WO2014076505A2

WO2014076505A2 - Key store

Info

Publication number: WO2014076505A2
Application number: PCT/GB2013/053048
Authority: WO
Inventors: Craig Murray
Original assignee: Surelock Mcgill Limited
Priority date: 2012-11-19
Filing date: 2013-11-19
Publication date: 2014-05-22
Also published as: GB201220762D0; WO2014076505A3; GB201320378D0

Abstract

A secure key store for a plurality of keys is disclosed. The key store controls access to keys to authorised users. The key store comprises: a plurality of key cylinders, each key cylinder corresponding to one of the plurality of keys; each key cylinder having a drive mechanism for actuation of the key or key cylinder between a first position in which the key is secured in the key cylinder and a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, each of said drive mechanisms adapted to receive a trigger for actuation from a controller. The drive mechanism may include a motor. In an alternative arrangement, key actuation is performed manually but key access is provided by locking the rotation of the key in the key cylinder such that the key cannot be removed. An input may be a key code, key card or physical key.

Description

KEY STORE

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a store, cabinet or vault for securely storing and organising keys. In a

preferred embodiment, the store, cabinet or vault is

arranged to control access to authorised users.

Background Art

Figure 1 is a conventional key vault comprising a cabinet with a series of numbered hooks inside, such as on the inner face of the door and back wall of the cabinet. Keys are hung on the hooks. Each hook is numbered and a table or listing identifying each key is provided in the cabinet. The cabinet has a lock on the door which has to be released before the door of the cabinet can be opened. The lock can take various forms. The lock can be operated electronically and connected to a numeric keypad which requires a user to enter a code to release the lock and gain access to the keys. Alternatively the lock may be operated by a safe dial, combination lock, or mechanical key.

Key cabinets of the above kind find application in businesses, such as car showrooms, car hire dealers,

hospitals, and other businesses in which many vehicles, rooms or other property is accessible by key.

The conventional key vaults do not prevent a user from taking more keys than is necessary or from taking keys that he is not permitted to. For example, once access has been gained to the inside of the cabinet the user has access to all keys inside and can remove as many keys as he desires.

Further advances in key vaults provide better tracking and more limited access to keys in the cabinet. For example, one such system exists in which after gaining entry to the cabinet, the user has to insert a peg before the desired key is released. This system includes a pair of sockets for each key storage position. A given key is coupled to a first peg and cannot be removed from the first peg. The first peg locates in a first socket of the pair of sockets. A user is supplied with a second peg which he has to insert into the second socket of the pair to release the key and first peg. Each user may be provided with a different coloured peg so that a second user accessing the cabinet can visibly

identify which key the first user has taken. A user may be provided with multiple pegs if he is required to have access to multiple keys at the same time. Although this system offers a tracking and management system for keys, the security of the system is limited because the pegs are readily available and only one or two types of pegs are available such that it would be reasonably straightforward for anyone wanting access to many keys to obtain many pegs.

It is desirable to provide a key vault or store in which keys can be securely stored, are accessible only by authorised users, and keys can be designated to each user.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention provides a secure key store for a plurality of keys, the key store adapted to provide

selective access to each of a plurality of different

combinations or sets of one or more of the keys upon receipt of an input corresponding to that combination or set. Each combination or set may be a single key, a subset of some of the plurality of keys, or all of the keys. The inputs may be input codes. Multiple different input codes may give access to the same combination or set of keys. Each of the inputs may be associated with a different user.

The key store may be a cabinet and the input may also provide access through the door of the cabinet.

The present invention provides a secure key store for a plurality of keys, comprising: a plurality of key cylinders, each key cylinder corresponding to one of the plurality of keys, each key cylinder configured to allow removal of the key from the key cylinder after being triggered by a

controller. In a first embodiment each key cylinder has a drive mechanism for actuation of the key or key cylinder between a first position in which the key is secured in the key cylinder and a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, each of said drive mechanisms adapted to receive a trigger for actuation from a

controller. In a second embodiment, requiring manual

rotation of the key cylinder, each key cylinder has a restraint for locking the key or key cylinder at a first position, or within a first range of positions, in which the key is secured in the key cylinder, and upon release of the restraint the key cylinder is movable to a second position in which the key is removable from the key cylinder, each of said restraints adapted to be triggered by a controller for release of the key cylinder. Some aspects of the first embodiment may be combined with the second embodiment and vice versa.

For some key cylinders it may not be possible to arrange motor drive of the key cylinder, whereas for other this is possible. Hence, key stores may include manual and driven key cylinders so that a key store may contain key cylinders of any type. In a first embodiment the present invention provides a key store for a plurality of keys, comprising: a plurality of key cylinders, each key cylinder corresponding to one of the plurality of keys. Each key cylinder preferably has a respective fitting key for storing therein. That is, only the respective fitting key for each key cylinder has a blade shaped or cut to open said respective key cylinder. Each key cylinder has a drive mechanism for actuation of the key or key cylinder between a first position in which the key is secured in the key cylinder and a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder. The drive mechanism may be motorised. Each of said drive mechanisms may be adapted to receive a trigger for actuation from a

controller. In some embodiments the controller forms part of the key store and in others it is provided separately.

