Patent Publication Number: US-2023133473-A1

Title: Safe locking mechanisms and related apparatus

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/275,920, which was filed Nov. 4, 2021, and titled “SAFES &amp; RELATED LOCKING ENCLOSURES,” which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     Described herein are various locking mechanisms and related features and components that may be used, for example, in connection with safes, lockboxes, doors for homes or other buildings, vehicles, trailers, or other enclosures. In some embodiments, the locking mechanisms described herein may provide one or more benefits, such as providing less steel, fewer or, in some cases, no machined parts, fewer or no chromed parts, and/or less bodywork. The mechanisms described herein may also improve ease of manufacturing and/or security in other ways, such as providing for assembly/manufacturing in fewer steps, requiring less welding, less forming of parts, and/or less grinding. Safes and other locking enclosures manufactured using the teachings provided herein may also, or alternatively, be more easily made water resistant and/or waterproof due to the unique locking mechanisms and/or placement described herein. In addition, these teachings, features, and/or components may simplify making safes with more than a single color. 
     Other benefits may be provided in some embodiments disclosed herein, such as allowing for mounting of locking studs or other locking members/elements on the doorframe and/or body of the safe/enclosure rather than the door, which may increase security relative to, for example, door bolts, otherwise referred to as locking pins or locking bars, or any other locking element that extends and retracts from the side of the door to engage the door frame and/or body of the safe. In addition, some embodiments may allow for providing all movement of the moveable locking members/elements of the safe/enclosure within the door, in some cases without allowing for extending them beyond the perimeter of the door, which may further enhance security. 
     In addition, some embodiments may advantageously provide an inset region for positioning of the fixed locking members, which may allow the door/lid to be closed and secured without protruding beyond the frame. In some cases, the door may be aligned with the frame in the closed position with the door positioned within the inset region of the body of the safe or other enclosure, which may prevent or at least inhibit prying by ensuring that any prying forces will be directed orthogonal or otherwise at a substantial angle relative to the direction of force that would otherwise be most effectively used to open the door/lid. 
     In a more specific example of a safe according to some embodiments, the safe may comprise a body and a door coupled with the body. One or more protruding locking members, such as locking studs, may be fixedly coupled with and protruding from a portion of the body. In some embodiments, these locking members may be positioned internally of an outer frame of the body, such as within an inset frame region for the door. The safe may further comprise at least one actuation member moveably coupled with the door. The at least one actuation member may comprise a slot. The at least one actuation member may be configured to, upon actuation with the door in a closed configuration, selectively engage the at least one protruding locking member, and lock the door in the closed configuration. 
     In some embodiments, one or more openings may be fixedly coupled with the door. In some such embodiments, one or more of the at least one actuation member may be configured to, upon actuation with the door in a closed configuration, overlap with a respective opening to effectively decrease a size of the opening, selectively engage the at least one protruding locking member, and lock the door in the closed configuration. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one actuation member may be configured to avoid extending beyond a perimeter of the door in a locked configuration. 
     Some embodiments may further comprise a recessed portion, such as a recessed frame, which may be inset, at least in part, from a perimeter of the door in the closed configuration and/or inset, at least in part, from an outer frame of the body to receive the door therein in the closed configuration. In some such embodiments, the protruding locking member(s) may be fixedly coupled with the recessed frame/portion to at least substantially prevent prying forces from being generated in a direction towards movement of the door from the closed configuration to an open configuration. 
     In some embodiments, a plurality of locking studs or other locking members may be provided. In some such embodiments, a first set of locking studs or other locking members may extend along a first row extending between an upper portion of the body and a lower portion of the body and/or a second set of locking studs (or a first set of the first set extending between the upper and lower portion is not present) or other locking members may extend along a second row extending between a first side of the body and a second side of the body opposite from the first side. 
     In some embodiments, each of the plurality of locking studs or other locking members may comprise at least one of an enlarged head and a washer configured to provide an engagement surface for a respective slot to lock the door in the closed configuration. 
     In an example of a lockable structure, such as a home, building, safe, box, vehicle, or other enclosure, the structure may comprise a body and a door coupled with the body and configured to enclose the body when the door is in a closed position. The door may comprise an outer periphery defined in between upper and lower portions of the door and opposing sides of the door, which outer periphery may be viewed when looking at the door in its closed position. In some embodiments, the door may comprise a hinged end and an open end opposite the hinged end. 
     One or more locking members may be coupled with the body, in some embodiments to an inset region of the body that may define a frame for the structure and/or door. An actuation member may be moveably coupled with the door, preferably incorporated into an internal structure of the door. The actuation member and/or engagement member(s) may be configured to move towards the outer periphery of the door during a locking actuation. For example, in some embodiments, the actuation member may be configured to move towards the open end of the door (in embodiments having a hinged side) during a locking actuation. 
     The structure may further comprise one or more engagement members coupled with the actuation member, wherein, upon actuation of the actuation member with the door in the closed position, the engagement member(s) may be configured to selectively engage a preferably fixed locking member to prevent the door from being opened. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the engagement member(s) that engages the at least one locking member is configured to avoid extending beyond a perimeter of the door. 
     In some embodiments, the at least one engagement member may be configured to move between a first position and a second position during a locking actuation, wherein the second position is closer to the outer periphery of the door than the first position. In some embodiments, this movement may be an alternative to the actuation member and/or engagement member(s) being configured to move towards the outer periphery of the door during a locking actuation. However, this movement feature may overlap with the movement towards the outer periphery feature such that both are true in some embodiments. 
     In some embodiments, the engagement member(s) may be configured to wholly avoid extending beyond the perimeter of the door. 
     In some embodiments, the locking member(s) may comprise protruding stud(s). In some such embodiments, the engagement member(s) may comprise a plurality of engagement members corresponding with a plurality of protruding studs. In some such embodiments, each of the plurality of protruding studs may comprise an enlarged engagement surface, which may comprise a part of the stud itself, such as an enlarged head, or a separate element coupled with the stud, such as a washer, configured to fixedly engage a corresponding engagement member following the locking actuation to lock the door in the closed position. 
     In some embodiments, each of the plurality of protruding studs may protrude from a recessed surface inset from an outermost edge of the body. In some such embodiments, each of the plurality of protruding studs may extend in a direction at least substantially perpendicular to an outer and/or inner surface of the door in the closed position. 
     In an example of a locking mechanism according to some embodiments, the mechanism may comprise a door and an actuator accessible from an outer surface of the door, such as a handle, knob, dial, electronic actuator, or the like. An actuation member, such as a moveable plate, bar, rod, or the like, may be coupled with the door, operably and/or physically coupled with the actuator, and configured to translate towards a perimeter of the door in response to actuation of the actuator. One or more protruding locking members, such as locking studs, may be fixedly mounted to a structure adjacent to the door, such as a frame for the door. One or more engagement members, such as slots, may be coupled with the actuation member and configured to selectively engage a respective protruding locking member upon actuation of the actuator with the door in a closed position to lock the door in the closed position. 
     In some embodiments, the engagement member(s) may be configured to avoid extending beyond the perimeter of the door in a locked configuration. 
     The locking mechanism may be incorporated into a variety of structures, such as a safe, a door for a building, a lock box, a door for a mobile home or other RV, a vehicle, an enclosed trailer, or the like. 
