A set of electronic keys for electronic locks and method of using the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a set of electronic keys (200) for an electronic lock (100). The set of electronic keys (200) comprises at least one passive electronic key (2002) with a passive digital key and at least one active electronic key (2001) with an active digital key. Each passive electronic key (2002) and active electronic key (2001) respectively comprises a communication channel (20151, 20152) and an electronic key power interface (20161, 20162). The active electronic key (2001) comprises a power supply (206), which supplies power to the active electronic key (2001) and the electronic lock (100), and supplies power to the passive electronic key (2002) through the electronic lock (100), so as to operate the electronic lock (100). When the user inserts the active electronic key (2001) and the passive electronic key (2002) into the corresponding keyholes (101) of the electronic lock (100) at the same time, the passive digital key of the passive electronic key and the active digital key of the active electronic key are simultaneously sent to the electronic lock (100). Only when the active digital key of the active electronic key and the passive digital key of the passive electronic key are the same as the active digital key of the active electronic key and the passive digital key of the passive electronic key pre-stored in the electronic lock, can the electronic lock (100) be unlocked and locked.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an electronic lock, in particular to a set of electronic keys for the electronic lock and a method for using the electronic keys for the electronic lock. Background Art

[0002] Safes are usually made of metal and are used to store valuables in banks or credit unions. These boxes are usually stored in vaults and are usually rented by customers for a long period of time. Usually, at least two keys are required to open the safe, one kept by the bank manager and the other kept by the customer. Both keys are required to open the safe. Currently, most banks still use mechanical safes with a set of keys. The keys of this type of mechanical lock are easy to copy, and the safety of the items in the safe cannot be guaranteed. It is more ideal to develop an electronic lock and a set of electronic keys, so that the electronic keys can be avoided from being copied, so as to improve the safety of the safe. Summary of the invention

[0003] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a set of electronic keys for an electronic lock. In some embodiments, the set of electronic keys includes at least one passive electronic key and at least one active electronic key. The passive electronic key has a plurality of electronic key contact points, and the active electronic key has a plurality of electronic key contact points and a power source. The power source supplies power to the active electronic key and the electronic lock, and supplies power to the passive electronic key through the electronic lock to operate the electronic lock.

[0004] In some embodiments, each electronic key includes: an electronic key processor, and an electronic key non-volatile memory. The electronic key non-volatile memory stores an electronic key operating system and electronic key computer executable instructions. The electronic key computer executable instructions also include: an electronic key digital key control module, a digital key storage module, a digital key encryption / decryption module, and a power module.

[0005] In some embodiments, during the process of activating the electronic lock, a first user triggers an electronic lock activation mechanism on the electronic lock, and the digital key control module of the electronic lock sends an activation instruction to the active electronic key and the passive electronic key through the active communication channel and the passive communication channel, respectively, instructing the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key to generate an active digital key of the active electronic key, and the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key to generate a passive digital key of the passive electronic key, and the generated active digital key is stored in the digital key of the active electronic key. In the storage module, the generated passive digital key is stored in the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key, the generated active digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as a pre-stored active digital key, the generated passive digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as a pre-stored passive digital key, the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are used to authenticate the active electronic key and the passive electronic key respectively.

[0006] In some embodiments, the digital key storage module of the active electronic key receives and stores the active digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key, and the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key receives and stores the passive digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key.

[0007] In some embodiments, the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key encrypts the active digital key before the active digital key is sent out, and the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key encrypts the passive digital key before the passive digital key is sent out.

[0008] In some embodiments, the power module of the active electronic key receives power from a power source and supplies power to the electronic lock, and the power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the active electronic key through the electronic lock.

[0009] In some embodiments, when the electronic key computer executable instructions are executed on the electronic key processor, the electronic key computer executable instructions drive the electronic key processor to complete one or more of the following functions:

[0010] When the first user inserts the active electronic key into an active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, the power module of the active electronic key supplies power to the electronic lock through an active electronic key power port of the electronic lock, and sends an active digital key to the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key;

[0011] When the active electronic key is still inserted in the active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, and a second user inserts the passive electronic key into a passive electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, the power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the electronic lock through a passive electronic key power port of the electronic lock, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock through a passive communication channel of the passive electronic key;

[0012] The electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock to compare the received active digital key and passive digital key with an active digital key and a passive digital key pre-stored in the electronic lock digital key storage module through the active communication channel of the active electronic key;

[0013] When the digital key verification module of the electronic lock determines that the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are the same as the received active digital key and passive digital key, the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key to operate an electronic lock tongue through an electronic lock control module and an electronic lock switch mechanism to open and close the electronic lock.

[0014] In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes a plurality of electronic keyholes, wherein the plurality of electronic keyholes include at least the active electronic keyhole and at least the passive electronic keyhole. The active electronic keyhole includes at least two active electronic keyhole contact points, and the active electronic key is inserted into the active electronic keyhole. The passive electronic keyhole includes at least two passive electronic keyhole contact points, and the passive electronic key is inserted into the passive electronic keyhole.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first user is the manager of the electronic lock, and the first user uses an active electronic key. The second user is a customer who uses the electronic lock, and the second user uses a passive electronic key. And the electronic lock can only be opened and closed when the first user and the second user are present at the same time and use their respective electronic keys at the same time.

[0016] In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes multiple communication channels, wherein the multiple communication channels include at least one active communication channel for sending active digital keys and active digital key control commands between an active electronic key and the electronic lock, and at least one passive communication channel for sending passive digital keys between a passive electronic key and the electronic lock.

[0017] In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes a plurality of electronic key power ports, wherein the plurality of electronic key power ports include at least one active electronic key power port for receiving power from an active electronic key, and at least one passive electronic key power port for supplying power to a passive electronic key through the electronic lock.

[0018] In some embodiments, the power source includes at least one battery or a rechargeable battery, wherein the rechargeable battery includes at least one of the following batteries: a lead-acid rechargeable battery, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (Li-ion) and a lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) rechargeable battery.

