Method for producing and opening coded combination lock

Abstract

The invention relates to a manufacturing method of a combination lock. The combination lock is provided with a locking mechanism. By means of at least three rotatably adjustable bearing sleeves (1), the locking mechanism is prevented from being transferred from the locking position into the opening position by means of a locking device (10) of the bearing sleeve (1) when at least one bearing sleeve (1) is in its locking position. By arranging all the bearing sleeves (1) in the release position in each case, the locking mechanism can be moved into the open position. A coding wheel (12) is arranged on each bearing sleeve (1), said coding wheel partially extending into the cutout (2). The detection position of each bearing sleeve (1) can be detected by means of a code (6) of the bearing sleeve (1), said code being perceptible from the outside, through the cutouts (2). The release position of the bearing sleeve (1) can be adjusted by rotating the bearing sleeve (1) from its respective detection position by an encoding angle of the respective bearing sleeve (1). In this case, the bearing sleeve (1) is selected from a plurality of bearing sleeves (1) having different coding angles, such that the coding angles of at least two bearing sleeves (1) differ. The invention further relates to a method for producing a luggage case having such a combination lock and to a method for opening such a combination lock.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method of manufacturing a combination lock, particularly a luggage lock, which has a locking mechanism. This locking mechanism allows the combination lock to be moved from a locked position to an open position. The locking mechanism has at least three rotatably adjustable bearing sleeves. The locking mechanism is prevented from moving from the locked position to the open position by a locking device of at least one bearing sleeve being in its locked position. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is released to move from the locked position to the open position by arranging all bearing sleeves in the release position of each bearing sleeve. Each bearing sleeve also has a coding wheel that partially extends into a notch in the front cover. Here, the detection position of each bearing sleeve can be detected through the notch by means of an externally perceptible coding section on the bearing sleeve. Here, the release position of the bearing sleeve can be adjusted by rotating the bearing sleeve from its detection position by a coding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve. Furthermore, this invention relates to a luggage, particularly for travel luggage, wherein the luggage has a storage space that can be locked using this combination lock. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing suitcases (particularly for travel luggage), wherein the suitcases can be locked by means of a combination lock manufactured in this manner. The invention also relates to a method for opening such a combination lock. Background Technology

[0002] Different types of combination locks are manufactured in the prior art. Typically, a locking mechanism is provided that must be unlocked to open the combination lock, wherein, for unlocking, all coded wheels must be in their respective released positions. To allow the user to retrieve the combination of the released positions of all coded wheels, a detectable key symbol is typically formed on the outer circumferential surface of the coded wheels. The key code here provides a specific combination of key symbols in which all coded wheels or corresponding bearing sleeves are in their respective released positions.

[0003] Because key combinations can be lost and / or forgotten, it is desirable to develop methods for retrieving key combinations to create combination locks. However, disassembling a combination lock to analyze the locking mechanism relative to the bearing sleeve has proven to be extremely time-consuming and / or generally impossible without damaging the locked item.

[0004] A combination lock in the form of a buckle lock is known from DE 2261 029 A1, commonly used in suitcases and travel luggage. Here, coding wheels are arranged coaxially on a common axis by means of bearing sleeves. Furthermore, this buckle combination lock allows the user to independently set the key combination, as the rotational offset between the coding wheels and the corresponding bearing sleeves is independently adjustable. As a result, the key combination is often unintentionally changed. To enable unlocking the lock even without knowing the key combination, visually or tactilely perceptible coding sections are constructed on the bearing sleeves. When the bearing sleeves are moved to the detection position, the user can externally identify these coding sections through openings and recesses.

[0005] In particular, it is known that the coding section is constructed with a coding angle that is fixed relative to the locking device of the bearing sleeve and is the same for all bearing sleeves, but is known only to authorized personnel.

[0006] By externally probing the coding section in the detection position and, if necessary, rotating all coding wheels to a fixed, defined coding angle, the bearing sleeves are transferred to their respective release positions, without the user knowing the key combination. Here, the coding section is constructed in the same position on all bearing sleeves. In particular, the detection position of the bearing sleeve can also be the release position of the bearing sleeve, such that the coding angle is 0°. In this case, to open the buckle combination lock, it is only necessary to arrange all the bearing sleeves so that the coding sections on each bearing sleeve are in a row.

[0007] The problem with the solution for obtaining the key combination known from DE 2261 029 A1 is that an unauthorized person, if able to identify the coding section and know the coding angles, can also use the coding section to open the combination lock undetected in a very short time. If the unauthorized person does not know the fixed coding angles, they can find them relatively quickly because these coding angles are the same for all coding wheels. For example, this allows for unauthorized swapping or adding of contents to a suitcase when briefly gaining control. Therefore, it is desirable that unauthorized persons cannot, or can only, open the combination lock undetected with increased time consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a combination lock, a method for manufacturing a suitcase with a combination lock, and a method for opening a combination lock, which overcome the disadvantages known in the prior art, because combination locks are difficult to open undetected without knowing the key combination, while retaining the possibility that authorized personnel can relatively easily obtain the key combination.

[0009] The task is solved according to the present invention by a method for manufacturing a combination lock having the features of claim 1, a method for manufacturing a suitcase having the features of claim 5, and a method for opening the combination lock having the features of claim 6.

[0010] The release position of the bearing sleeve can be adjusted by rotating the bearing sleeve from its detection position by a coding angle. The bearing sleeve is selected from a plurality of bearing sleeves with different coding angles, such that at least two bearing sleeves have different coding angles. Rotating the bearing sleeve so that the coding sections are arranged in a row, or rotating all the coding wheels by the same additional coding angle, is insufficient to move the locking mechanism to its open position. Therefore, the locking mechanism can be unlocked or the combination lock opened imperceptibly only when the coding angle of each individual coding wheel is known. Thus, in the sense of the invention, the combination lock can be unlocked without knowing the key code by having the user detect the coding section on the corresponding bearing sleeve and thus place the bearing sleeve in its respective detection position. From this detection position, the user must now rotate the bearing sleeve by the corresponding or individual coding angle, wherein, in the case of at least two bearing sleeves, the coding angles are different from each other, thus reaching the release position of the bearing sleeve. Because the coding angles of at least two bearing sleeves are different, the locking mechanism cannot be moved to its open position by simply arranging the coding sections in a row or moving all the bearing sleeves to their respective detection positions.

