Lock for a piece of furniture

Abstract

The invention relates to a lock (2) comprising: - a base body (8); - a lock bolt (12), wherein the lock bolt (12) is linearly displaceable in the base body (8) between an open position (38) and a locked position (39) along a displacement axis (40); - a locking element (22), wherein the locking element (22) is movably received in the base body (8) between a release position (41) and a locked position (42), wherein in the locked position (42) the locking element (22) mechanically blocks the lock bolt (12) against displacement from the locked position (39) to the open position (38); - a drive device (23) for moving the locking element (22) between the release position (41) and a locked position (42);- an electronic system (26) for supplying the drive device (23) with drive energy and for controlling the drive device (23), wherein the electronic system (26) is designed for exclusively contactless supply by external energy via an external electronic device (31).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a lock, in particular a furniture lock, as well as a piece of furniture equipped with the lock, and a method for operating the lock.

[0002] Electronic locks are known from EP3876208A1 and EP2592601B1.

[0003] The locks known from EP3876208A1 and EP2592601B1 have the disadvantage of being complex in both their manufacture and function. They are particularly unsuitable for furniture.

[0004] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to create a simple lock, as well as to specify a preferred use and a method for operating the lock.

[0005] This problem is solved by a device and a method according to the claims.

[0006] According to the invention, a lock, in particular a furniture lock, is provided. The lock comprises: a base body; a locking bolt, wherein the locking bolt is linearly displaceable in the base body between an open position and a locked position along a displacement axis, wherein the locking bolt has a bolt lug designed for positive engagement with a lock counterpart, in particular that the locking bolt is accessible on an actuating side of the base body for direct actuation by a user; a locking element, wherein the locking element is movably received in the base body between a release position and a locked position, wherein in the locked position the locking element mechanically blocks the locking bolt against displacement from the locked position to the open position; a drive device for moving the locking element between the release position and a locked position;An electronic system for supplying the drive device with drive energy and for controlling the drive device, wherein the electronic system is designed for exclusively contactless supply by external energy via an external electronic device.

[0007] The lock according to the invention offers the advantage of a simple design. This allows for easy and cost-effective mass production. Furthermore, the lock according to the invention can be easily installed or retrofitted without requiring existing infrastructure such as data communication lines or power supply lines.

[0008] Furthermore, it may be provided that the lock bolt is guided in the base body. In this case, it may be provided that the lock bolt and the base body are at least partially complementary in shape. In particular, it may be provided that the lock bolt is guided in the base body by means of a sliding guide.

[0009] Furthermore, it can be advantageous if the base body has a retaining flange and a main section, wherein the retaining flange projects beyond the main section, the main section being designed for insertion into a recess in a furniture door, and a counter-holder is provided, with the furniture being clamped between the retaining flange and the counter-holder when installed. This offers the advantage that the lock can be easily inserted into the furniture door.

[0010] In particular, the opening in the furniture door may be designed as a passageway. Furthermore, the opening in the furniture door may have a substantially rectangular cross-section. The corners may be rounded with a radius of curvature.

[0011] Furthermore, it may be provided that the basic body comprises a base part and a cover part, wherein the base part and the cover part are coupled to each other by means of a positive locking connection, in particular by means of a locking lug.

[0012] Furthermore, it can be provided that the individual parts of the main body are each formed from a plastic part. Alternatively, it can be provided that the individual parts of the main body are each injection-molded. This has the advantage of improving the durability of the bolt.

[0013] Furthermore, a cover plate may be provided on the actuating side of the base body. This measure facilitates easier assembly of the lock and can increase its durability.

[0014] Furthermore, the main section can be designed as a housing that serves to accommodate additional components. This offers the advantage that the additional components can be integrated directly into the housing.

[0015] Furthermore, the base body may be provided with an actuating opening on the actuating side, the locking bolt being accessible through this opening, and the locking bolt having an actuating surface for operation by a user. This has the advantage that the locking bolt can be easily gripped and actuated by the user.

[0016] In particular, the actuating surface on the bolt can be designed within a recess on the bolt. This allows the bolt to be easily gripped and operated. The recess can even have an undercut, giving it a cave-like shape, to further improve the grip and simultaneously enable the furniture door to be opened using the bolt. This design allows force to be applied to the bolt not only along its axis of movement but also perpendicular to it.

[0017] In particular, it can be provided that the user can easily move the lock bolt between the open and locked positions when the locking element is in its release position. With the locking element in the release position, the lock bolt can thus serve to hold the furniture door in its closed position. By actuating the lock bolt, the furniture door can be easily opened. Only when locking the furniture door is necessary can the locking element be moved from the release position to the locked position by the drive mechanism with the aid of the electronic system, in order to lock the lock bolt in the locked position and thus prevent the furniture door from being opened unintentionally.

[0018] Furthermore, the lock bolt can be designed in multiple parts, comprising an actuating part and a bolt part, with the bolt lug and the actuating surface located on the actuating part, and the actuating part and the bolt part being positively coupled to each other. This offers the advantage that the lock bolt can be easily inserted into the base body. Moreover, this design allows for simple and cost-effective manufacturing of the lock bolt.

