Patent Description:
Small format interchangeable cores (SFIC) can be used in applications in which re-keying is regularly needed. SFICs can be removed and replaced with alternative SFICs actuated by different keys, including different keys of the same format or different keys using alternative key formats such as physical keys and access credentials such as smartcards, proximity cards, key fobs, cellular telephones and the like.

<CIT> discloses an interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core for use with a lock device having a locked state and an unlocked state with the features as summarized in the preamble of claim <NUM>.

The present invention is defined by the features of claim <NUM>. The dependent claims describe preferred embodiments.

According to the present invention, , an interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core for use with a lock device having a locked state and an unlocked state is provided. The lock device including an opening sized to receive the interchangeable lock core. The interchangeable lock core comprising a lock core body having a front end and a rear end; a moveable plug positioned within an interior of the lock core body proximate a rear end of the lock core body, the moveable plug having a first position relative to the lock core body which corresponds to the lock device being in a locked state and a second position relative to the lock core body which corresponds to the lock device being in the unlocked state, the moveable plug being rotatable between the first position and the second position about a moveable plug axis; a core keeper moveably coupled to the lock core body, the core keeper being positionable in a retain position wherein the core keeper extends beyond the envelope of the lock core body to hold the lock core body in the opening of the lock device and a remove position wherein the core keeper is retracted towards the lock core body relative to the retain position; an operator actuatable assembly supported by the lock core body and including an operator actuatable input device positioned forward of the front end of the lock core body; an electro-mechanical control system which in a first configuration operatively couples the operator actuatable input device of the operator actuatable assembly to the moveable plug and in a second configuration uncouples the operator actuatable input device of the operator actuatable assembly from the moveable plug; and an actuator accessible from an exterior of the lock core body. The actuator operatively coupled to the core keeper independent of the moveable plug to move the core keeper from the retain position to the remove position.

In an example thereof, the actuator is a mechanical actuator. In another example thereof, the actuator is completely internal to the lock core body. In a variation thereof, the actuator is accessible through an opening in the lock core body. In a further example thereof, the operator actuatable input device blocks access to the opening in the lock core body when the operator actuatable input device is coupled to the lock core body.

In yet a further example thereof, the interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core further comprises a control sleeve. The moveable plug being received by the control sleeve. The core keeper extending from the control sleeve. The actuator being operatively coupled to the control sleeve independent of the core keeper. In a variation thereof, the control sleeve includes a first partial gear and the actuator includes a second partial gear, the first partial gear and the second partial gear are intermeshed to operatively couple the actuator to the core keeper.

In yet a further example thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes a first blocker which is positionable in a first position wherein the actuator is incapable of moving the core keeper from the retain position to the remove position and a second position wherein the actuator is capable of moving the core keeper from the retain position to the remove position. In a variation thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes an electronic controller, a motor driven by the electronic controller, a power source operatively coupled to the motor, and a clutch positionable by the motor in a first position to engage the moveable plug in the first configuration of the electro-mechanical control system and in a second position disengaged from the moveable plug in the second configuration of the electro-mechanical control system. In another variation thereof, each of the electronic controller, the motor, and the power source are supported by the operator actuatable assembly. In a further variation thereof, the first blocker is positionable by the clutch. In yet another variation thereof, the first blocker is carried by the clutch. In still another variation thereof, with the first blocker in the second position, the actuator is to be moved in two degrees of freedom to move the core keeper from the retain position to the remove position. In still a further yet variation, the two degrees of freedom include a translation followed by a rotation.

In yet another example thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes an electronic controller executing an access granted logic to determine whether to permit or deny movement of the first.

In an example thereof, the lock core body includes an opening and the base of the operator actuatable assembly includes a groove, the retainer being positioned in the opening of the lock core body and the groove of the operator actuatable assembly. In a variation thereof, the groove is a circumferential groove and the retainer permits the operator actutatable assembly to freely rotate about the moveable plug axis.

In an example thereof, the knob portion is rotationally symmetrical about the moveable plug axis. In another example thereof, a first portion of the knob portion is a first portion of a base, a second portion of the base is positioned internal to the lock core body, and a second portion of the knob portion is a cover which is supported by the base. In a variation thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes an electronic controller, a motor driven by the electronic controller, and a power source operatively coupled to the motor, each of the electronic controller, the motor, and the power source are supported by the base of the operator actuatable assembly. In a further variation thereof, the knob portion circumscribes the power source and the electronic controller. In still a further variation thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes a clutch positionable by the motor in a first position to engage the moveable plug in the first configuration of the electro-mechanical control system and in a second position disengaged from the moveable plug in the second configuration of the electro-mechanical control system. In yet another variation thereof, the power source intersects the moveable plug axis.

In a still further example thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes an electronic controller, a motor driven by the electronic controller, and a power source operatively coupled to the motor, each of the electronic controller, the motor, and the power source are supported by the operator actuatable assembly. In a variation thereof, the operator actuatable assembly is freely spinning about the moveable plug axis when the electro-mechanical control system is in the second configuration. In another variation thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes a clutch positionable by the motor in a first position to engage the moveable plug in the first configuration of the electro-mechanical control system and in a second position disengaged from the moveable plug in the second configuration of the electro-mechanical control system.

In a further yet example thereof, the operator actuatable input device is freely spinning about the moveable plug axis when the electro-mechanical control system is in the second configuration.

A method of accessing a core keeper of an interchangeable lock core according to the present invention having an operator actuatable assembly is provided. The method comprising the steps of moving, through a non-contact method, a retainer which couples a first portion of an operator actuatable input device of the operator actuatable assembly to a second portion of the operator actuatable assembly; and moving at least the first portion of the operator actuatable input device away from the lock core to provide access to an actuator operatively coupled to the core keeper.

In an example thereof, the moving step includes locating a plurality of magnets proximate the operator actuatable input device. In a variation thereof, the operator actuatable input device includes a knob portion and the step of locating the plurality of magnets proximate the operator actuatable input device includes the step of placing a ring about the knob portion, the ring supporting the plurality of magnets.

In an example thereof, in the second configuration of the electro-mechanical control system the operator actuatable input device is further operatively coupled to the moveable plug. In another example thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes a motor and a control element driven by the motor to a first position relative to a front face of the moveable plug when the electro-mechanical control system is in the first configuration, to a second position relative to the front face of the moveable plug when the electro-mechanical control system is in the second configuration, and to a third position relative to the front face of the moveable plug when the electro-mechanical control system is in the third configuration. In a variation thereof, the front face of the moveable plug is between the front end of the lock core body and the rear end of the lock core body and an end of the control element is positioned between the front face of the moveable plug and the rear end of the lock core body in at least one of the first position of the control element, the second position of the control element, and the third position of the control element. In another variation thereof, the end of the control element is positioned between the front face of the moveable plug and the rear end of the lock core body in a plurality of the first position of the control element, the second position of the control element, and the third position of the control element.

In a further example thereof, the electro-mechanical lock core further comprises a control sleeve. The moveable plug received by the control sleeve, and the core keeper extending from the control sleeve. In a variation thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes a cam member positioned within the moveable plug, the cam member being moveable from a first position wherein the operator actuatable input device is operatively uncoupled from the control sleeve to a second position wherein the operator actuatable input device is operatively coupled to the control sleeve. In a further variation thereof, the cam member is linearly translated along the moveable plug axis from the first position of the cam member to the second position of the cam member. In still a further variation thereof, the control element moves the cam member from the first position of the cam member to the second position of the cam member. In still another variation thereof, the cam member is rotated relative to the moveable plug from the first position of the cam member to the second position of the cam member. In a further still variation thereof, the control element moves the cam member from the first position of the cam member to the second position of the cam member. In yet still another variation thereof, the cam member is rotated about an axis perpendicular to the moveable plug axis.

In a further still example thereof, the lock core body includes an upper portion having a first maximum lateral extent, a lower portion having a second maximum lateral extent, and a waist portion having a third maximum lateral extent, the third maximum lateral extent being less than the first maximum lateral extent and being less than the second maximum lateral extent, the lower portion, the upper portion, and the waist portion forming an envelope of the lock core body.

