Electromechanical lock cylinder with voltage divider-based key recognition

Abstract

Electromechanical Lock Cylinder with Voltage Divider-Based Key Recognition is a highly economical solution to the problems faced by traditional locking systems. The design of the system ensures enhanced security through a combination of mechanical and electronic components. When the electronic lock is enabled, the rotating rotary plug prevents the lock from opening, even in the event of physical attacks such as acid exposure or drilling. This provides a significant improvement over purely mechanical locks, which are vulnerable to such destructive methods. Additionally, if the power supply voltage decreases, the electronic unit either automatically disables itself or fails to operate in the first place, ensuring that the mechanical system can still secure the lock when electronic components are compromised or nonfunctional. This redundancy in operation greatly enhances the overall reliability of the system.

Description

Title of Invention: Electromechanical Lock Cylinder with Voltage Divider-Based Key RecognitionTechnical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to electromechanical lock cylinder systems designed to operate with electromechanical keys. Specifically, the invention incorporates electronic encryption technologies such as fingerprint sensors, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), keypads, and other biometric or cryptographic systems to enhance security.

[0002] Background Art

[0003] One of category of electromechanical lock cylinder does not use a processor in the key. In this system, all electronic components are integrated within the lock cylinder itself. This category typically employs magnetic components on the key to define several codes based on the pattern of the magnets (US 5,085,062, US 2,767,278, US 4,380,162, US 4,562,711).

[0004] Other systems within electromechanical locks do not require any additional components on the key itself but rely on physical characteristics of the key to define a code for the electronic system. This category is divided into two subgroups: 1. First Subgroup: These systems recognize the key without physical contact (e.g., US 10,400,475, US 11,639,617).2. Second Subgroup: These systems use the positioning of bottom pins in the lock cylinder as a code, with one notable example being US 12,104,403, where a sensor records the bottom pin configuration, and the sensor is located in the rotating plug.

[0005] Finally, in systems that utilize a conductive key entry, some patents focus on the movement of one of the pins when the key is inserted (US 4,848,115, US 5,870,915, US 10,030,416). These systems generally employ mechanisms to ensure that the key interaction causes specific pin movements to engage the locking mechanism.

[0006] Existing electromechanical lock systems suffer from challenges such as high- power consumption, high cost, and susceptibility to power failures.

[0007] Technical Problem

[0008] In the realm of locking systems, three distinct groups can be identified:

[0009] Mechanical Lock Cylinders: These systems rely on simple mechanical mechanisms, making them highly reliable. However, their primary disadvantage is vulnerability to destructive attacks, such as those involving acids or drilling. Additionally, due to their mechanical coding systems, these locks are relatively easy to bypass, and the coding options are limited in terms of complexity and flexibility.

[0010] Electronic Locks: Electronic locks offer the advantage of complex and highly secure coding systems, making unauthorized access significantly more difficult. However, their reliability can be compromised by issues such as power supply failure or malfunctioning electronic components. This reliance on electronics introduces vulnerabilities that may impact their overall performance and security.

[0011] Electromechanical Lock Cylinders: These locks combine mechanical and electronic systems, addressing some of the limitations of purely mechanical locks. Most electromechanical systems aim to solve the coding limitations of mechanical locks by introducing electronic components that enhance security without sacrificing the reliability of the mechanical structure. The integration of both systems provides increased flexibility and security.

[0012] Challenges with Existing Systems: the system that cover all of problem of mechanical and electronic system, remain expensive, have high power consumption, and may not be accessible for all usage. In addition, fully integrated electronic locks with advanced encryption capabilities can be prohibitively costly, and their reliance on power and electronic components may limit their practical application in certain environments.Solution to Problem

[0013] The proposed electromechanical lock cylinder integrates mechanical and electronic components to provide enhanced security and operational reliability. The electronic unit complements the mechanical system by enhancing coding and protection against physical attacks, while the mechanical system ensures functionality during power failures.

[0014] Key aspects of the solution include:

[0015] Low power consumption through an efficient power management system.

[0016] Compatibility with external electronic encryption systems such as RFID and biometrics.

[0017] Resistance to drilling and acid attacks via mechanical locking mechanisms.Advantageous Effects of Invention

[0018] this disclose is provide a very economical solution for those problem. in this system, when electronic lock is enabling, within rotating rotary plug the lock doesn’t open that’s means the cylinder lock is not open with acid and drilling. In the other side, if power supply voltage is decreased, the electronic unit is disable automatically or is not work in first place. The important section of this invention is consumption of power. This system uses a very low power.

[0019] Also, it could adapt with external various electronic encryption technologies to open lock without key in one lock cylinder.

