Abstract:
A system and method by which a portable, personal storage container can be secured and protected using the owner&#39;s fingerprint is herein disclosed. While the features of the invention can be incorporated into almost any type of physical container, it is most likely to be envisioned to be incorporated into a wallet, purse, sack or eyeglass case. The invention relies on a biometric sensor that recognizes the owner&#39;s fingerprint, and unlocks the container when a match is presented. In addition to physical storage and security, the invention also provides electronic storage for computer files such as electronic files, documents, photos and the like via an integral computer connector. Finally, the invention is provided with a proximity sensor that detects when it has been moved more than a preset distance away from the rightful owner. This feature thus provides security against theft. The use of the present invention provides storage and protection for all-important items, whether physical or electronic, in a manner, which is not only quick, easy and effective, but safe and secure as well.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present invention was first described in U.S. Provisional Patent No. 60/698,342 filed on Jul. 12, 2005. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to storage containers with proximity alarms and more particularly to storage containers configured with proximity alarms, which have integral biometric-based access control systems for preventing thefts. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The development of electronics and computer technology has revolutionized virtually all aspects of our lives. Appropriately deemed the information age, this technology allows anyone anywhere who has access to a computer to communicate with and tap the knowledge of individuals and organizations throughout the world. These circumstances have led directly to the development of personal digital assistants or PDA&#39;s, cellular phones, and other such devices to store and protect our virtual property and keep it secure from others. While these devices do a good job with electronic data, they do nothing to help protect our physical property such as credit cards, cash, car keys and similar items. In fact, physical items such as these are more prone to theft and often cause greater hardship for the owner if they are stolen. 
     The use of biometrics involves sophisticated technological devices to recognize unique physical traits of a human being, typically fingerprints, voice wave patterns, signatures, eye retinas and three-dimensional face patterns. Today&#39;s biometric assays match a stored, pre-authorized user&#39;s unique physical traits with information gleaned at an access point via a biometric analyzer, which measures and then analyzes said data. If the access point information matches that of a user in an authorized dataset, the user is then authenticated, and access is permitted. If not, access is not permitted and an alarm is usually transmitted either audibly, to security personnel or both. These access points are usually information-sensitive areas such as bank vaults, government facilities and heavy technology plants where safety is of a concern to those not trained in the area. 
     Accordingly, there exists a need for a means by which safe and secure storage for both physical and virtual belongings can be provided without the disadvantages described above. 
     A search of the prior art did not disclose any patents that read directly on the claims of the instant invention; however, the following references were considered related. U.S. Pat. No. 6,111,977 issued in the name of Scott et al. provides for a portable fingerprint recognition transmitter. It differs form the present invention in that it is not an integral device for concurrent use with a personal storage apparatus such as an attaché case, purse or similar item. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,400,270 issued in the name of Person describes a wallet security system with a selectively openable casing having a pressure-sensitive sensor means. The Person device does not include a biometric-based control access system for permitting pre-authorized access to the interior contents of a personal storage device. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,890,094 issued in the name of Kopel discloses a wallet incorporating a credit card alarm system incorporating flexible sheet materials with means for monitoring the absence of a credit card from within a wallet and emitting an audible alarm. This device does not include a biometric assay for permitting access for the interior of a wallet or similar article as in the present invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,790,027 issued in the name of Chern similarly describes a wallet having an alarm system for detecting a missing or partially inserted card or similar object. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,412,373 issued in the name of Wajda discloses a wallet security device that detects when a wallet has been removed front within a user&#39;s pocket or purse. Again, the Wajda patent does not fall under the full scope of the present invention in that it does not involve a biometric-based security system to permit a user access to contents within a personal storage device. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,606,029 issued in the name of Okamura refers an electronic tag device attachable to products such as personal items, clothing, or accessories. Although designed to be attachable to an article for security purposes, the Okamura device does not purport to provide limited access via a novel biometric authorization system. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,920,260 issued in the name of Tseng discloses a burglarproof structure equipped with a sound emitter and strap for installation on a purse. The Tseng device also does not fall under the scope of the present invention. 
