Method of operating a vehicle lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a method of operating a vehicle lock comprising a locking mechanism, wherein the opening of the lock comprises the following steps: - shifting a blocking element of a blocking device from a blocking position to a release position by means of an actuator, wherein the blocking element blocks the actuation of the locking mechanism in the blocking position and releases the actuation of the locking mechanism in the release position; - manually actuating an actuation element arranged at the lock; and - shifting the actuation element from a deactivated state to an activated state, wherein the shifting of the actuation element from the deactivated state to the activated state shifts a latch of the locking mechanism from a latched position to an unlatched position, wherein the latch prevents the opening of the lock in the latched position and allows the opening of the lock in the unlatched position, wherein after the actuation of the actuation element is completed, the actuation element is shifted from the activated state to the deactivated state and the latch is shifted from the unlatched position to the latched position, while the blocking element remains in the release position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for operating a vehicle lock including a locking mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] Such vehicle locks, particularly those for two-wheeled vehicles, bicycles, scooters, or e-bikes, are generally known and can include, for example, battery compartment locks, frame locks, brake disc locks, seat compartment locks, locks for transport cases (i.e., case locks), clamp locks, folding locks, or similar locks. Locks that can be electrically actuated and, for example, enable keyless unlocking are particularly convenient. If a strong locking mechanism is required to ensure a high level of security against unauthorized or unintentional unlocking, a robust and therefore large, heavy, and expensive electric actuator with high energy requirements is needed to actuate the locking mechanism. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for operating vehicle locks that ensures ease of operation while increasing security and economy.

[0004] This objective is achieved by operating a vehicle lock including a locking mechanism, and particularly by the following steps for opening the lock: transferring the locking element of the locking device from a locked position to a released position by means of an actuator, wherein the locking element locks the actuation of the locking mechanism in the locked position and releases the actuation of the locking mechanism in the released position; manually actuating an actuating element disposed at the lock; and transferring the actuating element from an inactive state to an active state, wherein transferring the actuating element from an inactive state to an active state transfers the latch of the locking mechanism from a latched position to a non-latched position, wherein the latch prevents removal of the counter-piece from the lock in the latched position and allows removal of the counter-piece from the lock in the non-latched position. After the actuation of the actuating element is completed, the actuating element transfers from the active state to the inactive state, and the latch transfers from the non-latched position to the latched position, while the locking element remains in the released position.

[0005] According to the present invention, a two-stage method for operating a lock is thus provided, wherein, on the one hand, a desired locked or unlocked state of the lock is directly established by means of a locking mechanism, and on the other hand, a locking device controls the actuation of the locking mechanism. In both the locked and locked states of the lock, where the locking mechanism and the locking device are in the locked position, unintentional or unauthorized unlocking of the locking mechanism due to vibration or manipulation of the lock, is particularly effectively prevented, for example, when driving on uneven terrain.

[0006] It is understood that a lock operable by the method according to the invention has at least the following components: a locking mechanism including a latch and an actuating element, and a locking device including a locking element and an associated actuator.

[0007] For example, the lock can be a battery compartment lock, frame lock, brake disc lock, seat compartment lock, lock for transport box (i.e., box lock), clamp lock, folding lock or similar lock, especially locks for motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, especially electric bicycles.

[0008] The locking mechanism includes a latch, which can be latch-like or bolt-like, or configured as a clamp, fastener, ball, or roller. In its latched position, the latch locks the lock, particularly because the latch engages with the corresponding element, preventing the corresponding element from being removed from the lock. For example, the corresponding element may have an opening into which the latch engages, or vice versa. The latch may alternatively or additionally engage behind a structure attached to the corresponding element, or vice versa. The corresponding element may be a component of the lock itself, such as a closing clamp or bolt, or it may be an object not part of the lock, such as an object to be fixed in or by means of the lock, for example, a battery to be fixed in or in the lock. To unlock the lock, the latch moves to a non-latched position, specifically disengaging the latch and the corresponding element. The transition of the latch between the latched and non-latched positions may include rotational and / or translational movement of the latch.

[0009] Depending on the lock design, opening may involve different steps. In a battery lock, opening may include unlocking the battery lock and removing the battery. In the case of a frame lock, box lock, or disc lock, a closing clamp or other corresponding component may be provided for unlocking and releasing from the locking mechanism.

[0010] The locking mechanism is actuated by the user using an actuating element. Actuation is manual and does not require a key. Depending on the lock's design, considerable force can effectively hold the latch in the latched position, particularly ensuring a secure lock and thus securing, for example, the closing clamp or battery. Manual actuation of the actuating element allows these forces to be overcome to move the latch to a non-latched position over the opening. Therefore, a key or other operating device for unlocking the locking mechanism can be conveniently omitted.

