Passive lock device adaptive to mechanical lock and use method

Abstract

The invention discloses a passive lock device matched with a mechanical lock and a using method, and belongs to the technical field of locks. The device comprises a passive lock head and an electronic key. The passive lock head is fixedly installed at the position corresponding to the mechanical lock key hole, and a rotor mechanism capable of rotating relative to the shell, a connecting mechanism used for forming non-rotating fixed connection with the mechanical key and a locking mechanism are arranged in the passive lock head. A power supply and an identity authentication unit are arranged in the electronic key, power is supplied to the passive lock head and an unlocking instruction is sent after authentication is passed, so that the locking mechanism is unlocked; a user rotates the electronic key to drive the rotor mechanism to rotate, and then the mechanical key is driven to synchronously rotate so as to drive the original mechanical lock cylinder to complete unlocking / locking. And the rotor mechanism is driven to rotate reversely and reset to realize locking. An original lock cylinder and an original lock body do not need to be replaced, installation and transformation are easy and convenient, compatibility is high, and safety and reliability are achieved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of lock technology, in particular to a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock and a use method. BACKGROUND

[0002] There are a large number of installed mechanical handle locks (such as door locks, cabinet door locks, etc.) on the market, with different lock core specifications, sizes, installation methods, and numerous brands and models. When users want to upgrade these mechanical locks to electronic locks, they face serious adaptation problems: Poor compatibility: Electronic locks usually need to be highly matched with lock bodies, lock tongues, and door panel structures, making it difficult to directly replace all types of mechanical locks.

[0003] High replacement cost: To adapt to different mechanical locks, multiple specifications of electronic lock bodies need to be developed and produced, resulting in complex product lines and high costs.

[0004] Installation is troublesome: Completely replacing the original lock often requires re-drilling and adjusting the door body, which has high technical requirements for users and installers and is highly destructive.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for an electronic upgrade solution that can maximize the retention of the original mechanical lock structure, achieve universal adaptation, and does not require an external power source. SUMMARY

[0006] The purpose of the present application is to provide a passive lock with a clever structure, easy installation, and strong versatility. The core purpose is to upgrade ordinary mechanical locks to electronically controlled smart locks by adding a passive electronic drive module without disassembling or replacing the original mechanical lock core and lock body.

[0007] Specifically includes the following solutions: A passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock, comprising: a passive lock and an electronic key, wherein the passive lock comprises: a housing for installation on a door panel or a lock panel, a rotor mechanism arranged in the housing, a locking mechanism, and an energy acquisition and communication module; wherein the rotor mechanism is provided with a connecting mechanism for forming a non-rotating fixed connection with a mechanical key inserted into the mechanical lock; the locking mechanism is configured to limit the rotation of the rotor mechanism in the locked state, and to release the rotation limitation of the rotor mechanism in the unlocked state, so that the rotor mechanism can drive the mechanical key to rotate to perform unlocking or locking under the driving; the energy acquisition and communication module is used to acquire the electric energy required for driving the locking mechanism to act from the electronic key, and to receive the unlocking instruction signal; the electronic key is configured to provide energy to the passive lock and send an unlocking instruction to release the locking mechanism.

[0008] Further, the locking mechanism is configured to automatically reset to lock the rotor mechanism with the housing after the electronic key is removed.

[0009] Further, the locking mechanism is an electromagnetic clutch type locking mechanism, which comprises an electromagnet with a movable iron core, a positioning pin and a reset spring connected to the positioning pin, and the rotor mechanism is formed with a limiting groove adapted to cooperate with the positioning pin; the movable iron core is configured to extend out to limit the positioning pin from disengaging from the limiting groove in a power-off state, and retract to enable the positioning pin to disengage from the limiting groove to release the locking of the rotor mechanism in a power-on state.

