EP0805906B1 - Programmable electronic locking device - Google Patents

Description

Field of the invention

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

Prior art

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

In addition, there are many devices on the market locking based on a lock / key assembly, as for example in automotive (steering lock) or more generally in industry, in particular for the authorization of operation or the safety of switchgear multiple or even racks or electronic cabinets.

Locks that have combined the mechanical coding carried out by a bit or notches taking the place of a electronic combination existing at the level of the key and the lock. Requirement European Patent No. 0,277,432 shows an example of such a lock mechanical / electronic, the key of which comprises, in addition to conventional coding mechanical unlocking of the lock, an electronic circuit which transmits to the lock, when inserting the key, a pre-programmed identification code which is in turn transmitted to an external control module which decodes it, this module also ensuring the power supply of the lock / key assembly. In a more elaborate version, this electronic assembly may include a non-volatile memory containing the identification code of the lock to which it is associated. The request FR. 2,561,292 shows an electronic key that can be implemented with a mechanical / electronic lock and comprising both notches for mechanical coding and an electronic circuit microprocessor powered by a battery located directly in part of the key.

However, both of the above locks have a defect major in that their safety essentially depends on the type of cylinder mechanical used to receive the keys, the electronic device being only one additional security element. Indeed, maximum security is ensured above all by a complex realization of the cylinder, which has the consequence entail a very high cost of the lock. In addition, any loss of the key will systematically lead to the replacement of this cylinder (the modification of this mechanical element is not possible), whether or not it is associated with electronic means. Of course, to guarantee this high security, each cylinder is associated with a key and only one.

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

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

Application GB-A-2 261 254 describes a device comprising a key and a lock including a system for transferring information from the key to the lock. Control means contained in the key make it possible to modify this information initially stored in the key.

Object and definition of the invention

The object of the present invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks in offering a particularly programmable electronic closing device simple and inexpensive and can be implemented by any user even non professional.

An essential object of the invention is to allow, by programming individual of each key access by its user to all security features of the lock.

Another object of the invention is also to produce an electronic device which can replace existing mechanical devices, in particular for the purpose increase security, without requiring excessive expenditure, i.e. without asking for a complex intervention on these devices or structures to which they are incorporated. Yet another object of the invention is to propose a device whose characteristics can be advantageously compared with those of current devices and also has functions complementary.

la serrure comporte un barillet muni d'une partie dans laquelle est ménagée au moins une ouverture pour recevoir ladite clef,

le barillet comportant au moins un moyen de connexion électrique, un moyen électronique de commande comportant au moins un moyen de mémoire pour emmagasiner au moins un code d'identification et relié à le au moins un moyen de connexion électrique, et un moyen de déverrouillage sensible audit moyen électronique de commande et destiné à procéder au déverrouillage de la serrure, et en ce que

la clef comporte un premier moyen de connexion électrique destiné à coopérer avec le moyen de connexion électrique de la serrure lorsque la clef est introduite dans l'ouverture correspondante, un premier moyen électronique de commande comportant au moins un premier moyen de mémoire pour emmagasiner au moins un code d'identification et relié au premier moyen de connexion électrique et un moyen de programmation pour modifier, sous la commande d'un moyen d'entrée d'un code confidentiel, les données contenues dans chacun des moyens électroniques de commande de la clef et de la serrure,

l'alimentation en énergie des moyens électroniques de commande de la clef et de la serrure et du moyen de déverrouillage du barillet étant assurée à partir d'un moyen d'alimentation en énergie.

These aims are achieved by an electronic programmable closing device comprising a lock intended to be operated by a key when an identity between an identification code of the lock and an identification code of the associated key is observed, characterized in that

the lock comprises a barrel provided with a part in which is formed at least one opening for receiving said key,

the barrel comprising at least one electrical connection means, an electronic control means comprising at least one memory means for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one electrical connection means, and a sensitive unlocking means said electronic control means and intended to proceed with unlocking the lock, and in that

the key comprises a first electrical connection means intended to cooperate with the electrical connection means of the lock when the key is inserted into the corresponding opening, a first electronic control means comprising at least a first memory means for storing at least an identification code and connected to the first electrical connection means and a programming means for modifying, under the control of an input means of a confidential code, the data contained in each of the electronic means for controlling the key and the lock,

the power supply to the electronic means for controlling the key and the lock and to the means for unlocking the barrel being provided from a power supply means.