[0011] Under the present invention, the bearing sleeves can also be selected such that the coding angle of at most two bearing sleeves is 0°, so that in the case of two bearing sleeves, the detection position also corresponds to the release position. Because, in the sense of the present invention, at least one of the three bearing sleeves is constructed with a different coding angle in this case, the locking mechanism cannot be moved to its open position without knowing at least one different coding angle.

[0012] In particular, for a given combination lock, bearing sleeves with different coding angles are selected according to a random principle or by means of a predetermined order of bearing sleeves with different coding angles, such that the coding angle of the bearing sleeves of a given combination lock is unpredictable when the specific selected bearing sleeves are unknown.

[0013] Information regarding the coded angles of each bearing sleeve of a given combination lock can be stored at the destination in the form of a security card and / or a database (especially the manufacturer's database). Preferably, the coded angles are paired with the serial number of the corresponding combination lock and / or with the serial number of the suitcase on which / will be fitted with the combination lock, enabling the coded angles of each bearing sleeve to be retrieved from the database (especially the manufacturer's database) based on the serial number.

[0014] According to one possible configuration, the combination lock and / or luggage is marked with an externally readable or readable alphanumeric code. In particular, the alphanumeric code marks the coded angle of the combination lock's bearing sleeve in an encrypted form converted by an encryption method, preferably in combination with the combination lock's unique serial number.

[0015] In particular, alphanumeric codes can be marked on stickers. Depending on the destination, the alphanumeric codes are engraved on and / or printed on the stickers. Specifically, the sticker can be externally identifiable and affixed to the exterior wall of a suitcase equipped with a corresponding combination lock. Alternatively, alphanumeric codes can also be marked on signs or cards, particularly those made of cardboard, metal, and / or plastic.

[0016] Preferably, the coded angles, particularly alphanumeric codes, of each bearing sleeve of the combination lock are stored in an RFID tag, wherein each coded angle or alphanumeric code can be read by a corresponding RFID reader. This RFID tag can be mounted on the combination lock itself or on a suitcase in which the corresponding combination lock is installed or will be installed.

[0017] In an advantageous variation, the RFID tag is arranged on the bearing sleeve such that the encoded portion is externally perceptible through detection gaps in the edge regions of the respective encoded wheels. Particularly advantageously, the detection gaps are formed between the respective encoded wheel and the wall adjacent to the wall of the corresponding notch or another adjacent encoded wheel. This embodiment offers the advantage of easy user access to the encoded portion on the bearing sleeve. Depending on the intended purpose, the detection gaps can be configured such that a user can optically identify the encoded portion through the gap using an optical detection tool. Alternatively, the detection gaps can be configured such that a detection tool can be inserted into the corresponding detection gap and engage with the bearing sleeve or the encoded portion.

[0018] A particular implementation is found in which the selected bearing sleeves each have a second encoding section. The second encoding section is configured as a key mark, allowing the encoding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve to be determined based on the configuration of the key mark. The advantage of this implementation is that the user can directly obtain all the information needed to rotate the bearing sleeve to the release position and thus open the combination lock without knowing the key combination, either through the corresponding bearing sleeve or through the first and second encoding sections arranged on the bearing sleeve. Here, the user detects the position of the bearing sleeve using the first encoding section, and the user determines the encoding angle that must be rotated to move the bearing sleeve to its release position using the second encoding section.

[0019] One particular embodiment of the combination lock is configured such that at least one encoding section of the selected bearing sleeve is constructed as an optically identifiable encoding section. One suitable optical marking is, for example, a color-coded mark. To achieve the desired result, the position is detected by means of a first color mark for the first encoding section, and the corresponding encoding angle is marked by means of another color or set of colors as a key mark. Exemplarily, this design can be as follows: for example, yellow indicates the detection position, while green, blue, red, and white represent an encoding angle, for example, indicating 90°, 180°, 270°, and 360° or 0°. Advantageously, the encoding angle corresponds to an angle from an angle group with a step size of 360° / number of key symbols on the encoding wheel, typically ten key symbols arranged on one encoding wheel, namely 0°, 36°, 72°, 108°, 144°, 180°, 216°, 252°, 288°, and 324°. Alternatively, the position of the second encoding section on the bearing sleeve may already indicate the first encoding. For example, this implementation can be as follows: a blue dot is formed on the bearing sleeve. The position of the blue dot here specifically indicates the detection position, wherein blue exemplarily represents a coding angle of 180°. Accordingly, the selected bearing sleeve can be constructed such that a second coding section configured as a key marker is provided by completely coloring the bearing sleeve or the material of the bearing sleeve.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment, where color markings serve as an alternative to or supplement to the first and / or second coding section, at least one coding section of the selected bearing sleeve is configured such that it can be tactilely perceived by a detection tool. Accordingly, the tactilely perceptible coding section is configured as a notch formed in the bearing sleeve. This notch can also be configured as a slot that completely penetrates the bearing sleeve or as a pit or groove formed in the bearing sleeve. Advantageously, the tactilely perceptible coding section is configured as a radially outward-pointing bulge or elevation.

[0021] In particular, the detection position can be determined using a detection tool, where color markings serve as key markers to indicate the detection angle. It is especially advantageous to select a bearing sleeve having a tactilely perceptible first coding section and an optically perceptible second coding section, implemented such that the first and second coding sections are arranged or constructed at the same location on the bearing sleeve. Therefore, the detection position can be easily detected using a detection tool, whereby visual or optical monitoring (especially through the detection gap) is sufficient to identify the second coding section and thus the coding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve, without having to search for the bearing sleeve.

