Manual electronic latch

Abstract

An electronically controlled, manually actuated deadbolt lock is provided. The electronically controlled, manually actuated deadbolt lock includes a coupling mechanism actuated by an internal spring that is placed in an engaged position when a user is authenticated, which allows the bolt to move to a locked or unlocked position in response to manual rotation of an external bezel. Because the bolt is manually driven, conditions of door warping can be overcome. Moreover, because the bolt is manually actuated, operation of the motor can be reduced, which can extend battery life.

Description

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a PCT International Patent Application claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 125,722, filed December 15, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of electronic locks. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and method for providing electronic control of a manually actuated deadbolt lock. BACKGROUND

[0004] Electronic locks are increasingly accepted for the many benefits they provide and are widely used in both residential and commercial markets. One benefit to the user is the convenience of not needing a key to open the door. For example, an electronic lock can have a keypad or other device that enables a user to provide an electronic code that, when verified, enables a motor to retract or extend a deadbolt.

[0005] Sometimes, due to long-term use, temperature changes, and / or humidity, a door can develop a warp condition. When this occurs, the door can not close properly and / or the deadbolt can not properly align with an opening in a strike plate located in a jamb near the door. As a result, an electronic deadbolt that uses a motor to retract or extend the deadbolt can not overcome the door warp condition and the deadbolt can not fully extend into the opening to place the door in a locked condition. Alternatively or additionally, the motor can exert additional force in an attempt to overcome the door warp condition to lock or unlock the deadbolt, which can shorten the battery life of the electronic lock. SUMMARY

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to an electronically controlled, manually actuated deadbolt lock. The electronically controlled, manually actuated deadbolt lock includes an internal spring-actuated coupling mechanism that is placed in an engaged position after a user is verified (e.g., enters a correct code or other security token into a keypad of the lock, receives a biometric input, or receives a radio frequency identification (RFID) signal), which engaged position allows a bolt to move to a locked position or an unlocked position in response to manual rotation of an external handle. Because the bolt is manually driven, no additional electrical energy from a motor is needed to overcome a door warp condition. Moreover, operation of the motor is reduced when the bolt is manually actuated, which can extend battery life.

[0007] In a first aspect, an electronically controlled, manually actuated lock is provided, wherein the electronic lock comprises: a motor; an actuation spindle that is actuatable by the motor and arranged to rotate about a first axis in response to actuation of the motor, the actuation spindle comprising a drive pin that is engaged with a drive spring such that as the actuation spindle rotates, a position of the drive spring relative to the drive pin changes along the first axis between a neutral position and a bias position; a strike plate assembly arranged to rotate about a second axis and comprising a strike plate that is rotatably coupled to a sleeve within which a hole is defined, the hole being operably engageable with a pin that is movable between an engaged position in which the pin is partially within and extends through the hole and is received in a recess defined in a coupler, and a disengaged position in which the pin is disengaged from the coupler; a flange at least partially surrounding the strike plate assembly, the pin, and the drive spring, the flange being engageable with the drive spring at least when the drive spring is in the bias position, the flange being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein when the drive spring is in the neutral position, the flange remains in the first position; when the drive spring is in the bias position, the flange is biased toward the second position; and biasing the flange toward the second position compresses the actuation spring, which urges the pin toward the engaged position; a latch assembly comprising: a latch pin that is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; and a torque tab that is rotatably coupled to the coupler and drivably coupled to the latch pin, wherein when the pin is in the engaged position, manual rotation of the strike plate about the second axis rotates the torque tab about the second axis and drives the latch pin from the locked position to the unlocked position or from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0008] In another aspect, a method for operating an electronically controlled, manually actuated lock is provided, the method comprising initiating, via control circuitry, a motor to rotate an actuation spindle about a first axis in response to receiving a valid user credential input, the actuation spindle comprising a drive pin that is engaged with a drive spring to move the drive spring along the first axis from a neutral position to a bias position, wherein movement of the drive spring to the bias position biases a movable flange from a first position to a second position; biasing the flange to the second position compresses an actuation spring, which urges a pin toward an engaged position, wherein in the engaged position, the pin is engaged with a strike plate assembly and a coupler that is rotatably coupled to a torque tab that is further drivably coupled to a latch pin; and in response to receiving manual rotation of a strike plate included in the strike plate assembly about a second axis, rotating the torque tab about the second axis and driving the latch pin to a locked position or an unlocked position.

[0009] In another aspect, a locking assembly for use on a door separating an exterior space from a secure space is provided, the locking assembly comprising: an electronically actuated mechanism comprising a motor for actuating an engagement mechanism to drivably couple a shutter assembly to a latch assembly via a coupling mechanism, the engagement mechanism comprising: an actuation spindle comprising a drive pin, wherein the actuation spindle is arranged to rotate about a first axis in response to actuation of the motor; and the drive pin is configured to engage with a transmission spring and bias the transmission spring along the first axis between a neutral position and a biased position relative to the drive pin upon rotation of the actuation spindle; and a flange engageable with the transmission spring at least when the transmission spring is in the biased position, the flange being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein the flange is biased towards the second position when the transmission spring is in the biased position; the coupling mechanism comprising: an actuation spring engageable with the flange, wherein the actuation spring is uncompressed when the flange is in the first position and compressed when the flange is biased towards the second position; a pin engageable with the actuation spring and movable between a disengaged position and an engaged position, wherein the pin is moved to the engaged position when the actuation spring is compressed; and a coupler drivably coupled to the latch assembly, the coupler defining a recess therein, the recess being dimensioned to receive the pin; wherein the coupler receives the pin when the pin is in the engaged position; a shutter assembly comprising: a shutter arranged to rotate about a second axis; and a sleeve rotatably coupled to the shutter and defining a bore therein engageable with the pin; wherein the pin is partially located within and extends through the bore and is received in the recess defined in the coupler when the pin is in the engaged position, and the pin is disengaged from the coupler when the pin is in the disengaged position; and a latch assembly comprising: a latch pin movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; a latch spindle configured to drive the latch pin to move between the locked position and the unlocked position; and a torque tab rotatably coupled to the coupler and drivably coupled to the latch spindle, wherein manual rotation of the shutter about the second axis when the pin is in the engaged position rotates the torque tab about the second axis and causes the latch spindle to drive the latch pin to move from the locked position to the unlocked position or from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0010] The purpose of this section is to introduce some concepts that will be further described in the "DETAILED DESCRIPTION" section below. This section is not intended to determine key or essential features of the subject matter claimed or limit the scope of the subject matter claimed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The following drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and are not limiting of the present disclosure. The drawings are not drawn to scale and should be used in conjunction with the explanations below to understand the exemplary embodiments. Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below in conjunction with the drawings, in which like numbered components throughout the drawings can refer to like components.

