Lock device

Abstract

To enhance a deterrent effect against an unexpected release of a state in which a crescent lock is prevented from being rotated.SOLUTION: A switching mechanism 13, which is driven by electricity, is configured to be switchable between a first state that prevents a crescent lock for locking / unlocking an opening / closing body from rotating and a second state that allows for the rotation. An authentication device 16 causes, upon receipt of specified biometric information, the switching mechanism 13 to switch from at least the first state to the second state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a lock device for a crescent lock for locking and unlocking an opening / closing body.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lock device for a crescent lock for locking and unlocking an opening / closing body. Through transmission of a wireless signal by a remote control, a state in which the rotation of the crescent lock is blocked and a state in which the rotation is permitted are switched.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is a demand for increasing the deterrent force against an unauthorized release of the state in which the rotation of the crescent lock is blocked.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One example of an aspect provided by the present disclosure is a lock device for a crescent lock for locking and unlocking an opening / closing body, a switching mechanism that is driven by electric power and is capable of switching between a first state in which the rotation of the crescent lock is blocked and a second state in which the rotation is permitted; an authentication device that causes the switching mechanism to perform at least a switch from the first state to the second state when specified biometric information is received; and includes.

[0006] According to such a configuration, only a user who provides specified biometric information can rotate the crescent-shaped lock and lock or unlock the opening / closing body. In other words, a user who does not have the specified biometric information cannot rotate the crescent-shaped lock. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the deterrent force against unauthorized unlocking of the state in which the rotation of the crescent-shaped lock is blocked. For example, it is possible to prevent unexpected unlocking operations of the crescent-shaped lock by infants or dementia patients.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] With reference to the accompanying drawings, examples of embodiments will be described in detail below. In each of the drawings used in the following description, the scale is appropriately changed in order to make each element recognizable in size.

[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates the appearance of a locking device 10 according to an example of an embodiment. The locking device 10 includes a housing 11. FIG. 2 illustrates a part of the internal structure of the locking device 10 housed in the housing 11.

[0010] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the locking device 10 is configured to be mounted on a window frame F. Specifically, the locking device 10 is arranged to be located above a crescent lock 20 that locks and unlocks a window. The window is an example of an opening / closing body. As an example, an adhesive portion may be provided on a side surface 11a of the housing 11 illustrated in FIG. 1. By bringing the adhesive portion into contact with the window frame F, the locking device 10 is fixed.

[0011] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the locking device 10 includes a blocker 12. The blocker 12 is displaceable between a position accommodated in the housing 11 illustrated in FIG. 3 and a position protruding from the housing 11 illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0012] In the state illustrated in FIG. 4, the blocker 12 enters the turning path P of the knob 21 of the crescent lock 20 and blocks the turning of the crescent lock 20. This state is an example of the first state. In the state illustrated in FIG. 3, the blocker 12 retracts from the turning path P and allows the turning of the crescent lock 20. This state is an example of the second state.

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates the functional configuration of the locking device 10. The locking device 10 includes a switching mechanism 13. The switching mechanism 13 is driven by electric power and is configured to be able to switch the position of the blocker 12 between the first state and the second state.

[0014] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the locking device 10 includes a battery cover 14. The battery cover 14 holds a battery 151. The battery 151 supplies electric power to the switching mechanism 13.

[0015] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the locking device 10 includes an authentication device 16. The authentication device 16 is configured to cause the switching mechanism 13 to switch from the first state to the second state when receiving specified biometric information. The authentication device 16 is accommodated at an appropriate position within the housing 11. The battery 151 also supplies electric power to the authentication device 16.

[0016] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the locking device 10 includes a fingerprint sensor 17. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the fingerprint sensor 17 is configured to output fingerprint information FP corresponding to the fingerprint of the finger touched by the user. The fingerprint information FP is an example of biometric information. The fingerprint information FP may be provided in the form of analog data or in the form of digital data according to the specifications of the fingerprint sensor 17.

[0017] The authentication device 16 includes an input interface 161. The input interface 161 is configured as a hardware interface that receives fingerprint information FP. When the fingerprint information FP is provided in the form of analog data, the input interface 161 includes an appropriate conversion circuit including an A / D converter. This description is similarly applicable to other data and signals described later that can be received by the input interface 161.

[0018] The authentication device 16 includes a processor 162 and a storage 163. The processor 162 is configured to confirm the degree of match between the fingerprint information FP received by the input interface 161 and the fingerprint information pre-stored in the storage 163.

[0019] The authentication device 16 includes an output interface 164. The processor 162 is configured to output, from the output interface 164, a control signal CT that causes the switching mechanism 13 to perform a predetermined operation when the above-mentioned degree of match exceeds a threshold value. The control signal CT may be an analog signal or a digital signal according to the specifications of the switching mechanism 13.

[0020] The output interface 164 is configured as a hardware interface capable of outputting the control signal CT. When the control signal CT is an analog signal, the output interface 164 includes an appropriate conversion circuit including a D / A converter. This description is similarly applicable to other signals described later that can be output by the output interface 164.

[0021] FIG. 6 illustrates the appearance of the switching mechanism 13 as viewed from the direction of arrow VI with the battery cover 14 removed from the state illustrated in FIG. 2. The switching mechanism 13 according to this example includes a motor 131, a pinion gear 132, and a rack gear 133. The pinion gear 132 is coupled to the motor 131. The rack gear 133 meshes with the pinion gear 132. The rack gear 133 is coupled to the blocker 12.

[0022] The position of the blocker 12 illustrated in FIG. 6 corresponds to the state in which the blocker 12 illustrated in FIG. 3 is housed in the housing 11. That is, the rotation of the crescent tablet 20 is permitted.

[0023] When the user touches the fingerprint sensor 17 with a finger in this state, the fingerprint information FP of the user is sent to the authentication device 16. When the degree of coincidence between the fingerprint information FP and the fingerprint information previously stored in the storage 163 exceeds the threshold value, the processor 162 outputs a control signal CT for driving the motor 131 so as to rotate the pinion gear 132 in the first direction from the output interface 164. The first direction is defined so that the rack gear 133 can be displaced downward.

[0024] As a result, as illustrated in FIG. 7, the blocker 12 is displaced downward together with the rack gear 133. The position of the blocker 12 illustrated in FIG. 7 corresponds to the state in which the blocker 12 illustrated in FIG. 4 protrudes from the housing 11. That is, the rotation of the crescent tablet 20 is blocked.

[0025] The case where the degree of coincidence between the fingerprint information FP received by the fingerprint sensor 17 and the fingerprint information previously stored in the storage 163 exceeds the threshold value is an example of the case where the authentication device 16 receives the specified biometric information.

[0026] When the user touches the fingerprint sensor 17 with a finger in this state, the fingerprint information FP of the user is sent to the authentication device 16. When the degree of coincidence between the fingerprint information FP and the fingerprint information previously stored in the storage 163 exceeds the threshold value, the processor 162 outputs a control signal CT for driving the motor 131 so as to rotate the pinion gear 132 in the second direction from the output interface 164. The second direction is defined so that the rack gear 133 can be displaced upward.

[0027] As a result, the rack gear 133 and the blocker 12 return to the state illustrated in FIG. 6, and the rotation of the crescent tablet 20 is permitted.

[0028] According to the above configuration, only the user who inputs the pre-registered fingerprint information FP into the fingerprint sensor 17 can turn the crescent lock 20 to lock and unlock the window. In other words, a user with unregistered fingerprint information cannot turn the crescent lock 20. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the deterrence against unauthorized unlocking of the state where the turning of the crescent lock is blocked. For example, it is possible to prevent unexpected unlocking operations of the crescent lock 20 by infants or dementia patients.

[0029] The fingerprint sensor 17 may adopt, for example, a capacitance method. In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the fingerprint sensor 17 can be configured to be switchable between an operating state in which fingerprint information FP can be read and an operating state in which a detection signal DT is output when a specified capacitance change is detected. In the latter case, when the detection signal DT is received by the input interface 161 of the authentication device 16, the processor 162 of the authentication device 16 outputs a control signal CT from the output interface 164 to cause the switching mechanism 13 to switch between the first state and the second state.

[0030] According to such a configuration, since the fingerprint sensor function and the touch sensor function can be assigned to a common sensor configuration, the versatility of the locking device 10 can be enhanced without adding components.

[0031] As another example, the fingerprint sensor 17 may be configured as an imaging device that acquires a fingerprint image of the user as the fingerprint information FP.

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates the appearance of a part of the locking device 10 in the state illustrated in FIG. 4 as viewed from the direction along the arrow VIII. The width dimension W1 of the blocker 12 in the direction along the turning axis A of the knob 21 is larger than the general width dimension W2 of the knob 21 in that direction.

[0033] According to such a configuration, even if the position of the knob 21 in the direction along the turning axis A slightly differs according to the specifications of the crescent lock 20, the blocker 12 can surely enter the turning path P of the knob 21. Therefore, the versatility of the locking device 10 can be enhanced.

[0034] In the present exemplary embodiment, the operation of the switching mechanism 13 is involved in both the transition from the first state that prevents the turning of the crescent lock 20 to the second state that allows the turning of the crescent lock 20 and the transition from the second state to the first state. However, the involvement by the switching mechanism 13 may be performed at least for the transition from the first state to the second state. FIG. 9 illustrates such an alternative configuration.

[0035] The blocker 12 according to this example has a vertical surface 121 and an inclined surface 122. In a state where the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 21, the vertical surface 121 is arranged to face the knob 21 that is turned from the locking position to the unlocking position. The inclined surface 122 is arranged to face the knob 21 that is turned from the unlocking position to the locking position in the same state.

[0036] The blocker 12 according to this example includes a biasing member 123. The biasing member 123 is arranged within the housing 11 and biases the blocker 12 displaced to a position protruding from the housing 11 by the switching mechanism 13 toward the turning path of the knob 21. The biasing member 123 can be realized by a spring, a rubber pad, or the like.

[0037] Therefore, when the user attempts to turn the knob 21 to the unlocking position, the knob 21 abuts against the vertical surface 121 of the blocker 12, and the unlocking operation is blocked. That is, in order to transition to the second state in which the turning of the crescent lock 20 is allowed, it is necessary to operate the switching mechanism 13 to retract the blocker 12 from the turning path of the knob 21.

[0038] On the other hand, as illustrated in FIG. 10, when the knob 21 is in the unlocked position and the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 21, if the user turns the knob 21 to the locked position, the knob 21 abuts against the inclined surface 122 of the blocker 12 and pushes the blocker 12 upward (recedes it from the turning path of the knob 21) against the biasing force of the biasing member 123. When the knob 21 is displaced to the locked position illustrated in FIG. 9, the force pushing up the blocker 12 is released, and the biasing force of the biasing member 123 causes the blocker 12 to enter the turning path of the knob 21 again.

[0039] That is, when transitioning to the first state where the turning of the crescent lock 20 is blocked, the operation of the switching mechanism 13 is not required. According to such a configuration, power consumption by the switching mechanism 13 can be suppressed.

[0040] In each of the configuration examples described so far, the displacement direction of the blocker 12 intersects the turning axis A of the knob 21. However, the displacement direction of the blocker 12 may be a direction along the turning axis A. A different configuration example will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. The same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those in the above-described configuration examples, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the housing 11 according to this example has a portion 11b disposed between the knob 21 of the crescent lock 20 and the window frame F. The blocker 12 according to this example is configured to advance and retreat from the portion 11b in a direction along the turning axis A of the knob 21 with respect to the turning path of the knob 21.

[0042] FIG. 12 illustrates the switching mechanism 13 according to this example housed in the housing 11. The switching mechanism 13 includes a motor 131, a pinion gear 132, a rack gear 133, and a transmission gear 134. The pinion gear 132 is coupled to the motor 131. The rack gear 133 is coupled to the blocker 12. The transmission gear 134 meshes with the pinion gear 132 and the rack gear 133.

[0043] When the motor 131 is driven based on the control signal CT output from the authentication device 16, the rotation of the pinion gear 132 is transmitted to the rack gear 133 by the transmission gear 134, and the blocker 12 is displaced together with the rack gear 133.

[0044] With reference to FIGS. 13 to 23, a configuration that allows replacement of the battery 151 will be described. The battery cover 14 according to this example is displaceable between a first position illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 and a second position illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19. The first position is a position that makes it impossible to replace the battery 151. The second position is a position that allows replacement of the battery 151. The battery cover 14 is an example of a lid body.

[0045] The battery cover 14 according to this example includes a handle 141. The user can displace the battery cover 14 from the first position to the second position by hanging a finger on the handle 141 and pulling it upward. Note that, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the battery cover 14 does not necessarily have to include the handle 141.

[0046] As described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the rack gear 133 of the drive mechanism 13 and the blocker 12 are coupled. Specifically, the blocker 12 and the rack gear 133 each include a guide rail 124 and a guide rail 133a that extend in the vertical direction. By engaging the guide rail 124 and the guide rail 133a, the blocker 12 and the rack gear 133 are capable of relative displacement (sliding) in the vertical direction.

[0047] In addition, the blocker 12 includes a cantilever-like flexible arm 125. The rack gear 133 has an engaging portion 133b. The free end 125a of the flexible arm 125 is engaged with the engaging portion 133b. In this state, the sliding of the blocker 12 with respect to the rack gear 133 is blocked.

[0048] As illustrated in FIG. 14, the blocker 12 includes an elastic member 126 (see also FIG. 2). The elastic member 126 can be realized by a spring or a rubber pad. In a state where the free end 125a of the flexible arm 125 is engaged with the engaging portion 133b of the rack gear 133, the elastic member 126 is in a compressed state (a state where elastic restoring force is accumulated).

[0049] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate a state where the battery cover 14 is pulled up to a third position between the first position and the second position. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the battery cover 14 includes a convex portion 142. On the other hand, a concave portion 125b is formed at the free end 125a of the flexible arm 125. When the battery cover 14 reaches the third position, the convex portion 142 engages with the concave portion 125b.

[0050] When the battery cover 14 is pulled up to the second position illustrated in FIG. 17, the engagement between the convex portion 142 and the concave portion 125b is released, and the convex portion 142 abuts against the engaging portion 133b of the rack gear 133. Thereby, the engagement between the free end 125a of the flexible arm 125 and the engaging portion 133b is also released. That is, the sliding of the blocker 12 with respect to the rack gear 133 is allowed.

[0051] In addition, by releasing the elastic restoring force of the elastic member 126, as illustrated in FIG. 19, the blocker 12 slides upward with respect to the rack gear 133. Thereby, the blocker 12 retreats from the turning path of the knob 21 and is accommodated in the housing 11.

[0052] That is, by displacing the battery cover 14 from the first position to the second position, the switching mechanism 13 can retract the blocker 12 from the turning path of the knob 21 without supplying power from the battery 151.

[0053] According to such a configuration, even when power cannot be supplied to the switching mechanism 13 due to reasons such as battery depletion or failure, the state where the blocker 12 prevents the turning of the crescent lock 20 can be eliminated, and countermeasures can be taken.

[0054] FIG. 20 illustrates a state in which the battery cover 14 is displaced from the second position to the first position after the battery 151 is replaced. The convex portion 142 of the battery cover 14 is separated from the engaging portion 133b of the rack gear 133. Since the engagement between the flexible arm 125 of the blocker 12 and the engaging portion 133b is released, the blocker 12 maintains a position displaced upward with respect to the rack gear 133. FIG. 21 illustrates the positional relationship between the pinion gear 132 and the rack gear 133 in this state.

[0055] Since the power supply from the battery 151 is resumed, the authentication process using the fingerprint sensor 17 becomes possible. When a registered user touches the fingerprint sensor 17 with a finger in the state illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21, the authentication device 16 outputs a control signal CT for rotating the pinion gear 132 to the motor 131.

[0056] As a result, as illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23, the rack gear 133 is displaced upward, and the free end 125a of the flexible arm 125 engages with the engaging portion 133b of the rack gear 133 again. That is, the lock device 10 can be restored to the initial state by simply returning the battery cover 14 to the first position and touching the fingerprint sensor 17 with a finger.

[0057] It should be noted that the driving mechanism 13 needs to displace the rack gear 133 against the elastic restoring force of the elastic member 126 only when returning to the initial state after the battery replacement. If the flexible arm 125 engages with the engaging portion 133b, both the rack gear 133 and the blocker 12 can be displaced without being affected by the elastic member 126, so that power consumption by the driving mechanism 13 can be suppressed.

[0058] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the battery cover 14 is locked to the housing 11 by screws 143. When replacing the battery 151, it is necessary to release the screwing of the screws 143 with respect to the housing 11 before displacing the battery cover 14.

[0059] FIG. 24 illustrates the appearance of the battery cover 14 as viewed from above. FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-section of the battery cover 24 as viewed in the direction of the arrow along line XXV-XXV in FIG. 24.

[0060] The battery cover 14 has an opening 144. The battery cover 14 covers the screw 143 while exposing the driving portion 143a of the screw 143 from the opening 144. The opening 144 has a width dimension W3 that is narrower than the diameter D of the head 143b of the screw 143. The width dimension W3 is determined as a dimension that allows access to the driving portion 143a by a tool such as a precision driver.

[0061] According to such a configuration, not only can the screw 143 be prevented from falling off the battery cover 14 due to unexpected loosening or the like, but also access to the screw 143 by an unintended user (such as a child) can be suppressed. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a situation in which the prevention of the turning of the crescent lock 20 by the blocker 12 is released through the manual operation of the battery cover 14 described above under an unintended situation.

[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 25, the battery cover 14 includes a gripping portion 145. The gripping portion 145 is formed so as to support the head 143b from below while rotatably gripping the shaft portion 143c of the screw 143.

[0063] According to such a configuration, the screw 143 can be fixed only by gripping the shaft portion 143c by the gripping portion 145, and a washer can be made unnecessary when screwing to fix the battery cover 14 to the housing 11. Therefore, the number of parts can be reduced and the workability of the user can be improved.

[0064] As illustrated in FIG. 24, the battery cover 14 is fixed to the housing 11 by two screws 143L and 142R. However, the battery cover 14 can be fixed by either one of the screws. For example, when the lock device 10 is attached to the window frame located on the right side, only the screw 143L can be used. When the lock device 10 is attached to the window frame located on the left side, only the screw 143R can be used. That is, by using only the screw on the side away from the window frame, the workability of screwing or unscrewing can be improved.

[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the lock device 10 may include a detection device 181. The detection device 181 is configured to output an open detection signal OP when detecting the opening of the window. The open detection signal OP is received by the input interface 161 of the authentication device 16.

[0066] As an example, the opening of the window can be optically detected by a light-emitting element that emits infrared light disposed in the housing 11 and a light-receiving element that is sensitive to infrared wavelengths. If the distance corresponding to the time from when the infrared light is emitted by the light-emitting element until the infrared light enters the light-receiving element exceeds the assumed distance to the window, the opening of the window can be detected.

[0067] As another example, the opening of the window can be magnetically detected by a magnetic sensor disposed in the housing 11. A magnetic source is attached to the position of the window facing the magnetic sensor. If the strength of the magnetism detected by the magnetic sensor is below the threshold value, the opening of the window can be detected.

[0068] The lock device 10 may include an alarm device 182. The processor 162 of the authentication device 16 is configured to cause the alarm device 182 to give an alarm when the opening of the window is detected while the turning of the crescent lock 20 is blocked. The alarm can be made by at least one of visual alarm, auditory alarm, and tactile alarm.

[0069] Specifically, the processor 162 grasps the current position of the blocker 12 through the output record of the control signal CT that controls the operation of the switching mechanism 13. When the input interface 161 receives the open detection signal OP, the processor 162 determines whether the blocker 12 is in a position that blocks the rotation of the crescent lock 20. If it is determined that the blocker 12 is in such a position, the processor 162 outputs a notification control signal NT for causing the notification device 182 to perform a predetermined notification from the output interface 164.

