Electrical multi-contact system with key having insulating zone

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of keys and locks.

[0002] The present invention more particularly relates to a multi-contact system comprising a housing defining a cavity configured to receive at least an encrypted portion of a key, the encrypted portion of the key having a crypto section formed at least in part by a conductive material, the housing comprising a plurality of electrical contacts on an inner surface of the cavity intended to contact the crypto section of the encrypted portion of the key when said key is in an inserted position within the cavity of the housing, said electrical contacts being connected to a microcontroller configured to communicate with an effector. [Background technology]

[0003] There are a variety of mechanical locks, from latches to pin locks; electric locks operated by servo motors or electromagnetic systems; locks controlled by image recognition (fingerprint, retina, iris, face, etc.); and radio-controlled locks.

[0004] Pin locks are one of the most widely used locks, and their industrialization has been thoroughly mastered. They rely on the use of overlapping pins within a bore. When the key presses the upper pin, the interface between the pins coincides with the shear plane, allowing the rotor to rotate inside the stator, or the moving part to slide relative to the fixed part. This proven technology is reliable, but requires high-quality machining with tight tolerances.

[0005] All have advantages and disadvantages, and the ideal lock must meet several competing requirements.

[0006] That is, the key must be practical, inexpensive, easy to manufacture but difficult to duplicate, robust but not bulky, etc. The lock must resist picking, bumping, drilling, and brute force attacks while remaining as inexpensive as possible. For example, it must be able to be installed without excessively damaging the door, be easily manufactured with as little machining as possible, maintain good lubrication over time, and not be overly heavy or cumbersome so as to be able to withstand hacking, particularly for digital or computer-controlled locks.

[0007] Tamper-resistant locks do not currently exist. As with theft prevention practices, the general idea is that a locking system, to be effective, must require more energy or money to defeat than the object being protected, or in either case, it must take a long time so that an intruder is likely to be thwarted before they can complete their job.

[0008] In most vehicles, turning the ignition key in the lock connects two wires, thus closing the electrical circuit that operates the vehicle, turning the ignition on. Further turning of the ignition key or pressing a switch closes the starter circuit and starts the engine. While this traditional system is highly practical and widely used, removing the lock or accessing the two ignition and starter wires allows the vehicle to start. Furthermore, these pin-and-barrel locks are extremely expensive, requiring high-precision machining and the use of high-quality metal alloys.

[0009] Electronic key systems include an infrared or radio remote control and a transponder. When the driver turns on the ignition, the transponder activates an electrical current, starting the vehicle. The transponder typically consists of two components: a key and a contactor. Additionally, a transponder can be connected to a fuel pump's solenoid valve to prevent ignition, creating a highly effective immobilizer. Complex and time-consuming disassembly is the only way to use the vehicle. However, these systems can sometimes be hacked very quickly with the right electronic or computer tools, and the race between thief and defender is often won by the criminal. Furthermore, the cost of this type of device is quite high, limiting its use to luxury vehicles.

[0010] Although numerous patents have been filed for multi-contact devices (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 9,748,685 B2, European Pat. No. 2,485,334 B1, U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 201202391 A1), these systems are not designed to be connected and disconnected tens of thousands of times and therefore cannot be used as key and lock systems. In fact, cards are made of insulating material and have electrical contact zones on their surface. These zones are very thin and prone to peeling, abrasion, or separation from the conductors that connect them.

[0011] French Patent Application No. 2108751, pending, uses a spring-loaded pin in a well to establish contact between a metal key and a conductor connected to a transponder. The system consists of a housing with a cover and a housing body with a pin shaft drilled through it. Each well includes a pin, a spring, and a plug or a shoulder within the well that replaces the plug and holds the spring. The housing is drilled below the cover to allow the key to be inserted. The key's bore ensures that when the pin is raised and abutting the bore, it does not contact the contacts, thus creating an open switch. When the pin is in the lower position, in contact with a key without a bore, it contacts the contacts, creating a closed switch. This pin-based system is extremely reliable and robust, but requires a certain thickness and several manufacturing operations. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0012] The aim of the present invention is to remedy some or all of the shortcomings of the current state of the art by proposing a key solution that is reliable and long-lasting in operation, while offering improved security guarantees, in particular by increasing the level of tamper resistance.

[0013] Another objective is to simplify key operation while reducing thickness and part count, as well as manufacturing costs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0014] To this end, according to a first aspect of the invention, a multi-contact system is proposed, comprising a housing defining a cavity adapted to receive at least an encrypted part of a key, the encrypted part of the key having a crypto section formed at least in part by an electrically conductive material, the housing comprising a plurality of electrical contacts on an inner surface of the cavity intended to come into contact with the crypto section of the encrypted part of the key when said key is in an inserted position in the cavity of the housing, said electrical contacts being connected to a computing unit adapted to communicate with an effector, the multi-contact system being such that the crypto section of the encrypted part of the key comprises an electrically insulating zone, the multi-contact system being such that when said key is in an inserted position in the cavity of the housing forming an open switch for each of the electrical contacts located opposite an insulating contact zone of the encryption section of the encryption part of the key formed by one of the insulating zones; For each of the electrical contacts that contact the conductive contact zones of the encryption section of the key outside of these insulating zones, forming a closed switch. The present invention is characterized by being configured as follows.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the housing comprises a housing body and a cover, the housing cavity being at least partially defined by the housing body and the cover, and the electrical contacts preferably being secured to the cover. The configuration in which the electrical contacts are preferably secured to the cover facilitates repair and / or maintenance operations and improves the repairability index of the multi-contact system.

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

[0017] According to one embodiment, the contact zones of the encryption sections of the encryption part of the key, each intended to contact one of the electrical contacts when the key is inserted into the cavity of the housing, are visually identical, in particular this makes it more difficult to duplicate the key, since by making all combinations visually identical it is not possible to visually distinguish between the insulating and conductive contact zones.

[0018] According to one embodiment, some or all of the contact zones, preferably all of the contact zones, comprise a metal core surrounded by rings of electrically insulating material. Whether insulating or conductive, these insulating rings are arranged parallel to the surface plane of the useful face of the key, i.e., the face of the cryptographic section of the encryption part of the key, and preferably flush with this surface so that they are visible. Whether insulating or conductive contact zones, the same rings are visible, making it impossible to distinguish them from the outside.

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

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

[0021] According to one embodiment, the key has recesses forming wells located in each contact zone for receiving studs, each well of the conductive contact zone being configured to receive a conductive stud and each well of the insulating contact zone being configured to receive an insulating stud. Such a configuration greatly simplifies the key, allowing the key body with wells to be manufactured first, and then the conductive studs and insulating studs to be attached and accommodated in the associated wells according to the key code. The manufacture of the key body is no longer dependent on the key code.

[0022] According to one embodiment, each recess or well is provided with a partition insert configured to cover the bottom of the associated well. Preferably, this partition is made of an electrically insulating material for all wells, and even more preferably, the partition is identical for all wells. This simplifies the key manufacturing process, as installation of this partition does not depend on the key code.

