JP2001323691A - Organism measuring key - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a key capable of reducing defects of conventional devices such as non-generality to be limited to a specific application, and need for use of an additive structure related to the specific application. SOLUTION: This organism measuring key comprises a key main body for building in an organism measuring sensor. A receiving device main body to be engaged with the organism measuring key is also provided, where a reader has a slot for holding this key. When this key is engaged with the receiving device main body, a signal indicating a bio-code for data generated by the organism measuring sensor is sent to a processing means to give access to a permitted user to a facility accessible by the organism measuring key.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to biometric keys and, more particularly, to authenticating keys through biometric verification.
rised) A biometric key having a key body that includes a biometric sensor that allows capturing keyholder biometric data and communicating the biometric data through a biometric sensor to a processor to check use. About.

[0002]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Currently, keys are used in a variety of applications, including mechanical or electromechanical cryptography that carries encoded information. One example of the latter is European Patent No. 4
No. 72495. The key has a special mechanism located on the opposite edge of the key and cooperating with a corresponding mechanism incorporated in the mating lock cylinder before the locking system incorporating the lock cylinder can be opened.

[0003] Although such keys are easy to use,
It can be seen that the level of security is not high.
This is because there is currently no useful means to verify that the person using the key is a valid user. While conventional mechanical or electro-mechanical locks operated by keys present physical access to the building, such keys can be easily duplicated or lost or passed on to others, Others may gain access to an unauthorized building.

[0004] Conventional biometric control systems are well known and use external processes (eg, storage memory, matching algorithms, and return signals) to encode specific biometric characteristics of a human into the biometric control device. Mention that The encoded version of the valid biometric feature may be stored. When verification is required, it is necessary for the user to submit his or her biometric characteristic features to the biometric controller. The biometric controller then compares the biometric durability feature to a valid biometric feature. If there is a match, the biometric control system grants access to equipment controlled by the biometric control system.

A biometrically guaranteed control system for preventing unauthorized use of vehicles is disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,867.
No. 802. This document describes a method and system for limiting use of a vehicle to persons whose fingerprints match biometric data stored in memory in the vehicle's control system. The digitized fingerprint of the user can be stored in ROM in the microcontroller's BIOS or in a RO that is accessed by the microcontroller.
Stored in M. The basic task of a microprocessor is to execute instructions, which instructions relate to vehicle operation and other tasks, such as adjusting fuel flow.
Before the microprocessor can execute the instructions on the basic task, it must complete and exit the conditional loop of instructions on examining the user's "actually entered" biometric data. The actual scanned fingerprint must be compared with the fingerprint stored in the ROM. If the results of the comparison match, the operating loop is satisfied and the microprocessor may execute instructions relating to operating the vehicle. U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,802 uses a conventional fingerprint scanning device and associated circuitry coupled to a microprocessor. A key operated ignition switch is coupled to the microprocessor and provides a signal to provide power to the microprocessor before it can control operations on the vehicle.

Another example of a biometrically assured control system is described in US Pat. No. 5,915,936. This U.S. Patent discloses a pressure sensor that detects that the butt of a small weapon is grasped by a palm of a user's hand, and scans the user's handprint after actuation of the pressure sensor. Reference is made to a firearm incorporating a scan sensor to generate a representative data signal. The firearm can be used only by a legitimate user, where the memory unit stores a data signal representative of the legitimate user.

[0007] US Patent No. 5,987,155 refers to a biometric information input device having an integrated smart card reader. The device provides for the co-operation of a smart card and an input device to provide the user with user-specific processing of biometric information provided by the user. Examples of biometric input devices mentioned in this document are biometric input devices incorporating microphones or biometric input devices including contact imaging devices such as fingerprint scanners.

The aforementioned prior art documents are examples of biometric control systems, examples of which are disclosed in US Pat.
Vehicle ignition key described in No. 2, US Patent No. 5
It can only be operated when using a pressure sensor in the case of 915936 or a smart card in the case of US Pat. No. 5,987,155. Thus, it can be appreciated that such conventional biometric control systems are non-generic in that they are limited to particular applications and require the use of additional structures for particular applications. Thus, for example, the biometric input device of US Pat. No. 5,987,155 requires a card slot for inserting a smart card as an essential component.

[0009]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a biometric key which can reduce the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0010]

According to the present invention, the following items 1 to 39 are provided to achieve the above object.

