U.S. patent application number 11/057621 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-24 for apparatus and method for user control of appliances.
Invention is credited to Matthews, F. Maury, Muller, J. Joseph, Wootton, John R..
Application Number | 20050257411 11/057621 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26921608 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050257411 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wootton, John R. ; et
al. |
November 24, 2005 |
Apparatus and method for user control of appliances
Abstract
Apparatus and a method of controlling operation of a wide
variety of appliances so the appliance can only be used by an
authorized individual, and then only under certain specified
conditions. The apparatus and method provide safe use of the
appliance since presumably the person authorized to use the
appliance is trained in its use, and where circumstances warrant,
knows how to use the appliance safely. It is a particular advantage
of the invention to prevent unsafe use of the appliance, even by an
authorized user.
Inventors: |
Wootton, John R.; (Saint
Louis, MO) ; Matthews, F. Maury; (Saint Louis,
MO) ; Muller, J. Joseph; (Saint Louis, MO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
POLSTER, LIEDER, WOODRUFF & LUCCHESI
12412 POWERSCOURT DRIVE SUITE 200
ST. LOUIS
MO
63131-3615
US
|
Family ID: |
26921608 |
Appl. No.: |
11/057621 |
Filed: |
February 14, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11057621 |
Feb 14, 2005 |
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09931499 |
Aug 16, 2001 |
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6856238 |
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60227623 |
Aug 18, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
42/70.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F41A 17/063
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
042/070.01 |
International
Class: |
F41A 017/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for limiting usage of an associated appliance to an
authorized user, comprising: a regulating means configured to
regulate operation of the associated appliance; at least one
authorizing unit associated with an authorized user, said
authorizing unit configured to transmit a signal representative of
a unique message; wherein said regulating means is further
configured to receive said signal; wherein said regulating means is
further configured to calculate a differential strength of said
signal to identify a spatial relationship of said at least one
authorizing unit relative to said regulating means; and wherein
said regulating means is further configured to enable the
associated appliance only in response to said unique message
corresponding to a predetermined message and said identified
spatial relationship establishing a presence of said at least one
authorizing unit within a predetermined spatial relationship to
said associated appliance.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 where said regulating means is further
configured to active the associated appliance for a predetermined
period of time in response to said unique message corresponding to
said predetermined message and said identified spatial relationship
establishing a presence of said at least one authorizing unit
within said predetermined spatial relationship.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said regulating means is
further configured to disable the associated appliance responsive
to receipt of a predetermined disabling command transmission.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said regulating means is
further configured to disable the associated appliance responsive
to a calculated differential signal strength of a subsequent signal
from said at least one authorizing unit establishing a presence of
said at least one authorizing unit outside to said predetermined
spatial relationship.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said regulating means is
further configured to periodically emit a signal representative of
a unique interrogation message; and wherein said at least one
authorizing unit is configured to receive said signal
representative of said unique interrogation message and to emit
said signal representative of said unique message responsive to a
received unique interrogation message corresponding to a
predetermined interrogation message.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said associated appliance is a
firearm; and wherein said regulating means is operatively coupled
to said firearm to inhibit discharge of said firearm in a first
state, and to permit discharge of said firearm in a second state
responsive to said unique message corresponding to a predetermined
message and said identified spatial relationship establishing a
presence of said at least one authorizing unit within said
predetermined spatial relationship.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said firearm includes a barrel
having a muzzle defining a discharge axis and a discharge
direction; and wherein said predetermined spatial relationship
includes a limited spatial volume disposed about said discharge
axis for a predetermined distance opposite said discharge direction
from said firearm muzzle.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said regulating means further
includes a first antenna having a first signal detection region and
a second antenna having a second signal detection region; and
wherein an intersection of said first and second signal detection
regions defines said predetermined spatial relationship, and said
regulating means being configured to calculate said differential
signal strength utilizing a signal received at said first antenna
and a signal received at said second antenna.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said second antenna is a
directionally sensitive antenna configured with a gain of at least
3 dB in the horizontal plane.
10. The apparatus of claim 8 further including a third antenna,
said third antenna a directionally sensitive antenna having a third
signal detection region which is pointed in a different direction
than said second signal detection region.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 in which said third antenna has a
range of coverage in the horizontal plane narrower than that of
said second antenna.
12. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said regulating means is
configured to disable the associated appliance even though an
appropriate response signal directed to the interrogation means is
received by from the second antenna, if another appropriate
response signal directed to said regulating means is received by
said third antenna.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein said regulating means is
configured to enable the associated appliance when an appropriate
response signal is no longer received by said third antenna but an
appropriate response signal continues to be received by said second
antenna.
14. The apparatus of claim 1 further including recording means
recording usage information associated with activation of the
associated appliance.
15. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein said regulating means is
configured to enable access to said recorded usage information
responsive to receipt of a predetermined interrogation code
transmission.
16. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said associated appliance is a
computerized device; and wherein said regulating means is
operatively coupled to said computerized device to secure said
computerized device in a first state, and to permit usage of said
computerized device in a second state responsive to said unique
message corresponding to a predetermined message and said
identified spatial relationship establishing a presence of said at
least one authorizing unit within said predetermined spatial
relationship.