[0022] The detection tool can be any tool suitable for providing tactile or optical feedback to the user. In particular, the combination lock can be configured to have a guide device for guiding the detection tool. The guide device can limit the maximum size of the detection tool, thus restricting unauthorized personnel without the configured detection tool from choosing an alternative means to replace it. Furthermore, the guide device has the advantage that the detection tool will not get stuck when inserted into the combination lock, but will be "blindly" guided directly to the bearing sleeve, allowing the coding section to detect it easily.

[0023] The detection tool can also be provided as an optical tool, which illuminates the gap and simultaneously identifies the wavelength of the light reflected from the bearing sleeve and thus the color of the corresponding coded section of the bearing sleeve.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, a first encoding section is provided by means of the position of a tactilely perceptible encoding section on the bearing sleeve. Here, the position of the tactilely perceptible encoding section can be used to indicate the detection position of the bearing sleeve. Alternatively or supplementarily, the encoding section is configured such that a second encoding section configured as a key mark is provided by means of the shape of the tactilely perceptible encoding section. This shape can be configured such that the encoding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve can be determined by means of the shape of the corresponding tactilely perceptible encoding section. In this embodiment, the detection tool can be configured as a detection gauge. Preferably, the second encoding section, which is configured as a notch, or at least as a key mark, can have a width that can be determined by the detection tool, wherein the encoding angle is indicated by means of this embodiment. Here, it has proven to be useful that a set of detection tools configured as a detection gauge allows the user to accurately determine each encoding angle. In this embodiment, the width of the notch can be configured to be 1 mm, 1.5 mm, or 2 mm, wherein these widths exemplarily represent encoding angles of 120°, 240°, and 360° or 0°. Correspondingly, the user can use three corresponding inspection tools constructed as inspection gauges to measure the corresponding notch to be inspected and thus determine the width of the notch or the coding angle of the bearing sleeve.

[0025] According to a particular embodiment of the locking mechanism, the bearing sleeve and the encoder wheel are arranged coplanarly on their respective adjusting shafts in a manner that allows them to rotatably interact independently. To achieve this, the adjusting shafts extend parallel to each other and are arranged offset from one another.

[0026] In practice, it is also advantageous to provide a locking mechanism with a common adjusting shaft. Specifically, the bearing sleeve and the encoder wheel are arranged independently of each other and coaxially on the adjusting shaft. In particular, with this structure, the combination lock and locking mechanism can be implemented compactly with very few components.

[0027] In particular, an adjusting shaft is provided such that, with all bearing sleeves in the released position, the adjusting shaft can be axially moved to a release position, in which the locking mechanism is unlocked in the open position. Furthermore, according to a desired configuration, the adjusting shaft is configured such that, with at least one bearing sleeve in the locked position, the adjusting shaft is locked in a locked position by means of a locking device. The adjusting shaft is preferably configured such that, in the locked position, the locking mechanism is locked in a locked position, thereby preventing the combination lock from being opened.

[0028] To improve the user experience of combination locks, they are manufactured in a way that allows the user to adjust the key combination. To achieve this, a specific manufacturing implementation is provided, in which the encoder wheel, particularly in the released position of the bearing sleeve, is configured to be axially movable relative to the corresponding bearing sleeve between a normal position (in which the encoder wheel is anti-rotatably fixed to the bearing sleeve) and a configured position. Here, to achieve the desired effect, the encoder wheel is movable relative to the corresponding bearing sleeve such that, in the configured position, the corresponding encoder wheel is rotatable, can rotate freely relative to the corresponding bearing sleeve, and can be reinstalled onto the bearing sleeve with an angular offset to return to the normal position. Exemplarily, the encoder wheel can therefore be placed in a non-rotatable arrangement relative to the bearing sleeve. In the non-rotatable arrangement, the user can rotate the corresponding encoder wheel until it reaches the desired position. After the corresponding encoder wheel is in the desired position, it can be moved to the anti-rotational arrangement relative to the bearing sleeve. Advantageously, the bearing sleeve is in its released position here, allowing the user to open the combination lock in the future by moving the encoder wheel to the set position.

[0029] To enable users to remember the position of the encoding wheel, a key symbol is arranged on the outer circumference of the encoding wheel, or an encoding wheel with a key symbol is provided to be arranged on the bearing sleeve.

[0030] The key symbols placed in a specific arrangement on the coding wheels to unlock the combination lock constitute the key code. These key symbols can be constructed with optical, tactile, or acoustic features. In particular, the key symbols can be constructed as letters, numbers, symbols, marks, or combinations of these features. Each coding wheel can also be manufactured with key symbols constructed independently of the other coding wheels, such that the key code consists of combinations of numbers, letters, symbols, etc. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Further advantageous configurations of the invention will be derived from the following description of the drawings and dependent claims. The drawings show: Figure 1 : An exploded view of the locking mechanism components of the combination lock to be manufactured. Figure 2:according to Figure 1 The side view of the locking mechanism assembly viewed along line of sight A. Figure 3 :according to Figure 1 The side view of the locking mechanism assembly viewed along line of sight B. Figure 4 : A perspective view of the bearing sleeve of the locking mechanism assembly of the combination lock to be manufactured according to a first embodiment of the locking device. Figures 5 to 14 : based on Figure 4 A top view of an exemplary variant of the bearing sleeve of a combination lock to be manufactured, with different offsets for the coded portions. Figure 15 : A top view of the locking mechanism assembly of the combination lock to be manufactured in the locked position, wherein the bearing sleeve is in the locked and detection positions. Figure 16 :according to Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism assembly along section CC. Figure 17 : A top view of the locking mechanism assembly of the combination lock to be manufactured in the locked position, wherein the bearing sleeve is in the released position. Figure 18 :according to Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism assembly along section DD. Figure 19 : A top view of the locking mechanism assembly of the combination lock to be manufactured in the open position, wherein the bearing sleeve is in the released position. Figure 20 :according to Figure 19 A cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism assembly along section EE. Figure 21 A top view of another embodiment of the bearing sleeve of a combination lock to be manufactured, featuring a different variant with a locking device, and Figure 22 : A schematic diagram of a method for opening a combination lock to be manufactured according to the present invention.