Item 1 A biometric key having a key body incorporating a biometric sensor for transmission of a signal representing a biocode of data generated by the biometric sensor, wherein the key body is In use, the signal is sent to processing means engagable with the receiver body for interaction with the key body and for providing access to authorized users for equipment accessible by the biometric key. Send a biometric key.

Item 2 The biometric key of item 1, wherein the key body is in use with one or more electrical contacts (in contact with the mating contact (s) of the receiver body). Biometric key (s).

Item 3 The biometric key of item 1, wherein the sensor is surrounded by an insulator of the key body.

Item 4 The biometric key of item 3, wherein the insulator is insertable into and connected to a slot in the key body.

Item 5. The biometric key of item 3, wherein the insulator is slidably connected to the key body and coupled to the key body.

Item 6 The biometric key of items 3, 4 or 5, wherein the biometric sensor is housed in a mating recess in the insulator.

Item 7 The biometric key according to any one of Items 2 to 6, wherein the key body is the key for the biometric key.
A biometric key that incorporates a circuit board that engages one or more contacts.

Item 8 The biometric key of item 3, wherein the key body incorporates a circuit board that engages the one or more contacts, the circuit board being adjacent to the biometric key. A biometric key housed in an insulator cavity.

Item 9 The biometric key of item 8, wherein the circuit board engages, at one end, a corresponding contact trace at an adjacent end of the biometric sensor. Or a biometric key with a lead wire.

Item 10. The biometric key of item 9, wherein said insulator incorporates a plurality of contact portals in contact with corresponding contacts or lead wires of said circuit board.

Item 11. The biometric key of any of items 2-10, wherein the contacts or each of the contacts is at least partially surrounded by an insulator sleeve. .

Item 12 The biometric key of item 11, wherein the insulator sleeve or each of the insulator sleeves is aligned orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the key body. .

Item 13 The biometric key of any one of items 1 to 12, wherein the key body has a handle or grip portion incorporating the biometric sensor and blade portion. .

Item 14 The biometric key of item 13, wherein the blade portion has a plurality of notches.

Item 15 The biometric key according to any one of Items 1 to 13, wherein the blade portion has a plate with no notch incorporated therein for insertion into a slot in the receiver body. A biometric key that is in shape.

Item 16 The biometric key according to item 11 or 12, wherein each contact comprises a pair of contact pins arranged to accommodate the insulator sleeve, wherein each contact pin comprises: A biometric key, separated by the circuit board.

Item 17 The biometric key of any of items 1 to 16, wherein the key body incorporates a smart chip.

Item 18 The biometric key of item 1, wherein the key body has a transmitter for interaction of the receiver body with a receiver for transmitting the signal. Measurement key.

Item 19 The biometric key substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Item 20: A receiver body engageable with a biometric key, the biometric key incorporating a biometric sensor for transmission of a signal representing a biocode of data generated by the biometric sensor. A key body, wherein the receiver body interacts with the key body and directs the signal to processing means for providing access to an authorized user for equipment accessible by the biometric key. Sending, receiving body.

Item 21. The receiver body of item 20, wherein the receiver body has one or more electrical contacts, which in use send the signal to the processing means. A receiving body that contacts the mating contact (s) of the biometric key.

Item 22. The reader or the receiver body according to Item 21, wherein the receiver body comprises:
A mechanical lock body engageable with the biometric key;
A reader or receiver body, wherein the key has a blade portion having a plurality of notches for engaging a corresponding tumbler of the lock body.

Item 23. The receiver body of item 22, wherein the lock body comprises a barrel having the tumbler and a plurality of contacts and a lock cylinder for engagement with the barrel. A receiver body, wherein the lock cylinder has a plurality of contact portals for contacting corresponding contacts of the barrel.

Item 24. The receiving body according to any one of Items 20 to 23, wherein the receiving body incorporates an internal processing unit, which corresponds to the processing means.

Item 25 The receiving body according to item 24, wherein the internal processing unit comprises:
A receiver body having an interface with an external processor or computer for registration of biometric data.

Item 26. The receiving body of item 22, wherein, after analysis of the signal by the processing means, access to the equipment is provided by a linear motor of a lock cylinder disposed within the lock body. Or provided by actuation of a solenoid, which is in electrical connection with the processing means, wherein:
A receiver body, wherein the linear motor or solenoid is actuated to rotate a locking pin in the lock body to facilitate unlocking of the lock body.

Item 27. The receiver body of item 26, wherein rotation of the locking pin causes a corresponding rotation of a barrel engageable with the lock cylinder.

Item 28 Item 20, 21, 24 or 2
The receptacle body of claim 5, wherein the receptacle body has a slot engageable with a blade portion of the biometric key, wherein the blade portion does not incorporate a notch.
Receiver body.

