AU2018305775B2

AU2018305775B2 - Mortice lock assembly having electronic control module

Info

Publication number: AU2018305775B2
Application number: AU2018305775A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Gil Jonothan LEVY; Paul Thomas SPENCER; 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: 2023-08-10
Anticipated expiration: 2038-07-27
Also published as: AU2018305775A1; WO2019018901A1; CN111263840B; NZ761119A; WO2019018897A1; NZ761112A; AU2018308949A1; WO2019018900A1; AU2018305774B2; AU2018305728B2; CN111315949B; CN111226017B; WO2019018899A1; AU2018305774A1; NZ761122A; AU2018305728A1; CN111263840A; CN111315949A; AU2018308949B2; NZ761127A

Abstract

The invention is directed to a mortice lock assembly for use with a door. The mortice lock assembly includes a housing, a bolt movable relative to the housing between an extended position and a retracted position, a manual actuator including 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 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. The lock mechanism is configurable 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/or a fourth operating state in which the inner hub is rendered operable and the outer hub is rendered inoperable. The mortice lock assembly includes an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism. The electronic control module is configured to receive input signals including a control signal for causing movement of the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and a power signal for providing power to the electronic control module, wherein the power signal is provided separately to the control signal.

Description

Mortice Lock Assembly having Electronic Control Module 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 "Monitoring

System for Lock Assembly" 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 generally relates to a mortice lock assembly having an electronic control module.

Background of Invention

[0004] A mortice lock assembly typically includes a bolt, a manual actuator operable to move the bolt, and a lock mechanism which may have a powered actuator for controlling operation of the manual actuator. It will be convenient to hereinafter describe the invention with particular reference to a latch assembly, however it will be appreciated that the invention may be applicable to other forms of mortice lock assembly such as a deadbolt assembly.

[0005] A mortice lock assembly of the foregoing kind may include a pair of hubs that are each rotatable relative to a housing, to move a latch bolt from an extended position to a retracted position. The lock mechanism may include a detent bar that can be adjusted to adopt a locked position thereby preventing rotation of the respective hub. The detent bar can be moved by operation of a cylinder lock, or by a powered actuator. [0006] Where the lock mechanism includes a powered actuator, it may take the form of a solenoid, which utilises changes in the supply of power to alter the position of the detent bar. The solenoid may for example remain powered so as to retract its plunger against a biasing force of a compression spring, so that selectively turning the power off releases the plunger to move with force of the spring to in turn move the detent bar.

[0007] The manner in which the solenoid is physically arranged relative to the detent can be adjusted to allow the lock mechanism to respond to a power failure event in a predetermined manner. The arrangement options can include fail secure, fail safe, escape (also known as 'free egress'), and the spring in the solenoid is used to respond accordingly. When a power failure event occurs and the lock mechanism is set to fail secure, the detent bar will remain in or move to the locked position whereby rotation of either hub is prevented. Alternatively when the lock mechanism is set to fail safe, the detent bar will remain in or move to a release position whereby rotation of either hub is permitted.

[0008] Depending on the application and installation site requirements, it is can sometimes be desirable to setup the access arrangement for a door such that the operation of the inner side and outer side of the door each respond to a power failure event in the same or a different matter. For example, in a high-security storage facility, it may be desirable to arrange for the door to be locked from both the inside and outside in a power failure event. However, for fire exit doors, it may be desirable to have the door unlocked from an inside so as to allow people to safely exit the building in the event of an emergency, and locked from an outside, so as to prevent people from entering the building in a power failure event.

[0009] In order to achieve certain operating arrangements, it is sometimes necessary to use an electric strike together with a modified mortice lock assembly. For example, in situations in which it is desirable to have the operation of a door set to fail-secure on one side and fail-safe on an opposite side, a mortice lock assembly is typically modified for operation with a separate electric strike. The need for

modification and configuration with an additional locking device increases

componentry and labour costs. [0010] It is therefore desirable to provide an improved mortice lock assembly having electronic control, 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.

[001 1 ] 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

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a mortice lock assembly for use with a door, the mortice lock assembly including

a housing,

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

a manual actuator including 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,

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,

the lock mechanism being configurable 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/or

a fourth operating state in which the inner hub is rendered operable and the outer hub is rendered inoperable, an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism, the electronic control module being configured to receive input signals including

a control signal for driving the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and

a power signal for providing power to the electronic control module, wherein the power signal is provided separately to the control signal.