In an example thereof, the front face of the moveable plug is between the front end of the lock core body and the rear end of the lock core body and an end of the control element is positioned between the front face of the moveable plug and the rear end of the lock core body in at least one of the first position of the control element, the second position of the control element, and the third position of the control element. In a variation thereof, the end of the control element is positioned between the front face of the moveable plug and the rear end of the lock core body in a plurality of the first position of the control element, the second position of the control element, and the third position of the control element. In another variation thereof, the front face of the moveable plug is between the front end of the lock core body and the rear end of the lock core body and an end of the control element is positioned between the front face of the moveable plug and the front end of the lock core body in at least one of the first position of the control element, the second position of the control element, and the third position of the control element.

In a further example thereof, the electro-mechanical lock core further comprises a control sleeve. The moveable plug received by the control sleeve. The core keeper extending from the control sleeve. In a variation thereof, the electro-mechanical control system includes a cam member positioned within the moveable plug, the cam member being moveable from a first position wherein the operator actuatable input device is operatively uncoupled from the control sleeve to a second position wherein the operator actuatable input device is operatively coupled to the control sleeve. In another variation thereof, the cam member is linearly translated along the moveable plug axis from the first position of the cam member to the second position of the cam member.

The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and will be better understood by reference to the following description of exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplification set out herein illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the invention and such exemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. The embodiments disclosed herein are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. Therefore, no limitation of the scope of the present disclosure is thereby intended. Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

The terms "couples", "coupled", "coupler" and variations thereof are used to include both arrangements wherein the two or more components are in direct physical contact and arrangements wherein the two or more components are not in direct contact with each other (e.g., the components are "coupled" via at least a third component), but yet still cooperate or interact with each other.

In some instances throughout this disclosure and in the claims, numeric terminology, such as first, second, third, and fourth, is used in reference to various components or features. Such use is not intended to denote an ordering of the components or features. Rather, numeric terminology is used to assist the reader in identifying the component or features being referenced and should not be narrowly interpreted as providing a specific order of components or features.

Referring to <FIG>, an electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> includes a core assembly <NUM> and an operator actuation assembly <NUM>. As explained herein in more detail, in certain configurations operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be actuated to rotate a lock actuator plug <NUM> (see <FIG>) of core assembly <NUM> about its longitudinal axis <NUM>. Further, operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be oriented to permit access to a control assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>) to move a core keeper <NUM> of core assembly <NUM> relative to a core body <NUM> of core assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, lock actuator plug <NUM> includes a lock interface in the form of a plurality of recesses <NUM>, illustratively two, which receive lock pins <NUM> of a lock cylinder <NUM> when core assembly <NUM> is received in recess <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In embodiments, the lock interface of lock actuator plug <NUM> may include one or more protrusions, one or more recesses, or a combination of one or more protrusions and one or more recesses. Further, the lock interface may be provided as part of one or more components coupled to lock actuator plug <NUM>. Lock pins <NUM> are in turn coupled to a cam member <NUM> (see <FIG>) of lock cylinder <NUM> which is rotatable by a corresponding rotation of lock pins <NUM>. As is known in the art, cam member <NUM> may be in turn coupled to a lock system, such as a latch bolt of a door lock, a shank of a padlock or other suitable lock systems.

When core assembly <NUM> is received in recess <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM>, core keeper <NUM> is in a first position wherein it is received in a recess <NUM> (see <FIG>) in an interior wall <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM> to retain or otherwise prevent the removal of core assembly <NUM> from lock cylinder <NUM> without the movement of core keeper <NUM> to a second position wherein the core keeper <NUM> is not received in recess <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM>. Further, core assembly <NUM> is positioned generally flush with a front surface <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, core body <NUM> defines a figure eight profile (See <FIG>) which is received in a corresponding figure eight profile of lock cylinder <NUM> (See <FIG>). The illustrated figure eight profile is known as a small format interchangeable core ("SFIC"). Core body <NUM> may also be sized and shaped to be compatible with large format interchangeable cores ("LFIC") (see <FIG>) and other known cores.

Referring to <FIG>, core assembly <NUM> includes an upper portion <NUM> with a first maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>), a lower portion <NUM> with a second maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>), and a waist portion <NUM> having a third maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>). The third maximum lateral extent (ds) is less than the first maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>) and less than the second maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>). Exemplary interchangeable lock cores having a longitudinal shape satisfying the relationship of first maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>), second maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>), and third maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>) include small format interchangeable cores (SFIC), large format interchangeable cores (LFIC), and other suitable interchangeable cores. In alternative embodiments, core assembly <NUM> may have longitudinal shapes that do not satisfy the relationship of first maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>), second maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>), and third maximum lateral extent (d<NUM>).

Core body <NUM> may be translated relative to lock cylinder <NUM> along longitudinal axis <NUM> in direction <NUM> to remove core body <NUM> from lock cylinder <NUM> when core keeper <NUM> is received within the envelope of core body <NUM> such that core body <NUM> has a figure eight profile and may not be translated relative to lock cylinder <NUM> along longitudinal axis <NUM> to remove core body <NUM> from lock cylinder <NUM> when core keeper <NUM> is positioned at least partially outside of the envelope of core body <NUM> in a recess <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Although electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is illustrated in use with lock cylinder <NUM>, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> may be used with a plurality of lock systems to provide a locking device which restricts the operation of the coupled lock system. Exemplary lock systems include door handles, padlocks, and other suitable lock systems. Further, although operator actuation assembly <NUM> is illustrated as including a generally cylindrical knob, other user actuatable input devices may be used including handles, levers, and other suitable devices for interaction with an operator.

Turning to <FIG> the components of core assembly <NUM> are described in more detail. Core body <NUM> of core assembly <NUM> includes an upper cavity <NUM> and a lower cavity <NUM>. Lower cavity <NUM> includes lock actuator plug <NUM> which is received through a rear face <NUM> of core body <NUM>. Upper cavity <NUM> includes a control assembly <NUM>.

Lock actuator plug <NUM> is retained relative to core body <NUM> with a retainer <NUM>. Retainer <NUM> maintains a longitudinal position of lock actuator plug <NUM> along axis <NUM> while allowing lock actuator plug <NUM> to rotate about longitudinal axis <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, retainer <NUM> is a C-clip <NUM> which is received in a groove <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, C-clip <NUM> is received in an opening <NUM> of core body <NUM> between a face <NUM> of core body <NUM> and a face <NUM> of core body <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG>, a control sleeve <NUM> is received in an opening <NUM> of lower portion <NUM> of core body <NUM>. Control sleeve <NUM> has a generally circular shape with a central through aperture <NUM>. Lock actuator plug <NUM> is received within aperture <NUM> of control sleeve <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Control sleeve <NUM> also supports core keeper <NUM>. Control sleeve <NUM> also includes a partial gear <NUM>. Control sleeve <NUM>, core keeper <NUM>, and partial gear <NUM> are shown as an integral component. In embodiments, one or more of core keeper <NUM> and partial gear <NUM> are discrete components coupled to control sleeve <NUM>.

Upper cavity <NUM> of core body <NUM> receives control assembly <NUM>. As explained in more detail herein, control assembly <NUM> restricts access to and controls movement of core keeper <NUM>. Control assembly <NUM> includes an actuator <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM>, and a cap <NUM>. Illustratively biasing member <NUM> is a compression spring and cap <NUM> is a ball. A first end of biasing member <NUM> contacts cap <NUM> and a second end of biasing member <NUM> is received over a protrusion <NUM> of actuator <NUM> (see <FIG>). In embodiments, protrusion <NUM> is optional and biasing member <NUM> abuts against an end of actuator <NUM>. Actuator <NUM> further includes a tool engagement portion <NUM> which aligns with a passage <NUM> provided in a front end <NUM> of core body <NUM>.

Actuator <NUM>, biasing member <NUM>, and cap <NUM> are inserted into upper cavity <NUM> from a rear end <NUM> of core body <NUM> which receives lock actuator plug <NUM>. Cap <NUM> is pressed through rear end <NUM> and abuts a rear end of upper cavity <NUM> which has projections <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>) to retain cap <NUM>.

Actuator <NUM> further includes a partial gear <NUM> which intermeshes with partial gear <NUM> of control sleeve <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, partial gear <NUM> of actuator <NUM> is illustrated intermeshed with partial gear <NUM> of control sleeve <NUM> and core keeper <NUM> is in an extended position. By rotating actuator <NUM> counterclockwise in direction <NUM>, control sleeve <NUM> is rotated clockwise in direction <NUM> to a release position wherein electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> may be removed from lock cylinder <NUM>. Illustratively, in the release position core keeper <NUM> is retracted into the envelope of core assembly <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. By rotating actuator <NUM> clockwise in direction <NUM>, control sleeve <NUM> is rotated counterclockwise in direction <NUM> to a secure or retain position wherein electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> may not be removed from lock cylinder <NUM>. Illustratively, in the secure position core keeper <NUM> extends beyond the envelope of core assembly <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. As illustrated in <FIG> and explained in more detail herein, a tool <NUM> is inserted through passage <NUM> to engage tool engagement portion <NUM> to translate actuator <NUM> in direction <NUM> and rotate actuator <NUM> about axis <NUM> in direction <NUM> (see <FIG>) to retract core keeper <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, lock actuator plug <NUM> includes an engagement interface <NUM> on a front end <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. Engagement interface <NUM> includes a plurality of engagement features <NUM>, illustratively recesses, which cooperate with a plurality of engagement features <NUM>, illustratively protrusions, of an engagement interface <NUM> of a moveable clutch <NUM> of operator actuation assembly <NUM>. By including a plurality of interlocking protrusions and recesses, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, clutch <NUM> may have multiple rotational positions relative to lock actuator plug <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> wherein engagement features <NUM> of clutch <NUM> may engage engagement features <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. In other embodiments, engagement features <NUM> may be protrusions or a combination of recesses and protrusions and engagement features <NUM> would have complementary recesses or a combination of complementary recesses and protrusions. In other embodiments, engagement features <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM> and engagement features <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM> may be generally planar frictional surfaces which when held in contact couple clutch <NUM> and lock actuator plug <NUM> to rotate together.

As explained in more detail herein, moveable clutch <NUM> is moveable along longitudinal axis <NUM> in direction <NUM> and direction <NUM> between a first position wherein engagement interface <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM> is disengaged from engagement interface <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM> and a second position wherein engagement interface <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM> is engaged with engagement interface <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. The movement of moveable clutch <NUM> is controlled by an electric motor <NUM> as described in more detail herein. In the first position, operator actuation assembly <NUM> is operatively uncoupled from lock actuator plug <NUM> and a rotation of operator actuation assembly <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> does not cause a rotation of lock actuator plug <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM>. In the second position, operator actuation assembly <NUM> is operatively coupled to lock actuator plug <NUM> and a rotation of operator actuation assembly <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> causes a rotation of lock actuator plug <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, moveable clutch <NUM> and electric motor <NUM> are both part of operator actuation assembly <NUM> which is coupled to core assembly <NUM> and held relative to core assembly <NUM> with a retainer <NUM>, illustratively a C-clip (see <FIG> and <FIG>). In embodiments, one or both of moveable clutch <NUM> and electric motor <NUM> are part of core assembly <NUM> and operator actuation assembly <NUM> is operatively coupled to moveable clutch <NUM> when operator actuation assembly <NUM> is coupled to core assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, operator actuation assembly <NUM> is illustrated. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> includes a base <NUM> which has a recess <NUM> in a stem <NUM> to receive moveable clutch <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, stem <NUM> of base <NUM> includes a plurality of guides <NUM> which are received in channels <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM>. Guides <NUM> permit the movement of moveable clutch <NUM> relative to base <NUM> along longitudinal axis <NUM> in direction <NUM> and direction <NUM> while limiting a rotation of moveable clutch <NUM> relative to base <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, base <NUM> includes another recess <NUM> which as explained herein receives several components of operator actuation assembly <NUM> including a chassis <NUM> which includes an opening <NUM> that receives motor <NUM>. Chassis <NUM> stabilizes the motor position and supports electrical assembly <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when assembled a drive shaft <NUM> of motor <NUM> extends through a central aperture <NUM> of base <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, motor <NUM> is operatively coupled to moveable clutch <NUM> through a control pin <NUM>. Control pin <NUM> has a threaded internal passage <NUM> which is engaged with a threaded outer surface of drive shaft <NUM> of motor <NUM>. By rotating drive shaft <NUM> of motor <NUM> in a first direction about longitudinal axis <NUM>, control pin <NUM> advances in direction <NUM> towards lock actuator plug <NUM>. By rotating drive shaft <NUM> of motor <NUM> in a second direction about longitudinal axis <NUM>, opposite the first direction, control pin <NUM> retreats in direction <NUM> away from lock actuator plug <NUM>. A biasing member <NUM>, illustratively a compression spring, is positioned between control pin <NUM> and a stop surface <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM>.

A pin <NUM> is positioned in a cross passage <NUM> of control pin <NUM> and in elongated openings <NUM> in moveable clutch <NUM>. Pin <NUM> prevents control pin <NUM> from rotating about longitudinal axis <NUM> with drive shaft <NUM> of motor <NUM>, thereby ensuring that a rotational movement of drive shaft <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> is translated into a translational movement of moveable clutch <NUM> along longitudinal axis <NUM> either towards lock actuator plug <NUM> or away from lock actuator plug <NUM>. Elongated openings <NUM> are elongated to permit drive shaft <NUM> to rotate an amount sufficient to seat engagement features <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM> in engagement features <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM> even when engagement features <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM> are not aligned with engagement features <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. In such a misalignment scenario, the continued rotation of drive shaft <NUM> results in control pin <NUM> continuing to advance in direction <NUM> and compress biasing member <NUM>. An operator then by a rotation of operator actuation assembly <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> will cause a rotation of moveable clutch <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> thereby seating engagement features <NUM> of moveable clutch <NUM> in engagement features <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM> and relieve some of the compression of biasing member <NUM>.

Returning to <FIG> and <FIG>, operator actuation assembly <NUM> further includes an electrical assembly <NUM> which includes a first circuit board <NUM> which includes an electronic controller <NUM> (see <FIG>), a wireless communication system <NUM> (see <FIG>), a memory <NUM> (see <FIG>) and other electrical components. Electrical assembly <NUM> further includes a second circuit board <NUM> coupled to first circuit board <NUM> through a flex circuit <NUM>. Second circuit board <NUM> supports negative contacts <NUM> and positive contacts <NUM> for a power supply <NUM>, illustratively a battery. Second circuit board <NUM> further supports a capacitive sensor lead <NUM> which couples to a touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM>, such as a CAPSENSE sensor available from Cypress Semiconductor Corporation located at <NUM> Champion Court in San Jose, CA <NUM>.

Touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM> is positioned directly behind an operator actuatable input device <NUM>, illustratively a knob cover (see <FIG>). When an operator touches an exterior <NUM> of operator actuatable input device <NUM>, touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM> senses the touch which is monitored by electronic controller <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of placing touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM> behind operator actuatable input device <NUM> is the redirection of electrical static discharge when operator actuation assembly <NUM> is touched by an operator.

Referring to <FIG>, first circuit board <NUM> and second circuit board <NUM>, when operator actuation assembly <NUM> is assembled, are positioned on opposite sides of a protective cover <NUM>. In embodiments, protective cover <NUM> is made of a hardened material which is difficult to drill a hole therethrough to reach and rotate lock actuator plug <NUM>. Exemplary materials include precipitation-hardened stainless steel, high-carbon steel, or Hadfield steel. Referring to <FIG>, protective cover <NUM> is secured to base <NUM> by a plurality of fasteners <NUM>, illustratively bolts, the shafts of which pass through openings <NUM> in base <NUM> and are threaded into bosses <NUM> of protective cover <NUM>. By coupling protective cover <NUM> to base <NUM> from a bottom side of base <NUM>, first circuit board <NUM> is not accessible when power supply <NUM> is removed from operator actuation assembly <NUM>. A supercapacitor <NUM> is also positioned between first circuit board <NUM> and protective cover <NUM> and operatively coupled to motor <NUM> to drive motor <NUM>. In embodiments, supercapacitor <NUM> may be positioned on the other side of protective cover <NUM>.