[0011] The actuating element may have a handle, such as a rotary handle, slider, button, lever, or pull rod. Actuation may include translational and / or rotational movement of the actuating element by a user; that is, according to the embodiment, the actuating element may be rotated, displaced, pushed, pivoted, or pulled by a user.

[0012] Due to actuation, the actuating element transitions between an inactive and an active state. In this respect, the actuating element is coupled to the latch, such that the transition of the actuating element from the inactive to the active state causes the latch to be adjusted to the non-latched position. The movement of the actuating element can be transmitted to the locking mechanism, particularly the latch, directly or by means of a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism may include, for example, a gear, through which the movement of the actuating element is converted into a movement of the latch with a deviation in magnitude and / or direction. The connection between the latch and the actuating element can be designed bidirectionally, such that the movement of the latch from the latched position to the non-latched position causes the actuating element to transition from the inactive to the active state. Conversely, the movement of the latch from the latched position to the non-latched position may not change the state of the actuating element, for example, through a free-lifting function or a freewheeling function provided at the actuating element or in the transmission mechanism.

[0013] A locking device includes a locking element and an actuator for adjusting the locking element from a locked position to a released position and vice versa. The actuator can be an electric actuator, such as an electromechanical actuator or an electromagnetic actuator. Because no large force acts on the locking element itself, and especially because the locking element, for example, does not perform a holding function in the lock for a clamp or battery, low-power electric actuators, and therefore have small weight, space requirements, and cost, are generally sufficient for adjusting the locking element.

[0014] The power supply for the locking device, particularly the actuator, can be provided by a battery attached to the lock or the locking device itself. Alternatively or additionally, the power supply for the locking device can be provided by an energy source located outside the lock. For example, the vehicle's central power supply, such as the vehicle battery, can provide power to the locking device. In the case of a battery lock, this could be, for example, the battery to be fixed in the battery lock.

[0015] The locking element can be pin-shaped or bolt-shaped, but it can also be spherical, cylindrical, or wedge-shaped. In its locked position, the locking element can engage with a locking mechanism and / or an actuating element, such that the latch is adjusted to the unlocked position and / or the actuation of the actuating element is locked. In this respect, the locking element can engage with a latch, handle, and / or transmission part. For example, in the locked position, the locking element can engage in an opening in the locking mechanism and / or actuating element, and can be released from there when adjusted to the release position. Adjustment of the locking element between the locked and release positions can include translational and / or rotational movement of the locking element.

[0016] After the lock is neither locked nor unlocked, the locking element can remain in its released position. The lock is thus in a standby state in which it can be repeatedly closed without prior user action to adjust the locking element to the released position. This is particularly advantageous when the corresponding element has been removed from the lock after the latch has been changed from the latched position to the unlocked position. This or another corresponding element can then be reinserted into the lock, and particularly into the locking mechanism, without prior movement of the locking element to the released position.

[0017] Advantageous embodiments of the invention can be seen from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0018] According to the implementation, the transition of the actuating element from an enabled state to an disabled state and / or the transition of the latch from a non-latched position to a latched position is automatically achieved by a reset element. Since the actuating element automatically resets back to its disabled state, i.e., it returns to its initial state, practical one-handed operation can be achieved after the user completes actuation. For example, the reset element can be loaded or preloaded by transitioning the actuating element to the enabled state and / or by transitioning the latch to the non-latched position, i.e., the transition to the enabled state or the transition to the non-latched position occurs against the reset force of the reset element. The reset element can be, for example, a return spring. The actuating element and the latch can automatically transition to the disabled or latched state using the same reset element. This allows for the saving of components and installation space, especially in the case of bidirectional coupling between the latch and the actuating element. Alternatively, the latch and the actuating element can each automatically transition to the latched or disabled state using their own reset elements.

[0019] According to another embodiment, when the locking device receives a release command sent to it by a control device located outside the lock, it changes the locking element from the locked position to the released position. This release command can be generated, in particular, by user input at the control device. The release command can be an electrical signal. The processing of control commands (such as the release command) in the locking device can be performed by the operating device of the locking device. Based on the received control command, the locking device can activate and deactivate actuators to adjust the locking element between the locked and released positions. When the locking device receives a release command sent by the control device, it can initiate the adjustment of the locking element via the actuator without any further user action.

[0020] The control device can be, for example, a smartphone, smartwatch, or another computer, especially a laptop. However, the control device can also be a vehicle's onboard computer. A software application with a graphical user interface, allowing users to control the locks, can exist on the control device.

