EP2842110B9 - Electronic closure system and a method for allowing an access authorisation - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an electronic locking system comprising an electronic key and to a method for securely obtaining access authorization or for securely handing over a key.

In particular for external security services, but also for a company's own staff, there is the problem that carrying a key, in particular a master key, which enables access to all rooms in a building, represents a considerable security risk if this key is misused or criminally acted (theft , robbery or kidnapping, illegal production of a duplicate key) falls into the wrong hands.

From the DE 10 2005 033 898 A1 a method and a device for granting access authorization to an apartment is known. There, triggered by a telephone request from a user via radio, in which the user transmits a code, a signal is sent from a service center to a telemetry module of an intercom system, which gives the authorized user access to the front door and then to the apartment door.

From the DE 20 2011 003 043 U1 an electronic contact point with three contacts, a matching plug or key and a magnetic centering of the plug at the contact point is known.

In the WO 2009/128854 A1 methods and devices for access control are disclosed.

the DE 10 2009 013 650 A1 relates to an arrangement for unlocking an electrically operated lock of a vehicle with its own power supply.

XP055069059 corresponds to a presentation of " Pylocx" published before the priority date on the website "www.LockYourWorld.com It describes access control with an electronic lock and an electronic key, which includes magnetic contacts for transmitting data and energy to the lock and an input device for entering an authorization code.

The object of the invention is to provide an electronic key that can be activated at short notice and alternately for opening a wide variety of locks. The object also includes providing an electronic locking system in which an electronic key according to the invention advantageously interacts with at least one electronic lock. Finally, the object is also to specify a method for secure obtaining of an access authorization or for secure key handover using an electronic key according to the invention and/or a locking system according to the invention.

This object is achieved with regard to the electronic locking system by the features specified in patent claim 1 and with regard to the method by the features of claim 5. Advantageous refinements of the invention are contained in the respective subclaims related thereto.

An electronic key according to the invention is characterized by an input device provided on a housing of the electronic key for inputting an authorization code. The input device can be in the form of a numeric or alphanumeric keyboard, with the authorization code for the desired release being entered manually by the user in this case. According to the invention, the electronic key can be programmed by means of authorization codes that can be entered via the input unit for opening various electronic locks.

Alternatively or additionally, the input device can also be formed by an electronic detection device. This can be formed, for example, by a reading or receiving device that is handled by the user or one of them via radio, Bluetooth, RFID or NFC communication or via optical transmission, for example a barcode, QR code or the like Communication device (such as a smartphone) transmitted authorization code detected.

The authorization code is preferably temporarily stored in a memory of the electronic key and, after it has been brought into contact with an electronic lock, is transmitted to the latter via at least one contact.

Any electronic contact point that is suitable for subsequent actuation or release of an access authorization is referred to as an electronic lock within the meaning of this invention.

The authorization code that can be entered separately using the input device without being physically close to the electronic lock to be opened in the electronic key significantly increases security when authenticating the access authorization, since the corresponding access data can hardly be intercepted by unauthorized third parties and the electronic key is only ready when it is finished entered authorization code is approached to the electronic lock.

A possibly stolen or lost electronic key is worthless for the thief or the finder, since he cannot recognize for which electronic lock the relevant key was prepared with the authorization code.

The input device and the contacts are arranged on different sides of the housing. In this case, the input device is arranged on a front side of the housing and the contacts are arranged on a rear side of the housing. As a result, the input device can also be actuated very easily in a position in which the contacts are in engagement with the respective mating contacts on the electronic lock.

In addition, the electronic key is provided with at least one "electrical voltage source" which is a chargeable accumulator, which not only serves to supply the electronic components of the electronic key with their own power, but also to supply the electronic lock at least during the opening process or an initialization or Activation process, during which the electronic lock can be connected to its own power supply.In addition, the electronic key is provided with an electrical voltage converter, through which a lower output voltage of the accumulator in the electronic key is converted into a higher operating voltage required by the electronic lock.For example, the Electrical voltage converter designed as a DC / DC converter, the an input voltage of, for example, 3.7 V serving as an accumulator rechargeable lithium-ion battery in an output span voltage of 12 V, which is sufficient to control most common motorized locks or electrical actuators.

The advantage is that the device equipped with the electronic lock does not have to be constantly supplied with an operating voltage, since the current required for opening is only supplied by the electronic key when required. For example, tubular safes set up remote from the power grid, in which physical keys are deposited, can be operated without a fixed power supply, but also without batteries that need to be replaced. This reduces the maintenance effort and wear and tear of these systems.

