A locking system includes a tamper-resistant lock and key. The tamper-resistant lock includes a cylindrical lock body with external threading on at least a portion thereof and a bore extending into an end of the cylindrical lock body. The bore includes an engagement feature disposed on the wall that defines the bore, and the engagement feature is disposed a particular distance away from the bore opening. The key includes a collar that has a cylindrical key body that fits within the bore of the cylindrical lock body. The cylindrical key body also includes an opening defined by the collar sidewall, a retractable engagement member at least partially disposed within the opening, a spring disposed within the collar, and a plunger disposed within the collar that is operable to engage the spring and has a recess sized and shaped to accommodate the retractable engagement member.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure generally relates to locking systems. Particularly, this disclosure relates to systems that include a tamper-resistant lock and components for securing the same.

Related Technology

There are many items that people want to keep safe or which are desired to be kept free from interference or tampering by others. In many instances these items are sealed with a container or behind a barrier using a lock, and only individuals with the appropriate key can access the contents sealed behind the lock. However, many locks can be picked or easily circumvented.

Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages with locking systems that can be addressed.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Implementations of the present disclosure solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with locking systems. In particular, one or more implementations can include a tamper-resistant lock and a key. The tamper-resistant lock includes a cylindrical lock body having external threading on at least a portion of a length of the cylindrical lock body and a bore extending into an end of the cylindrical lock body. The bore has an engagement feature disposed on a wall defining the bore with the engagement feature being disposed a particular distance away from an opening of the bore. The key includes a collar having a cylindrical key body sized and shaped to be at least partially disposed within the bore, an opening defined by a sidewall of the collar, a retractable engagement member at least partially disposed within the opening defined by the sidewall of the collar, a spring disposed within the collar, and a plunger disposed within the collar operable to engage the spring. The plunger has a recess that is sized and shaped to accommodate the retractable engagement member.

In an embodiment, a locking system includes an adjustable adaptor, a tamper-resistant lock, and a key. The adjustable adaptor is configured to be at least partially disposed within an interior portion of a housing and includes: a first end having a channel disposed therein, a lock coupling member sized and shaped to slidably fit within the channel, and a second end disposed opposite the first end and separated therefrom by an elongate member. The second end is adjustable to selectively increase or decrease a distance between the first end and the second end. The tamper-resistant lock includes a body having a lower end selectively engaged with the lock coupling member and a bore extending into the body, the bore having an engagement feature disposed on a wall defining the bore. The key includes a collar sized and shaped to be at least partially disposed within the bore, an opening defined by a sidewall of the collar, and a retractable engagement member at least partially disposed within the opening. The retractable engagement member is sized and shaped to interact with the engagement feature when the retractable engagement member is in an extended position.

In an embodiment, a locking system includes an adjustable adaptor, a tamper-resistant lock, and a key. The adjustable adaptor is configured to be at least partially disposed within an interior portion of a housing and includes a first end having a channel disposed therein, a lock coupling member sized and shaped to slidably fit within the channel, and a second end disposed opposite the first end and separated therefrom by an elongate member. The second end is adjustable along the elongate member to selectively lengthen the first and second ends of the adjustable adaptor such that the adjustable adaptor spans a length or a width of the housing. The adjustable adaptor additionally includes a selectively extendable ram that engages the housing sidewall to secure the adjustable adaptor within the housing. The first and second ends of the adjustable adaptor each include a flange that engages an interior ledge or upper rim of the housing when the adjustable adaptor spans the length or the width of the housing. The locking system also includes a tamper-resistant lock for securing a lid to the housing. The tamper-resistant lock has a cylindrical lock body with external threading on at least a portion of a length thereof. The threaded portion of the cylindrical lock body passes through the lid and is selectively received within the lock coupling member of the adjustable adaptor. The tamper-resistant lock additionally includes a bore extending into an end of the cylindrical lock body. The bore has an engagement feature disposed on a wall defining the bore with the engagement feature being disposed a particular distance away from an opening of the bore. The locking system additionally includes a key. The key includes a collar having a cylindrical key body sized and shaped to be at least partially disposed within the bore of the tamper-resistant lock, an opening defined by a sidewall of the collar, a retractable engagement member at least partially disposed within the opening, a spring disposed within the collar, and a plunger disposed within the collar operable to engage the spring. The plunger includes a recess that accommodates the retractable engagement member when the spring is compressed.

Accordingly, locking systems are disclosed.

Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the disclosure. The features and advantages of the disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the disclosure as set forth hereinafter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before describing various embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the parameters of the particularly exemplified systems, methods, apparatus, products, processes, and/or kits, which may, of course, vary. Thus, while certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to specific configurations, parameters, components, elements, etc., the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the embodiments, and is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention.

Overview of Locking Systems

Many public utilities are having valuable components stolen or tampered with by unauthorized personnel. For example, copper wire is being pilfered from electrical light posts and/or from within electrical boxes mounted within sidewalks or otherwise existing in a public space. The thieves or other mischievous individuals access the desired materials using the same access points as technicians or other authorized personnel.