[0010] Further, the locking mechanism is an electronic bolt type locking mechanism, which comprises a bolt and a driving member thereof; the bolt is configured to extend into the limiting groove of the rotor mechanism in a power-off state to limit the rotation of the rotor mechanism, and retract by the driving member to release the rotation locking of the rotor mechanism after receiving an unlocking instruction and being powered.

[0011] Further, the rotor mechanism is connected with a handle structure that can be held and forced by a user.

[0012] Further, the electronic key is provided with an identity authentication module, which comprises at least one of a password module, a fingerprint module, a Bluetooth module and an NFC chip module.

[0013] Further, the electronic key supplies power to the passive lock through a wireless mode or a physical contact mode.

[0014] Further, the connecting structure comprises a cavity matched with the shape of the key handle of the mechanical key, so that the mechanical key is inserted into the cavity to form a non-rotating sleeve connection with the rotor mechanism.

[0015] Further, the passive lock head is fixed on the door panel or the lock panel by means of fasteners, adhesion or clamping.

[0016] The application also provides a use method of the passive lock device adapted to the mechanical lock, which comprises the following steps: The passive lock is fixedly installed at a position corresponding to the keyhole of the mechanical lock, and the mechanical key is connected with the connecting structure in the passive lock head in a non-rotating fixed connection; When unlocking is needed, the electronic key is contacted or near-field coupled with the passive lock head and identity authentication is performed; after the authentication is passed, the electronic key supplies power to the passive lock head and sends an unlocking instruction to release the locking of the locking mechanism; The user rotates the rotor mechanism of the passive lock head to rotate, thereby driving the mechanical key to rotate synchronously and driving the mechanical lock cylinder to complete the unlocking; The user reverses the rotor mechanism to reset it, removes the electronic key, and the locking mechanism locks the rotor mechanism, completing the locking process.

[0017] Beneficial effects: Ultimate compatibility and versatility: It is compatible with almost all mechanical locks that use rotary keys, regardless of the size or model of the lock cylinder, as long as the key can be inserted and secured. This solves the biggest pain point in replacing electronic locks.

[0018] The modification and installation are extremely simple: there is no need to remove the old lock or drill new holes in the door. Usually, it only requires simply fixing the passive lock housing around the keyhole. The modification time is short and non-destructive.

[0019] Truly passive and secure: The lock itself requires no batteries, avoiding the inconvenience of battery replacements and the inability to open the door when the battery is depleted. Powered by an electronic key, it is safe and reliable. The locking mechanism prevents forced entry.

[0020] Low cost: It eliminates the cost of developing complex electronic lock bodies, and the passive lock head structure is relatively standardized, allowing for mass production to reduce unit price.

[0021] It enhances the value of traditional locks: instantly upgrading a large number of existing mechanical locks into smart locks that can be managed by the Internet of Things, with broad market prospects. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a front view schematic diagram of a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of PP; Figure 3 This is an installation diagram of a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is an exploded view of a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a passive locking device adapted to a mechanical lock in the locked state according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocked state of a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the connection mechanism and mechanical key of a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure label: Passive lock 1, outer shell 11, rotor mechanism 2, lock cylinder 21, lock cylinder head 22, limiting groove 23, connecting mechanism 24, locking mechanism 3, electromagnet 31, movable iron core 32, movable pin 33, return spring 34, PCBA board 4, mechanical key 5, electronic key 6, mechanical lock 7. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Combination Figures 1 to 7 As shown, this embodiment provides a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock, including: a passive lock 1 and an electronic key 6. The passive lock 1 includes: a housing 11 for mounting on a door panel or lock panel; a rotor mechanism 2 and a locking mechanism 3 disposed within the housing 11; and an energy harvesting and communication module. The rotor mechanism 2 is provided with a connecting mechanism 24 for forming a non-rotational fixed connection with a mechanical key 5 inserted into the mechanical lock 7. The locking mechanism 3 is configured to restrict the rotation of the rotor mechanism 2 in a locked state and release the rotation restriction on the rotor mechanism 2 in an unlocked state, so that the rotor mechanism 2 can drive the mechanical key 5 to rotate to perform unlocking or locking. The energy harvesting and communication module is used to obtain the electrical energy required to drive the locking mechanism 3 from the electronic key 6 and receive unlocking command signals. The electronic key 6 is configured to provide energy to the passive lock 1 and send unlocking commands to release the locking mechanism 3.