Item 29. The receptacle body of any one of Items 20 to 28, wherein each of the contacts contained therein abuts a corresponding contact pin of the biometric key body. The receiver body is urged by the spring to the position where it was set.

Item 30. The receptacle body of item 29, wherein each of the contacts contained therein is orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the biometric key in use.
Receiver body.

Item 31. The receiver body of item 29, wherein each of said contacts is housed in an insulator.

Item 32. The receptacle body of item 31, wherein the inner contact for contacting a corresponding contact of the biometric key in use and a spring are separated from the adjacent inner contact within each insulator. Receiving body, wherein external contact is provided.

Item 33. The receptacle body of any one of items 20 to 32, wherein the receptacle body incorporates indicator means for indicating validity or rejection of biometric data generated by the sensor. Body.

Item 34. The receiver body of item 31, wherein the indicator means is a light emitting diode.

Item 35. The receiver body of item 26, wherein the receiver body incorporates a receiver for interacting with a transmitter of the key body for transmitting the signal.

Item 36. A security system for use with the facility to prevent unauthorized access to the facility, the system comprising: (a) a biometric key, wherein the key is generated by a biometric sensor. A biometric key having a key body incorporating a biometric sensor for the transmission of a signal representing the biocode of the data to be obtained; and (b) a receiver body engageable with the biometric key, wherein: Processing associated with the receiver body for engaging the key body with the key body when interacting with the key body to provide access to the equipment to a user authorized to receive the signal. Sending means, receiving body,
A security system with

Item 37. The security system according to Item 36, wherein the key body has one or more electrical contacts, and if the signal is sent, the electrical contact is a mating contact (single). Or more), a security system.

Item 38. A method for providing access to equipment, comprising: (i) inserting a key with a biometric sensor into a receptacle body, whereby: Upon engagement of the key with the receiver body,
A signal representative of the biocode of the data generated by the biometric sensor is sent to process means;
(Ii) reconciling the biocode with a database associated with the processing means for authorizing the validity of the biocode; and (iii) the receiver to an authorized user when the validity occurs. Providing access to equipment incorporating the body.

Item 39. The method according to item 38, wherein the processing means is connected to an external computer that receives registration with the database.

The present invention provides a method for transmitting a signal representing a biocode of data generated by a biometric sensor, comprising:
Provided is a biometric key having a key body incorporating a biometric sensor, the key body being operable during use with a receiver body for interaction with the key body, thereby providing the biometric key. A signal is sent to the processing means for authorizing that a legitimate user has access to the equipment accessible by the measurement key.

The interaction between the key body and the receiver body may include the use of an electrical connection to send a signal to the processing means, wherein the key body is connected to the mating contact (singular) of the receiver body as described below. Or more than one contact). However, such interactions also include key transmitters that interact with the receiver of the receiver body, such interactions being optical, infrared,
It may have radio frequency or fiber optic properties.

The key body is a conventional method for unlocking a mechanical lock with a blade having a plurality of notches cooperating with a lock tumbler in a conventional manner for unlocking the mechanical lock as described below. Key. The key body also has a handle portion or a grip portion, which may have a biometric sensor affixed or attached to or incorporated into the portion. Preferably,
The sensor is connected within a mating recess in the key body and may include contacts or pins that also form an example of connection means that may be coupled to a circuit board provided in the key body. Preferably, the sensor is surrounded by an insulator insert.

Alternatively, the key body may omit the notch, have a blade or end, and mate with a mating slot in the receiver body described above. In this embodiment, the receiver body may interface with the processing means, which may provide access to the equipment when a legitimate signal is recognized.

The sensor is Pollex or Sieme.
ns, which can scan key holders for appropriate biometric properties.
Alternatively, the sensor is Thompson, Veridic
on, or Harris, all of which are well known solid state manufacturers. Scanning sensors are performed using a number of techniques such as capacitance, resistance, thermal imaging, structural geometry, skeletal or venous structures. The scanning sensor is suitable for scanning a fingerprint or thumb fingerprint.

The key body also has inbuilt logic (inbu
A smart card chip, such as a hardwired logic chip, also known as an "intelligent memory" chip having an "ilt logic" may be incorporated therein. An embedded processor chip attached to the key body may include memory and local processor capabilities. An embedded processor chip embedded within the key body can be used to encrypt / decrypt the data, making this type of biometric key a unique personal identification key.