Problematically, many of the access points are sealed with traditional bolts having a hexagonal head, and a nefarious individual can use common tools to open these access points. For example, if an access point is sealed with traditional bolts, a properly sized (and likely generally available) wrench can be used to remove the sealing bolts and by doing so, grant the wrench-wielder access to the previously sealed access point. As an additional example, if the access point is sealed using a traditional lock, the lock can be cut away or easily picked. New locking systems are needed to address this problem.

Exemplary Locking Systems

Embodiments of the present disclosure enable a locking system (e.g., the Universal Thomas Lock) that is tamper resistant and difficult to pick, remove, or otherwise break without use of the proper key, and in some instances, without the appropriate knowledge of the stepwise disengagement of the locking system. These locking systems can be implemented de novo or as a retrofit to light posts, electrical boxes, or any other housing that would benefit from a more secure and/or tamper-resistant locking system.

FIGS. 1-4, for example, illustrate an exemplary locking system100of the present disclosure. As illustrated inFIG. 1, the locking system100includes two tamper-resistant locks102and a key104. The two tamper-resistant locks102are engaging a housing106through the housing lid108, thereby securing the lid108to the housing106. In some embodiments, the housing106is an electrical box having electrical outlets, electrical components, conduits, access points, and/or meters. In some embodiments, the housing106is part of and/or in communication with a light post. In some embodiments, the housing106is a drop box, safe, or munitions container.

As can be seen inFIG. 1, each tamper-resistant lock102includes a bore cap110, and each bore cap110is arcuate with a smooth top surface. In some embodiments, and as illustrated inFIG. 1, the bore cap110can be substantially circular. Due to the arcuate (or circular) nature of the bore cap110, in addition to its smooth surface, there is a conspicuous lack of engagement surfaces for traditional tools. In other words, the bore cap110is not shaped to accommodate traditional crescent wrenches, and there are no grooves or patterns on the surface of the bore cap110that would allow a screwdriver or hex key (e.g., an Allen wrench) to grip, engage, or remove the cap. As such, the shaping and/or contour of the bore cap110can, in some embodiments, provide a first level of tamper resistance to the locking systems disclosed herein. To a casual observer or potential thief, there is no readily obvious way of removing the lock to open the lid as it appears to be riveted closed, fastened, or otherwise installed with a specialized tool.

In some embodiments, the bore cap110(or at least a head112thereof) is made of a ferrous material (e.g., iron, an iron alloy, or other magnetic material), and as shown inFIG. 2, the bore cap110can be engaged by and removed using a magnet114. The magnet114is illustrated as part of the key104, which is used in conjunction with the tamper-resistant lock102. To remove the bore cap110, the magnet114magnetically engages the head112of the bore cap110, and the magnetic force between the head112and the magnet114is greater than the resistive force of the stem116on the sidewall that defines the bore118. Accordingly, the magnet114gains and retains a hold of the bore cap110, allowing it to draw the stem116away from the bore118to disassociate the bore cap110from the cylindrical lock body120.

In some embodiments, the bore cap includes a magnetic undersurface (or is itself magnetic), and the bore cap is magnetically held to a top surface of an associated ferrous cylindrical lock body. The magnet of the key would, consequently, need to be a more powerful magnet such that it can overcome the magnetic force holding the bore cap to the cylindrical lock body.

In some embodiments, the bore cap includes or is made of a resilient material (e.g., non-ferrous metals or metal alloys, carbon fiber or glass reinforced composite materials, etc.), and the key includes a suction cup or vacuum that can be used to draw the bore cap from the bore of the cylindrical lock body.

In some embodiments, and as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the bore cap110includes a beveled edge122that is recessed below a surface of the lid108and that is in close proximity to a sidewall of the recess in the lid such that a prying tool cannot be leveraged underneath the beveled edge122to pry the bore cap110away from the cylindrical lock body120.

In some embodiments, the bore cap110, cylindrical lock body120, or any other component of the tamper-resistant lock102and/or key104can be made from a hardened or strengthened material that resists drilling, concussive forces (e.g., hammer blows), slashing, tearing, or other destructive forces such as burning and low energy explosives. For example, the foregoing components can be made of hardened stainless steel. Thus, even at the superficial level of the bore cap110, the tamper-resistant locks disclosed herein can be implemented to resist destructive tampering and prying, and there is beneficially (from the perspective of the lock owner) no obvious means of engaging the bore cap, which provides a first layer of defense against potential intrusive forces.

With continued reference toFIG. 2, once the bore cap110is removed, the top of the cylindrical lock body and the bore118become apparent. Similar to the bore cap110, however, the top of the cylindrical lock body and the bore118appear, at least superficially, to be unremarkable. That is, these components are not shaped to receive and/or engage traditional tools such as a screwdriver or wrench.

As shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the key104can be used to disengage the cylindrical lock body120from the housing106and/or lid108. The key104includes a collar124with a cylindrical key body126that is sized and shaped to fit within the bore118, and when the cylindrical key body126is positioned within the bore118, it engages the cylindrical lock body120. A subsequent rotational force applied to the key104disengages the cylindrical lock body120from the housing106and/or lid108. In some embodiments, and as shown inFIG. 3A, a gripping region128can be provided on the key104to assist the user in rotating the cylindrical lock body120.