     In some embodiments, the structure may comprise a frame. In some such embodiments, the frame and/or body may be inset from an outer edge of the enclosure such that the door fits within the frame with the outer surface of the door either aligned with the outer edge of the frame or inset from the outer edge of the frame in the closed position. 
     The features, structures, steps, or characteristics disclosed herein in connection with one embodiment may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more alternative embodiments. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The written disclosure herein describes illustrative embodiments that are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Reference is made to certain of such illustrative embodiments that are depicted in the figures, in which: 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a safe comprising a safe locking mechanism according to one embodiment; 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of the safe with the door open to depict various locking components of the safe locking mechanism; 
         FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  depict the locking components during various stages during a process of locking the safe; 
         FIG.  4    is a cross-sectional view taken through one of the locking studs of the safe locking mechanism; 
         FIG.  5    is an exploded view of the locking studs and corresponding elements used to mount them to the safe; 
         FIG.  6    is a perspective view of a safe comprising a safe locking mechanism according to another embodiment; 
         FIG.  7    is a perspective view of the safe with the door open to depict various locking components of an alternative safe locking mechanism; 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  depict the locking components during various stages during a process of locking the safe; 
         FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view taken through one of the locking brackets defining a locking slot following the locking process; 
         FIGS.  10 A and  10 B  are partial, perspective views of the protruding locking members being received in the locking slots of the safe; 
         FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view showing the interface between the door, door frame, and slidable locking components of the locking assembly of a safe according to other embodiments; 
         FIG.  12    is a cross-sectional view showing the interface between the door, door frame, and slidable locking components of the locking assembly of a safe according to still other embodiments; 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view showing an alternative actuation member having pivotable, spring-loaded locking slot according to some embodiments; 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view showing one of the spring-loaded locking slots as it is being coupled with a fixed locking member; 
         FIG.  15    is a perspective view of the spring-loaded locking slot of  FIG.  14    after it has been fully coupled with the fixed locking member; 
         FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  are perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a safe having an inset frame for the safe door; 
         FIGS.  17 A and  17 B  depict another alternative embodiment in which a locking mechanism has been incorporated into the door of a home or other building; 
         FIGS.  18 A and  18 B  depict still another alternative embodiment in which a locking mechanism has been incorporated into the door of a vehicle, such as a motorhome or enclosed trailer; 
         FIGS.  19 A and  19 B  depict yet another alternative embodiment comprising a lock box, such as a pistol box; 
         FIGS.  20 A and  20 B  depict still another embodiment of a locking mechanism/assembly comprising a series of actuation members configured to engage locking members in two opposing horizontal and two opposing vertical directions; 
         FIGS.  21 A- 21 D  depict an additional embodiment of a locking mechanism/assembly for an inset door further comprising a locking flange; 
         FIG.  21 E  is a close-up, perspective view of the locking flange and adjacent components of a safe or other enclosure, including a slot for receiving the locking flange; 
         FIGS.  22 A and  22 B  are cross-sectional views of the embodiment of  FIGS.  21 A- 21 D  illustrating the locking flange and a novel configuration for a fire seal according to some embodiments; 
         FIG.  22 C  is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of  FIGS.  21 A- 21 D  shown from the non-hinged side of the door; and 
         FIGS.  23 A and  23 B  depict a further embodiment of a locking mechanism/assembly in which locking members are engaged by vertical movement of actuation members in two opposing horizontal and two opposing vertical directions. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result to function as indicated. For example, an object that is “substantially” cylindrical or “substantially” perpendicular would mean that the object/feature is either cylindrical/perpendicular or nearly cylindrical/perpendicular so as to result in the same or nearly the same function. The exact allowable degree of deviation provided by this term may depend on the specific context. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, structure which is “substantially free of” a bottom would either completely lack a bottom or so nearly completely lack a bottom that the effect would be effectively the same as if it completely lacked a bottom. 
     Similarly, as used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint while still accomplishing the function associated with the range. 
     It will be readily understood that the components of the present disclosure, as generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the apparatus is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure but is merely representative of possible embodiments of the disclosure. In some cases, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail. 
     As used herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result to function as indicated. For example, an object that is “substantially” cylindrical or “substantially” perpendicular would mean that the object/feature is either cylindrical/perpendicular or nearly cylindrical/perpendicular so as to result in the same or nearly the same function. The exact allowable degree of deviation provided by this term may depend on the specific context. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, structure which is “substantially free of” a bottom would either completely lack a bottom or so nearly completely lack a bottom that the effect would be effectively the same as if it completely lacked a bottom. 
     Similarly, as used herein, the term “about” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “a little above” or “a little below” the endpoint while still accomplishing the function associated with the range. 
     The embodiments of the disclosure may be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts may be designated by like numerals. It will be readily understood that the components of the disclosed embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the apparatus and methods of the disclosure is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, as claimed, but is merely representative of possible embodiments of the disclosure. In addition, the steps of a method do not necessarily need to be executed in any specific order, or even sequentially, nor need the steps be executed only once, unless otherwise specified. Additional details regarding certain preferred embodiments and implementations will now be described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
       FIG.  1    is a perspective view of an embodiment of a safe  100  incorporating a locking mechanism according to a first embodiment. Safe  100  comprises a main body  110  and a door  120 . Door  120  is shown in a closed position and comprises a door locking actuation mechanism  102 , which may include, for example, a dial combination lock and/or a keypad to allow a user to input a lock combination. Of course, any other locking actuation mechanism, such as key locks, electronic locks using touchscreen entry, biometric locks, and the like, may be used in alternative embodiments. 
     An actuator, which, in the case of the depicted embodiment comprises a crank handle  105 , is also positioned on door  120 , which may be used, after input of a correct combination and/or other input from a user, be allowed to rotate to open door  120 . In some embodiments, rotation of crank handle  105  may result in a horizontal movement of one or more internal components to disengage (or engage when locking) locking components of safe  100  to allow for opening of door  120 . Of course, a wide variety of other manual or electronic actuators may be used, such as a recessed latch, similar to an RV latch, an electronic actuator, such as a touchscreen and/or keypad operably coupled with a motor, and the like. 
       FIG.  1    also depicts a storage compartment  150  positioned below door  120 . Storage compartment  150  may be used to store various accessories or other items as desired. For example, in embodiments in which safe  100  comprises a gun safe, storage compartment  150  may be used to store ammunition or other accessories, such as scopes, sights, gun cleaning accessories, and the like. In preferred embodiments, compartment  150  comprises a base  152  and a lid  154 . Preferably, as discussed in greater detail below in connection with other figures, lid  154  is coupled with door  120  and base  152  is coupled with the body  110  of safe  100 , such as to, for example, the frame of door  120 . 
     In this manner, the storage compartment  150  may be configured to automatically open when the safe door  120  is open, and to automatically close, and preferably lock closed, when the safe door  120  is closed. Storage compartment  150  may have other benefits in some embodiments. For example, this portion of a safe is one of the more common regions to experience damage during shipping. Thus, in preferred embodiments, storage compartment  150  may be removable and replaceable to allow for damage in this region to be more easily fixed by simply replacing all or a portion of the compartment  150 . In addition, in embodiments in which compartment  150  projects proximally beyond the outer surface of door  120 , as shown in  FIG.  1   , compartment  150  may provide additional stability to safe  100  to prevent, or at least inhibit, tipping. 