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary electronic lock of one embodiment is shown;

[0013] Figure 2A A perspective view of an exemplary electronic lock mounted on a door is shown;

[0014] Figure 2B A perspective view of a portion of the exterior assembly of an exemplary electronic lock is shown;

[0015] Figure 2C A partially exploded perspective view of a portion of the interior assembly of an exemplary electronic lock, a bolt assembly, and a portion of a strike assembly is shown;

[0016] Figure 3 A side view of an exemplary electronic lock mounted on a door is shown;

[0017] Figure 4 A front perspective view of the interior assembly of an exemplary electronic lock and a rear perspective view of a portion of the exterior assembly are shown;

[0018] Figure 5 A front perspective view of the exterior assembly of an exemplary electronic lock and a rear perspective view of a portion of the interior assembly are shown;

[0019] Figure 6A An exploded perspective view of the strike assembly of an exemplary electronic lock is shown;

[0020] Figure 6B A cross-sectional view of the strike assembly of an exemplary electronic lock is shown;

[0021] Figure 7A An exploded view of the internal components of the exterior assembly as viewed from the front of an exemplary electronic lock is shown;

[0022] Figure 7B An exploded view of the internal components of the exterior assembly as viewed from the rear of an exemplary electronic lock is shown;

[0023] Figure 8A A front view of the strike assembly and the mechanical lock assembly of an exemplary electronic lock is shown;

[0024] Figure 8B A rear view of the strike assembly of Figure 8A is shown, wherein the strike assembly is operably connected to an adapter;

[0025] Figure 9 A front perspective view of a baffle assembly and adapter of Figure 8A A front perspective view of a baffle assembly and adapter of 8B A front perspective view of a baffle assembly and adapter of A front perspective view of a baffle assembly and adapter of

[0026] A front perspective view of a baffle assembly and adapter of Figure 10 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0027] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 11 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0028] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 12 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0029] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 13 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0030] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 14 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0031] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 15 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0032] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 16A A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0033] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 16B A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0034] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 17A A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0035] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 17B A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0036] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 18 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0037] A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 19 A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state Figure 2A A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state A rear view of internal mechanisms of an example electronic lock in an unengaged state

[0038] Several embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same parts and components in the various views. References to various embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention, which is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, any examples set forth in this specification are not limiting, but are merely illustrative of some of the many possible embodiments of the claimed invention.

[0039] As briefly described above, the present invention generally relates to providing an electronically controlled, manually actuated latch lock. According to one aspect, the electronic lock includes an externally located rotatable baffle configured to selectively manually actuate the latch into a locked or unlocked position. Unlike existing electronic locks that include a transmission mechanism, a clutch mechanism, and a preload mechanism, the disclosed electronic lock includes an internally spring-actuated coupling mechanism that is placed in an engaged position when the user is verified by a verification method. With the spring-actuated coupling mechanism in the engaged position, manual rotation of the external baffle can actuate the latch into the locked or unlocked position. The embodiments described herein illustrate an electronic lock capable of overcoming door warping and extending battery life.

[0040] The term "lock" or "locking device" broadly encompasses any type of lock, including but not limited to bolt locks, knob locks, lever handle locks, mortise locks, and slide locks, whether these locks are mechanical, electric, or electromechanical. Locking points can have various mounting configurations and / or locations, including but not limited to: tenoned within the door frame, mounted outside the door frame or supporting structure, and / or directly fixed to the door. Although this disclosure illustrates these features by way of example implementation on an electronic bolt lock, these features apply to any type of lock, including but not limited to bolt locks, knob locks, handle locks, etc.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating a schematic representation of an exemplary electronic lock 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The illustrative representations provided are intended to simplify and facilitate the discussion of the functional relationships between the components of the electronic lock 100. Reference can also be made to Figure 2-17, which provides various perspective views of the electronic lock 100 to illustrate the assembly and mating relationships of these components. Figures 2A-2CAs shown, the electronic lock 100 is configured to be installed on a door 202. The door 202 can be an exterior entry door or an interior door and has an interior side 206 and an exterior side 208. For example, for an exterior entry door 202, the exterior side 208 can be outside of a building and the interior side 206 can be inside of the building. For an interior door 202, the exterior side 208 can be inside of a building but can refer to outside of a room that is protected by the electronic lock 100, and the interior side 206 can refer to inside of the protected room. The electronic lock 100 generally includes an interior assembly 210, an exterior assembly 212, and a latch assembly 160. Typically, the interior assembly 210 is installed on the interior side 206 of the door 202 and the exterior assembly 212 is installed on the exterior side 208 of the door 202.

[0042] As described below, the interior assembly 210 generally houses the internal components of the interior assembly 210 and includes a mechanical actuation mechanism 130 embodied as a turnpiece 132 that can be rotated by a user to manually operate the latch assembly 160. The exterior assembly 212 generally includes an electronic actuation mechanism 110, an engagement mechanism 120, a coupling mechanism 150, a mechanical actuation mechanism 130 embodied as a strike plate assembly 140, and a mechanical actuation mechanism 130 embodied as a lock cylinder 134.

[0043] The latch assembly 160 is best shown in Figure 2C and Figure 5 The latch assembly 160 generally includes a torque blade 162, a latch bolt 166 that extends to a locked position and retracts to an unlocked position, and a latch shaft 164 that connects the torque blade 162 to the latch bolt 166. As shown in the partial exploded perspective view in Figure 2C , the latch assembly 160 is at least partially installed in a hole 214 formed in the door 202 and is designed to be manually actuated by the mechanical actuation mechanism 130 to extend and retract the latch bolt 166. The latch assembly 160 is at least partially housed in an adapter 402 (as shown in Figure 4 , 7A , 7B, and 9) that defines a recessed area for the internal components. The latch assembly 160 can include a housing 216 that carries the extendable / retractable latch bolt 166. The latch bolt 166 moves linearly into and out of the housing 216.

[0044] As shown in Figure 7A , 7BAs best shown in Figure 9, the torque plate 162 is not circular (e.g., has a square or D-shaped cross-section) and has a first end operably connected to and extending longitudinally from the lock cylinder 134. The torque plate 162 is configured to drive the latch shaft 164 by rotation of the torque plate 162. Therefore, the torque plate 162 is operably received in an opening (i.e., shaft channel 204) in the latch shaft 164, the opening corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the torque plate 162 (e.g., square, D-shaped). When the torque plate 162 rotates in a first direction, a rotational force is transmitted to the latch shaft 164, causing the latch pin 166 to extend into the locked position. When the torque plate 162 rotates in the opposite direction, a rotational force is transmitted to the latch shaft 164, causing the latch pin 166 to retract into the unlocked position. In the retracted position, one end of the latch pin 166 is substantially flush with the latch plate 218. In some instances, the latch plate 218 can be attached to the door 202 using fasteners. When the latch pin 166 is in the extended position, it extends through the opening in the latch plate 218 and through the opening 222 of the impact plate 220 located in the adjacent door frame 224. Typically, the impact plate 220 can be made of metal, recessed into the door frame 224, and can be attached to the door frame 224 using fasteners. The impact plate 220 is configured to receive the latch pin 166 when the door 202 is closed and the latch pin 166 is extended. The retracted position is generally used to indicate the “unlocked” position, while the extended position is generally used to indicate the “locked” position. As mentioned above, sometimes the door 202 may warp, in which case the door may not close properly and / or the latch pin 166 may not align correctly with the opening 222 of the impact plate 220.

[0045] In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical actuation mechanism 130 includes a baffle assembly 140 and a lock cylinder 134 configured to be located on the outer side 208 of the door 202, and a mechanical rotating member 132 configured to be located on the inner side 206 of the door 202. Figures 13-15 As best shown, the lock cylinder 134 is operably attached to one end of the torque plate 162; as Figure 16B and 17B As best shown, the rear side of the internal rotating member 132 has a recess 1604, the size of which is adapted to receive the other end of the torque plate 162. The internal rotating member 132 is continuously drivably connected to the latch assembly 160 via the torque plate 162. Thus, during normal operation, rotation of the internal rotating member 132 causes rotation of the torque plate 162 to operate the latch pin 166.

