Probably the wrong place but.. (being cheeky)

Having had the devils own trouble obtaining an internet controlled key safe from the only supplier (so it would appear) - no names as the 'battle' to get what I paid for back in October 2009 - is still ongoing...

It struck me that these things are not beyond the wit of man and being the type of sub that likes a challenge, I have decided to make one myself.

So, here's the question which I want answers to...

1. Would you be interested in buying one (in principle)?
2. What features would you need?
3. What features would you like?

I have done a bit of research already so this is not pie in the sky thinking.
Cost: I have spotted the safe and SBC (Single Board Computer) which looks about right. I think the price would be in the order of about 250 to 300 GBP.
Features:

• Fully self-sufficient - no 3rd website to interfer (or go down or remove support)
• Would be independant LAN based unit - with own Web server to control the safe
• Would allow you to upload pictures etc as proof of tasks, for your keyholder to pick up at their convenience.
• The control of the safe would be password protected so the keyholder would have sole rights to certain features, the chastee being only able to see status (and/or time remaining til unlock - keyholder configurable).
• Option of physical key over-ride is optional and a user changeable feature - would need a screw driver and a wee bit of DIY skills
• Would NOT need to be on all the time but will not unlock if off (obviously)
• As it's a computer, the features are not 'written in stone' so upgrades (as and when) would be available from my site.

Obviously, this is still in the thinking and designing phase so don't ask to order one but I think it's a go-er...

As to the unlocking process/features.
Due to the design of the lock and power/heating factors, there would be two modes of operations.

An unlock remotely now button - which would unlock safe (and light an LED) for a period of about 5 - 15 seconds - might be setable which is keyholder only
A 'Can I unlock now?' button which will look at the defined times and if allowed, unlock the safe.

There will be email options for reporting attempts if not allowed, of course - all user setable.

'911' (or '999' if your British) for over-ride but if this is a concern, would suggest keeping the key unlock feature enabled.

Possible features under consideration...

• eMail control - although there is a security concern on this one, I mean the sub could read the emails and get the code! - lol
• Display/Touch Screen option (but this would push the price up a lot! +200 I think).

So tell me what you think... I'm gonna make one anyway but the question is, should I make one just for myself or design something to sell to others as well.

 

Sourced a nice SBC and this has a little Touch Screen to boot.

Getting rather excited about the plan...

Cost has shot to 350 already though... geez this stuff sure adds up... lol

Gonna build a web site when I get the time to demo/promote the safe.

It is gonna be mega-cool... cooler than a mega-mamoth in the ice box... and that's pretty cool!

 

TJnr: I know where you are coming from and I have been working out this for some time.
Okay, the development SBC is quite expensive but it is a wonderful dwvice.

I'm not trying for the Rolls Royce of Internet Safes nor is it a cheap run about.

I have been chatting with the developer of the SBC and there is a lot of potential for nice, neigh needed additions like a camera in the safe to ensure there is a key in there.

Funnily enough, the safe is the cheapest component... a nice detroit security box with a minor PCB in there.

But thanks for the ideas.