The controller may be adapted to provide selective access to one or more of the plurality of keys upon receipt of an input, such as input key or code from a user. Said selective access may be provided by actuation of drive mechanisms of the key cylinders of the respective selected key or keys. The input may be associated with a user, and may be a key code, a key card, or a physical key.

The key store may further comprise indicators

corresponding to the key cylinders for indicating the selected key or keys available. The indicators may

illuminate to indicate key or keys available.

Each key cylinder has a keyway for receiving a key blade or shank such that the key blade is inaccessible to the user when the key or key cylinder is at the first position (secured position) . This prevents a user taking an imprint of a key for example for making a copy. Each drive mechanism may comprise a key sensor arranged to detect the presence or absence of a key in the key cylinder .

Each drive mechanism may comprise one or more

orientation sensors to detect the orientation of the key in the key cylinder. The one or more orientation sensors to detect the orientation of the key in the key cylinder may comprise a first sensor for detecting the key is at the first position (secured position) and a second sensor for detecting the key is at the second position (available for removal ) .

Each drive mechanism may comprise a motor arranged to drive rotation of the plug of the key cylinder, the plug having a keyway for receiving the key in the key cylinder. The motor may drive rotation of the plug of the key cylinder through a worm drive gear arrangement. The motor may drive a worm screw of the worm gear arrangement, which in turn may drive a gear wheel of the worm gear arrangement, said gear wheel turning the plug of the key cylinder. This arrangement effectively passes drive along the drive mechanism in one direction only, that is, it passes drive from input (worm screw) to output (gear wheel) and not in the opposite direction .

Each drive mechanism and/or key cylinder plug may comprise a reference mark for determining the rotational orientation of the plug of the key cylinder.

The one or more key cylinders and corresponding drive mechanisms may be arranged in a cabinet accessible by a user upon authorisation. User authorisation may be the same input associated with user which he inputs to release the selected or designated keys. The controller may be coupled to a key pad or card swipe system for receiving an input associated with a user.

In embodiments in which the controller is provided separately, the key store may have an interface for

receiving inputs for driving the motor and for proving outputs from the sensors regarding presence or absence of a key and its orientation.

In a second embodiment the present invention provides a secure key store for a plurality of keys, comprising: a plurality of key cylinders, each key cylinder corresponding to one of the plurality of keys; each key cylinder having a restraint for locking the key or key cylinder at a first position, or within a first range of positions, in which the key is secured in the key cylinder, and upon release of the restraint the key cylinder is movable to a second position in which the key is removable from the key cylinder, each of said restraints adapted to be triggered by a controller for release of the key cylinder.

The secure key store may further comprise the

controller, wherein the controller is adapted to provide selective access to one or more of the plurality of keys upon receipt of a corresponding input, said selective access provided by release of the restraints of the key cylinders of the respective selected key or keys.

The secure key store of the second embodiment of the present invention may have inputs to provide selective access as set out for the first embodiment. The second embodiment may also comprise indicators and sensors as set out for the first embodiment. The key cylinder may have a keyway for receiving the key and the key may have a blade which is not accessible when secure in the cylinder. The restraint may comprise an electromechanical device and the key cylinder may comprise a cylinder cam for

rotation by the key, the electromechanical device arranged to prevent movement of the cylinder cam to lock the key or cylinder at the first position. The electromechanical device may be a solenoid.

The restraint may comprise a latch which is pushed to restrain the key or key cylinder at the first position or first range of positions. The latch may be released by an electromechanical device upon trigger by a controller. The latch and optionally solenoid may be used in combination with the first embodiment to provide extra security against reverse driving of the drive mechanism.

The present invention also provides a secure key store for one or more keys, comprising: one or more key cylinders, each key cylinder corresponding to one of the plurality of keys; each key cylinder having a motorised drive mechanism for actuation of the key or key cylinder between a first position in which the key is secured in the key cylinder and a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, each of said drive mechanisms further comprising sensors for arranged to determine if the respective key or key cylinder is at the first or second position.

In the above embodiments a plurality of keys may be stored in the key store. In alternative arrangements only one key is stored but multiple users having different input authorisation codes have access to the key. In this

embodiment the invention relates tracking which user has the key solely rather than controlling which users can access which keys .

The present invention further provides a method of providing access to one or more keys of a plurality of keys stored in a secure key store, the method comprising:

receiving an input associated with a user; verifying the input associated with a user and determining one or more designated keys associated with the user; and actuating drive mechanisms for the one or more designated keys to move the key or key cylinder to a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, while retaining all non- designated keys or key cylinders at a first position in which the key or keys are secured in the key cylinder.

The method may further comprise upon re-insertion of the designated one or more designated key or keys in their respective key cylinders, actuating the drive mechanism for the one or more designated keys to move the key or key cylinder to the first position in which the keys are secured in the key cylinders.

The method further comprise illuminating one or more indicators associated with the designated key or keys to indicate to the user which of the plurality of keys is available for removal.

The present invention provides a method of providing access to one or more keys of a plurality of keys stored in a secure key store, the method comprising: receiving an input; verifying the input and determining one or more designated keys associated with the input; and releasing restraints for the one or more designated keys such that the key or key cylinder is movable to a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, while restraining all non-designated keys or key cylinders locked at a first position, or first range of positions, in which the key or keys are secured in the key cylinder.

The key store may comprise a cabinet having a door or leaf. Release for opening of the door or leaf may be controlled by a controller such that the door or leaf is opened upon verification of an input associated with a user.