[0019] In some embodiments, the active electronic key further includes an active electronic key charging port for charging a rechargeable battery of the active electronic key.

[0020] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for using a set of electronic keys for operating an electronic lock. In some embodiments, the method comprises the following steps:

[0021] A first user inserts an active electronic key into an active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, wherein the active electronic key has a power source, and the power source supplies power to the electronic lock through an active electronic key power port of the electronic lock through a power module of the active electronic key, and sends an active digital key to the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key;

[0022] When the active electronic key is still inserted in the active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, a second user inserts a passive electronic key into a passive electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, and a power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the electronic lock through a passive electronic key power port of the electronic lock, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock through a passive communication channel of the passive electronic key;

[0023] The electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock to compare the received active digital key and passive digital key with an active digital key and a passive digital key pre-stored in the electronic lock digital key storage module through the active communication channel of the active electronic key;

[0024] When the digital key verification module of the electronic lock determines that the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are the same as the received active digital key and passive digital key, the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key to operate an electronic lock tongue through an electronic lock control module and an electronic lock switch mechanism to open and close the electronic lock.

[0025] In some embodiments, each electronic key includes: an electronic key processor, and an electronic key non-volatile memory. The electronic key non-volatile memory stores an electronic key operating system and electronic key computer executable instructions. The electronic key computer executable instructions also include: an electronic key digital key control module, a digital key storage module, a digital key encryption / decryption module, and a power module.

[0026] In some embodiments, during the process of activating the electronic lock, a first user triggers an electronic lock activation mechanism on the electronic lock, and the digital key control module of the electronic lock sends an activation instruction to the active electronic key and the passive electronic key through the active communication channel and the passive communication channel, respectively, instructing the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key to generate an active digital key of the active electronic key, and the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key to generate a passive digital key of the passive electronic key, and the generated active digital key is stored in the digital key of the active electronic key. In the storage module, the generated passive digital key is stored in the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key, the generated active digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as a pre-stored active digital key, the generated passive digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as a pre-stored passive digital key, the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are used to authenticate the active electronic key and the passive electronic key respectively.

[0027] In some embodiments, the digital key storage module of the active electronic key receives and stores the active digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key, and the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key receives and stores the passive digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key.

[0028] In some embodiments, the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key encrypts the active digital key before the active digital key is sent out, and the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key encrypts the passive digital key before the passive digital key is sent out.

[0029] In some embodiments, the power module of the active electronic key receives power from a power source and supplies power to the electronic lock, and the power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the active electronic key through the electronic lock.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first user is the manager of the electronic lock, and the first user uses an active electronic key. The second user is a customer who uses the electronic lock, and the second user uses a passive electronic key. And the electronic lock can only be opened and closed when the first user and the second user are present at the same time and use their respective electronic keys at the same time.

[0031] In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes a plurality of electronic keyholes, wherein the plurality of electronic keyholes include at least the active electronic keyhole and at least the passive electronic keyhole. The active electronic keyhole includes at least two active electronic keyhole contact points, and the active electronic key is inserted into the active electronic keyhole. The passive electronic keyhole includes at least two passive electronic keyhole contact points, and the passive electronic key 1 is inserted into the passive electronic keyhole.

[0032] In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes multiple communication channels, wherein the multiple communication channels include at least one active communication channel for sending active digital keys and active digital key control commands between an active electronic key and the electronic lock, and at least one passive communication channel for sending passive digital keys between a passive electronic key and the electronic lock.

[0033] In some embodiments, the electronic lock includes a plurality of electronic key power ports, wherein the plurality of electronic key power ports include at least one active electronic key power port for receiving power from an active electronic key, and at least one passive electronic key power port for supplying power to a passive electronic key through the electronic lock.

[0034] In some embodiments, the power source includes at least one battery or a rechargeable battery, wherein the rechargeable battery includes at least one of the following batteries: a lead-acid rechargeable battery, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (Li-ion) and a lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) rechargeable battery.

[0035] In some embodiments, the active electronic key further includes an active electronic key charging port for charging a rechargeable battery of the active electronic key.

[0036] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with the following drawings, but changes and modifications in these and other aspects may be effected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The accompanying drawings illustrate one or more embodiments of the invention and together with the written description serve to explain the principles of the invention. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to represent the same or similar elements in different embodiments. The accompanying drawings do not limit the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but emphasis is placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the invention, and in which:

[0038] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing an electronic lock having an electronic lock and a plurality of electronic keys according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 A perspective view of an electronic lock showing two electronic keys not inserted into an electronic keyhole according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 A perspective view of an electronic lock showing two electronic keys inserted into corresponding electronic keyholes according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 A front view of an electronic key contact surface with a plurality of electronic key contact points is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 5 A block diagram showing an active electronic key according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 A block diagram showing a passive electronic key according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 7 A front view of an electronic lock with two electronic keyholes, each with a plurality of contact points, is shown according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 A block diagram showing a typical electronic lock according to certain embodiments of the present invention;

[0046] Fig. 9 A flow chart of a method for opening an electronic lock using a set of electronic keys is shown according to some embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] The present invention will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the present invention are shown. However, the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Specifically, these embodiments are provided so that the present invention will be thorough and complete, and these embodiments will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Similar reference numerals refer to similar elements throughout.

[0048] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there can be intervening elements therebetween. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0049] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, devices, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, devices, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, device, region, layer or part from another element, device, region, layer or part. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the present invention, the first element, device, region, layer or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, device, region, layer or part.

[0050] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are also intended to include plural forms. It should be further understood that when used herein, the terms "include" or "comprise" or "have" indicate the presence of stated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or devices, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, devices and / or groups thereof.