[0046] exist Figure 2B , 5 Lock cylinder 134 is shown in 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 9 and 13-15. (As...) Figure 6BAs best shown, the lock cylinder 134 includes a lock cylinder housing 134-1 in which a lock cylinder core 134-2 is housed. As Figure 5 As best shown, the first end of the lock cylinder core 134-2 has a keyhole 134-3 to allow a mechanical key 502 to enter the lock cylinder core 134-2. Upon rotation of the key, the lock cylinder core 134-2 rotates to turn a drive member 701. The drive member 701 activates a cam 740 (shown in Figure 7A and 7B ) that is inserted into the sleeve. Upon a 90 degree rotation of the key, the cam 740 pushes down on the flange 126. The flange 126 pushes down on the pin 152 and collapses the actuation spring 154. At the end of the key rotation, the pin 152 is fully engaged in the slot of the coupler 156, allowing the operation of the tumbler 116. In this way, in normal operation, rotation of the effective mechanical key 502 engages the pin 152 with the coupler 156, allowing the user to rotate the shutter 142 and the lock cylinder core 134-2, which rotates the torque blade 162 to operate the latch bolt 166.

[0047] In example embodiments, the lock cylinder core 134-2 can be a rekeyable lock cylinder, such as the rekeyable lock cylinder described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 20200040605 entitled “Rekeyable Lock with Small Increments” or U.S. Patent Publication No. 10,612,271 entitled “Rekeyable Lock Cylinder With Enhanced Torque Resistance,” the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

[0048] In some instances, the lock cylinder 134 can be used in conjunction with another authentication factor (e.g., a password, a biometric input, a wireless signal), or no other authentication factor need be entered in use. As Figure 2B 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 8A 、 Figure 9 and Figure 13 As shown in

[0049] The shutter assembly 140, as best shown in Figure 6A and 6B , is selectively drivably coupled to the latch assembly 160. The shutter assembly 140 includes a manually operable shutter 142 (as Figure 2B 、 2C, 3, 5, 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 9, and 13-15) and sleeve 144 (as shown in Figure 6A , 6B , 7A, 7B, and 9-15). Please refer to Figure 6A Baffle 142 has a grip portion 142-3 and a body portion 142-1 that includes a longitudinal opening 142-2 in which a body portion 144-1 of sleeve 144 is slidably received. Grip portion 142-3 is designed to be held by a user and rotated along a rotational axis 226.

[0050] Baffle 142 and sleeve 144 are rotatably coupled and configured to be rotatable about rotational axis 226. Body portion 144-1 of sleeve 144 is configured to house lock cylinder 134. As best shown, Figure 6B Body portion 142-1 of baffle 142 includes one or more recesses 142-4 on an inner periphery thereof and body portion 144-1 of sleeve 144 includes one or more radially outwardly extending tabs 142-5 on an outer periphery thereof. The one or more tabs 142-5 are designed to engage with the one or more recesses 142-4 such that baffle 142 and sleeve 144 are rotatably coupled. Thus, upon application of a rotational force to baffle 142, sleeve 144 engages with baffle 142 and rotates baffle 142.

[0051] In the illustrated example, springs 145 are arranged along a circumference of sleeve 144 and are compressible via tabs 144-6 of sleeve. Thus, upon rotation of baffle 142 along sleeve 144, springs 145 are compressed. Upon release of baffle, springs return baffle 142 and sleeve 144 to an “original” or starting / default position.

[0052] Coupling portion 144-2 of sleeve 144 includes a longitudinal opening 144-3 in which a portion of coupling mechanism 150 is received and a boss 144-4 that extends radially outwardly from a sidewall of coupling portion 144-2 of sleeve 144 along a vertical direction. Boss 144-4 includes a longitudinal bore 144-5 that receives at least a portion of a coupling member (e.g., pin 152 explained below) in a radial direction relative to rotational axis 226.

[0053] The torque tab 162 is configured to be selectively manually driven by rotation of the escutcheon assembly 140. For example, when the lock 100 is in the engaged state, the escutcheon assembly 140 is drivingly coupled to the torque tab 162 via the engagement mechanism 120 and the coupling mechanism 150, and rotation of the manually operable escutcheon 142 effects rotation of the torque tab 162 to operate the latch bolt 166. The second end of the torque tab 162 is configured to extend through and be drivingly received in an opening 156-5 defined in a coupling 156 (included in the coupling mechanism 150 described below) that corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of the torque tab 162. As described below, the coupling 156 can be selectively engaged with the escutcheon assembly 140, such that rotation of the escutcheon assembly 140 causes the coupling 156 to rotate, and thereby drive the torque tab 162 to rotate.

[0054] Alternatively, when the lock 100 is in the disengaged state, the escutcheon assembly 140 is drivingly decoupled from the torque tab 162, and thus the manually operable escutcheon 142 cannot rotate the torque tab 162 to operate the latch bolt 166. In an example embodiment, when the manually operable escutcheon 142 is rotated and decoupled from the torque tab 162, the escutcheon 142 is free to rotate; in an alternative embodiment, the manually operable escutcheon 142 can be free to rotate within a particular range of rotational angles, or be biased toward a predetermined position at which the coupling 156 is able to engage with the escutcheon assembly 140 (e.g., a default position, such as the position shown in FIG. 5). Figure 10

[0055] Thus, the torque tab 162 can be manually rotated when the rotatable member 132 located on the interior side 206 of the door 202 is manually rotated, when a valid mechanical key 502 is inserted into and rotated in the lock cylinder 134, or when the lock 100 is placed in the engaged state and the exterior escutcheon assembly 140 is manually rotated. According to one aspect, the engagement status of the lock 100 (i.e., engaged state versus disengaged state) is electronically controlled by the electronic actuation mechanism 110.

[0056] The electronic actuation mechanism 110 includes a credential input mechanism 112, a control circuit 114, and an electric motor 116. In Figure 2B 、 3 An example credential input mechanism 112 is shown in FIGS. 5, 7A, and 7B. The credential input mechanism 112 is located on the exterior side 208 of the door 202 and is configured to receive and communicate electronic credentials (e.g., a password or security token entered via a keypad (as shown), a biometric input received via a biometric sensor (not shown), a wireless signal received via a wireless interface (not shown), or other electronic credentials) to the control circuit 114 for authentication of a user.

[0057] ​In some examples, as shown, the credential input mechanism 112 can be embodied as a keypad including a plurality of buttons 228 that can be used to input a predetermined passcode to electronically effectuate an engaged state or otherwise control operation of the lock 100. The keypad can be any of a variety of different types of keypads (e.g., numeric keypad, alphanumeric keypad, alphanumeric-numeric keypad). One or more characters can be displayed on the buttons 228. In some examples, the buttons 228 can be physical buttons that extend through an outer faceplate, which is shown as a strike plate 230 (as shown). In other examples, the keypad can have a plurality of touch areas that act as the buttons 228 using touch. For example, the keypad can use capacitive touch circuitry. In the example shown, there are eleven touch areas or buttons 228; however, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there can be more or fewer buttons 228 in other examples.

[0058] In some embodiments, the exterior assembly 212 includes a one-touch actuator 232 that can be used to place the lock 100 in an engaged state. For example, upon a user selecting the one-touch actuator 232, an actuation mechanism contained in the exterior assembly 212 rotatably couples the strike plate assembly 140 to the torque tab 162 such that rotation of the strike plate assembly 140 is able to drive rotation of the torque tab 162 to extend or retract the latch bolt 166. In some examples, the one-touch actuator 232 is a button 228. In some examples, the one-touch actuator 232 is a button 228 that includes a particular indicia, such as a logo, icon, one or more characters, or the like.