The presence of means for programming the electronic circuits of the lock and key directly at this key prevents the user from uses external programming (through the manufacturer through example) and the exemption from making a possible connection to means heavy and necessarily expensive IT.

In addition, and this is an essential contribution of the invention, the means techniques defined previously in combination allow the realization of a device that is actually marketable, so that it is called upon to to replace the existing mechanical devices, today present on the market. Indeed, the device of the invention is first of all easy to use because it is present as current systems and therefore does not require a change usually from the user. In addition, it presents in relation to these systems of the prior art the advantage of requiring, for the opening of several locks, that the possession of a single key and not of a keyring as currently, this unique key can indeed contain the identification code of several locks. Then, the presence of different electronic circuits and means of individual programming of these circuits allowing, in addition to strengthening significantly and very simply from the security provided by the the invention, access to multiple functions that do not exist today on the keys mechanical or even electronic. Finally, the fact that the electronic circuits of the lock are all located at its barrel allows anyone without no connection or use of additional external elements, instantly replace the mechanical locking systems it uses currently by those proposed by the invention.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the first and second electrical connection means can be replaced by first and second wireless connection means, for example radiofrequency or optical, arranged respectively in the key and the barrel. The structure is thus simplified and possible electrical contact problems that may result from openings multiples are avoided.

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

In a preferred embodiment, the key is formed first and second separate parts connected by an intermediate part which can be constituted either by a flexible electrical connection or by a wireless connection.

In a first variant, the first part is presented in the form of a rod provided with an operating head and comprising the first means of electrical connection and the second part which can function multifunction electronic assembly further comprises the means electronic and power supply of the key and the means of programming.

In a second, more advantageous variant, the key is constituted by the separable connection of a first part in the form of a rod provided an operating head and comprising the first electrical connection means and at least the power supply means and the first memory means, and a second part that can act as an electronic assembly multifunctional and comprising all the means necessary to allow the programming of the data contained in the electronic means of this key and the lock as well as a third electrical connection means for receiving the first means of electrical connection.

This multifunction electronic assembly can be constituted by many current devices and in particular a calculator, an agenda, a watch, pager, dialer, alarm or even a simple sensor of physical parameters.

The key can also further include a connection means for remote programming of the data contained in the electronic means for controlling this key and the lock. However, preferably, this complementary connection means consists of the first means of electrical connection. Optionally, it may include a wireless connection means, for example radio or optical.

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

Each electronic means for controlling the lock or key or two further include comparison means for performing a comparison between the lock identification code and at least one code correspondent of the key received through electrical connection means.

In order to increase the security of the device according to the invention, the transmission identification codes between the lock and the key is ensured by means of a coding by encryption key (specific algorithm). Likewise and preferably, the memory means of the barrel comprises a memory space accessible by the read-only key. So, by storing in this space a number of reference of the lock and by allowing its reading by the key, it is possible to then limit the comparison to the only identification code of this lock to exclusion of any other.

According to a particular coding mode, each identification code comprises first and second identification codes and, in a normal mode, the comparison of the respective identification codes of the lock and the key performed only on the first identification code whereas, in a mode security, this comparison is performed on the first and second codes identification.

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

The present invention also relates to any lock, any barrel or any key that can be used in the programmable electronic device described.

Advantageously, the key may also include means for indicating sound or light to inform the user of the operation of the key in normal mode or in safety mode or even good programming.

The programming means include a function key specific (SECURITY) allowing only users of keys that can operate in security mode, change the identification codes of locks.

Preferably, the programming means also include a specific function key (RESERVE) allowing the holder of a key to validate access to one or more locks determined among all locks that can be operated with this key, which makes it very easy to prohibit certain persons to whom this key is entrusted access to places not allowed.

Likewise, these programming means may include a specific combination of specific function keys (RESERVE and ZERO) allowing the holder of a key to prohibit its use by deactivating his essential reading and comparison functions. So when she’s not used, or if it is a reserve key, there is no risk of loss or theft fear since its use is no longer possible without knowledge of the code confidential allowing access to deactivation of the determined combination of keys.

Note, however, that this prohibition may only be temporary or be performed automatically after a determined operating time.

