CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application US 63/231,181 filed on 9 August, 2021 which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the convenient and concealable storage of radio frequency transmitting devices in close proximity to their target receiver without risk of activation of the target receiver.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Entry and security systems based on near field radio frequency communication are common. Remote keyless systems are electronic locks that control access to buildings or vehicles without the use of a mechanical key. For vehicles, a keyless entry system was developed by Ford which incorporated an exterior keypad on models of the Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar, Lincoln Town Car, and Lincoln Continental in the 1980s. Present day keyless transmitters generally operate on frequencies in the range of between 40 MHz and 900 MHz. These short-range transmitters typically can unlock doors, or remotely start vehicles in ranges from 5 to 30 meters. The smart key is an access and authorization system in which the device acts as a transponder that is activated in close proximity the vehicle. An early passive keyless entry system utilizing low frequency radio communication is described in US Patent Application 5,319,364A which is incorporated by reference. US Patent 7,046,119 describes a passive entry system for vehicles comprising external and internal antennas which provide for localization of the portable entry fob and is incorporated by reference. Typical transponder distances for smart key system activation can be 10 to 30 cm from the target vehicle or antenna. In vehicles, the smart key may unlock the vehicle while external to the vehicle and allow activation of the ignition when interior to the vehicle. A description of the Tesla Model S PKES passive entry system and transponder in provided by Wouters et al, IACR Transactions on Cryptographic Hardware and Embedded Systems, Vol. 2019, No3, pp. 66-85 which is incorporated by reference. The PKES system utilizes transponder based on the Texas

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) Instruments TMS37F128 integrated circuit. The target transceiver of the PKES system emits a low frequency burst transmission at 134. kHz to wake up the transponder which responds with an amplitude shift keying response at the operating frequency of 433.92 MHz. Present day smart key transponders often operate at frequencies of 315 MHz and 433.92 Mhz. When a smart key is left in close proximity to target door, the door will effectively remain in an unlocked state. For persons engaged in some activities outside of vehicles under their control, the problem of smart key storage is of concern. Physically activities such as mountain biking, running, parkour, hiking, and siding, risk the loss of of the smart key while undertaking the activity. The physical securing of the smart key to the person can be inconvenient or uncomfortable. Activities such as swimming, wrestling, or tumbling risk damage and inactivation of the smart key when kept on the person. A secure storage device and method for smart keys and fobs is therefore necessary and desired

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The inventive embodiments provided in this Summary of the Invention are meant to be illustrative only and to provide an overview of selected embodiments disclosed herein. The Summary of the Invention, being illustrative and selective, does not limit the scope of any claim, does not provide the entire scope of inventive embodiments disclosed or contemplated herein, and should not be construed as limiting or constraining the scope of this disclosure or any claimed inventive embodiment.

[0005] Provided herein smart key or activation fob storage device that is secured in normal operating distance to a receiving device or antenna and prevents normal operation of the smart key, fob, or similar passive entry system. The device completely or substantially encloses the smart key or fob and is constructed of a rigid material that blocks radio frequency waves to the extent necessary for activation of the remote lock. The rigid construction of the device protects the smart key of fob from outdoor elements such as dust, moisture from humidity, rain, mist, or snow, and mechanical perturbation. Additionally, the rigid material provides sufficient structure for secure short term or long term attachment to an exterior location. The device comprises an attachment system that securely attaches to the desired location in close proximity to the activation transceiver of the remote keyless lock or remote lock

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) antenna. The storage device is typically constructed and arranged to enable sequestration in a location that is not readily visible to accessible to the normal observer.

