EP0805906A1

EP0805906A1 - Programmable electronic locking device

Info

Publication number: EP0805906A1
Application number: EP96901007A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Nofal Dawalibi
Original assignee: Electronic Key Systems E K S Sarl
Current assignee: Electronic Key Systems E K S Sarl
Priority date: 1995-01-25
Filing date: 1996-01-03
Publication date: 1997-11-12
Anticipated expiration: 2016-01-03
Also published as: OA10739A; FR2729700A1; TW304215B; TNSN96012A1; NZ300228A; ATE193577T1; DE69608665D1; KR19980701682A; AU687664B2; FI973026A; IL116714A0; WO1996023122A1; MA23777A1; HUP9702401A2; FR2729700B1; EE03314B1; BR9606857A; JO1886B1; FI973026A0; KR19987001682A

Abstract

A programmable electronic locking device comprising a lock (12) operated by means of a key (18) when a match is found between a lock identification code and a related key identification code. The lock comprises a plug (14) with a portion (14A) provided with at least one aperture (16) for receiving the key (18). The plug comprises at least one electrical connection means (39), an electronic control means with at least one memory means for storing at least one identification code, said means being connected to the one or more electrical connection means, and an unlocking means responsive to the electronic control means for unlocking the lock. The key comprises a first electrical connection means (19) engageable with the electrical connection means of the lock when the key is inserted into the corresponding aperture (16), a first electronic control means comprising at least one first memory means for storing at least one identification code, said means being connected to the first electrical connection means for transmitting an unlocking command to the lock, and a programming means controllable by a confidential code input means to alter the data in each of the electronic key and lock control means. A power supply means supplies power to the electronic key and lock control means and the plug unlocking means. A lock, a plug and a multifunctional key for use in said programmable electronic device are also disclosed.

Description

PROGRAMMABLE ELECTRONIC CLOSING DEVICE

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to the field of mechanical / electronic or electronic locks and associated security combination keys.

Prior art

U currently exist in housing or, more generally, in private or professional premises many models of mechanical locks intended to be embedded in the leaf of a door or gate and whose cylinder conforms, for its dimensions, to the European or international standards in force. These cylinders of particularly complex construction often allow several billion different combinations and have, in the best of cases, excellent resistance to picking and drilling.

Furthermore, there are many locking devices on the market based on a lock / key assembly, such as in the automobile industry (steering lock) or more generally in industry, in particular for operating authorization. or the security of multiple devices or of racks or electronic cabinets.

Locks have also been developed in recent years, combining the mechanical coding carried out by a bit or notches taking the place of an electronic combination existing at the level of the key and the lock. European Patent Application ^No. 0,277,432 shows an example of such a mechanical lock / electronic key which further comprises a conventional mechanical coding unlocking of the lock, an electronic circuit which transmits to the lock upon insertion of the key, a preprogrammed identification code which is transmitted in turn to an external control module which ensures its decoding, this module also ensuring the power supply of the lock / key assembly. In a more elaborate version, this electronic assembly may include a non-volatile memory comprising the identification code of the lock with which it is associated. The request FR. 2,561,292 shows an electronic key which can be implemented with a mechanical / electronic lock and comprising both notches for mechanical coding and an electronic microprocessor circuit supplied with current by a battery disposed directly in a part of the key. However, both of the aforementioned locks have a major defect in that their security essentially depends on the type of cylinder. mechanical used to receive the keys, the electronic device being only an additional security element. Indeed, maximum security is provided above all by a complex production of the cylinder, which has the consequence of causing a very high cost of the lock. In addition, any loss of the key will systematically lead to the replacement of this cylinder (the modification of this mechanical element is not possible), whether or not it is associated with electronic means. Of course, to guarantee this high security, each cylinder is associated with a key and only one.

Also, the holder of application EP 0 388 997 has envisaged a fully electronic lock in which the opening of a door is controlled in the event of a correspondence between an identification code of the key and that of the lock. The key has a memory that can receive several codes corresponding to different locks and the cylinder of each lock has a source of energy for supplying its electronic circuits and those of the key. In addition, the cylinder described can have standardized dimensions similar to those of a conventional lock cylinder.

This electronic locking system however still has certain drawbacks, in particular in the event of loss of the key or in the event of weakness of the energy source, which greatly limit its practical interest and in fact prohibit any commercial use thereof. Indeed, for example in the event of loss of his key, the user must systematically resort to the manufacturer who will have to move to carry out a reprogramming of the codes of each lock. Possibly, if the manufacturer authorizes it and he wishes to carry out this reprogramming alone, the user will have to resort to a centralized IT device. But then the complexity of the system thus obtained makes it particularly expensive and difficult to use for a non-professional user.

