AU2018347005B2

AU2018347005B2 - Electronic lockset having mode selection

Info

Publication number: AU2018347005B2
Application number: AU2018347005A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Kevin Francis Sullivan
Original assignee: Assa Abloy Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Assa Abloy Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2017-10-10
Filing date: 2018-10-10
Publication date: 2024-04-04
Anticipated expiration: 2038-10-10
Also published as: WO2019071307A1; AU2018347006A1; CN111512010B; CN111566297B; WO2019071306A1; CN111512010A; AU2018347005B9; CN111566297A; AU2018347005A1

Abstract

The invention is directed to an electronic lockset for installation on a door to control movement of a bolt. The electronic lockset includes an outer body for location on an outer side of the door having an outer hand operable member, an inner body for location on an inner side of the door having an inner hand operable member, each of the outer hand operable member and inner hand operable member being independently movable for moving the bolt from an outer side and inner side of the door respectively, at least an inner user interface configured for receiving user input from an inner side of the door, a powered control mechanism in communication with the inner user interface to control operation of the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member. The lockset is operable in an operating mode selected from a plurality of operating modes including a safety mode whereby the inner hand operable member is rendered operable for moving the bolt and the outer hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt, and a passage mode whereby the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member are both rendered operable for moving the bolt. The operating mode is determined based on the user input and a position of the door.

Description

ELECTRONIC LOCKSET HAVING MODE SELECTION

Related Applications

[001 ] This application claims priority from Australian provisional application no. 2017904088 filed on 10 October 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[002] This invention relates to an electronic lockset for installation on a door to move a bolt relative to the door, including a powered control mechanism interacting between an inner hand operable member and an outer hand operable member controlling movement of the bolt. The applicant has appreciated the electronic lockset has a particular application in a residential security market, and it will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention with reference to that particular application. It ought to be appreciated however that the electronic lockset may have other applications.

Background of Invention

[003] The residential security market has traditionally been supplied with mechanical locks and locksets. There is a high level of acceptance and understanding of how they can be used, and there is also comfort with the users that they provide adequate functionality and security. Furthermore some users like that they are sufficiently familiar with their residential mechanical locks that they are comfortable in installing them, with rim locks being particularly popular with DIY users.

[004] The commercial security market is generally supplied with more complex mechanical, electromechanical and electronic locks. The locks are often installed with hard wiring and utilise powered actuators to release an electronic strike, or magnetic lock. These locks are often keyless, controlled without a mechanical key, instead using a keypad, magnetic or electronic access card or fob and more recently biometric scanners to provide a personal digital signature. While egress from the inside to the outside is generally achieved by depressing a release button or the like at the inside of the door, these locks are generally monitored by a security system, often with personal security guards adding an extra layer of security. [005] The applicant has appreciated that residential users are often exposed to these commercial security options whilst at work, and are looking for similar options at home. The ability to utilise a keyless controller can be particularly attractive, however they are often not prepared to pay for a security system to monitor the lockset. Furthermore, residential users generally prefer to understand how the locks work, or at least have the same level of comfort that the lock will be dependable in a similar manner to their existing residential security options. Accordingly complex locks, particularly with requirements for hard wiring are generally rejected for the residential security market.

[006] Embodiments of the invention may provide an electronic lockset tailored for the residential security market.

[007] A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not to be taken as an admission that that document or matter was, in Australia, known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims.

Summary of Invention

[008] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an electronic lockset for installation on a door to control movement of a bolt, the electronic lockset including an outer body for location on an outer side of the door having an outer hand operable member, an inner body for location on an inner side of the door having an inner hand operable member, each of the outer hand operable member and inner hand operable member being independently movable for moving the bolt from an outer side and inner side of the door respectively, at least an inner user interface configured for receiving user input from an inner side of the door, a powered control mechanism in communication with the inner user interface to control operation of the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member, the lockset being operable in an operating mode selected from a plurality of operating modes including a safety mode whereby the inner hand operable member is rendered operable for moving the bolt and the outer hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt, and a passage mode whereby the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member are both rendered operable for moving the bolt, and wherein the operating mode is determined based on the user input and a position of the door.

[009] Advantageously, a residential user can conveniently set the operating mode of the lock to a desired operating mode from an inner side of the door. The specific use case scenarios will be discussed in further detail below.

[0010] The inner user interface may include any suitable input means for receiving the user input. For example, the input means may include a touch screen, an input keypad, a switch, a pushbutton switch, contactless input means, and the like, and/or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the user input means includes a pushbutton.

[001 1 ] The position of the door can be determined by any suitable position sensing means. The door position sensor may include a magnetic switch such as a reed switch. The reed switch may be normally open or normally closed. A permanent magnet many be mounted to a door frame and the reed switch mounted proximate a side of the lockset body facing the magnet and door frame. The reed switch changes state in the presence of a magnetic field and therefore determines when the door is in a closed position (i.e. when a magnetic field is detected) and when the door is in an open position (i.e. when no magnetic field is detected). In some embodiments, the door position sensor may be integrated with door furniture of the lockset or the latch assembly.

[0012] Typically, the lockset may be set to operate in passage mode if the door is in an open position, and user input is received from the inner user interface. The lockset may be set to operate in safety mode if the door is in a closed position, and user input is received from the inner user interface.

