DE102021114243A1 - Key with generator and real time clock - Google Patents

Abstract

A key (1) with a key bow (2) and a key shank (3) is proposed, comprising key electronics (7) which transmits a coded opening signal to a lock cylinder (11) and comprising a generator (9) for supplying the key electronics (7) with electrical energy. In order to create a key (1) with a high level of security, it is proposed that the key electronics (7) have a real-time clock (85) and be designed in such a way that the key electronics (7) together with the encoded Opening signal transmits time information, and / or determines the validity of the coded opening signal depending on the time signal of the real time clock (85).

Description

The invention relates to a key with a key bow and with a key shank according to the features of the preamble of claim 1.

In practice, keys with key electronics for transmitting a coded opening signal to a lock cylinder are known. It is a key for operating a so-called e-cylinder, whereby the coding of the key or the e-cylinder can be easily programmed electronically. Such keys or locking cylinder systems require either replaceable batteries or complex wiring of the locking cylinder through the lock or through a door.

From the DE 3208818 a lock cylinder with a generator is known. When the key is inserted into the lock cylinder, the generator arranged in the lock cylinder is driven in order to generate electrical energy. For this purpose, a toothed rack is stamped into the key shank, which drives a pinion arranged in the lock cylinder in order to actuate the generator.

From the DE19918817C1 an electronic vehicle key is known, the key having a key housing in which a generator is arranged. A mass is assigned to the generator in order to use the mechanical energy generated when the key is moved in order to drive the electrical generator. This is a mass oscillator in the form of a pendulum to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.

The object of the invention is to provide a key that is sustainable from an environmental point of view, while having a high level of security and reliability. In particular, the key should have a long service life and be easy to use.

According to the invention, this object is achieved by a key according to the features of claim 1 .

According to the invention, a key with a key bow and with a key shank for actuating a lock cylinder is proposed, in particular for a mechatronic lock-key system, comprising key electronics which transmits a coded opening signal to a lock cylinder and comprising a generator for supplying the key electronics with electrical energy . It is essential that the electronic key has a real-time clock or is connected to a real-time clock and is designed in such a way that the electronic key transmits time information together with the coded opening signal and/or determines the validity of the coded opening signal depending on the time signal of the real-time clock.

One advantage is that a further security feature to increase the security of the key can be created via the real-time clock. The electronically coded signal can be provided with a time stamp, so to speak, via the real-time clock. The time stamp can be used as an additional security feature to check whether the coded opening signal is valid or not.

In particular, the real-time clock can electronically provide a time signal or a time. The time signal can be an electronic signal from which a time can be derived, or represent a time. The time signal can be read or evaluated by the key electronics and/or transmitted as a time signal to a lock cylinder electronics.

For example, it can be provided that an electronically coded opening signal is only valid at a specific time of day or in a specific period of time. This means that the key with the electronically coded opening signal is only able to operate a locking cylinder at these specified times. Outside this time or time range, the electronically coded opening signal has no opening authorization. For example, it is possible to grant certain people or groups of people access to a room only at certain times of the day, for example during normal business hours. Outside business hours, the people or groups of people with the respective key are not authorized to open the door or enter the room or building.

Furthermore, the time signal from the real-time clock can be used to define a maximum period of validity for the coded opening signal. For example, it can be specified that a coded opening signal is only valid for a maximum period of 2 days or 4 days or one week. After this specifiable period of time has elapsed, the authorization to open the coded opening signal automatically expires. A further security feature can be created in this way, since a lost key automatically loses its opening authorization in this way after the specified period of time has elapsed. In order to permanently obtain the opening authorization, the key or the key electronics can be programmed or parameterized in order to to extend the specified period of time. A wall terminal or table terminal can be used for this, for example, into which the key is inserted in order to set the real-time clock and/or extend the validity of the opening authorization and/or set a time window for the validity of the opening authorization.

The time signal from the real-time clock can be transmitted together with the coded opening signal to an electronic lock cylinder, with the electronic lock cylinder checking the coded opening signal together with the time signal from the real-time clock in order to grant or deny an opening authorization.

Alternatively or additionally, the time signal from the real-time clock can be evaluated by the key electronics in order to generate a coded opening signal. For example, the electronic key can be designed in such a way that, depending on the time provided by the real-time clock, it validates the coded opening signal at defined times or within defined time ranges and invalidates it outside of the defined times or outside of the defined time ranges, or does not transmit a coded opening signal.

The real-time clock can preferably be embodied as an integrated module or an IC, for example as a timer or counter module, or have such. The real-time clock can also be in the form of an executable program which is implemented or runs, for example, on a microprocessor or a signal processor.

In one embodiment it can be provided that the real-time clock has a digital output, preferably a serial output, for the transmission of a time signal. The real-time clock can be connected to the key electronics or a part of the key electronics via the digital output.

In particular, actuation of the lock cylinder, in particular mechanical actuation of the lock cylinder, means rotation of the lock cylinder or the lock cylinder core by the key. To do this, the key shank is inserted into a key channel of the lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is designed in particular as a so-called e-lock cylinder and has key electronics and an electronically switchable blocking element. The electronically switchable blocking element normally blocks actuation of the lock cylinder. Only after the key electronics or the lock cylinder has received a correct or valid opening signal from the key or the key electronics is the electronically switchable blocking element released and the lock cylinder can be actuated by turning the key.

In particular, the lock cylinder is intended for installation in a lock of a building door, for example a mortise lock with single locking or multiple locking. The lock cylinder can be designed as a lock cylinder according to a DIN standard or as a so-called Swiss lock cylinder or as a lock cylinder according to a Scandinavian standard. These locking cylinders differ in their external dimensions.

A lock cylinder is preferably understood to mean a mechatronic lock cylinder or a so-called e-lock cylinder. In addition to the mechanics of a lock cylinder, these have lock cylinder electronics in order to read and preferably evaluate an electronically coded opening signal. Only when there is a valid opening signal do the locking cylinder electronics allow the locking cylinder to be actuated.

Provision can preferably be made for mechanical coding to be attached to the key shank. This mechanical coding can be scanned by the key shank when it is inserted into the lock cylinder and used as a security feature in addition to the coded opening signal.

In alternative configurations, it can preferably be provided that the key shank does not have any mechanical coding, but rather the opening authorization is provided solely by the electronically coded opening signal.

In particular, a mechatronic lock-key system is understood to be a system which has a lock with a lock cylinder that can be inserted into the lock and a key. The term mechatronic indicates that the key is used for mechanical actuation by turning the lock cylinder. Furthermore, an electronically coded opening signal is transmitted or exchanged between the key and the lock cylinder in order to check whether the key is authorized to open.

An electronically coded opening signal is preferably understood to mean a signal which has a coding or encryption. The opening signal can be generated by the electronic key or is stored in the electronic key via parameterization or programming. The opening signal can then be be encrypted, e.g. RSA-encrypted or DES-encrypted or AES-encrypted.

Different opening signals can be provided or generated in the key electronics. For example, group opening signals or individual opening signals or general opening signals can be provided. A single opening signal is authorized to operate a single locking cylinder. A group opening signal is authorized to operate several locking cylinders, i.e. a group of locking cylinders. A general opening signal can activate all locking cylinders in a locking system, similar to a master key.