As shown inFIG. 3B, the cylindrical lock body120includes at least a length thereof that has external threads130. Accordingly, rotational forces applied to the cylindrical lock body120cause it to fasten and unfasten from the housing106. In some embodiments, the threads are oriented to cause the cylindrical lock body120to fasten in a clockwise direction and unfasten in a counterclockwise direction—the traditional “righty-tighty, lefty-loosey” configuration. In some embodiments, the external threads are oriented in an opposite configuration such that counterclockwise rotations cause the cylindrical lock body120to fasten, and clockwise rotations cause the cylindrical lock body120to unfasten. The reconfiguration of threading can add to the tamper-resistant nature of the lock as the counterintuitive rotation for unfastening the cylindrical lock body from the housing can frustrate the efforts of unauthorized persons. Theft and/or the unauthorized access of a locked space is often a time sensitive undertaking, and without advance notice of mechanical processes such as the thread orientation of a threaded lock body, the typical rotational direction is likely to be attempted first. At the very least, additional time will be needed to discern the proper directionality of rotation to unfasten the cylindrical lock body, assuming the unauthorized person is in possession of the key.

Referring now toFIG. 4, the locking system100is shown in a disassembled state. The two tamper-resistant locks102have been removed from associated housing anchors132using the key104. The lid108can then be removed from the housing106to reveal the housing's internal compartment. As shown inFIG. 4, each housing anchor132includes a complementary threaded bore into which the cylindrical lock body120of each tamper-resistant lock102can fasten.

Exemplary Tamper-Resistant Locks and Associated Keys

The keys used for the tamper-resistant locks disclosed herein are somewhat different than traditional keys (i.e., key used in tumbler or pin-based locks). Traditional keys used for pin-based locks are cut into a particular conformation that will cause differently sized pins within the associated locking mechanism to align, allowing the lock to rotate. If one of the key's teeth is too short or too long, the associated pin will be misaligned, preventing the locking mechanism from freely rotating. These keys typically have a slim profile, as the pins are all oriented within the same plane within the locking mechanism.

FIG. 5illustrates an exemplary key104of the present disclosure. Unlike keys typically used with pin-based locking mechanisms that have a slim profile, the key104ofFIG. 5includes a collar124that has a cylindrical key body126. The cylindrical key body126is sized and shaped to fit within the bore of the cylindrical lock body120, which is also cylindrically shaped. The side wall of the cylindrical key body126defines an opening134into which a retractable engagement member136is disposed. In some embodiments, the key includes a single retractable engagement member. In some embodiments, and as shown in the cross-sections ofFIGS. 6A and 6B, the cylindrical key body126can define a plurality of openings134into which retractable engagement members136,136acan be placed. It should be appreciated that because the cylindrical key body126is shaped to engage a multidimensional surface, the positioning of retractable engagement members136on the cylindrical key body can similarly be multidimensional.

For example, retractable engagement members can be placed on opposite sides of the cylindrical lock body but otherwise within the same horizontal plane (as shown inFIG. 6A). As an additional example, retractable engagement members can be placed adjacent each other while still remaining in the same horizontal plane. Additionally, or alternatively, retractable engagement members can be placed adjacent and/or opposite each other in the same vertical plane. Additionally, or alternatively, retractable engagement members can be placed adjacent and/or opposite each other in different vertical and/or horizontal planes. By varying the number and/or placement of retractable engagement members vertically and/or horizontally on the cylindrical key body, unique key configurations can be achieved.

As alluded to above and as further shown inFIG. 5, the key104can include a gripping region128. In some embodiments, the gripping region128has a larger diameter than the cylindrical key body126. The larger diameter of the gripping region128allows a greater amount of torque to be applied to the key, and as shown inFIG. 5, the gripping region128can include knurling to increase grip at the gripping region. In some embodiments, the knurling is replaced with a textured material. In some embodiments, the gripping region is etched to provide a contoured surface that likewise increases grip. In some embodiments, the gripping region is covered with a rubberized material or thermoplastic elastomer that increases a user's grip at the gripping region.

The key104can additionally include a plunger138with the magnet114disposed at a proximal end thereof. As perhaps better illustrated inFIGS. 6A and 6B, the plunger138extends from its proximal end into the collar124where it terminates at a distal end. The distal end of the plunger interfaces with a spring disposed within the collar124. The plunger138can rest on an uncompressed spring140a(as shown inFIG. 6A). The plunger138can also be depressed within the collar124, compressing the spring140b(as shown inFIG. 6B).