[0006] A first embodiment (1), comprises a weather resistant storage device comprising: a hollow body with an interior and an exterior, an opening from the interior to the exterior constructed and arranged to receive a smart key or fob in the interior, a lid constructed and arranged to engage the body and substantially seal the interior of the body, and, optionally, a permanent magnet, wherein the body and the lid comprise a radio frequency shielding material. A second embodiment (2) comprises embodiment 1 wherein the base and lid are cylindrical. A third embodiment (3) comprises embodiments 1-2 wherein the radio frequency shielding material comprises carbon, nickel, silver, copper, aluminum, or zinc. A fourth embodiment (4) comprises embodiments 1-3 wherein the lid is a press fit cap or a screw fit cap. A fifth embodiment (5) comprises embodiments 1-3 further comprising a hinge operatively engaged between the body and the lid. A sixth embodiment (6) comprises embodiment 5 further comprising a latch. A seventh embodiment (7) comprises embodiments 1-6 further comprising a gasket. An eighth embodiment (8) comprises embodiments 1-7 further wherein the body and/or lid comprise radio frequency attenuating plastic. A nineth embodiment (9) comprises embodiments 1-8 wherein the device, when enclosing a radio frequency emitting smart key, provides at least about 15 db of signal reduction from the key at a point exterior to the storage device. A tenth embodiment (10) comprises embodiment 9 wherein the level of radio frequency signal reduction is at least about 20 db. An eleventh embodiment (11) comprises embodiments 1-10 wherein the storage device further comprises a receiver, controller, and a servo or actuator configured to unlock, open, or close the lid upon receipt of a signal or a programmed time event. A twelfth embodiment (12) comprises embodiments 1-11 wherein the storage device has an ingress protection rating of at least IP5X, IPX4, or IP54. A thirteenth embodiment (13) comprises a method of storage comprising (i) placing a smart key or fob into a body of storage device, (ii) enclosing the smart key or fob by securing a lid to the body sufficiently to attenuate the transmission of electromatic waves into or out of the storage device, (iii) attaching the storage device at a location that is at a distance from a target transceiver, receiver, or antenna at which the nonattenuated smart key or fob would actuate the target transceiver or receiver. A fourteenth embodiment (14) comprises a method of storage comprising (i) placing a

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) smart key or fob into the interior of a body of embodiment 11, (ii) enclosing the smart key or fob by securing a lid to the body sufficiently to attenuate the transmission of electromatic waves into or out of the storage device, (iii) attaching the storage device at a location that is at a distance from a target transceiver, receiver, or antenna at which the nonattenuated smart key or fob would actuate the target transceiver or receiver, (iv) transmitting a signal from a remote device, (v) receiving a signal from the remote device with the receiver of the storage device, (vi) actuating a servo or actuator of the storage device in response to the received signal, and (vii) opening the lid of the storage device in response to the actuation of the servo or actuator. A fifteenth embodiment (15) comprises embodiment 14 wherein the location is the interior of a vehicle.

[0007] In one embodiment the storage device is a box design with a hinged lid that may be articulated to open the device for insertion or removal of the smart key or fob. In an embodiment the storage device is substantially rectangular in shape with a hinged portion at an end of the rectangle. In another embodiment, the storage device is substantially rectangular and is formed in two pieces with a hinged region along the major side of the rectangle to form a clam shell design. In another embodiment the hinged region is along a minor axis of the rectangular body.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present invention, the hinged door of the storage device is secured with a clasp or latch. In an embodiment the clasp or latch is secured magnetically. In another embodiment, the latch or clasp is secured mechanically. In a further embodiment the hinged portion of the storage device is mechanically biased in a closed position with a spring. The spring biased embodiment may optionally comprise a clasp or latch.

[0009] The storage device of the present invention may also be in a cylindrical or bottle configuration with a cylindrical portion threaded to accept a counter-threaded cap. The storage device of may be configured as a rectangular bottle.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the storage device may be secured by a locking mechanism in the form of a keylock or, preferably, a combination lock. Optionally, the locking mechanism may be a biometric lock such as a lock configured to accept a fingerprint of the authorized and enrolled user of the storage device. The locking device may be an electrical or mechanical keypad in an embodiment of the invention.