Lockers, valuables compartments or safes can also be operated without a constant power supply, since the power for initializing access is supplied by the electronic key. Optionally, after confirmation, the electronic lock actuates a Authentication of the access authorization first a control unit, by means of which then an external operating voltage source for operating a motor lock or other actuator is activated.

The electronic key is provided with at least one magnet - in particular a ring magnet - for centering in cooperation with a corresponding counter magnet on the electronic lock. Due to the attractive magnetic forces, the electronic key automatically moves into the contact position when approaching the electronic lock.

To support reliable contact formation, the contacts on the electronic key are preferably resiliently mounted in its housing.

In addition to the electronic key, the electronic locking system includes at least one electronic lock which is provided with at least two concentrically arranged mating contacts and a magnetic centering.

According to an advantageous application of an electronic locking system, the electronic lock is arranged on a locking cover of a tubular safe, the electronic key in its contact position with the electronic lock also preferably serving as a handle for actuating the locking cover.

According to an alternative application of an electronic locking system, the electronic lock is connected upstream of a motorized lock or an actuator of a device to be secured and activates its power supply. As already mentioned, this allows lockers, valuables compartments or safes to be operated without a constant power supply, since the power for initializing access is supplied by the electronic key. Optionally, the electronic lock reactivates Confirmation of an authentication of the access authorization first a control unit, by means of which then an external operating voltage source for operating a motor lock or other actuator is activated.

The mating contact surfaces on the electronic lock are preferably designed as concentric circles which come into contact with the contacts of the electronic key in any relative angular position of the electronic key. Since the electronic key does not need to be rotated in relation to the electronic lock, docking the electronic key on the electronic lock is extremely easy for the user to do, even in poor visibility conditions.

• Übersendung wenigstens einer für das elektronische Schloss (16) und/oder den Benutzer (22) charakteristischen Information (20; 22; 34) an eine entfernt vom elektronischen Schloss (16) angeordnete zentrale Informationsverarbeitungsstelle (30) mittels einer Kommunikationseinrichtung (24),
• Überprüfung der übersendeten Information (20; 22; 34) durch die zentrale Informationsverarbeitungsstelle (30),
• Übersendung eines Berechtigungscodes (36) an den Benutzer (22) mittels der Kommunikationseinrichtung (24) im Falle einer positiven Überprüfung der Information (20; 22; 34),
• Eingabe des Berechtigungscodes (36) durch den Benutzer (22) mittels der Eingabeeinrichtung (33) in den mitgeführten elektronischen Schlüssel (32),
• Entriegelung des elektronischen Schlosses (16) durch Zusammenwirken mit dem elektronischen Schlüssel (32).

A method according to the invention for securely obtaining an access authorization or for a secure key handover for at least one user by means of a locking system according to the invention is characterized by the following method steps:

• Transmission of at least one piece of information (20; 22; 34) characteristic of the electronic lock (16) and/or the user (22) to a central information processing point (30) located remotely from the electronic lock (16) by means of a communication device (24),
• Checking of the transmitted information (20; 22; 34) by the central information processing center (30),
• Transmission of an authorization code (36) to the user (22) by means of the communication device (24) in the event of a positive verification of the information (20; 22; 34),
• Entry of the authorization code (36) by the user (22) by means of the input device (33) in the electronic key (32) carried along,
• Unlocking the electronic lock (16) by interacting with the electronic key (32).

By checking information that is characteristic of the electronic lock, for example a code that is arranged in the area of the lock and can be read out mechanically by means of a communication device or manually by the user and information that is characteristic of the user, for example a password or a letter/ A high degree of security is provided for a combination of numbers that is sent by means of a communication device to a central information processing point that is remote from the lock and is checked there. The access authorization is not checked and granted on site in the area of the electronic lock to be opened, but at a distance from it in the information processing office.

After the authorization code has been issued and sent, it is transmitted to an electronic key carried by the user, which is then used to unlock the electronic lock. The transmission of the authorization code to the electronic key represents a further advantageous security barrier. As an alternative to manually entering the transmitted authorization code into the electronic key using an input device, the authorization code can also be transmitted automatically, for example by transmission using Bluetooth, an infrared transmitter or other short-range transmission methods from the communication device to the electronic key.

