EP1170442A1 - Combination lock system - Google Patents

Abstract

A combination lock system comprising a set of push-buttons, a set of series of coders each of which series is associated with a push-button, incrementing means for placing the coders of each series successively in a position to be operated by a push-button, coding means for selecting some coders and placing them in a coding position, and means for returning the coders to a waiting configuration after the push-buttons are actuated. The system comprises means for authorizing two actuation strokes of the push-buttons, namely a normal stroke commanding movement of a coder which is part of the code between its coding position and an unlocking position and a coding travel moving a coder from its inactive position to its coding position. For entering a new coded combination, the system further comprises means for placing all the coders in the inactive position and authorizing actuation of the push-buttons over the coding stroke.

Description

The present invention relates to a lock system with combination comprising a set of susceptible keys to be operated in a combination, a set of series of coders each series of which is associated with a key, means increment to successively place the different coders of each series provided they are requested by the actuation a key, coding means to define a situation waiting for coders in which the coders selected for the combination occupy a coding position and the coders not selected for the combination occupy an inactive position, the actuation of means for locking the lock being possible when the selected coders have been used thanks to pressing the keys according to the combination, the system further comprising means for replacing the coders in waiting situation after pressing the keys.

Each key is associated with a series of several encoders, for example four or five. While waiting, the first coders of each series are in condition to be solicited each by a corresponding key. As soon as a key has been pressed down, the incrementing means make it possible to place the second encoders of each series provided they are requested by the corresponding key, and so on. Ways increment allow therefore to use the same key several times in the coded combination, within the limit of the number coders in each series.

Generally, the keys are arranged on a keyboard which includes number keys and possibly two or three alphabetical keys. Being able to reuse multiple times same key in coded combination increases considerably the number of possible combinations.

When the correct combination has been entered by operating the keys, the lock can be opened. Otherwise, the lock remains locked. In both cases, the coders can be placed in a waiting situation for a new attempt opening the lock.

US Patent 4,827,743 discloses such a system, in which the encoders are rotary and have two arms arranged in V. Depending on whether an encoder belongs to the coded combination or not, pressing the corresponding key moves this encoder to either direction of rotation. The displacement of an encoder in the "good" direction of rotation allows the unlocking of the lock, which is not otherwise not possible.

With such coded combination lock systems, the number of coders used can be very important. For example, when the keypad includes ten numeric keys and that each coder series includes five coders, not less than 50 coders will be required. Combination coding requires putting all these encoders in the correct position relative to each other which, given their number, is delicate and tedious.

US Patent 4,827,743 allows coding using keys used to enter the coded combination. For this do, the user accesses the encoders from the inner side of the lock which is opposite to the keyboard carrying the keys, then, using of a pivoting panel, it brings all the coders in the same inactive position. The user then enters the new combination at using the keys, which has the effect of placing the encoders selected in an intermediate position, in which they are angularly offset from other encoders. The user then flip the panel he previously used to place all encoders in the inactive position, so that this panel involves in its movement only the selected coders, to increase their angular deviation from coders not belonging to the combination and arrange them in their position coding.

This system has the advantage of avoiding manipulation manual of all encoders. However, when a new code is entered using keys, all selected encoders occupy first an intermediate angular position before having to be moved to coding position by rotating a panel. In performing this last manipulation, the user must ensure that all the selected coders have been properly arranged in their correct intermediate position, i.e. with angular deviation sufficient compared to unselected coders for them to be selectively rotated by the pivoting of the panel. he must in particular ensure that he has pressed the keys enough so that all the selected encoders have been moved according to sufficient angular deflections compared to non-encoders selected and that they remained in their intermediate position.

Furthermore, in the system disclosed by the patent US 4,827,743, pressing a key belonging to the combination moves the corresponding encoder in a first direction of rotation, which has the effect of activating a first component which itself, by through two snap assemblies, causes the moving an increment bar and moving a bar locking. Pressing a key not belonging to the combination moves the corresponding encoder into a second direction of rotation, which has the effect of activating a second flap which, by a link arm, activates the first flap (which has for effect of moving the increment bar thanks to the first snap assembly), but this link arm lifts a pawl which prevents the bar from moving incrementally locking.

These two keys operate neither the same parts nor the same number of pieces. Therefore, it is inevitable that the informed user detects a sensitive difference and a difference auditory between these two keys and thus manages to recognize one that does not belong to the combination. This ultimately results in a risk that the code may be detected.

The present invention applies to a combination lock coded of the aforementioned type and it aims to further simplify the operation of coding.

This object is achieved thanks to the fact that the system according to the invention includes means for authorizing two actuation strokes keys, a normal stroke and a coding stroke, the normal stroke being such that a key actuated according to this race requests the displacement of a selected encoder from its coding position to an unlocking position or the moving an unselected encoder from its inactive position to a locking position preventing unlocking, while the coding stroke is such that a key operated according to this course requests the displacement of an encoder from its inactive position to its coding position and the fact that it includes means for, in view of the entry of a new coded combination, arrange every encoders in the inactive position and authorize the actuation of the keys according to their coding stroke.

The normal stroke of the keys is that which is possible for enter the combination used to make the opening of the means of locking the lock. The coding stroke is only used for a change of combination. For this, the user authorized activates the means to authorize this coding run, usually from the face of the lock in the area protected (inside of the door fitted with the lock). Before to enter a new coded combination it places all coders in the inactive position. He then enters the new combination using keys, which he handles exactly as in condition normal use of the lock, except that the travel of the keys is different from the normal stroke. Then when the new coded combination is entered, it is no longer necessary to move encoders, but you just have to adjust the stroke again buttons on the normal stroke and, for example by pressing the crutch, to reset the means of incrementation.

Preferably, the coding stroke is greater than the stroke normal keys.

Preferably, moving a selected encoder from its coding position to its unlocking position is the same as moving an unselected encoder from its inactive position to its blocking position and pressing the keys affects only the incrementation means and the coders.

Thus, the actuation of a key belonging to the combination and that of a key not belonging to the combination have exactly the same apparent effect, so that the user cannot detect any difference, especially sensitive or auditory, between the actuations of these two keys.

