Patent ID: 6388558
Filing Date: 2002-05-14
Classification: B60R,G07C,Y10T

Abstract:
A key system for a lock mechanism activated by at least one of an ID card and a mechanical key, the key system comprising:ID signal receiving means for receiving ID output signals transmitted from said ID card; ID extracting means for extracting ID card data from ID output signals received by the ID signal receiving means; ID storage means for maintaining stored ID data; coincidence determination means for ascertaining whether or not there is stored ID data coinciding with the ID card data extracted by said ID extracting means; a memory content change means for adding/deleting stored ID data in said ID storage means and said ID card is, a driver's license, a passport, or other identity proving ID cards; a mechanical key switch having a port for receiving the mechanical key, the mechanical key switch controlled by an operation enabling means permitting operation of the key switch; the key system further comprises a first mode and a second mode, in the first mode the mechanical key is received in the mechanical key switch port and the ID signal receiving means receives ID output signals transmitted from said ID card and where the coincidence determination means ascertains coincidence of the stored ID data and the extracted ID card data the operation enabling means is actuated to enable operation of the mechanical key switch and equipment operation; and in the second mode the operation enabling means is actuated solely by the ID card wherein the ID signal receiving means receives ID output signals transmitted from said ID card and where the coincidence determination means ascertains coincidence of the stored ID data and the extracted ID card data, the operation enabling means is actuated to enable operation of the mechanical key switch and equipment operation without the mechanical key.