EP0223715A1 - Lock with an electromechanical key - Google Patents

Lock with an electromechanical key Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0223715A1
EP0223715A1 EP86402583A EP86402583A EP0223715A1 EP 0223715 A1 EP0223715 A1 EP 0223715A1 EP 86402583 A EP86402583 A EP 86402583A EP 86402583 A EP86402583 A EP 86402583A EP 0223715 A1 EP0223715 A1 EP 0223715A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
key
lock
contacts
memory
housing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP86402583A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Gérard Michot
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP0223715A1 publication Critical patent/EP0223715A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00182—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with unidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C2009/00753—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys
    • G07C2009/00761—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys with data transmission performed by connected means, e.g. mechanical contacts, plugs, connectors

Definitions

  • locks operate by moving movable mechanical parts actuated by means of a key operated by the muscular force of the user.
  • the document GB-A-2 055 951 describes a lock which combines mechanical elements and electrical elements.
  • the lock is built according to a banal scheme: two moving parts are automatically blocked by pins pushed by springs.
  • the key carries sizes arranged in such a way that they push back the pins, against the springs, more or less far according to their height and the combination obtained puts all the pins in alignment position which unlocks the two parts.
  • This document describes an assembly which provides that despite the introduction of a correct key, a pin is not put in the unlocked position. When the other pins have been pushed back, the key is in the correct position.
  • the key is made of conductive metal and its edge carries an insulating tongue leaving conductive parts arranged in a manner specific to the key and which are placed opposite contacts arranged according to the arrangement of the conductive parts of the key. Then, and only then, an electric current, coming from any source, can cross the circuit of which the key is a part. The circuit is established correctly if the key is the one that corresponds to the lock and an electromagnet is supplied and moves the pin remaining in the locked position which plays the role of plunger. This final unlocking finally allows the opening of the lock since the key can turn and drive one of the two blocked parts.
  • the present invention provides a new solution which combines IT security with the efficiency of the locksmith.
  • the subject of the invention is a device for locking and de-locking an access, of the type comprising a movable obstacle, such as a door, provided with a lock having on the one hand a movable part secured to at least one blocking member such as a bolt intended for immobilizing the obstacle and other part of the individualization elements coordinated with corresponding elements carried by a removable portable key intended for the actuation of the moving part, the key having at least one common type member intended to mechanically cooperate with an additional member also of common type the moving part, which is kept permanently blocked by a coupling mechanism integral with a fixed part (1) of the device and neutralizable by electrical means, characterized in that the key is provided with an electronic memory containing information confidentialization of individualization of each key and connected to contacts whose arrangement is standard for all keys and in that the lock is equipped with corresponding contacts connected to an e nsemble electronic which includes a reader of information contained in the memory of the key and which controls the electrical means so that these can neutralize or not the mechanism of coupling according to
  • the coupling mechanism is located outside the lock proper and advantageously far enough from it, the moving part having a substantial length; - the coupling mechanism is located at variable locations depending on the installation, along the moving part; -
  • the key comprises on the one hand contacts distinct from those to be connected to the electronic assembly and, on the other hand, means for connecting these contacts to a source of electric current, the lock having contacts distinct from those of the reader, which correspond to the separate contacts of the key and which form part of a supply circuit for the electronic assembly and the electrical means;
  • the electronic assembly and the electrical means being incorporated res to a circuit connected to a current supply from a stationary source, the circuit of which the separate contacts form part comprises means of any known type making it possible to neutralize the arrival of current coming from the stationary source;
  • the device comprises a connection between the electronic assembly and a switch interposed on a power supply conductor of the electrical means so that this switch is selectively open and closed in correlation with the mutual operation of the electronic assembly and the memory; -
  • the coupling mechanism is located outside
  • a lock according to the invention comprises common parts and well known to those skilled in the art, so that, in the description below, reference will only be made to those of these parts which are necessary for the understanding of the invention.
  • a lock which comprises a fixed barrel 1 in which a ferrule 2 is pivotally mounted and has two diametrically opposite linear guides 3 and 4 for a key.
  • the barrel 1 is fixed to a part 5 which is part of the lock and which has a central passage 6 giving access to a housing 7 of a movable part 8 kinematically connected to one or more bolts (not shown).
  • the movable part 8 is pivotally mounted by means of a smooth ring 9 engaged with gentle friction in a circular housing of corresponding diameter provided in a fixed part 10 of the lock.
  • the fixed part 5 has a hole 11 opposite which is a plunger 12 of an electromagnet 13.
  • a housing 14 formed in the movable part 8, so that this housing 14 is also located opposite the diver 12.
  • the electromagnet 13 is supplied with electric current by two conductors 20 and 21, one of which, 20, is fitted with a switch 22 of any type known to be opened and closed by an electrical command which is transmitted to it by a line 23.
  • the switch remains automatically in the open position and the electromagnet is not powered, the consequence of this being that the plunger 12 is in the extraction position and, through the hole 11 of the fixed part 5, is placed in the housing 14 of the movable part 8.
  • a coupling of the fixed electromagnet 13 and the movable part 8 which is immobilized.
  • the bolt (s) with which the movable part 8 is connected are in the closed position and are held there.
  • the length of the wires 20, 21, 23 can obviously be arbitrary. We can therefore, at will, place the coupling mechanism 11-12-13 more or less far from the lock itself. Even if a malefactor acts in force on the lock, he will not unlock the moving part 8. As we can choose the location of this coupling mechanism case by case for each installation, since the moving part 8 has a length substantial, a criminal facing a door equipped according to the invention never knows where exactly is this mechanism 11-12-13 which blocks the entire lock.
  • These provisions are particularly suitable for locks of the known type having a movable part 8 as high as the door and kinematically connected to several bolts. In this case, the housing 14 into which the coupling part must penetrate may be a notch provided laterally to the moving part 8.
  • a key 30 of any known type is used for this purpose in terms of its design as a locksmith member.
  • the end 31 of its tuge 32 is shaped like the housing 7, with a section whose perimeter is other than circular: according to a square, a rectangle as shown, a triangle at all other polygon, including at re-entrant angles like a star, while in order to be able to cooperate with elements for individualizing the lock, electronic or "computer" means are used.
  • FIG. 3 Such a key is shown in Figure 3 in the active position. Its rod 32 is provided with a series of contacts 33 of the type of those used for so-called “memory” cards, these contacts being connected, precisely, to a memory (not visible in FIGS. 1 to 3) forming part of an integrated circuit generally called "chip".
  • lateral pins 34 and 35 which it carries here cooperate with the guides 3 and 4 to precisely drive the key 30 in a straight line until the end 31 of its rod 32 passes freely through the passage 6 of the fixed part 5 and reaches the housing 7 of the moving part 8, all in a correct orientation when the latter is essential taking into account the section of the end 31 and housing 7.
  • the set of contacts 33 is precisely opposite the contacts (not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3) of an electronic assembly 40 of any known type.
  • the assembly 40 includes all the circuits, memories and components required to be able, first, to read the information stored in the memory of the key 30, then, to verify that this information indeed constitutes elements of individualization of the corresponding key 30 to those of the lock, that is to say those that the assembly 40 contains for having received them during its coding and, finally, causing the unlocking of the moving part 8.
  • electrical connection 41-42 must be taken in its widest sense because one of the characteristics of the invention is to be able to include a central computer unit, more or less distant from the lock proper, called the fact that the electrical connections 41-42 can have any desired length.
  • the electronic assembly 40 is not initialized or, more precisely, it operates by recognizing as empowered any key whose memory 80 does not include any confidential code, any element of individualization.
  • any blank key is suitable as long as it is of the type in accordance with the invention, that is to say that it includes a memory and standard contacts, which is practical on building sites because we can make all the lock installations and make them all work in closing and opening with a "site key" or master key.
  • the assembly 40 must be supplied with electric current, for example by means of conductors 41 which connect it to a fixed source (not shown) which may simply be the electrical installation of a room whose outcome is protected by the door or other barrier fitted with the lock.
  • a fixed source not shown
  • Line 23 connects the switch 22 to the electronic assembly 40 so that the latter can establish the control current in line 23 and consequently cause the closure of this switch 22.
  • This initialization is carried out by any known means, for example placed in a portable case.
  • the introduction of the confidential code can be made from a keyboard by the owner of the premises himself, so that the supplier may never know this code, hence an excellent guarantee of security since even the locksmith cannot know the code and counterfeit the key without the owner's knowledge.
  • the electronic assembly 40 includes a clock, it can measure time and, therefore, very precisely determine the instant of the introduction of a key. Consequently, it is possible to place in the memory 80 of the key 30, data which are interpreted as time slots during which the use of this key is either prohibited or authorized.
  • Such a key can be given to a person who is only authorized to enter a room after a certain hour, for example.
  • a hotelier can give his customers a key which will easily operate the lock of their room between the date of their arrival and the date scheduled for their departure. Beyond this date, the key will become inoperative since the electronic assembly 40 will recognize it as unauthorized, despite the fact that it does present the correct confidential code. It will then be necessary to obtain the agreement of the hotelier to re-initialize the key or to obtain another. From a central unit much more advanced than a simple clock, one can obviously intervene in a very elaborate way on the installation.
  • the end of this key can perfectly reach the housing 7 of the moving part 8 and therefore be in the mechanical actuation position of this part 8 and the bolts which depend thereon because, for reasons of simplicity and economy, the security of the assembly is compatible with a standardization of these mechanical elements: end of the key rod and housing 7.
  • the unlocking of the part 8 depends on electronic elements whose reliability is without common measure with the relative simplicity of the mechanical means known at present, as complex as their external appearance appears.
  • the assembly 40 accesses the memory 80 of the key 30 and the reading of this memory is almost instantaneous.
  • the key inserted into the lock contains many elements of individualization corresponding to those that the electronic assembly 40 has recorded, this immediately causes the supply of current in line 23, which has the effect of closing the switch 22, to power the electromagnet 13, to attract the plunger 12 and to release the moving part 8.
  • the user can then, as usual, cause the movement of the part 8 until that the bolts move to the open position and allow the door to open.
  • the electronic assembly 40 has the role of executing instructions, directives which can also be provided to it by a central unit, or partly by the key 30 and partly by a central unit.
  • the assembly 40 does not need a memory to store a quantity of data: it suffices for it to compare the indications provided by the key 30 at each introduction with the time given by the clock. If there is a coincidence the lock can be opened by the key, otherwise the lock remains locked.
  • the electronic assembly 40 can also include a display located, of course, on the internal side of the door. By inserting a key 30 into the lock, the assembly 40 reads the data from memory 80 and displays it. We can thus check the keys one by one and first make sure that they have been initialized correctly and, then, what particular elements of individualization they contain: time period in particular.
  • the lock was supplied with electrical energy from a stationary source. But this source can be faulty: breakdown, strike by public services or other interruption. In this case, it is essential to be able to remedy the absence of current and it can then be provided that the power supply to the electronic assembly 40, for its own operation and for actuating the switch 22 as well as for controlling the electromagnet 13 with a view to authorizing the operation of the lock, is ensured from the key by means of an autonomous source.
  • FIG. 3 This solution is illustrated in FIG. 3 by the presence of two contacts 50 and 51 located on the rod 32 of the key 30 and to which correspond two contacts (not shown) of the lock and connected by conductors 52 to the reader 40. It is necessary provide for supplying the contacts 50 and 51 and provision can be made for this for a portable battery or accumulator of any known type for supplying the reader 40 with the current it needs in voltage and in current.
  • the invention provides for differentiating the functions of mechanical actuation from the functions of recognition of the elements of individualization and it is thus possible to conserve the muscular force of man as a source of energy.
  • the electronic recognition functions must be compatible with the movements of the moving parts: key 30, part 8.
  • the key 60 comprises a rod 61 no longer of flat shape as in Figures 1 to 3 but of cylindrical section, its end 62 here being of square section, which means that the housing of the moving part must also be square.
  • the rod 61 comprises grooves 63 in each of which is a conductive ring 64 which encircles the rod 61 and which is isolated from the rod 61 itself if it is made of conductive material, each of these rings 64 corresponding to a determined contact, properly connected to the memory of the key 60.
  • the rod 61 comprises two other grooves 67 containing conductive rings 68 supplied from outside the key 60 and the conductors 52 are associated with contacts 69 similarly type that the contacts 65, that is to say resiliently biased towards the rings 68, so that the reader 40 remains powered during the operations of the key 60, whatever the number of turns that must be made to travel to order the lock.
  • Concentric contacts 75 are provided on the end 74 of the end 72 perpendicular to the axis of the rod 71 which must be placed against the contacts of the lock, for example provided on a radial bar 76 and connected by conductors 77 to the assembly 40.
  • the connection of the memory of the key 70 and of the assembly 40 is ensured despite the movements of the key during actuation of the moving part.
  • FIGs 7 and 8 there is shown the establishment on a flat key of the type shown in Figure 3, an electronic assembly comprising a memory and contacts of the kind used for memory cards.
  • This assembly includes an integrated circuit 80 with memory and contacts 81 arranged as shown in FIG. 3.
  • the rod 32 of the key 30 is provided with a housing 82 at the periphery of which is a shoulder 83 whose perimeter and depth correspond to the perimeter and thickness of all of the contacts 81.
  • a strong adhesive 84 in the housing 82 and place the integrated circuit 80 there so that the external surface contacts 81 are flush with the surface of the sides of the rod 32 as exactly as possible, as shown in FIG. 8.
  • the assembly 80-81 is very secure against the risks of tearing when the key 30 is engaged in the lock.
  • a key 30 of the same type as that of FIGS. 1 to 3, 7 and 8 is chosen, that is to say with a flat rod 32 and lateral lugs 34 and 35, this rod 32 being provided with an electronic assembly 80-81.
  • the contacts 90 connected to the assembly 40 are located on a flexible and insulating cord 91 of known type. Means not shown but within the reach of the skilled person ensure the joining of the contacts 90 and the contacts 81 as soon as they have been placed face to face.
  • the flexible cord 91 has a length such that it can be deployed to follow the movements of the key 30, even if it has to travel more than one turn.
  • a fixed cylindrical guide 92 is provided in the lock 92 provided with a lateral opening 93 opposite which is the cord 91.
  • the reader 40 is supposed to have identified as correct the elements for individualizing the key 30 and the user is supposed to operate this key 30.
  • the key 30 has traveled about an eighth of a turn.
  • the cord 91 has started to penetrate the guide 92 through the opening 93.
  • the key has traveled approximately a quarter of a turn.
  • the cord 91 is well engaged in the guide 92 but it is stretched substantially in a straight line and is not yet in contact with the guide 92.
  • the contacts of the lock are pushed elastically towards the place where the contacts 33 of the key 30 must be located and as soon as these are in place, the reading of the information by the electronic assembly 40 takes place in a extremely short time. If the opening is authorized, the key is operated and the contacts separate. It usually only takes a single turn of the key to maneuver even long bolts, thanks to the possible gear ratios. The key can then be removed. For closing, the contacts are still opposite and cooperate. The data of memory 80 are used and if they correspond to an authorized key, this can be operated to close the lock and the moving part is re-blocked.
  • FIG. 14 an example of assembly has been shown allowing the supply of the lock from an autonomous source.
  • the key 100 is thick enough to be able to be provided with two insulating conduits 101 and 102 pierced with radial holes 103 and 104 in which contacts 105 and 106 pass, similar to those 50-51 of FIG. 3.
  • the internal diameter of the conduits 101 and 102 corresponds to the outside diameter of conductive pins 107 and 108 which are part of an accumulator 109.
  • the latter is charged, as is known per se, by engagement of its pins 107 and 108 in a suitable socket.
  • it is associated with the key 100 by engagement of its pins 107 and 108 in the conduits 101 and 102, until they are against the contacts 105 and 106.
  • the key 100 is then used as described above.
  • change of codes (elements of individualization) starting from the key itself in particular. That allows, for example, a hotelier to give a client one or more keys corresponding to the lock of his room and to change the codes on the day of departure of this client. It is also possible to remotely control the various locks, to order the emergency opening of all doors at the same time in the event of danger, etc.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)

