Improved smart lock

Abstract

There is provided a door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, the door lock actuation device comprising: a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a drive device operatively connected to the door lock, a processing unit for controlling the drive device, and an antenna for allowing radio frequency communication with an external control unit, wherein the antenna is connected to the processing unit so that one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock can be transmitted between the external control unit and the processing unit, wherein at least a portion of the antenna is printed on an inside surface of the housing.

Description

[0001] I MPROVED SMART LOCK

[0002] TECH N ICAL FI ELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, in particular to antennas and / or electronics in such door lock actuation devices or smart locks, and methods of operating the same.

[0004] BACKGROU N D

[0005] Smart locks are electrically operated door locks that may be used in home security systems. The smart locks provide a door lock actuation mechanism allowing a deadbolt of a door lock to be electrically opened and closed so as to unlock or lock a door.

[0006] Generally speaking, these smart locks thus replace the function of mechanical keys. The smart lock may typically only be operated by authorized people, such as people carrying a transponder or smartphone with an app connected to the smart lock. The authorized person can thus, by interacting with the smart lock using the transponder or smartphone (typically through a central unit of the home security system), instruct the smart lock to lock or unlock a door by moving the deadbolt from the unlocked to locked position or vice versa.

[0007] A typical smart lock comprises an electric motor which provides the mechanical power for moving the deadbolt, batteries for providing the electrical power for operating the motor, and electronics for controlling the operation of the motor. The electronics may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB) provided with an antenna for receiving control signals from an authorized user or a remotely located control unit instructing the smart lock to be locked or unlocked.

[0008] However, the space constraints of known smart locks provide challenges for the antenna performance. In particular, the PCB with the antenna may typically only be arranged in close proximity to the remaining electronics and to other metallic parts, which shields and interferes with the antenna. Hence, the efficiency and performance of the antenna is impaired.

[0009] There is accordingly a need for improved smart locks with increased antenna performance. Embodiments of the present invention thus seek to provide enhanced smart lock systems, methods and other implementations that improve the scope of security systems to address aspects of antenna performance as well as providing new functionality and methods.

[0010] SU MMARY

[0011] The invention is defined by the appended independent claims. Additional features and advantages of the concepts disclosed herein are set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the described technologies. The features and advantages of the concepts may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the described technologies will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the disclosed concepts as set forth herein.

[0012] In a first aspect there is provided a door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, the door lock actuation device comprising: a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a drive device operatively connected to the door lock, a processing unit for controlling the drive device, and an antenna for allowing radio frequency communication with an external control unit, wherein the antenna is connected to the processing unit so that one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock can be transmitted between the external control unit and the processing unit, wherein at least a portion of the antenna is printed on an inside surface of the housing.

[0013] By printing the antenna one the inside surface of the housing, the antenna is distanced from one or more metallic or electronic components of the door lock actuation mechanism, thus reducing shielding effects and improving the antenna performance. This is particularly advantageous for door lock actuation mechanisms located indoors without direct line of sight to the control unit. Furthermore, an effective ground plane of the antenna may be increased compared to what can be achieved (i.e. due to space constraints) for an antenna mounted on a printed circuit board inside the housing.

[0014] Optionally, the antenna is printed on the inside surface by laser direct structuring. Laser direct structuring has been found to be a robust way of applying the antenna with relatively low manufacturing cost and complexity.

[0015] Optionally, the antenna comprises electrically conductive traces on the inside surface. The electrically conductive traces may be made from metal, such as copper, which is imprinted directly on the inside surface.

[0016] Optionally, a portion of the housing on which the antenna is placed is made from plastic, optionally injection-moulded plastic. Plastic (e.g. thermoplastic) has been found to be a particularly advantageous material because it has a low manufacturing cost while being compatible with laser direct structuring.

[0017] Optionally, the antenna is a monopole antenna or an inverted F antenna, such as a meandered-line inverted F antenna. Additionally, or alternatively, the antenna may comprise at least one short circuit arranged at a distance from a feed point of the antenna. Yet additionally or alternatively, a non-short-circuited portion of the antenna includes one or more S-shaped sections. Such antennas have been found to be offer advantageous performance in consideration of the typical frequency band and space constraints associated with door lock actuation mechanisms.

[0018] Optionally, the antenna is a multidirectional antenna, optionally substantially omnidirectional. Hence, a good antenna performance will be achieved for signals received from and / or transmitted to a wide range of directions depending on the specific installation requirements and building layout.

[0019] Optionally, a portion of the antenna is provided on a removeable antenna substrate configured to be placed inside the housing. The antenna substrate may be an antenna substrate according to the second aspect.

[0020] Optionally, the door lock actuation device further comprises one or more connection means for providing a reversible electrical connection between the processing unit and the antenna. The connection means may be connection means according to the third aspect.