[0024] In this embodiment, the shape of the outer shell 11 is not specifically limited. It can be installed on the door panel or lock panel by means of fastener fixing, adhesive fixing or clamping fixing, so as to realize the fixed installation of the passive lock 1 on the existing mechanical lock 7.

[0025] Combination Figures 2 to 6As shown, the rotor mechanism 2 is rotatably disposed within the housing 11, including a lock cylinder head 22 and a lock cylinder 21 connected to the lock cylinder head 22. The tail of the lock cylinder 21 may be provided with a groove for the mechanical key 5 to be adapted and connected. In another embodiment, the lock cylinder 21 may also be connected to the mechanical key 5 via another connecting mechanism 24. The connecting mechanism 24 may include a cavity matching the shape of the key handle of the mechanical key 5, so that after the mechanical key 5 is inserted into the cavity, it forms a non-rotational sleeve connection with the rotor mechanism 2. In other embodiments, the connecting mechanism 24 also includes a retractable latch, which extends after the mechanical key 5 is inserted to engage the recess or side of the mechanical key 5, thereby achieving a non-rotational fixed connection. It should be noted that the shape of the connecting mechanism 24 includes, but is not limited to, these features. A non-rotational fixed connection means that the connecting mechanism 24 and the mechanical key 5 cannot rotate relative to each other, but can move back and forth for easy insertion and removal. The lock cylinder head 22 is provided with a limiting groove 23 for cooperating with the locking mechanism 3. Preferably, a handle structure that can be gripped and applied by a user is also connected to the lock cylinder head 22 to facilitate user operation. In a preferred embodiment, the lock cylinder head 22 can automatically reset after rotation when the driving force is removed. For example, the automatic reset function of the lock cylinder head 22 can be achieved by setting an elastic mechanism in the lock cylinder head 22. It should be noted that the automatic reset function of the lock cylinder head 22 is prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0026] The locking mechanism 3 is responsible for controlling the rotation of the rotor mechanism 2. In the locked state, the locking mechanism 3 restricts the rotation of the rotor mechanism 2 through mechanical blocking, friction braking, or electromagnetic attraction to prevent unauthorized unlocking. Upon receiving an unlocking command and obtaining the necessary electrical energy, the locking mechanism 3 releases the restriction on the rotor mechanism 2, allowing it to rotate freely. For example, the locking mechanism 3 can be a mechanical pin that extends to lock the rotor mechanism 2 when locked and retracts when unlocked.

[0027] Combination Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 is an electromagnetic clutch type locking mechanism 3, which includes an electromagnet 31 with a movable iron core 32 mounted on the housing 11, a positioning pin, and a return spring 34 connected to the positioning pin; a limiting groove 23 suitable for cooperating with the positioning pin is formed on the rotor mechanism 2; the movable iron core 32 is configured to extend in the de-energized state to restrict the positioning pin from disengaging from the limiting groove 23, and retract in the energized state to allow the positioning pin to disengage from the limiting groove 23 to release the locking of the rotor mechanism 2.

