EP4343086A1 - Key with a button for an electromechanical locking device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a key (1) for an electromechanical locking device (101), with a key blade (2), wherein the key blade (2) comprises a housing (10) and one, in particular a single, button (73), and wherein the housing (10) comprises an actuating section (16) for actuating the button (73) and a supporting section (18) for supporting the actuating section (16), wherein the actuating section (16) and the supporting section (18) are formed as one piece with one another.

Description

The invention relates to a key with a button for an electromechanical locking device.

EP 1 899 924 B1 shows a previously known key for an electromechanical locking device. The previously known key comprises a key ring on which electronics are arranged between two housing shells. A key shaft extends from the key blade for insertion into a locking device. There is an electrical contact on the key shaft.

Electronic keys with buttons are also known.

It is the object of the present invention to provide a key for an electromechanical locking device which ensures a simple structure. This preferably results in comfortable and safe operation for the user.

The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to preferred embodiments of the invention.

The invention shows a key for an electromechanical locking device.

The electromechanical locking device is preferably a locking cylinder, in particular a double or half cylinder, a furniture cylinder or a padlock or a similar device. In particular, the locking device comprises a corresponding electronic device arranged in the locking device, which rotates a cylinder core depending on an electrical signal transmitted by the key and a driver in the locking device selectively locks and releases. Alternatively, the signal transmitted by the key can enable a mechanical coupling between the cylinder core and the driver. The electronic device preferably comprises a circuit board.

The key according to the invention has a key ring.

The key chain preferably comprises an electrical energy storage and/or electronics. The energy storage is designed in particular to power the electronics in the key. Additionally or alternatively, the energy storage can be used to power the locking device. The electronics preferably includes a lighting device, which will be described in detail.

It is preferably provided that the electronics comprise a wireless communication module for wirelessly sending and/or receiving signals. This wireless communication module allows the key to communicate with a device. In particular, this is a wireless communication module that is designed for short-range communication, for example via Bluetooth or ultra-wideband.

The device is in particular a mobile device, for example a smartphone, tablet or laptop. In addition, the device can also be a stationary device, such as a terminal that is used for door and/or building control.

The electronics are preferably designed to communicate with the locking device wirelessly or by wire. As will be described in detail, the key preferably has at least one transmission element that communicatively connects the electronics on the key side with the electronics device on the locking device side.

The transmission element can be used to send electronic data that makes it possible to determine a user's authorization to unlock. For example, the transmission element can send an authorization code and/or an authorization time window that is sent by the electronic device is checked. Alternatively, the key can send an opening command to the locking device via the transmission element.

The communication can e.g. B. run contact-based.

The key designed in this way allows the device to communicate with the locking device via the key. The communication can take place directly, with the key immediately forwarding the information from the sender, i.e. the device or the locking device, to the receiver, i.e. the locking device or the device. Furthermore, indirect, time-delayed communication is possible, in which the key stores the information and passes it on with a time delay.

The electronics preferably includes a circuit card.

According to the invention, the key chain comprises a housing.

The housing preferably forms a receiving space. The housing preferably accommodates the electronics and/or the energy storage in the receiving space. In particular, the housing tightly encloses the electronics and/or the energy storage device.

The housing preferably comprises a first housing part and a second housing part. The receiving space for the electronics and/or the energy storage is formed in particular between the first and second housing parts.

According to the invention it is provided that the key has a button on or in the key row. The key chain preferably only comprises a single button.

The button is preferably located inside the housing described. The button can be arranged on the circuit board. In particular, only a single button is provided, so that the user does not have the choice between several buttons, but can only press this one button.

According to the invention, the housing has an actuation section for actuating the button. This operating section can be pressed by the user. This allows the button to be pressed. The actuation section is therefore used to actuate the button.

Preferably, the actuating section bulges inwards during actuation, so that the curvature exerts pressure on the button. This activates the button. For this purpose, the actuation section can include a button extension. The button extension can protrude from the remaining actuation section in the direction of the button.

According to the invention, in addition to the actuation section, the housing includes a support section. In particular, any area of the housing that is not an actuation section - that is, cannot be flexibly pressed against the button by the user - is the "support section" of the housing. Pressing the support section by the user does not result in the button being actuated.

The support section thus serves to support the actuation section. When the button is actuated, the actuation section and the support section preferably move against one another.

According to the invention it is provided that the actuation section and the support section are formed in one piece with one another. This results in a simple structure of the key.

This is preferably a monolithic design of the actuating section and support section, preferably as an injection-molded part, particularly preferably as a one-component injection-molded part. Particularly preferably, the first housing part comprises the actuation section, which is surrounded by the support section. For this purpose, the first housing part is designed in particular to be monolithic.

To further define the invention, the following imaginary axes and sides are preferably defined:
The key has a longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the key has a width axis and a thickness axis. The longitudinal axis, the width axis and the thickness axis are each perpendicular to one another.

Two broad sides are preferably defined on the key. The two broad sides are preferably opposite each other. The two broad sides are each cut from the thickness axis. An end surface is particularly preferably located on at least one of the two broad sides. The end surface is in particular flat. Particularly preferably there is an end surface on both broad sides. One, preferably both, end surface(s) is preferably perpendicular to the thickness axis.

Furthermore, the key ring preferably has two opposing narrow sides. The narrow sides are preferably perpendicular to the broad sides. Preferably, each narrow side is cut by the width axis. The narrow sides are preferably each smaller than the broad sides.

In particular, when operating the button, the user presses the actuating section on one broad side and supports the key bar with an opposite finger or hand on the opposite broad side.

The housing preferably forms an end surface, in particular a flat end surface, of the key edge on at least one broad side. The actuation section preferably lies in this end surface. A part of the end surface can also be formed by the support section.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the button can be actuated by pressing the first and second housing parts against each other. In particular, the two opposite broad sides of the key blade are pressed against each other.

The end surface is preferably surrounded, in particular completely surrounded, by an edge section of the first housing part. The edge section serves in particular to at least indirectly fasten the first and second housing parts to one another.