[0023] According to one embodiment, each of the studs comprises a metal core surrounded at the top by a ring of electrically insulating material, preferably in this case each pair of metal core and ring of electrically insulating material being identical for all contact zones, i.e. for all wells.

[0024] According to one embodiment, each conductive stud is at least partially surrounded at its lower part by a conductive element preferably located vertically below the insulating ring, so as to conduct electricity between the metal core and the sidewall of the associated well at the insertion position of the corresponding conductive stud, wherein at the insertion position of the associated conductive stud, the conductive element is preferably located vertically between the lower partition (whether made of an electrically insulating or conductive material) and the upper insulating ring, preferably interposed therebetween, with the insulating ring being visible to the user.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the electrically insulating zone is formed at least in part by an insulating coating preferably locally deposited on the surface of the crypto section of the encryption part of the key. If it is desired that the contact zones of the crypto section of the encryption part of the key, each intended to contact one of the electrical contacts in the inserted position of the key into the cavity of the housing, are visually identical, the conductive zone comprises a conductive coating locally deposited on the surface of the crypto section of the encryption part of the key, in which case the conductive coating is chosen to be visually identical to the insulating coating.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the key has a recess located in each insulating zone and filled with an electrically insulating material having an outer surface that is flush with the outer surface of the encryption section of the encryption part of the key to limit wear on the electrical contacts that rub against the key when inserted into the cavity.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the multi-contact system comprises at least one resilient retractable lug that enters the cavity and is inserted into a notch in the encryption portion of the key when the key is in the inserted position in the cavity of the housing to hold the key in the inserted position and to indicate to the user the correct insertion position of the key.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the cavity of the housing has a shape complementary to the shape of the encryption portion of the key, thus allowing said encryption portion of the key to slide within the cavity while being guided and constrained in its translation and positioning.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the body of the housing is made from a metallic material and is connected to the electrical terminals of the electric dipole.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the body of the housing is made of an electrically insulating material, for example a plastic material, and the body of the housing comprises a plug for connecting the electrical terminals of the electric dipole to the key when said key is in an inserted position in the housing.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts comprise resilient means configured to resiliently restrain said electrical contacts to contact and abut the encryption section of the encryption portion of the key when the key is in an inserted position in the cavity of the housing.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the encryption portions of the key intended to cooperate in the cavity of the housing each have chamfered sides so as to have a trapezoidal cross section, and preferably the distal end of the encryption portion of the key also has a chamfered front face. The advantage of this shape is that it serves the key function, protects the electrical contacts and printed circuit board (PCB) from excessive pressure of the key, and is more economical to manufacture.

[0033] According to one embodiment, each of the electrical contacts comprises an assembly of two sliding cylinders constrained relative to each other by an internal spring, and each of the electrical contacts preferably comprises a Pogo™ pin. The use of such pins simplifies the overall structure of the multi-contact system and reduces the number of components.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the computing unit is configured to communicate with the effector by transmitting information such as a predetermined encryption key, e.g., a key including hundreds or thousands of bits, when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts is connected to a predetermined electrode. As another example, the predetermined encryption key may be a 128-bit or 256-bit key.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the computing unit is configured to detect live electrical contacts, and preferably, if an incorrect combination different from a predetermined combination of electrical contacts is detected, the computing unit initiates a refractory period that prevents further key attempts for a predetermined time.

[0036] Furthermore, the present invention relates to an actuation mechanism for a device comprising a multi-contact system as described above, the actuation mechanism being configured to command an effector to actuate the device when a key is inserted into a cavity in the housing and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system, in particular when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts is connected to predetermined electrodes, the predetermined combination representing the insertion of a key for the device into the cavity in the housing.

[0037] The term "activation" is used herein in the broadest sense and can refer to any action, such as a command to start, stop, or allow access by, for example, energizing a magnetic lock, or to allow access to a computer terminal, computer file, or computer network, or to allow or deny use of a function of a device.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the actuation mechanism is an ignition switch for a device such as a powered road vehicle, and actuation of the device corresponds to starting the vehicle.

[0039] The present invention further relates to an ignition switch for a powered road vehicle, the ignition switch featuring a multi-contact system configured to command an effector to start the vehicle when a vehicle key is inserted into a cavity in the housing and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system. In particular, the key is recognized by the multi-contact system when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts is connected to predetermined electrodes, the predetermined combination of electrical contacts representing insertion of the vehicle key into the housing.

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

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

[0042] The present invention therefore further relates to an ignition control member comprising an effector and a multi-contact system. The ignition control member comprises a control unit having a microprocessor and / or microcontroller. The control unit is configured to allow starting of a vehicle when a key is inserted into a cavity in the housing and the key is recognized by the multi-contact system. The control unit is connected to a main module of the effector by a switch configured to switch between an ignition position, in which the effector allows starting of the vehicle, and a stop position, in which the effector prevents starting of the vehicle.

[0043] Such a multi-contact system thus provides a simple mechanical man-machine interface (key inserted into housing) that allows a highly complex password or other code contained in a microcontroller activated by the correct key to be transmitted to the electronic circuits of the vehicle's major components or any system to be protected. The entire package is extremely affordable. The mechanical combination and password can be randomly assigned during the manufacturing process. Such a system can easily be added to or replace an existing system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0045] [Figure 1] 1 shows a schematic isometric perspective view of a multi-contact locking system according to one embodiment with a key in an inserted position within a housing. [Figure 2] 2 shows a schematic front view of the multi-contact locking system shown in FIG. 1 with the key in the inserted position in the housing. [Figure 3] 2 shows a schematic diagram of the bottom of the multi-contact locking system shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 4] 3 shows a schematic isometric perspective view from below of the key shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2 in a position separated from the housing. [Figure 5] 2 shows a horizontal cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 with the key in an inserted position within the housing; [Figure 6] 1 shows a schematic diagram of the working principle of an electrical contact according to one embodiment; [Figure 7] 1 shows a vertical cross section of the housing passing through some electrical contacts in a key-free position, i.e., when no key is inserted in the associated cavity of the housing. [Figure 8] 8 shows a view similar to FIG. 7 with the key in an inserted position within the housing. [Figure 9] 2 shows a schematic diagram of the operating principle of the multi-contact system shown in the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing an ignition control member according to a first embodiment; [Figure 10] 10 shows a bottom view of a key according to another embodiment. [Figure 11] 11 shows a longitudinal cross section of the key of FIG. 10; [Figure 12] 12 shows an isometric perspective view of a longitudinal section of a multi-contact system according to another embodiment similar to FIG. 11 with the key in an inserted position within the housing. [Figure 13]10 shows an isometric perspective view of a key body according to another embodiment in a position separated from the housing. [Figure 14] 14 shows an isometric perspective view of a longitudinal section of the key according to the embodiment of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] 14 shows an isometric perspective view of a longitudinal cross section of a key according to the embodiment of FIG. 13 with a detailed view of the cryptographic section of the encryption portion of the key. [Figure 16] 16 shows an isometric perspective view of an insulating stud according to the embodiment of FIG. 15. [Figure 17] 16 shows an isometric perspective view of a conductive stud according to the embodiment of FIG. 15. [Figure 18] 18 shows an isometric perspective view of a conductive stud according to the variant embodiment of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] 4 shows a schematic diagram of the operating principle of an ignition control member according to a second embodiment; [Figure 20] 10 shows an operational diagram of a multi-contact system of an ignition control member according to a second embodiment. [Figure 21] 5 shows an operation diagram of an ignition control unit according to a second embodiment.