The electronic lock itself can already enable access authorization to a protected area or a protected facility. However, in an alternative embodiment, the protected area is provided by a relatively small, external to a Building or in the vicinity of the building arranged burglar-proof container, such as a tubular safe formed. In this tubular safe, after unlocking with the electronic key, the electronic lock gives access to a physical key, which can then be used to enter the building. The physical key is particularly advantageously connected to the inside of a cover of the tubular safe containing the electronic lock, so that it is returned to the tubular safe after leaving the building and the tubular safe has been closed again by means of the cover.

According to a further advantageous application, after the authentication check has been carried out, the electronic lock receives a voltage transmitted from an electrical voltage source of the electronic key which has been changed by a voltage converter and forwards this voltage to the latter in order to activate an electrical motor lock or an electrical actuator, optionally with the interposition of a control unit.

In a particularly simple form, the communication device is formed by a mobile phone, with which the user - for example a security guard - calls the information processing center - for example the service center of the security service - and transmits his name, information specific to the lock and a password, whereupon the information processing center checks this information, if necessary also compares it with an action plan stored there and, if all information is positively evaluated, transmits an authorization code to the user or the communication device. The authorization code can be communicated to the user by telephone or via a short message (SMS) generated by a computer in the information processing center.

The user passes this authorization code on to the electronic key he is carrying with him via the input device and can then actuate the electronic lock by bringing it into contact with the electronic key.

Based on this particularly simple form, one or more of these steps can be automated. For example, the code of the electronic lock can be read out automatically using software ("app") stored in the communication device and corresponding sensors—for example a camera of a smartphone serving as the communication device. This can be done, for example, using a barcode reading program or an Aztec code reading program stored in the smartphone, for which purpose a corresponding graphic code is arranged in the area of the electronic lock in these cases. However, other electronic signal transmitters arranged in the area of the electronic lock and correspondingly aligned sensors in the communication device are also possible, for example an invisible, magnetically coded signal.

The authorization code can also be transmitted to the user's smartphone as a barcode, QR code or in a similar form. If the transmitted code is transmitted in machine-readable form, it is then transmitted from the communication device (the smartphone) to an electronic input device on the electronic key.

The information characteristic of the user can also be queried automatically by the software stored in the communication device, for example after reading in the information specific to the electronic lock, and can be queried by the user, for example as a letter/number combination entered and transmitted to the information processing office.

As a further advantageous method step, it is provided that before sending an authorization code to the user, in addition to the information characteristic of the electronic lock and/or of the user, the information processing center also provides information linked to both pieces of information by an operational plan for the location and/or the operational time checks. This creates additional security, since it is ruled out that an access code is also transmitted completely outside of a normal intended route for security personnel.

A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the electronic lock and/or the device protected by it sends information to the central information processing point when the electronic lock is released and when it is closed.

An advantageous development of the system provides that the check in the central information processing point also includes the evaluation of at least one time parameter that contains the information characteristic of the lock and/or the user based on a stored schedule - in particular the route plan of a security guard - for the planned opening of the lock is verified.

In a special embodiment it can be provided that the communication device and the electronic key form a unit. This unit combines all the functions of a transmitter and receiver for acquiring and sending the information characteristic of the lock and/or the user to a central information processing point and for receiving an authorization code with the function of the electronic key. means the authorization code received is used to program the electronic key, for example a magnetic transponder, so that it can be used to open the electronic lock.

The present invention can be used, for example, in connection with a tubular safe, as is the case, for example, in WO 2012/045474 A1 is revealed. The transponder serves as an electronic key after it has been placed on the electronic lock, directly as a handle for removing the locking cover.

Fig. 1

einen Rohrtresor mit einem in einen Verschlussdeckel integrierten elektronischen Schloss und einem für das elektronische Schloss charakteristischen Code,

Fig. 2

ein Ablaufdiagramm, das die Übermittlung der Codes zwischen einem Benutzer und einer zentralen Informationsverarbeitungsstelle verdeutlicht,

Fig. 3

die Hand eines Benutzers bei der Eingabe des Berechtigungscodes in einen elektronischen Schlüssel,

Fig. 4

die Verwendung des elektronischen Schlüssels als Griff beim Öffnen des elektronischen Schlosses,

Fig. 5

die Anordnung eines physikalischen Schlüssels an der Innenseite des Verschlussdeckels des Rohrtresors,

Fig. 6

ein Ablaufdiagramm, das die Kommunikation zwischen dem Benutzer, einem Client-Rechner, einem Server, einem Administrator und dem elektronischen Schloss verdeutlicht,