[0028] Specifically, the electromagnetic clutch-type locking mechanism 3 is a mechanism that uses electromagnetic force to control the engagement and disengagement of mechanical components. Its core lies in generating magnetic force by switching the electromagnetic coil on and off, thereby driving the mechanical components to lock or unlock the rotor mechanism 2. This mechanism has advantages such as fast response speed, precise control, and compact structure, making it particularly suitable for applications requiring electrically controlled mechanical actions. The electromagnet 31 is the core driving component of the electromagnetic clutch-type locking mechanism 3, typically composed of a coil and an iron core made of magnetic material. When the coil is energized, a magnetic field is generated, causing the movable iron core 32 to move under the action of magnetic force; when the power is off, the magnetic force disappears, and the movable iron core 32 returns to its original position under the action of the return spring 34 or other mechanical forces. The extension and retraction of the movable iron core 32 is key to realizing the action of the locking mechanism 3. The positioning pin is a component that directly engages with the rotor mechanism 2 to achieve the locking function. It is typically a columnar or rod-shaped structure, with one end designed to precisely engage with the limiting groove 23 on the rotor mechanism 2. When the positioning pin is inserted into the limiting groove 23, the rotation of the rotor mechanism 2 is stopped; when the positioning pin is disengaged from the limiting groove 23, the rotor mechanism 2 can rotate freely. The reset spring 34 provides a preset reset mechanical force for the positioning pin, ensuring that the locking mechanism 3 can automatically reset to the safe locking state in the absence of power, thereby improving the reliability and safety of the system.

[0029] In the de-energized state, the movable iron core 32 of the electromagnet 31 is in the extended position, and the positioning pin is restricted within the limiting groove 23 by mechanical limiting, thereby locking the rotor mechanism 2. When the electronic key 6 supplies power and sends an unlocking command, the electromagnet 31 is energized, and the movable iron core 32 retracts under the action of electromagnetic force, releasing the restriction on the positioning pin and causing the positioning pin to disengage from the limiting groove 23, thereby releasing the lock on the rotor mechanism 2. This configuration realizes a fail-safe mechanism of "locking when power is off and unlocking when power is on". It should be noted that a spring can be installed inside the electromagnet 31 to drive the movable iron core 32 to extend in the event of a power outage.

[0030] In another embodiment, the locking mechanism 3 is an electronic pin-type locking mechanism 3, which includes a pin and its driving component. The pin is configured to extend into the limiting groove 23 of the rotor mechanism 2 when power is off to restrict the rotation of the rotor mechanism 2. After receiving an unlocking command and power is supplied, the driving component drives the pin to retract, thereby releasing the rotation lock on the rotor mechanism 2. This type of mechanism typically features a compact structure, fast response speed, and flexible control. The pin is the component that directly engages with the rotor mechanism 2 to achieve locking or unlocking, and is typically a rod-shaped or columnar structure. The driving component is the actuator responsible for pushing or pulling the pin, and can be, for example, an electromagnet 31, a micro motor with gears, or a linkage mechanism. After receiving an electrical signal, the driving component causes the pin to extend or retract.

[0031] In this embodiment, the energy harvesting and communication module serves as a bridge for interaction between the passive lock 1 and the electronic key 6. This module is configured to obtain the electrical energy required to drive the locking mechanism 3 from the electronic key 6 and to receive unlocking command signals sent by the electronic key 6. It should be noted that a control system is provided within the passive lock 1. Specifically, the control system can be a PCBA board 4, connected to the locking mechanism 3 and the energy harvesting and communication module, and can be used to implement functions such as unlocking authentication.

[0032] This application further proposes that the electronic key 6 is equipped with an identity authentication module, which includes at least one of a password module, a fingerprint module, a Bluetooth module, and an NFC chip module. The identity authentication module is a hardware or software component used to verify the user's identity; its core function is to confirm whether the user operating the electronic key 6 has legitimate authorization. This module is typically integrated within the electronic key 6 and initiates an identity verification process before the user attempts to unlock the device using the electronic key 6. Its implementation methods may include, but are not limited to, comparing preset identity information or verifying through biometric recognition technology. By introducing an identity authentication module, it is possible to effectively prevent unauthorized personnel from being unable to unlock the device even if they obtain the electronic key 6, thereby improving the security of the entire passive lock device.

[0033] The identity authentication module may include a password module, requiring the user to enter a preset password of numbers, letters, or a combination thereof when operating the electronic key 6. Additionally, the identity authentication module may also include a fingerprint module, a Bluetooth module, an NFC chip module, etc.