[0011] The storage device of the present invention comprises a conductive material. In an embodiment, the body of the storage device is constructed of or is substantially constructed of metal. In various embodiments, the metal is aluminum,

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) stainless steel, carbon steel, copper, titanium, or similar metals. In an embodiment, the body, or a portion of the body, of the storage device substantially comprises a nonconducting material such as plastic, wood, ceramic, or similar material. In the preceding embodiment, the nonconducting portion is lined, internally or externally, with a conducting material sufficiently attenuate or block electromagnetic fields in the frequencies of operation of the smart key or fob. In an alternative embodiment, the body, or a portion of the body may be comprised of a conducting polymer or carbon fiber. In a further embodiment of any of the preceding embodiments, the storage device is water-resistant, waterproof, or weather resistant or weatherproof.

[0012] The storage device of the present invention further comprises an attachment portion for attaching the storage device to a storage location. In an embodiment, the attachment portion is a permanent magnet. In another embodiment, the attachment portion is a hook or loop portion of a hook and look fastener such as Velcro. In another embodiment, the storage portion is hook or a hook receiver. In an additional embodiment, the attachment portion is threaded portion for screwing onto the storage location.

[0013] The method of the present invention, in a first embodiment, comprises i) placing a smart key or fob into recessed or open portion of a storage device, ii) securing the storage device with a lid, cap, or hinged portion of the storage device to enclose the smart key or fob, iii) attenuating the transmission of electromagnetic waves into or out of the storage device, and iv) placing the storage device using an attachment portion of the storage device in a location that is at a distance from the target receiver or antenna at which the nonattenuated smart key or fob would actuate the target receiver. In a further embodiment, the method further comprises attaching the storage device in a concealed location. In a further embodiment, the smart key or fob is a vehicle smart key or fob. In a further embodiment the attachment portion is a magnet and the method further comprises attaching the storage device to a ferrous metal portion of the storage location. In a preferred embodiment, the method of the present invention comprised the steps of: i) placing a vehicle smart key or fob into recessed or open portion of a storage device, ii) securing the vehicle smart key or fob in the storage device with a lid, cap, or hinged portion of the storage device to enclose the smart key or fob, iii) attenuating the transmission of electromagnetic waves into or out of the storage device, and iv) placing the storage device using a magnet attachment portion of

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) the storage device to the vehicle frame or other ferrous metal portion of the vehicle in a concealed location.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a view of an embodiment of the invention showing a permanent magnet attachment portion on a substantially rectangular body of the storage device.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a view of an embodiment of the invention showing a substantially rectangular storage device with an open hinged portion and a draw latch. [0016] FIG. 3 is a view of an embodiment of the invention showing an open storage device in a clamshell configuration.

[0017] FIG. 4 shows receiver, controller, actuator configuration of the present invention providing for remote control.

[0018] FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of the present invention in cylindrical form.

[0019] FIG. 6 shows a detailed view of an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

I. Definitions/Nomenclature

[0020] The following definitions are provided to aid in understanding the invention. Unless otherwise defined, all terms of art, notations and other scientific or engineering terms or terminology used herein are intended to have the meanings commonly understood by those of skill. In some cases, terms with commonly understood meanings are defined herein for clarity and/or for ready reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not be assumed to represent a substantial difference over what is generally understood in the art but is intended to compliment such general understandings. To the extent a definition herein is inconsistent with what is generally understood in the art, unless expressly stated otherwise, both the definition provided herein and what is generally understood in the art shall be deemed to be within the scope of the present invention as alternative embodiments.

[0021] As used herein unless otherwise indicated, open terms such as “contain,” “containing,” “include,” “including,” and the like mean comprising.

[0022] Some embodiments herein contemplate numerical ranges. When a numerical range is provided, the range includes the range endpoints unless otherwise

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) indicated. Unless otherwise indicated, numerical ranges include all values and subranges therein as if explicitly written out.

[0023] As used herein, the article “a” means one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0024] Some values herein are modified by the term “about.” In some instances, the term “about” in relation to a reference numerical value can include a range of values plus or minus 10% from that value. For example, the amount “about 10” can include amounts from 9 to 11. In other embodiments, the term “about” in relation to a reference numerical value can include a range of values plus or minus 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, or 1% from that value. Where a series of values is prefaced with the term “about,” the term is intended to modify each value included in the series.