Proximate the distal end of the plunger138is a recess142in the body of the plunger138. The axial movement of the plunger138within the collar124compresses and decompresses the spring (140band140a, respectively) and acts to move the recess142into and out of position beneath the retractable engagement members136,136a. That is, in some embodiments, as the plunger138compresses the spring140b, the recess142moves into position beneath the retractable engagement members136,136a. The retractable engagement members136,136acan then be positioned (whether by physical depression into the recess142or by falling therein by the force of gravity) within the recess142. As shown inFIG. 6B, the recess142is an annular channel sized and shaped to accommodate the retractable engagement members136,136asuch that the retractable engagement members136,136ado not substantially protrude from the sidewall defining the openings134,134aor otherwise interfere with the cylindrical key body124traversing the bore118of the tamper-resistant lock102when positioned within the recess142. Similarly, when the compressive force is removed from the plunger138and spring140b, the spring pushes the plunger138directionally away, causing misalignment of the recess142with the retractable engagement members136,136a. This movement also causes the retractable engagement members136,136ato at least partially protrude from corresponding openings134,134ain the sidewall of the cylindrical key body126. Thus, in some embodiments, depressing and releasing the plunger138causes the retractable engagement members136,136ato transition between extended and retracted positions.

In some embodiments, the openings in the sidewall are initially made slightly larger than the retractable engagement members so the retractable engagement members may be freely placed through the opening and into the interior portion of the collar. After being placed through the opening, the opening is crimped to a smaller diameter, thereby preventing the retractable engagement member from fully transitioning back through the opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the engagement member is ⅛″ in diameter, and the opening is 3/16″ in diameter or larger. The engagement member is placed through the opening, and then, the opening is crimped to a diameter of 3/28″ or less to prevent the engagement member from being dislodged therefrom. It should be appreciated, however, that other measurements are included within this disclosure and any of the aforementioned components can be sized and shaped in any reasonable dimension to achieve the same result.

Referring now toFIGS. 7, 8A, and 8B, illustrated is a tamper-resistant lock102in a perspective view (FIG. 7) and cross-sectional views (FIGS. 8A and 8B). The tamper-resistant lock102includes a cylindrical lock body120having a bore118defined by an interior sidewall146thereof in at least a portion of a length thereof having external threads130. As illustrated, the lower end of the cylindrical lock body120includes external threads130and is also smaller in diameter than the cylindrical body120. It should be appreciated, however, that in some embodiments the cylindrical lock body may have a uniform diameter or may comprise a non-cylindrical shape (e.g., a rectangular prism, other three-dimensional polygonal and/or arcuate shapes, or combinations thereof).

The cylindrical lock body120may additionally include one or more engagement features144disposed and/or formed into the interior sidewall146of the bore118. In some embodiments, the engagement feature144is sized and shaped to receive one or more retractable engagement members of a corresponding key. In an embodiment, the engagement feature can be an elongate channel having a semicircular, concave surface. In another embodiment, the engagement feature can be a depression within the sidewall that corresponds to and/or complements the size and/or shape of the retractable engagement member on a corresponding key. It should be appreciated that each engagement feature144is disposed a particular distance away from the opening150of the bore118, and in some embodiments, that particular distance corresponds to the distance that a retractable engagement member is positioned along the cylindrical key body when the cylindrical key body is associated with the bore.

The tamper-resistant lock102also includes a bore cap110having a head112and a stem116. As shown inFIG. 8A, the stem116is sized and shaped to fit within the bore118, and in some embodiments, the bore cap110additionally includes a sealing member148. In some embodiments, the sealing member148is an annular sealing member, such as an O-ring and acts to secure the bore cap110within the bore118. When the bore cap110is associated with the bore118, the sealing member148can through an interference fit create a tight association between the bore cap110in the cylindrical lock body120such that the bore cap110cannot be readily removed from the bore118. As shown inFIG. 8A, the sealing member148can be positioned on the stem116at a location where it does not interfere with and/or interface with an engagement feature144.

In some embodiments, the diameter and/or material of the sealing member can be adjusted, as known in the art, to increase or decrease the friction between the bore cap110and the interior sidewall146of the bore118. For example, a sealing cap having a sealing member with a smaller diameter will likely require less force to disassociate from the cylindrical lock body than a bore cap having a sealing member with a larger diameter. In some embodiments, a plurality of sealing members can be disposed on the stem of the bore cap to increase the force required to disassociate the bore cap from the cylindrical lock body. It should be appreciated that the number and type of sealing members used may be commensurate with the amount of force desired for disassociating the bore cap from the cylindrical lock body. A tighter fit may increase the tamper-resistant nature of the lock, as it would be more difficult to remove the bore cap without the appropriate equipment.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the bore cap110(e.g., the cap head112) is made from a ferrous metal that responds to a magnetic field such that the bore cap110, when interfaced with a magnet of sufficient strength to overcome the retention force of the interference fit formed by the sealing member148and the interior sidewall146of the cylindrical lock body120, can be removed using said magnet. In some embodiments, the bore cap can be removed by a magnet having a pull force of greater than 5 lbs., greater than 10 lbs., greater than 20 lbs., greater than 30 lbs., greater than 40 lbs., greater than 50 lbs., greater than 75 lbs., greater than 100 lbs., or more.

Once the bore cap is removed from the cylindrical lock body, the bore opening is revealed (see, for example,FIG. 8B). However, in the event that an unauthorized individual removes the bore cap from the locking system or if the bore cap is inadvertently removed therefrom, the exposed bore is—at least at first blush—a round/arcuate hole with no readily visible elements that can be engaged with traditional tools (e.g., a screwdriver, a wrench, etc.). Partially hidden on the sidewall of the cylindrical lock body is a recess (see, for example, recess144ofFIGS. 9A and 9B). The recess can be engaged by a bit or engagement member disposed on a specialized key, which when engaged therewith can provide a user with sufficient leverage to disengage the cylindrical lock body from its corresponding lock anchor.

