U.S. patent application number 12/889861 was filed with the patent office on 2011-01-20 for modular access control system.
This patent application is currently assigned to MODULAR SECURITY SYSTEMS, INC.. Invention is credited to David Slagel, Robert Slagel.
Application Number | 20110011314 12/889861 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39831308 |
Filed Date | 2011-01-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110011314 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Slagel; David ; et
al. |
January 20, 2011 |
MODULAR ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM
Abstract
An access control system includes first and second portable
containers. The first portable container comprises a first sidewall
opening and the second portable container comprises a second
sidewall opening. The portable containers are arranged such that
the first sidewall opening in the first portable container
communicates with the second sidewall opening in the second
portable container. The first portable container comprises a
passing room disposed in the first portable container. The passing
room includes a barrier device located in the walkway defining a
first space between a first passing room opening and the barrier
device, and a second space between the barrier device and a second
passing room opening. The access control system is constructed such
that when the access control system is disposed between a first
area and an enclosed second area ingress and egress from and to the
second area is controlled by the access control system.
Inventors: |
Slagel; David; (Flatwoods,
KY) ; Slagel; Robert; (Ironton, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DLA PIPER LLP US
P. O. BOX 2758
RESTON
VA
20195
US
|
Assignee: |
MODULAR SECURITY SYSTEMS,
INC.
Ironton
OH
|
Family ID: |
39831308 |
Appl. No.: |
12/889861 |
Filed: |
September 24, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11733464 |
Apr 10, 2007 |
7823338 |
|
|
12889861 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
109/23 ;
52/79.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04H 3/10 20130101; G01V
5/0008 20130101; E04G 27/00 20130101; E06B 11/08 20130101; E04H
1/1205 20130101; E06B 3/90 20130101; B65D 90/0013 20130101; E04H
2001/1283 20130101; E04B 1/3483 20130101; B65D 90/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
109/23 ;
52/79.1 |
International
Class: |
E05G 1/00 20060101
E05G001/00 |
Claims
1. An access control system, comprising: first and second portable
containers, the first portable container comprising a first
sidewall opening and the second portable container comprising a
second sidewall opening, the portable containers being arranged
such that the first sidewall opening in the first portable
container communicates with the second sidewall opening in the
second portable container, wherein the first portable container
comprises a passing room disposed in the first portable container,
the passing room having a first passing room opening, and a second
passing room opening, and a walkway in-between, the passing room
comprising a barrier device located in the walkway but not
connected to the first passing room opening or the second passing
room opening, defining a first space between the first passing room
opening and the barrier device, and a second space between the
barrier device and the second passing room opening, wherein the
access control system is constructed such that when the access
control system is disposed between a first area, outside the access
control system and accessing the first passing room opening, and an
enclosed second area, outside the access control system and
accessing the second passing room opening, ingress and egress from
and to the second area is controlled by the access control
system.
2. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the passing room
further comprises a security device providing authorization for an
individual to enter into the second area.
3. The access control system of claim 2, wherein the security
device includes one or more card readers, one or more metal
detectors, one or more biometric readers, one or more iris
scanners, one or more fingerprint readers, one or more facial
recognition terminology, one or more explosive detectors, one or
more weapon detectors, one or more electronic key locks, or one or
more mechanical key locks, or a combination of two or more
thereof.
4. The access control system of claim 2, wherein the at least one
security device is located in the first space, the second space or
both.
5. The access control system of claim 2, wherein the at least one
security device is located outside the at least one passing
room.
6. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the barrier device
includes a turnstile, a sliding door, a revolving door, or moving
bars or a combination thereof.
7. The access control system of claim 1, further comprising a fence
at least partly forming the enclosure of the second area, wherein
the fence is attached or adjacent to an outside surface of the
first portable container and to an outside surface of the second
portable container.
8. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the second
portable container comprises a control room adjacent to the passing
room.
9. The access control system of claim 8, wherein the control room
comprises a control panel to control the barrier device in order
for a guard and/or a supervisor to monitor the passing room while
staying in the control room.
10. The access control system of claim 9, wherein the control panel
comprises an alarm device which gives an alarm in case a problem
occurs in the passing room.
11. The access control system of claim 8, wherein the control room
comprises a detecting system for scanning belongings of individuals
passing through the passing room.
12. The access control system of claim 11, wherein the detecting
system comprises a detecting device and a conveyor in communication
with the detecting device, the conveyor configured and arranged to
direct the belongings to the detecting device.
13. The access control system of claim 12, wherein the detecting
device is an electromagnetic detecting machine, a chemical
detecting machine or a combination thereof.
14. The access control system of claim 13, wherein the
electromagnetic detecting machine is an x-ray machine.
15. The access control system of claim 8, wherein the second
portable container further comprises a control room opening to
directly access into the control room.
16. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the first
container or the second container or both comprise one or more
accessible panels configured to close one or more sidewall openings
provided in the first container or the second container or
both.
17. The access control system of claim 16, wherein the one or more
accessible panel comprises a plurality of panel sections joined
together using a joining material.
18. The access control system of claim 16, wherein the one or more
accessible panels further comprises a locking mechanism configured
to fasten the one or more accessible panels onto the one or more
sidewall openings.
19. The access control system of claim 18, wherein the locking
mechanism comprises a bar-like locking mechanism and a movable
center lock, wherein the movable center lock is configured to
attach the bar-like locking mechanism to the one or more accessible
panel.
20. The access control system of claim 1, further comprising one or
more anchoring device configured to attach the first portable
container to the second portable container.
21. The access control system of claim 20, wherein the anchoring
device comprises a plurality of links and a ratcheting device
linked to the plurality of links.
22. The access control system of claim 21, wherein the plurality of
links are configured to be fastened to a sidewall of the first
portable container and the second portable container.
23. The access control system of claim 21, wherein the ratcheting
device comprises one or more levers which when pivoted back and
forth allow the ratcheting device to bring the plurality of links
closer to each other.
24. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the first
portable container or the second container or both is delivered in
a turnkey state.
25. The access control system of claim 1, wherein features of the
first portable container or the second container or both are
customizable to meet specific needs of a user.
26. The access control system of claim 1, further comprises a cover
material disposed above the first passing room opening, the second
passing room opening, or both.
27. The access control system of claim 26, wherein the cover
material is a retractable sheet of flexible material or a removable
panel or the like.
28. The access control system of claim 1, further comprising a
floor lining material disposed in a vicinity of a foot of the first
passing room opening, the second passing room opening, or both.
29. The access control system of claim 28, wherein the floor lining
material is a non-skid rubber liner or the like.
30. The access control system of claim 1, further comprising one or
more air conditioning units, the one or more air conditioning units
being disposed in the passing room, the control room or both.
31. The access control system of claim 30, wherein the one or more
air conditioning units on a roof of the first portable container,
on a roof of the second portable container or both.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCED TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 11/733,464 filed Apr. 10, 2007. U.S. application Ser. No.
