Storage cabinet electronic access system

Abstract

A system is provided comprising a housing with walls defining an interior space and drawers moveable between stowed and open positions, a lock bar moveable between locked and unlocked states, a mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft configured to manually move the lock bar using a key, an electro-mechanical assembly comprising a motor operatively coupled to the drive shaft to move the lock bar, a front panel assembly mounted on the housing exterior comprising a wireless communication device configured to receive user authentication credentials and a manual override button that permits activation of the mechanical lock using the key, and a controller configured to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly upon receipt of valid authentication credentials to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO STORAGE CABINET ELECTRONIC ACCESS SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 730,731 filed December 11, 2024, and titled, “CABINET ELECTRONIC ACCESS DEVICE,” the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure is directed to cabinet systems having electronic access systems and inventory tracking capabilities and retrofit kits and methods of installation thereof.BACKGROUND

[0003] Industrial and commercial storage cabinets commonly utilize mechanical key-operated locking systems to secure valuable tools, equipment, and inventory within storage cabinets. These conventional systems present operational challenges that impact efficiency and security management. Key management becomes increasingly complex as organizations scale, requiring physical distribution and tracking of multiple keys across different personnel and shifts. Traditional mechanical systems lack the ability to monitor or restrict access to specific individuals, as any person possessing a physical key may access cabinet contents without accountability or tracking capabilities. Conventional storage cabinets provide limited visibility into access patterns and inventory management, requiring manual tracking processes that are time-consuming and prone to human error. The absence of automated access logging makes it difficult for administrators to determine who accessed cabinet contents, when access occurred, or what items were removed. Additionally, traditional systems offer limited integration with digital inventory management platforms, creating disconnected workflows between physical storage access and inventory tracking systems.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, a system is provided that includes a housing structure having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and arranged to receive one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position; a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains the one or more drawers in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; a mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft and arranged to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state using a key; an electro-mechanical assembly including a motor operatively coupled to the drive shaft toAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state; a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure and including a wireless communication device arranged to receive user authentication credentials and a manual override, wherein upon actuation of the manual override button, a user can be permitted to activate the mechanical lock using the key to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state; and a controller arranged to actuate the motor in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device.

[0005] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can include an RFID badge reader arranged to detect radio frequency identification badges.

[0006] In some aspects, the system can further include one or more position sensors operatively connected to the controller and arranged to detect a current linear position of the drive shaft.

[0007] In some aspects, the one or more position sensors can include Hall sensors arranged to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

[0008] In some aspects, the front panel assembly can further include one or more light sources operatively connected to the controller and arranged to provide visual feedback indicating a state of the lock bar.

[0009] In some aspects, the one or more light sources can be arranged to indicate one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

[0010] In some aspects, the system can further include an electronics tray housed within the interior space of the housing structure and containing the lock bar, the electro-mechanical assembly, and the controller; and a junction box provided an exterior wall of the housing structure and arranged to receive power from an external power cable and provide power to the controller.

[0011] In another aspect, a storage cabinet is provided that includes a housing structure; one or more drawers moveable between stowed and open positions; a lock bar moveable between locked and unlocked states to selectively maintain the drawers in the stowed position; a mechanical lock operatively coupled to the lock bar; an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to the lock bar; a user interface including a wireless communication device and a manual override, wherein upon actuation of the manual override button, a user to permitted to activate theAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO mechanical lock using a mechanical key to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state; and a controller arranged to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly based on authentication signals received from the wireless communication device.

[0012] In some aspects, the mechanical lock can include a drive shaft arranged for rotation by the mechanical key.

[0013] In some aspects, the electro-mechanical assembly can include a motor coupled to the drive shaft.

[0014] In some aspects, the storage cabinet can further include one or more position sensors arranged to detect a position of the drive shaft.

[0015] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can be an RFID reader arranged to receive user credentials.

[0016] In some aspects, the user interface can further include one or more LEDs arranged to indicate one or more of a lock state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, and a state of the mechanical lock.

[0017] In some aspects, the controller can be arranged to communicate with a remote server via a network connection.

[0018] In another aspect, an assembly is provided that includes a front panel housing arranged for mounting on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet; a wireless communication device disposed within the front panel housing and arranged to detect authentication credentials from a user; a manual override button disposed within the front panel housing and arranged to be operatively connected to a lock bar of the storage cabinet to enable manual actuation of the lock bar; one or more light sources disposed within the front panel housing and arranged to provide visual feedback regarding a state of the lock bar; and a cable extending from the front panel housing and arranged to connect the wireless communication device and the one or more light sources to a controller provided within the storage cabinet, wherein the wireless communication device can be arranged to transmit the authentication credentials to the controller to actuate an electro-mechanical assembly to enable actuation of the lock bar.

[0019] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can include an RFID badge reader arranged to detect radio frequency identification badges.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0020] In some aspects, the front panel housing can include a rear facade having at least two cylindrical barrels arranged to facilitate mounting of the front panel housing on the exterior surface of the storage cabinet using fork clips.

[0021] In some aspects, one of the cylindrical barrels can be arranged to provide a passage for the cable to route from the front panel housing into an interior of the storage cabinet.

[0022] In some aspects, the one or more light sources can include LEDs arranged to provide visual feedback indicating one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

[0023] In some aspects, the front panel housing can have a generally elongated body with curved peripheral surfaces and can be arranged to mount adjacent to an existing lock bar of the storage cabinet.

[0024] In another aspect, a system is provided that includes a housing structure having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and arranged to receive one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position; a lock bar moveable between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein the one or more drawers can be locked in the stowed position when the lock bar can be in the locked state and can be moveable between the stowed position and the open position when the lock bar can be in the unlocked state; a mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft and arranged to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state using a key; an electro-mechanical assembly including a motor operatively coupled to the lock bar; a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure and including a wireless communication device arranged to receive user authentication credentials and a manual override, wherein upon actuation of the manual override button, a user can be permitted to activate the mechanical lock; a display assembly modularly mounted externally to the housing structure and including a touchscreen display and a scanner device; a controller communicatively coupled to the front panel assembly, the electro-mechanical assembly, and the display assembly, wherein the controller can be arranged to authenticate users via the wireless communication device to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly and to manage inventory of the one or more drawers via the display assembly; and a junction box mounted on the housing structure and arranged to route power from an external power cable to the display assembly and controller.

[0025] In some aspects, the display assembly can be mounted on a mounting bracket that enables positioning of the display assembly in multiple orientations relative to the housing structure.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0026] In some aspects, the mounting bracket can enable positioning of the display assembly on a top surface of the housing structure, a side surface of the housing structure, or a combination thereof, at a variety of positions between a front surface and a rear surface of the housing structure.

[0027] In some aspects, the scanner device can be arranged to scan one or more of barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags.

[0028] In some aspects, the junction box can include a two-piece assembly having an interior portion positioned within the interior space of the housing structure and an exterior portion positioned outside the housing structure.

[0029] In some aspects, the junction box can be arranged to route one or more of an HDMI cable, a USB cable, and power cables to the display assembly.

[0030] In some aspects, the scanner device can be any one of a wired handheld scanner or a wireless Bluetooth handheld scanner.

[0031] In some aspects, the system can further include a single power source arranged to provide power to both the electro-mechanical assembly and the display assembly via a bifurcated power cable assembly.

[0032] In some aspects, the system can further include an electronics tray provided within an interior of the housing structure, wherein the electronics tray can be arranged to carry the lock bar, the electro-mechanical assembly, and the controller.

[0033] In some aspects, the electronics tray can be ventilated using one or more ventilation fans.

[0034] In some aspects, the controller can be further arranged to authenticate users via user authentication information provided to the touchscreen display by the user or via user authentication information scanned by the scanner device.

[0035] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes receiving user authentication credentials at a wireless communication device of a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet; authenticating the user based on the received authentication credentials using a controller; actuating a motor of an electro-mechanical assembly in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet; scanning an item to be added or removed from the one or more drawers using a handheld scanner device; displaying item information on a touchscreenAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO display mounted externally to the storage cabinet; and associating the scanned item with the authenticated user for inventory tracking.

[0036] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can be an RFID badge reader and the user authentication credentials can include radio frequency identification (RFID) badge data detected by the RFID badge reader.

[0037] In some aspects, the method can further include providing visual feedback via one or more light sources on the front panel assembly to indicate a state of the lock bar.

[0038] In some aspects, the visual feedback can indicate one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

[0039] In some aspects, the method can further include automatically relocking the lock bar after a configurable period of inactivity.

[0040] In some aspects, the method can further include scanning, with the handheld scanner device, user authentication credentials; authenticating the user based on the scanned authentication credentials using the controller; and actuating the motor of the electro-mechanical assembly in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet.

[0041] In some aspects, the method can further include receiving, via the touchscreen display, a user input characterizing user authentication credentials; authenticating the user based on the user input using the controller; and actuating the motor of the electro-mechanical assembly in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet.

[0042] In some aspects, the method can further include actuating, by the user, a manual override button provided on the front panel assembly; and enabling the user to insert a mechanical key into a mechanical lock operatively coupled to the lock bar, such that the user can manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked.

[0043] In some aspects, the method can further include transmitting an access log characterizing a list of authenticated users and a dynamic inventory of the storage cabinet to a remote server.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0044] In another aspect, a kit is provided that includes a front panel assembly including a wireless communication device and a manual override button, wherein the front panel can be arranged for mounting on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet that includes one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position and a key-activated mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft of a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains one or more drawers of the storage cabinet in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; an electronics tray arranged for mounting within an interior of the storage cabinet; an electro-mechanical assembly including a motor arranged to operatively couple to the drive shaft of the lock bar; a controller arranged to actuate the motor in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device, wherein the electro-mechanical assembly and the controller is provided in the electronics tray; and a junction box arranged to be provided an exterior wall of the storage cabinet and arranged to receive power from an external power cable and provide power to the electronics tray.

[0045] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can include an RFID badge reader arranged to detect radio frequency identification badges.

[0046] In some aspects, the kit can further include one or more position sensors arranged to be mounted proximate to the drive shaft to detect a linear position of the drive shaft.

[0047] In some aspects, the one or more position sensors can include Hall sensors arranged to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

[0048] In some aspects, the front panel assembly can further include one or more light sources arranged to provide visual feedback indicating a state of the lock bar.

[0049] In some aspects, the one or more light sources can be arranged to indicate one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

[0050] In some aspects, the electronics tray can be arranged for mounting within the interior of the storage cabinet using one or more magnets arranged to secure the electronics tray within the interior of the storage cabinet while enabling selective positioning adjustment.

[0051] In some aspects, the kit can further include a display assembly arranged for modular external mounting to the storage cabinet and including a touchscreen display and a scanner device.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0052] In some aspects, the display assembly can be mounted on a mounting bracket that enables positioning of the display assembly in multiple orientations relative to an external housing of the storage cabinet.

[0053] In some aspects, the scanner device can arranged to scan one or more of barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags.

[0054] In some aspects, the junction box can be arranged to route one or more of an HDMI cable, a USB cable, and power cables to the display assembly.

[0055] In some aspects, the scanner device can be any one of a wired handheld scanner or a wireless Bluetooth handheld scanner.

[0056] In some aspects, the kit can further include a single power source arranged to provide power to both the electro-mechanical assembly and the display assembly via a bifurcated power cable assembly.

[0057] In some aspects, the electronics tray can further include one or more ventilation fans.

[0058] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes mounting a front panel assembly on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet, the front panel assembly including a wireless communication device and a manual override button, wherein the storage cabinet includes one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position and a key-activated mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft of a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains one or more drawers of the storage cabinet in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; installing an electronics tray within an interior of the storage cabinet, the electronics tray including an electromechanical assembly and a controller; operatively coupling a motor of the electro-mechanical assembly to the drive shaft of the lock bar; installing a junction box on the storage cabinet to route cables between the interior and exterior of the storage cabinet; and arranging the controller to authenticate users via the wireless communication device, such that the controller actuates the motor in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state, thereby enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet.

[0059] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can include an RFID badge reader arranged to detect radio frequency identification badges.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0060] In some aspects, the method can further include mounting a display assembly to one or more external surfaces of the storage cabinet, the display assembly including a touchscreen display and a scanner device.