FIGS. 9A and 9Billustrate such an association, and more particularly illustrate the retractable engagement member136engaging with the engagement feature144of the cylindrical lock body120. As shown inFIG. 9A, the plunger138is depressed, compressing spring140b, in moving recess142and positioned beneath retractable engagement member136. As the cylindrical key body126enters the bore118, the retractable engagement member136can be depressed so as to not impede progress of the cylindrical key body126into the bore118. Once the retractable engagement member136passes the opening of the bore118the plunger138can be released (as shown inFIG. 9B). The energy stored in the compressed spring140bis released, pushing the plunger138axially away from the bore118and causing the recess142to be misaligned with the retractable engagement number136. In turn, the retractable engagement member136is moved into an extended position within the engagement feature144.

In some embodiments, the cylindrical key body126can be inserted into the bore118in a rotational configuration where the retractable engagement member(s)136are out of alignment with corresponding engagement feature(s)144. The cylindrical key body126can be rotated within the bore118until the retractable engagement member(s)136are properly aligned with their corresponding engagement feature(s)144. In some embodiments, the pressure of the retractable engagement member136pressing against the interior sidewall146of the bore118(in an unaligned configuration) is sufficient to prevent the plunger138from fully extending axially away, and upon proper alignment, the retractable engagement member136can snap into position within its corresponding engagement feature144, finally allowing the plunger138and/or spring140ato fully extend. In this way, a key having an improper configuration of retractable engagement members with respect to corresponding engagement features of the lock body cannot be used to engage the lock body, even if a single retractable engagement member is misaligned. A misaligned retractable engagement member will press against the interior sidewall of the bore and prevent the plunger from returning to a position that allows the cylindrical key body (e.g., the retractable engagement features) to securely engage the cylindrical lock body (e.g., the engagement features). As such, the cylindrical key body would rotate inside the bore without gaining sufficient purchase to rotationally disengage the cylindrical lock body.

In some embodiments, the key104includes a flange152positioned adjacent the cylindrical key body126. The flange152can abut against a top surface of the cylindrical lock body120, stopping progress of the cylindrical key body126within the bore118. This can aid in the alignment of retractable engagement members136with their corresponding engagement feature144, as the cylindrical key body126will enter the bore118a defined distance when the flange152and the top surface of the cylindrical lock body120interact and prevent further axial movement. Accordingly, the axial distance between the opening150of the bore118and engagement feature144will substantially correspond to the axial distance between the flange152and the corresponding retractable engagement feature136on a complementary key104. The proper rotational alignment can then easily be found by implementing a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the cylindrical key body.

In some embodiments, the key does not include a flange or the flange does not impede axial progress of the cylindrical key body was in the bore. Rather, the cylindrical key body extends all the way into the bore and bottoms out on the surface of the cylindrical lock body sidewall that defines the bottom edge of the bore, thereby halting its axial progress within the bore. The retractable engagement members and corresponding engagement features can they be measured and/or defined by a particular distance away from terminal, distal end of the cylindrical lock body and the bottom edge of the bore, respectively.

In some embodiments, and as shown inFIGS. 9A and 9B, the cylindrical key body126is sized and shaped to fit within a complementary bore118of the cylindrical lock body120such that axial movements in and out of the bore118are permitted and lateral movements within the bore118are reduced. This may be enabled by making the diameter of the bore118slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body126. For example, the diameter of the bore may be manufactured with an upper threshold tolerance such that the diameter of the bore is no more than 5 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 2.5 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no more than 1 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.9 mm larger than the diameter of this cylindrical key body, no more than 0.8 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.7 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.6 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.5 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.4 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.3 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.2 mm larger than the diameter to cylindrical key body, no more than 0.1 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.75 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no more than 0.50 mm larger than the diameter of cylindrical key body, no more than 0.25 mill meters larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, or no more than 0.1 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, and the diameter of the bore may be manufactured with a lower threshold tolerance such that the diameter of the bore is no less than 0.01 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.25 mm larger than the diameter of cylindrical key body, no less than 0.5 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.75 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.1 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.2 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.3 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.4 mm larger than the diameter of cylindrical the body, no less than 0.5 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.6 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no less than 0.7 mm larger than the diameter of cylindrical key body, no less than 0.8 mm larger than the diameter of this cylindrical key body, no less than 0.9 mm larger than the diameter the cylindrical key body, no less than 1 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, no less than 2.5 mm larger than the diameter of cylindrical key body, no less than 5 mm larger than the diameter of the cylindrical key body, or any tolerance range selected using any of the foregoing upper and lower bounds.

It should be appreciated that while the ranges and bounds of manufacturing tolerances provided above were recited from the perspective of drilling (or otherwise forming) the bore, similar manufacturing tolerances can be used when manufacturing the cylindrical key body. Obviously, however, the recited manufacturing tolerances above will be inverted, as appropriate, such that the cylindrical key body is manufactured to be smaller in diameter than that of the bore (e.g., the cylindrical key body having a diameter that is at least less than 0.1 mm smaller than the diameter of the bore and no more than 1 mm smaller than the diameter of the bore).