[0020] This disclosure presents a highly economical solution to the problems faced by traditional locking systems. The design of the system ensures enhanced security through a combination of mechanical and electronic components. When the electronic lock is enabled, the rotating rotary plug prevents the lock from opening, even in the event of physical attacks such as acid exposure or drilling. This provides a significant improvement over purely mechanical locks, which are vulnerable to such destructive methods.

[0021] Additionally, if the power supply voltage decreases, the electronic unit either automatically disables itself or fails to operate in the first place, ensuring that the mechanical system can still secure the lock when electronic components arecompromised or nonfunctional. This redundancy in operation greatly enhances the overall reliability of the system.

[0022] A key advantage of this invention is its extremely low power consumption. The system is designed to operate with minimal energy requirements, making it highly efficient and practical for use in various environments without the need for frequent power sources or high-energy consumption.

[0023] Moreover, the system is adaptable to external electronic encryption technologies, offering the flexibility to integrate with various authentication methods such as RFID, biometric scanners, or keypads. This allows for keyless entry and expands the range of possible applications, making the lock cylinder versatile enough to accommodate future advancements in electronic security technologies.Brief Description of Drawings

[0024] [Fig.1] electromechanics lock cylinder.

[0025] [Fig.2] structure of the key entry detector.

[0026] [Fig.3] structure of the mechanical lock cylinder.

[0027] [Fig.4] principle of the voltage divider technique.

[0028] [Fig.5] electronic key recognition unit.

[0029] [Fig.6] electronic key recognition unit with a single pin resistor.

[0030] [Fig.7] electronic lock unit.

[0031] [Fig.8] lock mechanism with two magnets.

[0032] [Fig.9] mechanism for opening the lock without a key.

[0033] [Fig.10 system operation with the key entry detector unit.

[0034] [Fig. Ila] system operation without the key entry detector unit.

[0035] [Fig.11b] system operation with an external electronic encryption system.Description of Embodiments

[0036] In fig 1 illustrates detail of electromechanics lock cylinder that include key unit (1), mechanical lock cylinder (2), which operates similarly to traditional lock cylinders and serves as the primary mechanical interface, key entry detector unit (3) which detects the insertion of the key unit (1) into the mechanical lock cylinder (2). This unit activates high-power sensors and initiates the operation of the electronic lock unit (5). electronic key recognize unit (4), which identifies the key unit (1) based on its integrated elements. Upon successful recognition the electronic lock unit (5) is disabled allows the lock to be opened through the rotation of the key unit (1). Electronic lock unit (5) wherein disable and enable mechanical lock cylinder (2) and ability to open lock directly according to command from control unit (6). control unit (6) control electronic lock unit (5) by key entry detector unit (3) and electronic key recognize unit (4), shack sensor that mounted to control unit and external electronic encryption technologies.

[0037] One of the challenges in electromechanical lock cylinders is the malfunction of electronic components and interruptions in the power supply or battery. To address the first issue, the key entry detector unit (3) is employed. When a locking command is sent to the control unit 6 — either by closing the door or when the rod lock is in the locked position in a padlock — the electronic lock unit (5) remains disabled. The electronic lock unit (5) is only enabled when the key entry detector unit (3) is triggered by the insertion of the key unit (1). The solution to the second issue, involving power supply interruptions, will be explained in a subsequent section.

[0038] Additionally, high-consumption sensors require deactivation when the system is in idle mode, especially when the power supply relies on a battery. The key entry detector unit (3) provides an efficient solution by activating these sensors only when the key is inserted, thereby conserving power. This unit also serves a secondary function by preventing the entry of dust into the mechanical section, ensuring the long-term reliability and functionality of the system.

[0039] Fig. 2 illustrates the detailed structure of the key entry detector (3). A door (31) is held in a closed position by a spring (32) and is equipped with a magnet (33). In its default state, the reed switch (34) remains open. When the key unit (1) isinserted into the mechanical lock cylinder (2), it first pushes the door (31). As the door (31) moves, the magnet (33) is positioned beneath the reed switch (34), causing the reed switch (34) to close. This action completes the circuit, prompting the control unit (6) to activate enable the electronic lock unit (5).

[0040] The door (31) and spring (32) are mounted to a base (35) and, along with the spring (32) and the base (35), rotates when the key unit (1) is inserted. A cover (36) is fixed to the cylinder to protect the mechanism. Additionally, the control unit (6) is equipped with a shock sensor. If an attempt is made to tamper with or destroy the key entry detector (3), the shock sensor detects the disturbance and automatically enables the electronic lock unit (5) to prevent unauthorized access.