Object and definition of the invention The object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks by proposing a programmable electronic closing device which is particularly simple and inexpensive and can be implemented by any user, even a non-professional one.

An essential object of the invention is to allow, by individual programming of each key, access by its user to all of the security characteristics of the lock. Another object of the invention is also to produce an electronic device which can replace the existing mechanical devices, in particular for the purpose of increasing safety, without requiring excessive expenditure, that is to say without requiring a complex intervention on these devices or the structures in which they are incorporated. Yet another object of the invention is to provide a device whose characteristics can be advantageously compared with those of current devices and also has additional functions.

These aims are achieved by an electronic programmable closing device comprising a lock intended to be operated by a key when an identity between an identification code of the lock and an identification code of the associated key is observed, characterized in that the lock comprises a barrel provided with a part in which is formed at least one opening for receiving said key, the barrel comprising at least one electrical connection means, an electronic control means comprising at least one memory means for storing at least an identification code and connected to the at least one electrical connection means, and an unlocking means sensitive to said electronic control means and intended to proceed with unlocking the lock, and in that the key comprises a first connection means electrical intended to cooperate with the electrical connection means of the lock when the key is introduced in the corresponding opening, a first electronic control means comprising at least a first memory means for storing at least one identification code and connected to the first electrical connection means and a programming means for modifying, under the control of a means of entering a confidential code, the data contained in each of the electronic means for controlling the key and the lock, the power supply to the electronic means for controlling the key and the lock and the means for unlocking of the barrel being ensured from an energy supply means.

The presence of means for programming the electronic circuits of the lock and of the key directly at the level of this key prevents the user from having to resort to external programming (via the manufacturer for example) and dispenses him from making a connection. possibly heavy and necessarily expensive IT resources. In addition, and this is an essential contribution of the invention, the technical means defined above in combination allow the production of a device which is really com thanks to it, so that it is called upon to to replace the existing mechanical devices, today present on the market. Indeed, the device of the invention is first of all easy to use because it is presented like current systems and therefore does not require a change of habit on the part of the user. In addition, compared to these systems of the prior art, it has the advantage of requiring, for the opening of several locks, only the possession of a single key and not of a key ring as currently, this unique key can indeed contain the identification code of several locks. Then, the presence of different electronic circuits and individual programming means of these circuits allowing, in addition to significantly and very simply strengthening the security provided by the device of the invention, access to multiple functions that do not exist today. hui on mechanical or even electronic keys. Finally, the fact that the electronic circuits of the lock are all located at the level of its barrel allows anyone, without any connection or recourse to external complementary elements, to instantly replace the mechanical closing systems that they currently use with those that proposes the invention. In a particular embodiment of the invention, the first and second electrical connection means can be replaced by first and second wireless connection means, for example radiofrequency or optical, arranged respectively in the key and the barrel. The structure is thus simplified and the possible problems of electrical contacts which may result from multiple openings are avoided.

Preferably, the power supply means comprises a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery placed in the key, which avoids frequent and numerous disassembly if this battery or battery was placed in the barrel. In addition, in order to limit the consumption of this cell or battery, energy generation means, arranged in the barrel of the lock and actuated by the introduction (withdrawal) or the rotation of the key, are provided to allow at least the power supply to the unlocking means which constitutes the largest consumer of energy from the barrel.

In a preferred embodiment, the key is formed of first and second separate parts connected by an intermediate part which can be constituted either by a flexible electrical connection or by a wireless connection. In a first alternative embodiment, the first part is in the form of a rod provided with an operating head and comprising the first electrical connection means and the second part which can act as a multifunction electronic assembly further comprises the electronic and power supply means of the key and the programming means.

In a second, more advantageous alternative embodiment, the key is constituted by the separable connection of a first rod-shaped part provided with an operating head and comprising the first means of electrical connection and at least the means of supplying energy and the first memory means, and of a second part which can act as a multifunction electronic assembly and comprising all the means necessary to allow the programming of the data contained in the electronic means of this key and of the lock as well as a third electrical connection means for receiving the first electrical connection means.

This multifunction electronic assembly can be constituted by numerous current devices and in particular a calculator, an agenda, a watch, a paging receiver, a telephone dialer, an alarm or even a simple sensor of physical parameters. The key can also further comprise a complementary connection means intended for remote programming of the data contained in the electronic means for controlling this key and the lock. However, preferably, this complementary connection means consists of the first electrical connection means. Optionally, it may include a wireless connection means, for example radiofrequency or optical.

