WO2015154122A1 - A lock assembly and a method of operating same - Google Patents
A lock assembly and a method of operating same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2015154122A1 WO2015154122A1 PCT/AU2015/000061 AU2015000061W WO2015154122A1 WO 2015154122 A1 WO2015154122 A1 WO 2015154122A1 AU 2015000061 W AU2015000061 W AU 2015000061W WO 2015154122 A1 WO2015154122 A1 WO 2015154122A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- status
- window
- lock assembly
- actuated
- visible
- Prior art date
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B41/00—Locks with visible indication as to whether the lock is locked or unlocked
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B15/00—Other details of locks; Parts for engagement by bolts of fastening devices
- E05B15/02—Striking-plates; Keepers; Bolt staples; Escutcheons
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B9/00—Lock casings or latch-mechanism casings ; Fastening locks or fasteners or parts thereof to the wing
- E05B9/04—Casings of cylinder locks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05B—LOCKS; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR; HANDCUFFS
- E05B9/00—Lock casings or latch-mechanism casings ; Fastening locks or fasteners or parts thereof to the wing
- E05B9/08—Fastening locks or fasteners or parts thereof, e.g. the casings of latch-bolt locks or cylinder locks to the wing
- E05B9/084—Fastening of lock cylinders, plugs or cores
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a lock assembly and a method of operating same.
- the invention has been primarily developed for use as a door lock in residential applications. However, the invention is not limited to this particular use and is also suitable for other lock applications, such as shop-fronts and hotels, and with lock cylinders that control a change in state or position of another device, such as a key switch.
- Door locks are known that provide a visual indication of the status of the lock.
- the inside housing of Lockwood's 001 (trade mark) deadlock includes a window through which an indicator can be viewed.
- a red indicator is visible in the window.
- a green indicator is visible in the window.
- the indicators provide an indication of t he status of the deadlock to the occupants of a house/room.
- a disadvantage of this type of indicator is that it is unsuitable for external use as it provides anyone who is external to the lock with an indication of its locked/unlocked status. This is parti cularly problemati c if the lock has been inadvertently or intentionally left unlocked as it provides all passersby with an indication that the house/room is not secure. This type of indication can also be problematic when used in the interior of a house/room, particularly where interior visual access to the lock is possible, for example via a window.
- the present invention provides a lock assembly including:
- a first lock cylinder with a first barrel pivotable by a correctly coded key from a neutral key removal position to at least a first actuated position ;
- one or more lock status indicators adapted to visually display a neutral status, whilst the first barrel is in the neutral position, and a first actuated status, whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the first actuated position
- the first barrel is preferably also pivotable by the correctly coded key to a second actuated position and the one or more lock status indicators are adapted to visually display a second actuated status whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the second actuated position,
- the first barrel is preferably also pivotable by the correctly coded key to a third or more actuated positions and the one or more lock status indicators are adapted to respectively visually display one of a third or more actuated status whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the third or more actuated positions,
- neutral status, the first actuated status, the second actuated status and the third or more actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
- the first actuated position and the first actuated status preferably both correspond to either locked status or unlocked status. More preferably, the first actuated position and first actuated status both correspond to locked status and the second actuated position and the second actuated status both correspond to unlocked status.
- the one or more lock status indicators includes a window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the window and the neutral status is indicated by no element being visible in the window.
- the one or more lock status indicators includes a window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the window and the neutral status is indicated by a third coloured element being visible in the window.
- the one or more lock status indicators includes a first window and a second window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the first window and no element being visible in the second window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the second window and no element being visible in the first window and the neutral status is indicated by no element being visible in the first window and the second window.
- the one or more lock status indicators includes a first window and a second window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the first window and a third coloured element being visible in the second window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the second window and the third coloured element being visible in the second window and the neutral status is indicated by the third coloured element being visible in the first window and the second window.
- the one or more lock status indicators includes a first opening and a second opening and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element protruding from the first opening and no element protruding from the second opening, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element protruding from the second opening and no element protruding from the first opening and the neutral status is indicated by no element from the first opening and the second opening.
- the first coloured element is preferably red and the second coloured element is preferably green.
- the third coloured element is preferably substantially identical to the colour of the lock assembly or a neutral colour such as black, white or silver.
- the barrel of the first lock cylinder is preferably pivotable clockwise from the neutral position to the first actuated (locking) position and counter-clockwise from the neutral position to the second actuated (unlocking) position.
- the first, second and third coloured elements are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
- the first, second and third coloured elements all form part of one or more indicator members, adjacent to the window, that is/are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
- the first and second coloured elements are associated with first and second indicator members respectively
- the lock assembly includes a cam associated with the key barrel, wherein the cam drives the first coloured element to protrude from the first opening when the barrel is in the locked position and drives the second coloured element to protrude from the second opening when the barrel is in the unlocked position.
- the first and second coloured elements are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
- the first and second coloured elements both form part of one or more indicator members, adjacent to the openings, that is/are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
- the present invention provides method of operating a lock assembly including the steps of:
- the method preferably also includes visually displaying a second actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pi voted by the correctly coded key to a second actuated position, wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status and the second actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
- the method preferably also includes visually displaying one of a third or more actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pivoted by the correctly coded key to one of third or more actuated positions respectively, wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status, the second actuated status and the third or more actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
- the first actuated position and the first actuated status preferably both correspond to either locked status or unlocked status. More preferably, the first actuated position and first actuated status both correspond to locked status and the second actuated position and the second actuated status both correspond to unlocked status.
