Electric multi-contact system with key having insulating zones

Abstract

The invention relates to a multi-contact system (100) comprising a housing (2) defining a cavity (16) configured to accommodate an encrypted portion (IA) of a key (1), the encrypted portion (1A) of the key (1) having an encryption section (1B) made of conductive material, the housing (2) comprising electrical contacts (17) for making contact with the encryption section (1B) when the key (1) is in the inserted position, the electrical contacts (17) being connected to a computing unit (15) that is configured to communicate with an effector (40), the encryption section (1B) of the encrypted portion (1A) of the key (1) comprising insulating zones (22), the multi-contact system (100) forming, in the inserted position of the key: an open switch for each of the electrical contacts opposite one of the insulating zones (22); and a closed switch for each of the electrical contacts (17) which is in contact with the encryption section (1B) outside these insulating zones.

Description

MULTI-CONTACT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WITH KEY WITH INSULATED ZONES TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates, in general, to the technical field of keys and locks.

[0002] The invention relates more specifically to a multi-contact system comprising a housing delimiting a housing configured to receive at least one encrypted part of a key, the encrypted part of the key having an encryption portion formed at least in part by an electrically conductive material, the housing comprising a plurality of electrical contacts on an interior surface of the housing intended to come into contact with the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key when said key is in the inserted position in the housing of the housing, said electrical contacts being connected to a microcontroller configured to communicate with an effector. STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

[0003] There are mechanical locks ranging from latches to pin tumbler locks, electrified locks that activate a servomotor or an electromagnetic system, locks controlled by image recognition (fingerprints, retina, iris, face, etc.), radio-controlled locks, etc.

[0004] Pin tumbler locks are among the most widely used and their industrialization is perfectly mastered. They are based on the use of pins stacked in wells so that when the key pushes against the upper pin, the interface of the pins coincides with a break plane allowing a rotor to rotate in a stator or a moving part to slide relative to a fixed part. This proven technology is very reliable, but requires high-quality machining with tight tolerances.

[0005] They all have their advantages and disadvantages, knowing that the ideal lock must meet several requirements that are sometimes difficult to reconcile.

[0006] So, the key must be practical, inexpensive, easy to produce, but difficult to reproduce, be robust, but not bulky... The lock must be resistant to picking, "bumpage", drilling, brutal attacks while being as cheap as possible, not too heavy, nor bulky to be able to be fixed on the doors without damaging them too much, easy to manufacture with the least possible machining, maintain good lubrication over time, resist hacking for digitally or computer-controlled locks, etc.

[0007] No lock is impenetrable to date. As always with theft protection, the universal concept is that to be effective, the locking system must require more energy or more money to force than the things being protected, or at least, require so much time that the criminal is likely to be interrupted before completing his crime.

[0008] In most vehicles, the ignition key, when turned in the lock, turns the ignition on by connecting two conductor wires, thus closing the electrical circuit that powers the vehicle. By turning it further, or by pressing a switch, the system closes the starter circuit and the engine starts. This classic system is very practical and widely used, but it is enough to tear off the lock or access the two contact wires and the starter wire to start the vehicle. In addition, these barrel and pin locks are quite expensive, as they require high machining precision and the use of good quality metal alloys.

[0009] Electronic key systems contain an infrared or radio remote control and a transponder. When the driver turns on the ignition, the transponder activates the flow of electrical current and the vehicle starts. The transponder generally consists of two parts located in the key and in the vehicle's ignition switch. The transponder can also be connected to the solenoid valve on the fuel pump and prevent ignition to create a very effective immobilizer. A complex and lengthy disassembly is the only way to use the vehicle. But these systems can be hacked, sometimes very quickly, with the right electronic or computer tools, and the race between the thief and the protection is often earned by the criminal. In addition, the cost of this type of device is quite high and limits its use to luxury vehicles.

[0010] Many patents have been filed regarding multi-contact devices (US9748685B2, EP2485334B1, US20120202391A1 ...), but these systems are not designed to be connected and disconnected tens of thousands of times and are therefore not usable as a key and lock system. Indeed, the cards are made of insulating material with electrical contact areas arranged on the surface of these cards. These areas are quite thin and likely to peel off, wear out or disconnect from the conductors that connect them.

[0011] Patent FR2108751 under review uses spring-mounted pins in wells to make contact between a metal key and conductors connected to a transponder. The system consists of a housing comprising a cover and a housing body in which the pin wells are bored. Each well comprises a pin, a spring and a plug or shoulder in the well to replace the plug and hold the spring. The housing is bored under the cover to allow the key to be inserted. Bores in the key ensure that the pins do not touch their contact when the pins are in the upper position opposite a bore, thus forming an open switch. When the pins are in the lower position in contact with the key without a bore, they touch their contact and form a closed switch.This system using pin technology is extremely reliable and robust, but requires a certain thickness and several manufacturing manipulations. STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The invention aims to remedy all or part of the drawbacks of the state of the art by proposing in particular a key solution making it possible to offer an improved security guarantee by increasing the level of inviolability, while being both reliable in operation and resistant over time.

[0013] Another objective sought is to simplify the operation of the key, while reducing the thickness and the number of parts as well as the manufacturing cost.

[0014] To do this, according to a first aspect of the invention, a multi-contact system is proposed comprising a housing delimiting a housing configured to receive at least one encrypted part of a key, the encrypted part of the key having an encryption portion formed at least in part by an electrically conductive material, the housing comprising a plurality of electrical contacts on an inner surface of the housing intended to come into contact with the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key when said key is in the inserted position in the housing of the housing, said electrical contacts being connected to a calculation unit configured to communicate with an effector, the multi-contact system being characterized in that the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key comprises electrically insulating zones, the multi-contact system being configured to form,when the key is in the inserted position in the housing of the case: an open switch for each of the electrical contacts located opposite an insulating contact zone of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key formed by one of the insulating zones; and a closed switch for each of the electrical contacts which is in contact with a conductive contact zone of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key outside these insulating zones, the conductive contact zone being electrically conductive.,

[0015] According to one embodiment, the housing comprises a housing body and a cover, the housing housing being delimited at least in part by the housing body and the cover, the electrical contacts preferably being integral with the cover. The configuration in which the electrical contacts are preferably integral with the cover makes it possible to facilitate possible repair and / or maintenance operations, improving the repairability index of the multi-contact system.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the multi-contact system comprises a printed circuit secured to the housing, the printed circuit preferably being secured to the cover, the printed circuit preferably also constituting the cover.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the contact areas of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key, each intended to be in contact with one of the electrical contacts in an inserted position of the key in the housing of the case, are visually identical. This makes it possible in particular to make the key more difficult to copy by making all the combinations visually identical, the insulating and conductive contact areas being visually undifferentiated.

[0018] According to one embodiment, all or part of the contact zones, preferably all the contact zones, comprise a metal core surrounded by a ring made of electrically insulating material(s). Whether they are insulating or conductive, these insulating rings are arranged so as to be arranged parallel to a surface plane of a useful face of the key, that is to say the face of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key, and preferably still flush with this surface so as to be visible. Whatever the contact zone, insulating or conductive, the same ring will thus be visible making it impossible to distinguish them from the outside.

[0019] According to one embodiment, in the conductive contact areas, each of the metal cores is electrically connected to the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key.