Of course, these various elements present on the key and allowing direct programming of the lock can easily be adapted to a mechanical and electronic lock comprising in addition mechanical coding means (bit or any notches taking the place of them) intended to cooperate with corresponding decoding means existing in the cylinder of the associated lock. In this case, in order to preserve the advantages provided by the invention, it is preferable to choose an identical or hierarchical mechanical coding means for all the locks operable by the same key. Thus, in the event of loss of this key, it will not be necessary to change all of the locks but simply to redo the means of mechanical coding of the new key in reproducing that of the old one whose characteristics are known to the user (coded profile provided by the manufacturer).

Each electronic means for controlling the lock or the key or both also comprises comparison means for making a comparison between the identification code of the lock and at least one corresponding code of the key received through the means of electrical connection.

In order to increase the security of the device according to the invention, the transmission of the identification codes between the lock and the key is ensured by means of coding by encryption key (specific algorithm). Similarly and preferably, the barrel memory means comprises a memory space accessible by the read-only key. Thus, by storing in this space a reference number of the lock and allowing its reading by the key, it is then possible to limit the comparison to the single identification code of this lock to the exclusion of all others. According to a particular coding mode, each identification code comprises first and second identification codes and, in a normal mode, the comparison of the respective identification codes of the lock and of the key is carried out only on the first code identification whereas, in a security mode, this comparison is carried out on the first and second identification codes.

According to another particular mode, each identification code is formed by two words of n bits and the electronic means for controlling the lock barrel performs, firstly, by means of comparison means arranged in the barrel, comparing the first word of n bits of the identification code of the lock with the first word of n bits of the code of identification of the key received from the key through the electrical connection means and, in a second step, the first electronic key control means which also includes comparison means performs, in case of identity between these first two words, a comparison between the second word of n bits of the key identification code and the second word n bits of the identification code of the lock received from the lock through the electrical connection means, a new identity relating to these two second words can alone authorize unlocking of the lock.

The present invention also relates to any lock, any barrel or any key that can be used in the programmable electronic device described. Advantageously, the key may further comprise means of sound or light indication to inform the user of the operation of the key in the normal mode or in the security mode or else of good programming. The programming means include a specific function key (SECURITY) allowing only users of keys that can operate in the security mode to modify the identification codes of the locks.

Preferably, the programming means also include a specific function key (RESERVE) allowing the holder of a key to validate access to one or more locks determined from among all of the locks operable by this key, which allows very simply to prohibit certain persons to whom this key is entrusted access to unauthorized places. Likewise, these programming means may include a determined combination of specific function keys (RESERVE and ZERO) allowing the holder of a key to prohibit its use by deactivating its essential reading and comparison functions. Thus, when it is not used, or if it is a reserve key, no risk of loss or theft is to be feared since its use is then no longer possible without knowledge of the code confidential allowing access to deactivation of the determined combination of keys.

It should be noted, however, that this prohibition may only be temporary or be carried out automatically after a determined period of operation.

Brief description of the drawings

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge more clearly from the following description, given by way of non-limiting illustration, with reference to the appended drawings, in which: - Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of a landing door fitted a lock according to the invention with its associated key,

FIG. 2 represents a schematic view in longitudinal section of an exemplary embodiment of a standardized barrel for the lock of FIG. 1,

FIGS. 3 and 4 are two other exemplary embodiments of barrels in accordance with the present invention, - Figures 5 and 6 are exterior views (cover removed) and side view of a first embodiment of the key of Figure 1,

- Figure 7 shows schematically the internal components of the key of Figure 1, - Figures 8 and 9 show two other embodiments of the key, and

- Figure 10 is a flowchart detailing the programming logic of the lock.

Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention First of all, reference is made to FIG. 1 which shows in perspective a partial view of a leaf, for example of a door 10, in which a lock for high safety 12 according to the present invention. This lock is provided with a barrel 14 which comprises a cylindrical member 14A forming a rotor in which an opening in the form of a slot 16 is made in which a key 18 can be inserted (more precisely the rod or blade of this key).

In the example illustrated, the key 18 which will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 comprises, at one end, a first part 18A, called a blade, in the form of a flat rod of dimensions conforming to the opening 16 of the cylindrical rotor 14A of the lock, which can for example have a notched profile (there are indeed other types of coding, for example with fins or fingerprints), and provided with a first electrical connection means 19 comprising a set of individual contacts, to authorize the actuation of a bolt 20 of this lock 12, and, at the other end, a second part 18B, called a head, which can have a ring shape, to allow by its rotation the operation of this bolt and therefore the unlocking of the door leaf 10.