Abstract

The device is intended to allow or forbid the use of an entrance. It is of the type consisting of a mobile obstacle, such as a door, fitted with a lock. This lock has (a) a mobile component 8 firmly attached to at least one locking unit such as a bolt for immobilizing the obstacle and (b) elements with individual identity coordinated with corresponding elements carried by a portable detachable key 30 intended to actuate the mobile component 8. The key 30 has at least one ordinary type of unit 31 designed to cooperate mechanically with a complementary unit also of the ordinary type 7 of the mobile component 8. The latter component is kept permanently locked by a coupling mechanism 12 attached firmly to a fixed part 1 of the device and capable of being neutralized by electrical means. The key is fitted with an electronic memory 80 containing the confidential information which is individual to each key 30 and connected to contacts 33 whose arrangement is standard for all the keys. The lock is equipped with corresponding contacts connected to an electronic system 40 which includes a reader of the information contained in the memory 80 of the key and which controls an electric unit 13 which can neutralize the coupling mechanism 11-12-14 or not depending on whether the memory 80 of the key 30 introduced into the lock and the electronic system 40 are in agreement or not. <IMAGE>

Description

Traditionnellement, les serrures fonctionnent par déplace­ment de pièces mécaniques mobiles actionnées au moyen d'une clef manoeuvrée par la force musculaire de l'usager.Traditionally, locks operate by moving movable mechanical parts actuated by means of a key operated by the muscular force of the user.

Afin que seuls les usagers autorisés puissent faire fonc­tionner une serrure, on a prévu des éléments d'individualisation tant dans la serrure que sur les différentes clefs correspondantes. Naturellement, ces éléments ne pouvaient être que des formes complémentaires données définitivement aux pièces mécaniques et les progrès en la matière n'ont finalement consisté qu'à rendre ces formes plus difficiles à identifier et à copier, le principe de fonctionnement étant resté inchangé dans son fondement depuis des temps immémoriaux.So that only authorized users can operate a lock, provision has been made for individualization both in the lock and on the various corresponding keys. Naturally, these elements could only be complementary forms given definitively to mechanical parts and progress in the matter only consisted in making these forms more difficult to identify and copy, the principle of operation having remained unchanged in its foundation from time immemorial.

Dès l'apparition de l'électronique, et surtout de l'infor­matique, on a pensé remplacer clefs et serrures par des cartes et des lecteurs. Malheureusement, ces tentatives n'ont pas abouti à des résultats satisfaisants car en voulant remplacer la force musculaire de l'Homme par des moteurs pour utiliser à plein les ressources de la technique moderne, on a pris conscience de la très grande force développée par l'Homme au moyen de sa seule main et de son seul poignet. On a alors constaté qu'il fallait faire appel à des moteurs très volumineux et très chers inapplicables, par exem­ple, à des portes munies d'une serrure commandant deux, voire trois, quatre ou même cinq pènes situés à l'extrémité de tiges selon une cinématique procurant inévitablement des frottements importants et des coincements que seule l'habileté humaine sait vaincre facilement.As soon as electronics, and especially computers, appeared, we thought of replacing keys and locks with cards and readers. Unfortunately, these attempts did not lead to satisfactory results because by wanting to replace the muscular force of the Man by engines to use to the full the resources of the modern technique, one became aware of the very great force developed by l 'Man with one hand and one wrist. It was then found that it was necessary to use very bulky and very expensive motors which were inapplicable, for example, to doors provided with a lock controlling two or even three, four or even five bolts located at the end of rods according to a kinematics inevitably providing significant friction and jamming that only human skill can easily overcome.

On a espéré trouver une solution à ce problème en prati­quant des simplifications qui se sont avéré être précisément incom­patibles avec le degré de sécurité souhaité. Il est clair, par exemple, qu'en remplaçant une serrure à cinq pènes par une simple gâche électrique actionnée par un électro-aimant on résoud le pro­blème de la puissance et l'on peut assurer la commande de la gâche par une carte magnétique ou en manipulant un clavier mais que, simultanément, il suffit d'un simple levier robuste pour fracturer le barrage.It was hoped to find a solution to this problem by practicing simplifications which have proven to be precisely incompatible with the desired degree of security. It is clear, for example, that by replacing a five-bolt lock with a simple electric strike activated by an electromagnet, the problem of power is solved and the strike can be controlled by a magnetic card or by manipulating a keyboard but that, simultaneously, all it takes is a simple robust lever to fracture the dam.

On a également pensé à dissocier la fonction de recon­naissance de l'usager ("habilitation") et la fonction de commande mécanique. Dans ce cas, un objet électronique tel qu'un badge, une carte etc. est introduit dans un lecteur et après habilitation le porteur de cet objet peut accéder à un organe de commande mécani­que: bouton, poignée et autre. Cette solution non plus n'est pas entièrement satisfaisante car la protection de l'organe de commande est frustre et n'atteint pas le niveau de performances que procure une serrure moderne.We also thought of dissociating the user recognition function ("authorization") and the mechanical control function. In this case, an electronic object such as a badge, card, etc. is inserted into a reader and after authorization the wearer of this object can access a mechanical control member: button, handle and the like. This solution is not entirely satisfactory either because the protection of the control member is frustrated and does not reach the level of performance that a modern lock provides.

On connait aussi la solution qui consiste à utiliser la clef elle-même comme élément conducteur intercalé dans un circuit électrique contrôlant un organe de sécurité.We also know the solution which consists in using the key itself as a conductive element inserted in an electrical circuit controlling a safety device.

Ainsi, le document GB-A-2 055 951 décrit une serrure qui combine des éléments mécaniques et des éléments électriques. La serrure est construite selon un schéma banal : deux pièces mobiles sont automatiquement bloquées par des goupilles poussés par des ressorts. La clef porte des tailles disposées de telle manière qu'elles repoussent les goupilles, à l'encontre des ressorts, plus ou moins loin selon leur hauteur et la combinaison obtenue met tou­tes les goupilles en postion d'alignement qui débloque les deux pièces.Thus, the document GB-A-2 055 951 describes a lock which combines mechanical elements and electrical elements. The lock is built according to a banal scheme: two moving parts are automatically blocked by pins pushed by springs. The key carries sizes arranged in such a way that they push back the pins, against the springs, more or less far according to their height and the combination obtained puts all the pins in alignment position which unlocks the two parts.

Ce document décrit un montage qui prévoit que malgré l'in­troduction d'une clef correcte, une goupille n'est pas mise en position de déblocage. Lorsque les autres goupilles ont été repous­sées, la clef est en position correcte. La clef est en métal conducteur et sa tranche porte une languette isolante laissant subsister des parties conductrices disposées d'une manière spécifi­que à la clef et qui se placent en regard de contacts disposés en fonction de la disposition des parties conductrices de la clef. Alors, et alors seulement, un courant électrique, issu d'une source quelconque, peut parcourir le circuit dont le clef fait partie. Le circuit s'établit correctement si la clef est bien celle qui cor­respond à la serrure et un électro-aimant est alimenté et déplace la goupille restée en position de blocage qui joue le rôle de plon­geur. Cet ultime déblocage permet enfin l'ouverture de la serrure puisque la clef peut tourner et entraîner l'une des deux pièces bloquées.This document describes an assembly which provides that despite the introduction of a correct key, a pin is not put in the unlocked position. When the other pins have been pushed back, the key is in the correct position. The key is made of conductive metal and its edge carries an insulating tongue leaving conductive parts arranged in a manner specific to the key and which are placed opposite contacts arranged according to the arrangement of the conductive parts of the key. Then, and only then, an electric current, coming from any source, can cross the circuit of which the key is a part. The circuit is established correctly if the key is the one that corresponds to the lock and an electromagnet is supplied and moves the pin remaining in the locked position which plays the role of plunger. This final unlocking finally allows the opening of the lock since the key can turn and drive one of the two blocked parts.