[0019] Furthermore, it may be provided that the individual parts of the lock bolt are each formed from a plastic part. It may also be provided that the individual parts of the lock bolt are each formed as an injection-molded part.

[0020] Another advantageous design is one in which the drive device is configured as a rotary motor and the locking element is pivotable between the release and locking positions about a pivot axis, with the pivot axis of the locking element being parallel to the displacement axis. This offers the advantage that such a drive device can have a simple yet robust design. Furthermore, such a drive device can be sufficiently compact. Additionally, the drive energy required for this type of drive device can be kept to a minimum.

[0021] In particular, it can be provided that the center of mass of the locking element lies on the pivot axis or is positioned as close as possible to the pivot axis. This can further reduce the required drive energy.

[0022] According to further training, it is possible for the locking element to rest against a first end stop in the release position and against a second end stop in the locked position, without the need for a sensor to detect the locking element's position. This offers the advantage of minimizing the number of electronic components in the lock, thereby reducing the lock's susceptibility to malfunctions and minimizing its electrical energy consumption. The end stops can be integrated directly into the locking element. Corresponding surfaces in the base body can serve as the counter-elements for these end stops.

[0023] In particular, it can be provided that the locking element is simply pressed further against the first end stop if, for example, the locking element is already in the release position and rests against the first end stop, and a further release process occurs. Thus, it is not necessary to know or monitor the position of the locking element.

[0024] In particular, it may be provided that the torque of the drive device is selected such that, at maximum possible torque of the drive device and a locking element already in the release position or in the locking position, no damage occurs to any of the components of the lock when the locking element is pressed further towards the end stop by means of the drive device.

[0025] Due to the small amount of energy that is kept or stored in the electronic system, overheating of the drive device is not possible.

[0026] Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the locking element to have an indicator surface, positioned on the locking element such that it is visible from the actuating side of the base when the locking element is in the locked position. This offers the advantage of easily checking the lock's status and avoiding unnecessary actuation of the drive mechanism, especially when the locking element is already in the desired position. This measure can thus improve the user experience and further extend the lock's service life.

[0027] Furthermore, the electronic system may be configured to receive external power and control commands via NFC. The electronic system includes a receiver module with an antenna and a resonant circuit for wireless power supply and communication with an external electronic device. The electronic system also includes a microcontroller, with the receiver module connected to the microcontroller via wires, and the microcontroller connected to the drive device via wires. This offers the advantage that the lock can be operated with commercially available external electronic devices, such as NFC-enabled smartphones. For the purposes of this document, "wires" may refer to wires or other conductive elements.

[0028] Furthermore, it may be provided that the receiving module is received in a receiving module recess in the base body, wherein the receiving module recess is formed on the actuating side of the base body.

[0029] Furthermore, the receiver module may be covered by the cover plate. In particular, the cover plate may be made of a material that conducts or is slightly permeable to electromagnetic waves. Specifically, the cover plate may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the cover plate may be made of glass.

[0030] Furthermore, it can be advantageous to incorporate a short-term energy storage device into the electronic system. This device is designed to store electrical energy solely for a single locking or unlocking operation, and in particular, it is a capacitor. This has the advantage of keeping the electrical energy stored in the electronic system so low that any mechanical blockages in the drive mechanism will not damage the lock components. This measure can thus extend the lock's service life. The use of a capacitor offers the benefit of high cycle stability and therefore a long service life.

[0031] Furthermore, it may be provided that the short-term energy storage device is the only component of the lock for storing electrical energy, wherein the short-term energy storage device is designed to be charged via the receiver module using the external electronic device.

[0032] In particular, the lock can be designed to be completely free of electrical energy when not in use and to store no states whatsoever. This has the advantage that even if the lock is not used for a long time, no information is lost. Furthermore, there is no need to change a battery.

[0033] Furthermore, the lock bolt can be pre-tensioned into the locked position by means of a spring element. When the locking element is in the release position, the lock bolt can be moved from the locked position to the open position by the user applying force, and when the force is removed, it can be moved back into the locked position by the spring element. This offers the advantage that the lock bolt can be used to hold a component, particularly a furniture door, in a desired position, especially the closed position, without the need to block the lock with the locking element. Thus, when the locking element is not activated, the lock can function as an openable locking element that does not need to be locked.

[0034] Another advantageous design is one in which a locking pin is arranged on the bolt, the locking pin being designed to project in such a way that, in the locked position of the locking element, the locking element rests against the locking pin, and in the released position of the locking element, the locking pin can be moved past the locking element. This has the advantage of allowing the bolt to be easily locked by means of the locking element. Furthermore, this measure allows the lock design to be kept as simple as possible.

[0035] According to further development, it is possible for the lock bolt, locking element, drive mechanism, and electronic system to be arranged within the main section of the base body, in particular for the main section of the base body to have a substantially cylindrical or partially conical shape with a rectangular base. This offers the advantage of keeping the lock's design as simple as possible. Thus, the lock can have a very small form factor, enabling it to be retrofitted into existing furniture or installed as a replacement for purely mechanical locks in standard furniture recesses. A rectangular base also includes designs with rounded corners.