[0051] In addition, relative terms such as "lower" or "bottom", "upper" or "top", and "front" or "back" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element to another element as shown in the drawings. It should be understood that relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device other than the orientation depicted in the drawings. For example, if the device in a drawing is turned over, then the element described as being on the "lower" side of the other elements will be oriented on the "upper" side of the other elements. Therefore, the exemplary term "lower" may cover both "lower" and "upper" orientations depending on the specific orientation of the drawing. Similarly, if the device in a drawing is turned over, then the element described as being "under" or "below" the other elements will be oriented "above" the other elements. Therefore, the exemplary term "under" or "below" may cover both upper and lower orientations.

[0052] As used herein, the term module may refer to or include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a combinational logic circuit, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a shared, dedicated or combined processor that executes code, and other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality, or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a single-chip computer system. The term module may also include various types of shared, dedicated or combined memory that stores processor executable instructions.

[0053] The term electronic key as used herein is defined as the actual key that operates the electronic lock electronically. An electronic key may include electronic circuits, electronic modules, processors, memory, and many other electronic components. Electronic keys may include active electronic keys and passive electronic keys. Active electronic keys include a power source, such as Figure 5 As shown, the passive electronic key has no power supply, such as Figure 6 shown.

[0054] As used herein, the term digital key is defined as a digital code stored in the actual electronic key that is used by the electronic key to open and close the electronic lock. Active electronic keys can store active digital keys, and passive electronic keys can store passive digital keys. When digital keys are transmitted between the electronic key and the electronic lock, they can be encrypted to increase the security of the electronic lock.

[0055] As described herein, the use of at least one of A, B, and C should be interpreted as a logical AND (A or B or C). One or more steps within a method should be understood to be able to be executed in a different order (or in a conventional manner) without changing the principles of the present invention.

[0056] The term code as used herein may include software, firmware and / or microcode, and may refer to programs, routines, and various software functions, etc. The term "shared" used above means that a single or shared processor may be used to execute some or all of the code from multiple modules. In addition, some or all of the code from multiple modules may be stored by a single or shared memory. The term group used above means that a group of processors may be used to execute some or all of the code in a single module. In addition, some or all of the code in a single module may be stored using a group of memories.

[0057] The apparatus and methods described herein may be implemented by a computer program executed by one or more processors. The computer program includes processor executable instructions stored on a non-volatile computer storage medium. The computer program may also include stored data. Non-volatile computer storage media include, but are not limited to, non-volatile storage media, magnetic storage media, and optical storage media.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms (such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and the present invention, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0059] In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention, but the present invention may also be implemented by using other methods than those described herein, so the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the present invention relates to an electronic lock 10. In some embodiments, the electronic lock 10 includes an electronic lock 100 and a set of electronic keys 200 for the electronic lock 100. In some embodiments, as Figure 1 As shown, the set of electronic keys 200 may include multiple electronic keys 200: a first electronic key 2001, a second electronic key 2002, ..., and an Nth key 200N. When the electronic lock 100 is equipped with N keyholes, then the electronic lock 100 needs to use N different electronic keys at the same time to lock and unlock the electronic lock 100.

[0061] In one embodiment, if Figure 2 As shown, the electronic lock 10 includes an electronic lock 100 and two electronic keys: an active electronic key 2001 and a passive electronic key 2002. In this case, Figure 3 As shown, the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 need to be used simultaneously to lock and unlock the electronic lock 100 .

[0062] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a set of electronic keys 200 for use with an electronic lock 100. In certain embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the set of electronic keys 200 includes: at least one passive electronic key 2002 and at least one active electronic key 2001. Figure 4 As shown, the passive electronic key 2002 has a plurality of electronic key contact points 201, and the active electronic key 2001 also has a plurality of electronic key contact points 201. Figure 6 As shown, the active electronic key 2001 also has a power supply 206. The power supply 206 supplies power to the active electronic key 2001 and the electronic lock 100, and supplies power to the passive electronic key 2002 through the electronic lock 100, so as to operate the electronic lock 100.

[0063] In some embodiments, these electronic key contact points 201 are used to provide power and transmit digital keys between the electronic key 200 and the electronic lock 100. In some embodiments, the electronic key contact points 201 may include at least two electronic key contact points. For an electronic key with two electronic key contact points, one electronic key contact point can be used as a positive power supply, and one electronic key contact point can be used as a ground. These two contact points can also be shared with a communication channel. For an electronic key with three electronic key contact points, one electronic key contact point can be used as a positive power supply, one electronic key contact point can be used as a ground, and one electronic key contact point can be used as a communication channel. In one embodiment, as Figure 4 As shown, the electronic key contact point 201 includes four contact points: the first electronic key contact point 2011, the second electronic key contact point 2012, the third electronic key contact point 2013 and the fourth electronic key contact point 2014. In this embodiment, the first electronic key contact point 2011 and the second electronic key contact point 2012 can be used as a power source, and the third electronic key contact point 2013 and the fourth electronic key contact point 2014 can be used as a communication channel. The electronic key contact point 201 can be added to the electronic key 200 to add different other functions.

[0064] In certain embodiments, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, each electronic key 200 includes: an electronic key processor 202, and an electronic key non-volatile memory 204. The electronic key non-volatile memory 204 stores an electronic key operating system 2042 and an electronic key computer executable instruction 2044. The electronic key computer executable instruction 2044 also includes: an electronic key digital key control module 20442, a digital key storage module 20441, a digital key encryption / decryption module 20443, and a power module 20445.

[0065] In some embodiments, during the process of activating the electronic lock 100, a first user triggers an electronic lock activation mechanism 108 on the electronic lock 100, and the digital key control module 10442 of the electronic lock 100 sends an activation instruction to the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 through the active communication channel 20151 and the passive communication channel 20152, respectively, instructing the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 to generate an active digital key of the active electronic key 2001, and the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the passive electronic key 2002 to generate a passive digital key of the passive electronic key 2002, and the generated active digital key is stored in the active electronic key 2001. The generated passive digital key is stored in the digital key storage module 20441 of the passive electronic key 2002, the generated active digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the active electronic key 2001 and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module 10441 of the electronic lock 100 as the pre-stored active digital key, the generated passive digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the passive electronic key 2002 and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module 10441 of the electronic lock 100 as the pre-stored passive digital key, and the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are used to authenticate the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 respectively.