The input associated with a user may be a key code, a key card, or a physical key.

Brief description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention, along with aspects of the prior art, will now be described with

reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

figure 1 is diagram of a key vault according to the prior art;

figure 2 is a diagram of a key cabinet according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the door of the cabinet open;

figure 3 is a diagram of a key cabinet according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the door of the cabinet closed;

figure 4 is a diagram of the faceplate for a three key system having controlled access to the keys, according to an embodiment of the invention;

figure 5 is a diagram of the workings behind the faceplate of figure 4, showing three key access control modules ;

figures 6a and 6b are exploded views showing some of the components of one of the modules of figure 5;

figures 7a-7c are front, back and side perspective views of one of the modules of figures 5, 6a and 6b;

figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the key access control system according to an embodiment of the present invention; and figures 9a-9c are rear perspective, rear and side views of a second embodiment of a module for use with an access control system of the present invention. Detailed Description

Figures 2 and 3 show a key cabinet 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cabinet 100 is a box having an opening door or leaf. The door or leaf may be provided with access panel 102 which may take a number of forms. For example, the access panel may be a numeric or alphanumeric keypad for entering an input key. Alternatively the access panel may interact with a magnetic or electronic security card, such as a swipe card. These types of entry system allow a user to be identified. For example, each user may be given a different numeric code as input key, or the magnetic or electronic security card may provide a code which is different for each user. The input key is not limited to cards, and other kinds of information store or biometric information may be used.

In another embodiment the access panel may be a

mechanical lock actuated by a key or a safe dial which is required to be rotated to input a numerical combination lock type sequence. In this embodiment, once the user has

accessed the cabinet the user is required to input

information identifying himself, such as a numeric code.

Inside the cabinet the keys 104 are stored. As shown in the example of figure 2, the cabinet has three storage sites and so can store up to three keys, although any number of keys may be stored by scaling up the cabinet accordingly. In figure 2 only one key is present. The two other key storage sites are empty. Figure 4 shows in more detail the three key storage sites. These three sites together are formed in a faceplate 200. In figure 4, two keys are present and the third storage site is empty. The two keys that are present are in

different orientations. The first key 104a is at a first orientation at which it is retained or secured and cannot be removed. The second key 104b is at a second orientation at which the key is ready and available for removal.

In the embodiment shown, the secured orientation is with the key positioned horizontally whereas the available for removal orientation is with the key positioned

vertically. Optionally, above each key storage site may be an indicator lamp 202a-202c such as an LED or filament lamp, which illuminates when its associated key is available for removal. In figure 4, the second site, with key 104b in the vertical position, has the indicator lamp 202b illuminated. The use of indicator lamps in this way helps the user quickly and easily identify which key or keys he can remove. The lamps are particularly advantageous when the number of keys stored is large.

Although figures 2 and 3 show the faceplate 200 and storage sites in an enclosure such as a cabinet, in

alternative embodiments the faceplate may be provided without the enclosure. For example, the faceplate 200 may be set in a panel or wall with the key storage sites exposed. The removal of keys is still controlled by the orientation of the keys. The orientation may again be controlled by an access panel as described above.

Figure 5 shows the reverse side of the face plate 200. Each key storage site is operated by a module 300. Figure 6 are exploded views showing some of the components of module 300 from two view points. Figure 6a shows the module components viewed from the faceplate side, whereas figure 6b shows the module components viewed from the opposite

direction. Figures 7a-7c show three different views of the module 300.

The module 300 comprises a key cylinder 340 driven by a drive mechanism. The key cylinder 340 may be a Euro key cylinder although other types of cylinder such as Oval may be used. Key cylinder 340 comprises a plug 342 which is rotatably mounted therein and has keyway 344 for receiving blade 332 of key 330. When the key matching the key cylinder is inserted the plug can rotated. Insertion of the wrong key does not allow rotation. Operation of key cylinders of this kind is known.

As shown in figure 6b, at the rear of the key cylinder 340 the plug 342 protrudes. The rear of the plug 340 also has a recess. When the key blade 332 is inserted into the keyway 344, the tip of the blade 332 protrudes from the plug 344.

The key cylinder 340 is held in cylinder mount 348. The front side of cylinder mount 348 mounts against the back of faceplate 200. Key cylinder 340 aligns with a hole in faceplate 200 such that the front of the plug 342 and keyway 344 are accessible. At the rear of key cylinder 340 and cylinder mount 348 is gear wheel 354. Figures 5, 6a and 7 do not show the teeth of the gear wheel. The gear wheel 354 mounts to the protruding part of the plug 342, so that the plug rotates with the gear wheel 354. The plug preferably comprises locating protrusions which are received in the gear wheel 354 and drive the gear wheel. The gear wheel 354 may also include a shoulder ring 355 for spacing the teeth of the gear wheel from the cylinder mount 348. As mentioned above, at the rear of plug 342 of key cylinder 340 there is a recess which receives plunger 362. The plunger 362 is a rod which passes through an aperture in the centre of the gear wheel 354. The plunger 362 is

supported by plunger support 364 which also has a

corresponding hole there through. The end of the plunger 362 distal from the key cylinder 340 is adjacent to a sensor 360. When a key 330 is present in the key cylinder 340, the tip of the key blade 332 protrudes from the rear of the key cylinder 340 pushing against plunger 362. The plunger 362 slides activating sensor 360 to cause a signal to be

generated indicating the switch has been activated. The sensor is preferably a microswitch. The sensor is mounted to sensor support 358. The microswitch contains a spring which pushes against the plunger 362 such that when the key is removed the switch is released pushing the plunger back into the recess of the key cylinder 340. Many other types of sensor could be used, for example, an optical sensor which detects movement of the plunger or presence of the tip of the key blade by breaking an optical beam. For these other sensors detecting the movement of the plunger, a spring will be required to return the plunger 362 to its start position when the key is not present.