[0061] In some aspects, the display assembly can be mounted in one or more of a plurality of modular orientations including a front mounting, a rear mounting, a top mounting, a side mounting, a landscape mounting, and a portrait mounting.

[0062] In some aspects, the method can further include mounting one or more position sensors proximate to the drive shaft to detect a linear position of the drive shaft.

[0063] In some aspects, the one or more position sensors can include Hall sensors arranged to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

[0064] In another aspect, a system is provided that includes a housing structure having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and arranged to receive one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position; a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains the one or more drawers in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure and including a wireless communication device arranged to receive user authentication credentials, a turn knob operatively connected to the lock bar, and an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to the turn knob, wherein the turn knob is fixed absent receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device; and a controller arranged to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device such that the turn knob is rotatable to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0065] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can include an RFID badge reader arranged to detect radio frequency identification badges.

[0066] In some aspects, the turn knob can further include one or more indicators provided thereon to indicate a state of the lock bar.

[0067] In some aspects, the one or more indicators can include an open indicator provided in a first color and a locked indicator provided in a second color.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0068] In some aspects, the front panel assembly can further include one or more light sources operatively connected to the controller and arranged to provide visual feedback indicating a state of the front panel assembly.

[0069] In some aspects, the system can further include one or more position sensors operatively connected to the controller and arranged to detect a current linear position of the lock bar.

[0070] In some aspects, the front panel assembly can further include a manual override pin hole provided adjacent to the turn knob, wherein the lock bar can be manually actuated between the locked state and the unlocked state responsive to a valid mechanical pin being inserted into the pin hole.

[0071] In some aspects, the system can further include a junction box provided on an exterior wall of the housing structure and arranged to receive power from an external power cable and provide power to the controller.

[0072] In some aspects, the front panel assembly can further include a battery pack arranged to provide power to the wireless communication device and the electro-mechanical assembly.

[0073] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes receiving user authentication credentials at a wireless communication device of a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet; authenticating the user based on the received authentication credentials using a controller; controlling, by a controller, an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to a turn knob of the front panel assembly to actuate in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device such that the turn knob is rotatable to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet, wherein the turn knob is fixed absent receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device; scanning an item to be added or removed from the one or more drawers using a handheld scanner device; displaying item information on a touchscreen display mounted externally to the storage cabinet; and associating the scanned item with the authenticated user for inventory tracking.

[0074] In some aspects, the wireless communication device can include an RFID badge reader and the user authentication credentials can include radio frequency identification (RFID) badge data detected by the RFID badge reader.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0075] In some aspects, the method can further include manually actuating the lock bar to enable access to the one or more drawers responsive to a valid mechanical pin being inserted into a manual override pin hole provided adjacent to the turn knob.

[0076] In some aspects, the method can further include transmitting an access log characterizing a list of authenticated users and a dynamic inventory of the storage cabinet to a remote server.

[0077] In some aspects, the method can further include automatically relocking the lock bar after a configurable period of inactivity.

[0078] In some aspects, the method can further include monitoring, by the controller, an open status of the one or more drawers based on position data received from one or more sensors of the cabinet.

[0079] In another aspect, a method is provided that includes mounting a front panel assembly on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet such that the front panel assembly overlays and operatively couples to a lock bar of the storage cabinet, wherein the front panel assembly includes a wireless communication device arranged to receive user authentication credentials, a turn knob operatively connected to a lock bar, and an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to the turn knob, wherein the turn knob is fixed absent receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device; arranging the wireless communication device to receive user authentication credentials; and arranging a controller to authenticate users via the wireless communication device; and controlling, via the controller, the electro-mechanical assembly to actuate in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device such that the turn knob is rotatable to move the lock bar between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0080] In some aspects, the method can further include manually actuating the lock bar to enable access to the one or more drawers responsive to a valid mechanical pin being inserted into a manual override pin hole provided adjacent to the turn knob.

[0081] In some aspects, the method can further include transmitting an access log characterizing a list of authenticated users and a dynamic inventory of the storage cabinet to a remote server.

[0082] In some aspects, the method can further include automatically relocking the lock bar after a configurable period of inactivity.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0083] In some aspects, the method can further include mounting one or more position sensors proximate to the lock bar to detect a linear position of the lock bar; and monitoring, by the controller, a status of the lock bar based on position data received from one or more sensors.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0084] The various advantages of the examples of the present disclosure will become apparent to one skilled in the art by reading the following specification and appended claims, and by referencing the following drawings, in which:

[0085] FIG. 1 A illustrates a perspective view of a cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0086] FIG. IB illustrates a front view of the cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0087] FIG. 1C illustrates a side view of the cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0088] FIG. ID illustrates a rear view of the cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0089] FIG. IE illustrates a perspective internal view of the cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0090] FIG. IF illustrates a top sectional view taken along A-A of FIG. IB of the cabinet system showing internal components according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0091] FIG. 1G illustrates the electronics tray of FIG. IF according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0092] FIG. 1H illustrates multiple perspective views of the cabinet system showing various mounting orientations of the display and reader assembly according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0093] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0094] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0095] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C illustrate perspective views of a cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0096] FIG. 5 A illustrates a perspective view of a cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0097] FIGS. 5B and 5C illustrate perspective views of a front panel assembly for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0098] FIGS. 6 A and 6B illustrate front orthogonal views of front panel assemblies for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0099] FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of a front panel assembly for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0100] FIG. 6D illustrates a perspective view of an electronics tray assembly for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0101] FIGS. 7 A and 7B illustrate perspective views of a front panel assembly and mounting components for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0102] FIGS. 8 A and 8B illustrate perspective views of a linear position sensor assembly for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0103] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate exploded perspective views of a manual entry mechanism for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein;

[0104] FIGS. 9C and 9D illustrate perspective and top orthogonal views of the manual entry mechanism mounted on a cabinet according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0105] FIG. 9E illustrates a perspective view of cable routing through a cabinet structure according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0106] FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of a control architecture for a controller according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0107] FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of a control architecture for single-bank and doublebank cabinet configurations according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0108] FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of a control architecture for a cabinet system according to the systems and methods described herein;Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0109] FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of a power distribution architecture according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0110] FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C illustrate circuit board diagrams for sensor modules according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0111] FIG. 15 illustrates a network architecture diagram for a storage cabinet electronic access system according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0112] FIG. 16 illustrates a method flowchart for user authentication and access control according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0113] FIG. 17 illustrates a method flowchart for operating a storage cabinet electronic access system with inventory management according to the systems and methods described herein;

[0114] FIG. 18 illustrates a method flowchart for retrofitting a storage cabinet with an electronic access system according to the systems and methods described herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0115] Traditional storage cabinets in industrial and commercial environments have long relied on mechanical key-operated locking systems to secure valuable tools, equipment, and inventory. These conventional systems present several limitations that impact operational efficiency and security management. Key management becomes increasingly complex as organizations scale, requiring physical distribution and tracking of multiple keys across different personnel and shifts. Security limitations arise from the inability to monitor or restrict access to specific individuals, as any person possessing a physical key may access the cabinet contents without accountability. Traditional mechanical systems lack access tracking capabilities, making it difficult for administrators to determine who accessed cabinet contents, when access occurred, or what items were removed. Additionally, conventional cabinets provide no automated inventory management, requiring manual tracking processes that are prone to human error and timeconsuming to maintain.

[0116] The disclosed storage cabinet electronic access system addresses these limitations by providing a comprehensive electronic access control solution that integrates with existing mechanical cabinet infrastructure. The system enables keyless electronic access through multiple authentication methods while preserving mechanical key override functionality for backup access scenarios. Users may authenticate through contactless RFID badge scanning, selecting their name from a display list and entering a custom PIN, or providing username and password credentialsAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO through a touchscreen interface. Upon successful authentication, the system electronically unlocks the cabinet, allowing access to stored contents. The system incorporates inventory management capabilities through integrated scanning functionality, where users may scan barcodes, QR codes, or RFID tags on items being removed from the cabinet. Scanned items are added to a shopping cart-style interface that maintains a list of items associated with the authenticated user for checkout functionality.

[0117] The systems and methods described herein provide enhanced security through realtime access logging that records user authentication events, access times, and item removal activities. Automated relocking functionality secures the cabinet after a configurable period of inactivity, with the timeout duration being administrator-configurable to accommodate different operational requirements. The systems and methods described herein can be implemented in a variety of cabinet types as part of an initial design, or as a retrofit of an existing cabinet. The systems and methods described herein support drawer open state tracking where the cabinet will not relock unless all drawers are closed, and / or can implement time-based relocking protocols. The systems and methods described herein can also display pop-up notifications on a screen of the cabinet, to warn users before cabinet relock with an option to extend the session, preventing unexpected lockouts during active use. Cloud-based management capabilities enable remote monitoring, user management, and reporting functions that provide administrators with comprehensive oversight of cabinet access and inventory activities across multiple locations. The storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein may also advantageously accommodate or otherwise convert or retrofit a mechanical key-operated industrial storage cabinet into an electronic storage cabinet powered for facilitating electronic access to the contents inside the storage cabinet.

[0118] FIGS. 1 A-1H illustrate various views of a cabinet system 100 according to the systems and methods described herein. In some aspects, the system 100 provides electronic access control, as described in greater detail below. As shown in the perspective view of FIG. 1 A, the system 100 comprises a housing structure 102 having a plurality of walls defining an interior space 114 (see FIG. IE). The housing structure 102 includes a front wall 104, rear wall 106, sidewalls 108, a top wall 110, and a bottom wall 112 that together form the rectangular cabinet body and define the interior space 114 for accommodating storage components and electronic access control elements.

[0119] The housing structure 102 is configured to receive one or more drawers 116 that are moveable between a stowed position and an open position. The drawers 116 include handles positioned on their front faces to facilitate opening and closing operations. The drawers 116 areAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO arranged in multiple horizontally-oriented rows in a vertical stack configuration along the front face of the cabinet. Each drawer 116 may move between the stowed position where the drawer 116 remains within the interior space 114 of the housing structure 102 and the open position where the drawer 116 extends forward from the housing structure 102 to provide access to stored contents. The drawers 116 are retained within the housing structure 102 by a lock bar that is moveable between a locked state that maintains the one or more drawers 116 in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers 116 to the open position. The lock bar can be moved between the locked and unlocked states using either a mechanical lock 118 (e.g., a mechanical key entry), or an electro-mechanical assembly 176, which is operatively coupled to a front panel assembly 130, as discussed in greater detail below.

[0120] The cabinet system can also include a display and reader assembly 120, which can be modularly mounted externally to the housing structure 102, in a variety of orientations, as shown in FIG. 1H. The display and reader assembly 120 comprises a touchscreen display 122 and a scanner device 126. The touchscreen display 122 is mounted on a mounting / adjustable bracket 124 that provides positioning flexibility for different installation configurations and enables positioning of the display assembly in multiple orientations relative to the housing structure 102.

[0121] In some aspects, the adjustable brackets 124 can further include theft prevention mechanisms integrated into the display mount design to provide enhanced security to protect the touchscreen display 122 and scanner devices 126 from unauthorized removal or tampering. The theft prevention mechanisms may comprise locking brackets, tamper-resistant fasteners, security cables, or mechanical retention features that secure the display and scanner components while maintaining user accessibility for normal operation. The security features are integrated into the mounting bracket design to provide protection without compromising the aesthetic appearance or functional accessibility of the user interface components.

[0122] Adjacent to the touchscreen display 122, the scanner device 126 is positioned to enable inventory management functionality through item identification and tracking. In some aspects, the scanner 126 may include a scanner mount 125 that is mounted on either side of the display 122 to accommodate different user preferences and cabinet configurations. The scanner 126 supports multiple identification technologies including, but not limited to, barcode scanning, QR code scanning, and RFID tag reading to provide comprehensive item tracking capabilities across different inventory management systems. The multi-mode scanning capability enables users to identify and track inventory items regardless of the identification technology employed, providing comprehensive compatibility with different inventory management approaches and item labelingAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO systems. The system automatically detects the type of identification technology being scanned and processes the received data appropriately based on the detected symbology or communication protocol. In some aspects, it is also realized that the scanner 126 may be any one of a wired handheld scanner or a wireless Bluetooth handheld scanner and may be adapted to communicate with the electronics and control systems of the system 100 using Bluetooth or other known communication protocols. For example, in some aspects, the scanner 126 can be an all-in-one- Bluetooth scanner that can detect barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags.