[0046] For the sake of clarity, identical or similar elements are identified by the same reference numerals in all figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0047] 1 shows a schematic isometric perspective view of a multi-contact locking system 100 according to one embodiment. The multi-contact system 100 comprises a housing 2 into which a key 1 can be inserted. In the illustrated embodiment, the multi-contact system 100 is for an ignition switch of a motorized road vehicle, such as an automobile. Ignition switches are also known in the state of the art as "Neiman" switches. The ignition switch is configured to prevent the vehicle from starting when the key 1 is not recognized by the multi-contact system 100 and to allow the vehicle to start when the key 1 is recognized. However, the multi-contact system 100 according to the present invention is not limited to use only in ignition switches.

[0048] The key 1 has a handle 6 that forms the head of the key 1 and is configured to provide the user with a gripping zone for the key 1. Furthermore, the key 1 includes an encryption portion 1A located in the axial extension of the handle along the reference axis X, the encryption portion 1A being designed to be received in a cavity 16 of the housing 2. In the insertion position of the key 1 in the housing 2, only the handle 6 of the key 1 protrudes from the housing, i.e. the handle 6 remains protruding from said housing 2 in this insertion position. The handle 6 of the key 1 is provided with a key holder hole 7 for convenient and efficient attachment to a key ring.

[0049] The housing 2 comprises a main body 3A and a cover 3B, which are fixed to one another by fastening means. The cover 3B is attached to the main body 3A by, for example, but not by way of limitation, screws 14. The housing 2 defines an interior space of a cavity 16 and has an axial opening for inserting a key 1 from a front face 19 of the housing 2, through which the key 1 is axially inserted into the cavity 16. The direction of translation of the key 1 is indicated by arrow 37 (see FIG. 1 ). The front face 19 of the housing 2 is axially opposite a rear face 10 of the housing 2, and the housing 2 is vertically defined by two faces, a bottom face 11 and a top face 9.

[0050] The housing 2 is formed here by assembling a body 3A of the housing 2 with a cover 3B, these two parts cooperating to define a cavity 16. Of course, in certain embodiments, without limitation, the housing 2 may be formed in a single piece.

[0051] FIG. 2 shows a schematic front view of the multi-contact locking system shown in FIG.

[0052] The cavity 16 is in the form of a slot into which the encryption portion 1A can be inserted. The cavity 16 of the housing 2 has a shape complementary to that of the encryption portion 1A of the key 1, so that said encryption portion of the key 1 can slide axially within the cavity 16, being guided and constrained in its translation and positioning by said cavity 16.

[0053] The encryption portion 1A of the key 1 extends generally axially from the head to the distal end of the key 1, formed by the handle 6 of the key 1. The encryption portion 1A of the key 1 comprises an encryption section 1B formed at least in part from a conductive material. The encryption section 1B may be a component attached to the encryption portion 1A of the key 1, for example in the form of a metal sheet attached to the encryption portion 1A of the key 1, which is formed from a plastic material. In another convenient configuration, the encryption section 1B may be integrally formed with the encryption portion 1A of the key 1 in the form of a piece of conductive material, for example a metal-based material.

[0054] The housing 2 comprises a plurality of electrical contacts 17 (which can be seen in detail, for example, in Figure 8), each of which is arranged on at least the inner surface 36 of the cavity 16 and is intended to come into contact with the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 when the key 1 is in the inserted position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2.

[0055] According to the present invention, the encryption section 1B of the encryption portion 1A of the key 1 comprises an electrically insulating zone 22, and the multi-contact system 100, when the key 1 is in the inserted position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2, an open switch for each of the electrical contacts 17 located opposite an insulating contact zone of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 formed by one of the insulating zones 22; a closed switch for each of the electrical contacts 17 that contact the conductive contact zones 41 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 outside these insulating zones; is configured to form

[0056] 1 and 2, the housing 2 is formed by assembling a body 3A and a cover 3B of the housing 2, which cooperate to define a cavity 16. The body 3A of the housing 2 is machined to define the cavity 16 in the transverse, lateral, and axial directions relative to a reference axis X. The cavity 16 is vertically defined on one side by a first surface 35 carried by the body 3A of the housing 2 and on the other side by a second surface 36 carried by the cover 3B, which here comprises the integrated circuit 4.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the body 3A of the housing 2 is made from a metallic material and is connected to the electrical terminals of an electric dipole.

[0058] According to another embodiment, the body 3A of the housing 2 is made of an electrically insulating material, for example a plastic material, and the body 3A of the housing 2 is provided with a plug for connecting the electrical terminals of an electric dipole to the key 1 when the key 1 is in the inserted position in the housing 2.

[0059] In this embodiment, the cover 3B of the housing 2 is a flat element that is substantially parallel to a horizontal plane containing the reference axis X and that forms a support for the electrical contacts 17. In other words, each of the electrical contacts 17 is fixed to the cover 3B. The multi-contact system 100 comprises a printed circuit board 4 fixed to the housing 2, with the cover 3B forming the printed circuit board 4.

[0060] The printed circuit board 4 therefore has electrical contacts on one side 36 facing the cavity 16 of the housing 2 and designed to come into contact with the useful side 12 of the key 1, in particular the side 12 of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 carried by the encryption section 1B, when the key 1 is in the inserted position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2.

[0061] The encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 is made of metal. The electrically insulating zone 22 is preferably formed by an insulating coating locally deposited on the surface of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1. In this embodiment, the encryption section 1B is formed integrally with the encryption part 1A of the key 1 in the form of a piece of conductive material, such as a metal-based material. The result is either a completely conductive key 1 or a key with a conductive and insulating zone.

[0062] More precisely, the key 1 has a recess located in each predetermined insulating zone 22 for the key 1 and filled with an electrically insulating material, this material having an outer surface flush with the outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 in order to limit the wear of the electrical contacts 17 that rub against the key 1 when the key 1 is inserted into the cavity 16. The insulating material can be introduced into each of the recesses located in the associated insulating zone 22 by any method suitable to a person skilled in the art, such as, for example, by casting, press-fitting, gluing, etc.

[0063] FIG. 3 shows a schematic diagram of the bottom of the multi-contact locking system 100 shown in FIG.