11/733,464 is related to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/992,126 filed
Nov. 19, 2004. The entire contents of all of the applications
mentioned above are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed generally to access
control systems and specifically to portable access control
systems.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0003] FIGS. 1 shows a perspective view of an access control system
comprising a portable container, according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0004] FIG. 2A shows an accessible panel along with a locking
mechanism used in the portable container depicted in FIG. 1,
according to one embodiment of the present invention;
[0005] FIG. 2B shows a bar-like locking mechanism for locking the
accessible panel depicted in FIG. 2A, according to one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0006] FIG. 3 depicts a floor plan of the portable container shown
in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0007] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of an access control system
including three portable containers, according to an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 5 is floor plan of the access control system depicted
in FIG. 4 showing some details about the features included in the
access control system, according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0009] FIG. 6 is a three-dimensional view of an anchoring system
for anchoring two or more portable containers together, according
to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0010] FIG. 7 is floor plan of an access control system, according
to another embodiment of the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 8 is floor plan view of an access control device,
according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a front view and a perspective
view of a portable container, according to embodiments of the
invention;
[0013] FIG. 11 illustrates a top cross-sectional view of the
portable container, according to one embodiment of the
invention;
[0014] FIG. 12 is a detailed top cross-sectional view of a passing
room and a control room, according to one embodiment of the
invention; and
[0015] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a passing room and
a control room, according to one embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0016] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a portable container 10,
according to an embodiment of the invention. The portable container
10 has a housing 12, which, in one embodiment, is rectangular
shaped. However, any other shape is also possible. The housing 12
can be made of a durable material (e.g., iron, aluminum, stainless
steel, wood, reinforced plastics) or a combination of various
materials. In one embodiment, the portable container 10 can be
made, for example, from corrugated steel and may include marine
grade plywood flooring. The portable container 10 can also be made
to withstand repeated lifting and placing. The portable container
10 can be configured to hold a cargo as large as 30 tons. The
portable container 10 can be equipped to be securely towed by a
vehicle. For example, one or both ends of the portable container 10
can be equipped with hooks, links or the like to be towed by a
vehicle. The portable container 10 can also be provided with
forklift pockets, corner connectors or other types of attachments
as may be useful for the transport or the anchorage of the portable
container 10. In addition, a security system to ensure that only
authorized vehicles move the portable container 10 can also be
included.
[0017] In one embodiment, the portable container 10 can be
delivered to a user in a ready-made or turn-key state. In this
case, if electricity is not required, the portable container 10 is
ready to be used. If electricity is required, all that needs to be
done to render the portable container 10 usable is the provision of
electricity. In another embodiment, the portable container 10 can
be customized by the user to meet specific needs of the user.
[0018] The portable container 10 can be a standard shipping
container. In one embodiment, the standard shipping container can
be a shipping container which complies with international standards
as determined by the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO). The dimensions of a standard shipping container as defined
by the ISO body can be, for example, 40 feet, 20 feet or 10 feet
long by 8 feet wide by 8.5 feet high.
[0019] The portable container 10 may also be provided with one or
more openings 14 to allow entry and exit of persons, as will be
explained in detail the following paragraphs. In addition, one or
more lockable accessible panels or doors 16 may also be provided on
one or more openings 17 in one or both sidewalls 18 of the portable
container 10. In one embodiment, the opening 17 is a 9 feet wide by
7 feet high opening. However, the opening 17 can have any
dimension, as desired. The opening 17 can be framed or reinforced
with a framing material 19. The framing material 19 can be any
suitable material for framing structures including wood, metal,
plastic or a composite material. The framing can be made for
example of rectangular tubing or other suitable structure. The
framing material 19 is used for structural reinforcement around the
opening 17 as well as a joining material for joining two portable
containers together. Specifically, when two containers 10 each
having an opening 17 are brought together such that the openings 17
are communicating, the framing material 19 on one container 10
would abut against a wall of another container 10 to form a
container-to-container interface seal. In one embodiment, the
framing 19 may be provided with a flexible material (e.g., a sponge
material) such that when the container 10 presses against the other
adjacent container 10, the flexible material would be compressed
and act as a gasket to create an atmosphere tight seal including a
water tight seal.
[0020] In one embodiment, the lockable accessible panel 16
comprises three panel-sections 16A, 16B and 16C (see FIG. 2A). The
three panels section 16A, 16B and 16C are joined together using
strips of material 16D by fastening each strip 16D onto two
adjacent panel sections. In this way, for example, the foot-print
of the lockable accessible panel 16 is rendered smaller so as to
occupy a small space for storage while expandable when needed to
close the opening 17.
[0021] The lockable accessible panel 16 can be mounted on the
sidewall 18 using one or more locking mechanisms 20. The locking
mechanism 20 can be any type of locking mechanism. In one
embodiment, the locking mechanism 20 can be a plurality of locks
provided on a periphery of the accessible panel 16 so as to attach
the panel 16 to the sidewall 18. In another embodiment, the locking
mechanism 20 comprises a bar-like locking mechanism 21 and a
movable center-lock 22 provided in the center of the bar-like
locking mechanism 21 as depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The movable
center-lock 22 latches the bar-like locking mechanism 21 to the
accessible panel 16. In one embodiment, the bar-like locking
mechanism 21 is rotatable by the movable center-lock 22 so as to
allow the extremities 24A and 24B of the bar-like locking mechanism
21 to slide behind the sidewall 18 and latch onto the sidewall 18.
In another embodiment, the bar-like locking mechanism 21 is
fastened to the accessible panel 16 using the center-lock 22 (e.g.,
a bolt and a nut) so as to bring the extremities 24A and 24B of the
bar-like locking mechanism against a lip or an edge of the sidewall
18 (shown in FIG. 1).
[0022] When the one or more openings 17 in the portable container
10 are closed with the accessible panels 16, the portable container
10 can be used as a stand-alone access control unit to control
ingress or egress from and to a first area (e.g., secured area) 26
delimited by a fencing material 30, through openings 14. In this
case, the fencing 30 or other material may be attached to the
portable container 10. For example, the fencing 30 can be attached
to the sidewalls 18 of the portable container 10 so as to surround
the secured area 26, as depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3. Therefore,
the fencing 30 separates a second area (e.g., a non-secured area)
27 from the first area (secured area) 26. In order to enter into
the secured area 26 or exit from the secured area 26 an individual
or individuals must pass through the openings 14 of the portable
container 10. Although, the first area 26 is described herein as
being the secured area and the second area 27 is described as being
the non-secured area, it must be appreciated that the fencing 30
can also be arranged such that the first area 26 is the non-secured
area and the second area 27 is the secured area. Furthermore, other
features, such as natural barriers (e.g., bodies of water, ridges,
etc.) or other barriers (e.g., walls, etc.) may be employed to
separate the first area 26 from the second area 27.
[0023] In order to provide for a larger space in the access control
system, so as to accommodate, for example, various devices or
create spaces dedicated to specific functions in the access control
system, two or more portable containers 10 may be connected to each
other to form the access control system. In this case, the one or
more openings 17 in the one or more portable containers 10 may be
opened by removing the accessible panels 16 and the portable
containers 10 are placed adjacent to each other so as to allow
communication between the portable containers 10 through the one or
more openings 17.
[0024] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 three portable containers 10A, 10B
and 10C can be juxtaposed next to each other. In this case, for
example, opening 17A in portable container 10A is opened by
removing an accessible panel (not shown) provided in a sidewall of
the portable container 10A, openings 17B and 17C in portable
container 10B are opened by removing accessible panels (not shown)
provided in each of the sidewalls of the portable container 10B,
and opening 17D is opened by removing an accessible panel (not
shown) provided in a sidewall of the portable container 10C. The
portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C are arranged such that opening
17A communicates with opening 17B and opening 17C communicates with
opening 17D.
[0025] In one embodiment, one or more anchoring device 31, shown in
FIG. 6, can be used to attach the portable container 10A to
adjacent portable container 10B and can be used to attach portable
container 10B to adjacent portable container 10C. The anchoring
device 31 is used to anchor the portable containers 10A, 10B and
10C to each other. In one embodiment, the anchoring device 31
comprises two links 32A and 32B and a ratcheting device 33 linked
to the two links 32A and 32B. The link 32A is fastened to a
sidewall of one of the portable containers 10A, 10B, 10C (e.g.,
portable container 10A) and the link 32B is fastened to a sidewall
of another portable container (e.g., portable container 10B). The
links 32A and 32B include one or more holes 34 through which the
ratcheting device 33 can be connected to the links 32A and 32B. The
ratcheting device 33 has one or more levers 35 which when pivoted
back and forth allow the ratcheting device to bring the two links
32A and 32B closer to each other and hence bring the two portable
containers 10A and 10B closer to each other.
[0026] The space in each of the portable containers 10A, 10B and
10C can be tailored for a specific need. For example, the spaces in
the portable containers 10A and 10C can be used as passing rooms
for individual to access a first area (e.g., a secured area) 26
delimited by the fencing material 30 from a second area (e.g.,
non-secured area) 27. The space in portable container 10B can be
used as a control room in which one or more guards or supervisors
may be located to control the movement of people through the
passing rooms in the portable containers 10A and 10C. However,
although FIGS. 4 and 5 show a configuration in which a container
configured as a control room (container 10B) being disposed between
two containers configured as passing rooms (containers 10A and
10C), other configurations are also possible. For example, two or
more containers configured as passing rooms can be disposed next to
each other (e.g., the container 10A can be disposed adjacent to
container 10C). In which case, a container configured as a control
room (e.g., container 10B) can be disposed next to one of the two
or more containers configured as passing rooms (e.g., disposed next
to container 10A or next to container 10C). Alternatively, the
arrangement need not include the control room. Furthermore, the
architecture of the access control system being modulable and
flexible, any arrangement of any one or more containers configured
as passing rooms and any one or more containers configured as
control rooms is within the scope of the present invention.
[0027] Similarly to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the
juxtaposed portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C can be used as an
access control system to control ingress or egress from and to the
first area (secured area) 26 delimited by the fencing material 30.
In this embodiment, however, the fencing 30 or other material may
be attached to sidewall 18A of the portable container 10A and to
sidewall 18B of the portable container 10C, to surround the secured
area 26, as depicted in FIG. 4. In order to enter into the first
area (e.g., the secured area) 26 from the second area (the
non-secured area) 27 or exit from the first area (secured area) 26,
an individual or individuals must necessarily pass through openings
14A of the portable container 10A or pass through openings 14C of
the portable container 10C. Optionally, openings 14B can also be
provided in the portable container 10B to allow separate entry into
or exit from the control room of the access control device for the
one or more guards or supervisors. However, the guards or
supervisors can also enter into the control room in the portable
container 10B through any one of openings 14A and openings 14C by
passing through the opening (17A, 17B) or by passing through the
opening (17C, 17D).
[0028] As stated in the above paragraphs, one or more portable
containers, for example portable containers 10A and 10C, can be
used as passing rooms to allow controlled movement of individuals
into and out of the first area (the secured area) 26. Hence, in one
embodiment, as depicted in a floor plan of the control device shown
in FIG. 5, the containers 10A and 10C comprise passing rooms 40A
and 40C, respectively. The passing rooms 40A and 40C control the
movement of people between the first area (the secured area) 26 and
the second area (the non-secured area) 27.
[0029] The passing room 40A communicates with the first area (the
secured area) 26 and the second area (the non-secured area) 27
through doors 14A. Specifically, the passing room 40A communicates
with the second area (non-secured area) 27 via a first opening 14A1
and communicates with the first area (the secured area) 26 via a
second opening 14A2. The passing room 40C communicates with the
first area (the secured area) 26 and the second area (the
non-secured area) 27 through doors 14C. Specifically, the passing
room 40C communicates with the second area (the non-secured area)
27 via a first opening 14C1 and communicates with the first area
(the secured area) 26 via a second opening 14C2. The first opening
14A1 is spaced apart from the second opening 14A2, in the passing
room 40A, so as to define a walkway 42A in-between. Similarly, the
first opening 14C1 is spaced apart from the second opening 14C2, in
the passing room 40C, so as to define a walkway 42C in-between. A
closing device 44 (e.g., a door, shutters or the like) may be
employed to close the openings 14A1, 14A2, 14C1 and 14C2 when
either or both passing rooms 40A and 40C are not in use. A security
sensing device for safeguarding the closing device 44 can be
employed.
[0030] The portable container 10A can comprise at least one barrier
device 46A and the portable container 10C can comprise at least one
barrier device 46C. The barrier device 46A can be arranged inside
of the passing room 40A so as to restrict a person's movement
through the passing room 40A. The barrier device 46C can be
arranged inside of the passing room 40C so as to restrict a
person's movement through the passing room 40C. In one embodiment,
a turnstile (e.g., a full-body turnstile, a partial-body turnstile,
a bi-directional turnstile, or a uni-directional turnstile) is
employed as a barrier device 46A, 46C of the portable containers
10A, 10B, respectively. However, other barrier devices may be used
to restrict a person's movement through the passing room 42A, 42C.
For example, a sliding door, a revolving door, moving bars, and
gates, or the like may be used as a barrier device 46A, 46C. The
barrier device 46A is located inside the walkway 42A, defining a
first space 50A1 between the barrier device 46A and the first
opening 14A1, and defining a second space 50A2 between the barrier
device 46A and the second opening 14A2. Similarly, the barrier
device 46C is located inside the walkway 42C, defining a first
space 50C1 between the barrier device 46C and the first opening
14C1, and defining a second space 50C2 between the barrier device
46A and the second opening 14C2.
[0031] In one embodiment, the passing room 40A, 40C can include one
or more security devices 52A, 52C issuing permission for a person
to pass through the passing room 42A, 42B, respectively. In one
embodiment, the security device 52A, 52C can comprise, but is not
limited to, one or more card readers, one or more metal detectors
(such as a magnetometer or the like), one or more weapon detectors,
one or more x-ray scanners, one or more radiofrequency scanners
(e.g., shortwave scanners), one or more biometric readers, one or
more iris scanners, one or more fingerprint or palm readers, one or
more explosive detectors, one or more physical or facial
recognition terminology, one or more electronic key locks, or one
or more mechanical key locks, or any combination of two or more
thereof. The security device 52A, 52C can also include a security
measure, such as, but not limited to, posting an individual or
guard 56 proximate to the barrier device 46A, 46C to check
identification cards (e.g., photo identification cards, licenses,
etc.). In one embodiment, the security device 52A may be located in
the first space 50A1 and also in the second space 50A2 of the
passing room 42A. Similarly, the security device 52C may be located
in the first space 50C1 and also in the second space 50C2 of the
passing room 42C. Security devices 52A, 52C can also be included
inside or outside of the respective passing rooms 40A and 40C.