[0123] The display mounting bracket 124 may be adapted to mount to holes 128 in the cabinet structure to facilitate retrofit installation without requiring new holes to be drilled in the cabinet surface. This mounting approach enables the system 100 to be installed on existing storage cabinets without extensive modifications to the cabinet structure, preserving the cabinet’s structural integrity while adding electronic access control functionality. However, other noninvasive or invasive mounting regimes are also contemplated herein.

[0124] As shown in the front view of FIG. IB and the side view of FIG. 1C, the front panel assembly 130 is mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure 102, positioned on the front surface of the cabinet near the top portion, adjacent to the existing mechanical lock 118. The front panel assembly 130 is operatively connected to other systems and subsystems of the controller 164 (e.g., a Small Board Computer (SBC) module), as discussed in greater detail below. The front panel assembly 130 is adapted to provide credential-based access controls for the cabinet 100. In some aspects, the front panel assembly includes a wireless communication device 132 configured to receive user authentication credentials, an output interface 134, and a manual override button 136. The front panel assembly 130 maintains a compact profile that integrates with the cabinet’s existing design while providing access to electronic control functions. In some aspects, the front panel assembly 130 can be included in the cabinet’s initial design or may be provided as part of a retrofit kit, as discussed in greater detail below.

[0125] In some aspects, the wireless communication device 132 may be, for example, an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges. The system 100 supports multiple user authentication methods to accommodate different operational requirements and user preferences. In some aspects, to gain access to the drawers of the cabinet 100, users may authenticate themselves through contactless RFID badge scanning where the wireless communication device 132 detects and validates the user’s credentials. In some aspects, users may alternatively select their name from a list provided on the touchscreen display 122, or enter their log in credentials or a PIN as inputs to the touchscreen interface 122, or they may scan a badge,Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO verified parts list, or some other authenticating information using the scanner 126 to gain access to the cabinet 100. The access control functionalities are discussed in greater detail below.

[0126] The output interface 134 can be any device, software, component, system, element or arrangement or groups thereof that enable information / data to be presented to a user. In some aspects, the output interface 134 can include one or more light indicators operatively connected to a controller 164 of the system 100 and configured to provide visual feedback indicating one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers 116, a manual entry, an error state of the lock bar, whether the cabinet 100 is connected to the internet, etc. In some aspects, the one or more light indicators can include LEDs configured to provide visual feedback and / or a display screen configured to display information regarding the state of the system 100. In some aspects, the output interface 134 can also include features to provide users with audio (e.g., microphone, earphone, or speaker) and / or haptic feedback regarding the state of the system 100.

[0127] As shown in FIGS. 1D-1E, the system 100 includes a panel mount assembly 138 provided on an exterior wall of the housing structure 102 that allows for the system 100 to be powered by a single power cable 140 (e.g., a 12V power cable), simplifying installation and reducing cable management complexity. The panel mount assembly 138 includes a power port 138a configured to receive power from the external power cable 140 and an ethemet port 138b for network connectivity. An ethernet cable 142 extends from the ethernet port 138b to provide network communication capabilities. In some aspects, the power cable 140 can be arranged to bifurcate within the system 100, to provide power to components provided in an electronics tray 146 (see FIGS. 1F-1G) housed within the interior space 114, the front panel assembly, and the display and reader assembly 120. In some aspects, a junction box assembly 144 can be mounted on the housing structure 102, to allow for cables (e.g., power cables, ethemet cables, USB cables, HDMI cables, etc.) to be transferred from inside the cabinet 100 to outside the cabinet (e.g., to route power from an external power cable to the display assembly and controller). In some aspects, the junction box assembly 144 comprises a two-piece assembly having an interior portion positioned within the interior space 114 of the housing structure 102 and an exterior portion positioned outside the housing structure 102.

[0128] As illustrated in the sectional top view of FIG. IF, taken along section A-A of FIG. IB, the electronics tray 146 can be housed within the interior space 114 of the housing structure 102. The electronics tray is also shown and described in reference to FIG. 1G. In some aspects, the electronics tray can be arranged to carry the controller 164 and the electro-mechanical assembly 176, which can be operatively coupled to the front panel assembly 130 and the lock bar 175.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0129] The controller 164 comprises one or more processors 168 and one or more data stores and is configured to actuate the motor 178 in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device 132. The controller 164 also includes a power management board (PMB) 166, which serves as a central interface for power distribution and signal processing within the electronics tray 146. Operations of the PMB 166 are discussed in greater detail below. The controller 164 is communicatively coupled to the front panel assembly 130, the electro-mechanical assembly 176, and the display assembly 120, and is configured to authenticate users, actuate the electro-mechanical assembly 176, monitor access to the cabinet 100, and communicate with the display assembly 120 and front panel assembly 130 to manage inventory and provide information to the users of the cabinet system and external network devices, as discussed below.

[0130] In some aspects, the electronics tray 146 can be mounted within the interior volume 114 of the cabinet 100, as shown. The electronics tray 146 may be mounted using suitable attachment architecture that includes, but is not limited to, one or more magnets 148. The one or more magnets 148 are configured to secure the electronics tray 146 within the interior space 114 of the housing structure 102 while enabling selective positioning adjustment. The one or more magnets 148 are operable to maintain a position of the electronics tray in place but still enable the position to be selectively adjusted. It will be understood that this disclosure contemplates the use of any suitable fastening architecture that falls within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure set forth herein. For example, such suitable fastening architecture includes, but is not limited to, affixing via bolting, welding, bonding, racketing, latching, etc.

[0131] As shown, the electronics tray 146 can also include ventilation features 150 specifically designed for heat management to dissipate thermal energy generated by electronic components, particularly heat generated by a processor 168 of the controller 164 that controls system functions. The ventilation features 150 may include strategically positioned openings, heat dissipation channels, or airflow management structures that facilitate thermal regulation within the enclosed cabinet environment. In some aspects, the electronics tray 146 can also be provided with ventilation fans 152 (e.g., an inlet fan and / or an outlet fan) to further improve airflow through the tray assembly.

[0132] The electronics tray 146 includes multiple electrical connection interfaces to facilitate system integration. A power connector 154 provides electrical power distribution to the electronic components housed within the tray. A sensor connector 156 enables communication with position sensors and other monitoring devices, the functionalities of which are described in greater detailAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO below. An ethemet connector 158 facilitates network communication capabilities. An RFID connector 160 provides interface connectivity to the wireless communication device 132. Mounting brackets 162 secure the various electronic components within the electronics tray 146 structure.

[0133] In some aspects, the electro-mechanical assembly 176 can include a motor 178 that is operatively coupled to a drive shaft 179 that is configured to move the lock bar 175 between the locked state and the unlocked state when activated by the front panel assembly 130, and a mechanical lock 118 of the cabinet 100 can also be operatively coupled to the drive shaft 179 to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state using a key, after actuation of the manual override button 136, as described below. The drive shaft 179 extends through the electronics tray 146 and is supported by bearings 177 that enable rotational movement. The motor 178 is operatively coupled to the drive shaft through a motor shaft gear 192 that engages with a drive shaft gear 190. A clutch 188 is positioned along the drive shaft to enable controlled selective engagement and disengagement of the mechanical lock 118 from the drive shaft. An encoder 182 is operatively connected to the motor 178 to provide positional feedback for precise control of the electro-mechanical assembly 176. The drive shaft includes connection interfaces at both ends, with a front connector 170 configured to operatively couple to the mechanical lock 118 and the front panel assembly 130, and a rear connector 174 configured to operatively couple to the lock bar 175 to complete the mechanical linkage of the locking system. In some aspects, the interface between the front connector 170 and the mechanical lock 118 and the front panel assembly 130 can include a toothed connection 172 to allow for selective mechanical engagement between drive shaft segments based on a position of the clutch 188, as discussed below.

[0134] The system 100 further comprises one or more sensors operatively connected to the controller 164 and configured to detect a linear position of the drive shaft 179. In some aspects, the one or more sensors can include position sensors provided on a hall sensor board 184 positioned adjacent to the drive shaft 179 and configured to detect magnetic field changes corresponding to the position of a hall sensor magnet 187 mounted on the drive shaft 179. The one or more position sensors are configured to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

[0135] In some aspects, the system 100 may be configured to provide selective access control through either electronic authentication or mechanical key override functionality. For example, in some aspects, the mechanical lock 118 may initially be maintained in a disengaged state relative to the clutch 188, preventing direct mechanical access to the lock bar 175. When a user seeksAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO electronic access, they may authenticate their credentials through any of the available authentication methods, including scanning their badge with the wireless communication device 132, interacting with the touchscreen display 122 to enter login credentials or select their name from a user list, or scanning authentication information using the scanner device 126, etc. Upon receiving and validating the user’s authentication credentials, the controller 164 may determine whether the user possesses appropriate access privileges for the cabinet 100. When valid credentials are confirmed, the controller 164 may actuate the electro-mechanical assembly 176, causing the motor 178 to drive the drive shaft 179 and transition the lock bar 175 from the locked state to the unlocked state, thereby enabling access to the drawers 116. Alternatively, if the user possesses a mechanical key and would like to gain manual access, they may press the manual override button 136, which may cause the clutch 188 to shift, allowing the toothed connection 172 of the front connector 170 to operatively couple the mechanical lock 118 with the drive shaft 179. Once the mechanical lock 118 is engaged through the clutch 188, the user may insert their mechanical key into the lock bar and manually rotate the drive shaft 179 to unlock the cabinet 100, providing backup access functionality independent of the electronic systems. This dual-mode operation may ensure that users can access the cabinet contents through either electronic credential verification or traditional mechanical key access, depending on operational requirements and system availability.

[0136] The system 100 can incorporate comprehensive inventory management capabilities through an integrated shopping cart-style interface that can be displayed on the touchscreen 122. This interface can manage item checkout functionality through a digital list that can maintain a record of items associated with the authenticated user. When users scan items being removed from or returned to the cabinet using the scanner 126, the scanned items can be automatically added to the digital shopping cart list, creating an audit trail that can link specific inventory items to individual users for checkout functionality and inventory tracking purposes. The shopping cart interface can provide for real-time inventory management and comprehensive user accountability.

[0137] The shopping cart interface can display detailed item information on the touchscreen display 122, which can include item descriptions, quantities, and other relevant data that can be retrieved from the inventory management database based on the scanned identification codes. The interface can enable users to review their selected items before completing the checkout process, providing an opportunity to verify item selections and make corrections if necessary before finalizing the inventory transaction. This comprehensive display functionality can ensure accurate inventory tracking and can reduce errors in item management operations.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0138] The system 100 can provide flexible relock functionality that can be configured based on cabinet type and operational requirements. In some aspects, the cabinet 100 can track drawer open state and can be arranged to not relock unless all drawers 116 are closed, which can ensure that no items are inadvertently secured while drawers remain open. Alternatively, the cabinet can automatically relock after a configurable amount of time of inactivity, with the timeout duration being administrator-configurable to accommodate different operational requirements. In some aspects, to prevent unexpected lockouts during active use, the touchscreen display 122 and or the output interface 134 can be arranged to provide notifications to the users. For example, the touchscreen display 122 can provide a warning popup notification to the user that can appear at a predetermined time before automatic relocking occurs. These warning notifications can include countdown timers that can show the remaining time before automatic relocking and can include user interface elements that can enable session extension, allowing users to extend their access session if additional time is required.

[0139] In situations where a drawer is left open when the cabinet relocks, the system can implement a selective locking protocol where all closed drawers can relock while the open drawers can be closed but may not lock until the user logs back in to relock the unlocked drawers. This approach can maintain security for accessible contents while preventing mechanical damage that could occur from attempting to lock open drawers. While the drawers 116 of the system 100 are illustrated as extending horizontally across the width of the cabinet, it is also realized that the drawers 116 could be implemented as doors or vertically oriented drawers depending on the specific cabinet configuration and storage requirements.

