Lock for a toolbox

Abstract

A lock for a tool chest may include a radio-frequency identification (RFID) transceiver operable to detect a tag and associate the detected tag with data, an enclosure enclosing the RFID transceiver, a bidirectional servo motor having a shaft, a drive circuit electrically connected to the servo motor and operable to electrically control bidirectional movement of the shaft, a coupler configured for mechanically transferring movement of the shaft to the drive end of the lock rod, a coupler configured for mechanically transferring rotation of the shaft to the drive end of the lock bar, and a controller in electrical communication with the RFID transceiver and with the drive circuit, the controller being configured for obtaining the data from the RFID transceiver, determining whether the data is approved and, if so, signaling the drive circuit to move the shaft to an unlocked position. The lock may be retrofittable to an existing tool chest or may be included on a newly manufactured tool chest.

Description

LOCK FOR TOOLBOX CROSS REFERENCES AND PRIORITIES

[0001] This Application claims priority from United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 531,833 filed on August 10, 2023 and United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 596,250 filed on October 26, 2023, the teachings of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. BACKGROUND

[0002] In a working environment such as automotive mechanics – in particular those involved in auto racing – mechanics' work flow includes repeated trips to toolboxes such as large, multi-drawer steel cases. Such toolboxes may include a multi-drawer locking mechanism that includes a keyed lock cylinder coupled to a movable lock bar / lock rod that moves between a locked position and an unlocked position. Each drawer may include a catch configured to be engaged by the lock bar in the locked position and to be disengaged with the lock bar in the unlocked position.

[0003] Since physical keys are inconvenient, insecure, and may be lost, it is known to electromagnetically operate a lock cylinder to operate the lock. However, conventional mechanisms and systems are not readily adapted for quickly and universally retrofitting a conventional tool case, and their operation may require activation by keying in a code on a cellular phone or by other inconvenient procedures.

[0004] The need exists, therefore, for an improved lock for a tool box, tool chest, or the like which may be quickly and universally retrofitted to an existing tool box, tool chest or the like, and / or which may be conveniently and securely operated. SUMMARY

[0005] Described herein is a lock for a tool chest. The tool chest including a lock cylinder opening, a lock rod having a lock rod drive end, at least a first vertical lock bar, and a plurality of drawers with each drawer having at least one drawer side plate engageable by the first vertical lock bar. The tool chest being configured so that rotation of the lock rod moves the first vertical lock bar. The lock including a radio-frequency identification (RFID) transceiver, a transceiver enclosure, a servo motor, a driver board, a lock rod coupler, a microcontroller board, and a coupler. The RFID transceiver being operable to detect an RFID tag within a physical range and associate the RFID tag with data. The transceiver enclosure enclosing the RFID transceiver. The servo motor having a shaft. The driver board being electrically connected to the servo motor and operable to electrically control bidirectional movement of the shaft. The lock rod coupler being configured forLOCK FOR TOOLBOX mechanically transferring movement of the shaft to the lock rod drive end. The microcontroller board being in electrical communication with the RFID transceiver and with eh driver board. The microcontroller board being configured for obtaining the data from the RFID transceiver, determining whether the data is approved and, if so, signaling the driver board to move the shaft to an unlocked position. The coupler being configured for mechanically transferring rotation of the shaft to the first vertical lock bar. The microcontroller board being configured to signal the driver board to move the shaft to a locked position when a locking event occurs.

[0006] In some embodiments, the lock rod coupler may include at least a coupler first section and a variable length rod. In certain embodiments, the lock rod coupler may include a bevel gear. In some embodiments, the lock rod coupler may include at least one intermediate rod and a second coupling.

[0007] In certain embodiments, the lock may include a first battery for supplying electrical power to the microcontroller board, the driver board, and the servo motor. In some such embodiments, the lock may include an indicator light structured for providing an alarm when a charge level of the first battery is low. In certain such embodiments, the microcontroller board may be configured to signal the driver board to move the shaft to an unlocked position when a charge level of the first battery is low. In some such embodiments, the lock may include a second battery for supplying electrical power to the microcontroller board, the driver board, and the servo motor. In certain such embodiments, the microcontroller board may be configured to switch a main electrical power from the first battery to the second battery when a charge level of the first battery is low.

[0008] In some embodiments, the lock may include an electrical cable structured for electrically connecting the RFID transceiver and the microcontroller board.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the lock may include an emergency rod and an emergency collar. The emergency rod may be mechanically coupled to the lock rod. The emergency collar may include a decoupler and may be structured for being placed around the emergency rod. In some such embodiments, the lock may include an emergency rod holder configured to be attached to the tool chest so that the decoupler is accessible via the lock cylinder opening.