[0036] With a partially conical shape, the main section can taper, at least in some areas, from the operating side to the opposite side. This has the advantage of simplifying the insertion of the lock into the piece of furniture.

[0037] Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the locking element to be positioned in the base body in such a way that, when the locking element is in the locked position, the force applied by the user to the bolt is transmitted directly into the base body via the intermediate locking element, without exerting significant force on the drive mechanism. This has the advantage that the drive mechanism is not subjected to bending moments, shear forces, or other stresses, thus improving the lock's service life. Moreover, the positive-locking force transmission of the force applied to the bolt to the base body via the locking element minimizes elastic deformation of the individual lock components, making it easy for the user to recognize when the lock is locked and force is applied to the bolt.

[0038] According to the invention, a piece of furniture is designed. The piece of furniture comprises: a main body of furniture with a receiving space; a furniture door which is openably coupled to the main body of furniture and serves to close the receiving space, wherein the furniture door has a recess; a lock which is arranged in the recess; a lock counterpart which is arranged in the receiving space and serves to interact with the lock.

[0039] The furniture according to the invention offers the advantage that the lock allows for simple locking of the furniture, without requiring complex wiring for power supply. This allows the furniture to be flexibly positioned in a wide variety of locations.

[0040] According to the invention, a method for operating a lock is provided. The lock comprises: a base body; a locking bolt, wherein the locking bolt is linearly displaceable within the base body between an open position and a locked position, the locking bolt having a bolt lug designed for positive engagement with a counterpart; a locking element, wherein the locking element is movably received within the base body between a release position and a locked position, the locking element mechanically blocking the locking bolt against displacement from the locked position to the open position in the locked position; a drive device for moving the locking element between the release position and a locked position; an electronic system for supplying the drive device with drive energy and for controlling the drive device, wherein the electronic system is designed for exclusively contactless supply by external energy via an external electronic device.

[0041] The procedure includes the following procedural steps: + Providing external power by means of an external electronic device to activate the lock, + Transmitting an actuation command from the external electronic device to the electronic system to move the locking element from the release position to the locked position or to move the locking element from the locked position to the release position.

[0042] The method according to the invention has the advantage that it allows a lock to be operated independently of a power supply infrastructure.

[0043] In particular, it can be provided that the lock's electronic system is completely power-free when not in use and does not require any power supply at specific intervals. Furthermore, it can be provided that the electronic system is only activated when external power is supplied by an external electronic device. This transfer of external power can be wireless using the NFC standard. It can also be provided that the external electronic device must be held in close proximity to the lock or the electronic system for a certain period of time in order to transfer sufficient power to actuate the locking mechanism.

[0044] In particular, it may be provided that a power transfer between 0.01W and 5W, especially between 0.015W and 1W, takes place using the NFC standard.

[0045] Furthermore, it may be provided that the short-term energy storage device, in particular the capacitor, is designed to store an energy between 1 mJ and 10 mJ.

[0046] Furthermore, it can be provided that the opening or closing process of the locking element is initiated when a threshold value of the charge quantity of the short-term energy storage is exceeded and a release indicator is simultaneously present. In particular, it can be provided that the threshold value of the charge quantity of the short-term energy storage is between 2 mJ and 10 mJ, more specifically between 4 mJ and 7 mJ, preferably between 5 mJ and 6 mJ.

[0047] Furthermore, it can be provided that the opening or closing process of the locking element is initiated when a threshold value of the short-term energy storage voltage is exceeded and a release signal is simultaneously present. In particular, it can be provided that the threshold value of the short-term energy storage voltage is between 1V and 10V, especially between 2V and 8V, preferably between 3V and 3.5V.

[0048] In a first embodiment, the external electronic device can indicate when sufficient energy has been transferred to the lock to actuate the locking element. In an alternative or additional embodiment, the electronic system can emit a visual and / or audible signal when sufficient energy has been transferred from the external electronic device to the electronic system. This measure can significantly improve the user experience by minimizing unnecessary waiting times.

[0049] In particular, it may be necessary to install a software application, such as an app, on the external electronic device in order to use the lock's functionality. Specifically, this is to enable the external electronic device to connect to the lock's electronic system.

[0050] Furthermore, it can be stipulated that the activation command can only be transmitted from the external electronic device to the electronic system if an electronic key of the external electronic device matches a release identifier of the electronic system, whereby the electronic key is generated or retrieved on the external electronic device. This has the advantage that this measure can prevent the lock from being opened unintentionally.

[0051] In particular, it may be provided that the release identifier consists of a fixed ID of the lock to be opened and a passcode, such as a password.

[0052] In an initial implementation, the release identifier can be transmitted to the lock via the external electronic device when the lock is closed. The user can then enter the passcode into the external electronic device. The release identifier can remain the same for multiple opening and closing cycles.

[0053] In an alternative version, it can be provided that the passcode is automatically retrieved from the database when the lock is closed.

[0054] In particular, it may be provided that the passcode is automatically changed at regular intervals when the lock is closed.

[0055] In particular, it may be provided that the authentication or the authorization to execute the actuation command is managed by the external electronic device, by software running on the external electronic device, or by a centrally managed database accessed by the external electronic device.

