Intelligent electronic safe and drawers

Abstract

A secure locker assembly for the storage and removal of assets. The secure storage assembly includes a storage kiosk with one or more drawers fixedly coupled inside a housing, a base assembly positioned on a platform for selectively transporting the storage kiosk to a desired worksite; a terminal for tracking and controlling access to one or more stored or withdrawn assets; and a RFID base assembly with a RFID antenna and controller capable of interacting with a corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 40034-16INTELLIGENT ELECTRONIC SAFE AND DRAWERSRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 746,684, entitled “INTELLIGENT ELECTRONIC SAFE AND DRAWERS”, filed January 17, 2025, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to a locker assembly for storing assets. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a locker assembly and method for securely storing, controlling, and tracking assets and consumable items.BACKGROUND

[0003] Across many industries, there are valuable objects, documents, and items left exposed with employees and consumers. However, once taken, there is little control or safeguards in place to know who is taking the obj ect or item, why it is being taken, what specific item is being taken, and more. For example, in a given household, firearms, alcohol, and other toxic chemicals may be stored and left unattended and unsupervised. Such inattention may lead to a child or other vulnerable individual taking and using the respective item in a dangerous or harmful manner.

[0004] Other valuable objects or items may include high value foods, e.g., caviar, wagyu steaks, etc., and alcohol in bars, restaurants, and other food venues; tool(s) in an agricultural or forestry operation; cash or poker chips in casinos; highly valuable pieces of art or artifacts in museums or art auctions; age restricted cannabis and tobacco based products; tools, parts, and products produced in a manufacturing facility; handheld tools and parts in a construction site or facility; hard drives, parts, or tools in data storage centers; documents, tablets / laptops, books, or other educational devices in educational environments; cash, precious metals, jewelry, bonds / securities, documents / deeds, collectibles, digital assets, cold storage cryptocurrency devices, backup data, critical personal documents, and foreign currencies in financial institutions; high value items, e.g., electronics, baby, office, toys, entertainment, beauty, personal care, health, jewelry, grocery, etc., in retail stores; drugs, regulated devices, and controlled substances in healthcare environments such as hospitals and pharmacies; car keys, tools, vehicle titles, and vehicle parts in automotive-related businesses such as dealerships, service shops, and DMVs; high value items stored in warehouses and other 3PL businesses;Attorney Docket No. 40034-16garments in laundromats and garment service centers; mail and packages in shipping businesses such as USPS, UPS, FedEx, Amazon, and DHL; rental tools, electronics, and other related items in rental services similar to Rent-a-Center; firearms, tools, classified documents, evidence, ammunition, and parts in military environments and police departments; consumable items and luggage in hotels and airports; etc.

[0005] Given the vast amounts of valuable items and goods, what is needed is a device and method for securely storing, controlling access to, and tracking assets and consumable items.SUMMARY

[0006] In one example, a locker assembly is disclosed for securely storing, controlling, and tracking assets and consumable items. Namely, a locker assembly of the present disclosure may include a storage kiosk with one or more drawers for securely housing one or more assets, a base assembly for transporting the storage kiosk to various locations, and a user-operable terminal for securely controlling and tracking stored and withdrawn assets.

[0007] For example, one or more drawers may include a RFID base assembly with a RFID antenna capable of interacting with a corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets. When an asset is securely positioned within the drawer, the antenna may interact with the corresponding tag or sticker and generate a signal to the terminal indicating the asset’s presence. When an asset is removed or otherwise checked out, the antenna may lose the connection with the tag indicating the asset has been removed or otherwise withdrawn.

[0008] In operation, a user may access or otherwise withdraw a stored asset through a terminal of a locker assembly or other mobile computing device. For example, a display may require a user to input their log-in information, credentials, and rationale for withdrawing the asset prior to opening or unlocking the desired drawers. Such log-in information, credentials, and rationale may be entered through any number of user input devices on the terminal or other computing device, e.g., mobile computing device. If the entered log-in information, credentials, and rationale are acceptable, terminal may take an image of the user and generate a cloud-based report showing the time of the removal or return, the particular asset and or item removed or returned, and why it was removed. After which, the terminal may allow access to or unlock the one or more drawers housing the desired asset.