In some embodiments, and as shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B, a key104acan include a plurality retractable engagement members136,136bdisposed along the cylindrical key body124a. For example, a second retractable engagement member136bcan be positioned in a different orthogonal cross-section from the first retractable engagement member136.FIG. 10Billustrates a cross-section of the key104aofFIG. 10A, rotated 90° counterclockwise. As shown inFIG. 10B, the key104aincludes a plunger138athat has a two recesses142a,142b, one associated with each retractable engagement member136,136b. Accordingly, the plunger138ais depressed (as shown inFIG. 10B), the recesses142a,142bare positioned beneath the retractable engagement members136,136b, and the retractable engagement members136,136bcan be depressed within its corresponding opening as described above.

As shown inFIG. 10B, the recesses142a,142bcan be annular recesses that can accommodate a retractable engagement member positioned within any orthogonal cross-section of the cylindrical key body126athat overlaps the recess. Accordingly, the plunger138adoes not have to be locked in a single rotational plane because the annular recess makes all rotational positions available to receive a corresponding retractable engagement member. In some embodiments, however, the recess is not an annular recess. Rather, the recess is a scoop and/or divot that is axially aligned with its corresponding retractable engagement member.

In some embodiments, the number and positioning of retractable engagement members is greater and/or different than that shown inFIGS. 10A and 10B. For example, a key may include a plurality of retractable engagement members that are axially aligned and/or within the same orthogonal cross-section. Additionally, or alternatively, a key may include a plurality of retractable engagement members where at least two retractable engagement members are not axially aligned and/or within the same orthogonal cross-section.

Referring now toFIG. 11, illustrated is an exemplary tamper-resistant lock202having a split shaft258a,258band a lock anchor232. Many components of the tamper-resistant lock202are substantially similar to the tamper-resistant lock102described above. For example, the tamper-resistant lock202includes a cylindrical lock body220having a bore218and an engagement feature244that is defined by the sidewall of the bore218, and analogous structures were described above with respect to the tamper-resistant lock102. Additionally, the tamper-resistant lock202includes external threads230on a portion of the length of the cylindrical lock body220.

However, the portion of the cylindrical lock body220that includes external threads230has been split, forming a split shaft258a,258b, whereas the cylindrical lock body120described above at a uniform, unsplit shaft. The cylindrical lock body220additionally includes an anchoring member254that spans in an axial direction from the sidewall defining the bottom surface of the bore218to the split shaft258a,258b. In some embodiments, and as depicted inFIG. 11, the anchoring member254includes a threaded bore, the threads being complementary to threads found on the lock anchor232.

In some embodiments, the lock anchor232can be driven into the anchoring member254, which causes each arm258a,258bof the split shaft to bias outward. If the external threads are fastened and/or engaged within the housing (e.g., by complementary threads of a housing anchor) when the lock anchor232is driven into the anchoring member254, the arms258a,258bof the split shaft will bias outward against the housing anchor to functionally lock the cylindrical lock body220in its current location. In some embodiments, the cylindrical lock body220cannot be rotated in any direction until the lock anchor232is removed.

As shown inFIG. 11, the lock anchor232includes a bit port260. The bit port260is illustrated as being configured to receive a hex key. However, the bit port can have any number or type of configurations including, for example, an X-shaped socket for receiving a Phillips screwdriver. In some embodiments, the bit port is functionally equivalent to a hexagonally-shaped head on the lock anchor.

Referring now toFIG. 12, illustrated is an exploded view of an alternative key204that functions in an analogous way to the key104discussed above. The key204includes a lower plunger piece238athat threadedly connects to an upper plunger piece238bthrough the cylindrical key body226. The alternative key204includes a collar sidewall that defines an opening234through which a retractable engagement member236is positioned. The spring240of the alternative key204is positioned to at least partially surround a collar262of the upper plunger piece238band extend into an interior portion of the cylindrical key body226. Depression of the upper plunger piece238bcauses compression of the spring240and movement of the lower plunger piece238ainto a position beneath the retractable engagement member236—functioning in an analogous way to the key104disclosed above.

Locking Systems Incorporating Lock Anchors within the Tamper-Resistant Lock

The locking systems described above inFIGS. 1-4could be used in some embodiments as a retrofit to many existing housing elements (e.g., many electrical boxes have a similar configuration but use hex bolts in place of the tamper-resistant lock). In some embodiments, the housing element may need to be replaced or fitted with a different lid. An exemplary locking system is disclosed inFIGS. 13-16that can be used as a retrofit to existing housings or as an entirely new housing and integrated locking system altogether.

FIG. 13illustrates an assembled locking system that is securing a lid308to housing306. In an assembled state, the only viewable components are the housing306, the lid308, the inner lid309, and the head of a bore cap310. The inner lid309is recessed within the lid308and pressed firmly there against leaving no discernible gap between the two lids308,309. The bore cap310is similar in shape and function as the bore caps described above. For example, the bore cap310includes a head with the beveled edge that is at least partially recessed within the inner lid309to prevent tampering and/or leveraging of the bore cap310away from the inner lid309.

