Offline locking device for controlling access to storage or area, and method and system for online registering, payment and use of such storage and access.

The present invention relates specially to a technique for providing a storage/pet cage for caretaking of an animal or goods during a limited time period.

In the following the invention is discussed related to caretaking of a pet in a locked animal cage, but the invention relates more generally to a lock for securing or granting access to any type of goods or area for a limited time as discussed in specific embodiments below.

In everyday life there are many challenges for pet owners. Being able to visit shops is one. When bringing a pet on a shopping activity most often results in that the pet must be left unattended outside the shop or in the car at the parking lot. This is undesirable for many pet owners; thereby the pet represents a hindrance for the owner.

The shops in turn loose revenue based on the inability to provide proper lodging of pets whilst their owners visit the shop.

The problem is partly solved by the shop owners or a service provider set up cages or dedicated areas are allocated for shoppers to leave their pets. This still represents a problem since the solution often lack proper security for the pets. It is also a problem with cleaning and return on investment for the shop owner or service provider.

Some rental systems for cages have been suggested, but are not commonly available, and implementation of such systems has a barrier in that the cages must be wired to a network service such as Internet or a

WAN/WLAN/LAN. This is a problem for shops and others that desire to offer a service of safe pet placement whilst pet owner are occupied and prohibited from bringing the pet along on specific activities, such as shopping, work, enjoyment and other. It is a goal of the invention to provide a safe cage for rental use, that enable the pet owner to safely leave the pet for a limited time period in a cage whilst being busy with other activities, and thereby providing a solution to one or more of the problems stated above. It is a further goal to provide a cage system for pets that are not dependent on a direct access to network based services, through for example Internet.

It is further an intention of the invention to provide a controller module for identification of the pet owner, ability to pay for pet storage and connection to remote rental service via a network based application.

The invention will further provide a method and system for pet parking, comprising credit evaluation and replenishing/purchase, cage operation and credit accounting, as well as cleaning and surveillance.

The invention will further comprise solutions that can easily be adapted to storage of other goods, such as travellers luggage, a variety of sports equipment such as for example skiing equipment, golf equipment, beach visitors belongings, and also access control through doors, gates or barrier where there is difficulties to provide an access control based on availability of internet or other network services. Examples on such latter mentioned accesses can be access to temporary parking lot, mountain road, remote buildings, and others. A more detailed description of the invention will be evident in the following text alone or in combination with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1A is a picture of an example of present invention in the form of a pet cage.

Fig. IB is a description of a system comprising a service provider, a user and pet cages.

Fig. 2 is a representation of an outside view of a pet cage

Fig. 3 is a representation of a pet cage wherein the interior is visible and two walls have been omitted

Fig. 4 is a block diagram for a pet cage

Fig. 5A is an overview flow chart for operation of a pet cage

Fig. 5B is the main groups of the overview flow chart for operation of a pet cage as shown in Fig. 5A

Fig. 5C, 5D, 5E and 5F is detailed flow charts for operation of various elements of the operation of the pet cage outlined in respective main groups as outlined in Fig. 5B. Fig. 6 is a typical information flow chart for 1. Time use of pet cage

Fig. 7 A is an overview flow chart for an example of a menu hierarchy for a Smartphone GUI (graphical user interface)

Fig. 7B, 7C and 7D is detailed flow charts for the example of a menu hierarchy for a Smartphone GUI as outlined in 5A

Now a number of embodiments of the invention will be described. These embodiments shall explain features of the invention without representing any limitations to the same. It is the attached independent claims that define the protection scope of the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

The invention is now described in the embodiment of a pet cage, for temporarily storage of a pet, for example located outside a shop/shopping mall.

Figure 1A, IB, 2 and 4 describes the cage 10, and the cage 10 is provided with a door with a lock 11. The cage 10, further comprise at least a controller 40, wherein the controller 40 is able to communicate with a user operating device 50 and the lock 11. The lock 11 is further comprising an electronic interface for operation, such that the controller 40 can control the operation of the lock. The controller 40 may further be provided with one or more timers for use in combination with operation of the lock or other features/device comprised in the cage.

The user operating device 50 is preferably a Smartphone running a software application, APP, provided to support the features of the invention. The Smartphone APP provides, when activated, an online connection to the online cage service provider 1, and will when communicating with a selected cage lock 11 communicate with the lock 11 over a short range, such as Wifi/Bluetooth/NFC, communication protocol. Other standard or short range communication protocols may be used, also proprietary protocols.

