CA2306997A1 - Locking device for an electronic lock-set - Google Patents
Locking device for an electronic lock-set Download PDFInfo
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- CA2306997A1 CA2306997A1 CA002306997A CA2306997A CA2306997A1 CA 2306997 A1 CA2306997 A1 CA 2306997A1 CA 002306997 A CA002306997 A CA 002306997A CA 2306997 A CA2306997 A CA 2306997A CA 2306997 A1 CA2306997 A1 CA 2306997A1
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Abstract
A locking device for an electronic lock-set includes an electronically controlled motor that reciprocates a locking dog between door locking and unlocking positions upon appropriate electronic access by a user -- such as by inserting an appropriate electronic key or another electronic access element, etc. The motor rotates a threaded shaft shat, in turn, reciprocates the locking dog. The motor is electronically controlled to cause the locking dog to reciprocate along the threaded shaft, while either: a) at least one spring absorbs energy that may be applied by external forces that may cause the locking dog to become locked at a particular position; and/or b) an electronic detection is made as to whether external binding forces exist and operation of the motor is controlled based on that detection.
Description
VMD:KGS
LOCKING DEVICE FOR AN ELECTRONIC LOCK-SET
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to electronic security systems for controlling access through doors and the like. In particular, the present invention relates to electronic lock-sets for doors which allow access only to certain electronically identified individuals.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A variety of electronic lock-sets are known. A number of these known lock-sets are described below for reference.
U.S. Patent No. 5,083,122 (Clark) provides one example of a known electronic lock-set. Clark shows that an electronic lock-set can be used to control access through doors by a selectably variable group of individuals. In brief, Clark employs a motor 8 that is electronically activated to allow or deny access to certain individuals. Clark includes helical spring 36 that slidably encloses the motor shaft at one end, and a cross pin 40 passes through the motor shaft and spring. As a result, when the locking plunger is kept from returning to the locked position by external means, such as someone keeping the door knob turned while the motor is programmed to relock it, the motor causes the spring to compress as the plunger is held at a fixed position by the external means. Then, when the external force is removed, the spring will expand and the plunger will move to the unlocked position.
y i U.S. Patent No. 5,018,375 (Tully) provides another example of a known electronic lock-set. The Tully reference shows an electronic lock-set having a rotary electric motor that is adapted to disable and enable an outer handle of a door. In this reference, a locking dog 42a on a dog disk 42 is received in a slot 46 to couple the handle 18 to allow operation of the handle.
Otherwise, the handle 18 is not coupled and is thus disabled.
Tully includes a motor 60 having a shaft 68 with a transverse pin 72. A spiral spring 74 is secured to the disc 42 in such a manner that the pin 72 acts as a nut to the pin.
U.S. Patent No. 5,628,216 (Qureshi) provides another example of a known electronic lock-set. The Qureshi reference shows a locking device having a locking mechanism with a hollow plunger engaged with a locking mechanism to move the locking mechanism into locked and unlocked positions and a motor having a shaft disposed co-axially with the plunger. In one embodiment, the locking device has a spring that engages a motor shaft. And, a pin is fixed to the plunger such that when the shaft rotates the plunger is moved. In another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 9-10), the locking device includes a threaded member disposed on the motor shaft and a threaded surface on the interior of the plunger such that when the shaft rotates, the plunger is moved.
U.S. Patent No. 5,473,236 (Frolov) provides another example of a known electronic lock-set. The Frolov reference shows an electronic lock-set having a motor 72 that is activated to disengage a locking dog tang 34 to thereby allow rotation of a latch handle 18. The motor shaft 73 is connected to a drive screw 30 by a coil spring 26 to permit proper operation if a jamming condition is present.
U.S. Patent No. 5,421,178 (Hamel) provides another example of an electronic lock-set, which locks and unlocks rotational movement of a door handle.
LOCKING DEVICE FOR AN ELECTRONIC LOCK-SET
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to electronic security systems for controlling access through doors and the like. In particular, the present invention relates to electronic lock-sets for doors which allow access only to certain electronically identified individuals.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A variety of electronic lock-sets are known. A number of these known lock-sets are described below for reference.
U.S. Patent No. 5,083,122 (Clark) provides one example of a known electronic lock-set. Clark shows that an electronic lock-set can be used to control access through doors by a selectably variable group of individuals. In brief, Clark employs a motor 8 that is electronically activated to allow or deny access to certain individuals. Clark includes helical spring 36 that slidably encloses the motor shaft at one end, and a cross pin 40 passes through the motor shaft and spring. As a result, when the locking plunger is kept from returning to the locked position by external means, such as someone keeping the door knob turned while the motor is programmed to relock it, the motor causes the spring to compress as the plunger is held at a fixed position by the external means. Then, when the external force is removed, the spring will expand and the plunger will move to the unlocked position.
y i U.S. Patent No. 5,018,375 (Tully) provides another example of a known electronic lock-set. The Tully reference shows an electronic lock-set having a rotary electric motor that is adapted to disable and enable an outer handle of a door. In this reference, a locking dog 42a on a dog disk 42 is received in a slot 46 to couple the handle 18 to allow operation of the handle.
Otherwise, the handle 18 is not coupled and is thus disabled.
Tully includes a motor 60 having a shaft 68 with a transverse pin 72. A spiral spring 74 is secured to the disc 42 in such a manner that the pin 72 acts as a nut to the pin.
U.S. Patent No. 5,628,216 (Qureshi) provides another example of a known electronic lock-set. The Qureshi reference shows a locking device having a locking mechanism with a hollow plunger engaged with a locking mechanism to move the locking mechanism into locked and unlocked positions and a motor having a shaft disposed co-axially with the plunger. In one embodiment, the locking device has a spring that engages a motor shaft. And, a pin is fixed to the plunger such that when the shaft rotates the plunger is moved. In another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 9-10), the locking device includes a threaded member disposed on the motor shaft and a threaded surface on the interior of the plunger such that when the shaft rotates, the plunger is moved.
U.S. Patent No. 5,473,236 (Frolov) provides another example of a known electronic lock-set. The Frolov reference shows an electronic lock-set having a motor 72 that is activated to disengage a locking dog tang 34 to thereby allow rotation of a latch handle 18. The motor shaft 73 is connected to a drive screw 30 by a coil spring 26 to permit proper operation if a jamming condition is present.
U.S. Patent No. 5,421,178 (Hamel) provides another example of an electronic lock-set, which locks and unlocks rotational movement of a door handle.
While a variety of electronic lock-sets are known, there are substantial limitations with existing devices and there remains a continued need for improved electronic lock-set devices which are less likely to malfunction or become damaged under certain conditions, which are relatively inexpensive to manufacture, and which can operate consistently, economically, reliably and for long periods of time.
SU1~IARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention can overcome the above and/or other problems related to existing lock devices. The present invention provides improved lock mechanisms to move a locking dog via an electronic motor within an electronic lock-set so as to, for example, avoid problems related to binding and the like during operation of the electric motor.
The lock mechanisms preferably include an electronically controlled motor that reciprocates the locking dog between door locking and unlocking positions upon appropriate electronic access by a user -- such as by inserting an appropriate electronic key or another electronic access element, etc. The motor rotates a threaded shaft that, in turn, reciprocates the locking dog. The motor is electronically controlled to cause the locking dog to reciprocate along the threaded shaft, while either: a) at least one spring absorbs energy that may be applied by external forces that may cause the locking dog to become locked at a particular position; and/or b) an electronic detection is made as to whether external binding forces exist and operation of the motor is controlled based on that detection.
Notable advantages, features and aspects of the present invention are elaborated upon in the following description of the preferred embodiments taken together with the accompanying drawings and claims.
SU1~IARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention can overcome the above and/or other problems related to existing lock devices. The present invention provides improved lock mechanisms to move a locking dog via an electronic motor within an electronic lock-set so as to, for example, avoid problems related to binding and the like during operation of the electric motor.
The lock mechanisms preferably include an electronically controlled motor that reciprocates the locking dog between door locking and unlocking positions upon appropriate electronic access by a user -- such as by inserting an appropriate electronic key or another electronic access element, etc. The motor rotates a threaded shaft that, in turn, reciprocates the locking dog. The motor is electronically controlled to cause the locking dog to reciprocate along the threaded shaft, while either: a) at least one spring absorbs energy that may be applied by external forces that may cause the locking dog to become locked at a particular position; and/or b) an electronic detection is made as to whether external binding forces exist and operation of the motor is controlled based on that detection.
Notable advantages, features and aspects of the present invention are elaborated upon in the following description of the preferred embodiments taken together with the accompanying drawings and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention will become more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration and are not limitative of the present invention.
FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary electronic lock-set in which the various embodiments of the of the present invention can be incorporated;
FIG. 2 is a side view of a locking device according to a first embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 3(A) is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a locking device according to a second embodiment of the invention mounted in an exemplary electronic lock-set;
FIG. 3(B) is a perspective view of a coupling member having a universal joint for connecting the motor drive shaft to the screw shaft in embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the actuator elements of the locking device shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the actuator elements shown in FIG. 4;
FIGS. 6(A) through 6(D) are partial cross sectional views of an alternative embodiment of actuator elements as assembled in preferred embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 7(A) through FIG. 7(I) are various side views of the unassembled actuator elements as depicted by FIG. 6(A).
FIG. 8(A) is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a locking device according to a third embodiment of the invention mounted in an exemplary electronic lock-set;
FIG. 8(B) is a perspective view of a coupling member having a radial slot joint for connecting the motor drive shaft to the screw shaft in embodiments of the present invention;
The present invention will become more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration and are not limitative of the present invention.
FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary electronic lock-set in which the various embodiments of the of the present invention can be incorporated;
FIG. 2 is a side view of a locking device according to a first embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 3(A) is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a locking device according to a second embodiment of the invention mounted in an exemplary electronic lock-set;
FIG. 3(B) is a perspective view of a coupling member having a universal joint for connecting the motor drive shaft to the screw shaft in embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the actuator elements of the locking device shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the actuator elements shown in FIG. 4;
FIGS. 6(A) through 6(D) are partial cross sectional views of an alternative embodiment of actuator elements as assembled in preferred embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 7(A) through FIG. 7(I) are various side views of the unassembled actuator elements as depicted by FIG. 6(A).
FIG. 8(A) is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a locking device according to a third embodiment of the invention mounted in an exemplary electronic lock-set;
FIG. 8(B) is a perspective view of a coupling member having a radial slot joint for connecting the motor drive shaft to the screw shaft in embodiments of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the actuator elements of the locking device shown in FIG. 8(A).
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the a first portion of the actuator elements shown in FIG. 9;
FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the second portion of the actuator elements shown in FIG. 9;
FIG. 12(A) is a schematic circuit diagram for an electronic lock-set according to one embodiment of the present invention utilizing electronic motor control;
FIG. 12(B) is an exemplary circuit diagram of a wake-up circuit for applying power to an electronic lock-set microprocessor according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein electronic motor control (e. g., via software) is utilized for protection against lock-set binding;
FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating preferred steps for electronic control of motor actuation in a manner to protect against lock-set binding;
FIG. 14 is an exemplary electrical wiring diagram of the electronic lock-set motor for use in electronic control of motor actuation in a manner to protect against lock-set binding.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The locking device of the present invention can be incorporated, as just one of many examples, in an electronic lock-set like that shown in FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 1, an electronic lock-set can be used to secure a door 10 that separates an unsecure side A (e.g., the side into which one can freely pass from the opposite side) from a secure side B (e. g., the side into which one cannot enter from the opposite side without an appropriate electronic key or the like), such as, for example, between two separate rooms within a building. The electronic lock-set can include, for example, an electronic reader 40 and a handle 21 of a lever set 20 on the unsecure side A of the door. The electronic reader 40 preferably operates, for example, in conjunction with an electronic key 50 having an electronic credential that resides in, for example, the key bow of the key. The electronic communication between the key and the electronic reader can be by any known means. The electronic lock-set also preferably includes, for example, an electronic housing 30 and a handle 22 of the lever set 20 on the secure side of the door. The electronic housing 30 preferably contains most or all of the electronics required for the system, including for example, batteries (not shown), a printed circuit board, an LP chip from Dallas Semiconductor, and/or other elements, etc. The features of the electronic reader 40 and the electronic housing 30 can be selected from that already known in the art. As just one of many examples, the electronic reader 40 and the electronic housing 30 can include features like that of the front subassembly 40 and the rear subassembly 50, respectively, described in U.S. Patent No. 5,473,236, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Although an electronic key and an electronic key reader can be utilized without mechanical lock components, the electronic key 50 could also include a key blade 51 having key bittings that operate in conjunction with a lock cylinder within the reader 40 having tumbler pins corresponding to the key bittings (e.g., in any known manner) to create both a mechanically and electronically selective access. In other alternative embodiments, instead of utilizing an electronic key, another electronic communication device could be employed; for example, the electronic key 50 and the electronic reader 40 could be replaced by a card and a card reader, a key pad (e. g., into which a user enters an entry code), an electronic scanner, or any other type of reader, such as, for example, any of the readers described in the '236 patent. Similarly, the circuitry in the electronic housing 30 can operate in any known manner, such as similar to that in the '236 patent, or similar to that in any of the above-identified patents, the entire disclosures of which patents are all incorporated herein by reference, or similar to that of other known electronic lock-sets and the like.
FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of the locking device according to the present invention. As noted herein-above, the locking device according to the present invention can be used, as one illustrative example, in an electronic lock-set like that shown in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the first embodiment of the locking device according to the present invention preferably includes an electric motor 100 with a motor shaft 110.
The electric motor is preferably a bi-directional motor and can be similar to motors used in the above-noted patents, which disclosures are incorporated herein by reference. The motor 100 is preferably connected via wires 101 to an electric power source -- e.g., to batteries (not shown) contained, for example, within the electronic housing 30.
In this first embodiment, the motor shaft 110 preferably has a coil spring 120 having a first end 121 fixed to the motor shaft 100 (e.g., at a retainer ring 115). The coil spring 120 preferably extends coaxially with the axis of the motor shaft 100. A second end 122 of the coil spring is attached to a screw shaft 130 via a retainer 135. The screw shaft 130 has external threads 131. An internally threaded disk 140 preferably engages the threads 131 of the shaft 130. The threaded disk 140 is preferably provided inside a hollow plunger 150. The hollow plunger can include, for example, a bottom wall 151, a top wall 7_52, a rear wall, 153 and a front wall 154. The hollow plunger preferably includes a locking dog 180 fixed thereto. In the preferred illustrated embodiment, the locking dog 180 is an extension of the front wall 154. The screw shaft 130 preferably extends through the front and rear walls 154 and 153, respectively, in a manner to be slidably received within holes 154' and 153', respectively. The rear end 132 of the shaft 130 preferably includes a retainer (e. g., a retainer clip) 136 fixed thereto which retains the plunger 150 thereon. The disk 140 preferably includes a radial pin 141 that is received within a longitudinal keyway 152 extending parallel to the axis of the shaft 130 in the upper side of the plunger so that the disk 140 does not rotate relative to the plunger 150. A first spring or biasing means 160, preferably a coil spring, is located within the hollow plunger at a first side of the disk 140, and a second spring or biasing means, preferably a coil spring, 170 is located at a second side of the disk 140 within the hollow plunger. The spring 160 extends between a rear surface of the disk 140 and the inside of the rear wall 153, and the spring 170 extends between a front surface of the disk 140 and the inside surface of the front wall 154.
Most preferably, the device is incorporated in a lock-set having a mechanism similar to that discussed herein-below in relation to the second and third embodiments (e.g., utilizing a key tube having a locking dog slot and a handle tube having a corresponding locking dog slot as described below to engage and disengage a handle drive mechanism via movement of the locking dog with the locking device). It is contemplated that the locking device shown in FIG. 2 can be incorporated into any other electronic lock-set, where appropriate. As just one example, the locking device shown in FIG. 2, could replace the motor 60, shaft 68, pin 72, spring 74, dog disk 42 and radial dog 42a of U.S.
Patent No. 5,018,375, incorporated herein by reference.
The plunger 150 should preferably be mounted within the lock-set in such a manner that the plunger will not rotate around the axis of the shaft 130, while being able to reciprocate along that axis. For example, a radial extension (not shown) and a keyway (not shown) can be used, or the locking dog 180 can itself extend within a keyway (not shown) to prevent rotation.
In use, the motor 100 should impart a rotational force via the spring 120 to the shaft 130. The rotation of the shaft 130 will thus cause the disk 140 to move laterally along the shaft 130 because the pin 141 is retained in the keyway 152 and because the plunger 150 is similarly prevented from rotating.
If an external force causes the locking dog 180 to bind or the like at a particular location (e. g., if an individual grasps a handle in a certain manner) when the motor 100 is activated, the springs 160, 170 and 120 will function to absorb the potential energy and allow the motor to rotate without straining the motor or structure of the locking device. Then, upon releasing that external force, the springs 160, 170, and 120 will release the stored energy and cause the plunger 150, and the locking dog 180, to move to an appropriate position. For example, even if the plunger 150 binds and remains stationary, the disk 140 can still move via the motor 100 due to the presence of the springs. This movement will cause either the spring 160 or 170 to compress -- depending on the direction of movement of the disk 140 -- and this potential energy absorbed within the springs) will cause the plunger to move once the locking dog 180 is later released.
In an alternative version of the first embodiment, one of the springs 160 or 170 could be omitted. In that case, the remaining spring could be fixed to both the disk 140 and to an interior of the plunger so as to impart a tensile force when the disk is moved relative to the plunger in one direction and a compressive force when the disk is moved relative to the plunger in the opposite direction. Nevertheless, the use of both springs 160 and 170 is preferred.
FIGS. 3-5 show a second embodiment of the invention. In contrast to the first embodiment, this second embodiment does not include a coil spring 120. This second embodiment is otherwise similar to and operates in a similar manner to the first embodiment. In this second embodiment, as shown schematically in FIG. 3(A), an inside (e.g., secure side) handle can include an inside handle tube 22' which houses the motor 100. As also shown, a motor spacer 22" can also be provided to facilitate mounting of the motor 100. The motor drive shaft 110 extends outward and is fixed to a coupling member 120'. The coupling member 120' is preferably a rigid member (e.g., made of metal or another appropriate material) that can transmit the drive force of the motor shaft 110. Preferably, as shown, the shaft 110 extends within a bore 120'-1 in the coupling member 120'. The shaft 110 is firmly fixed therein so as to rotate the coupling member 120' upon rotation of the shaft. Preferably, the distal end 121' of the coupling member 120' includes a universal joint connection to a drive screw shaft 130 (i.e., a joint, such as shown by FIG. 3(B), allowing angular movement between the member 120' and the shaft 130 such that the axes a and as can be moved in relation to and non-parallel to one another) so as to allow a degree of axial misalignment between motor shaft 110 and screw shaft 130. The universal joint is preferably included so as to allow some freedom of movement between the shaft 130 and the shaft 110. In less preferred embodiments, it can be omitted. In one exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3(B), the universal joint is provided by forming: a) the coupling member 120' with a hollow core 120'-2, a longitudinal slot 120-3' in one slide, and a through hole 120'-4 in an opposite side; and b) the screw shaft 130 with a groove pin 130-1 that extends through the shaft 130 with one end being receivable in the hole 120'-4 and the other end in the slot 120'-3 so as to provide a coupling with a degree of freedom as described above. It is contemplated that any other known universal joint can be provided as desired. In addition, in other constructions, the connection between the shaft 110 and the coupling member 120' could also include a similar universal joint or another joint to provide a degree of freedom therebetween.