- the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a window in the lock assembly, visually displaying the unlocked status by making a second coloured element visible in the window and visually displaying the neutral status by making no element being visible in the window.
- the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a window in the lock assembly, visually displaying the unlocked status by making a second coloured visible in the window and visually displaying the neutral status by making a third coloured element visible in the window.
- the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a first window in the lock assembly and making no element visible in a second window in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element being visible in the second window and making no element visible in the first window and visually indicating the neutral status by making no element visible in the first window and the second window.
- the method includes visually indicating the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a first window in the lock assembly and making a third coloured element visible in a second window in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element visible in the second window and the third coloured visible in the second window and visually indicating the neutral status by making the third coloured element visible in the first window and the second window.
- the method includes visually indicating the locked status by making a first coloured element protrude from a first opening in the lock assembly and no element protrude from a second opening in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element protrude from the second opening and no element protrude from the first window and visually indicating the neutral status by making no element protrude from the first opening and the second opening.
- the first coloured element is preferably red and the second coloured element is preferably green.
- the third coloured element is preferably substantially identical to the colour of the lock assembly or a neutral colour such as black, white or silver.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a lock assembly mounted in the door;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a lock assembly mounted in the door;
- Figs. 3 and 4 are front and rear exploded perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 1 respectively;
- Figs. 5, 6 and 7 are partial rear views of the lock assembly of Fig. 1 during neutral, unlocking and locking key positions respectively;
- Figs. 8 and 9 are front and rear exploded perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 2 respectively;
- Figs. 10, 11 and 12 are top views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 2 during neutral, unlocking and locking key positions respectively;
- Figs. 13, 14 and 15 are perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 2 during, neutral unlocking and locking key positions respectively;
- Fig. 16 and 17 are perspective views of a third embodiment of a lock assembly mounted in the door, indicating a neutral status and an unlocked status respectively;
- Figs. 18 and 19 are front and rear exploded perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 16 respectively.
- Figs. 20, 21 and 22 are rear views of the lock assembly of Fig. 16 during neutral, unlocking and locking key positions respectively.
- Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a lock assembly 20 mounted in a door 22.
- the lock assembly 20 includes an escutcheon 24 to which is mounted a cylinder barrel 28.
- the barrel 28 has key slot 30 therein.
- the escutcheon 24 includes an opening therein, in the form of a window 32.
- the escutcheon 24 shown is grey or silver in colour (but can be another colour).
- the lock assembly 20 includes a pin cylinder assembly, comprising a housing 34 within which is pivotally mounted the cylinder barrel 28.
- the proximal end of the barrel 28 includes a pair of spigots 36 which engage with corresponding recesses 38 formed in an indicator wheel 40.
- the indicator wheel 40 has a first part 40a, which is coloured silver or grey to match that of the escutcheon 24 (but can be another neutral color), a second part 40b which is coloured green, and a third part 40c, which is coloured red.
- the distal end of the barrel 28 includes a slot 42 within which is engaged a drive shaft 44.
- the drive shaft 44 is located within the groove 42 by a cir-clip 46.
- the drive shaft 44 is used to pivotally drive other lock components, such as a cam within the main lock mechanism, as is well known to person skilled in the art.
- Figs. 3 and 4 also show a clear lens 48 which is received within the window 32, to prevent ingress of dirt and/or moisture into the lock assembly 20.
- Figs. 3 and 4 also show three screws 50 which are used to fix the housing 34 to the escutcheon 24 by screw
- Fig. 5 shows the lock assembly 20 when the barrel 28 is in a neutral position in which the key can be inserted into, and removed from, the barrel 28.
- the grey/silver coloured first section 40a of the indicator wheel 40 is visible through the window 32, to visually indicate that the barrel 28 is in the neutral or key removal position.
- Fig 6 shows the lock assembly 20 whilst the barrel 28 is pivoted to a (first actuated) unlocking position. In this position, the green second part 40b of the colour wheel 40 is visible through the window, to visually indicate to the lock assembly operator that they are unlocking, or have unlocked, the lock assembly 20.
- the barrel 28 must be pivoted back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 5 for removal of the key. Accordingly, even though the lock assembly 20 has been unlocked, the visual indication of doing so does not remain visible after the operation has been completed.
- Fig. 7 shows the lock assembly 20 whilst the barrel 28 is pivoted to a (second actuated) locking position. In this position, the red third part 40c of the colour wheel 40 is visible through the window 32 to visually indicate to the user that it is the locking operation that they are performing. Importantly, once the locking operation is complete, the barrel 28 must be rotated back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 5 for key removal.
- FIG. 2 shows a second embodiment of a lock assembly 60 mounted within a door 62.
- the lock assembly 60 includes an escutcheon 64 through which a cylinder barrel 66, with a key slot 68, can be accessed.
- the escutcheon 64 also includes a first opening 70 and a second opening 72.