Power supply <NUM> is positioned in an opening <NUM> in a battery chassis <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, an advantage among others, of battery chassis <NUM> is that battery <NUM> is prevented from contacting capacitive sensor lead <NUM> and touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM>. A foam spacer <NUM> also maintains a spaced relationship between power supply <NUM> and touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM>. A second foam spacer <NUM> is placed between supercapacitor <NUM> and protective cover <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, battery chassis <NUM> includes clips <NUM> which are received in recesses <NUM> of protective cover <NUM> such that battery chassis <NUM> cannot be removed from protective cover <NUM> without removing fasteners <NUM> because clips <NUM> are held in place by ramps <NUM> of base <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Referring to <FIG>, actuatable operator input device <NUM> is secured to battery chassis <NUM> with an open retaining ring <NUM> which includes a slot <NUM>. Slot <NUM> allows retaining ring <NUM> to be expanded to increase a size of an interior <NUM> of retaining ring <NUM>. In a non-expanded state, retaining ring <NUM> fits over surface <NUM> of battery chassis <NUM> and has a smaller radial extent than retainers <NUM> of battery chassis <NUM> raised relative to surface <NUM> of battery chassis <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. Further, in the non-expanded state, retaining ring <NUM> has a larger radial extent than retainers <NUM> of operator actuatable input device <NUM> (see <FIG>). Thus, when retaining ring <NUM> has a smaller radial extent than retainers <NUM> of battery chassis <NUM>, operator actuatable input device <NUM> is secured to battery chassis <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a tool <NUM> carries a plurality of magnets <NUM>. In embodiments, tool <NUM> has a circular shape with a central opening <NUM> to receive operator actuatable input device <NUM>. When magnets <NUM> are positioned adjacent retaining ring <NUM>, magnets <NUM> cause retaining ring <NUM> to expand outward towards magnets <NUM>. In one embodiment, magnets are placed every <NUM>° about operator actuatable input device <NUM> with tool <NUM>. The orientation of the magnets alternates around the circular ring (a first magnet with a north pole closer to operator actuatable input device <NUM>, followed by a second magnet with a south pole closer to the operator actuatable input device <NUM>, and so on) This expansion results in the radial extent of retaining ring <NUM> to be larger than the radial extent of retainers <NUM> of battery chassis <NUM>. As such, operator actuatable input device <NUM> is removable from battery chassis <NUM>.

Operator actuation assembly <NUM> further includes a sensor <NUM> (see <FIG>) which provides an indication to an electronic controller <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> when clutch <NUM> is in the disengaged position of <FIG>. In the illustrated embodiment, sensor <NUM> is an optical sensor having an optical source in a first arm <NUM> and an optical detector in a second arm <NUM>. An appendage <NUM> (see <FIG>) is coupled to clutch <NUM> by tabs <NUM> being received in recesses <NUM>. Appendage <NUM> includes a central opening <NUM> through which control pin <NUM> and drive shaft <NUM> extend and a leg <NUM> which is positioned between first arm <NUM> and second arm <NUM> of sensor <NUM> when clutch <NUM> is in the disengaged position of <FIG>.

Returning to <FIG>, electronic controller <NUM> is operatively coupled to wireless communication system <NUM>. Wireless communication system <NUM> includes a transceiver and other circuitry needed to receive and send communication signals to other wireless devices, such as an operator device <NUM>. In one embodiment, wireless communication system <NUM> includes a radio frequency antenna and communicates with other wireless devices over a wireless radio frequency network, such as a BLUETOOTH network or a WIFI network.

In embodiments, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> communicates with operator device <NUM> without the need to communicate with other electro-mechanical lock cores <NUM>. Thus, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> does not need to maintain an existing connection with other electro-mechanical locking cores <NUM> to operate. One advantage, among others, is that electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> does not need to maintain network communications with other electro-mechanical lock cores <NUM> thereby increasing the battery life of battery <NUM>. In other embodiments, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> does maintain communication with other electro-mechanical locking cores <NUM> and is part of a network of electro-mechanical locking cores <NUM>. Exemplary networks include a local area network and a mesh network.

Electrical assembly <NUM> further includes input devices <NUM>. Exemplary input devices <NUM> include buttons, switches, levers, a touch display, keys, and other operator actuatable devices which may be actuated by an operator to provide an input to electronic controller <NUM>. In embodiments, touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM> is an exemplary input device due to it providing an indication of when operator actuatable input device <NUM> is touched.

Once communication has been established with operator device <NUM>, various input devices <NUM> of operator device <NUM> may be actuated by an operator to provide an input to electronic controller <NUM>. In one embodiment, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> requires an actuation of or input to an input device <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> prior to taking action based on communications from operator device <NUM>. An advantage, among others, for requiring an actuation of or an input to an input device <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> prior to taking action based on communications from operator device <NUM> is that electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> does not need to evaluate every wireless device that comes into proximity with electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. Rather, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> may use the actuation of or input to input device <NUM> to start listening to communications from operator device <NUM>. As mentioned herein, in the illustrated embodiment, operator actuation assembly <NUM> functions as an input device <NUM>. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> capacitively senses an operator tap on operator actuation assembly <NUM> or in close proximity to operator actuation assembly <NUM>.

Exemplary output devices <NUM> for electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> include visual output devices, audio output device, and/or tactile output devices. Exemplary visual output devices include lights, segmented displays, touch displays, and other suitable devices for providing a visual cue or message to an operator of operator device <NUM>. Exemplary audio output devices include speakers, buzzers, bells and other suitable devices for providing an audio cue or message to an operator of operator device <NUM>. Exemplary tactile output devices include vibration devices and other suitable devices for providing a tactile cue to an operator of operator device <NUM>. In embodiments, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> sends one or more output signals from wireless communication system <NUM> to operator device <NUM> for display on operator device <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> includes a plurality of lights which are visible through windows <NUM> (see <FIG>) and which are visible from an exterior of operator actuation assembly <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. electronic controller <NUM> may vary the illuminance of the lights based on the state of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. For example, the lights may have a first illuminance pattern when access to actuate lock actuator plug <NUM> is denied, a second illuminance pattern when access to actuate lock actuator plug <NUM> is granted, and a third illuminance pattern when access to remove electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> from lock cylinder <NUM> has been granted. Exemplary illuminance variations may include color, brightness, flashing versus solid illumination, and other visually perceptible characteristics.

Operator device <NUM> is carried by an operator. Exemplary operator device <NUM> include cellular phones, tablets, personal computing devices, watches, badges, fobs, and other suitable devices associated with an operator that are capable of communicating with electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> over a wireless network. Exemplary cellular phones, include the IPHONE brand cellular phone sold by Apple Inc. , located at <NUM> Infinite Loop, Cupertino, CA <NUM> and the GALAXY brand cellular phone sold by Samsung Electronics Co.

Operator device <NUM> includes an electronic controller <NUM>, a wireless communication system <NUM>, one or more input devices <NUM>, one or more output devices <NUM>, a memory <NUM>, and a power source <NUM> all electrically interconnected through circuitry <NUM>. In one embodiment, electronic controller <NUM> is microprocessor-based and memory <NUM> is a non-transitory computer readable medium which includes processing instructions stored therein that are executable by the microprocessor of operator device <NUM> to control operation of operator device <NUM> including communicating with electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. Exemplary non-transitory computer-readable mediums include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, or Flash memory), or any other tangible medium capable of storing information.