[0056] In particular, it can be provided that the authentication or authorization to execute the actuation command is not managed by the lock, and especially not by the lock's electronic system. The lock therefore does not need a data connection to a network. Furthermore, the lock can be completely without power when not in use, meaning that a simple and durable short-term energy storage device is sufficient, which can be charged by the external electronic device when actuation is desired. Specifically, it can be provided that the external electronic device must be positioned in close proximity to the receiver module for a certain period of time in order to transfer a sufficient amount of energy to the short-term energy storage device to actuate the lock bolt.

[0057] Furthermore, it can be provided that the external electronic device accesses a centrally managed database to generate or retrieve the electronic key, with information about the lock to be opened being stored in the centrally managed database. This has the advantage that the cryptographic encryption logic or user management does not need to be stored in the lock itself, but can be stored in the central database.

[0058] An external electronic device, as defined in this document, can be a mobile telecommunications device, such as a smartphone. The external electronic device may have software installed that provides a graphical user interface for operating the locking and unlocking functions of the lock. The external electronic device is structurally separate from the lock. The external electronic device is not part of the lock. The external electronic device may be a general-purpose electronic device that is not exclusively designed for unlocking the lock.

[0059] In one embodiment, short-range wireless communication can be achieved using near-field communication (NFC) technology. NFC is a short-range wireless technology that typically requires a distance of 4 cm or less. NFC operates at 13.56 MHz on the ISO / IEC 18000-3 air interface and with data rates from 106 kbit / s to 424 kbit / s. NFC always involves an initiator, such as an external electronic device, and a target, such as an electronic system; the initiator actively generates a radio frequency field that can power a passive target. ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization and IEC for the International Electrotechnical Commission.

[0060] According to one embodiment, a system for wireless power transfer between an external electronic device and the electronic system is provided. The external electronic device includes a wireless power coil, a communication module, and at least one battery. The wireless power coil is configured to transmit electrical current. The communication module is configured to wirelessly transmit access authorization. The at least one battery is configured to power at least the external electronic device. The at least one battery has an energy storage capacity.

[0061] To better understand the invention, it is explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

[0062] They each show, in a highly simplified, schematic representation: Fig. 1 a first embodiment of a piece of furniture with a lock incorporated therein; Fig. 2 a first embodiment of the lock in a first perspective exploded view; Fig. 3 the first embodiment of the lock in a second perspective exploded view; Fig. 4a) a first sectional view of the first embodiment of the lock in a locked position; Fig. 4b) a second sectional view of the first embodiment of the lock in a locked position; Fig. 5a) a first sectional view of the first embodiment of the lock in an unlocked but closed position; Fig. 5b) a second sectional view of the first embodiment of the lock in an unlocked but closed position; Fig. 6a) a first sectional view of the first embodiment of the lock in an open position; Fig.6b) a second sectional view of the first embodiment of the lock in an open position; Fig. 7 a schematic representation of an embodiment of an electronic system.

[0063] It should be noted at the outset that in the differently described embodiments, identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals or component designations, and the disclosures contained in the entire description can be applied analogously to identical parts with the same reference numerals or component designations. Furthermore, the positional designations chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refer to the figure directly described and illustrated, and these positional designations must be applied analogously to the new position if the position changes.

[0064] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a piece of furniture 1 with a lock 2 built into it. As shown from Fig. 1It can be seen that the piece of furniture 1 may have a main body 3 in which a storage compartment 4 is formed. The storage compartment 4 can serve to hold objects, in particular valuables.

[0065] Furthermore, a furniture door 5 may be provided, which serves to open and close the receiving space 4. In particular, the lock may be provided in a recess 6 in the furniture door 5. Furthermore, a lock counterpart 7 may be provided, which interacts with the lock 2 and serves to fix the furniture door 5 in a closed position. In particular, the lock counterpart 7 may be arranged inside the receiving space 4. The lock counterpart 7 may also be referred to as a latch.

[0066] The piece of furniture 1 can, for example, be a piece of furniture commonly used in a private setting, such as a chest of drawers, a box, a wardrobe or the like.

[0067] The piece of furniture 1 can also be a piece of furniture commonly used in public spaces, such as a locker, a lockbox, or similar. The piece of furniture 1 can therefore have a large number of doors 5 and thus also a large number of locks 2. Particularly in the case of a locker arrangement in a public space, each of the locks 2 can be equipped with its own electronic key or electronic identifier, which will be described in more detail below.

[0068] Fig. 2 shows a first embodiment of the lock 2 in a first perspective exploded view.

[0069] Fig. 3 The first embodiment of the lock 2 is shown in a second perspective exploded view.

[0070] The individual components of Castle 2 will subsequently be described in detail in a summary of the Fig. 2 and 3 described.

[0071] The lock 2 has a base body 8. The base body 8 can be used to attach or accommodate the other components of the lock 2.

[0072] In particular, the base body 8 may be designed in multiple parts. Furthermore, the base body 8 may comprise a base part 9 and a cover part 10. The base part 9 and the cover part 10 may be coupled to each other by means of a snap-fit ​​connection. In particular, it may be provided that the cover part 10 has snap-fit ​​elements 11 which engage in corresponding recesses in the base part 9.

