Hidden drive mechanism for smart lock and smart lock

Abstract

A hidden drive mechanism for a smart lock, characterized in that it comprises a front panel (1) provided with a middle hollow area (102); a manual operating mechanism (2) disposed at least partially in the front panel (1), the manual operating mechanism (2) comprising a manual operating member (21) rotatably disposed in the middle hollow area (102); a connecting sleeve (23) in transmission connection with the manual operating member (21); a lock cylinder driving member (22) disposed at one end of the connecting sleeve (23) and in transmission connection with corresponding components of the smart lock; a locking component (26) configured to move between a locking position and an unlocking position, in the locking position, the locking component (26) limits the rotation of the connecting sleeve (23); and an electric control actuator (3) configured to drive the locking component (26) to move between the locking position and the unlocking position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of smart lock technology, specifically to a concealed drive mechanism for a smart lock and a smart lock including the concealed drive mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] A smart lock comprises an electronic control unit and a mechanical structure unit. The electronic control unit includes a main control board, an unlocking method module, communication and storage components, a sensor and alarm module, and a power supply system. The unlocking method module includes a fingerprint recognition module, a password input module, a sensing module, and a biometric expansion module. The mechanical structure unit includes a door lock mechanism and bolt assembly, a clutch and transmission mechanism, a handle and panel, and an emergency key system.

[0003] Currently, conventional smart locks typically retain a drive mechanism (such as a handle or knob) on the front panel. After successful verification, the unlocking module uses this mechanism to rotate and open the lock cylinder. Because the drive mechanism is directly mounted on the front panel, the aesthetics are relatively poor. Providing a design that hides the drive mechanism would significantly improve the overall appearance of the smart lock. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to solve the technical problem that the drive mechanism of smart locks is exposed in the prior art, which destroys the integrity and aesthetics of the front panel design, thereby providing a drive mechanism that is ingenious in structure, safe and reliable, and can improve the aesthetics of the product.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application discloses a concealed drive mechanism for a smart lock, characterized in that it comprises: a front panel having a central hollow area; a manual operation mechanism, at least partially disposed within the front panel, the manual operation mechanism comprising: a manual operation component rotatably disposed within the central hollow area; a connecting sleeve, which is pulsatorically connected to the manual operation component; a lock cylinder drive component disposed at one end of the connecting sleeve and pulsatorically connected to a corresponding component of the smart lock; a locking component configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position, the locking component restricts the rotation of the connecting sleeve; and an electronically controlled actuator configured to drive the locking component to move between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0006] According to an optional embodiment, the outer peripheral wall of the connecting sleeve is provided with a plug groove for the locking member to engage; in the locked position, the locking member is inserted into the plug groove; in the unlocked position, the locking member is disengaged from the plug groove.

[0007] According to an optional implementation, the locking component includes a clutch pin.

[0008] According to an optional embodiment, the manual operating mechanism includes a resilient element configured to apply a biasing force toward the unlocked position to the locking member.

[0009] According to an optional embodiment, the elastic element includes a compression spring fitted onto the locking member.

[0010] According to an optional embodiment, the electronically controlled actuator includes a retractable push block; the push block abuts against the locking member to drive the locking member to move to the locking position.

[0011] According to an optional embodiment, the manual operating mechanism includes a reset elastic element that abuts against the connecting sleeve and is configured to apply a reset torque to the connecting sleeve to restore it to its initial position after the manual operating element is rotated.

[0012] According to an optional embodiment, the reset elastic element includes a torsion spring; the connecting sleeve includes a limiting post configured to limit the torsion spring.

[0013] According to an optional implementation, the manual operating component is provided with a connecting block; the connecting sleeve is provided with a connecting socket adapted to the connecting block.

[0014] This application also discloses a smart lock, characterized in that it includes the aforementioned hidden drive mechanism.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, this application accommodates the manual operating component in the hollow area of ​​the front panel, so that the front panel can maintain a flat and smooth overall appearance when not in operation, which conforms to modern minimalist design aesthetics, avoids the visual damage of traditional exposed handles, and significantly improves the overall aesthetics and grade of the product.

[0016] This application achieves intelligent locking and unlocking of the manual operating component by setting up a motor clutch mechanism linked to the main controller. In the locked state, the manual operating component is mechanically locked and cannot be rotated, ensuring security. After successful authentication, the motor clutch mechanism automatically unlocks, allowing the user to easily drive the lock cylinder to unlock by rotating the hidden manual operating component. The operation is intuitive and convenient, enhancing the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0017] In the following description, embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a smart lock according to this application is shown; Figure 2 Show along Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the view from direction A in the diagram; Figure 3 Show Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of a smart lock, with some shell components omitted to clearly show the internal structure; Figure 4 Show along Figure 3 The schematic diagram shown in direction B omits some shell components to clearly show the internal structure; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the manual operating mechanism according to this application is shown; Figure 6 Show along Figure 5 A schematic diagram showing the view from direction C in the diagram; Figure 7 Show Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the manual operating mechanism; Figure 8 Show Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the manual operating mechanism from another angle; Figure 9 Show Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the manual operating components of the manual operating mechanism; It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0019] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "middle", "lower", "front", "side", "one end", "the other end", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0020] See Figures 1 to 9 This application provides a concealed drive mechanism for a smart lock. This concealed drive mechanism aims to provide a solution that hides the manual operating components within the smart lock panel, thereby improving the overall aesthetics of the product. The concealed drive mechanism of this embodiment mainly includes a front panel 1, a manual operating mechanism 2, and an electronically controlled actuator 3.

