A compact electronic lock

By combining the transmission methods of worm gear pairs and reduction gear pairs with the drive slider actuator, the problems of complex structure, large size and low transmission efficiency of electric locks are solved. This achieves miniaturization and high-efficiency transmission of compact electric locks, with overload protection and accurate detection functions, improving the reliability and ease of use of electric locks.

CN224496077UActive Publication Date: 2026-07-14黄雷

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
黄雷
Filing Date
2025-06-18
Publication Date
2026-07-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional electronic locks are complex in structure, large in size, have low transmission efficiency, high noise, and are prone to wear, making them difficult to meet the needs of compact application scenarios. Furthermore, mechanical wear can easily lead to incomplete locking or failure to open and close.

Method used

The transmission method adopts a worm gear pair combined with a reduction gear pair, combined with a drive slider actuator, including a slider, drive block, return spring and limit structure, to achieve a compact structure and overload protection. The locking status is accurately detected by locking and unlocking detection switches.

Benefits of technology

It achieves miniaturization of the electric lock, improves transmission efficiency and reliability, reduces noise, has overload protection to ensure that the motor is not damaged, and can detect the locking status in real time, thus improving ease of use and security.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model provides a compact electric lock, contain lock shell and by the lock tongue and the lock hook articulate to form the locking assembly, the lock tongue is equipped U type lock mouth, the lock shell corresponding position is equipped with the lock catch insertion, is equipped with the locking linkage torsional spring between the lock tongue and the lock shell and realizes the elastic reset, the electric opening and closing device is integrated in the lock shell, including drive casing and built -in drive motor, its output end is through the worm and worm gear pair drive, and the input gear of speed reducing gear pair and worm coaxial output gear meshing forms two -stage reduction, in drive sliding block executing mechanism, the side part of sliding block is articulated with the lock hook through the execution pole, is slidably arranged drive block in the sliding slot, and the lower surface rack portion and speed reducing gear pair output gear meshing realize linear motion in it built -in reset spring and both ends abut the sliding slot end wall and form two -way elastic limit position. This electric lock realizes efficient torque output through the composite drive of worm and worm gear pair and gear pair, and its compact layout significantly reduces the installation space demand, and the cooperation locking state detection mechanism can realize accurate state feedback.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of electronic lock technology, and in particular relates to a compact electronic lock. Background Technology

[0002] Electric locks, as a common type of electronic lock, are widely used in electric vehicles, motorcycles, safes, and server racks. Traditional electric locks typically use electromagnets or motors to drive the bolt for opening and closing, but their complex structure and large size make them unsuitable for compact applications with limited installation space. Furthermore, the transmission mechanisms of existing electric locks often employ spur gears or linkage structures, resulting in low transmission efficiency, high noise, and easy wear. Over time, mechanical wear can lead to incomplete locking or malfunction.

[0003] While the conventional U-shaped lock and latch combination structure can achieve basic locking function, some improved electric locks on the market are trying to improve reliability by optimizing the transmission method, such as using a worm gear reduction mechanism with a gear pair. However, their actuators often use rigid push rods to directly drive the lock tongue, which can easily cause motor overload damage when the lock tongue gets stuck.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an electronically controlled lock that is compact, has high transmission efficiency, and has overload protection capabilities. Through an innovative design of the drive slider actuator, miniaturization can be achieved while ensuring reliable locking. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the problems existing in the prior art, this utility model provides an electric lock that is compact in structure, highly efficient in transmission, and has overload protection capabilities.

[0006] This utility model is implemented as follows: a compact electric control lock includes a lock housing, a locking assembly consisting of a bolt and a hook hinged within the lock housing, wherein the bolt has a U-shaped locking port, the lock housing has a corresponding latching port, and a locking linkage torsion spring is provided between the bolt and the lock housing; and an electric opening and closing device; characterized in that: the electric opening and closing device includes: a drive housing fixed to the lock housing; a drive motor installed within the drive housing, the output end of which is connected to a worm gear pair; a reduction gear pair, wherein the input gear of the reduction gear pair meshes with the output gear coaxially arranged with the worm gear; and a drive slider actuator, including:

[0007] The slider has an actuator rod hinged to the lower end of the locking hook on one side; a slide groove is opened along the length of the slider, and a drive block is slidably fitted in the slide groove; a rack part is provided on the lower surface of the drive block and meshes with the output gear of the reduction gear pair; a return spring is installed in the drive block, and the two ends of the spring abut against the two end walls of the slide groove.

