阅读说明：本技术 具有提高的强度的圆筒锁 (Cylinder lock with improved strength ) 是由 H·帕特尔 于 2020-04-06 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种圆筒锁(100),其包括第一和第二外壳侧(104,106)、定位在第一和第二外壳侧(104,106)之间的空间(116)中的致动器(120)、以及连接部分(200),该连接部分完全延伸穿过空间(116)并且连接第一和第二外壳侧(104,106),并且其中致动器(120)能够围绕连接部分(200)旋转以引起锁定装置的操作。连接部分(200)给予圆筒锁(100)增加的强度。(A cylinder lock (100) comprising first and second housing sides (104, 106), an actuator (120) positioned in a space (116) between the first and second housing sides (104, 106), and a connecting portion (200) extending completely through the space (116) and connecting the first and second housing sides (104, 106), and wherein the actuator (120) is rotatable about the connecting portion (200) to cause operation of a locking device. The connecting portion (200) gives the cylinder lock (100) increased strength.)

1. A cylinder lock comprising first and second housing sides, an actuator positioned in a space between the first and second housing sides, and a connecting portion extending completely through the space and connecting the first and second housing sides, wherein the actuator is rotatable about the connecting portion to cause operation of a locking device.

2. The cylinder lock according to claim 1, wherein said connecting portion is fixed with respect to said first and second housing sides.

3. A cylinder lock according to claim 1 or 2, comprising rotation means for rotating the actuator around the connecting portion.

4. A cylinder lock according to claim 3, wherein the rotation means comprises a magnet.

5. A cylinder lock according to claim 3, wherein the rotation means comprises two or more gears.

6. The cylinder lock of claim 3, wherein the rotating means comprises at least two sprockets, at least two pulleys, or at least one sprocket and one pulley.

7. A cylinder lock according to claim 3, wherein the rotation means comprises two or more wheels which transmit rotation by friction.

8. A cylinder lock according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a key cylinder or a rotatable control means, and wherein the key cylinder or the rotatable control means is rotatable in the connecting portion.

9. A cylinder lock according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting part comprises at least one receiving portion, and wherein the receiving portion is adapted to receive at least one locking member or to lock at least one lock cylinder or at least one rotatable control means in relation to the connecting part.

10. A cylinder lock according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator is a cam, a cog or a worm.

11. A cylinder lock according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a housing.

12. A cylinder lock according to claim 11, wherein the connecting portion is integrally formed with the housing member.

13. A cylinder lock according to claim 11, wherein the connecting portion has a first side and a second side, and wherein one or both of the first and second sides are connected to the housing parts by a joining means.

14. The cylinder lock of claim 11 wherein said connecting portion includes an extension portion and wherein said extension portion extends into a housing member to facilitate attachment of said extension portion to said housing member.

15. A cylinder lock according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein the rotation means is configured such that rotation of the key cylinder or rotatable control means provides equal rotation of the actuator.

16. A cylinder lock according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein the rotation means is configured such that one revolution of the key cylinder or rotatable control means provides one revolution of the actuator.

17. A cylinder lock according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein the rotation means is configured such that rotation of the key cylinder or rotatable control means rotates the actuator in the same direction.

18. A cylinder lock according to any of the preceding claims, which requires power for operation, and wherein the power is provided by an operator of the cylinder lock.

19. A cylinder lock according to any of claims 1 to 7, comprising a key cylinder or rotatable control, wherein the axis of the key cylinder or rotatable control is offset from the axis of the actuator.

20. A cylinder lock according to any of claims 3 to 7, comprising a clutch means, and wherein at least one component of the clutch means is at least partially housed within at least one component of the rotation means.

21. A cylinder lock according to any of claims 3 to 7, comprising clutch means and clutch transmission means, and wherein at least one component of the clutch transmission means is at least partially housed within at least one component of the rotation means.

22. A combination of a locking device and a cylinder lock according to any of the preceding claims.

23. The combination of claim 22, wherein the locking device is a mechanical locking device or an electrical locking device.

24. The combination of claim 23, wherein the mechanical locking device is a locking bolt, a locking bar, a latch, a hook, a pawl, a cam, or a lock box.

25. The combination of claim 23, wherein the electrical locking device is an electromagnetic device.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a cylinder lock, and more particularly, to a cylinder lock with improved strength.

Background

Cylinder locks are known and widely used. For example, they are used in doors, shutters, windows, safes, lockers, padlocks, boxes, drawers and switches, for example. The advantage of cylinder locks is that they can be easily installed and removed.

Known profile cylinder locks include those known as euro, oval and swiss cylinder locks. Such known cylinder locks typically comprise a housing having a cylindrical bore, which houses a rotatable plug (plug) having a keyway and a plurality of pins, tabs, singlets, discs, rods, balls or other components that lock the plug to the housing. Inserting the correct key into the keyway unlocks the lock cylinder, allowing it to be turned by the operator.

The cylinder lock may also be operated by a rotatable control, such as a thumbturn, a knob, or a handle. Alternatively, the cylinder lock may comprise a tool operated rotatable control comprising a hex socket operated by a hex key, or a slot operated by a flat object, or a square head operated by a square socket.

Electromechanical cylinder locks may electronically authenticate keys, key ring appliques, remote controls, cards, passwords entered through a keyboard, biometrics or other means. After verification, usually followed by a movement of a locking member which locks the lock cylinder or the rotatable control means to the housing. The rotatable actuator is typically rotatably coupled to the lock cylinder or rotatable control device, and the clutch may be used to provide a coupling that may be engaged or disengaged. In an electromechanical lock, a motor may be coupled to an actuator to rotate the actuator. The actuator typically operates a locking device, such as a locking bolt, locking bar, latch, hook, pawl, cam or lock box, or a locking/unlocking device, or an activation switch.

Known cylinder locks have a weak link which causes the cylinder lock to break when subjected to a load applied by an intruder. Various solutions have been provided to prevent weak link portions in cylinder locks from breaking.

One proposed solution disclosed in WO2007/099523 provides a switch (breaker) that axially connects first and second cylindrical housings together to transmit an axial tension force applied to one of the cylindrical housings to the other cylindrical housing. This design may provide additional strength, but it may not be sufficient to prevent snap-off during a typical attack.

A disadvantage of the solution proposed in WO2007/099523 is that when the lock is attacked, the switch is subjected to a load applied to the housing, which may cause it to bind to the housing. This may prevent the switch from turning and render the lock inoperable. It may prevent an authorized operator from entering or leaving the building.

GB2372535 discloses a cylinder lock having a malleable joining element connecting two cylinder lock housing sections. The joining elements are designed to deform by bending under load without breaking or fracturing, thereby holding the casing parts together.

Another proposed solution disclosed in EP2894279 provides a U-shaped security element which fits in a recess of the cylinder lock body to reinforce the attachment portion. Other solutions have been proposed using stiffening elements.

GB2372535 and EP2894279 may provide some improvement to the snap-off problem during a typical attack. However, the effectiveness of each solution is hindered due to the limited amount of material in the joining portion.