A motor 353 is mounted for driving the gear wheel as shown in figures 7a-7c (not shown in figures 6a-6b) . The motor is mounted to motor support brackets 351a and 351b over the cylinder mount 348. Other mounting arrangements are possible. The motor 353 turns a worm screw 352 which is attached to the motor shaft. Figures 5, 6, 7a and 7c do not show the thread of the worm screw. The worm screw is in meshing engagement (not shown in figures) with the gear wheel 354 such that as the motor turns the worm screw 352 the gear wheel 354 is driven. Many other drive arrangements are possible for transferring the rotational motion of the motor shaft to drive the gear wheel. However, the inclusion of a worm drive arrangement has advantages over other gearing systems. A worm drive arrangement transfers rotation of the worm screw 352 into rotation of the gear wheel 354 but, in the reverse, rotation of the gear wheel does not generally cause rotation of the worm screw. Indeed, the gear wheel cannot be rotated against the worm screw. This transfer of motion in one direction, namely input-to-output and not output-to-input, is useful because it prevents a user from turning the key in the key cylinder in an attempt to remove the key when not authorised to do so.

The motor 353 is preferably a high torque device requiring a high torque on the shaft to drive it manually. This adds to the difficulty the user will experience in trying to turn the key in the key cylinder when not

authorised to do so.

Figures 7a-7c show sensors 372 and 374 for monitoring the orientation of the gear wheel 354 and key cylinder 340 which is attached or coupled to the gear wheel. The first sensor 372 is an optical sensor arranged for monitoring if the gear wheel 354 is rotated to the position in which the plug of the key cylinder is such that the key cannot be removed. The second sensor 374 is also an optical sensor but is arranged for monitoring if the gear wheel 354 is rotated to the position in which the plug 342 of the key cylinder 340 is such that the key 330 can be removed.

The orientation of keyway 344 that allows release of the key is described herein as the second position or "key available for removal" position. The orientation that retains the key and does not permit removal of the key is described herein as the first position or "key secure" position. In the embodiments shown, the orientation that allows release of the key (second position) is when the keyway 344 is aligned vertically with the keyway at the top of the plug 342. The orientation that retains the key and does not permit removal of the key (first position) is when the keyway 344 is aligned horizontally with the keyway 90 degrees anti-clockwise from the top of the plug 342 as viewed from the front, for example in figure 4. When viewed from the rear as shown in figures 7a-7c, this is 90 degrees clockwise from the vertical top position. Other orientations of plug 342 for the "key secure" and "key available for removal" are possible depending on the orientation of the key cylinder. The angle between the two orientations may be different to the 90 degrees mentioned above. In general there will be many relative orientations at which the key is secured within the key cylinder which may be chosen, but only one or two in which the key is available for release. As shown in figure 7b, first sensor 372 is arranged

horizontally at the right hand side middle position, or 3 o'clock position, corresponding to the second position.

Sensor 372 is an optical sensor which senses the presence or absence of a light beam. Sensor 372 has a U-shaped section with a first arm emitting light toward the second arm. At the second arm the light is detected. Gear wheel 354

comprises a hole 356 passing from front to back. The hole rotates around the axis of the gear wheel as the gear wheel turns. The sensor 372 is aligned to intersect the path of the hole 356. The position of the hole 356 is such as to mirror the orientation of the keyway 344 in the key

cylinder. When the keyway is at the horizontal position at which the key is retained the hole 356 in the gear wheel 354 aligns with the light beam between the two arms of the sensor 372. The sensor 372 detects that the light beam is not broken and sends a signal thereby indicating the

orientation of the gear wheel and keyway 344 of key cylinder 340. When the gear wheel 354 is in any other position the light beam is broken and the sensor 372 does not send a signal. Other sensors may be used that conversely send a signal when the light beam is broken and not when the beam is unbroken, or send different signals when the beam is broken and unbroken.

The second sensor 374 operates in a similar manner to the first sensor 372, except that the second sensor 374 is arranged to detect that the keyway is oriented to allow the key to be removed from the key cylinder. In the embodiments shown this "key available for removal" position or second position is with the keyway 344 aligned vertically at the top, for example at the 12 o'clock position. The second sensor 374 is arranged at a corresponding position. When the keyway 344 and gear wheel 354 are oriented in the vertical top position the hole 356 is also aligned at the vertical top position. At this point the light beam of the second sensor is unbroken and the sensor detects that the gear wheel is at the 12 o'clock position. Again the sensor 374 may send a signal to indicate that the gear wheel is in this position, although alternative signalling arrangements as set out for the first sensor 372 may also be applied to the second sensor 374.