[0032] In all the figures in the accompanying drawings, the same parts always have the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The following description requires that the invention be limited to these embodiments and not to all or more features of the described combination of features, but rather to each individual partial feature of each embodiment, which, even detached from all other partially described features therewith, is essential to the content of the invention on its own and in combination with any features of other embodiments.

[0034] exist Figures 1 to 3as well as Figures 15 to 20 The image shows a component of a manufactured combination lock. In particular, this relates to a component of a combination lock constructed as / used as a luggage lock.

[0035] The combination lock has a locking mechanism here, which in... Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 The central portion is shown. With the aid of this locking mechanism, the combination lock is configured to be able to move from the locked position to the open position.

[0036] The locking mechanism of the combination lock to be manufactured includes at least three rotatably adjustable bearing sleeves 1. Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 Only one adjustable bearing sleeve 1 is shown in the figure, wherein the embodiment shown can be adapted to all configurations of the bearing sleeve 1.

[0037] In this configuration, the bearing sleeve 1 to be provided has a locked position (exemplarily in...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 (as shown in) and a release state (exemplarily in) Figures 17 to 20 (As shown in the diagram). Here, the locking mechanism is constructed such that at least one bearing sleeve 1, in its locked position, is prevented from being released by the locking device 10 of the bearing sleeve 1 by the locking mechanism. Figures 15 to 18 The locked position shown is transferred to Figure 19 and Figure 20 The open position is shown. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is constructed such that it is released from the locked position to the open position by arranging all bearing sleeves 1 in the release position of each bearing sleeve 1.

[0038] The manufacturing method is set here, wherein the three bearing sleeves 1 to be provided each have at least one first coding section 6.

[0039] according to Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 The diagram illustrates the arrangement of the various bearing sleeves 1, with an encoder wheel 12 arranged on each bearing sleeve 1. In this arrangement, the encoder wheel 12 is positioned on the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 such that it partially extends into the notch 2 of the front cover 4. Figure 1 The viewing angle from an area inside the locking mechanism is chosen such that it allows observation outward through the notch 2 (looking towards the area outside the locking mechanism). In particular, this external area is accessible to the user, allowing the user to act on, and in particular rotate, adjust the corresponding coding wheel 12 extending through the notch 2.

[0040] Advantageously, according to a particular embodiment of the locking mechanism, the bearing sleeves 1, 1a and the encoder wheel 12 are arranged coplanarly on their respective adjusting shafts in a manner that allows them to rotatably interact with each other. To achieve this, the adjusting shafts are arranged to extend parallel to each other and offset from one another. In a preferred embodiment, as... Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 As shown, the locking mechanism is manufactured with a common adjusting shaft 18. To achieve this, the bearing sleeves 1 and the encoder wheel 12 can rotate independently of each other and are coaxially arranged on the adjusting shaft 18. Here, it has proven advantageous to provide an adjusting shaft 18 such that all bearing sleeves 1 are in the released position (as in...). Figures 17 to 20 As shown), the adjusting shaft 18 can be axially moved to the release position (in which the locking mechanism is unlocked in the open position), and at least one bearing sleeve 1 is in the locked position (as shown in...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown in the diagram), the adjusting shaft 18 is locked in a locked position by means of the locking device 10 (in which the locking mechanism is locked in the locked position). Exemplarily, in Figure 1 An advantageous variation of this embodiment is shown in the figure based on the bearing sleeve 1 arranged on the adjusting shaft 18.

[0041] exist Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 20 The illustrated embodiment provides a bearing sleeve 1 in which the locking device 10 is advantageously configured as a radially inwardly projecting protrusion that engages in a groove 20 corresponding to the protrusion formed on the outer periphery of the adjusting shaft 18. Preferably, the groove 20 here provides a release section 22 extending axially relative to the adjusting shaft 18 and a locking section 24 intersecting the release section 22 and surrounding the adjusting shaft 18.

[0042] In particular, the manufacturing method is set such that when the protrusion is like Figure 16 When arranged as shown in the locking section 24, the bearing sleeve 1 can rotate relative to the adjusting shaft 18. As long as the protrusion is not arranged in the intersection area between the release section 22 and the locking section 24, the bearing sleeve 1 is in its locked position as intended, and the locking mechanism is prevented from moving from the locked position to the open position. In particular, axial movement of the adjusting shaft 18 relative to the bearing sleeve 1 is prevented here.

[0043] Advantageously, the manufacturing technique is configured such that when the bearing sleeve 1 is adjusted to rotate relative to the adjusting shaft 18, the protrusion is as... Figure 18 When arranged as shown in the intersection area between release section 22 and locking section 24, the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 is in its released position. Here, the bearing sleeve 1 to be provided meets the destination and can be as follows: Figure 20 The structure is configured such that as long as all the bearing sleeves 1 of the locking mechanism are arranged in their respective release positions with their respective protrusions, similar to the aforementioned bearing sleeves 1, or especially when all the bearing sleeves are arranged with their respective protrusions in the intersection area between the release section 22 and the locking section 24, the bearing sleeves 1 can be transferred to the axially extending release section 22. Consistent with this condition, in which all the bearing sleeves 1 are in their release positions, the locking mechanism can be transferred from the locked position to the open position.

[0044] It has proven advantageous that the locking device 10 of the bearing sleeve 1, located outside the intersection area between the release section 22 and the locking section 24 in the axially extending release section 22, prevents the bearing sleeve 1 from rotating about the adjusting shaft 18. This achieves the desired result and thus prevents accidental adjustment of the locking mechanism.

