AU2018305774B2

AU2018305774B2 - Monitoring system for lock assembly

Info

Publication number: AU2018305774B2
Application number: AU2018305774A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Gil Jonothan LEVY; Paul Thomas SPENCER; Yuyang WANG; Andrew Williams; Steven Ye
Original assignee: Assa Abloy Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Assa Abloy Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2017-07-27
Filing date: 2018-07-27
Publication date: 2023-08-03
Anticipated expiration: 2038-07-27
Also published as: AU2018305775A1; WO2019018901A1; CN111263840B; NZ761119A; WO2019018897A1; NZ761112A; AU2018308949A1; WO2019018900A1; AU2018305728B2; CN111315949B; CN111226017B; WO2019018899A1; AU2018305774A1; NZ761122A; AU2018305728A1; CN111263840A; CN111315949A; AU2018308949B2; AU2018305775B2; NZ761127A

Abstract

The invention is directed to a lock assembly for use with a door. The lock assembly includes a housing, a bolt movable relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, a manual actuator for operation from an inner side or an outer side of the door respectively to move the bolt from at least the extended position to the retracted position, a lock mechanism which interacts with the manual actuator to render each of the inner hub and outer hub of the manual actuator independently inoperable or operable, and an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism. The electronic control module includes a monitoring module for detecting and recording one or more operating parameter values of the lock mechanism, and a communications interface to enable communication of the recorded operating parameter values to an external device.

Description

Monitoring System for Lock Assembly Related Applications

[0001 ] The present application is related to the disclosure of Australian provisional application no. 2017902959 entitled A Mortice Lock Assembly with a Powered Lock Actuator filed on 27 July 2017, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present application is further related to PCT applications entitled "Mortice Lock Assembly having Electronic Switching Element" and "Mortice Lock Assembly having Electronic Control Module" in the name of Assa Abloy Australia Pty Ltd having an international filing date of 27 July 2018, and the entire contents of each of the related PCT applications are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates for a monitoring system for a lock assembly.

Embodiments of the invention generally relate to a mortice lock assembly having an electronic monitoring module for monitoring operations of the mortice lock assembly, although the scope of the invention may not be limited thereto.

Background of Invention

[0004] Generally in electronic lock assemblies, faults may occur for many different reasons. For example, due to incorrect installation, poor maintenance, failure of different lock assembly componentry, and/or general wear and tear after a length of service.

[0005] Once a fault in the operation of the lock assembly has been identified, for example due to improper operation of the lock assembly, it can often be difficult and time consuming to determine the cause of the fault in order to repair the lock assembly.

[0006] Typically, the faulty lock assembly must be removed from a door and delivered to a specialised service centre, where the faulty lock assembly will be disassembled for diagnosis and repair. This process can be time consuming, labour intensive and costly.

[0007] Embodiments of the invention may provide an improved monitoring system for a lock assembly, which overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the

disadvantages or problems described above, or which at least provides the consumer with a useful choice.

[0008] A reference herein to a patent document or other matter which is given as prior art is not to be taken as an admission that that document or matter was known or that the information it contains was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of any of the claims.

Summary of Invention

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a lock assembly for use with a door, the lock assembly including

a housing,

a bolt movable relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position,

a manual actuator for operation from an inner side or an outer side of the door respectively to move the bolt from at least the extended position to the retracted position,

a lock mechanism which interacts with the manual actuator to render each of the inner hub and outer hub of the manual actuator independently inoperable or operable, and

an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism, the electronic control module including

a monitoring module for detecting and recording one or more operating parameter values of the lock mechanism, and

a communications interface to enable communication of the recorded operating parameter values to an external device.

[0010] By detecting, recording and communicating the operating parameter values which provide valuable insight into the operating health of the lock assembly at any time, the electronic control module therefore advantageously provides an effective tool to monitor and diagnose the lock assembly, for example, during maintenance or troubleshooting and fault analysis, without removing the lock assembly from a door.

[001 1 ] The monitoring module may be configured to

detect one or more operating parameter values of the mortice lock assembly,

compare each detected operating parameter value with a predetermined value range associated the detected operating parameter, and

record the detected operating parameter value if the value falls outside the predetermined value range.

[0012] Typically, the predetermined value range indicates a healthy operating value range for the associated operating parameter. Any suitable operating parameter of the lock mechanism may be detected by the monitoring module.

[0013] One of the operating parameters may be a supply voltage of the electronic control module. In one embodiment, the supply voltage may be provided by the mains power supply. Typically, the predetermined value range of the supply voltage is between 5 to 30VDC. Preferably, the value range of the supply voltage reflecting healthy operation is 9 to 28 VDC. A detected supply voltage value below this range may indicate incorrect installation of the lock assembly.

[0014] The lock mechanism may be configured to operate in any suitable number of operating states, for example, including a locked state and an unlocked state. The lock mechanism may have more than one locked state. Moreover, the lock

mechanism may have more than one unlocked state.

[0015] The lock assembly may be a mortice lock assembly. In particular, the manual actuator may include an inner hub and an outer hub each being operable from an inner side or an outer side of the housing respectively to move the bolt from at least the extended position to the retracted position. The lock mechanism may interact with the manual actuator to render each of the inner hub and outer hub of the manual actuator independently inoperable or operable. [0016] The lock mechanism may be configured to operate in one or more operating states, including

a first operating state in which the inner hub is rendered operable and the outer hub is rendered operable,

a second operating state in which the inner hub is rendered inoperable and the outer hub is rendered operable,

a third operating state in which the inner hub is rendered inoperable and the outer hub is rendered inoperable, and

a fourth operating state in which the inner hub is rendered operable and the outer hub is rendered inoperable,

the electronic control module including a motor for driving the lock mechanism to a desired operating state, and

wherein one of the operating parameters is a number reflective of the number of times that the lock mechanism is moved between different operating states.

[0017] In particular, one of the operating parameters may be an operating cycle of the lock mechanism. Each operating cycle may include movement of the lock mechanism from an initial operating state to a desired operating state and from the desired operating state back to the initial operating state. Typically, the operating cycle is a count that reflects the number of repeated operating cycles (e.g. each time a respective hub of the lock mechanism is rendered operable to allow the door to open and rendered inoperable upon closing of the door) carried out by the lock mechanism such that the count can be compared against an expected maximum number of operating cycles. Depending on the nature of the lock, the maximum number of expected operating cycles can be any number. For example, the maximum number of expected operating cycles may be between 100,000 and 2,000,000. In one embodiment, the maximum number of expected operating cycles may be 500,000.