[0009] The present invention is a safe or a kiosk with one or multiple drawers, as well as locker door style kiosk, made up of either aluminum or steel, to control high value assets or consumable items that are prone to theft or loss. The kiosk is intelligent due to the RFID antenna integrated into the base of every drawer or locker. Every asset or consumable itemAttorney Docket No. 40034-16contains a unique RFID sticker, which is read by the RFID antenna, so the kiosk knows what asset or item resides within the drawer or locker, who has removed the asset or item, why the asset or item was removed, and when the asset or item was removed.

[0010] Either an authorized employee or authorized customer can access the kiosk with multiple options: A one time, time sensitive QR code, scannable by a personal mobile device or tablet; an employee PIN code login, or a one time, time sensitive customer PIN code; or NFC login, authorized via personal mobile device or tablet.

[0011] In operation, the user searches the asset or consumable item by name, description, stock number, UPC code, etc, to confirm item is available for removal. After confirmation, the drawer or locker door unlocks, allowing the user to access the asset or item. The item is removed by the user, which indicates the RFID sticker no longer is near the antenna, confirming to the kiosk that the asset or item was removed. For returning the asset and / or item, the user will execute their login method and select the specific drawer or locker door they want to return the asset and / or item to. Every removal and return of an asset and / or item is a transaction, with a 4K image of the user, saved to a cloud-based report, showing the time of removal / return, the asset and / or item removed / returned, and why it was removed (input by the user prior to drawer or door opening).

[0012] A secure locker assembly for the storage and removal of assets, said secure storage assembly including; a storage kiosk with one or more drawers fixedly coupled inside a housing; a base assembly positioned on a platform for selectively transporting the storage kiosk to a desired worksite; and a terminal for tracking and controlling access to one or more stored or withdrawn assets; said base assembly includes a RFID base assembly with a RFID antenna capable of interacting with a corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets.

[0013] The secure locker assembly may include one or more drawers having a front panel, side panels, a back panel, the RFID base assembly, and a coupling mechanism for coupling drawers to a housing for securely storing and tracking one or more assets.

[0014] The secure locker assembly may include a coupling mechanism with one or more brackets securely fastened to side panels by one or more fastening members.

[0015] The secure locker assembly wherein the one or more drawers may be inserted into the housing and securely closed or otherwise locked with a high strength rotary latch.

[0016] The secure locker assembly wherein the one or more drawers are electronically coupled to the terminal to activate RFID base assembly and latching components.Attorney Docket No. 40034-16

[0017] The secure locker assembly wherein the drawers of a locker assembly may include one or more slots capable of receiving electrical or mechanical connectors to couple the RFID base assembly to a terminal or other computing device and said slots may be user accessible through a posterior of locker assembly.

[0018] The secure locker assembly wherein the terminal may include a display device, an image capturing device, a 4k camera, and any combination of hardware, that serves as a user interface device, said terminal may further include processors / controller(s), data storage devices, communication devices, etc., and software for carrying out the functions herein described.

[0019] The secure locker assembly wherein the terminal may be secured to kiosk using a coupling mechanism which includes two arms and fastening members for connecting terminal to kiosk.

[0020] The secure locker assembly wherein the RFID base assembly includes a RFID base assembly top for contacting one or more stored assets, an antenna carriage for housing one or more RFID antenna circuit boards, a control board for controlling components of a locker assembly, and a drawer base plate

[0021] The secure locker assembly wherein the RFID base assembly may include four RFID antenna circuit boards positioned on top of a carriage, a control board positioned underneath carriage and used to control circuit boards or other components of a locker assembly.

[0022] The secure locker assembly wherein the base assembly includes a plurality of wheels or mounting structures for attaching to a surface.

[0023] A secure locker assembly for the storage and removal of assets having RFID tags, said secure storage assembly including; a storage kiosk with one or more doors fixedly coupled to a housing; a base assembly positioned on a platform for selectively transporting the storage kiosk to a desired worksite; and a terminal for tracking and controlling access to one or more stored or withdrawn assets; said base assembly includes a RFID base assembly with a RFID antenna capable of interacting with the corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets and wherein the doors are selectively locked and unlocked.