[0008] More preferably, the drive block includes a spring mounting part with a through-type spring mounting groove, in which a return spring is installed; the return spring is a pre-compressed cylindrical helical spring, the axial direction of which is perpendicular to the tooth extension direction of the rack part, and the outer diameter of the return spring is greater than the thickness of the drive block.

[0009] More preferably, the upper drive block of the rack section is provided with limiting parts on both sides, and the lower end of the rack section extends out of the slider to mesh with the output gear of the reduction gear pair.

[0010] In a further preferred embodiment, the slider is provided with a guide groove that mates with the reset spring mounting part, and the guide groove has a mounting opening in the middle with a width greater than that of the limiting part; limiting slide grooves are provided on both sides of the guide groove.

[0011] In a further preferred embodiment, the lower parts of both sides of the mounting port are provided with reset spring limiting grooves, and the two ends of the reset spring abut against the two end walls of the reset spring limiting grooves.

[0012] In a further preferred embodiment, the lock housing has a top post vertically mounted on the bolt side, and a compression spring is fitted on the top post to assist in lifting the locked component.

[0013] More preferably, a locking detection switch 9 is provided at the position of the top post corresponding to the lock housing, and the locking detection switch is electrically connected to the vehicle controller or the electronic lock controller.

[0014] The advantages and technical effects of this utility model are as follows:

[0015] This utility model provides a compact electronic lock with significant overall technical advantages, specifically reflected in the following aspects:

[0016] Firstly, this electronic lock boasts a compact structure. Its innovative drive slider actuator design achieves miniaturization, meeting the demands of compact applications with high installation space requirements. It employs a worm gear and reduction gear transmission system, which, compared to traditional spur gear or connecting rod structures, offers higher transmission efficiency, lower noise, and less wear, effectively extending the lifespan of the electronic lock.

[0017] Secondly, the electric lock has overload protection capabilities. The installation of a return spring in the drive slider actuator allows the drive block to slide relative to the slider under the action of the spring when the latch is jammed, thereby preventing damage to the motor due to overload and improving the reliability and safety of the electric lock.

[0018] Furthermore, the unlocking and locking detection switches on this electronic lock can accurately detect and provide feedback on the locking and unlocking status of the lock. When the bolt is locked, the locked component presses against the top pin and triggers the locking detection switch, indicating that the locking action is complete. After an unlocking operation, the top pin returns to its original position under the force of the compression spring, assisting in lifting the locked component. Simultaneously, the state of the locking detection switch and / or the unlocking detection switch changes, sending an unlocking completion signal to the controller. This design allows users to understand the status of the electronic lock in real time, improving both convenience and security.

[0019] In summary, the compact electric lock provided by this utility model has the advantages of compact structure, high transmission efficiency, overload protection capability, and accurate detection and feedback status. It can meet the needs of scenarios with high installation space requirements and high requirements for electric lock performance, and has broad application prospects. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a shell structure with half of it removed;

[0023] Figure 4 Remove the schematic diagram of the electric opening and closing device;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the electric opening and closing device.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electric opening and closing device;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the mating structure of the worm gear pair and the reduction gear pair;

[0027] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the slider and the drive block;

[0028] Figure 10 It is a sectional view of the slider and drive block in action;

[0029] Figure 11 and Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the slider structure;

[0030] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the drive block assembly structure.