[0010] In some embodiments, the lock may include an emergency collar having a tightener and structured for being placed around the lock rod.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the lock may include an RFID tag disposed in a bracelet.LOCK FOR TOOLBOX

[0012] In some embodiments, the lock may include an emergency rod, a bevel gear assembly, a first emergency coupling, and a second emergency coupling. The emergency rod may include a shaped drive head. The first emergency coupling may connect the emergency rod and the bevel gear assembly. The second emergency coupling may connect the bevel gear assembly and the lock rod.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the transceiver enclosure may include a sleeve which is threaded and configured for passing through the lock cylinder opening and being tightened thereto for securing the transceiver enclosure to the tool chest at the lock cylinder opening.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lock rod coupler may include a connecting rod, a servo coupling for connecting the connecting rod and the shaft, and a double coupling configured for connecting the connecting rod and the lock rod.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the lock rod may be segmented and the coupler may include at least one second coupling for demountably joining segmented lock rod portions to one another.

[0016] In some embodiments, the lock may include a wireless communication device configured to receive a signal from an external device.

[0017] In some embodiments, the lock may be provided as a kit for retrofitting an existing tool chest.

[0018] Further disclosed herein is a tool chest which includes any of the embodiments of a lock disclosed herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] Preferred and alternative examples of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings, wherein:

[0020] FIG. 1A is an schematic side view of a lock assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 1B is a schematic top view of a lock assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0022] FIG.2 is a schematic rear view of a drawer locking mechanism;

[0023] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a distal end of an offset portion of a lock rod, the end being moveably positioned within a slot of a cross bar;

[0024] FIG.4 is a perspective view of a servo motor;

[0025] FIG.5 is a perspective view of an RFID transceiver circuit;LOCK FOR TOOLBOX

[0026] FIG. 6A is a perspective rear view of a lock assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0027] FIG.6B is a perspective front view of a lock assembly according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0028] FIG.7 is a perspective view of a split coupler;

[0029] FIG.8 is a perspective view of a battery holder and batteries held therein;

[0030] FIG.9 is a perspective view of a tool chest according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] FIG.10 is a perspective view of an interior box that encloses a microcontroller, a driver board, a servo motor, and that may also enclose ancillary devices such as batteries, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 11A is a schematic elevation view of an emergency collar that may be provided to demountably join together segmented portions of a lock rod, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 11B is a schematic end view of a gear assembly attached to a load end of a segmented lock rod, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0034] FIG.11C is a schematic end view of a simple brute-force assembly for emergency rotation of a lock rod;

[0035] FIG.12 is a perspective view of a lock rod attachment for emergency rotation of a lock rod, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0036] FIG.13 is a perspective view of a portion of a tool chest and an interior portion of a lock, showing the use of a tool for emergency rotation of a lock rod, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0037] FIG.14 is a perspective view of a telescoping rod for a tool chest, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0038] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a threaded sleeve for securing an enclosure to a tool chest;

[0039] FIG. 16 is a schematic side view of a threaded sleeve being used for attaching a portion of an enclosure to a tool chest, according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a lock assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment; and

[0041] FIG. 18 is a flowchart of a tool chest operation program being performed by a microcontroller, according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTIONLOCK FOR TOOLBOX

[0042] Disclosed herein is a lock for a tool box, tool chest, or the like. The lock is described below with reference to the Figures. As described herein, the following numbers refer to the following structures as noted in the Figures.

[0043] 1 refers to a top panel

[0044] 2 refers to a front panel.

[0045] 3 refers to a rear panel.

[0046] 4 refers to a first side panel.

[0047] 5 refers to a second side panel.

[0048] 6 refers to a first vertical lock bar.

[0049] 7 refers to a second vertical lock bar.

[0050] 8 refers to a rear wall.

[0051] 9 refers to a connecting bar.

[0052] 10 refers to a lock rod.

[0053] 11 refers to a lock rod bend.

[0054] 12 refers to a lock rod offset portion.

[0055] 13 refers to a lock rod drive end.

[0056] 14 refers to a first bracket.

[0057] 15 refers to a second bracket.

[0058] 16 refers to a lock cylinder opening.

[0059] 17 refers to an RFID tag.

[0060] 18 refers to an RFID transceiver.

[0061] 19 refers to a transceiver enclosure.

[0062] 20 refers to a microcontroller board.

[0063] 21 refers to an electrical cable.

[0064] 22 refers to first magnets.

[0065] 23 refers to a first battery.

[0066] 24 refers to an auxiliary battery charging port.

[0067] 25 refers to an indicator light.

[0068] 26 refers to a second battery.

[0069] 27 refers to an operations switch.

[0070] 28 refers to an interior box.

[0071] 29 refers to a servo motor.

[0072] 30 refers to a control switch.

[0073] 31 refers to an ancillary box.LOCK FOR TOOLBOX

[0074] 32 refers to second magnets.

[0075] 33 refers to a driver board.

[0076] 34 refers to a shaft.

[0077] 35 refers to a first drawer.

[0078] 36 refers to a second drawer.

[0079] 37 refers to a third drawer.

[0080] 38 refers to drawer side plates.

[0081] 39 refers to a first drawer first side.

[0082] 40 refers to a first drawer second side.

[0083] 41 refers to a second drawer first side.

[0084] 42 refers to a second drawer second side.

[0085] 43 refers to a third drawer first side.

[0086] 44 refers to a third drawer second side.

[0087] 45 refers to an elongated slot.

[0088] 46 refers to a motor section.

[0089] 47 refers to a catch portion.

[0090] 48 refers to a lock rod coupler.

