KEYWAY ILLUMINATION SYSTEM

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to a keyway illumination system with a rack to recharge the device. More so, the present invention relates to a system that enables a keyway to be illuminated when a corresponding key approaches the known WIFI connected through a mobile app from a predetermined distance, so as to enhance viewing the engagement between key and keyway.

Claims

1) A keyway illumination system, the system comprising: a key defined by a blade, the blade configured to enable accessibility; a smart key that connects to WIFI automatically through a mobile app once the users enters the proximity; an LED Smart Key in which the illumination has a set timer that powers off the illumination after entering.

2) A smart key case having: a housing configured to detachably couple to the key, the housing further configured to enable application of torque on the key; a single cell 2032 battery to give power; a key use to unlock the door; a key ring holder; a key illumination device configured to illuminate; a receiver configured to enable wireless communication.

3) The system of claim 2, wherein the housing of the smart key case is configured to receive one end of the blade through a slot. The system of claim 2, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to fasten and unfasten the key and the housing. The system of claim 2, wherein the housing comprises a plurality of fasteners.

4) The system of claim 2, wherein the illumination from the key illumination device comprises customised colors. The system of claim 2, wherein the smart key case further comprises a case printed circuit board.

5) The system of claim 2, wherein the smart key case further comprises a key power source. The system of claim 2, wherein the key power source comprises a coin battery. The system of claim 2, wherein the smart key case further comprises power source enclosure configured to retain the key power source.

6) Wireless key charger rack comprising: front and back body casing having metal plates; battery holder; chargeable batteries.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary keyway illumination system, highlighting the internal components, showing a smart key case, a key, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] FIG. 2 illustrates an elevated front and side view illuminated and non-illuminated of a smart key, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates wireless key charger rack, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0039] The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word exemplary or illustrative means serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any implementation described herein as exemplary or illustrative is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are therefore not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0040] A keyway illumination system is referenced in FIGS. 1-3. The keyway illumination system operable with different types, models, and purposes of keys. System illuminates a keyway that matches the key when key is detected through WIFI at a predetermined, proximal distance from keyway. System also provides visual verification that key is engaging the correct matching keyway through a unique function that matches LED colors, intensities, or patterns between a smart key case coupled to the key. The keyway illumination system is also equipped with a wireless key charger rack to charge until battery for the key is fully charged, indicating when to stop the charging.

[0041] As referenced in FIG. 1, system may be adapted to operate with a variety of keys having different sizes and types. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a key is a tool that is used to operate a lock, such as to lock or unlock it. The key, as used here may open various objects, including, without limitation, a vehicle door, a building door, a display, a box, a luggage, a safe, and a window.

[0042] System enables a keyway to be illuminated when the corresponding key approaches the WIFI at a predetermined distance. This selective lighting allows for enhanced visibility of an engagement point between the key and the keyway. This type of lighting may be especially useful at night or in dark areas where visibility is limited. System also allows for verification that the key is engaging the correct matching keyway through a unique LED color matching function. This can be useful when multiple objects having keyways are clustered together and it is not certain which keyway the key fits.

[0043] As illustrated in FIG. 1, system comprises a smart key case that detachably couples to key 104 and 105 to provide a gripping surface for applying torque to the key when engaging the keyway. Smart key case 104 and 105 orients the key in a natural position for operation of the key through a keyway. Smart key case also serves to contain and enable control of electrical components that selectively illuminate and communicate to actuate illumination of the keyway.

[0044] As illustrated in FIG. 1, smart key case comprises a key illumination device configured to selectively illuminate based on an event. In one embodiment, the illumination from key illumination device is generated from a light emitting diode that emits customized colors. In another embodiment, key illumination device is a five millimeter LED that provides efficient illumination with a very low consumption of battery life.

[0045] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the rack assembly consists of front body 302 and back cover 304 to protect the casing and interior. There are metal plates 301 on the outer covering 302. Then there is a battery holder 303 consisting of batteries 305 to charge the battery of the key.

[0046] In one embodiment, when the user enters the proximity with LED Smart Key, the illumination has a set timer that powers off the illumination after entering. The preset timer automatically turns off once the user enters through the keyway using the key.

[0047] Smart key case further comprises a key power source, such as a coin battery 101. In one embodiment, key power source 101 is a coin shaped cell (2032), or a small three-volt disposable lithium cell that serves as a power source for the electronic components in the smart key case. A power source enclosure is configured to retain the key power source.

[0048] Smart key case may contain a power source enclosure having positive and negative terminals to enhance conduction of the key power source. Key power source slides into such a power source enclosure. Though in other embodiments, any battery enclosure known in the art may be used.

[0049] In one sequence of procedure, the user would approach the keyway with the smart key, case. The key on approaching the WIFI proximity automatically connects with already registered app and consequently activates the light, which enhances visibility of the keyway.

[0050] Now turning to FIG. 2 It shows the front side views of the key when non-illuminated and when illuminated.

[0051] All parts listed are classified based on their market availability, where they are identified as commercial off the shelf (COTS) parts. Production requires assembly of all parts and the Outer coverings. These have to be essentially manufactured according to their dimensions and specifications.

[0052] Manufacturing variation by design is limited to the Outer coverings. Variations are governed by the dimensions of the underlying parts of the device. These variations shall however inherit the principal purpose. Other variations may exist based on style.

[0053] The smart key case design principle is to accommodate any patented key conveniently.

[0054] These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings.

[0055] Because many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalence.