Electronic lock comprising a motorized electrical unit and a power and control unit

Abstract

Electronic lock comprising a body and a locking element stably engaged in a first hole made on said body, and releasably engagable in a second hole parallel to the first hole, and compris ing said lock a pin arranged inside a third hole facing the first hole and a motori zed electrical unit housed in a fourth hole facing the third hole; the electronic lock further comprising a cover on the body and a power and control unit mounted releasably inside a seat closed by the cover, and said seat being communicative with the fourth hole so that the power and control unit is electrically connected to the motori zed electrical unit; and the electronic lock being operable between a blocking configuration in which the pin is moved by the actuation unit protruding into the first hole so as to define a shape coupling that blocks the translation of the locking element along said first hole, and a released configuration in which the pin is retracted inside the third hole disengaging from the locking element so as to free the translation of the locking element to extract the second end from the second hole; and the motori zed electrical unit and the power and control unit further comprising respectively a f irst and second seal and the fourth hole being filled with sealing material so as to counteract the entry of unwanted material inside the motori zed electrical unit and the power and control unit through the first hole and the cover.

Description

[0001] ELECTRONIC LOCK COMPRISING A MOTORIZED ELECTRICAL UNIT AND A POWER AND CONTROL UNIT

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] * * TECHNICAL FIELD* *

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of electronic locks , in particular an electronic lock comprising a motori zed electrical unit and a power supply and control unit electrically connected to the motori zed electrical unit to lock and unlock the electronic lock .

[0005] * * BACKGROUND ART* *

[0006] Currently, in the field of electronic locks , solutions are widely available that comprise a body and a locking element , e . g . , a semicircular ring or a rod, having a first end securely engaged within the body and a second end longitudinally opposite to the first , which can be releasably engaged inside the body . In particular, the solutions currently available on the market generally include a mechanism actuated by an electric motor mounted on the body to move the locking element so that the lock can operate between a locked configuration, where the locking element has both its first and second ends engaged inside the body, e . g . , within respective holes , and a released configuration in which one of the first or second ends is disengaged from the respective hole . Additionally, to power the electric motor, these solutions include the insertion of batteries inside the body of the lock, with battery compartments typically provided inside the lock ' s body to insert the batteries and the lock ' s electronics . However, since locks

[0007] SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) are generally placed in open environments or exposed to the elements, such as humidity, dust, rust, etc., the materials and internal components are themselves subject to damage from these environmental agents, which could potentially harm the lock, especially the electrical components inside, leading to malfunctions or breakage of the lock. Therefore, there is an ongoing need for simple construction solutions made with materials that are less sensitive to weathering agents and at the same time offer a high degree of insulation to prevent infiltrations, e.g., water or humidity, from damaging the electrical components inside the lock.

[0008] **OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION**

[0009] The present invention aims to address at least partially the aforementioned needs, with this goal being achieved through an electronic lock according to claim 1.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an electronic lock is presented with a simple and optimized construction, which does not require the use of mechanical keys to lock or unlock the lock. Advantageously, this lock is constructed in such a way that it provides a high level of isolation against the entry of unwanted materials and weather agents inside, thereby protecting the electrical components from damage due to infiltration, e.g., humidity or water. To achieve this, the electronic lock comprises a body and a locking element, e.g., a semicircular hook or a rod, in which the locking element is securely engaged in a first hole made in the body. Additionally, the locking element can be releasably engaged in a second hole parallel to the first hole, e.g., in the case of a semicircular hook, a translation of the locking element toward the body of the lock, or in the case of a rod lock, a translation away from the body causes the locking element to engage the second hole . In particular, to cause the translational movement of the locking element , the lock comprises a pin arranged inside a third hole made in the body, extending transversely and preferably perpendicular to the first hole , facing it . Furthermore , the lock comprises a motorized electrical unit housed in a fourth hole made in the body, extending transversely and preferably perpendicular to the third hole , facing it . Speci fically, the motori zed electrical unit includes an electric motor, preferably a gearmotor, and an actuator element connected to the rotation of the electric motor and facing at least partially toward the third hole where the pin is housed . Additionally, to electrically power the electric motor, the lock includes a perforated cover mounted on the body and a power supply and control unit removably mounted inside a compartment closed by the perforated cover . This compartment is in communication with the first and fourth holes so that the power supply and control unit is electrically connected to the motori zed electrical unit , e . g . , the motor ' s power cables pass through a channel made between the compartment and the fourth hole . Based on this construction configuration, the lock is operable between a locked configuration, where the pin is moved by the motori zed electrical unit into an advanced position protruding into the first hole , in particular, the electric motor is actuated so that the rotation of the actuator element causes the translation of the pin toward the locking element . For example , the pin may have a longitudinal end in contact with a portion of the surface of the actuator element in a recess when the lock is in a released configuration, so that when the actuator element rotates , the pin is disengaged from the surface in the recess and comes into contact with the remaining portion of the surface of the actuator element , which has a greater radial extension . In this way, the pin is pushed longitudinally toward the locking element so that one end protrudes inside the first hole , engaging with the first section of the shaped profile of the locking element , e . g . , a recessed surface . Therefore , when the pin engages with the first section of the shaped profile , the translation of the locking element along the first hole is blocked .

[0011] Moreover, the lock is operable in a released configuration, in which the electric motor is actuated by rotating so that the recessed surface of the actuator element faces the pin again, defining an axial space between the actuator element and the pin, which is used to move the pin back . Speci fically, when this happens , an axial movement of the locking element generates forces transverse to the axis of the first hole , causing the pin to retreat and bringing its longitudinal end into contact with the actuator element , thus disengaging from the first section of the shaped profile . In this way, the locking element can be extracted from the second hole . To regulate the actuation of the electric motor, the power supply and control unit comprises an antenna and an electronic control unit , e . g . , a printed circuit or PCB, programmed to receive a wireless command signal , e . g . , from a smartphone via a dedicated application or using wireless connection protocols like Bluetooth, to process the signal and adjust the direction of rotation of the electric motor and thus bring the lock into a locked or released configuration.

[0012] Additionally, the power supply and control unit includes batteries used to electrically power the electronic control unit and the electric motor. According to an aspect of the present invention, to protect the aforementioned electrical components from weather agents, e.g., rain, humidity, etc., the motorized electrical unit and the power supply and control unit each comprise a first and a second seal, e.g., a V-25 ring, and the fourth hole in which the actuator unit is housed is filled with sealing material, e.g., a resin or other injectable polymeric material that solidifies when inside the fourth hole. Specifically, the first seal is axially interposed between a first and second support element of the motorized electrical unit surrounding the electric motor of said unit and / or is axially interposed between the motor and an actuator element cooperating with the pin, as will be further specified below. In this way, the first seals on the actuator unit counteract the ingress of unwanted material into the electric motor, while the second seal, e.g., interposed between an enclosure housing the electrical components and a cap closing the enclosure with the electrical components inside, prevents the ingress of unwanted material, e.g., humidity, into the enclosure. The sealing material, in turn, prevents unwanted material from entering the fourth hole through the connection channel between the fourth hole and the compartment housing the power supply and control unit, e.g., passing through the perforated cover. Moreover, the sealing material, preferably polymeric, protects and makes watertight the electrical conductors that power and control the motorized electrical unit from the enclosure .

[0013] * *DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS**

[0014] The constructive and functional features of the electronic lock will be better understood from the following detailed description, which refers to the attached figures representing a preferred, non-limiting embodiment of the invention, in which:

[0015] - **Fig. 1** shows an exploded view of the electronic lock according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0016] - **Fig. 2** shows a sectional view of the lock of Fig. 1 in an assembled configuration;

[0017] - **Fig. 3** shows an exploded view of the motorized electric unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] - **Fig. 4** shows an exploded view of the power supply and control unit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] - **Fig. 5-6** respectively show a view of the lock of Fig. 1 without the cover and a perspective view of the cover;

[0020] - **Fig. 7** shows a perspective view of the lock of Fig. 1 in an assembled configuration.

[0021] **DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION**

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 1 shows an exploded view of an electronic lock T configured to block two or more adjacent components, such as doors, cabinets, suitcases, bicycles, etc. Specifically, as shown in Fig . 1 , the electronic lock T comprises a body 1 , preferably in the form of a parallelepiped, a locking element 2 , preferably a semicircular hook, having a first end 2a engaged inside a first hole 3 with an XI axis made on a peripheral face of the body 1 , and a second end 2b, longitudinally opposite to the first , releasably engageable inside a second hole 4 with an X2 axis , preferably blind, made parallel to the first hole 3 . According to this constructional configuration, the electronic lock T is operable between a locked configuration in which the first and second ends 2a, 2b of the locking element 2 are rigidly engaged in the body 1 , and a released configuration in which the first end 2a is free to move along at least a portion of the first hole , thereby disengaging the second end 2b from the second hole 4 and distancing it from the body 1 . Throughout the following description, the locking element 2 will be referred to as the "hook . "

[0023] Preferably, in the released configuration, the body 1 and the hook 2 are relatively rotatable . In this way, when the electronic lock T is in a released configuration, the second end 2b can be engaged with the components to be locked, e . g . , inside two eyelets arranged opposite each other on a door and the frame around the door so that the eyelets are engaged in a portion of the hook 2 . Moreover, to bring the lock T into a locked configuration, e . g . , by blocking the door ' s movement relative to the frame or keeping it closed, from a released configuration, the hook needs to be moved axially toward the body 1 so that the second end 2b is rigidly engaged at least partially inside the second hole 4 . Speci fically, to keep the hook 2 locked against translation once the second end is engaged inside the second hole 4 , a geometric construction of the hook 2 is used, particularly a first section of shaped profile 2c made on the first end 2a of the hook . For example , this first section of shaped profile features a recessed surface , preferably a hollow semicircular surface , facing a third hole 5 ( Fig . 2 ) with an X3 axis made transversely to the first hole 3 , preferably perpendicular . Moreover, this third hole 5 extends from a peripheral face o f the body 1 parallel to a cross-section of the first end 2a, so that it faces the first hole 3 overlapping it . Furthermore , the third hole 5 extends beyond the first hole 3 from the longitudinally opposite side relative to the face where the third hole 5 is made , defining a blind hole on one side and closed by an insert I on the opposite side . In this way, it is possible to use the third hole 5 and the first section of shaped profile 2c to actuate the lock in either a locked or released configuration . To do this , the lock includes a sliding pin 6 arranged along at least a portion of the third hole between the first section of shaped profile 2c and the bottom of this third hole . Speci fically, the pin 6 is engaged inside the third hole 5 so as to be longitudinally movable between an advanced position, in which it protrudes at least partially into the first hole 3 to contact the first section of shaped profile 2c, defining a form- fit engagement that blocks the axial movement of the hook 2 , and a retracted position in which it is withdrawn inside the third hole 5 , distanced from the first section of shaped profile 2c, thereby allowing the hook 2 to move along the XI axis . * * Therefore , once the second end 2b has been engaged ins ide the second hole 4 , by actuating the pin 6 in an advanced position, it is possible to bring the lock into a locked configuration, which remains so until the pin 6 is moved into a retracted position to release the hook 2 . According to an aspect of the present invention, the axial travel of the hook 2 is limited so that the first end 2a cannot be extracted from the first hole 3 even when the lock is in a released configuration . In particular, to achieve this result , the body 1 has a hole 30 made transversely and preferably perpendicular to the XI axis in a portion of the first hole , preferably between the first shaped prof ile section 2c and the entrance of the first hole . Speci fically, within this hole 30 , there is housed a spring 31 on which a pin 32 rests , which in turn is housed in a pin 33 with a recessed seat 34 facing the entrance of the hole 30 . When these components are mounted inside the hole 30 , the pin 33 protrudes at least partially into the first hole 3 extending toward the hole 30 . Therefore , based on this constructional configuration, the hook 2 has a second shaped profile section 2d, preferably grooved, located between the first shaped profile section 2c and the entrance of the first hole 3 when the lock is in a locked configuration, defining the axial segment along which the travel of the hook 2 occurs within the first hole 3 . Speci fically, the second shaped profile section 2d has longitudinally opposite ends , each radially raised toward the wall of the first hole 3 .