Advantageously, each coder has a first and a second spaced unlock mark and, in the position of unlocking of a selected encoder, the second unlocking of said encoder is arranged in correspondence with the first marks for unlocking the encoders in the inactive position.

In this type of lock, unlocking is possible when all encoders have locking marks arranged in correspondence, usually by being aligned. Waiting, the coders selected for the combination are shifted by compared to inactive coders. This shift is such that, when the selected encoders are brought to the unlock position, are the second unlock marks of these encoders selected who correspond with the first Unlock marks for unselected encoders, left in inactive position. Therefore, even in the unlocked position, the selected encoders are offset from non-encoders selected. This facilitates the reset operation which consists of return the encoders to standby after actuation buttons. Indeed, during the reset, we will move selectively the selected encoders which are in position of unlocking to return them to coding position and unselected encoders which are possibly in position of blocking to return them to the inactive position.

In this case, it is advantageous that each encoder has first and second spaced actuation surfaces, respectively likely to cooperate with a touch for, when the key is pressed, cause the encoder between its inactive position and its blocking position and between its coding position and its unlocking position.

If pressing the key requests a selected encoder, then this one is moved from its coding position to its position of unlocking. If this actuation requests on the contrary an encoder not selected, then it is moved from its inactive position to its blocking position. These positions are offset by compared to others.

A key pressed in error moves a non-encoder selected in the same way as a key pressed in compliance with the combination moves a selected encoder. So all keys seem to react the same way when activated. A person entering a wrong combination therefore cannot identify which key is was activated by mistake.

It is also advantageous for each coder to have a first and second spaced reset surfaces and that the means to place the coders in a waiting situation after a key actuation include a reset member able to cooperate with the first reset surfaces of coders occupying their blocking positions to bring back said coders in their inactive positions and to cooperate with second resetting surfaces of the coders occupying their unlocking positions to bring said encoders back into their coding positions.

On the other hand, preferably, during a reset, the organ reset does not move unselected encoders that are remained in the inactive position, nor the selected encoders which are remained in the coding position. So the reset surfaces are arranged so that the reset surfaces of a encoder in the inactive position escape the reset member from same as the reset surfaces of an encoder in position of coding escape this organ.

According to an advantageous arrangement, the system includes coupling means between control means of the lock such as a control square and the locking means of the latter, said coupling means having at rest a declutching configuration and means for, when the keys have been pressed in the correct combination, request the coupling means in a configuration clutch in which the locking means are coupled to the control means of the lock.

So, until the correct combination has been entered, the means for controlling the lock remain disengaged from to the locking means and rotate freely when they are requested by the user, for example using a handle.

The user having entered a combination using the keys, naturally seeks to verify if this combination is correct in attempting to open the lock by manipulating the means of control such as the handle.

Advantageously, the means for replacing the encoders on standby after pressing the keys include a reset member capable of being actuated by the manipulation of the control means of the lock.

We take advantage of the almost inevitable operation actuation of the control means of the lock for reset.

Advantageously, provision is made for the system to include means for controlling a vested benefits function suitable for authorize the actuation of the locking means of the lock by the control means of said lock independently of pressing the keys.

It is obviously preferable that the activation of this function vested benefits are only possible by an authorized user, and so preferably after correct use of the combination coded. This is particularly the case when this function cannot be activated only from the inside of the lock, located in the room protected. In a way, the vested benefits function short-circuits momentarily the lock encoders. This allows for example not to protect the room at the entrance of which is located this lock only at certain times of the day or only when the usual occupant of this room is not present.

• la figure 1 est une vue schématique extérieure d'une porte équipée d'un système de serrure à combinaison selon l'invention ;
• la figure 2 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne II-II de la figure 1 ;
• la figure 3 est une vue en perspective de la serrure de la figure 2, dépourvue de son carter de protection et du bloc de support des touches situé immédiatement sous ce carter ;
• la figure 4 montre, en perspective, le bloc de support des touches absent de la figure 3 ;
• la figure 5 est une vue en coupe transversale, selon la ligne V-V de la figure 4 ;
• les figures 6A à 6F illustrent schématiquement les différentes positions que peuvent adopter les codeurs du système de serrure ;
• la figure 7 montre, en perspective, l'ensemble des touches avec leurs bras d'actionnement ;
• la figure 8 est une vue partielle en perspective prise selon les flèches VIII indiquées sur les figures 3 et 4 ;
• la figure 9 est une vue en perspective des codeurs et de leur support ;
• la figure 10 illustre, en perspective, une partie des moyens d'incrémentation ;
• la figure 11 est une vue de dessous de la figure 9, montrant une autre partie des moyens d'incrémentation ;
• la figure 12 illustre, en perspective éclatée, différents éléments associés aux moyens de commande de la serrure ;
• la figure 13 est une vue de dessous de la figure 10, et
• la figure 14 montre, en perspective, un axe d'entraínement servant à la remise à zéro.

The invention will be clearly understood and its advantages will appear better on reading the detailed description which follows, of an embodiment shown by way of nonlimiting example. The description refers to the accompanying drawings in which:

• Figure 1 is a schematic exterior view of a door equipped with a combination lock system according to the invention;
• Figure 2 is a sectional view along line II-II of Figure 1;
• Figure 3 is a perspective view of the lock of Figure 2, devoid of its protective casing and the key support block located immediately below this casing;
• Figure 4 shows, in perspective, the key support block absent from Figure 3;
• Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along the line VV of Figure 4;
• FIGS. 6A to 6F schematically illustrate the different positions that the coders of the lock system can adopt;
• FIG. 7 shows, in perspective, all of the keys with their actuating arms;
• Figure 8 is a partial perspective view taken along the arrows VIII indicated in Figures 3 and 4;
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the coders and their support;
• FIG. 10 illustrates, in perspective, part of the incrementing means;
• Figure 11 is a bottom view of Figure 9 showing another part of the increment means;
• FIG. 12 illustrates, in exploded perspective, various elements associated with the means for controlling the lock;
• FIG. 13 is a bottom view of FIG. 10, and
• Figure 14 shows, in perspective, a drive axis for resetting.