Brief description of the drawings

• la figure 1 est une vue partielle en perspective d'une porte palière équipée d'une serrure selon l'invention avec sa clef associée,
• la figure 2 représente une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale d'un exemple de réalisation d'un barillet normalisé pour la serrure de la figure 1,
• les figures 3 et 4 sont deux autres exemples de réalisation de barillets conformes à la présente invention,
• les figures 5 et 6 sont des vues extérieure (couvercle enlevé) et de côté d'un premier exemple de réalisation de la clef de la figure 1,
• la figure 7 montre de façon schématique les composants internes de la clef de la figure 1,
• les figures 8 et 9 montrent deux autres modes de réalisation de la clef, et
• la figure 10 est un organigramme détaillant la logique de programmation de la serrure.

Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge more clearly from the following description, given by way of non-limiting illustration, with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

• FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of a landing door equipped with a lock according to the invention with its associated key,
• FIG. 2 represents a schematic view in longitudinal section of an exemplary embodiment of a standardized barrel for the lock of FIG. 1,
• FIGS. 3 and 4 are two other exemplary embodiments of barrels in accordance with the present invention,
• FIGS. 5 and 6 are exterior views (cover removed) and from the side of a first embodiment of the key in FIG. 1,
• FIG. 7 schematically shows the internal components of the key of FIG. 1,
• FIGS. 8 and 9 show two other embodiments of the key, and
• Figure 10 is a flowchart detailing the programming logic of the lock.

Detailed description of an embodiment of the invention

We first refer to Figure 1 which shows a perspective view partial of a leaf, for example of a door 10, in which is embedded a high security lock 12 according to the present invention. This lock is provided with a barrel 14 which comprises a cylindrical member 14A forming a rotor in which is provided with a slot-shaped opening 16 in which can be introduced a key 18 (more precisely the rod or blade of this key).

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

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

According to the invention, the rotor element 32a of the downstream part of the barrel of lock 12 comprises on the one hand a second connection means electrical 39 intended to cooperate with the first electrical connection means 19 of the key and provided with corresponding individual contacts and on the other hand with the means electronics formed by an electronic circuit 40, advantageously at microprocessor, comprising a central unit 42 or a similar module, a program memory 44 and a data memory 46 connected by a bus common 48. The upstream rotor element 30a comprises, in addition to a third means of electrical connection 49 accessible on an opposite face of the barrel, means locking / unlocking 50 actuable under the control of the unit central 42 and which ensure the mechanical unlocking of the elements rotor 30a, 32a relative to the stator elements 30b, 32b of the barrel 14. These unlocking means 50 for example advantageously comprise a or more pins or pins 52 mounted movable in one or more first corresponding housings 54 and projecting, in a rest position (cylinder locked), under the action of elastic elements 56 placed in these first housings, in second housings 58 of the upstream stator part 30b facing them. An electromagnet 60 or any other similar device (known and commonly used in micro-mechanics, for example a micromotor) is provided for ensuring, under the control of the central unit 42, the removal of the pins 52 in their housing 54 and thus allow free rotation of the elements rotor and therefore an operation of the bolt 20. In the example of FIG. 2, the pins are arranged regularly around the longitudinal axis of the barrel and parallel to this axis, and the electromagnet 60 acts simultaneously on each of the pins to cause displacement (a simple way to ensure this displacement is for example to make these pins like cores solenoid plungers). Possibly, as will be described later and as illustrated in Figure 3, the barrel may also include means for generation of energy 62 actuated by the introduction or rotation of the key and providing the energy required to actuate the microactuator 60 (electromagnet, micromotor or similar device), without any energy input additional by means of a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery by example. This last solution which seems a priori simpler however poses the problem of regular replacement of this battery in the barrel.

Of course, the arrangement of the internal components of the barrel as as illustrated in Figure 2 is in no way limiting. Indeed, it is quite possible to reverse the location of the upstream and downstream components, as it is possible to place the electronic circuit and the unlocking means in a same upstream or downstream part (see for example the embodiment of FIG. 4). These locking / unlocking means 50 which comprise a microactuator such that the electromagnet or the micromotor described above could also include a piezoelectric actuator consisting of a screw subjected to the action simultaneous pairs of piezoelectric pushers located opposite and controlled by the central unit. Likewise, it is clear that these different components can be perfectly implemented in barrels other than that described above and in particular their incorporation into a barrel of a steering lock device for motor vehicles is possible without no difficulty.

