A rotating disc lock

Abstract

The application provides a rotating disc coded lock, which comprises a front end assembly and a rear end assembly. A rotating disc with scales is arranged on the front end assembly, and a plurality of slot holes are arranged on the inner circumferential wall of the rotating disc. A coded disc is arranged in the rear end assembly, and an unlocking groove is arranged on the circumferential side of the coded disc. The application realizes the linkage rotation of the rotating disc and the coded disc through the cooperation of the clutch piece, the connecting tooth and the slot hole, and can complete the exchange of the coded combination. The application also has an emergency unlocking function. The key is used to rotate the lock core assembly to drive the cam rod to rotate, and the top piece is lifted to release the limitation of the moving block, so that the lock can be unlocked without inputting the code.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a rotary combination lock. Background Technology

[0002] Rotary combination locks, a common type of mechanical lock, are widely used in various security scenarios requiring password management, such as filing cabinets, safes, and storage lockers. They unlock by rotating a graduated dial to input the correct password combination, providing convenient anti-theft protection. However, current rotary combination locks on the market suffer from inconvenient and insecure code-changing operations. Furthermore, the number of possible password combinations is severely limited by the mechanical structure; a single product typically only has five to seven preset combinations. These limited combinations pose security risks over long-term use. When users frequently change their passwords, the limited number of options makes it easy for previous users to crack the lock through memorization or trial and error, significantly reducing its security. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention discloses a rotary combination lock, developing a rotary lock with convenient combination changing, which allows for combination changes using a key, thus solving the problem of changing combination codes in rotary locks. The following solution is adopted:

[0004] A rotary combination lock includes a front assembly and a rear assembly that cooperate with each other. The front assembly is equipped with a graduated rotary dial, and the rear assembly contains a combination lock plate. The combination lock plate has a groove around its periphery for unlocking, and the graduations on the rotary dial correspond to the positions of the grooves. The lock also includes a clutch plate configured to drive the combination lock plate to rotate, causing the groove on the combination lock plate to rotate to the unlock position. When the clutch plate and the rotary dial rotate synchronously, the rotation of the rotary dial drives the combination lock plate to rotate via the clutch plate. When the clutch plate disengages from the rotary dial, the rotary dial can rotate independently relative to the clutch plate and the combination lock plate, changing the positions of the graduations and grooves on the rotary dial. This allows the combination lock to be changed when the clutch plate and the rotary dial re-engage for synchronous rotation.

[0005] In this embodiment of the invention, the clutch plate is configured to move axially along the axis of rotation of the turntable, so as to switch between synchronous rotation of the clutch plate and the turntable; it also includes a reset member, which is configured to connect with the clutch plate and is configured to drive the clutch plate to move in the direction of achieving synchronous rotation with the turntable.

[0006] In this embodiment of the invention, a lock cylinder assembly and a rotating plate are also included. The lock cylinder assembly is configured to cooperate with the rotating plate so that when the key rotates the lock cylinder assembly, the rotating plate rotates synchronously. The rotation of the rotating plate can drive the clutch plate to move in the direction of disengaging from the turntable.

[0007] In this embodiment of the invention, a pressure ring is further provided between the rotating plate and the clutch plate. The pressure ring is configured to abut against one end face of the clutch plate. A driving inclined surface is provided on the pressure ring. The rotating plate is configured to abut against the guiding inclined surface, so that when the rotating plate rotates, the driving inclined surface and the rotating plate drive the pressure ring and the clutch plate to move in the direction of disengaging from the turntable. The front end assembly also includes a housing, a ring, and a base. The reset element is configured as a spring, which is disposed between the base and the clutch plate. The turntable is disposed inside the housing. The base is connected to the housing via the ring and its axial movement is restricted. The lock cylinder assembly is disposed on the turntable and can pass through the entire front end assembly to cooperate with the rear end assembly.

[0008] In this embodiment of the invention, the rear assembly includes a lock case, a combination lock piece is disposed inside the lock case, and a socket is disposed on the side wall of the lock case communicating with its interior and exterior. It also includes a probe with one end inserted into the lock case through the socket. When the groove of the combination lock piece is rotated to the unlocked position by a turntable, the socket is configured to be axially aligned with the groove. The probe can be inserted into the groove through the socket to restrict the rotation of the combination lock piece, thereby retrieving the combination lock piece's code as indicated on the turntable scale.

[0009] In this embodiment of the invention, a matching top plate and a return spring are also included. The top plate is configured to move laterally left and right within the lock housing. The top plate is provided with an abutment portion. The return spring is configured to drive the top plate to move so that the abutment portion is in the axial position of the insertion hole, thereby restricting the probe from continuing to be inserted into the lock housing. When the abutment portion moves away from the axial position of the insertion hole, the probe is configured to continue to be inserted into the lock housing and can be placed in the groove.

[0010] In this embodiment of the invention, a cam rod is further included. The cam rod is configured to rotate within the lock housing. The cam of the cam rod is configured to abut against a top plate. The rotation of the cam can drive the top plate to move within the lock housing, so that the abutting part is moved away from the axial position of the mortise hole. The rod of the cam rod is configured to connect with the lock cylinder assembly. After the lock cylinder assembly is driven by the key, it can drive the cam rod to rotate within the lock housing, so that the abutting part is moved away from the axial position of the mortise hole.