GB2516323 discloses a cylinder lock having a novel profile shape which provides an increased area of material at the join. Such a design may be effective. However, the use of such profile shapes is not well established and is not compatible with legacy door hardware. Thus, there is an obstacle to the acceptance of such cylinder locks in the lock industry.

GB2545389 discloses a cylinder lock having a body comprising a remainder and a sacrificial portion which breaks from the remainder during a snap-off impact of the lock. A security device is located in the remaining portion. The security device comprises an anti-theft device which is activated when the sacrificial portion is broken, thereby preventing the movement of the lock cylinder with respect to said remaining portion. This proposed solution is not satisfactory because it deliberately weakens the lock rather than strengthening it and once the anti-theft device is activated it prevents access by an authorised operator using the correct key. The lock then typically needs to be drilled to gain access and the lock must be replaced.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to avoid or reduce the above problems and to provide a cylinder lock with improved strength.

Accordingly, in one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a cylinder lock comprising first and second housing sides, an actuator positioned in a space between the first and second housing sides, and a connecting portion extending completely through the space and connecting the first and second housing sides, and wherein the actuator is rotatable about the connecting portion to cause operation of a locking means.

The cylinder lock of the present invention advantageously has increased strength compared to known comparable cylinder locks.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock in which the connecting portion is fixed with respect to the first housing side and the second housing side.

The cylinder lock may comprise rotation means for rotating the actuator around the connecting portion. The rotating means may comprise a magnet. Alternatively, the rotating means may comprise two or more gears. Alternatively, the rotating means may comprise at least two sprockets, at least two pulleys, or at least one sprocket and one pulley. The rotating means may be coupled by suitable coupling means, such as a belt, chain, wire, cable, rope or belt. Alternatively, the rotating means may comprise two or more wheels that transmit rotation by friction.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock comprising a key cylinder or a rotatable control means, and wherein said key cylinder or rotatable control means is rotatable in said connecting portion. The rotatable control may be, for example, a thumbturn, a knob, or a handle.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock wherein the connecting portion comprises at least one receiving portion and said receiving portion is adapted to receive at least one locking member or to lock at least one lock cylinder or at least one rotatable control means in relation to said connecting portion. The receiving portion may be a hole, groove, recess or depression.

The cylinder lock may be one in which the actuator is a cam, a cog wheel or a worm. Other types of actuators may be employed.

The cylinder lock may comprise a housing. The connecting portion may be integrally formed with the housing member. Alternatively, the cylinder lock may be one in which the connecting portion has a first side and a second side, and one or both of the sides are connected to the housing member by a joining means. The attachment means may be, for example, an interference fit, a pin, a screw, a clip, a weld, a braze, or an adhesive. Alternatively, the cylinder lock may be one in which the connecting portion comprises an extension portion and the extension portion extends into the housing member to facilitate attachment of the extension portion to the housing member.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock wherein said rotation means is configured such that rotation of the key cylinder or rotatable control means provides equal rotation of said actuator. Alternatively, the rotation device may be configured such that one revolution of the lock cylinder or rotatable control device provides one revolution of the actuator.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock wherein the rotation means is configured such that rotation of the key cylinder or the rotatable control means rotates the actuator in the same direction. The direction may be clockwise or counter-clockwise.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock requiring power to operate, wherein the power is provided by an operator of the cylinder lock or by a motor. Thus, for example, when turning a key or turning a rotatable control device, the operator may provide the required power.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock comprising a key cylinder or a rotatable control means and wherein the axis of the key cylinder or the rotatable control means is offset from the axis of said actuator.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock comprising a clutch device and wherein at least one component of the clutch device is at least partially housed within at least one component of the rotation device.

The cylinder lock may be a cylinder lock comprising a clutch means and a clutch transmission means, and wherein at least one component of the clutch transmission means is at least partially housed within at least one component of the rotation means.

The cylinder lock of the present invention may be a euro cylinder lock, an oval cylinder lock or a swiss cylinder lock.

The invention also provides a combination of a cylinder lock of the invention and a locking device.

The combination may be one in which the locking means is a mechanical locking means or an electrical locking means. The mechanical locking device may be a locking bolt, a locking bar, a latch, a hook, a pawl, a cam, or a lock box. The lock box may also be referred to as a gearbox. Other mechanical locking means may be employed. Any suitable electrical locking means may be employed, such as electromagnetic means.

Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figures 1a to 1b show various views of a known cylinder lock.

FIG. 1c shows a cam actuator for a known cylinder lock;

FIG. 1d shows a gear actuator for a known cylinder lock;

figures 2a to 2d show various views of a first cylinder lock of the present invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates a second cylinder lock of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a third cylinder lock of the present invention;

figures 5a to 5d show a fourth cylinder lock of the present invention;

figures 6a to 6f show a fifth cylinder lock of the present invention;

figures 7a to 7e show a sixth cylinder lock of the present invention;

figures 8a to 8d show a seventh cylinder lock of the present invention;

9a to 9c show an eighth cylinder lock of the present invention;

10 a-10 b illustrate a ninth cylinder lock of the present invention; and

fig. 11a to 11c show a tenth cylinder lock of the present invention.

Detailed Description

In the following description, like parts are given the same reference numerals throughout the several views of the drawings in order to facilitate easy comparison and understanding of the equivalent parts of the cylinder lock.

Fig. 1a shows a generic cylinder lock 100 known as a double euro cylinder lock. Such cylinder locks generally have a housing 102 with a substantially uniform keyhole-shaped profile having first and second housing sides 104 and 106 connected by an integral central joining portion 108. The actuator 120 is positioned in the space 116 between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. Cylindrical bores 110 in the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 receive a rotatable lock cylinder 112 that includes a key hole 114.

There are various types of actuators 120. Fig. 1c shows a prior art actuator 120, known as a cam, which includes a camshaft and a cam lobe. The cam lobes of the actuator 120 extend radially from the outer surface of the camshaft. The actuator 120 may have more than one cam lobe. The actuator 120 of fig. 1c has a clutch key hole 122 that can engage with a clutch component.

Fig. 1d shows another prior art actuator 120, known as a cogwheel or gear, which includes a wheel and a plurality of protruding gear teeth along the circumference of the wheel. The actuator 120 of fig. 1d has a clutch key hole 122. The lock cylinder 112 may be rotationally coupled to the actuator 120 by a clutch arrangement.

One known disadvantage of these types of cylinder locks 100 is that they are prone to snap off when subjected to certain loads. It has become common for such locks 100 to be broken by an intruder to provide access to the manipulation actuator 120.

This problem is inherent in the design. As shown in fig. 1a, the joining portion 108 of the housing 102 contains a significantly reduced amount of material, creating a weak point. Typically, a securing hole is provided through the attachment portion 108 for securing the lock 100, leaving a very small amount of material above and below the securing hole, thereby further weakening the attachment portion 108.

Fig. 1b shows the same prior art cylinder lock 100 after snapping at the junction 108.

Fig. 2a to 2d show a first embodiment of the invention. Figure 2a shows an isometric projection of the cylinder lock 100. Figure 2b shows an exploded isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 2c shows a front view of the lock 100. Fig. 2d shows a cross-section through along line I-I of fig. 2 c.