[0066] In some embodiments, the digital key storage module 20441 of the active electronic key 2001 receives and stores the active digital key from the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001, and the digital key storage module 20441 of the passive electronic key 2002 receives and stores the passive digital key from the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the passive electronic key 2002.

[0067] In some embodiments, the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the active electronic key 2001 encrypts the active digital key before sending it out, and the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the passive electronic key 2002 encrypts the passive digital key before sending it out. In some embodiments, the encryption algorithm may include a three-dimensional data encryption standard (DES) algorithm, a Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) algorithm, a blowfish algorithm, a double fish algorithm, and an advanced encryption standard (AES) algorithm. These encryption algorithms may use one to three private keys, and the length of each private key ranges from 56 bits to 256 bits according to the encryption requirements.

[0068] In some embodiments, the power module 20445 of the active electronic key 2001 receives power from the power source 206 and supplies power to the electronic lock 100, and the power module 20445 of the passive electronic key 2002 receives power from the active electronic key 2001 through the electronic lock 100. In this way, if there is no active electronic key 2001, the electronic lock 100 cannot be locked or unlocked because the active electronic key 2001 supplies power to all electronic keys 200 and the electronic lock 100.

[0069] In some embodiments, when the electronic key computer executable instructions 2044 are executed on the electronic key processor 202, the electronic key computer executable instructions 2044 drive the electronic key processor 202 to complete one or more of the following functions:

[0070] When a first user inserts the active electronic key 2001 into an active electronic keyhole 1011 of the electronic lock 100, the power module 20445 of the active electronic key 2001 supplies power to the electronic lock 100 through an active electronic key power port 20161 of the electronic lock 100, and sends an active digital key to the electronic lock 100 through an active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001;

[0071] When the active electronic key 2001 is still inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011 of the electronic lock 100, and a second user inserts the passive electronic key 2002 into a passive electronic keyhole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, the power module 20445 of the passive electronic key 2002 receives power from the electronic lock 100 through a passive electronic key power port 20162 of the electronic lock 100, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock 100 through a passive communication channel 20152 of the passive electronic key 2002;

[0072] The electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 instructs the electronic lock 100 to compare the received active digital key and passive digital key with an active digital key and a passive digital key pre-stored in the electronic lock digital key storage module 10441 through the active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001;

[0073] When the digital key verification module 10444 of the electronic lock 100 determines that the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are the same as the received active digital key and passive digital key, the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 instructs the electronic lock 100 to operate an electronic lock tongue 1003 through an electronic lock control module 10446 and an electronic lock switch mechanism 106 to open or close the electronic lock 100 through the active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001.

[0074] In some embodiments, when the electronic lock 100 is used in a safe deposit box of a bank, the first user is usually the manager of the electronic lock 100 of the bank, and the first user uses the active electronic key 2001. The second user is a customer who uses the electronic lock 100, and the second user uses the passive electronic key 2002. The opening and closing of the electronic lock 100 can only be performed when the first user and the second user are present at the same time and use their respective electronic keys 200 at the same time.

[0075] In some embodiments, the power source 206 includes at least one battery or a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery includes at least one of the following rechargeable batteries: a lead-acid rechargeable battery, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (Li-ion) and a lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) rechargeable battery. Figure 2 , Figure 3 ,and Figure 7 As shown, the active electronic key 2001 further includes an active electronic key charging port 2017 for charging the rechargeable battery of the active electronic key 1011 .

[0076] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 includes an electronic lock activation mechanism 108. In one embodiment, the electronic lock activation mechanism 108 is a button on one side of the electronic lock 100. Before activation, the electronic lock is in a locked state. When the electronic lock 100 is ready for a new customer, a first user (usually a bank staff member managing a safe deposit box) brings an active electronic key 2001 (held by the first user) and a passive electronic key 2002 (held by the second user) to a second user (usually a customer renting a safe deposit box). When the first user inserts the active electronic key 2001 used to activate the electronic lock 100 into the active electronic key hole 1011 of the electronic lock 100, the second user inserts the passive electronic key 2002 into the passive electronic key hole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, and the first user presses the button, and the digital key control module 10442 of the electronic lock 10442 sends a digital key activation instruction to each active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 through the communication channel 2015. In response to the digital key activation command received from the electronic lock 100, the active electronic key 2001 generates an active digital key and stores the generated active digital key in the digital key storage module 20441 of the active electronic key 2001, and the passive electronic key 2002 generates a passive digital key and stores the generated passive digital key in the digital key storage module 20441 of the passive electronic key 2002. At the end of the activation process, the active digital key and the passive digital key are encrypted and transmitted to the digital key storage module 10441 of the electronic lock 100 for storage as the pre-stored active digital key and the pre-stored passive digital key for authentication of the electronic key 200.

[0077] In certain embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the electronic lock 100 includes a plurality of communication channels 2015, wherein the plurality of communication channels 2015 include at least one active communication channel 20151 for transmitting an active digital key and an active digital key control command between an active electronic key 2001 and the electronic lock 100, and at least one passive communication channel 20152 for transmitting a passive digital key between a passive electronic key 2002 and the electronic lock 100.

[0078] In certain embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the electronic lock 100 includes a plurality of electronic key power ports 2016 , wherein the plurality of electronic key power ports 2016 include at least one active electronic key power port 20161 for receiving power from an active electronic key 2001 , and at least one passive electronic key power port 20162 for supplying power to a passive electronic key 2002 through the electronic lock 100 .