Examples of the use of the biometric key of the present invention are as an ignition key for a vehicle, as a key to a storage facility (eg, a drawer or lid of a box), a security facility (eg, a security door or window). Actuate an elevator or lift, or initiate actuation of an electric motor, hydraulic motor, engine or other form of drive means, or hydraulically or pneumatically operated ram assembly. Each of the foregoing is an example of a facility that may be accessible by the biometric key of the present invention.

Thus, the biometric key of the present invention has many uses or uses, is very versatile, and
It will be appreciated from the foregoing that the structure is simple enough to at least partially overcome the disadvantages of conventional biometric key control systems as described above. The biometric key of the present invention also includes a high degree of security that overcomes the problems of conventional keys as described above.

The present invention also includes within its scope a receptacle body engageable with a biometric key, the biometric key comprising:
It has a key body incorporating a biometric sensor for transmission of a signal indicative of the biocode of the data generated by the biometric sensor. Here, the receiver body interacts with the key body and sends a signal to the processing means to grant access to the legitimate user to equipment accessible by the biometric key.

From the embodiments exemplified below,
The receiver body includes a lock component (eg, FIGS. 1-10A).
Lock cylinder shown in Fig. 1) or stationary type body (Fig. 1
It is understood that the drawer or part of the door as shown in FIGS.

The present invention also provides a security system for use with a biometric key as described above, as well as a facility including the receptacle body as described above, to prevent unauthorized access to the facility. .

The present invention also relates to a method for providing access to a facility, the method comprising the steps of: (i) inserting a key having a biometric sensor into a receptacle body; A signal indicating the biocode of the data emitted by the biometric sensor upon engagement of the key with the receiver body is sent to the processing means; (ii) combining the biocode with the processing means. (Ii) matching the relevant database to enable the validity of this biocode;
i) providing the legitimate person with access to equipment incorporating the receiver body when this effect occurs.

[0062]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to FIG.
Biometric key 1 of the present invention held in hand 11 having
0 is provided. The key 10 includes a key body 13 and a thumb 1
5 having a sensor 14 contacted by it. The key 10 also comprises a blade 16 having a notch 17.

In FIG. 2, the key 10 is a lock barrel 3
1, the lock barrel 31 is provided with the fitting opening 19 of the lock body 20 having the lock tongue 21.
Adapted to The barrel 31 has a contact portal 22 and also has an upper component 23 that fits into a mating recess 24. Barrel 31 also includes wire 25. Lock body 20 has mechanical properties with a custom wire bus (not shown).

The lock body 20 incorporates a slider bar 21A having a slot 21B for engagement with the trigger latch 48 shown in FIG. 4A.

3A and 3C, key 10 is shown having components in the form of sensor 14, insulator insert 27 and circuit board 28. The circuit board 28 fits into the recess 29 of the insulator insert 27. The insulator insert 27 is slidably mounted on the key body 13,
And joined there. The circuit board 28 includes the key body 13
Like, on both sides. The key body 13 is, as shown in the figure,
Formed from sensor 14, insulator insert 27 and circuit board 28. The sensor 14 fits into the recess 30 of the insulator 27 and, more specifically, is retained on the retaining flange 30A of the recess 30. Circuit board 28 has lead wires or contact traces 28A, which couple or solder corresponding tabs 26 to sensor 14. The circuit board 28 also has a beveled side edge 28B at an end adjacent to the lead wire 28A, which engages a corresponding edge 28C of the recess 29.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C, the key body 1
3 also includes a body plate or flange 13A and 1
3B, which are separated by slots 13C of a shape complementary to the insulator insert 27,
Receives the insulator insert 27, as shown in FIG. 3A.

In FIG. 4, the key 10 is the contact portal 3
It is shown fitted on a lock cylinder 18 having two. The cylinder 18 includes a flange 33 and a slot 3.
5 having an end 34. The cylinder 18 also has a tumbler 36.