17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein said computerized device
includes a display having a viewing axis; and wherein said
predetermined spatial relationship includes a limited spatial
volume disposed about said viewing axis.
18. A method for limiting usage of an appliance to at least one
authorized user, comprising: regulating activation of the appliance
from a deactivated state with an electronic control unit having
first and second signal receivers; emitting a signal representative
of a unique message from an at least one authorizing unit;
receiving said signal at said first and second signal receivers;
calculating a differential strength of said signal received at said
first and second signal receivers; identifying a spatial
relationship between said at least one authorizing unit emitting
said signal and said electronic control unit; and responsive to
said identified spatial relationship establishing a presence of
said at least one authorizing unit within a predetermined limited
spatial volume relative to said electronic unit, and to said unique
message corresponding to a predetermined message, activating the
appliance for a predetermined interval.
19. The method of claim 18 further including periodically repeating
said steps of emitting, receiving, identifying, and activating.
20. The method of claim 18 further including the step of
deactivating the appliance responsive to said identified spatial
relationship establishing a presence of said at least one
authorizing unit external to a predetermined limited spatial volume
relative to said electronic unit.
21. The method of claim 18 further including the step of
deactivating the appliance responsive to said unique message not
corresponding to a predetermined message.
22. The method of claim 18 further including the step of recording
usage information associated with an authorizing unit upon
activation of the appliance, said usage information including at
least an identification of said authorizing unit and a time of
activation of the appliance.
23. Apparatus for use with an appliance to enable usage of the
appliance by at least one authorized user, comprising: an
interrogation means and an authorizing means, one of which is
associated with the appliance to be used and the other of which
with a person authorized to use the appliance, the interrogation
means providing an interrogation signal to the authorizing means,
the authorizing means providing a response signal in reply to the
interrogation signal, and the interrogation means enabling the
appliance for use by the person only if the response signal is an
appropriate response and if the response signal is directed to the
interrogation means from within a predetermined spatial region;
said interrogation means including a first antenna by which the
interrogation signal is transmitted and a second antenna through
which the response signal is received; and, a third antenna aligned
in a different direction than said second antenna, the authorizing
means disabling operation of the appliance for so long as a
response signal is received from said third antenna.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/931,499, filed on Aug. 16, 2001,
from which priority is claimed and which claimed priority from U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/227,623 filed on Aug. 18, 2000,
both of which are herein incorporated by reference.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH
[0002] Not Applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates to access control, and more
particularly to user control of appliances. The appliances include
a wide range of appliances such as personal computers, firearms
including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and other armaments, as well
as other user controlled devices. An apparatus and method of the
present invention facilitate usage of an appliance only by an
authorized user or users. A particular example of the invention
described herein relates to firearm safety by which only someone
authorized to use a firearm can fire the weapon, and then only when
that authorized person is in a preferred position (i.e., behind)
with respect to the weapon. Further, the act of firing the weapon
(or usage of the appliance) is recorded so data is subsequently
available as to who fired the weapon and when it was fired. With
respect to other appliances, the recorded information would
indicate who used the appliance and when.
[0004] Referring to FIG. 1 of the drawings, in the prior art,
access control is a method or procedure by which entry into a
facility F (whether it be a building or a portion thereof) can be
limited only to persons authorized to have access. There are a
number of conventional access control methods, one of which is
referred to as radio frequency identification (RFID). Basically
operation of an RFID system is such that a person P authorized for
entry into the facility is given a badge ("tag") which includes a
transmitter transmitting a radio-frequency signal of a given
frequency. The signal is encoded. A radio-frequency receiver R is
located at an entry E of the facility. As the person approaches the
facility, the receiver receives the signal transmitted by the
badge. If the signal is the proper one, the person enters the
facility unimpeded. An unauthorized person is however blocked from
entry.
[0005] An advantage of this type access control system is that it
is transparent to the authorized person since he or she has to do
nothing other than approach the entry, while a barrier is otherwise
imposed to block entry of an unauthorized person. Other RFID
systems include toll roads where a subscriber is given a RFID tag
to place in their car. As the car approaches a prescribed gate at a
toll station, the radio-frequency signal transmitted by the tag is
received by a receiver at the gate and the vehicle is allowed to
pass unimpeded through the gate. If an unauthorized person drives
through the gate, an alarm is given. RFID tags are also placed, for
example, on inventory items in warehouses so movement of
merchandise can be automatically tracked as the merchandise is
moved into and out of the warehouse.
[0006] In certain access control situations, as described herein,
it may not be sufficient, or even inappropriate, that someone has
access to an appliance. This is particularly so where use of the
appliance (a firearm) by an unauthorized person (a child) can be
harmful to that person or others, or where use of the appliance by
unauthorized person can have other detrimental effects (access to a
personal computer or automobile by one not supposed to be using it,
for example).
[0007] Firearm safety is currently a major health issue. There are
constant reports of children coming across a firearm kept in their
home with tragic results. Stolen firearms are often used in the
commission of crimes. Law enforcement records indicate that the
vast majority of police and other law enforcement officers are
killed with their own weapons taken from them by a criminal.