[0045] To manufacture the combination lock, the encoder wheel is arranged on the bearing sleeve 1 in such a way that... Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the coding sections 6 of the bearing sleeves 1 and 1a are respectively capable of being sensed from the outside, so that the detection positions of each bearing sleeve 1 and 1a can be detected through the notch 2 in the front cover by means of the first coding section 6. In particular, according to this embodiment, Figure 15 and Figure 16 The bearing sleeve 1 is not only in the detection position, but also in the locked position. Figures 1 to 3 The diagram shows a particular embodiment of the encoding section 6, wherein the first encoding section 6 is configured as a notch formed in the bearing sleeve 1, which can be accessed by means of... Figures 1 to 3 The detection tool 8 shown in the image, in particular, was detected.

[0046] According to the present invention, the combination lock is manufactured such that the release position of the bearing sleeve 1 can be adjusted by rotating the bearing sleeve 1 from its detection position by a coded angle. Different embodiments of the bearing sleeve 1 manufactured according to the present invention (these bearing sleeves are related to...) Figure 1 The components shown provide different encoding angles. Figures 5 to 14 As shown in the figure. Here, according to the invention, the bearing sleeves are selected such that at least two bearing sleeves 1 have different coding angles.

[0047] For example, in accordance with Figure 1 An embodiment of the component to be manufactured shows a bearing sleeve 1, which corresponds to Figure 4 and Figures 5 to 14 The bearing sleeve 1 shown is a variant. In particular, the coding angle is determined by the position and structure of the locking device 10 and the arrangement of the coding section 6 of the bearing sleeve 1. Accordingly, Figures 5 to 14The design variations of the bearing sleeve 1 shown (due to their respective different arrangements of the coding section 6 relative to the locking device 10) all have their own different coding angles.

[0048] In accordance with the destination, the coding wheel 12 and the coding section 6 are arranged or constructed on the bearing sleeve 1 such that the coding section 6 of the bearing sleeve 1 can be externally sensed through the detection gap in the edge region of the corresponding coding wheel 12. Figure 15 , Figure 17 and Figure 19 In the illustrated embodiment, the detection gap is advantageously formed between the edge region of the encoding wheel 12 and the notch 2. In an embodiment not shown, the detection gap is formed between two adjacent encoding wheels 12. It has proven advantageous that the notch 2 is constructed with a spacer tab, such that each encoding wheel 12 extends into a correspondingly spaced region of the notch, thereby forming a spacer tab between the encoding wheels 12.

[0049] According to another advantageous embodiment, the bearing sleeves 1 to be provided are each encoded by a second encoding unit 6. The second encoding unit 6 is configured as a key marker, allowing the encoding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 to be determined by means of the key marker configuration.

[0050] In an advantageous variation of the invention, at least one coding section 6 of the bearing sleeve 1 to be provided is configured such that it can be tactilely sensed by means of a detection tool 8. In particular, this variation... Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 As shown in the diagram. Here, the coding portion 6 of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 is advantageously provided as a recess formed in the bearing sleeve 1. According to Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the notch can be touched by a detection tool 8 inserted from the outside, particularly through the detection gap (which is formed between the edge region of the notch and the coding wheel 12 to meet the target). Meeting the target, the detection tool 8 can thus be inserted through the notch 2 into the region of the bearing sleeve 1. Preferably, by rotatably adjusting the bearing sleeve 1, the user can here operatively connect the coding section 6 of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 with the detection tool 8. Meeting the target, the coding section 6 is manufactured such that contact between the coding section 6 and the detection tool 8 generates a tactile signal and preferably also an audible signal, signaling to the user that the bearing sleeve 1 has reached its detection position.

[0051] A particular embodiment of the combination lock further includes a tactilely perceptible encoding section 6 on the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 configured as a key mark. Here, the tactilely perceptible encoding section 6 is configured such that a second encoding section 6 configured as a key mark is provided by means of the shape of the tactilely perceptible encoding section 6, wherein the shape is configured according to the encoding angle, and the encoding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 can be determined by means of the shape of the encoding section 6.

[0052] For example, the tactilely perceptible encoding section 6 can be configured as a notch, such as in Figures 1 to 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 , Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown. To meet the target, this shape allows the encoding angle to be determined based on the key marking, in that the width 14 of the notch indicates the corresponding encoding angle. The width 14 of the notch is particularly important in... Figure 4 The mark is in the middle. To meet the destination, in order to determine the width 14 of the notch or to check the coding angle, the inspection tool 8 is constructed as an inspection gauge. For example, in... Figure 3 The diagram shows a testing tool 8 constructed as a testing gauge. The purpose is to provide a set of testing tools 8 constructed as testing gauges for determining the width 14 of the notch, or the corresponding coding angle, wherein each testing gauge is constructed corresponding to a determined width 14 of the notch. Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment provides a detection gauge with a width of 16, which corresponds to the width 14 of the notched encoding section 6. In particular, the user can detect an encoding angle through the precise consistency of the widths 14 and 16. Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, 180° is exemplarily used.

[0053] Especially in Figures 1 to 3 A particular embodiment is shown, in which the tactilely perceptible coding section 6 of the bearing sleeve 1 is provided not only as a first coding section 6 for detecting the detection position of the bearing sleeve 1, but also as a second coding section 6 for determining the coding angle as a key mark. Advantageously, the first coding section 6 is provided at the position of the tactilely perceptible coding section 6 on the corresponding bearing sleeve 1, by means of which the detection position of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 can be detected, and at the same time, by means of the shape of the tactilely perceptible coding section 6, in Figures 1 to 3 In the illustrated embodiment, a second encoding section 6 configured as a key mark is provided by means of the notch width 14, by means of which the encoding angle of the corresponding bearing sleeve can be determined.

[0054] Another embodiment of the invention, not shown, involves at least one coding portion 6 of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 being configured as an optically identifiable coding portion 6, particularly a color-coded mark. Accordingly, the tactilely perceptible coding portion 6 is configured such that it is additionally optically perceptible.

[0055] The optically perceptible coding unit 6 can be configured to meet the target so that it reveals to the user the detection position and / or coding angle of the bearing sleeve 1.

