U.S. patent application number 15/340850 was filed with the patent office on 2017-08-24 for electronic door with key-in-lever feature.
The applicant listed for this patent is Schlage Lock Company. Invention is credited to James W. Brown, Alfred S. Levesque, James W. Overbey.
Application Number | 20170241164 15/340850 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40941882 |
Filed Date | 2017-08-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170241164 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brown; James W. ; et
al. |
August 24, 2017 |
ELECTRONIC DOOR WITH KEY-IN-LEVER FEATURE
Abstract
An electronic door lock is operable to control access to an
access controlled area adjacent the inner side of a door. The door
lock includes an outer base, an inner base, a locking mechanism
movable between a locked and unlocked position in response to a
control signal, and a control circuit disposed within the inner
base and operable to generate the control signal in response to the
presentation of an input credential. A plurality of different types
of credential readers are each selectively attachable and removable
from an attachment interface when the outer base is attached to the
door to electrically connect the selected one of the plurality of
different types of credential readers to the control circuit. The
selected credential reader receives data from a user or credential
and generates the input credential. A communication module is
operable to communicate with a device separate from the electronic
door lock.
Inventors: |
Brown; James W.; (Westfield,
IN) ; Overbey; James W.; (Indianapolis, IN) ;
Levesque; Alfred S.; (Newington, CT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Schlage Lock Company |
Carmel |
IN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
40941882 |
Appl. No.: |
15/340850 |
Filed: |
November 1, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13618712 |
Sep 14, 2012 |
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15340850 |
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12480532 |
Jun 8, 2009 |
8272241 |
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13618712 |
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61076476 |
Jun 27, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 70/65 20150401;
E05B 2047/0048 20130101; E05B 17/2084 20130101; Y10T 70/7068
20150401; Y10T 70/5792 20150401; G07C 9/00944 20130101; Y10T
70/5155 20150401; Y10T 70/7441 20150401; Y10T 292/91 20150401; Y10T
70/7107 20150401; Y10T 70/7136 20150401; Y10T 70/5416 20150401;
E05B 63/0056 20130101; Y10T 292/57 20150401; E05B 47/00 20130101;
Y10T 70/7062 20150401; Y10T 70/5832 20150401; G07C 9/00896
20130101; Y10T 70/7113 20150401; Y10T 70/625 20150401; E05B 47/0676
20130101 |
International
Class: |
E05B 47/00 20060101
E05B047/00; G07C 9/00 20060101 G07C009/00; E05B 47/06 20060101
E05B047/06; E05B 17/20 20060101 E05B017/20; E05B 63/00 20060101
E05B063/00 |
Claims
1. An electronic door lock that mounts to a door, the door
including an inner side and an outer side and the electronic door
lock operable to control access to an access controlled area
positioned adjacent the inner side of the door, the electronic door
lock comprising: an outer base connected to the outer side of the
door; an inner base connected to the inner side of the door; a
locking mechanism coupled to the door and movable between a locked
position and an unlocked position in response to a control signal;
a control circuit disposed within the inner base and operable to
generate the control signal in response to the presentation of an
input credential; an attachment interface at least partially formed
as part of the outer base; a plurality of different types of
credential readers each selectively attachable and removable from
the attachment interface when the outer base is attached to the
door to electrically connect the selected one of the plurality of
different types of credential readers to the control circuit, the
selected credential reader receiving data from a user or the input
credential and providing data corresponding to the input credential
to the control circuit, the control circuit generating the control
signal in response to the data; and a communication module
connected to the control circuit, the communication module operable
to communicate with a device that is separate from the electronic
door lock.
2. The electronic door lock of claim 1, wherein the communication
module is operable to communicate with a device that is separate
from the electronic door lock through one of a wired connection and
a 900 Megahertz, WIFI, ZIGBEE, Z-Wave, and 2.4 Gigahertz wireless
connection.
3. The electronic door lock of claim 1, further including a first
anti-tamper wall positioned between the attachment interface and
the locking mechanism to inhibit access to the locking mechanism
from the attachment interface.
4. The electronic door lock of claim 3, further including a second
anti-tamper wall positioned between the first anti-tamper wall and
the locking mechanism to inhibit access to the locking
mechanism.
5. The electronic door lock of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
different types of credential readers includes at least three of a
keypad, a proximity detector, a proximity detector with built-in
keypad, a magnetic stripe reader, a magnetic stripe reader with
built-in keypad, and a biometric reader.
6. The electronic door lock of claim 5, wherein the control circuit
includes software or firmware operable to receive the input from
each of the keypad, the proximity detector, the proximity detector
with built-in keypad, the magnetic stripe reader, the magnetic
stripe reader with built-in keypad, and the biometric reader and to
generate the control signal in response to the input.
7. The electronic door lock of claim 1, wherein the communication
module is one of a wired communication module and a wireless
communication module, each of the wired communication module and
the wireless communication module being selectively removable and
replaceable without disturbing the locking mechanism and without
disturbing the control circuit.
8. An electronic door lock that mounts to a door, the door
including an inner side and an outer side and the electronic door
lock operable to control access to an access controlled area
positioned adjacent the inner side of the door, the electronic door
lock comprising: an inner base supported by the inner side; an
attachment interface coupled to the outer side and including a
mounting portion; a locking mechanism coupled to the door and
movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in
response to a control signal; a reader selected from a keypad,
proximity detector, proximity detector with built-in keypad,
magnetic stripe reader, magnetic stripe reader with built-in
keypad, and biometric reader, each of the keypad, proximity
detector, proximity detector with built-in keypad, magnetic stripe
reader, magnetic stripe reader with built-in keypad, and biometric
reader removably mountable to the attachment interface; a control
circuit coupled to the door and configured to selectively move the
locking mechanism between the locked position and the unlocked
position to control access to the access controlled area, the
control circuit including software or firmware operable to receive
input data from the selected reader, the control circuit further
operable to generate the control signal in response to the input
data; and a communication module connected to the control circuit,
the communication module positioned in the inner base and operable
to communicate with a device that is separate from the electronic
door lock, wherein the communication module is one of a wired
communication module and a wireless communication module, each of
the wired communication module and the wireless communication
module being selectively removable and replaceable without
disturbing the locking mechanism and without disturbing the control
circuit.
9. The electronic door lock of claim 8, wherein the communication
module is operable to communicate with a device that is separate
from the electronic door lock through one of a wired connection and
a 900 Megahertz, WIFI, ZIGBEE, Z-Wave, and 2.4 Gigahertz wireless
connection.
10. The electronic door lock of claim 8, wherein the locking
mechanism includes a handle coupled to the door, a latch moveable
between an extended position and a retracted position, and a clutch
that engages the handle and the latch when the locking mechanism is
in the unlocked position and disengages the handle and the latch
when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.
11. The electronic door lock of claim 8, further including a cover
to cover the communication module, the cover including a
pushbutton, and wherein the control circuit is configured to change
an operating mode of the door lock in response to depression of the
pushbutton.
12. The electronic door lock of claim 8, further including an outer
base supported by the outer side, wherein the attachment interface
is coupled to the outer base, and further including a first
anti-tamper wall positioned between the attachment interface and
the locking mechanism to inhibit access to the locking mechanism
from the attachment interface.
13. The electronic door lock of claim 12, further including a
second anti-tamper wall positioned between the first anti-tamper
wall and the locking mechanism to inhibit access to the locking
mechanism.
14. The electronic door lock of claim 8, wherein the attachment
interface includes a first connector that extends from the mounting
portion, the first connector in electrical communication with the
control circuit, and further wherein each of the keypad, proximity
detector, proximity detector with built-in keypad, magnetic stripe
reader, magnetic stripe reader with built-in keypad, and biometric
reader includes a surface sized and shaped to generally correspond
to the mounting portion and a second connector positioned within a
recess in the surface and configured to mate with the first
connector.
15. An access control system for controlling access to one or more
secured spaces based upon an access control decision, the access
control system comprising: a plurality of electronic door locks,
each of the electronic door locks mounted to one of a plurality of
doors, each door including an inner side and an outer side, each of
the electronic door locks including an outer base connected to the
outer side, an inner base connected to the inner side, a locking
mechanism coupled to the door and movable between a locked position
and an unlocked position in response to a control signal, a control
circuit disposed within the inner base and operable to transmit
data in response to an input credential, an attachment interface at
least partially formed as part of the outer base, one of a
plurality of different types of credential readers selectively
attachable and removable from the attachment interface when the
outer base is attached to the door to electrically connect a
selected one of the plurality of different types of credential
readers to the control circuit to provide the input credential, and
a communication module connected to the control circuit, the
communication module selectively removable and replaceable without
disturbing the locking mechanism and without disturbing the control
circuit and operable to communicate with a device that is separate
from the electronic door lock; an access control panel configured
to communicate with the communication module of each of the
plurality of locks to receive the data; and a server configured to
communicate with the access control panel, wherein one of the
access control panel and the server effects the access control
decision and generates the control signal.
16. The access control system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of
different types of credential readers includes a keypad, a
proximity detector, a proximity detector with built-in keypad, a
magnetic stripe reader, a magnetic stripe reader with built-in
keypad, and a biometric reader.
17. The access control system of claim 16, wherein the control
circuit includes software or firmware operable to receive input
data from each of the keypad, the proximity detector, the proximity
detector with built-in keypad, the magnetic stripe reader, the
magnetic stripe reader with built-in keypad, and the biometric
reader.
18. The access control system of claim 15, wherein the
communication module is one of a wired communication module and a
wireless communication module.
19. The access control system of claim 15, wherein the
communication module is operable to communicate with a device that
is separate from the electronic door lock through one of a wired
connection and a 900 Megahertz, WIFI, ZIGBEE, Z-Wave, and 2.4
Gigahertz wireless connection.
20. The access control system of claim 15, wherein the locking
mechanism includes a handle coupled to the door, a latch moveable
between an extended position and a retracted position, and a clutch
that engages the handle and the latch when the locking mechanism is
in the unlocked position and disengages the handle and the latch
when the locking mechanism is in the locked position.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/480,532, filed Jun. 8, 2009, now U.S. Pat.
No. ______, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 61/076,476, filed Jun. 27, 2008, all of which are
incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention relates to access control systems, and
more particularly to an electronic door lock used in an access
control system.
[0003] Access control systems may be used in commercial,
residential, or other settings. Commercial access control systems
are typically used to protect places of business and are subject to
stricter standards than residential access control systems. For
example, the Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) and
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) define standards that
locks used in access control systems must pass to be certified.
BHMA and ANSI further define different grades of locks, each grade
having a different set of standards that must be met by the locks.
If the device is properly tested following all the requirements of
the predefined standards, then the device may be certified and sold
with a BHMA Certified Mark, ANSI mark, or other mark.
SUMMARY
[0004] In one construction, the invention provides an electronic
door lock for a door having a first side and a second side. The
electronic door lock includes an escutcheon including a first
aperture. A non-circular spring cage extends through the first
aperture, and the spring cage includes a second aperture. A spring
cage spindle at least partially extends through the second
aperture, and the spring cage spindle extends from the spring cage.
The spring cage spindle includes a third aperture. A key cylinder
is received in the third aperture. A handle including a fourth
aperture receives the key cylinder and the spring cage spindle, and
a fastener is received by the handle. The fastener is configured to
couple the handle to the spring cage spindle and inhibit movement
of the handle with respect to the spring cage spindle.
[0005] In another construction, the invention provides an
electronic door lock for a door having a first side and a second
side. The electronic door lock includes an escutcheon including a
first aperture and a plurality of ribs. A spring cage extends
through the first aperture and is positioned adjacent the plurality
of ribs. The spring cage includes a second aperture. A spring cage
spindle at least partially extends through the second aperture. The
spring cage spindle extends from the spring cage and includes a
third aperture. A key cylinder is received in the third aperture,
and a handle includes a fourth aperture that receives the key
cylinder and the spring cage spindle.