The coded opening signal can be transmitted to a locking cylinder by wire. Alternatively or additionally, the coded opening signal can also be transmitted wirelessly. For example, the key electronics can have a wireless interface, preferably ZigBee or Bluetooth or an RFID interface.

In particular, it can be provided in one embodiment that the generator charges an energy store and the energy store supplies the key electronics and the real-time clock with electrical energy. In particular, the energy store can temporarily store electrical energy generated by the generator in order to supply the key electronics and the real-time clock with electrical energy over a longer period of time.

In this case, the energy store can have at least one capacitor. The generator can charge the energy store with a higher voltage than the supply voltage of the key electronics and/or than the supply voltage of the real-time clock, in particular with a multiple of the supply voltage, preferably at least twice or at least three times or at least four times the supply voltage of the key electronics and/or charge the real-time clock.

In particular, it can be provided that the energy store has a first voltage output for supplying the key electronics with electrical energy, in particular with a lower voltage than the voltage stored in the energy store, and a second voltage output for supplying the real-time clock with electrical energy, in particular with a lower voltage than the voltage stored in the energy store.

Alternatively, the real-time clock can also be supplied via the voltage output for the key electronics. In particular, the real-time clock can have its own output, in particular its own charging circuit for connecting an energy store, preferably a SuperCap or GoldCap. An integrated charging circuit of the real-time clock can be designed in particular as a second step-down converter to supply the real-time clock.

Because the energy store is charged with a higher voltage than is required to operate the key electronics or the real-time clock, a larger amount of energy can be stored in the energy store with a comparable installation space.

It can be provided that the energy store has a first step-down converter or step-down controller for supplying the key electronics. In particular, a SEPIC converter can be used. The advantage of a SEPIC converter is that it can be operated both as a step-down converter and as a step-up converter and is highly efficient.

A second step-down converter or step-down regulator can preferably be provided to supply the real-time clock.

In particular, it can be provided that the first step-down converter or buck controller and/or the second step-down converter or buck controller has an efficiency of at least 90%. This creates two separate circuits. The key electronics are supplied with electrical energy via the first circuit. The real-time clock is supplied with electrical energy via a second circuit, which is preferably separate from the first circuit. This makes it possible to provide the electrical energy in the second circuit for supplying the real-time clock over a longer period of time than is necessary in the first circuit. The electronic key only needs to be supplied with electrical energy to actuate a locking cylinder. Outside of these short operating times, the first circuit can be switched off completely.

In particular, it can be provided that the circuit of the second voltage output or the circuit of the second step-down converter or buck regulator for supplying the real-time clock has a lower leakage current than the first voltage output or the first step-down converter or buck regulator. As a result, the losses in the second circuit are significantly reduced and the operating time of the real-time clock is extended accordingly.

In order to optimally utilize the electrical energy provided by the generator or stored in the energy store, it can be provided that the second voltage output has a lower voltage than the voltage output for the key electronics.

In particular, it can be provided that the second voltage output has a second energy store, preferably comprising a capacitor, in particular a supercapacitor, preferably GoldCap or SuperCap, for supplying the real-time clock with electrical energy. Electrical energy for supplying the real-time clock is stored in the second energy store. In this case, the second voltage converter can charge the second energy store. The second energy store makes it possible for the second voltage converter not to have to be in operation all the time to supply the real-time clock, but only for a relatively short period of time in order to charge the second energy store. A period of about one minute can be sufficient for this. This further increases the effectiveness of the key, since unnecessary consumers, such as key electronics or the second step-down converter, can be switched off without this impairing the operation of the real-time clock.

In one embodiment, it can be provided that the key electronics have a sensor for detecting whether the key is removed from a lock cylinder and/or inserted into a lock cylinder and is designed in such a way that it is or was removed from a lock cylinder during or after the key was removed transfers energy stored in the energy store to the second energy store to supply the real-time clock. This ensures that the energy generated by the generator is used optimally. Any residual energy remaining in the first energy store is used to operate the real-time clock.

Advantageously, it can be provided that the generator or the energy store supplies both the key electronics and the lock cylinder with electrical energy. In particular, a lock cylinder electronics and an electrically switchable blocking element of the lock cylinder are supplied with electrical energy. A separate power supply, in particular a mains-connected power supply, can thus be omitted for the lock cylinder.

In one embodiment, provision can be made for an electrical contact to be arranged on the key shank in order to connect the key electronics to lock cylinder electronics, preferably for the generator to supply electrical energy to lock cylinder electronics via this contact when the key is inserted into a lock cylinder.

The key shank can preferably be designed to be electrically conductive and the electrical contact is designed to be insulated from the key shank. As a result, an electrical circuit having two poles can be set up, for example by using the key shank as ground and the electrical contact as the second pole. Thus, when the key is fully inserted into a lock cylinder, a circuit can be closed with the lock cylinder by means of the electrical contact. This makes it possible to supply the electronics of the lock cylinder, ie the lock cylinder electronics, with electrical energy from the generator arranged in the key or from the energy store of the key. This completely eliminates the need for wiring the locking cylinder to the lock or through the door. One advantage is that there is no need for power supplies. This means that the resulting power consumption of the lock-key system is zero, meaning that no CO2 is released for operation, for example. Furthermore, no rechargeable battery or replaceable battery is required to supply the locking cylinder, so that no hazardous waste is produced when the lock-key system is operated.

The key electronics can preferably exchange the opening signal and/or the time signal or the time information with the lock cylinder electronics via this electrical contact.

Advantageously, the electrical contact can be designed as a digital interface, and the key electronics and/or the real-time clock can be programmed and/or parameterized via this electrical contact.

Thus, in addition to the power supply, the electrical contact can also be designed as a data interface, in particular a bidirectional data interface. For example, an encrypted, electronically coded opening signal can be exchanged between the lock cylinder electronics and the key electronics via this data interface. Common encryption mechanisms such as AES encryption or RSA encryption can be used for the encryption.

In an exemplary embodiment, it can be provided that the generator is designed as an AC voltage generator and that the energy store has a rectifier circuit, preferably a Graetz bridge, in order to rectify the AC voltage of the generator and charge the energy storage. In order to provide a compact key, the generator can be accommodated in the bow of the key.

In one configuration, it can be provided that the energy store has two or three or four capacitors connected in parallel. The use of several capacitors connected in parallel increases the total capacity of the energy store. As a result, there is the possibility that a smaller capacitor with a somewhat lower capacitance is used for each capacitor, as a result of which the installation space can be further reduced. Furthermore, by connecting the capacitors in parallel, the parasitic resistance (ESR) can be reduced.

In particular, it can be provided that the at least one capacitor is designed as an electrolytic capacitor or as a tantalum capacitor. For example, the energy store or the capacitor or capacitors of the energy store can have a capacitance of at least 200 μF or 400 μF, or at least 1000 μF.

In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the energy store is decoupled from the generator by a diode in order to reduce a backflow of energy via the generator. This prevents the generator from being operated as a motor and creates the possibility of storing the energy generated in the energy store over the long term and making it available for the key electronics or the real-time clock.

In particular, it can be provided that the key electronics does not require or have any other power source apart from the generator.

In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the generator, in particular together with a gear element and a gear device, are designed together as a structural unit that can be inserted into the bow of the key.

