Electronic lock and charging base

Abstract

Disclosed are an electronic lock and a charging stand. The electronic lock includes a case, a moving block movably installed in the case, a locking pin fixed to the moving block and protruding from the case, capable of moving together with the moving block between a locking position and an unlocking position, a driving device installed in the case for driving the moving block and the locking pin to move between the locking position and the unlocking position, a pair of detection terminals fixed to the inside of the case, and a conductive member installed on the moving block to be capable of moving together with the moving block. When the moving block is moved to the locking position, the conductive member is moved to a bridging position to be in electrical contact with the pair of detection terminals at the same time to electrically connect the pair of detection terminals. The present invention simplifies the position detection mechanism and cost of the electronic lock.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic lock and a charging dock including the electronic lock. Background Technology

[0002] In existing technology, when a charging gun is plugged into a charging dock, an electronic lock needs to be installed on the charging dock to prevent accidental detachment. Typically, this electronic lock has a locking pin that can move between a locked and unlocked position. When the electronic lock is moved to the locked position, the locking pin engages with a pin hole on the charging gun to lock it to the charging dock. When the electronic lock is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun, allowing the charging gun to be removed from the charging dock. In existing technology, the electronic lock incorporates a microswitch for detecting the position of the locking pin. However, microswitches are expensive and require a circuit board for mounting. Furthermore, microswitches are bulky and have a short lifespan, significantly impacting the overall performance of the electronic lock. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to solve at least one aspect of the aforementioned problems and defects existing in the prior art.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, an electronic lock is provided. The electronic lock includes: a housing; a movable block movably mounted in the housing; a locking pin fixed to the movable block and extending from the housing, movable together with the movable block between a locked position and an unlocked position; a drive device mounted in the housing for driving the movable block and the locking pin to move between the locked position and the unlocked position; a pair of detection terminals fixed to the inner side of the housing; and a conductive element mounted on the movable block to move together with the movable block. When the movable block is moved to the locked position, the conductive element is moved to a bridging position to simultaneously electrically contact the pair of detection terminals, thereby electrically connecting the pair of detection terminals.

[0005] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the locking pin is moved to the locked position, the locking pin is adapted to engage with a pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging base; when the locking pin is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging base.

[0006] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the movable block is moved to the locked position, the conductive element is moved to the bridging position; when the movable block is not moved to the locked position, the conductive element is not in contact with at least one of the pair of detection terminals, such that the pair of detection terminals are electrically disconnected.

[0007] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a mounting hole is formed on the movable block, and the conductive element is a lower ball that is rotatably mounted in the mounting hole, a portion of which protrudes from the lower opening of the mounting hole for electrical contact with the pair of detection terminals.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronic lock further includes: an upper ball bearing, rotatably mounted in a mounting hole of the movable block; and an elastic element located in the mounting hole and compressed between the upper ball bearing and the lower ball bearing, for applying contact pressure to the lower ball bearing. The upper ball bearing and the lower ball bearing rotate within the mounting hole as they move together with the movable block.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, when the moving block is moved to the locking position, the lower ball is moved to the bridging position; when the moving block is not moved to the locking position, the lower ball does not contact at least one of the pair of detection terminals, such that the pair of detection terminals are electrically disconnected.

[0010] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing has a bottom wall and a top opening opposite the bottom wall, the pair of detection terminals are fixed to the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing, and a track groove extending longitudinally along the housing is formed on the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing; when the moving block moves between the locked position and the unlocked position, the lower ball rolls along the track groove.

[0011] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the detection terminal has a contact end for electrical contact with the lower ball, and the contact ends of the pair of detection terminals are respectively located on both sides of the track groove; when the lower ball is moved to the bridging position, the lower ball and the contact ends of the pair of detection terminals make electrical contact simultaneously.

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the distance between the contact ends of the pair of detection terminals is smaller than the diameter of the lower ball, so that the lower ball can make electrical contact with the contact ends of the pair of detection terminals simultaneously; the detection terminal further has an extension connected to the contact end, and the distance between the extensions of the pair of detection terminals is larger than the diameter of the lower ball, so that the lower ball cannot make electrical contact with the extensions of the pair of detection terminals simultaneously.

