Remote Key Safe Control With Backup Power Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing key safe technologies are inefficient in emergency situations due to the time-consuming process of sorting through multiple key rings, require physical operation to open, can be inoperable due to battery failure, and lack remote monitoring and activation capabilities, making them unsuitable for secure and rapid key access.
Innovation Solution
A remotely activated and monitored key safe with a housing, key holding tray, and a communications and command subsystem that includes a transceiver, sensors, and a processor for wireless or wired communication, allowing secure storage and retrieval of keys, and a backup power system to maintain functionality in case of primary power failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a combination lock is used to secure the key safe, then the key safe can be opened without a physical key, but the safe cannot be opened remotely and requires physical operation by a person located at the safe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical combination lock system with an electronic locking mechanism controlled by a microcontroller. The electronic system receives remote commands via communication interfaces (wireless or wired) to actuate the locking mechanism, eliminating the need for physical key insertion or manual combination entry. This substitution enables remote activation while maintaining secure locking functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a communication subsystem as an intermediary between the remote operator and the locking mechanism. This subsystem includes communication interfaces (such as wireless transceivers or wired connections) that transmit commands to the microcontroller, which then controls the locking mechanism. This intermediary enables remote operation without requiring direct physical interaction with the safe.
2Extent of automation
If a battery-powered solenoid is used to lock the safe door, then the safe can be automatically locked, but the safe may be inoperable upon battery failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a backup power source (such as a backup battery or capacitor) that is pre-charged and ready to activate when the primary battery fails. This cushioning measure ensures that the locking mechanism remains operational even when the primary power source is depleted, maintaining reliability without sacrificing automatic locking capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a power management system that monitors battery status and can switch between power sources based on available power levels. The system can change operational parameters such as locking cycle frequency or communication mode to conserve power, and can switch from the primary battery to the backup power source when voltage thresholds are reached, ensuring continuous operation.
3Strength
If the key safe is set into a building door, then the safe is securely mounted, but the safe is not useful for securing a key for an outdoor application such as a gate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the key safe with a universal mounting system that can be installed in multiple locations including building doors, gates, fences, and other structures. The mounting bracket and fastening mechanisms are designed to accommodate various substrate types and thicknesses, allowing the same safe unit to serve both indoor and outdoor applications without requiring different models or configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the mounting function from the safe body, using a modular mounting bracket assembly that can be independently configured for different installation scenarios. The bracket can be adjusted to accommodate different mounting surfaces and orientations, allowing the safe to be securely mounted in diverse locations while maintaining the same core functionality.
4Device complexity
If physical inspection and opening of the safe is required to determine its state, then the safe structure remains simple, but there is no way to readily determine the state (locked, unlocked, damaged, etc.) of the safe or its contents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates sensors that continuously monitor the state of the safe (locked/unlocked status, door position, tamper conditions) and provide feedback to a microcontroller. The microcontroller processes this information and transmits status updates remotely via the communication subsystem. This feedback mechanism provides real-time information about the safe's state without requiring physical inspection, while adding minimal complexity through the use of simple sensor elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A remotely activated and monitored key safe to allow storage and retrieval of at least one key including: a housing having a generally elongated shape and having a longitudinally extending cavity open through a first axial end of the housing, in fixed relation to a structure: a key holding tray adapted to be slideably loaded into the housing, the tray having a front cover fitted to cover the first axial end of the housing, and the tray having a locking/unlocking mechanism; a communications and command subsystem powered by a power source, the communications and command subsystem adapted to receive remote commands to activate the locking/unlocking mechanism; and a backup power subsystem adapted to allow backup power to be applied to contacts presentable on an accessible surface of the key safe in case of a failure of the power source.