[0064] FIG. 4 shows a schematic isometric perspective view from below of the key 1 according to the embodiment of FIG. 2 in a position separated from the housing 2. In FIG.

[0065] As can be seen in detail in Figures 3 and 4, the key 1 is provided with at least one notch 27 in its encryption portion 1A, into which the resilient retractable lug 13 of the housing 2 can enter to hold the key 1 in the inserted position and to indicate to the user the correct insertion position of said key 1.

[0066] In particular, the encryption part 1A of the key 1, which is intended to cooperate in the cavity 16 of the housing 2, side faces 21 which together define the width of the encryption portion 1A of the key 1 in the transverse direction, each of which is designed to face one of the sides of the cavity 16 of the housing 2 when said key 1 is in its insertion position therein; a front surface 20 defining the distal end of the key 1, designed to face a side axially defining the bottom of the cavity 16 of the housing 2 when the key 1 is in the insertion position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2; It has.

[0067] The multi-contact system 100 comprises at least one, and preferably two, resilient retractable lugs 13 secured to a first of the key 1 and the housing 2, and at least one, and preferably two, notches 27 secured to a second of the housing 2 and the key 1, each resilient retractable lug 13 configured to be inserted into an associated notch 27. For ease of manufacture, the resilient retractable lugs 13 are secured to the housing 2, and the associated notch 27 is secured to the key 1.

[0068] The notches 27 are particularly located on the side surfaces 21 of the key 1, and resilient retractable lugs 13 are carried by each of the sides of the cavity 16 and are configured to be operated from outside the housing 2, e.g., like a push button, to enter the cavity 16 and engage the associated notch 27 when the key 1 is in its inserted position within the cavity 16 of the housing 2 and the lugs 13 are in the locked position of the key 1. Each retractable lug 13 preferably features a spring-loaded ball that only partially projects into the cavity 16 in the locked position (see FIG. 5). In this way, the ball creates a locking constraint that can be released by manual axial action on the key greater than the force required to hold the key in the cavity 16. In this case, no external operation is required, although it may be useful to have a removable outwardly projecting part to allow manual adjustment of the retractable lugs 13. For example, the spring of the lug 13 may be supported on one side by a ball and on the other side by a threaded, generally cylindrical support which engages with associated threads on the housing 2. Screwing the support into the housing 2 allows manual adjustment of the retractable lug 13.

[0069] 2 and 4, the encryption portion 1A of the key 1, which is designed to cooperate within the cavity 16 of the housing 2, has in particular chamfered edges 26 on its side surfaces 21 and on its front surface 20. The encryption portion 1A of the key 1 has a trapezoidal cross section with sloping sides 21 defined between a larger base carried by the first face 8 or upper surface of the key 1 and a smaller base carried by the second face 12 or lower surface of the key 1, which forms the outer surface of the encryption section 1B facing the printed circuit board 4 and designed to ensure contact with each of the electrical contacts 17 when said key 1 is in the inserted position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2. Alternative configurations are also entirely conceivable in which the smaller base is carried by the first face 8 or upper surface of the key 1 and the larger base is carried by the second face 12 or lower surface of the key 1 (see, for example, FIGS. 13, 14, and 15).

[0070] Generally speaking, the cavity 16 of the housing 2 has a shape complementary to that of the encrypted portion 1A of the key 1, so that said encrypted portion 1A of the key 1 slides in the cavity 16 thus created and is constrained in its translation and positioning. This cavity can be defined, for example, by chamfering, sliding, or any other machining technique preferred by those skilled in the art. This feature makes it possible to limit mechanical stress on the printed circuit board 4, which partially defines the cavity 16 of the housing 2 and in particular forms the wall forming the cover 3B, in order to ensure accurate positioning of the key 1 relative to the electrical contacts 17 when said key 1 is in its inserted position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2. Furthermore, this feature, like the key function, makes it easier to use the multi-contact system 100, since it guarantees the user accurate positioning of the key 1 as soon as it is inserted.

[0071] 3, the electrical contacts 17 are connected to a computing unit 15 configured to communicate with the effector 40. The computing unit 15 comprises at least one microprocessor and / or microcontroller. Preferably, the computing unit 15 is part of an electronic board. In each of the illustrated embodiments, the computing unit 15 comprises a microcontroller.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the electrical contacts may be connected to a microcontroller configured to communicate with the effector 40. In this case, preferably: the microcontroller 15 is configured to communicate with the effector 40 by transmitting predetermined encryption or other information, e.g., a key containing hundreds or thousands of bits, when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 is connected to a predetermined electrode; and / or The microcontroller 15 is configured to detect live electrical contacts, and preferably, if an incorrect combination of electrical contacts is detected that differs from a predetermined combination, the microcontroller 15 initiates a refractory period that prevents further attempts on the key 1 for a predetermined time.

[0073] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of the working principle of the electrical contact 17 according to one embodiment.

[0074] The electrical contact 17 is provided with resilient means 31 that allow good contact with the corresponding surface of the key 1, ie the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1.

[0075] Each of the electrical contacts 17 comprises an assembly of two sliding cylinders 29, 34 restrained relative to one another by an internal spring 31. In particular, such elastic means 31 make it possible to elastically restrain said electrical contacts 17 in contact and abutment with the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 when the key 1 is in the inserted position in the cavity 16 of the housing 2.

[0076] The electrical contacts 17 shown in FIG. 6 correspond to Pogo™ pins 39. Thus, in one embodiment, each electrical contact 17 forms a connector with a base fixed relative to the housing 2, the base defining a first cylinder and having a fixed tubular portion 34 receiving a second cylinder forming the connector's piston 29, which is translationally movable relative to the first cylinder. The piston 29 is spring-loaded by an internal spring 31. The internal spring 31 is disposed between a wall 32 forming the base of the connector 39 and a distal end 33 of the piston 29 opposite the wall 32. The piston 29 can therefore slide in a direction 38 of translation of the piston 29 along an axis perpendicular to a horizontal reference plane, in this case.

[0077] The height of the base is approximately equal to the thickness of the printed circuit board 4. In this way, the collar of the fixed base of each connector can contact the outer wall of the housing 2 to ensure attachment to the housing 2, and the fixed tubular portion 34 is integrally received in a hole in the printed circuit board 4, which here forms the cover 3B of the housing 2. The bottom of the base of the connector 39 is accessible from outside the housing 2 to allow contacts 30 of the connector 39.

[0078] FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal section through the housing 2 passing through some electrical contacts 17 in the key-free position, i.e. without the key 1 inserted in the associated cavity 16 of the housing 2.

[0079] 8 shows a view similar to FIG. 7 with the key 1 inserted into the housing 2. In FIG.