When the cylinder 18 is inserted into the lock barrel 31, the contact portal 32 is engaged with the mating contact portal 2.
Touch 2 The contact portal 22 is connected to the lock body 20 using an external processor (described below).
To transmit electrical signals through. Alternatively, and more preferably, contact portal 22 exchanges electrical signals with a processing unit within lock body 20. Lock body 20 has an electrical connection to an external processor (such as a host computer, as described herein below). The electrical connection with the external processor can be of any suitable type, for example, USB, parallel, serial or IEEE 1384 firewire signals.
This is Bluetooth, HomeRF, High
IEEE, including RateRF and broad spectrum RF
802.15 Wireless Personal
Adapting to Area Network (WPAN) is not excluded. The processing unit may also provide a return electrical signal, which controls a linear motor or solenoid 38. A linear motor or solenoid 38 releases a cylindrical locking pin 39 that fits within bore 40 of cylinder 18. The motor 38 has a spring-biased piston 41 which engages an opening 42 in a locking pin 39. Motor 38 also fits within mating socket 43 of barrel 31. The locking pin 39
It has a protrusion 44, which is
5 is engaged. Motor 38 also has contacts 47 that engage wires 25. A trigger latch 48 on the barrel 31 is also provided, which is shown in the locked position and which is shown in FIG.
Is located on the rotatable gear 48A having The trigger latch 48 engages the slot 50 to the unlocked position and provides for maintenance of the barrel 31. When the unlocking of the lock body 20 is started, the piston 41 is pulled into the motor 38, whereby the locking pin 39 is rotated. A small pin 48B is provided, which interconnects with locking pin 39 and gear wheel 48A, as shown in FIG. 4A, where pin 48B is
It engages a hole 48C in the locking pin 39 and also engages a selected recess 48D in the gear wheel 48A. The latch 48 moves downward from the position shown in FIG. 4 to unlock the tongue or latch plate 21 by engaging with the slot 21B shown in FIG.
The upper component 23 of the barrel 31 has a threaded mounting hole 51A, which facilitates the mounting of the lock body 20. As referred to above, lock 20 may be a suitable processing unit, including a suitable processing unit for aligning and validating biometric data in the form of a biocode provided by electrical signals from sensor 14. It will also be appreciated that software (including software and databases) (not shown) may be incorporated. The processing unit may also be coupled to a host computer, through which a biocode may be registered, as described herein below. Wire 25 may be connected to a processing unit or a host computer. Lock body 20 controls access in two different ways. That is, the manner in which a valid return signal from the processing unit is required to unlock the locking pin 39, as well as the manner in which the mechanical tumbler 36 adds additional security.

FIG. 5 shows the key 10 inserted into the keyway or slot 31A of the cylinder 18, and FIG.
Taken along the line AA in FIG. In FIG. 6, individual insulators or insulator sleeves 50A and 51 are shown, which contact pins 52 and 53. More precise details are shown in FIG. 6A, which shows the insulators 50A and 51 press-fit into the key body 13 and the press fit into the mating insulators 50A and 51. The contact pins 52 and 53 are shown. Contact pin 52
And 53 each have a barbed point 52A, which is driven into a solder paddle on circuit board 28. The insulators 50A and 51 are aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the key body 13.

FIG. 7 is taken along line BB in FIG. A contact pin 55 is shown, which is slid into the insulator 54 and into the fuzzy button 57. The purpose of the fuzzy button 57 is to provide electrical continuity between the contact pins 55 and 56 under the influence of its own spring pressure. The insulator 57 is shown aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the key body 13. More precise details of this arrangement are shown in FIG. An exploded view is also shown in FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9 is a cross section taken along line CC of FIG. 4, and a detailed view of this contact is shown in FIG. This includes an insulator 63 bonded into the barrel 31, a contact pin 62 adapted to be press-fit into the insulator 63, an opaque button 64, and an additional contact pin having a sliding fit within the insulator 63. 65 is shown. An exploded view is shown in FIG. 10A.

The processing unit may be a stand-alone environment (platform independent), ie, as described above, or by any suitable means (serial, parallel, or US).
B connection or IEEE 802.15 WPAN R
(Including F-Technology), either with the aid of a remote host computer connected to it. This processing unit is a Digital Signal
A Process (DSP) unit or ASIC processor may be provided. This processing unit
Capture and extract the fingerprint biocode scanned by the biometric key. This biocode is a fingerprint map or digital signature, which allows for the identification of a person. The extraction and matching algorithm is based on a detailed comparison. The maximum size of the biocode in this particular context may be 254 bytes. This processing unit has its own database of 204
Up to eight biocodes can be managed, or if more biocodes are needed, a remote host computer can manage the database. A remote computer may be coupled with this processing unit in order to take full advantage of the available features (such as administrative reports and user inquiries).

The processing unit can be a self-contained board using only an external power source, an interface to a biometric sensor, and a connection to a host computer. This processing unit also has an onboard R
It can include AM, ROM, communication interface, fingerprint recognition software, and database manager, all integrated into an optimized device. It is the job of the system maker to satisfy the relevant specifications in the overall system operation.