       FIG.  2    depicts safe  100  with door  120  in an open position. As shown in this figure, lid  154  of compartment  150  has been moved away from base  152  to allow for access to its contents. It should be understood that, with respect to both base  152  and lid  154  of compartment  150 , preferably these components are coupled to the safe  100  so as to prevent access to their coupling points to the safe  100  when door  120  is closed. For example, coupling slots, flanges, fasters, or the like, may be positioned along the underside of lid  154  to couple to the lower surface of door  120 , thereby positioning them within compartment  150  and thereby inaccessible when door  120  is shut. Similar coupling elements used to couple base  152  to safe  100  may, for example, be positioned along the sides and/or lower edge of the doorframe of safe  100 , again, preventing access when the lid  154  is shut by closing door  120 . 
     Although not shown in the figures, some embodiments may further comprise a door back, such as a panel. This panel may be removeable or fixed after assembly. In some embodiments, the door back/panel may be removeable to allow for maintenance/repair to the inner workings of the door. 
     In addition, various locking components of safe  100  are depicted in this figure. For example, movement from an actuation mechanism on the outside of door  120 , such as handle  105 , may result in movement of actuation member  130 , which in the depicted embodiment comprises a plate. 
     In the depicted embodiment, this movement of actuation plate  130  is lateral. In other words, actuation plate  130  moves from the left side of the door  120  (closer to the hinge) to the right or open side of the door to lock the safe  100  and in the opposite direction to unlock the safe  100 . 
     Actuation plate  130  is coupled to another, side actuation member  132  along its right side (from the perspective of  FIG.  2   ). Thus, lateral movement of actuation plate  130  results in similar lateral movement of actuation member  132 , which extends vertically between the upper and lower ends of door  120 . As described in still greater detail below, actuation member  132  is slidably coupleable with a series of fixed openings  122  formed along the edge of door  120  opposite the hinged portion. Openings  122  are spaced apart from top to bottom long this edge of the inner door  120  and may, in some embodiments, be formed along an elongated panel or bracket coupled between the upper and lower ends of door  120  in this region. Of course, a variety of alternative embodiments are contemplated, such as those in which each opening  122  is instead independently coupled to door  120 , such as by way of mounting a series of tabs into which an opening  122  is formed, to the door frame or another portion of door  120 . 
     A series of locking members  112  are also shown in  FIG.  1    protruding from the door frame along the side configured to engage panel  125  and extend through openings  122 . In the depicted embodiment, locking members  112  comprise locking studs. As described in greater detail below, locking studs  112  are configured to pass through openings  122  and then be engaged by respective portions of actuation member  132  in order to lock door  120  in place and prevent access to the safe  100 . 
     Those of ordinary skill will further appreciate, however, that a wide variety of alternative embodiments may be possible after having received the benefit of this disclosure of certain preferred embodiments. For example, any number of additional, or fewer, actuation members may be provided, as desired. In addition, some embodiments may comprise a rotatable crank plate, locking bolts, and/or locking pins, as desired, some of which may extend from the top and/or bottom of the door instead of the side, if desired. Some embodiments may further comprise a torque-limiting clutch. In some such embodiments, the clutch may comprise a torque-limiting clutch that limits the amount of force that a user can apply to a lock mechanism from a crank handle. Thus, if a prospective purchaser in a retail store, user, or burglar, for example, applies force to the crank handle without having entered the correct lock combination, used a correct key, or otherwise without having been validated as an authorized user of the safe, the crank handle will be allowed to turn without transferring excessive force to one or more components of the safe, such as a lock mechanism. 
     In some embodiments, a shear pin may be used, either alone or in combination with a torque-limiting clutch to limit the force that may be applied to the lock. For example, in some embodiments, a shear pin may be used as part of the connection between the handle and the handle shaft, and a torque-limiting clutch may be used inside the door. 
     Similarly, the clutch may be disengaged in the event that a user, authorized or not, applies force to the crank handle in the wrong direction. This may serve as a security feature and/or a feature to provide for a more robust product that is less prone to inadvertent user damage and therefore less prone to returns, warranty issues, and the like. It should also be understood that, although the preferred embodiments described herein are shown in the context of a safe, it may be possible to apply the teachings herein to other locking doors, such as freezer doors or security doors. 
     Some embodiments may additionally, or alternatively, comprise one or more features to prevent, or at least limit, the transfer of force applied along the axis of a shaft coupled with the crank handle to other critical, internal components of the safe. In this manner, a would-be thief, for example, will be unable, or at least thwarted in his efforts, to access the interior of the safe by pulling or pushing on this shaft. 
     Some embodiments may comprise one or more “failsafe” or backup features so as to further protect a lock mechanism, and/or one or more other components of the safe, in the event of unwanted rotation of the crank shaft, such as may result from tampering of the safe. Some such backup features may also prevent unwarranted access to the interior of the safe. For example, some embodiments may be configured such that the crank shaft is coupled with the clutch and/or lock in such a way that the coupling will break or otherwise fail before sufficient force/torque is applied to the shaft to result in damage to and/or opening of the safe. Examples of such clutch mechanism can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 9,410,355 titled “SAFES AND RELATED LOCKING ENCLOSURES,” the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  depict various stages of a locking sequence in which door  120  of safe  100  is, after having been closed, locked using various features of the locking assembly of safe  100 . More particularly, these figures depict lateral movement of actuation plate  130  to the right, which, as mentioned above, corresponds with the side of door  120  opposite the hinged side and which movement may be generated by, for example, rotation of a handle  105  and/or crank shaft. This movement of actuation plate  130  results in similar lateral movement of actuation member  132 , which, again, extends vertically between the upper and lower ends of door  120 . 
     Actuation member  132 , which in the depicted embodiment comprises an elongated bar, comprises a series of tabs  133  or other slotted members spaced apart along an end of actuation member  132  closest to the non-hinged side of door  120 . Each protruding, moveable tab  133  comprises a slot  134  having an open end. The number of tabs  133 , and therefore the number of slots  134 , preferably corresponds with the number of fixed openings  122  formed in fixed tabs or formed in one or more other preferably fixed portions of the safe door  120 , such as in an elongated bar or panel  125 , for example. 
     Because tabs  133  are preferably slightly mis-aligned with panel  125  and/or fixed tabs, as actuation member moves  132  laterally, the slots  134  of each tab  133  partially overlap with openings  122  in panel  125  and/or the fixed tabs positioned adjacent to the outer edge of the inner side of the safe door  120 . As the closed end of each slot  134  extends past the proximal (left) side of each corresponding opening  122 , the effective size of each opening  122  decreases. Due to the presence of locking studs  112  within each opening  122 , along with the preferred use of locking studs  112  having enlarged heads, the closed end of each slot  134  can engage the neck region of each corresponding locking stud  112  to prevent the door  120  from being opened without a reversal of the sequence shown in  FIGS.  3 A- 3 C  to disengage the slots  134  from the locking studs  112 . 
     Of course, a variety of alternative embodiments are contemplated. For example, slots or other openings may instead be formed along one or more regions of the door frame and locking members may instead be formed along the door and configured to extend and/or retract to engage the slots/openings. An example of such an embodiment will be discussed in greater detail below with reference to  FIGS.  6 - 10 B . 
     In preferred embodiments, the retractable or otherwise moveable members of the door, such as door  120 , are configured to remain entirely within the frame and/or outline of the door  120 . This may provide a number of benefits over prior art designs that rely on extending locking elements out of the door to engage the door frame. For example, by providing the moveable locking elements within the door and engaging the door internally from within by engaging elements coupled with the door frame, a stronger locking configuration may be achieved. 