[0006] In another construction, the invention provides an
electronic door lock that mounts to a door. The door includes an
inner side and an outer side, and the electronic door lock is
operable to control access to an access controlled area positioned
adjacent the inner side of the door. The electronic door lock
includes an outer base connected to the outer side of the door, an
inner base connected to the inner side of the door, a locking
mechanism coupled to the door and movable between a locked position
and an unlocked position in response to a control signal, and a
control circuit disposed within the inner base and operable to
generate the control signal in response to the presentation of an
input credential. An attachment interface is at least partially
formed as part of the outer base. A plurality of different types of
credential readers are each selectively attachable and removable
from the attachment interface when the outer base is attached to
the door to electrically connect the selected one of the plurality
of different types of credential readers to the control circuit.
The selected credential reader receives data from a user or
credential and generates the input credential in response to the
data. A communication module is connected to the control circuit
and is operable to communicate with a device that is separate from
the electronic door lock.
[0007] In another construction, the invention provides an
electronic door lock that mounts to a door. The door includes an
inner side and an outer side, and the electronic door lock is
operable to control access to an access controlled area positioned
adjacent the inner side of the door. The electronic door lock
includes an inner base supported by the inner side, an attachment
interface coupled to the outer side and including a mounting
portion, a locking mechanism coupled to the door and movable
between a locked position and an unlocked position in response to a
control signal, and a reader selected from a keypad, proximity
detector, proximity detector with built-in keypad, magnetic stripe
reader, magnetic stripe reader with built-in keypad, and biometric
reader. Each of the keypad, proximity detector, proximity detector
with built-in keypad, magnetic stripe reader, magnetic stripe
reader with built-in keypad, and biometric reader are removably
mountable to the attachment interface. A control circuit is coupled
to the door and configured to selectively move the locking
mechanism between the locked position and the unlocked position to
control access to the access controlled area. The control circuit
includes software or firmware operable to receive an input from the
selected reader. The control circuit is further operable to
generate the control signal in response to the input. A
communication module is connected to the control circuit, is
positioned in the inner base, and is operable to communicate with a
device that is separate from the electronic door lock. The
communication module is one of a wired communication module and a
wireless communication module. Each of the wired communication
module and the wireless communication module is selectively
removable and replaceable without disturbing the locking mechanism
and without disturbing the control circuit.
[0008] In yet another construction, the invention provides an
access control system for controlling access to one or more secured
spaces based upon an access control decision. The access control
system includes a plurality of electronic door locks. Each of the
electronic door locks is mounted to one of a plurality of doors.
Each door includes an inner side and an outer side. Each of the
electronic door locks includes an outer base connected to the outer
side, an inner base connected to the inner side, and a locking
mechanism coupled to the door and movable between a locked position
and an unlocked position in response to a control signal. A control
circuit is disposed within the inner base and operable to transmit
data in response to an input credential. An attachment interface is
at least partially formed as part of the outer base. One of a
plurality of different types of credential readers is selectively
attachable and removable from the attachment interface when the
outer base is attached to the door to electrically connect a
selected one of the plurality of different types of credential
readers to the control circuit to provide the input credential. A
communication module is connected to the control circuit. The
communication module is selectively removable and replaceable
without disturbing the locking mechanism and without disturbing the
control circuit and is operable to communicate with a device that
is separate from the electronic door lock. An access control panel
is configured to communicate with the communication module of each
of the plurality of locks to receive the data. A server is
configured to communicate with the access control panel. One of the
access control panel and the server effects the access control
decision and generates the control signal.
[0009] Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by
consideration of the detailed description and accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 is a side view of an electronic door lock mounted to
a door.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of the electronic door
lock of FIG. 1 and a plurality of credential readers configured for
mounting on the electronic door lock.
[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the electronic door
lock of FIG. 1 and a plurality of communication module covers and a
plurality of battery covers configured for mounting on the
electronic door lock.
[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the electronic door lock of
FIG. 1 including an attachment interface.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the electronic
door lock of FIG. 1 illustrating a communication module.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the electronic
door lock of FIG. 1 illustrating another construction of a
communication module.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the electronic door lock of
FIG. 1 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 2.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an access control
system including the electronic door lock of FIG. 1.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an electromechanical
system of the door lock of FIG. 1.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a partial exploded view of a handle and key
cylinder of the electronic door lock of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the handle of the
electronic door lock of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the electronic door lock of
FIG. 1 illustrating a spring cage and escutcheon ribs.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways.
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an electronic door lock 20 mounted to a
door 24 and suitable for use in an access control system 27. The
door lock 20 includes an outer portion 28 mounted on an outer side
32 of the door 24 and an inner portion 36 mounted on an inner side
40 of the door 24. The outer portion 28 of the door lock 20
includes an outer escutcheon 44, a credential reader 48, and an
outer handle 52. The inner portion 36 of the door lock 20 includes
an inner escutcheon 56, a communication module cover 60, an
optional pushbutton 64, a battery cover 68, and an inner handle
72.
[0024] The terms "inner" and "outer" are used herein to
differentiate the two sides of the door and should not be
considered as limiting the invention in any way. In constructions
in which one side of the door is in a secured space and the other
side of the door is not (e.g., an entry door into a building), the
inner side would be in the secured space. However, some
constructions may position a door within a space in which both
sides of the door are located within a secure space. In these
constructions, one side of the door would be considered the inner
side while the opposite side would be the outer side. Thus,
constructions are possible in which components or features
described as being positioned on an inner side of the door could be
positioned on an outer side of the door and visa versa. Thus, the
terms "inner" and "outer" are sometimes replaced herein with
"first" and "second".
[0025] The door lock 20 includes an electromechanical system that
allows for the movement of a locking mechanism 180 including an
actuator 182, a clutch 179, and a latch 178, which are
schematically illustrated in FIG. 9. The latch 178 is movable by
the inner handle 72 and the outer handle 52 between a locked
position and an unlocked position. When the latch 178 is moved to
the locked position, the latch 178 is extended away from the door
lock 20 into an opening in a face plate 186 mounted to a door frame
190. The latch 178 inhibits movement of the door 24 when in the
extended position. When the latch 178 is moved to the unlocked
position, the latch 178 is retracted into the door lock 20 and out
of engagement with the face plate 186 to allow a user to open the
door 24.