[0013] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronic lock further includes: a top cover, mounted on the top opening of the housing. A rib extending longitudinally along the housing is formed on the inner side of the top cover, and a groove cooperating with the rib is formed on the top surface of the movable block, the groove penetrating the upper opening of the mounting hole, the upper ball bearing being at least partially located in the upper opening of the mounting hole, and the rib abutting against the upper ball bearing.

[0014] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a groove is formed on the bottom surface of the movable block, and a slide rail extending longitudinally along the box body is formed on the inner side of the bottom wall of the box body. The slide rail cooperates with the groove to guide the movable block to move between the locked position and the unlocked position along the longitudinal direction of the box body.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing is injection molded onto the pair of detection terminals, such that the housing and the pair of detection terminals become a single unit.

[0016] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driving device includes: a motor; and a transmission mechanism connected between the output shaft of the motor and the moving block, the transmission mechanism being used to convert the rotational motion of the output shaft of the motor into linear motion of the moving block along the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0017] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transmission mechanism is a gear transmission mechanism.

[0018] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transmission mechanism includes: a first helical gear mounted on the output shaft of the motor; a second helical gear meshing with the first helical gear; a first spur gear coaxially connected to the second helical gear; a second spur gear meshing with the first spur gear; a third spur gear coaxially connected to the second spur gear; a fourth spur gear meshing with the third spur gear; a fifth spur gear coaxially connected to the fourth spur gear; and a rack meshing with the fifth spur gear, wherein the rack is directly formed on the moving block or fixed to the moving block.

[0019] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the transmission mechanism further includes: a first mounting shaft extending along the height direction of the box body and having its upper and lower ends rotatably mounted to the bottom wall of the box body and the top cover, respectively; a second mounting shaft extending along the height direction of the box body and having its upper and lower ends rotatably mounted to the bottom wall of the box body and the top cover, respectively; and a third mounting shaft extending along the height direction of the box body and having its upper and lower ends rotatably mounted to the bottom wall of the box body and the top cover, respectively; the second helical gear and the first spur gear are fixedly mounted to the first mounting shaft, the second spur gear and the third spur gear are fixedly mounted to the second mounting shaft, the fourth spur gear and the fifth spur gear are fixedly mounted to the third mounting shaft, and the output shaft of the motor extends longitudinally along the box body such that the output shaft of the motor is perpendicular to the first mounting shaft.

[0020] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the movable block includes: a longitudinal portion extending longitudinally along the housing; and a transverse portion extending transversely along the housing and perpendicularly connected to the front end of the longitudinal portion, the rack being formed on or fixed to the longitudinal portion of the movable block, and the mounting hole being formed on the transverse portion of the movable block.

[0021] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electronic lock further includes: a pair of connecting terminals fixed to the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing and electrically connected to the motor, for electrically connecting the motor to a power source.

[0022] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing is injection molded onto the pair of detection terminals and the pair of connection terminals, such that the housing, the pair of detection terminals and the pair of connection terminals are integrated into one piece.

[0023] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing has a front sidewall and a rear sidewall opposite each other in its longitudinal direction, and a mating portion is formed on the outer side of the rear sidewall of the housing, the mating portion having an insertion cavity adapted to mate with a connector; the detection terminal has a first pin for electrical connection to a detection circuit, and the connection terminal has a second pin for electrical connection to a power supply, the first pin and the second pin extending into the insertion cavity of the mating portion for electrical connection with a connector inserted into the insertion cavity.

[0024] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the housing has a front sidewall and a rear sidewall opposite to each other in its longitudinal direction, the locking pin passes through the front sidewall of the housing, and a mounting recess is formed on the outer side of the front sidewall of the housing; the electronic lock further includes a sealing ring housed in the mounting recess, the sealing ring being fitted onto the locking pin and radially pressed between the inner wall surface of the mounting recess and the locking pin, for achieving a seal between the locking pin and the housing.

[0025] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a horizontal hole is formed on the front end face of the movable block, and a vertical hole communicating with the horizontal hole is formed on the top face of the movable block; a socket corresponding to the vertical hole is formed on the rear end of the locking pin, and the rear end of the locking pin is inserted into the horizontal hole; the electronic lock further includes a pin, which is inserted into the vertical hole and the socket to fix the locking pin to the movable block.

[0026] According to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a connecting lug is formed on the housing and / or the top cover, and a connecting hole is formed on the connecting lug to allow a threaded fastener to pass through, so that the electronic lock can be fastened to the charging base by the threaded fastener.

