Electronic key with interactive graphic user interface

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BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to real estate lockboxes and other secure entry systems. Lockboxes are used in the real estate industry to contain the keys of houses listed for sale. Prior art lockboxes have primarily been mechanical devised which allow access to a secure compartment by use of a conventional key. Such lockboxes and keys, however, have had numerous disadvantages. These disadvantages have been overcome by the present invention and a great number of new features have been provided.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, an electronic key for an electronic lock system is provided with graphical user interface which can display a plurality of symbols corresponding to a plurality of functions that the key can cause the lock to execute. An operator of the key moves a visual indicia among these symbols to select a desired function. The key then transmits instructions to the lock causing the selected function to be executed.

The foregoing and additional features and advantages of the present invention will be more readily apparent from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a lockbox, a key, a stand and a computer used in a lockbox system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a rear view, partially in section, schematically illustrating portions of a lockbox according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along line 3--3 of FIG. 2, schematically illustrating some of the locking components in a lockbox according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a top view of a shackle locking bar used in the lockbox of FIGS. 2 and 3.

FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view of the shackle locking bar of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a right side view of a door stem used in the lockbox of FIGS. 2 and 3.

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view of a lockbox shackle used in the lockbox of FIGS. 2 and 3.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the case of the lockbox of FIGS. 2 and 3 taken along line 8--8 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of the electronic circuitry used in the lockbox of FIGS. 2 and 3.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a key according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a left side view of the key of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a schematic block diagram of the electronic circuitry used in the key shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating portions of the electronic memories used by the lockbox and key of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of a remote stand according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a sectional view taken along lines 15--15 of FIG. 14 and showing the stand with two different sizes of keys.

FIG. 16 is a sectional view taken along lines 16--16 of FIG. 14 and showing the stand coupled to a lockbox.

FIG. 17 is a rear elevational view of the stand shown in FIG. 14.

FIG. 18a is a schematic block diagram of the electronic circuitry used a local stand according to the present invention.

FIG. 18b is a schematic block diagram of the electronic circuitry used in a remote stand according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram showing a digital reconstruction modulation system according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 shows a radio system for updating lockboxes and keys according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 shows a computer and trunk interface unit used in an enhanced version of the system of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT GENERAL OVERVIEW

A basic lockbox system 10 according to the present invention, shown in FIG. 1, includes one or more lockboxes, or keysafes, 12, electronic keys 14, stands 16 and computers 18. Lockbox 12 contains the door key to the listed dwelling and is mounted securely on or near the dwelling. Electronic key 14 is used by real estate agents to open the lockbox and gain access to the dwelling key contained therein. Key 14 can also be used to read access log data from the lockbox and to load programming instructions into it. Stand 16 is used to interface computer 18 with the lockbox and key units. Computer 18 is used to store instructions in and to collect data from lockbox 12 and key 14 so as to integrate management of a lockbox system.

LOCKBOX

With reference to FIGS. 2-3, lockbox 12 includes a secure enclosure, or house key compartment 20 designed to contain house keys, business cards, written messages and the like. Lockbox 12 is securely attached to the listed house or other fixed object by a shackle 22 or by screws (not shown). Shackle 22 in most instances attaches the lockbox to a doorknob, water spigot or porch guard rail. Upon a proper exchange of signals between lockbox 12 and key 14, a door 24 to the lockbox house key compartment 20 can be opened, thereby allowing access to the house key and to other materials stored inside.

The circuitry of lockbox 12 is shown in block diagram form in FIG. 9. Lockbox 12 includes a communications coil 26, a microprocessor (CPU) 28, a read/write (RAM) memory 30, a primary battery 32, a backup battery 34, a pair of key compartment locking solenoids 36, a pair of shackle locking solenoids 38, a key compartment solenoid drive circuit 40, an associated microswitch 42 and a shackle solenoid drive circuit 43.