In Figure 1, the door 10 is equipped with a combination lock 12 according to the invention. This system includes a set of T keys arranged on a panel on the outside Door. In this case, this set includes 10 keys numerical keys arranged in two rows of five keys. When the correct combination is entered by key manipulation, actuation of a control stand 14 makes it possible to open means for locking the lock such as a bolt 16.

We will consider that the lock is arranged on the face exterior of a door, the interior face of which is the opposite face. The outward direction is that which goes from this inner face towards the outer face. By convention, we will consider that the two rows of keys are oriented vertically, and that vertical defines the longitudinal direction of the lock system, at which the transverse direction is perpendicular.

The section of Figure 2 is made flush with one side of the housing 13 of the lock system and allows you to view items internal to this system. Referring also to FIG. 3, we sees that the lock system includes a set of sets of encoders 18. Each series is associated with a key and includes several coders. For example, the series S1 is associated with the key digital 1. Within the same series, the coders are spaced from each other by spacers (not shown) and the series are separated from each other by spacers 20. As seen in Figure 3, the coder series are arranged in two rows each comprising five series of encoders.

When the keys are successively pressed, the different encoders of the same series are placed successively in condition to be requested by pressing the corresponding button. In in this case, each series has five coders, so that one same key can be used up to five times in the combination allowing the unlocking of the lock.

The keypad shown in perspective in Figure 7 shows that each T key has a first member actuator 22 intended to cooperate with the series encoders associated with this key, a second actuating member 24 intended to cooperate with the incrementing means and a third actuator 26 which, as will be seen below, serves on the one hand, the stop arm defining the normal stroke of the button and, on the other hand, blocking device cooperating with the means of incrementation.

As seen in Figure 7, these different organs actuators are in the form of protruding blades under the sidelines. More specifically, as can also be seen on the section of Figure 5, the T key has a cap 28 inside which is arranged a stud 30, permanently recalled in the cap by a return spring 32 which bears on the block of key support. The first actuator 22 is formed at the free end of a blade 23, for example a steel blade with spring, whose upper end opposite this free end is carried by the stud 30. The third actuating member 26 is made at the free end of an extension arm 27 which extends towards the down from the nipple as one body. The second organ actuator 24 is formed at the free end of a blade 25 fixed to this extension arm 27. In the present case, a cavity serving to receive this blade 25 is formed at the end of the arm 27, so that the free end of the latter is divided into two parts 26 which extend on either side of the blade 25.

It can be seen in FIG. 5 that the encoders are rotary. So the encoders corresponding to the keys in the right row on the FIG. 1 are rotatably mounted around a first axis of rotation A1, like the 18A encoder, while those corresponding to keys in the left row are rotatably mounted around an axis of rotation A2, like the encoder 18B. Axes A1 and A2 define the two longitudinal geometric lines according to which the coders corresponding respectively to each of the two rows of keys are aligned.

The coders are liable to be moved in a first direction of rotation when the keys are pressed and to be moved in an opposite direction of rotation to be returned to standby after pressing the keys.

In this case, all the coders are identical, but we have chosen to arrange the encoders mounted on the axis of rotation A1 so symmetrical, with respect to a median plane of symmetry between the axes A1 and A2, compared to the 18B encoders which are mounted on the A2 axis.

Thus, FIG. 5 shows that the first direction of rotation F of the encoders rotating on the A1 axis, in which they are driven by actuation of the keys, is opposite to the first direction of rotation G of encoders rotating on axis A2.

As best seen in Figure 7, the layout symmetric encoders helps to ensure that despite the arrangement of the keys in two rows, the second organs actuator 24 and the third actuator 26 of all keys are substantially aligned on the median axis between axes A1 and A2, which has the particular advantage of simplify the configuration of the incrementing means.

In FIG. 5, the coder 18B is shown in its position coding, while the 18A coder is shown in position inactive. Referring to Figure 5 and Figures 6A to 6F, we see that each encoder 18 has a first unlock mark 34 and a second unlock mark 36 which are spaced apart and which are separated by a blocking mark 35.

FIG. 6A shows an encoder 18 in its inactive position, which is that of the encoder 18A of FIG. 5. FIG. 6C shows a encoder 18 in its coding position, which is that of encoder 18B of Figure 5 (by symmetry). Figure 6D shows the position of unlock the same encoder, which is the one it occupies after been prompted by the push of a button. We indicated schematically the positions of the first actuator of the key corresponding to this encoder, at rest (FIGS. 6A and 6C) and at the end of normal CN travel (Figures 6B and 6D).

The level occupied by the first marks for unlocking the encoders in the inactive position. We see, by comparing Figures 6A and 6D that the second reference unlocking 36 of the encoder 18 which belongs to the code which has been requested by the correct key is at the same level N as the first unlock mark 34 of encoder 18 not belonging to the code and not having been requested.

So when the correct combination has been entered so to correctly request all the coders selected for the combination, every second unlock marks of these selected coders will be at the same reference level N that the first encoder unlock marks not selected and not requested by the keys. As will be seen in the following, this allows the unlocking of the lock.

On the other hand, it can be seen in FIG. 6C that before having been solicited by pressing a key, the encoder 18 belonging to the code is in a position such as its blocking mark 35 is at reference level N, which prevents the unlocking the lock. Similarly, Figure 6B shows the position of encoder 18 not belonging to the code and having been mistakenly requested by pressing a key. In this position, the blocking mark of this encoder is also located at level N.

In this case, the encoders are in the form of discs and the marks release 34 and 36 are in the form of notches peripherals of these disks, between which a portion without a notch forms the blocking mark.

We see in Figure 5 that the system includes two bars pivoting, respectively 38A and 38B, which are respectively associated with the 18A encoder row and the encoder row 18B. In cross section, these bars have the form of levers pivoting about a pivot axis, respectively 39A and 39B carried by a bearing, respectively 40A and 40B. We understand that, when only unlocking marks 34 or 36 are located level N, levers 38A and 38B can pivot, respectively in the direction of pivoting F and in the direction of pivoting G, according to a maximum stroke until entering notches 34 or 36 (as is the case for bar 38B).

On the other hand, when an encoder occupies a position such as its blocking mark 35 is at level N, it limits the pivoting of the bar 38A or 38B at a stroke less than this maximum stroke (as is the case for bar 38A).

