DE10057005A1 - Electronic locking system - Google Patents

Abstract

The electronic locking system comprises a key with a key code, an evaluation unit for reading out the key code and comparing the key code with an unlocking code, a cylinder with a keyhole for inserting the key along an axis, the cylinder being mounted so that it can hold the key can rotate about the axis, a mechanical actuating device which is rotatably mounted about the same axis to unlock a security system, and a coupling device which is connected to the evaluation unit and only firmly connects the mechanical actuating device to the cylinder if the key code is associated with a Unlocking code matches.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an electronic lock system for a vehicle.

There are electronic security systems for motorized vehicles Vehicles that make the vehicle's engine inoperable if not one that monitors the operation of the engine Control unit the correct digital code is fed. At one of these systems becomes a passive and portable trans ponderchip inserted into the plastic handle of a standard mechanical key is embedded. The Vehicle is with a stationary transponder and one High-frequency antenna equipped it the transponder allows to communicate with the portable transponder.

A signal from the stationary transponder activates the tragba ren transponder, which then gives a signal that a digital len code, transmitted to the stationary transponder.  

The digital code is then in the control unit with a Compare the code for unlocking the vehicle engine. If the codes match, the control unit does that Vehicle engine ready for operation. Such a system is called remote controlled keyless entry system (in English: remote keyless entry (RKE) system).

An RKE system provides a vehicle security measure for the vehicle engine available, but does not prevent the operation of the lock cylinder for the ignition / steering. The operation of this lock is for security reasons still dependent on a mechanical key. Accordingly, an RKE system uses high security not fully off the electronic locking systems Offer. The entire steering wheel lock / ignition switch mechanism is solely dependent on the mechanical key and not electrical tronically secured. Furthermore, the electronic high Security code not required to gain access to the vehicle gain.

An important reason why mechanical keys are retained is to provide a reliable means to unlock the vehicle in the event of a failure of the RKE system either due to a power failure or another malfunction. If such a system fails, can still be a mechanical key to get started in the vehicle and the operation of the ignition of the vehicle be used. It is due to the high required Amperes for the vehicle door locks just don't profitable, such a system with a battery backup equip.

Therefore there is a need, the reliability of a mecha key, but the higher degree Add security that an RKE system offers.  

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one disclosed embodiment of the invention the electronic locking system for a vehicle Key with a transponder, a send / receive on direction, an evaluation unit, a cylinder with a Keyhole, a mechanical actuator and a coupling device.

A driver inserts his key into a keyhole Cylinder of the vehicle, for example for an ignition switchgear of an automobile. The cylinder can rotate with the insert the inserted key. In contrast to mechanical The key contains a transponder with a key unique key code instead of unique mechani shear teeth that fit into a corresponding groove of a lock fit.

A switch determines the presence of a key in the Cylinder and activates a transmit / receive facility in inside the vehicle. Via an antenna in the vehicle in the The proximity of the key inserted transmits the transmission / Receiving device then a signal to the transponder in the Key, which in turn activates the transponder. In the When activated, the transponder sends a response signal, that carries a digital key code, back to the send / Receiving device that the signal and the digital Key code received.

An evaluation unit determines whether the key code with an unlock code stored in memory Right. If there is a match, the ID points value unit then a coupling device, the Cylinder directly with a rotatable mechanical actuator supply device to connect itself with the Zünd switchgear is connected. Through the non-rotatable connection of the key, the cylinder and the mechanical actuators supply device through the coupling device rotates the  Turn the key the mechanical actuator device for activating the ignition switchgear. This only like system can also unlock the doors and the Trigger the trunk of the vehicle.

The coupling device is effective with an elek tromagnetic plunger or an electromagnet ver bound, which receives a signal from the evaluation unit and if the key code matches the entry triggering code. This diving pin engages the Kopp tion device and couples the rotation of the cylinder with the mechanical actuator, which consequently the rotation of the key with the actuator couples. The plunger only needs to touch for a short time the coupling device are operated so that the system does not have to be constantly active.

This coupling device has a unique feature this invention, which allows the security system of the Vehicle by the mechanical force of rotation of the Activate key and thereby unlock. Dement is speak in the event of a power failure of the electrical Sy stems of the vehicle only a nominal battery fuse for Operation of this system required the vehicle doors to open or operate the vehicle's ignition. It is not a battery backup for the main electrical Actuators as in current RKE systems necessary. A nominal battery fuse to operate of the system is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 09 / 676,433, filed on September 29, 2000.