The lock 100 includes a housing 102 having a substantially uniform keyhole shaped profile commonly referred to as a euro cylinder lock. The housing 102 of the lock 100 is formed of a cylindrical portion from the outer surface of which an extension portion integrally extends radially. The lock 100 is operable from two sides and may also be referred to as a double euro cylinder lock. The housing 102 includes a first housing side 104 and a second housing side 106. The first housing side 104 and the second housing side 106 are connected by an integral joint 108 and an integral joint 200. The connection portion 200 extends completely through the space 116 between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The connection portion 200 is fixed with respect to the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

Cylindrical bores 110 in the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 receive a rotatable lock cylinder 112 that includes a keyway 114 and a clutch keyway 122. A ring 206 is press fit into the annular recesses 204 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to prevent axial movement of the lock cylinder 112.

A cylindrical bore 202 through the connection portion 200 receives a rotatable cylindrical magnet 208 that includes a clutch key hole 122 at its circular end. The cylindrical magnet 208 is preferably diametrically magnetized.

The actuator 120 is formed of a first actuator side 210 and a second actuator side 212 that are joined together by press-fitting a joining pin 214 of the first actuator side 210 into a joining hole 216 of the second actuator side 212. Actuator 120 is shown as a cam actuator. The magnetic material 220 is accommodated in the accommodation recess 218 of the first actuator side 210 and attracted by the magnet. The actuator 120 is received in the space 116 and is rotatably mounted about the connecting portion 200 so as to cause operation of a locking device (not shown). The locking means may be a mechanical locking means or an electrical locking means. The mechanical locking device may be a locking bolt, a locking bar, a latch, a hook, a pawl, a cam, or a lock box. The electric locking device may be an electromagnetic device.

The cylindrical magnet 208 and the magnetic material 220 are magnetically coupled due to magnetic attraction. Rotating the cylindrical magnet 208 rotates the actuator 120. Thus, the cylindrical magnet 208 forms a rotating means for rotating the actuator 120 around the connection portion 200.

The clutch key hole 122 of the key cylinder 112 receives the clutch element 222. The clutch element 222 is rotationally (but not axially) fixed to the clutch keyway 122 of the lock cylinder 112. The clutch spring 224 is located within the clutch keyway 122 of the cylindrical magnet 208 and abuts the end of the clutch element 222 and the end of the clutch keyway 122 that are received in the adjacent key cylinder 112. The clutch spring 224 is a compression coil spring. However, other types of springs may be used, including magnetic springs.

When a key (not shown) is fully inserted into the keyway 114 of one of the lock cylinders 112, the tip of its key body extends into the clutch keyway 122 of the lock cylinder 112 and contacts the end of the clutch element 222, thereby axially moving the clutch element 222 toward the cylindrical magnet 208 such that a portion of the clutch element 222 enters the opposing clutch keyway 122 of the cylindrical magnet 208. This rotationally couples the lock cylinder 112 with the cylindrical magnet 208. The lock cylinder 112 is thus rotationally coupled to the actuator 120.

The clutch spring 224 biases the clutch element 222 of the cylindrical magnet 208 and the clutch keyway 122 apart. Under the bias of the clutch spring 224, pulling the key out of the keyway 114 will push the clutch element 222 away from the clutch keyway 122 of the cylindrical magnet 208, thereby decoupling the lock cylinder 112 and the cylindrical magnet 208. The clutch element 222 and the clutch key hole 122 form a clutch arrangement for the actuator 120. The clutch device may alternatively be another type of clutch device.

The connecting portion 200 provides increased strength between the first housing side 104 and the second housing side 106, thereby providing the lock 100 with greater resistance to snap-off. The power for operating the lock 100 may be provided by an operator of the lock 100 when turning a key inserted into the keyway 114.

In an alternative modification, the magnetic material 220 may be replaced with a magnet. In another alternative variation, the cylindrical magnet 208 may be replaced by a component made of a material that is attracted by the magnet, and the magnetic material 220 may be replaced by a magnet. In yet another alternative modification, the first or second actuator side 210 or 212 may be made of a magnet material or a material that is attracted by a magnet, and the magnetic material 220 may be omitted. Other alternative variations may also be used to achieve similar results.

Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the invention. Fig. 3 shows a side view of the cylinder lock 100.

The lock 100 has a housing 102 comprising a first housing side 104 and a second housing side 106, which are connected by an integral joint 108 and an integral joint 200. The connection portion 200 extends completely through the space between the first housing side 104 and the second housing side 106.

A cylindrical bore 110 in the first housing side 104 receives a rotatable lock cylinder 112 that includes a key bore 114 and an integral drive gear 300.

An actuator 120 in the form of a cam actuator and including a driven gear 302 located in the space 116 is rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 200. The drive gear 300 meshes with the driven gear 302 so that rotation of one will be transferred to the other. Rotation of the lock cylinder 112 will thus rotate the actuator 120. The drive gear 300 and the driven gear 302 thus form a rotating means for rotating the actuator 120.

The driving and driven gears 300 and 302 may be of any type, such as spur, helical, bevel, or magnetic gears. In an alternative modification, a planetary gear may be used. In an alternative modification, the driving and driven gears 300 and 302 may be replaced by wheels that transmit rotation by friction.

A third embodiment of the invention is shown in fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows a side view of the cylinder lock 100.

The lock 100 has a housing 102 that includes first and second housing sides 104 and 106 connected by an integral connecting portion 200. The connection portion 200 extends completely through the space 116 between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

A cylindrical bore 110 in the first housing side 104 receives a rotatable key cylinder 112 that includes a key bore 114 and an integral drive sprocket 400.

An actuator 120 in the form of a cam actuator and including a driven sprocket 402 received in the space 116 is rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 200. The chain 404 connects the drive sprocket 400 and the driven sprocket 402 such that rotation of either of the drive or driven sprockets 400 or 402 transfers rotation to the other. The chain 404 provides a coupling means to couple the drive sprocket 400 and the driven sprocket 402. Rotation of the lock cylinder 112 will thus rotate the actuator 120. The drive sprocket 400, the driven sprocket 402 and the chain 404 thus form a rotating means for rotating the actuator 120 about the connecting portion 200.

In another embodiment, the rotating means in the form of the drive or driven sprocket 400 or 402 may be replaced by a pulley or other means. The chain 404 may be replaced by other coupling devices, such as belts, wires, cables, ropes, belts, or other devices. In an alternative modification, the lock 100 may include a joining portion between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

Fig. 5a to 5d show a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5a shows an isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 5b and 5c show exploded projections of the lock 100. Figure 5d shows an isometric projection cut-away view of the lock 100.

The lock 100 includes a housing 102 having a two-half-circle profile shape joined by a rectangle. Such a lock 100 is commonly referred to as an oval cylinder lock. The housing 102 includes first and second housing sides 104 and 106 connected by an integral joint 108.