[0021] Optionally, the housing in a mounted position is arranged to prevent access to a battery compartment of the door lock actuation device, the drive device, the antenna, and / or the processing unit. Optionally, the door lock actuation device is configured to transmit a tamper signal via the antenna if the door lock actuation device is removed from the door. Thus, the door lock actuation mechanism may prevent, or alert a user of, a tamper attempt from an unauthorized user.

[0022] In a second aspect, there is provided a door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, the door lock actuation device comprising: a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a drive device operatively connected to the door lock, a processing unit for controlling the drive device, and an antenna for allowing radio frequency communication with an external control unit, wherein the antenna is connected to the processing unit so that one or more signals relating to the operation of the door lock can be transmitted between the external control unit and the processing unit, wherein the antenna is provided on a removeable antenna substrate configured to be placed inside the housing.

[0023] By arranging the antenna on an antenna substrate, the antenna is distanced from one or more metallic or electronic components of the door lock actuation mechanism, thus reducing shielding effects and improving the antenna performance. This is particularly advantageous for door lock actuation mechanisms located indoors without direct line of sight to the control unit. Furthermore, an effective ground plane of the antenna may be increased compared to what can be achieved (i.e. due to space constraints) for an antenna mounted on a printed circuit board inside the housing. Moreover, the antenna may be easily removed from the housing in case of malfunction, repair, maintenance, or the like.

[0024] Optionally, the antenna substrate is flexible such that it can be bent to conform to the inside surface of the housing. Alternatively, the antenna substrate may be shaped to conform to the inside surface of the housing, for example, the antenna substrate may have a curved shape. Such substrates facilitate placement of the antenna substrate near the inner surface of the housing, and / or allows the substrate to be embedded into the housing (e.g. in a recess in the inside surface of the housing). As an example, a flexible antenna substrate may be achieved by the antenna substrate comprising a flexible printed circuit board. The antenna may then be printed on the flexible printed circuit board using any known antenna printing technique.

[0025] Optionally, the antenna substrate is in the form of a thin plate, sheet, or disc. Accordingly, the volume occupied by the antenna may be reduced.

[0026] Optionally, the antenna is printed on the antenna substrate, although it will be appreciated that the antenna may be provided on the antenna substrate by any suitable process. For example, the antenna may be printed on the antenna substrate by laser direct structuring. Laser direct structuring has been found to be a robust way of applying the antenna with relatively low manufacturing cost and complexity. Alternatively, the antenna may be metal stamped onto the antenna substrate.

[0027] Optionally, a portion of the antenna substrate on which the antenna is placed is made from plastic, optionally injection-moulded plastic. Plastic (e.g. thermoplastic) has been found to be a particularly advantageous material because it has a low manufacturing cost while being compatible with laser direct structuring.

[0028] Optionally, the antenna is a monopole antenna or an inverted F antenna, such as a meandered-line inverted F antenna. Additionally, or alternatively, the antenna may comprise at least one short circuit arranged at a distance from a feed point of the antenna. Yet additionally or alternatively, a non-short-circuited portion of the antenna includes one or more S-shaped sections. Such antennas have been found to be offer advantageous performance in consideration of the typical frequency band and space constraints associated with door lock actuation mechanisms.

[0029] Optionally, the antenna is a multidirectional antenna, optionally substantially omnidirectional. Hence, a good antenna performance will be achieved for signals received from and / or transmitted to a wide range of directions depending on the specific installation requirements and building layout.

[0030] Optionally, a portion of the antenna is printed on an inside surface of the housing. The antenna printed on the inside surface of the housing may be an antenna according to the first aspect.

[0031] Optionally, the door lock actuation device further comprises one or more connection means for providing a reversible electrical connection between the processing unit and the antenna. The connection means may be connection means according to the third aspect.

[0032] Optionally, the housing in a mounted position is arranged to prevent access to a battery compartment of the door lock actuation device, the drive device, the antenna, and / or the processing unit. Optionally, the door lock actuation device is configured to transmit a tamper signal via the antenna if the door lock actuation device is removed from the door. Thus, the door lock actuation mechanism may prevent, or alert a user of, a tamper attempt from an unauthorized user.

[0033] In a third aspect, there is provided a door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, the door lock actuation device comprising: a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a drive device operatively connected to the door lock, a processing unit for controlling the drive device, an antenna for allowing radio frequency communication with an external control unit, wherein the antenna is connected to the processing unit so that one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock can be transmitted between the external control unit and the processing unit, and at least one connection means for providing a reversible electrical connection between the processing unit and the antenna.

[0034] The connection means allow the antenna to be disconnected from the processing unit. This is particularly advantageous with an antenna that is not printed on a printed circuit board of the processing unit, as it allows the antenna and / or the processing unit to be removed from the housing, e.g. for maintenance or troubleshooting. Furthermore, the connection means are particularly advantageous in combination with a plastic housing or plastic antenna substrate because such plastic material might encounter problems with connections based on traditional soldering methods.

[0035] It will be appreciated that the connection means may also be combined with a door lock actuation device according to the first and / or second aspect.

