Patent ID: 8035477

Claim:
A rechargeable electronic key for use with an electronic lock, the electronic key comprising: a memory device; a private identifier for the electronic key stored in the memory device, the private identifier being accessible to the electronic lock but not readily accessible to a user of the electronic key; a public identifier for the electronic key that is readily accessible to a user of the electronic key, the public identifier configured to identify the electronic key to the electronic lock and to the user of the electronic key; a key controller configured to electrically connect to a lock controller associated with the electronic lock; a power management circuit configured to electrically connect to a power source; and a rechargeable battery; wherein the power management circuit is configured to supply energy from the rechargeable battery to other components of the electronic key, to supply energy from the rechargeable battery to the electronic lock when the electronic key is engaged with the electronic lock, and to recharge the rechargeable battery when the power management circuit is connected to the power source.