There are various registration means for entering the biocode into the processor database. A remote host computer via a suitable connection is most common.
Smartcard Reader can also be used with the numeric keypad to control the processing unit. In a stand-alone environment, there are many ways to initiate administrator functions.

The processing unit can also register the biocode directly at the origin via a key. The user
It falls into two categories: administrators and regular users. The administrator registers, checks and deletes authorized people in the database.

Referring to FIG. 11, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein key 10 is a stationary receiver body 18A.
12 and the electrical energization is shown in FIGS.
3 provided. 12 and 13 correspond to FIG.
A portion along one of the lines AA and DD is shown, and details of its associated contact are shown in the same manner as shown in FIGS. In FIG. 12, contact pins 52 and 53 are shown, which are surrounded by insulators 50A and 51 as described above. Contact pin 52
And 53 contact mating contact 56 of receiver body 18A, which contact 56
Contact with The wiring 66 is attached to the ambiguous button 57 by a solder 67 as shown in FIG. The key 10 is inserted into the slot 68 of the receiving body 18A as shown in FIG. The wiring 66 is passed through a wire access groove 69, which is shown in FIGS. Receiver body 18A also includes a light emitting diode 70 (shown in FIG. 16), which is a visual signal of acceptance (ie, green) or a signal of rejection (ie, red). The wiring 66 is soldered at points 66A, 66B, 66C and 67D as shown in FIG.

The receiver body 18A can be mounted in a drawer, box, or housing of any security system, so that the receiver body 18A can be processed in a security system that requires access by the biometric key 10. It can be wired to a unit (not shown).
Accordingly, this embodiment does not require a mechanical or electromechanical lock body 20 as shown in the embodiment of FIGS.

The sensor 14 can be obtained commercially from Siemens and sold under the trademark FingerTip. It is sold as a component of a module, which is also
a processing unit connected to the rTip sensor chip, and this module comprises a Siemens
By TopSec 10-Module A1.
Sold under the trademark 0. This module is
read biometric data from the gerTip sensor,
Evaluate it and compare it to the database contained in the module's memory. This emphasizes that only sensor components utilized in the present invention and incorporated into key body 13 as described herein.

However, the processing unit from this module is one example of a suitable processing unit utilized in the present invention.

The key 10 can also be located on the same side as the sensor 14, or on the opposite or opposite side.
a smart card chip 14A (not shown), shown on the side of the device.

It is also understood that the present invention may include within its scope the receiving body described above in the form of a lock cylinder 18 or stationary body 18A. The present invention may also include the barrel 31 itself.

This smart card chip 14A has an IS
A personal identification card may be provided, including an integrated circuit and / or processor integrated circuit with an O 7816 interface and / or an IC-S.

Referring to FIG. 18, there is shown a block diagram illustrating a sequence of events during the use of the biometric key of the present invention. Here, the following occurs: (i) The key 10 or 10A is inserted into the lock cylinder 18 or the stationary receiver body 18A.

(Ii) This key contact connects with the receiver body contact.

(Iii) Power is provided to the sensor 14 of the key 10 from an external source via the receiver body 18 or 18A and the processing unit.

(Iv) the biometric is read through the sensor 14 and the data is passed through a key contact and sent to the processing unit; (v) the processing unit extracts the biometric data signature, and Compare for compatibility with previously stored biometric data signatures; (vi) latch or unlatch external signals if compatible (ie, open / close); and (vii) key 10 from receiver body Remove.

In FIG. 19, a schematic diagram is shown of how the registration of a biometric data signature can be accomplished via a host computer. Thereby: (a) the host computer software requests personal and / or demographic information about the authorized user; (b) a biometric data signature is provided on the receiver body coupled to the host computer. (C) personal and / or demographic information is stored with the biometric data signature and stored in a database on the host computer; (d) Perform a search against the database for registration (i.e., prevent multiple registrations with the assumed name); (e) if not found, register authorized user with database; (f) find Refuse registration, if applicable; and (g) a database and host co-located in the processing unit. Update your computer database to reflect the new registration.

It will be appreciated from the above that the biometric key of the present invention is versatile in operation, has a relatively simple structure, and provides a high degree of security.

In the above variations, it is understood that the key body may have a built-in processor chip or processing unit instead of the processing unit incorporated in the receiver body.

A biometric key having a key body incorporating a biometric sensor. A receiver body for engaging the biometric key is also provided, wherein the reader has a slot for retaining the key. When the key engages the receiver body, a signal representing the biocode of the data generated by the biometric sensor provides access to authorized users for equipment accessible by the biometric key. Sent to the processing means.