Furthermore, the invention allows the high to be maintained security features of RKE systems. A physical after education of the mechanical key of the invention is without a replication of the key code is ineffective since there is none teeth of a key to be copied. A manual Manipulation of the lock without this key code is also in vain.  

In addition, this electronic system is physically unique like keys and their matching locks, the advantages of such a mechanical locking mechanism can still be retained. Instead of everyone Vehicle a unique key and a suitable one To set up a lock, a manufacturer only needs the unique Program the key code into the vehicle. On in this way the production costs are considerably reduced wrestles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various features and advantages of the invention will be those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the currently preferred embodiment. The Drawings attached to the detailed description can be briefly described as follows:

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 shows a key of an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of a key of an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the embodiment of the invention from FIG. 5.

Fig. 7A shows an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 7B shows the key of the embodiment of Figure 7A.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment from FIG. 7.

Fig. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 10 shows a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 11 shows a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 12 shows a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 13 shows a further alternative embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the invention. A key 20 is inserted into either an electronic ignition lock 30 or an electronic tailgate lock 50 . A transmitting / receiving device 70 sends an activation signal to a transpon 22 in the key 20th When activated, the transponder 22 sends a response signal, which carries a unique key code 24 , to the transceiver 70 . The transmitting / receiving device 70 transmits the key code 24 to an evaluation unit 80 , an unlocking code 82 being stored in a memory 84 . In the event of a match between the key code 24 and the unlocking code 82 , the evaluation unit 80 activates the lock, either the electronic ignition lock 30 or the electronic tailgate lock 50 , with the inserted key 20 in order to attack the key 20 and to actuate and actuate the corresponding system unlock. In the electronic ignition lock 30 , this system is the steering lock system 90 and the ignition switchgear 100 . In the electronic tailgate lock 50 , this system is alternatively the tailgate lock system 110 for a door or a trunk. All of these systems are well known in the art. A battery fuse 120 is available. As will be seen below, the battery backup need only be nominal, since the operations of the steering column lock system 90 , the ignition switch 100 and the tailgate lock system 110 are all still done manually by the rotation of the key 20 .

Figures 2 and 3 show examples of keys 20 A and 20 B which can be used as part of the invention. The keys 20 A and 20 B each have a transponder 22 in or on the key 20 , for. B. on the key shaft. Fig. 2 shows a simple configuration 20 A of the key 20 , which is shaped like a mechanical key Lich. Fig. 3 shows a further configuration 20 B of the key 20 with keys 26 , as can be found in keys of remote-controlled keyless entry system. The keys 26 can allow remote locking and unlocking of the vehicle in addition to the unlocking means of this inven tion.

It should be noted that the ends of the keys 20 A and 20 B have an asymmetry 28 A and 28 B, respectively, which allows the key 20 to rotate a cylinder engaging this asymmetry, as in a key for a conventional lock. Unlike such a key, however, the physical shape of the key of the invention need not be unique to the lock. In fact, all of the keys to this invention can have the same shape. The uniqueness of the key is a key code 24 stored in the transponder 22. Furthermore, the key 20 of the invention is when the transponder 22 is located within the key 20 , preferably made of plastic or another non-metallic material that is responsible for the transmission or the Reception of a transmission signal does not interfere.

Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of the electronic ignition lock 30th The key 20 protrudes through the cover plate 32 through the keyhole 34 and engages a cylinder 36 . The key 20 also moves the plunger 48 to release the steering column lock system 90 so that the rotation of the steering wheel, not shown, is allowed.

The cylinder 36 is mounted within a housing 38 so that it can rotate with the rotation of the key 20 about an axis 39 , which is shown as a dashed line. The asymmetry 28 of the end of the key 20 permits the rotation of the cylinder 36 since the keyhole 34 is adapted to this asymmetry.

In addition to the cylinder 36 , a mechanical actuating device 40 is shown, which is also rotatably mounted within the housing 38 about the same axis as the rotatable key 20 and the cylinder 36 . With the mechanical actuation device 40 a Kopplungsein device 44 is operatively connected, which is operatively connected to an electromagnetic plunger 46 , which is in connection with an evaluation unit 80 Ver. The mechanical actuator 40 is operatively connected to the ignition switchgear 100 such that the rotation of the mechanical actuator 40 actuates the ignition switchgear 100 as in a conventional vehicle starter.