[0070] Generally, the knob 21 whose rotation is blocked by the blocker 12 is in the locked position. According to the above configuration, it is possible to notify the user of the situation where the crescent lock 20 is in the locked state with the window left open. Thereby, the security performance of the locking device 10 can be enhanced.

[0071] The locking device 10 may include a communication device 183. The communication device 183 is configured to be able to perform wireless communication with an external device. The external device may be a stationary device installed at a specific location or a mobile device that can be carried by the user.

[0072] As described above, the processor 162 of the authentication device 16 grasps the current position of the blocker 12 through the output record of the control signal CT that controls the operation of the switching mechanism 13. Based on the current position of the blocker 12, the processor 162 outputs a transmission control signal TX for causing the communication device 183 to wirelessly transmit information indicating at least one of the state where the rotation of the crescent lock 20 is blocked and the state where the rotation of the crescent lock 20 is permitted, from the output interface 164.

[0073] In addition to or instead of the above, information indicating that the remaining amount of the battery 151 has fallen below the threshold may be wirelessly transmitted to the communication device 183.

[0074] According to such a configuration, even when the user is at a position separated from the locking device 10, the operating state of the blocker 12 can be grasped. Therefore, the convenience of the locking device 10 can be enhanced.

[0075] The locking device 10 may include a light source 184. The light source 184 may be configured to emit light toward the window in a state where the turning of the crescent lock 20 is blocked.

[0076] As described above, the processor 162 of the authentication device 16 grasps the current position of the blocker 12 through the output record of the control signal CT that controls the operation of the switching mechanism 13. When it is determined that the blocker 12 is at a position where it blocks the turning of the crescent lock 20, the processor 162 outputs a light emission control signal LE for causing the light source 184 to emit light from the output interface 164.

[0077] Generally, the knob 21 whose turning is blocked by the blocker 12 is in the locked position. According to the above configuration, since light is emitted outward from the window in a state where the window is locked, deterrence against crime can be expected. Thereby, the crime prevention performance of the locking device 10 can be enhanced.

[0078] The processor 162 of the authentication device 16 can be realized by an application specific integrated circuit capable of executing various functions described so far. Examples of the application specific integrated circuit include a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, and the like.

[0079] FIG. 26 illustrates the appearance of the locking device 10 according to another exemplary embodiment. The same reference numerals are assigned to substantially the same components as those in the exemplary embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 25, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0080] The locking device 10 according to this example includes a crescent lock 19. The crescent lock 19 is supported by the housing 11. The crescent lock 19 includes a knob 191 that can pivot about the pivot axis A. That is, the locking device 10 according to this example is configured to be mounted on a window frame F from which the crescent lock 20 has been removed.

[0081] As illustrated in FIGS. 27 to 29, the locking device 10 includes a blocker 12. The blocker 12 is displaceable between a position engaging with the knob 191 illustrated in FIG. 28 and a position not engaging with the knob 191 illustrated in FIG. 29. The displacement direction of the blocker 12 is parallel to the pivot axis A of the crescent lock 19 illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 27, the switching mechanism 13 according to this example includes a motor 131, a pinion gear 132, a rack gear 133, and a transmission gear 134. The pinion gear 132 is coupled to the motor 131. The rack gear 133 meshes with the pinion gear 132. The rack gear 133 is coupled to the blocker 12.

[0083] In the state illustrated in FIG. 28, the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 191 of the crescent lock 19 and engages with the engagement hole 191a formed in the knob 191. Thereby, the turning of the crescent lock 19 is prevented. This state is an example of the first state.

[0084] When the user touches the fingerprint sensor 17 with a finger in this state, the fingerprint information FP of the user is sent to the authentication device 16. When the degree of coincidence between the fingerprint information FP and the fingerprint information previously stored in the storage 163 exceeds the threshold value, the processor 162 outputs a control signal CT from the output interface 164 to drive the motor 131 to rotate the pinion gear 132 in the first direction. The first direction is defined so as to be able to displace the rack gear 133 away from the knob 191.

[0085] As a result, as illustrated in FIG. 29, the engagement between the blocker 12 and the engagement hole 191a is released. When the blocker 12 retreats from the turning path of the knob 191, the turning of the crescent lock 20 is allowed. This state is an example of the second state.

[0086] When the user touches the fingerprint sensor 17 with a finger in this state, the fingerprint information FP of the user is sent to the authentication device 16. When the degree of coincidence between the fingerprint information FP and the fingerprint information previously stored in the storage 163 exceeds the threshold value, the processor 162 outputs a control signal CT for driving the motor 131 so as to rotate the pinion gear 132 in the second direction from the output interface 164. The second direction is defined so that the rack gear 133 can be displaced in the direction approaching the knob 191.

[0087] As a result, the rack gear 133 and the blocker 12 return to the state illustrated in FIG. 28, and the turning of the crescent lock 20 is blocked.

[0088] According to the above configuration, only the user who inputs the pre-registered fingerprint information FP to the fingerprint sensor 17 can turn the crescent lock 19 and lock and unlock the window. In other words, a user having unregistered fingerprint information cannot turn the crescent lock 19. Therefore, it is possible to enhance the deterrent force against unauthorized release of the state in which the turning of the crescent lock is blocked. For example, it is possible to prevent an unexpected unlocking operation of the crescent lock 19 by an infant or a dementia patient.