[0018] Once a maximum expected operating cycle value is detected, an indication may be generated, such as a visual or audio indication, to indicate that a major service or replacement of the lock assembly is required. [0019] In one embodiment, one of the operating parameters may be motor current for the motor. A motor current reading outside the predetermined range may indicate a fault with the motor. For example, if the detected motor current is too high, the motor may be failing, or the load on the motor is too high. The load on the motor may be too high if, for example, excessive friction is being generated by the lock

mechanism. Typically, the predetermined value range for the motor current is between 200mA and 500mA. In one embodiment, the predetermined value range for the motor current may be between 300mA to 400mA, or approximately 350mA.

[0020] One of the operating parameters may be a motor fault indicator. The motor fault indicator may provide an indication of motor fault if motor current of the motor exceeds a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be of any suitable value. For example, 450mA, 500mA, 550mA and so forth. In one

embodiment, the predetermined threshold is 500mA.

[0021 ] The electronic control module may include a microcontroller for generating a drive signal for driving the motor. One of the operating parameters may be an operating temperature of the electronic control module. The electronic control module may include an on board temperature sensor for sensing the ambient temperature. A healthy operating range for the temperature of the electronic control module may be between -15° C and 50° C. A detected temperature value outside this range may indicate malfunctioning of one or more components of the electronic control module, such as the motor and/or the microcontroller, which may cause an incorrect control signals to be generated or no control signals to be generated, thereby causing failure of the electronic control system. In one example, an incorrect drive signal to be generated for driving the motor, thereby causing improper operation of the motor.

[0022] One of the operating parameters may be an operating state of the lock mechanism during a malfunction determined by the monitoring module. A malfunction may be determined when a detected operating parameter value falls outside an associated value range.

[0023] The electronic control module may further include a power storage device for providing power to the motor to move the lock mechanism to a desired operating state in a power failure event. One of the operating parameters may be an output voltage of the power storage device.

[0024] Any suitable power storage device may be used. For example, the power storage device may include batteries, capacitors, and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0025] In one embodiment, the power storage device may be a capacitor and one of the operating parameters may be an output voltage of the capacitor when the capacitor is charged. Typically, the output voltage range may be 2 to 3V. In one embodiment the output voltage may be roughly 2.5V, having tolerance of roughly 5%. An output voltage value below the typical range may indicate a failing capacitor, and/or insufficient charge time.

[0026] The detection of any one or more operating parameter values outside a predetermined value range may trigger a fault indicator, such as a visual and/or audio indicator (such as an LED light and/or buzzer/alarm) to provide instantaneous indication that a fault has been detected. The fault indicator may be on board the monitoring module, or external to the monitoring module.

[0027] Any suitable communication interface may be used. The communication interface may include any suitable type of wireless and/or wired communication. For example, the wireless communication interface may include Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC, radio wireless technology and the like, and/or any combination thereof. Examples of wired communication may include any suitable serial communications interface (SCI), serial peripheral interface (SPI), parallel interfaces, USB, Ethernet, and the like, and/or any combination thereof.

[0028] In one embodiment, the communication interface may include a USB port. Any suitable USB port may be provided. In one embodiment, a type A USB port is provided. In another embodiment, a micro-USB port is provided.

[0029] The microcontroller may generate a log file for retrieval by the external device via the communications interface. The log file may include at least a portion of the recorded operating parameter values. [0030] The log file may be retrieved via a suitable wired communication interface, and/or a suitable wireless communication interface as described above.

[0031 ] In some embodiments, the monitoring module may include a removable memory device, such an SD or micro-SD memory card. The monitoring module may save at least a portion of the recorded operating parameter values on the removable memory device.

[0032] The removable memory device may be accessible for removal without disassembling the lock assembly.

[0033] In some embodiments, the communication interface may include visual output, for example, via LED indicators, a display screen and the like. The visual output may provide an indication of the operating status of the lock mechanism.

[0034] The monitoring module may include a hub indicator for providing real time indication of an inoperable or operable condition of each of the inner and outer hubs. In addition, the monitoring module may include a dead-latch monitoring submodule for monitoring real time position of an auxiliary bolt assembly associated with the mortice lock assembly.

[0035] Moreover, the monitoring module may include a door position monitoring submodule for detecting a position of the door. The monitoring module may include a key over-ride monitoring submodule for detecting a key being used to move the bolt.

[0036] Further, the monitoring module may include a request-to-exit monitoring submodule for detecting operation of the manual actuator to move the bolt.

[0037] The submodules may include any combination of sensors, switches and the like to provide the relevant detection.

[0038] The monitoring module may further include one or more visual indicators for providing visual indication of an operating state of the lock mechanism, wherein the one or more visual indicators are visible through the housing. [0039] Moreover, the monitoring module may further include diagnostic visual indicators for providing a visual indication of one or more detected faults associated with the electronic control module.

[0040] The visual indicators may include LED indicators, displays such as LED displays and the like.

[0041 ] The monitoring module may further include an audio indicator for providing an audio indication of one or more detected faults associated with the electronic control module. The audio indicator may include a buzzer, alarm and the like.

[0042] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a monitoring system for a lock assembly, the system including an electronic monitoring module for detecting one or more operating parameter values of the lock assembly, comparing each detected operating parameter value with a corresponding predetermined value range associated the detected operating parameter, and

recording the detected operating parameter value if the detected value falls outside the predetermined value range.

[0043] The monitoring system may include

a microcontroller for detecting, comparing and recording the operating parameter values,

a communications interface for enabling the recorded operating parameter values to be retrieved by an external device, and

one or more submodules for detecting and communicating real time operating conditions associated with the lock assembly with an external monitoring system.

[0044] The lock assembly may include a motor for moving a lock mechanism of the lock assembly, and the microcontroller monitors operating parameter values of the motor. The monitoring system may further include one or more visual indicators for representing one or more of the detected operating parameters. [0045] The monitoring system may be adapted for operation with any suitable lock assembly. In one embodiment, the monitoring system is configured for operation with a mortice lock assembly.

[0046] Advantageously, the monitoring system of the present invention allows useful data including lifecycle information and operating history of a particular lock to be retrieved conveniently from the lock without uninstalling/dismantling the lock assembly, which facilitates troubleshooting operations and maintenance of ongoing healthy operation of the lock assembly.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0047] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a mortice lock assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, having a cover plate forming part of the housing removed.

[0048] Figure 2 is an exploded isometric view of the lock mechanism, inner hub and outer hub of the mortice lock assembly as shown in Figure 1 .

[0049] Figure 3A is an isometric view of a partially assembled lock mechanism shown in Figure 2 in which the inner pawl and outer pawl are both in an unlocked position illustrating a first operating state of the lock mechanism.

[0050] Figure 3B is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 3A illustrating the inner pawl in the released position.