[0013] Typically, currently known mortice lock assemblies are configured to receive a single power input signal, which provides a lock or unlock signal to activate a solenoid and move a respective hub of the lock mechanism into a desired locked or unlocked state. The electronic control module of the present invention is configured to receive two separate input signals, a power signal for powering the electronic control module and a control signal for controlling an operating state of the lock mechanism. The separation of the control signal from the power signal advantageously allows the electronic module to distinguish between normal operation of the lock mechanism (also referred to herein as a 'non-failed state') and operation in response to a power failure event (also referred to herein as a 'failed-state'), to thereby achieve additional operating modes as discussed in further detail below. This capability was not previously possible with known mortice lock assemblies.

[0014] In some embodiments, the electronic control module may be further configured to receive a single input signal, wherein the single input signal provides power to the electronic control module and simultaneously drives the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states. In particular, the electronic control module may be configured to operate with either the single input signal, or two input signals including the control signal and the power signal.

[0015] Accordingly, the mortice lock assembly of the present invention may be configured to operate with a single input signal in the same manner as known mortice lock assemblies, for example, to provide flexibility during installation, to meet site requirements and/or to provide backward compatibility with existing lock control and monitoring systems on site.

[0016] Typically, the electronic control module is coupled to an external lock control and monitoring system (e.g. provided on site), and the external control and monitoring system generates the one or more input signals received by the electronic control module. The external control and monitoring system may be configured to generate a single input signal for the electronic control module, or two input signals including the control signal and the power signal for the electronic control module.

[0017] Typically, the electronic control module includes three contacts. For example, a first contact configured to receive the control signal, a second contact configured to receive the power signal, and a third contact configured for connection to ground. During installation of the lock assembly, the three contacts may be connected to a lock control and monitoring system provided on site to receive one or more input signals in a number of different ways as further discussed below. This advantageously provides the mortice lock assembly of the present invention with greater adaptability and flexibility of installation and compatibility with different customer requirements.

[0018] In one example, the electronic control module may be configured to allow the second contact to receive a single input signal which delivers power to the electronic control module and simultaneously drives the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and the first contact to be disconnected. The electronic control module may include signal detection circuitry for detecting a signal received via the first contact. In another example, the electronic control module may be configured to allow the first contact to be coupled to second contact, and the first and second contacts to simultaneously receive a single input signal which delivers power to the electronic control module and simultaneously drives the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states.

[0019] The electronic control module may include one or more user configurable settings for selecting an operating mode for the mortice lock assembly, the operating mode including a fail-safe ('Power to Lock') setting, a fail-secure ('Power to Unlock' or 'Power to Open') setting or an escape (i.e. 'free egress' or 'Always Unlocked') setting for each of the inner and outer hubs. In particular, the user configurable settings may include one or more electronic switching elements.

[0020] The one or more electronic switching element may be adjustable from outside the housing. In particular, The electronic switching element being adjustable from outside the housing advantageously allows the lock mechanism to be

configured, for example, to respond to a power failure event in a desired manner, conveniently and efficiently, without the need to disassemble the housing of the lock assembly or use specialised tools.

[0021 ] Any suitable electronic switching element may be used. For example, the electronic switching element may include one or more slide switches, rotary switches, buttons, toggle switches and the like, or any combination thereof.

[0022] Each electronic switching element may be accessible via an opening in the housing. The opening may be positioned in any suitable location in the housing. In one embodiment, the opening is located on a rear or side wall of the housing such that access to the at least one switching element is hindered once the lock assembly is installed in a door. Positioning the opening for accessing the one or more switching elements on a rear or side wall of the housing allows the lock mechanism to be conveniently field configured before installation, and prevents unauthorised tampering or inadvertent re-setting of the operating mode of the lock mechanism after

installation. In some embodiments, one or more switching elements may be

accessible via a front wall of the housing such that the settings can be changed after installation of the lock assembly.

[0023] The electronic control module may include two electronic switching elements and the operating mode may be selected based on a setting of each of the two electronic switching elements. Moreover, the setting for each electronic switching element may be selectable from a group including a fail-safe setting, a fail-secure setting or an escape setting. The setting for each electronic switching element allows configuration of the lock mechanism to interact with a respective inner hub or outer hub of the manual actuator in a predetermined manner.

[0024] For example, setting both electronic switching elements to 'power to unlock' (Fail Secure) will configure the lock mechanism in such a way that the manual actuator is rendered inoperable (e.g. in a locked condition) from both the inner side and the outer side of the housing, in a power failure event. Similarly, setting both electronic switching elements to 'power to lock' (Fail Safe) will configure the lock mechanism in such a way that the manual actuator is rendered operable (e.g. in an unlocked condition) from either the inner side or the outer side of the housing, in a power failure event.

[0025] Moreover, setting one electronic switching elements to 'power to unlock' (Fail Secure) and one electronic switching elements to 'power to lock' (Fail Safe) will configure the lock mechanism in such a way that the manual actuator is rendered inoperable (e.g. in a locked condition) from one side of the housing, and operable (e.g. in a unlocked condition) from an opposite side of the housing, in a power failure event.