[0021] The release command can be transmitted from the control device to the locking device wirelessly or via wired means, and particularly encrypted. The connection between the control device and the locking device can be established, for example, using short-range wireless communication technologies (such as Bluetooth, WLAN, RFID) or cellular networks (such as Wi-Fi, GSM, GPRS, 3G, 4G, 5G) or long-range networks (also known as remote networks). The lock and control device can be configured such that when the control device approaches the lock until it reaches a predefined distance or enters the lock's receiving range, the locking device has already received the release command from the control device. This distance can be configured by the user.

[0022] The control device can authenticate itself relative to the locking device. This can be done, for example, by exchanging electronic keys. The locking device can be configured to receive, process, and / or execute control commands from the control device upon successful authentication. Alternatively or additionally, it may be necessary for the user to prove their authorization to generate control commands by entering a password, particularly at the control device, or through user authentication at the control device, such as by means of biometrics or verification codes. The control device can be configured to control multiple locking devices, wherein, in particular, one-time user authentication may be sufficient to enable one or more locks via the control device after successful user authentication.

[0023] According to the implementation, the locking element is prevented from changing from the locked position to the released position during vehicle operation. For example, if the lock is a battery compartment lock, this can prevent interruption of the power supply on the one hand, and prevent the loss of the battery during operation due to accidental opening of the lock on the other hand. Similarly, in the case of a box lock, it can prevent the undesirable opening of the transport box during operation, and in the case of a clamp lock, it can prevent the loss of the clamp and / or lock body.

[0024] The vehicle's movement status can be determined by means of sensors. Alternatively or additionally, data regarding the movement status can be derived from the status of the vehicle's drive motor and can be provided specifically through the control of the drive motor. The locking device itself, particularly the locking device's operating mechanism, can query and / or receive sensor data regarding the movement status, and can also, in the event of a possible release command, activate the actuator to adjust the locking element to the release position while ensuring the vehicle is stationary.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the vehicle's movement status is determined by a control device, particularly a control device located externally to the lock, such as an onboard computer or a smartphone. For example, the control device can query movement data from corresponding sensors or the vehicle's drive motor. The control device can, for example, send a release command only when it has been previously determined that the vehicle is stationary.

[0026] If the lock is, for example, a frame lock or a brake disc lock, it can also be specified that the locking element is prevented from changing from the released position to the locked position while the vehicle is in motion.

[0027] Typically, while the vehicle is in motion, the locking element can be prevented from changing from the locked position to the released position, and vice versa. This generally increases user safety because the user is not distracted by the lock's actuation while driving, and it also prevents unforeseen and unintentional alterations to the lock while driving.

[0028] According to an embodiment, closing the lock may include the following steps: inserting a corresponding element into the locking mechanism; changing the latch to a latched position, wherein, in the latched position, the latch and the corresponding element engage with each other to prevent the corresponding element from being removed from the locking mechanism; and changing the locking element from a released position to a locked position.

[0029] During the insertion of the corresponding element, the latch can temporarily shift to its non-latched position, specifically against the restoring force of the reset element. When the latch is inserted into the lock, the corresponding element can be pressed against the latch, causing the latch to shift to the non-latched position. Specifically, the reset element is pre-loaded or loaded by the latch moving to the non-latched position. If the corresponding element is fully inserted into the lock, i.e., if the corresponding element is in the latched position secured by the latch, the latch gains space to move and can be moved back to its latched position by the specially pre-loaded reset element. In this way, a latching function of the lock is achieved, by which the latch is automatically shifted to the latched position after the corresponding element is inserted.

[0030] Furthermore, the actuating element can temporarily switch to its enabled state during the insertion of the corresponding element, especially in the case of bidirectional coupling between the latch and the actuating element.

[0031] According to the implementation, before the locking element is moved to the locked position, the position of the latch, actuating element, corresponding element, and / or locking element is queried by means of a suitable sensor device. The position information can be determined by one or more suitable sensors that query the position of one or more parts of the lock and / or the object to be secured (e.g., a bicycle battery). For example, stop sensors or switches that can be actuated by the corresponding element, latch, and / or actuating element can be provided, and are actuated when they reach a specific position of their associated element.

[0032] Sensor information can be queried, received, and / or processed directly by the operating device of the locking mechanism or by a control device located outside the lock. The control device and the operating device of the locking mechanism can be configured to communicate, particularly in two directions, especially wirelessly. For example, the results of sensor queries or other information can be exchanged between the control device and the locking mechanism.

[0033] For example, if the position of one or more components detected by the sensors is not in the expected state or position, an error message or warning can be output. For instance, the control device can output an error message on a display, specifically mentioning the corresponding component, or the control device can output an audible alarm. Alternatively or additionally, the locking device itself can output a warning message, especially a warning sound.