We will see below that these bars 38A and 38B constitute clutch members which, if they move according to their stroke maximum, allow the engagement of the control square of the lock with the locking means 16 of the latter. The encoder periphery has two indentations, respectively 44 and 46, which constitute the first and second respectively actuation surfaces of these encoders. We understand indeed about FIG. 5 that, in the inactive position of the encoder 18A, the first actuating surface 44 of the latter can cooperate with the corresponding key or, more precisely, with the first actuator 22 of this key to rotate the encoder in direction F according to an angular pitch of rotation. In however, for the 18B coder which occupies its coding position, it is the second actuating surface 46 which can cooperate with the actuating member 22 of the corresponding button, to make turn this encoder by an angular step of rotation in direction G.

Advantageously, hard points determine the different angular positions of the encoders. To do this, under each encoder is arranged a leaf spring 48 having an undulation 48A. The encoder associated with this blade, meanwhile, presents a series of four undulations 49 made on its periphery. These ripples selectively cooperate with the 48A ripple of the leaf spring to determine the different angular positions of the encoder which are its inactive position and, successively considered in the first direction of rotation of this encoder, its blocking position, its coding position and its unlocking position.

When the keys are pressed according to their stroke normal, they use the rotation encoders in one step angular rotation corresponding to the displacement of an encoder either between its inactive position and its blocking position, i.e. between its coding position and its unlocking position.

When a key is pressed, its second organ actuator 24 cooperates with an increment axis 50 belonging to the incrementing means which will be described in the after. Its extension arm 27 passes through a slot 52 of the plate 54 which supports the springs 48 to momentarily block the means of incrementation as will be explained below.

The system according to the invention comprises a stroke limiter 56 which has abutment surfaces and which is capable of being moved between a first position in which the surfaces of stopper are located next to the key stop arms (arms located, in this case, at the free ends 26 of the extension arms 27) so as to limit the course of the latter to their course normal CN and a second position in which said surfaces abutment are separated from the abutment arms 26 to allow the movement of the keys according to their CC coding stroke.

In this case, this stroke limiter consists of a bar mobile in translation, visible in Figures 10 and 13. Figure 10 shows, in top view, the plate 58 which forms the base plate of the lock system and which is intended to be fixed on the side outside the door. This plate carries the various elements components of the lock system, in particular the pin increment 50 and the stroke limiting bar 56.

For convenience, the building blocks of the lock located above the increment axis 50 are not shown in Figure 10. The stroke limiter bar can be moved in translation as indicated by the double arrow L on the FIG. 10. Its upper end, opposite the plate 58, has notches 60.

In its first position, limiting the stroke of the keys to their normal stroke, the stroke limiter bar is arranged in such a way so that the notches 60 are offset from the free ends 26 of the extension arms 27 of the keys. Thereby, said free ends 26 abut against the abutment surfaces formed by the intervals 62 between the notches 60. This first position is that occupied by the stroke limiter in the normal conditions of use of the lock, in which the coded combination must be entered by pressing the keys to unlock the lock.

From this first position, the stroke limiter bar can be moved so as to place notches 60 at the look of the abutment arms 26, thus allowing movement keys according to a coding stroke greater than their stroke normal. With reference to FIG. 7, it has previously been indicated that the stop arms 26 were formed by the two parts free end of the actuating arms 27 of the keys between which is the second actuator 24. The notches 60 of the stroke limiter bar are arranged by group of two notches, 60A, 60B, each corresponding to one of these end parts.

Of course, the stroke limiter bar is protected vis-à-vis manipulation by an unauthorized user. The means for move this bar include, in this case, a lug of command 64 which is integral with this bar and which crosses a slot 66 of the plate 58, so as to protrude from the rear of the platinum, as seen in Figure 13, on which a portion of the turntable has been torn off. This tab 64 cooperates with a body of displacement control 68 constituted, in this case, by a cam control 68 may be rotated by a control panel (not shown) manipulated from the face inside of the door on which the lock is mounted combination.

The system also includes means for, with a view to the entry of a new coded combination, arrange every encoders in the inactive position. We will understand the conformation of these means referring to Figures 5, 9, 10, 11 and 13.

The assembly which is represented in FIGS. 9 and 11 and which comprises in particular the support plate 54, the encoders 18 and the reset member 82 (described below), is below called coder block and designated by the general reference 84. This encoder block 84 is mounted between the plate 58 and the support for keys 86 (FIG. 5).

In FIG. 9, we see an initialization bar 70 which is used for the reset of the encoders in row 18A, mounted on the axis A1, and which is itself pivotally mounted around the axis A1. This bar 70, as well as the bar 72, analogous, associated with the coders of the row 18B mounted on axis A2, can be seen in section in the figure 5. Bars 70 and 72 can be moved by a initialization command 74 (FIGS. 9 and 11). We understand that when this member 74 is pushed in the H direction, so as to move away from the support plate 54 towards the outside, it urges, by its inner arm 74A, a pivoting of the initialization bar 70 in the opposite direction of rotation to the first direction of rotation F of 18A encoders. At the same time, it requests a pivoting of the bar 72 in the opposite direction to the first direction of rotation G of the 18B encoders. During their pivoting, the initialization bars 70 and 72 cooperate with the rear faces 44A of the first indentations 44 of the coders. Thus, when the control member 74 is sufficiently pushed outwards, the initialization bars 70 and 72 return all the encoders to the inactive position. We see on the Figure 9 that the control member 74 is constantly reminded towards its low position, in which it does not stress the bars initialization, by return springs 76.

The control member 74 can for example be pushed into direction H by a pusher which can be manipulated from the face inside of the door on which the lock system is arranged. To do this, the plate 58 has an orifice 78 (FIGS. 10 and 13) at through which such a pusher can pass, and the support plate 54 has a notch 80 located to the right of this orifice.

So, to change the coded combination of the lock, the stroke limiter bar 56 is actuated so as to allow the keys T to be pressed according to their coding stroke and we activate the initialization bars 70 and 72 so as to place all encoders in their inactive positions, these two operations can be performed simultaneously, in this order, or in reverse order. From this situation, it suffices to push the keys sequentially according to the new combination, this which has the effect of bringing the selected coders into their coding positions.