Figures 3 and 4 very schematically show variants of realization of the lock cylinder or barrel 14 also suitable for doors residential. In FIG. 3, this barrel with a European profile is of the simple type button cylinder and the pins 52 are arranged along perpendicular axes to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder (an arrangement along multidirectional axes is of course possible). Of course, the number of pins is indifferent and unlocking means 50 in the form of a single key placed in a housing made according to a generator of the rotor element are just as possible. FIG. 4 represents a barrel of the half-cylinder type in which the unlocking means 50 and the electronic circuit 40 are arranged on the same side, preferably in the farthest upstream part from the outside of door 10.

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

Program memory 94, which consists of read-only memory (or ROM type memory) or any similar circuit, is intended to record the programs required to perform the various functions useful for control of central units 92 and 42 to ensure the operation and safe programming of the lock (it can be noted that the central unit barrel can also be controlled by its own program memory 44).

Data memory 96, which consists of non-volatile memory such as an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (or EEPROM), is intended to record different types of data and in particular the different lock identification codes accessible by a given key.

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

FIGS. 8 and 9 show two other embodiments of the key 18. In FIG. 8, the first and second parts 18A and 18B are dissociated and linked between them by a flexible cable 18C. As in the previous embodiment, the first part 18A consists of a simple blade (then terminated by a gripping and maneuvering means) provided with the first connection means electric 19. On the other hand, the second part 18B is now presented under the form of a multifunction electronic system, such as a calculator or a electronic diary, integrating at least the electronic circuits 90 and the module 95, as well as the additional connector 29 (including its interface) if necessary. The energy supply of the barrel and the transfer of data to the electronic circuits of this barrel being carried by the cable 18C containing the common bus 98. It is easy to understand that this particular configuration has the advantage of being able to integrate into the invention the multiple functions available today only in a calculator, a diary or electronic watch, for example a calendar, a directory telephone, dialer, radio pager (pager), a set of measurements of different physical characteristics such as temperature or pressure or even an alarm control device for a car or home. It should be noted, however, that the implementation of certain of these functions is not incompatible with the first embodiment of the key insofar as they can be miniaturized (but access to functions is not facilitated). In addition, it should be noted that a wireless link, by infrared in particular, could be validly considered for the connection between the two parts of the key (see for example Figure 8A on which are also shown the interfaces 64 and 66 for the connection with the common bus 98).

Figure 8 shows a variant of the second embodiment of the key previously described in which the first and second parts 18A, 18B can be completely dissociated, the first part constituting an element extractable from the second part and electrically connectable to it by the first electrical connection means 19 which cooperates with equivalent means 69 in the second part. In this configuration, it is important that at least the battery 95 and data memory 96 are arranged in the first part extractable 18A from the key (the reading of this memory can indeed be done directly under the control of the central unit 42 of the lock when it is introduced in the barrel), the other electronic elements of this key being able be present only in its second part 18B.

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

In order to guarantee maximum security for the electronic device programmable described above, it can advantageously have two levels of security materialized by the use of two types of code identification. Code A for normal use and code B for normal use use of high security. So, for example, in the context of use at within a company, it is possible by this differentiation not to allow access from certain premises only to duly authorized persons who will then be in possession of keys with two identification codes. Obviously, this system can be improved by including additional restrictions, including timetables. It is also possible to assign several codes to the lock according to the circumstances of use and thus allow a prioritization of users, in the case of industrial premises in particular.

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

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

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

In accordance with an essential aspect of the invention, the modification of the identification codes of both lock and key can be done by the user directly from the key. No external IT device (personal computer for example) is not necessary for this action and the user nor is it obliged to resort to the manufacturer, even in the event of loss of the key. In the latter case, however, the user must have taken care to note and keep the personal code or codes necessary for the reprogramming of its new key.