[0091] 49 refers to a distal end.

[0092] 50 refers to a transceiver circuit board.

[0093] 51 refers to an antenna.

[0094] 52 refers to an input / output connection.

[0095] 53 refers to a mounting surface.

[0096] 54 refers to an outward facing surface.

[0097] 55 refers to a transceiver enclosure hole.

[0098] 56 refers to a cable entry hole.

[0099] 58 refers to a through hole.

[0100] 59 refers to a first coupler section fastener.

[0101] 60 refers to a circumferential split.

[0102] 61 refers to a second coupler section fastener.

[0103] 62 refers to a coupler first section.

[0104] 63 refers to a coupler second section.

[0105] 64 refers to a coupler first end.

[0106] 65 refers to a coupler second end.

[0107] 66 refers to a battery holder.LOCK FOR TOOLBOX

[0108] 67 refers to individual batteries.

[0109] 68 refers to electrical contacts.

[0110] 69 refers to a tool chest.

[0111] 70 refers to individual drawers.

[0112] 74 refers to an interior box removable top.

[0113] 75 refers to a drive portion.

[0114] 76 refers to a load portion.

[0115] 77 refers to an emergency collar.

[0116] 78 refers to a disengagement tab.

[0117] 79 refers to an outer shell.

[0118] 80 refers to an engagement portion.

[0119] 81 refers to a latch.

[0120] 82 refers to a gear assembly.

[0121] 83 refers to an inner shell.

[0122] 84 refers to a drive gear.

[0123] 85 refers to a transfer gear.

[0124] 86 refers to a load gear.

[0125] 87 refers to a drive slot.

[0126] 88 refers to an emergency rod holder.

[0127] 89 refers to a drive receptacle.

[0128] 90 refers to a sleeve.

[0129] 91 refers to a sleeve opening.

[0130] 92 refers to threads.

[0131] 93 refers to a lock rod attachment.

[0132] 94 refers to a lock rod attachment hole.

[0133] 95 refers to a first threaded set screw hole.

[0134] 96 refers to a second threaded set screw hole.

[0135] 97 refers to a drive receptacle.

[0136] 98 refers to a drive tool.

[0137] 99 refers to an extension member.

[0138] 100 refers to a set screw.

[0139] 101 refers to a telescoping rod.

[0140] 102 refers to an enclosure portion.

[0141] 103 refers to a nut.LOCK FOR TOOLBOX

[0142] 104 refers to a base portion.

[0143] 105 refers to a lock assembly.

[0144] 106 refers to an enclosure outer portion.

[0145] The embodiment described below is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of these teachings.

[0146] A conventional tool chest typically has a lock cylinder with a rotating portion that moves when a proper key is inserted into a front-facing key opening of the lock cylinder and turned. The rotating portion may be attached to a plate inside the tool chest so that such plate is also rotated by the turning key. The plate may typically have a hole into which a lock rod is inserted. When the plate rotates, the lock rod rotates, whereby rotation of an offset portion of the lock rod effects a vertical movement of such offset portion. The distal end of the offset portion may be inserted into a horizontal connecting bar, whereby the vertical movement of the offset portion causes the connecting bar to move upwardly or downwardly. When vertically-oriented lock bars are positioned at opposite ends of the connecting bar, the lock bars move upwardly and downwardly. Horizontally-oriented sliding drawers of the chest may have plates / latches at respective lateral ends thereof, the plates being positioned so that they are adjacent individual catches of the corresponding lock bars when an individual drawer is closed. For example, when the latch assemblies are moved upwardly as the key in the lock cylinder is moved to an unlocked position, the individual plates are disengaged from the corresponding catches, and when the catch assemblies are moved downwardly as the key in the lock cylinder is moved to a locked position, the individual plates become engaged with respective catches of closed ones of the drawers and thereby prevent such drawers from being opened. A conventional lock rod may also have a bent portion at its connection to the rotating plate. As used herein, a "tool box," a "tool chest," and a "tool cabinet" each refer to an enclosure having sliding drawers, and each term is intended to mean the same thing.

[0147] FIG. 1A is an schematic side view and FIG. 1B is a schematic top view of a lock assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. A tool chest has a top panel (1), a front panel (2), a rear panel (3), a first side panel (4), and second side panel (5). Preferably, one or more components of the tool chest – including the top panel, front panel, rear panel, first side panel, and / or second side panel – may be made of steel. The tool chest has a first vertical lock bar (6), and a second vertical lock bar (7) disposed along a rear wall (8)LOCK FOR TOOLBOX of the tool chest and respectively adjacent opposed first side panel (4) and second side panel (5) of the tool chest. The first vertical lock bar (6) and second vertical lock bar (7) are connected to one another with a connecting bar (9), and are configured to simultaneously travel vertically upward when, for example, connecting bar (9) is caused to be displaced in an upward direction, and configured to simultaneously travel vertically downward when, for example, connecting bar (9) is caused to be displaced in an downward direction. A lock rod (10) has a lock rod bend (11), a lock rod offset portion (12), and a lock rod drive end (13). Lock rod (10) may be supported by, and may pass through holes in, a first bracket (14) and a second bracket (15) so that rotational movement of lock rod (10) is substantially uniform. In an embodiment, lock rod (10) may be telescopic and have a fastening screw (not shown) for tightening a telescoping portion to set a length of lock rod (10) to a desired length.