It is preferably provided that the actuation section comprises at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, particularly preferably at least 30%, of the extent of the broad side. This is the broad side on which the actuation section is arranged, i.e. the broad side that can be pressed in to press the button.

Additionally or alternatively, it is preferably provided that the actuation section comprises at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, particularly preferably at least 50%, of the extent of the end surface. This is the end surface on which the actuation section is arranged, i.e. the end surface that can be pressed in to press the button.

“Extension” is to be understood in particular as meaning the projected area perpendicular to the thickness axis, with either the area of the entire key line or the area of the end area being decisive here.

The large extension of the actuating section allows the user to operate the button safely and conveniently.

It is preferably provided that the actuation section merges into the support section within the end surface described.

Particularly preferably, the actuation section and the support section, in particular in the area of the end surface, differ at least partially in an inward wall thickness of the housing. The transition from one wall thickness to another wall thickness can occur abruptly at a step or the wall thickness can change continuously or in several steps.

The transition from one wall thickness to the other wall thickness does not necessarily have to be at the transition from the actuation section to the support section. It is important that the changing wall thickness enables a correspondingly flexible design of the housing, so that the actuating section can be easily pressed inwards towards the button. The actuation area can therefore have a changing wall thickness.

The support section can have a greater wall thickness. As a result, the support section does not bulge or does not bulge to the same extent as the actuation section.

The change in wall thickness is in particular "internal", so that a flat end surface results on the external surface of the key strip and the difference in wall thickness is not visible.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the, in particular one-piece, support section forms the housing on the narrow side of the key rail. If you look at the key along the longitudinal axis or along the width axis (i.e. when looking at the front, back or narrow side), at least part of the support section of the housing can be seen.

The key chain preferably comprises a frame. Preferably the housing is surrounded by the frame. In particular, the housing is accommodated in the frame and thus fastened in the frame. Particularly preferably, the frame completely encloses the housing - with the exception of any key ring through opening that can be formed between the housing and the frame.

The first and/or the second housing part can be surrounded by the frame.

The energy storage and/or the electronics are/are preferably located in the frame. The energy storage and/or the electronics is/are thus accommodated in the frame.

The frame is made in particular of metal or plastic, in particular fiber-reinforced plastic.

The frame preferably extends around the thickness axis or an axis parallel to the thickness axis. The frame is preferably closed annular; where ring-shaped does not restrict the geometric shape of the frame. The frame can in particular be rectangular or oval.

The frame encloses a free space inside the frame - when viewed without electronics, energy storage and housing. The free space is preferably open on both sides, in particular completely open. The electronics and/or the energy storage, in particular with the housing, are arranged in this free space. As soon as the housing is mounted in the frame, the free space in the frame is filled by the housing.

The housing preferably forms a surface of the key strip on each of the two opposite broad sides - i.e. a surface that can be touched by the user, in particular to operate the button. In particular, the end surfaces form a surface of the key edge.

It is preferably provided that the support section is partially located in the frame.

• teilweise verdeckt vom insbesondere umlaufenden Rahmen.

It is preferably provided that the housing protrudes beyond the frame along the thickness axis at least on one side, preferably on both sides. If you look at the key along the longitudinal axis or along the width axis, at least part of the support section of the housing can be seen

• partially covered by the surrounding frame in particular.

It is preferably provided that the frame projects beyond the housing along the longitudinal axis and/or along the width axis.

The housing preferably has a support column to limit a path when the actuation section is actuated. This support column prevents the actuation section from being pressed too hard on the button. The support column is formed in particular by a first support column part and a separately formed second support column part. These two support column parts meet when the actuation section is pressed.

In particular, the first support column part is located on the first housing part and the second support column part is located on the second housing part.

Preferably, the actuation section is formed in one piece, in particular monolithically, with one of the support column parts.

The circuit card preferably has a column recess. This can be a hole or a groove. The support column, for example at least one of the two support column parts, projects through this column recess. This allows the support column to be arranged relatively close to the button to be protected.

In particular, it is provided that the electronics of the key are designed so that communication with the device, e.g. smartphone, begins when the button is pressed. In particular, the electronics send out a corresponding signal via the wireless communication module after pressing the button in order to establish communication with the device.

Thus, pressing the button serves to save electrical energy, because the user needs to press a button to start communication with the device.

The key preferably comprises a key shaft. The key shaft preferably extends from the key blade.

This key shaft is designed to be inserted into the locking device and in particular to transmit torque to the locking device into which the key can be inserted. In particular, the key and the locking device are designed so that by turning the key, a torque can be transferred to the locking device for moving a driver, in particular a locking lug. By rotating the driver, a locking element, in particular a building door, cupboard door, can be unlocked or locked.

It may be that the energy transfer and/or data transfer from the key to the locking device is limited to the time in which the key is inserted into the locking device. The energy storage can be used to power the locking device as long as the key is inserted into the locking device. By means of the transmission element, the key-side electronics can be communicatively connected to an electronics device on the locking device side, as long as the key is inserted into the locking device. Direct communication between the device and the locking device may be limited to the time the key is inserted into the locking device.

The longitudinal axis extends in particular along the key shaft. Accordingly, the key is inserted into the locking device and removed along the longitudinal axis.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the key shaft extends along the longitudinal axis starting from a front side of the key chain. This front side is opposite the back side of the key chain. In the rear area there is preferably a keychain passage opening for attaching the key to a keychain. Preferably the front and rear sides are cut from the longitudinal axis.

The frame can serve to transmit torque to the locking device.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the key shaft is rigidly connected to the frame. In particular, the frame is composed of a first frame part and a second frame part. The key shaft is preferably rigidly arranged on the first frame part.