[0080] Connector 39 is When the key 1 is inserted into the cavity 16 of the housing 2, the piston 29 is forced by the encryption part 1A of the key 1, in particular by the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1, into a position retracted within the thickness of the printed circuit board 4; When the cavity 16 of the housing 2 is empty, i.e., when the key 1 is not inserted, the internal spring 31 is released and the piston 29 is in a deployed position within the cavity 16 of the housing 2. It is possible to move between

[0081] Generally, such connectors 39 are particularly suited for temporary connections and are typically designed to withstand hundreds of thousands of cycles of piston 29 insertion and release.

[0082] The electrical contact 17 then abuts the metallic encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 in the cavity and makes direct contact with the metal or insulating zone 22. When the contact 17 touches the metal of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1, it forms a closed switch, while when it touches the electrically insulating zone 22, it forms an open switch.

[0083] FIG. 9 shows a schematic diagram of the operating principle of the multi-contact system 100 according to the embodiment of FIG.

[0084] The computing unit 15 is configured to communicate with the effector 40 by transmitting information such as a predetermined encryption key, for example a 128-bit or 256-bit key, when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 connected to predetermined electrodes is ensured when the key 1 is inserted into the cavity 16 of the housing 2.

[0085] A ground plug 5 on the housing 2 is connected to ground (vehicle battery negative) by a wire attached by welding, screwing, or any other connector known to those skilled in the art.

[0086] In this example, a grounding plug 5, intended to be connected to a pole of an electric circuit, possibly to earth in the case of direct current or to the neutral in the case of alternating current, is attached to the housing 2, here by means of fastening screws 14, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0087] In this embodiment, conductive wires 18 connect each connector 39 to an identified terminal on computing unit 15 in such a way that computing unit 15 recognizes each wire 18. More precisely, conductive wires 18 are attached to each connector 39 by connectors or solder, or in any other manner preferred by one skilled in the art, and connected to identified terminals on computing unit 15, so that computing unit 15 recognizes the combination of wires 18 through which current flows corresponding to the signal emitted by housing 2, i.e., the electrical contacts that form the open switch. In this way, the set of electrical contacts 17 form a combination of open and closed switches carried by body 28 of multi-contact system 100 that is unique to a given housing 2 and key 1 combination to enable the transmission of the correct information.

[0088] Those skilled in the art would bundle the wires 18 and connect them to the microcontroller 15. Alternatively, those skilled in the art could choose to mount the computing unit 15 on the underside of the housing 2 so that the connector 39 is directly connected.

[0089] The computing unit 15 itself is supplied with electricity via a ground wire 25 and a wire 24 connected to the vehicle's positive (+) pole (or phase in the case of an AC system). A person skilled in the art will choose the best way to ensure that the response of the computing unit 15 to any signal emitted from the housing 2 is time-delayed, to make any attempt to hack the system 100 more difficult and, above all, much more time-consuming. This means that any key 1 attempt will require a certain amount of waiting time to get a result.

[0090] The computing unit 15 receives the correct information from the housing 2 via electrical contacts 17 and, after an optional delay, transmits the correct information via a network 23, typically a wired control network such as a CAN-based network, an electrical harness (or wirelessly or any other method as selected by one skilled in the art) to an effector 40. The effector 40 is selected by one skilled in the art and may be, for example, but not limited to, the vehicle motherboard, the vehicle computer, the ignition system, the fuel pump, the starter, the steering hydraulic circuit, the lock servo motor, or any other component essential to the operation of the vehicle or the system being protected.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the computing unit 15 is configured to detect live electrical contacts, and preferably when an incorrect combination different from the predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 is detected, the computing unit 15 initiates a refractory period that prevents further attempts on the key 1 for a predetermined time. Thus, a brute force attack on the system consisting of trying all possible combinations is extremely time consuming.

[0092] The device according to the invention is particularly intended for use as a contact device for a vehicle. In each of the illustrated embodiments, the multi-contact system 100 is intended for a vehicle ignition switch. The multi-contact system 100 is designed to recognize a key 1 when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 is connected to predetermined electrodes, which indicates the insertion of the vehicle key 1 into the housing 2.

[0093] In each of the illustrated embodiments, the ignition switch and effector 40 cooperate to form an ignition control member configured to control the starting of the vehicle.

[0094] The ignition control member shown in Figure 19 differs from that shown in Figure 9 mainly in that the control unit 50 is located between the multi-contact system 100 and the main module 52 of the effector 40. The control unit 50 and main module 52 shown in Figure 19 are similar to the effector 40 of the control unit according to the embodiment of Figure 9.

[0095] The multi-contact system 100 shown in Figure 19 is substantially identical to that shown in Figure 9. In particular, the multi-contact system 100 recognizes the key 1 when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts 17 is connected to predetermined electrodes, which combination of electrical contacts 17 represents the insertion of the vehicle key 1 into the housing 2.

[0096] The control unit 50 preferably includes an electronic control board. The control unit 50 includes a microprocessor 54 and / or a microcontroller. More generally, the control unit 50 includes a computing unit. Furthermore, the control unit 50 includes a switch 56, also known as a relay. The control unit 50 is connected to the multi-contact system 100 via the network 23, which is typically a CAN-based wired control network. The start enable or start inhibit information received by the control unit 50 from the multi-contact system 100 is preferably encrypted. The control unit 50 is configured to command the main module 52 to start the vehicle when the key 1 is inserted into the cavity 16 of the housing 2 and recognized by the multi-contact system 100.

[0097] The microprocessor 54 and / or microcontroller of the control unit 50 are electrically connected to the switch 56. In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic board of the control unit 50 preferably includes the microprocessor 54. The microprocessor 54 is configured to communicate with the microcontroller 15 in the housing 2 and receive start information, such as start permission or start prohibition, for example. The switch 56 is electrically connected to the main module 52. The switch 56 is configured to switch between a start position, which allows the effector 40 to start the vehicle, and a stop or no-start position, which prevents the effector 40 from starting the vehicle. The switch 56 is connected to the microprocessor 54, and the switch 56 transmits a start command or a stop command from the microprocessor 54 to the main module 56.

[0098] 9 embodiment, main module 52 includes, for example, but not limited to, a vehicle motherboard, a vehicle ECU, an ignition system, a fuel pump, a starter, steering hydraulics, and lock actuators. Main module 52 is electrically connected to control unit 50 in a manner such that main module 52 cannot be activated to enable starting of the vehicle in the absence of a start command from control unit 50. For example, a power source for main module 52 is integrated into control unit 50. As a further example, main module 52 is configured to be damaged if called upon to enable starting of the vehicle in the absence of a start command from control unit 50.