[0073] In another embodiment variant not shown, it is of course also conceivable that the locking elements 11 are arranged in the base part 9 and engage in the cover part 10.

[0074] As from Fig. 2 It can also be seen that the base body 8 may have an internal cavity and serve to accommodate the other components of the lock 2.

[0075] In particular, it may be provided that the base part 9 and the lid part 10 of the main body 8 are designed as injection-molded parts.

[0076] Furthermore, the lock 2 may include a locking bolt 12, which serves to interact with the lock counterpart 7 and thus to lock a component by means of the lock 2. The locking bolt 12 may also have a multi-part structure. In particular, the locking bolt 12 may include an actuating part 13 and a bolt part 14. The bolt part 14 may have a bolt lug 15, which can be positively engaged with the lock counterpart 7.

[0077] Furthermore, the base body 8 may have an actuating opening 17 on an actuating side 16. The locking bolt 12 may be arranged in the lock 2, in particular in the base body 8, such that the locking bolt 12, in particular the actuating part 13, can be reached through the actuating opening 17 and moved. In particular, an actuating surface 18 may be formed on the locking bolt 12, in particular on the actuating part 13, which serves for the placement of a user's finger and thus for applying force to move the locking bolt 12.

[0078] In particular, it may be provided that the actuating side 16 is accessible from the outside when the lock 2 is installed on the piece of furniture 1. The actuating side 16 can therefore be facing away from the receiving space 4 when the lock 2 is installed.

[0079] Opposite the actuation side 16, a contact surface 19 can be formed on the base body 8. In the installed state of the lock 2, the contact surface 19 can rest against an outer side of the furniture door 5. In particular, it can be provided that the contact surface 19 is arranged on a retaining flange 20.

[0080] Adjoining the retaining flange 20, the base body 8 can have a main section 21. In particular, it can be provided that the main section 21 extends over both the base part 9 and the cover part 10.

[0081] Furthermore, a locking element 22 may be provided. The locking element 22 can serve to block the lock bolt 12 against displacement.

[0082] In particular, it may be provided that the locking element 22 is coupled to a drive device 23. The drive device 23 may be designed as a rotary motor by means of which the locking element 22 can be pivoted about a pivot axis 24. In particular, it may be provided that the locking element 22 is held exclusively by the drive device 23.

[0083] Furthermore, a bolt recess 25 may be provided in the lock bolt 12. The bolt recess 25 may serve to partially accommodate the locking element 22.

[0084] As from Fig. 2 It can also be seen that an electronic system 26 is provided which serves to control the locking function of the lock 2.

[0085] The electronic system 26 can comprise a circuit board 27 on which the other components of the electronic system can be arranged or with which the other components of the electronic system 26 can be electrically coupled.

[0086] Furthermore, the electronic system 26 may include a receiver module 28. The receiver module 28, which will be described in more detail below, may be arranged in a receiver module recess 29 of the base body 8. In particular, the receiver module recess 29 may be formed on the actuating side 16 of the base body 8. Furthermore, a cover plate 30 may be arranged on the actuating side 16 of the base body 8. The cover plate 30 may serve to close the receiver module recess 29 and thus protect the receiver module 28. In particular, the cover plate 30 may extend over the entire actuating side 16 of the base body 8. Furthermore, the cover plate 30 may be designed to be as thin as possible.is made of a material that shields as little as possible against electromagnetic radiation, so that an external electronic device 31 can be placed as close as possible to the receiver module 28.

[0087] Furthermore, it may be provided that the cover plate 30 has an opening corresponding to the actuating opening 17.

[0088] Furthermore, the lock 2 may include a spring element 32. The spring element 32 may, for example, be in the form of a compression spring, such as a coil spring. In particular, the spring element 32 may be arranged between the lock bolt 12 and the base body 8, especially the cover part 10, and may act between these elements. The spring element 32 can thus bear against the base body 8 to apply force to the lock bolt 12.

[0089] Furthermore, a locking pin 33 may be arranged on the lock bolt 12. The locking pin 33 can serve to engage the locking element 22.

[0090] As from Fig. 1 Furthermore, it can be provided that a display surface 34 is formed on the locking element 22. The display surface 34 can be positioned on the locking element 22 such that it is visible from the actuating side 16 when the locking element 22 is in a specific position, in particular a specific pivot position. Furthermore, a viewing window 35 can be arranged in the cover plate 30. In a specific position of the locking element 22, the display surface 34 can be positioned in the area of ​​the viewing window 35 so that the currently assumed position of the locking element 22 can be displayed.

[0091] Furthermore, a counterholder 36 may be provided, the counterholder 36 serving to fix the lock 2 in the furniture door 5. In particular, the furniture door 5 may be clamped between the retaining flange 20 and the counterholder 36. A counterholder contact surface 37 may rest against an inner side of the furniture door 5. In particular, the counterholder 36 may be coupled to or tightened against the base body 8 by means of fastening screws.

[0092] In the Fig. 4a , 5a and 6a The first embodiment of lock 2 is shown in various operational states in a first sectional view. Fig. 4b , 5b and 6b are each to the Fig. 4a , 5a and 6aThe corresponding second sectional views of lock 2 are shown. The respective state of lock 2 is always described by comparing Figs. a and b together.