[0024] A method for controlling, tracking, and accessing assets, the method comprising: marking assets with an RFID identifier; registering the assets by the RFID identifier within a data base; positioning the assets within a section of a storage kiosk so that a terminal connected to the storage kiosk recognizes the assets type and location; locking the storage kiosk to prevent access to the assets; providing a user interface for gaining access to the asset withinAttorney Docket No. 40034-16the storage kiosk; recording an image of the user by a camera located with the storage kiosk; opening the section of the storage kiosk associated with the asset; recording the identity of the user and removal or return of the asset; and updating the date base regarding the location of the asset.

[0025] The method further includes wherein the terminal will not allow closure of a compartment until the RFID identifier is presented.

[0026] The above summary is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the subject matter hereof. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify various embodiments.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Subject matter hereof may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying figures, in which:

[0028] Fig. 1 illustratively shows a locker assembly and components thereof in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 2 illustratively shows a drawer of a locker assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Fig. 3 illustratively shows a RFID base assembly of a drawer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Fig. 4 illustratively shows a RFID antenna of a RFID base assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figs. 5-6 illustratively show one or more assets securely stored within one or more drawers in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Fig. 7 illustratively shows a posterior view of a locker assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Fig. 8A illustratively shows an operating flow diagram of a terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Fig. 8B illustratively shows a continuation of an operating flow diagram of Fig. 8A of a terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Fig. 9 illustratively shows an alternate embodiment of a cabinet assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Fig. 10 illustratively shows an alternate embodiment of a cabinet assembly of in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Attorney Docket No. 40034-16

[0038] While various embodiments are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the claimed inventions to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope fo the subject matter as defined by the claims.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present disclosure sets forth a locker assembly for securely storing, controlling, and tracking many different types of assets. Additionally, in one example, a locker assembly may generate a complete audit trail and reports of asset movement. A locker assembly may include a storage kiosk with one or more drawers for securely housing one or more assets, e.g., weapons, tools, cash, art, jewelry, toxic chemicals, clothing, hard drives, alcohol, poker chips, artifacts, tobacco or cannabis products, tablets / laptops, books, deeds, bonds / securities, cryptocurrency devices, personal documents, foreign currency, etc., a base assembly for transporting or otherwise securing the kiosk to a desired worksite, and a terminal for controlling and tracking stored and withdrawn assets. In accordance with the present disclosure, it is to be understood that virtually any asset or object may be stored capable of being placed within the drawers and coupled to a RFID or other wireless communication tag. This may allow for secure access and control of assets prone to theft or loss.

[0040] Fig. 1 illustratively shows a locker assembly and components thereof in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. As illustratively shown, a locker assembly 100 may include a storage kiosk 126 with one or more drawers 108 fixedly coupled inside a housing 120, a base assembly 112 with one or more wheels 116 positioned on a platform 114 for transporting kiosk 126 to a desired worksite, and a terminal 102 for tracking and controlling access to one or more stored or withdrawn assets 128. Alternatively, the base assembly 112 may be configured for attachment to a surface without wheels as shown in Figs. 9 and 10. In operation, a user may interact or otherwise engage with terminal 102 to withdraw or store assets 128.

[0041] Beginning with storage kiosk 126, as shown, kiosk 126 may include one or more drawers 108 positioned within housing 120. Drawers 108 and housing 120 may comprise either aluminum, steel, or any other material suitable for securing one or more assets 128. Depending on a type of asset, drawers 108 may take a variety of different forms and dimensions and, while six drawers 108 are illustratively shown, it is to be understood that kiosk 126 may include anyAttorney Docket No. 40034-16number of drawers 108 in accordance with the present disclosure. In operation, drawers 108 may be placed and secured to housing 120 via coupling mechanism 110 which, in one example, may include brackets configured to engage with corresponding slots within housing 120.

[0042] In operation, drawers 108 may include a RFID base assembly (shown in Figs. 3-4) with a RFID antenna capable of interacting with a corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets. When an asset is securely positioned within drawer 108, the antenna may interact with the corresponding tag or sticker on an asset and generate a signal to terminal 102 indicating the asset’s presence. When an asset is removed or otherwise checked out, the antenna may lose the connection with the tag indicating the asset has been removed or otherwise withdrawn. In one example, such process flow may mirror to how an ATM would work at a bank.