The transmitting / receiving device 70 transmits and receives signals by means of an antenna 72 which is wound around an antenna carrier 74 , which allows the key 20 to protrude through the keyhole 34 arranged in the antenna carrier 74 . Accordingly, the antenna 72 effectively extends in a coil shape around the transponder 22 in the shaft of the key 20 when the key 20 is inserted into the keyhole 34 . In this way, reception between the transceiver and the transponder is improved, which is why only a small antenna is required.

With the key 20 in the keyhole 34 , the transmitting / receiving device 70 uses the antenna 72 to send a signal to the transponder 22 , which is then activated, and a response signal, which carries the key code 24 , to the transmitting / receiving device 70 sends. The transmitting / receiving device 70 transmits the key code 24 to the evaluation unit 80 , which compares the key code 24 with the unlocking code 82 . When they match, the evaluation unit 80 operates the electromagnetic plungers 46, which pushes the coupling means 44 in contact with the Zy linder 36 to the cylinder 36 to be coupled to the mechanical actuator 40th In this way, when the key 20 is rotated, it rotates the cylinder 36 and also the mechanical actuating device 40 , so that it is actuated by the ignition switchgear 100 . Locking pins 49 are used for local locking of the rotated key 20 , the cylinder 36 and the mechanical actuation device 40 until the key 20 is turned back to turn off the ignition switchgear 100 . The electromagnetic plunger 46 need only be briefly actuated to engage the coupling device 44 so that the system does not have to be constantly active. The reason for this is that the housing 38 holds the coupling device 44 in position until the cylinder 36 and the mechanical actuating device 40 are rotated back into their original position.

When a driver wishes to turn off the ignition switch assembly 100 , he simply turns the key 20 back to its original insertion position, overcoming the locking force of the locking pins 49 . When the key 20 is removed, the evaluation unit 82 stops the actuation of the electromagnetic plunger and accordingly disables the coupling device 44 with the cylinder 36 , the cylinder 36 being decoupled from the mechanical actuation device 40 . A spring can be used to reset the coupling device 44 to its original state.

In the event that there is no matching code, the electromagnetic plunger 46 is not actuated and does not allow the coupling device 44 to engage the cylinder 36 . Without a match, the key 20 simply rotates the cylinder 36 without the mechanical actuating device 40 being rotated and without the ignition switch 100 being switched on. The invention thereby prevents unauthorized operation of the vehicle.

Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment of the invention. The key 20 with the transponder 22 is again shown inserted into the keyhole 34 through the antenna support 74 and the cylinder 36 . As in the embodiment of FIG. 4, the insertion of the key 20 moves the plunger 48 A, so that the steering column lock system 90 is released. In contrast to the embodiment of Fig. 4, the plunger 48 A has a flange 48 AA, the movement within a Ausneh 200 is movable.

Here, the coupling device 44 A differs from the coupling device 44 from FIG. 4. The coupling device 44 A is mounted in such a way that it can slide in and out of engagement via a slideway 44 AA. A pin 979 is attached to a mechanical actuator 40 A and slidably connected via the slideway 44 AA with the coupling device 44 A. A spring 978 is connected to the pin 979 and brought to the coupling device 44 A. As shown, the spring 978 is under tension when the coupling device 44 A is not in the position 980 . When the electromagnetic plunger 46 is actuated, it moves the coupling device 44 A upwards in the direction of arrow A, so that the spring 978 is retracted into position 980 when the coupling device is moved. The coupling device 44 A slides into engagement with the cylinder 36 , and the rear end of the coupling device 981 is positioned next to the flange 48 AA.

Withdrawing the key 20 allows the plunger 48 A to return to its original position by returning the pin of the steering column lock system 90 , which is generally spring loaded. When the plunger 48 A and the flange 48 AA return, they slidely release the coupling device 44 A from its coupling to the cylinder 36 . The coupling device 44 A falls out of position 980 , whereby the spring 44 AAA is tensioned.

Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of Fig. 5. Shown are the key 20 with the transponder 22 , the cover plate 32 , the antenna bracket 74 , the cylinder 36 , the mechanical actuator 40 A, the flange 48 AA, the ignition switch 100 , the coupling device 44 A, the Fe the 44 AAA, the electromagnetic plunger 46 , the evaluation unit 82 and the transmitting / receiving device 70 .