[0041] Fig. 3 illustrates the detailed structure of the mechanical lock cylinder (2), which operates similarly to conventional lock cylinders. The key unit (1) is inserted into the keyway (21) of the rotary plug (22). As the key unit (1) moves within the rotary plug (22), it interacts with the bottom pins (23) and top pins (24), causing them to move according to the profile of the key (1). A spring (25) applies pressure to the bottom pins (23) and top pins (24), ensuring their proper alignment.

[0042] When the key unit (1) is fully inserted into the rotary plug (22), the bottom pins (23) are positioned entirely within the rotary plug (22), while the top pins (24) are located within the pin chambers (36). At this point, the key unit (1) can rotate the rotary plug (22), enabling the lock mechanism.

[0043] Fig. 4 illustrates the principle of the voltage divider technique. When two resistors, R1 and R2, are connected in parallel between a power supply with an input voltage (Vin) and ground, the output voltage (Vout ) is measured at the connection point between R1 and R2. The output voltage is determined using the following equation:R2

[0044] On the other hand, the 10-bit analog-to-digital resolution of a microcontroller produces a digital output value ranging from 0 to 1023. When the analog input pin is connected to ground (0 volts), the output value is 0. Conversely,when the pin is connected to the reference voltage (Vref) — typically the input voltage to the microcontroller — the output value is 1023. This means that by selecting appropriate resistor values in a voltage divider circuit, it is possible to generate any digital code between 0 and 1023, representing 1024 distinct levels of voltage.

[0045] If a microcontroller with a 16-bit analog-to-digital resolution is used, the range of output values increases significantly, from 0 to 65,535. This higher resolution allows for finer granularity in voltage measurement, enabling the system to distinguish much smaller differences in input voltage. Such precision can be useful in applications requiring detailed electronic key recognition, as it allows for a greater number of unique codes to be generated and identified.

[0046] Fig. 5 illustrates the electronic key recognition unit (4) implemented using a voltage divider. This unit can be located within the pin chambers (36) of the lock body (as shown in Fig. 5) or at the end of the cylinder (as depicted in Fig. 6). The resistor R1 is installed on the control unit (6), with one end connected to the input voltage (Vin) and the other connect to key recognition unit (4). The resistor R2 (11) is integrated into the key (17). One side of R2 is connected to the key (17), while the other side is attached to a conductive connection (12). This connection (12) is electrically isolated from the key (17) by a spacer (13), which is made from an insulating material. Chambers pin (36) connect to ground.in result the key (17) connects to ground.

[0047] When the key (17) is inserted into the rotating plug (22), a resistor pin (42) moves into position. Once the key reaches its final location, a spring (43) applies pressure, pushing the resistor pin (42) against the connection (12). This completes the voltage divider circuit. The output voltage (Vout) is then measured by the control unit (6) to determine the electronic key's unique signature. The resistor pin holder (44), which houses the resistor pin (42), is made from a non-conductive material to prevent electrical interference and ensure proper isolation within the circuit.

[0048] The design shown in Fig. 5 can accommodate multiple resistor pins (42) and multiple voltage dividers, enabling the generation of a combination of several codes to strengthen the electronic key's security. This configuration allows for robust and unique electronic codes. Alternatively, it is possible to place a single resistor pin atthe end of the rotating plug (22) to create a simpler system using just one electronic code.

[0049] Fig. 6 illustrates an electronic key recognition unit (4) with a single voltage divider. In this design, the resistor R2 (14) and a conductive plate (15) are installed at the end of the key (17). When the key reaches its final position within the lock cylinder, it pushes a resistor pin (45) into contact with the control unit (6). A spring (46) ensures that the resistor pin (45) maintains firm contact with the key (1). The resistor pin (45) is housed in an electronic lock base (57). A spacer (16) isolates the conductive plate (15) from the key (17), ensuring the integrity of the voltage divider circuit.

[0050] Fig. 7 illustrates the electronic lock unit (5). Disclose lock cylinder is ability to open with two method: with key unit (1) or electronic encryption systems. When the electronic lock unit (5) is enabled, the rotating plug (22) can rotate freely without opening the lock and the only way to open lock receive command from control unit (6). Conversely, when the electronic lock unit (5) is disabled, the rotation of the rotary plug (22) allows the lock to open. To achieve this functionality, a plug disc (50) is fixed to the rotary plug (22), and a lock disc (51) is installed within the electronic lock base (57). Both the plug disc (50) and the lock disc (51) feature half-circular holes, labeled (52) and (53), respectively.