The first housing side 104 and the second housing side 106 include securing apertures 504. Threaded fasteners 506 in the form of bolts extend through the fixing holes 504 and are screwed into the threaded holes 500 of the connecting portion 200 to fasten the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to the connecting portion 200. The threaded fasteners 506 provide a means of attachment to attach the connection portion 200 to the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. Other fasteners may be used to provide the attachment means, such as rivets, pins, screws, clips or retaining rings. Other joining means may be employed, such as crimping, adhesives, welding, brazing or soldering. The connection portion 200 extends completely through the space 116 between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

The connecting portion 200 includes a cylindrical bore 202 and a circumferential groove 502 on its curved surface. An actuator 120 in the form of a cogwheel actuator is positioned in the space 116 and rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 200. The actuator 120 includes an aperture 512 and an integral second stage gear 514 formed by an internal gear. A second-stage pinion gear 516 including a shaft coupling hole 518 is received by the cylindrical hole 202 such that it partially protrudes from the circumferential groove 502 of the connecting portion 200 and meshes with the second-stage gear 514 of the actuator 120.

A disk member 508 including a shaft support hole 510 is received on each side of the second stage pinion gear 516 in the cylindrical hole 202. The shaft coupling hole 518 of the second stage pinion gear 516 is concentric with the shaft support hole 510 of the disc member 508.

A first stage pinion 520 including an axially projecting coupling shaft 522 is located alongside each disk member 508. The coupling shaft 522 of the first-stage pinion 520 is rotatably installed in the support hole 510 of the disc member 508 and press-fitted in the shaft coupling hole 518 of the second-stage pinion 516, so that the first-stage pinion 520 and the second-stage pinion 516 are fixed.

A first-stage gear 524 formed of an internal gear is rotatably installed at each side of the cylindrical hole 202 of the connection portion 200. Each first stage gear 524 meshes with a first stage pinion gear 520. Rotation of the first stage gear 524 transfers rotation to the meshed first stage pinion gear 520, thereby rotating the second stage pinion gear 516 secured thereto. The second stage pinion gear 516 transfers rotation to the meshed second stage gear 514 to rotate the actuator 120. The first stage gear 524, the first stage pinion 520, the second stage pinion 516, and the second stage gear 514 thus form a rotating device for rotating the actuator 120 about the connecting portion 200. In this embodiment, the arrangement and number of teeth of the first stage gear 524, the first stage pinion 520, the second stage pinion 516, and the second stage gear 514 are configured such that the first stage gear 524 and the actuator 120 rotate equally and in the same direction. Other configurations may be used to achieve the same or different results. There may be more or fewer gears or gear stages in alternative modifications.

A cylindrical bore 110 in the first housing side 104 receives a rotatable lock cylinder 112 having a key bore 114, a circumferential groove 528 and a clutch disc holder 532 including an axial slot 534. The retaining ring 530 is received on the circumferential groove 528 of the lock cylinder 112. The retaining ring 530 limits axial movement of the lock cylinder 112.

A clutch plate 536 including radially projecting tabs 538, drive slots 540 and clutch spring seats 542 is received in the clutch plate seat 532 of the lock cylinder 112. The tabs 538 of the clutch plate 536 are received in the axial slots 534 of the clutch plate receptacle 532 such that the clutch plate 536 is rotationally (but not axially) coupled to the lock cylinder 112.

The clutch spring 224 is received in the clutch spring seat 542 of the clutch disc 536 and abuts against the end of the clutch spring seat 542 and the adjacent first stage gear 524.

When the key is fully inserted into the key hole 114 of the key cylinder 112, it contacts the end of the clutch plate 536, thereby axially moving the clutch plate 536 toward the adjacent first stage gear 524 so that the drive pins 526 of the first stage gear 524 may enter the drive slots 540 of the clutch plate 536. This rotationally couples the clutch disc 536 with the first stage gear 524. Thus, rotation of the lock cylinder 112 will rotate the actuator 120.

The drive pins 526 are slidable in the drive slots 540 to allow rotational coupling of the clutch plates 536 and the adjacent first stage gear 524, although their axes are not collinear. In alternative modifications, other types of couplings (e.g., cross couplings) may be used in place of drive pins 526 and drive slots 540 to transfer rotation between non-collinear axes.

Pulling the key out of the keyway 114 pushes the clutch plate 536 away from the adjacent first stage gear 524 under the bias of the clutch spring 224, thereby disengaging the drive pins 526 from the adjacent drive slots 540. The lock cylinder 112 and actuator 120 are then no longer rotationally coupled. The drive pin 526 and the drive slot 540 provide a clutch arrangement for the actuator 120.

A rotatable control in the form of a thumbpiece 544 designed to be rotated by the thumb and fingers of the operator includes an axially projecting rotating shaft 546 having a drive slot 540 at an end. The rotational shaft 546 of the thumbturn 544 is rotatably mounted in the cylindrical bore 110 of the second housing side 106. The retaining ring 530 is received on the circumferential groove 528 of the rotational shaft 546.

The drive pin 526 of the first stage gear 524 adjacent the rotational shaft 546 is slidable in the drive slot 540 of the rotational shaft 546. This rotationally couples the thumbscrew 544 with the first stage gear 524, thereby rotationally connecting the thumbscrew 544 with the actuator 120. In this embodiment, the rotation device is configured such that rotation of the key cylinder 112 or the rotatable control device provides equal rotation of the actuator 120. The rotary device is configured such that one revolution of the lock cylinder 112 or rotatable control device will provide one revolution of the actuator 120. The rotation device is also configured such that rotation of the lock cylinder 112 or rotatable control device rotates the actuator 120 in the same direction.

Fig. 6a to 6f show a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6a shows an isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 6b shows a projected cross-sectional view of the lock 100. Fig. 6c and 6d show exploded projections of the lock 100. Fig. 6e shows a front view of the lock 100. Fig. 6f shows a cross-section on line II-II through fig. 6 e.

The lock 100 includes a multi-part housing 102 having first and second housing sides 104 and 106 joined by a joining portion 108. The first and second housing sides 104 and 106 include cylindrical holes 110, mortises 600, attachment holes 602, and fastening holes 604. The joining portion 108 includes a tenon 606 at each end and an attachment hole 608 through each tenon 606.

The tenon 606 of the joining portion 108 is inserted into the mortises 600 of the first and second case sides 104 and 106. The attachment holes 608 of the rabbet 606 may align with the corresponding attachment holes 602 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. Attachment pins 610 extending through the attachment holes 602 and corresponding attachment holes 608 may be used to secure the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to the joining portion 108. A space 116 exists between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

The connection portion 200 provides another connection between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The connection portion 200 includes first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 having a cylindrical hole 202 and a fastening hole 616. The first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 of the connecting portion 200 are inserted into the cylindrical holes 110 of the first and second case sides 104 and 106, respectively. The first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 of the connecting portion 200 provide extensions that extend into the cylindrical holes 110 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to facilitate attachment of the extensions in the housing components. There is an interference or other type of fit between the cylindrical bore 110 and the first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 to provide a means of joining the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to the connecting portion 200.

The fastening holes 616 of the first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 may be aligned with the corresponding fastening holes 604 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. Fastening pins 618 extending through the fastening holes 604 and the corresponding fastening holes 616 may join the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to the connection portion 200.

The joining portion 108 and the connecting portion 200 may be joined to the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 by other joining means, such as crimping, screwing, riveting, clamping, retaining rings, welding, brazing, soldering, or adhesives.