[0059] In alternative embodiments, one or more other types of user interface devices can be incorporated into the lock 100. For example, in an exemplary implementation, the exterior assembly 212 can include a biometric interface (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, a retinal scanner, or a camera including facial recognition functionality) through which a biometric input can be used; an audio interface through which voice recognition can be used; or a wireless interface through which a wireless signal can be used to activate the engagement mechanism 120. According to another embodiment, a keypad can be absent. In some examples, a user can use a mobile device having a wireless interface to control the lock 100. For example, a user can use a mobile device to send a wireless signal to the lock 100 to activate the engagement mechanism 120. or capable device that, when the device is paired with the lock 100, the device sends a signal that allows the motor to actuate. In other examples, a user can use an RFID tag that, when the correct RFID tag is detected, allows the motor to actuate. In still other embodiments, alternative methods of electronic communication with the motor are contemplated. When a user inputs a valid password or other electronic credential that is recognized by the control circuit 114 via the credential input mechanism 112, the motor 116 is energized to actuate the engagement mechanism 120 to either couple the shutter assembly 140 to the latch assembly 160 or decouple the shutter assembly 140 from the latch assembly 160 via the coupling mechanism 150.

[0060] The control circuit 114 includes electronic circuitry for the electronic lock 100. In some examples, the control circuit 114 is a printed control circuit configured to receive credential inputs of the credential input mechanism 112. When the control circuit 114 receives the correct input, the control circuit 114 sends a signal to the motor 116. The control circuit 114 is configured to execute a plurality of software instructions (i.e., firmware) that, when executed by the control circuit 114, cause the electronic lock 100 to implement methods and otherwise operate and have the functionality described herein. The control circuit 114 can include a device commonly referred to as a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or other similar device, and can be embodied as a standalone unit or a device shared with components of the electronic lock 100. The control circuit 114 can include a memory interface with a processor for storing software instructions. Alternatively, the electronic lock 100 can also include a separate storage device for storing software instructions that is electrically connected to the control circuit 114 for bidirectional communication of instructions, data, and signals therebetween.

[0061] In example embodiments, the engagement mechanism 120 and the coupling mechanism 150 can include engagement devices such as those described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0040605, entitled “Locking Assembly with Spring Mechanism,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0062] The engagement mechanism 120 includes an actuation pivot 122, a drive spring 124, and a movable flange 126. As Figure 7A 、 7BAs shown in Figures 10-15, the motor 116 is operatively coupled to the actuation shaft 122 and configured to rotate the actuation shaft 122 about a first axis. The actuation shaft 122 is a rod-like mechanism oriented about the first axis, for example, vertically oriented within the lock 100. The actuation shaft 122 includes a recess 724 connected to the motor 116. The actuation shaft 122 includes a spring-driven pin 702 that engages with a drive spring 124, such that, as the actuation shaft 122 rotates, the drive spring 124 is in a neutral position relative to the spring-driven pin 702 along the first axis (e.g., ...). Figure 10 (as shown) and bias position (e.g. Figure 11 The actuation shaft 122 can move upward or downward between (as shown). For example, the motor 116 can rotate the actuation shaft 122 in clockwise and counterclockwise directions, where rotation in one direction causes the drive spring 124 to move upward to a neutral position, while rotation in the other direction causes the drive spring 124 to move downward along the actuation shaft 122, away from the motor 116 and toward the movable flange 126 to a biased position. At least when the drive spring 124 is in the biased position, the movable flange 126 can be operatively engaged with the drive spring 124.

[0063] The coupling mechanism 150 includes a pin 152, an actuation spring 154, and a coupler 156. A flange 126 is movable between a first position and a second position. When the drive spring 124 is in the neutral position, the flange 126 remains in the first position (e.g., the actuation spring 154 is biased upward against the pin 152), while when the drive spring 124 is in the biased position, the flange is biased toward the second position because the drive spring 124 is typically selected to have a compressive force greater than the resistance of the actuation spring 154. Biasing the flange 126 toward the second position causes the coupling mechanism 150 to drivably couple the baffle assembly 140 to the latch assembly 160.

[0064] exist Figure 7A , 7B Pin 152, actuating spring 154, and coupler 156 are best shown in 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15. Pin 152 includes a head 152-1 and a shaft 152-2 extending from the head along a first axis. Actuating spring 154 extends about shaft 152-2 of pin 152. Coupler 156 includes a cylindrical body 156-1 arranged along a second axis. For example, the first axis may be defined as vertical, while the second axis (also referred to herein as the axis of rotation) may be defined as horizontal. Actuating spring 154 is clamped between the bottom surface of the head 152-1 of pin 152 and the top surface of boss 144-4 on sleeve 144.

[0065] Pin 152 is aligned with a longitudinal bore 144-5 defined in boss 144-4 of sleeve 144, and at least a portion of shaft 152-2 of pin 152 is received in axial ly slidable manner in longitudinal bore 144-5. Pin 152 is movable between an unengaged position and an engaged position. Pin 152 is held in the unengaged position when drive spring 124 and flange 126 are in the neutral position, and pin 152 is biased toward the engaged position when drive spring 124 and flange 126 are in the biased position. For example, when drive spring 124 and flange 126 are in the neutral position, inner periphery 126-1 of flange 126 is positioned over head 152-1 of pin 152, and does not compress actuation spring 154. As a result, actuation spring 154 is in a relaxed state, which prevents pin 152 from being pushed downward and through longitudinal bore 144-5 in boss 144-4 in sleeve 144.

[0066] As best shown in Figure 7A and 7B Cylindrical body 156-1 of coupler 156 has a first portion 156-2 having a first diameter and a second portion 156-3 having a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. Cylindrical body 156-1 of coupler 156 includes a longitudinal opening 156-5 that is sized to slidably receive torque tab 162 such that coupler 156 and torque tab 162 are rotatably coupled. First portion 156-2 of cylindrical body of coupler 156 is slidably received within longitudinal opening 144-3 defined in coupling portion 144-2 of sleeve 144. Coupler 156 is free to rotate independent of sleeve 144 when lock 100 is in the unengaged state.

[0067] First portion 156-2 of cylindrical body 156-1 of coupler 156 defines at least one recess 156-6 (shown in Figure 7A , 7B , 10, 11, and 12) that extends radially inward from an outer surface of first portion 156-2 of cylindrical body 156-1 toward the longitudinal opening. At least one recess 156-6 is arranged to be alignable with longitudinal bore 144-5, actuation spring 154, and pin 152 along the first axis. When drive spring 124 is in the neutral position (as shown in Figure 10When the flange 126 is in the neutral position (shown), the flange 126 also remains in the neutral position, and the pin 152 remains outside of a plurality of recesses 156-6 (shown as three recesses 156-6a-c arranged at 90 degrees to each other) within the coupler 156. In this position, the coupler 156 and the associated pin 152 can rotate within the outer circumference of the flange 126. Each of the plurality of recesses 156-6 forms a pocket sized to selectively receive the bottom of the shaft of the pin 152 in a radial direction relative to the cylindrical body 156-1 of the coupler 156.