For security purposes, the user operating device 50, may be communicating with either one or both of cage lock 11 and online cage service provider 1 over an encrypted communication channel 4, 3. For cages 10 provided for pet storage, the cage 10 may comprise further features as outlined in figure 3 and 4, for example for facilitation of a healthy climate inside the cage lOThe cage 10 may be equipped with a fan 15, to be controlled by the controller 40. For optimal use of the fan 15, the cage 10 may also be equipped with one or more temperature sensors 13, wherein the temperature sensors 13 are connected to the controller 40, and the fan 15 is responsive to pre-set or dynamically changeable threshold values measured by the temperature sensor(s) 13.

The cage 10 may further comprise one or more light sources 12. These light sources 12 may be controlled by the controller and may serve different purposes. One is to light up the interior of the cage 10, wherein the light 12 is comprised of normal light sources for providing visible light. There may be provided a light source 12 providing a UVC light, wherein the light is provided for purification and sterilisation of the interior of the cage 10. When activating the UVC light 12, the cage 10 cannot be occupied by a pet or live animal. The cage 10 may further comprise one or more Passive Infra ed (PIR) sensors/detectors 14, wherein the PI R sensor/detector 14 is used for detection of a live creature/pet inside the cage 10. The PIR sensors 14 are connected to and controlled by the controller 40. The operation of the UVC light 12 may be controlled by the controller 40, and will not be activated if any of the PIR sensor 14 detect any living creatures inside the cage 10. The operation of the UVC-light 12 according to the invention may even be delayed by a pre-set timer value and monitored by the controller 40, wherein the timer is set to start counting when the PIR detector 14 signals that there is no detected living creature within the cage 10. A further timer may be utilized by the controller to activate the UVC-light 12 for a pre-determined time period. Additionally the UVC-light activation may be pre-set to be activated at periodical intervals dependent on the indication from the PIR detectors 14 that there are no living creatures inside the cage 10.

The cage 10 may further comprise one or more other sensors or cameras 16 connected to the controller for detection and observation of the interior, and optionally the outside, of the cage 10. One such sensor type might be a microphone used to detect sound inside the cage 10. Sound and image may be used by the controller to determine the status of an inhabitant in the cage 10 or the status of the interior of the cage lOitself. The cage 10 may further comprise a loudspeaker 17, which may be used for communicating audio messages to the inhabitants of the cage 10 or to the user when initiating or ending usage of the cage 10. Now, a scenario for operation of the cage 10 according to one embodiment of the invention is discussed, where a user places a pet inside the cage 10 on a desired location. The scenario discussed is further outlined in attached figure 6.

Figure 6 identifies 4 entities: Payment System, Cloud-server/Database/Management System, Handheld device/Phone/Tablet, an electronically controlled lock.

The payment system may be any type of system granting a user one or more use credits. Credits may be granted a user as a result of money transfer, receiving and/or observing advertisement messages, become/staying a member of a membership entity, being a visitor and/or customer, or other. Credits may be stored in one or more of centrally by the service provider 1, in a "wallet" on the user device, or locally on premises associated with the cage 10 localization, or other. The Cloud-server/Database/Management System 1 represents the service provider's 1 administration system keeping track of users and cages/locks status. The Cloud-server/Database/Management System typically verifies, authorizes and gives permission to a user for use of a selected cage/lock. The Cloud- server/Database/Management System 1 may also control the credits allocation to the users, and keep track of users and cages/locks 10, 11.

The Handheld device/Phone/Tablet 50 may be any type of remote controller 50 implementing the users interface towards the cage/lock 10, 11 operation and to the Cloud-server/Database/Management System 1. One example of the Handheld device/Phone/Tablet is a Smartphone. The lock 11, which may be electronically controlled, is the locking system of the cage/lock, and comprises a controller 40 able to communicate with the Handheld device/Phone/Tablet 50 over a close range

communication channel 3. The lock 11 will operate and close a door, or lock a barrier, enclosure or locking device or similar. Examples can be a cage (for animal) 10, storage container/locker/room, bike/ski/toddler parking stand/rack/rail, living area (for example hotel/motel rooms). The Smartphone app 50 which is downloaded and running on the users Smartphone 50 has been verified by the cage service provider 1, and the user has been authorised as a user by being granted a number of tokens. The tokens are here used as a currency enabling the user to be allowed to use the cages 10 offered by the service provider 1. The tokens may be given the user according to a service provider 1 managed scheme or purchased via traditional online shopping and money transfer services. It is within the scope of the invention to use money transfer per usage as usage tokens.

When running the Smartphone app 50, the Smartphone app 50 may provide the user with a real time status of available cages 10 in selected region/location. The Smartphone app 50 may accept geographic data from the smartphone to filter only cage status of cages 10 located in the vicinity of the user, for example within a 500 meter range, or within a user or service provider 1 defined range, from current user position.