We have described the arrangement in which the hole 356 in the gear wheel 354 is aligned with the orientation of the keyway 344 and plug 342. Other relative alignments are also possible such as to allow more convenient positioning of the sensors . Other methods of monitoring the orientation are also possible. For example, the gear wheel may comprise other types of reference marks that are detected by other means. The reference marks may comprise fingers extending from the wheel that depress switches as they rotate. Alternatively, or in addition, a series of gears may be provided to

relocate the sensing operation away from the key cylinder and motor.

Figure 8 is a block diagram showing three modules 300 connected to a controller 110 and input device 120. As shown in figures 2 and 3 the input device 120 may be an access key pad 102 opening a door or leaf to allow entry into a

cabinet. In other embodiments the cabinet does not include a door or leaf and the key store comprises a panel on which the handles or bows 334 of the keys are accessible.

Operation of the device of figure 8 which comprises a faceplate with a number (for example, three) modules 300 included therein, a controller 110 and an input device will now be described.

Controller 110 is connected to the modules 300 so as to receive signals from the sensors 360, 372 and 374 indicating whether a key is present and its orientation. The controller is also connected to motor 350. The device also receives signals from the input device 120. Optionally the device includes indicators, as set out above, related to each module and key cylinder. The input device monitors for a user providing an input. As set out above, the input device may be a key pad and the user may input a numerical access code. Many alternative input devices could be used, for example, such as magnetic or electronic swipe cards sensors, RFID or biometric sensing. Upon receipt of the code or information from the user identifying the user, the input device passes the code or information to the controller 110. The controller has stored in a memory therein permissions associated with the user or code. The permissions specify which key or keys of all the keys stored the user may be allowed to take. In the case of three keys or key cylinders as shown in figures 4 and 8, for example the controller may determine, based on the

permissions for the user that the user maybe allowed to remove the key at the second position 104b. To allow the user to take the key, the key and/or key cylinder needs to be actuated such that the key is in the "key available for removal" orientation or second position. In figure 4 this is with the key at the vertical position. To achieve this, the controller actuates the motor 350 to drive the worm gear arrangement thereby turning the plug 342 of the key

cylinder. Sensors 372 and 374 monitor the orientation of the gear wheel 354 and provide an indication to the controller when the gear wheel reaches the correct position. For example, sensor 372 detects when the hole in the gear wheel reaches the 12 o'clock position because the light beam of the sensor is now unbroken. Upon detection that the gear wheel has reached the desired orientation, the controller stops the motor to stop rotation of the gear wheel and plug of key cylinder. If an indicator lamp 202 is fitted, at the same time as stopping the motor the controller turns on the indicator lamp to indicate to the user the key that he or she is allowed to remove.

Removal of the key is detected by sensor 360. The controller receives indication that removal of the key has been detected. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to provide key tracking as well as access control. If key tracking is used, the controller may store in its memory a record of which key has been removed by which user. The controller may also record the time and date the key was removed. By storing this information the

controller may be interrogated to ascertain who has taken the key.

After the key has been removed the plug 342 of the key cylinder 340 cannot be rotated and remains at the same position, as shown at 104c in figure 4.

When a user returns with the key he can simply insert the key into the correct key cylinder. In an alternative embodiment the user may be again required to input his access code. Correct entry of his access code results in the indicator lamp of the matching key cylinder 340 illuminating to indicate to the user where to insert the key. If the key store is a cabinet, entry of user's access code may be necessary to open the door to gain access into the cabinet.

After the key has been inserted the sensor 360 is activated indicating to the controller the key has been returned. The controller may record the return of the key and the time and date it is returned. The controller

actuates the motor turning the plug 342 of key cylinder 340 to the desired orientation at which the key is retained, such as shown in figure 4 at 104a.

As mentioned above, it is preferable to have the orientation of the keyway 344 at which the key is available for removable or can be reinserted to be the 12 o'clock position with the keyway vertical and at the top of the plug. This orientation is preferred because it corresponds to a commonly found orientation to which the user will be accustomed. It is also preferable to have the key stored or locked position close to the 12 o'clock position so that it can be quickly rotated to that position when key access is required. Hence, it is preferable to have the key secured position at 3 o'clock rather than for example 6 o'clock so that only 90 degrees of rotation is required. For simplicity after return of the key, rotation of the keyway may continue in the same direction by 270 degrees to return the keyway to the locked position. By continuing the direction of

rotation, the polarity of the motor drive voltage is unchanged. In other embodiments the motor may be driven in reverse turning the keyway back 90 degrees, for example, by reversing the polarity of the motor drive voltage.

In an alternative embodiment, where each user has access to more than one key or even many keys, it may be more important to track which user has which key. In such a case the record of who has which keys becomes more important as does the ability to interrogate the controller to

determine who has taken which key or keys.

In an alternative embodiment, the modules 300 behind the faceplate, such as for cabinet 100 may retain electronic access control but may have manual key rotation. An example of such an alternative module 400 is shown in figure 9.

Similarly to the modules 300 of figures 5, 6 and 7, the module 400 comprises a key cylinder 440 held in cylinder mount 448. Key cylinder 440 comprises plug 442 and keyway

444. Plug 442 is rotatable in key cylinder when the matching key is inserted into keyway 444. The rear of the plug of key cylinder comprises cylinder cam 446, which is rotated with the plug when the matching key is inserted and turned.