FIG. 2 shows a very schematic view in longitudinal section of a barrel with a symmetrical European profile with double entry (double cylinder) 14 whose external shapes and dimensions are similar to those of conventional mechanical double cylinders used for locking landing doors d 'house, which allows to simply replace them (after removal of the headrest screw 25 of Figure 1 and extraction of the mechanical cylinder). This double barrel conventionally comprises an upstream part 30, a downstream part 32 and an intermediate rotary part 34 for actuating the bolt (directly or through conventional mechanical means). Each upstream and downstream part comprises a rotor element 30a (respectively 32a) and a stator element 30b (respectively 32b) surrounding this rotor element in which is made the opening 16 and which is secured (by known means not shown) to the rotary intermediate part 34.

According to the invention, the rotor element 32a of the downstream part of the barrel of the lock 10 comprises on the one hand a second electrical connection means 39 intended to cooperate with the first electrical connection means 19 of the key and provided with corresponding individual contacts and on the other hand electronic means formed by an electronic circuit 40, advantageously with a microprocessor, comprising a central unit 42 or a similar module, a program memory 44 and a data memory 46 connected by a common bus 48 The upstream rotor element 30a comprises, in addition to a third electrical connection means 49 accessible on an opposite face of the barrel, locking / unlocking means 50 actuable under the control of the central unit 42 and which make it possible to ensure unlocking. mechanics of the rotor elements 30a, 32a with respect to the stator elements 30b, 32b of the barrel 14. These unlocking means 50 comprise ent for example advantageously one or more pins or pins 52 mounted movably in one or more first corresponding housings 54 and projecting, in a rest position (locked cylinder), under the action of elastic elements 56 placed in these first housings, in second housings 58 of the upstream stator part 30b facing them. An electromagnet 60 or any other similar device (known and commonly used in micro-mechanics, for example a micromotor) is provided to ensure, under the control of the central unit 42, the withdrawal of the pins 52 in their housing 54 and thus allow a free rotation of the rotor elements and therefore an operation of the bolt 20. In the example of FIG. 2, the pins are arranged regularly around the longitudinal axis of the barrel and parallel to this axis, and the electromagnet 60 acts simultaneously on each of the pins to cause displacement (a simple means to ensure this displacement is for example to produce these pins as plunger cores of the electromagnet). Optionally, as will be described further on and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the barrel can also include energy generation means 62 actuated by the introduction or rotation of the key and supplying the energy necessary for the actuation of the microactuator 60 (electromagnet, micromotor or similar device), without any additional energy supply by means of a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery for example. This last solution which seems a priori simpler however poses the problem of regular replacement of this battery in the barrel. Of course, the arrangement of the internal components of the barrel as illustrated in FIG. 2 is in no way limiting. In fact, it is entirely possible to reverse the location of the upstream and downstream components, as it is possible to place the electronic circuit and the unlocking means in the same upstream or downstream part (see for example the making of the figure 4). These locking / unlocking means 50 which comprise a microactuator such as the electromagnet or the micromotor described above could also include a piezoelectric actuator consisting of a screw subjected to the simultaneous action of pairs of piezoelectric pushers located in screw opposite and controlled by the central unit. Likewise, it is clear that these various components can perfectly be used in barrels other than that described above and in particular their incorporation into a barrel of a steering locking device for motor vehicles is conceivable without any difficulty. Figures 3 and 4 very schematically show alternative embodiments of the cylinder or lock cylinder 14 also suitable for residential doors. In FIG. 3, this barrel with a European profile is of the simple button cylinder type and the pins 52 are arranged along axes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder (an arrangement along multidirectional axes is of course possible). Of course, the number of pins is indifferent and unlocking means 50 in the form of a single key placed in a housing formed according to a generator of the rotor element are just as possible. FIG. 4 represents a barrel of the half-cylinder type in which the unlocking means 50 and the electronic circuit 40 are arranged on the same side, preferably in the upstream part furthest from the external face of the door 10.

