g., NFC, camera, barcode, etc.).

[0032] In one example embodiment, the computing devices 26 are configured to communicate with one or more security devices 14 using a first communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth or NFC). In order to operate a specific security device, the computing device 26 may further be configured to communicate with each security device 14 using a second communication protocol (e.g., NFC or image scanning). The second communication protocol may be used to identify a specific security device 14 that the computing device 26 is authorized to operate. For instance, an NFC tag may have an identifier that is unique to the securitydevice 14 (similar to a serial number), and if the computing device 26 confirms that the identifiers match, then the computing device is authorized to operate the security device 14. If the computing device 26 is authorized based on confirmation of identification of the security device 14, the computing device may then communicate an authorization command to the security device 14 using the first communication protocol. Obviously different combinations of security protocols may be used according to different embodiments. For instance, a first communication protocol may be employed in order to provide power to the security device 14 such as via inductive power transfer, while a second communication protocol such as NFC may be used in order to identify and / or authorize the electronic key 12. In still further embodiments, the electronic key 12 may be configured to transfer data and power to the security device 14 using a single communication protocol. For example, only NFC communication may be used in some cases. In one embodiment, the computing device 26 may be configured to transmit firmware updates to the security device 14 via NFC.

[0033] As noted above, the security devices 14 may take many different forms and configurations. In the instance where the security device 14 is a lock, the lock may include various types of lock mechanisms for different applications, such a plunger or cam mechanism. FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a security device 14, where the security device 14 is a padlock. Hie padlock may include various components such as, for example, a lock mechanism 28, one or more integrated circuits 20, and one or more temporary power sources 34 (e.g., a capacitor). As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. the padlock may include a shackle 24 that is configured to locked and unlocked in response to communication with an authenticated electronic key 12 or computing device. Thus, the shackle 24 is configured to releasable engage a housing 32 of the padlock to enable removal of the padlock from an item being secured. In some cases, the padlock may include interchangeable shackles 24 (see, e.g., FIG. 3), which can be readily exchanged depending on the size of the shackled needed. In some cases, the shackles 24 may be unlocked and released from the padlock via communication with an electronic key 12 or computing device. The housing 32 of the padlock may include an interior or exterior metal casing for a robust construction. Moreover, the housing 32 may include a top portion 30 that is configured to engage a bottom portion to complete the housing enclosure (see, e.g., FIG. 5).

[0034] In one embodiment further illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, the security device 14 may include a pair of integrated circuits 20 for communication and operation with an electronic key 12. The integrated circuit 20 may include various components such as an NFC transceiver, a microcontroller, an actuator, one or more sensors, etc. The NFC tag may be used to facilitate energy harvesting via power transfer from an electronic key 12 or computing device 26 to the security device 14, such as for storing power by the temporary power source 34 for operating the lock mechanism. The NFC tag may be positioned behind acover 22 that masks or otherwise conceals the integrated circuits (see, e.g., the cross section of the security device shown in FIG. 4). For instance, the cover may be plastic with a spun metal effect. In another example, the security device 14 may include a 2D barcode. The sensors may be desired sensor needed for the particular application, such as a temperature sensor as discussed above.

[0035] As noted above, the security device 14 may be configured to communicate with an electronic key 12 for unlocking the lock. The key 12 may be used in addition or alternatively to using a computing device 26 to unlock the lock or otherwise operate the security device 14. Similarly, the computing device 26 may be used as the primary method of operating the security device 14, and an electronic key 12 may be a second form of controlling the security device 14. Moreover, it is understood that a computing device and an electronic key may be used interchangeably as disclosed herein, as each may include the features and functionality of the other. For example, a computing device 26 may be configured to operate as an electronic key 12 (see. e.g., FIG. 1). However, in some cases, the computing device 26 and electronic key 12 may be different types and separate and independent from one another, but each configured to operate the security device 14, e.g., where the electronic key does not include all features of a computing device such as a mobile phone (e.g., cellular communication capability and / or other features typically found with a mobile phone). For example, an electronic key 12 may be used as a second option for operating the security device 14. In some cases, the electronic key 12 and computing device 26 may utilize different communication protocols in order to communicate with the security' device. For instance in one example embodiment, the electronic key 12 could communicate with the security device 14 using a combination of infrared and inductive communication, while the computing device could use a combination of NFC and inductive communication.