FIG. 14illustrates an exploded view of the exemplary locking system300and housing306ofFIG. 13. As shown, the lid308is secured to the housing306by a plurality of securing members335that threadedly engage the housing306or an anchor associated therewith. The securing members335are depicted inFIG. 14as threaded bolts having a hexagonally shaped head, although it should be appreciated that the securing members can have any shape or configuration known in the art. In some embodiments, only a single securing member335is used to secure the lid308to the housing306.

As further shown inFIG. 14, the inner lid309is secured to the lid308, thereby concealing securing members335, with a tamper-resistant lock302. The cylindrical lock body320of the tamper-resistant lock302passes through an opening in the inner lid309and threadedly engages the lid308. A flange associated with the cylindrical lock body320engages a ledge on the inner lid309to lock the inner lid309onto lid308. As described in more detail below, attachment mechanism332further secures/anchors the cylindrical lock body320to the lid308, and as described above, the bore cap310can associate with the cylindrical lock body320to occlude its opening. The locking system300additionally includes a key304and a second key305configured in size and shape to engage one or more components of the tamper-resistant lock302.

FIGS. 15A-15Cillustrate cross-sections of the housing306and associated locking system300ofFIGS. 13 and 14in progressive stages of engagement by key304and second key305for disengaging the tamper-resistant lock302.

FIG. 15Aillustrates a cross-section of the housing306and locking system300as shown inFIG. 13. As shown, the securing member335retains the lid308in secure communication with housing306. The inner lid309acts to occlude the securing member335from view and/or prevent direct tampering. The lid309is secured to and locked to lid308by tamper-resistant lock302. Tamper-resistant lock302is similar in many respects to the tamper-resistant locks described above. For example, the bore cap310is substantially similar to the bore caps described above—both with respect to structure and function. The cylindrical lock body320is also similar to the cylindrical lock bodies described above—both with respect to structure and function. As illustrated, the cylindrical lock body320acts to secure the inner lid309to the lid308.

However, the cylindrical lock body320has an additional feature not previously described above. The cylindrical lock body320is associated with a lock anchor for selectively securing the cylindrical lock body320to an anchoring member354(e.g., the lid308). The lock anchor is illustrated as an attachment mechanism332that selectively couples the lower end of the cylindrical lock body320to the lid308, and in some embodiments, and as illustrated inFIG. 15A, the attachment mechanism is a bolt that threadedly engages the lid308at an anchoring position (e.g., a complementary threaded bore on the lid308). The head333of the attachment mechanism332can have any shape or configuration. However, as illustrated inFIG. 15A, the head333is configured to engage a hex key.

Referring now toFIG. 15B, the attachment mechanism332has been removed from its association with the cylindrical lock body320. This can be accomplished as described above. As an exemplary illustration, the key304ofFIG. 14can include a magnet that can magnetically engage the bore cap310; the bore cap310can then be pulled free from its association with the cylindrical lock body320. As shown inFIG. 15B, the second key305can be used to engage and remove the attachment mechanism332from the anchoring member354. The second key305can include a bit353that is sized and shaped to engage the head333of attachment mechanism332. For example, the bit353can in some embodiments be a hex key. In some embodiments, the bit is X-shaped to accommodate a Phillips screwdriver, or it can be any other configuration or socket known in the art.

The second key305can additionally include a guide355. In some embodiments, the guide355is sized and shaped to fit within the bore318defined by the cylindrical lock body320, and in this way, it can more stably and/or accurately guide the bit353into communication with the attachment mechanism332. In some embodiments, the guide includes a flange that regulates penetrative depth of the second key within the bore of the cylindrical lock body.

With the attachment mechanism332is removed, the cylindrical lock body320can now be engaged and removed using the key304, as described above inFIGS. 1-10B. For example,FIG. 15Cillustrates two retractable engagement members336,336apositioned within engagement features344,344a, respectively. The key304can then be rotated to unfasten the cylindrical lock body320from the lids308,309.

Once the cylindrical lock body is removed, the inner lid309can be slid laterally until an edge can be removed through the lid308(as shown inFIG. 16). Removal of the inner lid309reveals securing member335which can now be engaged to loosen the lid308from its association with the housing306. In some embodiments, the inner lid309is not removed from the lid308. Rather, the inner lid309is moved laterally and/or pivoted to a position that reveals the securing members and allows them to be accessed and/or engaged for the removal of the lid308.

Housing Adapters

In some implementations, particularly those implementations where a housing is retrofit with a locking system disclosed herein, the internal structure of the housing does not have the infrastructure necessary for implementing the locking system, greater versatility is desired when implementing the locking system, and/or additional securing features are desired. As shown inFIGS. 17 and 18, one or more housing adaptors470can be implemented within a housing406to receive and secure a tamper-resistant lock402.