A first embodiment of the electronic key 18 is now described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7. This key mainly consists of two parts 18A, 18B and comprises, at one end, a flat rod provided with the first connection means electrical 19 comprising a set of individual contacts (formed for example of a ground contact and a simple data contact) intended to cooperate with the corresponding contacts of the second electrical connection means 39 present in the opening 16 of the lock and, at the other end, a head whose shape is indifferent, but which can advantageously be parallelepipedal, and which comprises, protected by a reclosable flap 78 allowing protection of the keyboard and the display out of phases programming, a keyboard 80 provided with a set of function keys 82 and numeric keys 84 and a display 86. Advantageously, an additional connection means 29 can be provided for connecting the key to an external programming module. Although in the example illustrated, the contacts are arranged at the free end of the rod of the key 18, it is clear that a person skilled in the art can envisage any other configuration, such as an arrangement on the side or on the top of this rod (see in particular the above-mentioned application EP 0 388 997). In the extreme, and in particular in the case where the barrel internally comprises the means for generating energy 62 for supplying the microactuator 60 and that these means are sufficient to also supply all of its circuits electronic, the electrical connection means 19; 39,49 can be reduced to simple wireless data link means of the radio frequency or optical type (infrared for example). Figure 7 shows very schematically the different electronic components constituting this key. Like the electronic circuit 40 of the barrel 14, the key 18 comprises, on the one hand, also electronic means 90 comprising a central processing unit 92 or any other equivalent module, a program memory 94 and a data memory 96 connected by a common bus 98 and, on the other hand, a module 95 for supplying energy to these various electronic components, for example a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery, and means for sound or light indication 97. This power supply module also constitutes a source of energy for the electronic circuits of the lock for which it supplies power, through the first and second electrical connection means 19, 39.

The program memory 94, which consists of a read-only memory (or ROM type memory) or any similar circuit, is intended to record the programs necessary for the execution of the various functions useful for controlling the central units 92 and 42 for ensure the safe operation and programming of the lock (it may be noted that the central unit of the barrel can also be controlled by its own program memory 44). The data memory 96, which consists of a non-volatile memory such as an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (or EEPROM), is intended to record different types of data and in particular the different identification codes of the locks accessible by a key given.

When this key 18 includes the complementary connection means 29, the latter is connected directly to the common bus 98 or, in the case of a wireless link with the external programming module, via a specific interface 93, for example an optical or radiofrequency receiver (for an infrared or radiofrequency link). In this case, the sound or light indication means 97 can serve as a witness to good programming. In order to simplify the structure of the key, when the presence of a particular interface is not necessary, it is possible to use the first electrical connection means 19 also as a means of connection to the external programming module for allow remote programming of the data memory 96 of this key. Of course, if the connection by means of electrical connection is reduced to a simple wireless connection, specific interfaces must be provided in the key as at the barrel (like the interfaces shown in Figure 8A for the connection wireless between the two parts of the key).

FIGS. 8 and 9 show two other embodiments of the key 18.

In FIG. 8, the first and second parts 18A and 18B are separated and linked together by a flexible cable 18C. As in the previous embodiment, the first part 18A consists of a simple blade (then terminated by a gripping and operating means) provided with the first electrical connection means 19. On the other hand, the second part 18B now presents itself in the form of a multifunction electronic system, such as a calculator or an electronic diary, integrating at least the electronic circuits 90 and the power supply module 95, as well as the complementary connector 29 (including its interface) if necessary. The power supply of the barrel and the transfer of data to the electronic circuits of this barrel being carried out by the cable 18C containing the common bus 90. It is easy to understand that this particular configuration has the advantage of being able to be integrated into the invention the multiple functions available today only in a calculator, a diary or an electronic watch, for example a calendar, a telephone directory, a telephone dialer, a pager, a set of measurement of different physical characteristics such as temperature or pressure, or even an alarm control device for a car or a home. Note, however, that the implementation of some of these functions is not incompatible with the first embodiment of the key insofar as they can be miniaturized (but access to the functions is then not facilitated). In addition, it will be noted that a wireless link, in particular by infrared, could be validly envisaged for the link between the two parts of the key (see for example FIG. 8A on which the interfaces 64 and 68 for the link are also represented. with the common bus 90). FIG. 8 shows a variant of the second embodiment of the key described above in which the first and second parts 18A, 18B can be completely dissociated, the first part constituting an extractable element from the second part and electrically connectable to it by the first electrical connection means 19 which cooperates with equivalent means 69 in the second part. In this configuration, it is important that at least the battery 95 and the data memory 96 are arranged in the first extractable part 18A of the key (the reading of this memory can indeed be done directly under the control of the central unit 42 of the lock when it is introduced into the barrel), the other electronic elements of this key being able to be present only in its second part 18B.

An example of the operation of the high security lock according to the invention, as well as its programming (FIG. 9), is described below.