FIGS. 7A and 7B show a further embodiment of the invention. Here, the electromagnetic immersion bolt 46 on a housing 240 blocks a key 220 in a cylinder 210 when the key 220 comes into contact with a switch 230 , for example a commercially available microswitch. When the switch 230 is actuated, the electromagnetic plunger 46 is actuated, a spring 232 being compressed, a coupling device 226 (a plug) being pressed into a hole 224 in the key 220 , and the key 220 being brought into engagement with the cylinder 210 . In this way, the key 220 is blocked to prevent removal from the ignition during operation of the motor vehicle. The cylinder 210 is then connected to a mechanical actuator 242 which is itself connected to a lock system such as the ignition lock system 100 .

When the key 220 , cylinder 210, and mechanical actuator 242 are rotated, a housing 240 holds the coupler 226 in the hole 224 . The elec tromagnetic plunger 46 only needs to be operated until the key is turned. The switch 230 can be used to determine both when the key was turned and when it was inserted. When the key 220 , cylinder 210, and mechanical actuator 242 are turned back to their non-rotated position, such as when the ignition is turned off, the spring 232 decompresses, allowing the coupling device 226 to release the key 220 , and that Withdrawing the key 220 is permitted.

Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of Figures 7A and 7B. The electromagnetic plunger 46 , the housing 240 , the coupling device 226 , the key 220 , the cylinder 210 and the spring 232 are shown . As can be seen from FIG. 8, the actuation of the electromagnetic plunger 46 introduces the coupling device 226 into the key 220 . The actuation of the electromagnetic plunger pin 46 is controlled by the evaluation unit 80 . The cylinder 210 is then rotated by the rotation of the key 220 , for example in the direction of the arrow, thereby allowing the housing 240 to hold the coupling device 226 in place. The turning back of the key 220 and the cylinder 210 allows the coupling device 226 to be released or pushed out of the key 220 by means of the spring 232 .

Fig. 9 shows a further embodiment of the invention within a housing 302. A key 300 and the transponder 22 are inserted into the cylinder 36 , which is dimensioned so that it can hold the key 300 . The insertion of the key 300 moves a plunger 310 , whereby the steering column lock system 90 is deactivated. A spring 320 is compressed by the insertion of the key 300 .

The antenna 72 on the antenna carrier 74 receives the key code 24 from the transponder 22 , which is transmitted from the transceiver 70 (not shown here) to the evaluation unit 80 . If the key code 24 matches the unlocking code 82 , the evaluation unit 80 actuates the electromagnetic plunger 46 and pulls it back in the direction of the arrow. The spring 322 , which was previously in a compressed state, is not allowed (note: probably "now") to decompress and push a coupling device 324 , a locking sleeve, towards a mechanical actuation device 326 . Coupling device 324 slidably engages the cylinder via a groove or other known means to move toward mechanical actuator 326 but to prevent free rotation relative to cylinder 36 . Thus, the coupling device 324 can only rotate with the cylinder 36 . Via the spring 322 , the coupling device 324 engages the mechanical actuating device 326 , which itself is shaped such as with a groove that it can accommodate the coupling device 324 in a sliding manner, but can also prevent free rotation relative to the mechanical actuating device 326 , as soon as it is attacked. Thus, the coupling 324 rotates by the attack of the coupling means 324 to the actuating device 326 only with the mechanical actuator 326 and the cylinder 36th Therefore, when the key 300 is turned, the cylinder 36 , the coupling device 324 and the mechanical actuation device 326 also rotate, whereby the ignition switchgear 100 is actuated. As known from the prior art, the cylinder 36 and the coupling device 324 are blocked in position to prevent decompression of the spring 322 as long as the ignition is switched on.

If the ignition is turned off by the rotation of the key 300 in its original insertion position, the cylinder 36 and the coupling device 324 can then slide back into their original position. When key 300 is removed, plunger 310 springs back into position prior to key insertion by decompressing spring 320 . A flange 328 releases the coupling device 324 from its position embedded in the mechanical actuation device 326 , whereby the cylinder 36 is decoupled from the mechanical actuation device 326 . The coupling device 324 returns to its original position, thereby allowing the electromagnetic plunger 46 to return to its original position between the coupling device 324 and the mechanical actuator 326 .