[0051 ] Figure 3C is a top plan view of a portion of the partial assembly shown in Figures 3A and 3B illustrating an angular position of a cam associated with a motor of the lock mechanism when the inner and outer pawls are in the unlocked position.

[0052] Figure 3D is an isometric view of a partially assembled lock mechanism shown in Figure 2 in which the inner pawl is in a locked position and the outer pawl is in an unlocked position illustrating a second operating state of the lock mechanism.

[0053] Figure 3E is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 3D illustrating the outer pawl in the released position. [0054] Figure 3F is a top plan view of a portion of the partial assembly shown in Figures 3D and 3F illustrating an angular position of a cam associated with a motor of the lock mechanism when the inner pawl is in a locked position and the outer pawl is in an unlocked position.

[0055] Figure 4A is an isometric view of a partially assembled lock mechanism shown in Figure 2 in which the inner pawl and outer pawl are both in a locked position illustrating a third operating state of the lock mechanism.

[0056] Figure 4B is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 4A illustrating the inner pawl in the locked condition.

[0057] Figure 4C is a top plan view of a portion of the partial assembly shown in Figures 4A and 4B illustrating an angular position of a cam associated with a motor of the lock mechanism when the inner and outer pawls are in the unlocked position.

[0058] Figure 4D is an isometric view of a partially assembled lock mechanism shown in Figure 2 in which the outer pawl is in a locked position and the inner pawl is in an unlocked position illustrating a fourth operating state of the lock mechanism.

[0059] Figure 4E is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 4D illustrating the outer pawl in the locked position.

[0060] Figure 4F is a top plan view of a portion of the partial assembly shown in Figures 4D and 4F illustrating an angular position of a cam associated with a motor of the lock mechanism when the outer pawl is in a locked position and the inner pawl is in an unlocked position.

[0061 ] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a control system for a mortice lock assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0062] Figure 6 is an example output log file of a monitoring module of the control system of Figure 5. Detailed Description

[0063] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a mortice lock assembly 100 having an electronic control system 500 (see Figure 5) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The lock assembly 100 includes a housing 102, a bolt 106 movable between an extended position and a retracted position (Figure 1 only shows the bolt 106 in the extended position), a manual actuator 108 including an outer hub 1 10a and an inner hub 1 10b (see Figure 2) each being operable from an outer side or an inner side of the housing 102 respectively to move the bolt 106 between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0064] A cover plate (not shown) forming part of the housing 102 is removed to more clearly illustrate internal components of the mortice lock assembly 100. The mortice lock assembly 100 forms part of a lock set having inner and outer door furniture for installation in a door (not shown). Each inner and outer door furniture includes a handle (not shown) which is rotatable relative to the door furniture to engage with the manual actuator 108 and operate the lock assembly 100, from either an inner side of the door, or an outer side of the door respectively.

[0065] The bolt 106 forms part of a latch bolt assembly 1 14. The bolt assembly 1 14 includes a bolt body 1 16 within the housing 102 which is configured to slide within the housing 102 between the extended position as shown and a retracted position (not shown). A biasing spring (hidden) acts between a rear wall of the housing 102 and the bolt body 1 16 to urge the bolt assembly 1 14 towards the extended position. Figure 1 also illustrates an auxiliary bolt assembly 120 including an auxiliary bolt head 122 and an auxiliary bolt body 123. An auxiliary bolt spring (hidden) acts between the auxiliary bolt body 123 and a rear wall of the housing 102 in order to urge the auxiliary bolt head 1 20 towards the extended position as illustrated. The auxiliary bolt assembly 120 interacts with the latch bolt assembly 1 14 so as to deadlatch the latch bolt assembly 106 in the extended position, when the door is closed, in a manner that will be understood by those skilled in the art. The specifics of the structural interaction of the auxiliary bolt assembly 120 with the latch bolt assembly 1 14 is not essential to the current invention, only that it is preferred that there be some interaction to achieve the deadlatching function. [0066] The latch bolt assembly 1 14 can be adjusted relative to the housing 102 by operation of the manual actuator 108 which includes an outer hub 1 10a in Figure 1 , a hub lever 124 and an inner hub 1 10b (see Figure 2). Both of the inner hub 1 10b and outer hub 1 10a are independently rotatable about a hub axis X-X (see Figure 2) on rotation of the inner handle or outer handle respectively. Rotation of either the inner hub 1 10b or outer hub 1 10a about the hub axis X-X will cause the hub lever 124 to rotate also about the hub axis X-X to retract the latch bolt assembly.

[0067] The lock mechanism 104 interacts with the manual actuator 108 to render each of the outer hub 1 10a and inner hub 1 10b independently operable or inoperable. In particular, the lock mechanism 104 controls rotation of either or both the inner hub 1 10b and outer hub 1 10a. The lock mechanism 104 includes an outer pawl 126a and an inner pawl 126b (see Figure 2) which are each rotatable about a pawl axis Z-Z (see Figure 2). A motor 200 is used to move each of the outer and inner pawls 126a, 126b independently between locked and unlocked conditions to either prohibit or permit rotation of the outer or inner hub 1 10a, 1 10b respectively. When either of the outer or inner hubs 1 10a, 1 10b is prohibited from rotation, it is rendered inoperable and the latch assembly 1 14 cannot be moved from an extended (locked) position to a retracted (unlocked) position. Conversely, when either of the outer or inner hubs 1 10a, 1 10b is permitted to rotate, it is rendered operable and the latch assembly 1 14 can be moved from an extended (locked) position to a retracted (unlocked) position by rotation of the operable hub 1 10a, 1 10b. The incorporation of a single motor 200, as opposed to a solenoid, can advantageously provide a lower power consumption alternative. The interaction between the motor 200, the pawls 126a, 126b and hubs 1 10a, 1 10b will be discussed in further detail below with reference to Figures 2 to 4C.

[0068] The lock assembly 100 also has electronic control circuitry 128 (electronic control module). The electronic control module 128 forms part of the control system 500, which will be discussed in further detail below with reference to Figure 5. The control circuit 128 includes two electronic switching elements in the form of two three- position slide switches 1 12a, 1 12b for configuring the lock mechanism 104 to operate in accordance with a selected operating mode, a number of sensors including a feedback position sensor for detecting the position of a drive motor 200 for driving the lock mechanism 104 between locked and unlocked conditions, a micro-controller for generating motor control signals based on the selected operating mode, and power storage in the form of a super capacitor (hidden) for providing power to the control system 500 in a power failure event. Other components of the circuitry 128 will be discussed in further detail before with reference to Figure 5.