[0091]

The present invention is not universal in conventional biometric control systems in that it is limited to particular applications, and requires the use of additional structures for particular applications. A biometric key that can reduce the disadvantages of

Reference may now be made to a preferred embodiment of the invention as described in the accompanying drawings.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a biometric key of the present invention held in a human hand.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the biometric key of the present invention;
This key is inserted into the corresponding lock barrel of the lock body.

FIG. 3A is an enlarged perspective view of the key of FIG. 1, showing all parts thereof. FIG. 3B is a perspective view from the opposite side of the circuit board shown in FIG. FIG. 3C is a perspective view from the opposite side of the key shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of components of a lock body including a lock cylinder and an associated barrel.
FIG. 4A is an enlarged perspective view of the components of the lock main body shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 shows the view of FIG. 1 inserted into the lock cylinder;
1 is a plan view of the biometric key of the present invention shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 5;
FIG. 6A is an enlarged view of the components of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a detailed view of the details of the contact shown in FIG. 7; FIG. 8A is an enlarged view of the components of FIG.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC of FIG. 4;

FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the details of the contact shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 10A is an enlarged view of the components of FIG.

FIG. 11 is a plan view of a biometric key of the present invention inserted into a stationary receiver body according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along line DD in FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a detailed view of the contact shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of FIG. 1 separated from the receiver body;
FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of a first key.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the receiver body barrel of FIG. 15 from another direction.

FIG. 17 is a detailed view of the contact shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a block diagram describing a series of events during operation of the biometric key of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing registration of a biometric data signature by an external host computer.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Biometric key 12 Control portal 14 Sensor 18 Lock cylinder 18A Stationary receiver main body 22 Fitting contact portal 24 Fitting recess 32 Contact portal

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) E05B 49/00 E05B 49/00 FKR (71) Applicant 501194248 96 Haven Road, Pullnvale, Queensland, 4069 Robert Christensen, senior inventor, Minnesota, United States 55317, Chanhassen, Powers Boulevards 6648

Claims (39)