). A l'issue de ces étapes, la clef est programmée et est prête à fonctionner, et la première touche de fonction ON/OFF peut à nouveau être actionnée pour clore le processus de programmation de la clef. Ce processus de programmation manuel décrit précédemment peut s'appliquer aussi bien lors d'une première programmation que lors de modifications ultérieures d'un ou plusieurs codes ou d'ajout de codes nouveaux. Bien entendu, une programmation automatique est tout aussi envisageable et est même préférable lorsque une plus grande sécurité est recherchée (en matière d'habitation notamment). Celle-ci peut être effectuée après l'entrée du code confidentiel et sur la base d'un algorithme interne présent dans la mémoire morte 94. L'entrée d'un code personnel complémentaire peut en ce cas être nécessaire pour permettre la génération des différents codes d'identification. The programming of the codes at the level of the key 18 (for example after the loss of an earlier key) is carried out from the keyboard 80 and is checked on the display 86. In a first step 100, the user activates a first ON / OFF (O) function key to access the various advanced functions (in particular programming) of the key. The action on a second SECRET function key (I) during a next step 110 makes it possible to validate the entry of a confidential code (on m bits, for example 5 bits) made by means of the numeric keys 84, in step 120, and to display on the display 86 a first memory location of the key in order in particular to possibly authorize a subsequent modification of the data present at this location. This write access is only possible after the action, during step 130, of a third PROGRAM function key (P) and is carried out, in a new step 140, by writing a first lock code also using the numeric keys, the validation of this code being carried out during a terminal step 150 by a fourth function key SET (V). Beforehand, keys for moving (⇐⇒) or erasing (C) have, if necessary, enabled the code to be modified in the event of an incorrect entry (steps 160 and 170). The following codes (in the event of a plurality of locks or of several code levels, A and B for example) can then be entered by also making use, in subsequent steps 180 and 190, of other movement function keys ( ⇑

). At the end of these steps, the key is programmed and is ready to operate, and the first ON / OFF function key can be pressed again to end the key programming process. This manual programming process described above can be applied as well during a first programming as during subsequent modifications of one or more codes or addition of new codes. Of course, automatic programming is equally possible and is even preferable when greater security is sought (in terms of housing in particular). This can be done after entering the confidential code and on the basis of an internal algorithm present in the read-only memory 94. The entry of an additional personal code may in this case be necessary to allow the generation of the different identification codes.

To program the codes at the different levels locks, it is necessary to introduce the key in the lock which one wishes to modify the identification code. The user first of all successively activates the ON / OFF and SECRET function keys, enter their confidential code, and enter the key in the lock (it is here possibly possible to search the memory location corresponding to the lock code to be changed with the movement keys, as indicated above). The electronic circuit of the key and / or the electronic circuit of the lock checks (ent) then, in step 200, the identity of the lock and key identification codes and valid, in a next step 210, action on the third PROGRAM function key which allows entry a new identification code (step 220) which, after action on the fourth SET function key in step 230, is transmitted to the lock to recording in its data memory. The key can then be removed from the lock and the ON / OFF key pressed one last time.

Additional function keys are also provided for program the lock in normal mode (with comparison on code A only) and in high security mode (comparison on codes A and B). These two NORMAL (N) and SECURITY (S) keys are only active for one user having a key containing identification codes provided with codes A and B. further, after pressing one or the other of these two keys, the transmission by the means of sound or light indication 97 of one or two sound signals or bright, depending on the mode selected, allows the user to be informed of the mode in Classes. These signals can also be emitted when the key is inserted. to validate the connection. A RESERVE (R) key can also be designed to allow the use of the key to be restricted to one or more locks. After accessing the programming functions by ON and SECRET and the entry of the confidential code, an action on this R key followed by the numbers of the desired locks (or their name in diary function) allows a validation of the corresponding barrels. Thus, by this procedure, it is possible to lend his key to a third person, for a specific access, without risking seeing this access, with the same key, to unauthorized places. Combined with a clock or calendar function, this reservation function can allow to authorize these accesses only under specific time conditions. The return to an unrestricted access will be done by a new action on this R key then on the erase C key. This function key can also be used with a additional key, for example the numeric key 0, to prohibit totally using the key. The deactivation function thus obtained, which may only be temporary or be performed automatically after a time operating, is particularly useful when the user has several copies of the same key and that some of them remain unused (these keys can therefore be deactivated and returned unusable in case of loss or theft). Note that for total security, this advantage could be activated between two uses.

The programmable closing device according to the invention is therefore perfectly suited to replace, with greater safety and flexibility of use, current mechanical devices while providing them with many particularly interesting new functions. Others improvements are also possible, particularly in order to reduce consuming the key's battery or further improving its security.