[0032] In one embodiment, each of the passing rooms 40A and 40C can
comprise lighting. For example, lighting 54A can be provided in the
first space 50A1 and/or the second space 50A2 of passing room 40A
and lighting 54C can be provided in the first space 50C1 and/or in
the second space 50C2 of the passing room 40C. Heat curtains can
also be provided in the vicinity, for example above, any one of
openings 14A1, 14A2, 14C1 and 14C1. In addition, as shown in FIG.
4, a cover material (e.g., an awning) 23 may also be provide in the
vicinity, for example above, of any one of openings 14A1, 14A2,
14C1 and 14C1. In addition, a floor lining 25 may also be provided
in the vicinity, for example at a foot, of any one of openings
14A1, 14A2, 14C1 and 14C2. The awning 23 can be a retractable sheet
of flexible material or a removable panel or the like, or can be
permanent. The floor lining 25 can be, for example, a non-skid
rubber liner or grating, or the like.
[0033] As stated above, the portable container 10B is used as a
control room. In one embodiment, a control room 40B is provided in
the portable container 10B for housing one or more guards 56 or
supervisors 57. The control room 40B can include a detection system
58. The detection system can be used to check items carried by
individuals when passing through the passing rooms 40A and 40C. The
detection system comprises a detection device 59 for scanning
objects carried by the individuals. The detection system 58 can
also comprise a conveyor 60 for transporting the objects into the
detection device 58. In an embodiment of the invention, the
detection devices can be an electromagnetic device (e.g., an x-ray
machine) or a chemical device for detecting belongings of an
individual (e.g., the inside contents of a bag carried by the
individual) passing through the passing rooms 40A and 40C. However,
any other sort of detection device can be employed. The detection
system 58 can be placed near one of the openings 14B1 or 14B2 so as
to allow an individual passing through one of the passing rooms 40A
or 40C to place in or retrieve from the detection system 58 his/her
belongings.
[0034] In one embodiment, the control room 40B can also include a
control panel 45 to control the barrier device(s) 46A and/or 46C
and the security device(s) 52A and/or 52C in order for the guard 56
or supervisor 57 to monitor the passing room 40A and/or 40C while
staying in the control room 40B. The control panel 42 can comprise
an alarm device 47 which gives an alarm in case a problem occurs in
the passing room 40A and/or the passing room 40C.
[0035] The control room 40B is located between the passing rooms
40A and 40C. In this way the guard 56 and/or the supervisor 57 in
control room 40C can observe the inside of the passing rooms 40A
and 40C. The guard 56 and/or the supervisor 57 can take the
appropriate action to address any situation that may occur in any
of the passing room 40A, the passing room 40C and/or the control
room 40B.
[0036] Similar to the passing rooms 40A and 40C, control room 40B
can also comprise lighting 54B. For example, lighting 54B can be
provided in three areas of the control room. Similarly, heat
curtains can also be provided in the vicinity, for example above,
of opening 14B1 and/or 14B2. In addition, as shown in FIG. 4, an
awning 23 and or a floor lining may also be provided in the
vicinity, for example above or at the foot of the opening 14B1
and/or 14B2.
[0037] One or more air conditioning units can be provided in the
control device, for example, provided in any one of the passing
rooms 40A and 40C and/or the control room 40B. The one or more air
conditioning units can be installed, for example, on a roof of any
one of the portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C. The control room
can also be provided with various amenities and utilities such as
the provision of one or more telephone jacks, one or more computer
outlets, one or more cable outlets, one or more electrical outlets,
or any combination of two or more thereof.
[0038] In an embodiment of the invention, as depicted in FIG. 5,
one or more openings 15A, 15B can be provided in both containers
10A and 10B for communicating between the passing room 40A and
control room 40B and in both containers 10B and 10C for
communicating between the passing room 40C and the control room
40B. The openings 15A, 15B can be used as a handicap access to
redirect handicapped or disabled individuals to pass through the
control room 40B instead of one of the passing rooms 40A or 40C as
a handicapped or disabled individual may have a difficulty passing
through the barrier device 46A or the barrier device 46C or
difficulty using (e.g., reaching, seeing, etc.) security device 52A
or security device 52C.
[0039] The portable containers 10A, 10B or 10C can be put on a
vehicle or trailer and transported or towed to reach a specific
destination. By arranging the portable container in the manner
described above, the portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C can be
used to control access to an area. The portable containers 10A, 10B
and 10C may be used in a setting where control of access to a
specific area may be needed. For example, the specific area can be
a work site where access of personnel to the work site can be
controlled. A worker may carry an access device which when read by
the security device may allow or deny access to the work site. The
portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C may also be used by people
that do not have an access device, but who must pass through
security to enter a venue (e.g., an outside concert or the
like).
[0040] If the portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C are being used
in conjunction with an access device, when a person approaches the
passing room 40A in portable container 10A from, for example, the
second area 27 and enters through the opening 14A1, the person can
stay in the first space 50A1 in the walkway 42A and present an
access device (e.g., identification or electronically read card) to
the security device 52A. In one embodiment, because the security
device 52A is located inside the passing room 40A, the chance that
the person will lose or break an identification card or device is
decreased because the person does not need to expose the
identification card or device outside of the portable container
10A.
[0041] In one embodiment, the barrier device 46A remains locked or
closed until the access device is successfully read by the security
device 52A. Once a person is approved by the security device 52A,
the barrier device 46A is unlocked and the person can go through
the barrier device 46A. If a person is not approved by the security
device 54, the barrier device 46A continues to be kept locked, and
the control panel 45 can give an alarm to the guard 56 and/or the
supervisor 57 via the alarm device 47.
[0042] In one embodiment, in the case where an individual is coming
from the second area 27 (e.g., a non-secure area) and intending to
enter into the first area 26 (e.g., a secure area), the individual
must pass through the passing room 40A or the passing room 40C by
entering through opening 14A1 or opening 14C1. Before entering
through, for example, the opening 14A1 of the passing room 40A in
the portable container 10A, the individual may deposit his/her
belongings at one end of conveyor 60 through the opening 14B1, to
be scanned by the detection system 58. The opening 14B1 can be, for
example, a window or trap door, or the like. While the individual
presents an access device to the security device 52A and passes
through the barrier device 46A, his/her belonging are being scanned
by the detection system 58. Once the individual is in area 50A2,
after passing through the barrier device 46A, the individual may
pickup his/her belongings at an opposite end of the conveyor 60 and
exit through the opening 14A2 to enter into the secured area
26.
[0043] In another embodiment, in the case where an individual is
coming from the first area 26 (e.g., a non-secure area) and
intending to enter into the second area 27 (e.g., a secure area),
the individual must pass through the passing room 40A or the
passing room 40C by entering through opening 14A2 or opening 14C2.