On voit qu'avec ce montage, il n'existe aucun organe de blocage distinct des goupilles. Celle de ces goupilles qui n'est pas manoeuvrée mécaniquement par la clef est manoeuvrée magnétique­ment car son extrémité constitue le plongeur d'un électro-aimant. En outre, les éléments d'individualisation sont d'une part les goupilles et les tailles habituelles et, d'autre part, la disposi­tion spécifique des parties conductrices de la clef et des contacts de la serrure. Il n'y a aucune intervention électronique, faisant appel à une mémoire, à un dialogue entre ladite mémoire et un en­semble électronique, aucune différenciation entre les organes méca­niques manoeuvrés par la clef et ceux manoeuvrés électriquement.We see that with this assembly, there is no separate locking member of the pins. That of these pins which is not mechanically operated by the key is operated magnetically because its end constitutes the plunger of an electromagnet. In addition, the individualization elements are on the one hand the usual pins and sizes and, on the other hand, the specific arrangement of the conductive parts of the key and of the contacts of the lock. There is no electronic intervention, using a memory, a dialogue between said memory and an electronic assembly, no differentiation between the mechanical organs operated by the key and those operated electrically.

Il est clair, enfin, que la serrure conforme à ce document ne peut pas fonctionner avec un clef qui n'aurait pas de tailles.It is clear, finally, that the lock conforming to this document cannot function with a key which would not have sizes.

La présente invention propose une solution nouvelle qui associe la sécurité de l'informatique à l'efficacité de la serru­rerie.The present invention provides a new solution which combines IT security with the efficiency of the locksmith.

A cette fin, l'invention a pour objet un dispositif pour la condamnation et la dé-condamnation d'un accès, du type comprenant un obstacle mobile, tel qu'une porte, muni d'une serrure possédant d'une part une pièce mobile solidaire d'au moins un organe de blo­cage tel qu'un pène destiné à l'immobilisation de l'obstacle et d'autre part des éléments d'individualisation coordonnés à des éléments correspondants portés par une clef amovible portative des­tinée à l'actionnement de la pièce mobile, la clef présentant au moins un organe de type courant destiné à coopérer mécaniquement avec un organe complémentaire également de type courant de la pièce mobile, laquelle est maintenue bloquée en permanence par un méca­nisme d'accouplement solidaire d'une partie fixe (1) du dispositif et neutralisable par des moyens électriques, caractérisé en ce que la clef est munie d'une mémoire électronique contenant des informa­tions confidentielles d'individualisation de chaque clef et reliée à des contacts dont la disposition est standard pour toutes les clefs et en ce que la serrure est équipée de contacts correspon­dants reliés à un ensemble électronique qui comprend un lecteur d'informations contenues dans la mémoire de la clef et qui contrôle les moyens électriques afin que ceux-ci puissent neutraliser ou pas le mécanisme d'accouplement selon que la mémoire de clef introduite dans la serrure et le lecteur sont en concordance ou pas.To this end, the subject of the invention is a device for locking and de-locking an access, of the type comprising a movable obstacle, such as a door, provided with a lock having on the one hand a movable part secured to at least one blocking member such as a bolt intended for immobilizing the obstacle and other part of the individualization elements coordinated with corresponding elements carried by a removable portable key intended for the actuation of the moving part, the key having at least one common type member intended to mechanically cooperate with an additional member also of common type the moving part, which is kept permanently blocked by a coupling mechanism integral with a fixed part (1) of the device and neutralizable by electrical means, characterized in that the key is provided with an electronic memory containing information confidentialization of individualization of each key and connected to contacts whose arrangement is standard for all keys and in that the lock is equipped with corresponding contacts connected to an e nsemble electronic which includes a reader of information contained in the memory of the key and which controls the electrical means so that these can neutralize or not the mechanism of coupling according to whether the memory of key introduced into the lock and the reader are in concordance or not.

Selon d'autres caractéristiques de l'invention :
- le mécanisme d'accouplement est situé hors de la serrure propre­ment dite et avantageusement assez loin d'elle, la pièce mobile ayant une longueur substantielle;
- le mécanisme d'accouplement est situé à des emplacements varia­bles selon les installations, le long de la pièce mobile;
- la clef comprend d'une part des contacts distincts de ceux devant être reliés à l'ensemble électronique et, d'autre part, des moyens de connexion de ces contacts à une source de courant élec­trique, la serrure possédant des contacts distincts de ceux du lecteur, qui correspondent aux contacts distincts de la clef et qui font partie d'un circuit d'alimentation de l'ensemble élec­tronique et des moyens électriques;
- l'ensemble électronique et les moyens électriques étant incorpo­ rés à un circuit relié à une arrivée de courant provenant d'une source fixe, le circuit dont les contacts distincts font partie comprennent des moyens de tout type connu permettant de neutrali­ser l'arrivée de courant provenant de la source fixe;
- le dispositif comporte une liaison entre l'ensemble électronique et un interrupteur intercalé sur un conducteur d'alimentation des moyens électriques afin que cet interrupteur soit sélectivement ouvert et fermé en corrélation avec le fonctionnement mutuel de l'ensemble électronique et de la mémoire;
- le mécanisme d'accouplement est constitué par un électro-aimant ayant un plongeur mobile situé en regard d'un logement de la pièce mobile, ce plongeur étant constamment sollicité, sans apport d'énergie extérieure, vers une position dite "active" dans laquelle il est engagé dans le logement tandis qu'il est maintenu dans une position dite "d'effacement" dans laquelle il est hors du logement, seulement quand l'électro-aimant est alimenté en courant électrique;
- l'extrémité de la clef présente une forme autre que circulaire et constitue l'organe destiné à coopérer mécaniquement avec un orga­ne complémentaire de forme correspondante de la pièce mobile;
- les contacts situés dans la serrure sont mobiles et associés à des guides afin de pouvoir suivre les mouvements de pivotement de la clef dans la serrure;
- les contacts situés dans la serrure sont disposés à l'extrémité d'un ruban isolant flexible contenant des conducteurs reliés d'une part aux contacts et d'autre part au lecteur;
- les contacts situés sur la clef sont du type de ceux prévus habi­tuellement sur des cartes portatives à mémoire et sont fixés sur une face plane de la tige;
- la clef ayant une tige substantiellement plate, celle-ci présente un logement latéral devant recevoir une mémoire électronique, ainsi qu'un épaulement périphérique au logement, de même périmè­tre externe et de même profondeur que l'ensemble des contacts reliés à ladite mémoire, afin que ceux-ci affleurent la face latérale correspondante de la tige.According to other characteristics of the invention:
- The coupling mechanism is located outside the lock proper and advantageously far enough from it, the moving part having a substantial length;
- the coupling mechanism is located at variable locations depending on the installation, along the moving part;
- The key comprises on the one hand contacts distinct from those to be connected to the electronic assembly and, on the other hand, means for connecting these contacts to a source of electric current, the lock having contacts distinct from those of the reader, which correspond to the separate contacts of the key and which form part of a supply circuit for the electronic assembly and the electrical means;
- the electronic assembly and the electrical means being incorporated res to a circuit connected to a current supply from a stationary source, the circuit of which the separate contacts form part comprises means of any known type making it possible to neutralize the arrival of current coming from the stationary source;
- The device comprises a connection between the electronic assembly and a switch interposed on a power supply conductor of the electrical means so that this switch is selectively open and closed in correlation with the mutual operation of the electronic assembly and the memory;
- The coupling mechanism consists of an electromagnet having a movable plunger located opposite a housing of the movable part, this plunger being constantly stressed, without any external energy supply, towards a so-called "active" position in which it is engaged in the housing while it is maintained in a position called "erasure" in which it is out of the housing, only when the electromagnet is supplied with electric current;
- The end of the key has a shape other than circular and constitutes the member intended to cooperate mechanically with a complementary member of corresponding shape of the moving part;
- The contacts located in the lock are mobile and associated with guides in order to be able to follow the pivoting movements of the key in the lock;
- The contacts located in the lock are arranged at the end of a flexible insulating tape containing conductors connected on the one hand to the contacts and on the other hand to the reader;
the contacts located on the key are of the type usually provided on portable memory cards and are fixed on a flat face of the rod;
the key having a substantially flat rod, it has a lateral housing which must receive an electronic memory, as well as a shoulder peripheral to the housing, with the same external perimeter and the same depth as all of the contacts connected to said memory, so that they are flush with the face corresponding side of the rod.

L'invention sera mieux comprise par la description détail­lée ci-après faite en référence au dessin annexé. Bien entendu, la description et le dessin ne sont donnés qu'à titre d'exemple indi­catif et non limitatif.

  • La figure 1 est une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale d'une serrure conforme à l'invention, en situation d'attente d'une clef.
  • La figure 2 est une vue schématique de face de la même serrure.
  • La figure 3 est une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale de la même serrure après introduction d'une clef conforme à l'in­vention.
  • Les figures 4 et 5 sont des vues schématiques respective­ment en coupe longitudinale et de face d'une clef conforme à l'in­vention, selon un mode de réalisation particulier.
  • La figure 6 est une vue schématique partielle en perspec­tive d'une clef conforme à l'invention, selon un autre mode de réalisation.
  • La figure 7 est une vue schématique en coupe transversale d'une clef conforme à l'invention au cours de l'opération de mise en place d'une mémoire et de ses contacts d'accès.
  • La figure 8 est une vue schématique en coupe transversale de la même clef après mise en place de la mémoire et de ses contacts d'acès.
  • Les figures 9 à 13 sont des vues schématiques en coupe transversale illustrant un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention.
  • La figure 14 est une vue schématique montrant l'usage d'une source de courant électrique extérieure à la serrure et combinée à la clef.
The invention will be better understood from the detailed description below made with reference to the accompanying drawing. Of course, the description and the drawing are given only by way of an indicative and nonlimiting example.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of a lock according to the invention, while waiting for a key.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic front view of the same lock.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of the same lock after introduction of a key according to the invention.
  • Figures 4 and 5 are schematic views respectively in longitudinal section and from the front of a key according to the invention, according to a particular embodiment.
  • Figure 6 is a partial schematic perspective view of a key according to the invention, according to another embodiment.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a key according to the invention during the operation of setting up a memory and its access contacts.
  • Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the same key after installation of the memory and its access contacts.
  • Figures 9 to 13 are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating a particular embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 14 is a schematic view showing the use of a source of electrical current external to the lock and combined with the key.

Une serrure conforme à l'invention comprend des parties banales et bien connues de l'Homme de Métier, de sorte que, dans la description ci-après, il ne sera fait allusion qu'à celles de ces parties qui sont nécessaires pour la compréhension de l'invention. En particulier, on ne décrira pas les organes de fixation de la serrure à une porte, le fonctionnement d'un ou de plusieurs pènes avec des gâches, les cinématiques possibles pour obtenir le dépla­cement de tels pènes à partie d'une clef etc.A lock according to the invention comprises common parts and well known to those skilled in the art, so that, in the description below, reference will only be made to those of these parts which are necessary for the understanding of the invention. In particular, we will not describe the means of fixing the lock to a door, the operation of one or more bolts with strikes, the possible kinematics to obtain the displacement of such bolts from a key etc.