[0051] When the key unit (1) is removed from the rotary plug (22), these half-circular holes align to form a complete circular hole. In this state, a lock pin (54) can be inserted into the circular hole, thereby disabling the electronic lock unit (5). When the electronic lock unit (5) is disabled, turning the rotary plug (22) also rotates the lock disc (51), allowing the lock to open. Alternatively, when the lock pin (54) is removed from the circular hole, the electronic lock unit (5) is enabled. In this state, turning the rotary plug (22) does not affect the lock disc (51), thereby preventing the lock from opening.

[0052] To move the lock pin (54)( lock pin (54) could be cylindrical magnet), two solenoids are used: the front solenoid (55) and the back solenoid (56)( mechanism for moving the lock pin). Both solenoids generate magnetic fields of the same polarity. The lock pin (54) has two magnetic poles, North (N) and South (S). When both solenoids are energized as South poles (S), one solenoid attracts the lock pin(54), while the other repels it, causing the lock pin (54) to move. If lock pin (54) is no magnet to move lock pin (54) only one of solenoids turns on.

[0053] Using two solenoids offers several advantages. Firstly, the solenoid design is compact and fits efficiently within the pin chambers (36) of the lock body and the electronic lock base (57). Secondly, this configuration ensures the lock pin (54) is securely fixed in two positions, enhancing stability and reliability. Additionally, the solenoids' high-power consumption is addressed in this system by activating them only during the transition of the lock pin (54) between positions. Once the lock pin (54) reaches its target position, it is held securely in place by the magnetic attraction to the cores of the solenoids, eliminating the need for continuous power and reducing energy consumption.

[0054] Behind the front solenoid (55), a hardened plate (58) is installed to protect the solenoid from damage caused by drilling attempts.

[0055] One challenge with this system is the potential for the lock pin (54) to be displaced under the influence of an external powerful magnetic field. To address this issue, two magnets are used side by side, arranged such that their poles on one side are opposite to each other. In the presence of an external magnetic field, one magnet is attracted while the other is repelled, counteracting the external force. This configuration ensures stability without interfering with the system's functionality when the solenoids are active. The second magnet does not effect on the primary magnet during solenoid operation because the solenoid core is small, the two magnets are sufficiently spaced apart, and one magnet is larger than the other.

[0056] Fig. 8 illustrates the lock mechanism with two magnets. The primary magnet (59) features a section (59a) that fits into the circular hole (52 and 53). The secondary magnet (590) is positioned adjacent to the primary magnet, and a cover (591) secures both magnets in place to maintain proper alignment and functionality.

[0057] Fig. 9 illustrates the mechanism for opening the lock without a key. When the electronic lock unit (5) is enabled, the lock disk (51) is disconnected from the plug disk (50). Upon receiving an opening command from the control unit (6), the motor (592) activates and drives the lock disk (51) via the middle gear (593). The lock disk (51) features an internal gear section (594) that engages with the middle gear (593). The middle gear (593) is supported by a holder (595), ensuring proper alignment and operation.

[0058] Fig 10 and 11 illustrates the methods for locking and unlocking the system. fig 10 shows the system operation with the key entry detector unit (3). When a lock command is issued — such as by closing a door, positioning the rod of a padlock into the lock position, or engaging the lock cylinder in other applications — the electronic lock unit (5) is not enabled. The electronic lock unit (5) will only be enabled if the sensor (34) or the shock sensor is triggered.

[0059] fig 11a shows the system operation without the key entry detector unit (3).When a lock command is issued — such as by closing a door, positioning the rod of a padlock into the lock position, or engaging the lock cylinder in other applications — the electronic lock unit (5) is enabled.

[0060] fig 11b shows the system operation with an external electronic encryption system. To move the lock disk (51) using the motor (592), the electronic lock unit (5) must be enabled, meaning the plug disk (50) is disconnected from the lock disk (51).

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMSreceived by the International Bureau on 05 August 2025 (05.08.2025)[Amended]

1. An electromechanical lock system comprising:A mechanical locking cylinder having a plug rotatably mounted within a housing to engage or disengage a locking bolt;A key insertable into said plug;An electronic lock unit configured to control rotation of said plug based on electronic authorization;A control unit configured to receive electrical input and control operation of the electronic lock unit,characterized in that:The key unit comprises at least one resistor mounted to its body to form part of a voltage divider circuit when inserted;The lock cylinder includes a resistor pin assembly that completes said voltage divider circuit upon full key insertion;The control unit receives an analog voltage signal generated by the voltage divider and authorizes unlocking based on threshold matching of said signal;A lock pin is configured to selectively couple or decouple a plug disk from a lock disk;A motor and gear system is configured to move the lock pin under control of the control unit.[Amended]