[0036] Optionally, the door lock actuation device comprises a first and second connection means, wherein the first connection means is configured to connect a feed point of the antenna and the second connection means is configured to connect a ground point of the antenna.

[0037] Optionally, the connection means are electrically conductive to allow electrical signals to be transferred to the antenna directly via the connection means.

[0038] Optionally, the connection means comprises a contact element associated with the processing unit configured to make contact with the antenna. For example, the antenna may comprise conductive traces and the contact element may be configured to be pressed against the conductive traces. For instance, the contact element may comprise a spring or elastic member for making contact with the antenna, wherein optionally the spring, in a connected position, is configured to be in an at least partially compressed state. Thus, proper electrical contact can be ensured.

[0039] Optionally, the connection means further comprise one or more supporting elements arranged on a surface provided with the antenna for facilitating connection of the contact element into the connected position. The supporting elements may further be configured to restrict movement of the contact element in the connected position.

[0040] Optionally, the supporting elements comprise one or more guides, ledges, ribs, rails, grooves, notches, depressions, holes. Additionally, or alternatively, the supporting elements may comprise one or more guides, ledges, ribs and / or rails, wherein the contact element may be configured to abut against the one or more guides, ledges, ribs and / or rails. Yet additionally, or alternatively, the supporting elements may comprise one or more grooves, notches, depressions and / or holes at an intended connection point of the antenna. Hence, it can be ensured that the contact element connects to the antenna in the intended position while optionally also at least partially restricting the movement of the contact element in the connected position.

[0041] Optionally, the connection means comprises a first engaging element associated with the processing unit and a second engaging element associated with the antenna, wherein the first and second engaging elements are configured to mutually engage in the connected position. For example, the first and second engaging elements comprise a rail and a clamp configured to engage with the rail, wherein optionally the rail and clamp form a dovetail mount and / or rail mount. As another example, the first and second engaging elements form a snap-fit connection.

[0042] The connection means may alternatively or additionally include a cable assembly and / or a board-to-board connector.

[0043] Optionally, a portion of the antenna is printed on an inside surface of the housing. The antenna printed on the inside of the housing may be an antenna according to the first aspect.

[0044] Optionally, a portion of the antenna is provided on a removeable antenna substrate configured to be placed inside the housing. The antenna provided on the antenna substrate may be an antenna according to the second aspect.

[0045] Optionally, the housing in a mounted position is arranged to prevent access to a battery compartment of the door lock actuation device, the drive device, the antenna, and / or the processing unit. Optionally, the door lock actuation device is configured to transmit a tamper signal via the antenna if the door lock actuation device is removed from the door. Thus, the door lock actuation mechanism may prevent, or alert a user of, a tamper attempt from an unauthorized user.

[0046] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a security system comprising a central unit and a door lock actuation device according to any of the first, second and / or third aspects, wherein the central unit is configured to communicate with the door lock actuation device by transmitting and / or receiving one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock.

[0047] It will be appreciated that the different aspects may be combined. For example, the connection means according to the third aspect may be combined with the first and / or second aspects. BRI EF DESCRIPTION OF TH E DRAWINGS

[0048] In order to best describe the manner in which the above-described embodiments are implemented, as well as define other advantages and features of the disclosure, a more particular description is provided below and is illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting in scope, the examples will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0049] Fig. 1 is a schematic view of a smart lock according to embodiments;

[0050] Fig. 2 is a schematic view of an antenna of a smart lock according to embodiments;

[0051] Fig. 3a is a schematic perspective view of an antenna of a smart lock according to embodiments;

[0052] Fig. 3b is a schematic side view of an antenna of a smart lock according to embodiments;

[0053] Fig. 4 is a detail view of electrical connection means according to embodiments; and

[0054] Fig. 5 is a schematic view of an alarm system according to embodiments.

[0055] Further, in the figures like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several figures. The first digit in the reference character denotes the first figure in which the corresponding element or part appears.

[0056] DETAI LED DESCRIPTION

[0057] Various embodiments of the disclosed methods and arrangements are discussed in detail below. While specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components, configurations, and steps may be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention.

[0058] Hereinafter, certain embodiments will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the inventive concept. Other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice disclosed herein. It is to be understood that elements and materials may be substituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts and processes may be reversed or omitted, certain features may be utilized independently, and embodiments or features of embodiments may be combined, all as would be apparent to the skilled person in the art.

[0059] The embodiments herein are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the inventive concept, and that the claims be construed as encompassing all modifications, equivalents and alternatives of the present inventive concept which are apparent to those skilled in the art to which the inventive concept pertains. If nothing else is stated, different embodiments may be combined with each other.

[0060] Although reference may be made to directions (e.g. left, right, up, down, upper, lower) as shown in the figures, it will be appreciated that these references are purely for illustrative purposes, and that embodiments are not limited to such directions.

[0061] Fig. 1 shows a door 101 provided with a smart lock 100 for operation of a deadbolt 102. The smart lock 100 may also be referred to as a door lock actuation mechanism.