[0056] Particularly advantageously, the bearing sleeve 1 to be provided can have a combination of a tactilely perceptible first coding section 6 and an optically perceptible, especially colored, second coding section 6. For example, the first coding section 6 for detecting the detection position of the bearing sleeve 1 can be configured as a tactilely perceptible coding section 6, wherein the second coding section 6, configured as a key mark for determining the coding angle, can be configured as an optically perceptible coding section 6. Advantageously, the first coding section 6 is provided by means of the position of the tactilely perceptible coding section 6 on the bearing sleeve 1. Depending on the desired outcome, the optically perceptible coding section 6 can also be arranged or constructed on the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 independently of the first coding section, especially the tactilely perceptible coding section 6.

[0057] According to a particular embodiment, the first and second coding sections 6 of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 are provided by configuring the tactilely perceptible coding section 6 as colored. Here, the detection position of the bearing sleeve 1 can be detected by the position of the tactilely perceptible coding section 6, and the coding angle can be detected by means of the coloring.

[0058] Especially refer to Figure 3 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 20 As can be seen in the embodiment shown, the coding section 6 of the bearing sleeve 1 can be arranged aligned with the locking device 10, which also conforms to the destination. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in the diagram. According to this embodiment, the release section 22, which extends axially relative to the adjusting shaft 18, is advantageously located on the side opposite to the notch 2. The corresponding bearing sleeve 1 is constructed in such a way that the bearing sleeve 1 is in its detection position, especially when its first coding portion 6 faces the notch 2, so that the first coding portion can be detected, especially by means of the detection tool 8. Because the locking device 10 and the coding portion 6 of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 are aligned with each other, in order to move the bearing sleeve 1 to its release position, the bearing sleeve must be rotated about the adjusting shaft 18 to such an extent that the locking device 10 reaches the release section 22 formed on the opposite side or reaches the intersection of the release section and the locking section. This is in line with the objective, which is beneficial for... Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 20 As shown in the bearing sleeve 1, relative to the bearing sleeve 1 in Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 The component shown produces a detection angle of 180°.

[0059] Examples are listed below. Figures 6 to 14 The bearing sleeve 1 shown is relative to the bearing sleeve 1 in Figures 1 to 3 as well as Figures 15 to 20 The detection angle of the component shown depends on the direction of rotation, i.e., whether the bearing sleeve 1 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise: The following are the objectives: - exist Figure 6 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 216° or 144°, which is related to the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 7 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 252° or 108°, depending on the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 8 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 288° or 72°, depending on the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 9 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 324° or 36°, which is related to the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 10 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 360° or 0°, regardless of the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 11 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 36° or 324°, which is related to the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 12 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 72° or 288°, depending on the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 13 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 108° or 252°, depending on the direction of rotation. - exist Figure 14 In the embodiment of the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the detection angle is 144° or 216°, which is related to the direction of rotation.

[0060] Advantageously, the manufacturing method can be configured, for example, for a given combination lock, to be provided bearing sleeves 1 with different coding angles selected according to a random principle or by means of a predetermined order of bearing sleeves 1 with different coding angles, such that the coding angle of the bearing sleeves 1 of a given combination lock is unpredictable without knowing the specific selected bearing sleeves 1. For example, it can be derived from... Figures 5 to 14 Among the bearing sleeves 1 shown, each with an independent coding angle, select bearing sleeve 1.

[0061] In particular, such as Figure 1 As shown, the encoder wheel 12 is manufactured with an inner bearing bore 26 and can be axially pushed onto the corresponding bearing sleeve 1. In order to transmit the rotation of the encoder wheel 12 to the bearing sleeve 1, it has proven advantageous that the encoder wheel 12 is constructed with inwardly pointing teeth 28, which engage in a retaining geometry 30 (which is provided on the outer periphery of the bearing sleeve 1 to meet the desired purpose) such that the rotation of the corresponding encoder wheel 12 can be transmitted to the bearing sleeve 1 in at least one rotational direction or in one rotational direction.

[0062] To improve the arrangement of the encoder wheel 12 on the corresponding bearing sleeve 1, the bearing sleeve 1 can be manufactured with a bearing section 32 and an enlarged diameter abutment section 34, the abutment section preferably being as follows: Figure 4 The structure shown is a flange. The advantage of the abutment section 34 is that when the corresponding encoder wheel 12 is axially pushed onto the corresponding bearing sleeve 1, the encoder wheel 12 cannot move beyond the bearing sleeve 1, but rather abuts against the abutment section 34, which serves as an end stop. Alternatively, the retaining geometry 30 can be configured to axially protrude from the abutment section 34, wherein the retaining geometry 30 preferably extends over a portion of the bearing section 32, such as in… Figure 4 As shown in the figure. According to an alternative, not shown, embodiment to be manufactured, the geometry 30 extends axially from the abutment section 34 entirely over the bearing section 32 of the bearing sleeve 1.

[0063] In particular, the bearing sleeve 1 to be provided has an integral structure, especially an integral one-piece structure.

[0064] In a particular variation of the invention, the encoder wheel 12 is configured to be axially movable relative to the corresponding bearing sleeve 1 between a conventional position (in which the encoder wheel 12 is fixed to the bearing sleeve 1 in an anti-rotational manner) and a configured position. Here, the desired configuration is that, in the configured position, the encoder wheel 12 is rotatable, capable of free rotation relative to the corresponding bearing sleeve 1, and can be angularly offset and reinstalled onto the bearing sleeve 1 to return to the conventional position.

[0065] In particular, the encoder wheel 12 and the bearing sleeve 1 are constructed or arranged to be rotatably adjustable in stages. Exemplarily, especially in… Figure 3 The encoding wheel 12 shown has ten levels, each level having a 36° angular offset relative to the previous level. Figures 5 to 14 The variations of bearing sleeve 1 shown can all be matched with the destination. Figure 1 The locking mechanism assembly, or bearing sleeve 1, shown is interchangeable. Correspondingly, in Figures 5 to 14 The diagram shows all possible detection angles for the ten-level adjustable encoder wheel 12 or the adjustable bearing sleeve 1.