- the lock assembly 60 also includes a pin cylinder assembly housing 74 which has first and second openings 76 and 78 respectively therein.
- First and second springs 80 and 82 and first and second indicator cylinders 84 and 86 are respectively located in the first and second openings 76 and 78.
- a cover plate 88 is fixed to the distal end of the barrel 66 by screws 90. The colour plate fixes a drive shaft 92 with respect to the barrel 66.
- the cover plate 88 also includes a cam part 94.
- the first and second cylinders 84 and 86 have proximal ends that are coloured red and green respectively. In an alternative form (not shown), the proximal ends of the cylinders are colour matched to the escutcheon 64 (or are another neutral colour) with the side surfaces of the cylinders 84 and 86 red and green respectively.
- Figs. 10 and 13 show the lock assembly 60 whilst the barrel 68 is in the neutral or key removal position. In this position, the cam part 94 does not influence the position of either of the cylinders 84 or 86 and both of them are driven inwardly away from the outer surface of the escutcheon 64 by their respective springs 80 and 82 such that they do not protrude through the openings 70 and 72.
- Figs. 1 1 and 14 show the lock assembly 60 whilst the barrel 68 is pivoted to an unlocking position. This causes corresponding rotation of the cover plate 88 and causes the cam part 94 to drive the green cylinder 86 forward such that its proximal end protrudes from the escutcheon 64 through the first hole 70.
- the green protruding cylinder 86 provides a visual indication that the lock assembly 60 is unlocked or being unlocked. Importantly, the cylinder 86 retracts to the position shown in Fig. 13 when the barrel 68 is pivoted back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Figs. 10 and 13.
- Figs. 12 and 15 show the lock assembly 60 whilst the barrel 68 is pivoted to a locking positi on. In this position, the corresponding rotation of the cover plate 88 causes the cam part 94 to drive the red cylinder 84 forward such that its proximal protrudes from the escutcheon through the second hole 72. This provides a visual indication of locking. Again, the cylinder 84 retracts when the barrel 68 is returned to the neutral/key removal position.
- Figs. 16 to 22 show a third embodiment of a lock assembly 100 mounted in a door 102.
- the lock assembly 100 includes an escutcheon 104 to which is mounted a cylinder barrel 106.
- the barrel 106 has key slot 108 therein.
- the escutcheon 104 includes two openings therein, in the fonn of slots 110 and 1 12 in its left and right hand sides respectively.
- the lock assembly 100 includes a pin cylinder assembly, comprising a housing 1 14 within which is pivotally mounted the cylinder barrel 106.
- the proximal end of the barrel 106 includes a pair of spigots 1 16 which engage with corresponding recesses 1 18 fonned in an indicator part 120.
- the indicator part 120 has a first part 120a, which is coloured green, and a second part 120b, which is coloured red.
- the distal end of the barrel 106 includes a slot 122 within which is engaged a drive shaft 124.
- the drive shaft 124 is located within the groove 122 by a cir-clip 126.
- the drive shaft is used to pivotally drive other lock components, such as a cam within the main lock mechanism, as is well known to persons skilled in the art.
- Figs. 18 and 19 also show three screws 128 which are used to fix the housing 1 14 to the escutcheon 104 by screw engagement with three bosses 130.
- Fig. 20 shows the lock assembly 100 when the barrel 106 is in a neutral position in which the key can be inserted into, and removed from, the barrel 106.
- the indicator part 120 does not protrude through either of the slots 1 10 or 1 12, so as to visually indicate that the barrel 106 is in the neutral or key removal position.
- Fig. 21 shows the lock assembly 100 whilst the barrel 104 is pivoted to a (first actuated) unlocking position. In this position, the green first part 120a protrudes from the slot 1 10 to visually indicate to the lock assembly operator that they are unlocking, or have unlocked, the lock assembly 100. Importantly, once the unlocking operation has been completed, the barrel 106 must be pivoted back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 20 for removal of the key.
- Fig. 22 shows the lock assembly 100 whilst the barrel 106 is pivoted to a (second actuated) locking position. In this position, the red second part 120b of the indicator part 120 protrudes from the slot 1 12 to visually indicate to the operator that it is the locking operation that they are performing, or have performed. Importantly, once the locking operation is complete, the barrel 106 must be rotated back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 20 for key removal.
- the lock assemblies described above advantageously provide an indication to a user as to whether key rotation is causing locking or unlocking, so as to provide a clear, visual indication as to whether or not they are correctly manipulating key in the lock assembly.
- the visual indication of locking/unlocking is removed once the operation is complete, so as to avoid providing any passersby with an indication of the status of the lock, thereby allowing the lock assembly to be used in both internal and external installations. This is particularly important, when used in an external installation, if the user has mistakenly or intentionally left a door unlocked.