[0013] Accordingly, a residential user exiting the house momentarily, for example, to take out the rubbish or retrieve the mail, can use the switch (e.g. push the pushbutton) whilst the door is open to set the lockset to passage mode so that the lockset remains unlocked from both sides after it closes. Once the user returns inside, the switch can be used again to set to lockset to safety mode so that the lockset is locked from the outside and unlocked from the inside. [0014] The plurality of operating modes further includes a secure mode whereby the inner hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt and the outer hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt.

[0015] The electronic lockset is therefore advantageously configured to provide deadlocking functionality. It is often desirable to prevent egress from the inside to the outside of a building, for example when a residential house is to be left vacant during the day, to prevent unauthorised removal of items through the door.

[0016] In some embodiments, the lockset is further operable in an auto-lock setting whereby the lockset automatically changes from passage mode to safety mode after a predetermined period has lapsed. Typically, when auto-lock setting is enabled, the lockset automatically changes from passage mode to safety mode after the door has moved to a closed position and the predetermined period has lapsed.

[0017] In one embodiment, the auto-locking setting is associated with an auto-lock timer and an auto-locking function of the lockset. The auto-locking function, once triggered, automatically changes the lockset to safety mode. The auto-lock timer can be configured to count any suitable period of time such that the auto-locking function is triggered once the counting is complete. For example, the timer may be configured to count 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minute, and so forth. When the auto-lock setting is enabled, the auto-lock timer starts once the door position indicates that the door has moved to a closed position, and once the counting is complete, the auto-locking function is triggered and the lockset is set to safety mode.

[0018] In some embodiments, the auto-lock timer can be paused, delayed or set to OFF if user input is received from the inner user interface when the door is in the open position. This ensures that the lock will remain unlocked from both sides when the user momentarily exits the house when the auto-lock setting is enabled.

[0019] In particular, the lockset may be configured such that when the auto-lock setting is enabled, and user input is received from the inner user interface when the door is in an open position, the lockset operates in passage mode until the door is in a closed position and user input is received from the inner user interface, the lockset being set to safety mode when the door returns to the closed position and user input is received from the inner user interface. When the auto-lock setting is enabled, during a subsequent time that the door returns to a closed position after opening, the auto-lock timer may start counting the predetermined period of time, if no user input is received from the inner user interface.

[0020] The powered control mechanism may include an inner clutch mechanism and an outer clutch mechanism associated with the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member respectively. Each clutch mechanism may be movable between an engaged condition in which movement of the respective hand operable member results in movement of the bolt, and a disengaged condition in which movement of the respective hand operable member does not result in movement of the bolt.

[0021 ] Each clutch mechanism may be driven by a respective motor. In alternative embodiments, movement of the clutch mechanisms may be affected by solenoids and the like.

[0022] The control mechanism may be powered by a battery unit. The battery unit may be provided within a housing of the electronic lockset. Providing the lockset with its own battery power advantageously avoids the need to set up wiring in the door to connect the lockset to an external power supply such as the mains power supply, thereby greatly simplifying installation procedures.

[0023] Any suitable type and sized battery unit may be provided. The battery unit may include one or more battery cells. The battery unit may be rechargeable. In particular, the battery unit may be recharged without removal from the lockset. In one embodiment, the lockset may include a recharging circuit and provide a connector for connecting the battery unit and recharging circuit to an external power supply such as mains power supply or a battery charger via an external charging cable.

[0024] The lockset may further include an outer user interface configured for receiving using input from an outer side of the door. The outer user interface may include any suitable input means for receiving user input. For example, the input means may include a touch screen, an input keypad, RFID reader, smartcard/barcode reader, wireless communication portal and the like, and/or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the outer user interface includes an RFID reader for receiving user access credentials in the form of an RFID signal, and the out user interface is configured to receive user access credentials from a mobile device via Bluetooth.

[0025] In some embodiments, the user access credentials can be received via the inner user interface or the outer user interface.

[0026] In some embodiments, the operating mode of the lockset can be changed from passage mode to safety mode or from safety mode to passage mode upon detection of authorised user access credentials (for example, in the form of an RFID signal or Bluetooth signal from a mobile application).

[0027] In one embodiment, the operating mode of the lockset can be changed to secure mode upon detection of an authorised user access device such as an RFID device or other suitable mobile device for a predetermined time. Typically, the RFID device is presented to the outer user interface for a predetermined time, for example, 3 seconds. However, any suitable length of time may be used, for example, 2 seconds, 4 seconds, 5 seconds, and so forth. Prior to presentation of the access device, the lockset may be operating in passage mode or safety mode. Once the user leaves the house, the user may elect to deadlock the lockset. In which case, the deadlocking function can be achieved once the door has moved to the closed position and by presenting the user access device at the outer user interface for a predetermined period of time. In some embodiments, a mobile application installed on the user's mobile device can be used to set the operating mode of the lock to secure by selecting the appropriate operating mode within the application.