[0020] According to one embodiment, in the insulating contact zones, each of the metal cores is electrically insulated from the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key by means of an insulating envelope consisting at least of the ring and a complementary element such as a sleeve or a partition made of electrically insulating material(s).

[0021] According to one embodiment, the key has recesses forming wells located at each contact zone intended to receive pins, each well of a conductive contact zone being configured to receive a conductive pin and each well of an insulating contact zone being configured to receive an insulating pin. Thanks to such a configuration, the key is particularly simplified, making it possible to manufacture, on the one hand, a key body provided with wells, then to add conductive and insulating pins according to the key code to house them in the associated wells, according to the key code. The manufacture of the key body thus no longer depends on the key code.

[0022] According to one embodiment, each of the recesses or wells comprises an attached partition configured to cover a bottom of the associated well. Preferably, this partition is made of electrically insulating material(s) for all the wells, and more preferably the partition is identical for all the wells. This simplifies the key manufacturing process, the installation of this partition not depending on the key code.

[0023] According to one embodiment, each of the pins comprises a metal core surrounded on an upper part of the core by a ring made of electrically insulating material(s). Preferably in this case, each pair of a metal core and a ring made of electrically insulating material(s) is identical for all the contact zones, i.e. for all the wells.

[0024] According to one embodiment, each conductive pin is surrounded at least in part on a lower part, by an electrically conductive element, preferably located vertically under the insulating ring, so as to conduct electricity between the metal core and the side wall of the associated well in the inserted position of the corresponding conductive pin. In the inserted position of an associated conductive pin, the electrically conductive element is placed, preferably interposed, vertically between the partition (whether it is made of electrically insulating or conductive material(s)) below and the insulating ring above, the latter being visible to the user.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the electrically insulating areas are formed at least in part, preferably consisting of, an insulating coating deposited locally on the surface of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key. In the case where it is desired that the contact areas of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key intended to be in contact each with one of the electrical contacts in an inserted position of the key in the housing of the case are visually identical, the electrically conductive areas comprise a conductive coating deposited locally on the surface of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key, the conductive coating then being chosen to be visually identical to the insulating coating.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the key has recesses located at the level of each insulating zone and filled with an electrically insulating material, this material having an outer surface flush with an outer surface of the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key in order to limit the wear of the electrical contacts against which the key rubs when it is inserted into its housing.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the multi-contact system comprises at least one elastically retractable lug configured to penetrate into the housing and insert into a notch of the encrypted part of the key when said key is in the inserted position in the housing of the case so as to maintain the key in its inserted position and to inform the user of a correct inserted position of said key.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the housing of the case has a shape complementary to that of the encrypted part of the key so that said encrypted part of the key can slide in the housing while being guided, constrained in its translation and its positioning.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the body of the housing is made of metallic material(s) and connected to an electrical terminal of an electric dipole.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the body of the housing is made of electrically insulating material(s), for example plastic material(s), the body of the housing comprising a plug for connecting an electrical terminal of an electrical dipole to the key when said key is in its position inserted in the housing.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts comprise elastic means configured to elastically constrain said electrical contacts into contact and bearing against the encryption portion of the encrypted part of the key, in the inserted position of the key in the housing of the case.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the encrypted part of the key intended to cooperate in the housing of the case has lateral faces each having a chamfer so as to have a trapezoidal section, a distal end of the encrypted part of the key preferably also having a chamfered front face. Such a shape has the advantage of serving as a foolproofing device, of protecting the electrical contacts and the printed circuit (also called "PCB" or "Printed Circuit Board" in English terms) from excessive pressure of the key on the latter, and is more economical to manufacture.

[0033] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts each comprise an assembly of two sliding cylinders forced against each other by an internal spring, the electrical contacts preferably each comprise a Pogo™ pin. The use of such pins makes it possible to simplify the general structure of the multi-contact system and makes it possible to reduce the number of components.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the computing unit is configured to communicate with the effector by sending it information such as a predetermined encryption key, for example a key comprising a few hundred or even thousands of bits, if a predetermined combination of electrical contacts are connected to a predetermined electrical pole. As another example, the predetermined encryption key may be a 128- or 256-bit key.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the computing unit is configured to detect electrical contacts in an electrified state, and preferably, when an erroneous combination, different from the predetermined combination of electrical contacts, is detected, the computing unit triggers a refractory period preventing any further testing of the key for a predefined time.

[0036] The invention also relates to an actuating mechanism for an appliance, comprising a multi-contact system as described above, the actuating mechanism being configured to command the effector to actuate the appliance when the key is inserted into the housing of the case and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system, in particular when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts are connected to a predetermined electrical pole, the combination predetermined being representative of the insertion of the device key into the housing of the box.

[0037] The term "actuation" is understood here in the broad sense and can correspond to any action such as a command to start, stop, authorize access, for example through the electrification of a magnetic lock, authorize access to a computer terminal, to a computer file, to a computer network, or even authorize or not the use of a functionality of the device.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the actuating mechanism is a starter switch for an apparatus such as a motorized road vehicle, the actuation of the apparatus corresponding to the starting of the vehicle.

[0039] The invention thus also relates to an ignition switch for a motorized road vehicle. The ignition switch comprises the multi-contact system. The ignition switch is configured to command the effector to start the vehicle when the vehicle key is inserted into the housing of the housing and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system. The key is in particular recognized by the multi-contact system when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts are connected to a predetermined electrical pole, the predetermined combination of electrical contacts being representative of the insertion of the vehicle key into the housing.

[0040] The subject of the invention also relates to an actuation control member comprising an effector and a multi-contact system as described above, the actuation control member comprising a control unit comprising a microprocessor and / or a microcontroller, the control unit being configured to allow actuation of the device when the key is inserted into the housing of the case and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system, the control unit being connected to a main module of the effector by a switch which is configured to switch between an actuation position in which the effector allows actuation of the device and a stop position in which the effector prevents actuation of the device.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the actuation control member is a starting member for a device such as a motorized road vehicle, the actuation of the device corresponding to the starting of the vehicle.

[0042] The invention thus also relates to a starting control member comprising an effector and the multi-contact system. The starting control member comprises a control unit comprising a microprocessor and / or a microcontroller. The control unit is configured to allow the vehicle to start when the key is inserted into the housing of the housing and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system. The control unit is connected to a main module of the effector by a switch which is configured to switch between a starting position in which the effector allows the vehicle to start and a stopping position in which the effector prevents the vehicle from starting.