To limit rotation of the plug 442 of key cylinder 440 such that access to key is controlled, module 400 comprises an electromechanical device, such as a solenoid 460, which includes at least a part which is arranged to move to block the path of the cylinder cam. In a preferred embodiment solenoid 460 comprises a plunger which moves into the path of the cylinder cam to block its rotation. In general key cylinders upon receipt of a matching key allow full 360° rotation of the plug. To restrict movement of the plug the solenoid plunger engages with the cylinder cam thereby preventing rotation of the plug of key cylinder. The solenoid may be arranged to engage with the cylinder cam when the cam is at the horizontal position. The horizontal position may be 90° from the key release position which is when the key is in the vertical position. In an alternative arrangement the solenoid does not engage directly with the cylinder cam but blocks the path of the key cylinder. As shown in figure 9b cylinder cam is at the 3 o'clock

position. Clockwise from the cam is cam stop 450 which blocks rotation of cam further in the clockwise direction. Cam stop 450 is part of cylinder mount 448. Anti-clockwise from cam is solenoid 460, the plunger of which moves into the path of the cylinder cam to block anticlockwise

movement. Thus, the position of cylinder cam and key when inserted is restrained between the solenoid plunger and cam stop. This position or range of positions approximately corresponds to the 3 o'clock position or horizontal

position. The key release position is the 6 o'clock or vertical position. The key restrained position may be other positions and is not limited to the 3 o'clock or horizontal position .

As mentioned above solenoid is arranged to drive plunger to engage with cylinder cam or to block path of movement of cylinder cam. The solenoid may be arranged such that when energised the plunger moves to block the path of the cam. In this arrangement the plunger may retract when power is lost so as to release the key in the event of an emergency. In an alternative arrangement the plunger may only retract from the path of the cylinder cam when the solenoid is powered. In this arrangement the plunger would continue to block the path of the cylinder cam even when power is lost thereby aiding security and preventing removal of keys when power is lost. In a further arrangement the solenoid may be a latch type solenoid which requires only a small amount of power when the plunger is required to be moved. At other times the plunger is maintained or latched in position by permanent magnets.

In other arrangements key cylinder may retain gear wheel 354 and plunger may engage with teeth of the gear wheel. Alternative shapes to the rear of the plug of the key cylinder are also possible in which the solenoid plunger may engage, however readily available key cylinder comprise a cam such as described above.

In a further arrangement the restraint may also

comprises a latch. The latch may be actuated by the cylinder cam when the key is turned to the first position. The latch may comprise a pivoting latch arm or sliding latch plate which is biased so as to engage the cylinder cam when it reaches the first position. An electromechanical device such as solenoid having a plunger is arranged to operate to push or rotate the latch to move the latch out of the rotation path of the cylinder cam, upon triggering by the controller.

Module 400 may also comprise printed circuit board (PCB) 490 on which control and/or sensor electronics may be located. Release and control of the key, cylinder and restraint may be similar to the key, cylinder and actuator or drive mechanism of the embodiments of figures 2-7. For example, on receipt of an input code from an authorised user, controller may send a trigger to solenoids of one or more selected key cylinders to trigger retraction of plunger and release of key cylinder. The user may turn or rotate the key and remove the key from the key cylinder.

As shown in figure 9, the module 400 may also comprise sensors 472 and 474 for detecting the orientation of the key cylinder, that is, the position of the plug and or cylinder cam of key cylinder. The sensors may be opto switches but other types of sensor may also be used. Similar to the sensors 372 and 374 described above. Sensor 472 is an optical sensor arranged for monitoring if the cylinder cam 446 is rotated to the position in which the plug of the key cylinder is such that the key cannot be removed. The second sensor 474 is also an optical sensor but is arranged for monitoring if the cylinder cam 446 is rotated to the

position in which the plug of the key cylinder 440 is such that the key can be removed.

Sensors 472, 474 are optical sensors which sense the presence or absence of a light beam and have U-shaped sections similar to sensors 372 and 374. Different to sensors 372 and 374, sensors and/or control detect when the light beam crossing the U-section is blocked, indicating the orientation of cylinder cam. When the cam 446 is in the key retained position, the cam blocks the path of light beam across sensor 472, and the sensor sends a signal to

controller indicating the key cylinder is in the retained position. When the cam 446 is in the key release position the cam blocks the path of light beam of sensor 474, and the sensor sends a signal to controller indicating key is in the release position. Other arrangements are possible where the cylinder includes a gear wheel with a hole and the sensors detect the presence of the hole when light is not blocked, as for the above described motorised embodiment.

The above describe sensors require that the range of movement of the cylinder cam, such as in the key restrained position, is such that the cylinder cam interacts with sensor to block light and correctly indicate the position of the key. If too much movement is allowed at the key retained position, the cam may be positioned so as not to block the sensor light beam and the key position will be incorrectly detected.

As for embodiments of figures 2-7, detection of the presence of a key in key cylinder may be provided by use of a plunger 362 and microswitch 360. Indicator lights may also be employed similar to lights 202 of figure 4.