[0011] In this embodiment of the invention, the other end of the probe is disposed in the hollow cavity of the main body, and a push spring is disposed in the hollow cavity of the main body. The push spring is configured to drive the probe to move toward the inside of the lock case. When the probe is inserted into the lock case and abuts against the end face of the non-groove position of the password piece, the push spring is compressed. When the groove of the password piece is driven to the unlock position, the push spring is configured to drive the probe to insert into the groove of the password piece.

[0012] In this embodiment of the invention, a fixing plate is further included, which is fixed within the lock housing. A top plate is positioned at the rear end of the fixing plate. A cam is positioned between the top plate and the fixing plate. One end of a return spring is configured to abut against the top plate, and the other end of the return spring is configured to abut against the fixing plate. The lock housing also includes a locking bolt, a secondary locking bolt, and a moving block. The secondary locking bolt is rotatably mounted on the moving block and has a hook. When the keypad is in the unlocked position for unlocking, the locking bolt is configured to move upwards under drive. The upward movement of the locking bolt is configured to… To first drive the secondary bolt to rotate on the moving block, so that the hook extends into the groove of the combination lock plate; the continuous upward movement of the bolt can synchronously drive the secondary bolt and the moving block to move upward together until the unlocking is completed. The upward movement of the secondary bolt can drive the combination lock plate to rotate through the cooperation of the hook and the groove, so that the groove moves away from the unlocking position; the moving block is equipped with a slot; in the locked state, the top plate is configured to be placed in the slot to prevent the moving block and the bolt from moving upward to unlock; when unlocking, the rotation of the secondary bolt can push the top plate to move out of the slot, unlocking the upward movement of the moving block.

[0013] In this embodiment of the invention, a cylinder is disposed on the fixing plate, and a torsion spring is sleeved on the cylinder. One end of the torsion spring abuts against the lock housing, and the other end of the torsion spring abuts against the lock tongue. The torsion spring is configured to reset the lock tongue downward from the unlocked state. When the torsion spring drives the lock tongue to move downward, the lock tongue first pushes against the driving part of the auxiliary lock tongue, causing the auxiliary lock tongue to rotate on the moving block, driving the hook to disengage from the groove. The lock tongue, driven by the torsion spring, continues to move downward, which can drive the auxiliary lock tongue and the moving block to move downward together to reset, until the top plate is driven by the reset spring to engage in the slot of the moving block. The auxiliary lock tongue is rotatably connected to the front end of the moving block, and the lock tongue is disposed on the lateral side of the auxiliary lock tongue. One end of the lock tongue is configured to extend. The lock housing has the hook positioned at the upper end of the secondary latch and the drive unit positioned at the lower end of the secondary latch. A recess is provided on the end face of the latch facing the secondary latch, and a protrusion is provided on the secondary latch to remain within the recess. A guide slope is provided on the recess and / or the protrusion. A fixing block is provided on the fixing plate, and the cam rod has a hole that can pass through the center of the fixing block. At least two rotatable combination plates are sleeved around the outer periphery of the fixing block, with spacers between adjacent combination plates. Each combination plate has a protruding post on both end faces. When the protruding post at the rear end of the front combination plate rotates to engage with the protruding post at the front end of the rear combination plate, the front combination plate can drive the rear combination plate to rotate synchronously.

[0014] In this embodiment of the invention, a first rotating block and a second rotating block are connected together and can rotate synchronously. The first rotating block is configured in the front end assembly and can rotate synchronously with the turntable. The second rotating block is configured in the rear end assembly and can rotate synchronously with the frontmost cipher chip, so that the turntable drives the cipher chip to rotate.

[0015] In this embodiment of the invention, the inner peripheral wall of the turntable is provided with a plurality of slots, and the outer peripheral wall of the clutch plate is provided with connecting teeth that can extend into the slots, so that the turntable drives the clutch plate to rotate synchronously; the clutch plate is provided with a connecting hole in the middle, the first rotating block is disposed in the connecting hole, the inner sidewall of the connecting hole protrudes inward to form an insert, and the outer peripheral wall of the first rotating block is provided with a slot, the insert can cooperate with the slot to realize that the turntable drives the first rotating block to rotate.

[0016] This invention provides a rotary combination lock with the following advantages: the connecting teeth of the rotary lock clutch plate and the slot of the rotary plate automatically engage and disengage through the spring force; changing the combination can be completed immediately by simply turning the lock cylinder assembly with the key, making operation simple. The engagement mechanism between the clutch plate and the rotary plate allows for multiple combination locks to be changed, enhancing security. By incorporating a probe, top plate, and cam rod, when the user forgets the combination, the probe can be inserted into the groove to retrieve each combination digit, facilitating management. The key drives the cam rod to rotate, opening the top plate and releasing the limiting position on the moving block, enabling emergency unlocking without requiring a combination. After unlocking, the hook of the secondary bolt rotates the combination plate, causing the groove to leave the unlocking position; the correct combination must be re-entered to unlock again, ensuring security. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a structural cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the front-end assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the back-end assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the front-end assembly in a normal state in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0023] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the front-end assembly in a normal state in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the front-end assembly and password change in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0025] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the front-end assembly and password change in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0026] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the front assembly in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocking process in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0028] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocking process in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0029] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocking process in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 .