Furthermore, the key electronics can be designed as a structural unit that can be inserted into the key bow or as a module. In particular, the key electronics can have a circuit board on which the components of the key electronics, preferably all components of the key electronics, are arranged.

In particular, a structural unit is understood to mean a modular design. This means that the generator and/or the key electronics are designed as a structural unit or in a module and can be used as such in the key or in the key bow. This facilitates the manufacture of the key, since the components of the structural unit, ie the generator, the transmission element and the transmission device, do not have to be connected to one another when used separately.

In particular, the key electronics, including an energy store and the real-time clock, can also be accommodated in the key bow.

In particular, provision can be made for the generator to be driven by a relative movement between the key shank and the key bow, in particular to be driven in a rotary manner, in particular for the key shank to be movably mounted on the key bow, preferably to be foldable or displaceable on the key bow in order to move the key shank between an in to move the key bow retracted position and a key bow protruding position.

In one embodiment, it can be provided that the key shank is firmly, in particular immovably, connected to the key bow.

For example, it can be provided that the generator is driven when the key shank is inserted into the key channel, in particular is driven in a rotary manner.

In this case, a movable component can be arranged on the key bow and/or the key shank, which interacts with the key shank when it is pushed into a lock cylinder and drives the generator in rotation.

In particular, it can be provided that the movable component comes into contact with the lock cylinder when the key shank is pushed into a lock cylinder and drives the generator when the key shank is pushed further into the lock cylinder. In this case, the movable component can interact with a gear element in order to convert a linear movement of the movable component into a rotary movement for rotating the generator.

In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the real-time clock is designed as a separate integrated module and is connected to the key electronics via a digital interface, preferably a serial interface.

In particular, a system can be provided comprising a key according to one of exemplary embodiments described herein and a lock cylinder, the lock cylinder comprising an electrically switchable blocking element for releasing or blocking rotation of the lock cylinder and locking cylinder electronics which switch the blocking element as a function of the encoded opening signal, and the energy store, when the key shaft is inserted into the lock cylinder, comprises both the key electronics and the lock cylinder electronics and supplies the blocking member with electrical energy.

In particular, it can be provided that the same step-down converter supplies the key electronics and the lock cylinder electronics and the blocking element with electrical energy.

The invention also includes a method for operating a key, the key having a key bow and a key shank and key electronics, the key electronics transmitting a coded opening signal to the lock cylinder when the key is inserted into a lock cylinder in order to release it for actuation the key has a generator to supply the key electronics with electrical energy. In particular, it is a method for operating a key according to one of the configurations described herein. It is essential that the electronic key has a real-time clock and that time information is transmitted to the lock cylinder together with the coded opening signal, and/or the validity of the coded opening signal is determined depending on the time signal of the real-time clock.

In particular, it can be provided that when the key shank is pushed into a lock cylinder, the generator is driven by a component which is movably arranged on the key shank in order to generate electrical energy.

In one embodiment it can be provided that the generator is driven by a relative movement between the key shank and the key bow in order to generate electrical energy. For example, the key shank can be foldable on the key bow or can be slid out of the key bow. A drive connection between the key shank and the generator can be used to drive the generator to generate electrical energy when the key shank is folded out or when the key shank is extended or retracted.

In particular, it is provided that the real-time clock is supplied with electrical energy by the generator.

In an advantageous embodiment, it can be provided that the key has an electrical contact on the key shank, and via this electrical contact, when the key is inserted in the lock cylinder, a circuit with the lock cylinder is closed in order to supply the lock cylinder with electrical energy generated by the generator and to exchange the coded opening signal and/or the time information via this electrical contact.

It can preferably be provided that a programming terminal is provided, into which the key can be inserted and that the electrical contact is designed as a digital interface or as an interface in such a way that the key electronics and/or the real-time clock are programmed by the programming terminal via this electrical contact and /or is parameterized.

The programming terminal can be designed as a wall terminal or as a table terminal or as a programming adapter for connection to a computer.

In particular, it can be provided that the real-time clock is set by the programming terminal and/or that a time window or a duration of a valid opening signal is defined by the programming terminal and/or transmitted to the key electronics. By regularly inserting the key into the programming terminal, for example, the duration of a valid opening signal can be reset or extended with each insertion. For example, given a predetermined period of validity of the opening signal of 1 week, the validity of the opening signal can be maintained or extended without interruption by inserting the key once a week.

Energy can also be transmitted to the key via the programming adapter. In particular, the energy store of the key and/or the capacitor of the real-time clock can be charged beforehand. In this case, data transmission can take place simultaneously with energy transmission.

Furthermore, the invention can include a lock-key system, having a key according to one of the exemplary embodiments described above and an associated lock cylinder and a door lock. It can be provided that the system comprises a mechatronic lock cylinder or a so-called e-cylinder, which has lock cylinder electronics and/or an electrically switchable blocking element for enabling actuation of the lock cylinder.

The key or lock-key system according to the invention can be used on locks for building doors. In other applications, however, the key-lock system can also be used for furniture doors or safe doors or even vehicle doors.

• 1a-1c: Schlüssel mit einem Schließzylinder in unterschiedlichen Bedienpositionen;
• 2a: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit geöffneter Schlüsselreide;
• 2b: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß 2a ohne Schlüsselelektronik;
• 3a: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit Pleueltrieb;
• 3b: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit Riementrieb;
• 3c: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit Spindeltrieb;
• 4a-7b: ein Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit einem Zahnstangentrieb;
• 8: ein alternatives Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit einem abgewandelten beweglichen Bauteil;
• 9 eine Explosionsdarstellung eines Ausführungsbeispiels des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels;
• 10: eine weitere Explosionsdarstellung gemäß 9;
• 11a: eine 3D Darstellung des Generators und der Schlüsselelektronik;
• 11b: eine Seitendarstellung des Generators und der Schlüsselelektronik;
• 12: eine vergrößerte Darstellung des Schlüsselschaftes mit beweglich gelagertem Schlitten;
• 13: eine Vorderansicht des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit geöffneter Schlüsselreide und Schlitten;
• 14: ein Querschnitt durch den Schlüsselschaft im Bereich des beweglich gelagerten Schlittens;
• 15: ein schematisches Schaltbild des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels mit einem Schließzylinder;
• 16: eine Schaltungsvariante des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are shown in the figures and described below.
show:

• 1a-1c : key with a lock cylinder in different operating positions;
• 2a : an exemplary embodiment of the key according to the invention with the key bow open;
• 2 B : according to an embodiment of the key according to the invention 2a without key electronics;
• 3a : an embodiment of the key according to the invention with connecting rod;
• 3b : an embodiment of the key according to the invention with belt drive;
• 3c : an embodiment of the key according to the invention with spindle drive;
• 4a-7b : an embodiment of the key according to the invention with a rack and pinion;
• 8th : an alternative embodiment of the key according to the invention with a modified movable component;
• 9 an exploded view of an embodiment of the key according to the invention;
• 10 : another exploded view according to 9 ;
• 11a : a 3D representation of the generator and the key electronics;
• 11b : a side view of the generator and the key electronics;
• 12 : an enlarged representation of the key shank with movably mounted slide;
• 13 : a front view of the key according to the invention with the key bow and slide open;
• 14 : a cross section through the key shank in the area of the movably mounted carriage;
• 15 : a schematic circuit diagram of the key according to the invention with a lock cylinder;
• 16 : a circuit variant of the key according to the invention.