[0089] In the above example, the operation of the switching mechanism 13 is involved in both the transition from the first state in which the turning of the crescent lock 19 is blocked to the second state in which the turning of the crescent lock 19 is allowed and the transition from the second state to the first state. However, the involvement of the switching mechanism 13 may be performed at least for the transition from the first state to the second state. Another configuration example of such a switching mechanism 13 will be described with reference to FIGS. 30 to 36.

[0090] As illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, the switching mechanism 13 according to this example includes a motor 131, a cam pin 135, and a cam follower 136. The cam pin 135 is coupled to the motor 131. The central axis C of the cam pin 135 is disposed at a position eccentric from the rotation axis M of the motor 131. The cam follower 136 is coupled to the blocker 12. The blocker 12 according to this example has a vertical surface 121 and an inclined surface 122. The cam follower 136 has a cam surface 136a. The cam pin 135 is coupled to the cam follower 136 so as to contact the cam surface 136a.

[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 32, in a state where the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 191, the vertical surface 121 faces the inner wall of the engaging hole 191a so as to prevent the knob 191 from turning from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0092] The blocker 12 according to this example includes a biasing member 123. The biasing member 123 is disposed within the housing 11 and biases the blocker 12 toward the turning path of the knob 191. The biasing member 123 can be realized by a spring, a rubber pad, or the like.

[0093] Therefore, when the user attempts to turn the knob 191 to the unlocked position, the blocker 12 contacts the inner wall surface of the engaging hole 191a of the knob 191, and the unlocking operation is blocked. That is, in order to transition to the second state in which the turning of the crescent lock 19 is permitted, it is necessary to operate the switching mechanism 13 to retract the blocker 12 from the turning path of the knob 191.

[0094] As illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34, when the motor 131 is driven based on the control signal CT output from the authentication device 16, the cam pin 135 moves around the rotation axis M of the motor 131 and displaces the cam follower 136 toward the inside of the housing 11. As a result, the blocker 12 is drawn into the housing 11 (retracts from the turning path of the knob 191) against the biasing force of the biasing member 123.

[0095] When the motor 131 rotates in the reverse direction, the force pulling the cam follower 136 inside the housing 11 is released, and the biasing force of the biasing member 123 is released. As a result, the cam follower 136 is displaced to the position illustrated in FIG. 33, and the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 191 again by the biasing force of the biasing member 123 as illustrated in FIG. 35. At this time, the inclined surface 122 of the blocker 12 is arranged to face the knob 191 that is turned from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0096] When the user turns the knob 191 to the locked position, as illustrated in FIG. 36, the knob 191 abuts against the inclined surface 122 of the blocker 12 and pushes the blocker 12 into the housing 11 (retires it from the turning path of the knob 191) against the biasing force of the biasing member 123. When the knob 191 is displaced to the locked position illustrated in FIG. 32, the force pushing the blocker 12 is released, and the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 191 again by the biasing force of the biasing member 123.

[0097] That is, when transitioning to the first state where the rotation of the crescent lock 19 is blocked, the operation of the switching mechanism 13 is not required. According to such a configuration, power consumption by the switching mechanism 13 can be suppressed.

[0098] FIG. 37 shows another configuration of the switching mechanism 13. The switching mechanism 13 according to this example is configured to switch from a state where the rotation of the crescent lock 19 is blocked to an allowed state by rotating the blocker 12 about a rotation axis R extending parallel to the rotation axis A of the knob 191.

[0099] The switching mechanism 13 according to this example includes a motor 131, a pinion gear 132, a transmission gear 134, and a final gear 137. The pinion gear 132 is coupled to the motor 131. The final gear 137 is coupled to the blocker 12. The transmission gear 134 meshes with the pinion gear 132 and the final gear 137. The blocker 12 according to this example also has a vertical surface 121, an inclined surface 122, and a biasing member 123.

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 38, in a state where the blocker 12 has entered the turning path of the knob 191, the vertical surface 121 faces the inner wall of the engagement hole 191a so as to prevent the turning of the knob 191 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0101] Therefore, when the user attempts to turn the knob 191 to the unlocked position, the blocker 12 abuts against the inner wall surface of the engagement hole 191a of the knob 191, and the unlocking operation is blocked. That is, in order to transition to the second state in which the turning of the crescent lock 19 is permitted, it is necessary to operate the switching mechanism 13 to retract the blocker 12 from the turning path of the knob 191.

[0102] When the motor 131 is driven based on the control signal CT output from the authentication device 16, the rotation of the pinion gear 132 is transmitted to the final gear 137 via the transmission gear 134, and the blocker 12 rotates about the rotation axis R. As illustrated in FIG. 39, the rotation of the blocker 12 continues until the inclined surface 122 faces the inner wall of the engagement hole 191a where the vertical surface 121 initially faced.