[0026] In addition, setting either one of the electronic switching elements to the 'always unlocked' (Escape) setting, will configure the lock mechanism in such a way that the manual actuator is always operable (e.g. in an unlocked condition) from a corresponding side of the housing.

[0027] Therefore, the operating mode may be selected from a plurality of operating modes comprising

a first operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail-secure setting for both the inner hub and the outer hub,

a second operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail-safe setting for both the inner hub and the outer hub,

a third operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub,

a fourth operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail-safe setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub,

a fifth operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the fail-safe setting for inner hub.

[0028] Further user configurable setting combinations may be provided in additional operating modes. Moreover, the user configurable settings for each of the inner and outer hubs can be reversed to provide additional operating modes. For example, a sixth operating mode may include the fail-safe setting for the outer hub and the fail-secure setting for the inner hub; a seventh operating mode may include the escape setting for the outer hub and a fail-safe setting for the inner hub; and a ninth operating mode may include the escape setting for the outer hub and the fail- secure setting for the inner hub.

[0029] Advantageously, the configuration of the electronic control module to receive a control signal and a separate a power signal as described above allows the selection of any one of the above at least five operating modes during installation. Unlike previously known mortice lock assemblies, the present invention allows at least all of the above five different operating modes to be achievable without any additional devices, such as an electric strike.

[0030] The control signal may provide a lock signal or unlock signal for driving the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and when the selected operating mode includes either a fail-secure setting or fail-safe setting for each of the inner hub and the outer hub, the electronic control module may be configured to drive the lock mechanism such that the inner hub and outer hub are rendered operable when an unlock signal is received, and the inner hub and outer hub are rendered inoperable when a lock signal is received. When the selected operating mode includes an escape setting for either the inner hub or the outer hub, the hub

associated with the escape setting may be rendered operable irrespective of the control signal.

[0031 ] In one embodiment, the lock signal includes a power on signal and the unlock signal includes a power off signal, or vice versa. In some embodiments, the lock and unlock signal may be defined based on the selected operating mode. For example, in the first and third operating modes, the lock signal may be a power off signal and the unlock signal may be a power on signal; in the second and fourth operating modes, the lock signal may be a power on signal and the unlock signal may be a power off signal. In the fifth operating mode, either one of the lock or unlock signal may be a power on or power off signal. In one embodiment, in the fifth operating mode, the lock signal may be a power on signal and the unlock signal may be a power off signal.

[0032] In a power failure event in which both the control signal and the power signal are lost, the electronic control module may be configured to determine whether a change in operating state is required for the lock mechanism, and

upon determining that a change in operating state is required, generating a drive signal to drive the lock mechanism to a desired operating state based on the selected operating mode.

[0033] In some instances, the operating state of the lock mechanism remains unchanged between normal operation ('non-failed' state) and operation in response to a power failure event ('failed' state). For example, in the first operating mode, both the inner and outer hubs are normally inoperable unless an 'unlock' control signal is received. In the event of power failure, both the inner and outer hubs should remain in the inoperable state in the first operating mode. Therefore, in this scenario, in the event of a power failure, the electronic control module would determine that no change in operating state is required for the lock mechanism when operating in the first operating mode.

[0034] In some instances, a change is required in the operating state of the lock mechanism between normal operation ('non-failed' state) and operation during a power failure event ('failed' state). For example in the second operating mode, both the inner and outer hubs are normally inoperable unless an 'unlock' control signal is received. In the event of power failure, both the inner and outer hubs should be rendered operable in the second operating mode. Therefore, in this scenario, in the event of a power failure, the electronic control module would determine that a change in operating state is required for the lock mechanism when operating in the second operating mode.

[0035] When the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the fail-safe setting for the inner hub (e.g. the fifth operating mode), the electronic control module may be configured to drive the lock mechanism to the fourth operating state in a power failure event. As previously mentioned, embodiments of the present invention advantageously allow the mortice lock assembly to operate in the fifth operating mode without the need for an additional device such as a separate electric strike, as with previously known mortice lock assemblies, thereby reducing componentry costs. As such, separate configuration and modification of the mortice lock assembly is not required and the fifth operating mode can be selected

conveniently by way of user configurable switching elements accessible through an outside of the housing, thereby reducing labour costs and risk of human error.

[0036] When the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for each of the inner hub and the outer hub, the electronic control module may be configured to maintain the lock mechanism in the third operating state in a power failure event. When the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for each of the inner hub and the outer hub, the electronic control module may be configured to move the lock mechanism to the first operating state in a power failure event. When the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub, the electronic control module may be configured to maintain the lock mechanism in the fourth operating state in a power failure event. When the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub, the electronic control module may be configured to drive the lock mechanism to the first operating state in a power failure event.