[0140] FIG. 1H illustrates multiple perspective views of the system 100 equipped with a display and reader assembly 120 mounted in various orientations. FIG. 1H demonstrates the modular mounting capabilities of the display and reader assembly 120. The display and reader assembly 120 includes a touchscreen display 122 mounted on an adjustable bracket 124 that provides positioning flexibility. Adjacent to the touchscreen display 122, a scanner device 126 is positioned to enable inventory management functionality. The adjustable bracket 124 is designed to accommodate various installation orientations, allowing the display and reader assembly 120 to be positioned on different surfaces of the housing structure 102.

[0141] As shown in FIG. 1H, the display and reader assembly 120 can be mounted on the top wall 110 or side walls 108, or a combination thereof, at a variety of positions between the front wall 104 and the rear wall 106 of the housing structure 102, and the display 122 can be mounted in a portrait orientation or a landscape orientation. The scanner device 126 maintains its functional 1Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO positioning adjacent to the touchscreen display 122 across all mounting configurations, ensuring consistent user accessibility regardless of the selected installation orientation. The modular mounting approach enables the storage cabinet electronic access system 100 to be adapted to various workspace layouts and user interaction preferences.

[0142] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another cabinet system 200 according to the systems and methods described herein. The cabinet system 200 includes a housing structure 202 having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or more drawers 216 moveable between a stowed position and an open position. The cabinet system 200 incorporates components similar to those described in relation to system 100, and accordingly, like components are not described further. The system 200 may include an increased number of horizontally-oriented drawers 216 arranged in a vertical stack configuration. The drawers 216 are positioned along the front face of the cabinet and include handles positioned on their front faces to facilitate opening and closing operations. Each drawer 216 may move between the stowed position where the drawer 216 remains within the interior space of the housing structure 202 and the open position where the drawer 216 extends forward from the housing structure 202 to provide access to stored contents.

[0143] A mechanical lock 218 can be provided on the housing structure 202, providing the interface for mechanical access. The mechanical lock 218 may be operatively coupled to a lock bar that controls access to the drawers 216, similar to the lock bar 175 described in relation to system 100. A front panel assembly 230 is mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure 202, positioned adjacent to the mechanical lock 218. The front panel assembly 230 may include components similar to those described in relation to front panel assembly 130, including a wireless communication device for receiving user authentication credentials and a manual override button that permits users to activate the mechanical lock 218 using a key.

[0144] The cabinet system 200 demonstrates the scalability and adaptability of the electronic access control system to different cabinet configurations and storage requirements. The increased vertical dimension and greater number of drawers 216 provide enhanced storage capacity while maintaining the same electronic access control functionality as system 100. The positioning of the mechanical lock 218 and front panel assembly 230 on the upper portion of the housing structure 202 ensures convenient user access regardless of the cabinet’s increased height.

[0145] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a cabinet system 300 according to the systems and methods described herein. The cabinet system 300 includes a housing structure 302 having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or more drawers 316Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO moveable between a stowed position and an open position. The cabinet system 300 incorporates components similar to those described in relation to system 100, and accordingly, like components are not described further. The cabinet system 300 can include a plurality of drawers 316 of various sizes, and arranged to variously extend across an entirety of the front face of the cabinet 300, and provided in a plurality of columns along the width of the cabinet to accommodate items of different shapes and sizes.

[0146] A mechanical lock 318 is positioned on the housing structure 302, providing the interface for mechanical key-based access control. A front panel assembly 330 is mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure 302, positioned adjacent to the mechanical lock 318. The front panel assembly 330 may include components similar to those described in relation to front panel assembly 130.

[0147] The cabinet system 300 features a display and reader assembly 320 that includes a touchscreen display 322 mounted on a mounting / adjustable bracket 324. The display and reader assembly 320 is positioned to provide comprehensive inventory management functionality for the industrial storage application. In some aspects, as shown in FIG. 3, the system 300 may be provided with one or more scanners 326, which can optionally include a scanner mount 325. In some aspects, the one or more scanners 326 can be wired scanners, or wireless scanners, as shown. In a case where the scanner 326 is wireless, the scanner mount 325 of the wireless scanner may be provided with a wired connection to provide power to the scanner 326 when docked. The touchscreen display 322 may provide access to inventory management software and user interfaces for managing the contents of the drawers 316, similarly to as described above.

[0148] The cabinet system 300 demonstrates the application of the electronic access control system to large-scale industrial storage environments where comprehensive inventory tracking and user accountability are required. The integration of the display and reader assembly 320 with the cabinet system 300 enables real-time inventory management and provides users with detailed information about stored items and checkout procedures.

[0149] The systems 100-300 illustrate that the cabinet systems described herein may be a wide variety of dimensions, ranging from taller, slimmer form factors, to shorter, wider form factors, with a variety of different possible drawer layouts.

[0150] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C illustrate perspective views of a cabinet system 400 according to the systems and methods described herein. The cabinet system 400 includes a housing structure 402 having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or moreAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO drawers 416 moveable between a stowed position and an open position. The cabinet system 400 also includes a mechanical lock 418 and a front panel assembly 430 mounted adjacent to the mechanical lock 418. In some aspects, other components of the cabinet system 400 may be similar to those described in relation to system 100, and accordingly, like components are not described further.

[0151] The cabinet system 400 differs from system 100 primarily in its power supply configuration, featuring battery-powered operation rather than external power source dependency. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, the cabinet system 400 can include a battery block 440 mounted on the exterior surface of the housing structure 402 to provide power to the components of the cabinet 400, eliminating the need for an external power supply, thereby improving portability of the cabinet 400. The cabinet system 400 can also include a power port 444 provided on the housing 402 and a power cord 442 that is adapted to connect the battery block 440 to the internal electronics of the cabinet 400. In some aspects, a battery pack 446 may be removably mounted to the battery block 440 of the cabinet 400 to provide the cabinet with power. In some aspects, the battery pack 446 may include disposable or rechargeable batteries that can be swapped out when depleted. In some aspects, the battery block 440 may be compatible to receive a battery pack 446 that is of another tool, such as a battery powered drill or other tool. This compatibility with existing tool battery systems provides operational flexibility and cost efficiency, as users can leverage their existing battery inventory across multiple devices. Additionally, the tools that utilize compatible battery packs may themselves be stored within the cabinet 400, creating a unified power ecosystem where the cabinet and its stored tools share the same battery platform.

[0152] In some aspects, the cabinet system 400 may be provided with redundant battery blocks440 to ensure continuous operation during battery replacement or maintenance, with one battery block providing power while the other is being serviced or recharged. Additionally, battery blocks 440 may be integrated into cabinets that also have wired power sources, enabling the battery blocks to serve dual functions by providing backup power during electrical outages and functioning as charging stations for battery packs of other tools or additional cabinet systems within the same facility.

[0153] The battery-powered configuration of cabinet system 400 provides several operational advantages, including simplified installation without requiring proximity to electrical outlets, enhanced portability for mobile applications, and continued operation during power outages. The battery packs 446 may include external recharging capability through USB-C connections orAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO similar charging interfaces, enabling convenient maintenance of power supply without system downtime.

[0154] In some aspects, the electro-mechanical access control capabilities of the cabinet systems 100-400 may be a part of the initial cabinet design, or may be added to existing cabinets as a retrofit kit, the details of which are described in greater detail below.

[0155] FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of a cabinet system 500 according to the systems and methods described herein. The cabinet system 500 includes a housing structure 502 having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or more drawers 516 moveable between a stowed position and an open position. The cabinet system 500 incorporates components similar to those described in relation to system 100, and accordingly, like components are not described further. The cabinet system 500 differs from system 100 in its front panel assembly configuration, featuring an alternative embodiment where the front panel assembly 530 is provided directly over an actuator of a locking mechanism 546 of the cabinet 500. In this case, the front panel assembly 530 may be mounted on the housing structure 502, positioned to provide direct interface with the existing mechanical locking system 546.

[0156] Figs. 5B-5C illustrate detailed views of the front panel assembly 530 for implementation in the cabinet system 500. As shown in FIG. 5B, the front panel assembly 530 has can include an elongated body. In some aspects, the front panel assembly 530 can be provided with a battery pack 532 to provide power to the electronic components of the assembly 530. The front panel assembly 530 can also include a USB port 536 positioned adjacent to the battery pack 532, enabling connectivity for charging or data transfer functions, and a wireless communication device (e.g., an RFID reader) 538 configured to detect contactless authentication credentials from users, similarly to the wireless communications devices described above. The front panel assembly 530 can also include an output interface that can include, for example, LED indicators to provide visual feedback regarding system status and operational states, similarly to as described above, and / or a battery indicator 534 configured to provide visual feedback regarding power status, enabling users to monitor battery charge levels.

[0157] The front panel assembly 530 can also include an electro-mechanical assembly 540 mechanism positioned within the assembly and a manual turn knob 542 to facilitate electronic control of the locking mechanism 546. The manual turn knob 542 can include indicators including an open indicator 543a and a locked indicator 543b, as shown in FIG. 5B. In some aspects, the indicators 543a, 543b can be color-coded indicators to provide intuitive indications of the state of the locking mechanism 546. For example, the open indicator 543a may be a first color (e.g., green)Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO and the locked indicator 543b may be a second color (e.g., red). The front panel assembly 530 can also include a manual override tool / pin hole 544 provided adjacent to the manual turn knob 542 to enable manual actuation of the locking mechanism 546.

[0158] FIG. 5C illustrates an exploded view of the locking mechanism 546 components, showing the internal mechanical elements that enable the selective engagement functionality. The front panel assembly 530 operates by enabling users to scan their credentials using the wireless communication device 538 (or other means of identity determination described above), and upon successful authentication, the electro-mechanical assembly 540 may be configured to release a locking mechanism that allows the manual turn knob 542 to be rotated such that the locking mechanism 546 may be moved from the locked state to the unlocked state. The user can then manually operate the manual turn knob 542 to actuate the locking mechanism 546.

[0159] This configuration may provide simplified access control. In some aspects, the front panel assembly 530 may enable faster and cheaper retrofit installation on existing cabinet systems. The system maintains the existing key functionality for manual lock / unlock operations while adding electronic authentication capabilities through the wireless communication device 538 and associated control electronics.

[0160] FIGS. 6 A and 6B illustrate various exemplary front panel assemblies 600 and 600' for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein. The front panel assemblies 600 and 600' incorporate components similar to those described in relation to systems 100-500, and accordingly, like components are not described further. Each front panel assembly features an elongated rectangular housing with a flat front surface configured for mounting on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet.

[0161] The front panel assembly 600 includes a wireless communication device 602 positioned on the left portion of the assembly, configured to receive user authentication credentials through contactless badge scanning or similar wireless communication protocols. The front panel assembly 600 can also include an output interface 604 configured to provide visual / auditory / haptic feedback to users through multiple status indicators. For example, the output interface 604 can include a lock state indicator 606 that communicates the current state of the lock bar, a drawer open indicator 608 that indicates whether cabinet drawers are in an open or stowed position, a manual entry indicator 610 that signals when manual key access is being utilized, and an error indicator 612 that alerts users to system malfunctions or authentication failures. However, other types of indicators are also contemplated herein, to relay any sort of information to the users regarding the status of the cabinet.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0162] The front panel assembly 600 can also include a manual override button 614 that can enable user-initiated manual access functionality. The assembly can also include a mechanical locking mechanism 616 that can provide the interface for traditional key -based access control. The mechanical locking mechanism 616 can include a keyhole configured to receive a mechanical key for manual operation of the lock bar.

[0163] The front panel assembly 600' can feature a similar configuration with corresponding components that can include a wireless communication device 602', an output interface 604' with status indicators that can include a lock state indicator 606', an internet indicator 618 configured to indicate whether the cabinet is connected to the internet, a manual entry indicator 610', and an error indicator 612'. The assembly 600' can also include a manual override button 614' and a mechanical locking mechanism 620. The cabinets described herein can include different types of mechanical locks 616, 620 that can support different types of keys, enabling compatibility with various existing lock systems and key configurations used in industrial storage applications.