The user may select a cage 10 having a "free"/"available for use" status. The service provider 1 checks whether the user has the required amount of credits available for using the selected cage 10, and if so transmits an access code/key to the Smartphone app. If the user does not have enough credits available, the service provider 1 may offer various schemes for providing more credits, such as money transfer services, advertising views, purchase of goods or other. The user chooses to connect to the selected cage 10 when within range of communicating over a close range communication protocol 3 with the selected cage 10. The cage 10 verifies that the user is entitled to use the cage 10, and checks its own status to verify that it is "free" to be used. There may be situations where the cage 10 is "not ready" for use, even if the service provider 1 has indicated the cage 10 as available. Such situations are discussed later.

The cage 10 may respond with an acknowledge message to the user, which the Smartphone app 50 forwards to the service provider 1 over the internet protocol 4. The service provider 1 sends an open lock authorisation, a unique key, to the Smartphone app which when forwarded to the cage 10 instructs the controller to unlock the door lock of the cage. The service provider 1 may register the new status of the cage as "in use".

A controller 40 in a specific cage 10 may be programmed to communicate with other controllers 40 in the vicinity, for example the controllers 40 of the cages 10 next to the specific cage 10. Such communication may provide the controller 40 of the specific cage 10 with status information from the neighbour cages 10, which may be communicated to the service provider 1 when a user initiates or communicates with the specific cage 10. This way the service provider may receive updated status information of all the cages without the need to maintain a dedicated communication channel to the cages. Ideally every controller will be programmed with this feature, and thus enable the service provider 1 to maintain a "correct" status map of all locks/cages and sensor values in the defined service offering.

The controller 40 may store the key for later verification of the user.

The user inserts the pet inside the cage 10, and locks the door. The Smartphone app 50 may require the user to verify that the pet is placed inside the cage 10, and the door is locked, and may upon this indication transmit a message to the service provider 1 indicating this. The service provider 1 responds to this message with an authorisation to lock the lock 11 which is forwarded to the cage controller 40, whereupon the controller 40 will lock the lock 11. The locking of the lock 11 may also be activated within a timer controlled delay, without requiring a specific authorisation from the service provider 1. The service provider 1 will register the user's use of the cage 10 from either the time of sending the "open lock authorisation" or the "authorised to lock" message.

When the user returns to fetch the pet from the cage 10, the Smartphone app 50 must be activated. The user selects to unlock the lock 11 of the cage 10, and the Smartphone app 50 sends an unlock request to the cage 10. Cage 10 responds with an acknowledge message which may be sent by the Smartphone app 50 to the service provider 1. Service provider 1 may then adjust the user's credits, and may also update a local credit record in the users Smartphone app.

The lock 11 of the cage 10 is then opened, and the pet can be removed. The user removes the pet. The cage 10 may be responding to a registered opened door with a message, visual and/or audio, that will request the user to properly close the door after use.

When the cage door is closed, and the PI -sensor 14 has not detected any inhabitants for a specified time period, the cage 10 controller 40 may initiate and execute a self-cleaning routine, including, but not necessarily limited to, lighting the UVC light 12 for a pre-set time period. The lock 11 will be locked through the UVC-light session. The UVC light 12 may be operationally coupled to sensors and terminate operation if the door lock 11 is opened, or the PI -detector 14 detects any unidentified activity. The cleaning session may comprise other activities than UVC-light. These activities may be composed of flushing or sprinkling using water or water with cleaning agents, or other cleaning fluids/gases. A cleaning session may comprise physical removal of unwanted substances from the cage 10. This may be automatic, or personnel controlled upon detection of for example faeces in the cage 10.

When the cage 10 is in use, the controller 40 will monitor the sensors and cameras to optimize the climate inside the cage 10, such as the sensors for temperature, humidity, light, noise, movement, and the camera(s). The cage 10 controller 40 may control a fan and/or air-conditioning features to optimize the cage 10 environment. The controller may even comprise a silencer, such as a device for inversion of noise defined by certain frequencies or noise patterns, and use a speaker to silence the interior of the cage 10, and thus create an undisturbed environment inside the cage 10. This may have the effect that the pet inside the cage 10 will not be affected by noisy environment outside the cage 10, for example as a result of nearby traffic. Figure 4 depicts various elements that may be comprised by the pet cage 10, wherein the following table defines the various elements with their reference numbers:

40 - Cage controller unit

41 - Ultraviolet, UVC lamp for disinfection (100 - 280 nm, typical around 250nm)

42 - Electronic lock

43 - Power supply

44 - PIR sensor(s) (optionally several coupled in parallel for redundancy)

45 - Temperature sensor(s) (optionally several coupled in parallel for redundancy)

46 - RFID chip and antenna (for maintenance of old users- backward compatibility)

47 - Blutooth/Wifi Direct/NFC chip and antenna

48 - User operating device: Wireless RFID card / contact Smartcard (earlier generation)

49 - Service provider/server/Database system, network or web based

50 - User operating device: Remote controller/Smartphone

51 - DC power

52 - AC power

53 - DC fan The lock 11 is optionally provided with a physical interface for communication with a user operating device 48 as shown in figure 4.