[0028] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an electronic lockset for installation on a door to control movement of a bolt, the electronic lockset including

an outer body for location on an outer side of the door having an outer hand operable member,

an inner body for location on an inner side of the door having an inner hand operable member,

each of the outer hand operable member and inner hand operable member being movable for moving the bolt from an outer side and inner side of the door respectively, at least an inner user interface configured for receiving user input from an inner side of the door,

a powered control mechanism in communication with the inner user interface to control operation of the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member,

the lockset being operable in an operating mode selected from a plurality of operating modes including

a safety mode whereby the outer hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt, and

a passage mode whereby the outer hand operable member is rendered operable for moving the bolt, and

wherein the operating mode is determined based on the user input and a position of the door.

[0029] The lockset may be configured for wireless communication and connection to one or more wireless networks. As mentioned, the lockset may be configured for Bluetooth communication with a mobile device.

[0030] The mobile device may interface with the lockset via an application installed thereon. The Application may be secure application requiring secure login and verification of user credentials. The Application may include functionality to set user preferences such as the length of various predetermined time periods mentioned above, auto-lock enabled or disabled, and the like. The application may further include functionality to set the operating mode of the lock to the desired one of a passage mode, safety mode or secure mode. In some embodiments, the application may allow remote control of the operating mode of the lockset through WiFi.

[0031 ] In some embodiments, the lockset and mobile device may be configured for communication with a home security system. The home security system may include a home security network for providing wireless communication between home security devices including cameras, locks, motion sensors, alarms and the like.

[0032] There is further disclosed herein, a home security system including one or more electronic locksets as previously described, and a mobile device for interfacing with the one or more electronic locksets, the mobile device having an application installed thereon for selecting a desired mode of operation for each of the electronic locksets.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0033] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an electronic lockset including a tubular latch bolt assembly.

[0034] Figure 2 is an exploded isometric view of an electronic lockset according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Figure 3 is a rear elevation view of the outer body showing the outer clutch in a disengaged condition.

[0036] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view through the outer hand operable member and outer clutch from figure 3 showing the outer clutch in the disengaged condition.

[0037] Figure 5 is a rear elevation view of the outer body showing the outer clutch in an engaged condition.

[0038] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view through the outer hand operable member and outer clutch from figure 5 showing the outer clutch in an engaged condition.

[0039] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of an electronic control module of the lockset according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0040] Figure 8 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method for selecting an operating mode when auto-locking setting is enabled as executed by a microcontroller of the electronic control module of Figure 7.

[0041 ] Figure 9 is a process flow diagram illustrating a method for selecting an operating mode when auto-locking setting is disabled as executed by a microcontroller of the electronic control module of Figure 7.

[0042] Figure 10 illustrates a door position sensor of the lockset according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0043] It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention with greater detail by reference to the attached illustrations. The attached illustrations show a preferred embodiment of the invention. The drawings, and the following detailed description, are merely illustrative of how the invention might be put into effect. The specific form and arrangement of the various features as shown is not to be understood as limiting on the invention.

Detailed Description of Drawings

[0044] Referring to Figure 1 which illustrates the electronic lockset 1 according to an embodiment of the invention. The electronic lockset 1 is suitable for installation on a door (not shown) so that an inner body 4 is located on an inner side of the door, and an outer body 3 is located on an outer side of the door. Furthermore, the embodiment of the electronic lockset 1 as illustrated in Figure 1 is shown as including a tubular latch bolt assembly 2, a head of a latch bolt 5 extending out of the latch bolt housing 6. Whilst Figure 1 illustrates a tubular latch bolt assembly 2, quite clearly the electronic lockset could be suitable with other forms of mortice lock assembly including a deadbolt or swing bolt.

[0045] The electronic lockset 1 also includes an outer hand operable member 8 and an inner hand operable member 7 which are each illustrated in the form of a lever. The electronic lockset 1 of the invention is not limited for use with levers only, and the inner hand operable member 7 and outer hand operable member 8 may take other forms including a turn knob and the like.

[0046] The electronic lockset 1 also includes an outer user interface 9 and an inner user interface 10 associated with the outer body 3 and inner body 4 respectively. In this embodiment, the inner user interface 10 and outer user interface 9 may include a key pad arrangement (seen more clearly in Figure 2). However, the electronic lockset 1 may alternatively or additionally include an RFID reader for receiving electronic or magnetic signal from an access card or the like, or a biometric reader. More specifically, the electronic lockset 1 of the invention is not limited to including a key pad arrangement as the user interface.

[0047] In one embodiment as shown in Figure 1 , the outer user interface 9 is configured to receive user input without contact from an outer side of the door. In particular, the outer user interface 9 is configured to receive user access credentials, for example via an contactless user access device, such as an RFID access device, or a mobile device having a secure application installed thereon for transmitting user access credentials to the interface 9 via a wireless communication signal such as Bluetooth. As described in further detail below, upon detection of the correct user access credentials, the lockset 1 may change from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode.

[0048] The inner user interface 10 is further configured to receive user input from an inner side of the door. In particular, the inner user interface 10 includes pushbutton 50. As will be discussed in detail later, pushbutton 50 may be used to set the lockset 1 to a desired operating mode.

[0049] It should also be noted from Figure 1 that the electronic lockset 1 includes an inner spindle 1 1 extending between the inner body 4 and the tubular latch bolt 2. An equivalent outer spindle 12 (see Figure 2), extends between the outer body 3 and the tubular latch bolt assembly 2. Furthermore, Figure 1 illustrates a wiring loom 13 extending between the inner body 4 and outer body 3, which permits electronic communication between the inner body 4 and outer body 3 for reasons that will be explained later in the specification.