Currently, a number of lawsuits have been filed against firearm
manufacturers because of the relatively large number of people
killed or injured due to weapons (particularly firearms)
accidentally discharged. In some locales there are now programs to
distribute firearm locks to firearm owners, and some firearm's
manufacturers now provide firearm locks with each weapon they
sell.
[0008] Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, different types of prior art
firearm locks are shown. In FIG. 4A, a mechanical combination lock
102 is mounted on the grip 104 of pistol 100. To use the weapon,
the operator must enter a multi-digit code and turn a manual safety
knob. This disengages a locking lever which otherwise blocks
operation of the firearm's firing mechanism.
[0009] In FIG. 2B, an electro-mechanical lock 106 has an associated
motor which blocks the firing mechanism of the weapon. The lock
provides a series of operating modes including unlocked and ready,
locked and secure, and time delay locked and secure. Again an
operator must enter a multi-digit code to enable the weapon.
[0010] In FIG. 2C, a magnet 108 installed in the firearm blocks its
firing mechanism. A potential user must wear a special ring 110 on
one of his fingers, the ring also containing a magnet. By properly
orienting the magnets, when ring 110 is brought into proximity with
pistol 100, the internal magnet 108 is pulled away from its
blocking position allowing the weapon to be used.
[0011] In FIG. 2D, another prior art approach includes an
attachment 112 incorporating a fingerprint scanner 114 and which
attaches to handle 104 of the weapon. An electronic circuit
installed in the weapon disables it from being fired. When the
firearm is to be used, the user places the pad of his finger
against scanner 114 which obtains an image of his fingerprint. If
the scanned image compares with an image stored in the memory, the
circuit enables the weapon to be fired.
[0012] Another prior art approach is a radio-frequency controlled
weapon shown in FIG. 2E that includes a transponder 116 installed
in a cuff 118 worn by the user on his wrist. A transmitter/receiver
mounted in the weapon sends out signals. If the transponder is in
proximity of the weapon, a reply signal sent by the transponder
back to the weapon enables it for firing.
[0013] While each of these previous approaches has certain
advantages, each also has disadvantages with respect to
implementation, use, cost, and effectiveness. The most significant
disadvantages, however, is with regard to safety. It has been
shown, for example, that certain types of locks installed on
weapons can be circumvented and the weapon fired with the lock
still in place. A magnetic ring can be easily duplicated. In the
case of a person wearing the transponder cuff and having his weapon
taken away from him, if he is still close enough to the weapon, as
would occur if he were struggling over the firearm with an
assailant, the weapon will still be enabled and can be used to
injure or kill him.
[0014] The firearm safety method described herein employs
radio-frequency techniques combined with a directional control
capability. It is particularly effective in controlling the use of
firearms and is especially worthwhile for use by police and law
enforcement officers so to eliminate incidents of harm to these
individuals.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] Among the several objects of the present invention may be
noted the apparatus and a method of controlling operation of a wide
variety of appliances so the appliance can only be used by an
authorized individual, and then only under certain specified
conditions. The apparatus and method provide safe use of the
appliance since presumably the person authorized to use the
appliance is trained in its use, and where circumstances warrant,
knows how to use the appliance safely. It is a particular advantage
of the invention to prevent unsafe use of the appliance, even by an
authorized user.
[0016] The apparatus and method of the invention are, in one
application, used for firearm safety. The apparatus, when used with
a firearm enables an authorized user to enable (authorize) the
firearm, so it can be used while the person is on duty. Most
importantly, the apparatus and method of the invention only enables
the weapon to be fired when the authorized user is in a preferred
spatial position with respect to the weapon; i.e., behind the
firearm with the discharge muzzle pointed away from the authorized
user. Thus, even if the firearm is taken away from the authorized
user, and the authorized user remains in close proximity, the
firearm cannot be used against the authorized user.
[0017] Another feature of the invention is that more than one
individual can be authorized to use the same appliance. In law
enforcement or military scenarios, this means one person can use a
firearm configured with an apparatus of the present invention
during one interval, and another person may use the firearm at
another time.
[0018] A further feature of the invention is the use of encoded
transmissions between the appliance and the authorized user. A
coding scheme is employed which prevents spoofing so that an
unauthorized user cannot authorize the appliance.
[0019] A method of the invention requires continuous, periodic
re-authorization to maintain the appliance in an authorized state.
The encoding of the signals sent back and forth between the
appliance and authorized user is constantly changed to prevent
tampering, or unauthorized use or duplication.
[0020] A further feature of the invention is that authorization of
the appliance can be overridden in certain circumstances. For
example, authorization to activate a firearm may be overridden in a
schoolroom or courthouse.
[0021] Another provision of the invention is an apparatus and
method in which a record of use of the appliance is maintained
including information as to who was using the appliance at any
particular time. The information is then readily accessible to one
subsequently interrogating the appliance using a different code
than that by which the appliance is authorized for use.
[0022] It is also a feature of the invention that the apparatus and
method can be implemented as an original equipment (O.E.) feature,
or can be retrofitted to an existing appliance.
[0023] Finally, it is a provision of the apparatus and method to be
a reliable and relatively low cost safety and user control feature.