[0043] Base assembly 112 may include a platform 114 and any number of wheels 116 for transporting kiosk 126 to a desired worksite. For example, in operation, a user may simply push, pull, or otherwise apply an external force to kiosk 126 to move kiosk 126 to a desired site. A coupling mechanism 118 with fastening members and brackets may be used to securely fasten platform 114 to wheels 116. However, while assembly 112 illustratively includes wheels 116, it is to be understood that, in some examples, kiosk 126 may be fixed to a desired worksite without assembly 112. In this example, any number of coupling mechanisms may be used to secure kiosk 126 to a permanent worksite.

[0044] Turning to terminal 102, terminal 102 may include a display device 106, an image capturing device 104, e.g., 4k camera, and any combination of hardware, e.g., user interface devices, processors / controller(s), data storage devices, communication devices, etc., and software for carrying out the functions herein described. Terminal 102 may be secured to kiosk 126 using coupling mechanism 122. As shown, coupling mechanism 122 may include two arms 124 and fastening members 130 for connecting terminal 102 to kiosk 126.

[0045] In operation, a user may interact with terminal 102 to withdraw or store one or more assets 128. Prior to accessing terminal 102, assets 128 may be securely locked and inaccessible within kiosk 126. For example, if a user wishes to withdraw or store one or more asset(s) 128, a user may be required to first input their log-in information, credentials, and rationale into terminal 102 or other mobile or nonmobile computing device. In one example, this may preclude any non-authorized employee, customer, or individual from accessing the assets. However, if the entered information is acceptable, terminal 102 may take an image of the user and generate a cloud-based report showing the time of the removal or return, the particular asset and or item removed or returned, and why it was removed. After which, the terminal mayAttorney Docket No. 40034-16generate further prompts, allow access to, or unlock, the one or more drawers housing the desired asset, or generate one or more additional controls signals to the components of locker assembly 100.

[0046] In one example, log-in information or credentials may include a one time, time sensitive QR code scannable by a personal mobile device or tablet, an employee PIN code, a one time, time sensitive PIN code, NFC login authorized via personal mobile device or tablet, passwords, or any other unique identifiers. If the entered information matches that of an authorized user, terminal 102 may further allow a user to search for the stored asset 128 or consumable item by name, description, stock number, UPC code, etc. to see if the asset 128 is available for removal. If available, terminal 102 may generate one or more control signals to unlock drawer(s) 108 and allow a user to store or withdraw asset 128. Once removed, a RFID sticker positioned on asset 128 may be positioned away from a corresponding RFID antenna located within one or more drawers 108. In turn, a confirmation signal may be generated indicating that asset 128 was removed.

[0047] To return an asset 128, a user may similarly execute or enter their login information, credentials, and rationale and select a specific drawer 108 to return asset 128 or item. In one example, every removal and return of asset 128 is a transaction, with an image of the user being taken by terminal 102 and saved to a cloud-based report, showing the time of removal / retum, the particular asset 128 being taken or returned, and why it was removed (input by a user prior to drawer 108 opening).

[0048] Fig. 2 illustratively shows a drawer of a locker assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, a drawer 200 may include a front panel 210, side panels 212, a back panel 214, a RFID base assembly 202, and a coupling mechanism 204 for coupling drawers 200 to a housing, e.g., housing 120, and securely storing and tracking one or more assets. Coupling mechanism 204 may include one or more brackets 206 and 216 securely fastened to side panels 212 via one or more fastening members 208. In operation, drawer 200 may be inserted into a housing and securely closed or otherwise locked with a high strength rotary latch. Drawer 200 may be electronically coupled to terminal 202 to activate RFID base assembly 202 and components thereof.

[0049] Fig. 3 illustratively shows an RFID base assembly of a drawer in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Base assembly 300 may include a RFID base assembly top 302 for contacting one or more stored assets, an antenna carriage 304 for housing one or more RFID antenna circuit boards (shown in Fig. 4), a control board 306 for controllingAttorney Docket No. 40034-16components of a locker assembly, and a drawer base plate 308. However, it is contemplated that base assembly 300 may include additional or fewer layers or components as well.