     However, it should be understood that, in some contemplated embodiments, this feature need not be present. For example, it is contemplated that some embodiments may comprise locking studs  112  that are engaged by elements, such as slots  134 , that may alternatively extend beyond the perimeter of the door in the locked configuration. 
     As another contemplated alternative embodiment, although it may be preferred to use locking studs or other locking members that have enlarged heads or another enlarged portion preferably adjacent to the proximal head or tip of the locking member, which may be used to provide one or more locking surfaces/features for engagement with slots or other features of the locking assembly, in other embodiments, other locking features may be provided. For example, in some embodiments, washers or other secondary elements may be used to provide this locking engagement. In other embodiments, locking studs or other fasteners may be used that comprise one or more recessions or indentations that may be configured to allow for engagement with a moveable slot or other locking feature, such as annular grooves formed in the shaft portion of the locking member/fastener, for example. 
     It should be understood that, in some embodiments, a standard bolt may be used as a locking member, in some cases with one or more washers and/or a bushing. In addition, in some embodiments, the stud, bolt, or other locking member may comprise an integral washer or other integral enlarged region rather than a separate washer. A similar effect may be produced by having a stud with a large head or other enlarged feature, typically with a smaller body and smaller diameter threaded portion on the end. However, it should also be understood that the locking members need not be threaded in all cases. Instead, the stud/locking members may comprise shouldered rivets, welded studs, or the like. 
       FIG.  4    is a cross-sectional view taken through one of the locking members/studs  112 . As shown in this figure, locking stud  112  may be coupled with the door frame of safe  100  via a pair of washers  114 A/ 114 B. By using a spacer  115 , sufficient space between the outer washer  114 A and a wall  104  of the door frame or another portion of safe  100 . This preferably provides spacing to both allow locking stud  112  to pass through fixed openings  122  and to allow for the structure of moveable tabs  133  defining slots  134  to pass by spacer  115  and engage the outer washer  114 A and/or the head of locking stud  112 . 
     As also shown in  FIG.  4   , preferably the inner washer  114 B and a locking nut  116 , or similar features, are provided only with access from within the enclosed/locked region of safe  100 . Similarly, the outer locking washer  114 A and the head of locking stud  112  are inaccessible from the outside of the safe  100  following locking. In this manner, the locking studs  112  cannot be rotated or removed from the outside after the safe  100  has been locked. 
       FIG.  5    is an exploded view of the various locking components associated with fixed locking studs  112  and how they are coupled to the frame of the safe door  120 . As shown in this figure, each locking stud  112  may be inserted through outer washer  114 A, which is spaced apart from the door frame by spacer  115 . Stud  112  may then pass through inner washer  114 B on the inner side of the door frame and be locked in place with nut  116 . 
       FIG.  6    is a perspective view of an embodiment of a safe  200  incorporating a locking mechanism according to another embodiment. Safe  200  comprises a main body  210  and a door  220 , which is shown in a closed position in this figure and comprises a door locking actuator  202 , which may include, for example, a dial combination lock and/or a keypad to allow a user to input a lock combination. Like safe  100 , safe  200  comprises a crank handle actuator  205 , which may be used, after input of a correct combination and/or other input from a user, be allowed to rotate to open door  220 . In some embodiments, rotation of crank handle  205 , or another suitable actuation mechanism, many of which will be readily available to those of ordinary skill in the art, may result in a horizontal movement of one or more internal components to disengage (or engage when locking) locking components of safe  200  to allow for opening of door  220 . 
     Although not shown in the figures associated with safe  200 , it should be understood that an accessory storage compartment, such as compartment  150 , may be provided in contemplated alternative embodiments. 
       FIG.  7    depicts safe  200  with door  220  in an open position. An internal actuation mechanism is also depicted in this figure. More particularly, movement from a door opening actuation mechanism on the outside of door  220 , such as handle  205 , may result in movement of actuation member  230 , which in the depicted embodiment comprises a plate. 
     In the depicted embodiment, this movement of actuation plate  230  is lateral, but need not be in all contemplated embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, movement of an actuation plate or another similar component may be vertical, which may result in a similar coupling/locking to features on upper and/or lower edges of the door frame instead of on the lateral edge of the door frame opposite the hinged portion of safe door  220 . 
     Actuation plate  230  is coupled to another, side actuation member  232  (again, this may be an upper or lower actuation member in other embodiments) along its right side (from the perspective of  FIG.  7   ). Thus, lateral movement of actuation plate  230  results in similar lateral movement of actuation member  232 , which extends vertically between the upper and lower ends of door  220 . 
     As described in greater detail below, actuation member  232  is slidably coupled with one or more fixed openings  222  formed along the edge of the inner surface of door  220  opposite the hinged portion. In the depicted embodiment, openings  222  are placed at the upper and lower ends of the safe door  220 . However, in other embodiments, these openings  222  may be additionally, or alternatively, positioned in between the upper and lower ends, such as spaced apart from top to bottom long this edge of the inner door  220 . In the depicted embodiment, openings  222  are formed within an elongated panel or bracket coupled between the upper and lower ends of door  220 . However, in alternative embodiments, each opening  222  may instead be independently coupled to door  220 , such as by way of mounting a series of tabs into which an opening  222  is formed, to the door frame or another portion of door  220 . 
     A series of locking members  212  are also shown in  FIG.  7    protruding from the door frame along the side configured to engage openings  222 . Unlike safe  100 , safe  200  comprises locking members  212  that are, as better seen in later figures, locking slots that are configured to configured to receive a protruding locking member  234  extending from actuation member/bar  232  in order to lock door  220  and prevent access to the contents of safe  200 . Again, a wide variety of alternative embodiments may be possible, as described throughout this disclosure. 
       FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  depict various stages of a locking sequence in which door  220  of safe  200  is, after having been closed, locked using various features of the locking assembly of safe  200 . More particularly, these figures depict lateral movement of actuation plate  230  to the right, which, as mentioned above, corresponds with the side of door  220  opposite the hinged side and which movement may be generated by, for example, rotation of a handle  205  and/or crank shaft. This movement of actuation plate  230  results in similar lateral movement of actuation member/bar  232 , which, again, extends vertically between the upper and lower ends of door  220 . 
     Actuation member/bar  232 , comprises a protruding locking members  234 , which may comprise, for example, blades, pins, bolts, or the like, and which are spaced apart along actuation member  232 . The number of moveable locking members  234  corresponds with the number of fixed locking members  212 . Although in the depicted in embodiment, there are only two pairs of corresponding locking members  212 / 232 , this number may be greater (or only one) in alternative embodiments. 
     Upon closing the door  220 , slots  212 , which may be defined by protruding brackets, pass through openings  222 . Then, as shown in the sequence of  FIGS.  8 A- 8 C , as actuation member  232  moves laterally, protruding locking members  234  pass through slots  212 . Due to slots  212  being defined by closed brackets, once this has happened, the brackets or other structural features of locking members  212  prevent the door  220  from being opened without a reversal of the sequence shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 C  to disengage the locking members  234  from the slots defined by locking members  212 . 
     Like safe  100 , the retractable or otherwise moveable members of the door  220  of safe  200  are preferably configured to remain entirely within the frame and/or outline of the door  220 . 
       FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view of the interaction between the locking mechanisms  212  and  234  of safe  200 . As shown in this figure, locking member  212  may be coupled with the door frame of safe  200  by way of an opposing pair of angled legs that may extend behind a wall  204  of the door frame or another portion of safe  200 . 
     As also shown in  FIG.  9   , the locking member  212  may protrude from the door frame to allow for the blades, pins, or other suitable protruding/moveable locking members  234  to at least partially pass therethrough to prevent door  220  from begin opened.  FIGS.  10 A and  10 B  are perspective views again illustrating the movement of these locking members  234  to pass within the slots of locking members  212 . 
       FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view of a portion of another safe  300  showing the interface between the door  320 , door frame  310 , and slidable locking components of the locking assembly of the safe  300 . In this embodiment, the door frame  310  comprises a recessed surface  304  to which the locking studs/members  312  may be fixedly coupled. This may provide an added layer of security to the assembly. 
     Actuation member  332  further comprises a series of tabs  333  that are both spaced apart along an end of actuation member  332  closest to the non-hinged side of door  320  and are, as shown in  FIG.  11   , angled inwardly towards the enclosed portion of the safe  300 , which may be useful to provide clearance and avoid unnecessary sliding contact between adjacent elements of the assembly, for example. Each protruding, moveable tab  333  comprises a slot  334  having an open end. In the depicted embodiment, these slots  334  are partitioned into a wider portion at the open end and a narrower portion configured to securely couple with the stud  312  inwardly of the open end. 
       FIG.  12    is a cross-sectional view of a portion of yet another safe  400  showing the interface between the door  420 , door frame  410 , and slidable locking components of the locking assembly of the safe  400 . In this embodiment, the door frame  410  again comprises a recessed surface  404  to which the fixed brackets/slots  412  may be fixedly coupled. Actuation member  432  further comprises a series of protruding bars  434  or other slidable locking members that are both spaced apart along an end of actuation member  432  closest to the non-hinged side of door  420  and are angled inwardly towards the enclosed portion of the safe  400 . Each protruding, moveable locking member  434  is configured to slidably extend through one of the fixed locking brackets/slots  412 . 
       FIG.  13    is a perspective view showing an alternative actuation member  532  having a series of pivotable, spring-loaded locking tabs  533  that may be used in other safes or similar locking enclosures  500 .  FIGS.  14  and  15    depict one of the tabs  533  as it is being coupled with a locking stud  512 . As best seen in these figures, locking tabs  533  each comprises a pair of pivotable pieces  534 A/ 534 B that are coupled together using a spring  535  to bias them in their closed positions. As those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, any other means for biasing other than a spring may be used in alternative embodiments. 
     Due to the leading end shapes of pivotable pieces  534 A/ 534 B, which include sloped surfaces  531 A and  531 B, respectively, the shaft portion of stud  512  forces the two pivotable pieces  534 A/ 534 B open, as shown in  FIG.  14   , after which they are automatically closed about the shaft portion of stud  512  when this portion of stud  512  enters the opposing, respective rounded cutouts  536 A and  536 B of pivotable pieces  534 A and  534 B. 
       FIGS.  16 A and  16 B  depict another alternative embodiment of another safe  600  comprising a door-mounted locking mechanism. Safe  600  again comprises a main body  610  and a door  620 . Door  620  is shown in an open position in both of these figures and therefore the door locking actuation mechanism and corresponding actuator, such as a key lock, keypad, or the like and, for example, a crank handle, are not shown. 
     Safe body  610  comprises an inset or door frame region  611  that is inset from the perimeter of the body  610  in three dimensions, i.e., it is inset from the top, bottom, and opposing sides, and it is also inset from the front of the safe  600  to allow the safe door  620  to fully close without projecting beyond the proximal periphery (front face) of the outer frame of the body  610  itself. This framing of the door  620  provides several benefits. For example, once the safe door  620  has been closed, a would-be thief cannot insert a prying instrument, such as a crowbar, to apply forces in a direction that would normally be used to open the door  620 . In other words, for a hinged door, this inset framing of the door prevents the non-hinged side of the safe body from being pried away from the non-hinged side of the door, which greatly improves security. However, it is contemplated that some embodiments may be configured such that the front of the door projects beyond the proximal periphery of the body. 
     In the embodiment depicted in  FIGS.  16 A and  16 B , each of the locking members  612  is positioned within the inset/frame region  611  of safe body  610 . As previously mentioned, locking members  612  may comprise, for example, studs having enlarged heads and/or washers or other features to provide an engagement surface for a corresponding, moveable element in the locking assembly positioned within the door  620 . There are locking members  612  protruding from the side of inset/frame region  611  opposite from the door hinge, and additional locking members  612  positioned on both the upper and lower portions of the inset/frame region  611 . Again, this provides enhanced protection from break-ins by, for example, ensuring that prying forces are directed against the inner door frame provided by this region  611  rather than directed in tension against the locking members  612  to open the safe door  620 . Indeed, by providing an inset frame for the locking members  612  and/or door  620 , prying may result in deformation of the door and/or frame, which may make it even more difficult to open the door by increasing the forces required to open the door relative to before such prying were attempted. 
     Each locking stud  612  is configured to pass through a respective opening  622 , which may be formed in a fixed panel  625  extending along an inner surface of door  620  adjacent to the outer edge opposite from the hinged region of the door  620 . Movement of a handle or other actuator results in the movement of actuation member  630 , which in the depicted embodiment comprises a plate. Actuation member  630  is coupled with an elongated actuation member  632  that extends along the inner surface of the door  620  adjacent to the aforementioned openings  622 . Additional upper and lower actuation members  632 A may be coupled with actuation member  632  and may extend adjacent to openings  622 A formed along respective panels along the upper and/or lower peripheries of door  620 . 
     Each of the various actuation members  632 / 632 A may comprise and/or be coupled with a respective slot and/or tab  633 / 633 A. Each tab/slot  633 / 633 A has an open end that is configured to translate with the movement of plate  630  to engage a respective locking stud  612 .  FIG.  16 A  depicts each of these tabs/slots  633 / 633 A in a locked/engaged configuration (understanding that this would typically be done with door  620  closed rather than open, as shown in the figure) and  FIG.  16 B  depicts them in an unlocked/disengaged configuration. 
     As previously mentioned, by sliding the slots  633 / 633 A in engagement with the locking studs  612 , in some cases with an opening  622  that allows the locking studs  612  to pass therethrough in the unlocked configuration, the door  620  can be securely locked in a closed position until the slots  633 / 633 A have been moved in the opposite direction, as shown in  FIG.  16 B , to disengage the locking studs  612 . It should also be apparent from these figures that the slots  633 / 633 A do not, even in their locked/extended configuration, extend beyond the peripheral edge of the door  620 , since the studs  612  are configured to extend within and be coupled with the door  620  even in an unlocked configuration, which may add additional security to certain embodiments. 
       FIGS.  17 A and  17 B  illustrate another alternative embodiment of a locking assembly  700 , which, in this case comprises a locking mechanism incorporated into the door  720  of a home or other building. Door  720  is positioned within a door frame  710  and is shown in the figures in a closed position within the frame  710 . 