This rigid arrangement means in particular that the key shaft is immovable relative to the frame. It is therefore preferably provided that the key shaft cannot be folded relative to the frame or removed from the frame. This enables a relatively stable torque transmission from the frame to the key shaft and thus to the locking device.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the frame comprises at least one grip area which forms a surface of the key holder for a user to touch. This means that the user can directly touch the frame - not just the housing - and thus transfer the required torque directly to the frame. In particular, the entire handle area has a surface of the key holder that a user can touch.

“Surface” is to be understood in particular as an area of the frame that is exposed and can therefore be touched by the user's fingers or hand.

In particular, the frame has at least two opposing grip areas, each of which is spaced from the longitudinal axis, so that the torque can be transmitted using a corresponding lever. Particularly preferably, the key chain can be gripped in such a way that the key chain is located between two of the user's fingers and the two fingers each rest on one of the two opposite grip areas.

It is particularly preferred that the frame is formed all around the surface of the key ring. The frame is preferably designed to be completely circumferential, i.e. closed ring-shaped, and is located along the entire circumference on the surface of the key ring.

Preferably, it is provided that - when viewed along the width axis (i.e. when viewed from the narrow side) - the at least one gripping area extends over the entire length of the key bow defined parallel to the longitudinal axis. As a result, the gripping area preferably extends from the front to the back of the key bow.

Preferably, only that surface that is spaced from the longitudinal axis is considered to be the grip area of the frame, so that torque can be transmitted over the entire grip area. Particularly preferably, the at least one grip area is a section of the frame which itself or its tangent runs parallel or not at 90° to the longitudinal axis. Particularly preferably, the at least one handle area comprises the furthest point of the key from the longitudinal axis. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the at least one handle area does not intersect the longitudinal axis.

As described, it is preferably provided that the frame comprises two opposite grip areas. Both grip areas preferably intersect the same plane perpendicular to the thickness axis.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the frame is essentially rectangular or oval. In the case of the rectangular shape, parallel sides of the rectangular shape are preferably parallel and spaced from the longitudinal axis. These two sides form the two opposite grip areas.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the frame has a frame thickness of at least 3 mm, in particular at least 5 mm, parallel to the thickness axis. This provides a sufficient area that can be touched, in particular gripped, by the user.

As described, the frame is preferably composed of the first frame part and the second frame part. As a result, the electronics and/or the energy storage device, in particular together with the housing, can be inserted into the frame in an easy-to-install manner.

It is preferably provided that the first and second frame parts are connected in a force-fitting and/or form-fitting manner at at least one connection point. In particular, two opposite connection points are provided. Particularly preferably, there is at least one locking lug at each connection point, which locks into a corresponding locking counterpart.

The at least one connection point, preferably the two connection points, is/are preferably spaced from the longitudinal axis. In particular, there is a connection point in each handle area.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the at least one connection point, in particular the two connection points, is/are located in the front half of the key chain facing the key shaft.

The key shaft preferably comprises a key shaft base body. The frame, in particular the first frame part, is preferably connected in one piece to the key shaft base body.

Particularly preferably, the frame, in particular the first frame part, is manufactured monolithically with the key shaft base body. This monolithic production means in particular that the frame, in particular the first frame part, and the key shaft base body are originally formed together; For example, cast from metal or injection molded from plastic.

The key shaft base body preferably extends over at least half the length of the key shaft; particularly preferably over the entire length of the key shaft. This ensures that a significant part of the key shaft base body can be inserted into the locking device and the torque can be safely transmitted. The length of the key shaft is defined coaxially or parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, the first frame part and the key shaft base body are jointly fork-shaped. This describes in particular that the first frame part includes a front section, of which there are two parallel front thighs extend. The front section is preferably perpendicular to the longitudinal axis itself or with a tangent. The two front legs are in particular spaced from the longitudinal axis. In particular, the two front legs each form part of the two opposite grip areas. The key shaft base body preferably extends centrally between the two front legs from the front section of the first frame part. The key shaft base body extends in one direction and the two front legs in the opposite direction.

The frame can serve to arrange the first and second housing parts together.

The frame, in particular each frame part, preferably comprises at least one rail. The respective rail is designed in particular to arrange the first housing part and the second housing part together.

The edge section has in particular the rail holder described, which represents the connection to the frame.

In particular, there are several, in particular parallel, rails in the frame, with each housing part having an associated rail receptacle. By pushing the frame-side rails and the housing-side rail receptacles into one another, the two housing parts can be arranged and fixed relative to one another and relative to the frame.

The rail holder can be designed as a groove and the rail as a complementary extension (also: elevation) that fits into the groove. Likewise, in the opposite version, the rail can be designed as a groove and the rail holder as a complementary extension (also: elevation) that fits into the groove.

A seal is particularly preferably arranged between the two housing parts. In particular, the rails in the frame are designed to Press the two housing parts together and thereby compress the seal.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the first housing part forms a surface of the key edge on the first broad side and the second housing part on the opposite second broad side.

It is preferably provided that the key shaft comprises at least the transmission element for transmitting electrical energy (also: electricity) and/or electronic data to the locking device. This at least one transmission element is, for example, a sheet metal, a wire or a printed conductor track.

Particularly preferably, at least two of the transmission elements are provided, the transmission elements being arranged symmetrically so that the key can be used like a reversible key. In addition, the geometry of the key shaft is preferably selected so that the key can be used as a reversible key. In particular, for the reversible key-like usability, it is provided that the key shaft is designed symmetrically with respect to a plane in which the longitudinal axis lies.

The at least one transmission element preferably extends from the electronics into the key shaft. Inside the key ring, the transmission element preferably has a circuit card contact surface. At this circuit card contact surface, the transmission element can be electrically connected to a circuit card of the electronics. In the area of the key shaft, the transmission element preferably has a locking device contact surface which is exposed and - when the key is inserted into the locking device - can be connected in an electrically conductive manner to the electronic device on the locking device side.

The key shaft preferably includes an insert element. This insert element is preferably made of plastic.

The insert element is preferably arranged on at least one of the two housing parts, preferably on both housing parts. For example, one of the two housing parts has a receiving groove into which the insert part can be inserted. This receiving groove is covered by the other housing part, so that the insert element is arranged, in particular clamped, between the two housing parts.