Different exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the figures. These are to be understood as merely descriptive and not restrictive. Components with the same effect are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures. A person skilled in the art can vary or interchange different features of the illustrated exemplary embodiments based on his or her technical skills, without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the claims.

the 1a , 1 b and 1c show an embodiment of the invention. The key 1 according to the invention is shown together with a lock cylinder 11 in different operating positions.

In 1a the key 1 and the lock cylinder 11 are shown separately, ie before the key 1 is inserted into the lock cylinder 11 . In the 1b the key 1 is shown partially inserted into the keyway of the lock cylinder 11 . In the 1c the key 1 is shown fully inserted into the keyway of the lock cylinder 1. In this in the 1c shown position, it is possible to actuate the lock cylinder 11 with the key 1. When the key cylinder 11 is operated by the key 1, the key is rotated to operate the key cylinder 11 in an opening direction or, conversely, in a closing direction. When the lock cylinder 11 is actuated in the opening direction, if the lock cylinder 11 is inserted into a corresponding lock, for example a mortise lock of a building door, this is unlocked, i.e. the locking elements of the bolt lock, for example a lock bolt and/or a lock latch, are pulled back into the lock housing. Accordingly, when it is actuated in the locking direction, the lock is locked, ie the locking elements, for example the lock bolt and/or a latch bolt, are moved out of the lock housing into the locked position.

The key 1 has a key shank 3 and a key bow 2 connected to the key shank 3 . The key bow 2 is designed as a housing with space for accommodating components. A generator 9 is arranged inside the key bow 3 .

A movable component 4 is arranged on the key shank 3 and is drive-connected to a gear element 5 arranged in the key bow 2 . With a movement of the movable component 4 along the key shaft TES 3 is driven via the transmission element 5 of the generator 9 to generate electrical energy. A transmission 6 or transmission device 6 acting between the transmission element 5 and the generator 9 is provided. A rotational movement can be translated via the transmission device 6 so that the generator 9 is driven at a correspondingly adapted speed.

In the in the 1a until 1c In the exemplary embodiment shown, the movable component 4 is designed as a carriage 42 that is movably mounted on the key shank 3 . As in the 1a until 1c shown, the carriage 42 comes into contact with the lock cylinder 11 when the key 1 is inserted into the lock cylinder and is displaced relative to the key shank as the key shank 3 is further inserted into the firing channel of the lock cylinder 11, thereby driving via the gear element 5 and the gear device 6 in generator 9. In this case, the generator 9 generates electrical energy in order to provide key electronics 7, shown for example in 2a to supply with electrical energy.

The example in 2a Key electronics 7 shown generates an electronically coded opening signal and transmits this via an electrical contact 32 arranged on the key shank to the lock cylinder 11 or to lock cylinder electronics 12 (shown in 15 ).

About the electrical contact 32 is in the 1c illustrated fully inserted position of the key, an electrical circuit between lock cylinder electronics 12 and key electronics 7 is closed. A coded opening signal and/or electrical energy can be exchanged between the key electronics 7 and the lock cylinder electronics 12 via this circuit. If a correct opening signal is present, a blocking element of the lock cylinder 11 is released by the lock cylinder electronics 12 so that it can be rotated by the key 1 or the key shank 3 .

The lock cylinder 11 is designed as a so-called electric cylinder. Ie it has a switchable blocking element 13 ( 15 ), which must be activated in order to enable rotation of the lock cylinder 11. For this purpose, a coded opening signal is generated by the key electronics 7 and transmitted to a locking cylinder electronics 12 . This coded opening signal is checked and only after confirmation of a correct opening authorization is the blocking element 13 released. This electronic coding enables a high security standard to be achieved.

In addition to checking the coded opening signal sent by the key electronics 7, the key electronics 7 can check the locking cylinder electronics 12 to determine whether the locking cylinder 11 is a system associated with the key 1. Only after the lock cylinder 11 has been validated by the key electronics 7 , so to speak, is a corresponding coded opening signal generated by the lock cylinder electronics 7 and transmitted to the lock cylinder 11 . In this way, safety can be significantly increased again.

In the 2a the key 1 according to the invention is shown with the key bow 2 open. The key electronics 7 can be seen through the open housing of the key bow 2 . The generator 9 is arranged in a concealed manner behind or below the key electronics 7 .

The movable carriage 42 mounted on the key shank 3 is arranged on the key shank 3 and is connected to the gear element 5 arranged within the key bow 2 . The transmission element 5 is spatially arranged between the key electronics 7 and the generator 9 .

When the key 1 is inserted into a lock cylinder, the movable carriage 42 is moved from its front rest position or starting position, which is arranged in the region of the key shaft tip 35, along the key shaft in the direction of the key bow 2. As a result, the generator 9 is driven by means of a gear device 6 arranged between the movable gear element 5 and the generator 9 . The transmission device 6 serves to translate the longitudinal movement of the carriage 42 into a rotational movement for driving the generator 9 . At the same time, the transmission device 6 adjusts the required speed for the generator 9 .

Furthermore, a restoring spring 62 is arranged in the bow 2 of the key. The restoring spring 62 can be designed as a component of the transmission device 6 or can be designed as a separate restoring spring. The return spring 62 is formed in the example shown as a torsion spring 62 and serves to move the movable component 4 or the carriage 42 when removing the key 1 from a lock cylinder 11 back to its rest position, ie in the 2a To spend position shown near the tip 35 of the key shank 3.

A locking pin 31 is arranged in the area of the key tip 35 . The locking pin 31 is spring-loaded laterally to the key shank 3 and is used for the locking cylinder according to the 1 c presented set position, ie to keep it in the fully retracted position, in particular to keep it against the force of the return spring 62.

An energy store 81 is provided in order to use the electrical energy generated by the generator 9 efficiently. The energy store 81 is arranged together with the key electronics 7 on a circuit board. The energy store 81 has a number of capacitors. According to the presentation of 2a includes the energy store 81 four capacitors 811, 812, 813 and 814. The capacitors 811, 812, 813 and 814 are designed as SMD electrolytic capacitors or tantalum capacitors. By connecting the capacitors in parallel, the parasitic resistance (ESR) can be reduced.

The energy generated by the generator 9 is stored in the energy store 81 in order to supply the key electronics 7 and/or the lock cylinder electronics 12 . As a result, the energy generated by the generator 9 can then be used efficiently. In particular, the duration of the supply to the key electronics 7 and/or the lock cylinder electronics 12 can be extended since the electrical energy is still available via the energy store 81 when the generator 9 is no longer being driven.

Two spring pins 71 and 72 are provided in order to ensure electrical contact between the generator 9 and the key electronics 7 or energy store 81 . The spring pins 71 and 72 contact two conductive pads 731 and 732 in the 2 B are shown. When connecting the key electronics 7 or the circuit board 84 of the key electronics 7 to the generator 9, a circuit between the generator 9 and the key electronics 7 is automatically closed via the spring pins 71 and 72. i.e. no additional work step is required for the electrically conductive connection of generator 9 and key electronics 7 .

the 2 B shows the key 1 according to the 2a , but here the electronic key 7 has been removed for the sake of clarity. How out 2 B As can be seen, the bow 2 of the key has an aperture 23 in the area of the transition to the shank 3 of the key. The cover serves to cover the opening of the key bow 2 arranged in the area of the key shank 3 .