[0027] According to another aspect of the present invention, a charging dock is provided. The charging dock includes: a housing; charging terminals disposed in the housing for mating with mating terminals of a charging gun inserted into the housing; and the aforementioned electronic lock, fastened to the housing. When the locking pin is moved to the locked position, the locking pin is adapted to engage with a pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging dock; when the locking pin is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be removed from the charging dock.

[0028] In the foregoing exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the position detection mechanism of the electronic lock is simplified and the cost is reduced by using a conductive element installed in the moving block instead of a conventional micro switch.

[0029] Furthermore, in some of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above, a ball bearing installed in the moving block is used instead of a conventional micro switch. Because the ball bearing is small and wear-resistant, the present invention can reduce the size of the electronic lock and extend its lifespan.

[0030] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, and will help to provide a comprehensive understanding of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0032] Figure 2 A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the top cover is removed;

[0033] Figure 3 An exploded view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0034] Figure 4 This diagram shows a perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from one side, with the movable block in the locked position;

[0035] Figure 5 A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the other side, shows the moving block in the locked position;

[0036] Figure 6 This diagram shows a perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the bottom, with the movable block in the locked position;

[0037] Figure 7 An exploded view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the moving block is in the locked position;

[0038] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block is in the locked position;

[0039] Figure 9 This diagram shows a perspective view of the housing of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the lower ball is in a bridging position electrically connected to a pair of detection terminals;

[0040] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block is in the locked position;

[0041] Figure 11 An exploded schematic diagram of the moving block and locking pin of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0042] Figure 12 A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block is in the unlocked position;

[0043] Figure 13 An exploded view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block is in the unlocked position;

[0044] Figure 14 This diagram shows a perspective view of the housing of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the lower ball bearing is in a position where it cannot be electrically connected to a pair of detection terminals;

[0045] Figure 15 A perspective view of an electronic lock as seen from the rear, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below through embodiments and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In this specification, the same or similar reference numerals indicate the same or similar components. The following description of the embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings is intended to explain the overall inventive concept of the present invention and should not be construed as a limitation thereof.

[0047] Furthermore, in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth for ease of explanation to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein. However, it will be apparent that one or more embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and apparatuses are illustrated to simplify the figures.

[0048] According to a general technical concept of the present invention, an electronic lock is provided. The electronic lock includes: a housing; a movable block movably mounted in the housing; a locking pin fixed to the movable block and extending from the housing, capable of moving together with the movable block between a locked position and an unlocked position; a drive device mounted in the housing for driving the movable block and the locking pin to move between the locked position and the unlocked position; a pair of detection terminals fixed to the inner side of the housing; and a conductive element mounted on the movable block to move together with the movable block. When the movable block is moved to the locked position, the conductive element is moved to a bridging position to simultaneously electrically contact the pair of detection terminals, thereby electrically connecting the pair of detection terminals.

[0049] According to another general technical concept of the present invention, a charging dock is provided. The charging dock includes: a housing; charging terminals disposed in the housing for mating with mating terminals of a charging gun inserted into the housing; and the aforementioned electronic lock, fastened to the housing. When the locking pin is moved to the locked position, the locking pin is adapted to engage with a pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging dock; when the locking pin is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging dock.

[0050] Figure 1A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the top cover 12 is removed; Figure 3 An exploded view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 This diagram shows a perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from one side, with the movable block 2 in the locked position; Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the other side, with the movable block 2 in the locked position; Figure 6 This diagram shows a perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the bottom, with the movable block 2 in the locked position; Figure 7 An exploded view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block 2 is in the locked position; Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block 2 is in the locked position; Figure 9 A perspective view of the housing 11 of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the lower ball bearing 32 is in a bridging position electrically connected to a pair of detection terminals 4; Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block 2 is in the locked position; Figure 11 An exploded view of the moving block 2 and locking pin 14 of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 12 A perspective view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block 2 is in the unlocked position; Figure 13 An exploded view of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the movable block 2 is in the unlocked position; Figure 14 A perspective view of the housing 11 of an electronic lock according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the lower ball bearing 32 is in a position where it cannot be electrically connected to a pair of detection terminals 4; Figure 15 A perspective view of an electronic lock as seen from the rear, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 15As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, an electronic lock is disclosed. The electronic lock includes: a housing 11, a movable block 2, a locking pin 14, a drive device 5, a pair of detection terminals 4, and a conductive element 3. The movable block 2 is movably mounted in the housing 11. The locking pin 14 is fixed to the movable block 2 and extends from the housing 11, and is capable of moving with the movable block 2 between a locked position and an unlocked position. The drive device 5 is mounted in the housing 11 and is used to drive the movable block 2 and the locking pin 14 to move between the locked position and the unlocked position. The pair of detection terminals 4 are fixed to the inner side of the housing 11. The conductive element 3 is mounted on the movable block 2 so as to be able to move with the movable block 2. When the movable block 2 is moved to the locked position, the conductive element 3 is moved to a bridging position where it simultaneously makes electrical contact with the pair of detection terminals 4, thereby electrically connecting the pair of detection terminals 4.