One portion of the apparatus is easily incorporated into a weapon,
personal computer, automobile, etc., with another portion
incorporated into a badge, driver's license, or other device
carried by the authorized user.
[0024] In accordance with the invention, generally stated in one
embodiment an apparatus and method of the present invention render
a weapon incapable of use unless authorized by a specified
individual in proximity to the weapon. More than one person may be
authorized to use the weapon, however only one person may be
authorized to use it at any one time. Each authorized person
carries a badge or other device which includes a radio-frequency
transmitter capable of transmitting a coded signal to a receiver
installed in the weapon in response to a coded query from a unit
installed in the weapon. If a properly coded transmission is
received by the weapon, and from within a predetermined limited
spatial position relative to the firearm, it becomes capable of
being fired by the person who authorized its use. However, the
weapon will not fire unless the person using the weapon is also
standing behind the weapon. This prevents the weapon from being
turned on the person authorized to use it. A memory internal to the
weapon retains a record of who is using the weapon at a given time,
but if the weapon is discharged, how many times, when, and
where.
[0025] Besides firearms, the apparatus and method of the invention
are readily incorporated into other appliances whose use is to be
controlled and/or which it is important to operate in a safe
manner. Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in
part pointed out hereinafter.
[0026] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of
the invention as well as presently preferred embodiments thereof
will become more apparent from the reading of the following
description in connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] In the accompanying drawings which form part of the
specification:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a simplified representation of a prior art access
control system using RFID; and,
[0029] FIGS. 2A-2E are simplified representations of prior art
firearm safety technologies;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the firearm safety mechanism of
the invention;
[0031] FIG. 4 illustrates a directional control capability by which
a weapon can be discharged only when in a specified relationship to
an authorized user of the weapon;
[0032] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate use of the apparatus and method of
the invention in controlling use of a firearm;
[0033] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an alternate embodiment of the
present invention adapted for use on computerized devices;
[0034] FIG. 7 illustrates spatial relationships of antenna gain
patterns and a computerized device defining an spatial region
within which an authorized user must be present to activate the
computerized device; and
[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the invention for use
with firearms.
[0036] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding
parts throughout the several figures of the drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0037] The following detailed description illustrates the invention
by way of example and not by way of limitation. The description
clearly enables one skilled in the art to make and use the
invention, describes several embodiments, adaptations, variations,
alternatives, and uses of the invention, including what is
presently believed to be the best mode of carrying out the
invention.
[0038] Referring to the drawings, and to FIG. 3 in particular, an
apparatus of the present invention for providing user control of an
appliance is indicated generally 10. A representative embodiment of
the apparatus and method of the invention adapted for use as a
firearm safety mechanism is described with respect to FIGS. 3, 4,
and 5A-5C.
[0039] As now described, a key feature of the apparatus is the
communication and cooperation between a regulating means such as an
electronic unit EU contained within a firearm 12, and a separate,
authorizing unit AU carried by an "authorized user" of the firearm.
The authorizing unit is, for example, is incorporated into a badge
14 worn by a policeman when on duty. Electronic unit EU, which is
mounted or otherwise installed within firearm 12, first includes an
electronic message generator EMG. Generator EMG generates a
uniquely coded waveform which, as shown in FIG. 3, is transmitted
by a transmitter TEU as a radio-frequency signal to authorizing
unit AU to interrogate the authorizing unit. As further discussed
hereinafter, apparatus 10 allows for more than one authorized user
of the weapon.
[0040] Accordingly, the message embodied in the transmitted coded
waveform can authorize more than one authorizing unit AU. However,
the message will authorize only those authorizing units which are
complementary to the particular apparatus.
[0041] Upon receipt of an interrogation message by a receiver RAU
of an authorizing unit AU, the message is decoded by a decoding
electronics section DAU of the authorizing unit. The decoded
message is then compared in a comparator COMP with a message
previously stored in a memory MAU within the authorizing unit to
determine if this particular authorizing unit AU is one authorized
for use with this particular firearm 12. If it is, then a reply
message generator RMG of the authorizing unit generates a reply
message which also comprises a uniquely coded waveform. This reply
message is then transmitted by a transmitter TAU as an
radio-frequency signal back to electronics unit EU within firearm
12.
[0042] A reply message receiver REU within electronics unit EU
receives the message and provides it to decoder electronics section
DEU within the electronics unit. Decoder DEU decodes the reply
signal. An output signal AS from decoder DEU, verifying that an
authorized user of the weapon has responded to the query from the
electronics unit, is now used to activate the weapon.
[0043] An important aspect of the method and apparatus of the
invention is that more than one person can use the weapon. In a
police or military environment, this means that one officer (or
soldier) can use the weapon during one shift (tour of duty), and
another officer (soldier) during another shift (or tour). Since
there can be more than one authorized user for a given weapon, each
authorizing unit AU includes a unique code within the reply message
identifying which authorized user (police officer or soldier) is
replying to the interrogation message. This information is stored
within a memory MEU of electronics unit EU so a record is made as
to which authorized user is controlling the weapon at a given
time.