[0021] Specifically, the front panel 1 is the exterior component of the smart lock, comprising a smooth front panel 101 facing the user and a connecting plate 104 abutting against one side of the door. The front panel 1 has a central hollow area 102. The central hollow area 102 is formed by the rear portion of the smooth front panel 101 and the front portion of the connecting plate 104. More specifically, the rear portion of the smooth front panel 101 has an inwardly recessed first arc-shaped portion, and the front portion of the connecting plate 104 has a corresponding inwardly recessed second arc-shaped portion. The first and second arc-shaped portions face each other, jointly defining the boundary of the central hollow area 102. The design of the central hollow area 102 replaces the traditional rotary door handle, providing an ergonomic grip and operating space for the user's hand to reach in and perform unlocking operations.

[0022] To more clearly demonstrate its internal structure, Figure 3 and Figure 4 The assembly relationship between the manual operating mechanism 2 and internal components such as the connecting plate 104 is shown in an exploded view. To avoid obstruction, the rear portion of the front smooth panel 101 and the front portion of the connecting plate 104 are omitted. It should be understood that... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The structure shown is Figure 1 and Figure 2 This is a portion of the complete front panel 1 shown, not a different embodiment. A manual operating mechanism 2 is disposed in the front panel 1. In this embodiment, the manual operating mechanism 2 includes a manual operating element 21, a connecting sleeve 23, a lock cylinder drive element 22, and a locking element 26.

[0023] The manual operating component 21 is rotatably disposed within the central hollow area 102. When the user needs to manually unlock the door, the manual operating component 21 can be operated. To achieve a transmission connection with subsequent components, in this embodiment (see...), Figure 9 The manual operating component 21 is equipped with a connecting block 211, such as a rectangular connecting block. This concealed design of the manual operating component 21 allows it to be completely contained within the outline of the front panel 1 when not in use, thus ensuring the integrity and visual simplicity of the smooth front panel 101. The inner wall of the central hollow area 102 (e.g., the surface of the first or second arc-shaped portion) can also be ideally integrated with an authentication module (such as a fingerprint sensor), allowing the user to naturally complete authentication when reaching out to open the door, improving the convenience of using the smart lock.

[0024] The connecting sleeve 23 is connected to the manual operating component 21 via a transmission connection. Specifically, the connecting sleeve 23 is provided with a connecting socket 232 that is adapted to the connecting block 211 of the manual operating component 21 (see...). Figure 8Through the insertion and engagement of the connecting block 211 and the connecting socket 232, the rotation of the manual operating component 21 can be transmitted to the connecting sleeve 23, causing it to rotate synchronously.

[0025] The lock cylinder drive component 22 is disposed at one end of the connecting sleeve 23 and is configured to be drively connected to the corresponding component of the smart lock (e.g., the lock cylinder of the smart lock). In this embodiment, the lock cylinder drive component 22 is specifically a square bar column, used to transmit the rotational torque of the connecting sleeve 23 to the lock cylinder, thereby driving the bolt to move.

[0026] Locking component 26 is the element that enables the manual operating mechanism 2 to be locked and unlocked. Locking component 26 is configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, locking component 26 restricts rotation of the connecting sleeve 23; while in the unlocked position, locking component 26 allows the connecting sleeve 23 to rotate freely. Locking component 26 may be a clutch pin.

[0027] The electronically controlled actuator 3 is electrically connected to the main controller 6 (e.g., main circuit board) of the smart lock and is configured to drive the locking component 26 to move between the locked and unlocked positions. The electronically controlled actuator 3 may be a linear motor or a servo cylinder.

[0028] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in order to effectively restrict the connecting sleeve 23 by the locking member 26, an insertion groove 29 for the locking member 26 to engage is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting sleeve 23. Accordingly, in the locked position, a portion of the locking member 26 is driven to insert into the fixed limiting block 25, thereby restricting the rotation of the connecting sleeve 23 connected to the locking member 26. In the unlocked position, the locking member 26 disengages from the limiting block 25, releasing the restriction on the rotation of the connecting sleeve 23.