FIG. 6E shows an encoder 18 in the inactive position and the Figure 6F shows the same encoder in the coding position, these figures showing the positions of the first actuator 22 of the key associated with this encoder, respectively at rest and at the end of CC coding stroke.

The CC coding stroke of the keys being greater than their normal stroke CN, we see that this encoder was turned according to a angle greater than its normal angle of rotation corresponding to a angular pitch of rotation visible by comparing Figures 6A and 6B. So, simply by manipulating the keys, we entered a new combination by arranging the selected coders in their coding position.

This coding operation being finished, it suffices to move again the stroke limiting bar 56 to bring it back into its first position, in which it limits the stroke of the keys to their normal stroke, by acting on the control square of the control cam 68. The initialization bars 70 and 72 have naturally returned to their low position when the action of the push button on the control member 74 has stopped. So when the new combination is entered using the keypad, no further displacement of the encoders is necessary for place the lock system in operating condition. It is enough simply bring the stop limiter bar 56 into its position in which it limits the stroke of the keys and to replace the encoder block in its initial position, by resetting incrementation means which were requested during coding. For example, as will be seen below, an actuation of the stand is sufficient to operate this reset.

We now describe the means of incrementing the system lock of the invention. The encoders 18 are rotatably mounted on axes A1 and A2, themselves supported by the support plate 54, which also carries the springs 48 determining the hard points of the rotation of these encoders. As seen in Figures 9 and 11, a reset member 82 in the form of a frame is also supported by support 54 while being capable of move relative to it in translation perpendicular to its plane. The incrementing means make it possible to move the block of coders of an increment step as a result of pressing a key. The encoder block 84 is supported by compared to the plate 58 thanks to the fact that the support plate 54 is carried by the free ends of longitudinal wall elements 88 and 90 which project outwards from the plate 58 (FIGS. 5 and 10).

The underside of the support plate 54 has guide pins 92 able to cooperate with the wall elements 88 and 90 to guide the longitudinal movement of this plate support. The encoders 18 are integral with the support 54 which cooperates with means for displacement in translation. The first organ actuation 22 of each key cooperates, as indicated previously, with the coders to request their displacement when the key is pressed. The second actuator 24 cooperates with the translational displacement means for cause the support to move in an incremental step when the button is pressed.

If pressing a key requests moving the block of encoders 84 according to an increment step, it is however important to prevent this block from moving at the same time as pressing the button. To do this, the organs 26 previously mentioned also play the role blocking devices which, as long as the button carrying them is pressed momentarily prevents the block from moving coders 84.

Specifically, when a key is pressed, its second actuating member 24 cooperates with a tooth 94 of the increment axis 50, so as to rotate this axis in the direction R of an angular increment. Note that it is enough for the axis increment carries four teeth for each organ 24 to enable the system to enter a code to five digits allowing encoder block 84 to occupy five different positions relative to the key support block 86.

So, in the example shown, as seen on the Figures 5 and 10, a series of four teeth 94 is associated with each keys on the keyboard, i.e. the teeth of each series are arranged under the actuating member 24 of the key corresponding.

The means for translational movement of the support 54 comprise an elastic member and a movable stop capable of being moved by the action of the second actuating member 24 of a key, the elastic member having the effect of requesting a contact of stop between the support and the stop piece, the blocking member being able, when a key is pressed, to retain the support to counter the effect of the elastic organ and release that effect when the key is released.

More specifically, the increment axis 50 has, at near one of its ends, a slot 96 which is inclined at the times with respect to the longitudinal direction of this axis and with respect to its transverse direction. In particular, this slot 96 can have the shape of a portion of propeller (Figure 10). The front face 96A of this slot constitutes the previously mentioned movable stop. The contact stop between the support 54 and this movable stop is produced by the cooperation between a stop pin 98 which projects inwards at from the inner face of the support plate 54 so as to penetrate into the slot 96 and which cooperates with the face 96A of this slot. The elastic member requesting this abutment contact in permanence is a spring 100 which rests on a fixed part (for example a piece of the plate 58) so as to push back in permanently the stud 98 against the front face 96A of the slot 96.

It can be seen in FIGS. 9 and 11 that the longitudinal slot 52 practiced in a central region of the support plate 54 has an edge provided with regularly spaced 52A notches. When a key is pressed, the locking members 26 formed by the free end portions of its extension arm 27 engage in two adjacent notches 52A so as to block the encoder block 84 relative to the support block of the keys 86.

However, at the same time, the actuator 24 associated with the key rotates the increment axis 50 by one angular increment in the R direction, which has the effect of moving the edge 96A of the slot 96 relative to the stud 98. As soon as the key is released, the blocking members 26 emerge from the notches 52A, which frees the advancement of the support 54 under the recall effect permanent of spring 100. This advancement is possible until that the pin 98 again comes into abutment against the front face 96A the slot 96 of the axis 50; the shape of the slot 96 and the amplitude of a angular increment of rotation of the axis 50 determine a step increment for translational movement of the encoder block 84, so that a displacement according to this step of increment positions, under the actuating members 22 of the keys, the coders adjacent to those previously there and place new notches 52A under the ends 26 of the arms 27.

A ratchet wheel system prevents the axis from incrementing 50 to go back. Indeed, it carries at its end a wheel toothed 102, visible in particular in FIGS. 8 and 10. A pawl 104 cooperates with the teeth of this wheel to prevent the return behind the axis. During reset, this pawl 104 is raised by means specified below to leave the teeth of the wheel 102 escape him.

The increment axis 50 can then return to the initial position under the action of a return torsion spring 110 visible in the figure 10. This constrains the support 54, and therefore the encoder block 84 to return to their initial waiting position, by cooperation of the nipple 98 with the edge 96A of the slot 96.

To achieve a reset, it is also important to return to their original positions the coders which have been moved by pressing the keys. For this purpose, each encoder has first and second reset surfaces which are spaced. In this case, these reset areas are formed on longitudinal studs 112, 114 (FIGS. 2, 9 and 6A to 6F). The reset frame 82 has, on its edges longitudinal teeth 116 which are arranged so as to cooperate with these studs 112 and 114 when the frame is lowered (arrow B) so as to be moved inwards towards the plate support 54. It can be seen in particular in FIG. 9, in which a part of the frame 82 is torn off, that each tooth 116 is disposed so as to be able to be inserted between the encoder with the pads of which it is intended to cooperate and the consecutive encoder.

