Meridian Incorporated

Edward L Warren

James Arter

David E Miller

Gregory Pipe

An electronic interlock for locking a file cabinet (10, 100) and for limiting the number of drawers (14, 114) to be accessed at any given time. An input keyboard (20, 120) receives an input code to be compared with a prestored access code. If the codes do not match, an unlock signal is not produced. If the input code matches the access code, a processor (28, 148) renders the storage assembly (10, 110) accessible. The processor (28, 128) will receive a drawer selection number from the input keyboard (20, 120) user and will unlock a lock (16, 116) associated with the selected drawer (14, 114). Sensors (34, 134) sense the position of the drawers (14, 114) and disable the processor (28, 128) when one of the drawers (14, 114) is in the open position.

Electronic interlock for storage assemblies

Electronic interlock for storage assemblies with communication

A removable programming unit (11) is connectable to a controller (40) of an electronic locking system (12) of a storage assembly (14) via a telephone cord (38). The removable programming unit (11) comprises a display (52) and a keyboard (54). Through the removable programming unit (11): new access codes used to gain access to the storage assembly (14) may be programmed into the electronic lock; existing access codes may be modified as to which storage units (18) may be accessed; or existing access codes may be deleted. All existing access codes are stored in the memory (92) of the controller (40). The removable programming unit (11) receives 12 V DC from the connection to the electronic lock (12) via an individual wire of the telephone cord (38).

Removable file programming unit

A cam (103) and follower (107) are used to move a file cabinet drawer (114) out of the closed position toward the open position. The cam (103) is rotated by a motor (113) via a shaft (123) wherein the cam surface (115) translates the rotational motion of the shaft (123) into the linear movement of the follower (107). The follower (107) is attached to the side of the file cabinet drawer (114) and moves the file cabinet drawer (114) forward enough so a user may open the file cabinet drawer without using handles. A hook (129) is connected to the cam (103) through a flexible stem (131) and locks the follower (107) in place disallowing unauthorized access to the file cabinet drawer (114). The hook (129) rotates along with the cam (103) to unlock the file cabinet drawer (114) when it has been selected for opening. The follower (107) is forced under the hook (129), which will flex at the flexible stem (131), when the file cabinet drawer (114) is returned to the closed position. A controller (110) receives inputs, through a keyboard (141) and determines which file cabinet drawer (114) has been selected to be opened.

Growing community of inventors

Spring Lake, MI, United States of America

Edward L Warren