[0069] Each of the switches 1 12a, 1 12b is readily accessible via an opening in a rear face of the housing 102 to conveniently allow configuration of the lock

mechanism 104 by specifying a setting for each of the switches 1 12a, 1 12b. The switches 1 12a, 1 12b can be used to configure the lock mechanism 104 to operate in accordance with a selected operating mode from a range of possible operating modes. Advantageously, the ability to utilise a pair of switches 1 12a, 1 12b to select the desired operating mode significantly simplifies the configuration process for the lock mechanism 104, and effectively prevents user handling errors during installation.

[0070] As illustrated in Figure 1 , the housing 102 also includes an opening for a connection module 104 for coupling the lock assembly 100 to a power supply, and interfacing the control module 128 with an external control and monitoring system and other peripheral devices and components of the control system 500 as discussed further below with reference to Figure 5.

[0071 ] Now referring to Figures 2 to 4F, the lock mechanism 104 includes a single motor 200 with an output drive shaft 202 that rotates about a powered actuator axis A-A. The powered actuator axis A-A is substantially perpendicular and spaced from the pawl axis Z-Z.

[0072] The lock mechanism 104 also includes a drive arrangement between the motor 200 and the inner pawl 126b and outer pawl 126a. The drive arrangement includes a cam 204 which is rotatable on operation of the motor 200 about the actuator axis A-A. The drive arrangement also includes an inner cam follower 206b and an outer cam follower 206a that move linearly in response to rotation of the cam 202. The motor 200, inner cam follower 206b and outer cam follower 206a are located within a two part casing 208a, 208b. The casing 208a, 208b also houses an inner spring 210b and an outer spring 210a which act between the casing parts 208a, 208b and the inner cam follower 206b and outer cam follower 206a respectively to urge the inner and outer cam followers 206b, 206a towards the output shaft 202 of the motor 200 such that the cam followers 206b, 206a continuously abut a face of the cam 204.

[0073] Figure 2 also illustrates a pawl shaft 212 on which each of the inner pawl 126b and outer pawl 126a is mounted for rotation thereabouts. A sensor plate 214, which forms part of the control circuit 128 and includes a cam sensor 302 in the form of a magnetic rotary encoder which interfaces with a magnet 526 attached to the output shaft 202 of the motor to determine an angular position of the shaft 202 (see Figure 5). Similarly, the sensor plate 214 further includes hub sensors 300 for sensing an angular position of each of the hubs 1 10a, 1 10b. In some embodiments, other suitable sensors such as micro-switches may be used.

[0074] Figures 3A to 4F illustrate the four different operating states of the lock mechanism in more detail. In particular,

• a first operating state of the lock mechanism 104 is illustrated in Figures 3 A to 3C;

• a second operating state of the lock mechanism 104 is illustrated in Figures 3D to 3F;

• a third operating state of the lock mechanism 104 is illustrated in

Figures 4A to 4C; and

• a fourth operating state of the lock mechanism 104 is illustrated in

Figures 4D to 4F.

[0075] Referring now to Figures 3A to 3C which illustrates both the inner pawl 126b and outer pawl 126a in an unlocked condition relative to the inner 1 10b and outer hub 1 10a respectively. This position arrangement illustrates a first operating state of the lock mechanism 104, in which both the inner hub 1 10b and outer hub 1 10a are capable of being rotated about the actuation axis X-X.

[0076] As more clearly shown in Figure 3B, a lower arm 304 of the inner pawl 126a is received in a recess 306 of the inner cam follower 206a so as to move therewith. The inner spring 210a urges the inner cam follower 206a to cause the inner pawl 126a to adopt the position as illustrated in Figure 3B, and the inner cam follower 206a is considered to be in an unlocked position as illustrated in Figure 3B.

[0077] In the plan view as shown in Figure 3C, the cam 204 and both the inner cam follower 206a and outer cam follower 206b are in the unlocked position. In the unlocked condition, rotation of the inner hub 1 10b and outer hub 1 10a are permitted.

[0078] Figures 3D to 3F illustrates the cam 204 after being rotated through 90° by operation of the motor 200 (see Figure 3F) whereby the cam surface 204 slides over a bearing surface of each of the inner cam follower 206b and outer cam follower 206a. As more clearly shown in Figures 3E and 3F, rotation of the cam 204 has urged only the inner cam follower 206b to move towards a locked position causing rotation of the inner pawl 126b in an anti-clockwise direction such that an upper arm of the inner pawl 126b locates underneath a shoulder 31 1 of the inner hub 1 10b. As more clearly shown in Figure 3F, the inner pawl 126b is in a locked condition and the outer pawl 126a in an unlocked condition, as a result of a cam 204 adopting the position as illustrated in Figure 3F. In this condition, rotation of the inner hub 1 10b is prevented and rotation of the outer hub 1 10a is permitted, thereby illustrating a second operating state of the lock mechanism 104.

[0079] Figure 4C illustrates the cam 204 after being rotated through 180° by operation of the motor 200 (see Figure 4B) whereby the cam surface 204 slides over a bearing surface of each of the inner cam follower 206b and outer cam follower 206a. As more clearly shown in Figures 4B and 4C, rotation of the cam 204 has urged the outer cam follower 206a to move towards a locked position causing rotation of the outer pawl 126a in an anti-clockwise direction such that an upper arm 308 of the outer pawl 126a locates underneath a shoulder 310 of the outer hub 1 10a. This arrangement corresponds to Figure 4C, which shows both the inner pawl 126b and outer pawl 126a in a locked condition, as a result of a cam 204 adopting the position as illustrated in Figure 4C. In the locked condition, rotation of the inner hub 1 10b and outer hub 1 10a respectively is prevented. The position arrangement of the

components shown in Figures 4A to 4C illustrates a third operating state of the lock mechanism 104. [0080] Figures 4D to 4F illustrates the cam 204 after being rotated through 270° by operation of the motor 200 (see Figure 4F) whereby the cam surface 204 slides over a bearing surface of each of the inner cam follower 206b and outer cam follower 206a. As more clearly shown in Figures 4E and 4F, rotation of the cam 204 has urged only the outer cam follower 206a to move towards a locked position causing rotation of the outer pawl 126a in an anti-clockwise direction such that an upper arm 308 of the outer pawl 126a locates underneath the shoulder 310 of the inner hub 1 10b. As more clearly shown in Figure 4F, the inner pawl 126b is in an unlocked condition and the outer pawl 126a in a locked condition, as a result of a cam 204 adopting the position as illustrated in Figure 4F. In this condition, rotation of the inner hub 1 10b is permitted and rotation of the outer hub 1 10a is prevented, thereby illustrating a fourth operating state of the lock mechanism 104.

[0081 ] Further detail with respect to the mechanical control and operation of the lock assembly 100 is described in Australian provisional application no. 2017902959 entitled A Mortice Lock Assembly with a Powered Lock Actuator, which is being incorporated herein by reference.