Fig. 7

ein Diagramm, das die Funktionen auf Seiten des Benutzers, des Clientrechners, des Servers und des Administrators verdeutlicht

Fig. 8

einen schematischen Schaltplan für eine Anwendung eines elektronischen Schlosses im Zusammenwirken mit einem Steuergerät und einem Motorschloss,

Fig. 9

eine schematische Vorderansicht eines elektronischen Schlüssels, und

Fig. 10

eine schematische Ansicht der Rückseite eines elektronischen Schlüssels.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the drawing. It shows:

1

a tubular safe with an electronic lock integrated into a locking cover and a code characteristic of the electronic lock,

2

a flow chart showing the transmission of codes between a user and a central information processing point,

3

a user's hand entering the authorization code into an electronic key,

4

using the electronic key as a handle when opening the electronic lock,

figure 5

the arrangement of a physical key on the inside of the cover of the tubular safe,

6

a flow chart that illustrates the communication between the user, a client computer, a server, an administrator and the electronic lock,

7

a diagram showing the roles on the user, client machine, server, and administrator sides

8

a schematic circuit diagram for an application of an electronic lock in conjunction with a control unit and a motor lock,

9

a schematic front view of an electronic key, and

10

a schematic view of the back of an electronic key.

In the 1 The locking device 10 shown is formed by a tubular safe 12 which is arranged in a theft-proof and break-in-proof manner in a wall of a building or on a stable support near the building. The tubular safe 12 is closed by means of a closure cover 14 on its front side. Integrated in the closure cover 14 is an electronic lock 16, as detailed in FIG WO 2012/045474 A1 is shown and described, the disclosure of which is hereby made the subject of the present application.

On the inside of the closure cap 14 - as in figure 5 shown - a physical key 18 arranged, by means of which at least one access to the building, not shown, and optionally further doors in this building can be opened.

A code 20 characteristic of the electronic lock 16 is arranged on the locking device 10 locked by means of the electronic lock 16 . In the exemplary embodiment shown, this is in the form of a barcode 20, but it can also be formed by an Aztek code or an invisible magnetic code. In the simplest case, the code 20 can be read out manually by a user 20 . According to an advantageous embodiment, a communication device 24 carried by the user 22 has a sensor or a reading device for automatically detecting the code 20. The communication device 24 can, for example, be a smartphone, the camera of which is used in conjunction with a stored application program (“app”) to read in a barcode or alternatively an Aztek code, which is used in the exemplary embodiment as a code 20 that is characteristic of the electronic lock 16 . As already mentioned, invisible codes 20 transmitted magnetically or via a radio signal can also be emitted by the electronic lock 16 or a device arranged in its vicinity and received or read out by the communication device 24 .

The electronic lock 16 can be unlocked by means of an electronic key 32 if an authorization code 36 suitable for the electronic lock 16 is entered into this electronic key 32 . In figure 3 shows how the authorization code 36 is entered by the user 22 via a keyboard arranged on the electronic key 32 . The electronic key 32 can then, as in figure 4 shown, placed on the electronic lock 16 and used directly as a handle for opening the closure cover 14.

However, this process is preceded by the invention figures 2 , 6 and 7 illustrated procedure, in which the user 22 for the electronic lock 16 characteristic information (the code 20) and for his person characteristic information in the form of a code 26 - for example in the form of a personal password or a letter / number combination - by means of the communication device 24 to a central information processing center 30 - for example, the headquarters of a security service. The information 20 characteristic of the electronic lock 16 and the information 26 characteristic of the person of the user 22 together form an inquiry data record 34 which, in the simplest case, is transmitted manually to the central information processing point 30 via a telephone call. According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the transmission of the Request data record 34 automated, for example as a character string in a short message sent by the communication device 24 (SMS).

In the information processing center 30, the query data record 34 with the codes 20 and 26 contained therein is checked, preferably with additional comparison with a time parameter 28 (for example the duty roster or route plan of the user 22). If this check leads to a positive result, the information processing point 30 sends an authorization code 36 to the communication device 24. In the simplest case, this can again be done by a telephone call. According to an advantageous development, the transmission of the authorization code 36 to the communication device 24 takes place automatically, for example in the form of a character string embedded in a short message (SMS).

The authorization code 36 is from the user 22, as already in connection with figure 3 mentioned, transmitted manually to the electronic key 32 via an input device, in particular a keyboard.