[0025] As used herein, the term “storage device” is a body with two or more sides, in two or more pieces that, when assembled or closed, folly enclosed the article contained within.

[0026] As used herein, the term “clamshell” or “clam shell” refers to a form factor in which two or more sections fold along the long edge via a hinge.

[0027] As used herein, the term “smart key” refers to a near field transmitting device that acts as an active transmitter or transponder for actuating locking mechanisms such as automobile locks and ignition systems. Commercial embodiments of smart keys include: Acura - “Keyless Access System,” Audi - “Advanced Key,” BMW - “Comfort Access,” Chrysler Group - “Keyless Enter-N-Go,” Ford Family - “Intelligent Access (IA),” General Motors - “Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS),” Infiniti - “Infiniti Intelligent Key,” Jaguar - “Smart Key System,” Kia - “Smart Key System,” Lexus - “Smart Access System,” Mazda - “Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System,” Mercedes Benz - “Keyless Go,” Mini - “Comfort Access,” Mitsubishi - “Free-Hand Advanced Security Transmitter (FAST),” Nissan - “Nissan Intelligent Key,” Porsche - “Porsche Entry & Drive System,” Suzuki - “SmartPass,” Tesla - “Model S Key” or “Key Fob,” Toyota - “Smart Key System,” Volkswagen - “Keyless Entry & Keyless Start (KESSY),” Volvo - “Personal Car Communicator (PCC)” or “Keyless Drive.”

[0028] As used herein, the term “fob” refers to an active or passive entry system actuating device that is powered by a battery or not powered by a battery but is powered

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) inductively by the target transmitter. Such fobs may be contact operated or contactless in close proximity to the target transceiver or target antenna.

[0029] One skilled in the art will recognize that signal reduction efficacy of the storage device of the present invention can be measured by measuring the signal strength of a radio frequency of a radio frequency emitting smart key inside the storage device at a point outside of the security device and comparing the signal strength of the emitted radio frequency with the lid of the device open to the signal strength with the lid of the device closed.

[0030] As used herein, the term “target transceiver” refers to the radio portion of a keyless access control system. The target transceiver operates as a transmitter to activate a smart key transponder in close proximity to the transceiver or transceiver antenna and as a receiver to receive the radio frequency transmissions from the activated transponder. These components together with logic, control circuitry, and actuators comprise modem keyless passive entry systems on most automobiles.