As shown in FIG. 4, the coupling device is preferably provided within an outside handle tube 21' at the outside (e. g., the unsecure side A) of the door 10. A key tube 210 is preferably provided within the handle tube 21'. As best seen in FIG. 4, the handle tube 21' preferably includes a longitudinal slot 21'-1 that is alignable with a corresponding longitudinal slot 211 in the key tube. When the locking dog 180 is positioned outside of the slot 21'-1 but within the slot 211 as shown in FIG. 4, the handle tube 21' moves freely around the key tube without moving the key tube 210 such that the door remains locked. When the locking dog 180 is moved (e.g., via rotation of the motor 100 as described herein above) such that it enters the slot 21'-1 the handle tube 21' is thus locked to the key tube 210 such that movement of the handle 21 can thus impart movement to the key tube 210 and thus open the door. The door 10 can be unlocked via rotation of the key tube 210 via a cam 210C at the inside end thereof which can be used to operate a door bolt actuator unlatching mechanism in a known manner, such as using any appropriate mechanism described in the above-noted patents incorporated herein by reference. Notably, the inside handle tube 22' also includes a similar cam C which can open the bolt actuator mechanism in a similar well known manner, without providing a "locked" state of the inside handle 22.
As shown inn FIG. 5, the plunger 150 can include a sleeve 150' into which the screw shaft 130, springs 160 and 170, threaded disk 140, and the front wall 154 are inserted during assembly (the front wall 154 comprising locking dog 180 being fixed thereto via appropriate means upon assembly). As shown, preferably, a distal end of the shaft 130 includes a snap ring groove 1306 and extends out of a hole in the rear wall 153 (see, e.g., FIG. 4) so as to receive the retainer ring 136 that helps retain the plunger 150 thereon.
Accordingly, the second embodiment of the invention can operate in a similar manner to the first embodiment of the invention as described above. The first and second embodiments of the invention can both operate in similar manners and be used in similar applications and environments. As described above, preferably, the lock mechanism moves a locking dog 180 to engage and/or disengage a drive chain of the handle 21 so that movement of the handle can impart movement to a locking bolt (not shown --i.e., via the cam 210C -- in a manner as is known in the art) when engaged (e. g., in an "unlocked" state) or so that movement of the handle will not impart movement to a locking bolt when the drive is disengaged (locked state). As described above and shown by FIG. 4, the device preferably includes an outside handle tube 21' that is fixed to the outside handle 21 and moves therewith, wherein in the unlocked position, the locking dog is positioned away from a slot in the handle tube so that the handle tube moves without driving the locking bolt. In addition, the springs or other biasing means 160 and 170 preferably remain uncompressed (e. g., unbiased) in both the locked and unlocked positions unless the locking dog becomes held or bound in the slot of the handle tube or the like.
In the embodiments described herein-above, binding of the locking dog 180 or other mechanical problems which retain or bind the plunger 150 in position despite the running or operation of the motor is dealt with via the use of, e.g., the springs or biasing members 160 and 170 as described above. As described, in that manner, for example, the motor 100 can continue to operate properly without damage thereto, etc. In alternative embodiments, however, it is contemplated that rather than, or in addition to -- e.g., in combination with the above first and/or second embodiments or with other known devices, using such springs or biasing means, the device can be constructed so as to control the operation of the motor based on automatic detection of binding conditions that may occur.
FIGs. 6(A) through 6(D) depict alternative actuator elements for use with the electronic lock-set according to the second embodiment of the present invention which is intended to prevent binding conditions. The alternative embodiment comprises a plunger 150', threaded disk 140', screw shaft 130', and locking dog 180'. The plunger 150', as depicted in several side views by FIGS. 7(A) through 7(C), operates much like the plunger 150 depicted by FIGS. 2 through 4. The substantially cylindrical plunger 150' has a longitudinal keyway 152' for receiving a pin or tab 141' extending from the threaded disk 140' (depicted in several side views by FIGS. 7(E) through 7(G)) which fits within the plunger 150'. The interaction of the pin or tab 141' and the keyway 152' prevents rotation of the disk 140' relative to the plunger 150'.
The disk 140' is a hollow ring shape with internal threads 142' adapted to engage the external threads 131' on the screw shaft 130'. Thus, rotation of the screw shaft 103' causes the threaded disk 140' to travel longitudinally along the shaft 103' since it is fixed from rotation. The screw shaft 130' for this alternative embodiment of the invention is depicted in a side view by FIG. 7(D). A locking dog 180', depicted in side views by FIGs. 7(H) and 7(I), fits within the end of the plunger 150' substantially as shown.
As depicted by the figures, the threaded disk 140' in this alternative embodiment has a pair of pockets 143' on either side of the internal threads 142' which are adapted to hold a first spring 160' and a second spring 170' such that the springs 160' and 170' travel with the threaded disk 140' along the screw shaft 130'. One end of each spring 160' and 170' enters the pockets 143', and the other end of the springs 160' and 170' remain enclosed in the plunger 150' once the locking dog 180' is inserted, preferably permanently by staking into the end of the plunger 150'.
As best seen in FIG. 7(D), the screw shaft 130' has an externally threaded portion 131' surrounded on either side by two unthreaded portions 132'(a) and 132'(b). The arrangement of portions 132'(a) and 132'(b) on either side of threads 131' allows the threaded disk 140' to engage and disengage from the threads 131' depending upon the direction of rotation of screw shaft 130' by motor 100 after each motor cycle to lock or unlock the lock.
When the threaded disk 140' runs off the threaded portion 131', it has created a preload on one of the springs 160' or 170', as shown in FIGS. 6(B) and 6(A) respectively, that will ensure engagement between threads 131' and 142' for the next cycle. (See FIG. 7(A)) This preload has the added benefit of aiding the motor 100 toward full power during the next cycle before the plunger 150' and locking dog 180' begin to move. Once thread engagement has been established, the springs 160' and 170' transmit the motion from the longitudinally moving threaded disk 140' to the plunger 150'. This motion of the plunger 150' moves the locking dog 180', during unbinded operation, from a locked position I, shown in FIG. 6(A), to an unlocked position II, shown in FIG 6 (B) .
FIGS. 6(C) and 6(D) illustrate the condition of the lock in a lock according to this alternative embodiment of the invention in an impeded unlocked, and impeded lock position, respectively.
It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that any impediment to the movement of the plunger 150' or locking dog 180' while the screw shaft 130' is being turned by the motor 100 will still allow the treaded disk to move laterally along the screw shaft until it reaches either of the unthreaded portions 132'(a) or 132'(b). Thus, a motor cycle attempting to move the lock from the status depicted in FIG. 6(A) (i.e.,'locked) to the status depicted in FIG. 6(B) (i.e., unlocked) would cause the status depicted in FIG. 6(C) (i.e., impeded unlocked) if locking dog 180' and plunger 150' encountered a binding condition which somehow prohibited locking dog 180' from moving to position II.
In the impeded unlock position, a larger compression and thus greater preload is placed on spring 160'. Once the impediment is removed, the spring 160' will attempt to equalize and the plunger 150' and locking dog 180' will move to position II, as depicted by FIG. 6(B), without any further motor 100 action.
Similarly, a motor cycle attempting to move the lock from the unlocked (FIG. 6(B)) position to the locked (FIG. 6(A)) position would cause the status depicted in FIG. 6(D) (i.e., impeded locked) if a binding condition was encountered which prevented locking dog 180' and plunger 150' from moving to position I. In the impeded lock position, a relatively greater preload is placed on spring 170'. This preload will tend to equalize, and the plunger 150' and locking dog 180' will move to position I (FIG. 6(A)) without any further motor 100 action once the impediment is removed.
FIGS. 8(A), 8(B), and 9-11 illustrate a third embodiment of the invention which is similar to the second embodiment described above, but with a modified plunger 150 and related structure without springs 160 and 170. While the embodiments shown in these figures could potentially be utilized without electronic control as described herein-below, it is clearly much more preferably so controlled.
As best seen in FIG. 8(A) and FIG. 9, the plunger 150 in this latter embodiment is modified, and simplified, so as to include an annular shaped member having an upstanding locking dog 180 formed integral to the plunger 150 body that operates in a similar manner to the locking dog(s)described above with respect to the first and second described embodiments of the invention.
As shown by FIG. 11, the plunger 150 includes a threaded central hole through which the threaded shaft 130 is threadingly engaged.
As a result, rotation of the screw shaft 130 directly causes longitudinal movement of the plunger and, thus, of the integral locking dog 180.
As in the preceding first and second embodiments, the motor 100 in the third embodiment is preferably mounted upon a motor mount 22" (e. g., the mount 22" can fix the motor so as to rotate along with rotation of the tube 22' or so as to remain fixed with respect to the door 10). FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary motor 100 and a motor mount 22", shown with screws 128 utilized to fix the motor to the mount as shown. FIG. 10 also shows an exemplary manner of fixing the coupling member 121' to the motor shaft 110, using a set screw 129 to retain the shaft 110 within the hole 121'-1.