[0024] In this way, the pin 33 is arranged between these ends of the second shaped profile section, so that when the electronic lock T is in a released configuration, the hook 2 is movable in translation along the XI axis , extending out of the first hole 3 until the lower end of the second shaped profile section 2d, i . e . , the one closer to the first shaped profile section 2 c, contacts the pin 33 , which in turn blocks the axial travel of the hook, thus preventing it from being fully extracted from the body 1 . Instead, to bring the hook 2 into a position such that the first shaped profile section 2c faces the pin 6 to lock the lock, the upper end of the second shaped profile section is used, in particular, the hook is translated parallel to the XI axis until this end contacts the pin 33 , which in turn blocks the axial travel of the hook, preventing the hook from continuing its axial movement inside the body 1 . When this happens , the first shaped profile section 2c is positioned to face the pin 6 in such a way that it can be engaged by it to block the movement of the hook in translation along the XI axis , i . e . , bringing the electronic lock T into a locked configuration .

[0025] Preferably, to make the hook 2 rotatable relative to the XI axis when the lock T is in a released configuration to facilitate engagement of the hook with the components to be locked, the hook 2 includes a groove 35 circumferentially made on the lower end of the second shaped profile section . In this way, when the hook 2 is moved axially out of the first hole 3 , the lower end of the second shaped profile section 2d is brought into contact with the pin 33 , allowing the latter to be engaged inside the groove 35 . Speci fically, when the pin 33 is engaged in the groove 35 , the hook 2 becomes free to rotate but blocked in translation along the XI axis , so that while the hook 2 can rotate , it cannot be extracted from the body 1, even when the lock is in a released configuration .

[0026] According to a further aspect of the invention, when the electronic lock T is in a released configuration, it is possible to operate on the pin 33 to remove the hook 2 from the body 1 so that, for example, it can be replaced with another hook of different axial length, e.g., to engage a greater number of components inside the hook's semi-ring. To do this, an instrument can be engaged in the recessed seat 34 of the pin 33 to apply an axial force that compresses the spring 31 and moves the pin 33 deeper. When this happens, the pin 33 is positioned inside the first hole 3 in such a way that, extracting the hook 2 from the body 1, the lower end of the second shaped profile section 2d is not blocked in translation by the pin 33, allowing the hook to be disconnected from the body 1. In this way, it is possible to insert a hook 2 with the same constructional configuration but different axial extension, e.g., of the semi-ring, keeping the pin 33 inside the hole 30 so that while the new hook translates inside the first hole 3, the lower end of the second profile section 2d is not blocked in translation by the pin 33, allowing the hook to be engaged into the body 1. Once the lower end advances past the axial position where the hole 30 is located, the pin 33 can be released to rise toward the hole 30, pushed by the spring 31, and reposition itself between the lower and upper ends of the second shaped profile section 2d. **As shown further in Figures 1-3, the electronic lock T also comprises a motorized electrical unit

[0027] U1 configured to actuate the pin 6 into an advanced position, i.e., to bring the lock into a locked configuration. Specifically, on a perimeter face of the body 1, preferably opposite to the face where the first and second holes 3, 4 are made, a fourth hole 7 with axis X4 is made, and this fourth hole is shaped to house the motorized electrical unit U1. Furthermore, the fourth hole 7 extends longitudinally in a transverse direction, preferably perpendicular to the third hole 5, facing toward the third hole 5 and overlapping with it. Moreover, the fourth hole 7 extends beyond the third hole 5 (Fig. 2) from the longitudinally opposite side to the face of the body 1 where the fourth hole 5 is made, defining a blind hole. Therefore, as can be understood, the body 1 is configured such that the first hole 3 is in communication with the third hole 5, which in turn is in communication with the fourth hole 7. Specifically, Figure 3 shows an exploded view of the motorized electrical unit Ul, indicating with the arrow Ml the direction of assembly of the components inside the fourth hole 7. Specifically, the motorized electrical unit Ul comprises an actuator element 8 (Fig. 3) located at the bottom of the fourth hole 7 in such a way that it has a first portion 8a at least partially facing longitudinally toward the third hole 5 and a second portion 8b on the side of the entrance of the fourth hole, disposed in contact with a shoulder defined by the longitudinal profile of the fourth hole 7. Moreover, the actuator element 8 is configured to be rotatable around the axis X4, with the first portion 8a at least partially in contact with one end of the pin 6 such that rotation of the actuator element causes the pin to move forward toward the first end 2a of the hook 2. Specifically, on the first portion 8a of the actuator element 8 , a recessed surface 9 is made , preferably rounded, facing toward the third hole 5 from the side of the hook 2 when the electronic lock T is in a released configuration . In this position, an axial space is defined between the recessed surface 9 and the pin 6 , which is exploited to retract the pin toward the actuator element 8 . In this way, the longitudinal end of the pin 6 comes into contact with the recessed surface 9 . In this position, the pin 6 is disengaged and spaced from the first shaped profile section 2c, so that the hook is free to translate parallel to the XI axis . Therefore , to bring the pin 6 into an advanced position, the remaining surface of the first portion 8a is used . Speci fically, since this surface has a larger radial extension than the recessed surface 9 , when the actuator element 8 is rotated, the pin 6 di sengages from the recessed surface and is pushed longitudinally toward the shaped profile section 2c by the remaining surface of the first portion 8a . In this way, the pin 6 advances such that the longitudinal end opposite the one facing the recessed surface 9 , at least partially protrudes into the first hole 3 and contacts the hook, engaging with the first shaped profile section 2c, e . g . , defining a form- fitting coupling that thus blocks the hook from translating .