[0066] In particular, the graded rotational adjustment of the encoder wheel 12 or the bearing sleeve 1 can be provided by a locking geometry 36 formed on the outer circumferential surface. Specifically, in Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, a slit extending axially on the outer circumferential surface of the encoder wheel 12 is constructed as a locking geometry 36 such that a correspondingly constructed locking element (not shown), particularly a resilient locking arm, engages in the corresponding slit during rotational adjustment of the encoder wheel 12. As intended, the locking arm secures the encoder wheel 12 in the corresponding stage, wherein this securing can be overcome by a sufficiently large torque.

[0067] exist Figure 21 The image shows an alternative variation of the bearing sleeve 1a to be manufactured. Similar to... Figure 4 The bearing sleeve 1a shown is manufactured with a bearing section 32 for arranging the encoder wheel 12 and an abutment section 34 for axially preventing movement of the encoder wheel 12. However, compared with... Figure 4 The bearing sleeve 1 is set differently, according to Figure 21 The bearing sleeve 1a does not have radially inwardly pointing protrusions provided as a locking device 10. Figure 21 In the bearing sleeve 1 shown, the locking device 10 is provided by an enlarged diameter abutment section 34, particularly a flange, wherein the abutment section 34 has a gap 38 at at least one location in its circumferential direction, as in Figure 21 As shown in the diagram.

[0068] exist Figure 21 The bearing sleeve 1 shown is used in particular in conjunction with a locking latch guided parallel to the adjusting shaft 18, which is axially movable to the release position (in which the locking mechanism is unlocked in the open position) in all the release positions of the bearing sleeve 1, and in the locked position of at least one bearing sleeve 1, the locking latch is locked in the locked position by means of a locking device 10 configured to abut against the section 34 (in which the locking mechanism is locked in the locked position).

[0069] To meet the requirements, the locking latch has a corresponding abutment element to be provided for the abutment section 34, wherein one abutment element is provided for each bearing sleeve 1 or for each abutment section 34. Specifically, in the locked position of the bearing sleeve 1, the corresponding abutment element of the locking latch abuts axially against the abutment section 34 to be configured as the locking device 10, such that axial movement of the locking latch is prevented by a form-locking action. To meet the requirements, in Figure 21 The notch 38 in the contact section 34 of the bearing sleeve 1 shown is provided correspondingly to the corresponding contact element, such that in the released position of the bearing sleeve 1, the contact element does not axially abut against the contact section 34 of the bearing sleeve 1. In particular, this ensures that when all bearing sleeves 1 are arranged in their respective released positions, the locking latch can be axially transferred to its released position, wherein the contact element of the locking latch can be guided through below the notch 38.

[0070] In order to manufacture a lockable suitcase according to the invention, especially for travel luggage, a combination lock is provided, which is manufactured or has been manufactured according to the manufacturing method of the type described above.

[0071] According to one possible configuration, the suitcase is characterized by having an externally readable alphanumeric code. In particular, this alphanumeric code marks the coded angle of the combination lock's bearing sleeve 1 in an encrypted form converted by an encryption method, preferably in combination with the unique serial number of the combination lock or suitcase.

[0072] Depending on the destination, RFID tags for obtaining coded angles can be additionally installed on or inside the suitcase. Advantageously, the coded angles are stored in the RFID tags in a readable / queryable manner. In particular, it can be configured that the coded angles are stored in encrypted form, especially as alphanumeric codes, in the RFID tags.

[0073] The method according to the present invention for opening a combination lock manufactured according to one of the above-described manufacturing methods essentially comprises the following method steps, such as... Figure 22 As illustrated in the diagram.

[0074] First, in step 100, all bearing sleeves 1, 1a are arranged in their respective detection positions. To do this, at least the first coding section 6 of the corresponding bearing sleeve 1, 1a is probed through the notch 2.

[0075] Subsequently, in step 200, the corresponding coded angles of each bearing sleeve 1, 1a are obtained.

[0076] Knowing the encoding angle, in step 300, all bearing sleeves 1 and 1a are transferred to their respective release positions by means of rotating bearing sleeves 1 and 1a. For this purpose, the corresponding bearing sleeves are rotated by their respective encoding angles from their respective detection positions.

[0077] Then, in step 400, the combination lock can be opened by moving it from the locked position to the open position.

[0078] Here, different methods for determining the encoding angle have proven to be advantageous.

[0079] In particular, the encoding angle is queried from the database in order to obtain the encoding angle.

[0080] Alternatively, in order to obtain the encoding angle, the second encoding section 6 on the bearing sleeves 1 and 1a can be configured as a key mark.

[0081] In particular, in order to determine the encoding angle, the second encoding section 6 on the bearing sleeves 1 and 1a, which is configured as a key mark, is configured as a color mark, wherein the color of the corresponding mark is checked and compared with the decoding table.

[0082] Also in line with the objective is that, in order to determine the encoding angle, the second encoding section 6 on the bearing sleeves 1, 1a, which is configured as a key mark, is configured as a tactilely perceptible encoding section 6, wherein the shape of the corresponding encoding section 6 is examined (especially using the detection tool 8) to determine the corresponding encoding angle. Here, it has proven particularly advantageous to provide a set of detection tools 8 configured as detection gauges for examining the encoding section 6 configured as a key mark or for determining the corresponding encoding angle, wherein each detection gauge is configured to correspond to a specific shape of the encoding section 6.

[0083] Preferably, the encoded angle is read from the RFID tag to determine the encoded angle. For this purpose, it has proven particularly advantageous to use an RFID tag reader or a device capable of reading RFID tags.

[0084] Alternatively, in order to obtain the coded angle, an alphanumeric code can be read from the outside on the combination lock or a suitcase equipped with the corresponding combination lock. The coded angle can then be decrypted from the alphanumeric code using an encryption method (preferably in combination with the unique serial number of the combination lock and / or suitcase).