[0050] Referring now to Figure 2, the electronic lockset 1 also includes a powered control mechanism, which in summary includes an electronic control system 700 (see Figure 7), an outer coupling 19 and an inner coupling 20 (also referred to herein as outer and inner clutch mechanism respectively), an outer powered actuator for moving the outer clutch mechanism 19 between disengaged and engaged conditions, and an inner powered actuator for moving the inner clutch mechanism 20 between disengaged and engaged conditions.

[0051 ] The outer clutch mechanism 19 includes a first member 22 and a second member 23. The first member 22 is positioned to interact with the outer handle 8 (see also figure 4) whilst the second member 23 is positioned to interact with the outer spindle 12. Similarly, in relation to the inner clutch mechanism 20 the respective first member 24 is positioned to interact with the inner handle 7, whilst the respective second member 25 is positioned to interact with the inner spindle 1 1 . Furthermore, a detent 26 is positioned between the first member 22 and second member 23 of the outer clutch mechanism 19, whilst a detent 27 is positioned between the first member 24 and second member 25 of the inner clutch mechanism 20. Figure 2 also illustrates an inner motor 28 and an outer motor 29 that are each operable to adjust the position of the detent 27, 26 respectively to achieve a function that will be described later in the specification. It should be noted that for the purposes of this specification the inner motor 28 and inner detent 27 combine to form the inner powered actuator, while the outer motor 29 and outer detent 26 combine to form the outer powered actuator. Each of the inner and outer motors 28, 29 is coupled with a respective motor encoder (not shown) to provide motor position information to the electronic control system 700.

[0052] Referring now to Figure 3 which illustrates in summary the outer hand operable member 8, the outer body 3, the outer motor 29, the outer detent 26 and the second member 23 of the outer clutch 19. Figure 3 illustrates the detent 26 in an active position. It can be appreciated from Figure 4 that with the outer detent 26 in the active position the first member 22 is spaced from the second member 23 of the outer clutch mechanism 19 so that rotation of the outer hand operable member 8 does not result in rotation of the second member 23. It should also be noted from Figure 4 that a biasing spring 30 is acting between the first member 22 and the outer hand operable member 8 so as to urge the first member 22 towards the second member 23. However, the first member 22 is prevented from engaging the second member 23 as a result of the position of the outer detent 26. The outer clutch mechanism 19 is considered to be in a disengaged position in the arrangement illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, which corresponds to the outer detent 26 being in the active position.

[0053] In contrast, Figure 5 illustrates the outer detent 26 in an inactive condition. It should be noted that the outer motor 29 has been energised to rotate its output shaft 31 to move a driven member 34 there along. A free end 32 of the outer detent 26 is captured by the driven member 34, so that movement of the driven member 34 causes the outer detent 26 to pivot about its fixed end 33. As a result of movement of the outer detent 26, it can be appreciated from Figure 6 the first member 22 has moved to engage the second member 23 under the influence of the biasing spring 30. It ought to be appreciated that with the first member 22 now engaging the second member 23, that rotation of the outer hand operable member 8 will result in rotation of the second member 23. Furthermore, when the electronic lockset 1 is assembled the outer spindle 12 locates within the socket 35 (see Figure 6) of the second member 23 so that rotation of the outer hand operable member 8 will result in movement of the bolt 5 relative to the latch bolt housing 6.

[0054] It can also be noted from figure 3 (and figure 5) that the lockset 1 include a power terminal 36 located on the outside of the outer body 3, which may be connected to an external power supply 744 (see Figure 7). This enables auxiliary power to be supplied to the power supply in the event the power supply fails.

[0055] Whilst the powered control mechanism, and in particular the adjustment of the outer clutch mechanism 19 has been described with reference to Figures 3 to 6, it ought to be appreciated that the inner powered actuator can adjust the inner clutch mechanism 20 in the same manner. Accordingly, each of the inner and outer clutch mechanisms 19, 20 is capable of independently moving between engaged and disengaged conditions to render each of the inner and outer hand operable members 7, 8 independently operable or inoperable, respectively.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the lockset 1 is operable in the following three different operating modes:

• Passage Mode - the inner hand operable member 7 is rendered operable and the outer hand operable member 8 is also rendered operable. In this mode, anyone can freely enter and exit through the door.

• Safety Mode - the inner hand operable member 7 is rendered operable and the outer hand operable member 8 is rendered inoperable. In this mode, the lockset 1 is only locked from the outside so as to prevent unauthorised entry. However, a user can freely exit from the inside.

• Secure Mode - the inner hand operable member 7 is rendered inoperable and the outer hand operable member 8 is also rendered inoperable. In this mode the lockset 1 is locked from both sides to provide deadlocking functionality.

[0057] The electronic control system 700 determines an appropriate operating mode for the lockset 1 based on various inputs as described in further detail below. [0058] The electronic control system 700 will now be explained with reference to Figure 7. The electronic control system 700 includes an outer circuit module 702 provided in the outer body 3 (see Figure 1 ) of the electronic lockset 1 for mounting on an outer side of the door 60, and an inner circuit module 704 provided in the inner body 4 (see Figure 1 ) of the electronic lockset 1 for mounting on an inner side of the door 60. The inner circuit module 704 and the outer circuit module 702 are connected by wiring loom (wire harness) 710.

