a time - locking container to limit the compulsive overuse of objects and substances , such as but not limited to money , food , alcohol , and tobacco . the container locks until a future date and time of day set by the user . the container informs the user , before it locks , of the duration of locking . if the duration exceeds a user - selectable maximum , the container waits for user confirmation , otherwise it locks after a delay . this feature prevents an accidental prolonged lockout . while the container is locked , the user can extend , but not shorten , the duration of locking the user can request early access to the contents , while the container is locked , subject to an unlocking delay before access is granted , a relocking delay after which access is denied , and an inhibit delay limiting the frequency of use of the early open feature . the device provides a programmable schedule , and can relock itself after a programmable delay .