[0085] To open a combination lock or suitcase sold by the manufacturer or an authorized dealer, for example because the owner has forgotten the key combination, an advantageous implementation of the method for opening the combination lock uses alphanumeric codes for multi-factor authentication. Here, the owner is first asked for the serial number of the combination lock and / or suitcase, which was provided, for example, on the invoice or supplementary documents when the suitcase was purchased. Preferably, this serial number is also compared with the serial number embossed in the suitcase frame. Subsequently, the alphanumeric code of the combination lock or suitcase is preferably read and decrypted from an RFID tag by the manufacturer or authorized dealer, and the serial number and included coding angle contained in the alphanumeric code are read. The serial number provided by the owner is then compared with the serial number read from the alphanumeric code and / or the serial number embossed in the suitcase frame. If the serial numbers match, it can be confirmed that the owner is the legitimate owner and / or the combination lock and / or suitcase is genuine. If the owner is the legitimate owner of a genuine product, the suitcase is opened according to the read coding angle without damaging the suitcase.

[0086] This invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described, but also includes all embodiments that have the same effect in the sense of the invention. It is explicitly emphasized here that these embodiments are not limited to combinations of all features, but that each individual partial feature can be inventive in itself even when separated from all other partial features. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the feature combinations defined in claims 1, 7, and 8, but can also be defined by any other combination of defined features from all the disclosed individual features. This means that, in principle, each individual feature of claims 1, 7, and 8 can actually be omitted or replaced by at least one individual feature disclosed elsewhere in this application.

[0087] List of reference numerals 1. Bearing sleeve 1a Alternate bearing sleeve 2 gaps 4. Front Cover 6. Coding Department 8. Testing tools 10 Locking device 12 Coding Wheels 14. Width of the notch 16. Width of the inspection gauge 18 Adjustment Shaft 20 slots 22 Release Section 24 Locked Sections 26 Inner bearing bore 28 teeth 30. Maintain geometry 32 Bearing Section 34 Adjacent Section 36. Lock geometry 38 vacancy 100 Arrange the bearing sleeves in their respective inspection positions. 200. Determine the coding angle of each bearing sleeve. 300 Arrange the bearing sleeves in their respective release positions. 400 Open the combination lock

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a combination lock, particularly a luggage lock, the combination lock having a locking mechanism by means of which the combination lock can be moved from a locked position to an open position, wherein, By means of at least three rotatably adjustable bearing sleeves (1, 1a), the locking mechanism is prevented from moving from the locked position to the open position by means of the locking device (10) of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) being in the locked position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a), and the locking mechanism is released to move from the locked position to the open position by means of the locking device (10) of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) being in the release position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a), wherein an encoding wheel (12) is arranged on each bearing sleeve (1, 1a), the encoding wheel extending partially into the notch (2) of the front cover (4), wherein the detection position of each bearing sleeve (1, 1a) can be detected through the notch (2) by means of the externally perceptible encoding part (6) of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a), wherein the release position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) can be detected by means of the externally perceptible encoding part (6) of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a), wherein the release position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) can be detected by means of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) being in the locked position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) being in the locked position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) being in the released ... 1a) Adjust the coding angle of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) by rotating it from the detection position of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a). Its features are, These bearing sleeves (1, 1a) are selected from a plurality of bearing sleeves (1, 1a) with different coding angles, such that at least two bearing sleeves (1, 1a) have different coding angles. For a given combination lock, the bearing sleeves (1, 1a) with different coding angles are selected according to a random principle or by means of a predetermined order of bearing sleeves (1, 1a) with different coding angles, such that the coding angle of the bearing sleeves (1, 1a) of the given combination lock is unpredictable without knowing the specific selected bearing sleeves (1, 1a). The coding angle is paired with the serial number of the corresponding combination lock or the serial number of the suitcase on which / to be on which the combination lock is installed and stored in a database, so that the corresponding coding angle can be retrieved from the database based on the corresponding serial number.

2. The manufacturing method according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The encoding angle is marked as an alphanumeric code on the combination lock and / or on the suitcase that has the corresponding combination lock installed or will be installed on in a manner that is readable from the outside.

3. The manufacturing method according to any one of the preceding claims, Its features are, The alphanumeric code marks the coded angle of the bearing sleeve (1, 1a) of the combination lock in an encrypted form converted by an encryption method, preferably in combination with the unique serial number of the combination lock and / or the suitcase.

4. The manufacturing method according to claim 2 or 3, Its features are, The encoded angle or alphanumeric code is stored in the RFID tag and can be read using the corresponding RFID reader, wherein the RFID tag conforms to the destination configuration / can be configured on the combination lock itself or especially on the suitcase that is equipped with / will be equipped with the corresponding combination lock.

5. A method for manufacturing a suitcase, particularly for travel luggage, wherein, A combination lock is provided for locking the suitcase. Its features are, The combination lock is manufactured or has been manufactured according to the manufacturing method described in any of the preceding claims.

6. A method for opening a combination lock manufactured according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising the following steps: - By probing at least one first coding section (6) of each bearing sleeve (1, 1a) from the outside through the notch (2), all bearing sleeves (1, 1a) are arranged in their respective detection positions. - Calculate the corresponding coded angle for each bearing sleeve (1, 1a). - By rotating the bearing sleeves (1, 1a) by their respective coding angles from their respective detection positions, all bearing sleeves (1, 1a) are arranged in their respective release positions. - Move the combination lock from the locked position to the open position.

7. The method according to claim 6, Its features are, To obtain the coded angles of each bearing sleeve (1, 1a), the coded angles are queried from the database.

8. The method according to claim 6, Its features are, To determine the encoding angle, the encoding angle or the alphanumeric code is read from the RFID tag.

9. The method according to claim 6, Its features are, In order to determine the coding angle, the alphanumeric code is read or read from the outside of the combination lock or the suitcase with the corresponding combination lock.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, Its features are, The encoded angle is decrypted from the alphanumeric code using an encryption method, preferably in combination with the unique serial number of the combination lock and / or suitcase.

Images