[0068] As Figure 11 , 12 and 15, as the drive spring 124 biases the flange 126 downward toward the second position, the flange 126 biases the actuation spring 154 into a compressed state when the pin 152 aligns with one of the recesses 156-6. This causes the pin 152 to be pushed downward from the disengaged position to the engaged position. In the engaged position, the pin 152 is biased downward so that it is within the sleeve 144 and the coupler 156 when aligned with the recess 156-6 in the coupler. For example, the head 152-1 of the pin 152 is received in a longitudinal bore 144-5 formed in the boss 144-4 in the sleeve 144, and the bottom of the shaft 152-2 of the pin 152 passes through the longitudinal bore 144-5 and is received in the at least one recess 156-6 defined in the cylindrical body 156-1 of the coupler 156. Thus, when the pin 152 is in the engaged position, the sleeve 144, which is rotatably coupled with the baffle 142, is rotatably coupled with the coupler 156. The coupler 156 is rotatably coupled with the torque blade 162, which is drivingly received in the spindle passage 204 of the latch spindle 164. Thus, when the pin 152 is in the engaged position, the lock 100 is placed in an engaged state in which manual rotation of the baffle assembly 140 drives rotation of the torque blade 162 to extend or retract the deadbolt 166 to the unlocked or locked positions. According to one aspect, when the lock 100 is in the engaged state, retraction and extension of the deadbolt 166 is not driven by the electric motor 116, but can be driven by manual rotation of the baffle assembly 140. Advantageously, battery life can be extended since the deadbolt action is manually driven by the user rather than electrically driven by the battery. Moreover, the manually driven deadbolt action can provide sufficient force to retract and / or extend the deadbolt 166 through misaligned strike plates 220, for example, in the event of a warped door. Thus, the condition of a warped door can be overcome without the need for battery power to electrically drive the deadbolt 166.

[0069] As Figure 2B , 5As best shown in 7A and 7B, the external component 212 includes a latch trim 230. The latch trim 230 is shown as having a decorative rectangular shape; however, circular, square, or other shapes of the latch trim 230 are also possible and within the scope of the invention. Figure 7A and 7B As best shown, the latch panel 230 may define a plurality of holes 708 to receive buttons 228 of a credential input mechanism 112 embodied as a keyboard. The keyboard may be made of various waterproof materials, such as plastic, rubber, or other similar materials. Furthermore, the connection between the holes 708 of the latch panel 230 and the buttons 228 may include a seal to prevent water from seeping into the internal components of the lock 100. As described above, in an alternative embodiment, the credential input mechanism 112 may be a biometric interface (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, retinal scanner, or camera including facial recognition capabilities) that can be used for biometric input, an audio interface that can be used for voice recognition, or a wireless interface that can be used to activate the engagement mechanism 120 using wireless signals. The buttons 228 may extend from a control circuit 114, which uses a wiring harness (not shown) to transmit user-actuated electrical signals based on the credential input mechanism 112 to a controller in the external component 112. In this example, a plurality of fasteners 710 secure the back panel 712 and the control circuit 114 to the latch panel 230. As shown, the holes in the back panel 712 align with the holes in the board guide 738, as well as the holes in the control circuit housing 714 and the control circuit 114, and the fastener 710 passes through these holes into the socket in the latch trim 230. The control circuit housing 714 can rest flush against the back panel 712, which in turn can rest flush against the door 202. The support 716 extends into the hole 718 defined in the adapter 402 and further into the hole 234 defined in the latch assembly 160 (e.g., ...). Figure 2C (As shown). Adapter 402 is designed to fit into a hole 214 formed in door 202. Back plate 712 defines an opening 720 that aligns with an opening 722 in adapter 402, so that a second portion 156-3 of the cylindrical body 156-1 of coupler 156, which receives the second end of torque plate 162, can extend through these openings.

[0070] As shown, a collar 706 extends from the latch bezel 230. In the example shown, the collar 706 is integrally formed with the latch bezel 230, but can also be a separate component. The collar 706 defines an opening 704 through which the body portion 142-1 of the strike plate 142 extends. The outer grip portion 142-3 of the strike plate 142 has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the body portion 142-1 and is located outside of the latch bezel 230. A locking tab 732 is configured to engage with a first slot 726 formed in a sidewall of the collar 706 and a second slot 728 formed in the body portion 142-1 of the strike plate 142 to connect the strike plate assembly 140 to the latch bezel 230.

[0071] A first clip 734 is shown. The first clip 734 helps to retain the lock cylinder 134 within the strike plate assembly 140. Optionally, the lock cylinder 134-2 can be replaced by removing the first clip 734, replacing the lock cylinder 134-2, and then reinserting the first clip 734 through the slot 730. The lock cylinder 134 and the strike plate assembly 140 are rotatably coupled, as described above. A second clip 736 is also shown. As Figure 8B best shown, the second clip 736 retains the coupler 156 and prevents the coupler from rotating when the coupler 156 is not engaged with the pin 152.

[0072] As Figure 2A , 2C , 4, and 16A-17B best shown, the inner assembly 210 includes an inner panel 1602 that defines a recessed area for housing the inner components of the inner assembly 210. The inner panel 1602 is shown as having a decorative rectangular shape; however, a circular, square, or other shaped inner panel 1602 is also possible and within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0073] Please refer to Figure 16A and 16Bwhere the lock 100 is shown in the unlocked state with the latch bolt 166 retracted and in the unlocked position. The knob 132 is rotatably coupled to the torque tab 162 such that when the latch bolt 166 is in the unlocked position, the knob 132 is rotated to the unlocked position. As shown, in the unlocked state, the knob 132 is in the unlocked position where it is rotated such that it extends in the vertical direction. The knob 132 includes a teardrop shaped washer 1608 that engages a switch 1606 that is communicatively coupled to the control circuit 114 via an electrical connection. When the knob 132 is rotated in the unlocked position, the teardrop shaped washer 1608 biases the switch 1606 upward to the disengaged position. According to one aspect, when the lock 100 is in the unlocked state and the knob 132 and teardrop shaped washer 1608 are rotated in the unlocked position, the switch 1606 is biased in the disengaged position which signals the control circuit 114 that the latch bolt 166 is not projected and is in the unlocked position. As noted above, the external assembly 212 includes a one-touch actuator 232 that can be used to place the lock 100 in the engaged state. According to one aspect, based on the position of the switch 1606, the one-touch actuator 232 is electronically actuatable when the latch bolt 166 is not projected and is in the unlocked position. For example, when the switch 1606 is in the disengaged position as shown, the control circuit 114 is informed that the latch bolt 166 is not projected and is in the unlocked position. Accordingly, when the user selects the one-touch actuator 232, the control circuit 114 sends a signal to the motor 116 and energizes the motor 116 to activate the engagement mechanism 120 to rotatably couple the baffle assembly 140 to the torque tab 162 such that rotation of the baffle assembly 140 is capable of driving rotation of the torque tab 162 to extend the latch bolt 166 to the locked position. Figure 16B

[0074] Please refer to Figure 17A and 17B where the lock 100 is shown in the locked state with the knob 132 and teardrop shaped washer 1608 rotated to the locked position. In the locked position, the knob 132 extends in the horizontal direction and the teardrop shaped washer 1608 is rotated such that the teardrop point also extends in the horizontal direction. In the locked position, the teardrop shaped washer 1608 is dimensioned to bias the switch 1606 downward to the engaged position which signals the control circuit 114 that the latch bolt 166 is projected and is in the locked position. According to one aspect, when the latch bolt 166 is projected and is in the locked position, the one-touch actuator 232 (see Figure 5 ​) cannot be electronically actuated. Thus, with the latch bolt 166 in the locked position, based on the engagement position of the switch 1606, if the user selects the touch actuator 232, the motor 116 is not energized and the engagement mechanism 120 is not activated to rotatably couple the strike plate assembly 140 to the torque blade 162. Thus, to retract the latch bolt 166 from the outside of the door 202 to the unlocked position, the user can use a valid mechanical key 502 in the lock cylinder 134 or can input a valid credential using the credential input mechanism 112 to couple the strike plate assembly 140 to the latch bolt assembly 160 and then rotate the strike plate 142 to operate the latch bolt 166.