[0059] The system 700 further includes inner sub module 706 for connection with battery unit 708 for providing battery power to the lockset 1 . In one embodiment, the inner sub module 706 may be provided separately to the outer body 3 and inner body 4 of the lockset 1 so as to facilitate replacement of the battery unit 708 during maintenance and repair. In the embodiment shown, the battery unit 708 includes four AA battery cells. However, different sized battery cells can also be used, although it would be desirable to use battery sizes (such as AA and AAA) that are commonly available and easily obtainable from retail outlets by a user.

[0060] The inner circuit module 702 is the main circuit module which includes the microprocessor 712 for determining a desired mode of operation for the lockset 1 based on various inputs as described in further detail below with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Once the desired operating mode is determined, the microprocessor 712 checks the current motor positions for each of the inner and outer motors 28, 29 based on position information provided by the respective encoders, and generates corresponding motor control signals for each of the inner and outer motor driver circuits 714, 716 respectively in order to move each of the respective motors 28, 29 to a desired position to operate the inner and outer clutch mechanisms 20, 19 between engaged and disengaged positions.

[0061 ] The microprocessor 712 also interfaces with an RFID receiver circuit 718 also provided on the inner circuit module 712. The RFID receiver circuit 718 includes a decoder to interpret the data from a user's RFID device. An RFID scanning antenna circuit 722 is provided on the outer circuit module 702 for coupling with a user's RFID device. User access credentials received from the RFID device is interpreted by the RFID receiver 718 and transmitted to the microprocessor 712 to determine whether access should be authorised. [0062] The microprocessor 712 further receives (user) switch input 720 from pushbutton 50 provided on the inner user interface 10, and door position input 724 from a door position sensor (see Figure 10). As shown in Figure 10, typically the door position sensor 1 10 includes a magnetic component 1 12 for installation in a door frame of the door 60 and a reed switch 1 14 which forms part of a sensor circuit. Output from the sensor circuit is transmitted to the microprocessor 712 and provides an indication of a closed position or open position of the door 60.

[0063] The microprocessor 712 further interfaces with a Bluetooth module 726 for wireless communication with one or more mobile devices (not shown). The inner and/or outer user interface 10, 9 may include a switch for activating the Bluetooth module 726. In one embodiment, the Bluetooth activation switch may be and internal switch provided inside a cover of the lockset 1 .

[0064] The microprocessor 712 provides visual and audio output. In particular, the microprocessor 712 provides LED output 738, 746 (via each of the inner and outer user interfaces 10, 9) and buzzer output 740. In particular, the LED output 738, 746 may provide an indication of the operating mode of the lockset 1 . For example, the output colour of the LED module 738, 746 may be different to indicate a different operating mode. In embodiment, the output colour of the LED module 738, 746 may be green when the lockset 1 is in Passage Mode, the output colour of the LED module 738, 746 may be blue when the lockset 1 is in Safety Mode, and the output colour of the LED module 738, 746 may be red when the lockset 1 is in Secure Mode.

[0065] The buzzer 740 provides audio output to indicate when an error is detected with the lockset 1 . For example, if the lockset 1 is malfunctioning and unable to lock when required.

[0066] The inner circuit module 704 further provides programmable memory 728, factory reset 732 and debugging 734 functionality for the microprocessor 712.

[0067] Power circuit 736 draws power from battery unit 708 and provides power to components of the inner circuit module 704 including the microprocessor 712. Power is transferred from the inner circuit module 704 to the outer circuit module 702 via wiring loom 710. [0068] The outer circuit module 702 provides a terminal 742 for receiving external power 744 (e.g. via USB or micro-USB or the like), for example, during maintenance, battery 708 fault or end of life. The terminal 742 may further allow the electronic control system 700 to communication with a mobile device (not shown). In particular, the mobile device may include an application to communication with the control system 700 via terminal 742, to provide power and/or retrieve a service history log from the microcontroller 712 to facilitate maintenance and/or fault detection.

[0069] The lockset 1 is operable in two different settings. An auto-lock enabled setting and an auto-lock disabled setting. The auto-lock enabled setting automatically sets the lockset to Safety Mode once the door 60 moves to a closed position for a predetermined length of time. Any suitable predetermined length of time can be used, for example 10s, 20s, 30s and so forth. The predetermined length of time can be set via operation of a mobile application which communicates with the microprocessor via the Bluetooth module 726. The predetermined length of time is controlled by a programmable variable referred to herein as the auto-lock timer. The auto-lock timer is a variable which can be set to a user desired time delay before triggering the auto- locking function to set the lockset 1 to Safety Mode.

[0070] The pushbutton 50 can also be used in conjunction with the door position sensor to determine the appropriate operating mode for the lockset 1 as described in further detail below.

[0071 ] Now referring to Figure 8 which provides a flow diagram illustrating a method 800 of operating the lockset 1 when "auto-lock" setting is enabled, as executed by the microprocessor 712.