[0043] Such a multi-contact system therefore offers a simple mechanical human-machine interface (a key to be inserted into a box) which allows an encryption, such as a very complicated password contained in a microcontroller activated by the right key, to be sent to the electronic circuit of a main component of a vehicle or any system to be protected. The whole thing has a very low cost. The mechanical combination and the password can be randomly assigned during manufacturing. Such a system can easily be added to or replace existing systems. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0044] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge on reading the description which follows, with reference to the appended figures, which illustrate: figure 1: a schematic representation and in isometric perspective of a multi-contact locking system according to one embodiment, with the key in the position inserted in a housing; Figure 2: a schematic representation from the front of the multi-contact locking system of Figure 1, with the key in the inserted position in the housing; Figure 3: a schematic representation from below of the multi-contact locking system of Figure 1; Figure 4: a schematic and isometric perspective representation from below of the key according to the embodiment of Figure 2, in a disengaged position of the housing; Figure 5: a horizontal section of Figure 1, with the key in the inserted position in a housing; Figure 6: a diagram of the operating principle of an electrical contact, according to one embodiment; Figure 7: a vertical section of the housing passing through several electrical contacts, in a key-free position, that is to say without the key inserted in the associated housing of the housing; Figure 8: a figure similar to Figure 7, with the key in the inserted position in the housing;Figure 9: a schematic representation of the operating principle of the multi-contact system according to the embodiment of Figure 1, illustrating a starting control member according to a first embodiment; Figure 10: an illustration of a key seen from below according to another embodiment; Figure 11: a longitudinal vertical sectional view of the key of Figure 10; Figure 12: an isometric perspective view of a longitudinal vertical sectional view of the multi-contact system according to another embodiment; similar embodiment of Figure 11, with the key in the inserted position in a housing; Figure 13: an isometric perspective view of a key body according to another embodiment, in a position disengaged from the housing; Figure 14: an isometric perspective view of a vertical cross-section of a key according to the embodiment of Figure 13; Figure 15: an isometric perspective view of a vertical cross-section of a key according to the embodiment of Figure 13, in a detail view at the level of an encryption portion of an encrypted part of the key; Figure 16: an isometric perspective view of an insulating pin according to the embodiment of Figure 15; Figure 17: an isometric perspective view of a conductive pin according to the embodiment of Figure 15; Figure 18: an isometric perspective view of a conductive pin according to an alternative embodiment of Figure 17;Figure 19: a schematic view of an operating principle of a starting control member according to a second embodiment; Figure 20: a logic diagram of the operation of the multi-contact system of the starting control member according to the second embodiment; Figure 21: a logic diagram of the operation of a starting control unit according to the second embodiment.;

[0045] For clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by identical reference signs throughout the figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

[0046] Figure 1 illustrates a schematic and isometric perspective representation of a multi-contact locking system 100 according to one embodiment. This multi-contact system 100 is composed of a housing 2 into which a key 1 can be inserted. In the embodiment shown, the multi-contact system 100 is for an ignition switch of a motorized road vehicle such as an automobile. An ignition switch is also known in the prior art as a “Neiman”. The ignition switch is configured to prevent the vehicle from starting when the key 1 is not recognized by the multi-contact system 100, and to allow the vehicle to start when the key 1 is recognized. However, the multi-contact system 100 according to the invention is not only limited to use in an ignition switch.

[0047] The key 1 comprises a handle 6 which forms a head of the key 1 and which is configured to provide a gripping area for the key 1 by a user. The key 1 also comprises a numbered part IA located in an axial extension of the handle along a reference axis X, numbered part IA being intended to be housed in a housing 16 of the housing 2. In the inserted position of the key 1 in the housing 2, only the handle 6 of the key 1 protrudes from the housing, that is to say that the handle 6 remains projecting relative to said housing 2 in this inserted position. The handle 6 of the key 1 is provided with a key ring orifice 7 intended to allow it to be attached in a practical and efficient manner to a key ring.

[0048] The housing 2 comprises a body 3A of the housing 2 and a cover 3B secured together by fixing means. The cover 3B is here fixed to the body 3A for example, and without limitation, by screws 14. The housing 2 delimits an interior space of the housing 16 and has an axial opening for insertion of the key 1 from a front face 19 of the housing 2 and through which the key 1 is inserted axially into said housing 16. The direction of translation of the key 1 is illustrated by the arrow 37 (see figure 1). The front face 19 of the housing 2 is axially opposite a rear face 10 of the housing 2, said housing 2 being delimited vertically by two lower faces 11 and upper faces 9.

[0049] The housing 2 being here formed by the assembly of the body 3A of the housing 2 with the cover 3B, these two parts together delimit the housing 16. Of course, in a particular, but non-limiting, embodiment, the housing 2 can be formed in a single piece, that is to say in one piece.

[0050] Figure 2 illustrates a schematic front representation of the multi-contact locking system of Figure 1, with the key 1 in the inserted position in the housing 2.

[0051] The housing 16 has the shape of a slot inside which the encrypted part IA can penetrate to be housed therein. The housing 16 of the casing 2 has a shape complementary to that of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 so that said encrypted part of the key 1 can slide axially in the housing 16 while being guided, constrained in its translation and its positioning by said housing 16.

[0052] The encrypted portion IA of the key 1 extends generally axially from the head of the key 1 formed by the handle 6 of the key 1 to a distal end. The encrypted portion IA of the key 1 comprises an encryption portion IB formed at least in part by an electrically conductive material. The encryption portion IB may be either a part added to the encrypted portion IA of the key 1, for example in the form of a metal sheet added to the encrypted portion IA of the key 1 formed in a plastic material for example. In another advantageous configuration, the encryption portion IB may be formed in a single piece with the encrypted portion IA of the key 1, for example in the form of a part made of electrically conductive material, such as metal-based.

[0053] The housing 2 comprises a plurality of electrical contacts 17 (visible in detail in FIG. 8 for example), each of these electrical contacts 17 being arranged at least on an interior surface 36 of the housing 16 and intended to come into contact with the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 when said key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 16 of the housing 2.

[0054] According to the invention, the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 comprises electrically insulating zones 22, the multi-contact system 100 being configured to form, when the key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 16 of the housing 2: an open switch for each of the electrical contacts 17 located opposite an insulating contact zone of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 formed by one of the insulating zones 22; and a closed switch for each of the electrical contacts 17 which is in contact with a conductive contact zone 41 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 outside these insulating zones, the contact zone 41 being electrically conductive.

[0055] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the housing 2 is formed by assembling the body 3A of the housing 2 with the cover 3B and together delimit the housing 16. The body 3A of the housing 2 is machined so as to delimit the housing 16 transversely, laterally and axially with respect to the reference axis X. The housing 16 is delimited vertically on one side by a first face 35 carried by the body 3A of the housing 2 and on the other side by a second face 36 carried by the cover 3B constituted here by the integrated circuit 4.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the body 3A of the housing 2 is made of metallic material(s) and connected to an electrical terminal of an electric dipole.

[0057] According to another embodiment, the body 3A of the housing 2 is made of electrically insulating materials, for example of plastic material(s), the body 3A of the housing 2 comprising a plug for connecting an electrical terminal of an electrical dipole to the key 1 when said key 1 is in its position inserted in the housing 2.

[0058] In this embodiment, the cover 3B of the housing 2 is a flat element, substantially parallel to a horizontal plane containing the reference axis X, and forming a support for the electrical contacts 17. In other words, the electrical contacts 17 are each integral with the cover 3B. The multi-contact system 100 comprises a printed circuit 4 secured to the housing 2, the cover 3B here constituting the printed circuit 4.

[0059] Thus, the printed circuit 4 comprises the electrical contacts on one 36 of its faces oriented towards the housing 16 of the casing 2 and intended to come into contact with a useful face 12 of the key 1, in particular the face 12 of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 carried by the encryption portion IB when said key 1 is in the position inserted in the housing 16 of the casing 2.