Communications coil 26 is used to electromagnetically couple to corresponding coils in key 14 and stand 16. Microprocessor 28 controls operation of lockbox 12 according to programming instructions ("lockbox control software") permanently stored in an associated read only memory (ROM) 44. RAM memory 30 is used to store various elements and strings of operating data. Primary battery 32 provides power to the lockbox circuitry. Backup battery 34 is used when the primary battery becomes weak or is removed for replacement. Key compartment locking solenoids 36 releasably lock house key compartment door 24 under the control of door solenoid drive circuit 40 and microswitch 42. Shackle locking solenoids 38 releasably lock shackle 22 under the control of shackle solenoid drive circuit 43.

Although illustrated as a single component, lockbox CPU 28 is in fact two discrete microprocessor circuits. The first, a National Semiconductor 820 Series Control Oriented Processor, is an eight bit processor that performs all control, communications and logic functions with the exception of timing and calendar-clock functions. These functions are performed by a National Semiconductor COP 498 processor which is mask programmed by the manufacturer to perform a variety of time keeping functions. The lockbox RAM 30 is comprised of a low power, low voltage Toshiba LC3517NC RAM circuit, which is organized as 2048 eight bit bytes.

Lockbox CPU 28 stores information on certain of the operations that are executed, or attempted to be executed, by a key or the lockbox in a portion of RAM memory 30 termed the "access log." Each entry in the access log includes the identity of the key, the date and time of the operation (obtained from the calendar-clock portion of CPU 28), the function attempted and, if the function was denied, the reason why. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the lockbox access log can store information on 100 lockbox operations. This log can later be retrieved, in whole or in part, by key 14 or by stand 16 for transfer to computer 18 or for display on a CRT screen or printer.

Management of the lockbox access log is performed by lockbox CPU 28 in conjunction with a "roll flag" and a "pointer" stored in lockbox RAM 30. The roll flag indicates whether all 100 entries in the access log have been filled and consequently whether the memory is recycling, overwriting old data. The pointer indicates the address of the memory location at which the next access log entry will be stored.

When the lockbox is initialized (discussed below in the section entitled Initialization and Deactivation of Lockboxes and Keys by the Computer), the roll flag is set to "0" and the pointer is set to indicate the address of the first memory location in the access log. Thereafter, each entry in the log causes the pointer to increment to the address of the next memory location in the log.

After 100 entries have been stored in the access log, the pointer recycles and indicates again the address of the first memory location in the access log. At this point, the rollover flag is set to "1," indicating that the access log has become a circular data buffer and that each additional entry will overwrite an earlier entry.

Lockbox Characterization Instructions

Lockbox 12 is characterized by "lockbox characterization instructions" loaded into lockbox RAM memory 30 by a computer through a stand. (Key 14 can also be used to load a set of limited characterization instructions into lockbox RAM memory 30, as discussed below in the section entitled Functions). The lockbox characterization instructions give the lockbox an identity, fix in it certain numerical values and enable it to perform certain functions.

As shown in the illustrative lockbox memory map in FIG. 13, the identification information loaded with the characterization instructions identifies the listing, the listing agent, the responsible agency and the responsible board. The identification information further identifies the lockbox by a unique lockbox serial number.

Some of the numerical values loaded into the lockbox include a "Shown By Arrangement" (SBA) number, a key lockout list and a collection of lockbox access codes.

Functions enabled by function enable bits in the characterization instructions may include Lockbox Disable On Removal and Privacy Read (both discussed below in the section entitled Programmable Lockbox Options).

After its initial characterization by stand 16, lockbox 12 will not require further maintenance or programming until the lockbox is moved to a new location.

Mechanical details of the lockbox 12 are discussed below in the section entitled Mechanical Construction of Lockbox.

KEY

With reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, key 14 is constructed in a trim polycarbonate enclosure 46 sized to fit conveniently in a user's purse or pocket. The key includes a keypad 48 and an LCD display 50. Keypad 48 is used to enter commands into the key. LCD display 50 is used to display instructions and information to the user.