[0030] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the probe being blocked before being inserted into the groove in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the probe inserted into the groove in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the socket being blocked in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the socket being opened in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] 100. Rotary dial combination lock; 1. Front assembly; 101. Housing; 102. Rotary dial; 1021. Slot; 103. Clutch plate; 1031. Connecting tooth; 1032. Insert plate; 104. Spring; 105. Base; 106. Ring; 107. First rotating block; 1071. Slot; 108. Lock cylinder assembly; 109. Rotating plate; 110. Pressure ring; 1101. Drive slope; 2. Rear assembly; 201. Lock housing; 2011. Insertion hole; 202. Combination plate; 2021. Groove; 2022. Protrusion; 203. Spacer plate ; 204, Fixing plate; 2041, Fixing block; 2042, Cylinder; 205, Second rotating block; 206, Probe; 207, Push spring; 208, Main body; 209, Top plate; 2091, Abutting part; 210, Return spring; 211, Cam rod; 2111, Cam; 212, Locking tongue; 2121, Recessed part; 213, Secondary locking tongue; 2131, Hook; 2132, Driving part; 2133, Protrusion; 214, Moving block; 2141, Slot; 215, Torsion spring; 216, Guide slope; 217, Spring. Detailed Implementation

[0035] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments, not all embodiments.

[0036] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a rotary combination lock 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises two main parts: a front assembly 1 and a rear assembly 2. The front assembly 1 and the rear assembly 2 are installed on a cabinet door or door panel, together forming a complete rotary combination lock 100. The front assembly 1 mainly includes a housing 101, a graduated rotary dial 102, a lock cylinder assembly 108, a rotating plate 109, a pressure ring 110, a clutch plate 103, a spring 104, a base 105, a ring 106, and a first rotating block 107. The rear assembly 2 mainly includes a lock shell 201, at least two combination plates 202, a spacer 203, a fixing plate 204, a second rotating block 205, a probe 206, a push spring 207, a main body 208, a top plate 209, a return spring 210, a cam rod 211, a bolt 212, a secondary bolt 213, a moving block 214, and a torsion spring 215. To illustrate the installation scenario of a combination lock: the front assembly is located in front of the rear assembly, and the bolt moves upward to unlock.

[0037] The housing 101 is the main structural component of the front assembly 1, and has an internal mounting cavity for accommodating internal parts such as the turntable 102, clutch plate 103, and spring 104. A directional marker, such as an arrow-shaped indicator, is provided on the outer surface of the housing 101. This marker works in conjunction with the scale on the turntable 102 to indicate the number currently pointed to by the turntable 102. The turntable 102 is a circular disc structure that rotatably rotates within the mounting cavity of the housing 101. The outer periphery of the turntable 102 protrudes from the housing 101 for user operation. Multiple slots 1021 are formed on the inner peripheral wall of the turntable 102. In this embodiment, there are twenty-five slots 1021, evenly distributed along the inner peripheral wall of the turntable 102. The shape and size of each slot 1021 are adapted to the connecting teeth 1031 on the clutch plate 103.

[0038] The clutch plate 103 is a key component for enabling the turntable 102 to move or separate from the rear assembly 2. It has at least one connecting tooth 1031 on its outer peripheral wall. When the connecting tooth 1031 engages with the slot 1021, the turntable 102 and the clutch plate 103 are engaged, allowing them to rotate synchronously. A connecting hole is provided in the center of the clutch plate 103, and an insert 1032 protrudes inward from the inner wall of this hole. The inserts 1032 are arranged circumferentially along the inner wall of the connecting hole, preferably at least two, and are evenly distributed circumferentially along the clutch plate 103. The inserts 1032 create a spline-like structural feature in the center of the clutch plate 103, which is used for mating with the first rotating block 107. The first rotating block 107 is disposed inside the connecting hole of the clutch plate 103, and its outer peripheral wall has a slot 1071 adapted to the insert. The number of slots 1071 is equal to and corresponds to the number of inserts 1032. Inserts 1032 can be inserted into slots 1071 to achieve a convex-concave engagement between the clutch plate 103 and the first rotating block 107. When the connecting teeth 1031 engage with the slots 1021, the turntable 102 drives the clutch plate 103 to rotate. The clutch plate 103, through the engagement of its inserts 1032 with the slots 1071 of the first rotating block 107, drives the first rotating block 107 to rotate synchronously. The first rotating block 107 is positioned at the front assembly 1 and rotates synchronously with the turntable 102.

[0039] Spring 104 serves as a reset element, with one end abutting the bottom of clutch plate 103 and the other end abutting the base 105. Spring 104 applies a forward elastic force to clutch plate 103, driving it forward and ensuring that the connecting teeth 1031 remain engaged with the inner slot 1021 of turntable 102. Base 105 is located inside housing 101, below spring 104, and provides support for spring 104. A ring 106 is fitted onto the outer circumference of base 105, and is fixedly connected to housing 101, confining the base within the housing. Ring 106 presses down on base 105 and the mechanisms above it, limiting axial movement of the internal parts of the front assembly 1. Base 105 also has mounting holes or stepped structures for installing spring 104, ensuring accurate positioning and stable operation of spring 104.