[0026] The actuator 182 moves the clutch 179 between an engaged
position and a disengaged position to selectively enable and
disable the outer handle 52. When the clutch 179 is in the
disengaged position, the clutch 179 disengages the outer handle 52
and the latch 178 such that movement of the outer handle 52 does
not cause movement of the latch 178. Thus, when the clutch 179 is
in the disengaged position, a user positioned adjacent the outer
side 32 cannot gain access to the inner side 40. When the clutch
179 is in the engaged position, the clutch 179 is engages with the
outer handle 52 and the latch 178 such that movement of the outer
handle 52 causes the latch 178 to move. Thus, when the clutch 179
is in the engaged position, a user positioned adjacent the outer
side 32 can move the latch 178, open the door 24, and gain access
to the inner side 40. The actuator 182 can include an electric
motor, a solenoid, a piezoelectric actuator, a linear actuator, a
mechanically actuated device, a different suitable actuator, or a
combination thereof to move the clutch 179 to the desired position
when a user uses an appropriate key 74 or presents an appropriate
credential to the credential reader 48 to allow the user to operate
the outer handle 52 and move the latch 178. In some constructions,
the actuator 182 is configured to selectively enable and disable
the inner handle 72 or both the inner and outer handle.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates the outer portion 28 of the door lock 20.
A plurality of input devices (also referred to as credential
readers 48) are illustrated including but not limited to a keypad
76, a proximity detector 80, a proximity detector with built-in
keypad 84, a magnetic stripe reader 88, a magnetic stripe reader
with a built-in keypad 92, and a biometric reader 96. For clarity,
the credential reader 48 could include any one of a keypad 76, a
proximity detector 80, a proximity detector with built-in keypad
84, a magnetic stripe reader 88, a magnetic stripe reader with a
built-in keypad 92, and a biometric reader 96 as well as other
types of credential readers such as a smartcard reader, a smartcard
reader with built-in keypad, a multitech reader, and a multitech
reader with built-in keypad. In fact, the modularity of the
arrangement described herein would allow for the use of virtually
any type of credential reader desired. The credential readers may
include other features such as audio beepers and visual interfaces
that include light emitting diodes (LEDs). The credential readers
48 are configured to mount to a mounting portion of an attachment
interface 100, which will be described in greater detail with
respect to FIG. 4. Each credential reader 48 is self-contained and
includes all the necessary electrical components and firmware
required for the credential reader 48 to receive an input
credential from a user and output the credential or a signal
corresponding to the credential to a control circuit 154 (FIG. 9)
of the door lock 20. For example, the keypad credential reader 76
is configured to receive a user input (e.g., a numeric or
alphanumeric code) and output the entered credential to the control
circuit 154 of the door lock 20. The biometric credential reader 96
is configured to receive a user input (e.g., a fingerprint, a scan
of the user's hand, a vocal input, a scan of the user's face, a
scan of the user's eye, or other biometric data), process the user
input, and output data to the control circuit 154 that is
representative of the user input. In some embodiments, the
biometric credential reader 96 may receive user input in the form
of a fingerprint and output the fingerprint data to the control
circuit of the door lock 20. In other embodiments, the biometric
credential reader 96 may process the input fingerprint and output a
statistical representation of the fingerprint data or some other
value representative of the fingerprint or the user that provided
the fingerprint.
[0028] The control circuit 154 of the door lock 20, shown in FIG.
5, includes software and/or firmware that is operable to receive a
variety of credentials or other signals from a variety of different
types of credential readers 48. Thus, the user has the option to
purchase a door lock and separately purchase any of a variety of
credential readers 48, some of which are illustrated in FIG. 2. The
software of the control circuit 154 is configured to recognize the
type of credential reader 48 attached to the door lock 20 and thus
knows what input to expect from the credential reader 48. For
example, if a keypad 76 is attached, the software expects a user
code. If a magnetic stripe reader with a built-in keypad 92 is
attached, the software may be configured to expect both a user code
and a magnetic stripe input. The software is configured to receive
a signal, from each of a plurality of different types of credential
readers 48, that corresponds to the credential input by the user.
Thus, no modification to the software is required when a user
replaces one type of credential reader (e.g., keypad 76, proximity
detection 80, magnetic stripe reader 88, biometric 96, etc.) with a
different type of credential reader. Of course, modifications to
the software may be performed as desired by the user.
[0029] As the user's security needs or preferences change, the user
may purchase a new set of credential readers 48 to change the
access control system from using one type of credential to a
different type of credential. Thus, the user may selectively remove
and attach desired credential readers 48 in the field (e.g., at the
user's place of business). Of course, the credential readers 48 may
also be selectively removed and attached at a factory or place of
manufacture. In this way, the electronic door lock 20 contains a
high degree of modularity, interchangeability, and upgradeability.
Only some credential readers 48 are illustrated in FIG. 2 and
discussed herein for exemplary purposes, and the invention is not
limited to the types of credential readers 48 discussed and
illustrated herein.
[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates the inner portion 36 of the door lock 20
which includes an inner base 144 and the inner escutcheon 56 that
defines an inner escutcheon aperture 149. A plurality of
communication module covers 104, 108 are illustrated. One cover 104
is configured to cover a wired communication module, and a second
cover 108 is configured to cover a wireless communication module,
which will be described in detail with respect to FIGS. 5 and 6.
The covers 104 and 108 may also be used to substantially close or
cover the inner escutcheon aperture 149 when no communication
module is present (e.g., offline locks). A first battery cover 112
and a second battery cover 116 are configured to mount to the inner
escutcheon 56 to cover the batteries and battery holder 118. A
four-battery battery holder 118 is illustrated in FIG. 3, as the
construction of FIG. 3 includes 4 batteries. However, if the user
desires longer battery life or the credential reader 48 requires
more power to operate, the user can use an eight-battery battery
holder and mount battery cover 116 to the inner escutcheon 56 to
cover the batteries and the battery holder. The eight-battery
battery holder is formed by attaching a second four-battery battery
holder to the door lock and connecting the second four-battery
battery holder to the first four-battery battery holder 118 in
order to create an eight-battery battery holder.
