SUMMARY

Cable locks are used to secure equipment, and typically include a metal cable, having a plastic covering, with a locking mechanism at the ends. The mechanism usually includes loops at the ends, through which a lock can be affixed, or integrated locking mechanisms. Equipment such as bicycles, gates, vehicle cargo, outdoor furniture, or other items may be secured. In many instances, locks include keyed locks, combination locks, or a combination thereof.

While a conventional cable lock provides a mechanical securement, it is susceptible to mechanical destruction by a nefarious operator (e.g., cutting the cable). Although mechanical destruction may require specialized tools, know-how, and opportunity, there is little to alert the equipment owner that the cable lock has been damaged. It would be desirable for a cable lock to provide an indication to a user, other than an after-the-fact observation by the user, that it has been compromised.

A user can employ cable locks to secure recreational equipment, auxiliaries, or a vehicle itself. It would be advantageous for a cable lock system to be integrated into a vehicle, with an automatic indication to a user of securement, de-securement, and unauthorized activity.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a cable lock system for a vehicle. In some embodiments, the cable lock system includes a cable, a first port and a second port. The cable includes a first end that is removable from the vehicle, and a second end. The cable also includes a connector affixed to the first end. The first port is integrated into the vehicle and is configured to removably engage the connector when the cable is retracted. The second port is configured to engage the connector when the cable is extended from the first port. For example, when the cable is removed for use, the connector can be secured to the second port. Further, when not in use, the connector can be housed in the first port.

In some embodiments, the cable lock system includes a retractor affixed to the second end of the cable. The retractor is configured to apply a retraction force when the cable is extended. For example, the retractor may be spring-loaded or ratcheting.

In some embodiments, the second port is integrated into the vehicle. For example, in some embodiments, the second port and the first port are integrated into a faceplate arranged on the exterior of the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the second end of the cable includes a second connector configured to removably engage with the second port.

In some embodiments, the cable lock system includes a dock that is separate from the vehicle. The second port is integrated into the dock, and the second end of the cable includes a second connector configured to engage with the second port.

In some embodiments, the cable lock system includes a manually actuated latch configured to secure and release the connector from the second port.

In some embodiments, the second port includes a first electrical terminal, and the connector includes a second electrical terminal. The first electrical terminal is configured to contact the second electrical terminal when the second port is engaged to the connector.

In some embodiments, the cable lock system includes control circuitry integrated into the vehicle. The control circuitry is coupled to the first electrical terminal, and is configured to determine whether the connector is engaged to the second port.

In some embodiments, the cable is electrically conductive along its length from the first end to the second end, and the second electrical terminal is electrically coupled to the first end of the cable. For example, in some embodiments, the cable may include braided metal, corrugated metal, or other electrically conductive components.

In some embodiments, the control circuitry is configured to apply an electrical signal to the second end of the cable. The control circuitry is further configured to detect the electrical signal at the first end of the cable. The control circuitry determines whether the connector is engaged to the second port based on the detection.

In some embodiments, the cable lock system includes a powered latch configured to secure and release the connector from the second port. The powered latch is coupled to the control circuitry.

In some embodiments, the control circuitry is configured to receive a user indication to release the powered latch. The control circuitry is further configured to determine whether the user indication is authorized. If the user indication is authorized, the control circuitry causes the powered latch to be released.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a method of operating a cable lock for a vehicle. The method includes applying, using control circuitry, an electrical signal at a first end of a cable. The method further includes detecting, using the control circuitry, the electrical signal at a second end of the cable. The method further includes determining whether the cable lock is arranged for securement. The method further includes securing a powered latch of the cable lock based at least in part on whether the cable lock is arranged for securement.

In some embodiments, the method further includes identifying user information, and securing the powered latch of the cable lock further based at least in part on the user information.

In some embodiments, the method further includes determining whether the second end of the cable is secured by the powered latch.

In some embodiments, determining whether the cable lock is arranged for securement includes determining whether the cable is intact.

In some embodiments, determining whether the cable lock is arranged for securement includes determining whether a connector of the cable is engaged with a port of the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a method of operating a cable lock for a vehicle. The method includes receiving an indication to release a power latch securing the cable lock. The method further includes determining whether the indication to release is authorized. If it is determined that the indication to release is authorized, the method further includes causing the power latch to be released.

In some embodiments, the indication to release the power latch includes a user indication, and determining whether the indication to release is authorized includes identifying a user. For example, in some embodiments, only some users may be authorized to release the power latch (e.g., such as the vehicle owner).

In some embodiments, the indication to release includes a user indication, and determining whether the indication to release is authorized includes identifying a location of a user. For example, in some embodiments, identifying the location includes identifying a key fob within a suitable distance of the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the method further includes identifying unauthorized access or attempted unauthorized access. In response, the method includes performing at least one of sending a notification to an authorized user, sending a notification to security personnel, activating an audible alarm, and logging an event in a log stored in memory.