[0031] In the diagram: 1. Lock housing; 101. Clearance groove; 11. Locking latch; 12. Locking linkage torsion spring; 2. Unlocking detection switch; 3. Locking assembly; 31. Lock tongue; 32. Lock hook; 4. Electric opening and closing device; 41. Drive housing; 42. Drive motor; 43. Worm gear pair; 430. Worm gear; 431. Output gear; 44. Reduction gear pair; 440. Input gear; 441. Output gear; 5. Drive slider actuator; 51. Slider; 510. Guide groove; 511. Mounting port; 512. Limiting groove; 513. Return spring limiting groove; 52. Actuating rod; 53. Groove; 54. Drive block; 541. Spring mounting part; 55. Rack part; 56. Limiting part; 6. Return spring; 7. Top column; 8. Compression spring; 9. Locking detection switch; 2. Unlocking detection switch. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this utility model.

[0033] Please see Figures 1 to 13 A compact electronic lock includes a lock housing 1, which has a split structure and a clearance groove 101 that matches the shape of the electric opening and closing device, thus reducing the thickness of the housing. If there are no space limitations, the clearance groove can be omitted, and the electric opening and closing device is entirely located within the housing. A locking assembly 3 includes a bolt 31 and a hook 32 hinged within the lock housing. The bolt has a U-shaped locking port 310, and the lock housing has a corresponding latching port 11. A locking linkage torsion spring 12 is provided between the bolt and the lock housing. This structure is a conventional U-shaped locking port and latching structure for achieving basic locking functions. According to existing technology, an unlocking detection switch 2 is provided below the bolt position for detecting the unlocking status. Its working principle is based on existing technology, such as publicly available... CN209556620U relates to an electrically controlled lock; it also includes an electric opening and closing device 4, which includes: a drive housing 41 fixed to the lock housing; a drive motor 42 installed inside the drive housing, the output end of which is connected to a worm gear pair 43; a reduction gear pair 44, the input gear 440 of which meshes with the output gear 431 coaxially arranged with the worm gear 430; and a drive slider actuator 5, including: a slider 51, one side of which is provided with an actuator rod 52 hinged to the lower end of the lock hook; a slide groove 53 opened along the length direction of the slider, in which a drive block 54 is slidably fitted; a rack portion 55 provided on the lower surface of the drive block, which meshes with the output gear 441 of the reduction gear pair; and a return spring 6 installed inside the drive block, with both ends of the spring abutting against the end walls of the slide groove.

[0034] For further recommendations, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 12 The drive block 54 includes a spring mounting part 541 with a through-type spring mounting groove, in which a return spring is installed. The return spring is a pre-compressed cylindrical helical spring, the axis of which is perpendicular to the tooth extension direction of the rack part, and the outer diameter of the return spring is larger than the thickness of the drive block. The through-type spring mounting groove cooperates with the pre-compressed cylindrical helical spring, is installed perpendicular to the tooth extension direction, and has an outer diameter larger than the thickness of the drive block, ensuring stable reset and a compact structure, thus improving the reliability of the operation.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment, limiting portions 56 are provided on both sides of the upper drive block of the rack portion 55, and the lower end of the rack portion extends out to engage with the output gear of the reduction gear pair via a slider. This prevents the drive block from displacing excessively downward, ensures stable engagement with the output gear, and extends the service life of the device.

[0036] For further recommendations, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1 and Figure 11 The slider 51 is provided with a guide groove 510 that mates with the reset spring mounting part. The guide groove has a mounting opening 511 in the middle with a width greater than that of the limiting part. Limiting sliding grooves 512 are provided on both sides of the guide groove. This enables precise guidance and stable sliding of the drive block, reducing motion deviation.

[0037] In a further preferred embodiment, the lower part of both sides of the mounting port is provided with a return spring limiting groove 513, and the two ends of the return spring abut against the two end walls of the return spring limiting groove. This prevents the spring from shifting and improves the accuracy and stability of the return action.

[0038] In Example 2, a top post 7 is vertically installed on the side of the lock tongue of the lock housing 1, and a compression spring 8 is fitted on the top post to assist in lifting the locked component and improve the user experience.