[0052] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the locking pin 14 is moved to the locked position, the locking pin 14 is adapted to engage with a pin hole on the charging gun (not shown) to lock the charging gun to the charging socket (not shown). When the locking pin 14 is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin 14 disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging socket.

[0053] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the moving block 2 is moved to the locked position, the conductive element 3 is moved to the bridging position. When the moving block 2 is not moved to the locked position, the conductive element 3 is not in contact with at least one of the pair of detection terminals 4 (e.g., the conductive element 3 is in contact with only one of the pair of detection terminals 4 or not in contact with either pair of detection terminals 4), so that the pair of detection terminals 4 are electrically disconnected.

[0054] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a mounting hole 20 is formed on the movable block 2, and the conductive element 3 is a lower ball 32 that is rotatably mounted in the mounting hole 20. A portion of the lower ball 32 protrudes from the lower opening of the mounting hole 20 for electrical contact with a pair of detection terminals 4.

[0055] However, please note that the conductive element 3 of the present invention is not limited to the lower ball 32 shown in the figure, but can also be a non-rolling component with a smooth arc-shaped contact bottom surface to reduce sliding friction.

[0056] like Figures 1 to 15As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic lock further includes an upper ball bearing 31 and an elastic element 33. The upper ball bearing 31 is rotatably mounted in the mounting hole 20 of the movable block 2. The elastic element 33 is located in the mounting hole 20 and compressed between the upper ball bearing 31 and the lower ball bearing 32, for applying contact pressure to the lower ball bearing 32. The upper ball bearing 31 and the lower ball bearing 32 rotate within the mounting hole 20 as they move together with the movable block 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic element 33 may be a coil spring.

[0057] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, when the moving block 2 is moved to the locked position, the lower ball 32 is moved to the bridging position. When the moving block 2 is not moved to the locked position, the lower ball 32 is not in contact with at least one of the pair of detection terminals 4, so that the pair of detection terminals 4 are electrically disconnected.

[0058] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 11 has a bottom wall and a top opening opposite the bottom wall, and a pair of detection terminals 4 are fixed to the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing 11. However, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment; for example, the pair of detection terminals 4 may also be fixed to the side wall of the housing 11.

[0059] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a track groove 101 extending longitudinally Y along the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing 11 is formed. When the moving block 2 moves between the locked position and the unlocked position, the lower ball bearing 32 rolls along the track groove 101.

[0060] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the detection terminal 4 has a contact end 41 for electrical contact with the lower ball 32, and the contact ends 41 of the pair of detection terminals 4 are respectively located on both sides of the track groove 101. When the lower ball 32 is moved to the bridging position, the lower ball 32 makes electrical contact with the contact ends 41 of the pair of detection terminals 4 simultaneously.

[0061] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the distance between the contact ends 41 of a pair of detection terminals 4 is smaller than the diameter of the lower ball bearing 32, so that the lower ball bearing 32 can simultaneously make electrical contact with the contact ends 41 of the pair of detection terminals 4. The detection terminals 4 also have extensions 42 connected to the contact ends 41, and the distance between the extensions 42 of a pair of detection terminals 4 is larger than the diameter of the lower ball bearing 32, so that the lower ball bearing 32 cannot simultaneously make electrical contact with the extensions 42 of the pair of detection terminals 4.

[0062] like Figures 1 to 15As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic lock also includes a top cover 12. The top cover 12 is mounted on the top opening of the housing 11. A rib 121 extending longitudinally Y-axis along the housing 11 is formed on the inner side of the top cover 12. A groove 23 is formed on the top surface of the movable block 2 to mate with the rib 121. The groove 23 penetrates the upper opening of the mounting hole 20, and the upper ball bearing 31 is at least partially located in the upper opening of the mounting hole 20, with the rib 121 abutting against the upper ball bearing 31.