[0040] The lock cylinder assembly 108 passes through the turntable 102 and extends through the entire front end assembly 1, cooperating with the rear end assembly 2. The outer wall of the lock cylinder assembly 108 is equipped with a pin tumbler lock structure, including a housing, a lock cylinder, several pins, and springs. When a key is inserted into the lock cylinder assembly 108 and turned, it drives the lock cylinder assembly 108 to rotate. The tail of the lock cylinder assembly 108 is connected to a rotating plate 109, which rotates synchronously with the lock cylinder assembly 108. The rotating plate 109 is a circular plate structure with flat or inclined features on its edge that can cooperate with the pressure ring 110. The rear surface of the pressure ring 110 abuts against the front end face of the clutch plate 103. The front surface of the pressure ring 110 has a driving ramp 1101, which is an inclined slope. The edge of the rotating plate 109 abuts against the driving inclined surface 1101. When the rotating plate 109 rotates under the drive of the key, the edge of the rotating plate 109 moves relative to the inclined surface of the driving inclined surface 1101, thereby generating a backward component force. As the rotating plate 109 continues to rotate, the driving inclined surface 1101 pushes the pressure ring 110 backward. The pressure ring 110 drives the clutch plate 103 to move backward against the elastic force of the spring 104, causing the connecting tooth 1031 of the clutch plate 103 to disengage from the slot 1021 on the inner side of the turntable 102, thus disengaging the turntable 102 from the clutch plate 103. At this time, by rotating the turntable, the relative position of the groove on the code plate and the turntable is changed, and after the clutch plate is reset, the code changing operation is realized.

[0041] The second rotating block 205 is disposed at the front end of the rear assembly 2, and is positioned opposite to the first rotating block 107. The lower end of the first rotating block 107 and the upper end of the second rotating block 205 are connected by a convex-concave fit, so that when the first rotating block 107 rotates, it can drive the second rotating block 205 to rotate synchronously. The second rotating block 205 is fixedly connected to the foremost cipher chip 202 or connected through a keyway structure, so that when the second rotating block 205 rotates, it can drive the foremost cipher chip 202 to rotate synchronously.

[0042] The lock housing 201 of the rear assembly 2 is a hollow structural component. Its internal cavity accommodates components such as the combination plate 202, spacer 203, fixing plate 204, cam rod 211, top plate 209, bolt 212, secondary bolt 213, and moving block 214. An insertion hole 2011 is provided on the side wall of the lock housing 201, connecting the interior and exterior of the lock housing 201 for insertion of the probe 206. The fixing plate 204 is installed at the bottom interior of the lock housing 201, and has a fixing block 2041 and a cylinder 2042 mounted on it. The fixing block 2041 is located in the middle of the fixing plate 204 and has a through hole inside, through which the rod of the cam rod 211 passes and can rotate. The cylinder 2042 is vertically mounted on the fixing plate 204 for mounting a torsion spring 215. A torsion spring 215 is mounted on a cylinder 2042. One end of the torsion spring 215 abuts against the inner wall of the lock housing 201, and the other end abuts against the bolt 212. The torsion spring 215 stores elastic potential energy in its natural state, and its elastic force drives the bolt 212 to move downwards to reset, so that the bolt 212 can automatically fall back to the locked position (locked state) after unlocking.

[0043] A return spring 210 is disposed between the fixed plate 204 and the top plate 209. One end of the return spring 210 abuts against the fixed plate 204, and the other end abuts against the top plate 209. The elastic force of the return spring 210 drives the top plate 209 to move closer to the insertion hole 2011, so that the abutting part 2091 on the top plate 209 is in the axial position of the insertion hole 2011, thereby blocking the insertion path of the probe 206 in the normal state. In the unlocked state, the abutting part locks the top plate and moves it away from the axial position of the insertion hole.

[0044] The top plate 209 can move laterally left and right within the lock housing 201, and has an abutment portion 2091 on it. The abutment portion 2091 is a bent planar feature at the front end of the top plate 209. When the return spring 210 ejects the top plate 209 to the working position, the abutment portion 2091 is exactly in front of the axial position of the insertion hole 2011, blocking the entrance of the insertion hole 2011 and restricting the probe 206 from continuing to insert into the lock housing 201. The cam rod 211 has a cam 2111 on its rod, which is located between the top plate 209 and the fixing plate 204. When the cam rod 211 rotates under the drive of the lock cylinder assembly 108 (both can have a matching semi-circular structure), the contour of the cam 2111 pushes the top plate 209 to move laterally, causing the abutment portion 2091 to move away from the axial position of the insertion hole 2011, thus releasing the obstruction to the insertion path of the probe 206.

[0045] The movable block 214 is slidably disposed inside the lock housing 201 and has a slot 2141. The secondary latch 213 is rotatably connected to the front end of the movable block 214, with a hook 2131 at its upper end and a drive unit 2132 at its lower end. A rotating hole is located in the middle of the secondary latch 213, which fits onto a cylindrical pin at the front end of the movable block 214, allowing the secondary latch 213 to rotate relative to the movable block 214 around the cylindrical pin. The hook 2131 faces the keypad 202 and is used to engage with the keypad 202 during unlocking. The drive unit 2132 is located at the lower end of the secondary latch 213 and is used to receive drive signals from the keypad 212. The keypad 212 is located laterally beside the secondary latch 213, with one end extending out of the lock housing 201 and connected to an external door lock linkage. The door lock linkage drives the combination lock to move the bolt 212 up and down when the correct password is entered, thus unlocking the lock. A recess 2121 is provided on the end face of the bolt 212 facing the secondary bolt 213, and a guide slope is provided on the side wall of the recess 2121. A protrusion 2133 on the secondary bolt 213 is embedded in the recess 2121, and a guide slope is also provided on the side wall of the protrusion 2133. The guide slopes allow the bolt 212 to smoothly drive the secondary bolt 213 to rotate when it moves upward, through the interaction of the guide slopes.