[0082] The mortice lock assembly 100 is preferably configured to respond to a power failure event in a predetermined manner. In this regard, it is preferred that the each hub 1 10a, 1 10b of the lock mechanism 104 can be selected for operation in a 'power to lock' (i.e. fail-safe) setting, 'power to unlock' (i.e. fail-secure, also referred to as 'power to open') setting or 'always unlocked' (i.e. escape/free egress) setting.

[0083] Each of the three positions (settings) of each slide switch 1 12a, 1 12b corresponds with one of the 'fail-safe', 'fail-secure' and 'escape' settings so that each slide switch 1 12a, 1 12b can be used to configure one of the two hubs 1 10a, 1 10b of the manual actuator 108 independently. In particular, the control module 128 drives the motor 200 according to the setting for each of the switches 1 12a, 1 12b between the four different operating states described above with reference to Figures 3A to 4F, which moves each of the inner and outer pawls 126b, 126a between unlocked and locked positions respectively, so as to govern the operation of the lock mechanism 104. [0084] For example, during a power failure event, if the inner switch 1 12b is set to 'fail-safe' whilst the outer switch 1 12a is set to a 'fail-secure' the inner pawl 126b will adopt an unlocked condition whilst the outer pawl 126a will adopt a locked condition. This would allow the people within the building to continue to exit whilst preventing people outside of the building from entering the building during the power failure event.

[0085] A schematic diagram of the control system 500 is illustrated in Figure 5. The control system 500 includes the control module 128 of the lock assembly 100, an external control and monitoring system 502 coupled to the control module 128 via connector module 104, and an access card reader 504 for generating a "Request to Enter" signal upon successful verification of an access card to grant access to a user. The access card reader 504 may be a contactless or contact based card reader. Alternatively or in combination, an access control code keypad may be used.

[0086] The control circuit 128 includes a micro-controller 506 for determining an appropriate drive signal for a motor driver integrated circuit (Motor Driver IC) 508 to drive the motor 200 to an angular position corresponding to a desired operating state of the lock mechanism 104 (see Figures 3A to 4F) based on various control signals and settings, including one or more input signals from the external control and monitoring system 502, the setting of each switch 1 12a, 1 12b (i.e. the selected operating mode) and whether there is a power failure event. The desired operating states for each selected operating mode during normal operation ('non-failed' state) and power failure operation ('failed' state).

[0087] When the micro-controller 506 receives the one or more input signals, it generates a drive signal 522 for the Motor Driver IC 508 to drive the motor 200 to move a corresponding pawl 126 of the lock mechanism 104 into a locked or unlocked condition as previous discussed with reference to Figures 2 to 4F.

[0088] Depending on the setting of the two switches 1 12 (i.e. the selected operating mode), the lock signal or unlock signal could be a power on or power off signal. For example, if both switches 1 12 are set to 'fail-secure', a lock signal may correspond with a power off signal, and an unlock signal may correspond with a power on signal. Conversely, if both switches 1 12 are set to 'fail-safe', a lock signal may correspond with a power on signal, and an unlock signal may correspond with a power off signal.

[0089] During installation of the lock assembly 100, the external control and monitoring system 502 is pre-configured based on the settings of the switches 1 12 so that external monitoring system 502 converts an unlock signal (i.e. following successful verification of a user's access card at the card reader 504) to a power on or power off signal. Typically, the external control and monitoring system 502 is pre- configured to assign a power on signal to represent a lock and a power off signal to represent an unlock signal, or vice versa, based on a selected operating mode during installation.

[0090] When the micro-controller 506 receives the one or more input signals, the micro-controller 506 calculates the angular displacement required for the motor 200 and cam 204 to achieve the desired locked or unlocked condition for each pawl 126 and generates a drive signal 522 to move the motor 200 according to the determined angular displacement. The micro-controller 506 determines the current angular position of the motor 200 and cam 204 based on the cam sensor 302 (also see Figure 3B), which is a magnetic rotary encoder located on sensor plate 214 (see Figure 2) which interfaces with a magnet 526 on the motor shaft to track the angular position of the output shaft 202. The drive circuit IC 508 then drives the motor 200 until the desired angular displacement is achieved based on the drive circuit control signal 522 and feedback from the magnetic rotary encoder 302. The desired angular

displacement corresponds with a desired operating state for the lock mechanism 104.

[0091 ] Depending on the requirements of the premises, the control module 128 can be configured to interface with the external monitoring system 502 to receive a single input signal or two separate input signals. Whether the control system 500 is configured to have one or more input signals can depend on user preference, limitations or requirements of facility at which the lock assembly is to be installed, or capability of the available external monitoring system and the like, or any combination of these factors. As previously mentioned, conventional mortice lock assemblies are typically configured for operation with a single input signal. [0092] More particularly, the main connector 104 provides three contacts (not shown) for coupling to the external control and monitoring system 502 and receiving the one or more input signals. When the external control and monitoring system 502 is configured to provide two separate input signals, a first contact is coupled to the external control and monitoring system 502 to receive a control signal for driving the lock mechanism 104 to operate in one of the operating states, a second contact is coupled to the external control and monitoring system 502 to receive a power signal for powering the electronic control module 128, and a third contact for connecting to ground. The first contact is connected to input line 516 and the second contact is connected to input line 514. The connection for ground in relation to the third contact is not shown.

[0093] Accordingly, the control signal is transmitted via input line 516 and the power signal is transmitted via input line 514. During normal operation, power is always supplied to the control module 128 via input line 514, and the control signal transmitted via input line 516 will be either a lock or unlock signal. For example, the control signal may be an unlock signal when "Request to Enter" signal is generated following successful authentication via the external card reader 504. The unlock signal can be a power on or power off signal depending on the selected operating mode.

[0094] When the control module 128 receives two separate input signals, power is consistently supplied to the control module 128 via input line 514. In particular, 9- 28VDC mains voltage is stepped down via a step down power circuit module 518 to a regulated 3.6VDC. As mentioned, the second input line 516 provides a lock or unlock signal to the micro-controller 506. A power detection circuit module 520 detects power connected to input line 516 so that the micro-controller 506 is able to process signals from the second input line 516 accordingly.

[0095] When it is desirable to provide a single input signal, input lines 514 and 516 may be coupled to one another at the main connector 104, or externally of the main connector 104 such that both input lines 514, 516 simultaneously receive the single input signal. Typically, input line 514 is connected to an external power supply, such as mains power. Accordingly, a single power on/off signal powers the electronic control circuit 128 and provides instruction to the micro-controller 506 so that an appropriate drive signal can be generated to move the motor 200 to a desired angular position corresponding to a desired operating state for the lock mechanism 104.