[0148] The tool chest may have a lock cylinder opening (16) (which may be referred to as a "hole") that is conventionally used to secure a lock cylinder. In an exemplary embodiment, a radio-frequency identification RFID system may be used to detect an RFID tag (17) when RFID tag (17) is within a detection range of an RFID transceiver (18). RFID tag (17) may be provided in a bracelet or other wearable form, in a keychain, badge, or any convenient holder. RFID transceiver (18) transmits interrogating radio waves and may be mounted in a transceiver enclosure (19) (e.g., a non-shielding transceiver enclosure made of hard plastic). When RFID tag (17) is triggered by an electromagnetic interrogation pulse sent by RFID transceiver (18), RFID tag (17) transmits digital data back to RFID transceiver (18). RFID transceiver (18) is in electrical communication with a microcontroller board (20) via an electrical cable (21). Electrical cable (21) is routed through lock cylinder opening (16) and may be secured thereto with a strain relief, grommet, threaded feed-thru connector with nut (e.g., FIG. 15 and FIG. 16), or other fastener. Transceiver enclosure (19) may be secured to front panel (2) with first magnets (22) or other fastener(s). As shown by example in FIG.15 and FIG.16, a threaded sleeve (90) may be provided for securing an enclosure portion (102) of transceiver enclosure (19) to front panel (2) and passing electrical cable (21) through lock cylinder opening (16) via sleeve opening (91). Sleeve (90) may have a base portion (104). Sleeve (90) may be secured to front panel (2) at lock cylinder opening (16) using a nut (103) tightened onto threads (92). Mounting arrangements for transceiver enclosure (19) may include the use of an adhesive, hook and loop fasteners, and others. RFID transceiver (18) and microcontroller board (20) may each be powered by a first battery (23). Transceiver enclosure (19) mayLOCK FOR TOOLBOX include an auxiliary battery charging port (24) so that a user may attach a battery charger (not shown) to charge first battery (23). An indicator light (25) may be provided on transceiver enclosure (19), may include several individual lights, and may be used for indicating any status, such as battery state, lock position as locked or unlocked, tamper indication, alarm status, and others. For example, when indicator light (25) provides battery status, a low battery indication may inform a user with a warning that first battery (23) needs to be recharged or replaced. Indicator light (25) may include any number of individual lights or indicators where each individual light or indicator may correspond to a different function. A second battery (26) may be provided as a backup in the event that first battery (23) is low. Transceiver enclosure (19) may include an operations switch (27), such as a momentary switch, for activating selected operational functions. For example, after a battery has been charged, a user may push operations switch (27) into a reset position, whereupon microcontroller board (20) may return to a default locking / unlocking routine. Other functions may be activated by operations switch (27). The tool chest lock assembly may include other switches.

[0149] An interior box (28) may enclose microcontroller board (20), first battery (23), a servo motor (29), and a control switch (30). First battery (23) and / or second battery (26) may be placed within interior box (28), in an ancillary box (31), or may be located externally. RFID tag (17) may be an active or passive device, and is coded with data such as a digital signature. Second magnets (32) – or other fastener(s) – may be utilized to secure interior box (28), ancillary box (31), and / or second battery (26) to a tool chest steel surface. First magnets (22) and / or second magnets (32) may be attached using adhesive such as epoxy, silicon, or in any suitable manner. Servo motor (29) may be a bidirectional, center neutral type of DC motor, or any other suitable type.

[0150] Microcontroller board (20) may receive digital information from RFID transceiver (18) and, when such information indicates that an RFID tag is detected within a current time window and within a detection range, and that the digital information matches a list of approved tool chest users, then microcontroller board (20) communicates with a driver board (33) to produce an unlock electrical drive signal that is sent to servo motor (29). Servo motor (29) then rotates its shaft (34), for example, ninety degrees in a counterclockwise direction. When microcontroller board (20) determines that a locking condition exists, it communicates with driver board (33) to produce a locking electrical drive signal that is sent to servo motor (29), whereby servo motor (29) rotates its shaft (34), for example, ninety degrees clockwise. Embodiments may rotate shaft (34) in eitherLOCK FOR TOOLBOX direction with any angular displacement. In an embodiment, a range detection may be used. Driver board (33) contains any number of individual driver circuits that are operated by signals received from microcontroller board (20). For example, when a received motor signal instructs a drive circuit to cause a servo motor clockwise rotation, a drive signal may be a positive voltage, and when a received motor signal instructs a drive circuit to cause a servo motor counterclockwise rotation, a drive signal may be a negative voltage. Servo motor (29) may rotate according to a voltage received from the respective drive circuit.