Thus, the battery life can be significantly increased by dissociating, as it was said previously, the energy supply of the circuits electronic, carried out by this battery, of that necessary to control the release of the bolt (control of microactuator 60). At least three solutions known are currently possible to create, by the introduction or rotation of the key, the electric current necessary for this command. All first, this current can be generated by a magnetic induction resulting by example of the displacement of a magnet, under the effect of the introduction of the key, in a coil surrounding it (it may be preferable to store the current induced by the variation in magnetic flux rather than using it immediately). Then this current can still be produced by a mini current generator launched by the rotation of the key and coupled with a suitable reduction device. Finally, the use of piezoelectric generators can also be considered. These systems are based on a mechanical device which, driven by the introduction or rotation of the key, exerts a force on a piezoelectric crystal (directly or by means of an elastic element constrained by this device) which in return generates charges creating electric current.

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

Claims (30)

1. A programmable electronic closure system comprising a lock (12) designed to be operated by a key (18) when an identification code of the lock and an identification code of the associated key are observed to match, the system being characterised in that:

   the lock includes a cylinder (14) provided with a portion (14A) in which at least one keyway (16) is provided for receiving said key (18);

   the cylinder includes at least one electrical connection means (39, 49), electronic control means (40) including at least one memory means (46) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one electrical connection means, and release means (50) responsive to said electronic control means and designed to release the lock; and in that

   the key includes first electrical connection means (19) for co-operating with the electrical connection means of the lock when the key is inserted in the corresponding keyway (16), first electronic control means (90) including at least first memory means (96) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the first electrical connection means, and programming means (80, 86, 90) for modifying the data contained in each of the electronic control means (40, 90) of the key and of the lock under the control of means (82, 84) for inputting a confidential code;

   the electronic control means of the key and of the lock, and the cylinder release means being powered by power supply means (95).
2. A programmable electronic closure system comprising a lock (12) designed to be operated by a key (18) when an identification code of the lock and an identification code of the associated key are observed to match, the system being characterised in that:

   the lock includes a cylinder (14) provided with a portion (14A) in which at least one keyway (16) is provided for receiving said key (18);

   the cylinder includes at least one cordless link means, electronic control means (40) including at least one memory means (46) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one cordless link means, and release means (50) responsive to said electronic control means and designed to release the lock; and in that

   the key includes first cordless link means (19) for co-operating with the cordless link means of the lock when the key is inserted in the corresponding keyway (16), first electronic control means (90) including at least first memory means (96) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the first cordless link means, and programming means (80, 86, 90) for modifying the data contained in each of the electronic control means (40, 90) of the key and of the lock under the control of means (82, 84) for inputting a confidential code;