The central information processing point 30 advantageously has at least one client computer 310 and at least one server 320 . The client computer 310 is used to receive the query data record 34 and to transmit this data record to the server 320. The data traffic between the client computer 310 and the server 320 is denoted by 315 in the figures.

In addition, time parameters 28 are stored in the server 320, which, for example, map a route plan for the user 22 with a characteristic time for opening the relevant electronic lock 16, preferably with a corresponding time buffer (earliest opening time, latest opening time, latest closing time). All data in the server 320 are managed by an administrator 330 . The data traffic between the server 320 and the administrator 330 is denoted by 325 in the figures.

A signal is preferably also transmitted to the server 320 which is automatically sent when the electronic lock 16 is opened and closed by a transmitter installed on the electronic lock 16 . The method according to the invention and the system according to the invention can, contrary to what is shown in the figures 2 , 6 and 7 in an advanced embodiment, also function fully automatically without human interaction. The receipt of a request data record 34 by the client computer 310, the transmission of the request data record 34 to the server 320, the verification of the request data record 34 contained characteristic information (codes 20 and 26), the comparison with the at least one time parameter 28, the generation of an authorization code 36 and the transmission of the authorization code 36 to the communication device 24, if necessary again with the interposition of a client computer 310, can preferably be carried out using software controlled fully automatically.

It has already been described in connection with the possible embodiments of the communication device 24 and the electronic key 32 that the method and system according to the invention for the secure release of an access authorization or for the secure handover of a key can also take place fully automatically on the part of the user 22 .

According to the invention, the electronic key 32 is provided with an input device 33, by means of which the user 22 can enter the authorization code 36 transmitted from the central information processing point 30 to the communication device 24 into the electronic key. Such an electronic key 32 provided with an input device 33 can generally also be used instead of the stationary input devices that are already widespread today, in which the input of a code by an authorized user can be observed relatively easily by an unauthorized observer and thus represents a considerable security risk . In contrast, a code can be entered into a mobile electronic key 32, which is only then used to open an electronic lock, completely unobserved at a distance from the electronic lock 16.

As in the exemplary embodiment shown, an electronic key 32 that is placed on the electronic lock 16 and temporarily connected to the electronic lock 16 by magnetic force can be used as the electronic key 32 Key 32 can be used. The magnetic forces are provided by a magnet 329 in the central area of the electronic key 32 and by a counter magnet 161 in the central area of the electronic lock 16, which are preferably designed as permanent ring magnets and for automatic centering of the electronic key 32 with the electronic lock 16 and an alignment of the contacts 324, 325 and 326 to the concentrically arranged mating contact surfaces 164, 165, 166 on the electronic lock 16, regardless of the relative angle to one another.

However, it is also possible to use electronic keys 32, for example in the form of a transponder, which interact with the electronic lock 16 without contact over a certain distance.

The electronic key 32 has a housing 321, on the front side according to FIG 3 and 9 the input device 33 is arranged. In the exemplary embodiment shown, this is a numeric keyboard with 10 number keys 331, a delete key 332 ("C") and an enter key 333 ("OK"). On the back of the housing 321 there are three spring-loaded contacts 324, 325 and 326, of which the centrally arranged contact 325, for example, carries the positive voltage, the outermost contact 324 represents the ground connection and the contact 326 for serial data transmission serves.

In the rear view of the electronic key 32 according to 10 the cover of a battery compartment 327 is also indicated, behind which a battery 332 is arranged. This is designed, for example, as a lithium-ion battery with an output voltage of 3.7 V.

To increase the output voltage to 12 V, for example, a voltage converter in the form of a DC/DC converter 323 is arranged in the electronic key 32 .

The electronic key 32 is also provided with at least one interface 328 , which in the present case is formed by a micro USB interface, for example, and is used to program the electronic key 32 and optionally also to charge the battery 322 .

The electronic key 32 acts either with the in the Figures 1 to 5 Electronic lock 16 shown, for example, on a tubular safe 12 or on a protected room or another facility requiring access authorization. The concept of "facility" is to be seen very broadly here. Machines, vehicles or the like, but also lockers, safe deposit boxes, safes or doors to security areas can be protected by an electronic lock 16 .

The example according to 8 shows that the protected device can be released not only directly but also indirectly by the electronic lock 16 . In this case, the electronic lock 16 acts as a 220 V protection module for a protected device, not shown, which is ultimately released only by actuating a motorized lock 40 .