[0062] The smart lock 100 is configured to move a deadbolt 102 of the door lock from an unlocked to a locked position, or vice versa. In the locked or closed position, the deadbolt 102 protrudes outwardly from an end face of the door 101 (so as to engage with the door frame). In the unlocked or open position, the deadbolt 102 is retracted into the door 101 so as not to protrude from the end face of the door 101.

[0063] The smart lock 100 comprises a housing 103, a drive device 104, a battery compartment 105, a processing unit 106, and an antenna 107.

[0064] The housing 103 is configured to be mounted to the door 101 and to prevent unauthorised access to the internal components of the smart lock 100. When installed, the housing 103 may be mounted to the door 101 either directly or indirectly (e.g. the housing 103 may be mounted to a carrier which in turn is mounted to the door 101). The mounting may be a mechanical mounting, for instance, the housing 103 may be screwed or otherwise mechanically connected to the door 101.

[0065] The housing 103 may be tamper-proof. In other words, the housing 103 may be arranged to prevent access to the internal components of the smart lock 100 and the smart lock 100 may be configured to transmit a tamper signal if a tamper attempt is detected. An example of such a tamper-proof housing 103 is described in patent application W02020 / 187857 which is fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0066] The housing 103 may be formed of a substantially cylindrical wall section 108 or shell. A central axis of the cylindrical wall section 108 may extend away from the door 101 in a direction perpendicular to the door 101. The housing 103 may further comprise one or more end sections 109 on either or both ends of the cylindrical wall section 108, thus enclosing an interior of the smart lock 100.

[0067] The housing 103 may be formed from one part. In other words, the cylindrical wall section 108 and the end section 109 may be formed in one integral part. Alternatively, the housing 103 may be formed from a plurality of parts. The housing 103 may, for example, comprise a battery cover which may be removable so as to allow access to the battery compartment 105. A user may accordingly replace the batteries when necessary. The battery cover may be attached to the housing 103 through a locking mechanism ensuring that the battery cover may not be unauthorisedly removed.

[0068] The housing 103 is preferably made from plastic or other material that allows efficient transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals to and from the antenna 107. For example, the housing 103 may be made from injection-moulded plastic.

[0069] Inside the housing 103 are arranged the drive device 104, the battery compartment 105, the processing unit 106 and the antenna 107.

[0070] The drive device 104 is configured to actuate the door lock, i.e. to move the deadbolt 102 between the locked and unlocked positions. The drive device 104 is accordingly operatively connected to the deadbolt 102 to allow the drive device 104 to move the deadbolt 102 between the locked and unlocked positions. For example, the drive device 104 may comprise an electrical motor configured to provide the mechanical power required to move the deadbolt 102.

[0071] The drive device 104 may be connected to the deadbolt 102 through an output element 111. In other words, the drive device 104 may be connected to an output element 111 which in turn is operatively connected to the deadbolt 102. In such an arrangement, the drive device 104 may be configured to cause rotation of the output element 111 which rotation in turn moves the deadbolt 102.

[0072] The smart lock 100 may further comprise a manual operating element 110 (e.g. a thumb turn) for allowing manual movement of the deadbolt 102. For example, the manual operating element 110 may be mechanically connected to the output element 111. Hence, the manual operating element 110 may be used (e.g. by a user) to move the deadbolt 102 in case of need (e.g. a failure of the drive device 104 or a lack of power from the batteries).

[0073] The electrical power required to operate the drive device 104 may be provided by one or more batteries. The batteries may be arranged in the battery compartment 105 inside the housing 103. In addition to providing the power required for the drive device 104, the batteries may also provide the power for the processing unit 106, the antenna 107, and / or any other electronics of the smart lock 100.

[0074] It will be appreciated that, although reference is made to batteries, the smart lock 100 according to embodiments may be powered by other power sources. For example, the smart lock 100 may be connected to an external power source.

[0075] The processing unit 106 is configured to control the drive device 104 such that the smart lock 100 moves to the locked and / or unlocked positions in response to a signal received from an external control unit, e.g. a transponder and / or a control unit of a security system 500.

[0076] The processing unit 106 may comprise at least one printed circuit board (PCB) provided with one or more processors and other electronics suitable for control of the smart lock 100. The processing unit 106, e.g. the printed circuit board, is connected to the antenna 107 from which the signals external control unit, e.g. a transponder and / or a control unit of a security system 500, are received. In particular, the processing unit 106 is connected to the antenna 107 at connection points 201 including a feed point and a ground point to enable the antenna 107 to operate.

[0077] Fig. 2 shows an antenna 107 according to embodiments. The antenna 107 is configured to receive and / or transmit signals from and / or to an external control unit.