[0075] Figure 18 An example flowchart of a method 1800 for locking and unlocking a door 202 using the electronically controlled, manually actuated deadbolt lock 100 is shown. The method 1800 begins at operation 1802 and proceeds to operation 1804 where an electronic credential or combination of electronic credentials is received via the credential input mechanism 112. For example, the electronic credential can be a password or security token entered by the user through a keypad, a user biometric input received through a biometric sensor, a wireless signal received through a wireless interface, or other electronic credential that can be verified by the control circuit 114 to complete user authentication.

[0076] In decision operation 1806, it can be determined whether the received credential is valid. For example, the control circuit 114 is coupled in electrical communication with the credential input mechanism 112 and is configured with control logic to distinguish between valid and invalid input credentials entered / provided by a user, user computing device, RFID chip, electronic key card, etc. via the credential input mechanism 112. Upon determining that an invalid input credential is received, in operation 1808, the motor 116 is not actuated and the electronic lock 100 remains in an unengaged state in which the strike plate assembly 140 is drivably uncoupled from the torque blade 162 and manual rotation of the strike plate 142 cannot rotate the torque blade 162 to operate the latch bolt 166. Upon determining that a valid input credential is received, the method 1800 proceeds to operation 1810.

[0077] In operation 1810, the control circuit 114 provides a signal to the electric motor 116 that drives the electric motor 116 to rotate the actuation spindle 122. As described above, rotation of the actuation spindle 122 causes the transmission spring 124 to move downward along the actuation spindle 122 in a direction away from the electric motor 116 and toward the biased position of the movable flange 126. In operation 1812, the transmission spring 124 engages and biases the flange 126 downward, which compresses the actuation spring 154, which in operation 1814, pushes the pin 152 downward into the engaged position. In the engaged position, the pin 152 is within the sleeve 144 and the coupler 156, and the lock 100 is in the engaged state. Accordingly, the shutter 142, which is rotatably coupled to the sleeve 144, is drivably coupled to the latch assembly 160, which allows the shutter 142 to be manually rotated to retract or extend the latch pin 166.

[0078] In decision operation 1816, if the shutter 142 is not rotated within a predetermined time period (e.g., 10 seconds, 15 seconds, or other time period), then in operation 1818, the electric motor 116 can automatically rotate the actuation spindle 122 in the opposite direction, which causes the transmission spring 124 to move upward to the neutral position, which disengages the pin 152 from the coupler 156 and places the lock 100 in the disengaged state. If the shutter 142 is rotated within the predetermined time period, then in operation 1820, rotation of the shutter 142 rotates the torque tab 162, which drives the latch spindle 164 to extend or retract the latch pin 166 to the unlocked position or the locked position. Advantageously, since the latch pin action is manually driven by the user rather than electrically driven by the battery, battery life can be extended. Moreover, the manually driven latch pin action can provide sufficient force to retract and / or extend the latch pin 166 through misaligned strike plates 220, such as in the case of a warped door. Accordingly, the case of a warped door can be overcome without the need for battery power to electrically drive the latch pin 166.

[0079] In decision operation 1822, it can be determined whether the one-touch actuator 232 is selected by the user. If the one-touch actuator 232 is selected by the user, then in decision operation 1824, it can be determined whether the latch pin 166 is in the unlocked position based on the position of the switch 1606. For example, the switch 1606 in the unlocked position provides a signal to the control circuit 114 that the latch pin 166 is not pushed out and is in the unlocked position, which enables the one-touch actuator 232 to be electronically actuated. Upon determining that the latch pin 166 is in the unlocked position, the method 1800 returns to operation 1810, in which the electric motor 116 is actuated to cause the engagement mechanism 120 to drivably couple the shutter assembly 140 to the latch assembly 160 so that the shutter 142 can be rotated to extend the latch pin 166 to the locked position. If the one-touch actuator 232 is not selected by the user, then the method 1800 ends at operation 1898.

[0080] Figure 19 is a schematic view of an electronic lock 100 mounted on a door 202. Shown therein are internal components 210, external components 212, and a bolt assembly 160.

[0081] The external components 212 are shown to include various external circuitry 1906, including the credential input mechanism 112 and an optional external antenna 1902 that can be used to communicate with remote devices. In addition, the external circuitry 1906 can include one or more sensors 1904, such as a camera, a proximity sensor, or other mechanism capable of sensing conditions outside of the door 202. In response to such sensed conditions, the electronic lock 100 can send a notification to a server or a user's mobile device containing information associated with the sensed event (such as a time and description of the sensed event, or remote feedback of sensor data obtained via the sensor).

[0082] The external antenna 1902 can be used in conjunction with the internal antenna 1908, for example, to enable the processing unit 1910 to determine the location of a mobile device, wherein only mobile devices that are paired with the electronic lock 100 and determined to be located outside of the door 202 can activate the motor 116 to place the lock 100 in the engaged state. It will be appreciated that this can prevent an unauthorized user from being located outside of the door 202 of the electronic lock 100 from utilizing an authorized mobile device that can be located inside of the door 202, even if this authorized mobile device is not being used to activate the motor 116. However, this feature is not required, but can add additional security. In alternative arrangements, the motor 116 can be activated from the credential input mechanism 112 or from an application installed on a user's mobile device. In such arrangements, the external antenna 1902 and / or the internal antenna 1908 can be omitted.

[0083] The external components 212 can also include a processing unit 1910 and the motor 116. As shown, the processing unit 1910 includes at least one processor 1912 communicatively connected to a secure chip 1914, a memory 1916, various wireless communication interfaces (including, for example, a Bluetooth® interface 1918 and / or a Zigbee® interface 1920), and a battery 1922. The processing unit 1910 can control the engaged state of the electronic lock 100 (e.g., by activating the motor 116 to activate the strike plate assembly 140 and drivably couple the strike plate assembly 140 to the bolt assembly 160. The interface 1918 and / or the interface 1920.

[0084] In some examples, the processor 1912 can process signals received from various devices to determine whether the motor 116 should be activated. This processing can be based on a set of preprogrammed instructions (i.e., firmware) stored in the memory 1916. In certain embodiments, the processing unit 1910 can include multiple processors 1912, including one or more general purpose or special purpose instruction processors. In some examples, the processing unit 1910 is configured to capture credential input events from a user and store the credential input events in the memory 1916. In other examples, the processor 1912 receives signals from the external antenna 1902, the internal antenna 1908, or a motion sensor 1924 (e.g., a vibration sensor, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a motion / position sensor, or a combination thereof) and is capable of verifying the received signals to activate the motor 116 to control the engagement state of the electronic lock 100. In other examples, the processor 1912 receives signals from the interface 1920 to determine whether to activate the motor 116.

[0085] In some embodiments, the processing unit 1910 includes a secure chip 1914 communicatively interconnected with one or more instances of the processor 1912. The secure chip 1914, for example, can generate and store cryptographic information that can be used to generate a certificate that can be used to authenticate the electronic lock 100 in conjunction with a remote system (e.g., a server or a mobile device). In certain embodiments, the secure chip 1914 includes a one-time write functionality in which a portion of the memory of the secure chip 1914 can only be written to once and then locked. This memory, for example, can be used to store cryptographic information derived from features of the electronic lock 100. Accordingly, such cryptographic information, once written, can be used in a certificate generation process that ensures that a certificate generated by the secure chip 1914 becomes invalid in the event that any of the features reflected in the cryptographic information change, thereby rendering the electronic lock 100 unable to perform various functions, such as communicating with a server or a mobile device, or in some cases, operate at all.