[0096] The control module 128 also includes a capacitor 510 in the form of a super capacitor and an associated capacitor management integrated circuit

(Capacitor Management IC) 512. During normal operation, the capacitor 510 receives charge from an external power supply, such as mains power, and in the event of power failure, the capacitor 510 discharges and provides sufficient power to allow the control module 128 to drive the motor 200 and move the lock mechanism 104 according the selected operating mode.

[0097] In alternative embodiments, one or more batteries may be used. The batteries may be rechargeable via mains power. Single life batteries may also be used. The single life batteries may provide sufficient power to support power failure operations of the lock for an expected service life of the lock assembly 100.

[0098] The control circuit 128 PCB (not shown) includes power rails 513 for supplying power to circuit components. Typically, the power rails 513 provide regulated 3.6VDC stepped down from an external power supply, such as mains power supply.

[0099] During normal operation, power for the micro-controller 506, the Motor Driver IC 508 and the motor 200 is provided by the power rails 513. The Capacitor Management IC 512 also charges the capacitor 510 using power from power rail 513. Typically, the Capacitor Management IC 512 charges the capacitor to a maximum of 2.5VDC. The Capacitor Management IC 512 monitors the voltage of the capacitor 510 in combination with the required charging time to monitor the health of the capacitor 510.

[0100] As mentioned, in normal operation, one or more input signals are received on one or both input lines 514, 516 by the micro-controller 506. In the event of a power failure, a digital input to the micro-controller 506 detects that voltage is not present on input line 516. Power is also no longer supplied through input lines 514. During the power failure event, the Capacitor Management IC 512 draws power from the capacitor 510 and maintains the power rails 513 at 3.2VDC for a period of time. Typically, the capacitor 510 is capable of maintaining the power rails 513 at 3.2VDC for approximately 30 seconds. During this time, the micro-controller 508 determines the angular displacement required (if any) to move the respective pawls 126 of the lock mechanism 104 to the desired locked or unlocked conditions based on the selected operating mode, and generates a drive signal 522 for the Motor Driver IC 508. The Motor Driver IC 508 then drives the motor 200 to the desired angular displacement as previously described. If feedback from the Magnetic rotary encoder 302 indicated that one or both of the respective pawls126 is already arranged in the desired locked/unlocked condition (i.e. the lock mechanism is already in the desired operating state), the micro-controller 508 does not generate a drive circuit control signal 522 to move the motor 200.

[0101 ] The control module 128 further includes a monitoring module for

monitoring operating information such as operating status and conditions of the lock assembly 100. The monitoring module includes a plurality of sensors, switches and submodules for detecting the different operating information as discussed in further detail below, and communication the operating information to the external monitoring system 502. The operating information can provide an indication of operating health of the lock assembly 100 and potential unauthorised entry. The monitoring module also detects and records operating parameter values to facilitate servicing,

troubleshooting and repair of the lock assembly 100 as discussed in further detail below.

[0102] The monitoring module includes a latching relay circuit submodule 528, a deadlatch monitoring submodule 532, a door position monitoring submodule 534, a key over-ride monitoring submodule 536 and a request-to-exit monitoring submodule 538 for providing operating information feedback to the external monitoring system 502, so that the external monitoring system 502 can monitor the health of the lock assembly and detected anomalies. Each of the feedback modules 528, 532, 534, 536, 538 is coupled to the external monitoring module via main connector module 104. In addition, each feedback module 528, 532, 534, 536, 538 is connected to the main connector module 104. Whilst a wired connection is shown in Figure 5, any suitable connection may be employed, wired or wireless. [0103] The latching relay circuit 528 indicates a locked or unlocked position of each hub 1 10a, 1 10b of the lock mechanism 104 to the external monitoring system 502 based on the corresponding position of the cam 204, and a Relay Driver

Integrated Circuit (Relay Driver IC) 530 for driving a respective relay switch of the circuit 528 according to the position of each pawl 126 as determined by the microcontroller 506. As the latching relay does not require power to remain in a particular state, the latching relay will reliably indicate the correct position of each pawl 126 (which corresponds to the lock mechanism 104 being locked from either an inner side or outer side of the housing 102) even when the control circuit 128 loses power, for example during a fault, or a power outage event.

[0104] The deadlatch monitoring submodule 532 monitors at least the position of the auxiliary bolt assembly 120 (see Figure 1 ). Any suitable sensor can be used to detect the position of the bolt assembly 120.

[0105] The door position monitoring submodule 534 includes a magnet mounted in the door frame that interfaces with an associated reed switch (not shown) to detect a closed position for the door.

[0106] The key over-ride monitoring submodule 536 generates a notification signal for the external monitoring system 502 when an authorised user is using a key to retract the latch assembly 1 14 so that corresponding alarms generated from the door position monitoring submodule 534 and deadlatch monitoring submodule 532 can be ignored when door is opened.

[0107] The request-to-exit monitoring submodule 538 detects when a user is attempting to retract the latch assembly 1 14 via a handle attached to the outer hub 1 10a or inner hub 1 10b of the manual actuator 108 of the lock assembly 100. If a corresponding switch 1 12a, 1 12b setting for the operated handle is set to 'escape', the detected user operation of the handle will send a notification signal to the external monitoring system 502 so that when operation of the handle retracts the latch assembly 1 14 and unlocks the door, corresponding alarm signals generated by the deadlatch monitoring submodule 532 and the door position monitoring submodule 534 will be ignored. [0108] Therefore, the external monitoring system receives real time signals from the feedback submodules 528, 532, 534, 536, 538 in order to detect any malfunction, or an unauthorised entry, for example, if an alarm signal from either the deadlatch monitoring module 532 and/or the door position monitoring module 534 without a preceding notification signal from either the key over-ride monitoring module 536 or the request to exit monitoring module 538.

[0109] The monitoring module of the control circuit 128 further includes LED output 548 controlled by an LED driver circuit 546. The LEDs 548 may be visible through inner and outer door furniture of the lock set associated with the lock assembly 100 to indicate an operating state and/or condition of the lock assembly 100. For example, an LED visible through an inner door furniture may be 'green' to indicate that the inner hub 1 10b is rendered operable by the lock mechanism 104 and therefore the door is unlocked from an inner side of the door, or 'red' to indicate that the door is locked from an inner side of the door.

[01 10] The monitoring module of the control circuit 128 further includes a heartbeat LED 552 to assist with diagnosis during maintenance or repair of the lock assembly 100. The heartbeat LED 552 flashes at one pulsed rate when the control circuit 128 is powered. The heartbeat LED can flash one or more different pulsed rates to indicate one or more faults with the control circuit 128.