[0078] The signals may be radio frequency (RF) signals, including control signals for controlling the operation of the door lock (for example control signals from an authorized user instructing the smart lock 100 to be locked or unlocked), and / or signals comprising data relating to a present state of the door lock (for example to inform the external control unit of a current state of the door lock, e.g. if the door lock is currently locked or unlocked). The antenna 107 thus allows the processing unit 106 of the smart lock 100 to communicate with an externally located control unit.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 2, the antenna 107 may be provided on an inside surface of the housing 103. For instance, the antenna 107 may be printed on the inside surface of the housing 103. In other words, the housing 103 may thus act as a 3-dimensional carrier onto which the antenna 107 is printed or applied. Preferably, the antenna 107 is printed on an inside surface of the wall section 108.

[0080] The antenna 107 may be applied to the housing 103 by laser direct structuring (LDS). The antenna 107 may accordingly be referred to as a laser direct structured antenna or an LDS antenna.

[0081] When applying the antenna 107 through laser direct structuring, one or more conductive traces are directly implemented on the inside surface of the housing 103. Accordingly, the antenna 107 may comprise one or more conductive traces inscribed on the inside surface of the housing 103.

[0082] The laser direct structuring may include a step of preparing the plastic housing 103 by radiating the plastic material in the desired antenna shape or pattern using a laser. This laser radiation activates the plastic material. Subsequently, the activated plastic in the housing 103 may be selectively metallized using a chemical solution (such as metal or copper ink) to produce conductive traces (e.g. copper traces) that form the antenna radiating element.

[0083] The shape, size and dimensions of the antenna 107 may be determined in dependence on the required or desired frequency band as well as the size and shape of the housing 103.

[0084] The antenna 107 may be made from metal such as copper.

[0085] The antenna 107 may have a frequency band in the radio frequency spectrum, such as at frequencies of about 800 to 900 MHz.

[0086] The antenna may be any suitable type of antenna (e.g. an antenna type compatible with laser direct structuring), including a patch antenna, a slot antenna, a monopole or dipole antenna, or the like. For example, the antenna 107 may be a monopole antenna or an inverted F antenna, such as a meandered-line inverted F antenna. The antenna 107 may comprise a short circuit arranged at a distance from the antenna feed point. Additionally, or alternatively, a non-shorted portion of the antenna 107 may include one or more S-shaped sections, i.e. sections with a plurality of connected parallel lines. Hence, a size of the antenna 107 may be reduced.

[0087] The antenna 107 may be multidirectional, and optionally substantially omnidirectional. In particular, the antenna 107 may be configured to receive signals from a range of different directions. Additionally, or alternatively, the antenna 107 may be substantially without polarization discrimination. This is particularly advantageous because the smart lock 100 may typically be located indoors without direct line of sight. Furthermore, an incoming signal, e.g. from a central unit 501 , may be received from a wide range of directions depending on the specific installation requirements and building layout.

[0088] Hence, the antenna 107 may be designed to achieve high omnidirectionality while also achieving high performance and efficiency.

[0089] By printing or otherwise providing the antenna 107 on the inside surface of the housing 103, a distance may be increased between the antenna 107 and the remaining electronic and / or metal components of the smart lock 100. Accordingly, the antenna 107 experiences less shielding and interference from said electronic and / or metal parts. Hence, the performance (in particular, the multi-directionality, efficiency, gain and / or bandwidth) of the antenna 107 is improved. Furthermore, the effective ground plane of the antenna 107 is increased compared to what can be achieved (i.e. due to space constraints) for an antenna 107 mounted on the printed circuit board of the processing unit 106.

[0090] Figs. 3a and 3b show another antenna 107 according to embodiments. The antenna 107 shown in Fig. 3 is provided on an antenna substrate 301 instead of an inside surface of the housing 103. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the antenna 107 provided on the antenna substrate 301 (as shown in Fig. 3) is substantially similar or identical to the antenna 107 described in relation to Fig. 2.

[0091] The antenna substrate 301 on which the antenna 107 is provided in Fig. 3 may also be referred to as an antenna carrier or antenna insert. Importantly, however, the antenna substrate 301 is separate and removable from the housing 103.

[0092] The antenna substrate 301 is intended to be inserted into the housing 103 such that it is positioned near or at the inside surface of the housing 103. The antenna substrate 301 may accordingly be in the form of a thin plate, sheet, or disc allowing the antenna substrate 301 to be inserted between the inside surface of the housing 103 and the remaining components of the smart lock 100. In embodiments, the antenna substrate 301 may be configured to be embedded into the housing. The antenna substrate 301 may be flexible such that the antenna substrate 301 can be bent to conform to a desired shape, e.g. to conform to the inside surface of the housing 103. Hence, the antenna substrate 301 can be placed inside the housing 103 by bending the antenna substrate 301 and inserting it into the housing 103, e.g. such that it fits between the inside surface of the housing 103 and one or more of the other components of the smart lock 100 located inside the housing 103. For instance, the antenna substrate 301 may be a flexible printed circuit board (PCB).

[0093] Alternatively, the antenna substrate 301 may be substantially rigid but shaped to conform to the inside surface of the housing 103. For instance, the antenna substrate 301 may have a shape of a curved sheet.