[0031] The inner portion 36 of the door lock 20 has an optional
secondary locking mechanism 196 that includes a deadbolt turn 122
and a deadbolt 194. The deadbolt turn 122 is accessible from inside
the access controlled area and is coupled to the deadbolt 194 to
allow a user to move the deadbolt 194 (FIG. 9) from a locked
position, in which it is extended and engaged in a second opening
in the faceplate 186, to an unlocked position, in which the
deadbolt 194 is retracted into the door lock 20 and out of
engagement with the second opening in the faceplate 186. Thus, a
user inside the access controlled area may turn the deadbolt turn
122 to move the deadbolt 194 into engagement with the opening in
the faceplate 186, thus inhibiting other users from entering the
access controlled area even when an appropriate key 74 is used or
when appropriate credentials are presented.
[0032] The communication module covers 104, 108 include optional
outer pushbuttons 64, 65 mounted to the communication module covers
104, 108, respectively. A corresponding internal button 66 is
coupled to the inner base 144. When the cover is mounted on the
inner escutcheon 56, the outer pushbutton 64 or 65 aligns with the
corresponding internal button 66. When a user positioned inside the
access controlled area pushes the pushbutton 64, 65, the
corresponding internal button 66 is actuated and sends an
electrical signal to the control circuit. The control circuit
receives the signal and processes the signal. The internal button
66 may be configured for providing a privacy, lock, unlock, or
other function. The control circuit may be programmed to ignore
signals received from the pushbutton to effectively disable the
pushbutton 66, or the control circuit may be programmed to change
the operating mode of the door lock for some period of time or
until a second signal is received. For example, the door lock may
change from a standard mode of operation to a restricted access
mode. When the pushbutton 66 is activated, the door lock 20 may
only allow a select number of users to enter the access controlled
area, temporarily denying assess to all others who present valid
credentials. Of course, other operating modes are also possible and
may be predefined and programmed into the electronic door lock
software. If the communication module cover 104, 108 does not
include an outer pushbutton 64, 65, then the corresponding internal
button 66, while still present in the door lock 20, will not be
actuatable during normal use.
[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates the attachment interface 100 on the outer
portion 28 of the door lock 20. The attachment interface 100 is
substantially flat and includes mounting apertures 126, 130, a
connector 134, and alignment posts 138, 142. The connector 134
extends from the attachment interface 100 in a direction away from
the door. The illustrated connector 134 is a standard twenty pin
female connector. Of course, in other embodiments, the connector
134 may be positioned in a different location on the attachment
interface. In addition, the connector may be a different connector,
such as an 8 pin connector, a male connector, or other suitable
connectors. In addition, the attachment interface 100 may be a
different shape or size if desired.
[0034] The credential reader 48, such as one of the credential
readers 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96 illustrated in FIG. 2 is designed
with a corresponding attachment portion 78 and is removably mounted
to the attachment interface 100 of the door lock 20. The credential
reader 48 includes a second connector 136 that mates with the first
connector 134 when the credential reader 48 is mounted on the
attachment interface 100. The alignment posts 138, 142 are received
in corresponding apertures 139, 143, respectively, in the
credential reader 48 to aid in the alignment of the connector 134
of the credential reader 48. Once the credential reader 48 is
positioned on the attachment interface 100, mounting fasteners 127,
131 are inserted from the inner side 40 of the door 24. The
mounting fasteners 127, 131 pass through apertures 126, 130 and are
threadably received in threaded apertures 128, 132 in the
credential reader 48 to secure the credential reader 48 to the door
lock 20. Because the mounting fasteners 127, 131 secure the
credential reader 48 from the inside of the door 24, there is no
access to the fasteners 127, 131 from the outer portion 28 of the
lock 20 and security is increased. In other embodiments, the
attachment interface 100 may include fewer or more alignment posts,
differently shaped or positioned alignment posts, or no alignment
posts whatsoever. Of course, the attachment interface 100 may
include more or less apertures and more or less mounting fasteners
if desired. It should be noted that other alignment features could
also be employed as alignment posts. In addition, the alignment
posts could be formed on the credential readers 48, with
corresponding apertures formed in the door lock 20 to facilitate
alignment and attachment.
[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates a wired communication module 150 that may
be used with the door lock 20 of FIG. 1. The inner base 144 is
mounted to the inner side 40 of the door. The control circuit 154
is positioned in the inner base 144 and may include electrical
components 154 such as an integrated circuit, central processing
unit, memory, etc. The wired communication module 150 is removably
mounted on the inner base 144 and is electrically connected to the
control circuit 154. The wired communication module 150
communicates using wired communications such as serial
communication, RS-485, RS-232, Ethernet, etc. The wired
communication module 150 is secured to the inner base 144 by
inserting fasteners through apertures 155 and 156. The cover 104
illustrated in FIG. 2 is configured to mount to the inner
escutcheon 56 to substantially cover the wired communication module
and an antenna. Of course, in other constructions, the wired
communication module 150 may be used with non-lock devices
including but not limited to panel interface modules, wireless
reader interfaces, wireless status monitors, wireless portable
readers and the like.
[0036] If a user wishes to change to, for example, a wireless
communication module 158, the user may remove the cover 104 to gain
access to the communication module 150. Easy access is granted to
the wired communication module 150 through the inner escutcheon
aperture 149, and the wired communication module 150 may be removed
by removing fasteners in apertures 155 and 156. The wireless
communication module 158 may be mounted in the same position to
provide wireless capability to the door lock 20, as illustrated in
FIG. 6. Thus, the wired communication module 150 may be removed and
replaced from the lock without removing the inner escutcheon 56 and
without damaging or disturbing the control circuit 154 and the
locking mechanism 180.