[0034] According to the implementation, the transition of the locking element to the locked position occurs only after a predetermined time period has elapsed since the insertion of the corresponding piece, the transition from the latch to the latch position, and / or the transition of the actuating element to the inactive state. After this time period has elapsed, the transition of the locking element to the locked position can occur automatically without user action. Sensors used for position determination can be combined with time recording to query the elapsed time period, wherein position and time information can be queried, received, and / or processed by the locking device itself or by the control device. This time period can be selected to be sufficiently long to allow the user enough time to check the correct placement of the corresponding piece after insertion. Furthermore, this time period can be selected to be very short, such that the vehicle has not yet started moving before the locking element closes. For example, the time period can be in the range of a few seconds.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the locking element is switched to the locking position only when an evaluation of a sensor query indicates that the corresponding element has been inserted, the latch is in the latched position, and / or the actuating element is inactive. This effectively prevents the lock from jamming during closing or from being damaged by impacts to its mechanical components.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, the transition of the locking element to the locked position occurs only when the locking device receives a locking command sent to the locking element by a control device located outside the lock. This locking command can be generated by user input at the control device. Alternatively, the control device can automatically execute the transmission of the locking command, particularly based on the results of the aforementioned sensor queries and / or the elapsed time periods. If the locking command is input by the user, the control device can delay transmitting the locking command to the locking device until all sensor queries confirm that the component detected by the sensors is in the corresponding expected state or position and / or all predetermined time periods have elapsed.

[0037] According to another embodiment, the transition of the locking element to the locked position occurs only when contact with a voltage source for the actuator used for the locking element is established by the inserted counterpart. If the lock is a battery lock and the counterpart is a battery, the battery can be provided as the power supply for the actuator. Since the battery is inserted into the lock, electrical contact between the battery and the actuator can be established simultaneously, making actuation of the actuator possible. For example, a frame lock, brake disc lock, or box lock can also use the vehicle's battery as the power supply for the locking device. For example, due to the insertion of the counterpart, a switch arranged in the lock can be actuated, or electrical contact establishing the power supply for the actuator can be established by the counterpart. Once energy is supplied, the actuator can automatically adjust the locking element to the locked position. According to this embodiment, adjusting the locking element to the locked position by the actuator can occur only when the counterpart is present. This ensures that the locking element always remains in the released position when the counterpart is not present, allowing for convenient insertion of the counterpart without additional adjustment of the locking element to the released position.

[0038] When the lock receives a sleep command from a control device located externally to the lock, such as when the control device is removed from the vehicle or when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the lock was closed, the lock can be set to a locked sleep state. In the locked sleep state, the locking element can be in the locked position, the actuating element can be in the disabled state, and the latch can be in the latched state. Furthermore, it may be necessary to insert a corresponding element into the locking mechanism to enable the lock to be set to the locked sleep state. In the locked sleep state, the closed lock, i.e., the lock with the corresponding element inserted and locked, provides high security to prevent unauthorized access, for example, when the vehicle is parked for a specific period of time.

[0039] When the lock receives a sleep command from a control device located externally to the lock, for example, when the control device is removed from the vehicle or when a predetermined time has elapsed since the removal of the corresponding component from the lock, the lock can be set to a non-locking sleep state. In the non-locking sleep state, the locking element is in the released position, the actuating element is in the inactive state, and the latch is in the latched state. The lock can be set to a non-locking sleep state without inserting the corresponding component into the locking mechanism; that is, in the non-locking sleep state, the lock is in a standby state.

[0040] In locked sleep mode and / or unlocked sleep mode, the control device can be detached from the lock or can typically be turned off and therefore not connected to the lock. For example, setting to sleep mode can occur by removing the on-board computer from the vehicle. The vehicle may need to be stationary for the lock to be set to sleep mode.

[0041] In contrast to the dormant state, the lock can be in a locked driving state during vehicle movement. This means that while the vehicle is moving, the locking element can remain in the locked position, the actuating element can be disabled, and the latch can be in a latched state. A prerequisite for this is that the control device is connected to the lock and is in the active state. Furthermore, a corresponding element within the lock may be required to establish the locked driving state. In the absence of a corresponding element, a non-locked driving state can be defined, in which the locking element is in the released position, the actuating element is disabled, and the latch is in a latched state. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The invention will now be explained by way of example only, with reference to possible embodiments and accompanying drawings. The drawings are shown as follows: Figure 1A An exemplary lock is shown, having a locking mechanism and locking device in locked and locked states; Figure 1B Show Figure 1A A lock that is in an unlocked and non-locked state; Figure 2 A flowchart relating to the opening of the lock in Figure 1 is shown; Figure 3 A flowchart relating to the removal of the energy storage device from the lock in Figure 1 is shown; Figure 4 A flowchart relating to the closing of the lock in Figure 1 is shown; and Figure 5 A flowchart relating to setting the lock in Figure 1 to a sleep state is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The lock 10 of a vehicle that can operate according to the invention is shown by way of example only. Figure 1A In the diagram, lock 10 is shown as being in a locked state and a locked state, and... Figure 1B In the diagram, lock 10 is shown as being in an unlocked and non-locked state.