- the clear indication of locking/unlocking during key operation is also advantageous in avoiding the (potentially dangerous) scenario of
- the lock is assembly includes two windows with the neutral position being indicated with a grey/neutral colours in both windows, the key unlocking position being indicated by green in one window and grey/neutral in the other and the locking position being indicated by grey/neutral in the first window and red in the second window.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
Abstract
A lock assembly (20) including a first lock cylinder and one or more lock status indicators. The first lock cylinder has a first barrel (28) pivotable by a correctly coded key from a neutral key removal position to at least a first actuated position. The one or more lock status indicators (40a, 40b, 40c) is/are adapted to visually display a neutral status, whilst the first barrel (28) is in the neutral position, and a first actuated status, whilst the first barrel (28) is pivoted to the first actuated position. The neutral status and the first actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
Description
A LOCK ASSEMBLY AND A METHOD OF OPERATING SAME
Field of the Invention
[0001 ] The present invention relates to a lock assembly and a method of operating same.
[0002] The invention has been primarily developed for use as a door lock in residential applications. However, the invention is not limited to this particular use and is also suitable for other lock applications, such as shop-fronts and hotels, and with lock cylinders that control a change in state or position of another device, such as a key switch.
Background of the Invention
[0003] Door locks are known that provide a visual indication of the status of the lock. For example, the inside housing of Lockwood's 001 (trade mark) deadlock includes a window through which an indicator can be viewed. When the lock is deadlocked, a red indicator is visible in the window. When the lock is not deadlocked, a green indicator is visible in the window. The indicators provide an indication of t he status of the deadlock to the occupants of a house/room.
[0004] A disadvantage of this type of indicator is that it is unsuitable for external use as it provides anyone who is external to the lock with an indication of its locked/unlocked status. This is parti cularly problemati c if the lock has been inadvertently or intentionally left unlocked as it provides all passersby with an indication that the house/room is not secure. This type of indication can also be problematic when used in the interior of a house/room, particularly where interior visual access to the lock is possible, for example via a window.
Object of Invention
[0005] It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome, or at least ameliorate, the above disadvantage.
Summary of Invention
[0006] Accordingly, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a lock assembly including:
a first lock cylinder with a first barrel pivotable by a correctly coded key from a neutral key removal position to at least a first actuated position ; and
one or more lock status indicators adapted to visually display a neutral status, whilst the first barrel is in the neutral position, and a first actuated status, whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the first actuated position,
wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
[0007] The first barrel is preferably also pivotable by the correctly coded key to a second actuated position and the one or more lock status indicators are adapted to visually display a second actuated status whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the second actuated position,
wherein the neutral status, the first actuated status and the second actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
[0008] The first barrel is preferably also pivotable by the correctly coded key to a third or more actuated positions and the one or more lock status indicators are adapted to respectively visually display one of a third or more actuated status whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the third or more actuated positions,
wherein the neutral status, the first actuated status, the second actuated status and the third or more actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
[0009] The first actuated position and the first actuated status preferably both correspond to either locked status or unlocked status. More preferably, the first actuated position and first actuated status both correspond to locked status and the second actuated position and the second actuated status both correspond to unlocked status.
[0010] In a first embodiment, the one or more lock status indicators includes a window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the window and the neutral status is indicated by no element being visible in the window.
[001 1] In a second embodiment, the one or more lock status indicators includes a window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the window and the neutral status is indicated by a third coloured element being visible in the window.
[0012] In a third embodiment, the one or more lock status indicators includes a first window and a second window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the first window and no element being visible in the second window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the second window and no element being visible in the first window and the neutral status is indicated by no element being visible in the first window and the second window.
[0013] In a fourth embodiment, the one or more lock status indicators includes a first window and a second window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the first window and a third coloured element being visible in the second window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the second window and the third coloured element being visible in the second window and the neutral status is indicated by the third coloured element being visible in the first window and the second window.
[0014] In a fifth embodiment, the one or more lock status indicators includes a first opening and a second opening and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element protruding from the first opening and no element protruding from the second opening, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element protruding from the second opening and no element protruding from the first opening and the neutral status is indicated by no element from the first opening and the second opening.
[0015] The first coloured element is preferably red and the second coloured element is preferably green. The third coloured element is preferably substantially identical to the colour of the lock assembly or a neutral colour such as black, white or silver.
[0016] The barrel of the first lock cylinder is preferably pivotable clockwise from the neutral position to the first actuated (locking) position and counter-clockwise from the neutral position to the second actuated (unlocking) position.
[0017] In one form, the first, second and third coloured elements are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith. Preferably, the first, second and third coloured elements all form part of one or more indicator members, adjacent to the window, that is/are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
[0018] In another form, the first and second coloured elements are associated with first and second indicator members respectively, and the lock assembly includes a cam associated with the key barrel, wherein the cam drives the first coloured element to protrude from the first opening when the barrel is in the locked position and drives the second coloured element to protrude from the second opening when the barrel is in the unlocked position.
[0019] In yet another form, the first and second coloured elements are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith. Preferably, the first and second coloured elements both form part of one or more indicator members, adjacent to the openings, that is/are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
[0020] In a second aspect, the present invention provides method of operating a lock assembly including the steps of:
visually displaying a neutral status when a barrel of a lock cylinder is in a neutral key removal position;
visually displaying a first actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pivoted by a correctly coded key to at least a first actuated position,
wherein the neutral status and the actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
[0021 ] The method preferably also includes visually displaying a second actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pi voted by the correctly coded key to a second actuated position, wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status and the second actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
[0022] The method preferably also includes visually displaying one of a third or more actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pivoted by the correctly coded key to one of third or more actuated positions respectively, wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status,
the second actuated status and the third or more actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
[0023] The first actuated position and the first actuated status preferably both correspond to either locked status or unlocked status. More preferably, the first actuated position and first actuated status both correspond to locked status and the second actuated position and the second actuated status both correspond to unlocked status.