[0050] Fig. 4 illustratively shows a RFID antenna of a RFID base assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, a RFID base assembly 400 may include four RFID antenna circuit boards 402 positioned on top of a carriage 404. In turn, a control board 406 may be positioned underneath carriage 404 and used to control circuit boards 402 or other components of a locker assembly. However, additional or fewer circuit boards 402 and wireless communication protocols and components may be used as well. In one example, four circuit boards 402 may create roughly a 18” by 18” footprint. Additionally, if an RFID sticker is attached to an asset or item and is within a height range of three to four centimeters to antenna 402, antenna 402 may sense the sticker’ s presence and indicate to a terminal or other computing device the asset or item is located within a drawer.

[0051] Figs. 5-6 illustratively show one or more assets securely stored within one or more drawers in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, drawers of a locker assembly may house virtually any type of object capable of fitting within drawers and coupling to a RFID tag. For example, by way of example only, as shown in Figs. 5 and 6, assets 500 and 600 may include a drill 502, wrenches 504, drill bits 506, STP Oil Filter 53506 604, STP Oil Filter 56607 606, Duralast Gold Break Pad DG995 608, Duralast Gold Break Pad DG906610, and STP Air Filter SA3901 612. However, other types of assets may be housed as well.

[0052] Fig. 7 illustratively shows a posterior view of a locker assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, drawers of a locker assembly 700 may include one or more slots 702 capable of receiving any number of electrical or mechanical connectors to couple a RFID base assembly to a terminal or other computing device. Such connections may include power supply connectors, communication connectors, etc. As shown, such connections may be user accessible through a posterior of locker assembly 700.

[0053] Fig. 8A and 8B illustratively shows an operating flow diagram of a terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, method 800 begins with a user entering log-in information, credentials, and rationale 801 prior to accessing one or more assets within a drawer. If approved or successful, a terminal may generate and display a homepage 802 to a user. From the homepage 802, a user may choose to remove an asset 803, return an asset 804, assign an asset 805, or unassign an asset 806 to a drawer of a locker assembly. If a user chooses to remove an asset 803, a terminal may first identify the presenceAttorney Docket No. 40034-16of the asset within the drawer and, if available, unlock a corresponding latch to allow access to the asset. Upon taking of the asset from the drawer, the terminal may record the transaction.

[0054] Alternatively, if a user chooses to return an asset to a drawer 804, a terminal may select and unlock a corresponding drawer latch, and, once the asset is returned, record the transaction. If at any point, the asset is not already present within the drawer or otherwise available, the user may be re-directed to the homepage as shown.

[0055] However, if the user decides to assign an asset 805, a terminal may allow the user to search for one or more available assets and, if available, unlock one or more drawer latches and assign the corresponding drawer or space to the selected asset. Once assigned, the terminal may record the transaction.

[0056] Finally, if a user decides to unassign an asset 806, the terminal may allow the user to search for the asset, and, if available, unlock the corresponding latch to allow for asset removal and un-assignment from the terminal. Once unassigned, the terminal may record the transaction, relatch, and logout. However, in accordance with the present disclosure, method 800 may include additional or different steps as well.

[0057] Figs 9 and 10 show alternate embodiments of the present invention. An RFID locker assembly 900 and components thereof in accordance with embodiments of the present invention is shown. As illustratively shown, an RFID locker assembly 900 may include a storage kiosk 901 with one or more doors 902 fixedly coupled to a housing 903, and a base assembly 904. The door 902 may be constructed of any material, including glass, that maintains the security of the assets inside the locker assembly. A camera 905 may be connected to the housing 903. Electronic latches 906 operably connect to latch strikers 908, and are controlled by a terminal either mounted with the RFID locker assembly 900 or remotely connected through WIFI or hardwire. Base assembly 904 includes RFID Assembly 907.

[0058] In this embodiment, a pair of RFID assemblies are disclosed. RFID base assembly may include RFID antenna circuit boards positioned on top of a carriage. In turn, a control board may be positioned underneath carriage and used to control circuit boards or other components of a locker assembly. However, additional or fewer circuit boards and wireless communication protocols and components may be used as well.

[0059] .Fig. 10 depicts an RFID locker assembly 1000 and components thereof in accordance with embodiments of the present invention is shown. As illustratively shown, an RFID locker assembly 1000 may include a storage kiosk 1001 with one or more doors 1002 fixedly coupled to a housing 1003, and a base assembly 1004. The door 1002 my be constructed of any material, including glass, that maintains the security of the assets inside theAttorney Docket No. 40034-16locker assembly. A camera 1005 may be connected to the housing 903. Electronic latches 1006 operably connect to latch strikers 1008, and are controlled by a terminal either mounted with the RFID locker assembly 1000 or remotely connected through WIFI or hardwire. Base assembly 1004 includes RFID Assembly 907. In this embodiment, three RFID assemblies are disclosed.