[0086] The memory 1916 can include any of a variety of storage devices, such as using various types of computer-readable media or computer storage media. Computer storage media or computer-readable media can be any media that can contain or store the programs for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, device, or apparatus. By way of example, computer storage media can include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or variations of DRAM, solid state memory, read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and other types of storage data or computing device- readable media. Computer storage media generally includes tangible media or devices. In some examples, computer storage media can include embodiments that include completely non-transitory components.​

[0087] As described above, the processing unit 1910 can include one or more wireless interfaces, such as a Bluetooth® interface Interface 1918 and / or Interface 1920. Other radio frequency circuitry can also be included. In the illustrated example, Interface 1918 and / or Interface 1920 can communicate using at least one wireless communication protocol. In some examples, the processing unit 1910 can communicate with remote devices via Interface 1918 or with local devices via Interface 1920. In some examples, the processing unit 1910 can communicate with mobile devices and servers via Interface 1918 and can communicate with the mobile device via Interface 1920 when the mobile device is in proximity to the electronic lock 100. In some embodiments, the processing unit 1910 is configured to communicate with mobile devices via Interface 1920 and communication between the mobile device and the electronic lock 100 can be relayed via the server using Interface 1918 when the mobile device is outside of range of

[0088] In example aspects, various wireless protocols can be used. For example, the electronic lock 100 can utilize one or more wireless protocols including, but not limited to, IEEE 802.11 standards IEEE 802.15.4 standards and ), IEEE 802.15.1 standards cellular networks, wireless local area networks, near field communication protocols, and / or other network protocols. In some examples, the electronic lock 100 can wirelessly communicate with networked and / or distributed computing systems, such as can exist in a cloud computing environment.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor 1912 can receive a signal from a mobile device at Interface 1920 for conveying an intent to activate the motor 116 to control the engagement state of the electronic lock 100. In some examples, the processor 1912 can receive a signal from a mobile device at ​Interface 1918 (or another wireless interface) initiates communications with a server for authentication of an attempt to initiate operation of motor 116 to control the engaged state of electronic lock 100, or to receive an actuation command to initiate motor 116 to control the engaged state of electronic lock 100. Additionally, settings can be viewed and / or modified from the server via interface 1918; as such, a user of the mobile device can access an account associated with electronic lock 100 to view and modify settings of the lock, which are then communicated from the server to electronic lock 100. In alternative embodiments, other types of wireless interfaces can be used; generally, the wireless interface used to communicate with the mobile device can operate using a different wireless protocol than the wireless interface used to communicate with the server. Interface 1918 views and / or modifies various other settings; as such, a user of the mobile device can access an account associated with electronic lock 100 to view and modify settings of the lock, which are then communicated from the server to electronic lock 100. In alternative embodiments, other types of wireless interfaces can be used; generally, the wireless interface used to communicate with the mobile device can operate using a different wireless protocol than the wireless interface used to communicate with the server.

[0090] External assembly 212 also includes motor 116, which is capable of actuating engagement mechanism 120. In use, motor 116 receives an actuation command from processing unit 1910, which causes motor 116 to actuate engagement mechanism 120 to place lock 100 in an engaged state. In some instances, motor 116 drives engagement mechanism to the opposite state. In some instances, motor 116 receives a specified engagement command in response to selection of single-touch actuator 232, in which motor 116 only actuates engagement mechanism 120 if latch bolt 166 is in the unlocked position. For example, if door 202 is in the locked state and processing unit 1910 receives an indication that single-touch actuator 232 is selected, then no action is taken. If latch bolt 166 is in the unlocked position and processing unit 1910 receives an indication that single-touch actuator 232 is selected, then motor 116 actuates engagement mechanism 120 to place lock 100 in the engaged state, such that manual rotation of flap 142 will cause latch bolt 166 to extend to the locked position.

[0091] Internal assembly 210 can include one or more batteries 1922 to power electronic lock 100. In one instance, batteries 1922 can be standard, single-use (disposable) batteries. Alternatively, batteries 1922 can be rechargeable. In further embodiments, batteries 1922 are optional, replaced by an alternative power source, such as an AC power connection.

[0092] In alternative embodiments, processing unit 1910 can be located within internal assembly 210. In such an arrangement, processing unit 1910 can receive signals from external circuitry 1906, and can actuate motor 116 via an electrical connection between internal assembly 210 and external assembly 212 through aperture 214 in door 202.

[0093] In further example embodiments, the electronic lock 100 can include an integrated motion sensor 1924. The use of such a motion sensor 1924 (e.g., an accelerometer, gyroscope, or other position or motion sensor) and the wireless capabilities of mobile devices or electronic devices (i.e., access cards) that have these capabilities built-in can help determine other types of events (e.g., door opening or closing events, lock actuation or lock position events, or knocking events based on the vibration of the door). In some cases, a motion event can cause the electronic lock 100 to perform certain processing, such as communicatively connecting to or sending data to a mobile device in the vicinity of the electronic lock 100. In alternative embodiments, other lock engagement procedures can not require the use of a motion sensor 1924. For example, if a mobile device is within the effective range of the electronic lock 100 when using a particular wireless protocol (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy), a connection can be established with the electronic lock 100. Other arrangements are possible using other connection procedures and / or communication protocols.

[0094] Embodiments of the application are illustrated in the above by reference to block and / or operational flow diagrams of methods, systems and computer program products in accordance with embodiments of the application. The functionality / acts noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown in succession can in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality / acts involved.

[0095] The description and illustration of one or more embodiments provided in this application are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of the application as claimed in any way. The embodiments, examples, and details provided in this application are considered sufficient to express all features and functions of the application and are best described as being combined together in one or more embodiments. The claimed application should not be construed as being limited in any way by any embodiment, example, or detail provided in this application. Whether described in the context of a structure or a method, features (structural and methodological) are intended to be selectively included or omitted so as to produce an embodiment having a particular set of features. On the basis of this description and illustrations, one skilled in the art can use the application to its fullest extent and can, without departing from the scope of the application, make modifications and variations which are well within the scope of the application and the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An electronically controlled, manually actuated lock, comprising: Electric motor; An actuating shaft, which can be actuated by an electric motor and is arranged to rotate about a first axis in response to actuation by the electric motor, the actuating shaft includes a drive pin that engages with a transmission spring, such that the position of the transmission spring relative to the drive pin varies between a neutral position and a biased position along the first axis as the actuating shaft rotates. A baffle assembly arranged to rotate about a second axis and including a baffle rotatably coupled to a sleeve having a hole defined within it, the hole being operable to engage with a pin movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, in which the pin is partially located within and extends through the hole and is received in a recess defined in a coupler, and in which the pin is disengaged from the coupler in the disengaged position; A flange at least partially surrounds the baffle assembly, the pin, and the actuation spring, the flange being capable of engaging the drive spring at least when the drive spring is in a biased position, the flange being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein: When the transmission spring is in the neutral position, the flange remains in the first position; When the transmission spring is in the biased position, the flange is biased toward the second position; and Biasing the flange toward the second position compresses the actuation spring, which pushes the pin toward the engagement position; and The latch assembly includes: A latch that can move between a locked position and an unlocked position; and A torque plate that is rotatably coupled to a coupler and drivably coupled to a latch pin. Specifically, when the pin is in the engaged position, manual rotation of the baffle around the second axis causes the torque plate to rotate around the second axis, and drives the latch pin to move from the locked position to the unlocked position or from the unlocked position to the locked position. The electronically controlled, manually actuated lock also includes: A credential input mechanism configured to receive user credential input; and A control circuit electrically coupled to the voucher input mechanism and the motor, wherein the control circuit is configured with control logic so as to: Distinguish between valid and invalid voucher inputs; and The motor starts when a valid credential is entered. The electronically controlled, manually actuated lock also includes: A single-touch actuator electrically connected to a control circuit; A switch, electrically coupled to a control circuit and capable of engaging with a rotating element rotatably coupled to a torque plate, wherein: When the latch is in the locked position, the rotating member rotates to the locked position, and the switch moves to the engaged position; When the latch is in the unlocked position, the rotating member rotates to the unlocked position, and the switch moves to the disengaged position; and Upon receiving a selection for a single-touch actuator and with the switch in the disengaged position, the control circuit is configured to start the motor to rotate the actuation shaft, thereby changing the position of the transmission spring to a biased position to driveably couple the baffle assembly to the latch assembly.