[01 1 1 ] The monitoring module of the control circuit 128 further includes a buzzer 550 to provide an audible signal when a fault is detected by the control circuit 128.

[01 12] The monitoring module further includes diagnostics functionality carried out by the micro-controller 506. In particular, the micro-controller 506 is configured to detect and record a plurality of operating parameter values of the lock mechanism 104. The recorded values can be communicated to an external device (such as an external mobile device having compatible diagnostics applications installed thereon) via a suitable communications interface.

[01 13] Any suitable communication interface may be used. The communication interface may include any suitable type of wireless and/or wired communication. For example, the wireless communication interface may include Bluetooth, WiFi, NFC, radio wireless technology and the like, and/or any combination thereof. Examples of wired communication may include any suitable serial communications interface (SCI), serial peripheral interface (SPI), parallel interfaces, USB, Ethernet, and the like, and/or any combination thereof.

[01 14] Figure 5 illustrates an example communications interface in the form of a USB port 542 for allowing USB connection between the micro-controller 506 and external devices and systems (not shown). The step down power circuitry 544 steps down the typical 5VDC drawn from an external USB source to 3.3VDC to supply 3.3VDC to the power rails 513.

[01 15] The diagnostics functionality of the micro-controller 506 is configured to detect a plurality of operating parameter values of the mortice lock assembly, compare each detected operating parameter value with a predetermined value range associated the detected operating parameter, and record the detected operating parameter value if the value falls outside the predetermined value range. Typically, the predetermined value range indicates a healthy operating value range for the associated operating parameter.

[01 16] The plurality of operating parameters include a supply voltage of the electronic control module, a cycle count, motor current, an motor fault indicator, capacitor voltage, capacitor charge time, operating temperature, and an operating state of the lock.

[01 17] Typically, the predetermined value range of the supply voltage is between 9 to 28 VDC. A detected supply voltage value below this range may indicate incorrect installation of the lock assembly.

[01 18] The cycle count provides an indication of the current length of service of a lock assembly 100 in comparison to an expected maximum length of service before scheduled maintenance, or lock replacement is required. The cycle count can be calculated in any suitable manner based on the nature of the lock operations. In one embodiment, each cycle may include movement of the motor 200 to change the operating state of the lock mechanism 104, for example from the second operating state (Figure 3D to 3F) to the first operating state (Figure 3A to 3C). In another embodiment, each cycle may include movement of the motor 200 to change the lock mechanism 104 from an initial operating state (e.g. the second operating state) to a desired operating state (e.g. the first operating state) and from the desired operating state (e.g. the first operating state) back to the initial operating state (e.g. the second operating state). Typically, a maximum number of expected operating cycles may be about 500,000.

[01 19] Once a maximum expected operating cycle value is detected, an indication may be generated, such as a visual or audio indication (e.g. LED light or buzzer) or an alarm signal may be sent to the external monitoring system 502, to indicate that a service or replacement of the lock assembly is required.

[0120] The motor current may be detected by the Motor Driver IC 508 for communication via an input port of the micro-controller 506 (not shown). A motor current reading outside the predetermined range may indicate a fault with the motor. For example, if the detected motor current is too high, the motor may be failing, or the load on the motor is too high. The load on the motor may be too high if, for example, excessive friction is being generated by the lock mechanism 104. Typically, the predetermined value range for DC motor current is approximately 350mA.

[0121 ] If an excessive motor current value is detected, for example a motor current value which exceeds 500mA, the motor fault indicator may provide an indication of motor fault. A positive indication from the motor fault indicator may trigger a visual or audio indicator, such as an LED or buzzer on board the control circuit 128, and/or generate an alarm signal to provide alert via the external monitoring system 502.

[0122] The detected operating temperature may be an indicative temperature of the control circuit 128, any one or more of the circuit components, the temperature of the motor 200 and Motor driver IC 508, capacitor and capacitor management IC 512, and/or the micro-controller 506. The monitoring module may include a temperature sensor on board the control circuit 1 28 for detecting the ambient temperature around the control circuit 128. The temperature sensor and associated circuitry is connected to an input channel of the micro-controller 506 (not shown) to detect the operating temperature. A healthy operating range for the motor temperature of may be between -15° C and 50° C. A detected temperature value outside this range may indicate malfunctioning of the control circuit 128, such as improper operation of motor 200 and/or micro-controller 506.

[0123] The micro-controller 506 further detects the voltage and charge time of the capacitor 510. Typically, the output voltage of the capacitor 510 when fully charged is about 2.5V, with tolerance of roughly 5%. An output voltage value below this typical range may indicate a failing capacitor, and/or insufficient charge time.

[0124] One of the operating parameters is an operating state of the lock mechanism during a malfunction determined by the monitoring module. A malfunction may be determined when any one or more of the detected operating parameter value falls outside an associated value range.

[0125] The detection of any one or more operating parameter values outside a predetermined value range can trigger a fault indicator, such as a visual and/or audio indicator (such as an LED light and/or buzzer/alarm) to provide instantaneous indication that a fault has been detected. The fault indicator may be on board the monitoring module, or external to the monitoring module.

[0126] The micro-controller 506 records any detected operating parameter value outside the predetermined value range and generates a log file of the recorded values, for retrieval by the external device via the communications interface (e.g. USB port 542). As explained in further detail below, the information in the log file 600 can be used to facilitate diagnosis and troubleshooting of the lock assembly 100.

Moreover, information on a log file 600 can be retrieved during a scheduled service to predict whether a fault is likely to occur in the near future based on previous operating trends.

[0127] An example log file 600 is illustrated in Figure 6. The log file 600 includes lock assembly ID 602 so that the relevant and associated lock assembly 100 can be identified and matched with any previous related log files in a database. The log file 600 further includes system information such as micro-controller ID 604, and a serial number for the lock assembly 606. Moreover, the log file can include system information including production date of the control circuit 128 PCB, firmware version and date for the micro-controller 506, and the method by which the firmware was previously installed or updated. In some embodiments, control circuit 128 may be internet (e.g. WiFi) enabled to allow automatic firmware update via the cloud and/or a local area network.

[0128] The log file 600 also includes information 610 identifying the operating mode of the lock mechanism 104. In this example, a left or inner hub 1 10b is set to 'Power to Open' ( also known as Fail Secure) and a right of outer hub 1 10a is set to 'Egress' (also known as Escape or 'Always Unlocked').

[0129] At item 612, the log file 600 provides an indication of whether furniture LEDs 548 are activated for the specific lock assembly 100. In this example, the 'N' at 612 indicates that the furniture LEDs are not enabled. A Ύ at item 612 may indicate that the furniture LEDs are enabled.