It is preferably provided that the insert element is attached to the key shaft base body, in particular in a non-positive and/or positive manner. A tongue-and-groove connection is particularly preferably provided between the insert element and the key shaft base body.

The key shaft base body particularly preferably has parallel shaft legs that are spaced apart from one another. The insert element can be inserted between these two shaft legs. In particular, the insert element is connected to at least one of the two shaft legs via the tongue and groove connection. At the front end of the key shaft, the two shaft legs can be connected to one another via a shaft leg connection. The insert element does not have to extend to the front end of the key shaft base body.

In the frame, in particular in the front section of the first frame part, there is preferably an insert element through-opening through which the insert element can be inserted into the key shaft from the inside of the frame to the outside.

The insert element preferably comprises the at least one transmission element. In particular, the at least one transmission element is embedded in the insert element.

The key preferably includes a socket, in particular designed as a USB-C connection. The socket is designed for charging the energy storage and/or for a cable connection to the electronics. The electronics particularly preferably comprise a circuit board on which the socket is arranged.

The frame, in particular the second frame part, preferably has a frame socket opening. The socket for a corresponding plug is accessible through this frame socket opening. The socket itself does not need to extend into the frame socket opening. Rather, it is preferably provided that the socket does not extend into the frame socket opening, but is merely arranged in the housing.

One of the two housing parts preferably has an enclosing housing-socket opening for the socket. This enclosing housing-socket opening is preferably completely closed, so that the socket is completely enclosed by only one of the two housing parts. As a result, the sealing of the two housing parts or the sealing towards the socket is designed to be simple.

As mentioned, the key can include the keychain passage opening for attaching the key to a keychain, in particular for receiving a keychain ring. This keychain through opening is located in particular between the frame and the housing, preferably on the back of the key holder.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed so that inserting and/or removing the key shaft into/out of the locking device causes the electronics to take an action, for example to wake up the electronics and/or to establish communication with the device. This can also save energy.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the key ring of the key comprises a lighting device, the electronics being designed to control the lighting device for the luminous reproduction of at least one piece of information. This information can be, for example, the state of the key. Furthermore, the information can relate to the locking device if the key is inserted into the locking device. In addition, the information can, for example, concern the wireless communication connection between the key and the device, such as a smartphone.

The lighting device can be designed to display a communication setup and/or communication with the device, in particular in different ways.

The lighting device in the key ring is designed in particular to light up in at least two colors. The lighting device particularly preferably comprises at least one lighting element. This lighting element is preferably a single LED. The individual lighting element is in particular designed to emit at least two, preferably at least three, particularly preferably at least four, colors. For example, the lighting element is an RGB LED. This LED can basically light up in red, green or blue and mix the colors so that white light can also be generated, for example.

It is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to display different information using different patterns by controlling the lighting device.

The respective “pattern” is characterized by the color and/or the flashing pattern and/or the light intensity. Two different patterns therefore differ in color and/or flashing pattern and/or light intensity.

It is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to display different information about the key using different patterns by controlling the lighting device.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to display different information about the locking device using different patterns by controlling the lighting device.

As described, the key is designed for a wireless communication connection to the device, in particular by the wireless communication module of the electronics. The electronics are preferably designed to activate the lighting device Search for a communication connection and/or display an existing communication connection through the lighting device, in particular the lighting element. This “searching for a communication connection” or the “existence of a communication connection” forms the “information” that is displayed via the lighting device.

As described, the key can include the electrical energy storage. The electronics are preferably designed to display a charge state of the energy storage as information by controlling the lighting device, in particular through the lighting element.

The key preferably has an interface, for example the socket described, for charging the energy storage device. The electronics are preferably designed to display as information a charging process and/or a termination of the charging process by the lighting device, in particular the lighting element, by controlling the lighting device. It is particularly preferred that the representation is limited to the time in which the interface is in connection with an energy source.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to display at least one of the following errors as information through the lighting device, in particular the lighting element, by controlling the lighting device:
The error may be a faulty locking device. For example, the key can output a corresponding signal via the lighting device, which prompts the user to read on the device (e.g. smartphone) what the specific error is.

Similarly, a faulty key and/or disrupted communication to the device may be indicated.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to activate the lighting device, in particular the lighting device, after a triggering event Lighting element to control the luminous reproduction of at least one piece of information. The triggering event can be at least one of the following events: pressing the described key button; and/or inserting the key into the locking device; and/or removing the key from the locking device; and/or connecting the interface to the energy source.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to display different patterns - that is, different colors and / or different flashing patterns and / or different light intensities - triggered one after the other by a, in particular single, triggering event by controlling the lighting device. In particular, different information about the key and/or the locking device can be represented by the different patterns.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to control the lighting device to display a state of charge of the energy storage after inserting the key into the locking device, in particular the representation of the state of charge is one of several pieces of information that is available after inserting the key is pictured.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the key is configurable in such a way that at least some of the information that can be displayed by the lighting device is not displayed by the lighting device, in particular permanently, the configuration being able to be stored in the electronics. This makes it z. For example, it is possible that certain information or its display is deactivated for certain users or certain application purposes in order to save energy and not to overwhelm the user.

It is preferably provided that at least one light guide is arranged in the housing of the key. Such a light guide consists, for example, of appropriate plastic or glass and directs the light, for example from the LED on the circuit board, to the outside so that it is visible to the user. It is preferably provided that the lighting device, preferably the lighting element, shines through the light guide towards the broad side of the key.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the lighting device, preferably the lighting element, shines through the light guide across the frame in the direction of the key shaft.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the lighting device, in particular the lighting element, is arranged within the free space described, which is enclosed by the frame; In particular, the lighting device is located on the circuit board of the key.

The light guide is preferably located at least partially in the actuation section described, which is designed to be flexible so that it can be pressed in to actuate the button of the key.