Next are out 2 B two connection pins 741 and 742 can be seen. These two connection pins are used to connect the key electronics 7 to the key shank 3 in an electrically conductive manner. The first connection pin 741 connects the ground line of the key electronics 7 to the key shaft 3. The second connection pin 742 connects the key electronics to the electrical contact 32.

In the 3a a variant of the key 1 according to the invention is shown. This key 1 is largely consistent with the versions described so far. The key 1 in turn comprises a key shank 3 which is connected to the key bow 2 . A generator 9 is arranged in the bow 2 of the key, which is driven by means of a transmission device 6 by the movable component 4 arranged on the key shank 3 or the movable carriage 42 . in the in 3a shown embodiment, a connecting rod drive 53 is driven by the transmission element 5 . The connecting rod drive 53 has a connecting rod 531 which converts the linear movement of the gear element 5 into a rotational movement on the pinion 61 for driving the generator 9 .

the 3b 1 shows a further exemplary embodiment of the key 1 according to the invention. This key 1 also has a key shank 3 in accordance with the exemplary embodiments described above, as well as a key bow 2 connected to it. In turn, a generator 9 is arranged in the key bow 2 . A belt drive 42 for driving the generator 9 is driven by means of the movable transmission element 5 via the movable component 4 or the movable carriage 42 . The belt drive 52 has a first deflection roller 523 and a second deflection roller 524 . A drive belt 521 is guided around the two deflection rollers and drives a pinion 61, via which a gear device 6 and the generator 9 are driven. The circulating drive belt 521 is connected to the transmission element 5 by means of a belt shoe 522 . When the carriage 42, which is movably mounted on the key shank 3, moves, the belt 521 is displaced and thereby drives the pinion 61 in rotation. This rotational movement is translated by the gear device 6 to drive the generator 9 to generate electrical energy.

In the 3c another exemplary embodiment of the key 1 according to the invention is shown. In contrast to the previously described embodiments, the movable gear element 5 drives a spindle drive 51. This includes a spindle nut 511 guided on a spindle 512. The spindle nut 511 is connected to the movable gear element 5 and is driven by this or by the carriage 42 along the Spindle 512 driven. In the process, the spindle 512 is caused to rotate about its longitudinal axis. These rotations are by means of an angular gear 513 in the plane of rotation of the gear device 6 or the generator 9 translated and transferred to this.

In the 4a until 7b another exemplary embodiment of the key 1 according to the invention is shown. In this exemplary embodiment, a rack and pinion drive 54 is driven by the movable component, which is designed here as a rack 55 . For this purpose, the toothed rack 55 meshes with a pinion 61 of the transmission device 6 in order to convert the linear movement of the carriage 42 into a rotational movement for the generator 9 .

In 4a an overrunning clutch 63 can be seen, which is arranged between the transmission device 6 and the generator 9 . The overrunning clutch 63 serves to decouple the carriage 42 or the movable component 4 from the generator 9 at the end of the drive movement. The overrunning clutch 63 works according to the principle of a bicycle freewheel. This makes it possible for the carriage 42 to be uncoupled from the generator 9 as soon as the carriage 42 comes to a halt at the end of the drive movement or is returned to its starting position near the key shank tip 35 by the return spring.

The overrunning clutch 53 is provided in all exemplary embodiments of the key 1 according to the invention. In the preceding exemplary embodiments, however, the one-way clutch 63 is not drawn in or labeled for the sake of clarity.

the 4b is a detailed representation in the area of the rack and pinion drive 54. It can be seen here how the rack 55 meshes with the pinion 61.

In the 5a or. 5b the key 1 according to the invention is shown in the starting position in the side position. The movable carriage 42 is in its front position in the area of the tip 35 of the key. The carriage 42 is directly connected to the gear element 5 or the toothed rack 55 . As can be seen from the enlarged detail view in 5b As can be seen, the toothed rack 55 meshes with the pinion 61 of the transmission device 6 and, by means of a further pinion 61a, transmits the rotational movement to the generator 9 in order to generate electrical energy.

the 6a and 6b Fig. 1 shows the corresponding key 1 fully inserted into a lock cylinder, but without a lock cylinder. It can be seen here that the carriage 42 or the toothed rack 55 are arranged in the rear stop position close to the bow 2 of the key. In this position, the shifting of the toothed rack 55 transmitted a rotational movement to the generator 9, causing it to rotate and generate electrical energy. the 7a and 7b shows the corresponding position according to the 6a and 6b in side view.

In 8th another exemplary embodiment of the key 1 according to the invention is shown. This embodiment corresponds essentially to the embodiment of FIG 1 a until 2 B . In contrast to this key, however, the movable component 4 on the key shank 3 is designed here as a plunger 41 projecting from the key bow parallel to the key shank. The plunger 41 is mounted on the aperture 23 of the key bow 2 so that it can move linearly. Analogously to the carriage 42, the plunger 41 comes into contact with the lock cylinder 11 when the plunger shank 3 is inserted and is pushed along the key shank 3 in the direction of the key bow 2 in order to generate via the movable gear element 5 or the generator 9 powered by electrical energy.

In the 9 an exploded view of the key 1 according to the invention is shown. This key 1 largely corresponds to that in the 1a until 2 B illustrated embodiments. The exploded view shows that the bow 2 has two housing halves 21 , 22 . A first housing half 21 and a second housing half 22.

The electronic key system 7 is arranged in the first housing half 21 . The key electronics 7 has a circuit board 84 which is fixed in the first half of the housing. The generator 9 is arranged in the second housing half 22 . The key shank 3 engages between the two housing halves 21 and 22 and is connected to the key bow 2 or to the two housing halves 21 and 22 by means of screws.

The cover 23 serves to cover the opening on the key bow 2 in the area of the key shank 3 . The bezel 23 is pushed onto the key shank 3 from the front and, once the two housing halves 21 and 22 have been attached to one another, it automatically stops on the key bow 2.

The carriage 42 is shown in the removed position on the key shank 3 . The key shank 3 has an insertion area 34 in the area of the key bow 2 . The material thickness of the key shank 3 is tapered in this area, so that the carriage 42 can be placed on the key shank 3 or removed from the key shank 3 in this area.

In the 10 1 shows another exploded view of the key 1 according to the invention, this time seen from behind. It can be clearly seen here that both the key electronics 7 and the generator 9 are each designed as a structural unit.

The key electronics 7 has a circuit board 84 as a supporting element. Both the components of the key electronics 7 and the components of the energy store 81 are arranged on the circuit board 84 . The key electronics 7 is assigned to the housing half 21 as a structural unit. Opposite the generator 9 is designed as a structural unit. The generator 9 includes the transmission device 6 and the return spring 62 and the overrunning clutch 63. For the sake of clarity in FIG 10 these components of the generator are not shown or labeled individually. The generator 9 is also designed as an assembly and assigned to the second housing half 22 of the key bow 2 .

During production of the key 1 according to the invention, the key electronics 7 are placed in the first housing half 21 as a structural unit.