LCD display 50 includes a central message portion in which messages from the system can be displayed to the user. Display 50 also includes a lower portion comprising a "prompt" field and an upper portion comprising an "annunciator" field. The prompt field includes twelve potential prompts which represent twelve functions that a user can request the key to execute. They are OPEN, SHACKLE RELEASE, CHANGE PERSONAL CODE, CONTROLLER, READ FILE MARK, READ NN, READ, CLEAR MEMORY, SIGNATURE, SHOWN BY ARRANGEMENT, FILE MARK, and PROGRAM. These functions are discussed below in the section entitled Functions.

The annunciator field includes five potential annunciators which indicate the status of various aspects of the key. The annunciators in the preferred embodiment are FUNCTION, READ, PROGRAM, KEYSAFE BATTERY and KEY BATTERY.

The READ annunciator is made visible when the key contains lockbox access log data transferred from a lockbox during a READ operation. The PROGRAM annunciator is made visible when the key contains a set of limited characterization instructions that are to be loaded into a lockbox. The FUNCTION annunciator is made visible when the user is to select a function to be executed. The KEYSAFE BATTERY and the KEY BATTERY annunciators are made visible when the batteries for these respective units need attention.

The circuitry of key 14 is shown in block diagram form in FIG. 12. Key 14 includes a communications coil 54, a key microprocessor (CPU) 52, the keypad or other switch mechanism 48, the LCD display 50, a read/write memory (RAM) 56, a primary battery 58, a backup battery 60 and a beeper 62.

Communications coil 54 is used to electromagnetically couple to the corresponding coils in lockbox 12 and stand 16. Microprocessor 52 controls operation of key 14 according to programming instructions ("key control software") permanently stored in an associated read only memory (ROM) 64. RAM memory 56 again comprises a Toshiba LC3517NC RAM circuit and is used to store various elements and strings of operating data. Primary battery 58 provides power to the key circuitry. Backup battery 60 is used when the primary battery becomes weak or is removed for replacement. Beeper 62 beeps to call the user's attention to the key in a variety of instances, such as when an error is committed or when the key and lockbox have successfully completed an operation.

Although illustrated as a single component, key CPU 52 also comprises two discrete microprocessor circuits. The first, a National Semiconductor 820 Series Control Oriented Processer, is an eight bit processor that performs all control, communications and logic functions except reading data from keypad 48 and controlling operation of LCD display 50 and beeper 62. These functions are performed by a very low power NEC uPD7501 4 bit microcontroller with an on board LCD driver. The distribution of processing tasks between two processors in this manner reduces power consumption and increases operational efficiency by allocating the time consuming user interface chores to the very low power NEC processor, thereby allowing the logic functions to be more quickly performed using the higher power National processor.

Key Characterization Instructions

Key 14 is characterized by "key characterization instructions" loaded into key RAM memory 56 by a computer through a stand. These instructions give the key an identity, fix in it certain numerical values and enable it to perform certain functions.

As shown in the illustrative key memory map in FIG. 13, the identification information loaded with the characterization instructions identifies the agent, the responsible agency and the responsible board. The identification information further identifies the key by a unique serial number.

Some of the numerical values loaded with the key characterization instructions include a four digit personal code, permission codes for various of the functions and various key access codes with associated expiration dates.

Functions enabled by function enable bits in the characterization instructions may include OPEN, READ and SHACKLE RELEASE.

After its initial characterization by stand 16, key 14 will not require further programming until any time dependent functions which may have been enabled, such as key expiration date or expiring key access codes (discussed below) need updating.

Limited Function Keys

This key described above can, if loaded with the proper characterization instructions, execute the entire complement of functions available on the system, here illustrated as twelve. In some applications, however, it is desirable to provide simpler keys which can effect only a limited range of functions. Thus, it may be desirable, for example, to provide keys that can perform just three functions: open a lockbox, drop a shackle and communicate with a computer. Such a simple key could be constructed without an LCD display.