Referring to <FIG>, electronic controller <NUM> executes an access granted logic <NUM> which controls the position of a blocker <NUM> (see <FIG>). As explained in more detail herein, a position of blocker <NUM> controls whether core keeper <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> may be moved from an extended position (see <FIG>) to a retracted position (see <FIG>). Blocker <NUM> may be positioned by electric motor <NUM> in either a blocking position (see <FIG>) wherein core keeper <NUM> may not be moved to the retracted position of <FIG> and a release position (see <FIG>) wherein core keeper <NUM> may be moved to the retracted position of <FIG>.

The term "logic" as used herein includes software and/or firmware executing on one or more programmable processors, application-specific integrated circuits, field-programmable gate arrays, digital signal processors, hardwired logic, or combinations thereof. Therefore, in accordance with the embodiments, various logic may be implemented in any appropriate fashion and would remain in accordance with the embodiments herein disclosed. A non-transitory machine-readable medium <NUM> comprising logic can additionally be considered to be embodied within any tangible form of a computer-readable carrier, such as solid-state memory, magnetic disk, and optical disk containing an appropriate set of computer instructions and data structures that would cause a processor to carry out the techniques described herein. This disclosure contemplates other embodiments in which electronic controller <NUM> is not microprocessor-based, but rather is configured to control operation of blocker <NUM> and/or other components of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> based on one or more sets of hardwired instructions. Further, electronic controller <NUM> may be contained within a single device or be a plurality of devices networked together or otherwise electrically connected to provide the functionality described herein.

Electronic controller <NUM> receives an operator interface authentication request, as represented by block <NUM>. In one embodiment, operator interface authentication request <NUM> is a message received over the wireless network from operator device <NUM>. In one embodiment, operator interface authentication request <NUM> is an actuation of one or more of input devices <NUM>. As explained in more detail herein, in one embodiment, operator actuation assembly <NUM> functions as an input device <NUM>. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> capacitively senses an operator tap on operator actuation assembly <NUM> or in close proximity to operator actuation assembly <NUM>.

Electronic controller <NUM> further receives authentication criteria <NUM> which relate to the identity and/or access level of the operator of operator device <NUM>. In one embodiment, the authentication criteria is received from operator device <NUM> or communicated between electronic controller <NUM> and operator device <NUM>. In one embodiment, an indication that the required authentication criteria has been provided to operator device, such as a biometric input or a passcode, is communicated to electronic controller <NUM>.

Access granted logic <NUM> based on operator interface authentication request <NUM> and authentication criteria <NUM> determines whether the operator of operator device <NUM> is granted access to move core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG> or is denied access to move core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG>. If the operator of operator device <NUM> is granted access to move core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG>, access granted logic <NUM> powers motor <NUM> to move blocker <NUM> to the release position (see <FIG>), as represented by block <NUM>. If the operator of operator device <NUM> is denied access to move core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG>, access granted logic <NUM> maintains blocker <NUM> in the blocking position (see <FIG>), as represented by block <NUM>.

Further, in embodiments, access granted logic <NUM> based on operator interface authentication request <NUM> and authentication criteria <NUM> determines whether the operator of operator device <NUM> is granted access to lock actuator plug <NUM> which in turn actuates cam member <NUM> in the illustrated embodiment or is denied access to lock actuator plug <NUM>. If the operator of operator device <NUM> is granted access to lock actuator plug <NUM>, access granted logic <NUM> powers motor <NUM> to move clutch <NUM> to the engaged position (see <FIG>). If the operator of operator device <NUM> is denied access to move clutch <NUM> to the engaged position, access granted logic <NUM> maintains clutch <NUM> in a disengaged position (see <FIG>).

Various operations of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> are explained with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates a sectional view of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> with clutch <NUM> in a disengaged positioned wherein engagement interface <NUM> of clutch <NUM> is spaced apart from engagement interface <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. <FIG> is the rest position of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. In the rest position, operator actuation assembly <NUM> is freely rotatable about longitudinal axis <NUM> and blocker <NUM>, which in the illustrated embodiment is a portion of clutch <NUM>, prevents an actuation of actuator <NUM> to move core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, electronic controller <NUM> has determined that one of access to lock actuator plug <NUM> or access to move core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG> has been granted. In response, clutch <NUM> has been moved in direction <NUM> by motor <NUM> to the engaged position wherein engagement interface <NUM> of clutch <NUM> is engaged with engagement interface <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM>. This position also corresponds to blocker <NUM> to being in the release position (see <FIG>). With clutch <NUM> moved in direction <NUM> to the position shown in <FIG>, a rotation of operator actuation assembly <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> causes a rotation of lock actuator plug <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM>. In embodiments, after a predetermined period of time, electronic controller <NUM> moves clutch <NUM> back to the position shown in <FIG>.

As mentioned above, the engaged position of clutch <NUM> corresponds to the release position of blocker <NUM>. In order to move core keeper <NUM> from the extended position of <FIG> to the release position of <FIG>, an operator manually actuates actuator <NUM>. However, as shown in <FIG>, operator actuation assembly <NUM> blocks access to actuator <NUM>. By removing operator actuatable input device <NUM>, touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM>, foam spacer <NUM>, and power supply <NUM>, access to actuator <NUM> may be obtained. Operator actuatable input device <NUM>, touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM>, and foam spacer <NUM> are removed as a sub-assembly with tool <NUM> as discussed herein and as shown in <FIG>.

Once operator actuatable input device <NUM>, touch sensitive capacitive sensor <NUM>, and foam spacer <NUM> are removed, power supply <NUM> may be removed from battery chassis <NUM>. If the operator has only been granted rights to actuate lock actuator plug <NUM>, when power supply <NUM> is removed electronic controller <NUM> causes clutch <NUM> to return to the position of <FIG> with the energy stored in supercapacitor <NUM>. If the operator has been granted rights to actuate core keeper <NUM> then electronic controller <NUM> leaves clutch <NUM> in the position of <FIG> when power supply <NUM> is removed.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, second circuit board <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM>, first circuit board <NUM> includes a recess <NUM>, protective cover <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM>, chassis <NUM> includes a recess <NUM>, and base <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM> which collectively form a passageway <NUM> (see <FIG>). Operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be rotated as necessary to align passageway <NUM> with passage <NUM> in core body <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, tool <NUM> is inserted through passageway <NUM> and passage <NUM> in core body <NUM> and is engaged with tool engagement portion <NUM> of actuator <NUM>. In one embodiment, tool <NUM> is a wrench having a hexagonal shaped profile and tool engagement portion <NUM> of actuator <NUM> has a corresponding hexagonal shaped profile. In the position of actuator <NUM> shown in <FIG>, actuator <NUM> is not able to rotate about axis <NUM> through an angular range sufficient enough to retract core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG> due to blocker <NUM> (see <FIG>) contacting stem <NUM> of base <NUM>.

By pushing on tool <NUM> in direction <NUM>, actuator <NUM> may be translated in direction <NUM> against the bias of biasing member <NUM> to the position shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In the position shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, actuator <NUM> is not able to rotate about axis <NUM> through an angular range sufficient enough to retract core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG> due to blocker <NUM> (see <FIG>) contacting blocker <NUM> of clutch <NUM>. In <FIG> and <FIG>, clutch <NUM> is in the disengaged position corresponding to access granted logic <NUM> determining the operator does not have access rights to move core keeper <NUM> from the extended position of <FIG> to the retracted position of <FIG>.

In contrast in <FIG> and <FIG>, access granted logic <NUM> has determined that the operator has access rights to move core keeper <NUM> from the extended position of <FIG> to the retracted position of <FIG>. As such, clutch <NUM> has been translated forward in direction <NUM> towards lock actuator plug <NUM>. In this position of clutch <NUM>, blocker <NUM> of actuator <NUM> may rotate about axis <NUM> in direction <NUM> to a position behind blocker <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. The position of actuator <NUM> in <FIG> corresponds to <FIG> with core keeper <NUM> in the retracted position allowing electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> to be removed from lock cylinder <NUM>.

While electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is coupled to lock cylinder <NUM> due to core keeper <NUM> being in the extended position of <FIG>, operator actuation assembly <NUM> may not be decoupled from core assembly <NUM> to provide access to either lock actuator plug <NUM> or actuator <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, retainer <NUM> is positioned within lock cylinder <NUM> rearward of front surface <NUM> of lock cylinder <NUM> when electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is coupled to lock cylinder <NUM>. As such, retainer <NUM> may not be removed until an authorized user retracts core keeper <NUM> to the retracted position of <FIG> and removes electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> from lock cylinder <NUM>. Once removed, retainer <NUM> may be removed and operator actuation assembly <NUM> be decoupled from core assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, operator actuation assembly <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> has an exterior surface contour that may be grasped by an operator to rotate operator actuation assembly <NUM>. Operator actuatable input device <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM> and a generally cylindrical side surface <NUM>. Operator actuatable input device <NUM> mates against base <NUM> which includes a generally cylindrical side surface <NUM> and a thumb tab <NUM> having generally arcuate side surfaces <NUM> and a top surface <NUM>. Thumb tab <NUM> assists the operator in grasping operator actuation assembly <NUM> and turning operator actuation assembly <NUM> relative to core assembly <NUM>. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> may have different shapes of exterior surface contour, may include multiple tabs <NUM> or no tabs <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, operator actuation assembly <NUM> is coupled to a large format interchangeable core ("LFIC") <NUM>. Core <NUM> includes a lock core body, a control sleeve <NUM>, a core keeper <NUM>, and a lock actuator plug <NUM> (see <FIG>). Lock actuator plug <NUM>, like lock actuator plug <NUM> may be rotated by operator actuation assembly <NUM> when engaged to actuate a lock device. Similarly, core keeper <NUM>, like core keeper <NUM>, may be retracted to remove lock core <NUM> from a lock cylinder. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> is coupled to core <NUM> with a retainer <NUM>, illustratively a C-clip.

Core <NUM> includes a control assembly <NUM> having an actuator <NUM> with a tool engagement portion <NUM>. Tool engagement portion <NUM> is accessed with tool <NUM> in the same manner as actuator <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. A blocker <NUM> of actuator <NUM> must be positioned like blocker <NUM> for electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> in <FIG> to rotate actuator <NUM> thereby causing a rotation of control sleeve <NUM> through the intermeshing of a partial gear <NUM> of control sleeve <NUM> and a partial gear <NUM> of actuator <NUM>. The rotation of control sleeve <NUM> retract core keeper <NUM> into lock core body <NUM> due to movement of pin <NUM> which is received in an opening <NUM> in core keeper <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, another electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is illustrated. Electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> includes a core assembly <NUM> coupled to an operator actuation assembly <NUM>. As explained herein in more detail, in certain configurations operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be actuated to rotate a core plug assembly <NUM> (see <FIG>) of core assembly <NUM> about its longitudinal axis <NUM> and in certain configurations operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be actuated to move a core keeper <NUM> of core assembly <NUM> relative to a core body <NUM> of core assembly <NUM>. Electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> comprises an unlocked state and a locked state. Additionally, core assembly <NUM> comprises a normal configuration and a control configuration. In the exemplary embodiment shown, core body <NUM> defines a figure eight profile (see also <FIG>) which is received within a corresponding figure eight profile of a lock cylinder. The figure eight profile is known as a small format interchangeable core ("SFIC"). Core body <NUM> may also be sized and shaped to be compatible with large format interchangeable cores ("LFIC") and other known cores. Accordingly, electo-mechanical lock core <NUM> may be used with a plurality of lock systems to provide a locking device which restricts the operation of the coupled lock system. Further, although operator actuation assembly <NUM> is illustrated as including a generally cylindrical knob, other user actuatable input devices may be used including handles, levers, and other suitable devices for interaction with an operator.

Core keeper <NUM> is moveable between an extended position shown in <FIG> and a retracted position shown in <FIG>. When core keeper <NUM> is in the extended position, core keeper <NUM> is at least partially positioned outside of an exterior envelope of core body <NUM>. As a result, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is retained within the lock cylinder in an installed configuration. That is, core keeper <NUM> prohibits the removal of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> from the lock cylinder by a directly applied force. When core keeper <NUM> is in the retracted position, core keeper <NUM> is positioned at least further within the exterior envelope of core body <NUM> or completely within the exterior envelope of core body <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, core keeper <NUM> has rotated about longitudinal axis <NUM> (see <FIG>) and been received within an opening of core body <NUM>. As a result, electro-mechanical lock <NUM> can be removed from or installed within the lock cylinder.

Referring now to <FIG>, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is shown in more detail. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> includes a knob base <NUM>, a knob cover <NUM> received within and supported by a recess in knob base <NUM>, a motor <NUM> supported by knob base <NUM>, a battery <NUM> electrically coupled to motor <NUM>, and a knob cover <NUM> that surrounds battery <NUM>, motor <NUM>, and at least a portion of knob base <NUM>. A fastener <NUM> (see <FIG>), illustratively a set screw, holds knob cover <NUM> relative to knob base <NUM> so knob base <NUM> and knob cover <NUM> rotate together about axis <NUM>. Operator actuation assembly <NUM> also includes a printed circuit board assembly ("PCBA") <NUM>. PCBA <NUM> is electrically coupled to battery <NUM> for power and communicatively coupled to motor <NUM> to control the function of motor <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment shown, motor <NUM> is a stepper motor or other motor drive capable of position control (open-loop or closed loop). Battery <NUM> may illustratively be a coin cell battery. Additionally, operator actuation assembly <NUM> includes a transmitter and receiver for wireless communication with an electronic credential carried by a user, such as with operator device <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment shown, knob cover <NUM> illustratively comprises a pry-resistance cover that protects PCBA <NUM>, the transmitter and receiver, and motor <NUM> from forces and impacts applied to knob cover <NUM>. In one embodiment, knob cover <NUM> is coupled to knob base <NUM> with fasteners threaded into knob cover <NUM> from an underside of knob cover <NUM> facing motor <NUM>.

Core body <NUM> of core assembly <NUM> includes a cavity <NUM> arranged concentrically with longitudinal axis <NUM>. Cavity <NUM> receives a lock actuator assembly. The lock actuator assembly includes core plug assembly <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM>, a clutch <NUM>, a plunger <NUM>, and a clutch retainer <NUM>. Clutch <NUM> is axially moveable in axial directions <NUM>, <NUM> and is operatively coupled to knob base <NUM>, illustratively a spline connection (see <FIG>). A first end of clutch <NUM> has a plurality of engagement features. Clutch <NUM> also includes a central passageway that houses at least a portion of plunger <NUM> and biasing member <NUM>. Plunger <NUM> includes a base portion and a distal portion extending from the base portion in an axial direction <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the base portion of plunger <NUM> is threadably coupled to a drive shaft of motor <NUM>. As a result, plunger <NUM> is axially moveable within the central passageway in axial directions <NUM>, <NUM> upon actuation of motor <NUM>. Moreover, plunger <NUM> moves axially in response to rotational movement of the drive shaft of motor <NUM>.

Clutch <NUM> includes a central opening coaxial with the central passageway that permits at least a distal portion of plunger <NUM> to pass through. In the exemplary embodiment shown, biasing member <NUM> biases clutch <NUM> in axial direction <NUM> toward core plug assembly <NUM>. Clutch <NUM> includes a slot <NUM> perpendicular to the central passageway. Plunger <NUM> is axially retained within the central passageway of clutch <NUM> by clutch retainer <NUM>, which is received within slot <NUM>. As a result, plunger <NUM> is pinned to clutch <NUM> for limited axial movement relative to clutch <NUM>.