[0093] As from the Figs. 4 to 6 As can be seen, it may be provided that the locking bolt 12 is linearly displaceable in the base body between an open position 38 and a locked position 39 along a displacement axis 40. In the illustrations of the Fig. 4 and 5 The lock bolt 12 is in its locking position 39. In the illustration of the Fig. 6 The lock bolt 12 is in its open position 38.

[0094] As from the Figs. 4 to 6As further shown, it can be provided that the locking element 22 is pivotably mounted in the base body 8 by means of the drive device 23 between a release position 41 and a locking position 42. In particular, it can be provided that the locking element 22 is pivotable by means of a drive device 23 designed as a rotary motor by an angular difference of 90° between the release position 41 and the locking position 42.

[0095] In the representation according to the Fig. 4 The locking element 22 is in the locking position 42. In the illustrations of the Fig. 5 and 6 The locking element 22 is in the release position 41.

[0096] As from Fig. 4As can be seen, the locking element 22, which is in the locked position 42, can be arranged between the locking pin 33 of the bolt 12 and a stop surface 43. If, in this position, the user attempts to move the bolt 12 from its locked position 39 to the open position 38, the locking pin 33 can bear against the locking element 22, and the locking element 22 can bear against the stop surface 43, so that a force is transmitted from the bolt 12, in particular the locking pin 33, to the base body 8, in particular the stop surface 43. It can be provided that the drive device 23, which serves to move the locking element 22, is not subjected to any mechanical load. The bolt 12 can thus be in a "block" position against the locking element 22.

[0097] As from Fig. 4It can also be provided that in the locking position 42 of the locking element 22 the display area 34 is positioned in the area of ​​the viewing window 35, so that it is visible from the actuating side 16 that the lock 2 is in its locked state.

[0098] How particularly good looks Fig. 2 It can be provided that a first end stop 44 is arranged on the locking element 22, wherein the locking element 22 rests against the first end stop 44 in the release position 41. In particular, the first end stop 44 can be supported on the base body 8.

[0099] Furthermore, it can be provided that a second end stop 45 is formed on the locking element 22, wherein in the locking position 42 the locking element 22 rests against the second end stop 45. In particular, it can be provided that the second end stop 45 rests against the base body 8.

[0100] Fig. 7shows a schematic representation of electronic system 26. As from Fig. 7 It can be seen that the electronic system 26 includes a circuit board 27, which serves to accommodate further components.

[0101] Furthermore, the electronic system 26 may include a receiver module 28. The receiver module 28 may be electrically coupled to the circuit board 27 by means of a cable. The receiver module 28 may also include an antenna 46 and a resonant circuit 47. The antenna 46 may be used to transmit data using the NFC standard. The resonant circuit 47 may be used to transmit energy from the external electronic device 31.

[0102] Furthermore, a microcontroller 48 may be arranged on the circuit board 27. The microcontroller 48 can be used to control the functionality of the lock 2, in particular the electronic system 26.

[0103] Furthermore, a short-term energy storage device 49 may be provided, which may also be coupled to the circuit board 27. In particular, the short-term energy storage device 49 may be in the form of a capacitor.

[0104] Furthermore, it can be provided that the drive device 23 is electrically coupled to the circuit board 27.

[0105] Furthermore, it may be provided that a database 50 is configured, wherein information about the lock 2, in particular about the electronic system 26, is stored in the database 50, and wherein the external electronic device 31 can communicate with the database 50. In particular, it may be provided that the database 50 is represented in a cloud. In particular, it may be provided that the external electronic device 31 can communicate with the database 50 via WLAN or via a mobile data connection.

[0106] Based on a summary of Figs. 1 to 7 The functionality of lock 2 will now be described. This begins with a state as it appears in the Fig. 4 The diagram shows the locking element 22 in the locked position 42 and the lock bolt 12 in the locked position 39. In this state, the lock bolt 12 is secured against being moved into the open position 38. The receiving compartment 4 of the piece of furniture 1 can thus be protected against unauthorized access. The lock 2 can be completely de-energized in this state.

[0107] To open lock 2, an external electronic device 31 is required. In particular, it may be necessary for the external electronic device 31 to be equipped for data transmission and power transfer. This can be achieved, for example, using the NFC standard. Furthermore, it may be necessary for software, especially an app, to be installed on the external electronic device 31, which is designed to communicate with the database 50 and with the electronic system 26, especially the microcontroller 48.

[0108] As a first step towards opening the lock 2, energy can be transferred to the receiver module 28 using the external electronic device 31. This can cause the lock 2 to "wake up". Energy can then be transferred to the resonant circuit 47 using the NFC standard.

[0109] Since the transmittable power may be low, the transmitted energy can be stored in the short-term energy storage device 49. Simultaneously, the external electronic device 31 can establish data communication with the microcontroller 48 via the receiver module 28, in particular via the antenna 46. This can also be done using the NFC standard.

[0110] Furthermore, the external electronic device 31 can communicate with the database 50, which can be used for access control. This is particularly useful for public lockers. In this case, an electronic key for the relevant lock 2 can be transmitted from the database 50 to the external electronic device 31, which then processes and transmits this key to the electronic system 26 of the lock 2.