[0094] The antenna substrate 301 is preferably made from plastic or other material that allows efficient transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals to and from the antenna 107. For example, the antenna substrate 301 may be made from injection-moulded plastic. The plastic may be a RF compatible plastic such as a thermoplastic. For example, the plastic may comprise one or more of ABS, PET, polyamide or the like.

[0095] The antenna 107 may be printed on the antenna substrate 301 using any known process including but not limited to laser direct structuring, metal stamping or the like.

[0096] Similarly to the antenna 107 printed on the inside surface of the housing 103, a distance may be increased between the antenna 107 and the remaining electronic and / or metal components of the smart lock 100 by providing the antenna 107 on an antenna substrate 301. Accordingly, the antenna 107 experiences less shielding and interference from the electronic and / or metal parts of the smart lock 100. Hence, the performance (in particular the multi-directionality, efficiency, gain and / or bandwidth) of the antenna 107 is improved. Furthermore, the effective ground plane of the antenna 107 is increased compared to what can be achieved (i.e. due to space constraints) for an antenna 107 mounted on the printed circuit board of the processing unit 106.

[0097] In embodiments, the antenna 107 provided on the antenna substrate 301 (as shown in Fig. 3) may be used in combination with or as an alternative to the antenna 107 printed on the inside of the housing 103 (as shown in Fig. 2). For example, part of the antenna 107 may be provided on an antenna substrate 301 while part of the antenna 107 may be provided on the inside surface of the housing 103.

[0098] Fig. 4 shows connection means 401 for providing an electrical connection between the antenna 107 and the processing unit 106 (e.g. the printed circuit board of the processing unit 106). The connection means 401 may be used in combination with the antenna 107 provided on the inside surface of the housing 103 (as described in relation to Fig. 2), the antenna 107 provided on the antenna substrate 301 (as described in relation to Fig. 3), and / or any other suitable antenna 107. The antenna 107 and the processing unit 106 may be connected by two connection means 401. One of the two connection means 401 may connect a feed point of the antenna 107 and the other of the two connection means 401 may connect a ground point of the antenna 107.

[0099] The connection means 401 are electrically conductive to allow electrical signals to propagate from the processing unit 106 to the antenna 107 or vice versa. Additionally, the connection means 401 are preferably reversible connection means. In other words, the connection means 401 are connected such that they can be disconnected, e.g. from the antenna 107 and / or the processing unit 106.

[0100] The connection means 401 may comprise a contact element 402 associated with the processing unit 106. In other words, the contact element 402 may be (e.g. permanently) connected to the processing unit 106 and / or the printed circuit board. The contact element 402 may then be used to make a reversible connection with the antenna by making contact with the antenna at appropriate locations corresponding to connecting points 201 (e.g. feed and / or ground points). For instance, the contact element 402 associated with the processing unit 106 may be pressed against the antenna 107, e.g. the conductive antenna traces, at locations corresponding to the feed and / or ground points.

[0101] In embodiments, the contact element 402 may comprise a spring, spring contact, or other elastic member, configured to be pressed against the conductive traces of the antenna 107. When the connection means 401 are in a connected position, the spring may be in an at least partially compressed state so as to push against the conductive traces of the antenna 107 and thereby ensure proper electrical contact.

[0102] The inside surface of the housing 103 and / or the antenna substrate 301 may further comprise one or more supporting elements for facilitating connection of the contact element 402 into its connected position and optionally also ensuring that the contact element 402 remains securely in the connected position.

[0103] The supporting elements may comprise one or more guides, ledges, ribs, rails, grooves, notches, depressions, holes or the like with which the contact element 402 may interact. For example, an end of the contact element 402 (e.g. a spring) not making contact with the antenna 107 may abut against one or more guides, ledges, ribs and / or rails such that the contact element 402 (e.g. spring) is secured and / or compressed between the antenna 107 and the supporting element. The supporting elements may thus ensure that the spring is suitably compressed so as to make proper electrical contact with the antenna 107. The supporting elements may further restrict a movement of the contact element 402 in the connected position.

[0104] As another example, the contact element 402 (e.g. spring) may be wedged or inserted inside or between one or more supporting elements. Hence, the supporting elements may guide the contact element 402 to make contact with the antenna 107 in the intended positions and also to restrict movement of the contact element 402 once connected.

[0105] As yet another example, there may be provided a groove, notch, depression or hole in the inside surface of the housing 103 and / or the antenna substrate 301 at the intended contact position. Thus, when the contact element 402 makes contact with the antenna 107, it will be guided to the correct position and movement from the correct position will be at least partially restricted.