[0029] To achieve automatic unlocking, the manual operating mechanism 2 also includes an elastic element 28. The elastic element 28 is configured to apply a biasing force toward the unlocked position to the locking member 26. Specifically, the elastic element 28 may be a compression spring fitted onto the locking member 26 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 7 One end of the elastic element 28 can abut against the limiting ring 27 on the locking component 26, and the other end abuts against the inner wall of the insertion groove 29. In this way, once the thrust from the electronic actuator 3 disappears, the locking component 26 will automatically reset to the unlocked position under the action of the elastic element 28.

[0030] Accordingly, the electronic actuator 3 includes a retractable push block 31. The push block 31 abuts against the locking member 26. When the electronic actuator 3 extends, the push block 31 pushes the locking member 26 against the biasing force of the elastic element 28, causing it to move to the locked position.

[0031] Furthermore, to ensure that the manual operating element 21 automatically returns to its initial position after operation, the manual operating mechanism 2 also includes a reset elastic element 24. The reset elastic element 24 abuts against the connecting sleeve 23 and is configured to apply a reset torque to the connecting sleeve 23 to restore it to its initial position after the manual operating element 21 is rotated. Specifically, the reset elastic element 24 may be a torsion spring. For ease of installation and effective limiting, the connecting sleeve 23 includes a limiting post 233 for limiting the reset elastic element 24.

[0032] When the smart lock is in the locked state, the main controller 6 controls the electric actuator 3 to extend, and its push block 31 pushes the locking component 26, causing it to overcome the elastic force of the elastic element 28 and move to the locked position. At this time, the locking component 26 engages with the limit block 25, thereby restricting the rotation of the connecting sleeve 23, and the manual operating component 21 is thus locked and cannot be rotated.

[0033] After the user successfully verifies their identity via fingerprint, password, or facial recognition, the main controller 6 sends an unlock command to the electronic actuator 3, causing it to retract. The push block 31 separates from the locking component 26. Under the biasing force of the elastic element 28, the locking component 26 automatically moves to the unlock position, disengaging from the locking block 25. At this point, the rotation restriction of the connecting sleeve 23 is released.

[0034] In the unlocked state, the user can rotate the manual operating component 21 located in the central hollow area 102. The manual operating component 21 drives the lock cylinder drive component 22 to rotate via the connecting sleeve 23, thereby completing the unlocking action. After the user releases the manual operating component 21, the reset elastic component 24 drives the connecting sleeve 23 and the manual operating component 21 to automatically return to their initial positions. Subsequently, the electronically controlled actuator 3 can be extended again under control, restoring the smart lock to the locked state.

[0035] This application achieves a minimalist design for the smart lock's front panel by concealing the manual operating component 21 within the cutout area 102 of the front panel 101 and utilizing the electronically controlled actuator 3 for locking control, thus enhancing the product's aesthetics. Furthermore, after successful verification, users can directly unlock the lock by rotating the manual operating component, providing convenient operation.

[0036] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. For those skilled in the art, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A concealed drive mechanism for a smart lock, characterized in that, include: The front panel (1) has a central hollow area (102). A manual operating mechanism (2) is disposed in the front panel (1), the manual operating mechanism (2) comprising: A manual operating component (21) is rotatably disposed within the central hollow area (102); Connecting sleeve (23), which is connected to the manual operating element (21) in a transmission manner; A lock cylinder drive unit (22) is disposed at one end of the connecting sleeve (23) and is connected in transmission to the corresponding component of the smart lock; A locking component (26) is configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position, the locking component (26) restricts the rotation of the connecting sleeve (23); An electronically controlled actuator (3) is configured to drive the locking component (26) to move between the locked position and the unlocked position.

2. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the connecting sleeve (23) is provided with a plug groove (29) for the locking component (26) to engage. In the locked position, the locking component (26) is inserted into the insertion slot (29); In the unlocked position, the locking component (26) disengages from the insertion slot (29).

3. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking component (26) includes a clutch pin.

4. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The manual operating mechanism (2) includes an elastic element (28); The elastic element (28) is configured to apply a biasing force toward the unlocked position to the locking member (26).

5. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The elastic element (28) includes a compression spring fitted onto the locking member (26).

6. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electronically controlled actuator (3) includes a retractable pusher (31). The pusher (31) abuts against the locking member (26) to drive the locking member (26) to move to the locking position.

7. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The manual operating mechanism includes a reset elastic element (24). The reset elastic element (24) abuts against the connecting sleeve (23) and is configured to apply a reset torque to the connecting sleeve (23) to restore it to its initial position after the manual operating element (21) is rotated.

8. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The reset elastic element (24) includes a torsion spring; The connecting sleeve (23) includes a limiting post (233) configured to limit the torsion spring (24).

9. The concealed drive mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The manual operating component (21) is provided with a connecting block (211); The connecting sleeve (23) is provided with a connecting socket (232) that is compatible with the connecting block (211).

10. A smart lock, characterized in that, Includes the concealed drive mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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