FIG. 8(B) depicts a preferred design for a coupling member 120' particularly for use with the embodiment of the present invention as depicted by FIG. 8(A). The coupling member 120' has a pair of radial slots 120'-5 disposed on both sides of the coupling member 120'. A groove pin 130-1 passes through the screw shaft 130 and out through either radial slot 120'-5 so as to connect the coupling member 120' to the screw shaft 130. The coupling member 120' is attached to the motor shaft 110 (not shown in FIG. 8(B)) by as set screw 129, and is rotated by the motor 100. Each time the motor 100 rotates, the coupler is thereby rotated until the end of both radial slots 120'-5 impact upon the groove pin 130-1. This impact creates sufficient force to overcome static friction (or "sticking") of the screw shaft 130 threads at the beginning of each rotation. Such impact could advantageously be used to eliminate or reduce potential bind conditions of the electronic locking set. As will be readily appreciated by one skilled in the art, the above coupling member design can optionally be used in any of the above embodiments of the present invention.
While in less preferred embodiments, the device according to this third embodiment of the present invention could be operated without any special motor control to accommodate for binding of the locking dog 180, of the plunger 150 and/or of other elements, the device according to this third embodiment preferably includes an operational control that changes operation of the motor upon the detection of a binding or the like condition.
According to this further aspect of the invention that is especially applicable with the third embodiment of the invention, but which can also be applied in the first and second embodiments (and also, for example, in any other devices including biasing means), a control is included to change (e. g., modify or alter) the operation of the motor 100 upon detecting (e.g., sensing or otherwise determining) the existence of a binding condition or any other like condition inhibiting the operation of the motor (e.g., binding the device such that shaft 110 is restrained or inhibited from rotation even if the motor is continued to be operated). Upon determining that a binding or the like condition exists, the motor can be controlled, for example to:
stop operation, e.g., to stop rotation, of the motor; reverse operation of the motor; alternate operation (e. g., for short intervals) of the motor forwards and reverse (e.g., to try and "free" a binding condition); slow down operation of the motor; or otherwise control the motor to change its current state of operation (e.g., whether the motor is currently operating in forward or reverse).
As shown schematically in FIG. 12(A), in a preferred embodiment, a binding or the like condition is determined by monitoring the motor 100 with detector circuitry 300 and controlling the motor operation with a motor driver 100' via a processor 400 (e.g., a computer, microprocessor, or any electronic controller) depending on whether or not a binding or like condition is detected. As will be readily appreciated by one skilled in the art, the detector 300 and processor 400 could be incorporated together into an integral unit, or comprise separate or multiple elements.
Preferably, the processor 400 (including the detector circuitry 300) is maintained in an "off" mode with a power switch 600 when the door is not being accessed or under other conditions in order to avoid wasting energy when the device is not in use.
This is particularly advantageous when the system is battery 500 powered -- which is the preferred. Accordingly, the device preferably includes a circuit for "turning on" or "waking up" the processor by transferring the power switch 600 to an "on" mode as required. Preferably, the turn-on circuit operates to turn on the system at least one, but preferably all, of the following ways.
First, the turn-on circuit preferably turns on the device upon a user attempting to access the door 10 from the unsecure side (i.e., attempting to enter the secure side). In that regard, a key switch 900 is preferably provided that is activated when the user attempts to activate the lock. In a preferred embodiment of the invention where the lock is accessed via an electronic key 50, preferably the key 50 is adapted so as to complete a circuit upon insertion into the device thus triggering the key switch 900. For instance, the key blade 51 could be conductive and used to complete a circuit upon insertion into the device. It should be understood that a variety of means for completing a circuit could be employed, such as proximity switches or sensors or the like which sense the proximity of the electronic key, card, etc., or the like, or even a separate hand manipulated switch or button.
Second, the turn-on circuit also preferably can be turned on via a clock alarm 700, such as timing mechanism or processor, that can be set so as to activate or deactivate the device based on predetermined (e.g., pre-programmed) time schedules or conditions. For instance, access could be allowed as of 8:00 a.m., for example, and could be denied as of 5:00 p.m., for example.
Third, the turn-on circuit also preferably turns on the processor via a door switch 800, such as in the form of a proximity switch mounted between the door and door frame, that closes a circuit upon opening of the door. In that manner, upon opening of the door, the processor is preferably activated so that it may make a determination as to whether the door opened via proper means (e.g., via a proper access key) or whether it was opened inappropriately (e.g., via broken or forced entry or the like).
Preferably, the turn-on circuit will apply power to the processor in each of the above three ways. FIG. 12(B) illustrates a preferred embodiment of a turn-on circuit that can be used. As noted, normally when not actively engaged in enabling the door 10 to be opened, the processor U1 will be turned off. The processor in FIG. 12(B) is turned on by turning on Q1, which can occur in any of the following three ways: a) when a key switch, for example, is activated, a ground will be applied, through a resettable fuse, to R2, which will forward bias Ql and thus turn it on; b) a processor U2 (e. g., including, for example, a timer or a real-time clock with alarm features and an open drain output) can apply a ground to R5, which will turn Q2 off, which will turn Q3 on, which will apply a ground to R3, which will thus turn Ql on; and c) a door switch, for example, can be activated, which will apply a ground to R8, which will turn Q4 on, which then turns on Q1. When the processor U1 is turned on, it will turn on Q5, which will apply a ground to R9, which will turn Ql permanently on, even after the momentary inputs are gone. The processor U1 will then determine what turned it on by polling the processor U2 (e. g., timer) and door switch inputs; if neither of these inputs is active, then the processor will determine that the key switch turned it on. When the microprocessor completes its task (e. g., controlling operation of the motor 100 as described below), it will turn Q5 off, which will turn Ql off, and thus turn U1 off.
As noted, in this latter embodiment, binding or the like can be sensed by electronic control (e. g., via a software programmed processor) as opposed to be dealt with by introducing flexure into the drive mechanism via springs or the like. That is, rather than providing a mechanism that allows the motor to continue rotating through a complete cycle during binding, the device includes electronic control to change motor operation under such conditions. This latter embodiment has notable advantages over devices including springs or the like -- such as, for example, substantially improving actuator performance as well as reliability. For example, performance can be increased by elimination of "play" in the system (e. g., due to springs, etc.) and providing "tight" electronic control, and reliability can be increased by simplifying the structure of the device and quickly responding to binding and the like conditions via a microprocessor or the like control.
FIG. 13 shows one preferred manner of using the processor to control operation of the motor 100. During binding or the like conditions, the motor 100 will experience a change in condition that can be detected using, for instance, an arrangement as shown in FIG. 12. For example, the electrical load upon the motor will increase upon binding or the like. In this regard, according to one exemplary method in accordance with the present invention, the processor can be programmed to perform the steps shown in FIG. 13 to detect such a condition.
As shown in FIG. 13, at step 1001, the motor 100 is initially energized in either the forward or reverse direction.
Then, at steps 1002-1003, the processor counts down (i.e., delays) for 10 milliseconds. After that, at step 1004, the motor 100 is turned off (e.g., motor driver transistors Ql and Q2 are turned off). At that point, the motor 100 continues to coast for a duration. Then, at steps 1005-1006, the processor delays for 50 milliseconds. After that, at step 1007, the motor is energized again. Then, at steps 1008-1009, the processor delays for 3 milliseconds. After that, at step 1010, the processor will perform an A/D conversion, and the result is saved as a reference value at step 1011. Then, at steps 1012-1013, the processor delays for another 3 milliseconds. After that, at step 1014, the processor will perform another A/D conversion, and the result is saved as a reference value #1 at step 1015. Then, at steps 1016-1017, the processor delays for another 3 milliseconds.
After that, at step 1018, the processor will perform yet another A/D conversion, and the result is saved as a reference value #2 at step 1019. Then, at steps 1020-1021, the processor delays for another 1 millisecond. After that, at step 1022, the processor de-energizes the motor.
At that point, the processor makes a comparison of the values obtained to determine if binding or the like has occurred.
In that regard, at step 1023, the value #1 is compared to the reference value. In the case of binding, the value of the A/D
conversion will increase due to the binding of the motor, and, thus, if value #1 is larger than the reference value (or larger by a predetermined amount), then an initial determination of binding is made. In that case, in order to ensure that binding has occurred, a second check is (in this preferred embodiment) conducted between value #2 and the reference at 1024. If the value #2 is larger than the reference value, then at step 1026 the processor determines that binding or the like is detected.
In that case, the processor can promptly control the motor to stop, or to otherwise be controlled, such as noted above.
Otherwise, if the value #1 is not larger, the processor can conclude that no binding has occurred at 1025. Similarly, even if value #1 is larger, the processor can conclude that no binding has occurred at 1025 if the value #2 is not larger.
In either case, the processor can, if desired, repeat these steps as needed until the locking dog 180 has reached a fully engaged or fully disengaged condition. Notably, this "binding"
detection can also be utilized to determine at what point the locking dog 180 is in its fully engaged or disengaged conditions -- for example, upon impinging upon a stop plate (see FIG. 9) when reaching a fully disengaged (e.g., locked) state, the processor can detect this condition and can, thus, stop the motor 100, and, similarly, upon impinging upon the rear side of the slot 211 in the key tube 210 when reaching a fully engaged (e. g., unlocked) state, the processor can detect this condition and thus stop the motor 100. This can also be used by the processor to accurately determine the positioning of the locking dog in the lock assembly. If desired, the processor could also be programmed so as to monitor the amount of time and/or power, etc., required to travel between fully engaged and disengaged positions and to potentially alter operation in the event of changes in the calibrated times, etc., required, or to provide a more accurate assessment of whether binding or the like has occurred, etc.