In particular, the housing half 21 has registration marks that are complementary to registration marks arranged on the key electronics 7 or the circuit board 84, so that the key electronics 7 or circuit board 84 can only be inserted in the housing half 21 in a predetermined position. The key electronics 7 are then connected to the key shank 3 . The key electronics 7 are conductively connected to the key shank 3 and the electrical contact 32 . This takes place via the first connection pin 741 and the second connection pin 742. These can be in the form of a wire connection, for example, and can be connected to the printed circuit board 84 of the key electronics 7 by means of an electrically conductive adhesive or by means of ultrasonic welding or soldering.

Furthermore, the generator 9 is assigned as a structural unit to the second housing half 22 of the key bow. Here, too, complementary registration marks can be provided on the generator and the second housing half 22 in order to define the alignment of the generator 9 with respect to the second housing half 22 . When connecting the two housing halves 21 and 22, the generator 9 contacts the key electronics 7 automatically via the two spring-loaded pins 71 and 72, which are in the 11a are shown.

From the 11b the space-saving, staggered design of the two connected structural units of the generator 9 and the key electronics 7 can be seen. The electronic key system 7 is arranged on the circuit board 84 together with the energy store 81 . The energy store 81 has four capacitors 811, 812, 813 and 814. The capacitors 811, 812, 813 and 814 are relatively bulky components. Furthermore, the generator 9 has the transmission device 6 and the restoring spring 62 protruding from the generator 9 . In order to save installation space, the capacitors of the energy store 81 are arranged on the circuit board 84 in such a way that they engage in the free spaces left free by the generator 9 and thus keep the overall height and thus the thickness of the key bow 2 as low as possible. As a result, the space between key electronics 7 and generator 9 is optimally utilized.

In the 12 an enlarged representation of the key shank 3 with the carriage 42 movably mounted thereon is shown. The carriage 42 has a carriage shoe 421 and a carriage arm 43 projecting from the carriage shoe 421 . The carriage shoe 421 is integral with the carriage arm 43 .

At the end of the carriage arm 43, a clutch 45 is provided. This coupling serves to connect the carriage or carriage arm 43 to the movable gear element 5 . For this purpose, the coupling 45 has a pin 46 which is arranged on the gear arm 5 and which interacts with a receiving device 47 arranged at the end of the carriage arm 43 . The coupling is designed as a snap-in coupling and enables the connection between the carriage 42 and the movable gear element 5 even when the key bow 2 is closed. This is done by inserting the carriage arm 43 through the panel 23 and placing the carriage shoe 421 on the key shank 3 in the insertion area 34 . The carriage shoe 421 can then be moved on the key shank 3 in the direction of the tip of the key, i.e. forwards. The carriage shoe 421 is guided onto a carriage guide 33 or threaded into it. At the front end, the carriage guide 33 has a stop 335 which prevents the carriage 42 or the carriage shoe 421 from being able to be pushed forward beyond the key shank 3 by the return spring.

To connect the carriage 42 to the gear element 5, the carriage 42 is inserted backwards into the housing of the key bow 2, starting from the front position on the key shank 3. The movable gear element 5 is automatically positioned in the correct position relative to the carriage arm 43 in the housing of the key bow 2 . When the carriage 42 is moved back into the housing of the key bow 2, the receiving device 47 comes into contact with the zap fen 46 of the coupling 45. The receiving device 47 has two resilient tabs such that when the carriage 42 is pushed further in the direction of the movable gear element 5, the coupling device 45 snaps into place by the two tabs or the receiving device 47 gripping the pin 46 in a form-fitting manner and holds. As a result, the carriage 42 is connected to the movable gear element 5 by the coupling device 45 without the housing of the key bow 2 having to be open for this purpose. This enables the key 1 to be assembled quickly and advantageously.

In the 13 an embodiment of the key according to the invention is shown with the first housing half 21 removed. In the 13 the key shank 3 can be seen from the front. It is clear here that the carriage 42 is tapered with its carriage shoe 421 or carriage arm 43 . This means that the flanks of the carriage shoe 421 or the carriage arm 43 taper towards the edge of the key shank 3 or tend towards one another. On the one hand, this reduces the risk of a finger getting caught in the area between the movable component 4 or the carriage 42 and the key bow 2 or the cover 23. In addition, an aesthetic appearance is achieved.

In the 14 a section through the key shank 3 in the area of the slide shoe 421 is shown. The slider shoe 421 is guided by the slider guide 33 . This has two opposite grooves 333 and 334 . The slider shoe 421 encompasses the slider guide 33 on both sides from the edge of the key shank 3 and is guided in the undercut grooves 333 and 334 in a form-fitting manner. In the grooves 333, 334 the carriage shoe 421 is guided both up and down in the vertical axis and laterally. For this purpose, the slide shoe 421 encompasses the slide guide 33 on both sides and engages with its ends in the undercut grooves 333, 334 in a form-fitting manner. Furthermore, the slider guide 33 has surfaces with a first flank 331 and a second flank 332 on its opposite sides. These flanks taper towards the edge of the key shank 3, ie run to a point. The slider shoe 421 is designed to complement the tapered flanks 331 and 332 . the 15 shows a schematic circuit diagram of the key 1 according to the invention. The components of the key 1 are shown in the rectangle labeled 1 with a dashed border. These include the generator 9, the key electronics 7 and an energy store 81 connected between the generator 9 and the key electronics 7.

The energy store 81 has a rectifier 82 . The rectifier 82 can be in the form of a diode bridge or Graetz rectifier in order to rectify an AC voltage signal supplied by the generator 9 . At the same time, the rectifier 82 creates a decoupling between the energy store 81 and the generator 9. I.e. the rectifier 82 suppresses reverse currents between the energy store 81 and the generator 9. The energy store 81 also includes a storage element, which is referred to here as a capacitor 811 . This can be designed as a single capacitor 811 or as a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel. The electrical energy generated by the generator 9 is stored in the capacitor 811 .

In order to be able to store as much electrical energy as possible in a reasonable installation space, it is provided that the generator 9 supplies and stores a significantly higher voltage in the capacitor 811 or 811 to 814 than is required to supply the key electronics 7 . The high voltage of the energy store 81 or 811 is reduced to a supply voltage that is sufficient or provided for the key electronics 7 via a step-down converter 83 . For example, the generator can supply a voltage in the range between 12V and 20V. The key electronics 7 can be supplied with a voltage in the range between 1.5V and 4V.

The electronic key 7 has a voltage monitor. For this purpose, the electronic key 7 is connected to the input of the step-down converter 83 via a voltage divider with the resistors R1 and R2. The key electronics 7 can measure the voltage upstream of the step-down converter 83 or at the output of the energy store 811 via this voltage divider.

By storing electrical energy in a capacitor, the voltage is a measure of the amount of energy stored. In this way, the key electronics 7 can determine whether the electrical energy stored in the energy store 81 is sufficient to generate a coded opening signal or to release the blocking element 13 of the lock cylinder 11 . If the electronic key system 7 determines by measuring the voltage that the voltage is sufficient, it can send a coded opening signal in order to release the blocking element 13 and to actuate the lock cylinder 11 . If the electronic key system 7 determines that the amount of energy stored or the voltage is too low, it will not generate an opening signal. In this case, for example, the key electronics 7 can activate a visual and/or acoustic display in order to indicate an error.