[0060] The encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 is made of metal. The electrically insulating zones 22 are formed, preferably made of, an insulating coating deposited locally on the surface of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1. In this embodiment, the encryption portion IB is formed in one piece with the encrypted part IA of the key 1 in the form of a piece made of electrically conductive material, such as metal-based. This gives a key 1 that is entirely conductive, or has a conductive body, with insulating zones.

[0061] More specifically, the key 1 has recesses located at each predetermined insulating zone 22 associated with the key 1 and filled with an electrically insulating material, this material having an outer surface flush with an outer surface 12 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 in order to limit the wear of the electrical contacts 17 against which the key 1 rubs when it is introduced into its housing 16. The introduction of an insulating material into each of the recesses located at an associated insulating zone 22 can be carried out by any method preferred by those skilled in the art, for example by casting, by force insertion, by gluing, etc.

[0062] Figure 3 illustrates a schematic representation from below of the multi-contact locking system 100 of Figure 2.

[0063] Figure 4 illustrates a schematic and isometric perspective representation from below of the key 1 according to the embodiment of Figure 2, in a position disengaged from the housing 2.

[0064] As can be seen in detail in Figures 3 and 4, the key 1 is provided at its numbered part IA with at least one notch 27 inside which a lug 13 elastically retractable from the housing 2 can penetrate to hold the key 1 in its inserted position and to inform the user of a good inserted position of said key 1.

[0065] In particular, the encrypted part IA of the key 1 intended to cooperate in the housing 16 of the housing 2 has: lateral faces 21 transversely delimiting together a width of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, each of the lateral faces being intended to come opposite one of the lateral sides of the housing 16 of the housing 2, when said key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 16 of the housing 2; and a front face 20 delimiting the distal end of the key 1 intended to come opposite a side axially delimiting a bottom of the housing 16 of the housing 2, when said key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 16 of the housing 2.

[0066] The multi-contact system 100 comprises at least one, preferably two, elastically retractable lugs 13 secured to a first of the elements among the key 1 and the housing 2 and at least one, preferably two, notches 27 secured to a second element among the housing 2 and the key 1, each elastically retractable lug 13 being configured to penetrate and insert into an associated notch 27. To facilitate manufacturing, the elastically retractable lugs 13 are here secured to the housing 2, the associated notches 27 are secured to the key 1.

[0067] The notches 27 are located in particular on the lateral faces 21 of the key 1 and the elastically retractable lugs 13 are carried by each of the lateral sides of the housing 16 where they are configured for example to be actuated from the outside of the housing 2 like a push button and come into the housing 16 to be inserted into an associated notch 27 when said key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 16 of the housing 2 and when the lugs 13 are in the locking position of the key 1. Each retractable lug 13 preferably has a ball actuated by a spring, the ball being only partly protruding into the housing 16 in the locking position (see Figure 5). In this way the ball creates a locking stress which can be unlocked by an axial manual action on the key greater than a force for holding the key in the housing 16. In this case no actuation from the outside is necessary, but it may be useful for an outwardly protruding part to be removably accessible to allow manual adjustment of the retractable lug 13. The spring of the lug 13 may for example bear on one side on the ball and on the other side on a generally cylindrical threaded support cooperating in an associated tapping of the housing 2. Screwing the support into the housing 2 allows manual adjustment of the retractable lug 13.

[0068] As can be seen in detail in Figure 2 and Figure 4, the encrypted part IA of the key 1 intended to cooperate in the housing 16 of the housing 2 has chamfered sides 26, in particular at the level of its lateral faces 21 and its front face 20. The encrypted part IA of the key 1 has in a section of trapezoidal shape sides 21 at an angle delimited between a large base carried by a first face 8 or upper surface of the key 1 and a small base carried by a second face 12 or lower surface of the key 1 forming the external surface of the encryption portion IB intended to come opposite the printed circuit 4 and ensure contact with each of the electrical contacts 17 when said key 1 is in the position inserted in the housing 16 of the housing 2.An alternative configuration in which it is the small base which is carried by a first face 8 or upper surface of the key 1 and it is the large base carried by a second face 12 or lower surface of the key 1 is entirely conceivable (see for example figures 13, 14 and 15).

[0069] In general, housing 16 of the housing 2 has a shape complementary to that of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 so that said encrypted part IA of the key 1 slides in the housing 16 thus created and is constrained in its translation and positioning. This housing can be delimited for example by a chamfer, a slide or any machining preferred by those skilled in the art. This feature makes it possible to limit the mechanical stresses on the printed circuit 4. constituting a wall partially delimiting the housing 16 of the housing 2, and constituting in particular the cover 3B, this in order to ensure the correct positioning of the key 1 relative to the electrical contacts 17 when said key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 16 of the housing 2. This feature also makes it easier to use the multi-contact system 100 to guarantee the user the correct positioning of the key 1 upon insertion, like a key.

[0070] As is particularly visible in Figure 3, the electrical contacts 17 are connected to a computing unit 15 configured to communicate with an effector 40. The computing unit 15 comprises at least one microprocessor and / or a microcontroller. Preferably, the computing unit 15 is part of an electronic card. In each of the embodiments shown, the computing unit 15 comprises a microcontroller.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts can be connected to a microcontroller configured to communicate with the effector 40. In this case, preferably: the microcontroller 15 is configured to communicate with the effector 40 by sending it information such as a predetermined encryption key, for example a key comprising a few hundred, or even thousands of bits, if a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 are connected to a predetermined electrical pole; and / or the microcontroller 15 is configured to detect electrical contacts in an electrified state, and preferably, when an erroneous combination, different from the predetermined combination of electrical contacts, is detected, the microcontroller 15 triggers a refractory period preventing any further testing of the key 1 for a predefined time.

[0072] Figure 6 illustrates a diagram of the operating principle of an electrical contact 17, according to one embodiment.

[0073] The electrical contacts 17 are provided with elastic means 31 in order to allow good contact with the associated face of the key 1, that is to say with the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1.

[0074] The electrical contacts 17 each comprise an assembly of two sliding cylinders 29, 34 forced against each other by an internal spring 31. Such elastic means 31 make it possible in particular to elastically force said electrical contacts 17 into contact and into abutment against the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, in the inserted position of the key 1 in the housing 16 of the casing 2.

[0075] The electrical contact 17 illustrated in Figure 6 corresponds to a Pogo™ pin 39. Thus, in one embodiment, each electrical contact 17 forms a connector comprising: a base fixed relative to the housing 2 and having a fixed tubular portion 34 delimiting a first cylinder and receiving a second cylinder movable in translation relative to the first cylinder, forming a piston 29 of the connector. The piston 29 is elastically biased by an internal spring 31. The internal spring 31 is disposed between a wall 32 forming a bottom of the base of the connector 39 and a distal end 33 of the piston 29 opposite the wall 32. The piston 29 can therefore slide in a direction of translation 38 of the piston 29, here along an axis orthogonal to the horizontal reference plane.

[0076] A height of the base is substantially equal to a thickness of the printed circuit 4. In this way, a collar of the fixed base of each connector can come into contact with an external wall of the housing 2 to ensure its attachment to the housing 2, the fixed tubular portion 34 being fully housed in an orifice of the printed circuit 4 here forming a cover 3B of the housing 2. The bottom of the base of the connector 39 is accessible from the outside of the housing 2 to allow a contact 30 of the connector 39.