We now describe operation of the module 400 of figure

9. We begin with the key and key cylinder at the position such that the key is secured in the key cylinder, for example, at the horizontal or 3 o'clock position. As mentioned above, at the position movement of the cam is either prevented by engagement with a restraint actuated by the solenoid, or movement is blocked by the restraint and a fixed cam stop. Upon entry of an authorisation code or key card etc, the controller sends a signal to solenoid release plunger to move the restraint from restricting movement of the cylinder cam. The status of indicator light may change indicating the key is ready for removal. The user can now turn or rotate the key to the position in which the key can be removed from the key cylinder. For example, the key cylinder can be rotated to the vertical position and the key removed. This arrangement differs from the embodiment of figures 5-7 because the user has to rotate the key himself rather than the rotation being motorised. When the user wishes to re-insert the key into the key cylinder he may be required to input his authorisation code or card again. Then he can reinsert the key and turn the key in the key cylinder to the secured position. The indicator light may indicate that key cylinder is ready for

reinsertion of the key or may indicate which key cylinder the user is to reinsert his key or keys. The user inserts his key into the key cylinder and turns the key to the key secured position. If fitted, sensor 472 may detect cylinder cam 446 has moved to the secured position and the controller may actuate solenoid so as to block or prevent movement of cylinder cam. The key is then restrained in the key cylinder again. If sensor 472 is not fitted, the controller may release solenoid for a specified length of time, say 10 seconds, and the reactivate solenoid. The user has this time to turn key to the secured position from the time at which he enters his authorisation code.

The cabinet, vault or wall plate shown in figures 2-4 may comprise manual modules 400, motor driven modules 300, or a combination of the two. For example, some keys and key cylinders may be incompatible with motor drive so to incorporate these into the secure key store requires non- motor driven modules 400. The person skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and alterations may be made to the above described methods and apparatus without departing from the scope of the appended claims. For example,

different types of key cylinders, drive mechanisms and sensors may be used. The number of keys stored may vary from a few to tens or even hundreds. In one embodiment only one key is stored but multiple users having different input authorisation codes have access to the key. In this embodiment the invention relates

tracking which user has the key solely rather than

controlling which users can access which keys.

In any of the embodiments the key store may be a panel, vault, or cabinet, in which the drive mechanism, sensors and all but the front face of the key cylinder are hidden and inaccessible to the user,

Claims

CLAIMS :

1. A secure key store for a plurality of keys, comprising: a plurality of key cylinders, each key cylinder

corresponding to one of the plurality of keys;

each key cylinder having a drive mechanism for

actuation of the key or key cylinder between a first

position in which the key is secured in the key cylinder and a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder,

each of said drive mechanisms adapted to receive a trigger for actuation from a controller.

2. The secure key store of claim 1, further comprising the controller, wherein the controller is adapted to provide selective access to one or more of the plurality of keys upon receipt of a corresponding input, said selective access provided by actuation of drive mechanisms of the key

cylinders of the respective selected key or keys.

3. The secure key store of claim 2, wherein the

corresponding input is provided by at least one of a key code, a key card, or a physical key.

4. The secure key store of claim 2 or 3, wherein the controller is adapted to provide selective access to each of a plurality of different sets of one or more of the keys upon receipt of an input corresponding to that set.

5. The secure key store of claim 4, wherein each of a plurality of the inputs is associated with a different user.

6. The secure key store of any of claims 2 to 5, further comprising indicators corresponding to the key cylinders for indicating the selected key or keys.

7. The secure key store of claim 6, wherein the indicators illuminate to indicate key or keys available.

8. The secure key store of any preceding claim, wherein each key cylinder has a keyway for receiving a key blade such that the key blade is inaccessible to a user when the key or key cylinder is at the first position.

9. The secure key store of any preceding claim, wherein each drive mechanism comprises a key sensor arranged to detect the presence or absence of a key in the key cylinder.

10. The secure key store of any preceding claim, wherein each drive mechanism comprises one or more orientation sensors to detect the orientation of the key in the key cylinder.

11. The secure key store of claim 10, wherein the one or more orientation sensors to detect the orientation of the key in the key cylinder comprise a first sensor for

detecting the key is at the first position and a second sensor for detecting the key is at the second position.

12. The secure key store of any preceding claim, wherein each drive mechanism comprises a motor arranged to drive rotation of the plug of the key cylinder, the plug having a keyway for receiving the key in the key cylinder.

13. The secure key store of claim 12, wherein the motor drives rotation of the plug of the key cylinder through a worm drive gear arrangement.

14. The secure key store of claim 13, wherein the motor drives a worm screw of the worm gear arrangement, which in turn drives a gear wheel of the worm gear arrangement, said gear wheel turning the plug of the key cylinder.

15. The secure key store of any of claims 12 to 14, wherein each drive mechanism and/or key cylinder plug comprises a reference mark for determining the rotational orientation of the plug of the key cylinder.

16. The secure key store of any preceding claim, wherein the one or more key cylinders and corresponding drive mechanisms are arranged in a cabinet accessible by a user upon authorisation.

17. The secure key store of claim 16 when dependent on at least claim 2, wherein the user authorisation is said input corresponding to selected key or keys.

18. The secure key store of claim 3 or 16, wherein the controller is coupled to a key pad or card swipe system for receiving a user's input.

19. A secure key store for one or more keys, comprising: one or more key cylinders, each key cylinder

corresponding to one of the one or more keys;

each key cylinder having a motorised drive mechanism for actuation of the key or key cylinder between a first position in which the key is secured in the key cylinder and a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder,

each of said drive mechanisms further comprising sensors arranged to determine if the respective key or key cylinder is at the first or second position.