[0060] In this embodiment, three RFID assemblies are disclosed. RFID base assembly may include RFID antenna circuit boards positioned on top of a carriage. In turn, a control board may be positioned underneath carriage and used to control circuit boards or other components of a locker assembly. However, additional or fewer circuit boards and wireless communication protocols and components may be used as well.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 40034-16What is claimed is:

1. A secure locker assembly for the storage and removal of assets, said secure storage assembly including;a storage kiosk with one or more drawers fixedly coupled inside a housing;a base assembly positioned on a platform for selectively transporting the storage kiosk to a desired worksite; anda terminal for tracking and controlling access to one or more stored or withdrawn assets; said base assembly includes a RFID base assembly with a RFID antenna capable of interacting with a corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets.

2. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the one or more drawers may include a front panel, side panels, a back panel, the RFID base assembly, and a coupling mechanism for coupling drawers to a housing for securely storing and tracking one or more assets.

3. The secure locker assembly of claim 2 wherein the coupling mechanism may include one or more brackets securely fastened to side panels by one or more fastening members.

4. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the one or more drawers may be inserted into the housing and securely closed or otherwise locked with a high strength rotary latch.

5. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the one or more drawers are electronically coupled to the terminal to activate RFID base assembly and latching components.

6. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the drawers of a locker assembly may include one or more slots capable of receiving electrical or mechanical connectors to couple the RFID base assembly to a terminal or other computing device and said slots may be user accessible through a posterior of locker assembly.Attorney Docket No. 40034-167. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the terminal may include a display device, an image capturing device, a 4k camera, and any combination of hardware, that serves as a user interface device, said terminal may further include processors / controller(s), data storage devices, communication devices, etc., and software for carrying out the functions herein described.

8. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the terminal may be secured to kiosk using a coupling mechanism which includes two arms and fastening members for connecting terminal to kiosk.

9. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the RFID base assembly includes a RFID base assembly top for contacting one or more stored assets, an antenna carriage for housing one or more RFID antenna circuit boards, a control board for controlling components of a locker assembly, and a drawer base plate10. The secure locker assembly of claim 8 wherein the RFID base assembly may include four RFID antenna circuit boards positioned on top of a carriage, a control board positioned underneath carriage and used to control circuit boards or other components of a locker assembly.

11. The secure locker assembly of claim 1 wherein the base assembly includes a plurality of wheels or mounting structures for attaching to a surface.

12. A secure locker assembly for the storage and removal of assets having RFID tags, said secure storage assembly including;a storage kiosk with one or more doors fixedly coupled to a housing;a base assembly positioned on a platform for selectively transporting the storage kiosk to a desired worksite; anda terminal for tracking and controlling access to one or more stored or withdrawn assets; said base assembly includes a RFID base assembly with a RFID antenna capable of interacting with the corresponding RFID tag or sticker located on the one or more assets and wherein the doors are selectively locked and unlocked based on a command from the terminal.Attorney Docket No. 40034-1613. A method for controlling, tracking, and accessing assets, the method comprising: marking assets with an RFID identifier;registering the assets by the RFID identifier within a data base;positioning the assets within a section of a storage kiosk so that a terminal connected to the storage kiosk recognizes the assets type and location;locking the storage kiosk to prevent access to the assets;providing a user interface for gaining access to the asset within the storage kiosk; recording an image of the user by a camera located with the storage kiosk; opening the section of the storage kiosk associated with the asset;recording the identity of the user and removal or return of the asset; and updating the date base regarding the location of the asset.

14. The method of claim 13 further including allowing the user to search for one or more available assets and, if available, unlock one or more section latches and assign a corresponding drawer or space to the selected asset.

15. The method of claim 13 further including unassigning an asset wherein the terminal may allow the user to search for the asset, and, if available, unlock the corresponding latch to allow for asset removal and un-assignment from the terminal.

16. The method of claim 13 further includes wherein the terminal will not allow closure of the section of the storage kiosk until the RFID identifier is presented.

Images