[0028] Furthermore , to keep the actuator element 8 axially locked inside the fourth hole 7 , the motori zed electrical unit U1 comprises a first support element 10 , preferably cylindrical , within which the actuator element 8 is at least partially housed . Speci fically, this first support element 10 is disposed in contact with the shoulder of the fourth hole 7 and is rigidly locked against translation within the fourth hole 7 . For example , the first support element 10 may comprise a hole 11 on the perimeter surface , which can be disposed to face a corresponding hole 45 made in the body 1 , allowing the insertion of a locking element transversely to the X4 axis , such as a pin (not shown in the figure ) , to lock axially the first support element . Additionally, the first support element 10 has a first and a second cavity 10a, 10b longitudinally opposite each other, so that the first cavity 10a is located on the side of the actuator element 8 , while the second cavity 10b is located on the side of the entrance of the hole . Therefore , according to this constructional configuration, the actuator element 8 has the second portion 8b housed in the first cavity 10a, to which it is rigidly locked against translation . Speci fically, on a perimeter portion of the second portion 8b of the actuator element , buttonholes 12 are made transversely to the X4 axis , in which a pin 13 is engaged, which protrudes radially from a hole 14 made on the perimeter surface of the first support element 10 , facing toward the wall of the fourth hole 7 . Speci fically, since the pin 13 has a length greater than the length of the hole 14 , a portion of the pin protrudes radially and engages within the buttonhole 12 . In thi s way, the pin 13 prevents any axial movement of the actuator element 8 parallel to the X4 axis . * * Furthermore , the transverse position of the buttonhole 12 relative to the X4 axis is used to actuate the rotational movement of the actuator element 8 , i . e . , the actuator element is guided in rotation via the pin engaged within the buttonhole 12 . Preferably, the pin 45 locks the first support element 10 to the body 1, and the pin 13 acts as an angular stop for the actuator element 8 through the circumferential extension of the buttonhole 12. Furthermore, the first and second cavities 10a, 10b are in communication via an axial hole 15 (Fig. 2) through which at least part of the actuator element 8 extends from the first cavity 10a toward the second cavity 10b. In order to define a protective barrier against water and other weather agents, a sealing ring G is housed in the first support element 10, e.g., inside the first cavity 10a, and is axially pressed by the actuator element 8. Additionally, to rotate the actuator element 8, the motorized electrical unit U1 includes an electric motor 16, e.g., a gear motor, disposed within the fourth hole 7 so as to be connected for mechanical power transmission, e.g., via a shaft, to the end of the actuator element 8 that extends from the axial hole 15. Furthermore, to maintain the electric motor 16 axially locked, the motorized electrical unit U1 includes a second support element 17, preferably cylindrical, mounted inside the fourth hole 7, so as to have a longitudinal hole 18 extending parallel to the X4 axis, in which at least part of the electric motor 16 is engaged. Specifically, this second support element 17 has a first end 17a disposed on the side of the first support element 10, on which a first longitudinal recess 19 is formed, shaped to be axially connected to the first support element 10, e.g., via a threaded connection. Preferably, since the first and second support elements 10, 17 are cylindrical, to facilitate the gripping of both with a tool during assembly, flat seats 20a, 20b are provided on the perimeter surfaces facing into the fourth hole 7, where a tool, e.g., the jaws of a clamp, can engage to screw the first support element to the second support element . Additionally, the second support element 17 has a second end 17b longitudinally opposite the first end 17a, on which a second longitudinal recess 21 is formed, configured to rigidly connect the second support element to a collar 22 disposed longitudinally from the entrance of the fourth hole 7 . Speci fically, the collar 22 has a proj ection 23 that extends longitudinally to be rigidly engaged with the second support element 17 , e . g . , via a threaded connection between the second recess 21 and the proj ection . Furthermore , the collar 22 has a longitudinal recess 24 facing toward the second support element 17 , shaped to house the portion of the electric motor 16 that extends from the second support element 17 . Speci fically, the collar 22 includes a shoulder 25 against which the electric motor 16 remains in contact , to be locked against axial translation, leaving a free space between this shoulder and the bottom surface of the longitudinal recess 24 . In this way, since the first support element 10 is rigidly fixed to the body 1 of the electronic lock T , e . g . , via a pin engaged in the hole 11 , and since the collar 22 is rigidly fixed to the second support element 17 , which in turn is rigidly fixed to the first support element 10 , the motori zed electrical unit U1 is locked against translation parallel to the X4 axis . Preferably, the electric motor 16 has at least one flat or radial proj ection, and consequently, at least one of the collar 22 and the second support element 17 has a shaped cross-section to couple with such a flat or proj ection to lock the angular position of the electric motor 16 through a prismatic coupling . Additionally, a hole 27 ( Fig . 2 ) is made on the bottom surface of the longitudinal recess 24 , through which the power cables of the electric motor 16 extend to connect to a power and control unit U2 . Therefore , to move the lock T from a released configuration to a locked configuration, utili zing this construction configuration, the electric motor 16 can be actuated to rotate the actuator element 8 , which, rotating rigidly with the motor shaft of the electric motor 16 with a stroke equal to the perimeter length of the buttonhole 12 , pushes the pin 6 toward the hook 2 with which it engages , thus bringing the lock T into a locked configuration . As can be understood, to maintain the lock T in the locked configuration, it is neces sary for the actuator element 8 to remain rotated with the first portion 8a pushing the pin against the shaped profile section 2c of the hook . To bring the lock back into a released configuration, the electric motor 16 is actuated to rotate the actuator element 8 in the opposite direction, bringing the recessed surface 9 facing toward the third hole 5 from the side of the hook 2 , so that the pin 6 can retract , e . g . , by manually pulling the hook so that the first shaped profile section 2c pushes the pin toward the actuator element 8 , placing its end in contact with the recessed surface 9 . According to another aspect of the present invention, on a wall of the body 1 parallel to the X4 axis of the fourth hole 7 , a hole 28 is made , extending transversely to pass through this fourth hole , continuing transversely to define a channel 28a inside the body 1 that reaches a seat 29 made on the body 1 transversely and preferably