20. A secure key store for a plurality of keys, comprising: a plurality of key cylinders, each key cylinder

corresponding to one of the plurality of keys;

each key cylinder having a restraint for locking the key or key cylinder at a first position, or within a first range of positions, in which the key is secured in the key cylinder, and upon release of the restraint the key cylinder is movable to a second position in which the key is

removable from the key cylinder,

each of said restraints adapted to be triggered by a controller for release of the key cylinder.

21. The secure key store of claim 20, further comprising the controller, wherein the controller is adapted to provide selective access to one or more of the plurality of keys upon receipt of a corresponding input, said selective access provided by release of the restraints of the key cylinders of the respective selected key or keys.

22. The secure key store of claim 21, wherein the

23. The secure key store of claim 21 or 22, wherein the controller is adapted to provide selective access to each of a plurality of different sets of one or more of the keys upon receipt of an input corresponding to that set.

24. The secure key store of claim 23, wherein each of a plurality of the inputs is associated with a different user.

25. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 24, further comprising indicators corresponding to the key cylinders for indicating the selected key or keys.

26. The secure key store of claim 25, wherein the

indicators illuminate to indicate key or keys available.

27. The secure key store of claims 20 to 26, wherein each key cylinder has a keyway for receiving a key blade such that the key blade is inaccessible to a user when the key or key cylinder is at the first position.

28. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 27, further comprising key sensors arranged to detect the presence or absence of a key in each key cylinder.

29. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 28, further comprising one or more orientation sensors to detect the orientation of the key in the key cylinder.

30. The secure key store of claim 29, wherein the one or more orientation sensors to detect the orientation of the key in the key cylinder comprise a first sensor for

31. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 30, wherein each restraint is arranged to prevent rotation of a plug of the key cylinder, the plug having a keyway for receiving the key in the key cylinder.

32. The secure key store of claim 31, wherein upon release of the restraint the plug is moveable to the second position by a user.

33. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 32, wherein the restraint comprises an electromechanical device and the key cylinder comprises a cylinder cam for rotation by the key, the electromechanical device arranged to prevent movement of the cylinder cam to lock the key or cylinder at the first position.

34. The secure key store of claim 33, wherein the

electromechanical device is a solenoid.

35. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 34, wherein the restraint is arranged to move to lock the key or key cylinder at the first position or first range of positions, when the key is turned and pushes against a latch of the restraint .

36. The secure key store of claim 35, wherein the latch is released by an electromechanical device upon trigger by a controller .

37. The secure key store of any of claims 20 to 36, wherein the one or more key cylinders and corresponding restraints are arranged in a cabinet accessible by a user upon

authorisation .

38. The secure key store of claim 37 when dependent on at least claim 21, wherein the user authorisation is said input corresponding to selected key or keys.

39. The secure key store of claim 22 or 37, wherein the controller is coupled to a key pad or card swipe system for receiving a user's input.

40. A method of providing access to one or more keys of a plurality of keys stored in a secure key store, the method comprising :

receiving an input;

verifying the input and determining one or more

designated keys associated with the input; and

actuating drive mechanisms for the one or more

designated keys to move the key or key cylinder to a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, while retaining all non-designated keys or key cylinders at a first position in which the key or keys are secured in the key cylinder.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising upon reinsertion of the designated one or more designated key or keys in their respective key cylinders, actuating the drive mechanism for the one or more designated keys to move the key or key cylinder to the first position in which the keys are secured in the key cylinders.

42. The method of claim 40 or 41, further comprising illuminating one or more indicators associated with the designated key or keys to indicate to which of the plurality of keys is available for removal.

43. The method of claim any of claims 40 to 42, wherein the secure key store comprises a cabinet having a door or leaf, release for opening of the door or leaf is controlled by a controller such that the door or leaf is opened upon

verification of an input.

44. The method of any of claims 40 to 43, wherein the input is provided by at least one of a key code, a key card, or a physical key.

45. A method of providing access to one or more keys of a plurality of keys stored in a secure key store, the method comprising :

receiving an input;

verifying the input and determining one or more

designated keys associated with the input; and

releasing restraints for the one or more designated keys such that the key or key cylinder is movable to a second position in which the key is removable from the cylinder, while restraining all non-designated keys or key cylinders locked at a first position, or first range of positions, in which the key or keys are secured in the key cylinder .

46. The method of claim 45, further comprising upon reinsertion of the designated one or more designated key or keys in their respective key cylinders, and after rotation to the first position trigger the restraint or restraints to lock the key or key cylinder at the first position, or first range of positions, in which the keys are secured in the key cylinders .

47. The method of claim 46, wherein the restraint is triggered by a mechanical latch, or an electrical sensor, detecting movement of the key or key cylinder to the first position or range of positions.

48. The method of claim any of claims 45 to 47, further comprising illuminating one or more indicators associated with the designated key or keys to indicate to which of the plurality of keys is available for removal.

49. The method of claim any of claims 45 to 48, wherein the secure key store comprises a cabinet having a door or leaf, release for opening of the door or leaf is controlled by a controller such that the door or leaf is opened upon

verification of an input.

50. The method of any of claims 45 to 49, wherein the input is provided by at least one of a key code, a key card, or a physical key.