[0079] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 includes a plurality of electronic keyholes 101. When the electronic lock 100 has three electronic keyholes, the electronic lock 100 can be locked and unlocked by three authorized persons, one with an active electronic key and the other two with passive electronic keys. Figure 2 As shown, the plurality of electronic keyholes 101 at least include the active electronic keyhole 1011 and at least include the passive electronic keyhole 1012. The active electronic keyhole 1011 includes at least two active electronic keyhole contact points 10111, and the active electronic key 2001 is inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011. The passive electronic keyhole 1012 includes at least two passive electronic keyhole contact points 10121, and the passive electronic key 2002 is inserted into the passive electronic keyhole 1012.

[0080] In a certain embodiment, the active electronic keyhole 1011 has two active electronic keyhole contact points 10111: an active electronic keyhole first contact point 101111, and an active electronic keyhole second contact point 101112. The passive electronic keyhole 1012 also has two passive electronic keyhole contact points 10121: a passive electronic keyhole first contact point 101211, and a passive electronic keyhole second contact point 101212. In certain embodiments, the active electronic keyhole first contact point 101111 and the active electronic keyhole second contact point 101112 form an active electronic key power port 20161 and a shared active communication channel 20151. The passive electronic keyhole first contact point 101211 and the passive electronic keyhole second contact point 101212 form a passive electronic key power port 20162 and a shared passive communication channel 20152.

[0081] In a certain embodiment, the active electronic keyhole 1011 has three active electronic keyhole contact points 10111: an active electronic keyhole first contact point 101111, an active electronic keyhole second contact point 101112, and an active electronic keyhole third contact point 101113. The passive electronic keyhole 1012 also has three passive electronic keyhole contact points 10121: a passive electronic keyhole first contact point 101211, a passive electronic keyhole second contact point 101212, and a passive electronic keyhole third contact point 101213. In certain embodiments, the active electronic keyhole first contact point 101111 and the active electronic keyhole second contact point 101112 form an active electronic key power port 20161, and the active electronic keyhole second contact point 101112 (common contact point) and the active electronic keyhole third contact point 101113 form an active communication channel 20151. The passive electronic keyhole first contact point 101211 and the passive electronic keyhole second contact point 101212 form a passive electronic key power port 20162 , and the passive electronic keyhole second contact point 101212 (common contact point) and the passive electronic keyhole third contact point 101213 form a passive communication channel 20152 .

[0082] In certain embodiments, Figure 7 As shown, the active electronic keyhole 1011 has four active electronic keyhole contact points 10111: a first active electronic keyhole contact point 101111, a second active electronic keyhole contact point 101112, a third active electronic keyhole contact point 101113, and a fourth active electronic keyhole contact point 101114. The passive electronic keyhole 1012 also has four passive electronic keyhole contact points 10121: a first passive electronic keyhole contact point 101211, a second passive electronic keyhole contact point 101212, a third passive electronic keyhole contact point 101213, and a fourth passive electronic keyhole contact point 101214. In some embodiments, the active electronic keyhole first contact point 101111 and the active electronic keyhole second contact point 101112 form an active electronic key power port 20161, and the active electronic keyhole third contact point 101113 and the active electronic keyhole fourth contact point 101114 form an active communication channel 20151. The passive electronic keyhole first contact point 101211 and the passive electronic keyhole second contact point 101212 form a passive electronic key power port 20162, and the passive electronic keyhole third contact point 101213 and the passive electronic keyhole fourth contact point 101214 form a passive communication channel 20152.

[0083] When the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 are respectively inserted into the corresponding active electronic keyhole 1011 and passive electronic keyhole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, the four active electronic keyhole contact points 10111 and the four passive electronic keyhole contact points 10121 are respectively connected to the four corresponding electronic key contact points 201: the first electronic key contact point 2011, the second electronic key contact point 2012, the third electronic key contact point 2013 and the fourth electronic key contact point 2014. In this embodiment, the first electronic key contact point 2011 and the second electronic key contact point 2012 can be used as power supply, and the third electronic key contact point 2013 and the fourth electronic key contact point 2014 can be used as communication channels.

[0084] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 receives power through the active electronic key power port 20161. The electronic lock 100 provides power to the passive electronic key 2002 through the passive electronic key power port 20162. The electronic lock 100 receives an active digital key from the active electronic key 2001 through the active communication channel 20151, and receives a passive digital key from the passive electronic key 2002 through the passive communication channel 20152.

[0085] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 includes an electronic locking mechanism 106 controlled by an electronic lock control module 10446. Once the digital key authentication module 10444 determines that the active digital key received from the active electronic key 2001 and the passive digital key received from the passive electronic key 2002 are respectively the same as the active digital key and the passive digital key pre-stored in the digital key storage module 10441, the electronic lock control module 10446 issues an electronic locking control instruction to lock and unlock the electronic lock 100. The electronic locking mechanism 106 includes an electronic lock tongue 1003. When the electronic lock 100 is unlocked, the electronic lock tongue 1003 is in a retracted state, and when the electronic lock 100 is locked, the electronic lock tongue 1003 is in an extended state.

[0086] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method of using a set of electronic keys 200 for operating an electronic lock 100 .

[0087] In certain embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the electronic lock 10 includes an electronic lock 100 and a set of electronic keys 200. The set of electronic keys 200 may include N electronic keys: a first electronic key 2001, a second electronic key 2002, ..., and an Nth electronic key 200N. When the electronic lock 100 is equipped with N electronic keyholes, all N electronic keys need to be used simultaneously to lock and unlock the electronic lock 100. Figure 2As shown, in one embodiment, the electronic lock 10 includes an electronic lock 100 and two electronic keys: an active electronic key 2001 and a passive electronic key 2002. In this case, Figure 3 As shown, the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 need to be used simultaneously and inserted into the corresponding active electronic keyhole 1011 and the passive electronic keyhole 1012 to operate the locking and unlocking of the electronic lock 100 .