[0077] Figure 7 illustrates a vertical section of the housing 2 passing through several electrical contacts 17, in a key-free position 1, that is to say without the key 1 inserted in the associated housing 16 of the housing 2.

[0078] Figure 8 illustrates a figure similar to figure 7, with key 1 in the inserted position in housing 2.

[0079] The connectors 39 are movable between: a retracted position in the thickness of the printed circuit 4 when the piston 29 is constrained by the encrypted part IA of the key 1, in particular by the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, this when the key 1 is inserted into the housing 16 of the casing 2; and a deployed position of the piston 29 in the housing 16 of the casing 2 in which the internal spring 31 is relaxed, this when the housing 16 of the casing 2 is empty, that is to say it does not receive a key 1.

[0080] Generally, such connectors 39 are particularly suitable for temporary connections and are generally designed to withstand several hundred thousand cycles of depression and release of the piston 29.

[0081] The electrical contacts 17 then come to bear against the metal encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 when it is in its housing directly in contact with the metal or an insulating zone 22. When the contact 17 touches the metal of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, it forms a closed switch whereas it forms an open switch when it touches an electrically insulating zone 22.

[0082] Figure 9 illustrates a schematic representation of the operating principle of the multi-contact system 100 according to the embodiment of Figure 1.

[0083] The calculation unit 15 is configured to communicate with the effector 40 by sending it information such as a predetermined encryption key, for example a 128 or 256 bit key, if a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 connected to a predetermined electrical pole is ensured when the key 1 is inserted into the housing 16 of the casing 2.

[0084] The ground pin 5 of the housing 2 is connected to the ground (negative pole of the vehicle battery) by a wire fixed by welding, screwing or other connector known to those skilled in the art, for example.

[0085] In this example, the ground plug 5 intended to be connected to a pole of an electrical circuit and more probably to ground in the case of direct current or to neutral in the case of alternating current, is here fixed to the housing 2 using a fixing screw 14 as illustrated in figure 1

[0086] In this embodiment, an electrical conductive wire 18 connects each connector 39 to a listed terminal of a computing unit 15 such that the computing unit 15 recognizes each wire 18. More precisely, a conductive wire 18 is fixed by means of a connector or solder or any manner preferred by those skilled in the art, to each connector 39 and is connected to a listed terminal of the computing unit 15, such that the computing unit 15 recognizes the signal emitted by the housing 2, that is to say the combination of wires 18 in which an electric current flows, corresponding to the electrical contacts forming open switches. All of the electrical contacts 17 thus form a combination of open and closed switches carried by a body 28 of the single multi-contact system 100 with a given housing 2 - key 1 combination to allow the transmission of the correct information.

[0087] One skilled in the art will likely connect the wires 18 into a bundle that runs to the microcontroller 15. Another embodiment that one skilled in the art might choose would be to attach the computing unit 15 under the housing 2 so that the connectors 39 are directly connected to it.

[0088] The computing unit 15 is itself supplied with electricity by a ground wire 25 and by a wire 24 connected to the positive pole (+) of the vehicle (or to the phase in the case of an alternating current system). Those skilled in the art will choose the best way so that the response of the computing unit 15 to any signal emanating from the box 2 is delayed, this in order to make any attempt to hack the system 100 more difficult and above all much longer. Thus, any key test 1 will have to wait a certain time to know its result.

[0089] The calculation unit 15 receiving the correct information from the box 2 via the electrical contacts 17, and after a possible time delay, in turn transmits the correct information to the effector 40 via the network intermediary 23 such as a wired control network, typically of the CAN type, an electrical harness (or by radio or any manner chosen by the person skilled in the art). The effector 40 is chosen by the person skilled in the art and may, for example and without limitation, be the vehicle's motherboard, the vehicle's computer, the ignition system, the fuel pump, the starter, the hydraulic steering circuit, the servomotor of a lock, or any organ essential to the operation of the vehicle or the system to be protected, etc.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the computing unit 15 is configured to detect electrical contacts in an electrified state, and preferably, when an erroneous combination, different from the predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17, is detected, the computing unit 15 triggers a refractory period preventing any further testing of the key 1 for a predefined time. The brute force attack of the system consisting of trying all possible combinations thus requires a lot of time.

[0091] The device according to the invention is particularly intended to serve as a contact device for vehicles. In each of the embodiments shown, the multi-contact system 100 is intended for a vehicle ignition switch. The multi-contact system 100 is designed to recognize the key 1 when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 are connected to a predetermined electrical pole, this predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 being representative of the insertion of the vehicle key 1 into the housing 2.

[0092] In each of the embodiments shown, the starter switch and the effector 40 together form a starter control member which is configured to control the starting of the vehicle.

[0093] The start control member shown in Figure 19 differs from that shown in Figure 9 primarily in that a control unit 50 is located between the multi-contact system 100 and a main module 52 of the effector 40. The control unit 50 and the main module 52 of Figure 19 are analogous to the effector 40 of the control member according to the embodiment of figure 9.

[0094] The multi-contact system 100 of figure 19 is substantially identical to that of figure 9. In particular, the multi-contact system 100 recognizes the key 1 of the vehicle when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 are connected to a predetermined electrical pole, this predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 being representative of the insertion of the key 1 of the vehicle into the housing 2.

[0095] The control unit 50 preferably comprises an electronic control card. The control unit 50 comprises a microprocessor 54 and / or a microcontroller. More generally, the control unit 50 comprises a calculation unit. The control unit 50 also comprises a switch 56, also known in English as a “relay”. The control unit 50 is connected to the multi-contact system 100 by the network 23, which is typically a wired control network of the CAN type. The start authorization or start prohibition information received by the control unit 50 from the multi-contact system 100 is preferably encrypted. The control unit 50 is configured to command the main module 52 to start the vehicle when the key 1 is inserted into the housing 16 of the housing 2 and the key 1 is recognized by the multi-contact system 100.

[0096] The microprocessor 54 and / or the microcontroller of the control unit 50 is electrically connected to the switch 56. In the embodiment shown, the electronic card of the control unit 50 preferably comprises a microprocessor 54. The microprocessor 54 is for example configured to communicate with the microcontroller 15 of the housing 2 to receive starting information, such as a starting authorization or a starting prohibition. The switch 56 is electrically connected to the main module 52. The switch 56 is configured to switch between a starting position in which the effector 40 allows the vehicle to start and a stopping or starting prohibition position in which the effector 40 prevents the vehicle from starting. The switch 56 is connected to the microprocessor 54 and the switch 56 transmits a start command or a stop command to the main module 56 from the microprocessor 54.

[0097] In a manner similar to the embodiment of Figure 9, the main module 52 comprises, for example and without limitation, the motherboard of the vehicle, the computer of the vehicle, the ignition system, the fuel pump, the starter, the hydraulic steering circuit, the servomotor of a lock. The main module 52 is electrically connected to the control unit 50 in such a way that it is impossible to activate the main module 52 to allow the vehicle to start without a start command from the control unit 50. For example, the power supply of the main module 52 is integrated into the control unit 50. For example again, the main module 52 is configured to be damaged if it is requested to allow the vehicle to start in the absence of a start command from the control unit 50.