[0024] In a first embodiment, the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a window in the lock assembly, visually displaying the unlocked status by making a second coloured element visible in the window and visually displaying the neutral status by making no element being visible in the window.
[0025] In a second embodiment, the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a window in the lock assembly, visually displaying the unlocked status by making a second coloured visible in the window and visually displaying the neutral status by making a third coloured element visible in the window.
[0026] In a third embodiment, the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a first window in the lock assembly and making no element visible in a second window in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element being visible in the second window and making no element visible in the first window and visually indicating the neutral status by making no element visible in the first window and the second window.
[0027] In a fourth embodiment, the method includes visually indicating the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a first window in the lock assembly and making a third coloured element visible in a second window in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element visible in the second window and the third coloured visible in the second window and visually indicating the neutral status by making the third coloured element visible in the first window and the second window.
[0028] In a fifth embodiment, the method includes visually indicating the locked status by making a first coloured element protrude from a first opening in the lock assembly and no
element protrude from a second opening in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element protrude from the second opening and no element protrude from the first window and visually indicating the neutral status by making no element protrude from the first opening and the second opening.
[0029] The first coloured element is preferably red and the second coloured element is preferably green. The third coloured element is preferably substantially identical to the colour of the lock assembly or a neutral colour such as black, white or silver.
Brief Description of Drawings
[0030] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of examples only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0031] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a lock assembly mounted in the door;
[0032] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a lock assembly mounted in the door;
[0033] Figs. 3 and 4 are front and rear exploded perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 1 respectively;
[0034] Figs. 5, 6 and 7 are partial rear views of the lock assembly of Fig. 1 during neutral, unlocking and locking key positions respectively;
[0035] Figs. 8 and 9 are front and rear exploded perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 2 respectively;
[0036] Figs. 10, 11 and 12 are top views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 2 during neutral, unlocking and locking key positions respectively;
[0037] Figs. 13, 14 and 15 are perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 2 during, neutral unlocking and locking key positions respectively;
[0038] Fig. 16 and 17 are perspective views of a third embodiment of a lock assembly mounted in the door, indicating a neutral status and an unlocked status respectively;
[0039] Figs. 18 and 19 are front and rear exploded perspective views of the lock assembly shown in Fig. 16 respectively; and
[0040] Figs. 20, 21 and 22 are rear views of the lock assembly of Fig. 16 during neutral, unlocking and locking key positions respectively.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments
[0041] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a lock assembly 20 mounted in a door 22. The lock assembly 20 includes an escutcheon 24 to which is mounted a cylinder barrel 28. The barrel 28 has key slot 30 therein. The escutcheon 24 includes an opening therein, in the form of a window 32. The escutcheon 24 shown is grey or silver in colour (but can be another colour).
[0042] As best shown in Figs. 3 and 4, the lock assembly 20 includes a pin cylinder assembly, comprising a housing 34 within which is pivotally mounted the cylinder barrel 28. The proximal end of the barrel 28 includes a pair of spigots 36 which engage with corresponding recesses 38 formed in an indicator wheel 40. The indicator wheel 40 has a first part 40a, which is coloured silver or grey to match that of the escutcheon 24 (but can be another neutral color), a second part 40b which is coloured green, and a third part 40c, which is coloured red.
[0043] The distal end of the barrel 28 includes a slot 42 within which is engaged a drive shaft 44. The drive shaft 44 is located within the groove 42 by a cir-clip 46. The drive shaft 44 is used to pivotally drive other lock components, such as a cam within the main lock mechanism, as is well known to person skilled in the art.
[0044] Figs. 3 and 4 also show a clear lens 48 which is received within the window 32, to prevent ingress of dirt and/or moisture into the lock assembly 20. Figs. 3 and 4 also show three screws 50 which are used to fix the housing 34 to the escutcheon 24 by screw
engagement with three bosses 52.
[0045] The operation of the lock assembly shall now be described with reference to Figs. 5 to 7.
[0046] Fig. 5 shows the lock assembly 20 when the barrel 28 is in a neutral position in which the key can be inserted into, and removed from, the barrel 28. When the barrel 28 is in this position, the grey/silver coloured first section 40a of the indicator wheel 40 is visible through the window 32, to visually indicate that the barrel 28 is in the neutral or key removal position.
[0047] Fig 6 shows the lock assembly 20 whilst the barrel 28 is pivoted to a (first actuated) unlocking position. In this position, the green second part 40b of the colour wheel 40 is visible through the window, to visually indicate to the lock assembly operator that they are unlocking, or have unlocked, the lock assembly 20. Importantly, once the unlocking operation has been completed, the barrel 28 must be pivoted back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 5 for removal of the key. Accordingly, even though the lock assembly 20 has been unlocked, the visual indication of doing so does not remain visible after the operation has been completed.