[0072] At initial step 802, in a common user scenario, the lockset 1 is set to Safety Mode in which the outer clutch mechanism 19 is in the disengaged condition such that the outer operable member 8 is rendered inoperable and the inner clutch mechanism 20 is in the engaged condition such that the inner operable member 7 is rendered operable. At the same time, as shown in step 804, input from the door position sensor 724 would indicate that the door 60 is closed. [0073] Step 806 illustrates the scenario when a user is exiting from inside. At step 806, a user uses the inner operable member 7 to unlock the lockset 1 and move the door 60 from the closed position to an open position.

[0074] At step 810, once the door is in an open position, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 is now in an open position.

[0075] At step 812, the microprocessor 712 generates a clutch control signal transmitted via wiring loom 710 to the outer motor driver circuit 716 to drive the outer motor 29 until the corresponding motor encoder indicates that the motor 29 has moved the outer clutch mechanism 19 to the engaged condition so that the outer operable member 8 is rendered operable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Passage Mode.

[0076] At query step 814, if user input is detected from the pushbutton 50 via switch input 720 while the door 60 is open, the method 800 proceeds to step 816. If no user input is detected via switch input 724, the method 800 proceeds to step 824.

[0077] At step 816, the auto-lock timer associated with the auto-lock setting is set to OFF'. At this point, the user has likely exited through the door 60 and is now outside the house with the door 60 closed behind him/her. The user may enter and exit through the door 60 a few more times as required.

[0078] At step 818, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 has moved to a closed position. At this point, the user has likely returned inside with the door closed behind him/her.

[0079] At step 820, as the auto-lock timer is turned OFF, the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode.

[0080] At step 822, if user input is detected from the pushbutton 50 via switch input 720, the method 800 proceeds to step 828 which sets the lockset Safety Mode. If no user input is detected via switch input 720, the method 800 returns to step 820 and the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode. [0081 ] At step 824, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 has moved to a closed position. At this point, the user has likely exited with the door closed behind him/her, and the user did not use the pushbutton 50 on the inner user interface 10 when the door was open.

[0082] At step 826, the auto-lock timer is set to ON' and counting of pre-set length of time (e.g. 20 seconds) begins. At this point, the user has likely exited through the door 60 and is now outside the house with the door 60 closed behind him/her. The user may enter and exit through the door 60 a few more times within the predetermined time period (e.g. 20 seconds) set by the auto-lock timer as the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode whilst the auto-lock timer is counting.

[0083] At step 828, once the auto-lock timer has completed counting and the predetermined time period has lapsed, the microprocessor 712 automatically generates a clutch control signal transmitted via wiring loom 710 to the outer motor driver circuit 716 to drive the outer motor 29 until the corresponding motor encoder indicates that the motor 29 has moved the outer clutch mechanism 19 to the disengaged condition so that the outer operable member 8 is rendered inoperable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Safety Mode.

[0084] At step 830, the microprocessor 712 resets the auto-lock timer such that the auto-lock timer resumes operation as set out in method 800 a subsequent time that user credentials are received from the outer user interface (step 832) or the door is opened from the inside (step 806).

[0085] A user scenario will now be described when a user attempts to enter from the outside by initially operating the lockset 1 from the outer user interface 9. At step 832, user access credentials are received via the outer user interface 9 from a user access device, such as an RFID card, or a mobile application installed on a mobile device.

[0086] At step 834, upon determining that the user access credentials are correct, the microprocessor 712 automatically generates a clutch control signal transmitted via wiring loom 710 to the outer motor driver circuit 716 to drive the outer motor 29 until the corresponding motor encoder indicates that the motor 29 has moved the outer clutch mechanism 19 to the engaged condition so that the outer operable member 8 is rendered operable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Passage Mode.

[0087] At step 836, the user is able to unlock and open the door 60 from the outside, and input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 has moved to an open position.

[0088] At step 838, if user input is detected from the pushbutton 50 via switch input 724 whilst the door 60 is open, the method 800 proceeds to step 840. If no user input is detected via switch input 720, the method 800 proceeds to step 824.

[0089] At step 840, the auto-lock timer associated with the auto-lock setting is set to OFF'. At this point, the user has likely entered through the door 60 and is now inside the house with the door 60 closed behind him/her. The user may exit and enter through the door 60 a few more times as required.

[0090] At step 842, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 has moved to a closed position. At this point, the user is likely inside with the door closed behind him/her.

[0091 ] At step 844, as the auto-lock timer is turned off, the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode.

[0092] At step 846, if user input is detected from the pushbutton 50 via switch input 720 while the door 60 is closed, the method 800 proceeds to step 828 which sets the lockset 1 to Safety Mode. If no user input is detected via switch input 720, the method 800 returns to step 844 and the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode.

[0093] Now referring to Figure 9 which provides a flow diagram illustrating a method 900 of operating the lockset 1 when "auto-lock" setting is disabled, as executed by the microprocessor 712.

[0094] At initial step 902, in a common user scenario, the lockset 1 is set to Safety Mode in which the outer clutch mechanism 19 is in the disengaged condition such that the outer operable member 8 is rendered inoperable, and the inner clutch mechanism 20 is in the engaged condition such that the inner operable member 7 is rendered operable. At the same time, as shown in step 904, input from the door position sensor 724 would indicate that the door 60 is closed.