[0098] Figure 20 represents a method 200 of operation of the calculation unit 15 of the multi-contact system 100 of Figure 19. In step 201, the calculation unit 15 is switched on and functional. The computing unit 15 is for example switched on when the vehicle door opens. A delay 203 is possibly provided between the start of the power supply to the computing unit 15 and the start of the detection of the key 1. The computing unit 15 then detects the presence or absence of key 1 in the housing 16 of the housing 2, during a key detection step 205. If a key 1 is detected in the housing 16 of the housing 2, the multi-contact system 100 checks during a verification step 207 whether the key is recognized. The verification of the key 1 is carried out by verifying that a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 are connected to a predetermined electrical pole, this predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 being representative of the insertion of the key 1 of the vehicle into the housing 2. In the case of the detection of a key 1 and in the absence of recognition of the key 1, it may possibly be detected again if a key 1 remains present in the housing 16 and in this case if the key 1 is recognized during a subsequent verification step 209. If the key 1 is recognized, the calculation unit 15 transmits a starting or starting authorization command 211 to the control unit 50.Figure 21 shows a method 300 of operating the control unit 50 of Figure 19. In step. 301, the control unit 50 is switched on and operational. The control unit 50 is for example switched on when the vehicle door opens. A delay 303 is optionally provided between the start of the power supply to the control unit 50 and the start of the detection of a command from the multi-contact system 100. The control unit 50 then detects a possible start authorization / start command from the multi-contact system 100, in a command detection step 305 from the multi-contact system 100. The control unit 50 detects a possible start prohibition command from the multi-contact system 100, in the command detection step 305 from the multi-contact system 100. When a start authorization / start command has been detected, the switch 56 is biased towards the start position in a switching step 307.When the switch 56 is in the start position, it is checked by the main module 52 of the effector whether the vehicle engine is off at an engine check step 309. If the engine was off, it is started. The switch 56 is for example automatically biased towards the start-inhibiting position at a start-inhibiting step 311, the start-inhibiting position being in particular a safety position of the switch 56, to prevent theft of the vehicle.

[0099] Figures 10, 11 and 12 illustrate a multi-contact system 100 according to another embodiment in which the contact zones of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 intended to be in contact each with one of the electrical contacts 17 in an inserted position of the key 1 in the housing 16 of the casing 2 are visually identical.

[0100] In particular in this embodiment, all the contact areas, namely the conductive 41 and insulating 22 contact areas, comprise a metal core 45, 46 surrounded by a ring 42 made of electrically insulating material(s). Furthermore: in the conductive contact areas 41, each of the metal cores 45 is electrically connected to the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1. In the insulating contact zones 22, each of the metal cores 46 is electrically insulated from the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 by means of an insulating envelope constituted at least by the ring 42 and a sleeve 47 made of electrically insulating material(s).

[0101] According to one embodiment, in the conductive zones 41, the metal cores 45 are connected to the metal body of the key, for example by grooving a space forming a ring-shaped groove 43 around these cores 45 which are an integral part of the body of the key 1, the insulating rings 42 are then filled with an insulating material identical to that used in the insulating zones 22. Each insulating ring 42, once housed in the associated groove 43, is positioned flush with the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1.

[0102] According to one embodiment, in the insulating zones 22, blind wells 44 are machined on the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption portion 1B of the encrypted part 1A of the key 1, these wells 44 each having a diameter identical to that of the ring-shaped grooves 43 previously described. At the bottom of these wells 44 are arranged insulating sleeves 47 serving to insulate the metal cores 46 from the metal body of the key.

[0103] These sleeves 47 each have in particular: an external diameter such that they fit into the wells 44, an internal diameter allowing a portion of the metal cores 46 to be introduced therein and a height such that there remains sufficient space to place the same insulating material therein to form the same insulating ring 42 as that of the conductive zones.

[0104] The metal cores 46 of the insulating zones 22 are of the same diameter as that of the metal cores 45 of the conductive zones 41 and have a height such that they are flush with the lower surface of the key 1 when they are housed pressed inside the sleeves 47 and in abutment against the insulating surface of the associated sleeve 47. The assembly is held by gluing or forcing or any other means chosen by a person skilled in the art. The same insulating material is then placed between the metal cores 46 and the internal walls of the wells 44 such that an insulating ring 42 flush with the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 is formed.

[0105] It will be noted that the embodiment of Figure 12 differs significantly from that of Figure 11 in that the cover 3B and the printed circuit 4 are two separate parts, even if they are integral with each other.

[0106] During use, the key 1 thus pushes a combination of conductive contact areas 41 against electrical contacts 17 formed by Pogo™ pins 39 of a printed circuit 4 fixed under the housing 3. These electrical contacts 17 are connected via the key 1 to electrical ground. This unique combination of electrified contacts makes it possible to send the correct signal (password or electronic key) contained in a computing unit 15 to the electronic card 4 which allows one or more actions at the manufacturer's choice, for example starting a vehicle, activating a CAN bus, an ignition, releasing the handbrake, etc. If an incorrect combination is activated, the computing unit 15 can be made inactive for a predetermined period, for example 30 seconds.

[0107] In a first embodiment, a multi-contact system 100 has been described in which the electrically insulating zones 22 comprise, in particular are constituted by, recesses formed in the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, or more generally in the body of the key 1, and filled with an electrically insulating material. The conductive contact zones 41 are then constituted by the body of the metallic key 1, i.e. electrically conductive. This embodiment is particularly visible for example in FIGS. 4, 5 and 8.

[0108] In a second embodiment described with reference to figures 10, 11 and 12, the multi-contact system 100 is such that the insulating contact zones 22 each consist of a metal core 45 embedded in an electrically insulating material, that is to say surrounded by the ring 42 and the sleeve 47 made of electrically insulating material(s), the conductive contact zones 41 being produced by connecting each of the metal cores 46 electrically to the electrically insulating material conductor of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, this thanks to the absence of sleeve 47 in the conductive contact zones 41.

[0109] To further facilitate the manufacture of the multi-contact system 100, another embodiment has been developed in which machining of the key does not depend on the key code itself. Figures 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 illustrate a multi-contact system 100 according to such another embodiment. This embodiment differs essentially from those described previously in the configuration of the contact areas of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1.

[0110] As illustrated in Figure 1, recesses forming wells 44, preferably cylindrical in shape, are machined, for example bored, in the body of the key 1 according to the topography of the electrical contacts 17 and the associated conductive 41 and insulating 22 contact zones provided. These recesses forming wells 44 are intended to receive insulating 56 or conductive 55 inserts according to the code of the key 1. This key 1 can be easily manufactured by molding techniques with the wells 44 formed concomitantly during this molding step thanks to the mold configured for such a molding step.

[0111] These blind wells 44 are open on the useful external surface 12 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1. Each well 44 has a cylindrical shape delimited by a cylindrical side wall 440 and a bottom 441 opposite the opening of the associated well 44 which has the shape of a disc.

[0112] At the bottom of each well 44 is placed an insulating partition 57 made of an insulating material. This partition 57 is here an added part having the shape of a thin insulating disc but can also take the form of a suitable coating such as an insulating paint type coating.