We will better understand how the surrender framework works. zero 82 with reference to FIGS. 6A to 6D, on which we have shown in solid lines the rest position of the associated tooth 116 to the coder 18 represented, that is to say the position occupied by this tooth when the reset frame 82 is moved as far as possible from the support plate 54. In this regard, considering FIG. 9, we note that the frame 82 is recalled in this position by return springs 76 (which also serve to return the member 74 initialization control in the low position) and 77, these springs 76 and 77 being arranged around guide rods 118 which guide the translational movement of the frame 82 relative to the support 54. In FIGS. 6A and 6C, the position occupied by the tooth 116 during the reset is shown in broken lines.

By comparing Figures 6A and 6B, it is understood that when a coder not belonging to the code was mistakenly requested to occupy its blocking position shown in Figure 6B, a movement of the frame 82 towards the support plate 54 in the direction arrow B will make tooth 116 cooperate with the reset pad 112 until returning this encoder to its inactive position shown in Figure 6A.

By comparing Figures 6C and 6D, we understand that when an encoder belonging to the code has been asked to occupy his unlocking position shown in Figure 6D, the same displacement of the frame 82 will cause the tooth 116 associated with it to cooperate encoder with reset pad 114 until this encoder is brought back in its coding position shown in Figure 6C. The spacing of the studs 112 and 114 is such that the stud 112 escapes tooth 116 when the coder occupies its coding position. The encoders which have remained in the inactive position or in the coding position are not moved in rotation around their axes during their reset. They are only moved in translation with the entire encoder block by resetting the means increment.

Resetting, that is to say placing the encoders in waiting situation after an attempt (successful or not) to unlocking the lock by pressing the keys according to a combination therefore requires, on the one hand, to reset the means of incrementation and, on the other hand, of rotating the coders who have been moved to return them to their inactive positions (for coders not belonging to the combination) or in their coding positions (for coders belonging to the code).

To do this, the system includes a control member reset. In this case, this control body includes two longitudinal control bars 120 arranged on either side of the wall elements 88 and 90, on the plate 58 (Figures 2, 5, 8). At their ends, these two longitudinal bars are connected by crossbar elements to form an order frame.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 8, in which the bars 120 are better visible, we describe the functioning of the reset command. The bar 120 visible in FIG. 2 includes an actuating tab 122 which, in this case, is formed by its free end located on the side of the control square for means for locking the lock. This actuating tab 122 cooperates with a control cam 124. The actuating tab 122 is in fact engaged in a notch 126 presented by the periphery of the cam 124 (see also figure 12).

By return means constituted by a spring of compression 128, bar 120 is constantly reminded of such so that the tab 122 cooperates with the actuating edge 126A of notch 126.

We understand that when, during an attempt opening of the lock, cam 124 is turned in the direction SO opening shown in Figure 2 and then pushes the bar 120 in longitudinal movement in the direction of movement L1.

Each bar 120 carries a rack control arm 130 which cooperates with a toothed surface 132 of an axis 133, better visible in Figure 14. This axis carries two toothed wheel sectors 134 (one for the arm 130 of each bar 120). Each of these sectors cooperates with a rack 135A carried by an extension 135 of a support frame 83 disposed against the reset frame 82, on the outside. The extensions 135 have stiffening ribs 136.

In Figure 8, thanks to the partial cutout practiced in the sector 134, it is understood that a translation of the bars 120 in the direction L1 causes, thanks to the engagement of the racks of the arms 130 with the toothed surfaces 132, the rotation of the toothed sectors 134 in the SR direction, rotation which, by the interlocking of sectors 134 with racks 135A tends to move the support frame 83 in direction L1.

The key support block 86 is fixed relative to the plate 58 and its internal surface has ramps 86A inclined inward in direction L1. The outer surface of the support frame 83 has ramps 83A capable of sliding against the ramps 86A during a translation of this frame 83 in the direction L1 or in the opposite direction. Ramps 86A and 83A move the frames 82 and 83 inwards when the frame 83 is driven in the direction L1 without the frame 82 being moved with it in the direction L1. Thus, the teeth 116 of this frame can actuate the encoders of the previously mentioned.

The pawl 104 is formed by a plate which is normally held in the teeth of the wheel 102 by a spring 106. This plate has a step 104A arranged in correspondence with a lug 108 carried by the axis 133. When this last turns in the SR direction, this lug 108 cooperates with the recess 104 to push the pawl outwards and thus allowing the teeth 102 to escape this pawl.

Of course, a different system from the one just described could be considered for, from a displacement in translation in direction L1, cause a displacement towards inside the reset frame 82 and disengage the ratchet wheel means of incrementation.

With reference to FIG. 12, the means will now be described for unlocking the lock. Conventionally, they include a control square 140 likely to be driven in rotation by the actuation of the control means such as a crutch or a handle 14. The rotation of the square 140 causes that of the cam 124 previously mentioned. Ways locking (in this case the bolt 16 of Figure 1) are actuated by the output shaft 142. This output shaft is mechanically connected to said locking means in a manner known per se.

According to the invention, the lock comprises means coupling between the control means (square of control 140) and the locking means (bolt or, more precisely, the output shaft 142). Cam 124 is formed at the inner end of the control sleeve 144 mounted on the control square 140 so as to be rotated by this last. This cam 124 is formed in a portion of large diameter of this sleeve. From cam 124 and going towards its outer end, the sleeve 144 has successively an intermediate portion 146 and an end portion 148 having a cylindrical outer surface of small diameter, the diameter of the intermediate portion being between that of this portion end 148 and that of the cam 124. A plate of maneuver 150 is arranged around the intermediate portion 146 and its inner face 150A rests on the shoulder 152 which delimits the portion 146 with respect to the cam 124. This plate of maneuver has two maneuvering surfaces 150B which make protrudes on its inner face and penetrates into 152B notches formed on the shoulder 152. However, the edges in contact with the projections 150B and notches 152 have ramps, 150C and 152C respectively.