It is contemplated that in less preferred embodiments, only one A/D conversion value could be compared with the reference value. In addition, three or more such values could be used for comparison in other embodiments. In addition, other embodiments could utilize different time delays for remaining in energized and de-energized states. It should be understood that these method steps are of one preferred embodiment and that a variety of other embodiments are contemplated.
While detection is preferably via a comparison of such A/D
conversion values, it is contemplated that binding detection could be achieved in other, although less preferred ways in other embodiments. For example, in cases where the temperature, noise, or another factor of the motor may increase upon binding, a temperature sensor, microphone or another detection means could be employed, and readings could be obtained and compared in a similar manner.
According to another aspect of the invention, if desired, a control could be employed in order to monitor the battery voltage level. Based on the battery voltage level determined, for example, the time periods for energizing and/or de-energizing the motor 100 can be adjusted accordingly based on known operation conditions of the corresponding motor. Notably, as the battery voltage power decreases (e. g., in cases where such voltage decrease is not prevented by other means), the motor 100 is affected so as to output a greater amount based on such a decrease. By pre-conditioning the processor (e. g., pre-programming) to vary motor "on" and/or "off" times in accordance with such a voltage decrease, the extent of movement of the plunger 150 and locking dog 180 can be maintained at a substantially constant or at a similar enough or desirable enough level to continue optimal operation of the device.
In this regard, a microprocessor normally requires a steady, regulated DC power supply for it to function appropriately. When using a microprocessor that has Analog to Digital ("A/D") capabilities, a very steady voltage should preferably be established in order for the circuit to perform accurate A/D conversions.
Some microprocessors have a range of voltages that they will operate in, such as from, for example, 5.5 Vdc to 3.0 Vdc, so as to accommodate various different steady DC operating voltages.
To maintain a steady DC operating voltage, most circuits employ a voltage regulator of some sort. A common type of regulator is a switching voltage regulator, such as those referred to as a buck or boost type of regulator. These can either be step up or step down types.
Circuits that are primarily battery powered typically have regulated switching power supplies to maintain a steady voltage regulation by stepping up or stepping down the battery voltage as the battery dies down.
According to this additional aspect of the invention, the circuit can be made so as not to use any kind of voltage regulation at all. The microprocessor can be powered directly off of the battery, and even as the battery voltage drops, the microprocessor will function within a wide voltage range.
In this regard, preferably, the microprocessor monitors the DC operating voltage through its internal A/D and makes software adjustments to allow for a dying battery, such as adjusting the motor timing routine (e.g., as described above). The A/D has a very low reference voltage that is well below the microprocessor cut off voltage. After the battery has died down to a certain level, the microprocessor can be made to alert the user through buzzers and LEDs that the battery is getting weak. After a certain low battery voltage is reached, the microprocessor can then be made to shut itself off.
This last aspect of the invention provides a number of substantial benefits, including, for example, a substantial reduction in monetary costs, a more efficient usage of batteries and an increased battery life, as well as a variety of other benefits.
While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments presently contemplated as best modes for carrying out the invention, it is to be understood that various changes may be made in adapting the invention to different embodiments without departing from the broader inventive concepts disclosed herein and comprehended by the claims which follow.
FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the a first portion of the actuator elements shown in FIG. 9;
FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the second portion of the actuator elements shown in FIG. 9;
FIG. 12(A) is a schematic circuit diagram for an electronic lock-set according to one embodiment of the present invention utilizing electronic motor control;
FIG. 12(B) is an exemplary circuit diagram of a wake-up circuit for applying power to an electronic lock-set microprocessor according to one exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein electronic motor control (e. g., via software) is utilized for protection against lock-set binding;
FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating preferred steps for electronic control of motor actuation in a manner to protect against lock-set binding;
FIG. 14 is an exemplary electrical wiring diagram of the electronic lock-set motor for use in electronic control of motor actuation in a manner to protect against lock-set binding.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The locking device of the present invention can be incorporated, as just one of many examples, in an electronic lock-set like that shown in FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 1, an electronic lock-set can be used to secure a door 10 that separates an unsecure side A (e.g., the side into which one can freely pass from the opposite side) from a secure side B (e. g., the side into which one cannot enter from the opposite side without an appropriate electronic key or the like), such as, for example, between two separate rooms within a building. The electronic lock-set can include, for example, an electronic reader 40 and a handle 21 of a lever set 20 on the unsecure side A of the door. The electronic reader 40 preferably operates, for example, in conjunction with an electronic key 50 having an electronic credential that resides in, for example, the key bow of the key. The electronic communication between the key and the electronic reader can be by any known means. The electronic lock-set also preferably includes, for example, an electronic housing 30 and a handle 22 of the lever set 20 on the secure side of the door. The electronic housing 30 preferably contains most or all of the electronics required for the system, including for example, batteries (not shown), a printed circuit board, an LP chip from Dallas Semiconductor, and/or other elements, etc. The features of the electronic reader 40 and the electronic housing 30 can be selected from that already known in the art. As just one of many examples, the electronic reader 40 and the electronic housing 30 can include features like that of the front subassembly 40 and the rear subassembly 50, respectively, described in U.S. Patent No. 5,473,236, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Although an electronic key and an electronic key reader can be utilized without mechanical lock components, the electronic key 50 could also include a key blade 51 having key bittings that operate in conjunction with a lock cylinder within the reader 40 having tumbler pins corresponding to the key bittings (e.g., in any known manner) to create both a mechanically and electronically selective access. In other alternative embodiments, instead of utilizing an electronic key, another electronic communication device could be employed; for example, the electronic key 50 and the electronic reader 40 could be replaced by a card and a card reader, a key pad (e. g., into which a user enters an entry code), an electronic scanner, or any other type of reader, such as, for example, any of the readers described in the '236 patent. Similarly, the circuitry in the electronic housing 30 can operate in any known manner, such as similar to that in the '236 patent, or similar to that in any of the above-identified patents, the entire disclosures of which patents are all incorporated herein by reference, or similar to that of other known electronic lock-sets and the like.
FIG. 2 illustrates a first embodiment of the locking device according to the present invention. As noted herein-above, the locking device according to the present invention can be used, as one illustrative example, in an electronic lock-set like that shown in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the first embodiment of the locking device according to the present invention preferably includes an electric motor 100 with a motor shaft 110.
The electric motor is preferably a bi-directional motor and can be similar to motors used in the above-noted patents, which disclosures are incorporated herein by reference. The motor 100 is preferably connected via wires 101 to an electric power source -- e.g., to batteries (not shown) contained, for example, within the electronic housing 30.
In this first embodiment, the motor shaft 110 preferably has a coil spring 120 having a first end 121 fixed to the motor shaft 100 (e.g., at a retainer ring 115). The coil spring 120 preferably extends coaxially with the axis of the motor shaft 100. A second end 122 of the coil spring is attached to a screw shaft 130 via a retainer 135. The screw shaft 130 has external threads 131. An internally threaded disk 140 preferably engages the threads 131 of the shaft 130. The threaded disk 140 is preferably provided inside a hollow plunger 150. The hollow plunger can include, for example, a bottom wall 151, a top wall 7_52, a rear wall, 153 and a front wall 154. The hollow plunger preferably includes a locking dog 180 fixed thereto. In the preferred illustrated embodiment, the locking dog 180 is an extension of the front wall 154. The screw shaft 130 preferably extends through the front and rear walls 154 and 153, respectively, in a manner to be slidably received within holes 154' and 153', respectively. The rear end 132 of the shaft 130 preferably includes a retainer (e. g., a retainer clip) 136 fixed thereto which retains the plunger 150 thereon. The disk 140 preferably includes a radial pin 141 that is received within a longitudinal keyway 152 extending parallel to the axis of the shaft 130 in the upper side of the plunger so that the disk 140 does not rotate relative to the plunger 150. A first spring or biasing means 160, preferably a coil spring, is located within the hollow plunger at a first side of the disk 140, and a second spring or biasing means, preferably a coil spring, 170 is located at a second side of the disk 140 within the hollow plunger. The spring 160 extends between a rear surface of the disk 140 and the inside of the rear wall 153, and the spring 170 extends between a front surface of the disk 140 and the inside surface of the front wall 154.
Most preferably, the device is incorporated in a lock-set having a mechanism similar to that discussed herein-below in relation to the second and third embodiments (e.g., utilizing a key tube having a locking dog slot and a handle tube having a corresponding locking dog slot as described below to engage and disengage a handle drive mechanism via movement of the locking dog with the locking device). It is contemplated that the locking device shown in FIG. 2 can be incorporated into any other electronic lock-set, where appropriate. As just one example, the locking device shown in FIG. 2, could replace the motor 60, shaft 68, pin 72, spring 74, dog disk 42 and radial dog 42a of U.S.
Patent No. 5,018,375, incorporated herein by reference.
The plunger 150 should preferably be mounted within the lock-set in such a manner that the plunger will not rotate around the axis of the shaft 130, while being able to reciprocate along that axis. For example, a radial extension (not shown) and a keyway (not shown) can be used, or the locking dog 180 can itself extend within a keyway (not shown) to prevent rotation.
In use, the motor 100 should impart a rotational force via the spring 120 to the shaft 130. The rotation of the shaft 130 will thus cause the disk 140 to move laterally along the shaft 130 because the pin 141 is retained in the keyway 152 and because the plunger 150 is similarly prevented from rotating.