[0164] FIG. 6C illustrates a perspective view of a front panel assembly 600 for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein. The front panel assembly 600 can incorporate components similar to those described in relation to systems 100-500, and accordingly, like components are not described further. The assembly can include a front facade 601 that can house the user-facing interface components and a rear facade 605 that can provide mounting and connection features for installation on a storage cabinet.

[0165] A wireless communication device 602 and output interface 604 can be positioned between the front facade 601 and rear facade 605. A manual override button 614 can be positioned on the front facade 601 to enable user-initiated manual access functionality. The rear facade 605 can include structural features that can facilitate mounting and cable routing for the front panel assembly 600, as discussed below in reference to FIGS. 7A-7B. Fork clips 621 can be provided to secure the assembly to a cabinet surface using a clip-based mounting system. The rear facade 605 can also be arranged to operatively couple to a manual entry mechanism 622 that can interface with the cabinet’s internal locking system, similarly to the front panel assembly 530 described above in reference to the system 500.

[0166] The manual entry mechanism 622 can include several interconnected components that can enable selective engagement between electronic and mechanical access modes. A lock insert 624 can provide the interface between the manual override system and the cabinet’s existing lock bar. An alignment pin 626 can maintain proper orientation and positioning of the mechanicalAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO components during operation. A spring 628 can provide the mechanical force necessary to engage and disengage the manual override mechanism when actuated by the manual override button 614.

[0167] The interaction between these components can enable the front panel assembly 600 to provide both electronic and mechanical access control functionality. When a user actuates the manual override button 614, the manual entry mechanism 622 can engage the lock insert 624 through the spring 628 and alignment pin 626, enabling the mechanical locking system to be operated using a traditional key. This configuration can preserve manual access capabilities while adding electronic authentication functionality to existing storage cabinet systems.

[0168] FIG. 6D illustrates an internal view of the front panel assembly 600, showing the wireless communication device 602 and an output interface 604 that can provide the primary user interface functionality for the electronic access control system. In some aspects, the output interface 604 may comprise a user interface (UI), a graphical user interface (GUI), such as, for example, a display, human-machine interface (HMI), or the like. Embodiments, however, are not limited thereto, and thus, this disclosure contemplates the output interface 604 comprising any suitable architecture that falls within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure set forth herein. The output interface 604 comprises a light source / LED PCBA operatively connected to a plurality of light sources (e.g., LEDs) operable to provide visual feedback to the user. As shown, the front panel assembly 600 can also include a power cable 630 and a ribbon cable 632 that can supply electrical power and communication signals and can provide interconnection between different circuit boards and electronic components within the front panel assembly enabling coordinated operation of the authentication, status indication, and control functions of the front panel components. In some aspects, the cables of the assembly can be arranged to pass through a barrel of the rear facade of the front panel assembly 600 and enter the interior of the storage cabinet to connect to the controller of the system and to transmit authentication data to the controller housed within the electronics tray. The barrels of the rear facade are discussed below.

[0169] FIGS. 7 A and 7B illustrate perspective views of front panel assembly components and mounting hardware for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein. The front panel assembly 700 incorporates components similar to those described in relation to systems 100-600, and accordingly, like components are not described further. The assembly demonstrates the mounting interface and mechanical components that enable installation on existing storage cabinet systems.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0170] FIG. 7A shows the front panel assembly 700 with its mounting features, including a first barrel 702 and a second barrel 704 that provide the primary attachment points for securing the assembly to a cabinet surface. The first barrel 702 includes a fork clip notch 703 that accommodates a fork clip mounting system, while the second barrel 704 includes a fork clip notch 705 for corresponding attachment hardware, one of the first or second barrels 702, 704 can also include a pass through 706 that enables cable routing from the front panel assembly into the interior of the storage cabinet to the controller.

[0171] A manual entry mechanism 708 is integrated into the front panel assembly 700, providing the interface between the electronic access control system and the cabinet’s existing mechanical locking system. The manual entry mechanism 708 enables selective engagement of the mechanical lock components when manual key access is required, preserving traditional access methods while adding electronic authentication capabilities.

[0172] FIG. 7B illustrates the installation process and mounting hardware for the front panel assembly 700 on a cabinet 750. The cabinet 750 can include cabinet holes for front panel assembly 752 that can be positioned to receive the mounting barrels of the front panel assembly 700. A mechanical locking mechanism 754 can be visible on the cabinet 750, representing the existing lock system that the electronic access control components can interface with during installation.

[0173] The front panel assembly 700 can include a manual override button 710 that can enable user-initiated manual access functionality. When actuated, the manual override button 710 can engage the manual entry mechanism 708 to enable mechanical key operation of the lock system. A first barrel fork clip 712 and a second barrel fork clip 714 can provide the mounting hardware necessary to secure the front panel assembly 700 to the cabinet 750 through the cabinet holes for front panel assembly 752.

[0174] The interaction between these components can enable the front panel assembly 700 to be retrofitted onto existing storage cabinet systems without requiring extensive modifications to the cabinet structure. The barrel and fork clip mounting system can provide secure attachment while the manual entry mechanism 708 can interface with the existing mechanical locking mechanism 754 to preserve manual access capabilities. The second barrel pass through 706 can enable electrical connections to be routed into the cabinet interior, facilitating integration with internal control electronics and power systems.

[0175] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate perspective views of a linear position sensor assembly 800 for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein. The assemblyAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO demonstrates the sensor components and mounting hardware that enable position detection functionality within the cabinet’s locking mechanism.

[0176] In some aspects, the assembly can include a striker plate 802 that can provide a mounting interface for the sensor components and can be configured to attach to the cabinet structure. In some aspects, a magnet 804 can be positioned on the striker plate 802 and can be configured to move with the lock bar components, providing a magnetic field source for position detection.

[0177] The linear position sensor assembly 800 can include a magnetic position sensor (MPS) board 806 that can house the magnetic position sensing elements and associated circuitry. The MPS board 806 can be configured to detect changes in magnetic field strength and direction as the magnet 804 moves with the lock bar. An MPS board cover 808 can be provided to protect the MPS board 806 from environmental conditions and mechanical damage during operation. An MPS board mounting bracket 810 can secure the MPS board 806 in proper alignment with the magnet 804 and can provide a stable mounting interface to the cabinet structure. The MPS board mounting bracket 810 can be configured to maintain precise positioning of the sensing components relative to the moving magnet 804, enabling accurate detection of the lock bar’s linear position.

[0178] FIG. 8B illustrates various internal views of a cabinet system, demonstrating the mounting process for the linear position sensor assembly 800 within the storage cabinet. As shown, the sensor assembly 800 can be integrated with the cabinet’s lock tree mechanism 814. A lock tree shuttle 812 can be visible in the installation sequence, representing the moving component of the lock bar that can carry the magnet 804 during lock operation. The positioning of the linear position sensor assembly 800 relative to a lock tree 814 that can form part of the cabinet’s internal locking structure. A position sensor jig 816 can be shown in the installation process, providing alignment and positioning guidance to ensure proper sensor placement relative to the moving lock components. The position sensor jig 816 can facilitate precise installation of the MPS board mounting bracket 810 and associated components, ensuring that the MPS board 806 can maintain proper alignment with the magnet 804 throughout the range of lock bar motion. The jig can provide reference surfaces and positioning guides that can enable accurate sensor placement relative to the lock tree shuttle 812 and lock tree 814.

[0179] The interaction between these components can enable the linear position sensor assembly 800 to detect locking states of the cabinets described herein by monitoring magnetic field changes as the magnet 804 moves with the lock bar. The MPS board 806 can transmit position data to the controller, enabling the system to determine whether the storage cabinet is in a locked orAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO unlocked operating state and can provide feedback for precise control of the electro-mechanical assemblies of the cabinet systems described herein.

[0180] FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate exploded perspective views of a manual entry mechanism 900 for implementation in the storage cabinet electronic access systems described herein. The manual entry mechanism 900 incorporates components similar to those described in relation to systems 100-700, and accordingly, like components are not described further. The assembly demonstrates the mechanical components that enable selective engagement between electronic and manual access modes.

[0181] FIG. 9 A shows the manual entry mechanism 900 with its primary components arranged to demonstrate their spatial relationship and assembly sequence. The mechanism can include a lock insert 902 that can provide the interface between the manual override system and the cabinet’s existing lock bar. The lock insert 902 can feature a housing with internal engagement features configured to receive a lock / mechanical lock 904 of the system, which provides the mechanical interface for key-based actuation. The lock 904 can include a cylinder mechanism that can rotate in response to key insertion and turning, enabling manual control of the lock bar when the manual override system is engaged.

[0182] The manual entry mechanism 900 can include a manual override rod 906 that is arranged to extend to a front panel assembly of the system to operatively connect to a manual override button of the system. The manual override rod 906 can feature an elongated shaft configuration that can transmit user actuation from the manual override button to the internal locking components to enable manual access to the cabinet.

[0183] A front shaft 910 of the system is configured to selectively engage the manual entry mechanism 900 via mutual engaging teeth 908 provided on a proximal end thereof, with corresponding teeth provided on the manual entry mechanism 900, proximate the lock insert 902. Upon actuation of the manual override button, the manual override rod 906 can be arranged to move the manual entry mechanism 900 into engagement with the engaging teeth 908 of the front shaft 910, to allow for rotational force from the manual key operation to be transmitted to lock bar of the cabinet to manually access the drawers of the cabinet.

[0184] FIG. 9B illustrates the manual entry mechanism 900 in a partially assembled configuration, showing the relationship between the components within a cabinet 915. A manual override rod holder 912 can be visible in the assembly, providing support and alignment for the manual override rod 906 during operation. An electronics tray 918 can be positioned within theAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO cabinet 915, housing the control electronics and electro-mechanical assembly components, similarly to as described above. As shown in FIG. 9B, a distal end of the front shaft 910 can be arranged to couple along an X direction to a front end of the drive shaft 920 housed within the electronics tray.

[0185] FIGS. 9C and 9D illustrate perspective and side views, respectively, of a process of coupling a rear shaft 914 of the system to a lock assembly 916 of the cabinet 915 according to the systems and methods described herein. As shown, a distal end of the rear shaft 914 can be operatively connected to the lock assembly 916 of the cabinet 915, and a proximal end of the rear shaft 914 can be operatively coupled to a rear end of the driveshaft 922 along the direction X, providing the mechanical connection between the electronic access control system and the locking components.

[0186] The manual entry mechanism 900 can enable selective engagement of the manual override system through user actuation of the manual override button. When activated, the manual override rod 906 can move, causing the engaging teeth 908 of the assembly 900 to engage with the engaging teeth 908 of the front shaft 910, enabling mechanical key operation of the lock bar by allowing rotational force the lock 904 to be transmitted to the lock bar 916 via the front shaft 910, the drive shaft, and the rear shaft 914.

[0187] FIG. 9E illustrates a perspective view of a process of removing an existing lock 924 and existing lock rod 926 from an existing cabinet 915 during a retrofit installation according to the systems and methods described herein. For example, in some aspects, a user may wish to retrofit an existing cabinet 915, which includes a manual locking system, which the electronic access control functionalities of the systems described herein. In this case, the existing lock 924 and lock rod 926 may be removed from the cabinet 915, as shown, to allow for the electronic access control assemblies described above to be installed on the cabinet 915. Retrofitting kits and methods of installing access control components according to the systems and methods described herein is discussed in greater detail below in reference to the method of FIG. 18.

[0188] FIG. 10 is a block diagram 1000 illustrating an exemplary control architecture for a controller integrated within the storage cabinet systems described herein, having electronic access functionalities. The architecture is organized around an access control tray 1002, which houses the primary electronic components responsible for managing access control operations.

[0189] The access control tray 1002 includes a power management board (PMB) 1004, which serves as the central processing and interface hub for the system. The PMB 1004 is operativelyAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO connected to various peripheral components through dedicated cable assemblies. A USB cable 1006 connects the PMB 1004 to a Small Board Computer (SBC) module 1008, which provides higher-level processing capabilities, network communication, and system management functions. The SBC 1008 is further linked to an Ethernet cable 1010 terminating at a LAN connector 1012, enabling wired network connectivity for remote monitoring and control.