A coupling pin 154 in the form a crown 154A from which extend inward two legs 154B, is arranged so that the crown 154A is located around the end portion 148 of the sleeve control, while its two legs 154B are engaged in slots 146B presented by the intermediate portion 146.

For its part, the output shaft 142 has two slots 142B intended to be arranged in correspondence with the slots 146B when this output shaft is capped by the control sleeve 144. A return spring 158 is disposed between the plate operation 150 and the crown 154A of the coupling pin 154. This spring tends to push the plate against the shoulder 152 and to move the pin 154 outwards. We understand that, when the pin 154 is moved inward (in the direction of arrow B) to against the spring recall action, its legs 154B make the coupling between the output shaft 142 and the sleeve command 144, so that in this case the rotation of the square control actuates the output shaft to unlock the lock.

In a manner known per se, a torsion spring 160 cooperates with the control sleeve 144 for, after actuation of the control square 140, return this square to its initial position.

Referring to Figures 2, 3 and 12, we now describe the operation of the system shown in Figure 12. We recall first of all that the lock system includes two bars clutch, 38A and 38B, extending longitudinally and capable to pivot around longitudinal axes, respectively 39A and 39B. AT their outer ends, these bars each carry a rib, respectively 37A and 37B (see Figures 3 and 5). The coders 18 are arranged between the two bars 38A and 38B, the ribs of which 37A and 37B are respectively turned to the first series of encoders mounted on the A1 axis and towards the second series of encoders mounted on axis A2, with which they cooperate respectively.

When the correct combination is entered, so that all the encoders are arranged either in the inactive position or in the unlocking, bars 38A and 38B can be pivoted until said ribs 37A and 37B enter the notches 34 or 36 of the encoders. In other words, the bars clutch can then be moved according to their stroke maximum clutch. When, on the other hand, the combination entry is incorrect, i.e. at least one of the encoders either in the blocking position or in the coding position, the blocking mark 35 of the coder concerned cooperates with the rib 37A or 37B of the clutch bar 38A or 38B to prevent a sufficient swiveling of this bar. In other words, this limits the displacement of the relevant clutch bar at one stroke less than its clutch stroke.

As best seen in Figure 3, the bars clutch 38A and 38B each have a support arm, 162A and 162B respectively. These support arms extend above of the coupling pin 154, that is to say that their faces internal are able to cooperate with the external face of the crown 154A of this pawn. The clutch bars 38A and 38B are naturally recalled in the rest position in which the arms 162A and 162B are substantially parallel to the plate 158, by a return spring 164.

The bars 38A and 38B are connected by a pivot link. More specifically, they each carry a link arm 38'A, respectively 38'B which cooperate by a pivot 39, which is located in a median plane between the two bars and whose axis is parallel to the pivot axes of bars 39A and 39B.

So, if one of the two bars 38A and 38B is blocked in its pivoting, the other bar is also blocked due to the pivot link.

When the control panel is activated, the maneuver 150 is rotated by the notches 152B in which its projections 150B are engaged. The 150D edges of this plate then cooperate, according to the direction of training of square (which depends on the direction of opening of the door on which is mounted the lock), either with the clutch bar 38A to make it turn in the direction SA, either with the bar 38B to make it turn in the direction SB (Figure 3). On the occasion of this pivoting, the arms 162A and 162B tend to push the coupling pin 154 to plate 158.

If the correct combination has been entered, so that the arms 38A and 38B can pivot according to their clutch stroke, the support arms 162A and 162B thus push the pin until its 154B coupling lugs penetrate the 142B slots of so as to couple the output shaft 142 with the square of command 140, which allows unlocking of the lock.

When, on the other hand, one of the clutch bars 38A or 38B can only rotate with a stroke less than the stroke clutch because it is locked by an encoder in a position erroneous, the support of arm 162A or 162B on pin 154 is not sufficient for its legs 154B to penetrate into the slots 142B, so that the output shaft 142 is not coupled to the square of control 140. Due to the pivot connection between the bars 38A and 38B, and whatever the direction of training of the square, the two bars can pivot according to their clutch stroke for that the arms 162A and 162B repel the pin 154 sufficiently.

If not, when rotating the square of control, the cam 124 rotates the wafer maneuver 150 until the edge 150D of this plate comes into abutment on fixed parts, in this case the supports of 40A or 40B bearing. The 150C ramps then slide on the ramps 152C, so as to slightly move the plate outwards maneuver 150 without it opposing the rotation of the control square.

So when the correct combination has not been entered, the control square rotates freely without causing the means of unlocking the lock.

In any event, the cam 124 rotates enough to that, by its notches 126, it drives the control rods reset 120 previously mentioned to achieve a reset.

The lock according to the invention also comprises means for control of a vested benefits function. In reference, in particular in Figure 10, we previously explained the operation of the stroke limiting bar 56. Using means control comprising in particular a control tab 64, this bar can be moved in the direction L1 between its position rest in which it limits the stroke of the keys to their stroke normal, and a coding position, in which it allows that the keys are pressed further.

Furthermore, the stroke limiting bar 56 carries, at its end near control square 140, a plate forced clutch 166 capable of cooperating with the pin coupling 154 to keep the latter in a position inward thrust, in which its coupling legs 154B are engaged in the slots 142B of the output shaft 142. To do this, it is necessary to move the stroke 56 in the longitudinal direction L2 opposite to the direction L1. To this end, this bar carries a control tab 167 which passes through a slot 168 formed in the plate 58, so as to be able to be driven by a control cam 170. Using a control square accessible from the inside of the door on which the combination lock is affixed, this cam 170 can be actuated so as to cooperate with the lug 167 to move the bar 56 in the direction L2. It should be noted that the cams 168 and 170 are made so that they can be operated without interfering with each other.

Advantageously, the lock system includes a witness for viewing the activation of the vested benefits function. Through example, the stroke limiter bar 56 carries, at its end opposite the control square 140, a display plate 172 (Figure 2). The housing 13 of the lock system includes him a window 13 'arranged so that when the bar 56 occupies its free passage position, a specific part of the plate 172 comes next to this window (for example a color mark).