[0046] The cipher pieces 202 are disc-shaped structures, and there are at least two of them. This embodiment uses three cipher pieces 202 as an example. The three cipher pieces 202 are stacked together and disposed on the outer periphery of the fixing block 2041 of the fixing piece 204. A spacer 203 is disposed between two adjacent cipher pieces 202. The spring piece 217 drives the cipher pieces 202 and the spacer 203 to be tightly attached together, ensuring the stable positional relationship between adjacent cipher pieces 202. Each cipher piece 202 has a groove 2021 for unlocking on its periphery. The groove 2021 is opened along the circumference of the cipher piece 202, and its width and depth are adapted to the hook 2131 at the front end of the secondary lock tongue 213. Each cipher chip 202 has a protrusion 2022 on both end faces. During rotation, the protrusion 2022 at the rear end of the front cipher chip 202 can abut against the protrusion 2022 at the front end of the rear cipher chip 202, thereby realizing the linkage function of the front cipher chip 202 driving the rear cipher chip 202 to rotate synchronously. When rotating in the opposite direction, the two separate first.

[0047] The probe 206 is a slender metal rod, one end of which can be inserted into the lock housing 201 through the insertion hole 2011. The other end of the probe 206 is disposed in the hollow cavity of the main body 208, and a push spring 207 is provided in the hollow cavity of the main body 208. The push spring 207 constantly drives the probe 206 to move inward toward the interior of the lock housing 201. Under normal conditions, because the abutting part 2091 of the top plate 209 blocks the front of the insertion hole 2011, the probe 206 cannot be inserted into the interior of the lock housing 201.

[0048] The unlocking process under normal working conditions according to this embodiment of the invention is as follows: In the normal state, i.e., the locked state, the clutch plate 103 is pushed forward by the spring 104, and its connecting teeth 1031 engage with the slot 1021 on the inner side of the turntable 102. The turntable 102 and the clutch plate 103 are in a fitted state and can rotate synchronously. At this time, rotating the turntable 102 drives the clutch plate 103 to rotate through the engagement of the connecting teeth 1031 and the slot 1021. The clutch plate 103 drives the first rotating block 107 to rotate synchronously through the engagement of its insert 1032 with the slot 1071 of the first rotating block 107. The first rotating block 107 drives the second rotating block 205 to rotate synchronously through the engagement of the convex and concave parts. The second rotating block 205 drives the frontmost keypad 202 to rotate.

[0049] Since the cipher chips 202 are linked by protrusions 2022, the specific linkage logic is as follows: When the turntable 102 is rotated in one direction (clockwise or counterclockwise), the first cipher chip closest to the second rotating block 205 rotates synchronously with the second rotating block 205. When the protrusion 2022 of the first cipher chip rotates to abut against the protrusion 2022 of the middle second cipher chip, the turntable 102 continues to rotate, and the first cipher chip drives the second cipher chip to rotate synchronously. When the protrusion 2022 of the second cipher chip rotates to abut against the protrusion 2022 of the third cipher chip furthest from the second rotating block 205, all three cipher chips rotate synchronously. When the groove 2021 of the third cipher chip rotates to the preset unlock position (the scale on the turntable corresponds to the cipher indicated by the marking), a reverse operation is performed, causing the first cipher chip to rotate, while the second and third cipher chips stop rotating due to the loss of the drive from the front cipher chip. When the first cipher piece abuts against the protrusion of the second cipher piece again, the first cipher piece drives the second cipher piece to rotate again until the groove 2021 of the second cipher piece rotates to the unlock position. Then, the clockwise rotation operation is performed again, causing the first cipher piece to rotate to the unlock position. Through this clockwise-counterclockwise-clockwise operation, three cipher pieces 202 are entered consecutively. At this time, the grooves 2021 on the three cipher pieces 202 are aligned in the same axial position, i.e., the unlock position.

[0050] After all three combination lock pieces 202 have their grooves 2021 in the unlocked position, the user pulls the cabinet door handle, and the handle mechanism drives the latch 212 to move upward. During the upward movement of the latch 212, the recess 2121 on the end face of the latch 212 interacts with the protrusion 2133 on the secondary latch 213. Since both the recess 2121 and the protrusion 2133 are provided with guide ramps, the upward movement of the latch 212, through the cooperation of the guide ramps, first pushes against the drive part 2132 of the secondary latch 213, causing the secondary latch 213 to rotate around its rotational connection point on the moving block 214. The hook 2131 at the front end of the secondary latch 213 extends into the groove 2021 of the combination lock piece 202. The rotation of the secondary bolt 213 simultaneously pushes the top plate 209, causing it to overcome the spring force of the return spring 210 and move to one side. The top plate disengages from the slot 2141 of the moving block 214, releasing the restriction on the upward movement of the moving block 214. Simultaneously, the abutment part also moves away from the axial position of the insertion hole. The continuous upward movement of the bolt 212 synchronously drives the secondary bolt 213 and the moving block 214 upward together until the entire unlocking action is completed. During this process, the upward movement of the secondary bolt 213, through the cooperation of the hook 2131 and the groove 2021, drives the keypad 202 to rotate, causing the groove 2021 of the keypad 202 to leave its original unlocking position. This automatically changes the position of the keypad after unlocking, enhancing security.