[0103] When the user turns the knob 191 to the unlocked position, as illustrated in FIG. 40, the inner wall of the engagement hole 191a abuts against the inclined surface 122 of the blocker 12, and the blocker 12 is pushed into the housing 11 (retracted from the turning path of the knob 191) against the biasing force of the biasing member 123. When the knob 191 passes the position facing the blocker 12, the force pushing the blocker 12 is released, and the blocker 12 enters the turning path of the knob 191 again due to the biasing force of the biasing member 123. At this time, the vertical surface 121 of the blocker 12 is arranged to face the knob 191 that is turned from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0104] Thereafter, when the motor 131 is driven again based on the control signal CT output from the authentication device 16, the blocker 12 rotates to the state illustrated in FIG. 38. That is, the inclined surface 122 of the blocker 12 is arranged to face the knob 191 that is turned from the unlocked position to the locked position.

[0105] The knob 191 according to this example has an inclined surface 191b. When the user turns the knob 191 to the locking position, the inclined surface 191b abuts against the inclined surface 122 of the blocker 12, and pushes the blocker 12 into the housing 11 (recedes it from the turning path of the knob 191) against the biasing force of the biasing member 123. When the knob 191 is displaced to the locking position illustrated in FIG. 38, the force pushing the blocker 12 is released, and the biasing force of the biasing member 123 causes the blocker 12 to enter the turning path of the knob 191 again.

[0106] That is, also in this example, when transitioning to the first state where the turning of the crescent lock 19 is blocked, the operation of the switching mechanism 13 is not required. According to such a configuration, power consumption by the switching mechanism 13 can be suppressed. In addition, the operation performed by the switching mechanism 13 in this example is only to rotate the blocker 12 by half a turn around the rotation axis R, and it is not necessary to resist the biasing force of the biasing member 123. Therefore, power consumption by the switching mechanism 13 can be further suppressed.

[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 26, the housing 11 according to this example includes a first housing 111 and a second housing 112. The first housing 111 supports the crescent lock 19 and houses the blocker 12 and the switching mechanism 13. The second housing 112 houses the power source 152. The power source 152 supplies power to at least the switching mechanism 13 and the authentication device 16. The power source 152 is a rechargeable secondary battery. Charging may be performed by USB power supply or non-contact power supply.

[0108] As illustrated in FIG. 41, the second housing 112 is detachable from the first housing 111. In this example, even when the second housing 112 is removed from the first housing 111 while the blocker 12 is blocking the turning of the crescent lock 19 in the first housing 111, the state is configured to be maintained.

[0109] According to such a configuration, by making the second housing 112 detachable from the first housing 111, convenience such as charging work can be enhanced while maintaining the security of the locking device 10.

[0110] In this example, a first magnetic connector 152a is provided on the first housing 111, and a second magnetic connector 152b is provided on the second housing 112. When the first magnetic connector 152a and the second magnetic connector 152b are attracted by magnetic force, a power supply path from the power supply 152 to the switching mechanism 13 and the authentication device 16 is formed. That is, the mounting state of the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 is maintained by magnetic force.

[0111] According to such a configuration, the detachability and attachability of the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can be improved.

[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 42, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 may be mounted by fitting a guide rib 111a provided on the first housing 111 into a guide groove 112a formed on the second housing 112. The relationship between the guide rib and the guide groove may be reversed. In this case, when a first contact 152c provided on the first housing 111 and a second contact 152d provided on the second housing 112 come into contact with each other, a power supply path from the power supply 152 to the switching mechanism 13 and the authentication device 16 is formed.

[0113] Each configuration described so far is merely an example for facilitating the understanding of the present disclosure. Each configuration example can be appropriately modified and combined with other configuration examples without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0114] In each of the above configuration examples, fingerprint information is used as biometric information. However, iris images, face images, blood vessel images, voiceprints, etc. can also be used as biometric information.

[0115] In each of the above configuration examples, the crescent lock used to prevent or allow turning by the locking device 10 is used to lock and unlock the window. However, the locking device 10 can be used for any appropriate opening and closing body that requires suppression of an unintended operation of the crescent lock.