[0095] Step 906 illustrates the scenario when a user is exiting from inside. At step 906, the user uses the inner operable member 7 to unlock the lockset 1 and move the door 60 from the closed position to an open position.

[0096] At step 908, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 is now in an open position.

[0097] At step 910, the microprocessor 712 generates a clutch control signal transmitted via wiring loom 710 to the outer motor driver circuit 716 to drive the outer motor 29 until the corresponding motor encoder indicates that the motor 29 has moved the outer clutch mechanism 19 to the engaged condition so that the outer operable member 8 is also rendered operable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Passage Mode.

[0098] At step 912, the lockset remains in Passage Mode. (When auto-lock setting is disabled, receiving user input from pushbutton 50 when the door is open has no effect on the operating mode selection as the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode after the door is unlocked until user input is received after the door is closed).

[0099] At step 914, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 is now in a closed position. At this point, the user has likely exited through the door 60 and is now outside the house with the door 60 closed behind him/her. The user may enter and exit through the door 60 as required whilst the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode.

[00100] At query step 916, if user access credentials are detected via the outer user interface 9, the method 900 proceeds to step 918. User access credentials are typically provided via non-contact means using a user access device such as an RFID card or mobile device. If no user input is detected, the method 900 returns to step 912 and the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode.

[00101 ] At query step 918, if a user access device is presented to the outer user interface 9 for greater than a predetermined period of time (e.g. greater than 3 seconds, 4 seconds and so forth), the method 900 proceeds to step 920. If the user access device is presented to the outer user interface 9 for less than the predetermined period of time period (e.g. less than 3 seconds), the method 900 proceeds to step 922.

[00102] At step 920, the microprocessor 712 generates clutch control signals 713, 710 to the inner and outer motor driver circuits 714, 716 to drive each of the inner and outer motors 28, 29 until the corresponding motor encoders indicate that the motors 28, 29 have moved the inner and outer clutch mechanisms 20, 19 respectively to the disengaged conditions so that the inner and outer operable members 7, 8 are both rendered inoperable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Secure Mode.

[00103] At step 922, microprocessor 712 generates a clutch control signal transmitted via wiring loom 710 to the outer motor driver circuit 716 to drive the outer motor 29 until the corresponding motor encoder indicates that the motor 29 has moved the outer clutch mechanism 19 to the disengaged condition so that the outer operable member 8 is rendered inoperable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Safety Mode.

[00104] A user scenario will now be described when a user attempts to enter from the outside by initially operating the lockset 1 from the outer user interface 9. At step 924, user access credentials are received via the outer user interface 9 from a user access device, such as an RFID card, or a mobile application installed on a mobile device.

[00105] At step 926, upon determining that the user access credentials are correct, the microprocessor 712 automatically generates a clutch control signal transmitted via wiring loom 710 to the outer motor driver circuit 716 to drive the outer motor 29 until the corresponding motor encoder indicates that the motor 29 has moved the outer clutch mechanism 19 to the engaged condition so that the outer operable member 8 is rendered operable, thereby setting the lockset 1 to Passage Mode.

[00106] At step 928, the user is now able to unlock and open the door 60 from the outside. Once the door is open, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 has moved to an open position.

[00107] At step 930, the lockset remains in Passage Mode. [00108] At step 932, input from the door position sensor 724 indicates to the microprocessor 712 that the door 60 is now in a closed position. At this point, the user has likely entered through the door 60 and is now inside the house with the door 60 closed behind him/her. The user may enter and exit through the door 60 a few more times as required whilst the lockset 1 remains in Passage Mode.

[00109] At query step 934, if user input is detected from the pushbutton 50 via switch input 720 whilst the door 60 is closed, the method 900 proceeds to step 922 which sets the lockset 1 to Safety Mode. If no user input is detected via switch input 720, the method 900 returns to step 930 and the lockset remains in Passage Mode.

[001 10] Generally, the lockset 1 is set to operate in Passage Mode if the door 60 is in an open position, and user input 50 is received from the inner user interface 10, and the lockset 1 is set to operate in Safety Mode if the door 60 is in a closed position, and user input 50 is received from the inner user interface 10. The additional capability of setting the desired operating mode by operation of the pushbutton 50 from the inner user interface 10 and the position of the door 60 advantageously allows the user to conveniently and flexibly set the operating mode without the need for a secure access device. In a home environment, it is often necessary to momentarily exit the house before returning back inside, for example, to take the rubbish out, collect the mail, briefly talk to the neighbour, etc. In addition, when entering the house from the outside, it is also often necessary to momentarily exit again, before staying inside, for example, when carrying multiple loads of groceries and the like. The mode selection capabilities of lockset 1 allow a residential user to easily hold the lockset 1 in Passage Mode when required so that a secure access device is not required every time that the user wishes to operate the lockset 1 from the outside.

[001 1 1 ] In addition to the pushbutton 50, the operating mode of lockset 1 can be changed by using a user access device (such as an RFID card). In particular, when authorised user credentials are detected via the outer user interface 9 and the presence of the user access device is detected for a short amount of time, the operating mode of lockset 1 toggles between Safety Mode and Passage Mode. As previously described, if the presence of the access device is detected via the outer user interface 9 for longer than a predetermined time period (e.g. 3 seconds), the lockset 1 is set to Secure Mode. Typically, for safety reasons, it is only permissible to set the lockset 1 to Secure Mode from outside the door 60 (i.e. user input via outer user interface 9). Once the lockset 1 is in Secure Mode, presenting user access credentials via the outer user interface 9 once again can shift the lockset 1 to Passage Mode.