[0151] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a conventional drawer locking apparatus. Drawers – including, but not limited to, first drawer (35), second drawer (36), and third drawer (37) – may have different heights and may each have a respective drawer side plate (38) extending from one or both drawer sides – the first drawer (35) including first drawer first side (39) and first drawer second side (40), the second drawer (36) including second drawer first side (41) and second drawer second side (42), and the third drawer (37) including third drawer first side (43) and third drawer second side (44). The first lock bar (6) and second lock bar (7) may be provided. Each of first lock bar (6) and second lock bar (7) may include catch portions (47) that are adjacent each of the laterally opposed drawer side plates (38). For example, when each lock bar is caused to be moved upwardly to an unlocked position, as shown, catch portions (47) do not block drawer side plates (38) and the first drawer (35), second drawer (36), and third drawer (37) are free to be slidingly moved in or out of the tool chest. When each of first lock bar (6) and second lock bar (7) is caused, for example, to be moved downwardly to a locked position, catch portions (47) block drawer side plates (38) and the first drawer (35), second drawer (36), and third drawer (37) are stopped from being slidingly moved in or out of the tool chest. Well-known drawer sliders are not illustrated.

[0152] Lock rod (10) is securely attached to shaft (34) by a lock rod coupler (48), so that when shaft (34) rotates, lock rod (10) also rotates. A clutch and gear reduction assembly (not shown) may optionally be utilized for transfer of force from shaft (34) to lock rod (10). When lock rod (10) rotates, lock rod offset portion (12) is caused thereby to move vertically. For example, counterclockwise rotation of lock rod (10) may cause connecting bar (9) to move in an upward direction, and clockwise rotation of lock rod (10) may cause connecting bar (9) to move in a downward direction. In an embodiment, rotation of a lock bar may cause horizontal movement of a connecting mechanism, for example, toLOCK FOR TOOLBOX thereby cause rotation in a different axis, such as by use of a bevel gear and / or by use of an additional offset rod or other mechanism.

[0153] FIG.3 is a schematic front view of the engagement of the distal end (49) of lock rod offset portion (12) of lock rod (10), distal end (49) being inserted into an elongated slot (45) in connecting bar (9). When lock rod (10) is rotated, for example, in a counterclockwise direction, connecting bar (9) is upwardly moved and distal end (49) slides laterally left along elongated slot (45) as it moves upwardly. When lock rod (10) is rotated, for example, in a clockwise direction, connecting bar (9) is downwardly moved and distal end (49) slides laterally right along elongated slot (45) as it moves downwardly.

[0154] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary servo motor (29). When mounted, for example, the motor section (46) extends into interior box (28), and shaft (34) extends from an exterior surface of interior box (28). Servo motor (29) may be a center neutral type DC motor, where a positive voltage to servo motor (29) causes rotation in one direction and a negative voltage causes rotation in the opposite direction.

[0155] FIG.5 is a perspective view of RFID transceiver (18), which includes a transceiver circuit board (50) and an antenna (51) that may be printed on transceiver circuit board (50). Transceiver circuit board (50) includes circuitry for generating electromagnetic interrogation pulses via antenna (51). When RFID tag (17) receives such pulses, it transmits digital data back to RFID transceiver (18), and such received data may be formatted and output in electric communication via input / output connections (52). RFID transceiver (18) may receive electrical power via input / output connections (52).

[0156] FIGS.6A and 6B are two perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of a lock assembly for a tool enclosure such as a tool chest. Transceiver enclosure (19) may have a mounting surface (53) and an outward-facing surface (54) with indicator light (25). An electrical cable (21) may pass through transceiver enclosure hole (55) of transceiver enclosure (19) and, when used for retrofitting a conventional tool chest, through lock cylinder opening (16) (e.g., FIG. 1B) of such tool chest, and through a cable entry hole (56) into interior box (28). Electrical cable (21) may transfer electrical communications signals and electrical power between transceiver enclosure (19) and interior box (28) and / or the first battery (23) and or the second battery (26). Transceiver enclosure (19) may be attached to steel front panel (2) using first magnets (22), and interior box (28) may be attached to a tool chest interior surface such as top steel panel (1), with second magnets (32). Although shown on external surfaces of transceiver enclosure (19) and interior box (28), first magnets (22) and second magnets (32) may alternatively be placed on respectiveLOCK FOR TOOLBOX internal surfaces thereof. Adhesives and / or fastening devices may be utilized for attaching the first magnets (22) and / or the second magnets (32) to any surfaces of transceiver enclosure (19) and interior box (28).

[0157] FIG.7 is a perspective view of an exemplary lock rod coupler (48) having a through hole (58) and a plurality of tightening first coupler section fasteners (59) that compress lock rod coupler (48). When first coupler section fasteners (59) are loosened, two rods may respectively be inserted into opposite ends of through hole (58). Lock rod coupler (48) may have a bifurcated structure where a circumferential split (60) divides lock rod coupler (48) into a coupler first section (62) and a coupler second section (63), and allows a first rod, for example a drive rod, to be inserted into a coupler first end (64) of through hole (58) and secured to lock rod coupler (48) by tightening first coupler section fasteners (59) on that end of lock rod coupler (48). A second rod, for example a lock rod (10), may then be inserted into a coupler second end (65) of through hole (58) and secured to lock rod coupler (48) by tightening second coupler section fasteners (61) on that end of lock rod coupler (48). Lock rod coupler (48) may be utilized for coupling any two insertable members, such as rods and shafts, to one another.