[0190] The PMB 1004 interfaces with a motor and encoder assembly 1014 via a motor / encoder cable 1016, which facilitates precise actuation and positional feedback for locking mechanisms within the storage cabinet. A clutch assembly 1018 is also connected through a clutch cable 1020, allowing controlled engagement and disengagement of the locking system.

[0191] To monitor door position and movement, the PMB 1004 is connected to a hall sensor PCB 1022 through a hall sensor cable 1024. This sensor detects magnetic field changes corresponding to door states, ensuring accurate status reporting. Additionally, the PMB 1004 communicates with an MPS sensor 1026 via an MPS sensor cable 1028, which provides supplementary positional sensing for enhanced security and operational reliability.

[0192] For user authentication and status indication, the architecture includes an LED and RFID module 1030, connected to the PMB 1004 through an I / O cable assembly 1032. The LED and RFID module 1030 enables RFID-based credential verification and visual feedback during access events.

[0193] Power distribution within the system is managed through a power jack and cable assembly 1034, which links to a 12V adapter 1036 and a wall power supply 1038. The PMB 1004 receives regulated power via a 12V supply cable assembly 1040, ensuring stable operation of all connected components.

[0194] The Ethernet connectivity is extended through an Ethernet coupler 1042, which bridges the LAN connector 1012 to an external network 1044 via an Ethernet cable, enabling integration with centralized access management systems.

[0195] FIG. 11 is a block diagram 1100 illustrating another exemplary control architecture for a controller integrated within the storage cabinet systems described herein, having electronic access functionalities. This embodiment includes two cabinet configurations: a first cabinet 1105, which is a single-bank cabinet, and a second cabinet 1150, which is a double-bank cabinet. Each cabinet incorporates components for access control, sensing, and power distribution.

[0196] The first cabinet 1105 includes a front panel assembly 1106 that houses an LED andAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO RFID module 1108. The LED and RFID module 1108 is connected via an LED and RFID cable assembly 1110, enabling user authentication through RFID credentials and providing visual indicators during access events. Positioned on the back wall of the first cabinet 1105 is an MPS sensor 1112, which detects door position and movement. The MPS sensor 1112 is operatively linked to the system through an MPS sensor cable assembly 1114, ensuring accurate monitoring of cabinet access status.

[0197] Power and network connectivity for the first cabinet 1105 are managed through a power jack assembly 1116, which is connected to an Ethernet coupler 1118 via an Ethernet cable 1120. The Ethernet coupler 1118 provides a communication interface to an external network 1122, enabling remote access control and monitoring. The power jack assembly 1116 is further connected to a 12V adapter 1124 and a wall power supply 1126 through a power cord 1128, delivering regulated power to the cabinet components.

[0198] The second cabinet 1150, configured as a double-bank cabinet, includes a front panel assembly 1156 that integrates an LED and RFID module 1158, similar in functionality to the module in the first cabinet. The LED and RFID module 1158 is connected via an LED and RFID cable assembly 1160, supporting RFID-based authentication and visual feedback. On the back wall of the second cabinet 1150, two MPS sensors 1162 and 1164 are provided for monitoring the position of multiple doors. These sensors are connected through respective MPS sensor cable assemblies 1166 and 1168, ensuring comprehensive positional sensing for enhanced security.

[0199] Power and network connectivity for the second cabinet 1150 are facilitated by a power jack assembly 1170, which interfaces with an Ethernet coupler 1172 via an Ethernet cable 1174. The Ethernet coupler 1172 connects to an external network 1176, enabling centralized control and monitoring. The power jack assembly 1170 is linked to a 12V adapter 1178 and a wall power supply 1180 through a power cord 1182, supplying stable electrical power to all cabinet components.

[0200] In both cabinet configurations, the integration of LED and RFID modules, MPS sensors, and network connectivity ensures secure, reliable, and remotely manageable access control functionality. The architecture supports modular scalability, allowing single-bank and double-bank cabinets to operate independently or as part of a networked system.

[0201] FIG. 12 is a block diagram 1200 illustrating another exemplary control architecture for a controller integrated within the storage cabinet systems described herein, having electronic access functionalities. The architecture is centered around a cabinet 1202, which incorporates componentsAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO for user authentication, power distribution, and network connectivity.

[0202] The cabinet 1202 includes a front panel assembly 1204 that houses an LED and RFID module 1206. The LED and RFID module 1206 is connected via an LED and RFID cable assembly 1208, enabling RFID-based credential verification and providing visual indicators during access events. The LED and RFID module 1206 is further linked to the system through an RBN cable 1210, which facilitates communication between the module and other control components.

[0203] Located on the back wall of the cabinet 1202 is an assembly 1212 that includes a power jack 1214 and an Ethernet coupler 1216. The power jack 1214 is connected through a power jack cable assembly 1218, which supplies electrical power to the cabinet components. The Ethernet coupler 1216 is connected via an Ethernet cable 1220, providing a communication interface to an external network 1222 for remote monitoring and control.

[0204] The power jack 1214 is further connected to a 12V adapter 1224 and a wall power supply 1226 through a power cord 1228, ensuring regulated power delivery to the cabinet. The Ethernet coupler 1216 is linked to the external network 1222 via an additional Ethernet cable 1230, enabling integration with centralized access management systems.

[0205] This architecture provides a streamlined configuration for electronic access control, combining RFID-based authentication, reliable power distribution, and secure network connectivity within a single cabinet structure.

[0206] FIG. 13 is a block diagram 1300 illustrating another exemplary control architecture for a power distribution for a controller integrated within the storage cabinet systems described herein, having electronic access functionalities (e.g., the PMB board of the controllers described above). The architecture includes a power supply adaptor 1302, which provides a regulated 12V DC output as the primary power source for the system. This 12V supply is distributed to both high-power driver circuits and a voltage regulation stage for low-power components.

[0207] The 12V output from the power supply adaptor 1302 is routed to a 12V to 5V voltage regulator 1304, which converts the incoming 12V DC to a stable 5V DC required for various electronic control and sensing modules. In parallel, the 12V supply is also directly provided to a motor driver circuit 1306 and a clutch driver circuit 1308, which control the mechanical actuation of the cabinet’s locking mechanism. The motor driver circuit 1306 manages the rotational movement of the lock motor, while the clutch driver circuit 1308 engages or disengages the clutch assembly to enable or restrict mechanical movement.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0208] The regulated 5V output from the voltage regulator 1304 powers several critical components. One such component is an MPS sensor board 1310, which operates at 3.3V and is responsible for detecting the position of the cabinet door or lock components. The 5V supply is also connected to a USB-C type connector 1312, which serves as an interface for powering and communicating with an SBC module 1314. The SBC module 1314 functions as the primary processing unit, executing access control logic, managing communication with external networks, and coordinating signals between sensors and actuators.

[0209] Additionally, the 5 V output from the voltage regulator 1304 powers an LED and RFID board 1316, which provides user authentication through RFID credentials and visual feedback via LED indicators. A hall sensor board 1318 is also powered by the 5V supply and is used to detect magnetic field changes corresponding to door or lock positions, ensuring accurate state monitoring.

[0210] In operation, the power supply adaptor 1302 delivers 12V DC to both high-power driver circuits (1306 and 1308) and the voltage regulator 1304. The voltage regulator 1304 then distributes 5V DC to low-power components, including the SBC module 1314, LED and RFID board 1316, hall sensor board 1318, and indirectly to the MPS sensor board 1310. This architecture ensures efficient power management while enabling precise control of mechanical and electronic access functionalities within the storage cabinet.

[0211] FIGS. 14A-14C illustrate exemplary circuit board diagrams 1400, 1430, 1460 for an MPS sensor board, a double MPS sensor board, and a Hall sensor board, respectively.

[0212] In some aspects, a communication environment may be provided to facilitate communications between a user and the systems described herein. For example, FIG. 15 illustrates a network architecture diagram 1500 for the storage cabinet electronic access system, demonstrating the communication environment that enables coordinated operation through cloudbased connectivity. The network architecture 1500 facilitates bidirectional data communication between distributed system components and external management platforms, enabling remote monitoring, user management, and reporting functions across multiple cabinet installations. In some aspects, the network architecture 1500 can include one or more client devices 1502, a network 1504, a control device 1506, and one or more loT devices 1508.

[0213] In some aspects, the one or more client devices 1502 can be provided to facilitate user access to the storage systems described herein. The client devices 1502 may include desktop computers, laptop computers, smart phones, handheld personal computers, workstations, game consoles, cellular phones, mobile devices, personal computing devices, wearable electronicAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO devices, smartwatches, smart eyewear, tablet computers, convertible tablet computers, or any other electronic, microelectronic, or micro-electromechanical device for processing and communicating data to enable users and administrators to interact with the storage cabinet electronic access systems remotely. The client device 1502 provides a user interface for accessing system management functions, monitoring cabinet status, and configuring operational parameters through software applications or web-based interfaces.

[0214] The client device 1502 establishes bidirectional communication with a network 1504 represented as a cloud-based infrastructure that facilitates data transmission and communication coordination between distributed system components. The network 1504 may comprise internetbased communication systems, local area networks, wide area networks, or hybrid network configurations that enable reliable data transmission between the client device 1502 and other system components.

[0215] The control device 1506 is communicatively coupled to the network 1504 through bidirectional communication pathways that enable the control device 1506 to receive management commands from the client device 1502 and transmit operational data to external systems through the network 1504. The control device 1506 may comprise the processing unit components described above, such as a SBC module or similar small board computer, that coordinate system operation and manage communication with external systems.

[0216] The loT devices 1508 are integrated into the network architecture 1500 and establish bidirectional communication with the network 1504 to enable distributed monitoring and control capabilities across multiple cabinet installations. The loT devices 1508 may comprise sensor modules, communication interfaces, or other connected devices that extend the functionality of the storage cabinet electronic access system through networked connectivity and data sharing capabilities.

[0217] The bidirectional communication pathways within the network architecture 1500 enable data and communication signals to flow between the client device 1502, network 1504, control device 1506, and loT devices 1508 in multiple directions. This communication architecture facilitates real-time monitoring of cabinet access activities, remote user management functions, and coordinated operation of multiple cabinet systems through centralized management platforms accessible via the client device 1502.

[0218] The network architecture 1500 enables administrators to configure operational parameters remotely through the client device 1502, including setting configurable timeout periodsAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO for automatic relocking functionality. The system may automatically relock the cabinet after a configurable period of inactivity, with the timeout duration being administrator-configurable through the network interface to accommodate different operational requirements and user workflows while maintaining security protocols appropriate for each installation environment.

[0219] FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary method flowchart 1600 demonstrating the operational sequence and decision logic for user authentication, lock actuation, and system feedback within the storage cabinet electronic access system. The method flowchart 1600 provides a structured approach to managing user access requests, validating authentication credentials, and coordinating system responses based on authentication outcomes and operational requirements. The method flowchart 1600 begins with a badge scanning step 1602 where a user scans a badge using the contactless badge reader. The badge scanning step 1602 involves the user presenting authentication credentials via an RFID badge or similar contactless identification method to the front panel assembly to initiate the authentication process.

[0220] Following the badge scanning step 1602, the method flowchart 1600 proceeds to a user access evaluation decision point 1604 that determines whether the user is allowed to access the cabinet. This user access evaluation decision point 1604 compares received credentials against stored user authentication data and access permissions to determine whether the authentication attempt should be approved or denied.