[0044] Referring to FIG. 4, receiver REU includes two separate
antennas; a first antenna A1, and a second antenna A2. Antenna A2
preferably has a gain of 3 dB in the horizontal plane, sufficient
to provide approximately 180.degree. of coverage in the horizontal
plane, i.e., it provides directional sensitivity. Antenna A2 is set
up such that its principal axis is in the plane of a firearm barrel
16, but is aligned backwards, away from the discharge direction of
the firearm. The pattern of antenna A2 shown in FIG. 4 is for the
horizontal plane. In the vertical plane, both antennas A1 and A2
preferably have 0 dB of gain.
[0045] Differencing the signals received at antennas A1 and A2
(A2-A1) and accepting only positive signals, ensures that only
signals originating behind a plane BC of the firearm authorize
operation of the firearm. By way of example, a signal S, from the
right of plane BC, results in (S1.times.gain of A2)-(S1.times.gain
of A1)=(S1.times.0)-(S1.times.1)=-S1- . This is a negative signal.
On the other hand, a signal S2 from the left of the plane BC
results in (S2.times.gain of A2)-(S2.times.gain of
A1)=(S2.times.2)-(S2.times.1)=S2. This is a positive signal.
Further, this positive signal is measured against a threshold such
that authorizing unit AU not only has to be behind plane BC, but
also within a certain distance of firearm 12 in order to authorize
use of the weapon. The combined limited position relative to the
firearm 12 and distance from the firearm 12 define a spatial region
within which an authorized user of the firearm 12 or appliance must
be located to authorize the operation of the firearm 12 or
apparatus.
[0046] Upon receipt of a positive signal at receiver REU, the
signal is decoded. If the decoded signal is from an appropriate
authorizing unit AU, the decoder sends a message to a control unit
CEU of the electronics unit. Upon receipt of this signal, the
control unit deactivates a firearm restraint unit GRU which is
interconnected with the firing mechanism of the weapon.
Deactivating the firearm restraint unit frees the firearm to fire.
However, as discussed hereinafter, this is a controlled feature of
the invention and the weapon must be re-authorized at predetermined
intervals or else it will again be rendered unusable.
[0047] Since the firearm 12 or other appliance is normally
maintained in a deactivated or restricted-use state prior to
receipt of an appropriate authorizing signal from within a
predetermined spatial volume, the apparatus 10 of the present
invention is resistant to radio-frequency interference or jamming
of the signals from the authorizing units AU. If a signal from an
authorizing unit AU is jammed or corrupted by jamming or
interference, the electronics unit EU will maintain the firearm or
apparatus in the deactivated or restricted-use state until a clear
and proper signal is received from an authorizing unit.
[0048] Control unit CEU performs a number of tasks. First, as
described above, the control unit controls provides activation
signals to the firearm restraint unit.
[0049] Second, the control unit effects a query and response cycle
through message generator EMG. The query/response cycle is, for
example, triggered once every second. If a correct response is
received, and firearm 12 has already been activated, the firearm
remains activated for another 1-2 seconds. In effect, firearm 12
remains continuously activated in the presence of continuous
queries from the firearm's electronics unit and affirmative
responses from the authorization unit carried by an authorized user
of the weapon. If the weapon has been activated, but subsequently
does not receive an affirmative response to a query, a second query
and response cycle is immediately initiated. If an appropriate
response is again not received, weapon 12 is rendered inactivate by
firearm restraint unit GRU. The initial interrogation cycle (the
one second query/response cycle) then recommences. It will be
understood by those skilled in the art that the time intervals
specified herein are exemplary only and that other timing can be
used. It will further be understood by those skilled in the art
that the codes used in practicing the method of the invention can
be automatically changed at predetermined intervals, including each
time an interrogation signal and response signal are sent. Changing
the coding makes it extremely difficult for unauthorized users to
enable the appliance.
[0050] Both electronics unit EU and authorization unit AU are
battery operated by batteries BAT. Battery life is dependent upon
operational life and all attempts are used to preserve the battery
life. Typical operations should achieve a 10 year life. A similar
10 year life is anticipated for the separate battery that operates
the authorization unit. In one embodiment, the battery that resides
in the firearm is a rechargeable unit. However, issues of firearm
safety during recharging outweighs certain advantages this might
offer.
[0051] In the electronics unit, control unit CEU minimizes power
consumption. To save battery life, an auxiliary circuit AUX is
employed which starts the query/response cycle. This circuit is
activated, for example, when a person grips a handle of the
firearm. Picking up the firearm by its handle closes a contact T
which activates this interrogative and answer sequence. When the
firearm is no longer being held, opening of the contact T activates
the auxiliary circuit to commence an interrogation cycle and to
continue the cycle for a specified interval; for example, 15
seconds. With a positive response, the weapon is activated as above
described. Otherwise, after the interval, control unit CEU returns
electronics unit EU to a quiescent state in which essentially no
power is consumed and in which the weapon is deactivated.
[0052] The interaction between authorization unit AU and
electronics unit EU is to establish whether firearm 12 is disabled
or enabled. Firearm restraint unit GRU actually enables or disables
the weapon. The firearm restraint unit is a fail safe device since
in the event of loss of battery power, for example, the firearm is
secured in a disabled state or condition.