[0037] When the mortice lock assembly receives a single input signal, for example to meet compatibility requirements, the mortice lock assembly is advantageously capable of operating in the first, second, third or fourth operating modes, similar to previously known mortice lock assemblies.

[0038] For example, the electronic control module may include one or more user configurable settings for selecting an operating mode for the mortice lock assembly, the operating mode including a fail-safe setting, a fail-secure setting or an escape setting for each of the inner and outer hubs, and

when the electronic control module is configured to operate with the single input signal, the single input signal including a power on signal and a power off signal, the electronic control module is configured to

maintain the lock mechanism in the third operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the inner hub and the fail-secure setting for the outer hub, drive the lock mechanism to the first operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for the inner hub and the fail-safe setting for the outer hub,

maintain the lock mechanism in the fourth operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the outer hub, and/or

drive the lock mechanism to the first operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub.

[0039] The electronic control module may include a microcontroller for generating a drive signal based on the input signals and the selected operating mode, and wherein the drive signal drives a motor associated with the lock mechanism, and the motor drives the lock mechanism to a desired operating state.

[0040] The microcontroller may be configured to determine whether a change in operating state is required for the lock mechanism, and upon determining that a change in operating state is required, generating a drive signal to drive the motor, which moves the lock mechanism to a desired operating state based on the selected operating mode.

[0041 ] The electronic control module may include a motor drive circuit for driving the motor based on the drive signal.

[0042] The electronic control module may include a single motor for adjusting the respective portion of the lock mechanism between different operating states.

[0043] The lock mechanism may include inner and outer pawls, each

independently movable by action of the motor between locked and unlocked conditions. In the locked condition, each pawl may engage with a respective hub of the lock mechanism to prevent the respective hub from movement, thereby rendering the respective hub inoperable. In one embodiment, the inner and outer pawls can be moved between four different position combinations, the position combinations being an unlocked condition for each of the inner and outer pawls corresponding to the first operating state; a locked condition for the inner pawl and an unlocked condition for the outer pawl corresponding to the second operating state;

a locked condition for each of the inner and outer pawls corresponding to the third operating state; and

an unlocked condition for the inner pawl and a locked condition for the outer pawl corresponding to the fourth operating state.

[0044] Each of the four operating states may correspond to an angular position of an output shaft of the motor and associated cam such that each operating state may be achieved by moving the motor and thus the output shaft to the corresponding angular position. The motor, its output shaft and the associated cam may have four predetermined angular positions corresponding to each position combination of the inner and outer pawls and this each operating state of the lock mechanism.

[0045] The motor may be driven between the four predetermined angular positions by the motor drive circuit. In particular, the drive signal generated by the micro-controller may operate the motor drive circuit to drive the motor between the predetermined angular positions.

[0046] The electronic control module may include a motor position sensor to monitor the position of the motor output shaft and provide feedback to the microcontroller. The micro-controller may generate a drive signal for the motor drive circuit to drive the motor until the motor sensor detects that the motor has reached the desired angular position.

[0047] Any suitable position sensor may be used. In one embodiment, the position sensor may include a magnetic rotary encoder and an associated magnet mounted to the output shaft of the motor or a cam mounted to the output shaft.

[0048] The electronic control module may further include a power storage device for providing power to the electronic control module during a power failure event. In particular, the power storage device provides power to the microcontroller, motor drive circuit and motor to drive the lock mechanism to a desired operating state in a power failure event. [0049] The power storage device may be provided externally or internally with respect to the housing of the mortice lock assembly. Typically, the power storage device is provided within the housing of the mortice lock assembly. Any suitable power storage device may be used, for example, a battery or capacitor or the like. In one embodiment, the power storage device is a capacitor.

[0050] The electronic control module may include a capacitor management circuit for charging the capacitor during normal operation and discharging the capacitor to supply power to the electronic control module in a power failure event. In a power failure event, the capacitor may provide the micro-controller with sufficient power to generate an appropriate drive signal based on the selected operating mode, and for the motor drive circuit to drive the motor based on the drive signal until the motor sensor detects that the motor has reached the desired angular position.

[0051 ] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a mortice lock assembly for use with a door, the mortice lock assembly including

a lock mechanism configurable to operate in one or more locked and unlocked operating states,

an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism, the electronic control module being configured to receive

[0052] The lock assembly may include a manual actuator including an inner hub and an outer hub each being operable to independently move a bolt of the lock assembly from at least the extended position to the retracted position, and

wherein 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 electronic control module includes one or more user configurable settings for selecting an operating mode for the mortice lock assembly, the operating mode including a fail-safe setting, a fail-secure setting or an escape setting for each of the inner and outer hubs.