     A series of fixed/mounted locking members or studs  712  are shown extending from an adjacent portion of door frame  710 . In preferred embodiments, these studs  712  may be mounted to a portion of the door frame  710  that protrudes inward along the plane of the door (in the closed position) towards the center of the door more than a typical door jamb while still protruding inward in a direction orthogonal to the plane of the door. This may allow the slots  734  formed by protruding tabs  733  to extend towards and engage a respective stud  712  without extending beyond the perimeter of the door  720 . However, in other contemplated embodiments, the studs  712  may extend from another portion of the door frame  710  and/or in another direction. Similarly, in some contemplated embodiments, the slots/tabs  734 / 733  may extend beyond the perimeter of the door frame in a locked configuration. 
     As with several other embodiments, the slots and/or tabs  734 / 733  may be coupled with an actuation member  732 , which may, in turn, be coupled with an actuator, such as door handle  705  for providing the force to move the actuation member  732 . As shown in  FIGS.  17 A and  17 B , turning of door handle  705  in one direction may cause actuation member/bar  732  to move to the right, which causes slots  734  of tabs  733  to move to the right to engage a corresponding stud  712  (when the door  720  is closed). Similarly, turning of door handle  705  in the opposite direction may result in movement of actuation member/bar  732  to the left, which causes slots  734  of tabs  733  to move to the left to disengage from a corresponding stud  712  (again, when the door  720  is closed) so that the door  720  can be opened. 
     Of course, a wide variety of alternative embodiments are contemplated. For example, door handle  705  may be configured to result in movement of member/bar  732  in the same direction (either towards a locked or unlocked configuration) when rotated in either direction, similar to the way a typical door handle retracts a door latch irrespective of which direction the handle is rotated. Some embodiments may further comprise an interlock, which may be integrated into the locking mechanism such that, when the door is in its closed position, tension from a biasing member, such as a spring, may be used to provide the force to move the member/bar  732  into its locked position automatically. 
     In some embodiments, an alternative actuator, such as a locking knob or dial, may be used, which in some cases may be separate from the primary handle of the door. For example, a typical door handle may be used and a separate actuator, which may be another handle or any other suitable dial, handle, knob, switch, or other actuator, may be used to actuate the locking mechanism depicted in the figures. 
     Some embodiments may further comprise a locking element/assembly that is configured to lock the mechanism more securely in place following coupling of the moveable elements of the locking assembly  700  to the fixed elements (studs  712 ) of the locking assembly  700 . In the depicted embodiment, this locking assembly comprises a rotatable locking actuator/dial  707 , which may be similar in function to a deadbolt lock. Rotation of actuator  707  results in advancement or retraction of a bolt  708  or another protruding member. Similar to a deadbolt lock, this assembly may be configured, in some embodiments, with a manually rotatable thumb turn or the like on one side and a keyed lock on the opposite end to allow building occupants to lock the door from the inside and allow those with a key to unlock the door from the outside. Of course, some embodiments may be configured without any feature for unlocking the door from the outside, if desired. Similarly, other embodiments are contemplated in which actuator  707  is replaced with an electronically actuatable assembly, or with any other manual actuator available to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
     Unlike a typical deadbolt, the bolt  708  of actuator  707  is configured to extend only internally (down, from the perspective of the depicted embodiment) relative to door  720  rather than beyond the door  720  to engage a slot in a door frame. In particular, in a locked configuration, bolt  708  is configured to extend so as to block a portion of the member/bar  732  from being able to retract to an unlocked configuration. This locked configuration is shown in  FIG.  17 A . In the depicted embodiment, this portion comprises a protruding extension  738  of member/bar  732 , which extends in the opposite direction relative to the various slots  734  and tabs  733 . 
       FIG.  17 B  depicts an unlocked configuration. In this configuration, the bolt  708  has been retracted, thereby allowing the protruding extension  738  to extend by the retracted bolt  708  and, consequently, the various slots  734  to disengage from their respective studs  712  to allow the door  720  to be opened. Again, a wide variety of alternative features and elements may be used in alternative embodiments to maintain the locking assembly  700  in a locked configuration. 
     It should be understood that, with respect to locking mechanisms used on homes or other buildings, such as office buildings, businesses, and the like, handles/actuators would typically be provided on both sides. In addition, because many such doors are inswing doors, the studs or other fixed locking members will typically protrude towards the interior of the building, such as, for example, from an inset frame as discussed above. 
     Still another embodiment of a locking assembly  800  is depicted in  FIGS.  18 A and  18 B . In this case, the locking assembly  800  again comprises a door  820  that is positioned within a door frame  810 . However, in this embodiment, door  820  may be more suitable for use in connection with, for example, a motorhome, recreational vehicle, and/or enclosed trailer. Again, the assembly  800  is depicted in a locked configuration in  FIG.  18 A  and an unlocked configuration in  FIG.  18 B . 
     One or more studs  812  or other fixed locking members may be positioned to extend from a portion of the adjacent frame  810 . As previously mentioned, in preferred embodiments, frame  810  may comprise an extended door jamb or other protruding and/or inset feature (protruding from the side and inset from the front) configured to engage the outer surface of a portion of the periphery of the door  820  opposite the hinged side so that the door  820  can be made flush with the surrounding surfaces of the door frame  810 . In addition, preferably the studs  812  extend from this inset/recessed region such that the locking mechanism of the door  820  can engage and disengage the studs  812  without extending beyond the peripheral edges of the door  820 , as previously discussed. 
     As also previously discussed, the locking assembly may comprise an actuator  805 , which in this case comprises a sliding door handle. Of course, any other actuator disclosed herein or otherwise available to those of ordinary skill in the art may be used. For example, a rotating lever plate may be used, which may be similar to those used in some RV doors. Movement of handle/actuator  805  causes corresponding movement of actuation member/bar  832 , which causes tabs  833 , which may each comprise a slot, as previously discussed, to move to the right to engage a corresponding stud  812  (when the door  820  is closed). Similarly, sliding of door handle  805  in the opposite direction causes actuation member/bar  832  to move to the left, which causes these tabs  833  and their corresponding slots to move to the left to disengage from a corresponding stud  812  so that the door  820  can be opened. 
     Yet another embodiment is depicted in  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B . In this embodiment, a locking box  900  is depicted, which may, for example, be used as a locking pistol box. Of course, the box  900  may comprise any type of box or enclosure and the associated locking mechanism may be used to lock any other type of enclosure, such as a locker, key box, cash box, prescription drug cabinet/box or another type of cabinet, and the like. The variety of embodiments spanning from safes to building/home doors to portable lock boxes illustrates the breadth of applications available using the principles, features, and components disclosed herein. Indeed, these principles may allow for more securely locking any structure comprising a door, lid, cover, or the like that can be pivotably or otherwise closed to secure the inside of the structure by engaging, for example, fixed protruding locking members extending from a periphery of a frame of the door/lid/cover using a movable locking mechanism incorporated into the door/lid/cover. 
     In the case of locking box  900 , a lid  920  is present but shown in phantom to illustrate the locking mechanism components incorporated into the lid  920 . A series of protruding locking members comprising studs or bolts  912  are positioned about a frame or body  910  of the box  900 . Because these locking members  912  are inaccessible when the lid  920  is closed, they may be threadably coupled with the body  910 , although they need not be in all contemplated embodiments. 
     As with several of the embodiments previously discussed, an actuation member may be used to provide and/or transfer (as discussed herein, typically although not necessarily generated by another component of the assembly) the force by which slots are engaged with locking members  912 . However, in the embodiment of  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B , there are two such actuation members, namely, a first actuation member  930 A, which is positioned on the left side of the assembly from the perspective of these figures, and a second actuation member  930 B, which is positioned on the right side of the assembly from this perspective. Each of these actuation members  930 A/ 930 B comprises a series of plates and/or bars that allow them to extend towards opposite ends of the locking assembly and couple with other, articulating portions of the assembly. 