[0116] Each configuration listed below also constitutes a part of the present disclosure. Item 1: A lock device for a crescent-shaped lock that locks and unlocks an opening / closing body, A switching mechanism that is driven by electricity and can switch between a first state that prevents the rotation of the crescent-shaped lock and a second state that allows the rotation, An authentication device that causes the switching mechanism to perform at least a switch from the first state to the second state when receiving specified biometric information, and is provided with a lock device. The biometric information is fingerprint information, The lock device according to Item 1. Item 3: The authentication device can select an operating state in which, when a specified capacitance change is detected instead of receiving the fingerprint information, the switching mechanism is caused to perform at least a switch from the first state to the second state, The lock device according to Item 2. Item 4: A housing that houses the switching mechanism, A blocker that can be displaced by the switching mechanism, and The housing is attached to the opening / closing body such that in the first state, the blocker enters the rotation path of the knob of the crescent-shaped lock, and in the second state, the blocker retreats from the rotation path, The lock device according to any one of Items 1 to 3. Item 5: The width dimension of the blocker in the direction along the rotation axis of the knob is larger than the width dimension of the knob in the direction, The lock device according to Item 4. Item 6: It is provided with a lid body that is displaceable between a first position where the battery housed in the housing and supplying the power is made non-exchangeable and a second position where the battery can be exchanged. When the lid body is displaced from the first position to the second position, the switching mechanism retracts the blocker from the turning path without supplying the power. The locking device according to item 4 or 5. Item 7: The lid body is locked to the housing by a screw. An opening having a width dimension smaller than the diameter of the head of the screw is formed in the lid body. The lid body covers the screw while exposing the driving portion of the screw from the opening. The locking device according to item 6. Item 8: It is provided with a blocker that engages with the knob of the crescent-shaped tablet in the first state. The switching mechanism displaces the blocker to a state where the engagement with the knob can be released in the second state. The locking device according to any one of items 1 to 3. Item 9: The switching mechanism switches the first state to the second state by moving the blocker in a direction parallel to the turning axis of the knob. The locking device according to item 8. Item 10: The switching mechanism switches the first state to the second state by rotating the blocker about a rotation axis extending parallel to the turning axis of the knob. The locking device according to item 8. Item 11: A first housing that houses the switching mechanism and the blocker, A second housing that houses a rechargeable power source for supplying the power and is detachable from the first housing, are provided. Even if the second housing is removed from the first housing in the first state, the first state is maintained. The locking device according to any one of Items 8 to 10. Item 12: The attached state of the first housing and the second housing is maintained by magnetic force. The locking device according to Item 11. Item 13: It is provided with a notification device that performs notification when the opening of the opening / closing body is detected in the first state. The locking device according to any one of Items 1 to 12. Item 14: It is provided with a communication device that wirelessly transmits information indicating at least one of being in the first state and being in the second state. The locking device according to any one of Items 1 to 13. Item 15: It is provided with a light source that emits light toward the opening / closing body in the first state. The locking device according to any one of Items 1 to 14.

Explanation of Signs

[0117] 10: Locking device, 11: Housing, 111: First housing, 112: Second housing, 12: Blocker, 13: Switching mechanism, 14: Battery cover, 143: Screw, 143a: Driving part, 143b: Head, 144: Opening, 151: Battery, 16: Authentication device, 182: Notification device, 183: Communication device, 184: Light source, 19: Crescent lock, 191: Knob, 20: Crescent lock, 21: Knob, A: Swivel axis of the knob, F: Window frame, FP: Fingerprint information, P: Swivel path, R: Rotation axis, W1 to W3: Width dimensions

Claims

1. A lock device for a crescent-shaped lock that unlocks and locks an opening / closing body, a switching mechanism that is driven by electricity and can switch between a first state that prevents the crescent-shaped lock from turning and a second state that allows the turning, an authentication device that causes the switching mechanism to perform at least the switching from the first state to the second state when specified biometric information is received, comprising: a lock device.

2. The biometric information is fingerprint information, The lock device according to claim 1.

3. The authentication device can select an operating state in which, instead of receiving the fingerprint information, when a specified capacitance change is detected, at least the switching from the first state to the second state is caused to be performed by the switching mechanism, The lock device according to claim 2.

4. a housing that houses the switching mechanism, a blocker that can be displaced by the switching mechanism, comprising: The housing is attached to the opening / closing body such that in the first state, the blocker enters the turning path of the knob of the crescent-shaped lock, and in the second state, the blocker retreats from the turning path, The lock device according to claim 1.

5. The width dimension of the blocker in the direction along the turning axis of the knob is larger than the width dimension of the knob in that direction, The lock device according to claim 4.

6. comprising a lid that can be displaced between a first position that makes it impossible to replace a battery housed in the housing and supplies power and a second position that allows replacement, When the lid is displaced from the first position to the second position, the switching mechanism retreats the blocker from the turning path without supplying power, The lock device according to claim 4.

7. The lid is locked to the housing by a screw, An opening having a width dimension smaller than the diameter of the head of the screw is formed in the lid, The lid covers the screw while exposing the driving part of the screw from the opening, The lock device according to claim 6.

8. comprising a blocker that engages with the knob of the crescent-shaped lock in the first state, The switching mechanism displaces the blocker to a state where the engagement with the knob can be released in the second state, The lock device according to claim 1.

9. The switching mechanism switches the first state to the second state by moving the blocker in a direction parallel to the turning axis of the knob, The lock device according to claim 8.

10. The switching mechanism switches the first state to the second state by rotating the blocker about a rotation axis extending parallel to the rotation axis of the knob. The locking device according to claim 8.

11. A first housing that houses the switching mechanism and the blocker; A second housing that houses a rechargeable power source for supplying the power and is detachable from the first housing; and even if the second housing is removed from the first housing in the first state, the first state is maintained. The locking device according to claim 8.

12. The attached state of the first housing and the second housing is maintained by magnetic force. The locking device according to claim 11.

13. It is provided with a notification device that performs notification when the opening of the opening / closing body is detected in the first state. The locking device according to claim 1.

14. It is provided with a communication device that wirelessly transmits information indicating at least one of being in the first state and being in the second state. The locking device according to claim 1.

15. It is provided with a light source that emits light toward the opening / closing body in the first state. The locking device according to claim 1.

Images