[0063] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a groove 211 is formed on the bottom surface of the movable block 2, and a slide rail 111 extending along the longitudinal direction Y of the box body 11 is formed on the inner side of the bottom wall of the box body 11. The slide rail 111 cooperates with the groove 211 to guide the movable block 2 to move along the longitudinal direction Y of the box body 11 between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0064] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 11 is injection molded onto a pair of detection terminals 4, making the housing 11 and the pair of detection terminals 4 a single unit.

[0065] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the drive device 5 includes a motor 50 and a transmission mechanism. The transmission mechanism is connected between the output shaft 51 of the motor 50 and the moving block 2. The transmission mechanism is used to convert the rotational motion of the output shaft 51 of the motor 50 into the linear motion of the moving block 2 along the longitudinal direction Y of the housing 11.

[0066] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the transmission mechanism can be a gear transmission mechanism or other suitable transmission mechanism.

[0067] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the transmission mechanism includes: a first helical gear 52, a second helical gear 53, a first spur gear 54, a second spur gear 55, a third spur gear 56, a fourth spur gear 57, a fifth spur gear 58, and a rack 59. The first helical gear 52 is mounted on the output shaft 51 of the motor 50. The second helical gear 53 meshes with the first helical gear 52. The first spur gear 54 is coaxially connected to the second helical gear 53. The second spur gear 55 meshes with the first spur gear 54. The third spur gear 56 is coaxially connected to the second spur gear 55. The fourth spur gear 57 meshes with the third spur gear 56. The fifth spur gear 58 is coaxially connected to the fourth spur gear 57. The rack 59 meshes with the fifth spur gear 58. The rack 59 is either directly formed on the moving block 2 or fixed to the moving block 2.

[0068] like Figures 1 to 15As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the transmission mechanism further includes a first mounting shaft 510, a second mounting shaft 520, and a third mounting shaft 530. The first mounting shaft 510 extends along the height direction Z of the housing 11, and its upper and lower ends are rotatably mounted to the bottom wall and top cover 12 of the housing 11, respectively. The second mounting shaft 520 extends along the height direction Z of the housing 11, and its upper and lower ends are rotatably mounted to the bottom wall and top cover 12 of the housing 11, respectively. The third mounting shaft 530 extends along the height direction Z of the housing 11, and its upper and lower ends are rotatably mounted to the bottom wall and top cover 12 of the housing 11, respectively. A second helical gear 53 and a first spur gear 54 are fixedly mounted to the first mounting shaft 510, a second spur gear 55 and a third spur gear 56 are fixedly mounted to the second mounting shaft 520, and a fourth spur gear 57 and a fifth spur gear 58 are fixedly mounted to the third mounting shaft 530. The output shaft 51 of the motor 50 extends along the longitudinal direction Y of the housing 11, such that the output shaft 51 of the motor 50 is perpendicular to the first mounting shaft 510.

[0069] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the movable block 2 includes a longitudinal portion 21 and a transverse portion 22. The longitudinal portion 21 extends along the longitudinal direction Y of the housing 11. The transverse portion 22 extends along the transverse direction X of the housing 11 and is perpendicularly connected to the front end of the longitudinal portion 21. A rack 59 is formed on or fixed to the longitudinal portion 21 of the movable block 2, and a mounting hole 20 is formed on the transverse portion 22 of the movable block 2.

[0070] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the electronic lock further includes a pair of connection terminals 500. The pair of connection terminals 500 are fixed to the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing 11 and electrically connected to the motor 50 for electrically connecting the motor 50 to a power source.

[0071] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 11 is injection molded onto a pair of detection terminals 4 and a pair of connection terminals 500, so that the housing 11, the pair of detection terminals 4 and the pair of connection terminals 500 become a single piece.

[0072] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 11 has a front sidewall and a rear sidewall opposite each other in its longitudinal direction Y. A mating portion 112 is formed on the outer side of the rear sidewall of the housing 11, and the mating portion 112 has an insertion cavity 110 adapted to mate with a connector. The detection terminal 4 has a first pin 43 for electrical connection to a detection circuit, and the connection terminal 500 has a second pin 501 for electrical connection to a power supply. The first pin 43 and the second pin 501 extend into the insertion cavity 110 of the mating portion 112 for electrical connection with a connector inserted into the aforementioned insertion cavity 110.