perpendicular to the XI axis . To close the hole 28 in order to prevent impurities and dirt from entering the fourth hole 7 , an additional sealing element 51, e.g., a pin, may be provided. Specifically, this channel 28a is used to carry the power cables of the electric motor 16 from the fourth hole 7 to the seat 29, where the power and control unit U2, to which these cables are connected, is detachably mounted. Furthermore, to protect the motorized electric unit Ul, particularly the electric motor, against the ingress of e.g. humidity, dust, etc., that may damage its operation, in addition to the seal G, this motorized electric unit Ul includes seals 46, e.g. a v-ring, arranged respectively in the connection area between the first and second support elements 10, 17 and the second support element and the flange 22, in order to protect the housing volume in which the electric motor 16 is mounted. The presence of these seals guarantees protection against the ingress of dust and especially water according to international standards for the operation of electromechanical components, such as the IP68 standard contained in the IEC 60529 regulation. In particular, to prevent humidity, dust, etc., from entering the fourth hole 7 from the seat 29 by passing through the channel 28a, it is possible to inject a sealing material inside this fourth hole 7, e.g. a resin, through the hole 28. In this way, it is possible to fill both the fourth hole 7 and the channel 28a so as to prevent the ingress of humidity, dust, etc., through the seat 29. For example, the sealing material is a liquid resin that solidifies after being injected into the fourth hole 7, e.g. acetal resin, polyoxymethylene, etc. To also prevent the resin from leaking through the entrance of the fourth hole 7, it is possible to provide a plug 47 rigidly mounted in this hole. According to another aspect of the present invention, as indicated above and shown in an exploded view in Fig . 4 , the power and control unit U2 is mountable in a releasable manner within the seat 29 . In particular, this power and control unit U2 comprises a first housing A, preferably cylindrical in shape , which can be housed in a recess 50 ( Fig . 2 ) made on the bottom of the seat 29 and shaped in such a way as to define a centering for this first housing when mounted on the lock . Furthermore , the first housing A has holes Al along a perimeter edge from the recess 50 side , in which these holes are used to fix the first housing A to the body 1 . In particular, by positioning this first housing inside the seat 29 so that the holes Al face each towards a corresponding hole 36 made on the body 1 , it is possible to rigidly fix the first housing in this position using locking elements 37 ( Fig . l ) , e . g . pins . Moreover, the power and control unit U2 includes an electronic control unit B, e . g . a printed circuit board, for example a PCB, fixed to a bottom surface A2 of a compartment A3 made longitudinally in the first housing in such a way as to extend axially towards the bottom of the seat 29 when the first housing is mounted on the lock . According to another aspect of the present invention, to power the electric motor 16 and the electronic control unit B, the power and control unit U2 comprises a plurality of batteries C, preferably button-type , and a second housing D comprising a compartment DI configured to house the plurality of batteries . In particular, the second housing D is axially mounted inside the first housing A so that the compartment DI faces the electronic control unit B . In this way, it is possible to arrange the plurality of batteries C in the compartment DI of the second housing D so that each battery is in contact with the adj acent one , defining a disposition from the bottom towards the end of this compartment , i . e . towards the electronic control unit . Preferably, the batteries are three and are housed inside the compartment DI according to a parallel connection configuration to increase the capacity of the power and control unit U2 . However, alternative embodiments may have fewer than three batteries or more than three batteries . In particular, to create the parallel connection between the three batteries shown in Fig . 4 , these batteries are arranged in the compartment DI of the second housing D so that the poles of the same sign are facing and in contact with each other . Therefore , according to this arrangement , to power the electronic control unit B, the latter includes a first pin Bl electrically connected with the poles of the same sign of the batteries , e . g . the positive poles . In particular, the electrical connections that will be described below are configured to connect in parallel the stacked button batteries , one on top of the other, with poles of the same sign in contact with each other, two by two . In Fig . 4 , the batteries are arranged so that the battery facing the electronic control unit B contacts the first pin Bl with its positive pole . To connect all the positive poles of the batteries behind the battery in electrical contact with the first pin Bl , in particular to electrically connect the electronic control unit with poles having the same sign as the pole in contact with the first pin Bl , the second housing D comprises first radial holes D2 made on a portion of the peripheral surface of the second housing facing towards the surface of compartment A3 of the first housing, and these first holes D2 are through holes so that they can access the compartment DI of the second housing . Moreover, the first holes D2 are made in such a way as to face at least a portion of the poles of the batteries having the same sign as the battery in contact with the first pin Bl of the electronic control unit , e . g . the positive pole . It should be noted that the positive pole of the button batteries extends over a flat face and a circular lateral surface of the battery . Therefore , inside the holes D2 , it is possible to insert first electrically conductive elements D3 in contact with the pole of the battery, e . g . metal spring pins moving radially with a first end connected to the positive pole of the battery via contact with the lateral surface and a second longitudinally opposite end that extends radially from the respective first hole D2 , and these first electrically conductive elements are connected to each other, e . g . by a conductor N, so as to carry electrical energy to the pole of the battery in contact with the first pin Bl of the electronic control unit . The electrically conductive elements D3 are longitudinally spaced in such a way as to connect the lateral surfaces , i . e . the poles of opposite signs o f two batteries in contact with the opposite pole , e . g . connecting the lateral surface of the battery in contact with the first pin Bl with the lateral surface o f the adj acent battery, with these batteries in contact with each other at the negative poles . Furthermore , to electrically connect to the electronic control unit the poles with the opposite sign to the one in contact with the first pin Bl , e . g . the negative poles , the second housing D has at least one second radial hole D4 that is through, made on a portion of the peripheral surface of the second housing, preferably close to where the first holes