[0036] Notably, in one embodiment, the security device 14 includes an integrated circuit 20 on each of the front face and rear face of the security device. In the illustrated embodiment, the security device 14 is a padlock. As shown in FIG. 1, the location of the integrated circuits 20 on either side of the padlock alloyvs a user to readily interface with the padlock yvithout having to locate the integrated circuit. Moreover, when the padlock is locked to an object, a user may only be able to access one side of the padlock. Thus, having a pair of integrated circuits 20 on either side of the padlock provides for a better user experience. In some cases, the integrated circuits 20 are electrically connected to one another to facilitate various forms of communication with one another and tire computing device. For example, in some instances, the integrated circuits 20 are configured to communicate data with one another such as, for example, encrypted data, encryption keys, and / or other types of authentication data (e.g., user information and / or passyvords). In one embodiment, the computing device is configured to communicate data to one of the integrated circuits 20 which is then configured to communicate the data to the other integrated circuit. Thus, in someembodiments, communication with only one of the integrated circuits 20, such as via communication with an electronic key 12 or computing device is needed in order to program both integrated circuits.

[0037] In operation according to one embodiment, a user may use a computing device 26 to unlock a lock using NFC communication where the user places the computing device in close proximity to the NFC tag which results in automatically unlocking the lock. In the instance where the lock is a passive device, the computing device 26 may transfer power to the lock so that the lock is energized and configured to operate. For instance, the power transferred to the lock may be stored by the lock and then used to unlock the lock if the computing device 26 is authorized. The computing device 26 may include a software application that facilitates communication with the locks in any of the above examples, such as by allowing a user to select an “unlock" command for unlocking the lock if the user is authorized to do so. Authorization may be accomplished in various ways, such as via the embodiments described above (e.g., encryption, user identification, assignment of particular locks or zones, etc.). In other cases, the user may be authorized by virtue of being pre-authorized by downloading the software application and entering various information for identifying the user. The software application may also be password protected for ensuring the user is authorized to operate the lock. In addition, the software application may facilitate data collection and communication to one or more remote computing devices.

[0038] In some embodiments, the lock may be configured to operate in different modes, such as, for example, a manual or automatic latching or unlatching. For example, authorization for unlocking the security device 14 may result from communication with an authorized electronic key 12 or computing device 26, but the security device is still in a latched position where the item being secured it still secured by the security device (e.g. the shackle 24 of the padlock is still engaged with the housing). In some cases, the user may be required to manually unlatch tire lock after using a computing device 26 or electronic key 12 to unlock the lock. For instance, the lock mechanism may be configured to be unlocked using a computing device 26. and the user may be required to actuate a drive mechanism or other actuator to effectuate unlatching. Following a successful unlock command from a computing device 26, the user may have a limited or pre-determined amount of time in which to unlatch the lock. If the user chooses to unlatch the lock after a successful unlocking command, the lock may be configured to be manually unlatched during the permitted access time, such as by rotating or pulling a portion of the lock or other manual actuation. For example, if the lock is a cam style lock, the user may be able to rotate a knob for unlatching the lock, whereas if the lock is a plunger style lock, the user may be able to pull the knob for unlatching the lock. The lock may be configured to automatically relock itself after a predetermined period time. Moreover, the user may be required to manually relatch the lock, such as after the permitted access time has expired. In some cases, the user may be required to rotate or push a mechanism on the lock in an opposite direction torelatch that was used to unlatch the lock. It is understood that the lock may include various actuators for unlatching the lock, such as knobs, handles, buttons, etc. that may be used to manually unlatch and relatch the lock. In other embodiments, a separate latching operation may be omitted. For example, the shackle of a padlock may be configured to automatically unlatch in response to receiving a successful unlocking command. In still further embodiments, the user may be required to use the electronic key 12 or computing device 26 to relock or relatch the padlock if the padlock is not configured to automatically relock or relatch. In addition, the lock may be configured to be programmed to operate in either a manual or an automatic locking and / or latching mode and / or a manual or an automatic relocking and / or re latching mode.