[0044] Lock 10 includes a locking mechanism with a latch 14, which can be in a latched position ( Figure 1A ) and non-latch position ( Figure 1B The latch 14 is provided to move between the two positions. In this regard, a translational movement of the latch 14 is provided in the direction of arrow 16. In the latched position, the latch engages with a corresponding element (not shown), which is held in a latching manner in the lock 10 by the latch 14. The corresponding element may be part of the lock 10, such as a closing clamp or bolt of the lock 10, or it may be located on an object outside the lock, such as the battery of a vehicle.

[0045] Actuation of latch 14 is performed by means of actuation element 18 including button 20. In its inactive state, actuation element 18 is in a position according to Figure 1A The latch is in the latched position, i.e., button 20 is not pressed. Upon actuation, i.e., when button 20 is pressed, the actuating element 18 changes to its activated position in the direction of arrow 22. This is a translational actuation movement. Button 20 is connected to a transmission section 24. A slot guide 26 is arranged in the transmission section 24, guiding a pin 28 formed at the latch 14. The translational actuation movement of button 20 (arrow 22) is transmitted to the latch 14 and, via the slot guide 26 and pin 28, is transformed (arrow 16) into a translational movement of the latch 14 guided perpendicularly to the translational actuation movement.

[0046] Actuating element 18 cooperates with spring 19, causing actuating element 18 to overcome the restoring force of spring 19 and transition to its active state, thereby preloading spring 19. If button 20 of actuating element 18 is released in its active state, it automatically returns to its inactive state by the restoring force of spring 19. Since latch 14 and button 20 are bidirectionally coupled to each other via slot guide 26 and pin 28, latch 14 is actuated and transitions to its locked position when actuating element 18 transitions to the inactive state.

[0047] Lock 10 also has a locking device 30, which includes a pin-shaped locking element 32 and an electric motor actuator 34. By means of the actuator 34, the locking element 32 can be in a locked position along its longitudinal axis (…). Figure 1A The locking element 32 is received in the release position of the actuator. Figure 1B The adjustment is made between the two positions. In the locked position, the locking element 32 protrudes from the actuator 34 on the side of the latch 14 and engages with the opening 36 of the latch 14 and the transmission part 24 in the locked position. Therefore, the actuation of the button 20 and the movement of the latch 14 are both locked by the locking element 32 in the locked position.

[0048] The locking device 30 also includes a control device (not shown) configured to control the actuator 34 and thus the adjustment of the locking element 32 between a locked position and a released position. The locking device 30 is configured to wirelessly receive control commands, particularly release and locking commands. The locking device 30 receives these control commands from a control device located outside the lock 10, such as from the vehicle's onboard computer (not shown).

[0049] according to Figure 1A , Figure 1B The lock 10 can be, for example, a frame lock, a box lock, a brake disc lock, or a seat compartment lock. Additionally, the lock 10 can be used to secure an energy storage device, such as a battery, i.e., a battery lock.

[0050] The following section will explain the actuation sequence of the battery lock used to secure the energy storage device in the battery compartment of an electric bicycle through examples. Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating the process operating within the opening 102 of the battery lock is shown. The starting point is the battery lock, where an energy storage device is inserted, the locking mechanism is in the locked position, and the locking element 32 is in the locked position (see [link]). Figure 1A In the latched position, latch 14 engages with the opening in the energy storage device and thus secures it in the battery compartment. In this embodiment, for user control of the battery lock, an onboard computer located outside the battery lock on the electric bicycle is equipped with a software application and a touch-sensitive screen. Smartphones can also typically be used as control devices.

[0051] If the user intends to remove the energy storage device from the battery compartment, the user enters a command to remove the energy storage device at the control device (step 104). During vehicle operation, the locking element 32 of the battery lock 10 should be prevented from being adjusted to the released position under all circumstances. This is to avoid interrupting the energy supply to, for example, the drive motor of a car, and also to prevent vibrations during operation from unintentionally causing the latch 14 to move to the unlocked position, thus preventing the loss of the energy storage device. Therefore, in the query step, the control device first determines the movement status of the electric bicycle (step 106).