Fig. 10 discloses another embodiment of the inven tion. A key 350 with the transponder 22 in the shaft is inserted into an antenna carrier 354 with an antenna. The key moves a plunger 370 to unlock the steering column lock system, which consists of a pin 376 with a spring 378 . The spring 378 is thereby compressed, and the steering column lock system is thereby unlocked ent. A coupling device 356 rests on a lip 374 of an electromagnetic plunger 366 . The coupling device 356 is rotatably supported about an axis X.

As previously shown, the key code 24 is transmitted to the evaluation unit 80 (not shown here) in order to be compared with an unlocking code 82 . If there is a match, the electromagnetic plunger shown with the armature windings 360 is retracted in the direction of arrow A, a spring 364 being compressed. Since the coupling device 356 is no longer supported by the lip 374 of the electromagnetic plunger 366 , the coupling device 356 , a pawl, rotates in the direction of arrow B, in order to thereby engage a cylinder of the 362 and to couple this to a mechanical actuation device 368 . When the key 350 is turned, the cylinder 362 also rotates the mechanical actuating device 368 , the ignition switchgear 100 ( not shown) being actuated and the ignition being switched on.

When the key 350 is rotated back to its original position and withdrawn, a flange 358 of the plunger 370 moves in the direction of arrow A and rotates the coupling device 356 in the opposite direction of arrow B, with the coupling device 356 in its original position is set back. The electromagnetic plunger pin 366 is returned to its original position, with the lip 374 again supporting the coupling device 356 .

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the invention which is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 10. As in the embodiment of FIG. 10, a coupling device 400 rests on a lip 402 of an electromagnetic plunger 404 . The coupling device 400 , a jack, is in operation with a mechanical actuator 412 connected ver.

A key 410 with the transponder 22 is inserted in a cylinder 408 , whereby it moves the plunger 414 . As a result, a cylinder lock system 90 (not shown here) is released and a spring 416 is compressed. When the electromagnetic plunger 404 is actuated, it retracts in the direction of arrow A, compressing a spring 406 . The coupling device 400 then rotates in the direction of arrow B and engages the cylinder 408 and couples the cylinder 408 to the mechanical actuation device 412 . Rotation of the key 410 rotates the cylinder 408 and the mechanical actuator 412 together and then turns the ignition switch 100 on .

When the ignition switch key is turned back to its original insertion position and removed from the cylinder 408 , a flange 418 of the plunger 414 rotates the coupling device 400 in the direction of the arrow B. The electromagnetic plunger pin 404 is reset, allowing the coupling device 400 will rest on the lip 402 of the electromagnetic plunger 404 again.

FIG. 12 shows a further embodiment of the invention, which is similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 10 and 11. Before the insertion of a key 422, a coupling device 424 rests on a lip 426 which can be rotated in the direction of arrow B. A spring 438 is under tension. An electromagnetic plunger 420 is shown in a retracted position. Before insertion, the electromagnetic plunger 420 blocks the entry of the key 422 into a cylinder 432 , so that a further level of security is added.

When the key 422 and the transponder 22 come close to the transceiver 70 (not shown here), the electromagnetic plunger 420 , as shown, is retracted in the direction of arrow C when the key code 24 with the Unlocking code 82 matches. The insertion of the key 422 into the cylinder 432 ver pushes the plunger 440 and compresses a spring 436 . Furthermore, an electromagnetic plunger 428 is actuated and moves in the direction of arrow A, whereby a spring 430 can decompress and the coupling device 424 can rotate in the direction of arrow B. The cylinder 432 is thereby coupled via the coupling device 424 to a mechanical actuator 434 , so that the rotation of the key 422 and the cylinder 432 now rotates the mechanical actuator 434 .

The turning back of the key 422 into its insertion position and pulling it out of the cylinder 432 allows the decompression of the spring 436 , whereby the plunger 440 is pushed in the direction of arrow A. The plunger 440 then resets the coupler 424 by rotating it in a direction opposite the arrow B, compressing the spring 438 . The electromagnetic plunger 420 is actuated in a direction opposite the arrow C to block the cylinder 432 again.

While locks for the ignition circuit and the steering column lock system were used in the previous embodiments, a further development of the invention can be used for door cylinders. Fig. 13 shows such an embodiment. A key 450 with the transponder 22 protrudes through a cover plate 452 and through the antenna carrier 454 and engages a cylinder 456 . When the key rotates, a switch 458 , a commercially available microswitch, detects this rotation and transmits a signal to the evaluation unit 80 to activate a transmission / reception device 460 . The transmitting / receiving device 460 then sends a signal to the trans ponder 22 , which sends a response signal with the key code 24 to the transmitting / receiving device 460 and the evaluation unit 80 , which then releases the key code 24 with the unlocking code 82 compares. Again, a coupling device as shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, 7A, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 is used, which engages the mechanical actuation device in a housing 462 . A person skilled in the art can easily use these coupling devices in such a way that they fit into a door lock system.