Limiting the functions that a key can perform can be effected by setting certain enable/disable bits in key RAM memory 56. In the preferred embodiment, key RAM memory 56 has an enable/disable data bit corresponding to each of the twelve functions. If the enable/disable data bit corresponding to a function is set to a "1," the function is enabled. If set to a "0," the function is disabled.

The enable/disable data in key RAM memory 56 is desirably set by the manufacturer so as to enable a particular set of functions. This arrangement permits the manufacturer to provide a variety of different keys to users having a variety of different requirements without the need to tool up a separate manufacturing line for each different key. If the manufacturer later wishes to change a key's enable/disable data, it can do so by reprogramming the this data itself or by providing software to the responsible real estate board that will enable the board computer to reprogram this data.

In an alternative embodiment, key RAM memory 56 can have two data bits corresponding to each of the twelve functions. One of these bits is set by the manufacturer to a "0" or a "1" and cannot be altered by the user. The other of these bits can be set to a "0" or a "1" by the authority that exercises supervisory control over the key, usually the local real estate board. In this alternative embodiment, the only functions that are enabled are those for which corresponding enable/disable data bits have both been set to a "1" by the appropriate authority. By this alternative system, the local real estate board is empowered to tailor the capabilities of its keys as it sees fit within the range of functions enabled by the manufacturer.

Programmable Time Constants

In the preferred embodiment, all time constants in the both the lockbox and key are set by data bits stored in the respective units' RAM memories (as illustrated by the lockbox and key memory maps of FIG. 13). These time constants set, for example, the length of time each of the transient displays are maintained in LCD display 50 and the length of time lockbox key compartment unlocking solenoids 36 are to be kept energized.

STAND

Stand 16 is used in the present invention to transfer information between computer 18 and the lockbox and key components of a lockbox system.

With reference to FIGS. 14-17, stand 16 can comprise an enclosure 66 having a protrusion 68. Within protrusion 68 is a stand communications coil 70. In use, a key or a lockbox is positioned on stand 16 as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, respectively. In these positions, the communications coil within the lockbox or key is positioned in proximity with stand communications coil 70 in protrusion 68, thereby establishing electromagnetic coupling between such coils.

In alternative embodiments, protrusion 68 can be omitted. In such embodiments, communications coil 70 can be disposed within enclosure 66 so that it is adjacent the coils in corresponding lockbox or key units when such units are placed on the stand.

As illustrated in FIGS. 18a and 18b, stand 16 is constructed in two forms. A first form of the stand, termed a local stand 16a, is designed to communicate with a computer at the same site. Local stands are thus intended for use at the board office, where they are tied directly to the board computer, or at agency offices, where they may be tied directly to a smaller computer.

The second form of stand, termed a remote stand 16b, is a portable unit designed to communicate with a remote computer over conventional telephone lines. Remote stands 16b are thus typically used at agency offices that are not equipped with their own computers. Their portable nature, however, allows remote stands to be used wherever there is a phone line, such as at a property listed for sale, thereby enabling an agent to retrieve data from the board computer and provide a homeowner immediate information about listing activity.

With reference to FIGS. 17, 18a and 18b, both forms of stand 16 include a microprocessor (CPU) 78, an associated read only memory 80, a read/write memory (RAM) 82 and a connector 83 for connection to a low voltage D.C. power supply. Local stand 16a further includes a cable connector 72 for connection to the local computer. Remote stand 16b further includes a modem 74 and two modular phone jacks 76, 77 for interfacing to a telephone line. First phone jack 76 is used to connect to the outgoing phone line. Second phone jack 77 is used to connect to a conventional telephone (not shown) which provides dialing signals on the outgoing phone line. Remote stand 16b also includes a printer output port 79 for interfacing to a printer. This printer is driven by the remote computer through the stand and permits hard copy display of the data at the agency office or at the remote site at which the stand is used even though a computer is not locally available.

Desirably, CPU 78 comprises an Intel 8051 Series microprocessor and RAM 82 comprises a NEC uPD4364