IL Storage Device

[0031] The present disclosure provides for methods and devices for storing a smart key or fob with a storage device that completely encloses the smart key or fob. The storage device may be cubical, rectangular, ovoid, cylindrical, or other shaped configurations sufficient to completely enclose one or more smart keys, fobs, or a combination thereof. Typical interior dimensions accommodate a smart key or fob that is about 7 cm x 4 cm x 1.5 cm and can range from about 15 mm x 40 mm x 74 mm to about 40 mm x 65 mm x 100 mm. The height (longest interior dimension) can be about 60 mm to about 100 mm, or about 70 mm to about 100 mm, or about 75 mm to about 95 mm, or about 80 mm to about 90 mm, or can be about 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 mm. The width of the storage device (intermediate interior dimension) can be from about 40 mm to about 70 mm, or from about 43 mm to about 65 mm, or from about 45 to about 60 mm, or can be about 40, 43, 45, 48, 50, 53, 55, 58, 60, 63, 65, 68, or 70 mm. The depth of the storage device (shortest interior dimension) can be from about 15 mm to about 40 mm, or from about 20 mm to about 35 mm, or can be about 15, 20, 23, 25, 28, 30, 32, 35, 37, or 40 mm. The interior dimensions of the storage device may be selected from the above optional dimensions provided that, of the dimensions, height > width > depth. Embodiments of the interior dimensions include 19 mm x 43 mm x 74 mm, 40 mm x 60 mm x 100 mm, and 40 mm x 63 mm x 100 mm.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) The body of the storage device can be in the form of a square or rectangular box, assembled from two or more pieces and hinged on one or more sides for opening and closing. A rectangular box format storage device may have a hinged lid on one or more sides or may have a removable lid that is secured by press friction fit or by one or more clasps, or latches such as draw latches. A storage device in a rectangular body format may also be hinged on one or more major axis to conform to a clamshell form factor. The box body and lid may be formed from metal sheets by standard metal forming equipment and may optionally sealed by spot welding, TIG or MIG welding or other suitable welding techniques. Box and lid elements can similarly be formed with cast metals, by extrusion, or by machining. The storage device may also be cylindrical or bottle shaped, such as rectangular bottle shaped with a lid that is press fit, screw fit, or removable with retainers such as a catch or draw latch. Optionally, the cylindrical or bottle shaped device may have a hinged lid. Interior dimensions of the device should be sufficient to completely contain commercial key fobs. For cylindrical embodiments, the longest interior dimension, which can be the height or diameter, can be, as described above; about 60 mm to about 100 mm, or about 70 mm to about 100 mm, or about 75 mm to about 95 mm, or about 80 mm to about 90 mm, or can be about 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 mm. In an embodiment, the interior dimensions of the closed cylindrical security device can be from about 15 mm - 30 mm, about 15 mm - 25 mm, about 20 mm - 25 mm, or about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm, about 23 mm, about 24 mm, or about 25 mm in depth. The interior diameter of an embodiment of the cylindrical security device can be from about 50 mm - 100 mm, about 50 mm - 95 mm, about 50 mm - 90 mm, about 70 mm - 90 mm, about 75 mm, about 76 mm, about 77 mm, about 78 mm, about 79 mm, about 80 mm, about 81 mm, about 82 mm, about 83 mm, about 84 mm, or about 85 mm. The cylindrical embodiment, as described above and below, comprises a lid that is press fit, screw fit, or removable with retainers such as a catch or draw latch. A gasket between lid and body may be optionally included to enhance water or weather resistance or to make the storage device waterproof or weatherproof. The storage device may further comprise an attachment portion to securely affix the storage device to desired location. One embodiment is a permanent magnet affixed to the body or lid of the storage device by which the storage device can be removably attached to a ferrous material. In a preferred embodiment, a permanent magnet is permanently affixed to the body or lid of the storage device and the storage device may then be removably attached to the storage 9

SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) location such as the ferrous frame of a vehicle, or a door frame or window frame of a structure. Some surfaces of the storage device, such as the circumferential surfaces of the cap and body of the cylindrical device may be textured to facilitate gripping of the cap and body by the user’s hands during use. In some embodiments the texturing is a knurled texture or straight line texture parallel, angled, or perpendicular to the opening of the security device.

[0032] The body and lid of the storage device are formed from material that attenuates or blocks electromagnetic waves that are normally received by and/or transmitted by the smart key or fob. In an embodiment, the storage device body and lid form a Faraday shield or cage that blocks radio frequency electromagnetic waves. The storage device body and lid may be constructed from a rigid material, preferably a metal material. Aluminum, copper, carbon steel, stainless steel, and other rigid metals are suitable for the invention. Nonconducting materials such as plastic, glass, wood, and ceramic may be used if lined, embedded, or laminated with a suitable conducted shield material such as foil. Plastic materials or conducting polymers may be formed by injection molding or other suitable processes. Shielding materials may be solid films or foils or mesh materials such as an electrically conducting mesh or overlapping electrically conductive mesh. Regardless of the composition of the shielding material, the construction of the storage device and body should offer radio frequency attenuation in the ranges of the wake-up frequency of the transmitter of the activation transceiver or the response frequency of the transponder transmitter or both. Thus, for full coverage of the spectrum of a modem passive entry system, shielding in the range from about 100 kHz to about 500 MHz should be achieved. Lower frequency radio waves are more likely to penetrate a Faraday cage than higher frequency radio waves. Magnesium-zinc alloys have fewer shielding properties as compared to aluminum, copper, steel, or iron alloys or foils. The shielding material is desired to have a thickness of at least 0.02 mm to ensure shielding. Though less desired, magnesium-zinc alloys may be employed in the body material of the storage device if sufficient thickness of the alloy is used or if sufficient distance is maintained between the storage device and the activation transceiver. Additionally, by design, modem keyless entry systems operate as very low power to limit the effective range of the entry system. Suitable shielding materials can include Faraday tape, Shielding Solutions EMF shielding paint YSHIELD™ HSF54, WOREMOR RF-IE50™ EMR & RF shielding paint, other carbon-based paints such as MG Chemicals 838AR - Total Ground™ Carbon Conductive Coating, nickel-based