Il en est de même pour la clef. Afin de mettre en évidence une qualité de l'invention, on a retenu l'exemple d'une clef n'ayant aucun élément mécanique d'individualisation : l'action mécanique de la clef sur la pièce mobile se fait par coopération de la clef et d'un logement simplement de section autre que circulai­re. Cela montre que l'individualisation et l'adéquation entre serrure et clef sont le fait exclusif des circuits électroniques et non de pièces mécaniques. Mais, bien entendu, on peut aussi appli­quer l'invention à des clefs de tout type connu, avec des tailles sur la tige, soit sur les côtés, soit à son extrémité.It is the same for the key. In order to highlight a quality of the invention, we have retained the example of a key having no mechanical element of individualization: the mechanical action of the key on the moving part is done by cooperation of the key and a housing simply of section other than circular. This shows that the individualization and the adequacy between lock and key are the exclusive fact of the electronic circuits and not of mechanical parts. However, of course, the invention can also be applied to keys of any known type, with sizes on the rod, either on the sides or at its end.

En se reportant à la figure 1, on voit une serrure conforme à l'invention qui comprend un canon fixe 1 dans lequel une virole 2 est montée pivotante et présente deux guides linéaires diamétrale­ment opposés 3 et 4 pour une clef. Le canon 1 est fixé sur une pièce 5 qui fait partie de la serrure et qui présente un passage central 6 donnant accès à un logement 7 d'une pièce mobile 8 reliée cinématiquement à un ou plusieurs pènes (non représentés). La pièce mobile 8 est montée pivotante grâce à une couronne lisse 9 engagée à frottement doux dans un logement circulaire de diamètre corres­pondant prévu dans une partie fixe 10 de la serrure.Referring to Figure 1, we see a lock according to the invention which comprises a fixed barrel 1 in which a ferrule 2 is pivotally mounted and has two diametrically opposite linear guides 3 and 4 for a key. The barrel 1 is fixed to a part 5 which is part of the lock and which has a central passage 6 giving access to a housing 7 of a movable part 8 kinematically connected to one or more bolts (not shown). The movable part 8 is pivotally mounted by means of a smooth ring 9 engaged with gentle friction in a circular housing of corresponding diameter provided in a fixed part 10 of the lock.

La pièce fixe 5 présente un trou 11 en face duquel se trouve un plongeur 12 d'un électro-aimant 13. Devant le trou 11, se trouve un logement 14 ménagé dans la pièce mobile 8, de sorte que ce logement 14 est également situé en regard du plongeur 12.The fixed part 5 has a hole 11 opposite which is a plunger 12 of an electromagnet 13. In front of the hole 11, there is a housing 14 formed in the movable part 8, so that this housing 14 is also located opposite the diver 12.

L'électro-aimant 13 est alimenté en courant électrique par deux conducteurs 20 et 21, dont l'un, 20, est équipé d'un inter­rupteur 22 de tout type connu pour être ouvert et fermé par une commande électrique qui lui est transmise par une ligne 23. Lors­qu'aucun courant ne parcourt la ligne 23, l'interrupteur reste automatiquement en position d'ouverture et l'électro-aimant est non alimenté, la conséquence de cet état de fait étant que le plongeur 12 est en position d'extraction et, par le trou 11 de la pièce fixe 5, est placé dans le logement 14 de la pièce mobile 8. On obtient ainsi, en l'absence de toute commande délibérée un accouplement de l'électro-aimant 13 fixe et de la pièce mobile 8 qui s'en trouve immobilisée. Le ou les pènes avec le ou lesquels la pièce mobile 8 est reliée sont en position de fermeture et y sont maintenus.The electromagnet 13 is supplied with electric current by two conductors 20 and 21, one of which, 20, is fitted with a switch 22 of any type known to be opened and closed by an electrical command which is transmitted to it by a line 23. When no current flows on line 23, the switch remains automatically in the open position and the electromagnet is not powered, the consequence of this being that the plunger 12 is in the extraction position and, through the hole 11 of the fixed part 5, is placed in the housing 14 of the movable part 8. Thus, in the absence of any deliberate control, a coupling of the fixed electromagnet 13 and the movable part 8 which is immobilized. The bolt (s) with which the movable part 8 is connected are in the closed position and are held there.

La longueur des fils 20, 21, 23 peut évidemment être quel­conque. On peut donc, à volonté, placer le mécanisme d'accouplement 11-12-13 plus ou moins loin de la serrure proprement dite. Même si un malfaiteur agit en force sur la serrure, il ne débloquera pas la pièce mobile 8. Comme on peut choisir l'emplacement de ce mécanisme d'accouplement cas par cas pour chaque installation, dès lors que la pièce mobile 8 a une longueur substantielle, un malfaiteur face à une porte équipée selon l'invention ne sait jamais où se trouve exactement ce mécanisme 11-12-13 qui bloque la serrure tout entiè­re. Ces dispositions sont particulièrement adaptées aux serrures du type connu ayant une pièce mobile 8 aussi haute que la porte et reliée cinématiquement à plusieurs pènes. Dans ce cas, le logement 14 dans lequel doit pénétrer la pièce d'accouplement peut être une encoche prévue latéralement à la pièce mobile 8.The length of the wires 20, 21, 23 can obviously be arbitrary. We can therefore, at will, place the coupling mechanism 11-12-13 more or less far from the lock itself. Even if a malefactor acts in force on the lock, he will not unlock the moving part 8. As we can choose the location of this coupling mechanism case by case for each installation, since the moving part 8 has a length substantial, a criminal facing a door equipped according to the invention never knows where exactly is this mechanism 11-12-13 which blocks the entire lock. These provisions are particularly suitable for locks of the known type having a movable part 8 as high as the door and kinematically connected to several bolts. In this case, the housing 14 into which the coupling part must penetrate may be a notch provided laterally to the moving part 8.

Cette position "de repos" ou "d'attente" est celle qui est représentée sur les figures 1 et 2.This "rest" or "waiting" position is that which is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

On comprend que pour ouvrir la porte, ou autre barrage équipé de cette serrure, il faut actionner la pièce 8 et pour cela amener le plongeur de blocage 12 dans sa position de rétraction, à l'intérieur de l'électro-aimant 13.It is understood that to open the door, or other barrier fitted with this lock, it is necessary to actuate the part 8 and for this bring the blocking plunger 12 in its retraction position, inside the electromagnet 13.

Conformément à l'invention, on utilise à cet effet une clef 30 de tout type connu pour ce qui est de sa conception d'organe de serrurerie. Afin de pouvoir agir mécaniquement sur la pièce mobile 8, l'extrémité 31 de sa tuge 32 est conformée comme le logement 7, avec une section dont le périmètre est autre que circulaire : selon un carré, un rectangle comme représenté, un triangle au tout autre polygone, y compris à angles rentrants comme une étoile, tandis que pour pouvoir coopérer avec des éléments d'individualisation de la serrure, on fait appel à des moyens électroniques ou "informa­tiques".In accordance with the invention, a key 30 of any known type is used for this purpose in terms of its design as a locksmith member. In order to be able to act mechanically on the moving part 8, the end 31 of its tuge 32 is shaped like the housing 7, with a section whose perimeter is other than circular: according to a square, a rectangle as shown, a triangle at all other polygon, including at re-entrant angles like a star, while in order to be able to cooperate with elements for individualizing the lock, electronic or "computer" means are used.

Une telle clef est représentée sur la figure 3 en position active. Sa tige 32 est munie d'une série de contacts 33 du type de ceux utilisés pour les cartes dites "à mémoire", ces contacts étant reliés, précisément, à une mémoire (non visible sur les figures 1 à 3) faisant partie d'un circuit intégré généralement nommé "puce".Such a key is shown in Figure 3 in the active position. Its rod 32 is provided with a series of contacts 33 of the type of those used for so-called "memory" cards, these contacts being connected, precisely, to a memory (not visible in FIGS. 1 to 3) forming part of an integrated circuit generally called "chip".

Lorsque la clef 30 est introduite dans le canon 1-2, des ergots latéraux 34 et 35 qu'elle porte ici coopèrent avec les gui­des 3 et 4 pour conduire de manière précise la clef 30 en ligne droite jusqu'à ce que l'extrémité 31 de sa tige 32 passe librement à travers le passage 6 de la pièce fixe 5 et atteigne le logement 7 de la pièce mobile 8, le tout selon une orientation correcte lors­que celle-ci est indispensable compte tenu de la section de l'ex­trémité 31 et du logement 7.When the key 30 is introduced into the barrel 1-2, lateral pins 34 and 35 which it carries here cooperate with the guides 3 and 4 to precisely drive the key 30 in a straight line until the end 31 of its rod 32 passes freely through the passage 6 of the fixed part 5 and reaches the housing 7 of the moving part 8, all in a correct orientation when the latter is essential taking into account the section of the end 31 and housing 7.

Quand l'extrémité 31 a suffisamment pénétré dans le loge­ment 7 pour pouvoir à coup sûr actionner la pièce 8, le jeu de contacts 33 se trouve précisément en regard de contacts (non repré­sentés sur les figures 1 à 3) d'un ensemble électronique 40 de tout type connu.When the end 31 has sufficiently penetrated into the housing 7 to be able to actuate the part 8 without fail, the set of contacts 33 is precisely opposite the contacts (not shown in FIGS. 1 to 3) of an electronic assembly 40 of any known type.

L'ensemble 40 comprend tous les circuits, mémoires et composants voulus pour pouvoir, d'abord, lire les informations stockées dans la mémoire de la clef 30, ensuite, vérifier que ces informations constituent bien des éléments d'individualisation de la clef 30 correspondant à ceux de la serrure, c'est-à-dire à ceux que l'eensemble 40 contient pour les avoir reçus lors de son codage et, enfin, provoquer le déblocage de la pièce mobile 8.The assembly 40 includes all the circuits, memories and components required to be able, first, to read the information stored in the memory of the key 30, then, to verify that this information indeed constitutes elements of individualization of the corresponding key 30 to those of the lock, that is to say those that the assembly 40 contains for having received them during its coding and, finally, causing the unlocking of the moving part 8.

L'expression "ensemble électronique" doit être prise dans son sens le plus large car l'une des caractéristiques de l'inven­tion est de pouvoir comporter une unité centrale d'ordinateur, plus ou moins éloignée de la serrure proprement, dite du fait que les liaisons électriques 41-42 peuvent avoir toute longueur voulue.The expression "electronic assembly" must be taken in its widest sense because one of the characteristics of the invention is to be able to include a central computer unit, more or less distant from the lock proper, called the fact that the electrical connections 41-42 can have any desired length.

Lors du montage, l'ensemble électronique 40 n'est pas ini­tialisé ou, plus exactement, il fonctionne en reconnaissant comme habilitée toute clef dont la mémoire 80 ne comporte aucun code confidentiel, aucun élément d'individualisation. Tant qu'il en est ainsi, toute clef vierge convient dès lors qu'elle est du type conforme à l'invention c'est-à-dire qu'elle comporte une mémoire et des contacts standards, ce qui est pratique sur les chantiers car on peut effectuer toutes les installations de serrures et les faire toutes fonctionner en fermeture et en ouverture avec une "clef de chantier" ou passe-partout.During assembly, the electronic assembly 40 is not initialized or, more precisely, it operates by recognizing as empowered any key whose memory 80 does not include any confidential code, any element of individualization. As long as this is the case, any blank key is suitable as long as it is of the type in accordance with the invention, that is to say that it includes a memory and standard contacts, which is practical on building sites because we can make all the lock installations and make them all work in closing and opening with a "site key" or master key.