Particularly preferably, the light guide described above is a first light guide and a second light guide is additionally provided. The two light guides can also be combined in one component, so that it is ultimately a first light guide section and a second light guide section. The first light guide is arranged for emission on the first broad side of the housing. The second light guide is arranged for emission on the second broad side of the housing.

In particular, it is provided that light, in particular synchronously, can be emitted from the lighting device through the first and second light guides. For this purpose, the lighting device can have a lighting element that feeds into both light guides. Alternatively, the lighting device can have two synchronously controlled lighting elements (for example two LEDs), with one lighting element feeding into one of the two light guides.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the electronics are designed to control the lighting device in order to display conflicting information about mutually exclusive states using different patterns, whereby the patterns differ in particular in the flashing pattern and/or in the color. Such mutually exclusive states are, for example, “communication connection active” and “communication connection not active”.

In particular, it is provided that the patterns for the two contradictory pieces of information differ both in terms of the flashing pattern and in the color. This means that color blind people can recognize these two mutually exclusive conditions based solely on the blinking pattern.

Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the light intensity of the lighting device can be varied by the electronics depending on the time of day and/or the ambient lighting.

The invention further comprises an arrangement. The arrangement includes the key described and the electromechanical locking device described.

The electromechanical locking device is preferably the lock cylinder or a similar device into which the key can be inserted. In particular, the key and the locking device are designed so that a torque can be transferred to the locking device for locking or unlocking the locking device by turning the key. In particular, the locking device comprises a corresponding electronic device arranged in the locking device, which selectively blocks and releases rotation of the key in the locking device depending on an electrical signal transmitted by the key.

The key is designed in particular to be able to be inserted into the locking device with its key shaft and to transmit a torque to the locking device. Furthermore, it is preferably provided that the at least one transmission element is designed for power and/or data transmission to the locking device.

Furthermore, the arrangement can include the device described, with the wireless communication module of the electronics of the key being designed to exchange data with the device.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Ansicht einer erfindungsgemäßen Anordnung mit Sperrvorrichtung, Gerät und erfindungsgemäßem Schlüssel gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 2

eine Explosionsdarstellung des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 3

eine Ansicht einer Schmalseite des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 4

eine Ansicht einer Breitseite des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 5

den in Figur 1 gekennzeichneten Schnitt A-A,

Figur 6

den in Figur 1 gekennzeichneten Schnitt B-B,

Figur 7

den in Figur 1 gekennzeichneten Schnitt C-C,

Figur 8

ein Detail des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 9

eine Elektronik und eine Leuchtvorrichtung des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 10

einen Zustand während der Montage des erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssels gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel,

Figur 11

ein erfindungsgemäßes Montageverfahren, und

Figur 12

unterschiedliche Lichtmuster für den erfindungsgemäßen Schlüssel gemäß dem Ausführungsbeispiel.

The invention will now be described in more detail using an exemplary embodiment. Show:

Fig. 1

a schematic view of an arrangement according to the invention with a locking device, device and key according to the invention according to an exemplary embodiment,

Figure 2

an exploded view of the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment,

Figure 3

a view of a narrow side of the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment,

Figure 4

a view of a broad side of the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment,

Figure 5

the in Figure 1 marked section AA,

Figure 6

the in Figure 1 marked section BB,

Figure 7

the in Figure 1 marked cut CC,

Figure 8

a detail of the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment,

Figure 9

an electronics and a lighting device of the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment,

Figure 10

a state during assembly of the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment,

Figure 11

an assembly method according to the invention, and

Figure 12

different light patterns for the key according to the invention according to the exemplary embodiment.

The following is based on the Figures 1 to 10 the structure of a key 1 according to an exemplary embodiment is explained in detail. Unless otherwise stated, reference is always made to all figures.

Fig. 1 shows the key 1 in an isometric view together with a locking device 101 and a device 103. The key 1 with the locking device 101 forms an arrangement 100. This arrangement 100 can also include the device 103. In addition, a key ring 102 can be arranged on the key 1.

The locking device 101 is a locking cylinder with a corresponding electronic device, as explained in the general part of the description. The device 103 is a mobile device or a stationary terminal, also as defined in the general part of the description.

The key 1 includes a key chain 2 and a key shaft 50. The key shaft 50 is used to insert into the locking device 101. If there is electronic access authorization, the key 1 can rotate a cylinder core 104. However, if there is no electronic access authorization, the cylinder core 104 cannot be rotated in a locking device housing 106. Here, a locking element, not shown, of the locking device 101 is prevented from leaving a connecting position between the cylinder core 104 and the locking device housing 106 by an electromechanical actuator, not shown, of the locking device 101. This means that the key 1 in the locking device 101 cannot be turned. Thus, rotation of the key 1 in the locking device 101 is blocked.

If there is electronic access authorization, a driver 105, which is designed as a locking lug, can be rotated with the cylinder core 104. For this purpose, the electromechanical actuator was operated, which enables the locking element to be withdrawn from the connecting position. A building door can be unlocked using the driver 105.

The key ring 2 is formed by a housing 10 and a frame 30. The frame forms a free space 44 that is open on both sides (see Fig. Fig. 10 ) for arranging the housing 10. As soon as the housing 10 is mounted in the frame, the free space 44 in the frame 30 is filled by the housing 10. The frame 30 surrounds the housing 10 like a frame.

To define the invention, axes and sides are used, which are particularly in the Figures 3 and 4 are clarified. Accordingly, the key shaft 50 extends along a longitudinal axis 90. A thickness axis 91 and a width axis 92 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 90. The key blade 2 has two opposite broad sides 93. These two broad sides 93 are cut by the thickness axis 91. Furthermore, the key ring 2 has two opposing narrow sides 94. The narrow sides 94 are cut by the width axis 92.

The key shaft 50 is located on a front side 95 of the key chain 2. This front side 95 is opposite a back side 96. On this rear side 96 there can be a keychain passage opening 14 for the key ring 102. The front 95 and the back 96 are cut by the longitudinal axis 90.