[0158] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a battery holder (66) holding any number of individual batteries (67). Electrical contacts (68) may be connected to one another to combine battery voltages in series or parallel according to a desired output voltage of battery holder (66). Individual batteries (67) may of any type, such as lithium, NiCad, etc., and may have any structure, for example an array of cells.

[0159] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tool chest (69) having a number of individual drawers (70), a top panel (1), side panels – including first side panel (4) and second side panel (5) – and a front panel (2). Transceiver enclosure (19) may be attached to steel front panel (73).

[0160] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of interior box (28) in an exemplary embodiment. Interior box (28) has an interior box removable top (74) and may be formed of hard plastic or metal. When formed of a non-metal, second magnets (32) may be placed within interior box (28) and / or may be secured to an outer surface of interior box (28), for attaching interior box (28) to an interior steel surface of a tool chest. Interior box (28) may include a microcontroller board (20) (also herein referred to as a microcontroller), and a driver board (33) that receives signals from microcontroller board (20) and creates motor drive power that is sent to servo motor (29). Shaft (34) of servo motor (29) is connected to lock rod coupler (48). Interior box (28) has cable entry hole (56) for feedingLOCK FOR TOOLBOX electrical cable (21) therethrough. Various electrical wires of electrical cable (21) may transmit electrical power to RFID transceiver (18), voltage to indicator light (25), and may exchange I / O signal communications with RFID transceiver (18). Battery holder (66) may be installed in interior box (28), in ancillary box (31), or in any suitable location.

[0161] FIG.11A is a schematic elevation view of an emergency collar (77) of an exemplary embodiment. When an RFID tag is lost, or when a user of the tool chest permits first battery (23) and second battery (26) to be exhausted and / or when first battery (23) and second battery (26) are unable to be charged, for example when a charger is lost, a user who needs to unlock the tool chest may perform an emergency procedure. In an exemplary embodiment, lock rod (10) may be provided in two pieces, a drive portion (75) and a load portion (76). An emergency collar (77) may be placed around the drive portion (75) and the load portion (76), so that emergency collar (77) demountably joins ends of drive portion (75) and load portion (76) together. In normal operation, drive portion (75) and load portion (76) are joined so that they rotate together. In an emergency, the user may punch a strain relief that secures electrical cable (21) at lock cylinder opening (16), thereby permitting access to the tool chest interior.

[0162] In an embodiment, emergency collar (77) may have a disengagement tab (78) affixed to an outer shell (79). When a user inserts a long tool into the tool chest, the user can push disengagement tab (78) with the tool until an engagement portion (80) is held by a latch (81), thereby disengaging engagement portion (80) from drive portion (75). Such disengagement allows load portion (76) to be rotated independently of drive portion (75). Such mechanism may be referred to as a decoupler. Load portion (76) may be referred to as an emergency rod. A gear assembly (82) is engaged with an inner shell (83) affixed to load portion (76). FIG.11B is a schematic end view of gear assembly (82). Gear assembly (82) may have a drive gear (84), a transfer gear (85), and a load gear (86). Load gear (86) may be integrally formed with inner shell (83) or may be secured thereto. Drive gear (84) may have a drive slot (87) for inserting a drive tool therein.

[0163] When load portion (76) has been disengaged from drive portion (75), a user may insert a long drive tool through lock cylinder opening (16) and into drive slot (87). The user may then unlock the tool chest by rotating drive gear (84) with the drive tool. Other mechanisms for emergency opening of a tool chest may include separate access holes, and mechanisms including any suitable gear arrangement. For example, an access hole may be provided on a side of the tool chest, whereby a user may insert a tool into such access hole to thereby push an emergency collar to disengage lock rod portions from one anotherLOCK FOR TOOLBOX and subsequently insert and rotate a drive tool that engages a bevel gear (not shown) to orthogonally translate rotation of such drive tool into rotation of a load portion (76) of a lock rod. At least one emergency rod holder (88) may be provided to support any portion of an emergency collar, and or drive portion (75) or load portion (76), and may have a hole for passing such supported structure therethrough. As used herein, a gear may also be referred to as a gear wheel. In an embodiment, an emergency collar may include a linkage and a disk having a keyed opening, the linkage configured to transfer rotation of the disk to a lock rod or portion thereof. Such linkage may include any type of gear or link. A gear drive assembly may have a gear with a keyed slot. An emergency collar may include a clutch and at least one gear wheel having a keyed opening. An emergency collar may include a linkage and a disk having a keyed opening, the linkage configured to transfer rotation of the disk to the lock rod. A keyed opening may be shaped to accept an Allen wrench, a star shaped driver, a square head driver, a Phillips shaped driver, or any other drive head or tool. A coupler, linkage, or gear assembly may include a bevel gear and / or a gear with a keyed slot. A lock rod may be formed of any number of individual rods, and such may include any number of intermediate rods. Any number of couplers and couplings may be used.