[0088] In some embodiments, the method includes the following steps:

[0089] A first user inserts an active electronic key 2001 into an active electronic keyhole 1011 of the electronic lock 100, wherein the active electronic key 2001 has a power supply 206, and the power supply 206 supplies power to the electronic lock 100 through an active electronic key power port 20161 of the electronic lock 100 via a power module 20445 of the active electronic key 2001, and sends an active digital key to the electronic lock 100 via an active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001;

[0090] When the active electronic key 2001 is still inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011 of the electronic lock 100, a second user inserts a passive electronic key 2002 into a passive electronic keyhole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, and the power module 20445 of the passive electronic key 2002 receives power from the electronic lock 100 through a passive electronic key power port 20162 of the electronic lock 100, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock 100 through a passive communication channel 20152 of the passive electronic key 2002;

[0091] The electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 instructs the electronic lock 100 to compare the received active digital key and passive digital key with an active digital key and a passive digital key pre-stored in the electronic lock digital key storage module 10441 through the active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001;

[0092] When the digital key verification module 10444 of the electronic lock 100 determines that the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are the same as the received active digital key and passive digital key, the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 instructs the electronic lock 100 to operate an electronic lock tongue 1003 through an electronic lock control module 10446 and an electronic lock switch mechanism 106 to open or close the electronic lock 100 through the active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001.

[0093] In some embodiments, each electronic key 200 includes: an electronic key processor 202, and an electronic key non-volatile memory 204. The electronic key non-volatile memory 204 stores an electronic key operating system 2042 and electronic key computer executable instructions 2044. The electronic key computer executable instructions 2044 also include: an electronic key digital key control module 20442, a digital key storage module 20441, a digital key encryption / decryption module 20443, and a power module 20445.

[0094] In some embodiments, during the process of activating the electronic lock 100, the first user triggers an electronic lock activation mechanism 108 on the electronic lock 100, and the digital key control module 10442 of the electronic lock 100 sends an activation instruction to the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 through the active communication channel 20151 and the passive communication channel 20152, respectively, instructing the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 to generate an active digital key of the active electronic key 2001, and the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the passive electronic key 2002 to generate a passive digital key of the passive electronic key 2002, and the generated active digital key is stored in the active electronic key 2001. In the digital key storage module 20441, the generated passive digital key is stored in the digital key storage module 20441 of the passive electronic key 2002, the generated active digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the active electronic key 2001 and transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module 10441 of the electronic lock 100 as a pre-stored active digital key, and the generated passive digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the passive electronic key 2002 and transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module 10441 of the electronic lock 100 as a pre-stored passive digital key. The pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are used to authenticate the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 respectively.

[0095] In some embodiments, the digital key storage module 20441 of the active electronic key 2001 receives and stores the active digital key from the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001, and the digital key storage module 20441 of the passive electronic key 2002 receives and stores the passive digital key from the electronic key digital key control module 20442 of the passive electronic key 2002.

[0096] In some embodiments, the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the active electronic key 2001 encrypts the active digital key before sending it out, and the digital key encryption / decryption module 20443 of the passive electronic key 2002 encrypts the passive digital key before sending it out. In some embodiments, the encryption algorithm may include a three-dimensional data encryption standard (DES) algorithm, a Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) algorithm, a blowfish algorithm, a double fish algorithm, and an advanced encryption standard (AES) algorithm. These encryption algorithms may use one to three private keys, and the length of each private key ranges from 56 bits to 256 bits according to the encryption requirements.

[0097] In some embodiments, the power module 20445 of the active electronic key 2001 receives power from the power source 206 and supplies power to the electronic lock 100, and the power module 20445 of the passive electronic key 2002 receives power from the active electronic key 2001 through the electronic lock 100. In this way, if there is no active electronic key 2001, the electronic lock 100 cannot be locked or unlocked because the active electronic key 2001 supplies power to all electronic keys 200 and the electronic lock 100.

[0098] In some embodiments, the first user is usually the manager of the electronic lock 100, and the first user uses the active electronic key 2001. The second user is usually a customer who uses the electronic lock 100, and the second user uses the passive electronic key 2002. The operation of the electronic lock 100 can only be performed when the first user and the second user are present at the same time and use their respective electronic keys 200 at the same time.

[0099] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 includes a plurality of electronic keyholes 101, wherein the plurality of electronic keyholes 101 include at least the active electronic keyhole 1011 and at least the passive electronic keyhole 1012. The active electronic keyhole 1011 includes at least two active electronic keyhole contact points 10111, and the active electronic key 2001 is inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011. The passive electronic keyhole 1012 includes at least two passive electronic keyhole contact points 10121, and the passive electronic key 2002 is inserted into the passive electronic keyhole 1012.

[0100] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 includes a plurality of communication channels 2015, wherein the plurality of communication channels 2015 include at least one active communication channel 20151 for transmitting an active digital key and an active digital key control command between an active electronic key 2001 and the electronic lock 100, and at least one passive communication channel 20152 for transmitting a passive digital key between a passive electronic key 2002 and the electronic lock 100.

[0101] In some embodiments, the electronic lock 100 includes a plurality of electronic key power ports 2016 , wherein the plurality of electronic key power ports 2016 include at least one active electronic key power port 20161 for receiving power from an active electronic key 2001 , and at least one passive electronic key power port 20162 for supplying power to a passive electronic key 2002 through the electronic lock 100 .

[0102] In some embodiments, the power source 206 includes at least one battery or a rechargeable battery, wherein the rechargeable battery includes at least one of the following batteries: a lead-acid rechargeable battery, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (Li-ion) and a lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) rechargeable battery.

[0103] In some embodiments, the active electronic key 2001 further includes an active electronic key charging port 2017 for charging a rechargeable battery of the active electronic key 1011 .

[0104] Fig. 9 A flow chart of a method 900 of opening an electronic lock using a set of electronic keys is shown according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0105] At block 902, the first user inserts an active electronic key 2001 into an active electronic keyhole 1011 of the electronic lock 100. The active electronic key 2001 is equipped with a power supply 206, which supplies power to the electronic lock 100 through the active electronic key power port 20161. In addition, the active electronic key 2001 sends an active digital key to the electronic lock 100 through the active communication channel 20151. Since the active electronic key 2001 provides power for the entire electronic lock 10, the electronic lock 10 will not work properly without the active electronic key 2001. Typically, the first user is a bank employee who is responsible for managing the safe where the electronic lock 100 is installed.