[0106] The connection means 401 may additionally, or alternatively, comprise a plurality of engaging elements. For example, the connection means 401 may comprise a first engaging element associated with the processing unit 106 and / or a second engaging element associated with the antenna 107. The first and second engaging elements may be configured to mutually engage so as to ensure that the connection means 401 stay in the connected position. As an example, the engaging elements may comprise a rail (e.g. provided on the inside surface of the housing 103 and / or the antenna substrate 301) and a clamp (provided as part of the contact element 402, or vice versa). For instance, the engaging elements may thus form a dovetail or other rail mount. As another example, the engaging elements may form a snap-fit connection or the like where the engaging elements engage in a reversible manner.

[0107] The connection means 401 according to embodiments may be reversible such that the connection can be disconnected. Hence, the processing unit 106 may be disconnected from the antenna 107. This is particularly advantageous with an antenna 107 according to embodiments as the antenna 107 may be printed on the inside surface of the housing 103. The reversible connection means 401 thus allow the processing unit 106 to be removed from the housing 103, e.g. for maintenance or troubleshooting.

[0108] Furthermore, the connection means 401 according to embodiments are particularly advantageous in combination with a plastic housing 103 or plastic antenna substrate 301 because such plastic material might encounter problems with connections based on traditional soldering methods.

[0109] Another example of a reversible connection means 401 include a connection via a cable assembly comprising cables that may be disconnected from each other. For example, a first cable piece (such as an RF pigtail) may be connected (e.g. soldered) to the antenna 107 (e.g. to the substrate 301 and / or the inside surface of the housing 103) and a second cable piece may be connected (e.g. soldered) to the processing unit 106. A cable connector may thus be provided to connect (in a disconnectable manner) the first and second cable pieces. For example, the first cable piece may include a female connector and the second cable piece may include a male connector or vice versa.

[0110] Yet another example of a reversible connection means 401 include one or more board-to-board connectors. For example, if the antenna 107 is printed on a flexible printed circuit board (acting as the antenna substrate 301), one or more board-to- board connectors (e.g. pin connectors) may be used to connect the antenna 107 to the PCB of the processing unit 106.

[0111] Although references have been made to the connection means 401 of Fig. 4, it will be appreciated that embodiments include any suitable connection between the antenna 107 and the processing unit 106. For example, the connections may be made by soldering.

[0112] Fig. 5 shows a security system 500 which includes a smart lock 100 as described in relation to Figs. 1 to 4. The security system 500 may be an alarm system.

[0113] The security system 500 may be installed in a building, such as a house or apartment. The building may comprise a room with a door 101 that provides access to said room. The door 101 is equipped with a smart lock 100 as previously described.

[0114] In addition to the smart lock 100, the security system 500 may comprise a central unit 501 which may be provided in the building. The central unit 501 may also be referred to as a gateway. The security system 500 may further comprise additional detectors and / or alarm sensors including, for example, magnet sensors, presence or movement detectors 502, perimeter sensors 503, glass breakage sensors, or the like.

[0115] The central unit 501 may have a communication module which can transmit and / or receive radiofrequency signals to and / or from the antenna 107 of the smart lock 100. The signals may comprise control signals for controlling the operation of the door lock (for example control signals from an authorized user instructing the smart lock 100 to be locked or unlocked), and / or signals comprising data relating to a present state of the door lock (for example signals from the smart lock 100 informing the control unit of a current state of the door lock, e.g. if the door lock is currently locked or unlocked).

[0116] The control unit may further be able to communicate with a remotely located monitoring centre, and / or one or more smartphones, transponders and / or other personal devices with which a user may interact to control the operation of the smart lock 100.

[0117] The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the invention. For example, the principles herein may be applied to any smart lock and / or any security system. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made to the present invention without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0118] Throughout this specification, the word “may” is used in a permissive sense (i.e. meaning having the potential to), rather than in the mandatory sense (i.e. meaning must). Throughout this specification, the words “comprise”, “include”, and variations of the words, such as “comprising” and “comprises”, “including”, “includes”, do not exclude other elements or steps.

[0119] As used throughout this specification, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the”, include plural referents unless explicitly indicated otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “an” element includes a combination of two or more elements, notwithstanding use of other terms and phrases for one or more elements, such as “one or more” or “at least one”.

[0120] The term “or” is, unless indicated otherwise, non-exclusive, i.e. encompassing both “and” and “or”. For example, the feature “A or B” includes feature “A”, feature “B” and feature “A and B”.

[0121] Unless otherwise indicated, statements that one value or action is “based on”, “in response to” and / or “in dependence on” another condition or value or action, encompass both instances in which the condition or value or action is the sole factor and instances where the condition or value or action is one factor among a plurality of factors.

[0122] Unless otherwise indicated, statements that “each” instance of some collection have some property should not be read to exclude cases where some otherwise identical or similar members of a larger collection do not have the property, i.e. each does not necessarily mean each and every.

Claims

CLAI MS1 . A door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, the door lock actuation device comprising: a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a drive device operatively connected to the door lock, a processing unit for controlling the drive device, and an antenna for allowing radio frequency communication with an external control unit, wherein the antenna is connected to the processing unit so that one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock can be transmitted between the external control unit and the processing unit, wherein at least a portion of the antenna is printed on an inside surface of the housing.