A lock cylinder 112 including a key hole 114 and a clutch key hole 122 is rotatably installed in the cylindrical holes 202 of the first and second small cylinders 612 and 614. The retaining flanges 652 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 limit axial movement of the lock cylinder 112.

An actuator 120 in the form of a cam actuator is rotatably mounted on the connection portion 200 and is received in the space 116 between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The actuator 120 includes a bore 512 and an integrated second stage gear 514 in the form of a bevel gear. The connecting portion 200 includes a pinion gear set receiving cavity 622 formed by holes of different diameters.

The integrally formed pinion gear set 630 includes a second stage pinion gear 516 in the form of a bevel gear and a first stage pinion gear 520 in the form of a bevel gear joined by a coupling shaft 522. The pivot bore 636 passes axially through the pinion gear set 630. The pinion gear group 630 is accommodated in the pinion gear group accommodating chamber 622 of the connection portion 200.

A pinion receiving cover 626 including a pivot pin 628 is press fit over the opening of the pinion cluster receiving cavity 622. A pivot pin 628 is fixed to the base of the pinion gear set receiving cavity 622. The pivot pin 628 passes through the pivot hole 636 of the pinion set 630 to enable the pinion set 630 to rotate about the pivot pin 628.

The first-stage gear 524 in the form of a bevel gear is received in the coupling portion 200 and includes an axially protruding drive shaft 640, a clutch key hole 122, and a clutch lever receiving hole 642. The drive shaft 640 of the first stage gear 524 extends through and is rotatably mounted in the pivot hole 644 of the connecting portion 200.

The first stage gear 524 meshes with the first stage pinion gear 520 of the pinion gear set 630, and the second stage gear 514 of the actuator 120 meshes with the second stage pinion gear 516 of the pinion gear set 630. Thus, rotation of the first stage gear 524 will rotate the actuator 120. Thus, the first stage gear 524, the first stage pinion 520, the second stage pinion 516, and the second stage gear 514 form a rotating device for the rotary actuator 120. The first stage gear 524, the first stage pinion 520, the second stage pinion 516, and the second stage gear 514 are configured such that the first stage gear 524 and the actuator 120 rotate equally in the same direction.

The transmission disc 646 including the clutch key hole 122 and the shaft connection hole 648 is fixed to the first stage gear 524 such that they are rotatably and axially fixed by press-fitting the end of the transmission shaft 640 of the first stage gear 524 into the shaft connection hole 648 of the transmission disc 646.

The clutch keyway 122 of the plug 112 receives a clutch element 222 that is rotationally (but not axially) fixed to the clutch keyway 122.

When a key is inserted into the key hole 114 of the key cylinder 112 mounted in the cylindrical hole 202 of the first small cylinder 612, the tip of its key body contacts the end of the clutch element 222 received in the clutch key hole 122 of the key cylinder 112, thereby axially moving the clutch element 222 toward the transmission disc 646. A portion of the clutch member 222 thus enters the opposing clutch key aperture 122 of the drive plate 646, thereby rotationally coupling the lock cylinder 112 with the first stage gear 524. So that rotation of the lock cylinder 112 will rotate the actuator

The clutch lever 650 is slidably received in the clutch lever receiving hole 642 of the first-stage gear 524 such that the clutch lever is axially movable and is located between the clutch elements 222. When the clutch element 222 received in the clutch key hole 122 of the key cylinder 112 (which is mounted in the cylindrical hole 202 of the first small cylinder 612) is moved into the clutch key hole 122 of the transmission disc 646, it can axially push the clutch lever 650. This may move the clutch element 222 received in the clutch keyway 122 of the key cylinder 112 (which is mounted in the cylindrical bore 202 of the second small cylinder 614) away from the clutch keyway 122 of the first stage gear 524, thereby decoupling the key cylinder 112 of the second small cylinder 614 from the first stage gear 524.

Conversely, if the key is fully inserted into the keyway 114 of the lock cylinder 112 mounted in the cylindrical bore 202 of the second small cylinder 614, the lock cylinder 112 will be rotationally coupled to the first stage gear 524 while the lock cylinder 112 mounted in the cylindrical bore 202 of the first small cylinder 612 will be rotationally decoupled from the first stage gear 524. The clutch element 222 and the clutch key hole 122 form a clutch arrangement for the actuator 120.

In this embodiment, the rotation device is configured such that rotation of the lock cylinder 112 provides equal rotation of the actuator 120. The turning device is configured such that one revolution of the lock cylinder 112 will provide one revolution of the actuator 120. The rotation device is also configured such that rotation of the lock cylinder 112 rotates the actuator 120 in the same direction.

Fig. 6a to 6f show a lock 100 in which the clutch element 222 received in the clutch key hole 122 of the key cylinder 112 mounted in the cylindrical hole 202 of the first small cylinder 612 is partially received in the clutch key hole 122 of the transmission disc 646.

To accommodate the bullet lock mechanism, the first and second housing sides 104 and 106, the connecting portion 200, and the plug 112 include bullet holes 654. The component's pin holes 654 may be axially aligned.

Each set of aligned pin holes 654 may receive a pin bank 664 including locking members in the form of a key pin 658 and a driver pin 660. Pin row 664 may contain additional pins or other locking components. The lock 100 shown in fig. 6 a-6 f shows a single pin row 664 received in a set of aligned pin holes 654. Preferably, however, lock 100 may include a plurality of pin rows 664.

A stack spring 662 positioned adjacent to the drive pin 660 biases the pin row 664 toward the lock cylinder 112. The cap 656 is secured in the end of the pin receiving row 664 of the pin holes 654 of the second housing side 106.

The pin hole 654, pin bank 664, and stack spring 662 provide a pin tumbler lock mechanism. In the rest state, a portion of the drive pin 660 is received in the ball hole 654 of both the connecting portion 200 and the lock cylinder 112. Whereby the lock cylinder 112 is rotationally locked to the connecting portion 200.

Inserting the correct key into the keyway 114 moves the pin row 664 so that the drive pins 660 do not lock the plug 112 relative to the connecting portion 200. Insertion of an incorrect key may move the key pin 658 such that it is partially received in the pin holes 654 of both the connecting portion 200 and the lock cylinder 112, thereby locking the lock cylinder 112 relative to the connecting portion 200. The bullet hole 654 of the connection portion 200 provides a receiving portion for receiving the locking member.

In an alternative modification, the lock 100 may house different lock mechanisms. The pin holes 654 may be replaced with other features such as grooves, notches, or depressions, and the pin row 664 may be replaced with other locking components such as rods, balls, snaps, tabs, or disks.

In another embodiment, the lock cylinder 112 may be replaced with a rotatable control device that is rotatably locked to the connecting portion 200.

In the illustrated embodiment, there is a single pinion set 630 to transmit torque. An alternative modification may have multiple pinion sets 630 to share the load. Therefore, the torque capacity can be increased.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 extend the length of the cylindrical bore 110 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. However, the first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 may have different lengths from the cylindrical hole 110.