A frame thickness 97 of the frame 30 is defined parallel to the thickness axis 91. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the frame 30 constantly has this frame thickness 97 at every point.

Furthermore, the illustration in Figure 3 that the housing 10 protrudes beyond the frame 30 on both sides, i.e. on both broad sides 93, when viewed along the longitudinal axis 90 or the width axis 92.

The top view in Figure 4 shows a view along the thickness axis 91. It can be seen that the frame 30 along the longitudinal axis 90 and along the Width axis 92 - i.e. completely - projects beyond the housing 10. The frame 30 is thus formed all around on the surface of the key ring 2. Here, the frame 30 is designed to be open in the direction of the thickness axis 91. The broad sides 93 of the key wheel 2, more precisely, the surfaces of the broad sides 93, are thus formed by the housing 10 and the frame 30.

The housing 10 is composed of a first housing part 11 and a second housing part 12. Each housing part 11, 12 has a rail holder 13. Corresponding rails 43 of the frame 30 are inserted into this rail receptacle 13 in order to arrange the two housing parts 11, 12 together and to seal the housing tightly. The frame surrounds both housing parts 11, 12 in a frame-like manner.

In the housing 10, in particular in the second housing part 12, there is a housing socket opening 15 for a socket 74.

According to the invention, the key 1 comprises a key 73.

For example, the cut AA in Figure 5 shows a button extension 17 on the inside of the first housing part 11. This button extension 17 can be pressed on the associated button 73. To do this, the user presses the two housing parts 11, 12 against each other.

The key ring 2 has a relatively large actuation section 16, which is designed to be flexible in such a way that it can be pressed in by the user in order to actuate the button 73. The user does not have to look for a specific, small place on the key ring 2 in order to press the button 73, but can press on the relatively large actuation section 16. The button extension 17 is arranged on the actuating section 16. This makes it easier to operate the button 73.

For example, the views in Figure 1 and Figure 4 illustrate that a relatively large area of the first housing part 11 serves as an actuating section 16 is trained. This actuation section 16 is surrounded all around by a support section 18. When actuated, the actuation section 16 bulges relative to the support section 18. Any area of the first housing part 11 that does not form the actuation section 16 is to be assigned to this support section 18. Pressing the support section 18 does not cause the button 73 to be actuated.

According to the invention, the actuation section 16 and the support section 18 are formed in one piece. In this exemplary embodiment, the actuation section 16 and the support section 18 are designed to be monolithic. The actuating section 16 and the supporting section 18 together form the first housing part 11. The first housing part 11 is z. B. an injection molded part made of plastic. This makes the key 1 easy to manufacture.

In particular, the first housing part 11 has a flat end surface 29 on one of the two broad sides 93. This flat end surface 29 is largely formed by the actuating section 16. At least a rear part of the flat end surface 29 is designed as a support section 18. The actuation section 16 and the support section 18 thus together form the end surface 29 of the first housing part 11. In addition, the first housing part 11 comprises an edge section 20 which extends all around the flat end surface 29. This edge section 20 is also part of the support section 18. The support section 18 thus forms the first housing part 11 on the narrow sides 94.

The edge section 20 has the rail receptacle 13 of the first housing part 11. Thus, the support section 18 is partially in the frame.

The actuating section 16 occupies at least 20%, preferably 25%, particularly preferably 30% of the spatial extent of the broad side 93. Here, the spatial extent means the extent perpendicular to the thickness axis 91. I.e. in a top view in the direction of the thickness axis 91 Figure 4 , in which the frame 30, the edge section 20 and the flat end surface 29 together form the broad side 93, the actuating section 16 occupies at least 20%, preferably 25%, particularly preferably 30% of the visible area.

The actuating section 16 occupies at least 30%, preferably at least 30%, particularly preferably 50% of the spatial extent of the end surface 29. Here, the spatial extent means the extent perpendicular to the thickness axis 91 (see Fig. Fig. 4 ).

In order to achieve a correspondingly flexible design of the actuating section 16, the flat end surface 29 can have different wall thicknesses. In particular the representations in the Figures 6 and 8th show that in the area of the end surface 29 a first thin wall thickness 21 and a second thicker wall thickness 22 are provided. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the two wall thicknesses 21, 22 merge into one another with a shoulder 19. Alternatively, several shoulders or a continuous change in the wall thickness can also be provided here.

The paragraph 19 can, but does not have to, form the boundary between the actuation section 16 and the support section 18. It is also conceivable that a part of the end surface 29 with the wall thickness 22 counts as the actuation section 16, since pressure on this area leads to an actuation of the button 73.

To ensure that the two housing parts 11, 12 cannot be pressed too far or too strongly against each other, a support column is provided which is formed from a first support column part 23 and the inside of the first housing part 11 and a second support column part 24 on the inside of the second housing part 12. When the actuating section 16 is pressed in, the two support column parts 23, 24 meet to form the support column.

In the key circle 2, inside the housing 10 and thus surrounded by the frame 30 and the housing 10, there is electronics 70 of the key 1. The electronics 70 has the circuit board 71, which is shown in detail in Figure 9 is shown.

On the circuit board 71 there is the button 73, which can be pressed by the actuating section 16, in particular via the button extension 17.

Relatively close to the button 73 there is a column recess 72, here as a hole. The support column, formed by the two support column parts 23, 24, projects through this column recess 72.

For example Figure 8 shows that the first housing part 11 has a receiving groove 25 for inserting an insert element 54. This makes it possible to arrange the insert element 54 on the housing 10.

Furthermore, the housing 10 comprises a first light guide 26 on one broad side 93 and a second light guide 27 on the opposite broad side 93. The two light guides 26, 27 are each arranged to transmit light on the associated broad side 93 and over the frame 30 to emit in the direction of the key shaft 50. The light guides 26, 27 can be produced with the rest of the housing 10, for example, using a two-component injection molding process.