[0053] In one embodiment, a selectable operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the inner hub and the fail-safe setting for the outer hub.

[0054] When the operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the fail-safe setting for the inner hub, in a power failure event, the electronic control module may be configured to drive the lock mechanism to render the outer hub of the manual actuator inoperable, and the inner hub of the manual actuator operable.

[0055] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a mortice lock assembly for use with a door, the mortice lock assembly including

a housing,

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, the lock mechanism being configurable to operate in accordance with a selected operating mode,

wherein the operating mode is selected from a plurality of operating modes, each operating mode including a fail-safe setting, a fail-secure setting or an escape setting for each of the inner and outer hubs,

the lock assembly having an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism, the electronic control module being configured to enable selection of an operating mode including a fail-secure setting for the outer hub and a fail-safe setting for the inner hub.

[0056] Embodiments of the present invention may therefore provide a multifunctional and versatile mortice lock assembly in a single device without the need for an electronic strike, for example, to achieve certain operating modes as described above. In some embodiments, the mortice lock assembly may be backward

compatible with existing external control and monitoring system configured for operation with conventional mortice lock assemblies without the need for reconfiguration.

[0057] Reference throughout this specification to One embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristic described herein may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0058] In order that the invention may be more readily understood and put into practice, one or more preferred embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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 .

[0061 ] 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.

[0062] Figure 3B is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 3A illustrating the inner pawl in the released position. [0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Figure 3E is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 3D illustrating the outer pawl in the released position.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] Figure 4B is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 4A illustrating the inner pawl in the locked condition.

[0069] 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071 ] Figure 4E is a side elevation view of the partial assembly shown in Figure 4D illustrating the outer pawl in the locked position.

[0072] 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.

[0073] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a control system for a mortice lock assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0074] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating the different operating states of the lock mechanism as partially shown in Figures 3A to 4F for each selected operating mode.

[0075] Figure 7A is a process flow diagram illustrating the operation of the electronic control module when two separate input signals are received, according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0076] Figure 7B is a process flow diagram illustrating the operation of the electronic control module when a single input signal is received, according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0077] Figure 7C is a process flow diagram illustrating the operation of the electronic control module when a second (control) input signal is received after operation with a single input signal.

Detailed Description

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081 ] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] The lock assembly 1 00 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.

[0084] 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. As discussed in further detail below with reference to Figure 6, 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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. [0089] 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 3A 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091 ] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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 1 0b is prevented and rotation of the outer hub 1 10a is permitted, thereby illustrating a second operating state of the lock mechanism 104.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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. [0096] 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.

[0097] 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 known as 'power to open') setting or 'always unlocked' (i.e. escape/free egress) setting.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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. [0101 ] 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) will be discussed in more detail below with reference to Figure 6.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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. 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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 as discussed in further detail below with reference to Figure 6.

[0109] 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. The operation of the control module 128 when two separate input signals are received will be discussed in further detail below with reference to Figure 7A.

[01 10] 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. The operation of the control module 128 when a single input signal is simultaneously received by both input lines 514, 516 will be discussed in further detail below with reference to Figure 7A.

[01 1 1 ] Alternatively, the single input signal can be transmitted via input line 514 only. In this embodiment, input line 516 is disconnected. The micro-controller 506 may be configured to operate with a single input signal until power on input line 516 is detected by the power detection circuit module 520. Once power is detected on the input line 516, the micro-controller changes to operate with two separate input signals. This will be discussed in further detail below with reference to Figure 7C.

[01 12] 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.

[01 13] 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.

[01 14] 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 51 0 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.

[01 15] 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.

[01 16] The control module 128 further includes a latching relay circuit module 528, a deadlatch monitoring module 532, a door position monitoring module 534, a key over-ride monitoring module 536 and a request-to-exit monitoring module 538 for providing 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.

[01 17] 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.

[01 18] The deadlatch monitoring module 532 monitors at least the position of the auxiliary bolt assembly 120 (see Figure 1 ). The door position monitoring module 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.

[01 19] The key over-ride monitoring module 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 module 534 and deadlatch monitoring module 532 can be ignored when door is opened.

[0120] The request-to-exit monitoring module 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 1 00. 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 module 532 and the door position monitoring module 534 will be ignored.

[0121 ] Therefore, the external monitoring system may detect an unauthorised entry 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.

[0122] The control circuit 128 further includes a USB connector 542 for allowing USB connection between the control circuit 128 and external devices and systems, such as diagnostic tools and systems. 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.

[0123] 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. [0124] 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 1 28 is powered. The heartbeat LED can flash one or more different pulsed rates to indicate one or more faults with the control circuit 128.