In a different aspect of the invention, the lock 11 is used for other purposes than for locking a pet inside a cage 10.

The same concept of a lock 11 which is not connected to the internet 4, being operated by a user operating device 50, such as a Smartphone 50 running a Smartphone app 50 from a service provider 1 is provided. The Smartphone app 50 communicates with the service provider l's network services 4, for example a cloud 2 based service, and communicates further directly with the lock 11 using close range communication protocols 3, such as Bluetooth, Wifi, NFC or other. The Smartphone app 50 let the user communicate with a lock 11 based upon authorization and directions controlled by the service provider Is network/cloud based services.

Figure 5 A - E show a flowchart of how the different elements of a lock implemented in a pet cage 10 application wherein the user control module 50 is implemented on a Smartphone app according to the invention interconnect. An overall flowchart is outlined in figure 6.

The different elements of a collection of cages 10 intended for pet storage is shown in figure 5 A to E will now be discussed:

The main parts of the system as described in figure 5A may be grouped as shown in figure 5B in:

Power supply

Sensor controllers

Credits management

- User session setup

- FID

Invalid user controller

Handheld device/Phone/Tablet (Smartphone)

Lock controller The following discussion of the main parts of a system according to the invention relates to a lock 11 and controller 40 arranged in an animal cage, typically a cage 10 for placing and temporarily caretaking of dogs.

In figure 5C the power supply 43 is outlined. The power supply 43 may be provided with a power loss or drop detector, which may be additionally comprise a power backup system such as a battery pack. The battery pack may again be connected to an emergency charging unit connected for example to a system of solar panels or other.

If the power detector detects lack of power or poor power source an alarm status may be triggered, and a message may be communicated to the user trying to make use of the cage 10 associated with the lock 11, 42 and controller 40. Such a message may for example be a dialog box in the Smartphone app displaying "lack of power, please contact shop owner". Alarm status may also be communicated by voice message over a loudspeaker in the cage 10, or a message displayed on a display screen comprised in the cage. When power is restored to acceptable levels, the lock 11, 42 will return to normal operating mode and alarm messages will be reversed to normal operation status if appropriate.

In figure 5D an example of a user session setup process is shown, wherein the Smartphone app 50 is identified as the starting point for the user who intends to use a cage 10. The Smartphone app 50 may comprise an area identifier, for example provided by output from a navigation tool such as google map or similar, and when connected to the service provider 1, the service provider 1 may provide cage status for cages 10 within a defined range, such as for example 500 meter radius of the current location of the user. If the user identifies the intention to use a cage 10 that is identified as free for use, the service provider 1 will check the user status, and verify that the user have sufficient credits available for use. The credits status of a user may be maintained in a database maintained by the service provider 1, or alternatively in a "wallet" maintained by the Smartphone app 50 on the users Smartphone 50. Smartphone 50 may be replaced by Handheld device / Phone / Tablet 50 able to communicate with the cage 10 over a short range communication protocol/network 3 and the service provider over an internet/WAN communication protocol /network 4. When the user credentials are approved the user is accepted to initiate usage of the selected cage 10. The

Service provider 1 provides the Smartphone app 50 with a key for enabling a use session of the selected cage 10, or a cage 10 of a selected group of cages 10. When Smartphone app 50 connects to the selected cage 10 it will transfer the key which identifies for the cage 10 that the user is accepted for using the cage 10. The cage controller 11, checks all internal sensors and status for verification that the cage 10 is ready for a new use session. If approved, door is opened to let the animal in.

Examples of sensor values that will prohibit use can be: temperature is above 30 ° Celsius, the bacterial level is too high, the water supply is not working,

In figure 5E an example of Handheld device / Phone / Tablet (Smartphone) operation is outlined. When the door opens the "new" user's key is stored in the controller , 40. The communication with the users Smartphone app 50 may contain information that is hidden for the user concerning the status of the other cages 10 in the vicinity of the selected cage 10. This can for example be a use status or alarm status. The advantage of being able to communicate real time status information of neighbour cages 10 is that if the use cycle of a neighbour cage 10 has been aborted abnormally, or are in an alarm state, this may be communicated to the service provider over the user's connection channel created when initiating the cage 10 use.

When the cage 10 is ready for use, a timer may be activated for enabling the opening of the cage door. If the door is not opened within set time, the use session is aborted. If the door is opened and an animal /dog is parked inside the cage 10 and door locked, this may be verified by an optional PIR sensor 14. When a user has placed the animal in the cage 10 and locked the door, a timer will start and trigger the lock 11 to be locked after a pre-set time. This enables the user to abort uses session if for example not satisfied with the services.