If an external force causes the locking dog 180 to bind or the like at a particular location (e. g., if an individual grasps a handle in a certain manner) when the motor 100 is activated, the springs 160, 170 and 120 will function to absorb the potential energy and allow the motor to rotate without straining the motor or structure of the locking device. Then, upon releasing that external force, the springs 160, 170, and 120 will release the stored energy and cause the plunger 150, and the locking dog 180, to move to an appropriate position. For example, even if the plunger 150 binds and remains stationary, the disk 140 can still move via the motor 100 due to the presence of the springs. This movement will cause either the spring 160 or 170 to compress -- depending on the direction of movement of the disk 140 -- and this potential energy absorbed within the springs) will cause the plunger to move once the locking dog 180 is later released.
In an alternative version of the first embodiment, one of the springs 160 or 170 could be omitted. In that case, the remaining spring could be fixed to both the disk 140 and to an interior of the plunger so as to impart a tensile force when the disk is moved relative to the plunger in one direction and a compressive force when the disk is moved relative to the plunger in the opposite direction. Nevertheless, the use of both springs 160 and 170 is preferred.
FIGS. 3-5 show a second embodiment of the invention. In contrast to the first embodiment, this second embodiment does not include a coil spring 120. This second embodiment is otherwise similar to and operates in a similar manner to the first embodiment. In this second embodiment, as shown schematically in FIG. 3(A), an inside (e.g., secure side) handle can include an inside handle tube 22' which houses the motor 100. As also shown, a motor spacer 22" can also be provided to facilitate mounting of the motor 100. The motor drive shaft 110 extends outward and is fixed to a coupling member 120'. The coupling member 120' is preferably a rigid member (e.g., made of metal or another appropriate material) that can transmit the drive force of the motor shaft 110. Preferably, as shown, the shaft 110 extends within a bore 120'-1 in the coupling member 120'. The shaft 110 is firmly fixed therein so as to rotate the coupling member 120' upon rotation of the shaft. Preferably, the distal end 121' of the coupling member 120' includes a universal joint connection to a drive screw shaft 130 (i.e., a joint, such as shown by FIG. 3(B), allowing angular movement between the member 120' and the shaft 130 such that the axes a and as can be moved in relation to and non-parallel to one another) so as to allow a degree of axial misalignment between motor shaft 110 and screw shaft 130. The universal joint is preferably included so as to allow some freedom of movement between the shaft 130 and the shaft 110. In less preferred embodiments, it can be omitted. In one exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 3(B), the universal joint is provided by forming: a) the coupling member 120' with a hollow core 120'-2, a longitudinal slot 120-3' in one slide, and a through hole 120'-4 in an opposite side; and b) the screw shaft 130 with a groove pin 130-1 that extends through the shaft 130 with one end being receivable in the hole 120'-4 and the other end in the slot 120'-3 so as to provide a coupling with a degree of freedom as described above. It is contemplated that any other known universal joint can be provided as desired. In addition, in other constructions, the connection between the shaft 110 and the coupling member 120' could also include a similar universal joint or another joint to provide a degree of freedom therebetween.
As shown in FIG. 4, the coupling device is preferably provided within an outside handle tube 21' at the outside (e. g., the unsecure side A) of the door 10. A key tube 210 is preferably provided within the handle tube 21'. As best seen in FIG. 4, the handle tube 21' preferably includes a longitudinal slot 21'-1 that is alignable with a corresponding longitudinal slot 211 in the key tube. When the locking dog 180 is positioned outside of the slot 21'-1 but within the slot 211 as shown in FIG. 4, the handle tube 21' moves freely around the key tube without moving the key tube 210 such that the door remains locked. When the locking dog 180 is moved (e.g., via rotation of the motor 100 as described herein above) such that it enters the slot 21'-1 the handle tube 21' is thus locked to the key tube 210 such that movement of the handle 21 can thus impart movement to the key tube 210 and thus open the door. The door 10 can be unlocked via rotation of the key tube 210 via a cam 210C at the inside end thereof which can be used to operate a door bolt actuator unlatching mechanism in a known manner, such as using any appropriate mechanism described in the above-noted patents incorporated herein by reference. Notably, the inside handle tube 22' also includes a similar cam C which can open the bolt actuator mechanism in a similar well known manner, without providing a "locked" state of the inside handle 22.
As shown inn FIG. 5, the plunger 150 can include a sleeve 150' into which the screw shaft 130, springs 160 and 170, threaded disk 140, and the front wall 154 are inserted during assembly (the front wall 154 comprising locking dog 180 being fixed thereto via appropriate means upon assembly). As shown, preferably, a distal end of the shaft 130 includes a snap ring groove 1306 and extends out of a hole in the rear wall 153 (see, e.g., FIG. 4) so as to receive the retainer ring 136 that helps retain the plunger 150 thereon.
Accordingly, the second embodiment of the invention can operate in a similar manner to the first embodiment of the invention as described above. The first and second embodiments of the invention can both operate in similar manners and be used in similar applications and environments. As described above, preferably, the lock mechanism moves a locking dog 180 to engage and/or disengage a drive chain of the handle 21 so that movement of the handle can impart movement to a locking bolt (not shown --i.e., via the cam 210C -- in a manner as is known in the art) when engaged (e. g., in an "unlocked" state) or so that movement of the handle will not impart movement to a locking bolt when the drive is disengaged (locked state). As described above and shown by FIG. 4, the device preferably includes an outside handle tube 21' that is fixed to the outside handle 21 and moves therewith, wherein in the unlocked position, the locking dog is positioned away from a slot in the handle tube so that the handle tube moves without driving the locking bolt. In addition, the springs or other biasing means 160 and 170 preferably remain uncompressed (e. g., unbiased) in both the locked and unlocked positions unless the locking dog becomes held or bound in the slot of the handle tube or the like.
In the embodiments described herein-above, binding of the locking dog 180 or other mechanical problems which retain or bind the plunger 150 in position despite the running or operation of the motor is dealt with via the use of, e.g., the springs or biasing members 160 and 170 as described above. As described, in that manner, for example, the motor 100 can continue to operate properly without damage thereto, etc. In alternative embodiments, however, it is contemplated that rather than, or in addition to -- e.g., in combination with the above first and/or second embodiments or with other known devices, using such springs or biasing means, the device can be constructed so as to control the operation of the motor based on automatic detection of binding conditions that may occur.
FIGs. 6(A) through 6(D) depict alternative actuator elements for use with the electronic lock-set according to the second embodiment of the present invention which is intended to prevent binding conditions. The alternative embodiment comprises a plunger 150', threaded disk 140', screw shaft 130', and locking dog 180'. The plunger 150', as depicted in several side views by FIGS. 7(A) through 7(C), operates much like the plunger 150 depicted by FIGS. 2 through 4. The substantially cylindrical plunger 150' has a longitudinal keyway 152' for receiving a pin or tab 141' extending from the threaded disk 140' (depicted in several side views by FIGS. 7(E) through 7(G)) which fits within the plunger 150'. The interaction of the pin or tab 141' and the keyway 152' prevents rotation of the disk 140' relative to the plunger 150'.
The disk 140' is a hollow ring shape with internal threads 142' adapted to engage the external threads 131' on the screw shaft 130'. Thus, rotation of the screw shaft 103' causes the threaded disk 140' to travel longitudinally along the shaft 103' since it is fixed from rotation. The screw shaft 130' for this alternative embodiment of the invention is depicted in a side view by FIG. 7(D). A locking dog 180', depicted in side views by FIGs. 7(H) and 7(I), fits within the end of the plunger 150' substantially as shown.
As depicted by the figures, the threaded disk 140' in this alternative embodiment has a pair of pockets 143' on either side of the internal threads 142' which are adapted to hold a first spring 160' and a second spring 170' such that the springs 160' and 170' travel with the threaded disk 140' along the screw shaft 130'. One end of each spring 160' and 170' enters the pockets 143', and the other end of the springs 160' and 170' remain enclosed in the plunger 150' once the locking dog 180' is inserted, preferably permanently by staking into the end of the plunger 150'.
As best seen in FIG. 7(D), the screw shaft 130' has an externally threaded portion 131' surrounded on either side by two unthreaded portions 132'(a) and 132'(b). The arrangement of portions 132'(a) and 132'(b) on either side of threads 131' allows the threaded disk 140' to engage and disengage from the threads 131' depending upon the direction of rotation of screw shaft 130' by motor 100 after each motor cycle to lock or unlock the lock.
When the threaded disk 140' runs off the threaded portion 131', it has created a preload on one of the springs 160' or 170', as shown in FIGS. 6(B) and 6(A) respectively, that will ensure engagement between threads 131' and 142' for the next cycle. (See FIG. 7(A)) This preload has the added benefit of aiding the motor 100 toward full power during the next cycle before the plunger 150' and locking dog 180' begin to move. Once thread engagement has been established, the springs 160' and 170' transmit the motion from the longitudinally moving threaded disk 140' to the plunger 150'. This motion of the plunger 150' moves the locking dog 180', during unbinded operation, from a locked position I, shown in FIG. 6(A), to an unlocked position II, shown in FIG 6 (B) .
FIGS. 6(C) and 6(D) illustrate the condition of the lock in a lock according to this alternative embodiment of the invention in an impeded unlocked, and impeded lock position, respectively.