A ces fins, l'ensemble 40 doit être alimenté en courant électrique, par exemple au moyen de conducteurs 41 qui le relient à une source fixe (non représentée) pouvant être tout simplement l'installation électrique d'un local dont l'issue est protégée par la porte ou autre barrage équipé de la serrure. On ne décrira pas ici les détails d'une telle alimentation dont l'Homme de Métier sait qu'elle peut être plus ou moins complexe : stabilisateurs, transformateur en basse tension, batterie tampon de secours etc. On a symbolisé par une simple ligne 42 la mise en relation du jeu de contacts 33 et de l'ensemble 40 mais l'on sait qu'en réalité des contacts doivent être situés à l'intérieur de la serrure, selon la même configuration que ceux du jeu 33 de la clef, afin qu'ils coïncident quand la clef est en position correcte et que certains d'entre eux, au moins, puissent être actifs. La ligne 23 relie l'interrupteur 22 à l'ensemble électronique 40 afin que celui-ci puisse établir le courant de commande dans la ligne 23 et par conséquent provoquer la fermeture de cet interrupteur 22.For these purposes, the assembly 40 must be supplied with electric current, for example by means of conductors 41 which connect it to a fixed source (not shown) which may simply be the electrical installation of a room whose outcome is protected by the door or other barrier fitted with the lock. We will not describe here the details of such a power supply which the skilled person knows can be more or less complex: stabilizers, low voltage transformer, backup buffer battery etc. We symbolized by a simple line 42 the connection of the set of contacts 33 and the assembly 40 but we know that in reality contacts must be located inside the lock, according to the same configuration as those of game 33 of the key, so that they coincide when the key is in the correct position and that some of them, at least, can be active. Line 23 connects the switch 22 to the electronic assembly 40 so that the latter can establish the control current in line 23 and consequently cause the closure of this switch 22.

Le fonctionnement de ce dispositif est donc le suivant :The operation of this device is therefore as follows:

On introduit dans la mémoire 80 de la clef 30 les éléments d'individualisation necéssaires au fonctionnement de la serrure : code confidentiel mais aussi autres données de sécurité : numéro d'ordre attribué par le fabricant par exemple. Cette initialisation est effectuée par tous moyens connus, par exemple placés dans une mallette portative. L'introduction du code confidentiel peut être faite à partir d'un clavier par le propriétaire lui-même du local, de sorte que le fournisseur peut ne jamais connaître ce code, d'où une excellente garantie de sécurité puisque même le serrurier ne peut pas connaître le code et contrefaire la clef à l'insu du pro­priétaire. Si l'ensemble électronique 40 comporte une horloge il peut mesurer le temps et, donc, déterminer très précisément l'ins­tant de l'introduction d'une clef. Dès lors, il est possible de placer dans la mémoire 80 de la clef 30, des données qui sont interprêtées comme des tranches horaires pendant lesquelles l'usage de cette clef est soit interdit, soit autorisé. On peut remettre une telle clef à une personne qui n'est habilitée à pénétrer dans un local qu'à partir d'une certaine heure, par exemple. On peut aussi, bien entendu, prévoir des données qui signifient que la clef est habilitée pour certains jours de la semaine ou pour une certai­ne période de temps. Un hôtelier peut remettre à ses clients une clef qui manoeuvrera sans peine la serrure de leur chambre entre la date de leur arrivée et la date prévue pour leur départ. Au-delà de cette date, la clef deviendra inopérante puisque l'ensemble élec­tronique 40 la reconnaîtra comme non habilitée, en dépit du fait qu'elle présente bien le code confidentiel correct. Il faudra alors obtenir l'accord de l'hôtelier pour ré-initialiser la clef ou pour en obtenir une autre. A partir d'une unité centrale beaucoup plus évoluée qu'une simple horloge, on peut évidemment intervenir d'une manière très élaborée sur l'installation. Par exemple, si une per­sonne n'est plus autorisée à accéder à un certain local, on peut accéder en quelques secondes à l'ensemble électronique 40 corres­pondant et agir sur lui pour qu'il ne soit plus accordé à la clef de cette personne et qu'il reste inopérant à ouvrir la serrure si cette clef y est engagée. Ce mode opératoire est bien plus simple, rapide et sûr que celui qui consisterait à récupérer la clef et agir sur celle-ci, car son porteur peut être loin, voire même indé­licat et conserver la clef.Is introduced into the memory 80 of the key 30 the individualization elements necessary for the operation of the lock: confidential code but also other security data: serial number assigned by the manufacturer for example. This initialization is carried out by any known means, for example placed in a portable case. The introduction of the confidential code can be made from a keyboard by the owner of the premises himself, so that the supplier may never know this code, hence an excellent guarantee of security since even the locksmith cannot know the code and counterfeit the key without the owner's knowledge. If the electronic assembly 40 includes a clock, it can measure time and, therefore, very precisely determine the instant of the introduction of a key. Consequently, it is possible to place in the memory 80 of the key 30, data which are interpreted as time slots during which the use of this key is either prohibited or authorized. Such a key can be given to a person who is only authorized to enter a room after a certain hour, for example. We can also, of course, provide data which means that the key is enabled for certain days of the week or for a certain period of time. A hotelier can give his customers a key which will easily operate the lock of their room between the date of their arrival and the date scheduled for their departure. Beyond this date, the key will become inoperative since the electronic assembly 40 will recognize it as unauthorized, despite the fact that it does present the correct confidential code. It will then be necessary to obtain the agreement of the hotelier to re-initialize the key or to obtain another. From a central unit much more advanced than a simple clock, one can obviously intervene in a very elaborate way on the installation. For example, if a person is no longer authorized to access a certain room, one can access the corresponding electronic assembly 40 in a few seconds and act on it so that it is no longer granted to the key of this person and that it remains inoperative to open the lock if this key is engaged. This operating mode is much simpler, faster and safer than that which would consist in recovering the key and acting on it, because its bearer can be far away, even indelicate and keep the key.

Au repos, la serrure est dans la situation des figures 1 et 2. L'interrupteur 22 est ouvert, l'électro-aimant 13 est désali­ menté et son plongeur est sollicité vers sa position de blocage dans le logement 14 de la pièce mobile 8, à travers le trou 11 de la pièce fixe 5. L'ensemble 40 est ou non alimenté, mais, de toutes façons, en l'absence d'une clef vierge, la ligne 23 ne reçoit pas de courant. Le ou les pènes dont la pièce mobile 8 est solidaire sont en position de fermeture et donc la porte est fermée.At rest, the lock is in the situation in FIGS. 1 and 2. The switch 22 is open, the electromagnet 13 is deactivated menté and its plunger is biased towards its locking position in the housing 14 of the movable part 8, through the hole 11 of the fixed part 5. The assembly 40 is or is not supplied, but, in any case, in the absence of a blank key, line 23 does not receive current. The bolt (s) of which the movable part 8 is integral are in the closed position and therefore the door is closed.

Lorsque l'on introduit une clef dont la tige correspond à l'entrée du canon 1-2, l'extrémité de cette clef peut parfaitement atteindre le logement 7 de la pièce mobile 8 et se trouver par conséquent en position d'actionnement mécanique de cette pièce 8 et des pènes qui en dépendent car, pour des raisons de simplicité et d'économie, la sécurité de l'ensemble est compatible avec une stan­dardisation de ces éléments mécaniques : extrémité de la tige de clef et logement 7. En effet, le déblocage de la pièce 8 dépend d'éléments électroniques dont la fiabilité est sans commune mesure avec la rela­tif simplisme des moyens mécaniques connus actuellement, aussi comple­xe que paraisse leur aspect extérieur.When a key is introduced, the rod of which corresponds to the entry of the barrel 1-2, the end of this key can perfectly reach the housing 7 of the moving part 8 and therefore be in the mechanical actuation position of this part 8 and the bolts which depend thereon because, for reasons of simplicity and economy, the security of the assembly is compatible with a standardization of these mechanical elements: end of the key rod and housing 7. In fact, the unlocking of the part 8 depends on electronic elements whose reliability is without common measure with the relative simplicity of the mechanical means known at present, as complex as their external appearance appears.

Dès que cette mise en place de l'extrémité de la clef dans le logement 7 est réalisée, l'ensemble 40 accède à la mémoire 80 de la clef 30 et la lecture de cette mémoire est quasi instantanée.As soon as this establishment of the end of the key in the housing 7 is carried out, the assembly 40 accesses the memory 80 of the key 30 and the reading of this memory is almost instantaneous.

La première fois que l'on introduit une clef initialisée, c'est-à-dire dont la mémoire 80 a reçu des données d'individualisa­tion, l'ensemble électronique 40 enregistre ces données et dès ce moment, la serrure ne pourra plus fonctionner qu'avec une clef présen­tant ces données ainsi que d'autres conditions éventuelles : tranches horaires par exemple.The first time that an initialized key is introduced, that is to say of which the memory 80 has received individualization data, the electronic assembly 40 records this data and from this moment, the lock will no longer be able to function only with a key presenting this data as well as other possible conditions: time slots for example.

Si donc la clef introduite dans la serrure contient bien des éléments d'individualisation correspondant à ceux que l'ensemble élec­tronique 40 a enregistré, celui-ci provoque aussitôt l'amenée de cou­rant dans la ligne 23, ce qui a pour effet de fermer l'interrupteur 22, d'alimenter l'électro-aimant 13, d'attirer le plongeur 12 et de libérer la pièce mobile 8. L'usager peut alors, comme à l'accoutumée, provoquer le déplacement de la pièce 8 jusqu'à ce que les pènes se mettent en position d'ouverture et permettent à la porte de s'ouvrir.If therefore the key inserted into the lock contains many elements of individualization corresponding to those that the electronic assembly 40 has recorded, this immediately causes the supply of current in line 23, which has the effect of closing the switch 22, to power the electromagnet 13, to attract the plunger 12 and to release the moving part 8. The user can then, as usual, cause the movement of the part 8 until that the bolts move to the open position and allow the door to open.

Ces opérations peuvent, comme le sait l'Homme de Métier, être plus ou moins complexes, depuis la simplicité des fermetures purement manuelles jusqu'aux automatismes poussés pouvant compren­dre des moteurs, des ressorts ou des vérins d'assistance aux mouve­ments.These operations can, as a person skilled in the art knows, be more or less complex, from the simplicity of purely manual closings to advanced automatisms which may include motors, springs or cylinders for assisting movements.

Si l'on désire changer le code confidentiel et autres élé­ments d'individualisation, on ré-initialise une ou plusieurs clefs, on efface la mémoire de l'ensemble électronique 40 et celui-ci revient à sa situation d'origine. On introduit alors une nouvelle clef et l'ensemble 40 est un mesure d'enregistrer les nouvelles données.If one wishes to change the confidential code and other elements of individualization, one or more keys are reinitialized, the memory of the electronic assembly 40 is erased and the latter returns to its original situation. A new key is then introduced and the assembly 40 is a measure for recording the new data.