[0073] like Figures 1 to 15As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the housing 11 has a front sidewall and a rear sidewall opposite each other in its longitudinal direction Y. A locking pin 14 passes through the front sidewall of the housing 11, and a mounting recess 115 is formed on the outer side of the front sidewall of the housing 11. The electronic lock also includes a sealing ring 15 received in the mounting recess 115. The sealing ring 15 is fitted onto the locking pin 14 and radially pressed between the inner wall surface of the mounting recess 115 and the locking pin 14 to achieve a seal between the locking pin 14 and the housing 11.

[0074] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown in the illustrated embodiment, a horizontal hole 201 is formed on the front end face of the movable block 2, and a vertical hole 202 communicating with the horizontal hole 201 is formed on the top surface of the movable block 2. A socket 141 corresponding to the vertical hole 202 is formed on the rear end of the locking pin 14, and the rear end of the locking pin 14 is inserted into the horizontal hole 201. The electronic lock also includes a bolt 203, which is inserted into the vertical hole 202 and the socket 141 to fix the locking pin 14 to the movable block 2.

[0075] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown, in the illustrated embodiment, a connecting lug 13 is formed on the housing 11 and / or the top cover 12, and a connecting hole is formed on the connecting lug 13 to allow a threaded fastener (not shown) to pass through, so that the electronic lock can be fastened to the charging base by the threaded fastener.

[0076] like Figures 1 to 15 As shown, in another exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a charging dock (not shown) is also disclosed. The charging dock includes: a housing (not shown), charging terminals (not shown), and the aforementioned electronic lock. The charging terminals are disposed in the housing for mating with mating terminals (not shown) of a charging gun (not shown) inserted into the housing. The electronic lock is fastened to the housing. When the locking pin 14 is moved to the locked position, the locking pin 14 is adapted to engage with a pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging dock. When the locking pin 14 is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin 14 disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging dock.

[0077] The locking and unlocking processes of the aforementioned electronic lock will be explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] After the charging gun and charging base are paired, the drive device 5 drives the moving block 2 and the locking pin 14 from... Figure 12-14 Move the indicated unlock position to Figure 7-9 The locking position shown indicates that the locking pin 14 extends and engages with the pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging socket.

[0079] When the detection circuit detects that the charging gun has been matched with the charging base and the locking pin 14 has been moved to the locked position, the control circuit controls the power supply to supply power to the charging gun and the charging base to charge the rechargeable battery.

[0080] After charging is complete and the power supply is cut off, the drive unit 5 drives the moving block 2 and the locking pin 14 from... Figure 7-9 The locked position shown is moved to Figure 12-14 The unlocked position is shown, at which point the locking pin 14 retracts and disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun, allowing the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging socket.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described above are exemplary and can be improved upon. The structures described in the various embodiments can be freely combined without causing structural or principle conflicts, and these changes should fall within the protection scope of this invention.

[0082] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the embodiments disclosed in the drawings are intended to illustrate preferred embodiments of the invention and should not be construed as limiting the invention.

[0083] While some embodiments of the general concept of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the general concept of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

[0084] It should be noted that the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the words "a" or "an" do not exclude multiple elements. Furthermore, any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An electronic lock, characterized in that, include: Box body (11); The movable block (2) is movably installed in the housing (11); A locking pin (14) is fixed to the movable block (2) and extends from the housing (11), and can move together with the movable block (2) between the locked position and the unlocked position; A drive device (5) is installed in the housing (11) for driving the moving block (2) and the locking pin (14) to move between the locked position and the unlocked position; A pair of detection terminals (4) are fixed to the inside of the housing (11); and A conductive element (3) is mounted on the movable block (2) so that it can move together with the movable block (2). When the moving block (2) is moved to the locked position, the conductive element (3) is moved to a bridging position that simultaneously makes electrical contact with the pair of detection terminals (4) to electrically connect the pair of detection terminals (4).

2. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the locking pin (14) is moved to the locking position, the locking pin (14) is adapted to engage with the pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging socket; When the locking pin (14) is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin (14) disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging socket.

3. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the moving block (2) is moved to the locked position, the conductive element (3) is moved to the bridging position; When the moving block (2) is not moved to the locked position, the conductive element (3) is not in contact with at least one of the pair of detection terminals (4), so that the pair of detection terminals (4) are electrically disconnected.

4. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: A mounting hole (20) is formed on the movable block (2), and the conductive element (3) is a lower ball (32) that is rotatably mounted in the mounting hole (20). A portion of the lower ball (32) protrudes from the lower opening of the mounting hole (20) for electrical contact with the pair of detection terminals (4).

5. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The upper ball bearing (31) is rotatably mounted in the mounting hole (20) of the movable block (2); and An elastic element (33), located in the mounting hole (20) and compressed between the upper ball (31) and the lower ball (32), is used to apply contact pressure to the lower ball (32). The upper ball (31) and the lower ball (32) rotate in the mounting hole (20) as they move together with the moving block (2).

6. The electronic lock according to claim 5, characterized in that: When the moving block (2) is moved to the locked position, the lower ball (32) is moved to the bridging position; When the moving block (2) is not moved to the locked position, the lower ball (32) does not contact at least one of the pair of detection terminals (4), so that the pair of detection terminals (4) are in an electrically disconnected state.

7. The electronic lock according to claim 6, characterized in that: The box (11) has a bottom wall and a top opening opposite to the bottom wall. The pair of detection terminals (4) are fixed to the inner side of the bottom wall of the box (11). A track groove (101) extending along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the box (11) is formed on the inner side of the bottom wall of the box (11). When the moving block (2) moves between the locked position and the unlocked position, the lower ball (32) rolls along the track groove (101).

8. The electronic lock according to claim 7, characterized in that: The detection terminal (4) has a contact end (41) for electrical contact with the lower ball (32), and the contact ends (41) of the pair of detection terminals (4) are respectively located on both sides of the track groove (101); When the lower ball (32) is moved to the bridging position, the lower ball (32) makes electrical contact with the contact end (41) of the pair of detection terminals (4) at the same time.

9. The electronic lock according to claim 8, characterized in that: The distance between the contact ends (41) of the pair of detection terminals (4) is smaller than the diameter of the lower ball (32), so that the lower ball (32) can make electrical contact with the contact ends (41) of the pair of detection terminals (4) at the same time. The detection terminal (4) also has an extension (42) connected to the contact end (41). The distance between the extensions (42) of the pair of detection terminals (4) is greater than the diameter of the lower ball (32), so that the lower ball (32) cannot make electrical contact with the extensions (42) of the pair of detection terminals (4) at the same time.

10. The electronic lock according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: The top cover (12) is installed on the top opening of the box body (11). A rib (121) extending longitudinally (Y) along the box body (11) is formed on the inner side of the top cover (12), and a groove (23) that mates with the rib (121) is formed on the top surface of the moving block (2). The groove (23) extends through the upper opening of the mounting hole (20), the upper ball (31) is at least partially located in the upper opening of the mounting hole (20), and the rib (121) abuts against the upper ball (31).

11. The electronic lock according to claim 7, characterized in that: A groove (211) is formed on the bottom surface of the movable block (2), and a slide rail (111) extending along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the box body (11) is formed on the inner side of the bottom wall of the box body (11). The slide rail (111) cooperates with the groove (211) to guide the movable block (2) to move along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the box body (11) between the locked position and the unlocked position.

12. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing (11) is injection molded onto the pair of detection terminals (4), so that the housing (11) and the pair of detection terminals (4) become a single unit.

13. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driving device (5) includes: Motor (50); and A transmission mechanism is connected between the output shaft (51) of the motor (50) and the moving block (2). The transmission mechanism is used to convert the rotational motion of the output shaft (51) of the motor (50) into the linear motion of the moving block (2) along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the box (11).

14. The electronic lock according to claim 13, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism is a gear transmission mechanism.

15. The electronic lock according to claim 14, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism includes: The first helical gear (52) is mounted on the output shaft (51) of the motor (50); The second helical gear (53) meshes with the first helical gear (52); The first spur gear (54) is coaxially connected to the second helical gear (53); The second spur gear (55) meshes with the first spur gear (54); The third spur gear (56) is coaxially connected to the second spur gear (55); The fourth spur gear (57) meshes with the third spur gear (56); The fifth spur gear (58) is coaxially connected to the fourth spur gear (57); and The rack (59) meshes with the fifth spur gear (58). The rack (59) is either directly formed on the movable block (2) or fixed to the movable block (2).