Core plug assembly <NUM> includes a core plug body <NUM> and a control sleeve <NUM>. A first end of core plug body <NUM> includes a plurality of engagement features configured to engage the plurality of engagement features of clutch <NUM>. Specifically, alignment of the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> results in clutch <NUM> engaging with core plug body <NUM>. When plunger <NUM> is axially displaced in axial direction <NUM>, clutch <NUM> is similarly displaced in axial direction <NUM>. If the engagement features of clutch <NUM> align with the engagement features of core plug body <NUM>, the engagement features will engage (see <FIG>). If the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are misaligned, the plurality of engagement features will not engage. However, plunger <NUM> will continue to axially displace in axial direction <NUM> while clutch <NUM> is "pre-loaded" as plunger <NUM> compresses biasing member <NUM> (see <FIG>). Because clutch <NUM> rotates during operation in response to knob cover <NUM> being rotated by a user, the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> will align due to rotation of knob cover <NUM>.

Control sleeve <NUM> surrounds core plug body <NUM> and supports core keeper <NUM> for rotation between the extended and retracted positions. Control sleeve <NUM> is selectively rotatable about longitudinal axis <NUM>. More specifically, rotation of control sleeve <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> is constrained by a stack of pin segments <NUM>, <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment shown, pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned radially in a radial direction <NUM> relative to longitudinal axis <NUM> and moveable in radial directions <NUM>, <NUM>. A biasing member <NUM> biases pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> in a radial direction <NUM> (see <FIG>).

Core plug assembly <NUM> also includes a keyblade <NUM>, which has a contoured profile. Keyblade <NUM> is axially moveable in axial directions <NUM>, <NUM>. When core assembly <NUM> enters the control mode, the drive shaft of motor <NUM> rotates to axially displace plunger <NUM> in axial direction <NUM> further in the control configuration of <FIG> compared to the normal configuration of <FIG>. More specifically, sufficient axial displacement of plunger <NUM> in axial direction <NUM> results in the distal portion of plunger <NUM> engaging keyblade <NUM>. When keyblade <NUM> is displaced in axial direction <NUM>, a ramp portion of the contoured profile of keyblade <NUM> engages pin segment <NUM> and radially displaces pin segments <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, keyblade <NUM> converts axial movement of plunger <NUM> into radial movement of pin segments <NUM>, <NUM>.

In order to exit the control configuration and return to the normal configuration, motor <NUM> reverses the direction of rotation. When motor <NUM> is reversed such that plunger <NUM> is axially displaced in axial direction <NUM>, the biasing force of biasing member <NUM> in radial direction <NUM> axially displaces keyblade <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. Accordingly, keyblade <NUM> may be decoupled from plunger <NUM>. Furthermore, the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> disengage when plunger <NUM> is displaced in axial direction <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment shown, motor <NUM> reverses after expiration of a first preset time.

When installing or removing core plug body <NUM> from core body <NUM>, keyblade <NUM> is axially displaced in axial direction <NUM> to radial displace pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> in radial direction <NUM>. Displacement of pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> in radial direction <NUM> results in the abutting surfaces of pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> aligning with a control shearline <NUM> (see <FIG>). Control shearline <NUM> is defined by the interface of an exterior surface of control sleeve <NUM> with an interior wall of cavity <NUM> of core body <NUM>.

Operating shearline <NUM> (see <FIG>) is defined by the interface of an exterior surface of core plug body <NUM> with an interior surface of control sleeve <NUM>. Since a user may release knob cover <NUM> at any time, operating shearline <NUM> is configured to be engaged even in the locked state of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. However, with clutch <NUM> disengaged, knob cover <NUM> spins freely and it is not possible for the user to rotate core plug body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a sectional view of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> in the unlocked state with the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> engaged. Here, motor <NUM> has actuated to axially displace plunger <NUM> and clutch <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. The engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are engaged because they were aligned with each other. Motor <NUM> has not actuated plunger <NUM> sufficiently in direction <NUM> to axially displace keyblade <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. As a result, the interface between pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> remains at operating shearline <NUM> and electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> transitions from the locked state (clutch <NUM> spaced apart from core plug <NUM>) to the unlocked state (clutch <NUM> engaged with core plug <NUM>). A rotation of knob cover <NUM> by a user will result in rotation of core plug body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a sectional view of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> in the unlocked state with the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> disengaged. Here, motor <NUM> has actuated to axially displace plunger <NUM> and clutch <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. The engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are disengaged because they were not aligned with each other. Accordingly, continued displacement of plunger <NUM> in axial direction <NUM> has "preloaded" biasing member <NUM>. When a user rotates knob cover <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM>, the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> will engage once they are aligned with each other. Motor <NUM> has not actuated to axially displace keyblade <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. As a result, the interface between pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> remains at operating shearline <NUM> and electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> transitions from the locked state to the unlocked state. A rotation of knob cover <NUM> by user will result in engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> aligning and core plug body <NUM> rotating.

<FIG> illustrates a partial sectional view of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> with core keeper <NUM> in the extended positioned. Accordingly, core keeper <NUM> extends outside of the exterior envelope of core body <NUM>. Additionally, the interface between pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> is at operating shearline <NUM>. Therefore, core plug body <NUM> may rotate relative to control sleeve <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a partial sectional view of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> with core keeper <NUM> in the retracted position. Accordingly, core keeper <NUM> is positioned at least further within the exterior envelope of core body <NUM>. Additionally, the interface between pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> is at the control shearline <NUM>. Therefore, core plug body <NUM> and control sleeve <NUM> have rotated together about longitudinal axis <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a sectional view of electronical-mechanical lock core <NUM> with lock assembly <NUM> in the control configuration. The engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are engaged. Here, motor <NUM> has actuated to axially displace plunger <NUM> and clutch <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. The engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are engaged because they were aligned with each. Additionally, motor <NUM> has actuated to axially displace keyblade <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. As a result, pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> have radially displaced in radial direction <NUM> until the interface between pin segments <NUM>, <NUM> are at control shearline <NUM>. Accordingly, core plug body <NUM> and control sleeve <NUM> may be rotated together about longitudinal axis <NUM> and core plug assembly <NUM> removed from core body <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a sectional view of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> with lock assembly <NUM> in the control configuration. The engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are disengaged. Here, motor <NUM> has actuated to axially displace plunger <NUM> and clutch <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. The engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> are disengaged because they were not aligned with each other. Accordingly, continued displacement of plunger <NUM> in axial direction <NUM> has "preloaded" biasing member <NUM>. When a user rotates knob cover <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM>, the engagement features of clutch <NUM> and core plug body <NUM> will engage once they are aligned with each other.

Turning now to <FIG>, the spline connection between clutch <NUM> and knob base <NUM> is shown. As a result of this spline connection, clutch <NUM> is rotationally coupled to knob cover <NUM>. Furthermore, the spline connection permits clutch <NUM> to axial displace in axial directions <NUM>, <NUM> and transfer torque applied to knob cover <NUM> by a user. That said, the engagement features of clutch <NUM> cannot engage with the engagement features of core plug body <NUM> unless motor <NUM> actuates to axially displace plunger <NUM> in axial direction <NUM>. Therefore, impacting knob cover <NUM> cannot cause a momentary engagement of clutch <NUM> with core plug body <NUM>.

An advantage, among others, of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is that no mechanical tool is required to transition or convert core assembly <NUM> from the normal configuration to the control configuration. Instead, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> requires only that a user have administrator privileges. As a result, installation and removal of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is simplified. Another advantage, among others, is the low part count of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>, which results in simplified manufacturing. A further advantage, among others, of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is increased reliability resulting from the absence of current-carrying moving parts. Additionally, there are no sliding or rotating contacts or slip rings. Instead, all of the electronics are contained within operator actuation assembly <NUM> and the mechanical components are not part of the ground path.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, operator actuation assembly <NUM> is supported by a unitary core body <NUM> of core assembly <NUM>. An advantage, among others, of a unitary core body <NUM> is that it is resistant to vertical and frontal impact.

Referring to <FIG>, a further exemplary electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is illustrated. Electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> includes a core assembly <NUM> coupled to an operator actuation assembly <NUM>. As explained herein in more detail, in certain configurations operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be actuated to rotate a lock core plug <NUM> of core assembly <NUM> about its longitudinal axis <NUM> (<FIG>) and in certain configurations operator actuation assembly <NUM> may be actuated to move a core keeper <NUM> of core assembly <NUM> relative to a core body <NUM> of core assembly <NUM>.

Electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is configurable in an unlocked state and a locked state. Additionally, core assembly <NUM> is configurable in a normal configuration and a control configuration. In the exemplary embodiment shown, core body <NUM> defines a figure eight profile (see also <FIG>) which is received within a corresponding figure eight profile of a lock cylinder. The figure eight profile is known as a small format interchangeable core ("SFIC"). Core body <NUM> may also be sized and shaped to be compatible with large format interchangeable cores ("LFIC") and other known cores. Accordingly, electo-mechanical lock core <NUM> may be used with a plurality of lock systems to provide a locking device which restricts the operation of the coupled lock system. Further, although operator actuation assembly <NUM> is illustrated as including a generally cylindrical knob with a thumb tab, other user actuatable input devices may be used including handles, levers, and other suitable devices for interaction with an operator.

Core keeper <NUM> is moveable between an extended position shown in <FIG> and a retracted position shown in <FIG>. When core keeper <NUM> is in the extended position, core keeper <NUM> is at least partially positioned outside of an exterior envelope of core body <NUM>. As a result, electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is retained within the lock cylinder <NUM> in an installed configuration. That is, core keeper <NUM> prohibits the removal of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> from the lock cylinder <NUM> by a directly applied force. When core keeper <NUM> is in the retracted position, core keeper <NUM> is positioned at least further within the exterior envelope of core body <NUM> or completely within the exterior envelope of core body <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, core keeper <NUM> has rotated about longitudinal axis <NUM> and been received within an opening of core body <NUM>. As a result, electro-mechanical lock <NUM> can be removed from or installed within lock cylinder <NUM>.

Operator actuation assembly <NUM> is generally the same as operator actuation assembly <NUM> except that an operator actuatable base <NUM> has a differing exterior profile compared to base <NUM>. Further, clutch <NUM> includes a central opening <NUM> (see <FIG>) through which plunger <NUM>, which replaces control pin <NUM>, extends. Lock core plug <NUM> includes the engagement interface <NUM> of lock actuator plug <NUM> which mates with engagement interface <NUM> of clutch <NUM> to engage clutch <NUM> with lock core plug <NUM>. Lock core plug <NUM> further includes a central aperture <NUM> through which plunger <NUM> may extend.

The controller <NUM> of electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> controls motor <NUM> to move clutch <NUM> and plunger <NUM> similar to the movement of clutch <NUM> and plunger <NUM> for electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>. Similar to electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>, electronic controller <NUM> advances clutch <NUM> in direction <NUM> towards lock core plug <NUM> to engage engagement interface <NUM> of clutch <NUM> with engagement interface <NUM> of lock core plug <NUM>. Once engaged, an operator may rotate operator actuation assembly <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> to actuate the lock device, such as cam member <NUM>, to which electro-mechanical lock core <NUM> is coupled.

Similar to electro-mechanical lock core <NUM>, core keeper <NUM> is carried by a control sleeve <NUM> (see <FIG>). Referring to <FIG>, core body <NUM> includes a cavity <NUM> which receives central aperture <NUM> and lock core plug <NUM>. Lock core plug <NUM> is further received within an interior <NUM> of central aperture <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, lock core plug <NUM> is held within core body <NUM> with a snap ring <NUM> which is partially received in a recess <NUM> in lock core plug <NUM> and is located between retainer tabs <NUM> of core body <NUM> and retainer tabs <NUM>. In a similar fashion core keeper <NUM> includes a recess <NUM> in which is partially received a snap ring <NUM>. Snap ring <NUM> is located between retainer tabs <NUM> of core body <NUM> and retainer tabs <NUM> of core body <NUM> to hold operator actuation assembly <NUM> relative to core assembly <NUM>.

Control sleeve <NUM> supports core keeper <NUM> for rotation between the extended (see <FIG>) and retracted (see <FIG>) positions. Control sleeve <NUM> is selectively rotatable about longitudinal axis <NUM>. More specifically, rotation of control sleeve <NUM> about longitudinal axis <NUM> is controlled by a position of a cam member <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, cam member <NUM> is positioned in a recess <NUM> of lock core plug <NUM> and is rotatably coupled to lock core plug <NUM> with a pin <NUM>. Cam member <NUM> includes an end <NUM> which is contacted by plunger <NUM> to cause a rotation of cam member <NUM> about pin <NUM>. A second end <NUM> of cam member <NUM> contacts a pin segment <NUM> through an opening <NUM> in central aperture <NUM>. Pin segment <NUM> is biased in direction <NUM> (see <FIG>) by a biasing member <NUM>, illustratively a compression spring.

Referring to <FIG>, clutch <NUM> is disengaged from lock core plug <NUM> and plunger <NUM> is not contacting pin <NUM> of cam member <NUM>. When electronic controller <NUM> determines that an operator has access to actuate lock core plug <NUM>, electric motor <NUM> moves clutch <NUM> forward to an engaged position wherein engagement interface <NUM> of clutch <NUM> engages with engagement interface <NUM> of lock core plug <NUM>, but plunger <NUM> is not contacting pin <NUM> of cam member <NUM> (see <FIG>). In this position, a rotation of operator actuation assembly <NUM> causes a corresponding rotation of lock core plug <NUM>, but not a rotation of central aperture <NUM>. When electronic controller <NUM> determines that an operator has access to retract core keeper <NUM>, motor <NUM> continues to drive plunger <NUM> forward relative to clutch <NUM> resulting in plunger <NUM> contacting pin <NUM> of cam member <NUM> to rotate cam member <NUM> about pin <NUM> thereby pushing pin segment <NUM> out of opening <NUM> in central aperture <NUM> and second end <NUM> into opening <NUM> of central aperture <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>). When second end <NUM> is positioned in opening <NUM> of central aperture <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and <FIG> lock core plug <NUM> is coupled to central aperture <NUM>. In this position, a rotation of operator actuation assembly <NUM> causes a corresponding rotation of lock core plug <NUM> and central aperture <NUM>, thereby retracting core keeper <NUM> to the position shown in <FIG>.

Claim 1:
An interchangeable electro-mechanical lock core (<NUM>) for use with a lock device having a locked state and an unlocked state, the lock device including an opening (<NUM>) sized to receive the interchangeable lock core (<NUM>), the interchangeable lock core (<NUM>) comprising:
a lock core body (<NUM>) having a front end and a rear end;
a moveable plug (<NUM>) positioned within an interior of the lock core body (<NUM>) proximate a rear end of the lock core body (<NUM>), the moveable plug (<NUM>) having a first position relative to the lock core body (<NUM>) which corresponds to the lock device being in a locked state and a second position relative to the lock core body (<NUM>) which corresponds to the lock device being in the unlocked state, the moveable plug (<NUM>) being rotatable between the first position and the second position about a moveable plug axis (<NUM>);
a core keeper (<NUM>), the core keeper (<NUM>) being positionable in a retain position wherein the core keeper (<NUM>) extends beyond the envelope of the lock core body (<NUM>) to hold the lock core body (<NUM>) in the opening of the lock device and a remove position wherein the core keeper (<NUM>) is retracted towards the lock core body (<NUM>) relative to the retain position;
an operator actuatable assembly (<NUM>) supported by the lock core body (<NUM>) and including an operator actuatable input device (<NUM>) positioned forward of the front end of the lock core body (<NUM>);
an electro-mechanical control system which in a first configuration operatively couples the operator actuatable input device (<NUM>) of the operator actuatable assembly (<NUM>) to the moveable plug (<NUM>) and in a second configuration uncouples the operator actuatable input device (<NUM>) of the operator actuatable assembly (<NUM>) from the moveable plug (<NUM>);
characterized in that
the core keeper (<NUM>) is moveably coupled to the lock core body (<NUM>) and by
an actuator (<NUM>) accessible from an exterior of the lock core body (<NUM>), the actuator (<NUM>) operatively coupled to the core keeper (<NUM>) independent of the moveable plug (<NUM>) to move the core keeper (<NUM>) from the retain position to the remove position.