[0051] After unlocking, the torsion spring 215 releases its elastic potential energy, driving the bolt 212 to move downwards to reset. As the bolt 212 moves downwards, it first pushes the drive part 2132 of the secondary bolt 213 through the cooperation of the recess 2121 and the protrusion 2133, causing the secondary bolt 213 to rotate in the opposite direction on the moving block 214, driving the hook 2131 to disengage from the groove 2021. After the hook 2131 disengages from the groove 2021, the combination lock 202 is no longer driven to rotate but remains in its current position. The bolt 212 continues to move downwards, simultaneously driving the secondary bolt 213 and the moving block 214 to move downwards to reset. When the movable block 214 moves down to the position where its slot 2141 aligns with the abutment portion 2091 of the top plate 209, the top plate 209 springs back under the elastic force of the return spring 210, and the abutment portion 2091 re-engages into the slot 2141 of the movable block 214, restoring the limiting position of the movable block 214, and the lock re-enters the locked state. Since the groove 2021 of the keypad 202 has left the unlock position, if the lock needs to be unlocked again, the user must re-enter the correct three-digit keypad code to align the three grooves 2021 back to the unlock position.

[0052] The code-switching process in this embodiment of the invention is as follows: The user inserts a key into the lock cylinder assembly 108 and turns the key counterclockwise by approximately 45 degrees. The lock cylinder assembly 108 rotates accordingly, causing the rotating plate 109 to rotate synchronously. The edge of the rotating plate 109 abuts against the driving inclined surface 1101 on the front surface of the pressure ring 110. During rotation, the edge of the rotating plate 109 slides backward along the inclined surface of the driving inclined surface 1101, generating a backward component force that pushes the pressure ring 110 backward. As the pressure ring 110 moves backward, its rear surface abuts against the front end face of the clutch plate 103, causing the clutch plate 103 to move backward against the elastic force of the spring 104. As the clutch plate 103 moves backward, the connecting teeth 1031 on its outer peripheral wall disengage from the slot 1021 inside the turntable 102, at which point the turntable 102 and the clutch plate 103 are completely disengaged. At this point, rotating the turntable 102 prevents the clutch plate 103 from rotating because the connecting tooth 1031 is no longer within the slot 1021. The clutch plate 103 remains stationary. With the clutch plate 103 stationary, neither the first rotating block 107 nor the second rotating block 205 rotates, and the three rear-end cipher chips 202 also remain stationary. Only the turntable 102 (scale) rotates, meaning the position of the front scale relative to the rear-end cipher chips 202 changes, thus achieving the code-changing function.

[0053] When changing codes, the user must rotate the turntable 102 through an even number of divisions. Rotating clockwise around an even number of divisions results in the new code being the old code minus the difference in divisions; rotating counter-clockwise around an even number of divisions results in the new code being the old code plus the difference in divisions. In one embodiment: because the turntable 102 has twenty-five slots 1021 corresponding to twenty-five divisions, the connecting teeth 1031 of the clutch plate 103 can fall into any of the remaining twenty-four slots 1021 during code changing. Therefore, a single product can have twenty-five possible code combinations after leaving the factory, far exceeding the five to seven possible code combinations in the prior art.

[0054] After the key exchange is completed, the user resets the key by turning it counterclockwise by approximately 45 degrees to return it to its original position. The rotating disc 109 rotates in the opposite direction to the lock cylinder assembly 108, and the edge of the rotating disc 109 moves away from the drive ramp 1101. The pressure ring 110 springs forward and resets under the force of the spring 104. After the pressure ring 110 moves forward, it no longer presses against the clutch disc 103. The clutch disc 103 moves forward under the action of the spring 104, and its connecting teeth 1031 re-engage with the slot 1021 on the inner side of the corresponding turntable 102. The clutch disc 103 and the turntable 102 are now fully engaged, and the key exchange operation is complete.

[0055] The code-finding function implementation process in this embodiment of the invention is as follows: Under normal conditions, the top plate 209 is ejected by the return spring 210, and its abutment part 2091 blocks the front of the mortise hole 2011, preventing the probe 206 from being inserted into the lock housing 201 for code retrieval. When the user forgets the password, they can use the key to turn the lock cylinder assembly 108 clockwise by about 90 degrees to enter the emergency unlocking state, which drives the top plate to disengage from the slot and release the moving block from its restraint. The tail of the lock cylinder assembly 108 has a semi-circular feature, which rotates with the lock cylinder assembly 108 and drives the cam rod 211 to rotate synchronously by about 90 degrees. The rod of the cam rod also has a semi-circular feature. After the cam 2111 of the cam rod 211 rotates with the cam rod 211, its cam profile pushes the top plate 209, causing the top plate 209 to move to one side, and the abutment part 2091 moves away from the axial position of the mortise hole 2011. At this time, the top plate 209 no longer blocks the entrance of the mortise hole 2011, and the insertion path of the probe 206 is opened.

[0056] The user first opens the cabinet door, then inserts probe 206 into the lock housing 201 through the rear insertion hole 2011. Pushed by external force, probe 206 passes through the insertion hole 2011 and enters the lock housing 201. At this point, force must be applied to hold probe 206 in place, compressing the push spring 207 and storing elastic potential energy. The user then rotates the turntable 102 of the front assembly 1. Through the linkage between the clutch plate 103, the first rotating block 107, the second rotating block 205, and the keypad 202, the turntable 102 transmits a rotation signal to the keypad 202 at the rear, causing it to rotate. When the groove 2021 of the keypad 202 rotates to the unlocked position, the front end of probe 206 is aligned with the groove 2021. At this moment, the push spring 207 releases its elastic potential energy, propelling probe 206 into the groove 2021. After probe 206 is inserted into groove 2021, the password chip 202 is prevented from rotating further, and the turntable 102 also stops rotating, indicating to the user that the first digit of the password has been found. This first digit is the number on the turntable 102 scale aligned with the indicator on the current housing 101. All three digits are found sequentially by rotating clockwise-counterclockwise-clockwise, following the same operational logic as normal unlocking. This mechanically linked password-finding method allows users to retrieve forgotten passwords without needing to know the symbol combinations, facilitating management and maintenance.