After entering through, for example, the opening 14A2 of the
passing room 40A in the portable container 10A, the individual
being in area 50A2 may deposit his/her belongings at a table 61 to
be screened by the one or more guards 56 or the one or more
supervisors 57. If deemed necessary by the guards 56 or the
supervisor 57, the belongings of the individual may be sent for
scanning using detection system 58. In which case the belongings
can be placed at one end of conveyor 60 to be guided into the
detection device 59 for scanning. While the belongings of the
individual are being scanned, the individual may present an access
device to the security device 52A to pass the barrier device 46A.
Once the individual has passed through the barrier device 46A and
the individual is in area 50A1, the individual may exit through the
opening 14A1 to enter into the secured area 27. The individual may
then pickup his/her belongings at an other end of the conveyor 60
through opening 14B1.
[0044] If the portable container 10A is being used without an
access device, when an individual approaches the passing room 40A
from an area 26 (e.g., a non-secure area) and enters through
opening 14A2, the individual can go through the security device 52A
(e.g., a magnetometer). The individual enters area 50A2 in which
the individual may be subject to additional screening. In one
embodiment, the barrier device 46A can be the same device as the
security device 52A (e.g., the metal detector). In another
embodiment, a separate barrier device 46A can be used to stop
persons from accessing the second area (e.g., a secure area) 27.
The barrier device 46A remains locked or closed until the guard 56
or the supervisor 57 authorizes the individual to enter the secured
area 27. Once an individual is approved, the barrier device 46A is
unlocked and the individual can go through the bather device 46A.
If the individual is not approved, the barrier device 46A continues
to be kept locked, and the control panel 45 in the control room 40B
can give an alarm to the guard 56 and/or the supervisor 57 via the
alarm device 47 and the guard 56 can instruct the individual to go
back to non-secured area 26 or show additional credentials.
Alternatively, the barrier device 46A can remain open until locked
by the guard 56 or the supervisor 57.
[0045] FIG. 7 is floor plan of the access control system, according
to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Similarly to
the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, three portable containers 70A,
70B and 70C are juxtaposed next to each other. The portable
containers 70A, 70B and 70C are arranged such that opening 72A in
portable container 70A communicates with opening 72B in portable
container 70B and opening 72C in portable container 70B
communicates with opening 72D in portable container 70C.
[0046] Similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the space in
each of the portable containers 70A, 70B and 70C can be tailored
for a specific need. In this embodiment, the spaces in the portable
containers 70A and 70C can be used as passing rooms for individuals
to access a second area (e.g., a secured area) 27 delimited by the
fencing material 30 from a first area (e.g., non-secured area) 26.
The space in portable container 70B can be used as a control room.
The space in portable container 70B can be configured to house a
detection system 73 for scanning belonging of individuals passing
through the passing rooms of portable container 70A and 70C.
[0047] The containers 70A and 70C comprise passing rooms 74A and
74C, respectively. The passing rooms 74A and 74C control the
movement of people between the first area (the non secured area) 26
and the second area (the secured area) 27. The passing rooms 74A
and 74C can be similar in many aspects to the passing rooms 40A and
40B in portable containers 10A and 10B described in the previous
paragraphs. The portable container 70A comprises entrance doorway
80A1 and exit doorway 80A2 and the portable container 70C comprises
entrance doorway 80C1 and exit doorway 80C2 through which an
individual enter from area (e.g., non secured area) 26 and exit
into area (e.g., secured area) 27. The portable container 70A can
comprise at least one barrier device 76A and the portable container
10C can comprise at least one barrier device 76C. The barrier
device 76A can be arranged inside of the passing room 74A so as to
restrict a person's movement through the passing room 7A. The
barrier device 76C can be arranged inside of the passing room 74C
so as to restrict a person's movement through the passing room 74C.
In one embodiment, a turnstile (e.g., a full-body turnstile, a
partial-body turnstile, a bi-directional turnstile, or a
uni-directional turnstile) is employed as a barrier device 76A, 76C
of the portable containers 70A, 70B, respectively. However, other
barrier devices may be used to restrict a person's movement through
the passing room 74A, 74C. For example, a sliding door, a revolving
door, moving bars, and gates, or the like may be used as a barrier
device 76A, 76C.
[0048] In one embodiment, the passing room 74A, 74C can include one
or more security devices 78A1, 78A2, 78C1, 78C2 issuing permission
for a person to pass through doorway 80A2, 80C2, respectively. In
one embodiment, the security device 78A1, 78A2, 78C1, 78C2 can
comprise, but is not limited to, one or more card readers, one or
more metal detectors (such as a magnetometer or the like), one or
more weapon detectors, one or more x-ray scanners, one or more
radiofrequency scanners (e.g., shortwave scanners), one or more
biometric readers, one or more iris scanners, one or more
fingerprint or palm readers, one or more physical or facial
recognition terminology, one or more electronic key locks, or one
or more mechanical key locks, or any combination of two or more
thereof. The security device 78A1, 78A2, 78C1, 78C2 can also
include a security measure, such as, but not limited to, posting an
individual or guard proximate to the doorway 80A1 and/or 80A2, 80C1
and/or 80C2 to check identification cards (e.g., photo
identification cards, licenses, etc.). In one embodiment, the
security device 78A2 may be located in the space between the
barrier 76A and the exit doorway 80A2 and the security device 78A1
located in the space between the entrance doorway 80A1 and the
barrier device 76A. Similarly, the security device 78C2 may be
located in the space between the barrier 76C and the exit doorway
80C2 and the security device 78C1 can be located in the space
between the entrance doorway 80C1 and the barrier device 76C.
[0049] The passing room 74A, 74C can also include one or more
explosive and/or weapon detection device 79A, 79C, respectively.
Alternatively, any sorts of detection devices may be employed. The
one or more explosive and/or weapon detection device may be
located, for example, in the space between the entrance doorway
80A1 and the barrier device 76A in the passing room 74A and in the
space between the entrance doorway 80C1 and the barrier device 76C
in the passing room 74C. However, the one or more explosive and/or
weapon detection device 79A, 79C may also be located in the space
between the barrier device 76A and the exit doorway 80A2 and may
also be located in the space between the barrier device 76C and the
exit doorway 80C2 in the passing room 74C. The one or more (for
example two) explosive and/or weapon detection devices 79A in
passing room 74A can be separated by a wall 71A and/or the one or
more (for example two) explosive and/or weapon detection devices
79C in passing room 74C can be separated by a wall 71C. The walls
71A and 71C can be provided to separate the one or more explosion
detection zones 79A, 79C so as to increase the number of
individuals processed through the respective passing rooms 74A and
74C.
[0050] As stated above, the portable container 70B can be used as a
control room. In one embodiment, a control room 74B is provided in
the portable container 70B for housing one or more detection
systems 73. The detection system 73 can be used to check items
carried by individuals when passing through the passing rooms 74A
and 74C. The detection system 73 comprises one or more detection
devices 75 for scanning objects carried by the individuals. The
detection system 73 can also comprise one or more conveyors 77 for
transporting the objects into and out of the detection device 75.
In an embodiment of the invention, the detection device 75 can be
an electromagnetic device (e.g., an x-ray machine) for detecting
belongings of an individual (e.g., the inside contents of a bag
carried by the individual) passing through the passing rooms 74A
and 74C, a chemical detection device or any other kind of detector.