     Consequently, there is a need for a means by which one can provide limited access to contents within a personal portable storage device, such as wallets, purses, backpacks, attaché cases, briefcases or other similar articles where important and/or personal documents and possessions, with a biometric-based access control system, such as fingerprint matching, voice recognition or retina scan, to authenticate a user&#39;s access rights. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the prior art, it has been observed that there is need of a security system in the form of a biometric-based access control system, particularly for the use of portable storage devices. 
     Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to obviate the above and other disadvantages of the existing art. 
     Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system that addresses the above-mentioned needs. 
     Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide a portable storage device that is secured using the owner&#39;s unique biometric data, such as a fingerprint, voice pattern, three-dimensional face pattern, eye retina pattern, and the like. 
     To achieve the above and other objectives, the present invention provides a portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system comprising a personal storage device; a power unit for providing power to the portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system; a biometric sensor configured to sense the biometric features of a user; a proximity gauging unit programmed with a predetermined distance, having proximity receivers and proximity antenna for gauging the proximity of the personal storage device from the portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system; data storage for storing electronic data; a controller for controlling the operations of the personal storage device from the portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system; and an alarming unit for signaling an alarm upon repeated mismatch of biometric features of a user or increasing proximity of the personal storage device from the portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system beyond the predetermined distance. 
     Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to provide a method of configuring a proximity alarm for preventing theft of a portable storage device using a portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system that has a biometric sensor, a proximity gauging unit programmed with a predetermined distance and an alarming unit. The method comprises setting an authorized retailer program with a biometric signature in the biometric sensor; configuring a predetermined distance in the proximity gauging unit; configuring the first proximity receiver integral to the portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system; carrying the second proximity receiver with a user; and signaling an alarm either upon repeated mismatch of the biometric signature or increasing proximity of the personal storage device from the portable storage apparatus with an integral biometric-based access control system beyond the predetermined distance. 
     The object of the present invention is to provide a portable storage device, secured using the owner&#39;s fingerprint. While the features of the invention can be incorporated into almost any type of physical container, it is most likely envisioned to be incorporated into a wallet, purse, sack or eyeglass case. The invention relies on a biometric sensor that recognizes the owner&#39;s unique biometric data and unlocks the container when a match is presented. In addition to physical storage and security, the invention also provides electronic storage for computer files such as electronic files, documents, photos, and similar items via an integral computer connector. The proximity sensor of the present invention detects when it has been moved more than a preset distance away from the rightful owner. Thus, this feature provides security against theft. The use of the innovative device provides storage and protection for all-important items, whether physical or electronic, in a manner, which is not only quick, easy, and effective, but safe and secure as well. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages and features of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following more detailed description and claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are identified with like symbols, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a personal storage device  15  in a closed and secured state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 1   a  is an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a wallet  55 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 1   b  is an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a computer case  60 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 1   c  is an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a notebook  65 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 2  is a isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a personal storage device  15  in an open and unsecured state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic block diagram of the major electrical components as used in the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10 , according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTIVE KEY 
     