[0053] Apparatus 10 is available in at least two models for firearm
applications. In one model, the firearm is manufactured with
apparatus 10 built in. In the other model, firearm 12 is
retrofitted with the apparatus. The apparatus includes, for
example, a solenoid 20 which, when its coil 22 is deactivated,
blocks the mechanical motion of the firearm's hammer or trigger.
When firearm 12 receives an authorization signal AS from control
unit CEU, coil 22 is energized and solenoid 20 retracts to clear
the firing mechanism. Solenoid 20 is a discrete solenoid which
operates in conjunction with a semiconductor 24. The hammer and/or
the trigger are now free to operate normally. Apparatus 10 does not
supersede, interfere with, or otherwise effect a mechanical safety
with which the firearm is usually provided. Both apparatus 10 and
the mechanical safety have to be disengaged before the weapon can
be fired.
[0054] As shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, a method of the invention involves
two steps. In step 1, the firearm, in effect, transmits a coded
signal. In step 2, a coded reply signal is received back by the
firearm. The firearm is then authorized to fire only if the reply
signal is an appropriate response and if the reply signal is
directed to the firearm from a predetermined direction relative to
the firearm. Otherwise, the firearm is not enabled for use even
though the reply signal is an appropriate response. Thus, as shown
in FIG. 5B, if the authorized user is behind the firearm, the
firearm is enabled to fire. However, if the authorized user is in
front of the firearm, it is not enabled and cannot fire.
[0055] An additional feature of apparatus 10 is the provision of an
electronic record of the use of the firearm. As noted, electronics
unit EU includes a memory unit MEU. Each time firearm 12 is fired,
data is provided to the memory which records the time, date and the
authorized user employing the weapon at that time. A sensor N (see
FIG. 4) senses movement of the firearm's hammer H. An internal
clock built into the electronics unit provides time information.
Additionally, an optional global positioning unit GPU can be used
to provide location information. To download this information from
memory MEU, electronics unit EU receives a specific interrogation
code or codes (which codes are different than the authorizing
code). In response, memory unit MEU provides its stored data to
transmitter TEU of the electronics unit for transmission to data
receiver. Included in this transmission is the license number of
the weapon. It will be noted that while the authorizing codes are
unique to the firearm they enable, the interrogating codes for data
retrieval are universal codes available to the police and other law
enforcement and other investigative agencies. Further, the
activation code takes precedence over a data retrieval code and the
downloaded data will not include the authorizing code for the
weapon. The use of codes allows for future developments in other
areas. For example, in a courtroom or schoolroom setting, universal
transmission of certain codes would override authorization of the
weapon and inhibit the use of the firearm in these settings.
[0056] Both electronics unit EU and authorization unit AU are
preferably fabricated in a very compact form which parallels a
RFID-format circuit using thin film technology. Importantly, apart
from details of their operation, and directionality, these units
employ existing technologies and utilize radio frequencies standard
within the industry; for example, they can be implemented using
"Bluetooth" technology. Both units are acceptable to Class 15
services.
[0057] Again with respect to FIGS. 5A-5C, the importance of the
apparatus and method of the present invention is that the weapon is
authorized for use only when the authorized user is in a preferred
position with respect to the weapon. That is, when the user is
behind the weapon and the muzzle of the weapon is pointed away from
him, the condition shown in FIG. 5B. In a law enforcement
situation, if a police loses his weapon in a struggle with a
criminal, the criminal cannot shoot the officer with the weapon
because it will not fire, the condition shown in FIG. 5C. This is
so, even if the assailant also has an authorization unit; because,
as discussed, each unit is unique to a particular weapon. Were the
person who got the weapon away from the policeman to try to use the
weapon in commission of another crime, it would not fire. This does
not mean that the fright effect caused by having the weapon pointed
at someone would still not be there, but the victim could not be
shot with the weapon.
[0058] In hunting situations, if the hunter were to drop a loaded
weapon because of an accident or carelessness, the weapon would not
discharge if the muzzle were to somehow come to be pointed at the
user. Again, this is the condition shown in FIG. 5C. In home
environments, a toddler or child who came across a weapon could not
inadvertently shoot himself or another because the apparatus would
not allow the weapon to fire.
[0059] While the foregoing discussion is directed to use of the
apparatus and method of the invention in firearm's safety, those
skilled in the art will appreciate that it can be used to effect
user control of a myriad of appliances. These include home
appliances such as televisions and VCR's, kitchen appliances such
as stoves, laundry or bathroom items such as steam irons, hair
dryers, curling irons, etc. That is, appliances where the ability
to control when the device is turned on or off has safety
implications and prevents injury, for example, to small children or
senile adults who might otherwise inadvertently injure themselves.
Alternatively, the invention prevents those who have no legitimate
reason to be using someone else's property from using it.
[0060] In industrial settings, machine tools can similarly be
controlled so that only persons having the "right" to the use the
equipment can turn it on and use it. If the person's position
relative to the equipment can be such that they can be injured by
the equipment, the apparatus and method of the present invention
will insure that the equipment is activated only so long as the
user remains in a safe position relative to the equipment; i.e., a
position where he cannot be injured by it.
