A little while ago SYSTM at "Revision 3" did a project on this very subject. The basic idea was to make a lock for a beer fridge that could be opened automatically, using RFID technology.
RFID CONTROLLED FRIDGE
Basically, there is an internal mechanical lock on the inside of the fridge. This lock is opened by a servo motor, conected to a small microcontroller, which has an RFID antenna, (based on the
Arduino platform) inside the fridge. By swiping an RFID card infront of the fridge, the microcontroller picks up the signal through the antenna, activates the servo and unlocks the fridge door from the inside.
Also, instead of using RFID technology, you can program the microcontroller to use any kind of input, like a keypad, hidden button, or even an RF or IR remote. I actually own an Arduino, like the one used in the video, and it's REALLY neat and fairly easy to program. The RFID is a little expensive, but using another method with the
Arduino could cost as little as $50. I'd be happy to help anyone who is interested.
- Jeb