[0052] The movement status can be determined, for example, from the rotational speed of the electric bicycle's drive motor and / or by querying sensors set up for this purpose. Alternatively, the movement status can be determined based on GPS data. If query step 106 indicates that the electric bicycle is stationary, the control device sends a release command to the locking device 30 (step 110). Otherwise, if query step 106 indicates that the electric bicycle is moving, the control device does not send a release command to the locking device 30, but instead notifies the user that the battery lock 10 cannot be opened by means of an error message displayed on the onboard computer screen (step 114).

[0053] The locking device 30, and particularly its control device, receives a release command sent by the control device (step 116). An authentication process (step 118) may be specified, wherein the control device authenticates itself at the control device of the locking device before the release command is processed. Alternatively or additionally, the release command sent by the control device may be specified to be decrypted by the control device (step 120).

[0054] In step 122, in response to the release command, the control device actuates the actuator 34 of the locking device 30, which moves the locking element 32 to its released position (step 124), while the actuator element 18 and the latch 14 remain temporarily in their inactive or latched state. It may be specified that a status message is output on the display of the onboard computer (step 126) and the user is notified that the locking element 32 has been adjusted to the released position and that the locking mechanism is unlocked.

[0055] The user then presses button 20 (step 128) and thus switches actuation element 18 from its disabled state to its enabled state (step 130), thereby moving latch 14 from the latched position to the unlocked position (step 132). Latch 14 is thus removed from the opening of the energy storage device and no longer secures the energy storage device in the battery compartment. The user can then remove the energy storage device from the battery compartment (step 134).

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, after the user has removed the energy storage device from the battery compartment, the user releases button 20 again (step 136). Through Figure 1A , Figure 1B The spring 19 shown turns the button 20 to its inactive state (step 138). Simultaneously, the latch 14 is driven into its latched position via the slot guide 26 (step 140). Conversely, in the absence of an energy storage device, i.e., without a corresponding element, the locking element 32 remains in its released position. In other words, the battery lock is in standby state 142, in which an energy storage device can be inserted at any time.

[0057] exist Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates which processes are involved in the closing of the lock 156, i.e., when the user, for example, reinserts the energy storage device into the battery compartment to secure it thereafter. The starting point is that the battery lock is in standby state 142, i.e., the locking element 32 is in its released position, the actuating element 18 is in its inactive state, and the locking mechanism is in its locked position.

[0058] The user first inserts the energy storage device (i.e., the corresponding component) into the locking mechanism (step 158). During insertion, the energy storage device contacts the latch 14, particularly the chamfered end face 15 of the latch 14, thereby continuously pressing the latch 14 into its non-latched position by the insertion movement of the energy storage device (step 160). Simultaneously, the actuating element 18 is actuated via the pin 28 and the slot guide 26, changing the actuating element 18 from the inactive state to the active state (step 162). Furthermore, the spring 19 is pre-loaded.

[0059] When the energy storage device approaches its fully inserted position, latch 14 can engage with the opening in the energy storage device provided for this purpose, and is therefore no longer forced into the non-latch position by the energy storage device. Once this force is ignored, the actuating element 18 is turned to its inactive state by the preloaded spring 19 (step 164), and in this respect, latch 14 is brought into its latched position (step 166). In the latched position, latch 14 is now engaged with the energy storage device, so that latch 14 can no longer be removed from the battery compartment.

[0060] To lock the locking mechanism in the now-reached locked position, the locking element 32 will be adjusted to its locked position. First, to prevent lock malfunction, it is determined whether all requirements for adjusting the locking element 32 to the locked position are met: the energy storage device is fully inserted into the battery compartment, the latch is in the latched position, and the actuating element is inactive. For this purpose, the battery lock has a sensor device for detecting the position of the corresponding component (i.e., the energy storage device), the position of the latch 14, and / or the position of the actuating element 18. The sensor device may have one or more sensors, such as a stop sensor or a switch.

[0061] The illustrated implementation example specifies that the location of the corresponding component (i.e., the energy storage device) is determined without additional sensors. Instead, the location of the energy storage device is detected by querying whether electrical contact exists between the energy storage device and the locking device (step 168). In this case, successful establishment of electrical contact is used to confirm that the energy storage device is fully inserted into the battery lock.

[0062] Inserting the energy storage device into the battery lock can be performed when the onboard computer is disabled and the battery lock is typically not connected to a power supply. Therefore, it can be specified that successful establishment of electrical contact starts the vehicle's onboard computer (step 172) or establishes a connection, particularly a wireless connection, between the battery lock's locking device 30 and the onboard computer.