[0106] In block 904, when the active electronic key 2001 is still inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011 of the electronic lock 100, the second user inserts a passive electronic key 2002 into the passive electronic key keyhole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, and the passive electronic key 2002 receives power from the electronic lock 100 through the power module 20445 of the passive electronic key 2002 and the passive electronic key power port 20162, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock 100 through the passive communication channel 20152. Since the passive electronic key 2002 has no power, the passive electronic key 2002 alone cannot operate the electronic lock 100 on the electronic lock 10. Usually, the second user is a customer who rents a safe with the electronic lock 100 installed.

[0107] In block 906, once the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 are respectively inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011 and the passive electronic keyhole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, the active electronic key 2001, the passive electronic key 2002, and the electronic lock 100 are all powered by the power supply 206 of the active electronic key 2001. A digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 sends an active digital key control instruction to the electronic lock 100 through the active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001, instructing the electronic lock 100 to compare the received active source digital key and the received passive digital key (the first set of digital keys) with a pre-stored active source digital key and a pre-stored passive digital key (the second set of digital keys) stored in the digital key storage module 10441 of the electronic lock 100;

[0108] In the query box 908, when the active electronic key 2001 and the passive electronic key 2002 are still inserted into the active electronic keyhole 1011 and the passive electronic keyhole 1012 of the electronic lock 100, respectively, the digital key control module 20442 of the active electronic key 2001 sends another active digital key control instruction to the electronic lock 100 through the active communication channel 20151 of the active electronic key 2001, instructing the digital key authentication module 10444 of the electronic lock 100 to determine whether the first group of digital keys (the received active source digital key and the received passive digital key) and the second group of digital keys (the pre-stored active source digital key and the pre-stored passive digital key) are the same; if the first group of digital keys are respectively the same as the second group of digital keys, the method will continue to enter the box 910 to perform the required operation on the electronic lock 100. Otherwise, the method 900 will end.

[0109] In block 910, when the digital key authentication module 10444 of the electronic lock 100 determines that the first set of digital keys is the same as the second set of digital keys, the electronic lock control module 10446 of the electronic lock 100 sends a control instruction to the electronic lock switch mechanism 106, and the electronic lock 100 operates the electronic lock tongue 1003 through the electronic lock switch mechanism 106 to open or lock the electronic lock 100. When the electronic lock 100 is opened, the electronic lock tongue 1003 is in a retracted state, and when the electronic lock 100 is locked, the electronic lock tongue 1003 is in an extended state.

[0110] The above description of various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is only used to demonstrate and state part of the present invention, and the above description does not represent exhaustiveness, nor can the present invention be limited to the specific or precise form disclosed. Based on the above description and demonstration, many modifications and changes are entirely possible.

[0111] The embodiments are chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, so as to enable those skilled in the art to utilize the invention and the various embodiments with various modifications as are suitable for the particular use contemplated. Alternative embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention relates without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, the foregoing description and the exemplary embodiments described therein and the accompanying drawings.

Claims

1. A set of electronic keys for electronic locks, including: at least one passive electronic key, wherein the passive electronic key has a plurality of electronic key contact points; at least one active electronic key, wherein the active electronic key has a plurality of electronic key contact points and a power source, wherein the power supply supplies power to the active electronic key and the electronic lock, and supplies power to the passive electronic key through the electronic lock to operate the electronic lock; Each electronic key includes: An electronic key processor, and an electronic key non-volatile memory, wherein the electronic key non-volatile memory stores an electronic key operating system and electronic key computer executable instructions, wherein the electronic key computer executable instructions further include: An electronic key digital key control module, during the process of activating the electronic lock, a first user triggers an electronic lock activation mechanism on the electronic lock, and the electronic lock digital key control module sends an activation instruction to the active electronic key and the passive electronic key through the active communication channel and the passive communication channel, respectively, instructing the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key to generate an active digital key of the active electronic key, and the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key to generate a passive digital key of the passive electronic key, and the generated active digital key is stored in the active electronic key In the digital key storage module, the generated passive digital key is stored in the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key, the generated active digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as a pre-stored active digital key, the generated passive digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as a pre-stored passive digital key, the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are used to authenticate the active electronic key and the passive electronic key respectively; A digital key storage module, wherein the digital key storage module of the active electronic key receives and stores the active digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key, and the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key receives and stores the passive digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key. Code key; a digital key encryption / decryption module, wherein the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key encrypts the active digital key before it is sent out, and the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key encrypts the passive digital key before it is sent out; and A power module, wherein the power module of the active electronic key receives power from the power source and supplies power to the electronic lock, and the power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the active electronic key through the electronic lock.

2. The electronic key according to claim 1, wherein when the electronic key computer executable instruction is executed on the electronic key processor, the electronic key computer executable instruction drives the electronic key processor to complete one or more of the following functions: When the first user inserts the active electronic key into an active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, the power module of the active electronic key supplies power to the electronic lock through an active electronic key power port of the electronic lock, and sends an active digital key to the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key; When the active electronic key is still inserted in the active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, and a second user inserts the passive electronic key into a passive electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, the power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the electronic lock through a passive electronic key power port of the electronic lock, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock through a passive communication channel of the passive electronic key; The electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock to compare the received active digital key and passive digital key with an active digital key and a passive digital key pre-stored in the electronic lock digital key storage module through the active communication channel of the active electronic key; When the digital key verification module of the electronic lock determines that the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are the same as the received active digital key and passive digital key, the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key to operate an electronic lock tongue through an electronic lock control module and an electronic lock switch mechanism to open and close the electronic lock.

