Patent ID: 6078265
Filing Date: 2000-06-20
Classification: B60R,G07C,Y10T

Abstract:
A key-lock operated security system utilizing a fingerprint of an authorized user to control access to the security system comprising:a. an intelligent key comprising a mechanical key having an enlarged base end to be grasped between a thumb and forefinger of an authorized user and a narrow blade extending from the enlarged base end which can be inserted into and rotate a lock, said intelligent key having a fingerprint scanning means embedded in the surface thereof, and further having a microcontroller and a memory to provide an intelligent key for scanning and distinguishing between different fingerprints entirely within the intelligent key, wherein the scanning means is interfaced to the microcontroller which controls operation of the scanning means and reads data from the scanning means, to scan and correlate the minutia patterns of an individual fingerprint against one or more patterns of finger fingerprints of one or more authorized users of the security system stored within the memory, such that fingerprint recognition is performed entirely within the intelligent key, and the intelligent key having a data transmission means for transmitting encoded data signals indicating control functions in the security system;b. said lock mechanically interfacing with the intelligent key when the intelligent key is inserted into the lock;c. a key-lock controller for receiving and decoding the encoded signals from the intelligent key and in response thereto, controlling security functions of the security system.