2. The door lock actuation device according to claim 1 , wherein the antenna is printed on the inside surface by laser direct structuring.

3. The door lock actuation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the antenna comprises electrically conductive traces on the inside surface.

4. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the housing on which the antenna is placed is made from plastic, optionally injection-moulded plastic.

5. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna is a monopole antenna or an inverted F antenna, such as a meandered-line inverted F antenna.

6. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna comprises at least one short circuit arranged at a distance from a feed point of the antenna.

7. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein a non-short-circuited portion of the antenna includes one or more S-shaped sections.

8. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the antenna is a multidirectional antenna, optionally substantially omnidirectional.

9. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein a portion of the antenna is provided on a removeable antenna substrate configured to be placed inside the housing.

10. The door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the door lock actuation device further comprises one or more connection means for providing a reversible electrical connection between the processing unit and the antenna.

11. The door lock actuation mechanism according to any preceding claim, wherein the housing in a mounted position is arranged to prevent access to a battery compartment of the door lock actuation device, the drive device, the antenna, and / or the processing unit.

12. The door lock actuation mechanism according to any preceding claim, wherein the door lock actuation device is configured to transmit a tamper signal via the antenna if the door lock actuation device is removed from the door.

13. A security system comprising a central unit and a door lock actuation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the central unit is configured to communicate with the door lock actuation device by transmitting and / or receiving one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock.

14. A door lock actuation device for operating a door lock, the door lock actuation device comprising: a housing configured to be mounted on a door, a drive device operatively connected to the door lock, a processing unit for controlling the drive device, an antenna for allowing radio frequency communication with an external control unit, wherein the antenna is connected to the processing unit so that one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock can be transmitted between the external control unit and the processing unit, and at least one connection means for providing a reversible electrical connection between the processing unit and the antenna.

15. The door lock actuation device according to claim 14, wherein the door lock actuation device comprises a first and second connection means, wherein the first connection means is configured to connect a feed point of the antenna and the second connection means is configured to connect a ground point of the antenna.

16. The door lock actuation device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the connection means are electrically conductive.

17. The door lock actuation device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the connection means comprises a contact element associated with the processing unit configured to make contact with the antenna.

18. The door lock actuation device according to claim 17, wherein the antenna comprises conductive traces and the contact element is configured to be pressed against the conductive traces.

19. The door lock actuation device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the contact element comprises a spring or elastic member for making contact with the antenna, wherein optionally the spring, in a connected position, is configured to be in an at least partially compressed state.

20. The door lock actuation device according to any of claims 17 to 19, wherein the connection means further comprise one or more supporting elements arranged on a surface provided with the antenna for facilitating connection of the contact element into the connected position.

21. The door lock actuation device according to claim 20, wherein the supporting elements are further configured to restrict movement of the contact element in the connected position.

22. The door lock actuation device according to claim 20 or 21 , wherein the supporting elements comprise one or more guides, ledges, ribs, rails, grooves, notches, depressions, holes.

23. The door lock actuation device according to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the supporting elements comprise one or more guides, ledges, ribs and / or rails, wherein the contact element is configured to abut against the one or more guides, ledges, ribs and / or rails.

24. The door lock actuation device according to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the supporting elements comprise one or more grooves, notches, depressions and / or holes at an intended connection point of the antenna.

25. The door lock actuation device according to any of claims 14 to 24, wherein the connection means comprises a first engaging element associated with the processing unit and a second engaging element associated with the antenna, wherein the first and second engaging elements are configured to mutually engage in the connected position.

26. The door lock actuation device according to claim 25, wherein the first and second engaging elements comprise a rail and a clamp configured to engage with the rail, wherein optionally the rail and clamp form a dovetail mount and / or rail mount.

27. The door lock actuation mechanism according to claim 25, wherein the first and second engaging elements form a snap-fit connection.

28. The door lock actuation mechanism according to any one of claims 14 to 27, wherein the connection means include a cable assembly and / or a board-to-board connector.

29. The door lock actuation device according to any one of claims 14 to 28, wherein a portion of the antenna is printed on an inside surface of the housing.

30. The door lock actuation device according to any one of claims 14 to 29, wherein a portion of the antenna is provided on a removeable antenna substrate configured to be placed inside the housing.

31. The door lock actuation device according to any one of claims 14 to 30, wherein the housing in a mounted position is arranged to prevent access to a battery compartment of the door lock actuation device, the drive device, the antenna, and / or the processing unit.

32. The door lock actuation device according to any one of claims 14 to 31 , wherein the door lock actuation device is configured to transmit a tamper signal via the antenna if the door lock actuation device is removed from the door.

33. A security system comprising a central unit and a door lock actuation device according to any one of claims 14 to 32, wherein the central unit is configured to communicate with the door lock actuation device by transmitting and / or receiving one or more radio frequency signals relating to the operation of the door lock.

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