It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that any impediment to the movement of the plunger 150' or locking dog 180' while the screw shaft 130' is being turned by the motor 100 will still allow the treaded disk to move laterally along the screw shaft until it reaches either of the unthreaded portions 132'(a) or 132'(b). Thus, a motor cycle attempting to move the lock from the status depicted in FIG. 6(A) (i.e.,'locked) to the status depicted in FIG. 6(B) (i.e., unlocked) would cause the status depicted in FIG. 6(C) (i.e., impeded unlocked) if locking dog 180' and plunger 150' encountered a binding condition which somehow prohibited locking dog 180' from moving to position II.
In the impeded unlock position, a larger compression and thus greater preload is placed on spring 160'. Once the impediment is removed, the spring 160' will attempt to equalize and the plunger 150' and locking dog 180' will move to position II, as depicted by FIG. 6(B), without any further motor 100 action.
Similarly, a motor cycle attempting to move the lock from the unlocked (FIG. 6(B)) position to the locked (FIG. 6(A)) position would cause the status depicted in FIG. 6(D) (i.e., impeded locked) if a binding condition was encountered which prevented locking dog 180' and plunger 150' from moving to position I. In the impeded lock position, a relatively greater preload is placed on spring 170'. This preload will tend to equalize, and the plunger 150' and locking dog 180' will move to position I (FIG. 6(A)) without any further motor 100 action once the impediment is removed.
FIGS. 8(A), 8(B), and 9-11 illustrate a third embodiment of the invention which is similar to the second embodiment described above, but with a modified plunger 150 and related structure without springs 160 and 170. While the embodiments shown in these figures could potentially be utilized without electronic control as described herein-below, it is clearly much more preferably so controlled.
As best seen in FIG. 8(A) and FIG. 9, the plunger 150 in this latter embodiment is modified, and simplified, so as to include an annular shaped member having an upstanding locking dog 180 formed integral to the plunger 150 body that operates in a similar manner to the locking dog(s)described above with respect to the first and second described embodiments of the invention.
As shown by FIG. 11, the plunger 150 includes a threaded central hole through which the threaded shaft 130 is threadingly engaged.
As a result, rotation of the screw shaft 130 directly causes longitudinal movement of the plunger and, thus, of the integral locking dog 180.
As in the preceding first and second embodiments, the motor 100 in the third embodiment is preferably mounted upon a motor mount 22" (e. g., the mount 22" can fix the motor so as to rotate along with rotation of the tube 22' or so as to remain fixed with respect to the door 10). FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary motor 100 and a motor mount 22", shown with screws 128 utilized to fix the motor to the mount as shown. FIG. 10 also shows an exemplary manner of fixing the coupling member 121' to the motor shaft 110, using a set screw 129 to retain the shaft 110 within the hole 121'-1.
FIG. 8(B) depicts a preferred design for a coupling member 120' particularly for use with the embodiment of the present invention as depicted by FIG. 8(A). The coupling member 120' has a pair of radial slots 120'-5 disposed on both sides of the coupling member 120'. A groove pin 130-1 passes through the screw shaft 130 and out through either radial slot 120'-5 so as to connect the coupling member 120' to the screw shaft 130. The coupling member 120' is attached to the motor shaft 110 (not shown in FIG. 8(B)) by as set screw 129, and is rotated by the motor 100. Each time the motor 100 rotates, the coupler is thereby rotated until the end of both radial slots 120'-5 impact upon the groove pin 130-1. This impact creates sufficient force to overcome static friction (or "sticking") of the screw shaft 130 threads at the beginning of each rotation. Such impact could advantageously be used to eliminate or reduce potential bind conditions of the electronic locking set. As will be readily appreciated by one skilled in the art, the above coupling member design can optionally be used in any of the above embodiments of the present invention.
While in less preferred embodiments, the device according to this third embodiment of the present invention could be operated without any special motor control to accommodate for binding of the locking dog 180, of the plunger 150 and/or of other elements, the device according to this third embodiment preferably includes an operational control that changes operation of the motor upon the detection of a binding or the like condition.
According to this further aspect of the invention that is especially applicable with the third embodiment of the invention, but which can also be applied in the first and second embodiments (and also, for example, in any other devices including biasing means), a control is included to change (e. g., modify or alter) the operation of the motor 100 upon detecting (e.g., sensing or otherwise determining) the existence of a binding condition or any other like condition inhibiting the operation of the motor (e.g., binding the device such that shaft 110 is restrained or inhibited from rotation even if the motor is continued to be operated). Upon determining that a binding or the like condition exists, the motor can be controlled, for example to:
stop operation, e.g., to stop rotation, of the motor; reverse operation of the motor; alternate operation (e. g., for short intervals) of the motor forwards and reverse (e.g., to try and "free" a binding condition); slow down operation of the motor; or otherwise control the motor to change its current state of operation (e.g., whether the motor is currently operating in forward or reverse).
As shown schematically in FIG. 12(A), in a preferred embodiment, a binding or the like condition is determined by monitoring the motor 100 with detector circuitry 300 and controlling the motor operation with a motor driver 100' via a processor 400 (e.g., a computer, microprocessor, or any electronic controller) depending on whether or not a binding or like condition is detected. As will be readily appreciated by one skilled in the art, the detector 300 and processor 400 could be incorporated together into an integral unit, or comprise separate or multiple elements.
Preferably, the processor 400 (including the detector circuitry 300) is maintained in an "off" mode with a power switch 600 when the door is not being accessed or under other conditions in order to avoid wasting energy when the device is not in use.
This is particularly advantageous when the system is battery 500 powered -- which is the preferred. Accordingly, the device preferably includes a circuit for "turning on" or "waking up" the processor by transferring the power switch 600 to an "on" mode as required. Preferably, the turn-on circuit operates to turn on the system at least one, but preferably all, of the following ways.
First, the turn-on circuit preferably turns on the device upon a user attempting to access the door 10 from the unsecure side (i.e., attempting to enter the secure side). In that regard, a key switch 900 is preferably provided that is activated when the user attempts to activate the lock. In a preferred embodiment of the invention where the lock is accessed via an electronic key 50, preferably the key 50 is adapted so as to complete a circuit upon insertion into the device thus triggering the key switch 900. For instance, the key blade 51 could be conductive and used to complete a circuit upon insertion into the device. It should be understood that a variety of means for completing a circuit could be employed, such as proximity switches or sensors or the like which sense the proximity of the electronic key, card, etc., or the like, or even a separate hand manipulated switch or button.
Second, the turn-on circuit also preferably can be turned on via a clock alarm 700, such as timing mechanism or processor, that can be set so as to activate or deactivate the device based on predetermined (e.g., pre-programmed) time schedules or conditions. For instance, access could be allowed as of 8:00 a.m., for example, and could be denied as of 5:00 p.m., for example.
Third, the turn-on circuit also preferably turns on the processor via a door switch 800, such as in the form of a proximity switch mounted between the door and door frame, that closes a circuit upon opening of the door. In that manner, upon opening of the door, the processor is preferably activated so that it may make a determination as to whether the door opened via proper means (e.g., via a proper access key) or whether it was opened inappropriately (e.g., via broken or forced entry or the like).
Preferably, the turn-on circuit will apply power to the processor in each of the above three ways. FIG. 12(B) illustrates a preferred embodiment of a turn-on circuit that can be used. As noted, normally when not actively engaged in enabling the door 10 to be opened, the processor U1 will be turned off. The processor in FIG. 12(B) is turned on by turning on Q1, which can occur in any of the following three ways: a) when a key switch, for example, is activated, a ground will be applied, through a resettable fuse, to R2, which will forward bias Ql and thus turn it on; b) a processor U2 (e. g., including, for example, a timer or a real-time clock with alarm features and an open drain output) can apply a ground to R5, which will turn Q2 off, which will turn Q3 on, which will apply a ground to R3, which will thus turn Ql on; and c) a door switch, for example, can be activated, which will apply a ground to R8, which will turn Q4 on, which then turns on Q1. When the processor U1 is turned on, it will turn on Q5, which will apply a ground to R9, which will turn Ql permanently on, even after the momentary inputs are gone. The processor U1 will then determine what turned it on by polling the processor U2 (e. g., timer) and door switch inputs; if neither of these inputs is active, then the processor will determine that the key switch turned it on. When the microprocessor completes its task (e. g., controlling operation of the motor 100 as described below), it will turn Q5 off, which will turn Ql off, and thus turn U1 off.
As noted, in this latter embodiment, binding or the like can be sensed by electronic control (e. g., via a software programmed processor) as opposed to be dealt with by introducing flexure into the drive mechanism via springs or the like. That is, rather than providing a mechanism that allows the motor to continue rotating through a complete cycle during binding, the device includes electronic control to change motor operation under such conditions. This latter embodiment has notable advantages over devices including springs or the like -- such as, for example, substantially improving actuator performance as well as reliability. For example, performance can be increased by elimination of "play" in the system (e. g., due to springs, etc.) and providing "tight" electronic control, and reliability can be increased by simplifying the structure of the device and quickly responding to binding and the like conditions via a microprocessor or the like control.
FIG. 13 shows one preferred manner of using the processor to control operation of the motor 100. During binding or the like conditions, the motor 100 will experience a change in condition that can be detected using, for instance, an arrangement as shown in FIG. 12. For example, the electrical load upon the motor will increase upon binding or the like. In this regard, according to one exemplary method in accordance with the present invention, the processor can be programmed to perform the steps shown in FIG. 13 to detect such a condition.
As shown in FIG. 13, at step 1001, the motor 100 is initially energized in either the forward or reverse direction.