On voit que les informations proviennent de la clef 30 et que l'ensemble électronique 40 a le rôle d'exécuter des instruc­tions, des directives qui peuvent lui être aussi fournies par une unité centrale, ou en partie par la clef 30 et en partie par une unité centrale. Dans le cas des périodes de temps d'habilitation, par exemple, l'ensemble 40 n'a pas besoin d'une mémoire pour stoc­ker une quantité de données : il lui suffit de comparer les indica­tions fournies par la clef 30 à chaque introduction avec le temps donné par l'horloge. S'il y a coïncidence la serrure peut être ouverte pâr la clef, dans le cas contraire, la serrure reste bloquée.We see that the information comes from the key 30 and that the electronic assembly 40 has the role of executing instructions, directives which can also be provided to it by a central unit, or partly by the key 30 and partly by a central unit. In the case of periods of authorization time, for example, the assembly 40 does not need a memory to store a quantity of data: it suffices for it to compare the indications provided by the key 30 at each introduction with the time given by the clock. If there is a coincidence the lock can be opened by the key, otherwise the lock remains locked.

L'ensemble électronique 40 peut également coprendre un afficheur situé, bien entendu, du côté interne de la porte. En introduisant une clef 30 dans la serrure, l'ensemble 40 lit les données de la mémoire 80 et les affiche. On peut ainsi vérifier les clefs une à une et s'assurer d'abord qu'elles ont été initialisées correctement et , ensuite, quelles éléments d'individualisation particuliers elles contiennent : période de temps notamment.The electronic assembly 40 can also include a display located, of course, on the internal side of the door. By inserting a key 30 into the lock, the assembly 40 reads the data from memory 80 and displays it. We can thus check the keys one by one and first make sure that they have been initialized correctly and, then, what particular elements of individualization they contain: time period in particular.

On a supposé, dans l'exemple décrit ci-dessus, que la serrure était alimentée en énergie électrique à partir d'une source fixe. Mais cette source peut être défaillante : panne, grève des services publics ou autre interruption. Dans cette hypothèse, il est indispensable de pouvoir remédier à l'absence de courant et l'on peut alors prévoir que l'alimentation de l'ensemble électro­nique 40, pour son propre fonctionnement et pour actionner l'inter­rupteur 22 ainsi que pour commander l'électro-aimant 13 en vue d'autoriser le fonctionnement de la serrure, soit assurée à partir de la clef au moyen d'une source autonome.It was assumed, in the example described above, that the lock was supplied with electrical energy from a stationary source. But this source can be faulty: breakdown, strike by public services or other interruption. In this case, it is essential to be able to remedy the absence of current and it can then be provided that the power supply to the electronic assembly 40, for its own operation and for actuating the switch 22 as well as for controlling the electromagnet 13 with a view to authorizing the operation of the lock, is ensured from the key by means of an autonomous source.

Cette solution est illustrée sur la figure 3 par la pré­sence de deux contacts 50 et 51 situés sur la tige 32 de la clef 30 et auxquels correspondent deux contacts (non représentés) de la serrure et reliés par des conducteurs 52 au lecteur 40. Il faut prévoir d'alimenter les contacts 50 et 51 et l'on peut prévoir pour cela une pile ou un accumulateur portatif de tout type connu pour fournir au lecteur 40 le courant dont il a besoin en tension et en intensité.This solution is illustrated in FIG. 3 by the presence of two contacts 50 and 51 located on the rod 32 of the key 30 and to which correspond two contacts (not shown) of the lock and connected by conductors 52 to the reader 40. It is necessary provide for supplying the contacts 50 and 51 and provision can be made for this for a portable battery or accumulator of any known type for supplying the reader 40 with the current it needs in voltage and in current.

Cette utilisation d'une source autonome en remplacement d'une source fixe défaillante est avantageusement assortie de moyens en soi connus qui neutralisent automatiquement l'arrivée de courant par les conducteurs 41 quand le courant provient des conducteurs 52, afin d'éviter tout incident dû à une surtension ou à un court circuit si le courant de la source fixe est rétabli subitement alors que l'on fait fonctionner la serrure à partir de la source autonome par les contacts 50-51 et les conducteurs 52.This use of an autonomous source to replace a faulty fixed source is advantageously combined with means known per se which automatically neutralize the arrival of current by the conductors 41 when the current comes from the conductors 52, in order to avoid any incident due to an overvoltage or to a short circuit if the current of the fixed source is suddenly restored while the lock is operated from the autonomous source by the contacts 50-51 and the conductors 52.

Comme on l'a expliqué ci-dessus, l'invention prévoit de différencier les fonctions d'actionnement mécanique des fonctions de reconnaissance des éléments d'individualisation et l'on peut ainsi conserver la force musculaire de l'Homme comme source d'éner­gie. Il en résulte que les fonctions électroniques de reconnais­sance doivent être compatibles avec les mouvements des pièces mobiles : clef 30, pièce 8.As explained above, the invention provides for differentiating the functions of mechanical actuation from the functions of recognition of the elements of individualization and it is thus possible to conserve the muscular force of man as a source of energy. . As a result, the electronic recognition functions must be compatible with the movements of the moving parts: key 30, part 8.

Selon une première solution illustrée par les figures 4 et 5, la clef reste mobile et les contacts du lecteur 40, situés dans la serrure, sont fixes.According to a first solution illustrated by Figures 4 and 5, the key remains mobile and the contacts of the reader 40, located in the lock, are fixed.

On voit sur ces figures que la clef 60 comprend une tige 61 non plus de forme plate comme sur les figures 1 à 3 mais à section cylindrique, son extrémité 62 étant ici à section carrée, ce qui signifie que le logement de la pièce mobile doit lui aussi être de forme carrée. La tige 61 comprend des sillons 63 dans chacun des­quels se trouve une bague conductrice 64 qui ceinture la tige 61 et qui est isolée de la tige 61 elle-même si elle est en matériau conducteur, chacune de ces bagues 64 correspondant à un contact déterminé, relié convenablement à la mémoire de la clef 60.It can be seen in these figures that the key 60 comprises a rod 61 no longer of flat shape as in Figures 1 to 3 but of cylindrical section, its end 62 here being of square section, which means that the housing of the moving part must also be square. The rod 61 comprises grooves 63 in each of which is a conductive ring 64 which encircles the rod 61 and which is isolated from the rod 61 itself if it is made of conductive material, each of these rings 64 corresponding to a determined contact, properly connected to the memory of the key 60.

Dans la serrure, se trouvent des contacts 65 reliés indivi­duellement par des conducteurs 66 au lecteur 40 et sollicités élas­tiquement vers le fond des sillons pour demeurer contre les bagues 64 par des moyens connus en soi. De la sorte, la liaison électrique entre la clef 60 et le lecteur 40 reste assurée quels que soient les mouvements de pivotement de la clef 60.In the lock, there are contacts 65 individually connected by conductors 66 to the reader 40 and urged elastically towards the bottom of the grooves to remain against the rings 64 by means known per se. In this way, the electrical connection between the key 60 and the reader 40 remains ensured whatever the pivotal movements of the key 60.

Si l'on prévoit une alimentation électrique à partir d'une source autonome, la tige 61 comprend deux autres sillons 67 conte­nant des bagues conductrices 68 alimentées depuis l'extérieur de la clef 60 et les conducteurs 52 sont associés à des contacts 69 de même type que les contacts 65, c'est-à-dire sollicités élastique­ment vers les bagues 68, pour que le lecteur 40 reste alimenté pendant les manoeuvres de la clef 60, quel qui soit le nombre de tours que l'on doit lui faire parcourir pour commander la serrure.If an electric power supply is provided from an independent source, the rod 61 comprises two other grooves 67 containing conductive rings 68 supplied from outside the key 60 and the conductors 52 are associated with contacts 69 similarly type that the contacts 65, that is to say resiliently biased towards the rings 68, so that the reader 40 remains powered during the operations of the key 60, whatever the number of turns that must be made to travel to order the lock.

Sur la figures 6, on a représenté une variante de ce mode de réalisation selon laquelle les contacts de la clef sont encore circulaires et fermés sur eux mêmes mais, ici, la clef 70 présente une tige 71 dont même l'extrémité 72 est circulaire. Afin de pou­voir manoeuvrer la pièce mobile, la tige 71 présente une partie à section carrée 73 qui doit se placer dans un logement de forme correspondante de la pièce mobile qui, alors, doit pouvoir être traversée de part en part.In Figures 6, there is shown a variant of this embodiment according to which the contacts of the key are still circular and closed on themselves but, here, the key 70 has a rod 71 whose end 72 is even circular. In order to be able to maneuver the moving part, the rod 71 has a square section portion 73 which must be placed in a housing of corresponding shape of the moving part which, then, must be able to be traversed right through.

Sur le bout 74 de l'extrémité 72 perpendiculaire à l'axe de la tige 71, sont prévus des contacts concentriques 75 qui doivent se placer contre des contacts de la serrure par exemple prévus sur une barrette radiale 76 et reliés par des conducteurs 77 à l'ensem­ble 40. Ici encore, on assure la liaison de la mémoire de la clef 70 et de l'ensemble 40 malgré les déplacements de la clef lors de l'actionnement de la pièce mobile.Concentric contacts 75 are provided on the end 74 of the end 72 perpendicular to the axis of the rod 71 which must be placed against the contacts of the lock, for example provided on a radial bar 76 and connected by conductors 77 to the assembly 40. Here again, the connection of the memory of the key 70 and of the assembly 40 is ensured despite the movements of the key during actuation of the moving part.

Sur les figures 7 et 8, on a représenté la mise en place sur une clef plate du type de celle représentée sur la figure 3, d'un ensemble électronique comprenant une mémoire et des contacts du genre de ceux utilisés pour les cartes à mémoire.Figures 7 and 8, there is shown the establishment on a flat key of the type shown in Figure 3, an electronic assembly comprising a memory and contacts of the kind used for memory cards.

Cet ensemble comprend un circuit intégré 80 à mémoire et des contacts 81 disposés comme représenté sur la figure 3. La tige 32 de la clef 30 est pourvue d'un logement 82 à la périphérie duquel se trouve un épaulement 83 dont le périmètre et la profon­deur correspondent au périmètre et à l'épaisseur de l'ensemble des contacts 81. Pour fixer l'ensemble 80-81, on peut par exemple pla­cer un adhésif puissant 84 dans le logement 82 et y placer le cir­cuit intégré 80 afin que la surface extérieure des contacts 81 affleure aussi exactement que possible la surface des flancs de la tige 32, ainsi que cela est représenté sur la figure 8. Outre la simplicité du montage, on assure à l'ensemble 80-81 une grande sécurité contre les risques d'arrachement quand on engage la clef 30 dans la serrure.This assembly includes an integrated circuit 80 with memory and contacts 81 arranged as shown in FIG. 3. The rod 32 of the key 30 is provided with a housing 82 at the periphery of which is a shoulder 83 whose perimeter and depth correspond to the perimeter and thickness of all of the contacts 81. To fix the assembly 80-81, it is possible, for example, to place a strong adhesive 84 in the housing 82 and place the integrated circuit 80 there so that the external surface contacts 81 are flush with the surface of the sides of the rod 32 as exactly as possible, as shown in FIG. 8. In addition to the simplicity of assembly, the assembly 80-81 is very secure against the risks of tearing when the key 30 is engaged in the lock.

En se reportant maintenant aux figures 9 à 13, on voit un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention selon lequel les contacts de la serrure sont mobiles.Referring now to Figures 9 to 13, there is shown another embodiment of the invention according to which the contacts of the lock are movable.

Pour la description de ce mode de réalisation, on a retenu l'exemple d'une clef 30 de même type que celui des figures 1 à 3, 7 et 8 c'est-à-dire à tige 32 plate et à ergots latéraux 34 et 35, cette tige 32 étant munie d'un ensemble électronique 80-81.For the description of this embodiment, the example of a key 30 of the same type as that of FIGS. 1 to 3, 7 and 8 is chosen, that is to say with a flat rod 32 and lateral lugs 34 and 35, this rod 32 being provided with an electronic assembly 80-81.