Increasing the length of first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 extending into first and second housing sides 104 and 106 may increase resistance to bending forces because the forces are distributed along a greater length. This may reduce the tendency of the walls of the cylindrical hole 110 and the first and second small cylinders 612 and 614 to deform or crack.

Fig. 7a to 7e show a sixth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7a shows an isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 7b and 7c show exploded projections of the lock 100. Fig. 7d shows a front view of the lock 100. Fig. 7e shows a cross-section through line III-III of fig. 7 d.

The lock 100 includes a housing 102 having a swiss circular profile that is operable from one side. The lock 100 is commonly referred to as a swiss cylinder lock. The housing 102 includes first and second housing sides 104 and 106 connected by an integral joint 108. The first shell side 104 includes a rounded square bore 722 with longitudinal splines 700. The second housing side 106 includes a rounded square bore 722 with an axial groove 702.

The connecting portion 200 having the form of a rounded square includes first and second connecting portion sides 704 and 710. The first coupling portion side 704 includes a coupling hole 706, a longitudinal groove 708, and a circumferential groove 502. The second connecting portion side 710 includes a link rim 712, axial splines 714, a circumferential groove 502, and an integral pivot pin 628.

The joining edges 712 fit within the joining holes 706 to join together to form the first and second connecting portion sides 704 and 710 of the connecting portion 200. A secure bond may be created between the first and second connecting portion sides 704 and 710 by interference fit, welding, brazing, adhesives, or other means. Alternatively, fastening means, such as screws, pins, rivets or clips may be used.

The connecting portion 200 has extensions that extend into the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to facilitate attachment of the extensions to the housing components. The connecting portion 200 fits into the rounded square holes 722 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The longitudinal splines 700 of the first housing side 104 fit into the longitudinal grooves 708 of the first connection portion side 704 and the axial splines 714 of the second connection portion 710 fit into the axial grooves 702 of the second housing side 106. There may be an interference or other fit between the connecting portion 200 and the rounded square hole 722.

A lock cylinder 112 comprising a key hole 114 and an integrated drive wheel 716 is rotatably mounted in the cylindrical hole 202 of the first connection portion side 704. The retention flange 652 of the first housing side 104 prevents the lock cylinder 112 from being removed from the front of the lock 100.

The intermediate wheel 718, including a pivot hole 636, is rotatably received on the pivot pin 628 of the second connecting portion side 710 and partially protrudes through the circumferential groove 502.

The actuator 120 in the form of a cam actuator includes a bore 512 and two cam lobes. The inner surface of the bore 512 forms a driven wheel 720. The actuator 120 is positioned in the space 116 and rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 200. The intermediate wheel 718 is in contact with the drive wheel 716 of the lock cylinder 112 and the driven wheel 720 of the actuator 120. The drive wheel 716 may transmit rotation to the intermediate wheel 718 through friction between the drive wheel and the intermediate wheel. Intermediate wheel 718 may transmit rotation to driven wheel 720 through friction between the intermediate wheel and the driven wheel. Thus rotating the lock cylinder 112 will rotate the actuator 120. The drive wheel 716, intermediate wheel 718 and driven wheel 720 thus form a rotary device for the rotary actuator 120.

To accommodate the pin tumbler locking mechanism, the first housing side 104 and the plug 112 include a pin hole 654. The longitudinal slot 708 of the connecting portion 200 provides clearance for the bullet hole 654.

The pin bores 654 of the first housing side 104 and the lock cylinder 112 can receive a pin bank (not shown). The pin bank may rotationally lock the lock cylinder 112 to the housing 102 when a proper key is not inserted into the keyway 114. Inserting the correct key into the keyway 114 may move the pin bank so that the lock cylinder 112 is not rotationally locked to the housing 102.

In alternative embodiments, the connecting portion 200 and other components of the lock 100 may have other features, such as holes, slots, grooves, notches, or recesses to accommodate other types of lock mechanisms.

In the illustrated embodiment, there is a single intermediate wheel 718 to transmit torque. An alternative modification may include a plurality of intermediate wheels 718 to share the load, whereby the torque capacity may be increased.

A locking member in the form of a sidebar 726 is received in the sidebar receptacle 724 of the lock cylinder 112. The sidebar 726 generally protrudes from the sidebar receptacle 724 and extends into the locking groove 728 of the connecting portion 200, thereby rotating the locking cylinder 112 relative to the connecting portion 200. In the event that an incorrect key is inserted into the keyway 114, the sidebar 726 is prevented from retracting into the sidebar seat 724.

When the correct key is inserted into the keyway 114, the sidebar 726 can be retracted into the sidebar seat 724 and withdrawn from the locking groove 728 to unlock the plug 112 relative to the connecting portion 200. The side bar 726, the side bar housing 724, and the locking groove 728 provide a side bar locking mechanism. The locking groove 728 of the connecting portion 200 provides a receptacle for receiving a locking member. In alternative modifications, the receiving portion may be a slot, notch, recess or hole, and the side bar 726 may be replaced by other locking members, such as a pin, ball, catch, tab or disc.

Fig. 8a to 8d show a seventh embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8a shows an isometric projection of the lock 100. Figure 8b shows an isometric projection cut-away view of the lock 100. Fig. 8c and 8d show exploded projections of the lock 100.

The lock 100 includes a housing 102 having first and second housing sides 104 and 106, first and second housing extensions 800 and 802, and a coupling portion 108. The first and second housing extensions 800 and 802 and the coupling portion 108 are integrally formed.

The first and second housing sides 104 and 106 include a rabbet 606 and an attachment hole 608. The first and second housing extensions 800 and 802 include mortises 600 and attachment holes 602 at their ends.

The tenons 606 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 are inserted into the mortises 600 of the first and second housing extensions 800 and 802, respectively. The attachment holes 608 align with corresponding attachment holes 602. Attachment pins 610 extending through the attachment holes 602 and corresponding attachment holes 608 may be used to secure the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to the first and second housing extensions 800 and 802, respectively. Thus, the joining portion 108 provides a joint between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

The first and second housing extensions 800 and 802 include cylindrical bores 110. The connecting portion 200 includes a cylindrical bore 202, an outer flange 806 at one end, and a circumferential groove 528 at the other end. Portions of the connecting portion 200 are received in the cylindrical holes 110 of the first and second housing extensions 800 and 802.

The connecting portion 200 has extensions that extend into the first and second housing extensions 800 and 802 to facilitate attachment of the extensions to the housing components.

The retaining ring 530 is received on the circumferential groove 528 of the connecting portion 200. The outer flange 806 interferes with the first housing extension 800 and the retaining ring 530 interferes with the second housing extension 802 to secure the connection 200 and restrain it from axial movement. The outer flange 806 and the retaining ring 530 provide a means of attachment of the connecting portion 200 to the outer housing component. The connecting portion 200 connects the first and second housing extensions 800 and 802, whereby the connecting portion connects the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

The space 116 between the first and second housing extensions 800 and 802 accommodates the actuator 120. The first and second housing extensions 800 and 802 are positioned between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. Thus, the space 116 is positioned between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The connecting portion 200 extends completely through the space 116.