A user can then remove the key 1 from the lock cylinder and reinsert it, thereby increasing the amount of electrical energy generated by the generator 9 and enabling the opening process.

Furthermore, the energy store 82 has a second voltage output with a second step-down converter or step-down converter 87 . A supercapacitor 86 or a GoldCap 86 for supplying a real-time clock 85 with electrical energy is supplied via this. The voltage of the supercapacitor 86 is also below the voltage of the energy store 81 or of the capacitor 811. The step-down converter 87 charges the supercapacitor 86 from the energy store 81 with a high degree of efficiency, preferably greater than 90%, in particular greater than 95% up.

A time signal can be transmitted to the lock cylinder or the lock cylinder electronics 12 from the key electronics 7 via the real-time clock 85 . This time signal can be transmitted in addition to or together with the opening signal. Alternatively, the key electronics 7 can take the time signal into account when generating the coded opening signal. For example, to either generate a coded opening signal depending on the time, or not to generate it. Or to generate either a valid coded opening signal depending on time, or to generate a blocked coded opening signal

the 16 shows a variant of the schematic circuit diagram of 15 . Consistent with the representation in 15 the key 1 comprises the generator 9, the key electronics 7 and an energy store 81 connected between the generator 9 and the key electronics 7 and a rectifier 82. The energy store 81 comprises a number of components and is shown as a dashed rectangle. The energy store 81 includes the rectifier 82, capacitors 811 and the step-down converter 83.

Matching with 15 the rectifier 82 can be designed as a diode bridge or Graetz rectifier in order to rectify an AC voltage signal supplied by the generator 9 . At the same time, the rectifier 82 creates a decoupling between the energy store 81 and the generator 9. That is to say, the rectifier 82 suppresses reverse currents between the energy store 81 and the generator 9. The energy store 81 also includes a storage element, which is referred to here as a capacitor 811 . This can be designed as a single capacitor 811 or as a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel. The electrical energy generated by the generator 9 is stored in the capacitor 811 .

In contrast to the representation in 15 the real-time clock 85 is supplied with electrical energy via the first step-down converter 83 . The real-time clock has integrated charging electronics, which can include a second step-down converter (not shown) and to which a SuperCap 86 is connected. The real-time clock 85 is supplied with electrical energy via the SuperCap 86 .

Consistent with the representation in 15 the real-time clock or the SuperCap 86 is supplied by the electrical energy generated by the generator 9 or by the energy stored in the energy store 81 . The real-time clock is supplied with electrical energy via the SuperCap 86, even if the first step-down converter 83 or the energy store 81 is not supplying any electrical energy.

The real-time clock 85 generates a time signal and transmits this to the key electronics 7.

Using the time signal from the real-time clock 85, it is possible to validate or block the coded opening signal as a function of time. For example, it can be determined that a valid opening signal is only generated at certain times of the day, for example between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., in order to grant certain groups of people access to a building only at these times.

Alternatively, the validity period of an opening authorization can also be set to a specific period of time via the time signal. For example, the validity of an opening signal can be set to 3 days or 7 days or 2 weeks. This means that a valid opening signal can only be generated with the corresponding key within this period of time. After this period of time has elapsed, the key 1 or the key electronics 7 can no longer generate a valid opening signal and must first be re-parameterized or retrained in order to extend the opening authorization. As a result, the security of the key 1 can be further increased since, for example, lost keys automatically lose their validity.

The key electronics 7 are connected via the electrical contact 32 to the lock cylinder 11 or to the lock cylinder electronics 12 arranged in the lock cylinder 11 and the blocking element 13 . About the electrical contact 32, the lock cylinder electronics and the switchable locking member 13 can also ver from the energy storage 81 and the generator 9 with electrical energy to be taken care of. A separate power supply for the lock cylinder 11 can thus be dispensed with.

Furthermore, it is provided that the electrical contact 32 is designed to transmit electrical energy and electrical information. The electrical contact 32 is advantageously designed as a digital interface, in particular as a bidirectional serial interface. This makes it possible for the key 1 to be plugged into a programming adapter, a table station or a wall station, for example, and to be programmed or parameterized by the latter via the electrical contact 32 . For example, the real-time clock 85 can be set or the coding of the key electronics 7 can be set and/or programmed. The programming adapter and the electrical contact 32 can also be used to parameterize or define the period of validity of an opening signal. For example, the validity period of an opening signal can be set and/or changed depending on the time of day via the programming adapter, or the period of time during which a valid opening signal is generated by the electronic key system 7 can be defined or refreshed or extended.

It is thus possible to ensure a high level of security with the key 1 according to the invention without batteries being required or having to be replaced or without complex wiring being required on a door on which a corresponding locking cylinder 11 is used. On the one hand, this reduces the power consumption of the system, since there is no need for a power supply unit, and on the other hand, no batteries are required, so that no hazardous waste in the form of batteries, which is harmful to the environment, is produced when operating a corresponding key-lock cylinder system.

Reference List

1

key

11

lock cylinder

12

lock cylinder electronics

13

locking member

2

key bow

21

first half of the case

22

second half of the case

23

cover

3

key shaft

31

locking pin

32

electric contact

33

carriage guidance

331

first flank

332

second flank

333

first groove

334

second groove

335

attack

34

deployment area

35

key tip

4

moving component

41

pestle

42

Sleds

421

sled shoe

431

first face

432

second surface

43

slide arm

45

coupling

46

cones

47

recording facility

5

gear element

51

spindle drive

511

spindle nut

512

spindle

513

bevel gear

52

belt drive

521

drive belt

522

strap shoe

523

first pulley

524

second pulley

53

connecting rod drive

531

connecting rod

54

rack and pinion drive

55

rack

6

gear device

61

first sprocket

61a

second sprocket

62

return spring

63

overrunning clutch

7

key electronics

71

first spring pin

72

second spring pin

731

first contact surface

732

second contact surface

741

first connection

742

second connection

81

energy storage

811

first capacitor

812

second condenser

813

third capacitor

814

fourth capacitor

82

rectifier

83

first step down converter / buck converter

84

circuit board

85

real time clock

86

SuperCap

87

second step-down converter / buck converter

9

generator

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• DE 3208818 [0003]
• DE 19918817 C1 [0004]

Claims (32)