[0125] The control circuit 128 further includes a buzzer 550 to provide an audible signal when a fault is detected by the control circuit 128.

[0126] Figure 6 is a schematic table 600 illustrating the different operating modes achievable by the lock assembly 100 when a single input is received by the electronic control module 128, and alternatively when two separate input signals are received by the electronic control module 128.

[0127] In particular, as shown in the first row of table 600, the two switching elements 1 12a, 1 12b can be used to configure the lock assembly 100 to operate in the following operating modes:

• A first operating mode 602 in which the outer switching element 1 12a is set to 'fail- secure' and the inner switching element 1 12b is also set to 'fail-secure'.

• A second operating mode 604 in which the outer switching element 1 12a is set to 'fail-safe' and the inner switching element 1 12b is also set to 'fail-safe'.

• A third operating mode 606 in which the outer switching element 1 12a is set to 'fail-secure' and the inner switching element 1 12b is set to 'escape'.

• A fourth operating mode 608 in which the outer switching element 1 12a inner is set to 'fail-safe' and the switching element 1 12b is set to 'escape'.

• A fifth operating mode 610 in which the outer switching element 1 12a is set to 'fail- secure' and the inner switching element 1 12b is also set to 'fail-safe'.

[0128] Rows 620 and 622 of table 600 illustrate the operation of the lock mechanism 104 when a single input signal is received. In particular, row 620 specifies the operating state of the lock mechanism 104 when the single input signal is a 'power on' signal for each operating mode 602 to 608. Row 622 specifies the operating state of the lock mechanism 104 when the single input signal is a 'power off signal for each operating mode 602 to 608. Elaborating further, the micro-controller 506 is configured such that:

• In the first operating mode 602, when the received single input signal is a 'power on' signal (row 620), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C).

• In the first operating mode 602, when the received single input signal is a "power off" signal (row 622), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal (with power provided by the power storage device 510) to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the third operating state (see Figures 4A to 4C).

• In the first operating mode 602, during normal operation ('non-failed' state), no power is supplied to the control module 128 and the hubs 1 10a, 1 10b are both maintained in the inoperable state (i.e. locked) and when a "Request to Enter" signal is generated, for example, following successful authentication of an access card via the card reader 504, an unlock signal in the form of a 'power on' signal will be received by the micro-controller 506, which generates a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state as discussed above. In a power failure event ('failed' state), no power is provided to the control module 128, the micro-controller 506 responds in the same manner to a power failure event as when the single input signal is in the "power off" state, and the hubs 1 10a, 1 10b are both maintained at the third operating state, or moved to first operating state with power provided by the power storage device 510.

• Similarly, in the second operating mode 604, when the received single input signal is a "power on" signal (row 620), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to cause movement of the lock mechanism 104 to the third operating state (see Figures 4A to 4C). In the second operating mode 604, when the received single input signal is a "power off" signal (row 622), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to cause movement of the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C).

• In the second operating mode 604, during normal operation, power is supplied to the control module 128 and the hubs 1 10a, 1 10b are both maintained in the inoperable state (i.e. locked), until an unlock signal in the form of a "power off" signal is received by the micro-controller 506, which generates a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state with power provided by the power storage device 510. In a power failure event, the micro-controller 506 responds in the same manner to a power failure event as when the single input signal is in the "power off" state, and the hubs 1 10a, 1 10b are both maintained at the first operating state, or moved to first operating state with power provided by the power storage device 510.

• Similarly, in the third operating mode 606, when the received single input signal is a "power on" signal (row 620), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to effectively move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). In the third operating mode 606, when the received single input signal is a "power off" signal (row 622), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to cause movement of the lock mechanism 104 to the fourth operating state (see Figures 4D to 4F).

• In the third operating mode 606, the inner hub 1 10b is always operable

irrespective of the input signal. During normal operation, no power is supplied to the control module 128 and the lock mechanism 104 is maintained at the fourth operating state, and when an unlock signal in the form of a "power on" signal is received by the micro-controller 506, a drive signal is generated by the microcontroller 506 to move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state as discussed above. In a power failure event, no power is provided to the control module 128, the micro-controller 506 responds in the same manner to a power failure event as when the single input signal is in the "power off" state, and the lock mechanism 104 is maintained at the first operating state, or moved to first operating state with power provided by the power storage device 510. • Similarly, in the fourth operating mode 608, when the received single input signal is a "power on" signal (row 620), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal cause movement of the lock mechanism 104 to the fourth operating state (see Figures 4D to 4F). In the fourth operating mode 608, when the received single input signal is a "power off" signal (row 622), the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal cause movement of the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C).