[0063] If it is confirmed that the energy storage device is inserted into the battery lock, the position of latch 14 is detected in query step 174 and the position of actuator 18 is detected in a further query step 176. This can be achieved in each case by a stop sensor or switch, which may be actuated, for example, by latch 14 and actuator 18 in the latched position and enabled state. If query steps 174 and 176 indicate that latch 14 and / or actuator 18 are not in the expected position, a corresponding error message may be output, for example, on the screen of the onboard computer (step 180).

[0064] If a sensor query confirms that latch 14 is in the latched position and actuation element 18 is in the disabled state, then in step 184, the duration elapsed from the transition of the corresponding element to its intended position, from the transition of latch 14 to the latched state, and / or from the transition of actuation element 18 to its disabled state is recorded.

[0065] The locking element 32 will only be closed in step 188 after a predetermined time period has elapsed in each case. In this respect, it can be stipulated that each of the described sensor queries is executed and evaluated by the control device of the locking mechanism. If a sensor query shows a deviation from the expected result, the control device can forward it to the control device via a wireless connection, and the control device will then indicate the corresponding error message.

[0066] Alternatively, sensor queries can be performed and evaluated by the control unit. In this case, the control unit forwards the locking command for adjusting the locking element 32 to the locking position to the locking device 30 only when all sensor queries provide the expected results. Alternatively, the control unit outputs an error message.

[0067] It can also be specified that after the energy storage device is inserted, the user actively triggers the closing of the locking element 32 via input from the on-board computer (step 190). In this case, it can be additionally specified that the location of one or more components of the battery lock and / or energy storage device can be queried as described above to prevent lock malfunction and damage.

[0068] If the user leaves the vehicle, it can be stipulated that the user removes the onboard computer from the e-bike (step 144) to deactivate the e-bike and protect it from unauthorized access (see [link]). Figure 5 Alternatively, it may be possible to shut down the onboard computer or disconnect the wireless connection between the onboard computer and the battery lock.

[0069] In this case, the battery lock is set to a dormant state. In step 146, for this purpose, it is first determined, for example, by a stop sensor or position sensor, by querying the electrical contact that can be established by the corresponding element, or by the position of a switch that can be actuated by the corresponding element, whether the corresponding element (i.e., the energy storage in the case of the battery lock) is engaged with the locking mechanism.

[0070] If it is determined that there is no corresponding element for the battery lock, the locking element 32 is thus held in its released position, or if the locking element 32 is not in the released position, it is adjusted to the released position (step 150). Therefore, in the dormant state, the battery lock is also in a standby state, in which the energy storage device can be directly inserted, in particular without prior action by the user or providing power to the actuator 34 for actuating the locking device.

[0071] If the corresponding element is detected in the battery lock, the locking element remains in its locked position, or if the locking element is not already in the locked position, it is adjusted to the locked position (step 154). Therefore, the energy storage device inserted into the battery compartment is also securely protected against unauthorized removal or loss during sleep mode. In sleep mode, regardless of the position of the locking element 32, the button is in its disabled state and the locking mechanism is correspondingly in its locked position.

[0072] List of icon numbers

[0073] 10 locks

[0074] 14. Latch

[0075] 15. Chamfered end face of latch 14

[0076] 16. Direction of movement of latch 14

[0077] 18 Actuating elements

[0078] 19 Springs

[0079] 20 buttons

[0080] 22. Direction of movement of actuator 18

[0081] 24 Transmission Part

[0082] 26-slot guide

[0083] 28 sales

[0084] 30. Locking device

[0085] 32 Locking elements

[0086] 34 Actuators

[0087] 36 openings

[0088] 102. Unlock the battery.

[0089] 104 Enter the removal command

[0090] 106. Determine the vehicle's movement status.

[0091] 110 sends a release command to the locking device 30

[0092] Error message 114: "Unable to unlock".

[0093] 116 Receive release command by means of locking device 30

[0094] 118 Certification Process

[0095] 120 Decryption

[0096] 122 Start actuator 34

[0097] 124 Adjust the locking element 32 to the release position.

[0098] Status message 126: "Unlockable"

[0099] 128 User-Actuated Buttons 20

[0100] 130 Switches actuator 18 to the enabled state.

[0101] 132 Bring the latch to the non-latched position.

[0102] 134. With the help of user removal of energy storage

[0103] 136 Release button 20

[0104] 138 switches the actuator 18 to its disabled state.

[0105] 140. Bring the latch into the latch position.

[0106] 142 Lock in standby state

[0107] 144 Remove the onboard computer from the vehicle

[0108] 146. Determine the corresponding component in the locking mechanism.

[0109] 150 The locking element 32 is held in the released position or adjusted to the released position.