Les contacts 90 reliés à l'ensemble 40 sont situés sur un cordon flexible et isolant 91 de type connu. Des moyens non repré­sentés mais à la portée de l'Homme de Métier assurent la solidari­sation des contacts 90 et des contacts 81 dès que ceux-ci ont été mis face à face. Le cordon flexible 91 a une longueur telle qu'il peut se déployer pour suivre les mouvements de la clef 30, même si elle doit parcourir plus d'un tour. Afin d'empêcher que le cordon se torde ou se coince, on prévoit dans la serrure un guide cylin­drique fixe 92 muni d'une ouverture latérale 93 en face de laquelle se trouve le cordon 91. Le lecteur 40 est supposé avoir identifié comme corrects les éléments d'individualisation de la clef 30 et l'usager est supposé manoeuvrer cette clef 30.The contacts 90 connected to the assembly 40 are located on a flexible and insulating cord 91 of known type. Means not shown but within the reach of the skilled person ensure the joining of the contacts 90 and the contacts 81 as soon as they have been placed face to face. The flexible cord 91 has a length such that it can be deployed to follow the movements of the key 30, even if it has to travel more than one turn. In order to prevent the cord from twisting or getting caught, a fixed cylindrical guide 92 is provided in the lock 92 provided with a lateral opening 93 opposite which is the cord 91. The reader 40 is supposed to have identified as correct the elements for individualizing the key 30 and the user is supposed to operate this key 30.

Sur la figure 9, la clef 30 vient d'être engagée dans la serrure. Les contacts 81 et 90 sont maintenus les uns contre les autres, le cordon 91 est complétement détendu.In Figure 9, the key 30 has just been engaged in the lock. The contacts 81 and 90 are held against each other, the cord 91 is completely relaxed.

Sur la figure 10, la clef 30 a parcouru à peu près un hui­tième de tour. Le cordon 91 a commencé de pénétrer dans le guide 92 par l'ouverture 93.In Figure 10, the key 30 has traveled about an eighth of a turn. The cord 91 has started to penetrate the guide 92 through the opening 93.

Sur la figure 11, la clef a parcouru à peu près un quart de tour. Le cordon 91 est bien engagé dans le guide 92 mais il est tendu sensiblement en ligne droite et n'est pas encore au contact du guide 92.In FIG. 11, the key has traveled approximately a quarter of a turn. The cord 91 is well engaged in the guide 92 but it is stretched substantially in a straight line and is not yet in contact with the guide 92.

Sur la figure 12, la clef a continué son mouvement et a parcouru près d'un demi-tour. Le cordon est nettement sollicité à la courbure et entre au contact de la paroi interne du guide 92, celui-ci le maintenant en position correcte et l'empêchant, notam­ment, de s'allonger à l'excès.In Figure 12, the key continued to move and traveled nearly half a turn. The bead is clearly stressed at the curvature and comes into contact with the internal wall of the guide 92, the latter keeping it in the correct position and preventing it, in particular, from elongating excessively.

Sur la figure 13, la clef a parcouru un demi-tour effectif et le cordon 91 est bien maintenu par le guide 92.In FIG. 13, the key has traveled an effective half-turn and the cord 91 is well maintained by the guide 92.

Pendant tout ce mouvement, le cordon 91 s'est déployé et l'on n'a représenté ici qu'un schéma possible, en partant de l'hypothèse qu'un tel cordon 91 est du type connu selon lequel il a "du nerf" et tend naturellement à se conformer en longues courbes lorsqu'on le plie. Il peut donc être stocké sans précautions parti­culières car il n'a pas tendance à se déformer arbitrairement. S'il n'a pas ces qualités, ou si l'on veut être plus assuré contre tout aléa, on peut prévoir d'enrouler le cordon sur un touret rappelé par un ressort (non représentés) de type connu.During all this movement, the cord 91 has been deployed and only a possible diagram has been shown here, on the assumption that such a cord 91 is of the known type according to which it has "nerve" "and naturally tends to conform into long curves when folded. It can therefore be stored without special precautions because it does not tend to deform arbitrarily. If it does not have these qualities, or if you want to be more assured against any hazard, you can plan to wind the cord on a reel called by a spring (not shown) of known type.

Lors du mouvement inverse de la clef 30, le cordon 30 grâce à sa relative rigidité longitudinale est repoussé et reprend sa position d'origine évoquée par la figure 9.During the reverse movement of the key 30, the cord 30, thanks to its relative longitudinal rigidity, is pushed back and returns to its original position as shown in FIG. 9.

On a décrit ci-dessus des exemples de réalisation selon lesquels les contacts de la clef et de la serrure restent ensemble pendant les mouvements de la clef. Mais cela n'est qu'une solution et non une obligation. On peut en effet prévoir que les contacts ne sont mis en présence que pour tranférer des informations en début de processus (et éventuellement en fin de processus), les contacts étant séparés pendant les mouvements de la clef.We have described above examples of embodiment according to which the contacts of the key and of the lock remain together during the movements of the key. But this is only a solution and not an obligation. It can indeed be provided that the contacts are brought together only to transfer information at the start of the process (and possibly at the end of the process), the contacts being separated during the movements of the key.

Dans ce cas, les contacts de la serrure sont poussés élas­tiquement vers l'endroit où doivent se situer les contacts 33 de la clef 30 et dès que ceux-ci sont en place, la lecture des informa­tions par l'ensemble électronique 40 intervient en un temps extrê­mement bref. Si l'ouverture est autorisée, la clef est manoeuvrée et les contacts se séparent. Il suffit généralement d'un seul tour de clef pour manoeuvrer des pènes même longs, grâce aux démultipli­cations possibles. La clef peut alors être retirée. Pour la ferme­ture, les contacts sont encore en face et coopèrent. Les données de la mémoire 80 sont exploitées et si elles correspondent à une clef habilitée, celle-ci peut être manoeuvrée pour fermer la serrure et la pièce mobile est re-bloquée.In this case, the contacts of the lock are pushed elastically towards the place where the contacts 33 of the key 30 must be located and as soon as these are in place, the reading of the information by the electronic assembly 40 takes place in a extremely short time. If the opening is authorized, the key is operated and the contacts separate. It usually only takes a single turn of the key to maneuver even long bolts, thanks to the possible gear ratios. The key can then be removed. For closing, the contacts are still opposite and cooperate. The data of memory 80 are used and if they correspond to an authorized key, this can be operated to close the lock and the moving part is re-blocked.

Sur la figure 14, on a montré un exemple de montage permet­tant l'alimentation de la serrure à partir d'une source autonome.In FIG. 14, an example of assembly has been shown allowing the supply of the lock from an autonomous source.

La clef 100 est suffisamment épaisse pour pouvoir être munie de deux conduits isolants 101 et 102 percés de trous radiaux 103 et 104 dans lesquels passent des contacts 105 et 106 analogues à ceux 50-51 de la figure 3. Le diamètre intérieur des conduits 101 et 102 correspond au diamètre extérieur de broches conductrices 107 et 108 qui font partie d'un accumulateur 109. Ce dernier est mis en charge, ainsi que cela est connu en soi, par engagement de ses broches 107 et 108 dans une prise de courant adéquate. Lorsqu'il est chargé, il est associé à la clef 100 par engagement de ses broches 107 et 108 dans les conduits 101 et 102, jusqu'à ce qu'elles se trouvent contre les contacts 105 et 106. On utilise alors la clef 100 comme on l'a décrit ci-dessus.The key 100 is thick enough to be able to be provided with two insulating conduits 101 and 102 pierced with radial holes 103 and 104 in which contacts 105 and 106 pass, similar to those 50-51 of FIG. 3. The internal diameter of the conduits 101 and 102 corresponds to the outside diameter of conductive pins 107 and 108 which are part of an accumulator 109. The latter is charged, as is known per se, by engagement of its pins 107 and 108 in a suitable socket. When it is loaded, it is associated with the key 100 by engagement of its pins 107 and 108 in the conduits 101 and 102, until they are against the contacts 105 and 106. The key 100 is then used as described above.

Naturellement, on peut prévoir toutes sortes de procédures électroniques en soi connues : changement de codes (éléments d'in­dividualisation) à partir de la clef elle-même notamment. Cela permet, par exemple, à un hôtelier de remettre à un client une ou plusieurs clefs correspondant à la serrure de sa chambre et de changer les codes le jour du départ de ce client. On peut également exercer un contrôle à distance des différentes serrures, commander l'ouverture d'urgence de toutes les portes à la fois en cas de danger etc.Naturally, one can provide for all kinds of electronic procedures known per se: change of codes (elements of individualization) starting from the key itself in particular. That allows, for example, a hotelier to give a client one or more keys corresponding to the lock of his room and to change the codes on the day of departure of this client. It is also possible to remotely control the various locks, to order the emergency opening of all doors at the same time in the event of danger, etc.

Claims (12)