[0029] D2 are made , so that it can access the compartment DI of the second housing . Moreover, this at least one second hole D4 is made in such a position as to face at least a part of the poles of the batteries having the opposite sign to the battery in contact with the pin Bl of the electronic control unit , e . g . the negative poles . Therefore , inside this at least one second hole D4 , it is possible to insert a second electrically conductive element D5 in contact with the poles of the batteries with the same sign, e . g . a metal spring pin having a first end in contact with the poles of the same sign facing each other and a second longitudinally opposite end that extends radially from the second hole D4 . Preferably, this second electrically conductive element D5 is angularly spaced from the first electrically conductive elements D3 to reduce the risks of short circuits and is in contact with a third electrically conductive element E , preferably a ring made of metallic material , configured to engage axially on an edge of the second housing D disposed on the side of the electronic control unit B . For example , the third electrically conductive element E may have a recessed surface portion shaped in such a way as to wrap in contact the second electrically conductive element D5 . Furthermore , based on the number of batteries used in the embodiment described here , an additional construction solution is provided to connect the pole of the battery facing the bottom surface of the compartment DI , i . e . the negative pole , to the electronic control unit . In particular, the second housing D comprises on a portion of the peripheral surface facing towards the surface of the compartment A3 of the first housing radial openings D6 that are diametrically opposite and configured to insert at least partially inside the compartment DI a fourth electrically conductive element D7 that in use extends parallel to the bottom surface of the compartment DI , preferably inside a longitudinal seat , so as to remain in contact with the pole of this battery, e . g . the negative pole . Moreover, this fourth electrically conductive element D7 is shaped in such a way as to have longitudinally opposite ends that extend axially towards the electronic control unit B so as to be in contact with the third electrically conductive element when the second housing D is mounted inside the first housing A. In this way, according to this construction configuration, the ends of the fourth electrically conductive element D7 are in use at least partially in contact with the surface of the third electrically conductive element E , and this last one in turn is in contact with a second pin B2 that protrudes from the electronic control unit . In this way, all the poles with the opposite sign to the pole of the battery in contact with the first pin Bl , e . g . the negative poles , are electrically connected to the electronic control unit B . It should also be noted that the second housing D is made of an electrically insulating material , e . g . a polymer resin such as acetal resin, polyoxymethylene , so that the poles of the batteries are not short-circuited while being connected to the corresponding pins Bl and B2 . Preferably, to reduce the axial bulk of the third electrically conductive element E when mounted on the second housing D, it is possible to make an axial recess defining a portion of a buttonhole configured to wrap the first electrically conductive elements without coming into contact with them . According to another aspect of the present invention, to rigidly fix the second housing D to the first housing A, the power and control unit U2 includes a plug F having an end Fl shaped in such a way as to be rigidly engaged in a releasable manner with the second housing D . In particular, this second housing has protrusions D8 that extend longitudinally from the transverse surface on the opposite end from the one where the third electrically conductive element E is mounted in use . The plug F, on the other hand, is shaped so as to have axially passing holes F2 so that when the end Fl of this plug is engaged with the end of the second housing D, a shape coupling is defined between the holes F2 and the protrusions D8 such that the plug F is rigidly fixed to the second housing D and a barrier is defined that prevents the entry of impurities such as dust or similar into the first housing A. In this way, a portion of the end Fl of the plug is engaged on the end of the second housing, extending at least partially axially along a longitudinal section of the end of said second housing . In particular, it is possible to use the end Fl of the plug, shaped like a collar, to rigidly bind the second housing D to the first housing A, e . g . by means of a threaded connection made by engaging axially the f irst end Fl of the plug with the edge of the second housing to the first housing A, and to pre-assemble the second housing D on the plug F so that , by fixing the latter to the first housing A, the electrical power connection of the electronic control unit B with the third electrically conductive element E and the pole , e . g . the positive pole of the button battery, is also made. According to a further aspect of the present invention, between the peripheral edge on the end of the first housing A and the surface of the plug F in contact with said peripheral edge, it is possible to provide a seal G, e.g. an o-ring, so as to counteract the entry of dust, moisture, etc. into the power and control unit U2 when in operation, i.e. mounted inside the seat 29 of the lock. Therefore, as described earlier, once the power and control unit U2 is assembled, it is possible to rigidly bind it to the body 1 of the lock D through pins 37 inserted into holes 36. Moreover, as shown in Fig.5, to guarantee greater protection of the components of the power and control unit U2, the lock D includes a cover 38 shaped so as to be engaged inside the seat 29 in a removable manner. In particular, to lock the cover inside the seat 29, this cover has a hole 39, preferably blind, which in use faces a corresponding hole 40 preferably made on a surface of the body 1 where holes 36 are made. In this way, it is possible to insert a threaded connecting element 41 [not shown in the drawings, the number is used for identification purposes, e.g. a screw] , inside this hole so as to rigidly lock the cover 38 inside the seat 29. According to this construction configuration, it is possible to remove the cover 38 easily, e.g. by rotating the screw with a key, so as to be able to access the power and control unit U2, e.g. to replace the batteries. For example, for safety reasons, the seat 29 includes an unthreaded portion facing outward from the body 1 and a threaded portion facing the seat 29, and the screw 41 is engaged in the latter. A tool, e.g. an Allen wrench, preferably with a nonstandard head geometry, shaped differently from traditional ones , e . g . ' cross ' , ' flat ' , hexagonal , torx, etc . , is introduced from the outside into the seat 29 and couples with the screw 41 which, when advanced, is received in the hole 39 of the cover 38 , locking it in the seat 29 . For example , an anti-tamper screw may be used . When the screw 41 is retracted, it disengages from the hole 39 and the cover 38 is released from the action of the screw . Preferably, the hole 42 can be replaced by a buttonhole (not shown) made on the edge of the cover 38 from the side of the seat 29 so that the cover can be removed even when the electronic lock is in a locked configuration to replace the batteries . Moreover, by keeping the power and control unit U2 mounted on the lock T , it is possible to disassemble the plug F from the first housing A to extract the second housing D along with the batteries to be replaced, without having to disassemble the entire power and control unit U2 from the lock . However, to prevent the power and control unit U2 from being removed while the lock T is in operation, i . e . when the lock is in a locked configuration, for example during an attempted theft , the cover 38 has a construction configuration such that it cannot be removed when the lock is closed . In particular, to achieve this result , the first hole 3 extends so as to face the seat 29 and the cover has a hole 42 facing said first hole so that , when the lock is in a locked configuration, the end 2a of the hook 2 extends at least partially into the seat 29 , engaging inside the hole 42 . In this way, since the hook 2 is at least partially engaged in the hole 42 , the power and control unit U2 cannot be extracted from the seat 29 even when the locking elements that bind the power and control unit U2 and the cover to the body 1 , e . g . the pins 37 and the screw 40 , are removed, because the presence of the hook 2 in the hole 42 prevents the extraction of the cover itsel f from the seat 29 and, consequently, of the power and control unit U2 . When, instead, the electronic lock is in a released configuration, the hook 2 is in the advanced position inside the first hole 3 and such that it disengages the end of the hook 2a from the hole 42 of the cover, so it is possible to access the power and control unit U2 by removing the cover . According to a further aspect of the present invention, the power and control unit U2 includes a sensor (not shown in the figure ) , e . g . a Hall ef fect sensor, and an antenna (not shown in the figure ) connected for data exchange to the electronic control unit B . In particular, the electronic control unit is programmed to receive a wireless command signal , e . g . from a smartphone via a dedicated app, and process this signal to actuate the motori zed electric unit U1 so as to bring the lock into a locked or released configuration depending on the received command . For example , when the electronic control unit B receives a command signal to bring the lock into a locked configuration, this control unit sends an actuation signal to the electric motor 16 which in turn rotates the actuator element 8 , causing the pin 6 to move longitudinally towards the hook 2 . When, instead, the electronic control unit B receives a command signal to bring the lock into a released configuration, this control unit sends an actuation signal to the electric motor 16 to rotate in the opposite direction so as to bring the recessed surface 9 facing the pin 6 . In this way, the pin 6 can be moved longitudinally in the retracted position inside the third hole 5 , disengaging from the hook 2 , e . g . by applying, for example , a force on the pin 6 by manually pulling the hook