[0039] Tire foregoing has described one or more exemplary embodiments of a security system. Embodiments of a security system have been shown and described herein for purposes of illustrating and enabling one of ordinary skill in the art to make, use and practice the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art, however, will readily understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. A security system comprising: a security device comprising a plurality of integrated circuits and a temporary power source, the security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft; and a mobile computing device configured to transfer power to the security device for charging the temporary power source upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be operated using the power stored by the temporary power source for accessing the one or more items.

2. Tire security system of Claim 1, wherein the mobile computing device is configured to communicate with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits via NFC.

3. Tire security system of Claim 1, w herein the security device is a padlock.

4. The security system of Claim 3, wherein the padlock comprises a pair of integrated circuits, and wherein one of the integrated circuits is located on a front side of the padlock and the other of the integrated circuits is located on a rear side of the padlock.

5. Tire security system of Claim 1, wherein the mobile computing device is a cellular phone.

6. Tire security system of Claim 1, further comprising an electronic key, separate and independent from the mobile device, configured to communicate with the security device for operating the security device.

7. The security device of Claim 6. wherein the electronic key is configured to transfer power to the security device for charging the temporary power source.

8. Tire security system of Claim 1, wherein the mobile computing device is configured to transfer power inductively to any one of the plurality of integrated circuits.

9. The security system of Claim 1, wherein the mobile computing device is configured to wirelessly communicate with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits.

10. The security system of Claim 1, wherein the security device is configured to operate in at least two modes, a first mode configured to facilitate automatic relocking of the lock mechanism without the mobile computing device, and a second mode configured to facilitate relocking upon communication with the mobile computing device.

11. The security system of Claim 1. wherein the security device comprises a temperature monitoring mechanism configured to adjust a time of charge and / or an amount of power stored by the temporary power source based on a temperature.

12. The security system of Claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of integrated circuits is configured to communicate data with one another.

13. Tire security system of Claim 12, wherein the mobile computing device is configured to communicate data to one of the plurality of integrated circuits, and wherein the one of the plurality of integrated circuits is configured to communicate the data to the other of the plurality of integrated circuits.

14. The security system of Claim 12, wherein the data comprises encryption data.

15. The security system of Claim 1, wherein the temporary power source is a capacitor.

16. Tire security system of Claim 1, wherein the security device is a passive device.

17. Tire security system of Claim 16, further comprising any combination of features recited by any of Claims 1-16.

18. A security system comprising: a security device comprising an integrated circuit, the security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft; and a mobile computing device configured to communicate with the integrated circuit, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be operated upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with the integrated circuit for accessing the one or more items, wherein the security device is configured to operate in at least two modes, a first mode configured to facilitate automatic relocking of the lock mechanism without the mobile computing device, and a second mode configured to facilitate relocking upon communication with the mobile computing device.

19. Tire security system of Claim 18, further comprising any combination of features recited by any of Claims 1-16 and 18.

20. A security system comprising: a security device comprising an integrated circuit and a power source, the security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft; a mobile computing device configured to communicate with the integrated circuit, wherein the power source is configured to provide power to the integrated circuit for facilitating communication with the mobile device upon detection of communication with the mobile computing device, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be operated upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with the integrated circuit for accessing the one or more items.21 . The security system of Claim 20, wherein the integrated circuit comprises an NFC tag, and wherein the power source is configured to provide power to the NFC tag for facilitating communication with the mobile device upon detection of communication with the mobile computing device.

22. The security system of Claim 20, further comprising any combination of features recited by any of Claims 1-16, 20, and 21 .

23. A method comprising: providing a security device comprising a plurality of integrated circuits and a temporary power source, tire security device further comprising a lock mechanism for securing one or more items from theft; and causing a mobile computing device to transfer power to the security device for charging the temporary power source upon the mobile computing device being authenticated via communication with any one of the plurality of integrated circuits, wherein the lock mechanism is configured to be operated using the power stored by the temporary power source for accessing the one or more items.

24. A device, system, and / or method comprising any combination of features disclosed herein.

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