The exploded view in Figure 2 shows that a seal 28 can be inserted between the two housing parts 11, 12. Alternatively, this seal 28 can also be part of one of the two housing parts 11, 12, for example by a two-component injection molding process.

The frame 30 of the key ring 2 is formed by a first frame part 31 and a second frame part 32.

The first frame part 31 has a front section 33. The key shaft 50, in particular a key shaft base body 51, is located on this front section 33. This key shaft base body 51 is designed to be monolithic together with the first frame part 31, for example cast together from metal.

Two front legs 34 of the first frame part 31 extend from the front section 33 in the direction of the rear side 96. As a result, the first frame part 31 is fork-shaped together with the key shaft base body 51.

The second frame part 32 is U-shaped and includes a rear section 35 parallel to the front section 33. Two parallel rear legs 36 extend from this rear section 35 in the direction of the front 95.

The two frame parts 31, 32 are connected to one another via two connection points 37. Each connection point 37 has two locking lugs 38 and two associated locking counterparts 39. Through these connection points 37, the two frame parts 31, 32 are connected to one another in a form-fitting and non-positive manner.

The frame 30, in the exemplary embodiment shown the second frame part 32, has a frame socket opening 41 through which the socket 74 is accessible.

The frame 30 has a handle area 40 on both narrow sides 94. The two grip areas 40 each form a surface of the key holder 2, which can be gripped by the user in order to turn the key 1 in the locking device 101. Through the grip areas 40, which are located directly on the frame 30, the torque can be transmitted directly to the key shaft 50 and from there to the cylinder core 104 of the locking device 101. There are no undesirable loads on the housing 10.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the two handle areas 40 extend parallel and at a distance from the longitudinal axis 90. In particular, the two handle areas 40 are formed by the two front legs 34 and the two rear legs 36.

The two handle areas 40 extend over the entire length of the key ring 2.

As already described, the key shaft 50 includes the key shaft base body 51, which is a monolithic component of the first frame part 31. The key shaft 50 and the frame 30 are therefore rigidly connected to one another.

The key shaft base body 51 has two shaft legs 52 spaced apart from one another and a shaft leg connection 53. The shaft leg connection 53 connects the two shaft legs 52 to one another at the front end of the key 1.

Furthermore, the key shaft 50 includes the insert element 54, in particular made of plastic. This insert element 54 is inserted between the two shaft legs 52. In particular the sectional representation CC in Figure 7 clarifies that the insert element 54 is located between the two shaft legs 52 and is connected to both shaft legs 52 via a tongue and groove connection 58.

Two transmission elements 55 extend inside the insert element 54. Since the key 1 is designed as a reversible key, at least two of these transmission elements 55 are provided.

In the area of the bowl shaft 50, the two transmission elements 55 each have a locking device contact surface 56. The respective locking device contact surface 56 is exposed on the surface of the key shaft 50 and can therefore be used for data and/or energy transmission to the locking device 101.

Inside the key ring 2, the transmission elements 55 each have a circuit card contact surface 57 in order to connect the two transmission elements 55 to the circuit card 71 in an electrically conductive manner.

Furthermore, the socket 74 is located on the circuit board 71, here designed as a USB-C socket.

On the circuit board 71 there is a wireless communication module 78, designed for short-range communication with the device 103.

Further clarified Figure 9 that an energy storage device 85 for powering the electronics 70 and/or the locking device 101 is arranged inside the key ring 2. This energy storage 85 can be charged via the socket 74, for example.

The button 73 must be pressed in order to communicate with the device 103 via short-range communication. If the button 73 has not been pressed shortly before, the wireless communication module 78 is asleep, so that electrical energy from the energy storage 85 can be saved.

Also in order to save energy, the electronics 70 can be woken up when the transmission element 55 comes into contact with corresponding contact points of the locking cylinder 101. Thus, inserting the key 1 into the lock cylinder 101 can cause an action, in particular to transmit data to the lock cylinder. If the key is removed again, this can also trigger an action; data is preferably transferred from the key 1 to the device 103.

If the button 73 has not been pressed and the transmission elements 55 have been out of contact with the corresponding contact points of the locking cylinder 101 for a long time, the electronics 70 is asleep.

Furthermore clarified Figure 9 that a lighting device 75 is arranged on the circuit board 71. In the exemplary embodiment shown, this lighting device 75 comprises a first lighting element 76 in the form of an LED on one side of the circuit board 71 and a second lighting element 77 in the form of an LED on the opposite side of the circuit board 71. The first lighting element 76 is for feeding light into the first Light guide 26 arranged. The second lighting element 77 is arranged to feed light into the second light guide 27. In particular, the two lighting elements are controlled synchronously so that they both emit the same pattern.

The two lighting elements 76, 77 are in particular LEDs that can light up in several colors. In addition, the electronics 70 is designed to control the lighting device 75, i.e. the two lighting elements 76, 77, for the luminous reproduction of at least one piece of information.

Figure 12 shows examples of the patterns in terms of light color, intensity and flashing pattern for different trigger events. Accordingly, e.g. B. when pressing 301 of the button 73, blue light (b) with a flashing pattern “long”, “short”, “short” is emitted. The "long" signal represents the connection establishment, the "short" signals represent the existing connection. This means that the connection establishment and the existing connection are displayed differently.

When connecting 304 a charging cable to the socket 74, e.g. B. white light (w) can be emitted, whereby both the light intensity and the duration of the individual light signals can increase over time. An interrupted pattern can represent the charging process and a long glow indicates that the charge is complete.

When the key 1 is removed 303 from the locking device 101, for example, blue (b) can be flashed twice and red (r) once, with the two blue light signals being short and the red light signal being long. The blue light signals indicate the connection to device 103. The red light signal indicates a malfunction. If there is no interference, only the blue light is emitted.

For example, two different patterns are provided for inserting 302 the key 1 into the locking device 101, which represent a combination of information. In the combination "white" (w) "green" (g), "white" stands for a low charge level of the energy storage device and "green" for a right of access. In the combination "white-red-red", "white" stands for a low charge level of the energy storage device and "red-red" means a denial of access rights. If the energy storage is sufficiently charged, the key will only emit the pattern "green" if access is granted and "red-red" if access is denied.