[0099] FIG. 20 illustrates a method 200 of operation for the computing unit 15 of the multi-contact system 100 shown in FIG. 19. In step 201, the computing unit 15 is turned on and operational. The computing unit 15 is turned on, for example, when the vehicle door is opened. Optionally, a delay 203 is provided between the start of powering the computing unit 15 and the start of detecting the key 1. The computing unit 15 then detects the presence or absence of the key 1 in the cavity 16 of the housing 2 in a key detection step 205. If the key 1 is detected in the cavity 16 of the housing 2, the multi-contact system 100 checks whether the key has been recognized in a verification step 207. The key 1 is verified by verifying that a predetermined combination of the electrical contacts 17 is connected to predetermined electrodes, which indicates the insertion of the vehicle key 1 into the housing 2. If key 1 is detected and not recognized, it may again be detected whether key 1 is still present in cavity 16, and if so, whether key 1 is recognized may again be detected in a subsequent verification step 209. If key 1 is recognized, computing unit 15 sends a start command or a start permission command 211 to control unit 50. FIG. 21 shows an operation method 300 for control unit 50 of FIG. 19. In step 301, control unit 50 is turned on and becomes operational. The control unit 50 is turned on, for example, when a vehicle door is opened. Optionally, a delay 303 may be provided between the start of power supply to control unit 50 and the start of detecting a command from multi-contact system 100. Then, in step 305 of detecting a command from multi-contact system 100, control unit 50 detects a start command / start permission command that may come from multi-contact system 100. In step 305 of detecting a command from multi-contact system 100, control unit 50 detects a non-start command that may come from multi-contact system 100. When a start command / start enable command is detected, the switch 56 is biased towards the start position in a switching step 307 .When switch 56 is in the start position, effector main module 52 checks whether the vehicle's engine is off in a check engine step 309. If the engine is off, the engine is started. For example, switch 56 is automatically biased toward the no-start position in a no-start step 311, which is a safety position for switch 56, particularly to prevent vehicle theft.

[0100] Figures 10, 11 and 12 show a multi-contact system 100 according to another embodiment, in which the contact zones of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1, each intended to contact one of the electrical contacts 17 at the insertion position of the key 1 in the cavity 16 of the housing 2, are visually identical.

[0101] In particular, in this embodiment, all contact zones, i.e., conductive contact zone 41 and insulating contact zone 22, comprise a metal core 45, 46 surrounded by a ring 42 of electrically insulating material. In the conductive contact zone 41, each of the metal cores 45 is electrically connected to the conductive material of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1. In the insulating contact zone 22, each of the metal cores 46 is electrically insulated from the conductive material of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 by an insulating envelope consisting of at least a ring 42 and a sleeve 47 of electrically insulating material.

[0102] According to one embodiment, in the conductive zone 41, the metal cores 45 are connected to the metallic body of the key, for example by groove-machining a space that forms annular grooves 43 around these cores 45, which are an integral part of the body of the key 1, after which the insulating rings 42 are filled with an insulating material identical to that used for the insulating zone 22. Once seated in the associated groove 43, each insulating ring 42 lies flush with the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1.

[0103] According to one embodiment, in the insulating zone 22, dead-end wells 44 are machined in the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1, each of these shafts 44 having a diameter identical to that of the aforementioned ring-shaped groove 43. At the bottom of these wells 44, an insulating sleeve 47 is located to insulate the metal core 46 from the metallic body of the key.

[0104] In particular, each of these sleeves 47 has an outer diameter to fit into the well 44, an inner diameter to allow a portion of the metal core 46 to be inserted therein, and a height to leave sufficient space for placing the same insulating material to form the same insulating ring 42 as that of the conductive zone.

[0105] The metal core 46 of insulating zone 22 has the same diameter as the metal core 45 of conductive zone 41 and is of such height that when embedded inside sleeve 47 and abutting the insulating surface of the associated sleeve 47, it is flush with the underside of key 1. The assembly is held together by gluing, pressing, or any other means selected by one skilled in the art. The same insulating material is then placed between metal core 46 and the inner wall of well 44 to form insulating ring 42 that lies flush with useful outer surface 12 of encryption section 1B of encryption portion 1A of key 1.

[0106] It should be noted that the embodiment shown in FIG. 12 differs substantially from the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 in that the cover 3B and the printed circuit board 4, although fixed to one another, are two separate parts.

[0107] Thus, in use, key 1 presses a combination of conductive contact zones 41 against electrical contacts 17 formed by Pogo™ pins 39 on printed circuit board 4 mounted below housing 3. These electrical contacts 17 are connected to electrical ground via key 1. This unique combination of energized contacts transmits the correct signal (password or electronic key) contained in computing unit 15 to electronic board 4, enabling one or more manufacturer-selected operations, such as starting the vehicle, activating the CAN bus, ignition, releasing the handbrake, etc. If an incorrect combination is activated, computing unit 15 can be disabled for a predetermined period of time, such as 30 seconds.

[0108] In a first embodiment, a multi-contact system 100 has been described in which the electrically insulating zone 22 is formed in the encryption section 1B of the encryption portion 1A of the key 1, or more generally in the body of the key 1, and comprises a recess filled with an electrically insulating material, and in particular consists of such a recess. In this case, the conductive contact zone 41 is formed by the conductive metal body of the key 1. This embodiment is particularly evident in, for example, Figures 4, 5 and 8.

[0109] In the second embodiment described with reference to Figures 10, 11 and 12, the multi-contact system 100 is a system in which: each of the insulating contact zones 22 comprises a metal core 45 embedded in an electrically insulating material, i.e. surrounded by a ring 42 and a sleeve 47 made of an electrically insulating material, and the conductive contact zones 41 are constituted by the absence of a sleeve 47 in the conductive contact zones 41, such that each of the metal cores 46 is electrically connected to the conductive material of the encryption section 1B of the encryption section 1A of the key 1.

[0110] To further facilitate the manufacture of the multi-contact system 100, a further embodiment has been developed in which the machining of the key does not depend on the key code itself. Figures 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 show another such embodiment of the multi-contact system 100. This embodiment differs from the above-described embodiment essentially in the configuration of the contact zones of the encryption section 1B of the encryption portion 1A of the key 1.

[0111] 1, recesses forming preferably cylindrical wells 44 are machined, e.g. drilled, in the body of the key 1 according to the topography of the electrical contacts 17 to be provided and the associated conductive contact zones 41 and insulating contact zones 22. These recesses forming the wells 44 are designed to receive insulating studs 56 or conductive studs 55, depending on the code of the key 1. This key 1 can be easily manufactured by molding techniques, with the wells 44 being simultaneously formed in the molding process by a mold designed for such a molding process.

[0112] These dead-end wells 44 open onto the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption portion 1A of the key 1. Each well 44 has a cylindrical shape defined by a cylindrical sidewall 440 and a bottom 441 opposite the opening of the associated well 44 which has the shape of a disk.

[0113] At the bottom of each well 44 is located an insulating partition 57 made from insulating material. In this case, this partition 57 is an insert in the form of a thin insulating disk, but it can also take the form of a suitable coating such as insulating paint.

[0114] In another embodiment not shown, it may be preferable to place an insulating partition 57 on the bottom 441 of the wells 44 located in the insulating contact zone 22 and a partition made of a conductive material on the bottom 441 of the wells 44 intended to form the conductive contact zone 41, even though this approach adds a manufacturing step that increases costs and processing time, is a source of error, and prevents the production of identical key bodies in which the bottom 441 of all wells 44 is covered by the same insulating partition 57.