In this case, a control device 50 is also arranged between the electronic lock 16 and the motorized lock 40 , which can be supplied by means of its own power supply, which, however, is only activated by the actuation of the electronic lock 16 . After transmission of a valid authorization code 36 from in 8 Electronic key 32 (not shown) via counter-contact 166 responsible for data transmission activates the external voltage supply on control unit 50 and motor lock 50 is actuated. For the phase of checking the authorization code 36, however, the required Operating voltage on the control unit 50 provided by the electronic key 32 via the electronic lock 16. A more detailed description of the controller 50 follows at the end of the description.

The advantage of indirect actuation is that when the protected device is not in use, no operating voltage has to be applied to it. This can be initialized at any time by the electronic key 32 via the electronic lock 16 as required.

Instead of the three contacts 324, 325 and 326 of the electronic key 32 shown with the three counter-contacts 164, 165 and 166 of the electronic lock, two of these contacts are sufficient in a modification if the data is transmitted simultaneously via the ground contact, for example.

With an input voltage of 3.7 V, a lithium-ion accumulator 322 can briefly provide a power of 7 watts at an output voltage of 12 V by means of a highly efficient DC/DC converter. The capacity of the accumulator 322 is then sufficient for approx. 700 opening processes without recharging. An undervoltage protection preferably signals a drop in the battery voltage, for example to 2.7 V on the electronic key 32 by means of a diode and/or a buzzer, so that the battery 322 must be recharged before it can be used again.

It is also advantageous to provide a capacitor (not shown) in control unit 50 for buffering the energy transmitted by electronic key 32 . The capacitor is charged during or immediately after the access authorization check and then carries out the subsequent opening or release process solely with its stored charge capacity. The capacitor ensures that electronic lock 16 does not get stuck in an intermediate position during an opening process if the remaining capacity of the accumulator 322 is insufficient.

By using parts from the field of mobile communications, the electronic key, the electronic locking system and the method according to the invention can be implemented inexpensively.

Description of the control unit 50: functional assemblies

• Microcontroller mit Speicher und Resetcontroller
• Identifikationsbaustein mit Timer und Signalisierung
• Schaltstufe und Festspannungsausgängen
• Stromversorgung
• DC/DC Wandler (Wird dieses Modul eingesetzt, entfällt die externe Stromversorgung!)

The control electronics can be divided into 5 sub-function assemblies:

• Microcontroller with memory and reset controller
• Identification module with timer and signalling
• switching stage and fixed voltage outputs
• power supply
• DC/DC converter (If this module is used, there is no need for an external power supply!)

Microcontroller with memory and reset controller:

A PIC microcontroller from Microchip is used for the central control and evaluation of the entire exchange of information between the Pylocx system key (electronic key 32) and the control device 50, including the activation of the motorized lock 40. Energy requirements, high integration density,

Profitability but also the extensive experience with the PC assembler played a decisive role. In order to store data in a non-volatile manner, the microcontroller communicates with a 256Kb EEPROM via an I ² C bus.

In order to switch the microcontroller on and off in a defined manner when switching on the power supply or in the event of short-term voltage dips, a reset controller is used. This reset controller switches the microcontroller to reset at an operating voltage <2.4V and releases the reset again at an operating voltage >2.7V.

Identification module with timer and signalling:

Each control module (control unit 50) must have a clear, unique and unchangeable identification. The selected module from the DS family from Dallas has such a ROM code and is therefore ideal. In addition, a real-time clock is integrated in this module, which is necessary for logging events. Of course, the real-time clock requires a continuous power supply, which is why a lithium button cell is used here. The lithium cell ensures the power supply of the real-time clock for at least 10 years. The identification module communicates with the microcontroller via a MicroLAN protocol.

In order to inform the operator about the status of the control device 50, an acoustic signal generator (piezo beeper) is integrated, which can also be heard well through the housing. If remote signaling is required, an acoustic and/or optical signal source can be connected via the corresponding output. This external signaling runs synchronously with the internal one.

Switching stage and fixed voltage outputs:

The control module (control unit 50) should be very universally applicable with regard to the motorized locks 40 and electric bolts to be connected. For this reason, a relay was selected as a potential-free switch to control the motorized locks 40 and the electric bolts. If a DC voltage is required to control switching elements, a fixed voltage can be switched via the corresponding output via the potential-free changeover switch. The fixed voltage output can be configured via a jumper (inside the control unit). There are 3 voltages to choose from: 6V, 9V or 12V max. 500mA. The fixed voltages are stabilized and suppressed (residual ripple < 20mV).