Then, at steps 1002-1003, the processor counts down (i.e., delays) for 10 milliseconds. After that, at step 1004, the motor 100 is turned off (e.g., motor driver transistors Ql and Q2 are turned off). At that point, the motor 100 continues to coast for a duration. Then, at steps 1005-1006, the processor delays for 50 milliseconds. After that, at step 1007, the motor is energized again. Then, at steps 1008-1009, the processor delays for 3 milliseconds. After that, at step 1010, the processor will perform an A/D conversion, and the result is saved as a reference value at step 1011. Then, at steps 1012-1013, the processor delays for another 3 milliseconds. After that, at step 1014, the processor will perform another A/D conversion, and the result is saved as a reference value #1 at step 1015. Then, at steps 1016-1017, the processor delays for another 3 milliseconds.
After that, at step 1018, the processor will perform yet another A/D conversion, and the result is saved as a reference value #2 at step 1019. Then, at steps 1020-1021, the processor delays for another 1 millisecond. After that, at step 1022, the processor de-energizes the motor.
At that point, the processor makes a comparison of the values obtained to determine if binding or the like has occurred.
In that regard, at step 1023, the value #1 is compared to the reference value. In the case of binding, the value of the A/D
conversion will increase due to the binding of the motor, and, thus, if value #1 is larger than the reference value (or larger by a predetermined amount), then an initial determination of binding is made. In that case, in order to ensure that binding has occurred, a second check is (in this preferred embodiment) conducted between value #2 and the reference at 1024. If the value #2 is larger than the reference value, then at step 1026 the processor determines that binding or the like is detected.
In that case, the processor can promptly control the motor to stop, or to otherwise be controlled, such as noted above.
Otherwise, if the value #1 is not larger, the processor can conclude that no binding has occurred at 1025. Similarly, even if value #1 is larger, the processor can conclude that no binding has occurred at 1025 if the value #2 is not larger.
In either case, the processor can, if desired, repeat these steps as needed until the locking dog 180 has reached a fully engaged or fully disengaged condition. Notably, this "binding"
detection can also be utilized to determine at what point the locking dog 180 is in its fully engaged or disengaged conditions -- for example, upon impinging upon a stop plate (see FIG. 9) when reaching a fully disengaged (e.g., locked) state, the processor can detect this condition and can, thus, stop the motor 100, and, similarly, upon impinging upon the rear side of the slot 211 in the key tube 210 when reaching a fully engaged (e. g., unlocked) state, the processor can detect this condition and thus stop the motor 100. This can also be used by the processor to accurately determine the positioning of the locking dog in the lock assembly. If desired, the processor could also be programmed so as to monitor the amount of time and/or power, etc., required to travel between fully engaged and disengaged positions and to potentially alter operation in the event of changes in the calibrated times, etc., required, or to provide a more accurate assessment of whether binding or the like has occurred, etc.
It is contemplated that in less preferred embodiments, only one A/D conversion value could be compared with the reference value. In addition, three or more such values could be used for comparison in other embodiments. In addition, other embodiments could utilize different time delays for remaining in energized and de-energized states. It should be understood that these method steps are of one preferred embodiment and that a variety of other embodiments are contemplated.
While detection is preferably via a comparison of such A/D
conversion values, it is contemplated that binding detection could be achieved in other, although less preferred ways in other embodiments. For example, in cases where the temperature, noise, or another factor of the motor may increase upon binding, a temperature sensor, microphone or another detection means could be employed, and readings could be obtained and compared in a similar manner.
According to another aspect of the invention, if desired, a control could be employed in order to monitor the battery voltage level. Based on the battery voltage level determined, for example, the time periods for energizing and/or de-energizing the motor 100 can be adjusted accordingly based on known operation conditions of the corresponding motor. Notably, as the battery voltage power decreases (e. g., in cases where such voltage decrease is not prevented by other means), the motor 100 is affected so as to output a greater amount based on such a decrease. By pre-conditioning the processor (e. g., pre-programming) to vary motor "on" and/or "off" times in accordance with such a voltage decrease, the extent of movement of the plunger 150 and locking dog 180 can be maintained at a substantially constant or at a similar enough or desirable enough level to continue optimal operation of the device.
In this regard, a microprocessor normally requires a steady, regulated DC power supply for it to function appropriately. When using a microprocessor that has Analog to Digital ("A/D") capabilities, a very steady voltage should preferably be established in order for the circuit to perform accurate A/D conversions.
Some microprocessors have a range of voltages that they will operate in, such as from, for example, 5.5 Vdc to 3.0 Vdc, so as to accommodate various different steady DC operating voltages.
To maintain a steady DC operating voltage, most circuits employ a voltage regulator of some sort. A common type of regulator is a switching voltage regulator, such as those referred to as a buck or boost type of regulator. These can either be step up or step down types.
Circuits that are primarily battery powered typically have regulated switching power supplies to maintain a steady voltage regulation by stepping up or stepping down the battery voltage as the battery dies down.
According to this additional aspect of the invention, the circuit can be made so as not to use any kind of voltage regulation at all. The microprocessor can be powered directly off of the battery, and even as the battery voltage drops, the microprocessor will function within a wide voltage range.
In this regard, preferably, the microprocessor monitors the DC operating voltage through its internal A/D and makes software adjustments to allow for a dying battery, such as adjusting the motor timing routine (e.g., as described above). The A/D has a very low reference voltage that is well below the microprocessor cut off voltage. After the battery has died down to a certain level, the microprocessor can be made to alert the user through buzzers and LEDs that the battery is getting weak. After a certain low battery voltage is reached, the microprocessor can then be made to shut itself off.
This last aspect of the invention provides a number of substantial benefits, including, for example, a substantial reduction in monetary costs, a more efficient usage of batteries and an increased battery life, as well as a variety of other benefits.
While the present invention has been shown and described with reference to preferred embodiments presently contemplated as best modes for carrying out the invention, it is to be understood that various changes may be made in adapting the invention to different embodiments without departing from the broader inventive concepts disclosed herein and comprehended by the claims which follow.
Claims (12)
1. An electronic lock-set device, comprising:
an electric motor operated by a control mechanism;
a screw shaft coupled to and rotated by said electric motor, said screw shaft having a portion with external threads; and an actuator element engaging said threaded portion of said screw shaft, said actuator element adapted to reciprocate along an axis of said screw shaft upon rotation of said screw shaft by said motor, said actuator element comprising a locking dog; and means for preventing damage to said lock-set device from a binding condition which hinders the ability of the actuator element to reciprocate along said screw shaft during operation of said motor.
an electric motor operated by a control mechanism;
a screw shaft coupled to and rotated by said electric motor, said screw shaft having a portion with external threads; and an actuator element engaging said threaded portion of said screw shaft, said actuator element adapted to reciprocate along an axis of said screw shaft upon rotation of said screw shaft by said motor, said actuator element comprising a locking dog; and means for preventing damage to said lock-set device from a binding condition which hinders the ability of the actuator element to reciprocate along said screw shaft during operation of said motor.
2. The device of claim 1, further comprising an adapter, said adapter coupling a motor shaft of said motor to said screw shaft such that operation of said motor imparts rotational force to said shaft.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein said adapter comprises a coil spring, and wherein said adapter serves as said means for preventing damage by absorbing stresses caused by said binding condition.
4. The device of claim 2, wherein said adapter comprises a universal joint such that said screw shaft does not need to be axially aligned with said motor shaft.
5. The device of claim 2, wherein said adapter comprises a substantially hollow cylindrical member, said member having a distal end for internally receiving a proximal end of said screw shaft, said member further having a pair of radial slots on opposite sides of said distal end, said screw shaft and said adapter being coupled via a radial pin extending through said proximal end of said screw shaft and into said slots at said distal end of said adapter.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein said actuator element further comprises a plunger.
7. The device of claim 6, wherein said actuator element further comprises a threaded disk and two biasing springs within said plunger, said threaded disk engaging said threaded portion of said screw shaft and restrained from rotation relative to said plunger.
8. The device of claim 7, wherein said biasing springs impart the axial movement of said threaded disk to said plunger and locking dog.
9. The device of claim 8, wherein said screw shaft has two unthreaded portions, one unthreaded portion located on either side of said threaded portion, said threaded and two unthreaded portions of said screw shaft adapted to allow said threaded disk to disengage and re-engage said screw shaft upon rotation of said screw shaft, and wherein said biasing springs and said threaded and two unthreaded portions comprises said means for preventing damage.
10. The device of claim 6, wherein said plunger and said locking dog integrally comprise said actuator element.
10. The device of claim 6, wherein said plunger and said locking dog integrally comprise said actuator element.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein said control mechanism comprises an electronic controller to adjust operation of said electric motor based on detection of a change in load on said electric motor.
11. The device of claim 10, further including a turn on circuit to turn on said electronic controller when an individual engages said electronic lock-set.
12. The device of claim 10, wherein said electronic controller comprises a processor and a detector.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US13212299P | 1999-04-30 | 1999-04-30 | |
| US60/132,122 | 1999-04-30 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2306997A1 true CA2306997A1 (en) | 2000-10-30 |
Family
ID=22452583
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002306997A Abandoned CA2306997A1 (en) | 1999-04-30 | 2000-04-28 | Locking device for an electronic lock-set |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2306997A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN111815824A (en) * | 2020-08-04 | 2020-10-23 | 四川铁集共联科技股份有限公司 | Unlocking method based on Bluetooth identification |
-
2000
- 2000-04-28 CA CA002306997A patent/CA2306997A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN111815824A (en) * | 2020-08-04 | 2020-10-23 | 四川铁集共联科技股份有限公司 | Unlocking method based on Bluetooth identification |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Discontinued | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20040428 |