When an animal is in the cage 10 the sensors may trigger the operation of different devices, for example if the temperature is too high, a fan will blow cool air, if the temperature is too low, a heater will raise the temperature, if the water cup is empty, more water will be supplied, all UVC light 12 is turned off, if the animal is agitated a calming sound is played through a speaker, etc.

During a use session the cage 10 may be communicating continuously with the Smartphone app 50 of the user if the user is within range of the communication network 3 used for communication between cage 10 and user Smartphone 50. Real time cage status may be provided to the Smartphone app 50, and optionally an audio and/or video communication interface may be provided for 1 or 2 way communications between user and cage interior.

When user returns to fetch the animal from the cage 10, the user select on the Smartphone app an "open lock" feature. The cage 10 authorizes the user comparing the stored key with the key transferred with the "open lock" message sent by the Smart phone app 50. If verified correct, the lock 11 will be unlocked, and if not, an alarm message is provided, and the user is asked to contact the service provider or shop owner if cage 10 is part of a shop offering.

The users credits may be updated as result of use in a post operation of the use session, wherein the use process will include a communication session with the service provider, or wallet of the user before a unlock operation is granted and time units lapsed will be drawn from the users available credits. Alternatively, the credit accounting is performed pre operation in the initializing phase, at which typically use is counted per time of use and not time lapsed.

In figure 5F an example of Lock controller operation is outlined. Typically the controller 50 analyses the output of the sensors, and controls the devices controlling the environment parameters such as temperature, light, disinfection, and other.

A typical scenario is that when a user fetch the animal and closes the door, the lock 11 will lock within for example 20 seconds, and the cage 10 will run a self-clean/check routine during which the cage 10 will be unavailable for a new use session. When the lock 11 is locked, and no animal is detected by the PIR sensor 14, a cleaning/disinfection procedure may start. This may comprise turning on a UVC light 12 for a predetermined period of time, for example 10 minutes. Self-clean routine may also comprise flushing floor area for removing feces or similar. High power fan to replace all air, checking supply of dog-bags (for manual removing of animal feces), checking water supply, checking battery backup power level and others may be part of self- cleaning/check routine.

When all self-clean/check routine is performed the cage may return to an "available for use" status.

Figure 7A illustrates an overview of an alternative GUI menu hierarchy of a Handheld device/Phone/Tablet 50 used by the user in a use session. Handheld device/Phone/Tablet 50 may be a Smartphone 50 running a Smartphone app 50 provided by the service provider 1. The provided hierarchy is provided for illustrating purpose only, and the use of the invention is not limited by the menu alternatives provided in figure 7A - 7 D. Figure 7B, 7C and 7D shows the different parts B, C and D respectively identified by the dotted lines in figure 7A. Only a couple graphical examples is provided, and the design of the screen graphics is representing a limiting feature of the invention, as this will be varying with the application controlled by the invention and the needs and requirements of the service provider 1. One option of the lock 11 is that it is electrically operated, and a small battery backup may be provided to operate the lock 11 in a limited fashion, and to display an error message when the power line is cut, or battery power is running below a preset value. Figure 5B shows a more detailed block diagram of the emergency power backup operation.

There are numerous applications wherein the invention may be advantageously applied, for example in a scenario wherein an operator wants to provide temporary ski equipment storage, but where there is problematic to set up an internet server for controlling the locker racks. Arrangements in a slope, at an off power grid site, or at a festival tent, beer tent or other are such examples. An application of the invention could then comprise the following user scenario: The skier arrives at the area where there are a number of optional ski racks to select, and user logs into the ski storage service. The Smartphone app displays the available locks at the different ski racks, and the user selects one suitable lock. The service provider 1 checks the token status of the user, and if not required tokens are available, the service provider 1 may offer the user an option to replenish the token value. When the user fulfils the requirements for using the lock, the service provider 1 provides the users Smartphone app with an authorization to use the specific lock. The user approach the lock and the Smartphone app transfer the authorized unlock request to the lock. The service provider 1 change the status of the selected lock to "occupied" or similar, and the lock can be opened. The skis are arranged in the lock, and the lock is closed by the user. The lock may automatically lock the lock after a few seconds, or it may require a confirmation authorization from the service provider 1 to lock the lock, which can be initiated by the user confirming to the Smartphone app that the skis are in the lock and the lock is close, whereupon the smartphone app communicates this to the service provider 1 which then acknowledge this by sending a lock confirmation authorization to the Smartphone app which is forwarded to the lock.