       
         
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 10 
                 portable storage apparatus with 
               
               
                   
                 integral biometric-based access 
               
               
                   
                 control system 
               
               
                 15 
                 personal storage device 
               
               
                 20 
                 top flap 
               
               
                 25 
                 securing snap 
               
               
                 30 
                 battery compartment 
               
               
                 35 
                 battery compartment interlock 
               
               
                 40 
                 biometric sensor 
               
               
                 45 
                 solenoid-based access device 
               
               
                 50 
                 enclosure material 
               
               
                 55 
                 wallet 
               
               
                 60 
                 computer case 
               
               
                 65 
                 notebook 
               
               
                 70 
                 first proximity receiver 
               
               
                 75 
                 proximity antenna 
               
               
                 80 
                 second proximity receiver 
               
               
                 85 
                 radio frequency (RF) wave 
               
               
                 90 
                 distance setting control 
               
               
                 95 
                 memory storage device 
               
               
                 100 
                 interface cable switch 
               
               
                 105 
                 interface connector 
               
               
                 110 
                 main controller 
               
               
                 115 
                 battery 
               
               
                 120 
                 biometric driving circuit 
               
               
                 125 
                 internal alarm horn 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     The best mode for carrying out the invention is presented in terms of its preferred embodiment, herein depicted within  FIGS. 1 through 3 . However, the invention is not limited to the described embodiment and a person skilled in the art will appreciate that many other embodiments of the invention are possible without deviating from the basic concept of the invention, and that any such work around will also fall under scope of this invention. It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1  an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  is shown in use on a personal storage device  15  in a closed and secured state, according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention. The personal storage device  15  is depicted in general appearance as a handbag, a women&#39;s purse, a computer bag, or any generic bag that is typically secured by a fastening device, such as but not limited to, a top flap  20  and a securing snap  25 . The portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  is powered by a battery as will be further defined hereinbelow, thus access to the interior of the personal storage device  15  could be lost should the battery loose power. Thus, located on the exterior surface of the personal storage device  15  are a battery compartment  30  and a battery compartment interlock switch  35 . In this manner, the user could replace the battery from the outside of the personal storage device  15 , and regain access. Also located on the exterior of the personal storage device  15  is a biometric sensor  40 . The biometric sensor  40  is envisioned to be a fingerprint sensor as depicted in this figure; however, other types of sensors such as retina scanning, facial scanning, voice scanning and the like could also be used with equal effectiveness, and as such, should not be interpreted as a limiting factor of the present invention. The biometric sensor  40  works with internal circuitry to be further described hereinbelow, to lock and unlock a solenoid-based access device  45 . While the individual user must determine the final basis of security and the associated value of any items or information contained within the personal storage device  15 , it is envisioned that enclosure material  50  used in the construction of the personal storage device  15  would be available to suit different requirements. It is envisioned that personal storage device  15 , such as notebooks, wallets and the like that may contain lower value items would be made of conventional materials such as leather and vinyl. Such materials would keep casual observers out, be lightweight and still retain their aesthetic qualities. Other personal storage device  15  such as computer cases, purses, and the like which may contain a larger amount of valuables, or valuables of higher value would be reinforced with higher strength materials such as aluminum, steel, Kevlar, and the like. 
     Referring next to  FIG. 1   a , an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a wallet  55  is disclosed. This figure clearly depicts the versatility of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  and its ability to be readily adapted to any storage container similar in design to a wallet  55 . The wallet  55  has the required biometric sensor  40  located on its exterior along with a solenoid-based access device  45 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1   b , an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a computer case  60  is depicted. This figure clearly discloses the versatility of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  and its ability to be readily adapted to any storage container similar in design to a computer case  60  such as a toolbox, portable file cabinet and the like. The computer case  60  has the required biometric sensor  40  located on its exterior along with a solenoid-based access device  45 . 
     Referring next to  FIG. 1   c , an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a notebook  65  is disclosed. This figure clearly depicts the versatility of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  and its ability to be readily adapted to any storage container similar in design to a notebook  65  such as scheduling notebook, personal digital assistant holder (PDA holder), and the like. The notebook  65  has the required biometric sensor  40  located on its exterior along with a solenoid-based access device  45 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , an isometric view of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  shown in use on a personal storage device  15  in an open and unsecured state is disclosed. In this state the securing snap  25  is lifted open exposing the interior of the personal storage device  15 . It can be easily seen that the personal storage device  15  as shown in  FIGS. 1   a ,  1   b , and  1   c  would function in the same manner. The interior of the personal storage device  15  houses a first proximity receiver  70  and proximity antenna  75 , which communicate with a second proximity receiver  80  via a radio frequency (RF) wave  85 . In this manner, the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  can sense when the personal storage device  15  is located more than a predetermined distance away from the proximity receiver  80  as determined by a distance setting control  90 . The second proximity receiver  80  would be worn on the user&#39;s body, such as in a pocket, on a belt, on a keychain or the like. A distance-setting control  90  is provided on the interior of the personal storage device  15  for the purposes of storing electronic computer data. It is envisioned that the distance setting control  90  would function in a similar fashion to a potentiometer or like device, enabling a greater benefit of manual adjustment. The memory storage device  95  will interface to the said computer through the use of an interface cable  100  and an interface connector  105  or other means, such as wireless communication. Other internal electronic components are also housed internal to the personal storage device  15 , and are not visible in this figure; however, they will be described in greater detail hereinbelow. The solenoid-based access device  45  on the securing snap  25  is also clearly visible in this figure. While it is envisioned that the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  would rely on a proximity receiver for detection of theft of the personal storage device  15  from the user, it is also envisioned that some variants of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  as depicted in  FIG. 1   a , such as a wallet, or  FIG. 1   c , such as a notebook, which would never leave the immediate presence or body area of a user, could rely on a capacitive sensor, which is well known in the art, to detect theft. 
     As an alternative embodiment, the design also permits multiple persons and/or pets to carry a second proximity receiver  80  such to provide child and pet protection. If a child, person, pet and/or the like carrying the second proximity receiver  80  motions a specified distance from the personal storage device  15  of a user, its internal alarm horn  125  would sound to alert the user. 
     Referring finally to  FIG. 3 , a schematic block diagram of the major electronic components of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10 , is depicted. A main controller  110  such as a microcomputer or basic stamp module serves as the central controller for the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10 . The main controller  110  receives power from a battery  115  housed in the battery compartment  30 . The battery compartment interlock switch  35  sends a signal to the main controller  110  in the event the battery compartment  30  is opened thus directing the main controller  110  to send a lock signal to the solenoid-based access device  45 . The biometric sensor  40  interfaces with a biometric driving circuit  120 , which in turn sends a match/no match signal to the main controller  110 . When the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  is initially purchased, the retailer will program a specific number of biometric signatures, preferably up to twelve, such as fingerprints, voice scans, retinal scans or the like into the biometric driving circuit  120  using the interface connector  105  as an access point. Any further changes in authorized users will require returning to an authorized retailer who, upon proof of ownership, can reprogram the biometric driving circuit  120 . In the event of a predetermined number of no match signals, envisioned to be five, the main controller  110  will direct an alarm signal to an internal alarm horn  125 . The match/no match signal can also be used to provide an “unlock/lock” signal to the memory storage device  95  respectively. In this manner, the user is afforded both protection for the physical as well as the electronic data contained within the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10 . It is envisioned that the memory storage device  95  would be capable of containing electronic data in various size increments that are commonly available in conventional portable storage devices such as 64 MB, 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB and the like. The first proximity receiver  70  passes an electrical signal to the main controller  110  as received by the radio frequency (RF) wave  85  via the proximity antenna  75  from the second proximity receiver  80 . The distance setting control  90 , such as a potentiometer, governs the sensitivity of the first proximity receiver  70 . It is envisioned the sensitivity of the first proximity receiver  70  could be adjusted from a few feet such as would be necessary in a car or at a desk, to perhaps a hundred feet to work in a home or office environment. Should the distance between the proximity antenna  75  and the second proximity receiver  80 , as determined by the distance setting control  90  be exceeded, the main controller  110  would activate the internal alarm horn  125  to alert the user, the suspected thief, and others nearby, that a possible theft of the personal storage device  15  equipped with the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  is in progress. 
     It is envisioned that other styles and configurations of the present invention can be easily incorporated into the teachings of the present invention, and only one particular configuration shall be shown and described for purposes of clarity and disclosure and not by way of limitation of scope. 
     The preferred embodiment of the present invention can be utilized by the common user who has little or no training in a simple and effortless manner. Upon purchase of the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  in any variation as depicted in  FIG. 1 ,  FIG. 1   a ,  FIG. 1   b  or  FIG. 1   c , the user would have the authorized retailer program, the biometric sensor  40  with his or her biometric signature, and that of other authorized users. Such biometric signature is envisioned to be a fingerprint, a voice scan, a retina scan, a facial scan or any other unique biometric profile. At this point, the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  is ready for use. 
     When the user wishes to access the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10 , he or she would initiate a biometric scan at the biometric sensor  40 , in the event of a match, the main controller  110  would open the solenoid-based access device  45  allowing access. Such access is not only to the physical contents within the personal storage device  15 , the wallet  55 , the computer case  60  or the notebook  65 , but also access to any electronic data within the memory storage device  95  as well. Both read and write access from and to the memory storage device  95  are performed through the interface cable  100  and the interface connector  105  or a wireless connection. When completed with the accessing duties, the user would once again initiate a biometric scan at the biometric sensor  40  to secure the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10 , thus resetting the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  for its next use cycle. 
     In the event of repeated unsuccessful biometric attempts, the personal storage device  15  would activate its internal alarm horn  125  to alert the user, the possible thief and others in the nearby areas that a possible theft is in progress. Such activation would also occur when the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  is moved away from the user&#39;s body in the event of a capacitive sensor, or away from the second proximity receiver  80  greater than a predetermined distance as previously set by the distance setting control  90  on the first proximity receiver  70 . Such a feature not only protects the electronic and physical objects inside the portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  from access and theft, but protects the entire portable storage apparatus with integral biometric-based access control system  10  as well. 
     The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention and method of use to the precise forms disclosed. Obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but is intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the claims of the present invention.