In one embodiment, the conveyor 77 can be configured as an L-shape.
A first end 77A of the L-shaped conveyor 77 can be positioned in
the passing room 74A so as to allow individuals to place their
belongings for scanning. A second end 77B of the L-shaped conveyor
77 can be positioned outside the control room 74B in the area 27.
The L-shaped conveyor can thus guide the belongings placed at the
first end 77A through the detection device 75 and through an
opening 80B in the portable container 70B before reaching the
second end 77B where the individual can pick up the scanned
belongings.
[0051] The control room 74B is located between the passing rooms
74A and 74C. One or more guards can be posted in the control room
74B to monitor the detection system 73, observe the inside of the
passing rooms 74A and 74C and/or manually scan the belongings of
the individuals passing through the passing rooms 74A and 74B. The
one or more guards can take appropriate action to address any
situation that may occur in any of the passing room 74A, the
passing room 74C and/or the control room 74B.
[0052] Similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, as illustrated
in FIG. 7, one or more openings 81A, 81B can be provided in both
containers 70A and 70B for communicating between the passing room
74A and control room 74B and provided in both containers 70B and
70C for communicating between the passing room 74C and the control
room 74B. The openings 81A, 81B can be used as a handicap access to
redirect handicapped or disabled individuals to pass through the
control room 74B instead of one of the passing rooms 74A or 74C as
a handicapped or disabled individual may have a difficulty passing
through the barrier device 76A or the barrier device 76C or
difficulty using (e.g., reaching, seeing, etc.) security device
78A2 or security device 78C2.
[0053] Similar to the portable containers 10A, 10B and 10C, the
portable containers 70A, 70B or 70C can be put on a vehicle or
trailer and transported or towed to reach a specific destination.
By arranging the portable container in the manner described above,
the portable containers 70A, 70B and 70C can be used to control
access to an area. The portable containers 70A, 70B and 70C may be
used in a setting where control of access to a specific area may be
needed. For example, the specific area can be a work site where
access of personnel to the work site can be controlled. A worker
may carry an access device which when read by a security device may
allow or deny access to the work site. The portable containers 70A,
70B and 70C may also be used by individuals that do not have an
access device, but who must pass through security to enter a venue
(e.g., an outside concert or the like).
[0054] For example, in the case where an individual is coming from
the first area 26 (in this case the non-secured area) and intending
to enter into the second area 27 (in this case the secured area),
the individual must pass through the passing room 74A or the
passing room 74C by entering through doorway 80A1 or 80C1. After
entering through, for example, the opening 80A1 of the passing room
74A in the portable container 70A, the individual may deposit
his/her belongings at the first end 77A of the conveyor 77 to be
guided to the detection device 75 for scanning. While the
belongings of the individual are being scanned by the detection
device 75, the individual may be scanned for presence of explosives
or weapons with the explosive/weapons detection device 79A. After
being scanned for explosives and/or weapons, the individual may
submit to a scan by the security device 78A1 (for example an iris
scan device or a finger scan device or the like) to pass the
barrier device 76A. Once the individual has passed through the
barrier device 76A, the individual may be required to present an
access device to the security device 78A2 (e.g., a card swipe
device or the like) to exit through the doorway 80A2 to enter into
the secured area 27. After exiting through the doorway 80A2, the
individual may then pickup his/her belongings at the second end 77B
of the conveyor 77.
[0055] FIG. 8 is floor plan view of an access control device using
a portable container, according to yet another embodiment of the
present invention. The portable container 90 has a housing 92,
which, in one embodiment, is rectangular shaped. The portable
container 90 can have same general characteristics as container 10
described in the above paragraphs. For example the portable
container can be a standard shipping container which complies with
international standards as determined by the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO).
[0056] The portable container 90 comprises passing room 94. The
passing room 94 control the movement of people between a first area
(for example the secured area) 26 and a second area (for example
the non-secured area) 27. The first area 26 and the second area 27
are separated by a fence or barrier 30. The barrier 30 can be, for
example, attached to sidewalls of the portable container 90. The
passing room 94 communicates with the second area (non-secured
area) 27 via a first opening 96A and communicates with the first
area (the secured area) 26 via a second opening 96B. The first
opening 96A is spaced apart from the second opening 96B, in the
passing room 94, so as to define a walkway 98 in-between. A closing
device 99 (e.g., a door, shutters or the like) may be employed to
close the openings 96A and 96B. A security sensing device for
safeguarding the closing device 99 can be employed. In one
embodiment, the first and second openings 96A and 96B are provided
inside the portable container 90. For example, the first and second
openings 96A and 96B can be provided in respective walls 97A and
97B which are constructed inside the portable container 90. The
walls 97A and 97B can be recessed relative to opening 93 of the
portable container 90. The opening 93 of the portable container 90
can be closed, for example, with an already existing door in the
portable container 90. Indeed, the portable container 90 may
originally be provided with one or more doors on each opposite side
of the container. In this way, the recessed closing device 99
provided on recessed walls 97A and 97B and any associated security
sensing device can be, for example, isolated from outside
environmental elements when the portable container 90 is not in
use. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, the portable container is not
provided with any external openings other than opening 93 which can
be closed with doors. By closing the doors in the opening 93, the
portable container 90 being closed on all sides, can be viewed from
the outside as a regular shipping container as the internal
structure of the portable container 90 is hidden from outside view.
This feature provides additional security for the structure as well
as other components inside the container when the portable
container is not in use. In addition, by enclosing all the
components of the access control device inside the container, the
access control device can be handled as a regular portable
container, for example, during shipping.
[0057] The portable container 90 can comprise at least one barrier
device. In one embodiment, the portable container 90 comprises two
barrier devices 100A and 100B. The barrier devices 100A, 100B can
be arranged inside of the passing room 94 so as to restrict a
person's movement through the passing room 94. In one embodiment, a
turnstile (e.g., a full-body turnstile, a partial-body turnstile, a
bi-directional turnstile, or a uni-directional turnstile) is
employed as barrier devices 100A and 100B. However, other types of
barrier devices may be used to restrict a person's movement through
the passing room 94. For example, a sliding door, a revolving door,
moving bars, and gates, or the like may be used as the barrier
devices 100A and 100B. The barrier devices 100A and 100B are
located inside the walkway 98 and partition the walkway 98 into a
first, a second and third spaces 102A, 102B and 102C. The first
space 102A is defined as a space between the barrier device 100A
and the first opening 96A. The second space 102B is defined as a
space between the barrier device 100A and the barrier device 100B.
The third space is defined as a space between the barrier device
100B and the second opening 96B.
[0058] In one embodiment, the first space 102A is used as a
screening area, the second space 102B is used a detection zone for
explosives, weapons, metal, drugs and/or other materials, and the
third space 102C is used as an intermediary area before accessing
the second area (e.g., the secured area) 26.