1- Dispositif pour la condamnation et la dé- condamnation d'un accès, du type comprenant un obstacle mobile, tel qu'une porte, muni d'une serrure possédant d'une part une pièce mobile (8) solidaire d'au moins un organe de blocage tel qu'un pène destiné à l'immobilisation de l'obstacle et d'autre part des éléments d'indi­vidualisation coordonnés à des éléments correspondants portés par une clef amovible portative (30-60-70) destinée à l'actionnement de la pièce mobile (8), la clef (30-60-70) présentant au moins un organe de type courant (31) destiné à coopérer mécaniquement avec un organe complémentaire également de type courant (7) de la pièce mobile (8), laquelle est maintenue bloquée en permanence par un mécanisme d'accouplement (12) solidaire d'une partie fixe (1) du dispositif et neutralisable par des moyens électriques (13), carac­térisé en ce que la clef est muni d'une mémoire électronique (80) contenant des informations confidentielles d'individualisation de chaque clef (30-60-70) et reliée à des contacts (33) dont la dispo­sition est standard pour toutes les clefs et en ce que la serrure est équipée de contacts correspondants reliés à un ensemble élec­tronique (40) qui comprend un lecteur d'informations contenues dans la mémoire (80) de la clef (30-60-70) et qui contrôle les moyens électriques (13) afin que ceux-ci puissent neutraliser ou pas le mécanisme d'accouplement (11-12-14) selon que la mémoire (80) de clef (30-60-70) introduite dans la serrure et le lecteur (40) sont en concordance ou pas.1- Device for locking and unlocking an access, of the type comprising a movable obstacle, such as a door, provided with a lock having on the one hand a movable part (8) integral with at least a blocking member such as a bolt intended for immobilizing the obstacle and on the other hand individualization elements coordinated with corresponding elements carried by a portable removable key (30-60-70) intended for the actuation of the movable part (8), the key (30-60-70) having at least one common type member (31) intended to cooperate mechanically with an additional also common type member (7) of the movable part (8 ), which is kept permanently blocked by a coupling mechanism (12) integral with a fixed part (1) of the device and neutralizable by electrical means (13), characterized in that the key is provided with a memory electronic (80) containing confidential information for the individualization of each key (30-60-7 0) and connected to contacts (33) whose arrangement is standard for all keys and in that the lock is equipped with corresponding contacts connected to an electronic assembly (40) which includes a reader of information contained in the memory ( 80) of the key (30-60-70) and which controls the electrical means (13) so that these can neutralize or not the coupling mechanism (11-12-14) depending on whether the memory (80) of key (30-60-70) inserted in the lock and the reader (40) are in agreement or not. 2- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le mécanisme d'accouplement (11-12-14) est situé hors de la serrure proprement dite et avantageusement assez loin d'elle, la pièce mobile (8) ayant une longueur substantielle.2- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling mechanism (11-12-14) is located outside the lock itself and advantageously far enough from it, the movable part (8) having a substantial length . 3- Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le mécanisme d'accouplement (11-12-14) est situé à des emplace­ments variables selon les installations, le long de la pièce mobile (8).3- Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the coupling mechanism (11-12-14) is located at variable locations depending on the installation, along the moving part (8). 4- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que la clef (30) comprend d'une part des contacts (50 et 51) dis­tincts de ceux (33) devant être reliés à l'ensemble électronique (40) et, d'autre part, des moyens de connexion de ces contacts à une source de courant électrique, la serrure possédant des contacts distincts de ceux du lecteur (40), qui correspondent aux contacts distincts (50 et 51) de la clef (30) et qui font partie d'un cir­cuit d'alimentation de l'ensemble électronique (40) et des moyens électriques (13).4- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the key (30) comprises on the one hand contacts (50 and 51) distinct from those (33) to be connected to the electronic assembly (40) and, on the other hand, means for connecting these contacts to a source of electric current, the lock having contacts distinct from those of the reader (40), which correspond to the distinct contacts (50 and 51) of the key (30) and which make part of a supply circuit for the electronic assembly (40) and the electrical means (13). 5- Dispositif selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que l'ensemble électronique (40-80) et les moyens électriques (13) étant incorporés à un circuit (41) relié à une arrivée de courant provenant d'une source fixe, le circuit dont les contacts distincts (50 et 51) font partie comprennent des moyens de tout type connu permettant de neutraliser l'arrivée de courant provenant de la source fixe.5- Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the electronic assembly (40-80) and the electrical means (13) being incorporated in a circuit (41) connected to a current supply from a fixed source, the circuit of which the separate contacts (50 and 51) form part comprise means of any known type making it possible to neutralize the arrival of current coming from the stationary source. 6- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une liaison (23) entre l'ensemble électronique (40) et un interrupteur (22) intercalé sur un conducteur (20) d'alimen­tation des moyens électriques (13) afin que cet interrupteur (22) soit sélectivement ouvert et fermé en corrélation avec le fonction­nement mutuel de l'ensemble électronique (40) et de la mémoire (80).6- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a connection (23) between the electronic assembly (40) and a switch (22) interposed on a conductor (20) supplying electrical means (13) so that this switch (22) is selectively open and closed in correlation with the mutual operation of the electronic assembly (40) and the memory (80). 7- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que le mécanisme d'accouplement est constitué par un électro-aimant (13) avant un plongeur mobile (12) situé en regard d'un logement (14) de la pièce mobile (8), ce plongeur (12) étant constamment sollicité, sans apport d'énergie extérieure, vers une position dite "active" dans laquelle il est engagé dans le logement (14) tandis qu'il est maintenu dans une position dite "d'effacement" dans laquelle il est hors du logement (14), seulement quand l'électro-­aimant (13) est alimenté en courant électrique.7- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling mechanism is constituted by an electromagnet (13) before a movable plunger (12) located opposite a housing (14) of the movable part (8 ), this plunger (12) being constantly urged, without external energy supply, towards a so-called "active" position in which it is engaged in the housing (14) while it is maintained in a so-called "clearing" position " in which it is out of the housing (14), only when the electromagnet (13) is supplied with electric current. 8- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité (31-62) de la clef (30-60) présente une forme autre que circulaire et constitue l'organe destiné à coopérer mécanique­ment avec un organe complémentaire (7) de forme correspondante de la pièce mobile (8).8- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the end (31-62) of the key (30-60) has a shape other than circular and constitutes the member intended to cooperate mechanically with a complementary member (7) of corresponding shape of the moving part (8). 9- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les contacts (90) situés dans la serrure sont mobiles et asso­ciés à des guides (92) afin de pouvoir suivre les mouvements de pivotement de la clef (30) dans la serrure.9- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the contacts (90) located in the lock are movable and associated with guides (92) so as to be able to follow the pivoting movements of the key (30) in the lock. 10- Dispositif selon la revendication 11, caractérisé en ce que les contacts (90) situés dans la serrure sont disposés à l'ex­trémité d'un ruban isolant flexible (91) contenant des conducteurs reliés d'une part aux contacts (90) et d'autre part au lecteur (40).10- Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the contacts (90) located in the lock are arranged at the end of a flexible insulating tape (91) containing conductors connected on the one hand to the contacts (90) and on the other hand to the reader (40). 11- Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les contacts (33-81) situés sur la clef (30) sont du type de ceux prévus habituellement sur des cartes portatives à mémoire et sont fixés sur une face plane (83) de la tige (32).11- Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the contacts (33-81) located on the key (30) are of the type of those usually provided on portable memory cards and are fixed on a flat face (83) of the rod (32). 12- Dispositif selon la revendication 11, caractérisé en ce que la clef (30) ayant une tige (32) substantiellement plate, celle-­ci présente un logement latéral (82) devant recevoir une mémoire électronique (80), ainsi qu'un épaulement (83) périphérique au logement (82), de même périmètre externe et de même profondeur que l'ensemble des contacts (81) reliés à ladite mémoire (80), afin que ceux-ci affleurent la face latérale correspondante de la tige (32).12- Device according to claim 11, characterized in that the key (30) having a rod (32) substantially flat, it has a lateral housing (82) to receive an electronic memory (80), as well as a shoulder (83) peripheral to the housing (82), with the same external perimeter and the same depth as all of the contacts (81) connected to said memory (80), so that these are flush with the corresponding lateral face of the rod (32 ).
EP86402583A 1985-11-22 1986-11-20 Lock with an electromechanical key Withdrawn EP0223715A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8517297A FR2590616B1 (en) 1985-11-22 1985-11-22 MECANO-ELECTRONIC KEY LOCK.
FR8517297 1985-11-22

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0223715A1 true EP0223715A1 (en) 1987-05-27

Family

ID=9325080

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP86402583A Withdrawn EP0223715A1 (en) 1985-11-22 1986-11-20 Lock with an electromechanical key

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0223715A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2590616B1 (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5376932A (en) * 1988-08-24 1994-12-27 Samokine; Georges System for exchanging information between a portable object such as a key and an exchange device
WO2005036937A2 (en) * 2003-09-19 2005-04-21 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Mechanism for disabling an electronic assembly

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AT320466B (en) * 1972-06-29 1975-02-10 Kibolac Handels Ges M B H Lock
DE2802472A1 (en) * 1978-01-20 1979-07-26 Roman Koller Universal identity coding and material security system - has signal operated electric closing mechanism with electronically coded lock and key
GB2055951A (en) * 1980-08-04 1981-03-11 Day H V Locks
EP0030587A1 (en) * 1979-12-18 1981-06-24 Iwasaki Engineering Co., Ltd. Electronic locking device
DE3006128A1 (en) * 1980-02-19 1981-08-20 Sachs Systemtechnik Gmbh, 8720 Schweinfurt Electric lock-up system with key and variable secret code - converts code into signal for comparison with changeable stored code producing switching signal
DE3507871A1 (en) * 1984-03-15 1985-11-21 Bauer Kaba Ag, Wetzikon PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC-MECHANICAL REVERSIBLE FLAT KEY INTERACTIVELY COMMUNICATING WITH DATA PROCESSING MEANS

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2511722A1 (en) * 1981-08-19 1983-02-25 Madeo Herve Electromechanical double lock mechanism - has resistors in key body to balance bridge circuit before lock may be opened

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AT320466B (en) * 1972-06-29 1975-02-10 Kibolac Handels Ges M B H Lock
DE2802472A1 (en) * 1978-01-20 1979-07-26 Roman Koller Universal identity coding and material security system - has signal operated electric closing mechanism with electronically coded lock and key
EP0030587A1 (en) * 1979-12-18 1981-06-24 Iwasaki Engineering Co., Ltd. Electronic locking device
DE3006128A1 (en) * 1980-02-19 1981-08-20 Sachs Systemtechnik Gmbh, 8720 Schweinfurt Electric lock-up system with key and variable secret code - converts code into signal for comparison with changeable stored code producing switching signal
GB2055951A (en) * 1980-08-04 1981-03-11 Day H V Locks
DE3507871A1 (en) * 1984-03-15 1985-11-21 Bauer Kaba Ag, Wetzikon PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC-MECHANICAL REVERSIBLE FLAT KEY INTERACTIVELY COMMUNICATING WITH DATA PROCESSING MEANS

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5376932A (en) * 1988-08-24 1994-12-27 Samokine; Georges System for exchanging information between a portable object such as a key and an exchange device
WO2005036937A2 (en) * 2003-09-19 2005-04-21 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Mechanism for disabling an electronic assembly
WO2005036937A3 (en) * 2003-09-19 2005-08-25 Sun Microsystems Inc Mechanism for disabling an electronic assembly

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2590616A1 (en) 1987-05-29
FR2590616B1 (en) 1990-10-19

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1820722B1 (en) Automatic bicycle storage system
FR2729700A1 (en) PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC CLOSING DEVICE
EP0365458A1 (en) Magnetic keys and locks for access control
EP0973986A1 (en) Lock with electronic control
FR2868459A1 (en) Panel/drawer locking device for showcase door, has electronic module to trigger time interval and to signal imminence of triggering of alarm device when finger`s presence is not detected so that user closes panel or reads electronic medium
EP2075378B1 (en) Secure locking and unlocking device using a key for a stamp on a frame
FR2500520A1 (en) Self powered electromechanical security lock - uses piezoelectric conversion of key insertion work to power electronic key profile checking and validation and lock release
FR2532677A1 (en) ELECTRONIC LOCK THE CODE MAY BE MODIFIED
EP0223715A1 (en) Lock with an electromechanical key
EP1030011A1 (en) Clutch device for a lock exterior handle and its movable bolt
EP0147276B1 (en) Coded control devices
EP0033261A1 (en) Permutation security locks
EP0116001B1 (en) Security system for doors, windows and the like
FR2837781A1 (en) Bicycle storage unit/secure positioning having fixed unit with lock storage bar attached and connected bicycle attachment with lock using cable wound through bicycle sections
FR2749606A1 (en) DEVICE FOR LOCKING RELATIVE MOVEMENT OF TWO ORDERS RELATIVE TO EACH OTHER, ESPECIALLY FOR REMOVABLE WALL BRACKETS, CASHROOM DOORS, CANDELABRING PORTILONS OR OTHER
FR2695604A1 (en) Anti-theft device for vehicle having steering mechanism controlled by rotating shaft - has signal-sensitive electronic memory and electric motor controlling pin-type clutch mechanism
EP2966663A1 (en) Emergency stop device
FR3143222A1 (en) Multi-contact electrical system with key with insulating zones
FR2767853A1 (en) Self wiping electronic lock and key combination
FR2974590A1 (en) Method for authenticating unlocking of storage device of mobile telephone, involves comparing signal signature with signatures stored in memory, and generating instruction for opening locking mechanism of stopper when test is validated
WO2022157388A1 (en) Removable code lock device for a door lock cylinder
FR2672716A1 (en) REMOTE CONTROL AND DEVICE FOR THE MEMORY RECORDING OF AN IDENTIFICATION CODE IN THE REMOTE CONTROL.
EP4043678A1 (en) Electromechanical device for unlocking the lock of a bank deposit box
FR2797462A1 (en) Lock for electric cabinet comprises tilter rotated using electromechanical actuator triggered by electronic casing
FR2522854A1 (en) Microprocessor controlled intrusion alarm for door - operates alarm if correct code is not entered on keyboard

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB IT LI LU NL SE

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 19871130