[0061] The apparatus and method may also be employed for theft
prevention. Movable items such as automobiles, carts such as golf
carts, trucks, vans, etc. can be effectively prevented from being
started and driven away by incorporating the apparatus and method
of the invention with the ignition or fuel delivery system of a
vehicle, including those which are battery powered.
[0062] Also included in this category of appliances are computer
related appliances such as personal computers, portable computers,
associated computer peripherals, cellular phones, and other
portable equipment. Here, while it may be possible to steal the
appliance, the appliance is rendered unusable to the thief. In each
of these applications, the authorized user wears a badge or tag 14
and a regulating means or electronic unit EU is installed in the
appliance. The apparatus further includes the two antennas A1 and
A2, the antenna A1 being the omni-directional antenna, and antenna
A2 providing the directional sensitivity.
[0063] Turning to FIG. 7, an alternate embodiment 100 of the
present invention is shown as configured to restrict the use of an
appliance or computerized device 102 such as a laptop computer,
desktop computer, or computer terminal which contains or accesses
sensitive and/or confidential information. As now described, a key
feature of the apparatus 100 is the communication and cooperation
between a regulating means such as an electronic unit EU contained
within the computerized device 102, and a separate, authorizing
unit AU carried by an "authorized user" of the computerized device
102. The authorizing unit is, for example, is incorporated into an
identification badge 104 worn by an employee.
[0064] The regulating means or electronic unit EU, which is mounted
or otherwise installed within computerized device 102 includes an
electronic message generator EMG. Generator EMG generates a
uniquely coded waveform which, as shown in FIG. 7, is transmitted
by a transmitter TEU as a radio-frequency signal to any authorizing
unit AU in proximity to the computerized device 102 to interrogate
the authorizing unit AU. The message embodied in the transmitted
coded waveform can authorize more than one authorizing unit AU.
However, the message will authorize or enable only those
authorizing units AU which are complementary to the particular
computerized device 102.
[0065] Upon receipt of an interrogation message by a receiver RAU
of an authorizing unit AU, the message is decoded by a decoding
electronics section DAU of the authorizing unit AU. The decoded
message is then compared in a comparator COMP with a message
previously stored in a memory MAU within the authorizing unit AU to
determine if the particular authorizing unit AU is one authorized
for use with the computerized device 102. If it is, then a reply
message generator RMG of the authorizing unit generates a reply
message which also comprises a uniquely coded waveform. This reply
message is then transmitted by a transmitter TAU as an
radio-frequency signal back to electronics unit EU within
computerized device 102.
[0066] Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any
of a variety of encoding schemes may be utilized to encode the
transmitted waveforms. For example, these encoding schemes may
include randomly selected codes, cyclical codes, and/or
non-repeating predetermined codes.
[0067] A reply message receiver REU within electronics unit EU
receives the message and provides it to decoder electronics section
DEU within the electronics unit. Decoder DEU decodes the reply
signal. An output signal AS from decoder DEU, verifying that an
authorized user of the computerized device 102 has responded to the
query from the electronics unit, is now used to activate or enable
the computerized device 102, or to enable access thereto.
[0068] An important aspect of the method and apparatus of the
invention is that more than one person can use the computerized
device 102. Since there can be more than one authorized user for a
given computerized device 102, each authorizing unit AU includes a
unique code within the reply message identifying which authorized
user is replying to the interrogation message. This information is
stored within a memory MEU of electronics unit EU so a record is
made as to which authorized user is controlling the computerized
device 102 at a given time.
[0069] Preferably, as previously described, the receiver REU
preferably includes two separate antennas. A first antenna A1, and
a second antenna A2. Antenna A2 preferably has a gain in a
horizontal plane which is sufficient to provide a predetermined arc
of coverage in the horizontal plane, i.e., it provides directional
sensitivity. For example, antenna A2 may be aligned such that its
principal axis is aligned with a viewing axis of a display screen
106 associated with the computerized device 102. In the vertical
plane, both antennas A1 and A2 preferably have 0 dB of gain.
[0070] Differencing the signals received at antennas A1 and A2
(A2-A1) and accepting only positive signals, ensures that only
signals originating in front of a plane BC of the computerized
device authorize operation of the computerized device. By way of
example, a signal S, from the right of plane BC, results in
(S1.times.gain of A2)-(S1.times.gain of
A1)=(S1.times.0)-(S1.times.1)=-S1. This is a negative signal. On
the other hand, a signal S2 from the left of the plane BC results
in (S2.times.gain of A2)-(S2.times.gain of
A1)=(S2.times.2)-(S2.times.1)=S2. This is a positive signal.
Further, this positive signal is measured against a threshold such
that authorizing unit AU not only has to be in front of plane BC,
but also within a certain distance of computerized device 102 in
order to enable use thereof. The combined limited position relative
to the computerized device 102 and distance from the computerized
device 102 define a spatial region within which an authorized user
must be located.
[0071] Upon receipt of a positive signal at receiver REU, the
signal is decoded. If the decoded signal is from an appropriate
authorizing unit AU, the decoder sends a message to a control unit
CEU of the electronics unit. Upon receipt of this signal, the
control unit CEU deactivates a restraint unit RU which is
interconnected with the computerized device 102, for example with
the display of the computerized device 102, or with the keyboard.