All previous embodiments have the new note times on that a key with a key code on one Cylinder with a keyhole that attacks over a Kopp activated by an electromagnetic plunger lungseinrichtung on a mechanical actuator tion attacks if the key code has an unlock an evaluation unit. This new one Feature retains the high security of an elek  tronic locking system. In addition, weni energy required to secure this system than which are required for the electronic actuators energy because the key is a mechanical actuator supply device rotates. Only the send / receive device, the evaluation unit, the key detection switch and the Electromagnetic plungers require electricity. In the case a power failure is only a nominal battery reserve required.

The preceding description is exemplary and not restrictive. Many modifications and variations of the above lying invention are possible in the light of the above teaching. The preferred embodiments of this invention have been disclosed. However, one skilled in the art will recognize that certain modes fications fall within the scope of this invention. Therefore the invention can be within the scope of the accompanying Claims are executed differently than specifically described ben. For this reason, the following claims to be studied to determine the true scope and content of this Er determination.

Claims (18)

1. Electronic lock for a vehicle, which includes the following:
a key with a key code;
an evaluation unit for reading out the key code and comparing the key code with an unlocking code;
a cylinder with a keyhole for inserting the key along an axis, the cylinder being supported so that it can rotate about the axis with the key;
a mechanical actuator rotatably supported about the axis to unlock a security system; and
a coupling device, which is in connection with the evaluation unit and the mechanical actuating device only firmly connects to the cylinder when the key code matches an unlocking code. 2. Electronic locking system according to claim 1, the further comprises an ignition switchgear that is effective connected to the mechanical actuator is. 3. Electronic locking system according to claim 1, the further comprises a steering column lock system that is effective moderately connected to the mechanical actuator that is. 4. Electronic locking system according to claim 1, the also has a tailgate lock that is effective connected to the mechanical actuator is.   5. Electronic locking system according to claim 1, the furthermore has an electromagnetic plunger, which is operatively connected to the coupling device and is in connection with the evaluation unit, whereby the plunger with the mechanical actuator connects the cylinder when the key code with the Ent lock code matches. 6. Electronic locking system for a vehicle, comprising:
a key;
a transponder in the key;
a transceiver for transmitting a signal to the transponder and for receiving a response signal from the transponder carrying a key code;
an evaluation unit in connection with the transmitting / receiving device for comparing the key code with an unlocking code stored in a memory;
a cylinder with a keyhole for inserting the key along an axis, the cylinder being supported so that it can rotate about the axis with the key;
a mechanical actuator rotatably supported about the axis to unlock a security system;
a coupling device, which is in connection with the evaluation unit and only firmly connects the mechanical actuating device to the cylinder when the key code matches the unlocking code. 7. Electronic locking system according to claim 6, the also an effective with the mechanical actuation device connected ignition switchgear.   8. Electronic locking system according to claim 6, the also an effective with the mechanical actuation device connected steering column lock system. 9. Electronic locking system according to claim 6, the also an effective with the mechanical actuation device connected tailgate lock system. 10. Electronic locking system according to claim 6, the also a switch to activate the transmit / Receiving device if the key in the cylinder is inserted and effectively in contact with the switch. 11. Electronic locking system according to claim 6, the furthermore has an electromagnetic plunger, which is operatively connected to the coupling device and is connected to the evaluation unit, the mechanical actuator with the Cylinder if the key code is connected to the Unlocking code matches. 12. Electronic locking system according to claim 6, the also an antenna for the transceiver having. 13. Electronic locking system according to claim 12, at which the antenna coils around the key stretches when the key is inserted into the cylinder. 14. A method for electronically locking a vehicle with the following steps:
Inserting a key with a key code into a keyhole;
Reading the key code from the key;
Comparing the key code with an unlock code;
firm connection of the key to a mechanical actuating device only if the key code matches the unlocking code. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of Actuating an ignition switchgear comprises. 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of Actuating a steering column lock system includes. 17. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of Operating a tailgate lock system includes. 18. The method of claim 14, further comprising the step of Read the key code from the key includes electromagnetic waves.