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) paint such as MG Chemicals 841 AR - Super Shield™ Nickel Conductive Coating, and silver-based paint such as MG Chemicals 842AR - Super Shield™ Silver Conductive Paint. In addition to shielding electromagnetic radiation, the storage device provides protection from dust and water. The level of protection can be assigned by ratings according to IEC Standard 60529 established by the International Electrotechnical Commission. Based on the IEC Standard 60529, the storage device, when closed, may have an ingress protection rating for solid foreign objects of 4, 5, or 6, corresponding to designations of IP4X, IP5X, or IP6X. The storage device, when closed, may have an ingress protection rating for water of 4, 5, or 6, corresponding to designations of IPX 1, IPX2, IPX3, IPX4, IPX5, or IP6X. The ingress protection rating for solid foreign objects and water may be combined into any combination of IP41, IP42, IP43, IP44, IP45, IP46, IP51, IP52, IP53, IP54, IP55, IP56, IP61, IP62, IP63, IP64, IP65, or IP66. The ratings are achieved by forming a tight seal between body and lid of the storage device, optionally through use of a gasket, interlocking body and lid interfacing surfaces with a U-channel, forming or machining body and lid interfacing surfaces to a texture depth of 30 pm or less, 25 pm or less, 20 pm or less, 15 pm or less, or 10 pm or less. Preferred texture surface depth ranges for interfacing surfaces of body and lid include, 5 pm - 25 pm, 5 pm - 20 pm, 5 pm - 15 urn, and 5 pm - 10 pm.

[0033] The storage device is accessible via a removable or hinged lid. The lid may be optionally secured with a latch, hasp, or clasp. Cam/twist latches may be used to secure the lid to the body of the storage device through the use of rotating levers on one element to engage a strike plate on the other element. Pull down/toggle latches incorporate pivoting levers and drawbars to engage the catches and are used in one preferred embodiment of a hinged rectangular storage device with a hinged lid on a minor axis. In this embodiment, the lid has catch constructed and arranged to engage a lever operated drawbar to secure closure of the lid against the body of the storage device. In additional embodiments, slide/swing bolt latches may be used to keep the lid of the storage device engaged and closed with the body of the storage device. Slam/push-to-close latches may be optionally utilized to automatically close the lid and engage the body of the storage device and require further mechanical motion to open the lid. In similar fashion, a spring-loaded hinge may be incorporated to mechanically bias closure of the hinge to normally keep the lid engaged with the body in a closed position. A gasket between lid and body may be optionally included to enhance water or weather resistance or to make the storage device waterproof or weatherproof.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) [0034] The storage device may optionally have a secure locking mechanism to allow access to an authorized user. Such locking mechanisms may take the form of hasp and padlock configurations, Pin tumbler, wafer tumbler, and tubular lock configurations may be optionally included in the storage device to secure the closed lid and prevent unauthorized access. Combination lock mechanisms may likewise be optionally incorporated to secure the lid to the storage device body. Electronic locks including electronic combination locks utilizing a keypad or electronic biometric locks which release the lid upon recognition of the enrolled authorized users’ fingerprints or other physical attribute such as voice recognition, and/or facial recognition utilizing geometric or photometric recognition algorithms. FIG. 4B shows storage device of the present invention comprising a body (402), a lid (401) that is operatively hinged to the body, and a servo motor under control of the remote access module of FIG 4A to open and/or unlock the lid of the storage device.