[0059] In one embodiment, the passing room 94 can include one or
more security devices 104A, 104B issuing permission for a person to
pass through the passing room 94. In one embodiment, the security
devices 104A, 104B can comprise, but is not limited to, one or more
card readers, one or more metal detectors (such as a magnetometer
or the like), one or more weapon detectors, one or more x-ray
scanners, one or more radiofrequency scanners (e.g., shortwave
scanners), one or more biometric readers, one or more iris
scanners, one or more fingerprint or palm readers, one or more
explosive detectors, one or more physical or facial recognition
terminology, one or more electronic key locks, or one or more
mechanical key locks, or any combination of two or more thereof.
The security device 104A, 104B can also include a security measure,
such as, but not limited to, posting an individual or guard 56
proximate to the barrier devices 100A, 100B to check identification
cards (e.g., photo identification cards, licenses, etc.). In one
embodiment, the security device 104A may be located in the first
space 102A and the security device 104B may be located in the third
space 102C of the passing room 94. However, alternatively or
additionally, security devices 104A, 104B can also be provided in
the space between the opening 93 of the portable container and the
respective opening 96A and 96B provided inside the portable
container.
[0060] In one embodiment, the passing room 94 can comprise various
amenities such as lighting, water, air conditioning, etc. For
example, interior lighting 110 can be provided in the first space
102A, the second space 102B and/or the third space 102C. In
addition, flood lighting 111 can also be provided outside the
passing room 94 to illuminate the exterior of the passing room 98.
Furthermore, heat curtains 112 can also be provided in the
vicinity, for example above, any one of openings 96A and 96B. One
or more air conditioning units 113 can also be provided to control
the temperature inside the passing room 94. Electrical power can be
provided via power connection 114 so as to operate various
electrical amenities and other electrical powered systems in the
passing room 94.
[0061] As stated above, the first space 102A is used as a screening
area, the second space 102B is used a detection zone and the third
space is used as an intermediary area before accessing the second
area (e.g., the secured area) 26. The screening area can, for
example, include detection system 105 for scanning items carried by
individuals when passing through passing room 94. In one
embodiment, the detection system 105 can comprise a detection
device 106 for scanning objects carried by the individuals and a
conveyor 107 for transporting the objects into the detection device
106. In an embodiment of the invention, the detection device 106
can be an electromagnetic device (e.g., an x-ray machine) for
detecting belongings of an individual (e.g., the inside contents of
a bag carried by the individual) passing through the passing room
94, a chemical detector and/or any other kind of detector.
[0062] In one embodiment, the first space (screening area) 102A can
also include a control panel 108 to control the barrier device(s)
100A and/or 100B and the security device(s) 104A and/or 104B in
order for a guard 109 to monitor the passing room 94 while staying
in the first space (screening area) 102A. The control panel 108 can
comprise an alarm device which gives an alarm in case a problem
occurs in the passing room 94.
[0063] The portable container 90 can be used to control access of
personnel to the a work site. A worker may carry an access device
which when read by the security device may allow or deny access to
the work site. Alternatively, other uses are possible.
[0064] In operation, when an individual approaches the passing room
94 in portable container 90 from, for example, the second area 27
and enters through the opening 96A, the individual can stay in the
first space 102A in the walkway 98 and present an access device
(e.g., identification or electronically read card) to the security
device 104A. Prior to presenting the access device to the security
device 104A, the individual places his/her belongings on the
conveyor 107 to be scanned by the detection device 106. After
scanning of the belongings of the individual, the individual can
pick up his/her belongings and can proceed and present the access
device to the security device 104A.
[0065] The barrier device 100A remains locked or closed until the
access device is successfully read by the security device 104A.
Once the individual is approved by the security device 104A, the
barrier device 100A is unlocked and the individual can go through
the barrier device 100A to enter into second space (detection area)
102B. If a person is not approved by the security device 104A, the
barrier device 100A remains locked, and the control panel 108 can
give an alarm to the guard 109.
[0066] Once the individual is in the second space (detection area)
102B, the individual is scanned for explosives, weapons, metal,
drugs or the like, using a detection device such as, but not
limited to, a magnetometer or the like. If a trace of contraband is
detected on the individual, the control panel 108 can give an alarm
to the guard 109 and shuts both barrier devices 100A and 100B. In
this way the second space between the barrier devices 100A and 100B
can function as a "trap" that traps the individual on which a trace
of contraband is detected in the second space between the two shut
barrier devices 100A and 100B. If a trace of contraband is detected
on the individual and the individual is trapped in the second space
102B, the individual may be released through one or more doorways
or emergency exits 101A or 101B for a more detailed screening and
evaluation by additional guards upon summoned by guard 109. In this
way, a flow of individuals through the first space 102A and the
second space 102B may not be interrupted. If the individual does
not carry any contraband, the barrier device 100B can be opened and
the individual can proceed to exit from the second space (detection
area) 102B via barrier device 100B to enter into the third space
102C. In one embodiment, the barrier devices 100A and 100B are
uni-directional turnstiles. Therefore, when the individual is in
the detection area 102B, the individual can only exit through the
barrier device 100B and the individual cannot exit through the
barrier device 100A as this barrier device is only activated in one
direction (entry direction). When the individual is in the third
space 102C, the individual can present the access device to the
security device 104B. The security device 104B controls the opening
or closing of the closing device 99 (e.g., a door, shutters or the
like) that is employed to close the openings 96B. The closing
device 99 of opening 96B remains closed until the access device is
successfully read by the security device 104B. Once the identity of
the individual is confirmed by the security device 104B, the
closing device 99 is unlocked and the individual can go through the
opening 96B to enter into the first area (secured area) 26.
[0067] In one embodiment, two or more standard shipping containers
are filled with material to be shipped at a first location. Then,
the two or more containers are shipped to a second location. The
two or more containers are next unloaded at the second location.
Next, the two or more containers are configured as an access
control system after the two or more containers are unloaded. In
one embodiment, a first container in the two or more containers is
outfitted to function as a passing room while a second container in
the two or more containers is placed adjacent the first container
and is outfitted to function as a control room. In one embodiment,
the second location can be overseas from the first embodiment.
[0068] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a front view and a perspective
view of a portable container 210, according to embodiments of the
invention. The portable container 210 has housing 220, which, in
one embodiment, is rectangular shaped. However, any other shape is
also possible. The housing 220 can be made of a durable material
(e.g., iron, stainless steel), enabling the portable container 210
to be securely towed by a vehicle. One or both ends of the portable
container 210 can be equipped to be towed by a vehicle. In
addition, a security system to ensure that only authorized vehicles
move the portable container 210 can also be included. Furthermore,
fencing 263 or other material may be attached to the portable
container 210 to surround a secured area 262 (e.g., see FIG.
13).
[0069] FIG. 11 illustrates a top cross-sectional view of the
portable container 210, according to one embodiment of the
invention. The portable container 210 comprises at least one
passing room 230, which is provided for controlling and directing
the movement of people between two areas. In addition, the portable
container 210 can also comprise at least one control room 240, for
housing a guard or supervisor.
[0070] The portable container 210 can be a standard shipping
container. In one embodiment, the standard shipping container can
be a shipping container which complies with international standards
as determined by the International Organization for Standardization
(ISO). In one embodiment, the shipping container can include the
following features: made from corrugated steel; heavy steel framed
to withstand repeated lifting and placing; able to hold a cargo as
large as 30 tons; marine grade plywood flooring; lockable
accessible doors on one or both sides of the shipping container;
forklift pockets; corner connectors; or a venting system; or any
combination thereof.