• In the fourth operating mode 608, the inner hub 1 10b is always operable

irrespective of the input signal. During normal operation, power is supplied to the control module 128 and the lock mechanism 104 is maintained at the fourth operating state, and when an unlock signal in the form of a "power off" signal is received by the micro-controller 506, a drive signal is generated to move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state with power provided by the power storage device 510. In a power failure event, no power is provided to the control module 128, the micro-controller 506 responds in the same manner to a power failure event as when the single input signal is in the "power off" state, and the lock mechanism 104 is maintained at the first operating state, or moved to first operating state with power provided by the power storage device 510.

[0129] As illustrated in rows 620 and 622 of table 600, when a single input signal is received, the micro-controller 506 is not capable of distinguishing between a power outage event and when the input signal is a 'power-off signal during normal operation.

[0130] In the fifth operating mode 610, the outer hub 1 10a is set to 'fail-secure' and the inner hub 1 10b is set to 'fail-safe'. Theoretically, the fifth operating mode 610 therefore requires that in a power failure event (i.e. when the single input signal is a "power off" signal), the motor 200 moves the lock mechanism 104 to the fourth operating state (i.e. outer hub 1 10a is inoperable and inner hub 1 10b is operable) (row 620). However, in this arrangement, when the received single input signal changes to a "power on" signal, the motor 200 would move the lock mechanism 104 to the second operating state (i.e. outer hub 1 10a is operable and inner hub 1 10b is inoperable) (row 622). Therefore, if only a single input signal is received, one of the hubs 1 10a, 1 10b will always be inoperable and one of hubs 1 10a, 1 10b will always be operable irrespective of the input signal. This operation is problematic, for example, as both hubs 1 10a, 1 10b cannot be set to the inoperable (i.e. locked) condition by the input signal. As such, this would cause non-sensical operation of the lock mechanism 104. Indeed, only two different operating states can be achieved with a single binary input signal providing a power on or power off signal.

[0131 ] In this case, the lock assembly 100 can be modified and installed to operate with an electric strike in order to achieve the desired operation under the fifth operating mode 610. Typically, the lock assembly 100 is configured to have one hub 1 10 permanently locked and the electric strike is configured to operate in a fail-secure mode.

[0132] Rows 630, 632, 634 of table 600 illustrate the operation of the lock mechanism 104 when two separate input signals are received. When two separate input signals are received, a power signal always provides power to the electronic control module 127 during normal operation (via input line 514), and a control signal provides a 'lock' or 'unlock' signal (via input line 516) to change the operating state of the lock mechanism 104 accordingly. In a power failure event, no power is available and both the control signal and the power signal are in the 'power off state.

[0133] In particular, rows 630 and 632 illustrate the operating states of the lock mechanism 104 when the lock assembly 100 is in normal operation ('non-failed' state) for each operating mode. Row 630 illustrates the operating state of the lock

mechanism 104 for each operating mode 602 to 610 when the received control signal is a 'lock' signal. Row 632 illustrates the operating state of the lock mechanism 104 for each operating mode 602 to 610 when the received control signal is an 'unlock' signal. Row 634 illustrates the operating state of the lock mechanism 104 in a power failure event ('failed' state) for each operating mode. During a power failure event, both the control signal and the power signal are in the 'power off state. Elaborating further, when two separate input signals are received, the micro-controller 506 is configured such that:

[0134] During normal operation, the power signal always provides a 'power on' signal to provide power to the control circuit 128. As shown in row 630, in the first operating mode 602, when the received control signal is a "lock" signal, the microcontroller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the third operating state (see Figures 4A to 4C). A shown in row 632, when the received control signal is an "unlock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). As shown in row 634, in a power failure event when no power is available and both the control and power signals are switched off, the lock mechanism 104 is either maintained in the third operating state, or the power storage device 510 provides power to the micro-controller 506 to generate a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the third operating state (see Figures 4A to 4C). Typically, in the first operating mode 602, the 'lock' signal is a 'power off signal, and the unlock signal is a 'power on' signal.

[0135] In the second operating mode 604, when the received control signal is a "lock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the third operating state (see Figures 4A to 4C) as shown in row 630. As shown in row 632, when the received control signal is an "unlock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). As shown in row 634, in a power failure event when no power is available and both the control and power signals are switched off, the power storage device 510 provides power to the micro-controller 506 to generate a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). Typically, in the second operating mode 604, the 'lock' signal is a 'power on' signal, and the unlock signal is a 'power off signal.

[0136] In the third operating mode 606, the inner hub 1 10b is always in an operable condition regardless of the power and control signals received. When the received control signal is a "lock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the fourth operating state (see Figures 4D to 4F) as shown in row 630. As shown in row 632, when the received control signal is an "unlock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). As shown in row 634, in a power failure event when no power is available and both the control and power signals are switched off, the lock mechanism 104 is either maintained in the fourth operating state, or the power storage device 510 provides power to the micro-controller 506 to generate a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the fourth operating state (see Figures 4D to 4F). Typically, in the third operating mode 606, the 'lock' signal is a 'power off signal, and the unlock signal is a 'power on' signal.