[0113] In another embodiment not illustrated, it could be preferred to place an insulating partition 57 at the bottom 441 of the wells 44 located on insulating contact zones 22 and to place a partition made of a conductive material at the bottom 441 of the wells 44 intended to form conductive contact zones 41, even if this approach adds a production phase causing an increase in costs and time. process, this is a source of error and prevents the production of identical key bodies with all the bottoms 441 of wells 44 covered by the same insulating partition 57.

[0114] Each of the wells 44 is configured to receive a conductive pin 55 or an insulating pin 56 forming a support respectively for a conductive 41 or insulating 22 contact zone.

[0115] In this embodiment, all the contact zones, conductive 41 and insulating 22, comprise a metal core 45, 46 surrounded by a ring 42 made of electrically insulating material(s).

[0116] Each pin 55, 56 comprises the metal core 45, 46 which may, for example, have the shape of a cylinder and be surrounded by an insulating ring 42 having the shape of a sleeve made of insulating material.

[0117] Each metal core 45, 46 has an outside diameter strictly smaller than an inside diameter of the associated well 44. In this way, the corresponding metal core 45, 46 can be inserted into the associated well 44 while leaving a space between it and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44 so that an insulating material in the form of a sleeve can be inserted, and interposed, between it and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44. This allows the corresponding pin 55, 56 to be properly held.

[0118] Each metal core 45, 46 has a height complementary to a height of associated partition 57 so that the sum of the height or thickness of partition 57 and of the metal core 45, 46 is equal to a height or depth of the associated well 44. Generally, the height of each metal core 45, 46 is chosen such that: an upper face of said metal core 45, 46 is flush with, or is flush with, the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1; and that a lower face of said metal core 45, 46, opposite the upper face, comes into contact and bears against the associated insulating partition 57 placed at the bottom 441 of the associated well 44.

[0119] The insulating ring 42 forms a sleeve made of electrically insulating material(s). The insulating ring 42 may be a part added to the metal core 45, 46, for example by being embedded around it or preferably molded around the metal core 45, 46, or even be introduced into the well 44 by liquid phase casting or solid phase force casting. In the case where the insulating sleeve 42 is made of a solid material, it is configured so that: an upper face of said insulating ring 42 is flush with, or is flush with, the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption portion 1B of the encrypted part 1A of the key 1 in an assembled position;and that a height of said insulating ring 42 is strictly lower than a height of the associated well 44 so that in the assembled position, an annular space 58 is delimited vertically by said insulating ring 42 and the bottom 441 of the well 44, and preferably between the insulating ring 42 and the partition 57; and a radially taken width of the insulating ring 42 configured to be inserted in a fitted and concentric manner between the metal core 45, 46 and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44: in this way, the insulating ring 42 can be pushed into the well 44 to be firmly fixed and maintain or help maintain the metal core 45, 46. The annular space 58 preferably has a volume configured to ensure a compression chamber function so that the air trapped at the bottom of the well 44 does not force the pin upwards 314.;

[0120] In the case of a conductive pin 55 intended to form a support for the conductive contact zone 41, this comprises the metal core 45 which may, for example, have the shape of a cylinder surrounded by: on its upper part by an insulating ring 42 forming a sleeve made of insulating material; and on its lower part, by an electrically conductive element 59, 59' at least partly annular, located vertically under the insulating ring 42.

[0121] Figure 17 illustrates the embodiment in which the element 59 is completely annular, completely surrounding the lower portion of the metal core 45. In this example, the element 59 has the shape of a torus.

[0122] Figure 18 illustrates an alternative embodiment of Figure 17 in which the element 59' is partially annular, surrounding only over a predetermined angular sector the lower part of the metal core 45, this angular sector preferably being greater than or equal to 270°, preferably greater than or equal to 315°. It is indeed advantageous for the partially annular element 59' to sufficiently surround the metal core 45 to allow it to be easily adjusted around said metal core 45 and thus be held by gripping said metal core 45. This facilitates the operations of assembling the conductive pins 55 in the body of the key 1 during the assembly process. It is indeed possible to manipulate the corresponding pin easily without the constituent parts of the pins becoming detached from each other.

[0123] The dimensions and shape of each metal core 45 are configured such that it can be inserted into the corresponding wells 44 leaving an annular space between it and the side wall 440 of the wells 44 so that an insulating material in the form of an insulating ring 42 and an element 59, 59' at least partly annular can be inserted, and interposed, between it and the side wall 440 of the well 44

[0124] The height of each metal core 45 is configured such that: an outer face of the cylinder levels the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1, and that another face, or inner face, vertically opposite the outer face, is in contact and presses against the insulating or conductive material placed at the bottom 441 of the associated well 44 in the form of a partition 57.

[0125] The metal ring 59, 59' is intended to conduct electricity between the body of the key and the metal core 45, whether this metal core 45 is placed on the conductive or insulating material of the partition 57. In the assembled position, this ring 59, 59' is housed in the annular space 58. Thus, in the conductive contact zones 41, each of the metal cores 45 is electrically connected to the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1.

[0126] The metal ring 59, 59' is made of an electrically conductive material, in particular metal. It may be in a complete 59 or incomplete 59' form, solid or hollow, or a helical spring or any form preferred by those skilled in the art. An incomplete ring 59' or a spring offer configurations allowing easier adaptation to the desired compression function between the metal core 45 and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44. It can be placed at the bottom 440 of the well 44 before the metal core 45 is introduced into the associated well 44 or placed around the metal core 45 under the insulating ring 42, the assembly then being pushed into the well 44. The diameter of the metal ring 59, 59' is such that it is compressed radially between the metal core 45 and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44 in order to guarantee good electrical conduction between the metal core 45 and the key 1.

[0127] In the case of an insulating pin 56, the latter is devoid of a metal ring 59, 59'. The annular space 58 then plays the role of an insulating separation. In the insulating contact zones 22, each of the metal cores 46 is thus electrically insulated from the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 by means

[0128] In the event that: the insulating pins 56 are prepared entirely in advance and made up of a metal core 46 and an insulating ring 42; and where the conductive pins 55 are prepared entirely in advance and made up of a metal core 45, an insulating ring 42 and a conductive element 59, 59'; it is sufficient to insert each pre-assembled pin provided by the code key 1 into the corresponding well 44 to finalize the key 1. The use of cold to reduce the size of the pins 55, 56 before their introduction into the wells 44 can find a great interest here since the expansion which will follow will maintain each pin 55, 56 in its well 44 and without the use of glue or welding.

[0129] Thanks to such an embodiment, contact zones of the encryption portion IB of the encrypted part IA of the key 1 are obtained, each intended to be in contact with one of the electrical contacts 17 in an inserted position of the key 1 in the housing 16 of the casing 2 which are visually identical, improving the security of the associated system 100.

[0130] Preferably, each pair of a metal core 45, 46 and an insulating ring 42 is identical for all contact areas, i.e., for all wells 44. Furthermore, the wells 44 are preferably all identical. This further optimizes manufacturing costs without compromising the security of the key. This also makes it possible to obtain contact areas that are visually identical.

[0131] Thanks to the 100 multi-contact system according to the invention, the key has a simple structure and operation, the key being furthermore free from any electronic device such as an electrical circuit or a microprocessor as in the solutions of the prior art.

[0132] Furthermore, its operation is solely digital or digital, further simplifying its operation in place of prior art analog solutions, without compromising security and guaranteeing its level of reliability and inviolability.