[0035] The controller may be a custom or conventional electronic module. The controller may optionally be programmable to work with a variety of signals received by the receiver of the storage device. The controller may also be programmable by the user to actuate the servo or actuator of the storage device at a preset or preprogrammed time or after a preset or preprogrammed time (timer function). The controller may be programmable by the user using conventional programming languages supported by the individual controller such as C/C++, Python, Scratch, assembler, and the like. Programming of the controller can be accomplished via nearfield radio connection, for example Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection, by direct connection of a remote processor or controller through a port on the security device such as a USB port, parallel port, or optical port, or by direct entry through keys or keypad on the interior or exterior of the lid or base of the storage device. For nearfield radio connection, the receiver or controller may further comprise a programming interface to the controller such as an Arduino IDE or similar. Examples of controllers include commercial devices such as Raspberry Pi and Arduino, including, for example, Pi Pico, ESP32, and ST Microsystems STM32, as well as other CISC, RISC, and EPIC processors and associated electronic components and modules. The controller my also optionally comprise a LED or LCD display visible from the interior or exterior of the storage device or an audible emitter such as a buzzer, speaker, piezo electric emitter, and may include a speech processor and/or synthesizer. The storage device, when configured for remote actuation or timer functions, further comprises a power source such as a battery

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) (rechargeable or nonchargeable), capacitor, solar cell, wireless power transfer (WPT) including inductive power transfer (IPT) for powering and/or recharging a battery or capacitor.

[0036] The storage device may further comprise an attachment portion to securely affix the storage device to desired location. One embodiment is a permanent magnet affixed to the body or lid of the storage device by which the storage device can be removably attached to a ferrous material. In a preferred embodiment, a permanent magnet is permanently affixed to the body or lid of the storage device and the storage device may then be removably attached to the storage location such as the ferrous frame of a vehicle, or a door frame or window frame of a structure. Fig 1 shows a rectangular storage device of the present invention comprising a body (103), lid (105), hinge operably connecting body and lid (102), draw latch fastener (101). An attachment portion (104) is attached to the body allowing the storage device to be removably attached to a ferrous material at the storage location. Suitable attachment portions of the storage device include one or more permanent magnets, hook and loop fasteners such as Velcro wherein the hook or loop portion is permanently affixed to the body or lid of the storage device, mechanical engagement devices such as hooks, screws, threaded rods, cable ties, retaining rings, and similar attachment devices. FIG. 2 shows an alternate view of a rectangular storage device of the present invention comprising a body (203), lid (205), hinge operably connecting body and lid (202), draw latch fastener (201). FIG. 3 shows a clamshell embodiment of the storage device comprising a body (303), lid (305), hinge operably connecting body and lid (302), draw latch fastener (301). Figure 5 shows a cylindrical embodiment of the storage device comprising a lid (501) and body (502) and in closed form with the lid engaged with the body (503). Figure 6 shows a cylindrical embodiment of the storage device comprising a screw cap lid (601), a treaded base for receiving and securely fastening the lid. FIG. 6 (603) shows the top view of the base further comprising a recessed receiving portion (604) for receiving and containing a permanent magnet (605).

III. METHODS OF USE

[0037] The method of the present invention, in a first embodiment, comprises i) placing a smart key or fob into recessed or open portion of a storage device, ii) securing the storage device with a lid, cap, or hinged portion of the storage device to enclose the smart key or fob, iii) attenuating the transmission of electromagnetic waves