[0115] Each of the wells 44 is configured to receive a conductive stud 55 or an insulating stud 56 that supports a conductive contact zone 41 or an insulating contact zone 22, respectively.

[0116] In this embodiment, all contact zones, ie, conductive contact zone 41 and insulating contact zone 22, comprise a metal core 45, 46 surrounded by a ring 42 of electrically insulating material.

[0117] Each stud 55, 56 comprises a metal core 45, 46 which may be, for example, cylindrical and which may be surrounded by an insulating ring 42 in the form of a sleeve made of insulating material.

[0118] Each metal core 45, 46 has an outer diameter that is strictly smaller than the inner diameter of the associated well 44. In this way, the corresponding metal core 45, 46 can be inserted into the associated well 44, leaving a gap between it and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44, so that an insulating material in the form of a sleeve can be inserted and interposed between it and the side wall 440 of the associated well 44, thereby ensuring a secure retention of the corresponding stud 55, 56.

[0119] Each metal core 45, 46 has a height complementary to the height 57 of the associated partition such that the sum of the height or thickness of the partition 57 and the metal core 45, 46 is equal to the height or depth of the associated well 44. In general, the height of each metal core 45, 46 is selected as follows: The upper surfaces of said metal cores 45, 46 lie flush with the surface of the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1. The underside of said metal core 45, 46 opposite its upper side contacts and abuts the associated insulating partition 57 arranged at the bottom 441 of the associated well 44.

[0120] The insulating ring 42 forms a sleeve of electrically insulating material. The insulating ring 42 may be a part attached to the metal cores 45, 46, for example by being set around them or preferably by being moulded around them, and may optionally be introduced into the well 44 by forced casting in the liquid or solid phase. If the insulating sleeve 42 is made of a solid material, it may be the upper surface of said insulating ring 42 is flush with the surface of the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 in the assembled position; the height of said insulating ring 42 is strictly smaller than the height of the associated well 44, so that in the assembled position an annular space 58 is vertically defined by said insulating ring 42 and the bottom 441 of the well 44, preferably between the insulating ring 42 and the partition 57; The radial width of the insulating ring 42 is configured to fit snugly and concentrically between the metal cores 45, 46 and the sidewall 440 of the associated well 44, thereby allowing the insulating ring 42 to be pressed securely into the well 44 and retain or help retain the metal cores 45, 46. The annular space 58 preferably has a volume configured to act as a compression chamber so that air trapped at the bottom of the well 44 does not force the stud 314 upward.

[0121] In the case of a conductive stud 55 intended as a support for the conductive contact zone 41, this can be e.g. at the top, surrounded by an insulating ring 42 forming a sleeve of insulating material, At the bottom, it is surrounded by an at least partially annular conductive element 59, 59' located vertically below the insulating ring 42 It comprises a metal core 45 which may have the shape of a cylinder.

[0122] 17 shows an embodiment in which element 59 is completely annular and completely surrounds the lower part of metal core 45. In this example, element 59 is shaped like a ring.

[0123] 18 shows a variant of FIG. 17 in which the element 59' is partially annular and surrounds the lower part of the metal core 45 only over a certain angular portion, which is preferably greater than or equal to 270°, more preferably greater than or equal to 315°. In fact, the partially annular element 59' advantageously surrounds the metal core 45 sufficiently to allow easy fitting around said metal core 45 and thus retention by clamping said metal core 45. This facilitates the assembly of the conductive stud 55 into the body of the key 1 during the assembly process. In fact, it is easier to handle the corresponding stud without the components of the stud coming apart.

[0124] The dimensions and shape of each metal core 45 are configured so that it can be inserted into the corresponding well while leaving an annular space between it and the side wall 440 of the well 44 so that insulating material in the form of insulating ring 42 and at least partially annular element 59, 59' can be inserted and interposed between it and the side wall 440 of the well 44.

[0125] The height of each metal core 45 is the outer surface of the cylinder is flush with the useful outer surface 12 of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1; The other or inner surface, vertically opposite to the outer surface, is in contact with and abuts against an insulating or conductive material in the form of a partition 57 arranged at the bottom 441 of the associated well 44. It is configured as follows.

[0126] The metal rings 59, 59' are designed to conduct electricity between the body of the key and the metal core 45, regardless of whether the metal core 45 is placed on the conductive or insulating material of the partition 57. In the assembled position, the rings 59, 59' are housed within the annular space 58. Thus, in the conductive contact zone 41, each of the metal cores 45 is electrically connected to the conductive material of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1.

[0127] The metal rings 59, 59' are made of a conductive material, particularly metal. They can be complete 59 or incomplete 59', solid or hollow, in the form of a helical spring, or any other form suitable to those skilled in the art. The incomplete rings 59' or springs provide a configuration that allows for easier adaptation to the desired compression function between the metal core 45 and the sidewall 440 of the associated well 44. They can be placed on the bottom 440 of the associated well 44 before the metal core 45 is inserted into the well 44, or they can be placed around the metal core 45 below the insulating ring 42, and then the entire assembly can be pressed into the well 44. The diameter of the metal rings 59, 59' is such that they are radially compressed between the metal core 45 and the sidewall 440 of the associated well 44 to ensure good electrical conduction between the metal core 45 and the key 1.

[0128] The insulating studs 56 do not have metal rings 59, 59'. The annular spaces 58 therefore act as insulating separators. Thus, in the insulating contact zones 22, each of the metal cores 46 is electrically insulated from the conductive material of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1 by

[0129] where: The insulating stud 56 is completely pre-prepared and consists of a metal core 46 and an insulating ring 42; The conductive stud 55 is completely pre-prepared and comprises a metal core 45, an insulating ring 42 and conductive elements 59, 59'. In this case, the key 1 is completed by simply inserting each pre-assembled stud provided by the code of the key 1 into the corresponding well 44. The use of low temperatures to reduce the size of the studs 55, 56 before insertion into the wells 44 can be a great advantage here, as the subsequent expansion will keep each stud 55, 56 in the well 44 without the use of adhesives or solder.

[0130] Such a design ensures that the contact zones of the encryption section 1B of the encryption part 1A of the key 1, which are intended to respectively contact one of the electrical contacts 17 in the position where the key 1 is inserted into the cavity 16 of the housing 2, are visually identical, improving the security of the associated system 100.

[0131] Preferably, each pair of metal cores 45, 46 and insulating rings 42 is identical for all contact zones, i.e., all wells 44. Furthermore, the wells 44 are preferably all identical. This further optimizes manufacturing costs without compromising key security. This further ensures that the contact zones are visually identical.

[0132] With the multi-contact system 100 according to the present invention, the key has a simple structure and operation, and furthermore, the key does not include electronic devices such as electrical circuits or microprocessors as in prior art solutions.