[0048] Fig. 7 shows the lock assembly 20 whilst the barrel 28 is pivoted to a (second actuated) locking position. In this position, the red third part 40c of the colour wheel 40 is visible through the window 32 to visually indicate to the user that it is the locking operation that they are performing. Importantly, once the locking operation is complete, the barrel 28 must be rotated back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 5 for key removal.
Accordingly, the visual indication of locking does not remain once that operation has been completed.
[0049] Fig. 2 shows a second embodiment of a lock assembly 60 mounted within a door 62. The lock assembly 60 includes an escutcheon 64 through which a cylinder barrel 66, with a key slot 68, can be accessed. The escutcheon 64 also includes a first opening 70 and a second opening 72.
[0050] As best shown in Figs 8 and 9, the lock assembly 60 also includes a pin cylinder assembly housing 74 which has first and second openings 76 and 78 respectively therein. First and second springs 80 and 82 and first and second indicator cylinders 84 and 86 are respectively located in the first and second openings 76 and 78. A cover plate 88 is fixed to
the distal end of the barrel 66 by screws 90. The colour plate fixes a drive shaft 92 with respect to the barrel 66. The cover plate 88 also includes a cam part 94. The first and second cylinders 84 and 86 have proximal ends that are coloured red and green respectively. In an alternative form (not shown), the proximal ends of the cylinders are colour matched to the escutcheon 64 (or are another neutral colour) with the side surfaces of the cylinders 84 and 86 red and green respectively.
[0051] The operation of the lock assembly 60 shall now be described with reference to Figs. 10 to 15.
[0052] Figs. 10 and 13 show the lock assembly 60 whilst the barrel 68 is in the neutral or key removal position. In this position, the cam part 94 does not influence the position of either of the cylinders 84 or 86 and both of them are driven inwardly away from the outer surface of the escutcheon 64 by their respective springs 80 and 82 such that they do not protrude through the openings 70 and 72.
[0053] Figs. 1 1 and 14 show the lock assembly 60 whilst the barrel 68 is pivoted to an unlocking position. This causes corresponding rotation of the cover plate 88 and causes the cam part 94 to drive the green cylinder 86 forward such that its proximal end protrudes from the escutcheon 64 through the first hole 70. The green protruding cylinder 86 provides a visual indication that the lock assembly 60 is unlocked or being unlocked. Importantly, the cylinder 86 retracts to the position shown in Fig. 13 when the barrel 68 is pivoted back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Figs. 10 and 13.
[0054] Figs. 12 and 15 show the lock assembly 60 whilst the barrel 68 is pivoted to a locking positi on. In this position, the corresponding rotation of the cover plate 88 causes the cam part 94 to drive the red cylinder 84 forward such that its proximal protrudes from the escutcheon through the second hole 72. This provides a visual indication of locking. Again, the cylinder 84 retracts when the barrel 68 is returned to the neutral/key removal position.
[0055] Figs. 16 to 22 show a third embodiment of a lock assembly 100 mounted in a door 102. The lock assembly 100 includes an escutcheon 104 to which is mounted a cylinder barrel 106. The barrel 106 has key slot 108 therein. The escutcheon 104 includes two openings therein, in the fonn of slots 110 and 1 12 in its left and right hand sides respectively.
[0056] As best shown in Figs. 1 8 and 19, the lock assembly 100 includes a pin cylinder assembly, comprising a housing 1 14 within which is pivotally mounted the cylinder barrel 106. The proximal end of the barrel 106 includes a pair of spigots 1 16 which engage with corresponding recesses 1 18 fonned in an indicator part 120. The indicator part 120 has a first part 120a, which is coloured green, and a second part 120b, which is coloured red.
[0057] The distal end of the barrel 106 includes a slot 122 within which is engaged a drive shaft 124. The drive shaft 124 is located within the groove 122 by a cir-clip 126. The drive shaft is used to pivotally drive other lock components, such as a cam within the main lock mechanism, as is well known to persons skilled in the art. Figs. 18 and 19 also show three screws 128 which are used to fix the housing 1 14 to the escutcheon 104 by screw engagement with three bosses 130.
[0058] The operation of the lock assembly shall now be described with reference to Figs. 20 to 22.
[0059] Fig. 20 shows the lock assembly 100 when the barrel 106 is in a neutral position in which the key can be inserted into, and removed from, the barrel 106. When the barrel 106 is in this position, the indicator part 120 does not protrude through either of the slots 1 10 or 1 12, so as to visually indicate that the barrel 106 is in the neutral or key removal position.
[0060] Fig. 21 (and also Fig. 17) show the lock assembly 100 whilst the barrel 104 is pivoted to a (first actuated) unlocking position. In this position, the green first part 120a protrudes from the slot 1 10 to visually indicate to the lock assembly operator that they are unlocking, or have unlocked, the lock assembly 100. Importantly, once the unlocking operation has been completed, the barrel 106 must be pivoted back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 20 for removal of the key.
[0061 ] Fig. 22 shows the lock assembly 100 whilst the barrel 106 is pivoted to a (second actuated) locking position. In this position, the red second part 120b of the indicator part 120 protrudes from the slot 1 12 to visually indicate to the operator that it is the locking operation that they are performing, or have performed. Importantly, once the locking operation is complete, the barrel 106 must be rotated back to the neutral/key removal position shown in Fig. 20 for key removal.