[0164] In an embodiment, microcontroller board (20) may monitor battery voltage and set an alarm, such as by flashing indicator light (25), when a battery level is low. Microcontroller board (20) may then determine that a battery level is near to a predetermined low level, whereupon microcontroller board (20) may simply unlock the drawers until the battery charge is returned to a level within a charged range. A user may then activate the tool chest locking function by, for example, pressing operations switch (27) according to a predetermined method.

[0165] In addition or as an alternative to the emergency remediation method and apparatus of FIGS 11A and 11B, transceiver enclosure (19) may include an emergency connector (not shown) having electrical connections that may be utilized for overriding all controllable tool chest functions. For example, such emergency connector may include wires for both electrical power and communication signals and such wires may be included in electrical cable (21). In an embodiment, wires of the emergency connector may transfer electrical power to driver board (33) and / or microcontroller board (20), and may exchange electrical communication signals with microcontroller board (20). For example, in the event of an emergency such as exhausted batteries or a failure of the RFID system, a user may plug a USB cord and / or an electrical power source into the emergencyLOCK FOR TOOLBOX connector and may transfer electrical power and a master opening code to microcontroller board (20), where such master opening code is obtained, for example, using a cellular phone application. Upon receiving power and a master opening code, driver board (33) and / or microcontroller board (20) may cause servo motor (29) to rotate lock rod (10). The emergency connector may be provided at any convenient location on an external surface of the tool chest.

[0166] An embodiment may include a simple emergency rod rotating member. FIG.11C is a schematic end view of a drive receptacle (89) attached to lock rod (10), such as by welding or by the use of a clamp (not shown). When an emergency event occurs and a user is forced to remove a strain relief or other structure at lock cylinder opening (16), the user may insert a long drive tool through lock cylinder opening (16) and into drive receptacle (89). The user may then turn drive receptacle (89), for example counterclockwise, to thereby turn lock rod (10) in a forceful manner where, for example, rotation of lock rod (10) may only be required to turn forty-five degrees in order to cause lock rod offset portion (12) to move vertically and thereby unlock the tool cabinet. Such a structure may be provided as a last resort for a user.

[0167] FIG. 12 is a perspective schematic view of a lock rod attachment (93) for emergency rotation of a lock rod, in an exemplary embodiment. A lock rod (10) may be inserted into a lock rod attachment hole (94) and a set screw (not shown) may be tightened into a first threaded set screw hole (95) and / or a second threaded set screw hole (96) for securing lock rod (10) to lock rod attachment (93). A drive receptacle (97) has a shape such as a star, square, phillips, hex, or other form suitable for receiving a drive bit having the same shape.

[0168] FIG.13 is a perspective view of a portion of a tool chest and an interior portion of a lock, showing the use of a tool for emergency rotation of a lock rod, according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, an extension member (99) may be connected at its drive end to shaft (34) of servo motor (29) (e.g., FIG.1B). Lock rod (10) may be secured to extension member (99) and to lock rod attachment (93). In an exemplary emergency procedure, a fastener, such as a strain relief or threaded sleeve, is removed from lock cylinder opening (16). A drive tool (98), such as a ratchet having an extension and a drive bit, is inserted through lock cylinder opening (16), past interior box (28) and into drive receptacle (97). The user then turns drive tool (98), for example counterclockwise, thereby turning lock rod (10) and opening the tool chest. Such exemplary procedure is a brute- force emergency opening method for a tool chest that overcomes a turning resistance ofLOCK FOR TOOLBOX servo motor (29) and may be used, for example, with tool chests that may be opened by a relatively small angular rotation of a lock rod, such as forty-five degrees or up to or exceeding one hundred eighty degrees.

[0169] FIG.14 is a perspective view of a telescoping rod (101) for a tool chest, according to an exemplary embodiment. Extension member (99) may have any length and may include one or more set screws (100). Lock rod (10) may be inserted a chosen amount into extension member (99) and secured thereto by tightening set screws (100), thereby effecting a telescoping rod having a desired length.

[0170] FIG.17 is a perspective view of a lock assembly (105), according to an exemplary embodiment. In an embodiment, lock assembly (105) may be provided as a kit for retrofitting a conventional toolbox or tool chest. Lock assembly (105) includes extension member (99), lock rod (10), lock rod attachment (93), interior box (28) (with a servo motor, microcontroller, driver board, battery), electrical cable (21), transceiver enclosure (19) (with a transceiver), and one or more RFID tags (17). As shown by example, transceiver enclosure (19) includes enclosure portion (102) and an enclosure outer portion (106). In various embodiments, a lock assembly may include any elements as disclosed herein, including, for example, additional batteries, battery holders, auxiliary enclosures, switches, indicators, charging port, serial communications input, I / O, alternative emergency opening apparatus, adapters, connectors, couplers, hardware, brackets, magnets, strain relief, ancillary box(es), and other.

