Secure Entry System with Timed Alarm and Keypad Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking receptacles for emergency access are insecure, prone to theft, and lack accountability, leading to potential loss of master keys and increased liability for property owners and emergency services.
Innovation Solution
A secure entry system featuring a housing with an alarm that triggers upon removal of a receptacle key, a keypad for secure access, and a system for recording and transmitting access parameters, along with geographically restricted cylinder codes and a timed alarm to prevent unauthorized use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If conventional locking receptacles are mounted to the exterior of properties for emergency access, then emergency personnel can gain quick access to buildings, but the receptacles become vulnerable to theft and unlawful access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested security structure where a master receptacle contains multiple individual receptacles. The master receptacle is secured with a master lock that requires a master key, while individual receptacles within contain specific building keys. This nesting allows emergency personnel to access multiple buildings through a single master key while maintaining security through the hierarchical locking structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the security system into segmented receptacles, where each receptacle contains keys for specific buildings or areas. This segmentation allows selective access to different locations while maintaining overall security. The receptacles are distributed at various locations and can be accessed independently through their individual locks.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical keys are stored in lock boxes for emergency access, then firefighters can enter buildings during emergencies, but keys are prone to loss and misplacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms through a centralized control system that tracks which receptacles have been accessed and by whom. The system provides feedback to emergency personnel about the status of keys and receptacles, helping to prevent loss and ensure accountability. Access records can be reviewed to determine which keys have been used and returned.
Solution Approach 2:
The master key provides universal access to multiple receptacles located at different buildings. This multi-functionality allows emergency personnel to access any building in the system using a single master key, while the system maintains accountability through tracking mechanisms that monitor key usage across all locations.
3Reliability
If lock boxes are made bulky and securely mounted to buildings, then security against theft is improved, but the boxes become less aesthetically pleasing and more difficult to access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the security function across multiple small receptacles distributed at various locations rather than relying on a single large bulky box. Each receptacle is securely mounted but remains compact, maintaining aesthetic appeal while providing secure key storage. The distribution of multiple receptacles eliminates the need for one large inaccessible box.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a system and method for secure entry to a property or building. One aspect includes an apparatus having a housing and alarm means for triggering a timed alarm upon removal of a receptacle key from the housing. Locking means is included for locking the housing. Another aspect includes a removable media containing a list of cylinder codes. At least a portion of the list of cylinder codes are transferred to a receptacle key within the housing. Another aspect involves a system having a secure container with locking means for locking a housing. The system includes at least one locking receptacle that is unlocked with the receptacle key. Also provided is a method comprising the steps of retrieving a receptacle key from a secure container, triggering a timed alarm for return of the receptacle key and accessing a locking receptacle with the receptacle key.