When user is returning to retrieve the skis, the Smartphone app must be activated, and the service provider 1 will upon request from the user via the Smartphone app confirm an unlock authorization which is sent to the lock by the Smartphone app to unlock the lock. The service provider 1 may make adjustments to the user token status, and when lock is opened an identifying message for this is sent to from the lock to the service provider 1 via the Smartphone app and the service provider 1 change the status of the lock back to "available" or other appropriate status so that when other users log into the service of ski lock rack the used lock is again available for being chosen by a skier. A similar approach may be used for parking a bicycle, toddler, carriage, for example at a railway stations, bus station, conventions and other places where there are a need for providing secure parking of a bicycle toddler, carriage, or the like. A similar approach may be used for luggage storage, for example in railway stations, bus station, conventions and other places where there are a need for providing secure storage rooms for travellers luggage.

A similar approach may be used for granting access to a road closed by a grid with a lock according to the invention.

A further service that may be comprised in the lock service may be the option for a user to reserve the use of a cage 10, ski lock, luggage store or other in advance of coming to the location of the lock service. Thereby being able to plan the visit better and not risking turning up and there is no storage available. The system of the invention provides a lock, wherein the lock also comprises a controller with a communication interface and a communication module. The system further comprise a user operating device, wherein the user operating device comprise one communication interface and communication module for communicating with the lock, and a further second communication interface and communication module for communicating with a network service. The system further comprise a network based service which comprise a user authentication service, a token management service for replenish the users and user operating device with tokens for use of the locks. The network based service may further comprise and maintain an overview of all locks status, and a graphical interface for users to read locks status and identify which lock a user is interested in using. The system is provided in order for the locks not to need a network connection, and all communication to the network based services are executed via the various user operating devices that are actively using the services.

The network services may be arranged as a cloud service. The user operating device may be implemented on a Smartphone, and the network services may be accessed from a Smartphone App.

Typically the communication between the Network service and the user operating device will executed using the Internet, whilst the communication between the user operating device and the lock will be over a communication channel for short range communication, such as Bluetooth, NFC, Wifi, proprietary communication protocol or other.

A further embodiment of the invention comprise a lock installed in a cage 10 optimized for use placing pet dogs in temporary care inside the cage 10. In these cages there may be installed an air to air heat pump arranged in or close to one or more of the cages. The heat pump can have multiple connections, such that one heat pump may be connected to more than one cage 10 at the same time. When a dog owner puts his dog into a cage 10, the dog owner requests the lock to be locked in his "cageApp" / Smartphone App, a temperature sensor in the cage 10 may sense the temperature inside the cage 10. If the temperature is higher than a pre- set, or user selectable, temperature, for example 22° Celsius, the heat pump may start and blow a dry and cooling air stream into the cage 10 in question. If more cages are used simultaneously, the heat pump may supply other cages at the same time. The same process applies if the temperature is too cold, the heat pump may be supplying warm air if the temperature is for example lover than 7 ° Celsius. An even further feature of the cage 10 implementation of the invention, provides a video camera, for example a "web-camera" is arranged inside the cage 10. The camera may be connected to the cage 10 controller 40. The dog owner will find information of which cage 10 will offer a video service on the web service providing the cage 10 rental service. The dog owner will then be informed at what range the cage 10 is able to communicate video services of the cage 10. Typical maximum range over a Bluetooth channel may be 50 - 100 meter. If the cage 10 is able to use a wifi network service, the range may be longer. The individual cage 10 may be setup to provide video stream, still pictures and or sound. The dog owner identifies in the Smartphone App that he is interested in video information to be fed the Smartphone App whilst away from the cage 10. The service provider 1 may charge extra tokens for this service. There are several ways to implement the key transfer to the user controlling device. One is discussed in the following:

The lock may store the keys in flash memory for permanent saving.

The lock system may be able to handle 3 sets of keys which are stored in encrypted format on the lock.

1. Keyl - is a Master Key used by service engineers and not regular users. Used to open locks in case of emergency etc. 2. Key2 - Is a User Key. This is replaced when a new user use the lock. This is the normal key used for open/close.

3. Key3 - future use The Smartphone App may have an Administrator Mode (A-mode). The A-mode is set based on the account type on which the user use to log in. If it's an Administrator the Smartphone App will be in A-mode. If not the Smartphone App will be in User Mode (U-mode). Only A-mode can open with Keyl and while off line.

A significant difference between Users and Admin is that Admins can control the locks while off line, regardless if the lock is in use or not. Admins can download keys to the lock in advance to open locks while off line.

Admins also have access to open locks which are locked by users.

User must be on line while opening a lock. This is to collect new key from the server and to update the lock's status on the server.

When a user use the lock it should be possible to replace also Keyl (master key) at the same time. This is done without the user knowing. It is used for replacing master keys to the locks in case this key needs to be changed , Administrators can also do this with a the Smartphone App in A-mode, but to avoid having to visit all lock the function should also be possible via the Smartphone App in User Mode. The replacement of Keyl will then be controlled by the server.