As shown inFIG. 17, a housing adapter470includes a first end472and a second end474separated by the first end472by an elongate member476. As further illustrated inFIG. 17, the first end472has a channel478disposed therein, which can slidably receive a lock coupling member480that is sized and shaped to fit within the channel478. The lock coupling member480can include a threaded bore482that is configured to, for example, receive external threads of a complementary tamper-resistant lock. In some embodiments, the lock coupling member includes any other attachment mechanism that may selectively secure a complementary tamper-resistant lock. In some embodiments, the channel within the first end additionally includes one or more anchoring members configured to receive a lock anchor that additionally secures a tamper-resistant lock (similar to that described above inFIGS. 13-16).

Also illustrated inFIG. 17, a first end472can include one or more selectively extendable rams484. As illustrated, selectively extendable rams can rotatingly extend from the first end472. In some embodiments, the selectively extendable rams can ratchet forward or may extend by any other means known in the art. The selectively extendable rams484ofFIG. 17are illustrated as having a pointed tip. The pointed tip may be advantageous as it can concentrate the force applied by the ram on a smaller area, which may make it more difficult to dislodge or move the adjustable adaptor470when the selectively extendable rams are in contact with an adjacent surface. In some embodiments, the selectively extendable rams include a flat or rounded tip.

It should be appreciated that althoughFIG. 17illustrates only the first end472as having selectively extendable rams484, the second end474can additionally, or alternatively, include one or more selectively extendable rams.

FIG. 17illustrates an elongate member476that is threadingly received into the first and/or second ends472,474of the adjustable adapter470. In some embodiments, one of the first or second ends does not move with respect to the elongate member but is fixed on an end thereof. The other, unfixed end can slide and/or rotate along the elongate member to adjust the distance between the first and second ends. In some embodiments, a stopper is provided on the elongate member for fixing a distance between the first and second ends. As shown inFIG. 17, a stopper is a threaded nut486that can be rotated along the elongate member476to define a distance between the first and second ends472,474.

Referring now toFIG. 18, illustrated is an exemplary locking system with adapters470placed within an interior portion490of housing406. A flange or lip488,489of the first and second ends472,474rest on an interior ledge494of the housing406, allowing the adjustable adapters470to span the width of the interior portion490of the housing406in to be suspended near the opening of the housing406. In some embodiments, the distance between the first and second ends of the adjustable adapters is adjusted so that the adjustable adapters can span a length of the housing. In some embodiments, one or more adjustable adapters span a width of the housing and/or one or more adjustable adapters span a length of the housing.

In some embodiments, the housing does not include an interior ledge. In such instances, or at the preference of the user, the adjustable adapters can be placed on the top edge of a sidewall of the housing with the adjustable adapter spanning a length and/or width of the housing.

Once the desired distance between the first and second ends472,474is established, the adjustable rams (not shown inFIG. 18) can be extended to engage the sidewall of the housing (or another comparable component of the housing), thereby securing the adjustable adapter470in its selected location. In some embodiments, engaging a housing sidewall with a first selectively extendable ram is sufficient to hold the adjustable adapter in position. In some embodiments, engaging the housing sidewall with a second selectively extendable ram prevents one or more of a rotational, lateral, or vertical movement of the associated end or of the adjustable adapter, generally. In some embodiments, first and second selectively extendable rams are positioned on opposing sides of the first and/or second ends of the adjustable adaptor.

In some embodiments, the adjustable adapters470are placed within the interior portion490of the housing406such that the lock coupling member is substantially aligned with openings in the associated housing lid408. Accordingly, when the lid408is placed on the housing406, a tamper-resistant lock402can secure the lid to the housing406by engaging the lock coupling member480. The tamper-resistant lock402can be shaped and/or function in a manner similar to those tamper-resistant locks disclosed above.

In an exemplary implementation, a tamper-resistant lock used with the adjustable adaptors described above includes a split shaft (e.g., as shown and described inFIG. 11). Upon engaging the threaded bore of the lock coupling member, the tamper-resistant lock can be further secured to the adjustable adapter by selectively driving a lock anchor into the split shaft (e.g., through the bore and anchoring member of the cylindrical lock body of the tamper-resistant lock).

It should be appreciated that although the first end of the adjustable adapter is the only end shown as having a lock coupling member, in some embodiments, both the first and second ends include lock coupling members. Additionally, or alternatively, the channels that receive the lock coupling member may be positioned at different angles and/or orientations within the first and/or second ends of the adjustable adapter. In some embodiments, there are multiple channels disposed in one or more orientations within the first and/or second ends of the adjustable adapter.

CONCLUSION

Any headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims.

Various alterations and/or modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, can be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims, and are to be considered within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, while various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. While a number of methods and components similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used to practice embodiments of the present disclosure, only certain components and methods are described herein.

It will also be appreciated that systems, devices, products, kits, methods, and/or processes, according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise properties, features (e.g., components, members, elements, parts, and/or portions) described in other embodiments disclosed and/or described herein. Accordingly, the various features of certain embodiments can be compatible with, combined with, included in, and/or incorporated into other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific embodiment. Rather, it will be appreciated that other embodiments can also include said features, members, elements, parts, and/or portions without necessarily departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. While certain embodiments and details have been included herein and in the attached disclosure for purposes of illustrating embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the methods, products, devices, and apparatus disclosed herein may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure or of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.