16. The electronic lock according to claim 15, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism also includes: The first mounting shaft (510) extends along the height direction (Z) of the box body (11) and its upper and lower ends are respectively rotatably mounted to the bottom wall of the box body (11) and the top cover (12); A second mounting shaft (520) extends along the height direction (Z) of the housing (11) and its upper and lower ends are respectively rotatably mounted to the bottom wall of the housing (11) and the top cover (12); and The third mounting shaft (530) extends along the height direction (Z) of the box body (11) and its upper and lower ends are respectively rotatably mounted to the bottom wall of the box body (11) and the top cover (12); The second helical gear (53) and the first spur gear (54) are fixedly mounted on the first mounting shaft (510), the second spur gear (55) and the third spur gear (56) are fixedly mounted on the second mounting shaft (520), and the fourth spur gear (57) and the fifth spur gear (58) are fixedly mounted on the third mounting shaft (530). The output shaft (51) of the motor (50) extends along the longitudinal direction (Y) of the housing (11) such that the output shaft (51) of the motor (50) is perpendicular to the first mounting shaft (510).

17. The electronic lock according to claim 15, characterized in that: The moving block (2) includes: The longitudinal portion (21) extends along the longitudinal (Y) direction of the housing (11); and The transverse portion (22) extends along the transverse (X) direction of the box body (11) and is perpendicularly connected to the front end of the longitudinal portion (21). The rack (59) is formed on or fixed to the longitudinal portion (21) of the movable block (2), and the mounting hole (20) is formed on the transverse portion (22) of the movable block (2).

18. The electronic lock according to claim 13, characterized in that, Also includes: A pair of connection terminals (500) are fixed to the inner side of the bottom wall of the housing (11) and electrically connected to the motor (50) for electrically connecting the motor (50) to a power source.

19. The electronic lock according to claim 18, characterized in that: The housing (11) is injection molded onto the pair of detection terminals (4) and the pair of connection terminals (500), so that the housing (11), the pair of detection terminals (4) and the pair of connection terminals (500) become a single unit.

20. The electronic lock according to claim 18, characterized in that: The housing (11) has a front sidewall and a rear sidewall opposite each other in its longitudinal direction (Y), and a mating portion (112) is formed on the outer side of the rear sidewall of the housing (11), the mating portion (112) having an insertion cavity (110) adapted to mate with a connector. The detection terminal (4) has a first pin (43) for electrical connection to the detection circuit, and the connection terminal (500) has a second pin (501) for electrical connection to the power supply. The first pin (43) and the second pin (501) extend into the insertion cavity (110) of the mating part (112) for electrical connection with a connector inserted into the insertion cavity (110).

21. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The housing (11) has a front sidewall and a rear sidewall opposite each other in its longitudinal direction (Y), the locking pin (14) passes through the front sidewall of the housing (11), and a mounting recess (115) is formed on the outer side of the front sidewall of the housing (11). The electronic lock also includes a sealing ring (15) housed in the mounting recess (115), the sealing ring (15) being fitted onto the locking pin (14) and radially pressed between the inner wall of the mounting recess (115) and the locking pin (14) to achieve a seal between the locking pin (14) and the housing (11).

22. The electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: A horizontal hole (201) is formed on the front end face of the movable block (2), and a vertical hole (202) communicating with the horizontal hole (201) is formed on the top surface of the movable block (2); A insertion hole (141) corresponding to the vertical hole (202) is formed on the rear end of the locking pin (14), and the rear end of the locking pin (14) is inserted into the horizontal hole (201); The electronic lock also includes a pin (203) that is inserted into the vertical hole (202) and the socket (141) to secure the locking pin (14) to the movable block (2).

23. The electronic lock according to claim 11, characterized in that: A connecting lug (13) is formed on the housing (11) and / or the top cover (12), and a connecting hole is formed on the connecting lug (13) to allow threaded fasteners to pass through, so that the electronic lock can be fastened to the charging base by the threaded fasteners.

24. A charging stand, characterized in that, include: case; A charging terminal is disposed in the housing for mating with the mating terminal of a charging gun inserted into the housing; and The electronic lock according to any one of claims 1-23 is fastened to the housing. When the locking pin (14) is moved to the locked position, the locking pin (14) is adapted to engage with the pin hole on the charging gun to lock the charging gun to the charging socket; When the locking pin (14) is moved to the unlocked position, the locking pin (14) disengages from the pin hole on the charging gun to allow the charging gun to be pulled out of the charging socket.

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