Power supply:

The control module (control unit 50) is supplied via mains voltage. An encapsulated switching power supply is used as the power supply. To protect against overload, there is a fine-wire fuse (200mA slow-blow) in the primary circuit of the power pack. The fine-wire fuse is located inside the control unit 50. Input voltages from 110 to 250 VAC 50/60 Hz can be connected using appropriate switching technology in the switching power supply. The switching power supply supplies 12VDC output voltage, the 6 VDC and 9 VDC are generated from the 12 VDC via a fixed voltage regulator (on a cooling plate).

In the event of a power failure, the control unit 50 can be supplied with voltage from the outside (emergency power supply). To do this, a Pylocx emergency power supply is connected to the Pylocx contact point (electronic lock 16). The voltage of the internal battery (9V) of the Pylocx emergency power supply is made available directly to the control module (control unit 50) via the center contact 165 of the Pylocx contact point (electronic lock 16). The corresponding Pylocx transponder is then connected to the emergency power supply unit. Further operation is the same as in normal operation. It should be noted that the 9V emergency operation can only supply 12V locks to a limited extent. The current through battery operation is also limited to 300mA.

DC/DC converter:

The DC/DC converter is controlled via the emergency power input (innermost contact of the contact point) of the control unit. The voltage (3.7 VDC) fed in here from the battery 322 from the electronic key 32 is stepped up to 12 VDC by the DC/DC converter. This 12 VDC is fed to the power supply section of the control unit. Instead of 12 VDC, which the switching power supply generates from the 230 VAC, are now directly available for the internal electronics of the control unit and for controlling an external motorized lock. This means that no external power supply is required for operation.

Other hardware components on the control electronics:

A 5-pin contact strip is available to load the firmware of the microcontroller during the production process. A software update of the firmware can also be carried out via this contact strip. The contact strip is located directly on the printed circuit board of control unit 50 and is not accessible to the user. Furthermore, EMC protection components were provided at the interfaces to the outside. The MicroLAN, the control inputs and the universal input are protected by suppressor diodes, the external signal output is protected by a VDR overvoltage. In order to increase the protective function, there are additional components to protect the MicroLAN line and the operating voltage line on the printed circuit board. The MicroLAN line is protected by another varistor. The emergency power line is also protected with a varistor. In addition, a zener diode with PPTC is inserted to protect DC voltage. With these measures, DC voltages (without current limitation) up to 30V and static high voltages up to 6kV are safely blocked. In order to block 220 V AC voltage that can be fed in via the contact point, two gas discharge tubes can be connected in a separate housing between the control unit 50 and the contact point (electronic lock 16). The obligatory blocking capacitors have been taken into account.

Reference List

10

locking device

12

tubular safe

14

cap

16

electronic lock

161

counter magnet

164

mating contact surface

165

mating contact surface

166

mating contact surface

18

key

20

code (for 16)

22

user

24

Communication facility (of 22)

26

Code (of 22)

28

time parameter

30

Information Processing Office

310

client machine

315

Traffic (between 310 and 320)

320

server

325

Data traffic (between 320 and 330)

330

Administrator

32

electronic key

321

housing

3211

attachment eyelet

322

accumulator

323

Voltage converter (DC/DC)

324

Contact

325

Contact

326

Contact

327

battery compartment

328

Interface (e.g. micro USB)

329

magnet

33

input device (keyboard)

331

Keys (alphanumeric)

332

Delete button (Clear)

333

Enter key (OK)

34

request record

36

authorization code

38

Opening/closing signal (of 16)

40

motor lock

50

control unit

Claims (14)