[0133] Naturally, the invention is described in the foregoing by way of example. It is understood that those skilled in the art are able to carry out different variant embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0134] For example, it can be provided that the electrical contact consists only of a conductive metal wall of the key and that each contact area is equipped with a contactor such as a Pogo™ pin.

[0135] For example, the box may also include an encryption portion with an encrypted part, for example to make illicit reproduction of the multi-contact system box more difficult.

[0136] It is emphasized that all features, as they emerge for a person skilled in the art from this description, the drawings and the attached claims, even if they have been specifically described only in relation to other specific features, both individually and in any combinations, may be combined with other features or groups of features disclosed herein, provided that this has not been expressly excluded or that technical circumstances make such combinations impossible or meaningless.

Claims

CLAIMS 1 . Multi-contact system (100) comprising a housing (2) delimiting a housing (16) configured to receive at least one encrypted part (IA) of a key (1), the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) having an encryption portion (IB) formed at least in part by an electrically conductive material, the housing (2) comprising a plurality of electrical contacts (17) on an inner surface of the housing (16) intended to come into contact with the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) when said key (1) is in the inserted position in the housing (16) of the housing (2), said electrical contacts (17) being connected to a calculation unit (15) configured to communicate with an effector (40), the multi-contact system (100) being characterized in that the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) comprises electrically insulating zones (22), the system (100) multi-contact being configured to form,when the key (1) is in the inserted position in the housing (16) of the housing (2): an open switch for each of the electrical contacts (17) located opposite an insulating contact zone of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) formed by one of the insulating zones (22); and a closed switch for each of the electrical contacts (17) which is in contact with a conductive contact zone (41) of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) outside these insulating zones (22), the conductive contact zone (41) being electrically conductive., 2. Multi-contact system (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (2) comprises a body (3A) of the housing (2) and a cover (3B), the housing (16) of the housing (2) being delimited at least in part by the body (3A) of the housing (2) and the cover (3B), the electrical contacts (17) being preferably integral with the cover (3B).

3. Multi-contact system (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a printed circuit (4) secured to the housing (2), the printed circuit (4) preferably being secured to the cover (3B), the printed circuit (4) preferably also constituting the cover (3B).

4. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact zones of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) provided to be in contact each with one of the electrical contacts (17) in an inserted position of the key (1) in the housing (16) of the casing (2) are visually identical.

5. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all or part of the contact zones comprise a metal core (45, 46) surrounded by a ring (42) made of electrically insulating material(s).

6. Multi-contact system (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, in the conductive contact zones (41), each of the metal cores (45) is electrically connected to the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1).

7. Multi-contact system (100) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, in the insulating contact zones (22), each of the metal cores (46) is electrically insulated from the electrically conductive material of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) by means of an insulating envelope constituted at least by the ring (42) and a complementary element such as a sleeve (47) or a partition (57) made of electrically insulating material(s).

8. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the key (1) has recesses forming wells (44) located at the level of each contact zone intended to receive pins, each well (44) of a conductive contact zone (41) being configured to receive a conductive pin (55) and each well (44) of a contact zone insulating (22) being configured to receive an insulating pin (56), each of the pins (55, 56) preferably comprising a metal core (45, 46) surrounded by a ring (42) made of electrically insulating material(s).

9. Multi-contact system (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that each conductive pin (55) is surrounded at least in part on a lower part, by an electrically conductive element (59, 59'), located vertically under the insulating ring (42), so as to conduct electricity between the metal core (45) and the side wall (440) of the associated well in the inserted position of the corresponding conductive pin (55).

10. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the electrically insulating zones (22) are formed at least in part, preferably constituted by, an insulating coating deposited locally on the surface of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1).

11. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the key (1) has recesses located at the level of each insulating zone (22) and filled at least in part with an electrically insulating material, this material having an outer surface flush with an outer surface (12) of the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) in order to limit the wear of the electrical contacts (17) against which the key (1) rubs when it is inserted into its housing (16).

12. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one elastically retractable lug (13) configured to penetrate into the housing (16) and to be inserted into a notch (27) of the encrypted part of the key (1) when said key (1) is in the inserted position in the housing (16) of the housing (2) so as to maintain the key (1) in its inserted position and to inform the user of a correct inserted position of said key (1).

13. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (16) of the casing (2) has a shape complementary to that of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) so that said encrypted part of the key (1) can slide in the housing (16) while being guided, constrained in its translation and its positioning.

14. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims depending at least on claim 2, characterized in that the body (3A) of the housing (2) is made of metallic material(s) and connected to an electrical terminal of an electrical dipole.

15. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 dependent at least on claim 2, characterized in that the body (3A) of the housing (2) is made of electrically insulating material(s), for example of plastic material(s), the body (3A) of the housing (2) comprising a plug for connecting an electrical terminal of an electrical dipole to the key (1) when said key (1) is in its position inserted in the housing (2).

16. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical contacts (17) comprise elastic means (31) configured to elastically constrain said electrical contacts (17) in contact and in abutment against the encryption portion (IB) of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1), in the inserted position of the key (1) in the housing (16) of the casing (2).

17. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) intended to cooperate in the housing (16) of the housing (2) has lateral faces each having a chamfer so as to have a trapezoidal section, a distal end of the encrypted part (IA) of the key (1) preferably also having a chamfered front face (20).

18. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical contacts (17) comprise each an assembly of two sliding cylinders (29, 34) urged against each other by an internal spring (31), the electrical contacts (17) preferably each comprise a Pogo™ pin (39).

19. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the calculation unit (15) is configured to communicate with the effector (40) by sending it information such as a predetermined encryption key, for example a key comprising a few hundred, or even thousands of bits, if a predetermined combination of electrical contacts (17) are connected to a predetermined electrical pole.

20. Multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the calculation unit (15) is configured to detect electrical contacts in an electrified state, and preferably, when an erroneous combination, different from the predetermined combination of electrical contacts, is detected, the calculation unit (15) triggers a refractory period preventing any further testing of the key (1) for a predefined time.

21. Actuating mechanism for an appliance, comprising a multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, the actuating mechanism being configured to command the effector (40) to actuate the appliance when the key (1) is inserted into the housing (16) of the housing (2) and the key (1) is recognized by the multi-contact system (100), in particular when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts (17) are connected to a predetermined electrical pole, the predetermined combination being representative of the insertion of the key (1) of the appliance into the housing (16) of the housing (2).

22. Actuating mechanism according to claim 21, characterized in that it forms a starting contactor for a device such as a motorized road vehicle, the actuation of the device corresponding to the starting of the vehicle.

23. Actuation control member comprising an effector (40) and a multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, the actuation control member comprising a control unit (50) comprising a microprocessor (54) and / or a microcontroller, the control unit (50) being configured to allow actuation of the device when the key (1) is inserted into the housing (16) of the housing (2) and the key (1) is recognized by the multi-contact system (100), the control unit (50) being connected to a main module (52) of the effector (40) by a switch (56) which is configured to switch between an actuation position in which the effector (40) allows actuation of the device and a stop position in which the effector (40) prevents actuation of the device.

24. Control member according to claim 23, characterized in that it forms a starting member for a device such as a motorized road vehicle, the actuation of the device corresponding to the starting of the vehicle.

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