In order to guarantee maximum security for the programmable electronic device described above, it can advantageously have two security levels embodied by the use of two types of identification code. An A code for normal use and a B code for high security use. Thus, for example, in the context of use within a company, it is possible by this differentiation to authorize access to certain premises only to duly authorized persons who will then be in possession of keys provided with of the two identification codes. Obviously, this system can be improved by incorporating additional restrictions, in particular hours. It is also possible to assign to the lock several codes according to the circumstances of use and thus allow a hierarchy of users, in the case of industrial premises in particular.

On this basis, the operation of the device can be particularly simple. It is identical in the two aforementioned modes. Each lock has a unique identification code (A or A + B) whereas a key can on the contrary include several distinct identification codes (of type A or A + B). When the key is inserted into the lock, an electrical connection is established between these two elements and the first identification code of the key is transferred to the electronic circuit, which is then compared with the code. personal identification of the lock. In the event of an identity between these two codes, the electronic circuit of the lock then controls the unlocking means whose action authorizes the rotation of the rotor elements of the barrel from the key and therefore the opening of the door. On the contrary, in the absence of identity, the control of the unlocking means is not possible and the door remains closed. Of course, if the key has several identification codes, the process described is repeated for the other codes. In the normal mode of use, whatever the type of code entered in the key (A or A + B), if the lock has codes A and B, the comparison is carried out simply on code A. On the contrary, in the high security mode, the comparison is made on the two codes A and B, the opening can only be ordered in the event of complete identity of the codes (but a key A + B can open a lock having only 'a code A).

In order to increase the security of communications between the lock and the key, the aforementioned process can be secured in various ways, notably conventionally by a particular coding by encryption key (by means of a specific algorithm). A relatively simple security to set up can consist in dividing each code into two words of n bits (for example 2 times 8 bits). In a first step, the key addresses the lock only the first part of its identification code (the first word of n bits) and the lock then performs a comparison between this first part of the code and the first part of its own code identification. If an identity is identified, the electronic circuit of the lock transmits the second part of the lock code to the key which can in turn compare this second part of code with that which it has in memory. In the event of a new identity, it can be carried out as above.

Another simple way of securing the data communications between the key and the lock is to have at the data memory of the lock 46 a memory space accessible in read only and comprising only a reference number of this lock. Thus, after the introduction of the key, its central control unit 92 reads through electrical connection means 19 (or any equivalent connection means) the content of this memory space and then sends the lock code only corresponding identification which can then, as before, be compared in the lock to its own identification code. By this procedure, this avoids transmitting all the identification codes to the lock and therefore a possible interception of this sensitive information.

According to an essential aspect of the invention, the modification of the identification codes of the lock as well as of the key can be carried out by the user directly from the key. No external IT device (personal computer for example) is necessary for this action and the user is also not obliged to resort to the manufacturer, even in case of loss of the key. In the latter case, however, the user must have taken care to write down and keep the personal code or codes necessary for reprogramming their new key.