[0034] By incorporating an authentication module within the electronic key 6, the passive lock device of this application adds an operator identity verification step before providing power and sending unlocking commands. When a user attempts to use the electronic key 6, the authentication module initiates a corresponding verification process, such as requiring the user to enter a password, perform fingerprint recognition, or securely communicate with an authorized device via Bluetooth, NFC, or other methods to confirm identity. Only after successful authentication is the electronic key 6 authorized to provide the electrical energy required to drive the locking mechanism 3 of the passive lock 1 and send an unlocking command signal. This mechanism effectively solves the security risk of the passive lock 1 being arbitrarily unlocked if the electronic key 6 is lost or obtained by unauthorized personnel. By introducing authentication, it ensures that only authorized users can operate the passive lock 1, thereby greatly improving the security, reliability, and access control capabilities of the entire passive lock device, preventing unauthorized unlocking or locking operations, and making the application scenarios of the passive lock device more extensive and secure.

[0035] It is important to note that the electronic key 6 is configured to power the passive lock 1 wirelessly or via physical contact. Wireless power supply means that power can be transferred between the electronic key 6 and the passive lock 1 without direct electrical contact. For example, the electronic key 6 can integrate a primary coil. When it approaches the passive lock 1, the secondary coil in the energy acquisition and communication module inside the passive lock 1 will sense a changing magnetic field, thereby generating an induced current and transferring power to the passive lock 1. The advantage of this wireless power supply method is that it avoids the wear and corrosion problems caused by physical contact, improves the durability and sealing of the device, and is especially suitable for outdoor or humid environments. Simultaneously, the unlocking command signal can also be transmitted by modulating it onto an energy transmission carrier or through a separate wireless communication module (such as Bluetooth or NFC). Physical contact power supply means that power can be transferred between the electronic key 6 and the passive lock 1 through a direct electrical connection. This can be achieved, for example, through conductive contacts on the electronic key 6 and the passive lock 1, such as pogo pins or flat contacts. When the electronic key 6 contacts the passive lock 1, these conductive contacts connect to form a closed circuit, thereby transferring electrical energy from the electronic key 6 to the energy harvesting and communication module of the passive lock 1. The advantages of this physical contact method are high energy transmission efficiency, high transmission power, and stable and reliable communication link. To ensure the reliability of the contact, the contacts are typically made of wear-resistant and highly conductive materials and are designed with self-cleaning or dustproof structures.

[0036] Example 2 This embodiment discloses a method for using a passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock, which includes the following steps: The passive lock 1 is fixedly installed at the corresponding position of the keyhole of the mechanical lock 7, and the mechanical key 5 is fixedly connected to the connection structure inside the passive lock head in a non-rotational manner; when unlocking is required, the electronic key 6 contacts or near-field couples with the passive lock head and performs identity authentication; after successful authentication, the electronic key 6 supplies power to the passive lock head and sends an unlocking command to release the locking mechanism 3; the user rotates the rotor mechanism 2 of the passive lock head, thereby driving the mechanical key 5 to rotate synchronously and drive the mechanical lock cylinder 21 to complete unlocking; when locking, the rotor mechanism 2 is rotated in the opposite direction to the locking position, and after the electronic key 6 is removed, the locking mechanism 3 can automatically reset to lock the rotor mechanism 2 to the outer casing 11.

[0037] Through the aforementioned passive lock method adapted to mechanical locks, firstly, the installation method of the passive lock 1 and its connection with the mechanical key 5 ensure the operational reliability of the device when used on existing mechanical locks 7. Secondly, identity authentication is achieved through contact or near-field coupling between the electronic key 6 and the passive lock head, effectively improving the security of the unlocking process and preventing unauthorized operation. After successful authentication, the electronic key 6 supplies power to the passive lock head and sends an unlocking command, enabling the locking mechanism 3 to accurately and promptly release the lock, providing users with a convenient unlocking experience. The user can then rotate the rotor mechanism 2 that drives the passive lock head, directly driving the mechanical key 5 to operate the mechanical lock cylinder 21, realizing intelligent operation of the traditional mechanical lock 7. Most importantly, after the electronic key 6 is removed, the locking mechanism 3 can automatically reset, locking the rotor mechanism 2 to the outer casing 11. This mechanism greatly enhances the system's security, avoiding the risk of the lock not locking due to human negligence, ensuring a safe state after each operation, and thus significantly improving the practicality and reliability of the entire passive lock device.