[0221] When the user access evaluation decision point 1604 determines that the user is allowed access, the method flowchart 1600 proceeds to a user notification step 1606 that notifies the user of access, indicating that access has been granted and a cabinet unlocking step 1610 that actuates the locking mechanism to transition the cabinet from a locked state to an unlocked state. The cabinet unlocking step 1610 involves activating the motor components housed within the electronics tray assembly to drive the locking mechanism and enable access to the cabinet drawers. Following the cabinet unlocking step 1610, the method flowchart 1600 advances to a cabinet status check step 1612 that determines whether the cabinet is open. The cabinet status check step 1612 evaluates the current state of the lock bar and drawer positions to assess the cabinet’s operational status. After the cabinet status check step 1612, the method flowchart 1600 proceeds to a waiting step 1614 that allows time for user interaction with the cabinet. For example, in some aspects, the waiting step can be 5 seconds, however shorter or greater configurable time periods are also contemplated herein. The waiting step 1614 provides a period during which the user can access the cabinet contents before the system proceeds to the next operation.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0222] Following the waiting step 1614, the method flowchart 1600 proceeds to a cabinet locking step 1616 that actuates the locking mechanism to transition the cabinet from an unlocked state back to a locked state. The cabinet locking step 1616 secures the cabinet drawers in their stowed positions and completes the access cycle.

[0223] When the user access evaluation decision point 1604 determines that user access is not allowed, the method flowchart 1600 proceeds to a user notification step 1608 that notifies the user of access denial, indicating that access has been denied due to invalid or unauthorized credentials. The user notification step 1608 may involve displaying error messages on the front panel assembly status indicators to communicate the authentication failure to the user.

[0224] Following the user notification step 1608, the method flowchart 1600 proceeds to an access event logging step 1609 that sends the access event to a cloud backend system for centralized logging and tracking purposes. The access event logging step 1609 maintains a record of cabinet access activities, enabling administrators to monitor usage patterns and maintain audit trails for security purposes. After the access event logging step 1609, the cabinet remains locked and the system may return to the badge scanning step 1602 to allow for additional authentication attempts.

[0225] The cyclical process allows for continuous monitoring of cabinet state and repeated authentication attempts while maintaining security protocols and providing opportunities for users to present valid credentials.

[0226] The method flowchart 1600 demonstrates how the storage cabinet electronic access system coordinates user authentication, cabinet status monitoring, lock actuation, system feedback, and access logging functions to provide comprehensive access control while maintaining security and user convenience. The structured approach enables consistent system behavior across different authentication scenarios while providing continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms for both successful and unsuccessful access attempts.

[0227] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary method 1700 for operating a storage cabinet electronic access system with integrated inventory management capabilities according to the systems and methods described herein. In some aspects, the method 1700 can be a computer-implemented method for operating a lock bar of a storage cabinet. The method 1700 includes a step 1710, where user authentication credentials are received at a wireless communication device of a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet. The wireless communication device may comprise an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges,Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO enabling contactless authentication through presentation of RFID badge data. In some aspects, the user authentication credentials may be received through alternative methods, including scanning user authentication credentials with a handheld scanner device or receiving user input characterizing user authentication credentials via a touchscreen display. The mechanical lock comprises a drive shaft that is moveable between a first position which maintains the lock bar in the locked operating state and a second position in which the lock bar is in the unlocked operating state.

[0228] The method 1700 also includes a step 1720, where the user is authenticated based on the received authentication credentials using a controller. The controller evaluates the received credentials against stored user authentication data and access permissions to determine whether the authentication attempt should be approved or denied. The authentication process may accommodate multiple credential types including RFID badge data, scanned authentication credentials, or user input provided through the touchscreen interface. During this step, the controller may also receive one or more input signals indicating a current linear position of the drive shaft of the lock bar, with one or more position sensors operable to detect the current linear position of the drive shaft and transmit input signals representing detected linear position values to the controller indicating the current linear position of the drive shaft.

[0229] The method 1700 also includes a step 1730, where a motor of an electro-mechanical assembly is actuated in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet. The electronic actuation of the lock bar provides keyless access to the cabinet contents while maintaining security through user authentication requirements. In some aspects, visual feedback may be provided via one or more light sources on the front panel assembly to indicate a state of the lock bar, including the lock state, position of the drawers, state of the mechanical lock, and any error states of the lock bar. The operating conditions comprise one or more of: an operating state of the lock bar, an operating state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar. The one or more position sensors comprise Hall sensors operable to detect a current linear position of the drive shaft by detecting a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

[0230] The method 1700 also includes a step 1740, where an item to be added or removed from the one or more drawers is scanned using a handheld scanner device. The scanner device may be configured to scan barcodes, QR codes, or RFID tags on items being accessed from the cabinet, providing comprehensive item identification capabilities across different inventory managementAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO systems. The scanning functionality enables real-time inventory tracking and creates an audit trail of item access activities.

[0231] At step 1750, item information is displayed on a touchscreen display mounted externally to the storage cabinet. The touchscreen display presents item details retrieved from the inventory management database based on the scanned identification codes, enabling users to review item information and verify their selections. The display interface may function as a shopping cart-style interface that maintains a list of scanned items associated with the authenticated user.

[0232] The method 1700 also includes a step 1760, where the scanned item is associated with the authenticated user for inventory tracking. This association creates a comprehensive audit trail that links specific inventory items to individual users, enabling detailed tracking of item removal activities and user accountability. An access log characterizing a list of authenticated users and a dynamic inventory of the storage cabinet may be transmitted to a remote server for centralized management and reporting.

[0233] In some aspects, the method 1700 may include additional functionality such as automatic relocking of the lock bar after a configurable period of inactivity. The system may display pop-up notifications on the touchscreen display to warn users before automatic relocking occurs, providing an option to extend the session and prevent unexpected lockouts during active use. The method 1700 may also accommodate manual override functionality, where a user may actuate a manual override button provided on the front panel assembly and insert a mechanical key into a mechanical lock operatively coupled to the lock bar, enabling manual movement of the lock bar between the locked and unlocked states when electronic access is unavailable. The controller controls, in response to authenticating the user, the user-engageable manual override button of the input interface to enable manual actuation of the lock bar, and controls the one or more light sources of the output interface to provide visual feedback to the user regarding the one or more operating conditions of the lock bar and / or the storage cabinet.

[0234] FIG. 18 illustrates another exemplary method 1800 for retrofitting an existing storage cabinet with electronic access control functionality according to the systems and methods described herein. The method 1800 provides a structured installation and configuration process that enables mechanical storage cabinets to be upgraded with electronic locking capabilities while preserving traditional manual key override functionality.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO

[0235] The method 1800 includes a step 1810, where a front panel assembly is mounted on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet. The front panel assembly comprises a wireless communication device and a manual override button, providing both electronic authentication capabilities and backup manual access functionality. The storage cabinet includes one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position, and a key-activated mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft of a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains the drawers in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the drawers to the open position. The wireless communication device may comprise an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges, enabling contactless user authentication. In some aspects, the method can also include an initial step of removing an existing locking mechanism of the cabinet, to allow for the electronic access components described herein to be installed, similarly to as described above in reference to FIG. 9E.

[0236] The method 1800 also includes a step 1820, where an electronics tray is installed within an interior of the storage cabinet. The electronics tray comprises an electro-mechanical assembly and a controller that coordinate electronic access control functionality. The electronics tray may be mounted within the interior of the storage cabinet using magnets that secure the tray while enabling selective positioning adjustment during installation and maintenance activities.

[0237] At step 1830, a motor of the electro-mechanical assembly is operatively coupled to the drive shaft of the lock bar. This coupling enables the electronic access control system to actuate the same mechanical locking elements used for manual key operation, providing dual actuation pathways for the locking mechanism. In some aspects, one or more position sensors may be mounted proximate to the drive shaft to detect a linear position of the drive shaft. The position sensors may comprise Hall sensors configured to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by magnets mounted on the drive shaft, enabling precise monitoring of lock bar position and operational state.

[0238] The method 1800 also includes a step 1840, where a junction box is installed on the storage cabinet to route cables between the interior and exterior of the storage cabinet. The junction box facilitates power and communication connections while maintaining environmental sealing and cable management within the cabinet structure. The junction box may be configured to route HDMI cables, USB cables, and power cables to support additional functionality such as display and reader assemblies.

[0239] The method 1800 also includes a step 1850, where the controller is configured to authenticate users via the wireless communication device, such that the controller actuates theAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO motor in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state, thereby enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet. The configuration establishes the operational parameters and authentication protocols that govern electronic access control functionality.

[0240] In some aspects, the method 1800 may include mounting a display assembly to one or more external surfaces of the storage cabinet, where the display assembly comprises a touchscreen display and a scanner device. The display assembly may be mounted in multiple modular orientations including top wall mounting and / or side wall mounting at a variety of positions between the front wall and the rear wall of the housing structure. Additionally, the display can be mounted in a portrait orientation or a landscape orientation, providing installation flexibility to accommodate different workspace configurations and user preferences. The integration of display and scanning capabilities enables comprehensive inventory management functionality alongside electronic access control, creating a unified system for both security and inventory tracking applications.

[0241] As set forth, described, and / or illustrated herein, "processor" means any component or group of components that are operable to execute any of the processes described herein or any form of instructions to carry out such processes or cause such processes to be performed. The one or more processors may be implemented with one or more general -purpose and / or one or more special-purpose processors. Examples of suitable processors include graphics processors, microprocessors, microcontrollers, DSP processors, and other circuitry that may execute software (e.g., stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium). Further examples of suitable processors include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an array processor, a vector processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), programmable logic circuitry, and a controller. The one or more processors may comprise at least one hardware circuit (e.g., an integrated circuit) operable to carry out instructions contained in program code. In embodiments having a plurality of processors, such processors may work independently from each other, or one or more processors may work in combination with each other, in accordance with one or more embodiments, the controller comprises a small board computing device, such as, for example, a SBC module.

[0242] The one or more data stores are operable to store one or more types of data. The system may include one or more interfaces that enable one or more systems, sub-systems, components, etc. to manage, retrieve, modify, add, or delete, the data stored in the data stores. The data storesAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO may comprise volatile and / or non-volatile memory. Examples of suitable data stores include RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), registers, magnetic disks, optical disks, hard drives, or any other suitable storage medium, or any combination thereof. The data stores may be a component of the one or more processors, or alternatively, may be operatively connected to the one or more processors for use thereby. As set forth, described, and / or illustrated herein, "operatively connected" may include direct or indirect connections, including connections without direct physical contact.

[0243] Operation of the controller may be implemented as computer readable program code that, when executed by the one or more processors, implement one or more processes set forth, described, and / or illustrated herein. The controller may be a component of the one or more processors, or alternatively, may be executed on and / or distributed among other processing systems to which the one or more processors are operatively connected. The controller may include a set of logic instructions executable by the one or more processors. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more data stores may contain such logic instructions. The logic instructions may include assembler instructions, instruction set architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, state-setting data, configuration data for integrated circuitry, state information that personalizes electronic circuitry and / or other structural components that are native to hardware (e.g., host processor, central processing unit / CPU, microcontroller, etc.).

[0244] The terms “coupled,” “attached,” or “connected” may be used herein to refer to any type of relationship, direct or indirect, between the components in question, and may apply to electrical, mechanical, fluid, optical, electromagnetic, electro-mechanical or other connections. Additionally, the terms “first,” “second,” etc. are used herein only to facilitate discussion, and cany no particular temporal or chronological significance unless otherwise indicated. The terms “cause” or “causing” means to make, force, compel, direct, command, instruct, and / or enable an event or action to occur or at least be in a state where such event or action may occur, either in a direct or indirect manner.

[0245] Those skilled in the art will appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad techniques of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while the embodiments of this disclosure have been described in connection with particular examples thereof, the true scope of the embodiments of the disclosure should not be soAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings and specification.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WOCLAIMS1. A system comprising: a housing having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position; a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains the one or more drawers in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; a mechanical lock coupled to a drive shaft and configured to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state using a key; an electro-mechanical assembly comprising a motor operatively coupled to the drive shaft to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state; a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the housing and comprising a wireless communication device configured to receive user authentication credentials and a manual override, wherein upon actuation of the manual override button, a user is permitted to activate the mechanical lock using the key to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state; and a controller configured to actuate the motor in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the wireless communication device comprises an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising one or more position sensors operatively connected to the controller and configured to detect a current linear position of the drive shaft.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the one or more position sensors comprise Hall sensors configured to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the front panel assembly further comprises one or more light sources operatively connected to the controller and configured to provide visual feedback indicating a state of the lock bar.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more light sources are configured to indicate one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO7. The system of claim 1, further comprising: an electronics tray housed within the interior space of the housing structure and containing the lock bar, the electro-mechanical assembly, and the controller; and a junction box provided an exterior wall of the housing structure and configured to receive power from an external power cable and provide power to the controller.