[0110] 154 The locking element 32 is held in the locked position or adjusted to the locked position.

[0111] 156. Turn off the battery lock.

[0112] 158. With the help of user-inserted energy storage devices

[0113] 160 Press the latch into the non-latched position.

[0114] 162 Switches actuator 18 to the enabled state.

[0115] 164. Switch actuator 18 to the disabled state.

[0116] 166 Bring latch 14 into its latched position.

[0117] 168 Inquiry about electrical contacts

[0118] 172 Start the vehicle computer

[0119] 174. Query the position of latch 14

[0120] 176. Locate the position of actuator 18.

[0121] 180 Output error message

[0122] 184. Query the duration since this position was used by the corresponding component, latch 14, and / or actuating element 18.

[0123] 188. Move the locking element 32 to the locked position.

[0124] 190 Request the user to disable the locking element 32

Claims

1. A method of operating a vehicle lock (10) including a locking mechanism, wherein, Opening the lock (10) (102) includes the following steps: The locking element (32) of the locking device (30) is changed (124) from the locked position to the released position by means of the actuator (34), wherein the locking element (32) locks the actuation of the locking mechanism in the locked position and releases the actuation of the locking mechanism in the released position; Manually actuating (128) the actuating element (18) disposed at the lock; and changing (130) the actuating element (18) from an inactive state to an active state. Specifically, by changing the actuating element (18) from the disabled state (130) to the enabled state, the latch (14) of the locking mechanism is changed from the latched position (132) to the non-latched position, wherein the latch prevents the corresponding member from being removed from the lock (10) in the latched position and allows the corresponding member to be removed from the lock (10) in the non-latched position. After the actuation (128) of the actuating element (18) is completed, the actuating element (18) is changed from the enabled state (138) to the disabled state, and the latch (14) is changed from the non-latch position (140) to the latch position, while the locking element (32) remains in the released position. The closing (156) of the lock (10) includes the following steps: Insert the corresponding part into the locking mechanism (158), wherein, during the insertion of the corresponding part, the actuating element (18) temporarily changes (162) to the activated state of the actuating element (18); The latch (14) is shifted (166) to the latch position, wherein, in the latch position, the latch (14) and the corresponding member engage with each other, thereby preventing the corresponding member from being removed from the locking mechanism; and The locking element (32) is switched from the released position (188) to the locked position.

2. The method according to claim 1, in, The transition (138) of the actuating element (18) from the enabled state to the disabled state and / or the transition (140) of the latch from the non-latched position to the latched position is automatically achieved by the reset element (19).

3. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, in, When the locking device (30) receives (116) a release command sent to the locking device (30) by a control device arranged outside the lock, the transition (124) of the locking element from the locked position to the released position occurs.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the release command is generated by user input at the control device.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, in, During vehicle operation, the transition (124) of the locking element (32) from the locked position to the released position is prevented.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, in, The movement state of the vehicle is determined by means of a control device (106).

7. The method according to claim 1, in, During the insertion of the corresponding element, the latch (14) is temporarily switched (160) to the non-latched position of the latch (14).

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, During insertion of the corresponding element, the latch (14) counteracts the reset force of the reset element (19).

9. The method according to claim 1, in, Before the transition (188) from the locking element to the locking position, the positions of the latch (14), the actuating element (18), the corresponding element and / or the locking element (32) are queried (174, 176) by means of a suitable sensor device.

10. The method according to claim 1, in, The transition (188) of the locking element (32) to the locking position occurs only after a predetermined time period (186) has elapsed since the insertion of the corresponding piece, the transition of the latch to the latch position, and / or the transition of the actuating element (18) to the inactive state.

11. The method according to claim 1, in, The transition (188) of the locking element (32) to the locking position occurs only when the evaluation of the sensor query indicates that the corresponding element has been inserted, the latch (14) is in the latched position and / or the actuation element (18) is in the disabled state.

12. The method according to claim 1, in, The transition (188) of the locking element to the locking position occurs only when the locking device (30) receives (190) a locking command sent to the locking device (30) by a control device arranged outside the lock (10).

13. The method according to claim 1, in, The transition (188) of the locking element (32) to the locking position occurs only when contact is established with the voltage source of the actuator for the locking element through the inserted corresponding part.

14. The method according to claim 1, in, The lock (10) is set to a sleep state at the following times: - When the lock (10) receives a sleep command from a control device arranged outside the lock (10), -When the control device is removed from the vehicle (144), or -When a predetermined time period has elapsed since the lock (10) was closed, In the dormant state, the locking element (32) is in the locked position, the actuating element (18) is in the disabled state, and the latch (14) is in the latched state.

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