[0038] It should be understood that the above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention, and the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. All technical solutions that fall within the scope of the present invention are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] The accompanying drawings used in the above description of the embodiments only illustrate certain embodiments of the present invention and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

Claims

1. A passive locking device adapted to mechanical locks, characterized in that, include: Passive locks and electronic keys, among which, The passive lock includes: a housing for mounting on a door panel or lock panel, a rotor mechanism and a locking mechanism disposed within the housing, and an energy harvesting and communication module; wherein, the rotor mechanism is provided with a connecting mechanism for forming a non-rotational fixed connection with a mechanical key inserted into the mechanical lock; the locking mechanism is configured to restrict the rotation of the rotor mechanism in the locked state and release the rotation restriction on the rotor mechanism in the unlocked state, so that the rotor mechanism can drive the mechanical key to rotate to perform unlocking or locking under drive; the energy harvesting and communication module is used to obtain the electrical energy required to drive the locking mechanism from the electronic key and to receive unlocking command signals; The electronic key is configured to provide energy to the passive lock and send an unlocking command to release the locking mechanism.

2. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism is configured to automatically reset after the electronic key is removed to lock the rotor mechanism to the housing.

3. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism is an electromagnetic clutch-type locking mechanism, which includes an electromagnet with a movable iron core mounted on the housing, a positioning pin, and a return spring connected to the positioning pin; a limiting groove suitable for cooperating with the positioning pin is formed on the rotor mechanism; the movable iron core is configured to extend in the de-energized state to restrict the positioning pin from disengaging from the limiting groove, and to retract in the energized state to allow the positioning pin to disengage from the limiting groove to release the locking of the rotor mechanism.

4. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism is an electronic pin-type locking mechanism, including a pin and its driving component; the pin is configured to extend into the limiting groove of the rotor mechanism to restrict the rotation of the rotor mechanism when the power is off, and after receiving the unlocking command and powering on, the driving component drives the pin to retract to release the rotation lock of the rotor mechanism.

5. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotor mechanism is connected to a handle structure that can be held and force applied by the user.

6. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electronic key is equipped with an identity authentication module, which includes at least one of a password module, a fingerprint module, a Bluetooth module, and an NFC chip module.

7. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electronic key supplies power to the passive lock via wireless or physical contact.

8. The passive lock device adapted to mechanical locks according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connection structure includes a cavity that matches the shape of the key handle of the mechanical key, so that after the mechanical key is inserted into the cavity, it forms a non-rotational sleeve connection with the rotor mechanism.

9. The passive lock device adapted to a mechanical lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The passive lock head is installed on the door panel or lock panel by means of fastener fixation, adhesive fixation or clamp fixation.

10. A method of using a passive locking device adapted to a mechanical lock as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The passive lock is fixedly installed at the corresponding position of the mechanical lock keyhole, and the mechanical key and the connection structure inside the passive lock head form a non-rotational fixed connection; When unlocking is required, the electronic key contacts or is near-field coupled with the passive lock head to perform identity authentication; after successful authentication, the electronic key supplies power to the passive lock head and sends an unlocking command to release the locking mechanism. The user rotates the rotor mechanism of the passive lock head, thereby driving the mechanical key to rotate synchronously and driving the mechanical lock cylinder to unlock. The user reverses the rotor mechanism to reset it, removes the electronic key to lock the locking mechanism, and completes the locking process.

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