[0062] The lock assemblies described above advantageously provide an indication to a user as to whether key rotation is causing locking or unlocking, so as to provide a clear, visual indication as to whether or not they are correctly manipulating key in the lock assembly. Importantly, the visual indication of locking/unlocking is removed once the operation is complete, so as to avoid providing any passersby with an indication of the status of the lock, thereby allowing the lock assembly to be used in both internal and external installations. This is particularly important, when used in an external installation, if the user has mistakenly or intentionally left a door unlocked. The clear indication of locking/unlocking during key operation is also advantageous in avoiding the (potentially dangerous) scenario of
unintentionally locking an occupant inside a room or building.
[0063] Although the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated by person skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms. For example, in a third embodiment (not shown), the lock is assembly includes two windows with the neutral position being indicated with a grey/neutral colours in both windows, the key unlocking position being indicated by green in one window and grey/neutral in the other and the locking position being indicated by grey/neutral in the first window and red in the second window.
Claims
1. A lock assembly including:
a first lock cylinder with a first barrel pivotable by a correctly coded key from a neutral key removal position to at least a first actuated position; and
one or more lock status indicators adapted to visually display a neutral status, whilst the first barrel is in the neutral position, and a first actuated status, whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the first actuated position,
wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
2. The lock assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first barrel is also pivotable by the correctly coded key to a second actuated position and the one or more lock status indicators are adapted to visually display a second actuated status whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the second actuated position,
wherein the neutral status, the first actuated status and the second actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
3. The lock assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first barrel is also pivotable by the correctly coded key to a third or more actuated positions and the one or more lock status indicators are adapted to respectively visually display one of a third or more actuated status whilst the first barrel is pivoted to the third or more actuated positions,
wherein the neutral status, the first actuated status, the second actuated status and the third or more actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
4. The lock assembly as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first actuated position and the first actuated status both correspond to either locked status or unlocked status.
5. The lock assembly as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first actuated position and first actuated status both correspond to locked status and the second actuated position and the second actuated status both correspond to unlocked status.
6. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more lock status indicators includes a window and the locked status is indicated by a first
coloured element being visible in the window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the window and the neutral status is indicated by no element being visible in the window.
7. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more lock status indicators includes a window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the window and the neutral status is indicated by a third coloured element being visible in the window.
8. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more lock status indicators includes a first window and a second window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the first window and no element being visible in the second window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the second window and no element being visible in the first window and the neutral status is indicated by no element being visible in the first window and the second window.
9. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more lock status indicators includes a first window and a second window and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element being visible in the first window and a third coloured element being visible in the second window, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element being visible in the second window and the third coloured element being visible in the second window and the neutral status is indicated by the third coloured element being visible in the first window and the second window.
10. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the one or more lock status indicators includes a first opening and a second opening and the locked status is indicated by a first coloured element protruding from the first opening and no element protruding from the second opening, the unlocked status is indicated by a second coloured element protruding from the second opening and no element protruding from the first opening and the neutral status is indicated by no element from the first opening and the second opening.
1 1. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the first coloured element is red.
12. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 1 1, wherein the second coloured element is green.
13. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 7 or 9 or 1 1 or 12, wherein the third coloured element is substantially identical to the colour of the lock assembly.
14. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 7 or 9 or 1 1 or 12, wherein the third coloured element is a neutral colour such as black, white or silver.
15. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 14, wherein the barrel of the first lock cylinder is pivotable clockwise from the neutral position to the first actuated position and counter-clockwise from the neutral position to the second actuated position.
16. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 7 or 9 or 11 to 15, wherein the first, second and third coloured elements are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
17. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 7 or 9 or 11 to 15, wherein the first, second and third coloured elements all form part of one or more indicator members, adjacent to the window, that is/are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
18. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the first and second coloured elements are associated with first and second indicator members respectively, and the lock assembly includes a cam associated with the key barrel, wherein the cam drives the first coloured element to protrude from the first opening when the barrel is in the locked position and drives the second coloured element to protrude from the second opening when the barrel is in the unlocked position.
19. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the first and second coloured elements are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
20. The lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the first and second coloured elements both form part of one or more indicator members, adjacent to the openings, that is/are coupled to the barrel for pivotal movement therewith.
21. A method of operating a lock assembly including the steps of:
visually displaying a neutral status when a barrel of a lock cylinder is in a neutral key removal position;
visually displaying a first actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pivoted by a correctly coded key to at least a first actuated position,
wherein the neutral status and the actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
22. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in claim 21 , wherein the method also includes visually displaying a second actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pivoted by the correctly coded key to a second actuated position, wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status and the second actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
23. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in claim 22, wherein the method also includes visually displaying one of a third or more actuated status when the barrel of the lock cylinder is pivoted by the correctly coded key to one of third or more actuated positions respectively, wherein the neutral status and the first actuated status, the second actuated status and the third or more actuated status are each visually distinct from one another.
24. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in claims 21 to 23, wherein the first actuated position and the first actuated status both correspond to either locked status or unlocked status.
25. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in claims 22 to 24, wherein the first actuated position and first actuated status both correspond to locked status and the second actuated position and the second actuated status both correspond to unlocked status.
26. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured
element visible in a window in the lock assembly, visually displaying the unlocked status by making a second coloured element visible in the window and visually displaying the neutral status by making no element being visible in the window.
27. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a window in the lock assembly, visually displaying the unlocked status by making a second coloured visible in the window and visually displaying the neutral status by making a third coloured element visible in the window.
28. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the method includes visually displaying the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a first window in the lock assembly and making no element visible in a second window in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element being visible in the second window and making no element visible in the first window and visually indicating the neutral status by making no element visible in the first window and the second window.
29. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the method includes visually indicating the locked status by making a first coloured element visible in a first window in the lock assembly and making a third coloured element visible in a second window in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element visible in the second window and the third coloured visible in the second window and visually indicating the neutral status by making the third coloured element visible in the first window and the second window.
30. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the method includes visually indicating the locked status by making a first coloured element protrude from a first opening in the lock assembly and no element protrude from a second opening in the lock assembly, visually indicating the unlocked status by making a second coloured element protrude from the second opening and no element protrude from the first window and visually indicating the neutral status by making no element protrude from the first opening and the second opening.
31. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the first coloured element is red.
32. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 30, wherein the second coloured element is green.
33. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 27 or 29, wherein the third coloured el ement is substantially identi cal to the colour of the lock assembly
34. The method of operating a lock assembly as claimed in any one of claims 27 or 29, wherein the third coloured element is a neutral colour such as black, white or silver.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
AU2014901313A AU2014901313A0 (en) | 2014-04-10 | A lock assembly and a method of operating same | |
AU2014901313 | 2014-04-10 |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
AU2016101870A Division AU2016101870A4 (en) | 2014-04-10 | 2016-10-25 | A lock assembly and a method of operating same |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2015154122A1 true WO2015154122A1 (en) | 2015-10-15 |
Family
ID=54287002
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/AU2015/000061 WO2015154122A1 (en) | 2014-04-10 | 2015-02-06 | A lock assembly and a method of operating same |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
TW (1) | TW201600694A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015154122A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2018204226A (en) * | 2017-05-31 | 2018-12-27 | 株式会社シブタニ | Cylinder lock device |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2007016579A (en) * | 2005-06-10 | 2007-01-25 | Sankyo Tateyama Aluminium Inc | Cylinder lock and cylinder lock cover |
US7866195B2 (en) * | 2007-05-25 | 2011-01-11 | Levine Jonathan E | Door lock indicator |
-
2015
- 2015-02-06 WO PCT/AU2015/000061 patent/WO2015154122A1/en active Application Filing
- 2015-04-08 TW TW104111193A patent/TW201600694A/en unknown
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2007016579A (en) * | 2005-06-10 | 2007-01-25 | Sankyo Tateyama Aluminium Inc | Cylinder lock and cylinder lock cover |
US7866195B2 (en) * | 2007-05-25 | 2011-01-11 | Levine Jonathan E | Door lock indicator |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP2018204226A (en) * | 2017-05-31 | 2018-12-27 | 株式会社シブタニ | Cylinder lock device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
TW201600694A (en) | 2016-01-01 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US11306506B2 (en) | Status-indicating cylindrical lock assembly | |
CA2947755A1 (en) | Status-indicating cylindrical lock assembly | |
US11808055B2 (en) | Door lock with indicator | |
AU2004240257C1 (en) | A Multimode Lock with a Visual Indicator to the Selected Mode | |
CA3121353C (en) | Indicator lock | |
WO2007065200A1 (en) | A lock with an improved snib mechanism | |
WO2015154122A1 (en) | A lock assembly and a method of operating same | |
AU2016101870A4 (en) | A lock assembly and a method of operating same | |
CN113882756A (en) | System and method for transmitting rotation of lock indicator through cylindrical lock | |
KR102203195B1 (en) | Digital door lock | |
US12018514B2 (en) | Reversible door lock with status indicator | |
KR102108124B1 (en) | Door lock with room using status identification function | |
JP2005036575A (en) | Locking/unlocking display device | |
CN107975305B (en) | Inside operating device for door lock | |
AU2014202328B2 (en) | A latch assembly | |
JP7671203B2 (en) | Lock/unlock indicator switch device | |
JP2011084901A (en) | Display lock for indoor door | |
AU2017272227B2 (en) | A latch mechanism | |
NZ537443A (en) | A multimode lock with a visual indicator to the selected mode | |
JP2006188893A (en) | Door closer with display | |
AU2006322630B2 (en) | A lock with an improved snib mechanism | |
KR20160000859U (en) | Two-way lever for sliding doors | |
AU2015245925A1 (en) | A lock assembly and a method of operating same | |
AU2013202415A1 (en) | A pin cylinder assembly | |
TWM478051U (en) | Indicator for locks |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
121 | Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application |
Ref document number: 15776843 Country of ref document: EP Kind code of ref document: A1 |
|
NENP | Non-entry into the national phase |
Ref country code: DE |
|
122 | Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase |
Ref document number: 15776843 Country of ref document: EP Kind code of ref document: A1 |