3. The electronic key according to claim 2, wherein the electronic lock comprises a plurality of electronic keyholes, wherein the plurality of electronic keyholes at least comprise the active electronic keyhole and at least comprise the passive electronic keyhole, wherein the active electronic keyhole comprises at least two active electronic keyhole contact points, the active electronic key is inserted into the active electronic keyhole, and the passive electronic keyhole comprises at least two passive electronic keyhole contact points, the passive electronic key is inserted into the passive electronic keyhole.

4. The electronic key according to claim 2, wherein the first user is the manager of the electronic lock and uses an active electronic key, the second user is a customer who uses the electronic lock and uses a passive electronic key, and the electronic lock can only be opened and closed when the first user and the second user are present at the same time and use their respective electronic keys at the same time.

5. The electronic key according to claim 2, wherein the electronic lock comprises a plurality of communication channels, wherein the plurality of communication channels include at least one active communication channel for transmitting an active digital key and an active digital key control command between the active electronic key and the electronic lock, and at least one passive communication channel for transmitting a passive digital key between the passive electronic key and the electronic lock.

6. The electronic key according to claim 2, wherein the electronic lock comprises a plurality of electronic key power ports, wherein the plurality of electronic key power ports include at least one active electronic key power port for receiving power from an active electronic key, and at least one passive electronic key power port for supplying power to a passive electronic key through the electronic lock.

7. The electronic key according to claim 1, wherein the power source comprises at least a battery or a rechargeable battery.

8. The electronic key according to claim 7, wherein the rechargeable battery comprises at least one of the following batteries: a lead-acid rechargeable battery, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (Li-ion) and a lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) rechargeable battery.

9. The electronic key according to claim 7, wherein the active electronic key further comprises an active electronic key charging port for charging a rechargeable battery of the active electronic key.

10. A method for using a set of electronic keys for operating an electronic lock, comprising: A first user inserts an active electronic key into an active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, wherein the active electronic key has a power source, and the power source supplies power to the electronic lock through an active electronic key power port of the electronic lock through a power module of the active electronic key, and sends an active digital key to the electronic lock through an active communication channel of the active electronic key; When the active electronic key is still inserted in the active electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, a second user inserts a passive electronic key into a passive electronic keyhole of the electronic lock, and a power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the electronic lock through a passive electronic key power port of the electronic lock, and sends a passive digital key to the electronic lock through a passive communication channel of the passive electronic key; The electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock to compare the received active digital key and passive digital key with an active digital key and a passive digital key pre-stored in the electronic lock digital key storage module through the active communication channel of the active electronic key; When the digital key verification module of the electronic lock determines that the pre-stored active digital key and the passive digital key are the same as the received active digital key and the passive digital key, the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key instructs the electronic lock to operate an electronic lock tongue through an electronic lock control module and an electronic lock switch mechanism to open and close the electronic lock through the active communication channel of the active electronic key; The first user is the manager of the electronic lock and uses an active electronic key, the second user is a customer of the electronic lock and uses a passive electronic key, and the electronic lock can only be switched on and off when the first user and the second user are present at the same time and use their respective electronic keys at the same time.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein each electronic key of the set of electronic keys comprises: An electronic key processor, and an electronic key non-volatile memory, wherein the electronic key non-volatile memory stores an electronic key operating system and electronic key computer executable instructions, wherein the electronic key computer executable instructions further include: The electronic key digital key control module, in the process of activating the electronic lock, the first user triggers an electronic lock activation mechanism on the electronic lock, the electronic lock digital key control module sends an activation instruction to the active electronic key and the passive electronic key through the active communication channel and the passive communication channel respectively, instructing the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key to generate an active digital key of the active electronic key, and the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key to generate a passive digital key of the passive electronic key, and the generated active digital key is stored in the digital key of the active electronic key. The generated passive digital key is stored in the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key, the generated active digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as the pre-stored active digital key, the generated passive digital key is encrypted by the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key and then transmitted to the electronic lock digital key storage module of the electronic lock as the pre-stored passive digital key, the pre-stored active digital key and passive digital key are used to authenticate the active electronic key and the passive electronic key respectively; A digital key storage module, wherein the digital key storage module of the active electronic key receives and stores the active digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the active electronic key, and the digital key storage module of the passive electronic key receives and stores the passive digital key from the electronic key digital key control module of the passive electronic key. Code key; a digital key encryption / decryption module, wherein the digital key encryption / decryption module of the active electronic key encrypts the active digital key before it is sent out, and the digital key encryption / decryption module of the passive electronic key encrypts the passive digital key before it is sent out; and The power module, wherein the power module of the active electronic key receives power from the power source and supplies power to the electronic lock, and the power module of the passive electronic key receives power from the active electronic key through the electronic lock.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein the electronic lock has a plurality of electronic keyholes, wherein the plurality of electronic keyholes at least include the active electronic keyhole and the passive electronic keyhole.

13. The method according to claim 10, wherein the active electronic keyhole comprises at least two active electronic keyhole contact points, the active electronic key is inserted into the active electronic keyhole, and the passive electronic keyhole comprises at least two passive electronic keyhole contact points, the passive electronic key is inserted into the passive electronic keyhole.

14. The method according to claim 10, wherein the electronic lock comprises a plurality of communication channels, wherein the plurality of communication channels include at least one active communication channel for transmitting an active digital key and an active digital key control command between an active electronic key and the electronic lock, and at least one passive communication channel for transmitting a passive digital key between a passive electronic key and the electronic lock.

15. The method according to claim 10, wherein the electronic lock comprises a plurality of electronic key power ports, wherein the plurality of electronic key power ports include at least one active electronic key power port for receiving power from an active electronic key, and at least one passive electronic key power port for supplying power to a passive electronic key through the electronic lock.

16. The method of claim 10, wherein the power source comprises at least one battery or a rechargeable battery.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the rechargeable battery comprises at least one of the following batteries: a lead-acid rechargeable battery, a nickel-cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable battery, a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (Li-ion) and a lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer) rechargeable battery.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the active electronic key further comprises an active electronic key charging port for charging a rechargeable battery of the active electronic key.

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