Deactivating the restraint unit enables the authorized user to
operate the computerized device 102, for example, by activating a
display screen or enabling command entry through the keyboard.
However, as discussed hereinafter, this is a controlled feature of
the invention and the computerized device 102 must be re-authorized
at predetermined intervals or else it will again be rendered
unusable, such as by shutting down the display screen and/or by
locking associated data entry devices such as a keyboard or
mouse.
[0072] Since the computerized device 102 is normally maintained in
a deactivated, secured, or restricted-use state such as with the
display turned off, prior to receive of an appropriate authorizing
signal from within a predetermined spatial volume, the apparatus
100 of the present invention is resistant to radio-frequency
interference or jamming of the signals from the authorizing units
AU to enable unauthorized use of the computerized device 102. If a
signal from an authorizing unit AU is jammed or corrupted by
jamming or interference, the electronics unit EU will maintain the
computerized device 102 in the deactivated, secured, or
restricted-use state until a clear and proper signal is received
from an authorizing unit.
[0073] Control unit CEU performs a number of tasks. First, as
described above, the control unit controls provides activation
signals to the restraint unit. Second, the control unit effects a
query and response cycle through message generator EMG. The
query/response cycle is, for example, triggered once every second.
If a correct response is received, and computerized device 102 has
already been enabled or activated, the computerized device 102 will
remain enabled or activated for another predetermined period of
time. In effect, computerized device 102 remains continuously
activated in the presence of continuous queries from the regulating
means or electronics unit and affirmative responses from the
authorization unit carried by an authorized user located within the
predetermined proximity.
[0074] If the computerized device 102 has been activated, but
subsequently does not receive an affirmative response to a query, a
second query and response cycle is immediately initiated. If an
appropriate response is again not received, computerized device 102
is rendered inactivate by the restraint unit RU. The initial
interrogation cycle (the one second query/response cycle) then
recommences. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that
the time intervals specified herein are exemplary only and that
other timing can be used. It will further be understood by those
skilled in the art that the codes used in practicing the method of
the invention can be automatically changed at predetermined
intervals either in a predetermined manner, such as a cyclical
manner, or in a random manner. Changing the coding makes it
extremely difficult for unauthorized users to enable the
computerized device 102.
[0075] In an additional embodiment of the present invention, as
shown in FIG. 8, a third antenna A3 is employed by the apparatus
10. As with antenna A2, this antenna A3 is also a directional
antenna. Antenna A3 is, however, pointed in a direction in which,
for example, use of the appliance may cause injury to a person.
Further, antenna A3 has a very narrow cone for directionality, for
example, 5.degree.. In the above described firearm example, antenna
A3 points in the direction of the muzzle of the firearm. Now,
operation of the apparatus and method of the invention is such that
the weapon is authorized for use in the manner previously
described. However, if another authorized person, a policeman for
example, moves in front of the weapon and into the detection region
of antenna A3, the weapon is disabled for so long as he is there,
and is enabled as soon as he moves away from in front of the muzzle
and exits the detection region of antenna A3. This feature prevents
injury due to "friendly fire".
[0076] Those skilled in the art will recognize that this feature
has significant military implications for combat. In industrial
settings, this feature protects co-workers from inadvertent
injuries if they come too close to the operating portion of a piece
of equipment while it is in use. The advantage that this feature
provides is that the authorized user actually operating the
appliance does not need to be aware of the presence of the other
person for the safety feature to work.
[0077] Finally, in all of the above described applications, the
apparatus and method of the invention have involved a person
interacting with the appliance. Those skilled in the art, however,
will recognize that there are applications where one appliance may
be able to interact with one or more other appliances. Here, the
user control issue is that it may desirable, or in some
circumstances necessary, for the first appliance to interact with
only one of the other appliances, and then only so long as the
other appliance is in a preferred spatial orientation with respect
to the first appliance. The apparatus and method of the present
invention provide a way for accomplishing this.
[0078] The present invention can be embodied in the form of
computer-implemented processes and apparatuses for practicing those
processes. The present invention can also be embodied in the form
of computer program code containing instructions embodied in
tangible media, such as floppy diskettes, CD-ROMs, hard drives, or
an other computer readable storage medium, wherein, when the
computer program code is loaded into, and executed by, an
electronic device such as a computer, micro-processor or logic
circuit, the device becomes an apparatus for practicing the
invention.
[0079] The present invention can also be embodied in the form of
computer program code, for example, whether stored in a storage
medium, loaded into and/or executed by a computer, or transmitted
over some transmission medium, such as over electrical wiring or
cabling, through fiber optics, or via electromagnetic radiation,
wherein, when the computer program code is loaded into and executed
by a computer, the computer becomes an apparatus for practicing the
invention. When implemented in a general-purpose microprocessor,
the computer program code segments configure the microprocessor to
create specific logic circuits.
[0080] In view of the above, it will be seen that the several
objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous
results are obtained. As various changes could be made in the above
constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it
is intended that all matter contained in the above description or
shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as
illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
* * * * *