[0057] The emergency unlocking function implementation process of this invention is as follows: In the normal state of incorrect or unknown password, the top plate 209 is ejected by the return spring 210, and its abutment part 2091 engages in the slot 2141 of the moving block 214, restricting the upward movement of the moving block 214 within the lock housing 201. Since the lower end of the bolt 212 is connected to the moving block 214, the bolt 212 cannot move upward if the moving block 214 cannot move upward, thus preventing the bolt 212 from driving the external bolt mechanism, and the lock remains locked. When the user turns the lock cylinder assembly 108 clockwise by approximately 90 degrees using the key, the semi-circular tail feature of the lock cylinder assembly 108 causes the cam rod 211 to rotate 90 degrees. After the cam 2111 on the cam rod 211 rotates, its cam profile pushes the top plate 209, causing the abutment part 2091 to move out of the slot 2141 of the moving block 214, releasing the restriction on the upward movement of the moving block 214. At this time, the moving block 214 can move freely upward even without knowing the password. The moment the top plate 209 opens and releases the restriction on the upward movement of the moving block 214, the user can drive the bolt 212 to move upward, thereby enabling the bolt mechanism to complete the unlocking action and realize the emergency unlocking function without the need to enter a password.

[0058] The rotary combination lock 100 of this invention, through the cooperation mechanism of the clutch plate 103 and the rotary plate 102, realizes the function of changing 25 password combinations, far exceeding the conventional level of five to seven password combinations in the prior art, and significantly improving the security of the lock. The spring force of the spring 104 achieves automatic engagement and disengagement of the connecting teeth 1031 of the clutch plate 103 and the slot 1021 of the rotary plate 102. The password changing operation can be completed simply by turning the lock cylinder assembly 108 about 45 degrees with the key, making the operation simple and quick. By setting up mechanisms such as the probe 206, top plate 209, and cam rod 211, when the user forgets the password, each password position can be retrieved one by one by inserting the probe 206 into the groove 2021, facilitating the daily management and maintenance of the lock. The key drives the cam rod 211 to rotate, opening the top plate 209 and releasing the limit on the moving block 214, realizing an emergency unlocking function that does not require password input, ensuring the user's needs in emergency situations. After unlocking, the hook 2131 of the secondary bolt 213 will drive the keypad 202 to rotate, causing the groove 2021 to leave the unlock position. The user must re-enter the correct password to unlock again, effectively ensuring the security of the lock.

[0059] The foregoing description illustrates and describes preferred embodiments of the invention. As previously stated, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the forms disclosed herein and should not be construed as excluding other embodiments. It can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and can be altered within the scope of the inventive concept described herein through the foregoing teachings or techniques or knowledge in related fields. Any modifications and variations made by those skilled in the art that do not depart from the spirit and scope should be within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A rotary combination lock, comprising a front assembly and a rear assembly that cooperate with each other; the front assembly is provided with a rotary dial with graduations, the rear assembly contains a combination key, the combination key has a groove for unlocking on its periphery, and the graduations on the rotary dial correspond to the positions of the grooves; characterized in that, Also includes: A clutch plate configured to drive a keypad to rotate, causing a groove on the keypad to rotate to the unlock position; When the clutch plate and the turntable rotate synchronously, the rotation of the turntable can drive the cipher chip to rotate via the clutch plate. When the clutch plate disengages from the turntable, the turntable can rotate independently relative to the clutch plate and the password plate, causing the position of the scale and groove on the turntable to change. When the clutch plate and the turntable re-engage and rotate synchronously, the password can be changed.

2. A rotary combination lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clutch plate is configured to move axially along the axis of rotation of the turntable, so as to switch between synchronous rotation of the clutch plate and the turntable; it also includes a reset member, which is configured to connect with the clutch plate and is configured to drive the clutch plate to move in the direction of achieving synchronous rotation with the turntable.

3. A rotary combination lock according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a lock cylinder assembly and a rotating plate. The lock cylinder assembly is configured to cooperate with the rotating plate so that when the key rotates the lock cylinder assembly, it drives the rotating plate to rotate synchronously. The rotation of the rotating plate can drive the clutch plate to move in the direction of disengaging from the turntable.

4. A rotary combination lock according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a pressure ring disposed between the rotating plate and the clutch plate, the pressure ring being configured to abut against one end face of the clutch plate, the pressure ring having a driving ramp disposed thereon, and the rotating plate being configured to abut against the guiding ramp, so that: when the rotating plate rotates, the driving ramp and the rotating plate cooperate to drive the pressure ring and the clutch plate to move in the direction of disengaging from the turntable; the front end assembly also includes a housing, a ring, and a base, the reset element being configured as a spring, the spring being disposed between the base and the clutch plate; the turntable is disposed inside the housing, the base being connected to the housing via the ring and having its axial movement restricted, and the lock cylinder assembly being disposed on the turntable and being able to pass through the entire front end assembly to cooperate with and connect to the rear end assembly.