[0171] FIG. 18 is an exemplary flowchart showing a routine that may be programmed into a memory of microcontroller board (20) using any convenient and compatible programming language such as C. Status inputs may be input to microcontroller board (20) via I / O pins and may be analog or digital signals. Signals may be provided to and from driver board (33) as commands for rotating shaft (34) in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when an approved RFID tag (17) has been detected. I / O may include analog signals such as a voltage sent to indicator light (25). Microcontroller board (20) may have a clock such as a quartz crystal oscillator, and a central processing unit (CPU) that may control all tool chest functions, for example locking, unlocking, status indication, electrical battery charging, approval of individual RFID tags, emergency override, tamper detection, alarm setting and activation, and others. Programs may be installed and executed for causing RFID transceiver (18) to transmit interrogation signals and to receive digital data. Such digital data is communicated to microcontroller via electrical cable (21). Logic of a program may include implementation of timing functionsLOCK FOR TOOLBOX such as waiting for a time period before sending or receiving an electrical communication signal or voltage via I / O and other electrical connections. Programs may monitor battery voltages, switch positions, and any electrical status. Programs may perform any digital calculations and decisions. For example, a digital signal such as data obtained from RFID transceiver 18 may be compared with a list of approved users. Any data may be stored in microcontroller board (20) for any programmable function.

[0172] In some embodiments, the lock may include a wireless communication device – such as a WiFi router or blue tooth radio receiver. When present, the wireless communication device may be configured to receive a signal from an external device such as a cellular phone allowing a user to operate the lock moving the lock from a locked position to an unlocked position or vice versa.

[0173] The lock, or any components thereof, including ancillary and optional parts, may be packaged as a kit, such as for retrofitting an existing tool chest.

[0174] While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited by the disclosure of the preferred embodiment. Instead, the invention should be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims

LOCK FOR TOOLBOX CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A lock, for a tool chest that includes a lock cylinder opening, a lock rod having a lock rod drive end, at least a first vertical lock bar, and that includes a plurality of drawers each having at least one drawer side plate engageable by the first vertical lock bar, the tool chest being configured so that rotation of the lock rod moves the first vertical lock bar, the lock comprising: a radio-frequency identification (RFID) transceiver operable to detect an RFID tag within a physical range and associate the detected RFID tag with data; a transceiver enclosure enclosing the RFID transceiver; a servo motor having a shaft; a driver board electrically connected to the servo motor and operable to electrically control bidirectional movement of the shaft; a lock rod coupler configured for mechanically transferring movement of the shaft to the lock rod drive end; a microcontroller board in electrical communication with the RFID transceiver and with the driver board, the microcontroller board configured for obtaining the data from the RFID transceiver, determining whether the data is approved and, if so, signaling the driver board to move the shaft to an unlocked position; and a coupler configured for mechanically transferring rotation of the shaft to the first vertical lock bar; and wherein the microcontroller board is configured to signal the driver board to move the shaft to a locked position when a locking event occurs.

2. The lock of claim 1, wherein the lock rod coupler includes at least a coupler first section and a variable length rod.

3. The lock of any of claims 1 to 2, further comprising a first battery for supplying electrical power to the microcontroller board, the driver board, and the servo motor.

4. The lock of claim 3, further comprising an indicator light structured for providing an alarm when a charge level of the first battery is low.LOCK FOR TOOLBOX 5. The lock of any of claims 3 to 4, wherein the microcontroller board is configured to signal the driver board to move the shaft to an unlocked position when a charge level of the first battery is low.

6. The lock of any of claims 3 to 5, further comprising a second battery for supplying electrical power to the microcontroller board, the driver board, and the servo motor.

7. The lock of claim 6, wherein the microcontroller board is configured to switch a main electrical power from the first battery to the second battery when a charge level of the first battery is low.

8. The lock of any of claims 1 to 7, further comprising an electrical cable structured for electrically connecting the RFID transceiver and the microcontroller board.

9. The lock of any of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: an emergency rod mechanically coupled to the lock rod; and an emergency collar having a decoupler and structured for being placed around the emergency rod.

10. The lock of claim 9, further comprising an emergency rod holder configured to be attached to the tool chest so that the decoupler is accessible via the lock cylinder opening.

11. The lock of any of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an emergency collar having a tightener and structured for being placed around the lock rod.

12. The lock of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the lock rod coupler includes a bevel gear.

13. The lock of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the lock rod coupler includes at least one intermediate rod and a second coupling.

14. The lock of any of claims 1 to 13, further comprising an RFID tag disposed in a bracelet.

15. The lock of any of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: an emergency rod having a shaped drive head; a bevel gear assembly; a first emergency coupling for connecting the emergency rod and the bevel gear assembly; andLOCK FOR TOOLBOX a second emergency coupling for connecting the bevel gear assembly and the lock rod.

16. The lock of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the transceiver enclosure includes a sleeve which is threaded and configured for passing through the lock cylinder opening and being tightened thereto for securing the transceiver enclosure to the tool chest at the lock cylinder opening.

17. The lock of any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the lock rod coupler includes a connecting rod, a servo coupling for connecting the connecting rod and the shaft, and a double coupling configured for connecting the connecting rod and the lock rod.

18. The lock of claim 2, wherein the lock rod is segmented and the coupler includes at least one second coupling for demountably joining segmented lock rod portions to one another.

19. The lock of any of claims 1 to 18, further comprising a wireless communication device configured to receive a signal from an external device.

20. The lock of any of claims 1 to 19, provided as a kit for retrofitting an existing tool chest.

21. A tool chest that includes the lock of any of claims 1 to 19.

Images