[0037] With reference to FIG. 6, the wireless communication module
158 is removably mounted on the inner base 144 and is electrically
connected to the control circuit 154 when mounted thereon. The
wireless communication module 158 includes a radio frequency ("RF")
shield 162 and additional circuitry, such as a wireless transmitter
or transceiver and the antenna to wirelessly communicate with other
devices. Thus, the wireless communication module 158 is larger than
the wired communication module 150. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the
wireless communication module 158 extends above the inner portion
36 of the door lock 20. A metallic extension 166 is positioned
adjacent the door 24 and extends above the door lock 20 a distance
that is similar to the wireless communication module 158. The
metallic extension 166 contains an adhesive layer for mounting to
the door 24. The metallic extension 166 ensures a consistent RF
radiation pattern when the door 24 is formed of wood or metal. The
RF shield 162 is provided between the wireless communication module
158 and the cover 108 when the cover 108 is mounted on the inner
escutcheon 56 to substantially cover the communication module 158.
The wireless communication module cover 108 is larger than the
wired communication module cover 104 to accommodate the larger
wireless communication module 158. In this manner, the inner
portion 36 of the door lock is able to accommodate substantially
any size of communication module provided that the module is
configured to mount to the inner base 144 in a similar position and
a cover is designed to mate with the inner escutcheon 56 to
substantially cover the communication module. Thus, the door lock
20 is configured to accept a variety of communication modules that
are interchangeable, providing the door lock 20 with a greater
modularity, flexibility, and interchangeability.
[0038] The wireless communication module 158 can be configured to
communicate using 900 MHz, WIFI, ZIGBEE, Z-wave, 2.4 GHz, 868 MHz,
other radio frequencies, and other standards as desired. The
wireless communication module 158 may also be used in non-lock
devices such as panel interface modules, wireless portable readers,
wireless reader interfaces, wireless status monitors or other
wireless devices used in the access control system 27. In offline
locks, a communication module is not present. However, the offline
lock still includes sufficient space for the addition of a
communication module should one be desired. The user can convert to
an online wired or wireless lock simply by attaching the wired
communication module 150 or the wireless communication module 158
as described above.
[0039] With reference to FIG. 7, the outer portion 28 of the door
lock 20 includes a first anti-tamper wall 170 and a second
anti-tamper wall 174 that inhibit access to the locking mechanism
180 from the outer portion 28 of the door lock. Specifically, the
anti-tamper walls 170 and 174 are positioned to inhibit access to
the locking mechanism 180 from an outer escutcheon aperture 148 in
the outer escutcheon 44. The first anti-tamper wall 170 extends in
a horizontal direction from the outer base 146 to a flange 172 of
the outer escutcheon 44 to provide a horizontal barrier between the
locking mechanism 180 and the aperture 148. Thus, if an intruder
breaks the credential reader 76 and gains access to the upper
portion of the door lock 20, the intruder's access to the locking
mechanism 180 is blocked by the first anti-tamper wall 170. To
increase security, a second anti-tamper wall 174 is positioned
below the first anti-tamper wall 170 to provide a second barrier
between the upper portion of the door lock 20 and the locking
mechanism 180. The second anti-tamper wall 174 extends horizontally
from the outer base 146 to at least partially block access to the
locking mechanism 180.
[0040] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates an access control system 27
that may include the electronic door lock 20 of FIGS. 1-7. The
system includes an optional laptop computer 200, a personal device
assistant (PDA) 204, a plurality of door locks and communication
modules 208, 212, 216, 220, 224, 228, 232, 236, 240, a panel
interface device 244 (e.g., panel interface board (PIB) or panel
interface module (PIM)), an access control panel (ACP) 248, 252, or
256, and a server 260.
[0041] The laptop 200 and PDA 204 may be used to configure
parameters in the access control system 27. The door locks 208,
212, 216, 220, 224 may include one type of door lock or a plurality
of types of door locks (e.g., online or offline locks, mortise
locks, cylindrical locks, exit locks, etc). The door locks may
include wireless credential readers, wired credential readers or a
combination thereof. In addition, the access points (e.g., doors,
gates, elevators, etc.) may include proximity readers 236, a
wireless reader interface (WRI) 240, a wireless status monitor
(WSM) 232, a wireless portable reader (WPR) 228, a universal serial
bus (USB) enabled electronic lock 224, an electronic lock including
a standard electrical connection 220, a BLUETOOTH enabled lock 212
with corresponding dongle 264, or other devices not listed herein.
The laptop 200, PDA 204, or a combination thereof may be used
during installation and upgrades of the access control system 27.
For example, if the door locks require a software upgrade, the
upgrade may be performed through the laptop 200 or PDA 204. The
laptop 200 and PDA 204 may communicate wirelessly with the door
locks or through a wired connection such as a USB cable 268, 272 or
other electrical connection 276.
[0042] The door locks and communication modules 208, 212, 216, 220,
224, 228, 232, 236, 240 are configured to communicate with the
panel interface device 244. The communication may be wireless, with
the use of a wireless communication module 158, or the
communication may be wired, with the use of a wired communication
module 150. The panel interface device 244 is configured to
communicate with the ACP 248 via a wired connection. In other
constructions, the panel interface device 244 may communicate with
third party original equipment manufacture (OEM) equipment 256 or a
different control panel, such as BRIGHT BLUE 248. The ACP 252 is
configured to communicate with a server 260 such as SMS Express,
Select Premium Enterprise system (S/P/E), other software packages,
and other third party OEM software and servers. The access control
decision may be made by any of the control circuit 154, the panel
interface device 244, the ACP 252, 248, or 256, and the server 260.
It is also contemplated that the access control decision may be
made in the credential reader or the lock itself.
[0043] When a user desires access to the access controlled area,
the user approaches the credential reader 48, which is positioned
on the outer portion 28 of the door lock 20. The user uses the
credential reader 48 to enter credentials. This could include
entering a pin, swiping a card, providing a biometric sample and
the like. The credential reader 48 provides the received
credentials or a signal including data representative of the
received credentials to the control circuit 154. The control
circuit 154 may include an onboard database that has been
previously saved and that includes a list of authorized users and
the credentials or data associated with each user. The control
circuit 154 determines if the received credentials or
representative data are valid and makes an access decision.