The programming of the codes at the level of the key 18 (for example after the loss of an earlier key) is carried out from the keyboard 80 and is checked on the display 86. In a first step 100, the user activates a first ON / OFF (O) function key to access the various advanced functions (in particular programming) of the key. The action on a second SECRET function key (I) during a next step 110 makes it possible to validate the entry of a confidential code (on m bits, for example 5 bits) made by means of the numeric keys 84, in step 120, and to display on the display 86 a first memory location of the key in order in particular to possibly authorize a subsequent modification of the data present at this location. This write access is only possible after the action, during step 130, of a third PROGRAM function key (P) and is carried out, in a new step 140, by writing a first lock code also using the numeric keys, the validation of this code being carried out during a terminal step 150 by a fourth function key SET (V). Beforehand, keys for moving (==>) or erasing (C) have, if necessary, enabled the code to be modified in the event of an incorrect entry (steps 160 and 170). The following codes (in the event of a plurality of locks or of several code levels, A and B for example) can then be entered by also making use, in subsequent steps 180 and 190, of other movement function keys ( ff DD). At the end of these steps, the key is programmed and is ready to operate, and the first ON / OFF function key can be pressed again to end the key programming process. This manual programming process described above can be applied as well during a first programming as during subsequent modifications of one or more codes or addition of new codes. Of course, automatic programming is equally possible and is even preferable when greater security is sought (in terms of housing in particular). This can be carried out after the entry of the confidential code and on the basis of an internal algorithm present in the read-only memory 94. The entry of an additional personal code may in this case be necessary to allow the generation of the different identification codes. To carry out the programming of the codes at the level of the various locks, it is necessary to introduce the key into the lock for which it is desired to modify the identification code. The user first of all successively actuates the ON / OFF and SECRET function keys, enters their confidential code, and introduces the key in the lock (it is here possible to search for the memory location corresponding to the code of the lock to change with the arrow keys, as previously indicated). The electronic circuit of the key and / or the electronic circuit of the lock verifies then, in step 200, the identity of the identification codes of the lock and key and validates, in a next step 210, the action on the third PROGRAM function key which allows the entry of a new identification code (step 220) which, after pressing the fourth SET function key in step 230, is transmitted to the lock for entry in its memory of data. The key can then be removed from the lock and the ON / OFF key pressed one last time. Additional function keys are also provided to program the lock in normal mode (with comparison on code A only) and in high security mode (comparison on codes A and B). These two keys NORMAL (N) and SECURITY (S) are only active for a user having a key comprising identification codes provided with codes A and B. In addition, after action on one or the other of these two keys, the emission by the sound or light indication means 97 of one or two sound or light signals, depending on the mode chosen, allows the user to be informed of the current mode. These signals can also be emitted during the introduction of the key to validate the connection. A RESERVE (R) key can also be provided to limit the use of the key to one or more locks. After accessing the programming functions by ON and SECRET and entering the confidential code, pressing this R key followed by the number (s) of the desired locks (or their name in diary function) allows validation of the corresponding barrels. Thus, by this procedure, it is possible to lend his key to a third person, for a determined access, without risking to see this one accessing, with this same key, at unauthorized places. Combined with a clock or calendar function, this reservation function can allow these accesses to be authorized only under specific time conditions. The return to an unrestricted access will be done by a new action on this key R then on that of erasure C. This function key can also be used with an additional key, for example the numeric key 0, to prohibit totally using the key. The deactivation function thus obtained, which can be only temporary or be carried out automatically after a determined period of operation, is particularly useful when the user has several copies of the same key and some of the inputs remain unused ( these keys can therefore be deactivated and made unusable in the event of loss or theft). Note that for total security, this function could advantageously be activated between two uses.

The programmable closing device according to the invention is therefore perfectly suited to replace, with greater safety and flexibility of use, the current mechanical devices while providing them with many new particularly interesting functions. Other improvements can also be envisaged, in particular with a view to reducing the consumption of the key battery or further improving its security.

Thus, the life of the battery can be significantly increased by dissociating, as has been said previously, the power supply of the electronic circuits, effected by this battery, from that necessary for controlling the release of the bolt (control of the microactuator 60). At least three known solutions are currently possible for creating, by the introduction or rotation of the key, the electric current necessary for this control. First of all, this current can be generated by a magnetic induction resulting for example from the displacement of a magnet, under the effect of the introduction of the key, in a coil which surrounds it (it may be preferable to store the current induced by the change in magnetic flux rather than using it immediately). Then, this current can also be produced by a mini-generator of current launched by the rotation of the key and coupled to an adequate reduction device. Finally, the use of piezoelectric generators can also be considered. These systems are based on a mechanical device which, driven by the introduction or rotation of the key, exerts a force on a piezoelectric crystal (directly or through an elastic element constrained by this device) which in return generates charges creating electric current.

Similarly, the security of the device can be increased by conventionally protecting the barrel and the key against electromagnetic emissions by radiation or by preventing unauthorized access (due to a successive scanning of all the codes in particular), for example by obliging the user to withdraw his key after any unsuccessful attempt or by imposing a minimum waiting period before any new attempt.

Claims

1. Electronic programmable closing device comprising a lock (12) intended to be operated by a key (18) when an identity between an identification code of the lock and an identification code of the associated key is observed, characterized in that the lock comprises a barrel (14) provided with a part (14A) in which is formed at least one opening (16) for receiving said key (18), the barrel comprising at least one electrical connection means (39 , 49), an electronic control means (40) comprising at least one memory means (46) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one electrical connection means, and an unlocking means (50 ) sensitive to said electronic control means and intended to proceed with unlocking the lock, and in that the key comprises a first electrical connection means (19) intended to cooperate with the electrical connection means of the lock when the key is inserted into the corresponding opening (16), a first electronic control means (90) comprising at least a first memory means (96) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the first connection means electrical and a programming means (80, 86, 90) for modifying, under the control of a means for entering a confidential code (82, 84), the data contained in each of the electronic control means (40, 90) of the key and of the lock, the power supply of the electronic means for controlling the key and of the lock and of the means for unlocking the barrel being provided by means (95) of power supply .

2. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, modified in that said first and second electrical connection means are replaced by first and second wireless connection means, for example radiofrequency or optical, arranged respectively in the key and the barrel.

3. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said energy supply means comprises a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery disposed in the key.

4. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said energy supply means further comprises energy generation means (62), arranged in the barrel of the lock, and which, actuated by the introduction or rotation of the key, allow at least the power supply of the unlocking means (50; 60).

5. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said key is formed by first (18A) and second separate parts (18B) connected by an intermediate part (18C).

6. Programmable electronic device according to claim 5, characterized in that said intermediate part (18C) is constituted by a flexible electrical connection.

7. Programmable electronic device according to claim 5, characterized in that said intermediate part (18C) is constituted by a wireless link (64,66).

8. Programmable electronic device according to claim 5, characterized in that said first part (18A) is in the form of a rod provided with an operating head and comprising the first electrical connection means (19) and in that that said second part (18B) can act as a multifunction electronic assembly and further comprises the electronic means and power supply of the key (90.95) and the programming means (80.86).

9. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said key is constituted by the separable connection of a first part (18A) in the form of a rod provided with an operating head and comprising the first electrical connection means ( 19) and at least the power supply means (95) and the first memory means (96), and a second part (18B) which can act as a multifunction electronic assembly and comprising all of the means ( 80,86,90) necessary to allow the programming of the data contained in the electronic means of this key and of the lock as well as a third means of electrical connection (69) for receiving the first means of electrical connection (19).

10. Programmable electronic device according to claim 8 or claim 9, characterized in that said multifunction electronic assembly comprises one of the following devices: electronic calculator, electronic agenda, electronic watch, paging receiver, telephone dialer, alarm, sensor measured.

11. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said key further comprises an additional connection means (29; 93) intended for remote programming of the data contained in the electronic means (40.90) for controlling this key and the lock.

12. Programmable electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that said complementary connection means comprises a wireless connection means, for example radiofrequency or optical.

13. Programmable electronic device according to claim 11 or claim 11, characterized in that said first electrical connection means is also used as external connection means.

14. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said key further comprises a mechanical coding means intended to cooperate with a corresponding mechanical decoding means of the lock.

15. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic control means (40) of the lock further comprises comparison means (42) for making a comparison between the identification code of the lock and the at least one corresponding code of the key received through the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49).

16. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronic control means (90) of the lock further comprises comparison means (92) for making a comparison between the identification code of the lock and the at least one corresponding code of the key received through the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49).

17. Programmable electronic device according to claim 15 or claim 16, characterized in that the transmission of the identification codes between the lock and the key is ensured by means of coding by encryption key.

18. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that said barrel memory means (46) comprises a memory space accessible by the key in read only.

19. Programmable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that each identification code comprises first and second identification codes and in that, in a normal mode, the comparison of the respective identification codes of the lock and of the key is carried out only on the first identification code whereas, in a security mode, this comparison is carried out on the first and second identification codes.

20. Programmable electronic device according to claim 19, characterized in that each identification code is formed by two words of n bits.

21. Programmable electronic device according to claim 19, characterized in that the electronic control means (40) of the lock barrel performs, firstly, by means of comparison means (42) arranged in the barrel, comparing the first word of n bits of the identification code of the lock with the first word of n bits of the identification code of the key received from the key (18) through the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49) and in that the first electronic means for controlling the key (90) also includes comparison means (92) to perform, in a second step, in the event of identity between these first two words, a comparison between the second word of n bits of the identification code of the key and the second word of n bits of the identification code of the sermer received from the lock (12) through the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49), a new identity relating to these two second words can nt alone authorize unlocking of the lock.

22. Lock implemented in a programmable electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. Barrel adapted to a lock according to claim 22.

24. Key used in a programmable electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

25. Key according to claim 24, characterized in that it further comprises means of sound or light indication (97) to inform the user of the operation of the key in the normal mode or in the security mode.

26. Key according to claim 24, characterized in that said programming means comprise a specific function key (SECURITY) allowing, only to users of keys able to operate in the security mode, to modify the identification codes of the locks.

27. Key according to claim 24, characterized in that said programming means comprise a specific function key (RESERVE) allowing the holder of a key to validate access to one or more locks determined from among all of the maneuverable locks by this key.

28. The key as claimed in claim 24, characterized in that said programming means comprise a determined combination of specific function keys (RESERVE and ZERO) allowing the holder of a key to prohibit its use by deactivating its essential functions of reading and comparison.

29. Key according to claim 28, characterized in that said prohibition can be temporary or carried out automatically after a determined time of operation.