[0111] In an alternative approach, for example, when using lock 2 in a private setting or when the same lock 2 is used frequently in a public setting or is assigned to a specific person, the electronic key can also be stored directly on the external electronic device 31 or remain stored there. In this case, it is conceivable, for example, that the electronic key is not retrieved from a database 50, but rather that the electronic key is supplied, for instance, via a QR code when the lock 2 is purchased.

[0112] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that not only the electronic key is transmitted via database 50, but that billing for the use of lock 2 or piece of furniture 1 is also carried out via database 50.

[0113] If sufficient energy is stored in the short-term energy storage device 49 and simultaneously the electronic key of the external electronic device 31 matches the requirements of the electronic system 26, then the locking element 22 can be moved from the locked position 42, as described in the drive device 23. Fig. 4 is shown, in release position 41, as shown in Fig. 5As shown, the locking element 22 can be pivoted. This allows the locking bolt 12 to be actuated. When pivoting the locking element 22, it can be pivoted until it rests against the first end stop 44. Any excess energy stored in the short-term energy storage device 49 is so small that the individual components do not overheat when the drive device 23 is moved to its end stop. Even if the locking element 22 is already resting against the first end stop 44 at the start of this process, it can be pressed further against the first end stop 44 without moving any further.

[0114] Now, as can be seen from the Fig. 5 and 6 It can be seen that the lock bolt 12 can be moved freely between the open position 38 and the locked position 39 to allow the furniture door 5 to be opened and closed.

[0115] If locking the lock 2 is desired again, energy and an electronic key can be transferred to the electronic system 26 by means of the external electronic device 31, mutatis mutandis, in the opening process already described, so that the locking element 22 is transferred from the release position 41 to the locked position 42.

[0116] The exemplary embodiments show possible embodiment variants, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiment variants, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiment variants are also possible and this possibility of variation lies within the skill of the person skilled in this technical field due to the teaching on technical action by the present invention.

[0117] The scope of protection is defined by the claims. However, the description and drawings must be consulted for the interpretation of the claims. Individual features or combinations of features from the different embodiments shown and described can, in themselves, represent independent inventive solutions. The problem underlying these independent inventive solutions can be found in the description.

[0118] All references to value ranges in this description are to be understood as encompassing any and all sub-ranges thereof, e.g., the reference 1 to 10 is to be understood as including all sub-ranges, starting from the lower limit 1 and the upper limit 10, i.e., all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, e.g., 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0119] Finally, for the sake of clarity, it should be noted that, for a better understanding of the structure, some elements have been shown not to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size. Reference numeral list 1 piece of furniture 32 spring element 2 Lock 33 locking pin 3 Furniture main body 34 Display area 4 Recording room 35 Viewing window 5 Furniture door 36 Counterweight 6 Exclusion 37 Counterholder mounting surface 7 Lock counterpart 38 Disclosure 8 basic body 39 Locking position 9 Base part 40 sliding axis 10 Lid part 41 Release position 11 Latching element 42 Locking position 12 Lock bolt 43 Stop surface 13 Actuating part 44 first end stop 14 bolt part 45 second end stop 15 Bar nose 46 antenna 16 Actuating side 47 resonant circuit 17 Actuating opening 48 microcontroller 18 Operating area 49 Short-term energy storage 19 Site area 50 database 20 Mounting flange 21 Main section 22 Locking element 23 drive device 24 Swivel axis 25 bar recess 26 electronic system 27 circuit board 28 Receiver module 29 Receiver module recess 30 Cover plate 31 external electronic device

Claims

1. Lock (2), in particular a furniture lock, comprising: - a base body (8); - a lock bolt (12), wherein the lock bolt (12) is linearly displaceable in the base body (8) between an open position (38) and a locked position (39) along a displacement axis (40), wherein the lock bolt (12) has a bolt lug (15) which is designed for positive engagement with a lock counterpart (7), in particular that the lock bolt (12) is accessible for direct operation by a user on an actuating side (16) of the base body (8); - a locking element (22), wherein the locking element (22) is movably received in the base body (8) between a release position (41) and a locking position (42), wherein the locking element (22) in the locking position (42) mechanically blocks the lock bolt (12) against displacement from the locked position (39) to the open position (38);- a drive device (23) for moving the locking element (22) between the release position (41) and a locking position (42); - an electronic system (26) for supplying the drive device (23) with drive energy and for controlling the drive device (23), wherein the electronic system (26) is designed for exclusively contactless supply by external energy via an external electronic device (31).

2. Lock (2) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the base body (8) has a retaining flange (20) and that the base body (8) has a main section (21), wherein the retaining flange (20) is designed to project beyond the main section (21), wherein the main section (21) is designed to be inserted into a recess (6) of a furniture door (5) of a piece of furniture (1) and that a counter-holder (36) is designed, wherein the piece of furniture (1) is clamped between the retaining flange (20) and the counter-holder (36) in the installed state.

3. Lock (2) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that the base body (8) has an actuating opening (17) on the actuating side (16), wherein the lock bolt (12) is accessible through the actuating opening (17), wherein the lock bolt (12) has an actuating surface (18) for actuation by a user.