The display indicator can, in general, be used to signal a state of activation of the lock. Thus, the wafer 172 can present three marks coming respectively under the window 13 ′, to respectively signal a normal operating state of the lock (bar rest position 56), free function passage (displacement of the bar 56 in the direction L2) and a coding situation (entering a new code, moving the bar 56 in direction L1).

Claims (16)

Combination lock system comprising a set of keys (T) capable of being actuated according to a combination, a set of coder series (18) each series (S1) of which is associated with a key (T), means for increment (24, 50, 102, 104, 98, 96) for successively placing the different coders (18) of each series in condition of being requested by the actuation of a key, coding means (56, 26, 22) to define a waiting situation for the coders (18) in which the coders selected for the combination occupy a coding position (FIG. 6C) and the coders not selected for the combination occupy an inactive position (FIG. 6A), actuation of the locking means (16) of the lock being possible when the selected coders have been requested by actuation of the keys according to the combination, the system further comprising means (120, 130, 134, 135, 83A, 86A, 82) to replace the c odors (18) in waiting situation after pressing the keys,
characterized in that it comprises means (56, 60, 26) for authorizing two key actuation strokes, a normal stroke (CN) and a coding stroke (CC), the normal stroke being such that a key (T) actuated according to this stroke requests the displacement of an encoder (18) selected from its coding position (Fig. 6C) to an unlocking position (Fig. 6D) or the displacement of an unselected encoder from its position inactive (Fig. 6A) to a locked position (Fig. 6B) preventing unlocking, while the coding stroke is such that a key actuated according to this stroke requests the displacement of an encoder from its inactive position (Fig. 6E) in its coding position (Fig. 6F) and in that it comprises means (70, 72, 74) for, with a view to entering a new coded combination, placing all the coders (18) in the inactive position and authorize actuation of the keys according to their coding stroke. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the displacement of a selected encoder from its coding position to its unlocking position (Fig. 6C and 6D) is the same as the displacement of an unselected encoder from its inactive position in its locked position (Fig. 6A and 6B) and in that the actuation of the keys (T) affects only the incrementing means (24, 50, 102, 104, 98, 96) and the encoders (18) . System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each encoder has first and second spaced unlock marks (34; 36), in that in the unlock position (Fig. 6D) of a selected encoder second unlocking mark (36) of said encoder is arranged in correspondence with the first unlocking marks (34) of the encoders in the inactive position (FIG. 6A). System according to claim 3, characterized in that each encoder has a first and a second spaced actuation surface (44; 46), respectively capable of cooperating with a key (T) for, when the key is pressed, causing a displacement of the encoder between its inactive position and its blocking position (Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B) and between its coding position and its unlocking position (Fig. 6C, Fig. 6D). System according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that each coder has spaced first and second reset surfaces (112, 114) and in that the means for replacing the coders in the waiting situation after actuation of the keys comprise a reset member (82, 116) able to cooperate with the first reset surfaces (112) of the encoders occupying their blocking positions (Fig. 6B) to return said encoders to their positions inactive and to cooperate with the second reset surfaces (114) of the coders occupying their unlocking positions (FIG. 6D) to return said coders to their coding positions. System according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that each button (T) comprises a stop arm (26) and in that it comprises a stroke limiter (56) having stop surfaces (62 ), this limiter being able to be moved (L) between a first position in which the abutment surfaces (62) are located opposite the abutment arms (26) of the keys (T) so as to limit the stroke (CN ) of the latter and a second position in which said abutment surfaces are separated from the abutment arms to authorize the displacement of the keys according to their coding stroke (CC). System according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the encoders (18) are rotary and are capable of being moved in a first direction of rotation (F, G) under the effect of the actuation of the keys (T) and to be moved in an opposite direction of rotation to be replaced in standby after pressing the keys. System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the encoders (18) are integral with a support (54) cooperating with means for translational movement (50, 96, 98, 102, 104, 94 ), in that each key (T) comprises a first actuating member (22) able to cooperate with an encoder (18) to request the displacement of said encoder when the key is actuated and a second actuating member (24) able to cooperate with said means for translational movement to cause the support (54) to move in an incremental step under the effect of actuation of the key. System according to claim 8, characterized in that each key (T) further comprises a blocking member (26) able to cooperate with the support (54) to momentarily prevent movement of the latter as long as the key is pressed . System according to claim 9, characterized in that the means for translational movement of the support comprise an elastic member (100) and a movable stop (96A) capable of being displaced (R) by the action of the second actuating member ( 24) at the touch of a button, the elastic member (100) having the effect of urging an abutment contact between the support (54) and the abutment piece (96A), the blocking member (26) being capable, when 'a key is pressed, to retain the support against the effect of the elastic member and to release this effect when the key is released. System according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises coupling means (154) between control means (140) of the lock such as a control square and the locking means (142, 16) of the latter, said coupling means having a disengaged configuration at rest and in that it comprises means (162A, 162B) for, when the keys (T) have been actuated in the correct combination , biasing the coupling means (154) in a clutch configuration in which the locking means are coupled to the control means of the lock. System according to claim 11, characterized in that it comprises a clutch member (38A, 38B; 162A, 162B) capable of being moved by manipulation of the control means (140) of the lock according to a clutch stroke to request the coupling means in their clutch configuration, the presence of at least one encoder (18) in the coding position or in the locking position limiting the movement of said clutch member to a stroke less than the stroke d 'clutch, insufficient to stress the coupling means in their clutch configuration. System according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it includes control means (56, 166) of a free passage function able to authorize the actuation of the locking means (16, 142) of the lock by the control means of said lock independently of the actuation of the keys (T). System according to claims 11 and 13 or claims 11, 12 and 13, characterized in that the means for controlling the free passage function comprise means (166) for maintaining the coupling means (154) in their configuration d 'clutch. System according to any one of claims 13 and 14, characterized in that it comprises a display indicator (172) of the activation state of the lock, allowing at least to display the activation of the free function passage. System according to any one of Claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the means for replacing the encoders (18) in the waiting situation after actuation of the keys comprise a reset member (120) capable of being actuated by the manipulation of the control means of the lock.

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