     For example, an actuator rod  905  is coupled to one or more rotatable/pivoting bars. Actuator rod  905  may extend through the lid  920  to allow for access by a user to, for example, a knob, handle, or the like, which may allow for transferring rotational force to the pivoting bars and, ultimately, moving the opposing actuation members/plates  930 A/ 930 B towards and away from the opposing sides of the box  900 /body  910 . In some embodiments, a torque-limiting clutch and/or shear mechanism, both of which are mentioned above, may be used in order to prevent excessive force from reaching the lock. 
     A series of slots  934  are formed directly in actuation members  930 A/ 930 B in this embodiment. As these actuation members  930 A/ 930 B move from the position depicted in  FIG.  19 B  (unlocked) to the position depicted in  FIG.  19 A  (locked), slots  934  slide under the enlarged portions (enlarged heads in this case) of locking members  912 . Given that the size of slots  934  is sufficient to receive the shafts of locking members  912  but less that the diameter of the heads of locking members  912 , this locks the lid  920  in a closed position. It should be understood that, although circular heads are used in the depicted embodiment, this need not be the case for all embodiments. Indeed, for heads or other enlarged features of a locking member that are non-circular, so long as these enlarged features are larger in at least one dimension that is mis-aligned with the corresponding slot, such feature should provide a suitable locking function. 
     Some of the locking members  912  may be positioned along other sides of the lid  920 . For example, in the depicted embodiment of  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B , there are two locking members  912  that extend from a portion of the peripheral frame of body  910  opposite from the hinged portion of lid  920 . With respect to these two locking members  912 , corresponding slots  936  are formed in respective extensions of actuation members  930 A/ 930 B that comprise two distinct sections, namely, an enlarged section configured to allow for passage of an enlarged portion of a respective locking member  912  and an elongated section having a smaller cross-sectional width, which may be similar in this respect/dimension to the side slots  934 , in order to engage the enlarged head or other portion of the locking member  912  to provide additional security to prevent opening of the lid  920 . 
     Additional slots and corresponding bolts, studs, or other fasteners may be used to couple the locking assembly of box  900  to the lid  920 . For example, in the depicted embodiment, a series of additional bolts  942  or other locking members may be coupled to a base plate  940  of lid  920 . Base plate  940  comprises a series of cut-outs configured to receive the locking bolts  912  and each bolt  942  is configured to allow the locking mechanism to be coupled with the base plate  940 , due to an enlarged head that prevents each bolt  942  from passing through its corresponding slot  944 , while also allowing for the aforementioned movement of actuation members  930 A/ 930 B between the locked and unlocked configurations. 
     A lock or locking actuator  907  may also be provided. Lock  907  may comprise a key-lock, a combination lock, an electronic lock, or any other suitable lock. This lock may, as shown in  FIGS.  19 A and  19 B , extend from the locking mechanisms incorporated into the lid  920  through to the outer surface of the lid  920  so as to be accessible by a user. Lock  907  may be configured to prevent movement of one or more of the articulating or other moveable components in the locking mechanism. In some embodiments, lock  907  may also serve as the actuator, which may negate the need for a separate actuator  905 . For example, in some embodiments, a keyed rotation of lock  907  may first unlock the box  900 , after which further rotation of the lock  907  may be used to generate the forces needed to advance the actuation members  930 A/ 930 B towards their respective locking members  912 . As those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, however, elements  905  and/or  907  may be replaced by electronic locks and/or actuators, which may allow, for example, a user to input an electronic code that, once input correctly, will automatically move the actuation members  930 A/ 930 B to an unlocked configuration so that the lid  920  may be opened. Similar electronic mechanisms may be used for any of the embodiments disclosed herein. 
       FIGS.  20 A and  20 B  depict another embodiment of a locking mechanism/assembly  1000 .  FIG.  20 A  depicts this assembly  1000  in its locked configuration and  FIG.  20 B  in its unlocked configuration. Although no door or lid is shown in these figures, it should be understood that, as discussed throughout this disclosure, the actuator/actuation plate  1030  and its associated actuation members  1032 A- 1032 D would typically be incorporated into the door/lid, such as within a frame defining the door/lid, but the door/lid is not shown in these figures for the sake of simplicity and to avoid obscuring the features being disclosed in these figures. 
     Similarly, each of the locking members  1012  is not shown coupled to anything in the figures, but it should be understood that, as previously discussed, these locking members  1012 , which, again, may comprise locking studs, bolts, or the like, preferably with an enlarged head or another enlarged portion, such as a washer, would typically be fixedly mounted to an adjacent door frame or the like. Again, this is not shown for simplicity&#39;s sake. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  20 A and  20 B , the various actuators are configured to engage a plurality of slots  1034  with a respective locking member  1012 . More particularly, there are two rows of vertical locking members  1012  on either side of the actuator/actuation plate  1030  and there are additional locking members  1012  above and below the actuator/actuation plate  1030 . Of course, additional locking members  1012  may be formed in rows along the top or bottom, if desired. 
     Rotation of the actuation plate  1030 —which, as mentioned above, may be accomplished in any number of ways, including but not limited to rotation of a crank handle following a successful unlocking process—may simultaneously result in lateral movement of the two lateral actuation members  1032 A and  1032 B and vertical movement of the two vertical actuation members  1032 C and  1032 D. In this manner, a secure locking of an enclosure, such as a safe, box, building, vehicle, etc., may be accomplished by placement of locking studs or other locking members at any position about the periphery of the door/lid of the enclosure. 
       FIGS.  21 A- 21 D  are perspective views of yet another embodiment of a locking mechanism/assembly  1100 . In these figures, a door  1120  is shown hingedly coupled with an inset door frame  1111 . Inset door frame  1111  is positioned internally and inset in three dimensions relative to an outer frame  1110 , which may be a frame of a building or other enclosure. As described throughout this disclosure, a plurality of locking members  1112  are mounted about the periphery of the inset frame  1111  (note that the surface to which they are mounted is not visible in these figures to allow for viewing the assembly from within the enclosure/safe). An actuation plate  1130  or another suitable actuator may be configured to move one or more actuation members  1132 A/ 1132 B/ 1132 C to engage slots  1134 A/ 1134 B (the slot associated with actuation member  1132 C is not visible in these figures) with respective locking members  1112 . Various openings  1133  may be formed along the periphery of the door  1120 , if desired, through which the locking members  1112  may extend in the closed configuration to allow the door  1120  to fully close within the inset frame  1111 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  21 C and  21 D , some of the slots, such as slots  1134 A, may comprise open-ended slots and others, such as slot  1134 B, may comprise closed slots having an enlarged section configured to receive a respective locking member  1112 . Upon full locking actuation, as shown in  FIG.  21 D , the enlarged section of slot  1134 B may be moved away from the adjacent locking member  1112  such that the narrower portion of the slot  1134 B engages the enlarged portion of the locking member  1112  to prevent, or at least inhibit, the door  1120  from being opened. 
     Locking assembly  1100  further comprises a locking flange  1126 , which may provide further security to the associated enclosure. Although locking flange  1126  is shown in each of  FIGS.  21 A- 21 D , it is better seen in the close-up view of  FIG.  21 E , along with the cross-sectional views of  FIGS.  22 A and  22 B . 