4. Lock (2) according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that the lock bolt (12) is designed in multiple parts and comprises an actuating part (13) and a bolt part (14), wherein the bolt nose (15) is arranged on the bolt part (14) and the actuating surface (18) is arranged on the actuating part (13), wherein the actuating part (13) and the bolt part (14) are positively coupled to each other.

5. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe drive device (23) is designed as a rotary motor and the locking element (22) is pivotable between the release position (41) and the locking position (42) about a pivot axis (24), wherein the pivot axis (24) of the locking element (22) is arranged parallel to the displacement axis (40).

6. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the locking element (22) in the release position (41) rests against a first end stop (44) and in the locking position (42) rests against a second end stop (45) and that no sensor is provided with which the position of the locking element (22) can be detected.

7. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatthe locking element (22) has a display area (34), wherein the display area (34) is arranged on the locking element (22) such that the display area (34) is visible from the actuating side (16) of the base body (8) when the locking element (22) is positioned in the locking position (42).

8. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the electronic system (26) is configured to receive external energy and control commands via NFC, wherein the electronic system (26) has a receiver module (28) with an antenna (46) and a resonant circuit (47) for wireless power supply and communication with an external electronic device (31), and that the electronic system (26) has a microcontroller (48), wherein the receiver module (28) is coupled to the microcontroller (48) by means of lines and that the microcontroller (48) is coupled to the drive device (23) by means of lines.

9. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that in the electronic system (26) a short-term energy storage device (49) is provided, wherein the short-term energy storage device (49) is designed to store electrical energy exclusively for a single locking or unlocking operation, in particular that the short-term energy storage device (49) is formed by a capacitor.

10. Lock (2) according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that the short-term energy storage device (49) is the only component of the lock (2) for storing electrical energy, wherein the short-term energy storage device (49) is designed to be charged via the receiver module (28) using the external electronic device (31).

11. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatThe lock bolt (12) is biased into the locking position (39) by means of a spring element (32), wherein the lock bolt (12), when the locking element (22) is positioned in the release position (41), can be moved from the locking position (39) to the open position (38) by applying force by a user and can be moved back into the locking position (39) by means of the spring element (32) when the force is removed.

12. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that a locking pin (33) is arranged on the lock bolt (12), wherein the locking pin (33) is designed to protrude in such a way that in the locking position (42) of the locking element (22) the locking element (22) rests against the locking pin (33) and in the release position (41) of the locking element (22) the locking pin (33) can be moved past the locking element (22).

13. Lock (2) according to any one of claims 2 to 12, characterized by the fact thatthe locking bolt (12), the locking element (22), the drive device (23) and the electronic system (26) are arranged within the main section (21) of the base body (8), in particular that the main section (21) of the base body (8) has a substantially cylindrical shape or partially conical shape with a rectangular base.

14. Lock (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the locking element (22) is positioned in the base body (8) such that in the locking position (42) of the locking element (22) a force is introduced into the lock bolt (12) by the user by means of the intermediate locking element (22) directly into the base body (8) without exerting a significant force on the drive device (23).

15. Furniture (1) comprising: - a main body (3) of the furniture with a receiving space (4); - a door (5) of the furniture which is openably coupled to the main body (3) of the furniture and serves to close the receiving space (4), wherein the door (5) of the furniture has a recess (6); - a lock (2) which is arranged in the recess (6); - a lock counterpart (7) which is arranged in the receiving space (4) and serves to interact with the lock (2), characterized by the fact that the lock (2) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.

16. Method for operating a lock (2), in particular a lock (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, the lock (2) comprising: - a base body (8); - a lock bolt (12), wherein the lock bolt (12) is linearly displaceable in the base body (8) between an open position (38) and a locked position (39), wherein the lock bolt (12) has a bolt lug (15) which is designed for positive engagement with a counterpart; - a locking element (22), wherein the locking element (22) is movably received in the base body (8) between a release position (41) and a locked position (42), wherein the locking element (22) in the locked position (42) mechanically blocks the lock bolt (12) against displacement from the locked position (39) to the open position (38); - a drive device (23) for moving the locking element (22) between the release position (41) and a locking position (42);- an electronic system (26) for supplying the drive device (23) with drive energy and for controlling the drive device (23), wherein the electronic system (26) is designed for exclusively contactless supply by means of an external electronic device (31), the method comprising the process steps + providing external energy by means of an external electronic device (31) to activate the lock (2), + transmitting an actuation command from the external electronic device (31) to the electronic system (26) to move the locking element (22) from the release position (41) to the locked position (42) or to move the locking element (22) from the locked position (42) to the release position (41).; 17. Method according to claim 16, characterized by the fact thatThe activation command can only be transmitted from the external electronic device (31) to the electronic system (26) if an electronic key of the external electronic device (31) matches a release identifier of the electronic system (26), whereby the electronic key is generated or retrieved at the external electronic device (31).

18. Method according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that the external electronic device (31) accesses a centrally managed database (50) to generate or retrieve the electronic key, wherein information about the lock (2) to be opened is stored in the centrally managed database (50).

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