1. An electronic closure system with an electronic key (32), at least one electronic lock (16), a central data processing centre arranged remotely from the electronic lock (16) and a communication device (24) for transmitting to the central data processing centre (30) at least one item of information (20; 22; 34) characteristic of the electronic lock (16) and/or the user (22), wherein the electronic key (32) comprises at least two contacts (324, 325, 326) for the transmittal of data and energy to the electronic lock (16) and at least one input device (33) provided at a housing (321) of the electronic key (32) and for entering an authorisation code (36), wherein the electronic key (32) is programmable, by means of authorisation codes which can be entered by the input device (33), for the opening of different electronic locks, wherein the input device (33) and the contacts (324, 325, 326) are arranged on different sides of the housing (321), wherein the input device (33) is arranged at a front side of the housing (321) and the contacts (324, 325, 326) are arranged on an opposite rear side of the housing (321) and wherein the electronic key is provided with at least one rechargeable battery as a source (322) of electrical voltage and with an electric voltage converter, by means of which a lower output voltage of the battery in the electronic key is converted into a higher operating voltage required by the electronic lock, and wherein the electronic key (32) is provided with at least one magnet (329) for the purposes of centring in cooperation with a corresponding counter-magnet (161) at the electronic lock (16), wherein further the at least one electronic lock (16) is provided with at least two concentrically-arranged mating contacts (164, 165, 166) and a magnetic centring arrangement, wherein the electronic lock is not constantly supplied with an operating voltage, wherein the central data processing centre (30) is configured to check the transmitted information (20; 22; 34) and for a transmittal of an authorisation code (36) to the user (22) by means of the communication device (24) in the case of a positive check of the information (20; 22; 34), and wherein, after an input of the authorisation code (36) by the user (22) by means of the input device (33) in the accompanying electronic key (32) by bringing into contact the electronic key (32) and the electronic lock (16), a transmittal of data and energy from the electronic key (32) to the electronic lock (16) can effect an unlocking of the electronic lock (16).
2. An electronic closure system in accordance with Claim 1 characterised in that the mating contacts (164, 165, 166) are in the form of concentric circles which come into contact with the contacts (324, 325, 326) of the electronic key (32) at any relative angular position of the electronic key (32).
3. An electronic closure system in accordance with Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the electronic lock (16) is arranged on a closure cap (14) of a tubular key safe (12), wherein the electronic key (32) serves as a handle for actuating the closure cap (14) when the key is in contact with the electronic lock (16).
4. An electronic closure system in accordance with Claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the electronic lock (16) is connected upstream of a motor lock (40) of a device that is to be secured and activates the power supply thereto and in that in particular a control device (50) is arranged between the electronic lock (16) and the motor lock (40), and the power supply thereto is activated by the electronic key (32) when the key is brought into contact with the electronic lock (16) and the authorisation code (36) entered by means of the input device (33) has been verified.
5. A method for secure acquisition of an access authorisation or for secure delivery of a key by means of an electronic closure system according to any of Claims 1 to 4, wherein the method comprises the following method steps:

   • transmittal of at least one item of information (20; 22; 34) characteristic of the electronic lock (16) and/or the user (22) to a central data processing centre (30) that is remote from the electronic lock by means of a communication device (24),

   • checking of the sent information (20; 22; 34) by the central data processing centre (30),

   • transmittal of an authorisation code (36) to the user (22) by means of the communication device (24) in the case of a positive check of the information (20; 22; 34),

   • entry, by the user (22) by means of the input device (33), of the authorisation code (36) into the accompanying electronic key (32),

   • unlocking of the electronic lock (16) by cooperation with the electronic key (32).
6. A method in accordance with Claim 5, characterised in that the item of information (20) characteristic of the lock (16) is formed of a number combination or by a bar code.
7. A method in accordance with Claim 5 or 6, characterised in that the item of information (26) characteristic of the user (22) is formed by a letter/number combination and/or a password.
8. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 7, characterised in that, before the transmittal of an authorisation code (36) to the user (22), the data processing centre (30) examines, in addition to the information (20; 26) characteristic of the lock (16) and/or the user (22), a time parameter (28) for the place of use and/or the time of use that is linked to both items of information.
9. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 8, characterised in that the electronic lock (16) is arranged on a closure cap (14) of a tubular key safe (16) from which, after unlocking of the electronic lock (16), there is removable a physical key (18) for entering at least one further area.
10. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 8, characterised in that the electronic lock (16) passes on a current for activating a motor lock (40) that it received from an electrical voltage source (322) of the electronic key (32) to said motor lock.
11. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 8, characterised in that the electronic lock (16) passes on a current for activating a control device (50) that it received from an electrical voltage source (322) of the electronic key (32) to said control device.
12. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 11, characterised in that the electronic lock (16) and/or the device (14; 40; 50) released thereby sends an item of information (38) to the central data processing centre (30) upon the activation and/or the deactivation thereof.
13. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 12, characterised in that a mobile telephone is used as a communication device (24) for the transmittal of the at least one item of information (20; 22; 34) characteristic of the electronic lock (16) and/or the user (22) and for the reception of the authorisation code (36).
14. A method in accordance with any of Claims 5 to 13, characterised in that the communication device (24) contains an application program by means of which the at least one item of information (20; 22; 34) characteristic of the electronic lock (16) and/or the user (22) is detectable and/or by means of which the authorisation code (36) is receivable.

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