The use of Keyl, 2 and 3 may be arranged differently, but having 3 keys gives the system more flexibility. It is the server which controls and authorize use of keys.

Key sequence and operation

When the lock leaves the factory OR after a reset, Keyl is empty (N ULL). If Keyl = N ULL the lock is open (Even if Key2 is not N ULL)

When the lock is installed the Administrator use the APP in A-mode to collect Keyl from the server and program Keyl on the lock. The lock is then closed and available because Key2 is empty (N ULL).

When a user wants to use the lock he must be online with the server using the APP in U-mode. The user collects a new Key2 from the server and transfer it to the lock during the opening procedure.

The lock now holds two keys, Keyl for Admin and Key2 for User. By pressing a "reset button" on the lock Admin can reset the lock to Factory Default, meaning Keyl and Key2 NULL. The Admin must then program the lock with a new Keyl before the lock is closed. The access to this reset button hidden inside the lock's cabinet and hence only service engineers can do this operation.

Status / action Keyl Key2 Key3 Note

Factory Defalt NULL NULL NULL Lock is open

Keyl is programmed Rabbit NULL NULL Lock is closed ready for use.

into the lock by Server holds copy of Keyl

Smartphone App in A- Since Key2 = NULL lock is available. Any

mode together with a Smartphone App in U-mode can open the lock.

Close Command

Smartphone App (in Rabbit NULL NULL Lock is open.

User Mode) sends

Open Command and

since Key2 = NULL lock

opens.

Smartphone App Rabbit Red NULL Lock is closed automatically after 20 seconds.

collects Key2 from Server holds copy of Keyl and Key2.

server and send to the The Smartphone App holds local copy of Key2 lock. Smartphone App Since Key2 != NULL lock is not available.

sends Close Command Smartphone App in with valid Key2 can open

the lock.

Key2 is sent to the Rabbit Red NULL Lock is open.

lock by Smartphone Server holds copy of Keyl and Key2.

App together with The APP hold copy of Key2

Open Command. Since Key2 != NULL lock is not available.

Smartphone App in U-mode with Key2 can open the lock.

A NULL-value for Key2 Rabbit NULL NULL Lock is closed ready for use.

is sent to the server Server holds copy of Keyl and Key2.

from the Smartphone The Smartphone App hold copy of Key2 = NULL

App. Since Key2 = NULL lock is available. Any

Smartphone App can open the lock.

Smartphone App in A- Rabbit NULL NULL Lock is open.

mode sends Keyl to Server holds copy of Keyl and Key2 (NULL).

lock together with The Smartphone App hold copy of Keyl.

Open Command

Smartphone App in A- Rabbit NULL NULL Lock is closed ready for use.

mode sends Keyl to Server holds copy of Keyl and Key2 (NULL).

lock together with The Smartphone App hold copy of Keyl.

Close Command. The service provider 1 system will also comprise a probability analysis of the availability of the lock based upon historical use data, and upon how many users are registered in the vicinity of the locks in question using the old FID card access token. These RFID tokens will not be able to report real time use on the same level as Smartphone App will. Further restrictions are also applied to such user's availability to services provider. A quick transition period is expected, and therefore no effort has been put on the description of the RFID card usage of the locks in this document.

The embodiments and variations described herein is examples of the invention and its use, and shall not be limiting the usage and technical features of the invention, as the different features may be used in any combination or even substituted with other feature providing the same technical effect described. It is the attached claims that define the protection scope.

The invention can also be described as a first embodiment wherein the locking device comprising a lock 11, 42 and a user operating device 50, wherein the locking device comprising a first communication means, the user operating device 50 comprising a second communication means, the first communication means

communicating with the second communication means over a short range wireless communication protocol 3 and the user operating device 50 comprising a third communication means for communicating with a service provider 1 over a long range communication protocol 4, the locking device further comprising a controller 40 for controlling the lock 11, 42.

A second embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, wherein the service provider 1 is remotely located relative to the locking device on one of a cloud or network based service.

A third embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, wherein the user operating device 50 is implemented as a Smartphone application, APP, on a Smartphone.

A fourth embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, wherein the long range communication protocol 4 is one of 2G, 3G, 4G, WIFI, TCPIP or internet protocol for communication with the network service. A fifth embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, wherein the short range wireless communication protocol 3 is one of Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, Wifi, NFC or other close proximity communication protocol. A sixth embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, further comprising one or more locking devices in communicating range of the first communication means wherein the one or more further locking devices communicates with the locking device over the short range wireless communication protocol 3.

A seventh embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, further comprising at least one sensor or detector device 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 connected to the controller 40.