2. The electromechanical lock system of claim 1, further comprising a key entry detector unit, comprising:A base mounted to the mechanical lock cylinder;A door attached to the base and configured to cover the keyway;A sensor positioned to detect movement of the door when a key is inserted; andA cover configured to hold the base and door in position,wherein the sensor sends a signal to the control unit upon displacement of the door.[Deleted]

3. .[Amended]

4. The electromechanical lock system of claim 1 wherein the key unit comprises:At least one resistor wherein is mounted within a cavity of the key body, and one end of the resistor is electrically connected to the key body via a conductive spacer, the other end is electrically isolated and connected to an external circuit via a dedicated contact terminal.[Amended]

5. The electromechanical lock system of claim 1, wherein electronic lock unit comprising:The plug disk is mounted to rotate with the plug of the mechanical locking cylinder, The lock disk is rotatable independently of the plug disk and mechanically connected to the locking bolt, andthe lock pin is positioned to bridge or decouple the plug disk and lock disk.[Amended]

6. The electromechanical lock system of claim 1, wherein the control unit comprises:A processor configured to receive input signals from the voltage divider circuit, a key entry detector unit, a shock sensor, and a power manager, andTurning on and turning off the motor and gear system based on predefined logic.[Amended]

7. The electromechanical lock system of claim 1, wherein the electronic key recognition unit comprises:At least one resistor pin housed within a chamber aligned with the mechanical lock cylinder, at least one spring configured to apply force to the resistor pin to ensure electrical contact with the resistor of the key unit.[Amended]

8. The electromechanical lock system of claim 7, wherein the resistor pin is positioned at the distal end of the key way within the rotary plug, such that electrical contact with the resistor of the key occurs upon full insertion of the key.[Amended]

9. A method of operating an electromechanical lock system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of:Receiving a locking or unlocking command by a control unit;Determining whether a key entry detector unit is present;executing an unlocking mode selected from based on system configuration, including: unlocking using the key entry detector unit,unlocking without the key entry detector unit,unlocking using an external electronic encryption system;andManaging power supply operation of the electronic lock unit.[Amended]

10. The method of claim 9, wherein unlocking using the key entry detector unit comprises:Delaying activation of the electronic lock unit until a door sensor signal is received by the control unit;upon sensor activation, enabling the electronic lock unit;detecting full key insertion to complete a voltage divider circuit;interpreting the output voltage of the circuit as an analog key code;and authorizing unlocking if the code matches a predefined threshold.[Amended]

11. The method of claim 9, wherein unlocking without the key entry detector unit comprises:Enabling the electronic lock unit immediately after the control unit receives an unlocking command;completing the voltage divider circuit upon key insertion;and authorizing unlocking based on the analog voltage code.[Amended]

12. The method of claim 9, wherein unlocking using an external electronic encryption system comprises:Receiving an encrypted code from an external device;validating the code via the control unit;enabling the motor of the electronic lock unit; and actuating the motor to disconnect the lock disk from the plug disk via a lock pin, thereby permitting plug rotation and unlocking.[Amended]

13. The method of claim 9, further comprising:Monitoring the voltage level of the power supply;disabling the electronic lock unit if the voltage falls below a predefined threshold;and preventing reactivation of the electronic lock unit until voltage returns to an acceptable range.Statement under Article 19(1)The main goal of these amendments is to make the core inventive idea more explicit and clearly distinguishable from the cited prior art. Specifically:Claim 1 now directly defines the interaction between the mechanical lock cylinder, a key containing a resistor, and the electronic components of the lock. The resistor in the key forms part of a voltage divider circuit, which produces an analog signal that the control unit uses to authorize unlocking.The claim also introduces a motor and gear mechanism that moves a lock pin to either couple or decouple two disks inside the lock, allowing or preventing mechanical rotation. This feature is key to the inventive concept and helps differentiate the system from known designs.In addition:Claim 2 was rewritten to combine and clarify elements previously found in original Claims 2 and 3. It now clearly describes the structure and function of the key entry detector unit, which senses when a key is inserted and helps manage access.Claims 4 to 8 were refined to ensure consistency with the main claim and to give better support to the structure and function of the key unit, control unit, and electronic lock mechanism.Method claims (9-13) were simplified and reorganized to clearly outline different operating modes of the system (e.g., using the key detector, external electronic systems, or managing power levels). These changes improve readability and reduce potential confusion.In summary, these amendments do not introduce new subject matter. Instead, they clarify the invention’s technical features and ensure the claims align with the original disclosure. The revised claims aim to overcome the ISA’s objections and better reflect the true inventive contribution of the application.

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