Alternatively, the control circuit 154 may transmit the data to the
access control panel 248, 252, or 256, either directly or through
the panel interface device 244. The access control panel 248, 252,
or 256 may include a database that the access control panel 248,
252, or 256 uses to make an access decision, or the access control
panel 248, 252, or 256 may communicate directly with a server 260
that makes the access decision. One of the server 260, access
control panel 248, 252, or 256, and the control circuit 154
generates a control signal in response to the access decision.
[0044] The control signal is communicated to the control circuit
154, and the control circuit 154 processes the control signal and
uses the control signal to actuate the locking mechanism 180 to
enable the outside lever and allow the outer handle 52 to move
latch 178 to one of the locked position and the unlocked position
to provide or inhibit access to the access controlled area. If the
control circuit 154 generates the control signal, then the control
circuit 154 uses the control signal to operate the locking
mechanism 180 accordingly.
[0045] The modular design of the electronic door lock 20 provides
users with flexibility and an easier way to manage repairs and
upgrades of the door locks 20. The user may purchase credential
readers 48 separately from the door lock 20. Thus, if a user wishes
to change an access control system 27 that uses, for example,
keypad credential readers 76 to an access control system that uses,
for example, biometric credential readers 96, the user can purchase
biometric credential readers 96 for each of the door locks 20. The
keypad credential readers 76 can be removed and replaced with the
biometric credential readers 96. Because the control circuit 154
includes the necessary software to receive, for example, both
keypad credential data and biometric data, no software modification
is required. After the biometric credential reader 96 is mounted to
the door lock 20 and the appropriate databases are updated with the
users biometric data, the access control system 27 will function
properly.
[0046] For example, some users may wish to change from a security
system 27 with keypad entry to a biometric security system 27. To
achieve the desired change, the following steps may be performed.
The user removes the communication module cover 104 from the inside
portion 36 of the door lock 20 (FIG. 3). The user removes the
fasteners 127, 131 from the apertures 126 and 130 (FIGS. 2 and 3),
the keypad 76 is removed from the attachment interface 100 in the
outer portion 28 of the door lock 20, and the biometric credential
reader 96 is mounted to the attachment interface 100. The fasteners
127, 131 are reinserted in the apertures 126 and 130 to secure the
biometric credential reader 96 to the door lock 20. The
communication module cover 104 may then be replaced on the inside
portion 36 of the door lock 20.
[0047] In some situations, a user may want to change from a wired
security system 27 to a wireless security system 27. To do this,
the wired communication module 150 (FIG. 5) is removed by removing
fasteners from apertures 155 and 156. The metallic extension 166 is
mounted to the inner side 40 of the door 24. In some embodiments,
the metallic extension 166 is provided with an adhesive backing and
a removable film. The film is removed to expose the adhesive, and
the metallic extension 166 is mounted to the inside of the door 24
above the inner base 144. The wireless communication module 158
(FIG. 6) is mounted to the door lock 20, and the fasteners are
inserted in the apertures 155 and 156 to secure the wireless
communication module 158 thereto. The communication module cover
108 is positioned over the wireless communication module 158 and is
received by the inner escutcheon 56. The fasteners are replaced in
the apertures 155 and 156 to secure the cover 108 to the door lock
20. Of course, the above steps may be performed in a different
order. Thus, the communication module 150 or 158 is removable and
replaceable without any disassembly of, or damage to the locking
mechanism 180, the inner base 144, and the inner escutcheon 56.
Furthermore, the communication module 150 or 158 is removable and
replaceable without disturbing the control circuit 154 or the
locking mechanism 180.
[0048] The electronic door lock 20 also includes a key-in-lever
feature. As illustrated in FIG. 10, a key cylinder 292 is
positioned in the handle 52 (sometimes referred to as a lever). As
illustrated, the key cylinder 292 is positioned within an aperture
296 in the outer handle 52. To secure the key cylinder 292 in the
outer handle 52, the door lock 20 includes a spring cage 300, a
spring cage spindle 304, a lever catch pin 308, and an additional
fastener 312.
[0049] The outer handle 52 includes an aperture 296 that receives
the spring cage spindle 304, the lever catch pin 308, and the key
cylinder 292. More specifically, the lever catch pin 308 includes a
band of material 320 that is positioned around the key cylinder 292
when assembled. The key cylinder 292 and lever catch pin 308 are
received in the spring cage spindle 304 to inhibit rotation of the
lever catch pin 308 with respect to the spring cage spindle 304.
The lever catch pin 308 is received in an aperture 324 in the
spring cage spindle 304. This arrangement also inhibits movement of
the lever catch pin 308 and the key cylinder 292 in an axial
direction with respect to the spring cage spindle 304. With
reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the lever catch pin 308 extends
through the aperture 324 and is at least partially received in an
aperture 328 formed in the outer handle 52 to inhibit axial and
rotational movement of the outer handle 52 with respect to the
spring cage spindle 304. When the handle 52 is rotated, the spring
cage spindle 304 is also rotated. Finally, the fastener 312 is
threadably inserted in a second aperture 332 in the outer handle 52
and passes through the second aperture such that the fastener 312
is adjacent the spring cage spindle 304. In the illustrated
construction, the fastener 312 is a set screw that secures a hub
316 of the handle to the spring cage spindle 304. Of course, in
other constructions, different fasteners can be used.
[0050] The Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) and
the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) define standards
that locks used in access control systems must meet to be
certified. BHMA and ANSI further define different grades of locks,
each having a different set of standards that must be met by the
locks. If the lock is properly tested, following all the
requirements of the standard, then the device is certified and can
be sold with a BHMA Certified Mark, ANSI Mark, or other mark.
Furthermore, different types of locks may be subject to different
testing requirements. For example, the ANSI 156.13 standard
defines, among other things, three tests that a mortise lock with a
key-in-lever feature must pass to be Grade 1 certified. The three
tests include a 3600 pound axial pull on lever test, a 175
foot-pound locked lever torque test, and a 10-blow vertical impact
test, which will be described in detail below.