[0030] 2 . According to a further aspect of the present invention, as shown in Fig . 2 , the end 2a of the hook 2 carries a magnet 43 which is used to detect whether the lock is in a locked configuration or in a released configuration when a user is away from the lock, e . g . via smartphone . In particular, to achieve this result , the electronic control unit B is also programmed to receive a signal from the sensor, and process this signal to detect a locked configuration of the lock when the magnet 43 is near the power and control unit U2 , and a released configuration when such magnet is far from the power and control unit . Furthermore , the electronic control unit B is programmed to detect a correct mounting arrangement of the batteries inside the second housing D, e . g . following a replacement due to the depletion o f one or more batteries previously disposed on board the power and control unit U2 . In particular, through the detection of electrical parameters such as current intensity, voltage , etc . , by sensors mounted on the electronic control unit B, it is possible to determine whether the batteries are positioned according to a desired arrangement, preferably in a parallel connection, or in an undesired arrangement . Moreover, to alert a user that the batteries are di sposed in a desired or undesired configuration, the power and control unit U2 can include an alert device (not shown in the figure ) , preferably visual , such as a LED light , mounted inside the second housing D . For example , in the case a visual alert device is used, the second housing D can be made from a material that allows light to pass through the end where the proj ections D8 are arranged, so that through the emission of light , a user can be alerted when the batteries are disposed in a desired configuration . In this way, the light emitted during use passes through at least one hole F2 made on the plug F and reaches the cover 38 on which at least one through opening 44 is made so as to make the emitted light visible through the second housing D . Therefore , according to this construction configuration, as soon as the battery replacement is made , a user can essentially check in real-time i f the batteries have been disposed in the desired manner . Preferably, on the bottom surface of the cover facing the seat 29 , it is possible to provide at least one spring device , e . g . a spring pin, which during use is compressed in contact with the plug F when the cover 38 is mounted in the seat 29 . In particular, this spring device is used to automatically li ft the cover 38 from the seat 29 when the latter i s disengaged from the screw 41 disposed in the hole 39 and the electronic lock is in an open configuration, i . e . when the end of the hook 2 is disengaged from the hole 42 of the cover 38 . It is possible to use the cover 38 to disassemble the plug F from the first housing A to extract the batteries , e . g . by engaging the cover on the edge of the plug and rotating the plug to unscrew it from the first housing . According to an embodiment variant not illustrated in the figures , the construction configuration of the above-described ring lock can also be extended to solutions including a padlock type with a shackle . Furthermore , to prevent foreign bodies from accumulating in the second hole 2b where the blocking element engages , it is possible to provide a drainage channel (not shown in the figure) so that, e.g. when it rains, the water entering the second hole 2b can drain through this channel, thus minimizing the risk of damage and malfunction of the electronic lock.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Electronic lock (T) comprising a body (1) and a locking element (2) stably engaged in a first hole (3) made in said body, and releasably engagable in a second hole (4) parallel to the first hole, and comprising said lock (T) a pin (6) arranged inside a third hole (5) facing the first hole (3) and a motorized electrical unit (Ul) housed in a fourth hole (7) facing the third hole; the electronic lock (T) further comprising on the body (1) a cover (38) and a power and control unit (U2) mounted inside a seat (29) closed by the cover, and said seat being communicative with the fourth hole (7) such that the power and control unit (U2) is electrically connected to the motorized electrical unit (Ul) ; and the electronic lock (T) being operable between a locked configuration in which the pin (6) is moved by the actuating unit (Ul) protruding into the first hole (3) so as to define a shape coupling that locks the translation of the locking element along said first hole, and a released configuration in which the pin (6) is retracted inside the third hole (5) disengaging from the locking element so as to free the translation of the locking element (2) to extract the second end (2b) from the second hole (4) ; and the motorized electrical unit (Ul) and the power and control unit (U2) further comprising on board respectively a first and a second seal (46, G) and the fourth hole (7) being filled with sealing material so as to counteract the entry of unwanted material inside the motorized electrical unit (Ul) and the power and control unit (U2) through the first hole and the cover (38) .