2. The electronically controlled manually actuated lock as claimed in claim 1, wherein the credential input mechanism comprises at least one of the following mechanisms: keyboard; Biometric sensors; and Wireless interface.

3. The electronically controlled, manually actuated lock as claimed in claim 1, wherein when the flange is in the first position, the pin is held in the disengaged position by an actuated spring.

4. The electronically controlled manually actuated lock as described in claim 3, wherein: When the pin is in the disengaged position, the baffle assembly is not drivably coupled to the latch assembly; and Manual rotation of the baffle will not drive the latch pin to move from the locked position to the unlocked position or from the unlocked position to the locked position.

5. The electronically controlled manually actuated lock as described in claim 4, wherein, After a predetermined time period, the motor is started to rotate the actuation shaft in the opposite direction about the first axis, thereby moving the position of the transmission spring from the biased position to the neutral position and moving the flange to the first position.

6. The electronically controlled, manually actuated lock of claim 1, further comprising a peripheral spring arranged around at least a portion of the circumference of the baffle assembly, the peripheral spring biasing the baffle to its original position.

7. A method for operating an electronically controlled manually actuated lock, comprising: In response to receiving valid user credential input, a motor is activated via control circuitry to rotate an actuation shaft about a first axis. The actuation shaft includes a drive pin that engages with a drive spring to move the drive spring along the first axis from a neutral position to a biased position, wherein: The movement of the transmission spring toward the biased position biases the movable flange from the first position to the second position. Biasing the flange to the second position compresses the actuation spring, which pushes the pin into the engagement position, and In the engaged position, the pin engages with a baffle assembly and a coupler rotatably coupled to a torque plate, the torque plate being further drivably coupled to a latch pin; and In response to receiving a manual rotation of the baffle included in the baffle assembly about the second axis, the torque plate rotates about the second axis and drives the latch pin to the locked or unlocked position. The method further includes: Selection of a single-touch actuator that is electrically connected to the receiving and control circuits; Determine whether the switch, which is electrically connected to the control circuit and capable of engaging with a rotating component rotatably coupled to a torque plate, is in an engaged or disengaged position, wherein: When the latch is in the locked position and the rotating member is rotated to the locked position, the switch is in the engaged position; and When the latch is in the unlocked position and the rotating member is rotated to the unlocked position, the switch is in the disengaged position; and When the switch is in the disengaged position, the motor is started to rotate the actuation shaft, thereby changing the position of the transmission spring to a biased position so that the pin engages with the baffle assembly and the coupler, thereby drivingly coupling the baffle assembly to the latch pin.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: Receive user credential input, wherein the user credential input is received via a credential input mechanism operatively connected to the control circuitry; as well as The system determines whether the user credential input is a valid credential input or an invalid credential input, wherein this determination is made by control logic via control circuitry.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein receiving user credential input comprises at least one of the following operations: Password input is received via keyboard; Receive biometric input via biometric sensors; and It receives wireless signals via a wireless interface.

10. The method of claim 8, further comprising holding the pin in the disengaged position by the actuation spring when the flange is in the first position, wherein when the pin is in the disengaged position: The baffle assembly is not drivably coupled to the latch pin; and Manual rotation of the baffle will not drive the latch pin to move from the locked position to the unlocked position or from the unlocked position to the locked position.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, After a predetermined time period, the motor is started by the control circuit to rotate the actuation shaft in the opposite direction around the first axis, thereby moving the position of the transmission spring from the biased position to the neutral position and moving the flange to the first position.

12. A locking assembly for use on a door separating an external space from a secure space, comprising: An electronic actuation mechanism including an electric motor for initiating an engagement mechanism to driveably couple the baffle assembly to the latch assembly via a coupling mechanism; The engagement mechanism includes: The actuating shaft includes the drive pin, wherein: The actuation shaft is arranged to rotate about a first axis in response to actuation by the electric motor; and When the actuating shaft rotates, the drive pin is configured to engage with the transmission spring and bias the transmission spring relative to the drive pin along the first axis between a neutral position and a biased position; and A flange that can engage with the drive spring at least when the drive spring is in a biased position, the flange being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein when the drive spring is in a biased position, the flange is biased toward the second position; The coupling mechanism includes: An actuating spring capable of engaging with a flange, wherein the actuating spring is decompressed when the flange is in a first position, and is compressed when the flange is biased toward a second position; A pin capable of engaging with an actuating spring and movable between a disengaged position and an engaged position; wherein, when the actuating spring is compressed, the pin is moved to the engaged position; and A coupler drivably coupled to a latch assembly, wherein a recess is defined within the coupler, the recess being sized to receive the pin, wherein the coupler receives the pin when the pin is in an engaged position. baffle assembly, including: A baffle arranged to rotate about a second axis; and A sleeve, rotatably coupled to a baffle, and having a hole defined within the sleeve capable of operably engaging with the pin; wherein: When the pin is in the engaged position, the pin is partially located within and extends through the hole, and is received in a recess defined in the coupler; and When the pin is in the disengaged position, the pin is disengaged from the coupler; and The latch assembly includes: A latch that can move between a locked position and an unlocked position; A latch pivot configured to move the latch pin between a locked position and an unlocked position; and A torque plate that is rotatably coupled to a coupler and drivably coupled to a latch shaft. When the pin is in the engaged position, manually rotating the baffle around the second axis will cause the torque plate to rotate around the second axis, and cause the latch shaft to drive the latch pin to move from the locked position to the unlocked position or from the unlocked position to the locked position. The electronic actuation mechanism further includes a mechanism for receiving user credential input to verify the user's credential input. The electronic actuation mechanism further includes a control circuit operatively connected to the credential input mechanism and configured to: Use control logic to determine whether the user's credential input is a valid or invalid credential input; and When the user credential input is confirmed to be valid, a signal is sent to the motor to start the motor and rotate the actuation shaft; The locking component also includes: A single-touch actuator electrically connected to a control circuit; A switch, electrically coupled to a control circuit and capable of engaging with a rotating element rotatably coupled to a torque plate, wherein: When the latch is in the locked position, the rotating member rotates to the locked position, and the switch moves to the engaged position; When the latch is in the unlocked position, the rotating member rotates to the unlocked position, and the switch moves to the disengaged position; and Upon receiving a selection for a single-touch actuator and with the switch in the disengaged position, the control circuit is configured to start the motor to rotate the actuation shaft, thereby changing the position of the transmission spring to a biased position to driveably couple the baffle assembly to the latch assembly.

13. The locking component of claim 12, wherein the credential input mechanism comprises at least one of the following mechanisms: A keyboard used to receive password input; Biometric sensors for receiving biometric input; and A wireless interface used to receive wireless signals.

14. The locking component of claim 12, wherein: The movement of the latch from the locked position to the unlocked position includes the retraction of the latch; and The movement of the latch from the unlocked position to the locked position includes the extension of the latch.

15. The locking component of claim 12, wherein, After a predetermined time period, the motor is started to rotate the actuation shaft in the opposite direction about the first axis, thereby moving the position of the drive spring from the biased position to the neutral position and moving the flange to the first position, causing the actuation spring to be decompressed and the pin to disengage from the coupler.

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