       FIG.  21 E  depicts locking flange  1126  as it approaches an adjacent slot  1113  formed in the inset door frame  1111  during a closing action. As this figure and the subsequent cross-sectional views of  FIGS.  22 A and  22 B  show, the locking flange  1126 , which is fixedly coupled with the door  1120 , has a straight portion that is coupled to the frame of the door  1120  and then a curved portion configured to extend through an opening  1113  in an inner wall of the inset door frame  1111  when the door  1120  is closed. Both of these portions are configured to stiffen/strengthen the wall of the door frame in multiple axes. In addition, when the door is in a closed and locked configuration, the locking flange  1126  is configured to resist prying that may take place. 
     For example, as best shown in  FIG.  22 B , a prybar or other prying instrument that is inserted where fire seal  1140  is located (which is discussed below), will face several layers/features of resistance. Not only does the placement of the door  1120  within an inset frame  1111  place the primary prying forces against the frame  1111 , which is in a direction orthogonal to the force direction that will result in opening of door  1120 , but, due to the presence of locking flange  1126 , the curved portion of locking flange  1126  will provide further resistance to prying by engaging/locking with adjacent features of the safe/enclosure. 
     The curved shape of locking flange  1126  allows the end/tip of the curved portion to extend further towards the front of the safe/enclosure than the slot  1113 . Thus, in the event that a would-be thief were to successfully remove the hinges of the safe/enclosure and attempt to pry the door away from the frame, the door  1120  would be forced against the rear surface of the inset frame  1111 , which resists this movement. In addition, the curved shape of the locking flange  1126  allows the length of the curved arc of the curved portion to be longer than the distance with which this portion extends through the slot  1113 , which increases the engagement between the locking flange  1126  and the structure of the frame  1111  adjacent to the slot  1113 , which may result in a deformation friction lock between the parts to provide further resistance to opening the door and/or accessing the contents of the safe/enclosure. 
     In the depicted embodiment, an angled stiffener  1117  is provided adjacent to locking flange  1126  in the closed configuration. As shown in  FIG.  21 E , angled stiffener  1117  may extend adjacent and immediately proximal/interior of slot  1113 . Angled stiffener  1117  may provide still further protection to the contents of the safe/enclosure. For example, because stiffener  1117  is coupled to the frame  1111  adjacent to slot  1113 , both legs of the stiffener  1117  may strengthen/stiffen the door frame wall and the proximal/forward edge of the slot  1113 . This strengthening/stiffening occurs in multiple axes/directions, thereby substantially reducing deformation in these areas that may occur during a prying attack. 
     It should be understood that, although the stiffener  1117  in the depicted embodiment is angled, other embodiments are contemplated in which this shape may vary. For example, tubing or solid material having a circular or rectangular cross-section may be used in some embodiments, or a flattened plate-like stiffener. However, use of an angled stiffener  1117  as shown in the figures may be preferred for certain applications as this allows one leg of the stiffener  1117  to enter the hollow space of the door frame  1111 , similar to locking flange  1126 . This increases the engagement of the locking flange  1126  by providing another element to strengthen the surrounding areas and engage the locking flange  1126  in the event of a prying attack. This also increases the force necessary to achieve separation between the door  1120  and the door frame  1111 , which provides further protection by increasing the difficulty and force required in order for a would-be thief to force the locking flange  1126  through the slot  1113 . 
     As also shown in  FIG.  21 E , a fire seal  1140  may extend about the periphery of the door frame  1111  adjacent and preferably immediately proximally/interior of the stiffener  1117 . One or more of the novel features presented herein allows for this placement of a fire seal at an advantageous location, particularly compared with the typical placement of a fire seal in most safes, which is on a rear surface of the door, leaving a substantial portion of the safe exposed to heat transfer. By placing the fire seal  1140  immediately adjacent to the outer surface of the door  1120 , as shown in  FIG.  22 B  and in  FIG.  22 C , which depicts the door  1120  from the non-hinged side, the fire seal  1140  can provide immediate protection to a fire or other source of heat from outside of the safe/enclosure. This may allow not only for slowing heat transfer and improving fire protection for the contents of the safe/enclosure but may also provide additional prying resistance. In particular, since this location for the fire seal is also the location where any prying attacks are likely to take place, this provides another barrier to insertion of a prying instrument therein and subsequent prying that may result in access to the contents of the safe/enclosure. 
       FIGS.  23 A and  23 B  depict yet another embodiment of a locking mechanism/assembly  1200 .  FIG.  23 A  depicts this assembly  1200  in its unlocked configuration and  FIG.  23 B  in its locked configuration. Although no door or lid is shown in these figures, it should be understood that, as discussed throughout this disclosure, the actuator/actuation plate  1230  and its associated actuation members  1232 A- 1232 D would typically be incorporated into the door/lid, such as within a frame defining the door/lid, but the door/lid is not shown in these figures for the sake of simplicity and to avoid obscuring the features being disclosed in these figures. 
     Similarly, each of the locking members  1212 , which, again, may comprise locking studs, bolts, or any other locking members preferably comprising an enlarged portion or adjacent, coupled, and enlarged component, such as a washer, is not shown coupled to anything in the figures, but it should be understood that these locking members  1212  would typically be fixedly mounted to an adjacent door frame or the like. 
     As can be seen in  FIGS.  23 A and  23 B , the various actuators are configured to engage a plurality of slots  1234  with a respective locking member  1212 . More particularly, there are two rows of vertically extending locking members  1212  on either side of the actuator/actuation plate  1230  and there are additional locking members  1212  above and below the actuator/actuation plate  1230 . Again, additional locking members  1212  may be formed in rows along the top or bottom, if desired. 
     As previously mentioned, any of the slots  1234  may be open-ended or closed and having an enlarged portion to receive the enlarged head/portion/component of a corresponding locking member  1212 . For example, in the embodiment of  FIGS.  23 A and  23 B , the slots  1234  configured to engage the central locking members  1212  positioned above and below actuator  1230  are open-ended, whereas the remaining slots  1234  are each defined by an enlarged portion configured to allow a corresponding enlarged head or other enlarged portion of a locking member to pass thereby and a narrowed portion configured to engage the enlarged head or other enlarged portion to prevent the corresponding locking member from being disengaged from the corresponding actuation member  1232 . 
     Rotation of the actuation plate  1230 —which, as mentioned above, may be accomplished in any number of ways, including but not limited to rotation of a crank handle following a successful unlocking process—may simultaneously result in vertical movement of the two lateral actuation members  1232 A and  1232 B and vertical movement of the two vertical actuation members  1232 C and  1232 D. In this manner, a secure locking of an enclosure, such as a safe, box, building, vehicle, etc., may be accomplished by placement of locking studs or other locking members at any position about the periphery of the door/lid of the enclosure. 
     Throughout this specification, any reference to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or “the embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the quoted phrases, or variations thereof, as recited throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. 
     Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of embodiments, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more features than those expressly recited in that claim. Rather, inventive aspects lie in a combination of fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed embodiment. It will be apparent to those having skill in the art that changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles set forth herein. Accordingly, this disclosure is to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope thereof. Likewise, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to various embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, a required, or an essential feature or element. The scope of the present invention should, therefore, be determined only by the following claims.