2. Electronic lock (T) according to claim 1, in which the first hole (3) faces the seat (29) and the cover (38) comprises a fifth hole (42) facing the first hole (3) when it is on the body, and the locking element (2) presenting an end portion (2a) that extends from the first hole into the seat (29) engaging in the fifth hole (42) when the electronic lock (T) is in a locked configuration, and said end (2a) being disengaged from the fifth hole (42) when the electronic lock (T) is in a released configuration.

3. Electronic lock (T) according to claim 2, in which the end (2a) of the locking element (2) carries a magnet (43) facing the power and control unit (U2) , and comprising on board said power and control unit an electronic control unit (B) and a sensor connected in data exchange, and the electronic control unit being programmed to receive a signal from said sensor, processing this signal to detect a locked configuration of the lock (T) when the magnet (43) is near the power and control unit, and a released configuration when such magnet is far from said power and control unit.

4. Electronic lock (T) according to any of the preceding claims, in which the body (1) presents along a section of the first hole (3) a sixth hole (30) made transversely to said first hole, and housed inside said sixth hole is a spring element (32) such that when said spring element is compressed and the lock (T) is in a released configuration, the locking element (2) is extractable from the first hole (3) , while when the spring element is released, the locking element presents a portion of longitudinal profile thatextends radially engaging against the spring element so as to limit the axial travel of the locking element inside the first hole.

5. Lock (T) according to any of the preceding claims, in which the power and control unit (U2) comprises a casing (D) , a plurality of batteries (C) stacked inside said casing such that poles with the same sign face each other and are in contact, and further comprising said power and control unit first and second electrical conductors (D3; D5, D7) configured to electrically connect the poles with the same sign, and said first and second electrical conductors being electrically connected respectively to a first pin (Bl) and a second pin (B2) of the electronic control unit (B) .

6. Electronic lock (T) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one spring device arranged on the bottom surface of the seat (29) , and said spring device being configured to be compressed when the power and control unit (U2) is rigidly fixed inside the seat (29) , and extending said spring device when the power and control unit (U2) is disengaged from the body (1) so as to position said power and control unit at least partially outside the seat (29) .

7. Electronic lock (T) according to claim 5, in which the power and control unit comprises a cap (F) facing the cover (38) , and said cover being engageable for rotation to the cap to disassemble said cap from the power and control unit without being removed from the seat (29) when the power andcontrol unit (U2) is disengaged from the body (1) protruding at least partially outside the seat (29) .

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