[0133] Furthermore, its operation is purely digital, further simplifying its operation in place of prior art analog solutions, ensuring its level of reliability and tamper resistance without compromising security.

[0134] Of course, the present invention has been described above by way of example, and it is understood that those skilled in the art can create various variant embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0135] For example, it is possible to imagine that the electrical contacts simply consist of the conductive metal walls of the key, with each contact zone being equipped with a contactor such as a Pogo™ pin.

[0136] For example, the housing may also include an encryption section having an encryption portion, for example to make unauthorized duplication of the housing of the multi-contact system more difficult.

[0137] It is emphasized that all features as would be taught to one skilled in the art from this disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims, even if specifically described in connection with other particular features, can be combined individually or in any combination with other features or feature groups disclosed herein, unless expressly excluded or unless such combination is impossible or meaningless given the technical circumstances.

Claims

1. a housing (2) defining a cavity (16) configured to receive at least an encryption portion (1A) of a key (1); The encryption portion (1A) of the key (1) has an encryption section (1B) made at least in part of an electrically conductive material, and the housing (2) comprises a plurality of electrical contacts (17) on an inner surface of the cavity (16) intended to come into contact with the encryption section (1B) of the encryption portion (1A) of the key (1) when the key (1) is in the inserted position in the cavity (16) of the housing (2), the electrical contacts (17) being connected to a computing unit (15) configured to communicate with an effector (40), wherein the encryption section (1B) of the encryption portion (1A) of the key (1) comprises an electrically insulating zone (22), and the multi-contact system (100) is configured to: forming an open switch for each of the electrical contacts (17) located opposite an insulating contact zone of the encryption section (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1) formed by one of the insulating zones (22); For each of said electrical contacts (17) that contact a conductive contact zone (41) of said encryption section (1B) of said encryption part (1A) of said key (1) outside said insulating zone (22), a closed switch is formed. A multi-contact system (100) characterized by being configured as follows.

2. 2. The multi-contact system (100) of claim 1, wherein the housing (2) comprises a housing (2) body (3A) and a cover (3B), the cavity (16) of the housing (2) is at least partially defined by the body (3A) and the cover (3B) of the housing (2), and the electrical contacts (17) are preferably fixed to the cover (3B).

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

4. 4. The multi-contact system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the contact zones of the encryption sections (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1), each intended to contact one of the electrical contacts (17) in the position where the key (1) is inserted into the cavity (16) of the housing (2), are visually identical.

5. A multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all or part of the contact zone comprises a metal core (45, 46) surrounded by a ring (42) of electrically insulating material.

6. 6. The multi-contact system (100) of claim 5, wherein in the conductive contact zone (41), each of the metal cores (45) is electrically connected to the conductive material of the encryption section (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1).

7. 7. A multi-contact system (100) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that in the insulating contact zone (22), each of the metal cores (46) is electrically insulated from the conductive material of the encryption section (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1) by an insulating envelope consisting of at least the ring (42) and a complementary element, such as a sleeve (47) or a partition (57), made of an electrically insulating material.

8. 8. A multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the key (1) has recesses forming wells (44) located in each contact zone for receiving a stud, each well (44) of the conductive contact zones (41) being configured to receive a conductive stud (55) and each well (44) of the insulating contact zones (22) being configured to receive an insulating stud (56), each of said studs (55, 56) preferably comprising a metal core (45, 46) surrounded by a ring (42) of electrically insulating material.

9. 9. The multi-contact system (100) of claim 8, wherein each conductive stud (55) is at least partially surrounded at its lower part by a conductive element (59, 59') located vertically below the insulating ring (42) so as to conduct electricity between the metal core (45) and the side wall (440) of the associated well at the insertion position of the corresponding conductive stud (55).

10. 5. The multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the electrically insulating zone (22) is at least partly formed by, and preferably consists of, an insulating coating locally deposited on the surface of the encryption section (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1).

11. 5. The multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the key (1) has a recess located in each insulating zone (22) and at least partially filled with an electrically insulating material, the material having an outer surface that is flush with the outer surface (12) of the encryption section (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1) in order to limit wear of the electrical contacts (17) rubbing against the key (1) when inserted into the cavity (16).

12. 12. The multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it comprises at least one resilient retractable lug (13) which enters the cavity (16) and is inserted into a notch (27) of the encryption portion of the key (1) when the key (1) is in the inserted position in the cavity (16) of the housing (2) in order to keep the key (1) in the inserted position and to indicate to a user the correct insertion position of the key (1).

13. 13. The multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the cavity (16) of the housing (2) has a shape complementary to the shape of the encrypted portion (1A) of the key (1) so that the encrypted portion (1A) of the key (1) can slide within the cavity (16) while being guided and restrained in translation and positioning.

14. A multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, dependent on at least claim 2, characterized in that the body (3A) of the housing (2) is made of a metallic material and is connected to an electrical terminal of an electric dipole.

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

16. 16. The multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the electrical contacts (17) comprise elastic means (31) configured to elastically constrain the electrical contacts (17) to contact and abut the encryption section (1B) of the encryption part (1A) of the key (1) when the key (1) is in the inserted position in the cavity (16) of the housing (2).

17. 17. A multi-contact system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the encryption portions (1A) of the key (1) intended to cooperate in the cavity (16) of the housing (2) each have chamfered sides so as to have a trapezoidal cross section, and preferably the distal ends of the encryption portions (1A) of the key (1) also have a chamfered front surface (20).

18. 18. A multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that each of the electrical contacts (17) comprises an assembly of two sliding cylinders (29, 34) constrained relative to each other by an internal spring (31), and each of the electrical contacts (17) preferably comprises a Pogo™ pin (39).

19. The multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the computing unit (15) is configured to communicate with the effector (40) by transmitting information such as a predetermined cryptographic key, for example a key comprising hundreds or thousands of bits, when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts (17) is connected to a predetermined electrode.

20. 20. The multi-contact system (100) of any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the computing unit (15) is configured to detect live electrical contacts, preferably when an incorrect combination of electrical contacts different from the predetermined combination is detected, the computing unit (15) initiates a refractory period that prevents further attempts of the key (1) for a predetermined time.

21. 21. An actuation mechanism for a device, comprising a multi-contact system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, configured to command the effector (40) to actuate the device when the key (1) is inserted into the cavity (16) of the housing (2) and when the key (1) is recognized by the multi-contact system (100), in particular when a predetermined combination of electrical contacts (17) is connected to predetermined electrodes, the predetermined combination representing the insertion of the key (1) of the device into the cavity (16) of the housing (2).

22. 22. An actuation mechanism according to claim 21, forming an ignition switch for an apparatus such as a powered road vehicle, actuation of said apparatus corresponding to starting said vehicle.

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

24. 24. A control member according to claim 23, forming an ignition member for an apparatus such as a motorized road vehicle, the actuation of said apparatus corresponding to starting said vehicle.

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