Vending machines with field-programmable electronic locks

Abstract

A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key. The electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. Using the learning process activation device, a service person activates the electronic lock to perform a key code learning operation, in which the electronic lock receives a key code transmitted from an electronic key and stores the key code in a non-volatile memory for future access control of the vending machine. Data encryption is employed in the communications between the key and the lock to ensure the security of the communications. A communication device installed in the vending machine for communicating with a home base computer allows the operation of the electronic lock to be remotely controlled for access control and auditing purposes.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 997,500, filed Nov. 24, 2004, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 329,626, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,900,720, which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60 / 344,221, filed Dec. 27, 2001. [0002] This application is also related to a co-filed U.S. patent application Serial No. ______, filed on Oct. 19, 2006, having attorney docket number MET-061210, and entitled VENDING MACHINES WITH FIELD-PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC LOCKS.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0003] This invention relates generally to vending machines, and more particularly to vending machines equipped with electronic locks. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0004] Vending machines are widely used in various locations as automated means for selling items such as soft drinks, snacks, etc. Traditional vending machines are equipped with mechanical locks, which can be unlocked with a correspondi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] The key-learning process in accordance with the invention allows electronic locks in vending machines to be easily and inexpensively programmed in the field. Thus, the electronic locks do not have to be manufactured with pre-defined permanent key codes and are not tied to any specific electronic keys for field use. There is no need to replace any physical part of the electronic lock in this key-learning process to learn a new key code and / or replacing an old key code. In contrast, mechanical locks conventionally used on vending machines have lock cores that have to be manufactured for specific keys, and once manufactured the lock cores cannot be changed. If the mechanical key is lost, the entire lock cores have to be replaced. More than one electronic key can possess a given keycode. The electronic lock on a vending machine can allow more than one keycode to be learned into the lock and used to access the lock.

[0009] The use of the field-programmable electronic locks for vending machines provides an effective way to reduce theft and fraud in terms of unauthorized access to the machines. The electronic keys provide a greater level of key security compared to mechanical keys, as they cannot be copied as easily as conventional mechanical keys. The use of non-contact wireless data communication between the key and the lock prevents breeches of security associated with vandals measuring key cuts, copying keys and picking locks. The use of data encryption in the wireless communications between the key and the lock prevents the key code from being copied by electronic monitoring and eavesdropping. The data transmission between the key and lock may be implemented in the infrared range to provide close-proximity highly directional communication of secure codes to further prevent eavesdropping of the security codes and to prevent accidental unlocking of locks.

[0010] The use of programmable electronic locks on vending machines and the associated electronic keys also provides advantages in terms of significant reduction in the costs associated with managing the distribution of the keys for unlocking the machines and the monitoring of the usage of the keys. Key IDs in addition to the key codes used in accessing the lock may be used to distinguish keys having the same key codes. Customized access limitations may be programmed by a supervisor into the electronic keys to restrict when and how they can be used to access the vending machines. Each key may also be programmed with a specific list of lock IDs identifying the electronic locks oh vending machines that the key is allowed to unlock.

Problems solved by technology

In contrast, mechanical locks conventionally used on vending machines have lock cores that have to be manufactured for specific keys, and once manufactured the lock cores cannot be changed.

If the mechanical key is lost, the entire lock cores have to be replaced.

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