Key with a key bow (2) and a key shank (3) for actuating a lock cylinder (11), in particular for a mechatronic lock-key system, comprising key electronics (7) which transmits a coded opening signal to a lock cylinder (11). and comprising a generator (9) for supplying the electronic key (7) with electrical energy, characterized in that the electronic key (7) has a real-time clock (85) or is connected to a real-time clock (85) and is designed in such a way that the electronic key (7) transmits time information together with the coded opening signal, and/or determines the validity of the coded opening signal depending on the time signal of the real-time clock (85). key after claim 1 , characterized in that the generator (9) charges an energy store (81) and the energy store (81) supplies the key electronics (7) and the real-time clock (85) with electrical energy. key after claim 2 , characterized in that the energy store (81) has at least one capacitor (811) and the generator (9) supplies the energy store (81) with a higher voltage than the supply voltage of the key electronics (7) and/or than the supply voltage of the real-time clock (85 ) charges, preferably with at least twice or with at least three times or with at least four times, in particular a multiple, the supply voltage of the key electronics (7) and/or the real-time clock (85) charges. key after claim 2 or 3 , characterized in that the energy store (81) has a first voltage output for supplying the key electronics (7) with electrical energy, in particular with a lower voltage than the voltage stored in the energy store (81), and a second voltage output for supplying the real-time clock (85) with electrical energy, in particular with a lower voltage than the voltage stored in the energy store (81), preferably that the second voltage output is formed by charging electronics integrated in the real-time clock (85). key after one of the claims 2 until 4 , characterized in that the energy store (81) has a first step-down converter (83) or step-down regulator or SEPIC converter for supplying the key electronics (7) and a second step-down converter (87) or step-down regulator or SEPIC converter for supplying the real-time clock (85), in particular that the first step-down converter (83) or buck regulator or SEPIC converter and/or the second step-down converter (87) or buck regulator or SEPIC converter has an efficiency of at least 90%. key after claim 4 or 5 , characterized in that the circuit of the second voltage output or the circuit of the second step-down converter (87) or step-down regulator or SEPIC converter for supplying the real-time clock (85) has a lower leakage current than the first voltage output or the first step-down converter (83) or buck regulator or SEPIC converter. key after claim 4 until 6 , characterized in that the second voltage output has a lower voltage than the voltage output for the key electronics (7). key after one of the Claims 4 until 7 , characterized in that the second voltage output has a second energy store (86), preferably comprising a capacitor, in particular a supercapacitor, preferably GoldCap or SuperCap, for supplying the real-time clock (85) with electrical energy. Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the key electronics (7) are designed in such a way that, depending on the time provided by the real-time clock (85), they validly identify the coded opening signal at defined times or within defined time ranges and outside of the defined times or outside of the defined time ranges invalid or does not transmit a coded opening signal. key after one of the claims 2 until 9 , characterized in that the key electronics (7) have a sensor for detecting whether the key (1) is removed from a lock cylinder (11) and/or inserted into a lock cylinder (11) and is designed in such a way that these are activated during or after the key (1) is withdrawn from a lock cylinder (11) or the energy stored in the energy store (81) was transferred to the second energy store (86) to supply the real-time clock (85). Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an electrical contact (32) is arranged on the key shank (3) in order to connect the key electronics (7) to a locking cylinder electronics (12), preferably that the generator (9) at in a lock cylinder (11) inserted key (1) a locking cylinder electronics (12) supplied with electrical energy via this electrical contact (32). key after claim 11 , characterized in that the key electronics (7) exchanges the opening signal and/or the time information with the lock cylinder electronics (12) via this electrical contact (32). key after claim 11 or 12 , characterized in that the electrical contact (32) is designed as a digital interface or as a bidirectional interface, and in that the key electronics (7) and/or the real-time clock (65) can be programmed and/or parameterized via this electrical contact (32) or are. key after one of the claims 2 until 13 , characterized in that the energy store (81) is decoupled from the generator (9) by a diode, in particular to prevent or reduce reverse currents via the generator (9). key after one of the claims 2 until 14 , characterized in that the generator (9) is designed as an AC voltage generator and that the energy store (81) has a rectifier circuit, preferably a Graetz bridge, in order to rectify the AC voltage of the generator (9) and to charge the energy store (81). Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the generator (9) is accommodated in the bow (2) of the key. Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the generator (9) is driven by a relative movement between the key shank (3) and the key bow (2), in particular is driven in a rotary manner, in particular that the key shank (3) on the key bow (2) is movably mounted, preferably foldable or displaceable on the key bow (2) in order to move the key shank (3) between a position retracted into the key bow (2) and a position protruding from the key bow (2). key after one of the Claims 1 until 16 , characterized in that the key shank (3) is firmly, in particular immovably, connected to the key bow (2). Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the generator (9) is driven when the key shank (3) is inserted into the key channel, in particular is driven in a rotary manner. Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a movable component (4) is arranged on the key bow (2) and/or the key shank (3) which, when the key shank (3) is pushed into a lock cylinder (11), moves with the latter interacts and drives the generator (9) in rotation. key after claim 20 , characterized in that the movable component (4) comes into contact with the lock cylinder when the key shank (3) is pushed into a lock cylinder (11) and the generator (9) when the key shank (3) is pushed further into the lock cylinder (11) drives. key after claim 20 or 21 , characterized in that the movable component (4) interacts with a gear element (5) in order to convert a linear movement of the movable component (4) into a rotational movement for driving the generator (9) in rotation. Key according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the real-time clock (85) is designed as a separate integrated module and is connected to the key electronics (7) via a digital interface, preferably a serial interface. System comprising a key (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a lock cylinder (11), characterized in that the lock cylinder (11) has an electrically switchable blocking element (13) for releasing or blocking rotation of the lock cylinder (11) and a the blocking element (13) includes locking cylinder electronics (12) that switch depending on the coded opening signal and the energy store (81) when the key shank (3) is inserted into the lock cylinder (11) includes both the key electronics (7) and the locking cylinder electronics (12) and the blocking element (13 ) supplied with electrical energy. system after Claim 24 , characterized in that the same step-down converter (83) supplies the key electronics (7) and the lock cylinder electronics (12) and the blocking element (13) with electrical energy. Method for operating a key (1), the key having a key bow (2) and a key shank (3) and key electronics (7), the key electronics (7) being inserted when the key (1) is inserted into a lock cylinder (11). coded opening signal transmits the lock cylinder (11) in order to release it for actuation, further comprising a generator (9) for supplying the key electronics (7) with electrical energy, in particular a method for operating a key (1) according to one of Claims 1 until 23 , or method for operating a system according to any one of claims 24 or 25 , characterized in that the electronic key (7) has a real-time clock (85) or is connected to a real-time clock (85), and that time information is transmitted to the lock cylinder (11) together with the coded opening signal, and/or the validity of the coded opening signal is determined depending on the time signal of the real time clock (85). procedure after Claim 26 , characterized in that the generator (9) is driven when the key shank (3) is pushed into a lock cylinder (11) via a component (4) movably arranged on the key shank (3) in order to generate electrical energy. procedure after Claim 26 , characterized in that the generator (4) is driven by a relative movement between the key shank (3) and the key bow (2) in order to generate electrical energy. Procedure according to one of Claims 26 until 28 , characterized in that the real-time clock (85) is supplied with electrical energy by the generator (9). Procedure according to one of Claims 26 until 29 , characterized in that the key (1) on the key shank (3) has an electrical contact (32) and via this electrical contact (32) when the key (1) is inserted in the lock cylinder (11) a circuit with the lock cylinder ( 11) is closed in order to supply the lock cylinder (11) with electrical energy generated by the generator (9) and to exchange the coded opening signal and/or the time information via this electrical contact (32). procedure after Claim 30 , characterized in that a programming terminal is provided, into which the key (9) can be inserted and that the electrical contact (32) is designed as a digital interface or as an interface in such a way, and that the key electronics (7) and/or the real-time clock ( 85) is programmed and/or parameterized by the programming terminal via this electrical contact (32). procedure after Claim 31 , characterized in that the real-time clock (85) is set by the programming terminal and/or that a time window or a period of time for a valid opening signal is defined by the programming terminal and/or is transmitted to the key electronics (7).

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