   the electronic control means of the key and of the lock, and the cylinder release means being powered by power supply means (95).
3. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that said power supply means comprises a rechargeable battery or a discardable battery disposed in the key.
4. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that said power supply means further comprises electricity generator means (62) disposed in the cylinder of the lock and actuated by insertion or rotation of the key, serving to power at least the release means (50; 60).
5. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that said key is formed of distinct first and second portions (18A, 18B) interconnected by an intermediate portion (18C).
6. A programmable electronic system according to claim 5, characterised in that said intermediate portion (18C) is constituted by a flexible electrical link.
7. A programmable electronic system according to claim 5, characterised in that said intermediate portion (18C) is constituted by a cordless link (64, 66).
8. A programmable electronic system according to claim 5, characterised in that said first portion (18A) is in the form of a rod provided with a handling head and including the first electrical connection means (19), and in that said second portion (18B) is capable of acting as an electronic multifunction unit and further includes the electronic means and the power supply of the key (90, 95) and the programming means (80, 86).
9. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that said key is constituted by the separable connection of a first portion (18A) in the form of a rod provided with a handling head and including the first electrical connection means (19) and at least the power supply means (95) and the first memory means (96), and a second portion (18B) capable of acting as a multifunction electronic unit and including all of the means (80, 86, 90) required for programming the data contained in the electronic means of the key and of the lock, together with third electrical connection means (69) for receiving the first electrical connection means (19).
10. A programmable electronic system according to claim 8 or claim 9, characterised in that said electronic multifunction unit comprises one of the following devices: an electronic calculator, an electronic notebook, an electronic watch, a radio paging receiver, a telephone dialer, an alarm, a measurement sensor.
11. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1, characterised in that said key further includes additional connection means (29; 93) for remotely programming data contained in the electronic control means (40, 90) of said key and of the lock.
12. A programmable electronic system according to claim 11, characterised in that said additional connection means includes cordless connection means, e.g. radiofrequency or optical connection means.
13. A programmable electronic system according to claim 11 or claim 12, characterised in that said first electrical connection means is also used as external connection means.
14. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that said key further includes mechanical coding means for co-operating with corresponding mechanical decoding means of the lock.
15. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the electronic control means (40) of the lock further includes comparator means (42) for comparing the identification code of the lock and at least one corresponding code of the key received via the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49).
16. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that the electronic control means (90) of the key further includes comparator means (92) for comparing the identification code of the lock and at least one corresponding code of the key received via the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49).
17. A programmable electronic system according to claim 15 or claim 16, characterised in that the identification codes are transmitted between the lock and the key by means of encoding using a cipher key.
18. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that said memory means of the cylinder (46) includes a memory space that is accessible to the key for reading only.
19. A programmable electronic system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that each identification code includes first and second identification codes, and in that, in a normal mode, only the respective first identification codes of the lock and of the key are compared, whereas in a secure mode, comparison is performed on both their first and on their second identification codes.
20. A programmable electronic system according to claim 19, characterised in that each identification code is made up of two n-bit words.
21. A programmable electronic system according to claim 19, characterised in that the electronic control means (40) of the cylinder of the lock initially operates via the comparator means (42) disposed in the cylinder to compare the first n-bit word of the identification code of the lock with the first n-bit word of the identification code of the key as received from the key (18) via the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49), and in that the first electronic control means of the key (90) likewise includes comparator means (92) for operating, in a second stage, and in the event of a match between said two first words, to compare the second n-bit word of the identification code of the key with the second n-bit word of the identification code of the lock as received from the lock (12) via the electrical connection means (19; 39, 49), a new match relating to the two second words being required to authorize release of the lock.
22. An electronic key for cooperating with a cylinder (14) of a lock (12) including at least one electrical connection means (39, 49), electronic control means (40) including at least one memory means (46) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one electrical connection means, and release means (50) responsive to said electronic control means and designed to release the lock, characterised in that said key comprises a first electrical connection means (19) for co-operating with the corresponding electrical connection means (39, 49) of the cylinder when the key is inserted in a keyway (16) of this cylinder, first electronic control means (90) including at least first memory means (96) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the first electrical connection means, and programming means (80, 86, 90) for modifying the data contained in each of the electronic control means (49, 90) of the key and of the cylinder of the lock under the control of means (82, 84) for inputting a confidential code.
23. An electronic key for cooperating with a cylinder (14) of a lock (12) including at least one cordless link means, electronic control means (40) including at least one memory means (46) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one cordless link means, and release means (50) responsive to said electronic control means and designed to release the lock, characterised in that said key comprises a first cordless link means for co-operating with the corresponding cordless link means of the cylinder when the key is inserted in a keyway (16) of this cylinder, first electronic control means (90) including at least first memory means (96) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the first cordless connection means, and programming means (80, 86, 90) for modifying the data contained in each of the electronic control means (49, 90) of the key and of the cylinder of the lock under the control of means (82, 84) for inputting a confidential code.
24. An electronic key according to claim 22 or claim 23, characterised in that it further comprises power supply means for powering said electronical control means of the key and the cylinder of the lock, said power supply means comprising advantageously rechargeable battery or a discardable battery.
25. A key according to claim 24, characterised in that it also includes audible or visible indicator means (97) for informing the user whether the key is operating in normal mode or in secure mode.
26. A key according to claim 24, characterised in that said programming means include a special (SECURE) function key making it possible only for the users of keys capable of operating in secure mode to change the identification codes of locks.
27. A key according to claim 24, characterised in that said programming means include a special (RESTRICTION) function key enabling the holder of a key to validate access to one or more determined locks from a set of locks operable by the key.
28. A key according to claim 24, characterised in that said programming means include a determined combination of specific function keys (RESTRICTION and ZERO) enabling the holder of a key to prevent use thereof by desactivating its essential functions of reading and of comparison.
29. A key according to claim 28, characterised in that said prevention can be temporary or can be performed automatically after a determined operating time.
30. A cylinder of a lock for cooperating with an electronic key according to any one of claims 22 to 29, characterised in that it comprises at least one electrical connection means (39, 49), electronic control means (40) including at least one memory means (46) for storing at least one identification code and connected to the at least one electrical connection means, and release means (50) responsive to said electronic control means and designed to release the lock and in that the data contained in the electronic control means (40) can be modified by programming means (80, 86, 90) of the key.

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