[0039] Further preferably, a locking detection switch 9 is provided at the position of the top post corresponding to the lock housing. The locking detection switch is electrically connected to the vehicle controller or the electronic lock controller. When the locking operation is performed, the locked component applies pressure to the top post, causing the top post to displace and triggering the locking detection switch. This indicates that the locking action is complete, and the locking detection switch feeds back the locking completion signal to the controller. When the unlocking operation is performed, the top post is reset under the elastic force of the compression spring and assists in lifting the locked component. At the same time, the state of the locking detection switch changes, sending an unlocking completion signal to the controller, thereby realizing accurate detection and feedback of the locking and unlocking states of the electronic lock.

[0040] The working principle of this utility model is as follows: During the locking process, the latch installed on the locked component (seat cushion, battery compartment cover) is inserted into the U-shaped lock mouth and pressed down under the action of external force. The lock tongue rotates in the direction of the lock hook, and the linkage torsion spring 12 stores force. When the lock hook and the lock tongue lock together, the locking is achieved. At this time, the locked component presses the top column, triggering the locking detection switch and sending a locking completion signal to the controller.

[0041] The unlocking process is achieved by reversing the motor. When the drive block moves to the left, the actuator pulls the lock hook to disengage the lock tongue from the lock hook. The lock tongue is reset under the elastic force of the linkage torsion spring. Finally, the U-shaped lock mouth of the lock tongue is aligned with the lock buckle. At this time, the locked component can be opened. At the same time, the top column is reset under the push of the compression spring, which helps to lift the locked component. The unlock detection switch changes state and sends an unlocking completion signal to the controller.

[0042] The locking and unlocking detection switch is selected from at least one of mechanical limit switches, micro switches, or non-contact detection devices composed of Hall sensors or photoelectric sensors; the detection switch and the controller are preferably connected by an RS485 communication bus for data interaction; it can obtain the locking status in real time and also has an anti-theft function. The RS485 communication bus is a known communication technology, and the innovation of this patent application is not in the communication protocol, so the communication protocol will not be described in detail here.

[0043] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A compact electric lock, comprising a lock housing, a locking assembly consisting of a bolt and a hook hinged within the lock housing, wherein the bolt has a U-shaped locking port, the lock housing has a corresponding latching port, and a locking linkage torsion spring is provided between the bolt and the lock housing; and an electric opening and closing device; Its features are: The electric opening and closing device includes: The drive housing is fixed to the lock housing; The drive motor is installed inside the drive housing, and its output end is connected to the worm gear pair; A reduction gear pair, wherein the input gear of the reduction gear pair meshes with the output gear, which is coaxially arranged with the worm gear; The drive slider actuator includes: The slider has an actuator on one side that is hinged to the lower end of the locking hook; A groove is opened along the length of the slider, and a drive block is slidably fitted inside the groove; The rack portion located on the lower surface of the drive block meshes with the output gear of the reduction gear pair; The return spring is installed inside the drive block, with both ends of the spring abutting against the two end walls of the slide groove.

2. The compact electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The drive block includes a spring mounting part with a through-type spring mounting groove, in which a return spring is installed; the return spring is a pre-compressed cylindrical helical spring, the axis of which is perpendicular to the tooth extension direction of the rack part, and the outer diameter of the return spring is greater than the thickness of the drive block.

3. The compact electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: Limiting portions are provided on both sides of the upper drive block of the rack section, and the lower end of the rack section extends out a slider to mesh with the output gear of the reduction gear pair.

4. The compact electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slider is provided with a guide groove that mates with the reset spring mounting part. The guide groove has a mounting opening in the middle with a width greater than that of the limiting part. Limiting sliding grooves are provided on both sides of the guide groove.

5. The compact electronic lock according to claim 4, characterized in that: The lower sides of the mounting port are provided with reset spring limiting grooves, and the two ends of the reset spring abut against the two end walls of the reset spring limiting grooves.

6. The compact electronic lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The lock housing has a top post vertically mounted on the side of the bolt, and a compression spring is fitted on the top post to help lift the locked component.

7. The compact electronic lock according to claim 6, characterized in that: A locking detection switch is provided at the position of the top post corresponding to the lock housing, and the locking detection switch is electrically connected to the vehicle controller or the electronic lock controller.