[0130] Item 614 provides the cycle count for a total number of operations (e.g. 10,000) of the lock mechanism 104. The cycle count 614 may be used to provide an indication of when a scheduled service or lock replacement is due.

[0131 ] The log file 600 also provides a fault log 616, which provides a record of detected operating parameter values which have fallen outside the predetermined value range associated with each operating parameter value. In the example log file 600, there has been six instances of low voltage detection of the supply voltage. The detected supply voltage for each instance has been 7.2V, which is lower than the typical healthy operating range of 9-28VDC. The consistent low voltage detection may indicate improper installation of the lock assembly 100. Accordingly, a technical may inspect the connections at the main connector 104, and in particular the connection to mains power supply during a scheduled service.

[0132] In one embodiment, each of the recorded parameter values 616 are time- stamped so that the log file 600 would indicate a time and date that the irregularity operating parameter value is detected and recorded. In some embodiments, the recorded parameter values are not time-stamped. In some applications, a lock assembly 100 may be schedule for servicing every few years (e.g. 3-5 years) or a predetermined number of cycles (e.g. 100,000 cycles). The recorded values 616 of a log file may be compared to those in a previous log file retrieved during a previous service to determine values recorded since the previous service. Other anomaly values, for example, for motor current, capacitor voltage, and/or operating

temperature may be provided at 616.

[0133] As previously discussed, information in the log file 600 may be retrieved via any suitable wired communication interface, and/or a suitable wireless communication interface as described above.

[0134] In some embodiments, the control circuit 128 may include a removable memory device, such an SD or micro-SD memory card. The monitoring module may save at least a portion of the recorded operating parameter values on the removable memory device, which can be retrieved by a technical.

[0135] The removable memory device may be accessible for removal without disassembling the lock assembly.

[0136] In some embodiments, the communication interface may include visual output, for example, via LED indicators, a display screen and the like. The visual output may provide an indication of the operating status of the lock mechanism.

[0137] By detecting, recording and communicating the operating parameter values which provide valuable insight into the operating health of the lock assembly at any time, embodiments of the present invention advantageously provides an effective tool to monitor and diagnose any lock assembly, for example, during maintenance or troubleshooting and fault analysis, without removing the lock assembly from a door. This provides time and cost savings to the maintenance and repair of the lock assemblies for a facility.

[0138] The log file also provides an accurate record of the operating history of the lock assembly, which can be extracted conveniently from the control circuit 128 at any time. The data from the log files can provide valuable information regarding the performance and reliability of a lock assembly, which could assist with ongoing lock design, development and improvement considerations. [0139] The foregoing embodiments are illustrative only of the principles of the invention, and various modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art. The invention is capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways and in other embodiments. It is also to be understood that the terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0140] The term "comprise" and variants of that term such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used herein to denote the inclusion of a stated integer or integers but not to exclude any other integer or any other integers, unless in the context or usage an exclusive interpretation of the term is required.

[0141 ] Reference to prior art disclosures in this specification is not an admission that the disclosures constitute common general knowledge.

Claims

The claims defining the invention are as follows:

1 . A lock assembly for use with a door, the lock assembly including

a housing,

a lock mechanism which interacts with the manual actuator to render the manual actuator inoperable or operable, and

2. The lock assembly of claim 1 , wherein the monitoring module is configured to detect one or more operating parameter values of the mortice lock assembly, compare each detected operating parameter value with a predetermined value range associated the detected operating parameter, and

3. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the operating parameters is a supply voltage of the electronic control module.

4. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the manual actuator includes an inner hub and an outer hub each being operable from an inner side or an outer side of the housing respectively to move the bolt from at least the extended position to the retracted position, and the lock mechanism interacts with the manual actuator to render each of the inner hub and outer hub of the manual actuator independently inoperable or operable, and

wherein the lock mechanism is configured to operate in one or more operating states, including

5. The lock assembly of claim 4, wherein one of the operating parameters is an operating cycle of the lock mechanism, wherein each operating cycle includes movement of the lock mechanism from an initial operating state to a desired operating state and from the desired operating state back to the initial operating state.

6. The lock assembly of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein one of the operating parameters is motor current for the motor.

7. A lock assembly of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein one of the operating parameters is a motor fault indicator, and

wherein the motor fault indicator provides an indication of motor fault if motor current of the motor exceeds a predetermined threshold.

8. A lock assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein one of the operating parameters is an operating state of the lock mechanism during a

malfunction determined by the monitoring module.

9. A lock assembly according to claim 8, wherein a malfunction is determined when a detected operating parameter value falls outside an associated value range.

10. A lock assembly of any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the electronic control module further includes a power storage device for providing power to the motor to drive the lock mechanism to a desired operating state in a power failure event, and wherein one of the operating parameters is an output voltage of the power storage device.

1 1 . The lock assembly of claim 1 0, wherein the power storage device is a capacitor and one of the operating parameters is an output voltage of the capacitor when the capacitor is charged.

12. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication interface includes a USB port.

13. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication interface is a wireless communications interface including any one or more of Bluetooth, WiFi, and radio communication.

14. A lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one of the operating parameters is operating temperature.

15. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic control module incudes a microcontroller configured to generate a log file for retrieval by the external device via the communications interface, wherein the log file includes at least a portion of the recorded operating parameter values.

16. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module includes a hub indicator for providing real time indication of an inoperable or operable condition of each of the inner and outer hubs.

17. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module includes a dead-latch monitoring submodule for monitoring real time position of an auxiliary bolt assembly associated with the mortice lock assembly.

18. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module includes a door position monitoring submodule for detecting a position of the door.

19. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module includes a key over-ride monitoring submodule for detecting a key being used to move the bolt.

20. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module includes a request-to-exit monitoring submodule for detecting operation of the manual actuator to move the bolt.

21 . The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module includes one or more visual indicators for providing visual indication of an operating state of the lock mechanism, wherein the one or more visual indicators are visible through the housing.

22. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module further includes diagnostic visual indicators for providing a visual indication of one or more detected faults associated with the electronic control module.

23. The lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the monitoring module further includes an audio indicator for providing an audio indication of one or more detected faults associated with the electronic control module.

24. A monitoring system for a lock assembly, the system including an electronic monitoring module for

detecting one or more operating parameter values of the lock assembly, comparing each detected operating parameter value with a corresponding predetermined value range associated the detected operating parameter, and

25. The monitoring system of claim 24, including a microcontroller for detecting, comparing and recording the operating parameter values,

26. The monitoring system of claim 25, wherein the lock assembly includes a motor for moving a lock mechanism of the lock assembly, and the microcontroller monitors operating parameter values of the motor.

27. The monitoring system of any one of claims 24 to 26, further including one or more visual indicators for representing one or more of the detected operating parameters.