8. A storage cabinet comprising: a housing structure; one or more drawers moveable between stowed and open positions; a lock bar moveable between locked and unlocked states to selectively maintain the drawers in the stowed position; a mechanical lock operatively coupled to the lock bar; an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to the lock bar; a user interface comprising a wireless communication device and a manual override, wherein upon actuation of the manual override button, a user to permitted to activate the mechanical lock using a mechanical key to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state; and a controller configured to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly based on authentication signals received from the wireless communication device.

9. The storage cabinet of claim 8, wherein the mechanical lock comprises a drive shaft configured for rotation by the mechanical key.

10. The storage cabinet of claim 9, wherein the electro-mechanical assembly comprises a motor coupled to the drive shaft.

11. The storage cabinet of claim 10, further comprising one or more position sensors configured to detect a position of the drive shaft.

12. The storage cabinet of claim 8, wherein the wireless communication device is an RFID reader configured to receive user credentials.

13. The storage cabinet of claim 8, wherein the user interface further comprises one or more LEDs configured to indicate one or more of a lock state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, and a state of the mechanical lock.

14. The storage cabinet of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to communicate with a remote server via a network connection.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO15. An assembly comprising : a front panel housing configured for mounting on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet; a wireless communication device disposed within the front panel housing and configured to detect authentication credentials from a user; a manual override button disposed within the front panel housing and configured to be operatively connected to a lock bar of the storage cabinet to enable manual actuation of the lock bar; one or more light sources disposed within the front panel housing and configured to provide visual feedback regarding a state of the lock bar; and a cable extending from the front panel housing and configured to connect the wireless communication device and the one or more light sources to a controller provided within the storage cabinet, wherein the wireless communication device is configured to transmit the authentication credentials to the controller to actuate an electro-mechanical assembly to enable actuation of the lock bar.

16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the wireless communication device comprises an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges.

17. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the front panel housing comprises a rear facade having at least two cylindrical barrels configured to facilitate mounting of the front panel housing on the exterior surface of the storage cabinet using fork clips.

18. The assembly of claim 17, wherein one of the cylindrical barrels is configured to provide a passage for the cable to route from the front panel housing into an interior of the storage cabinet.

19. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the one or more light sources comprise LEDs configured to provide visual feedback indicating one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

20. The assembly of claim 15, wherein the front panel housing has a generally elongated body with curved peripheral surfaces and is configured to mount adjacent to an existing lock bar of the storage cabinet.

21. A system comprising: a housing having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position; a lock bar moveable between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein the one orAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO more drawers are locked in the stowed position when the lock bar is in the locked state and are moveable between the stowed position and the open position when the lock bar is in the unlocked state; a mechanical lock coupled to a drive shaft and configured to manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state using a key; an electro-mechanical assembly comprising a motor operatively coupled to the lock bar; a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure and comprising a wireless communication device configured to receive user authentication credentials and a manual override, wherein upon actuation of the manual override button, a user is permitted to activate the mechanical lock; a display assembly modularly mounted externally to the housing structure and comprising a touchscreen display and a scanner device; a controller communicatively coupled to the front panel assembly, the electro-mechanical assembly, and the display assembly, wherein the controller is configured to authenticate users via the wireless communication device to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly and to manage inventory of the one or more drawers via the display assembly; and a junction box mounted on the housing structure and configured to route power from an external power cable to the display assembly and controller.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the display assembly is mounted on a mounting bracket that enables positioning of the display assembly in multiple orientations relative to the housing structure.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein the mounting bracket enables positioning of the display assembly on a top surface of the housing structure, a side surface of the housing structure, or a combination thereof, at a variety of positions between a front surface and a rear surface of the housing structure.

24. The system of claim 21, wherein the scanner device is configured to scan one or more of barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags.

25. The system of claim 21, wherein the junction box comprises a two-piece assembly having an interior portion positioned within the interior space of the housing structure and an exterior portion positioned outside the housing structure.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the junction box is configured to route one or more of an HDMI cable, a USB cable, and power cables to the display assembly.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO27. The system of claim 24, wherein the scanner device is any one of a wired handheld scanner or a wireless Bluetooth handheld scanner.

28. The system of claim 21, further comprising a single power source configured to provide power to both the electro-mechanical assembly and the display assembly via a bifurcated power cable assembly.

29. The system of claim 21, further comprising an electronics tray provided within an interior of the housing structure, wherein the electronics tray is configured to carry the lock bar, the electro-mechanical assembly, and the controller.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the electronics tray is ventilated using one or more ventilation fans.

31. The system of claim 21 , wherein the controller is further configured to authenticate users via user authentication information provided to the touchscreen display by the user or via user authentication information scanned by the scanner device.

32. A method comprising: receiving user authentication credentials at a wireless communication device of a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet; authenticating the user based on the received authentication credentials using a controller; actuating a motor of an electro-mechanical assembly in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet; scanning an item to be added or removed from the one or more drawers using a handheld scanner device; displaying item information on a touchscreen display mounted externally to the storage cabinet; and associating the scanned item with the authenticated user for inventory tracking.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the wireless communication device is an RFID badge reader and the user authentication credentials comprise radio frequency identification (RFID) badge data detected by the RFID badge reader.

34. The method of claim 32, further comprising: providing visual feedback via one or more light sources on the front panel assembly to indicate a state of the lock bar.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO35. The method of claim 34, wherein the visual feedback indicates one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

36. The method of claim 32, further comprising: automatically relocking the lock bar after a configurable period of inactivity.

37. The method of claim 32, further comprising: scanning, with the handheld scanner device, user authentication credentials; authenticating the user based on the scanned authentication credentials using the controller; and actuating the motor of the electro-mechanical assembly in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet.

38. The method of claim 32, further comprising: receiving, via the touchscreen display, a user input characterizing user authentication credentials; authenticating the user based on the user input using the controller; and actuating the motor of the electro-mechanical assembly in response to successful authentication to move a lock bar from a locked state to an unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet.

39. The method of claim 32, further comprising: actuating, by the user, a manual override button provided on the front panel assembly; and enabling the user to insert a mechanical key into a mechanical lock operatively coupled to the lock bar, such that the user can manually move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked.

40. The method of claim 32, further comprising: transmitting an access log characterizing a list of authenticated users and a dynamic inventory of the storage cabinet to a remote server.

41. A kit comprising : a front panel assembly comprising a wireless communication device and a manual override button, wherein the front panel is configured for mounting on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet that includes one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and anAttorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO open position and a key-activated mechanical lock selectively coupled to a drive shaft of a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains one or more drawers of the storage cabinet in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; an electronics tray configured for mounting within an interior of the storage cabinet; an electro-mechanical assembly comprising a motor configured to operatively couple to the drive shaft of the lock bar; a controller configured to actuate the motor in response to receipt of a valid authentication credential from the wireless communication device, wherein the electro-mechanical assembly and the controller are provided in the electronics tray; and a junction box configured to be provided an exterior wall of the storage cabinet and configured to receive power from an external power cable and provide power to the electronics tray.

42. The kit of claim 41, wherein the wireless communication device comprises an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges.

43. The kit of claim 41, further comprising one or more position sensors configured to be mounted proximate to the drive shaft to detect a linear position of the drive shaft.

44. The kit of claim 43, wherein the one or more position sensors comprise Hall sensors configured to detect a magnitude and direction of magnetic force emitted by one or more magnets mounted on the drive shaft.

45. The kit of claim 41, wherein the front panel assembly further comprises one or more light sources configured to provide visual feedback indicating a state of the lock bar.

46. The kit of claim 45, wherein the one or more light sources are configured to indicate one or more of a state of the lock bar, a position of the one or more drawers, a state of the mechanical lock, and an error state of the lock bar.

47. The kit of claim 41, wherein the electronics tray is configured for mounting within the interior of the storage cabinet using one or more magnets configured to secure the electronics tray within the interior of the storage cabinet while enabling selective positioning adjustment.

48. The kit of claim 41 , further comprising : a display assembly configured for modular external mounting to the storage cabinet and comprising a touchscreen display and a scanner device.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO49. The kit of claim 48, wherein the display assembly is mounted on a mounting bracket that enables positioning of the display assembly in multiple orientations relative to an external housing of the storage cabinet.

50. The kit of claim 48, wherein the scanner device is configured to scan one or more of barcodes, QR codes, and RFID tags.

51. The kit of claim 48, wherein the junction box is configured to route one or more of an HDMI cable, a USB cable, and power cables to the display assembly.

52. The kit of claim 50, wherein the scanner device is any one of a wired handheld scanner or a wireless Bluetooth handheld scanner.

53. The kit of claim 48, further comprising a single power source configured to provide power to both the electro-mechanical assembly and the display assembly via a bifurcated power cable assembly.

54. The kit of claim 41, wherein the electronics tray further comprises one or more ventilation fans.

55. A system comprising: a housing structure having a plurality of walls defining an interior space and configured to receive one or more drawers moveable between a stowed position and an open position; a lock bar moveable between a locked state that maintains the one or more drawers in the stowed position and an unlocked state that enables movement of the one or more drawers to the open position; a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of the housing structure and comprising a wireless communication device configured to receive user authentication credentials, a turn knob operatively connected to the lock bar, and an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to the turn knob, wherein the turn knob is fixed absent receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device; and a controller configured to actuate the electro-mechanical assembly in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device such that the turn knob is rotatable to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state.

56. The system of claim 55, wherein the wireless communication device comprises an RFID badge reader configured to detect radio frequency identification badges.Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO57. The system of claim 55, wherein the turn knob further comprises one or more indicators provided thereon to indicate a state of the lock bar.

58. The system of claim 57, wherein the one or more indicators include an open indicator provided in a first color and a locked indicator provided in a second color.

59. The system of claim 55, wherein the front panel assembly further comprises one or more light sources operatively connected to the controller and configured to provide visual feedback indicating a state of the front panel assembly.

60. The system of claim 55, further comprising one or more position sensors operatively connected to the controller and configured to detect a current linear position of the lock bar.

61. The system of claim 55, wherein the front panel assembly further comprises a manual override pin hole provided adjacent to the turn knob, wherein the lock bar can be manually actuated between the locked state and the unlocked state responsive to a valid mechanical pin being inserted into the pin hole.

62. The system of claim 55, further comprising a junction box provided on an exterior wall of the housing structure and configured to receive power from an external power cable and provide power to the controller.

63. The system of claim 61, wherein the front panel assembly further comprises a battery pack configured to provide power to the wireless communication device and the electromechanical assembly.

64. A method comprising : receiving user authentication credentials at a wireless communication device of a front panel assembly mounted on an exterior surface of a storage cabinet; authenticating the user based on the received authentication credentials using a controller; controlling, by a controller, an electro-mechanical assembly operatively coupled to the a turn knob of the front panel assembly to actuate in response to receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device such that the turn knob is rotatable to move the lock bar between the locked state and the unlocked state, enabling access to one or more drawers of the storage cabinet, wherein the turn knob is fixed absent receipt of valid authentication credentials from the wireless communication device; scanning an item to be added or removed from the one or more drawers using a handheld scanner device;Attorney Docket No. 059799-526001WO displaying item information on a touchscreen display mounted externally to the storage cabinet; and associating the scanned item with the authenticated user for inventory tracking.

65. The method of claim 64, wherein the wireless communication device comprises an RFID badge reader and the user authentication credentials comprise radio frequency identification (RFID) badge data detected by the RFID badge reader.

66. The method of claim 64, further comprising: manually actuating the lock bar to enable access to the one or more drawers responsive to a valid mechanical pin being inserted into a manual override pin hole provided adjacent to the turn knob.

67. The method of claim 64, further comprising: transmitting an access log characterizing a list of authenticated users and a dynamic inventory of the storage cabinet to a remote server.

68. The method of claim 64, further comprising: automatically relocking the lock bar after a configurable period of inactivity.

69. The method of claim 64, further comprising: monitoring, by the controller, an open status of the one or more drawers based on position data received from one or more sensors of the cabinet.

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