[0071] In one embodiment, the portable container 210 can be
delivered to a user in a ready-made or turn-key state. In this
case, if electricity is not required, the portable container 210 is
ready to be used. If electricity is required, all that needs to be
done to render the portable container 210 usable is the provision
of electricity. In another embodiment, the portable container can
be customized by the user to meet specific needs of the user.
[0072] FIG. 12 is a detailed top cross-sectional view of a passing
room 230 and a control room 240, according to one embodiment of the
invention. The passing room 230 controls the movement of people
between area 260 and another area 262. A fence 263 can also be used
to separate areas 260 and 262 in locations where the portable
containers 210 are not used. The passing room 230 has at least a
first opening 232, and at least a second opening 234, which in one
embodiment is on a side opposite the first opening 232. However,
the first opening 232, second opening 234, and additional openings
can be located on any side of the passing room 230, including being
located on the same side of the passing room 230. The second
opening 234 is spaced apart from the first opening 232 so as to
define a walkway 236 in-between. A closing device 233 (e.g., a
door, shutters) is employed to close the openings 232 and 234 when
passing room 230 is not in use. A security sensing device for
safeguarding the closing device 233 can be employed.
[0073] The portable container 210 can comprise at least one barrier
device 238 in the inside of the passing room 230, which restricts a
person's movement through the passing room 230. In one embodiment,
a turnstile (e.g., a full-body turnstile, a partial-body turnstile,
a bi-directional turnstile, or a uni-directional turnstile) is
employed as a barrier device of the portable container 210, but
other barrier device may be used to restrict a person's movement
through the passing room 230. For example, a sliding door, a
revolving door, moving bars, and gates may be used as a barrier
device. The barrier device 238 is located inside the walkway 236,
defining a first space 250 between the barrier device 238 and the
first opening 232, and defining a second space 252 between the
barrier device 238 and the second opening 234.
[0074] In one embodiment, the passing room 230 can alternatively
include at least one security device 254 issuing permission for a
person to pass through the passing room 230. In one embodiment, the
security device 254 can comprise, but is not limited to, one or
more card readers, metal detectors, biometric readers, iris
scanners, fingerprint or palm readers, explosive and/or weapon
detectors, physical or facial recognition terminology, electronic
key locks, or mechanical key locks, or any combination thereof. The
security device 254 can also include a security measure, such as,
but not limited to, posting an individual proximate to the barrier
device 238 to check identification cards (e.g., photo
identification cards, licenses). In one embodiment, a security
device 254 is located in the first space 250 and also in the second
space 252. Security devices 254 can be included inside or outside
of the passing room. The passing room 230 can also comprise
lighting.
[0075] In one embodiment, a control room 240 is provided for
housing a guard or supervisor. The control room 240 can include a
control panel 242 to control the barrier device(s) 238 and the
security device(s) 254 in order for a guard or supervisor to
monitor the passing room while staying in the control room 240. The
control panel 242 can comprise an alarm device 243 which gives an
alarm in case a problem occurs in the passing room 230.
[0076] The control room 240 and the passing room 230 are separated
by at least one wall 212. The wall 212 can comprise at least one
window 214, so that a guard in the control room 240 can observe the
inside of the passing room 230 or the outside of the portable
container 210. The control room 240 has at least one opening 244
with at least one closing device 245. The closing device(s) 245 of
the control room 240 can be the same as, or different from, the
closing device(s) 233 of the passing room 230.
[0077] The control room 240 can also comprise: heat and/or
air-conditioning; lighting; at least one computer/cable outlet; at
least one phone jack; at least one electrical outlet; at least one
vent; or insulation; or any combination thereof.
[0078] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of a passing room 230
and a control room 240, according to one embodiment of the
invention. As the portable container 210 has a housing 220 which
comprises both the at least one passing room 230 and the at least
one control room 240, it is easy for users to move and use almost
anywhere. The portable container has everything that a user needs
to control access to an area.
[0079] The portable container 210 can be put on a vehicle or
trailer and transported or towed to reach multiple destinations,
and can be used to control access to an area. The portable
container may be used by people who have an access device (e.g.,
people working on a construction site). The access device is read
by the security device. The portable container 210 may also be used
by people that do not have an access device, but who must pass
through security to enter a venue (e.g., an outside concert).
[0080] If the portable container 210 is being used in conjunction
with an access device, when a person approaches the passing room
230 from an area 260 and enters the first opening 232, the person
can stay in the first space 250 in the walkway 236 and present an
access device (e.g., identification or electronically read card) to
the security device 254. In one embodiment, because the security
device 254 is located inside the passing room, the chance that the
person will lose or break an identification card or device is
decreased because the person does not need to expose the
identification card or device outside of the portable container
210. The portable container 210 also protects the security device
254, because the security device 254 is located inside of the
passing room 230.
[0081] In one embodiment, the barrier device remains locked or
closed until the access device is successfully read by the security
device 254. Once a person is approved by the security device 254,
the barrier device 238 is unlocked and the person can go through
the barrier device 238. If a person is not approved by the security
device 254, the barrier device 238 continues to be kept locked,
and, the control panel 242 can give an alarm to a guard via the
alarm device 243.
[0082] If the portable container 210 is being used without an
access device, when a person approaches the passing room 230 from
an area 260 and enters the first opening 232, the person can stay
in the first space 250 in the walkway 236 and go through the
security device 254 (e.g., a metal detector). In one embodiment,
the barrier device 238 can be the same device as the security
device 254 (e.g., the metal detector). In another embodiment, a
separate barrier device can be used to stop persons from accessing
the secured area 262. The barrier device 238 remains locked or
closed until the security device 254 or security personnel
authorizes a person to enter the secured area 262. Once a person is
approved, the barrier device 238 is unlocked and the person can go
through the barrier device 238. If a person is not approved, the
barrier device 238 continues to be kept locked, and, the control
panel 242 can give an alarm to a guard via the alarm device 243.
Alternatively, the barrier device can remain open until locked by
security personnel, for example.
[0083] In one embodiment, a standard shipping container is filled
with material to be shipped at a first location. Then, the
container is shipped to a second location. The container is next
unloaded at the second location. Next, the container is outfitted
as an access control unit after the container is unloaded. In one
embodiment, the second location can be overseas from the first
embodiment.
[0084] While various embodiments of the present invention have been
described above, it should be understood that they have been
presented by way of example, and not limitation. It will be
apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) that various
changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In fact, after
reading the above description, it will be apparent to one skilled
in the relevant art(s) how to implement the invention in
alternative embodiments. Thus, the present invention should not be
limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.
[0085] In addition, it should be understood that the figures, which
highlight the functionality and benefits of the present invention,
are presented for example purposes only. The architecture of the
present invention is sufficiently flexible and configurable, such
that it may be utilized in ways other than that shown in the
accompanying figures.
[0086] Further, the purpose of the Abstract of the Disclosure is to
enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public
generally, and especially the scientists, engineers and
practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent or legal
terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory
inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of
the application. The Abstract of the Disclosure is not intended to
be limiting as to the scope of the present invention in any
way.
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