Figure 10 illustrates a state during the assembly of the key 1 according to the invention. Accordingly, the two housing parts 11, 12 are first placed on top of each other. The electronics 70, in particular the energy storage 85, are already located between the two housing parts 11, 12. Furthermore, the insert element 54 is inserted between the two housing parts 11, 12.

In order to press the two housing parts 11, 12 firmly against each other and in particular to compress the seal 28, the rail receptacles 13 described are provided in the two housing parts 11, 12, which are inserted into the associated rails 43 of the two frame parts 31, 32. The two frame parts 31, 32 can be pushed onto the housing 10 simultaneously or one after the other.

During this assembly process, the insert element 54, which is already connected to the housing 10, is inserted through an insert element through-opening 42 in the first frame part 31 and can thereby be inserted between the two shaft legs 52.

Figure 11 illustrates an assembly method 200 for this exemplary embodiment. First, in an assembly process step a) 201, the electronics 70 and the energy storage 85 are surrounded by the housing 10. The housing 10 is then attached to the frame 30 in an assembly process step b) 202.

In assembly process step b) 202, the rail receptacles 13 are pushed into one another with the rails 43 and at the same time the insert element 54 is pushed into the key shaft base body 51.

Reference symbol list

1

Key

2

Key ride

10

Housing

11

first housing part

12

second housing part

13

Rail recordings

14

Keychain passage opening

15

Housing socket opening

16

Operating section

17

palpable process

18

Support section

19

Paragraph

20

Edge section

21

First wall thickness

22

Second wall thickness

23

first support column part

24

second support column part

25

receiving groove

26

First light guide

27

second light guide

28

poetry

29

Flat end surface

30

Frame

31

first frame part

32

second frame part

33

Front section

34

Front thighs

35

Hind section

36

Posterior thighs

37

Connection points

38

Detents

39

Rest points

40

Grip area

41

Frame socket opening

42

Insert element through opening

43

rail

44

free space

50

key shaft

51

Key shaft base body

52

shaft shank

53

Shaft shank connection

54

Insert element

55

Transmission elements

56

Locking device contact surfaces

57

PCB contact areas

58

Tongue and groove connection

70

electronics

71

Circuit board

72

Column recess

73

Button

74

Rifle

75

Lighting device

76

First light element (LED)

77

second lighting element (LED)

78

Wireless communication module

85

Energy storage

90

Longitudinal axis

91

Thickness axis

92

Latitude axis

93

Broadsides

94

narrow sides

95

front

96

Backside

97

Frame thickness

100

arrangement

101

Locking device

102

Keyring

103

Device

104

Cylinder core

105

taker

106

Locking device housing

200

Assembly procedure

201

Assembly process step a

202

Assembly process step b

301

Press as a trigger event

302

Plugging as a trigger event

303

Withdrawal as a trigger event

304

Connect as a trigger event

Claims (16)

Key (1) for an electromechanical locking device (101), • with a key ring (2), • wherein the key ring (2) comprises a housing (10) and a, in particular single, button (73), • and wherein the housing (10) comprises an actuation section (16) for actuating the button (73) and a support section (18) for supporting the actuation section (16), the actuation section (16) and the support section (18) being formed in one piece with one another are. Key (1) according to claim 1, • wherein the key ring (2) comprises a broad side (93) and the actuating section (16) occupies at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, particularly preferably at least 30%, of the extent of the broad side (93), • and/or wherein the housing (10) comprises an, in particular flat, end surface (29) and the actuating section (16) occupies at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, particularly preferably at least 50%, of the extent of the end surface (29). Key (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuation section (16) and the support section (18) are designed monolithically to one another, in particular as an injection molded part. Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating section (16) and the supporting section (18) merge into one another in a common, in particular flat, end surface (29) of the housing (10). Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating section (16) and the supporting section (18) are at least partially in an inward wall thickness (21, 22) of the housing (10). distinguish and / or wherein the actuating section (16) has a changing wall thickness (21, 22). Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the, in particular one-piece, support section (18) forms the housing (10) on a narrow side (94) of the key belt (2). Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (10) comprises a support column (23, 24) to limit a path when the actuation section (16) is actuated, in particular wherein the support column (23, 24) is a first Support column part (23) and a separately formed second support column part (24). Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the button (73) is arranged on a circuit board (71), the circuit board (71) comprising a column recess (72) for the support column (23, 24). Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (10) comprises a first housing part (11) and a second housing part (12), in particular wherein the first housing part (11) has the first support column part (23) and the second housing part ( 12) comprises the second support column part (24). Key (1) according to claim 9, wherein the button (73) can be actuated by pressing the first and second housing parts (11, 12) against each other. Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the key chain (2) comprises electronics (70) with a wireless communication module (78) for wireless communication, in particular short-range communication, with a device (103); in particular, the electronics (70) are designed so that communication with the device (103) begins when the button (73) is pressed. Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing (10) is surrounded by a frame (30), • in particular wherein the support section (18) is partially located in the frame (30), • and/or in particular wherein the first and second housing parts (11, 12) are surrounded by the frame (30), • and/or wherein the frame (30) is designed to arrange the first and second housing parts (11, 12) together. Key (1) according to claim 12, wherein the frame (30) is designed to transmit a torque to the locking device (101). Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the key (1) comprises a key shaft (50), the key shaft (50) being rigidly connected to the key bar (2), in particular to the frame (30). Key (1) according to claim 14, wherein the key shaft (50) comprises at least one transmission element (55) for transmitting electrical energy and / or data to the locking device (101), • In particular, the electronics (70) are designed so that inserting and/or removing the key shaft (50) into/out of the locking device (101) causes the electronics (70) to take an action. Key (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the key ring (2) comprises at least one lighting device (75), the lighting device (75) being designed to have a communication structure and/or communication with the device (103), in particular different ones. display.

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