[0051] To perform the 3600 pound axial pull on lever test, a
machine grips the hub 316 of the outer handle 52. Then the machine
applies a force of increasing magnitude to the hub 316 in a
direction substantially perpendicular to the inner base 144 and in
a direction away from the inner base 144. The force applied by the
machine is increased until the door lock fails 20. Failure is
defined by separation of the lever hub 316 from the spring cage
spindle 304, which would allow a user to gain access to the key
cylinder 292 and locking mechanism 180. If the failure occurs when
the force exerted is greater than 3600 pounds, the door lock 20
passes the 3600 pound axial pull on lever test. To increase the
amount of force the door lock 20 can withstand before failing,
several modifications were made to the previously designed door
locks.
[0052] To increase the amount of force that is required to cause
failure of the door lock 20 during the 3600 pound axial pull on
lever test, the materials and dimensions of the outer handle 52,
lever catch pin 308, spring cage 300, and spring cage spindle 304
were determined using modeling analysis. The material of the outer
handle 52 was changed from Die Cast Zinc Zamak 3 to Investment Cast
Steel ASTM A148. With reference to FIG. 11, the maximum thickness
336 of the lever hub 316 was increased by 57% (i.e., from 0.420
inches to 0.660 inches), the intermediate thickness 340 was
increased by 38% (i.e., from 0.250 inches to 0.345 inches), and the
minimum thickness 344 was increased by 27% (i.e., from 0.130 inches
to 0.165 inches). The material of the spring cage spindle 304 was
changed from AISI-1008-CRS to Investment Cast Steel ASTM A148. The
thickness 348 of the spring cage spindle 304 was increased by 200%
(i.e., from 0.060 inches to 0.180 inches). The material of the
lever catch pin 308 was changed from AISI-12L14 Steel to a three
part pin that includes an outer pin formed from AISI-1060 Steel, an
inner pin formed from AISI-12L14 Steel, and a pin cap formed of
AISI 12L14 Steel. The outer diameter 352 of the lever catch pin 308
was increased by 28% (i.e., from 0.189 inches, to 0.241 inches).
The spring cage 300 is formed from AISI-1008-CRS. The thickness 356
(FIG. 12) of the spring cage 300 was increased by 33% (i.e., from
0.060 inches to 0.080 inches). The additional set screw 312 is a
1/4-20 steel screw having a 0.25 inch diameter 360.
[0053] To perform the 175 foot-pound locked lever torque test a
force of approximately 175 foot-pounds is applied to the outer
handle 52 after the outer handle 52 is fully rotated. With
reference to FIG. 12, rotation of the outer handle 52 rotates a
platform 358 until flanges 360 on the platform 358 abut bosses 364
positioned in the spring cage 300. The bosses 364 inhibit further
rotation of the lever 52 by inhibiting further rotation of the
platform 358. If enough torque is applied to the handle 52, the
bosses may fail and allow the platform 358 to continue to rotate.
The increased dimensions mentioned above aid in the amount of
torque the door lock 20 can withstand. However, if the bosses 364
fail before 175 foot-pounds of force is applied to the handle 52,
then the door lock 20 fails the test. To increase the amount of
torque the door lock 20 can withstand before failure, additional
features were added to the door lock 20. More specifically, the
shape of the spring cage 300 was designed to inhibit failure of the
door lock 20 by inhibiting rotation of the spring cage 300. The
spring cage 300 is substantially circular except for the formation
of two substantially straight side walls 368. The side walls 368
are positioned adjacent the walls of the outer escutcheon 44 such
that when a torsional force is applied to the spring cage 300, the
walls 368 of the spring cage press against the walls of the outer
escutcheon 44 to transfer the load to the outer escutcheon 44.
[0054] To perform the 10-blow vertical impact test, a force of 75
foot-pounds is repeatedly exerted on the lever 52 to simulate an
intruder's attempt to gain access to the locking mechanism 180. For
example, a sledge hammer with a 22 pound head dropped from a height
of 40 inches will impart a force of approximately 75 foot-pounds on
the outer handle 52. A finite element analysis (FEA) model of the
door lock 20 was developed and analyzed for eleven simulated blows
of 75 foot-pounds on the outer handle of the FEA model. The door
lock 20 was strengthened as mentioned above by increasing the
thicknesses 336, 340, 344, and 348 of the outer handle 52 and the
spring cage 300. In addition, the outer handle 52 is formed from a
stronger material (e.g., Investment Cast Steel ASTM A148).
[0055] The modifications listed above aid in the number of blows
the lock 20 can withstand before failing. In addition, three
escutcheon ribs 372, 376, and 380 are included adjacent the spring
cage 300 to further increase the strength of the door lock 20, and
to allow the door lock 20 to absorb additional force. The
escutcheon ribs 372, 376, and 380 are formed as one piece connected
by an arcuate portion 384 adjacent the spring cage 300. The
escutcheon ribs 372, 376, and 380 can also be referred to as inner
walls. When a substantially vertical force is exerted on the outer
handle 52, the spring cage 300 presses against the arcuate portion
384 and transfers the load to the arcuate portion 384. The arcuate
portion 384 further transfers the load to the escutcheon ribs 372,
376, and 380. The escutcheon ribs 372 and 380 are positioned to
substantially surround two bosses 392 formed in the outer
escutcheon 44. The two bosses 392 receive the load and transfer it
to the escutcheon 44. One load transfer path is defined from the
outer handle 52 to the spring cage 300, to the escutcheon ribs 372
and 380, to the bosses 392, and to the outer escutcheon 44. A
second load transfer path is defined from the outer handle 52 to
the spring cage 300, to the escutcheon rib 376, and to the outer
escutcheon 44. In other constructions, a different number and shape
of escutcheon ribs may be present to transfer forces from the
spring cage 300 to the escutcheon 44.
[0056] Thus, the invention provides, among other things, an
electronic door lock that offers a key-in-lever feature. Various
features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the
following claims.
* * * * *