[Claims] 1. A biometric key having a key body incorporating a biometric sensor for transmission of a signal representing a biocode of data generated by the biometric sensor, the key body comprising: In use, the signal is sent to processing means engagable with the receiver body for interaction with the key body and for providing access to authorized users for equipment accessible by the biometric key. Send a biometric key. 2. The biometric key according to claim 1, wherein:
Here, the biometric key, wherein the key body has one or more electrical contact (s) that, in use, contact the mating contact (s) of the receiver body. 3. The biometric key according to claim 1, wherein:
A biometric key, wherein the sensor is surrounded by an insulator of the key body. 4. The biometric key according to claim 3, wherein:
A biometric key, wherein the insulator is insertable into a slot in the key body and connected to the slot. 5. The biometric key according to claim 3, wherein:
Here, a biometric key, wherein the insulator is slidably connected to the key body and coupled to the key body. 6. The biometric key according to claim 3, 4 or 5, wherein the biometric sensor is housed in a mating recess in the insulator. 7. A biometric key according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the key body incorporates a circuit board that engages the one or more contacts. key. 8. The biometric key according to claim 3, wherein:
A biometric key, wherein the key body incorporates a circuit board that engages the one or more contacts, the circuit board being housed within the insulator cavity adjacent to the biometric key. 9. The biometric key according to claim 8, wherein:
Here, the biometric key, wherein the circuit board has, at one end, a contact trace or lead wire that engages a corresponding contact trace at an adjacent end of the biometric sensor. 10. The biometric key of claim 9, wherein the insulator incorporates a plurality of contact portals in contact with corresponding contacts or lead wires of the circuit board. . 11. The biometric key according to any one of claims 2-5 and 8-10, wherein said contacts or each of said contacts is at least partially surrounded by an insulator sleeve. A biometric key. 12. The biometric key of claim 11, wherein the insulator sleeve or each of the insulator sleeves is aligned orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the key body. key. 13. A biometric key according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 8 to 10, and 12, wherein the key body incorporates the biometric sensor and blade portion. A biometric key with a part. 14. The biometric key of claim 13, wherein said blade portion has a plurality of notches. 15. The biometric key according to any one of claims 1 to 5, 8 to 10, and 12, wherein the blade portion is inserted into a slot in the receiver body. A biometric key that is plate-shaped with no notches. 16. The biometric key of claim 12, wherein each contact comprises a pair of contact pins disposed upon receiving an insulator sleeve, wherein each contact pin is A biometric key separated by the circuit board. 17. The method according to claim 1, wherein
17. The biometric key of any one of claims 16 wherein the key body incorporates a smart chip.
Biometric key. 18. The biometric key of claim 1, wherein the key body has a transmitter for interaction of the receiver body with a receiver for transmission of the signal. Biometric key. 19. A biometric key, substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 20. A receiver body engageable with a biometric key, the biometric key incorporating a biometric sensor for transmission of a signal representing a biocode of data generated by the biometric sensor. A key body, wherein the receiver body interacts with the key body and directs the signal to processing means for providing access to an authorized user for equipment accessible by the biometric key. The receiver body to send. 21. The receiver body of claim 20, wherein the receiver body has one or more electrical contacts that, in use, send the signal to the processing means. A receiving body for contacting with the mating contact (s) of the biometric key. 22. The receiver body of claim 21, wherein the receiver body is a mechanical lock body engageable with the biometric key, the key being a key of the lock body. A receiver body having a blade portion having a plurality of notches for engaging a corresponding tumbler. 23. The receiver body of claim 22, wherein the lock body comprises a barrel having the tumbler and a lock cylinder for multiple contacts and engagement with the barrel. A receiver body, wherein the lock cylinder has a plurality of contact portals for contacting corresponding contacts of the barrel. 24. The receiving body according to any one of claims 20 to 23, wherein the receiving body incorporates an internal processing unit, which corresponds to the processing means. 25. The receiver body of claim 24, wherein the internal processing unit has an interface with an external processor or computer for registration of biometric data. 26. The receiver body of claim 22, wherein, after analysis of the signal by the processing means, access to the equipment comprises a linear movement of a lock cylinder disposed within the lock body. Provided by actuation of a motor or solenoid, which is in electrical connection with the processing means, wherein the linear motor or solenoid locks in the lock body to facilitate unlocking of the lock body. A receiver body that is actuated to rotate a pin. 27. The receiver body of claim 26, wherein rotation of the locking pin causes a corresponding rotation of a barrel engageable with the lock cylinder. 28. The receptacle body of claim 20, 21 or 25, wherein the receptacle body has a slot engageable with a blade portion of the biometric key, wherein:
A receiver body wherein the blade portion does not incorporate a notch. 29. The receptacle body of any of claims 20-23 and 25-27, wherein each of the contacts contained therein corresponds to the biometric key body. Receiving body that is spring-biased at a position where it comes into contact with the contact pin that makes contact. 30. The receptacle body of claim 29, wherein each of the contacts contained therein is:
A receiver body that is orthogonal in use to the longitudinal axis of the biometric key. 31. The receiver body of claim 29, wherein each of the contacts is housed in an insulator. 32. The receptacle body of claim 31, wherein, within each insulator, an inner contact for contacting a corresponding contact of the biometric key in use and a spring separated from an adjacent inner contact. The receiver body, wherein the outer contact is provided. 33. The receptacle body according to any one of claims 20 to 23, 25 to 27 and 30 to 32, wherein the validity or rejection of biometric data generated by the sensor is determined. A receiver body into which the indicator means shown is incorporated. 34. The receiver body of claim 31, wherein the indicator means is a light emitting diode. 35. The receiver body of claim 26, wherein the receiver body incorporates a receiver for interacting with the key body transmitter for transmission of the signal. 36. A security system for use with the facility to prevent unauthorized access to the facility, the system comprising: (a) a biometric key, wherein the key is generated by a biometric sensor. A biometric key having a key body incorporating a biometric sensor for transmission of a signal representing the biocode of the data to be obtained; and (b) a receiver body engageable with the biometric key;
Here, when engaged with the key body, the receiver body interacts with the key body and the signal is applied to the receiver body for giving authorized users access to the equipment. A security system comprising a receiver body for sending to associated processing means. 37. The security system according to claim 36, wherein the key body has one or more electrical contacts and, when sending the signal, the electrical contacts are mated contacts ( Security system in contact with one or more). 38. A method for providing access to a facility, the method comprising the steps of: (i) inserting a key having a biometric sensor into a receptacle body, whereby: Upon engagement of the key with the receiver body, a signal representative of the biocode of the data generated by the biometric sensor is sent to process means; (ii)
Reconciling the biocode with a database associated with the processing means for authorizing the validity of the biocode; and (iii) incorporating the receiver body into an authorized user if the validity occurs. Providing access to the facility. 39. The method of claim 38, wherein said processing means is coupled to an external computer receiving registration with said database.
Method.