5. A rotary combination lock according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The rear assembly includes a lock case, inside which a combination plate is disposed. The side wall of the lock case is provided with a socket that connects the inside and outside of the lock case. It also includes a probe that can be inserted into the lock case through the socket. When the groove of the combination plate is rotated to the unlock position by the turntable, the socket is configured to be axially aligned with the groove. The probe can be inserted into the groove through the socket to restrict the rotation of the combination plate, so as to retrieve the combination plate's code on the turntable scale.

6. A rotary combination lock according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a matching top plate and a return spring. The top plate is configured to move laterally left and right within the lock housing. The top plate is provided with an abutment portion. The return spring is configured to drive the top plate to move so that the abutment portion is in the axial position of the insertion hole, restricting the probe from continuing to be inserted into the lock housing. When the abutment portion is moved away from the axial position of the insertion hole, the probe is configured to continue to be inserted into the lock housing and can be placed in the groove.

7. A rotary combination lock according to claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes a cam rod, which is configured to rotate within the lock housing. The cam of the cam rod is configured to engage with a top plate. The rotation of the cam drives the top plate to move within the lock housing, thereby moving the engagement part away from the axial position of the mortise. The cam rod is configured to engage with the lock cylinder assembly. When the lock cylinder assembly is driven by a key, it drives the cam rod to rotate within the lock housing, thereby moving the engagement part away from the axial position of the mortise.

8. A rotary combination lock according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The other end of the probe is disposed in the hollow cavity of the main body, and a push spring is disposed in the hollow cavity of the main body. The push spring is configured to drive the probe to move inward toward the lock case. When the probe is inserted into the lock case and abuts against the end face of the non-groove position of the key plate, the push spring is compressed. When the groove of the key plate is driven to the unlock position, the push spring is configured to drive the probe to insert into the groove of the key plate.

9. A rotary combination lock according to claim 8, characterized in that, It also includes a fixing plate configured to be fixed inside the lock case, with a top plate at the rear end of the fixing plate, a cam positioned between the top plate and the fixing plate, one end of the return spring configured to abut against the top plate, and the other end of the return spring configured to abut against the fixing plate; the lock case also includes a matching bolt, a secondary bolt, and a moving block, the secondary bolt being rotatably mounted on the moving block, and having a hook on it; when the combination lock is in the unlocked position, the bolt is configured to be able to move upwards when driven, and the upward movement of the bolt is configured to be able to initiate movement. The auxiliary bolt rotates on the moving block, causing the hook to insert into the groove of the combination plate. The continuous upward movement of the bolt synchronously drives the auxiliary bolt and the moving block upward together until unlocking is completed. The upward movement of the auxiliary bolt, through the cooperation of the hook and the groove, drives the combination plate to rotate, causing the groove to move away from the unlock position. The moving block is equipped with a slot. In the locked state, the top plate is configured to be placed in the slot to prevent the moving block and bolt from moving upward to unlock. When unlocking, the rotation of the auxiliary bolt pushes the top plate out of the slot, unlocking the upward movement of the moving block.

10. A rotary combination lock according to claim 9, characterized in that, A cylinder is mounted on the fixing plate, and a torsion spring is fitted onto the cylinder. One end of the torsion spring abuts against the lock housing, and the other end abuts against the bolt. The torsion spring is configured to return the bolt to a downward position from the unlocked state. When the torsion spring drives the bolt to move downward, the bolt first pushes against the driving part of the auxiliary bolt, causing the auxiliary bolt to rotate on the moving block and driving the hook to disengage from the groove. The bolt, driven by the torsion spring, continues to move downward, causing the auxiliary bolt and the moving block to move downward together to a reset position until the top plate, driven by the reset spring, engages with the slot in the moving block. The auxiliary bolt is rotatably connected to the front end of the moving block, and the bolt is positioned laterally beside the auxiliary bolt. One end of the bolt is configured to extend out of the lock housing. The hook is disposed at the upper end of the secondary latch, and the drive unit is disposed at the lower end of the secondary latch. A recess is disposed on the end face of the latch facing the secondary latch, and a protrusion is disposed on the secondary latch that can be held in the recess. A guide slope is disposed on the recess and / or the protrusion. A fixing block is disposed on the fixing plate, and the rod of the cam rod is disposed in a hole that can pass through the middle of the fixing block. At least two rotatable PIN plates are sleeved on the outer periphery of the fixing block, and a spacer is disposed between adjacent PIN plates. A protrusion is disposed on the two end faces of the PIN plates. When the protrusion at the rear end of the front PIN plate rotates to abut against the protrusion at the front end of the rear PIN plate, the front PIN plate can drive the rear PIN plate to rotate synchronously.

11. A rotary combination lock according to claim 10, characterized in that, It also includes a first rotating block and a second rotating block connected together and able to rotate synchronously. The first rotating block is configured in the front end assembly and can rotate synchronously with the turntable. The second rotating block is configured in the rear end assembly and can rotate synchronously with the frontmost cipher chip, so that the turntable drives the cipher chip to rotate.

12. A rotary combination lock according to claim 11, characterized in that, The inner peripheral wall of the turntable is provided with multiple slots, and the outer peripheral wall of the clutch plate is provided with connecting teeth that can extend into the slots, so that the turntable drives the clutch plate to rotate synchronously; the clutch plate is provided with a connecting hole in the middle, the first rotating block is disposed in the connecting hole, the inner sidewall of the connecting hole protrudes inward to form an insert, and the outer peripheral wall of the first rotating block is provided with a slot, the insert can cooperate with the slot to realize that the turntable drives the first rotating block to rotate.

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