[001 12] In a preferred embodiment, if auto-lock setting is enabled, the microprocessor 712 prioritises user input via the user access device over the auto- lock function. For example, if the auto-lock timer is ON and user input via the user access device is received via the outer user interface 9, the microprocessor 712 initiates operating mode change before the auto-lock timer has completed counting. In particular, upon receipt of user input via the user access device, the auto-lock timer is set to OFF and the operating mode of the lockset 1 is changed based on input from access device (e.g. toggle between Passage and Safety Mode if access device is present for a short time, and Secure Mode if access device is present for longer than a predetermined time period).

[001 13] The lockset 1 is therefore provides functionality which more effectively accommodates common user scenarios in the residential security market, to facilitate the wider adoption of electronic locksets at home. By providing operating mode selectivity based on user input from the inner user interface 10 (e.g. by operation of the pushbutton 50) and a position of the door, the lockset 1 can be conveniently set to Passage Mode or Secure Mode in a dynamic, flexible and convenient manner, and without the need for a secure access device or mobile application in some cases.

[001 14] It is to be understood that the lockset of the present invention need not be limited to the mechanical arrangement described herein and the electronic control system 700 may be implemented on a range of different types of locksets (both capable of providing deadlocking and incapable of providing deadlocking functionality) without departing from the invention.

[001 15] The foregoing embodiments are illustrative only of the principles of the invention, and various modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art. The invention is capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways and in other embodiments. It is also to be understood that the terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1 . An electronic lockset for installation on a door to control movement of a bolt, the electronic lockset including

each of the outer hand operable member and inner hand operable member being independently movable for moving the bolt from an outer side and inner side of the door respectively,

at least an inner user interface configured for receiving user input from an inner side of the door,

a safety mode whereby the inner hand operable member is rendered operable for moving the bolt and the outer hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt, and

a passage mode whereby the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member are both rendered operable for moving the bolt, and

2. The electronic lockset of claim 1 , wherein the inner user interface includes a switch for receiving the user input.

3. The electronic lockset of claim 2, wherein the switch is a pushbutton switch.

4. The electronic lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is set to operate in passage mode if

the door is in an open position, and user input is received from the inner user interface.

5. The electronic lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is set to operate in safety mode if

the door is in a closed position, and

user input is received from the inner user interface.

6. The electronic lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of operating modes further includes a secure mode whereby the inner hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt and the outer hand operable member is rendered inoperable for moving the bolt.

7. The electronic lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is further operable in an auto-lock setting whereby the lockset automatically changes from passage mode to safety mode after a predetermined period has lapsed.

8. The electronic lockset of claim 7, wherein the lockset is configured such that when the auto-lock setting is enabled, and

user input is received from the inner user interface when the door is in an open position,

the lockset operates in passage mode until the door is in a closed position and user input is received from the inner user interface, and

wherein the lockset is set to safety mode when the door returns to the closed position and user input is received from the inner user interface.

9. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the powered control mechanism includes an inner clutch mechanism and an outer clutch mechanism associated with the inner hand operable member and the outer hand operable member respectively, and wherein

each clutch mechanism being movable between an engaged condition in which movement of the respective hand operable member results in movement of the bolt, and a disengaged condition in which movement of the respective hand operable member does not result in movement of the bolt.

10. The lockset of claim 9, wherein each clutch mechanism is driven by a respective motor.

1 1 . The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control mechanism is powered by a battery unit.

12. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is configured to receive user access credentials in the form of an RFID signal.

13. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is configured to receive user access credentials in the form of a Bluetooth signal.

14. The lockset according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the lockset further includes an outer user interface configured for receiving user input from an outer side of the door, wherein the user access credentials can be received via the inner user interface or the outer user interface.

15. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the operating mode of the lockset can be changed from passage mode to safety mode or from safety mode to passage mode upon detection of an authorised access device.

16. The lockset of claim 6, wherein the operating mode of the lockset can be changed to secure mode upon detection of an authorised access device for a predetermined time.

17. The lockset of claim 17, wherein an outer user interface of the lockset is configured to detect the authorised access device for changing the operating mode of the lockset to secure mode.

18. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is configured for Bluetooth communication with a mobile device.

19. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset is configured for wireless communication and connection to one or more wireless networks.

20. The lockset of any one of the preceding claims, including a door position sensor for sensing an open position and a closed position of the door.

21 . An electronic lockset for installation on a door to control movement of a bolt, the electronic lockset including an outer body for location on an outer side of the door having an outer hand operable member,

each of the outer hand operable member and inner hand operable member being movable for moving the bolt from an outer side and inner side of the door respectively,

22. An electronic lockset according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lockset includes one or more terminals for connecting the lockset to an external power supply.

23. The electronic lockset of claim 22, wherein the one or more terminals can be accessed via an outer user interface of the electronic lockset.

24. The electronic lockset of claim 22 or 23, wherein the one or more terminals includes a USB terminal.