An actuator 120 including a bore 512 and an integral driven pulley 808 is rotatably mounted about the connecting portion 200. A drive cylinder 810 including a drive pulley 812 and a hexagonal bore 814 at each end is rotatably mounted in the cylindrical bore 202 of the connecting portion 200.

The first intermediate pulley 816 includes a coupling shaft 522 that extends through and is rotatably mounted in the bearing hole 510 of the shaft of the first housing extension 800. The second intermediate pulley 818 including the shaft coupling hole 518 is fixed to the coupling shaft 522 of the first intermediate pulley 816 by press-fitting the end of the coupling shaft 522 into the shaft coupling hole 518 so that they are rotatably coupled.

A belt 820 couples drive pulley 812 and primary intermediate pulley 816. Another belt 820 couples the second intermediate pulley 818 to the driven pulley 808. The belt 820 provides a coupling means. Rotating the drive cylinder 810, and thus the drive pulley 812, transfers the rotational motion to the primary intermediate pulley 816 through a belt 820 coupling the drive pulley and the primary intermediate pulley. The coupling shaft 522 transmits rotation to the second intermediate pulley 818, which second intermediate pulley 818 transmits rotational motion to the driven pulley 808 through a belt 820 coupling the second intermediate pulley and the driven pulley.

The drive pulley 812, the first intermediate pulley 816, the second intermediate pulley 818, the driven pulley 808, and the two illustrated belts 820 thus form a rotational means for rotating the actuator 120 about the connecting portion 200.

The drive pulley 812, primary intermediate pulley 816, secondary intermediate pulley 818, driven pulley 808, and belt 820 may include teeth to aid in power transmission and eliminate slip between the pulleys and belt 820.

A rotatable control in the form of a knob 822 shaped to facilitate grasping and rotation by an operator includes an axially projecting rotational shaft 546 and a hexagonal shaft 824. Knobs 822 are mounted on each side of the lock 100. The rotational shaft 546 of the knob 822 is rotatably mounted in the cylindrical holes 110 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The rotatable control may be rotated by an operator of the lock 100 to provide power for operating the lock 100.

The hex shaft 824 of each knob 822 is press fit into the adjacent hex hole 814 of the drive cylinder 810 to secure the knob 822 to the drive cylinder 810. Thus, rotation of either knob 822 rotates the actuator 120. The diameters of the drive pulley 812, the first intermediate pulley 816, the second intermediate pulley 818, and the driven pulley 808 of the rotational device are configured such that rotation of the rotational control device provides equal rotation of the actuator 120. The rotation device is configured such that one revolution of the rotatable control device will provide one revolution of the actuator 120. The rotation device is also configured such that rotation of the rotatable control rotates the actuator 120 in the same direction.

Such a lock 100 may include an electronic authentication device to authenticate an operator. After verification, the lock mechanism may move the locking member to allow the operator to turn the knob 822. The electronic authentication device may be, for example, a key, key ring fob, card, remote control, wireless device, security token, keypad for entering a code or biometric. In another embodiment, knob 822 may be replaced with a key cylinder.

In the embodiments of the invention shown in fig. 6 a-6 f, 7 a-7 e and 8 a-8 d, it is shown how the connection portion 200 may comprise an extension portion, and wherein the extension portion extends into the housing member to facilitate attachment of the extension portion to the housing member.

Fig. 9a to 9c show an eighth embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 9a shows an isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 9b and 9c show exploded isometric projections of the lock 100.

The lock 100 includes a housing 102 having first and second housing sides 104 and 106, a first housing extension 800, a coupling portion 108, and a connecting portion 200. The first housing extension 800, the joining portion 108, the connecting portion 200, and the second housing side 106 are integrally formed.

The tongue 606 of the first housing extension 800 is inserted into the tongue-and-groove 600 of the first housing side 104. The first shell side 104 may be joined to the first shell extension 800 using an interference fit, adhesive, welding, fasteners, or other means. Thus, the joining portion 108 and the connecting portion 200 provide a joint between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

The weakening structure 900 provided by the slits in the first shell side 104 is designed to break when the first shell side 104 is loaded, thereby shortening the length of the first shell side 104 and making it more difficult to grip with a tool to apply more load.

The actuator 120 in the form of a worm actuator comprises first and second actuator sides 210 and 212 which are joined together by press fitting a joining spline 902 of the first actuator side 210 into a corresponding joining groove 904 of the second actuator side 212. The first and second actuator sides 210 and 212 may be joined by other means. The first and second actuator sides 210 and 212 include a magnetic rack 906.

The magnetic racks 906 of the first and second actuator sides 210 and 212 together form a continuous circular track. The actuator 120 is rotatably mounted on the connection portion 200.

The second housing side 106 includes a motor receiving bore 910 that receives a motor 912 including a motor shaft 914. The magnetic gear 908 is fixed to the motor shaft 914 so that the motor 912 can rotate the magnetic gear 908.

The magnetic gear 908 can transmit torque to the magnetic rack 906 of the actuator 120 such that rotation of the magnetic gear 908 transmits rotation to the magnetic rack 906, thereby rotating the actuator 120. The magnetic gear 908 and the magnetic rack 906 form a rotating means for rotating the actuator 120.

Such a lock 100 may include an electronic authentication device to authenticate an authorized operator and upon successful authentication, activate the motor 912 to rotate the actuator 120. The power to operate the lock 100 is provided by a motor 912.

In an alternative modification, when the first shell side 104 is subjected to a predetermined load, the joint between the first shell side 104 and the first shell extension 800 may be released to allow the first shell side 104 to separate from the first shell extension 800. This makes it difficult to grasp the remainder of the housing 102 with a tool to apply more load.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in fig. 10a and 10 b. Fig. 10a shows an isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 10b shows an exploded isometric projection of the lock 100.

The lock 100 has a housing 102 that includes a top housing section 1000 and a bottom housing section 1002. The top housing section 1000 is integrally formed with a first housing side section 1004 and a second housing side section 1006 which are joined by a connecting portion 200. First and second housing-side sections 1004 and 1006 of top housing section 1000 include dovetail splines 1008. The top housing section 1000 also includes a cylindrical bore 110 that extends through the first housing side section 1004 and the connecting portion 200.

The bottom housing section 1002 is integrally formed with first and second housing-side sections 1004 and 1006 that are joined by a joining portion 108. The first and second housing side sections 1004 and 1006 of the bottom housing section 1002 include a receptacle recess 1010.

Dovetail splines 1008 of top housing section 1000 fit into socket grooves 1010 of bottom housing section 1002 and interlock to join top and bottom housing sections 1000 and 1002 together.

The first housing side sections 1004 of the top and bottom housing sections 1000 and 1002 together form the first housing side 104. Together, the second housing-side sections 1006 of the top and bottom housing sections 1000 and 1002 form the second housing-side 106. Thus, the connection portion 200 connects the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

A lock cylinder 112 including a key hole 114 and a magnetic material 220 is rotatably received in the cylindrical bore 110 of the top housing section 1000. An actuator 120 made of magnetizable material and preferably diametrically magnetized is rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 200.

Due to the magnetic attraction, the actuator 120 and the magnetic material 220 of the lock cylinder 112 are rotationally coupled. Thus, rotating the lock cylinder 112 rotates the actuator 120.