An eighth embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, wherein the locking device comprising at least one timer. A ninth embodiment of the locking device according to the first embodiment, wherein the locking device further comprise a power supply 43 and power controller, wherein the power supply 43 is one or more of: connection to power grid, battery, electric generator, solar cell, power cell or other.

A tenth embodiment of the locking device according to any of the first to ninth embodiments, wherein the locking device is arranged to control the door of an animal cage 10.

An eleventh embodiment of the locking device according to the tenth embodiment, wherein the at least one sensor or detector device is one or more, or a combination of one or more of: temperature sensor, PIR-sensor, IR-sensor, camera, or light sensor.

A twelfth embodiment of the locking device according to the tenth embodiment, wherein the sensor being able to detect whether a pet is present in the animal cage 10.

A thirteenth embodiment of the locking device according to the tenth embodiment, wherein the animal cage 10 further comprising a UVC light 12 for disinfection of cage, the UV-light 12 being controllable by the controller 40 depending on an animal cage 10 usage status and determined need for disinfection. A fourteenth embodiment of the locking device according to the tenth embodiment, wherein the animal cage 10 further comprising one or more of a fan, temperature regulating device, humidity regulating device, light regulation device, pet accessible water supply, pet accessible food supply and audio device.

A fifteenth embodiment of the locking device according to any of the first to ninth embodiments, wherein the locking device is arranged to control a lock installed in one of a bicycle stand, luggage locker, ski rack, building door, road barrier gates, car parking barriers.

The invention can further be exemplified by a first method embodiment for operation of an animal cage 10 for pet parking and user operating device 50 according to any of the tenth to fourteenth embodiments of the locking device, the method comprising the following steps:

when user places the pet in the animal cage 10:

- Initiating the pet parking session

Placing the pet in the animal cage 10

when user shall retrieve the pet from the animal cage 10:

authentication of user

terminating pet parking session

when the pet parking session has been terminated

performing maintenance routines

A second method embodiment of the method for operation of animal cage 10 for pet parking according to the first method embodiment, wherein

Method for operation of animal cage 10 for pet parking according to claim 16, wherein the step initiating the pet parking session further comprise the following steps:

verifying animal cage 10 availability

- verifying sufficient user credits available user replenish additional credits if user credits available is too low and restarts initiating the pet parking session

selecting animal cage 10 for pet parking session A third method embodiment of the method for operation of animal cage 10 for pet parking according to the first method embodiment, wherein the step placing the pet in animal cage 10 further comprise the following steps:

user operating device 50 connects to chosen animal cage 10 controller 50 to initiate use user operating device 50 request the animal cage 10 gate/door lock opened - user place pet inside animal cage 10 and lock the gate/door

lock is locked

A fourth method embodiment of the method for operation of animal cage 10 for pet parking according to the first method embodiment, wherein the step authentication of user and terminating pet parking session comprise the following steps:

user operating device 50authenticating the user to the animal cage 10 controller for unlocking the lock

animal cage 10 controller unlocking the lock

animal cage 10 controller communicating usage summary to user operating device 50 - animal cage 10 controller or service provider updates user credits value

the user removing pet from animal cage 10 and closing the gate/door

animal cage 10 controller locking the lock

A fifth method embodiment of the method for operation of animal cage 10 for pet parking according to the first method embodiment, wherein the step performing maintenance routines comprise the following steps:

controller 40 verifying that animal cage 10 is empty

controller 40 checking timer for determination of type of periodic maintenance program controller 40 initiating periodically self- disinfection routine at predefined time intervals measuring cleaning success level

- controller 40 prohibiting initiation of new pet parking session as long as cleaning success level is below a preset level The invention can further be exemplified by a first system embodiment for operating usage and rental of an offline animal cage 10 according to any of the first to fourteenth embodiments of the locking device any of, and first to fifth method embodiments method for operation of animal cage 10, wherein the system comprise at least one animal cage 10, a user operating device 50 operated by a user, and a service provider 1 comprising a user account management system, wherein the user operating device 50and the service provider is connectable via network based services such as internet, and the cage is operatively connected to the user operating device 50 via a communication protocol. A second system embodiment of the system for operation usage and rental of an offline animal cage 10 according to the first system embodiment, wherein the remote controller and the service provider is connected via network based services such as internet, and the animal cage 10 is operatively connected to the remote controller via a wireless communication protocol. A third system embodiment of the system for operation usage and rental of an offline animal cage 10 according to the first or second system embodiment, wherein the usage and rental of the offline animal cage 10 further comprise a credit accounting system for supplying a user account with credits usable to grant usage rights of an animal cage 10. A fourth system embodiment of the system for operation usage and rental of an offline animal cage 10 according to the third system embodiment, further comprising a payment service for purchase of credits.