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) into or out of the storage device, and iv) placing the storage device using an attachment portion of the storage device in a location that is at a distance from the target transceiver or antenna at which the nonattenuated smart key or fob would actuate the target receiver. Typically, the storage location would be concealed from view to deter discovery of the storage device from unauthorized individuals. The method may be performed in a public location with a commercial or private vehicle so the owner or authorized operator of the vehicle may place the vehicle in a locked condition and store the smart key or fob on the vehicle in or on a concealed portion of the vehicle. This allows the user of the storage device to engage in activities without concern of loss or damage of the smart key or fob. Concealed locations useable by this method include the vehicle frame, inside portion of a wheel of the vehicle, and accessible inside portion of a body panel, or a ferrous component of the vehicle accessible externally. The storage device may optionally be disguised as a car component such as an antenna base, trailer hitch, grill emblem, etc. thereby allowing placement of the storage device in a visible location without detection of its purpose. In another method of the invention, the smart key or fob is placed within the body of the storage device and the lid is closed to attenuate electromagnet waves from a target transceiver from entering the storage device and/or for electromagnetic waves from the smart key or fob from exiting the storage device and engaging the target transceiver in near field communication by a first authorized user. The storage device is placed on a vehicle in a concealed location or, if the storage device is in a disguised configuration, the storage device is placed in a visible location upon the vehicle. The first authorized user may then leave the vehicle in a locked condition and inform a second authorized user of the locked vehicle’s location and the location of the storage device. The second authorized user may subsequently locate the locked vehicle and the concealed or disguised storage device, remove the smart key or fob from the storage device, and access the vehicle with the smart key or fob. By this method, vehicles which incorporate passive entry systems may be exchanged in a public location without two or more authorized user/ operators being present to exchange the smart key or fob. The devices and methods described herein may also be used for storage of a second operable smart key or fob to be accessed and used as a “spare key” if the smart key of fob carried by the authorized user is lost or damaged while outside the vehicle. In an embodiment of the invention, a remote access sensor such as a near field communication (NFC) receiver, Bluetooth receiver or other direct communications receiver will receive direct, optionally encoded and/or

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) encrypted, communication from a phone or other enabled communication device, upon recognizing the device the control unit will send a remote signal to the servo motor which will then open or close the Faraday cage storage unit. When the storage unit is open the vehicle will detect the key and unlock and enable the car to start, when the storage unit closes it blocks the vehicle from detecting the key and the vehicle will not unlock or start. By keeping the key inside the unit, and the unit being paced inside the vehicle the user will now be able to lock or unlock the vehicle with a remote device (i.e., phone) of their choosing without having to carry the key. This feature will enable the user to provide access to the vehicle to other users or devices through an application. Other types of actuations, such as encoded infrared light beams can also be utilized. FIG. 4A shows a diagram of the remote access module comprising a receiver, controller, and a servo or actuator. In an embodiment of the present invention, a method comprises i) placing a smart key or fob into recessed or open portion of a storage device, ii) securing the storage device with a lid, cap, or hinged portion of the storage device to enclose the smart key or fob, iii) attenuating the transmission of electromagnetic waves into or out of the storage device, iv) placing the storage device in a location that is at a distance from the target transceiver or antenna at which the nonattenuated smart key or fob would actuate the target receiver, v) transmitting a signal from a remote device, vi) receiving the transmitted signal with a receiver operatively linked to the storage device, vii) actuating a servo or actuator in response to the received signal, and viii) opening the lid of the storage device with the servo or actuator.

IV. Disclosed Embodiments are Non-Limiting

[0038] While various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it is emphasized that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes and substitutions may be made without departing from the invention herein in its various embodiments. Specifically, when any range is described herein, unless clearly stated otherwise, that range includes all values therein and all sub-ranges therein.

[0039] Resources incorporated by reference herein are for their respective content and teachings found therein. Such incorporation, at a minimum, is for the specific teaching and/or other purpose that may be noted when citing the reference herein. If a specific teaching and/or other purpose is not so noted, then the published resource is specifically incorporated for the teaching(s) indicated by one or more of the

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26) title, abstract, and/or summary of the reference. If no such specifically identified teaching and/or other purpose may be so relevant, then the published resource is incorporated in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which the present invention pertains, and/or to provide such teachings as are generally known to those skilled in the art, as may be applicable. However, it is specifically stated that a citation of a published resource herein shall not be construed as an admission that such is prior art to the present invention. Also, in the event that one or more of the incorporated published resources differs from or contradicts this application, including but not limited to defined terms, term usage, described techniques, or the like, this application controls as a preferred embodiment, and any contradiction may be viewed as an alternative embodiment.

[0040] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention.

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SUBSTITUTE SHEET ( RULE 26)