Fig. 11a to 11c show a tenth preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 11a shows an exploded isometric projection of the lock 100. Fig. 11b shows a front view of the lock 100. Fig. 11c shows a cross section through line IV-IV of fig. 11 b.

The lock 100 includes a housing 102 having a profile that generally conforms to the shape of a keyhole, commonly referred to as a euro cylinder lock. The housing 102 of the lock 100 is formed of a cylindrical portion from the outer surface of which an extension portion integrally extends radially. The housing 102 includes first and second housing sides 104 and 106 connected by an integral joint 108. The first and second housing sides 104 and 106 each include a cylindrical bore 110. The cylindrical bore 110 is coaxial. The first and second housing sides 104 and 106 each include fastening holes 604.

The cylindrical connecting portion 200 extends completely through the space 116 between the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The connection portion 200 has extensions that extend into the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to facilitate attachment of the extensions to the housing 102. The connecting portion 200 is received in the cylindrical holes 110 of the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

The attachment portion 200 includes a cylindrical bore 202, a circumferential groove 502, and a pair of fastening holes 616. The axes of the connecting portion 200 and the cylindrical bore 202 are offset.

Fastening pins 618 extending through the fastening holes 604 and the correspondingly aligned fastening holes 616 join the first and second housing sides 104 and 106 to the connection portion 200. The connection portion 200 is fixed with respect to the first and second housing sides 104 and 106. The fastening pins 618 provide a coupling means to couple the connecting portion 200 to the first and second housing sides 104 and 106.

An actuator 120 in the form of a cam actuator is positioned in the space 116 and is rotatably mounted on the connecting portion 200. The actuator 120 includes a bore 512 and an integral second stage gear 514 formed by an internal gear. A second-stage pinion gear 516 including a shaft coupling hole 518 is received by the cylindrical hole 202 such that it partially protrudes from the circumferential groove 502 of the connecting portion 200 and meshes with the second-stage gear 514 of the actuator 120.

A disk member 508 including an offset shaft bearing hole 510 is received on each side of the second stage pinion gear 516 in the cylindrical hole 202. The disk member 508 is press-fit in the cylindrical hole 202. The disc member 508 may be secured to the connecting portion 200 by other means, such as by pins, rivets, screws, clips, or retaining rings. Other means such as adhesives, welding, brazing or soldering may be employed.

The integrally formed first stage pinion gear set 1100 includes a pair of first stage pinion gears 520 joined by a coupling shaft 522 and a clutch lever receiving bore 642. The first stage pinion gear set 1100 extends through the shaft support hole 510 of the disc member 508 and the shaft coupling hole 518 of the second stage pinion gear 516.

The coupling shaft 522 is press-fitted in the shaft coupling hole 518 of the second-stage pinion gear 516, so that the first-stage pinion gear 520 and the second-stage pinion gear 516 are fixed. In an alternative embodiment, the shaft coupling bore 518 and the coupling shaft 522 may include at least one spline and/or groove that mesh to increase the reliable torque transfer therebetween. The coupling shaft 522 is rotatably installed in the support hole 510 of the disc member 508.

A first-stage gear 524 formed of an internal gear and including the clutch key hole 122 is rotatably installed in each side of the cylindrical hole 202 of the connection portion 200. Each first stage gear 524 meshes with a first stage pinion 520. Rotation of the first stage gear 524 transfers rotation to the meshed first stage pinion gear 520, thereby rotating the second stage pinion gear 516 secured thereto. The second stage pinion gear 516 transfers rotation to the meshed second stage gear 514 to rotate the actuator 120. The first stage gear 524, the first stage pinion 520, the second stage pinion 516, and the second stage gear 514 thus form a rotating device for rotating the actuator 120 about the connecting portion 200. In this embodiment, the arrangement and number of gear teeth of the first stage gear 524, the first stage pinion 520, the second stage pinion 516, and the second stage gear 514 are configured such that the first stage gear 524 and the actuator 120 rotate equally and in the same direction.

The cylindrical bore 202 receives the rotatable lock cylinder 112 on each side. Each lock cylinder 112 includes a keyway 114, a clutch keyway 122, and a circumferential groove 528.

The securing pin 618 protrudes into the cylindrical bore 202 and engages the circumferential groove 528 of the lock cylinder 112 to limit their axial movement.

The clutch keyway 122 of the plug 112 receives a clutch element 222 that is rotationally (but not axially) fixed to the clutch keyway 122.

When a key is inserted into the keyway 114 of the lock cylinder 112, the tip of its key body contacts the end of the clutch element 222 received in the clutch keyway 122 of the lock cylinder 112, thereby axially displacing the clutch element 222 toward the first stage gear 524 alongside it. A portion of the clutch element 222 thus enters the opposing clutch keyway 122 of the first stage gear 524, thereby rotationally coupling the lock cylinder 112 with the first stage gear 524. Whereby rotation of the lock cylinder 112 will rotate the actuator 120. The clutch element 222 and the clutch key hole 122 form a clutch arrangement for the actuator 120.

The clutch lever 650 is slidably received in the clutch lever receiving hole 642 of the first-stage pinion gear set 1100 such that it can move axially and is positioned between the clutch elements 222. When the clutch element 222 moves into the clutch keyway 122 of the first stage gear 524, it may push the clutch lever 650 axially. This can move the clutch element 222 received in the clutch keyway 122 of the lock cylinder 112 on the opposite side away from the clutch keyway 122 of the first stage gear 524 next to it, thereby decoupling the lock cylinder 112 and the first stage gear 524 on the opposite side.

Fig. 11a to 11c show a lock 100 in which the clutch element 222 received in the clutch key hole 122 of the key cylinder 112 of the first housing side 104 is partially received in the clutch key hole 122 of the first stage gear 524.

The clutch lever 650 provides a clutch transmission means. In the first and fourth embodiments, the clutch transmission is provided by the clutch spring 224.

In this and other embodiments of the invention, at least one component of the clutch device and/or the clutch transmission is at least partially housed within at least one component of the rotation device to rotate the actuator 120. This may provide a more compact arrangement.

In this embodiment, the axes of the cylindrical portion of the housing 102 and the lock cylinder 112 are offset. The rotational axes of the lock cylinder 112 and the actuator 120 are offset. The rotational axes of the lock cylinder 112 and the first stage gear 524 are collinear. Thus, unlike the arrangement disclosed in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the coupling between the lock cylinder 112 and the first stage gear 524 does not require the transmission of rotation between non-collinear axes.

In an alternative embodiment, the lock cylinder 112 may not include the keyway 114. If a disc holder locking mechanism is employed, the lock cylinder 112 can accommodate a set of discs. Each disk may include a key hole. The keyholes may collectively form a keyway 114 to receive a key. In another alternative embodiment, the lock cylinder 112 may be replaced by a rotatable control device.

It will be understood that the embodiments of the invention described above with reference to the drawings are given by way of example only and can be modified. The various components shown in the figures are not limited to use in their drawings and they may be used in other drawings and all aspects of the invention. The invention also extends to the individual components referred to and/or illustrated above, or to the individual components employed in any combination.