[0137] In the fourth operating mode 608, when the received control signal is a "lock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the fourth operating state (see Figures 4D to 4F) as shown in row 630. As shown in row 632, when the received control signal is an "unlock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). As shown in row 634, in a power failure event when no power is available and both the control and power signals are switched off, the lock mechanism 104 is either maintained in the first operating state or the power storage device 510 provides power to the micro-controller 506 to generate a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). Typically, in the fourth operating mode 608, the 'lock' signal is a 'power on' signal, and the unlock signal is a 'power off signal.

[0138] In the fifth operating mode 608, when the received control signal is a "lock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the third operating state (see Figures 4A to 4C) as shown in row 630. As shown in row 632, when the received control signal is an "unlock" signal, the micro-controller 506 generates a drive signal to drive the motor 200 via the motor drive circuit 508 such that the lock mechanism 104 is moved to the first operating state (see Figures 3A to 3C). As shown in row 634, in a power failure event when no power is available and both the control and power signals are switched off, the power storage device 510 provides power to the micro-controller 506 to generate a drive signal to move the lock mechanism 104 to the fourth operating state (see Figures 4D to 4F). Typically, in the fourth operating mode 608, the 'lock' signal is a 'power on' signal, and the unlock signal is a 'power off signal.

[0139] Advantageously, when two separate input signals are received, the microcontroller 506 is capable of distinguishing between a 'power off signal in the control signal during normal operation and a power failure event, in order to achieve the three different operating states as shown in rows 630, 632, 634 required for proper operation in the fifth operating mode 610, and without external periphery devices such as an electric strike. Indeed, more than two different operating states can be achieved with two separate binary input signals (i.e. the control signal and the power signal).

[0140] Figure 7A is a process flow diagram illustrating a method 700 in which the micro-controller 506 determines that it is appropriate to operate with two input signals.

[0141 ] At query step 702, the micro-controller 506 determines whether power is supplied to the control module 128. If power is supplied to the control module 128, the method 700 proceeds to step 704. If no power is supplied to the control module 128, the method 700 proceeds to step 706.

[0142] At step 704, the micro-controller 506 determines whether a control signal is received via the input 516 using power detection circuit module 520.

[0143] At step 706, the micro-controller 506 determines that a power failure event has occurred, and sets the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state based on the selected operating mode 602 to 610 as shown in row 634 of table 600. The micro-controller 506 will determine whether the current operating state of the lock mechanism 104 requires changing, and if so generate a drive signal to drive the motor 200 such that the correct operating state as shown in row 634 is achieved, as previously discussed. The power storage device 510 provides power for the microcontroller to carry out step 706. Once step 706 is complete, the method 700 returns to query step 702. [0144] At query step 708, the micro-controller 506 receives a lock/unlock control signal from input line 516 in the form of a power on/off signal as discussed above. If a lock signal is received, the method 700 proceeds to step 710. If an unlock signal is received, the method 700 proceeds to step 712.

[0145] At step 710, the micro-controller 506 sets the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state as shown in row 630 of table 600 based on the selected operating mode 602 to 610. Once step 710 is complete, the method 700 returns to query step 702.

[0146] At step 712, the micro-controller 506 sets the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state as shown in row 632 of table 600 based on the selected operating mode 602 to 610. Once step 712 is complete, the method 700 returns to query step 702.

[0147] Figure 7B is a process flow diagram illustrating a method 720 for the microcontroller 506 when a single input signal is received whereby the first contact and the second contact of the main connector module 104 are coupled together such that input lines 516 and 514 simultaneously receive the same single binary input signal in the form of a power on/off signal.

[0148] In this embodiment, the micro-controller 506 carries out similar process steps to method 720. Preferably, the same control algorithm is executed by the microcontroller 506 when two input signals are received via input lines 516, 514 as described in Figure 7A, and when a single input signal is simultaneously received via input lines 516, 514.

[0149] At query step 722, the micro-controller 506 determines whether power is supplied to the control module 128. If power is supplied to the control module 128, the method 720 proceeds to step 724. If no power is supplied to the control module 128, the method 700 proceeds to step 726.

[0150] At step 724, the micro-controller 506 determines whether a control signal is received via the input 516 using power detection circuit module 520. [0151 ] At step 726, the micro-controller 506 determines that a power failure event has occurred, and sets the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state based on the selected operating mode 602 to 608 as shown in row 622 (the fifth operating mode 610 is not available). The micro-controller 506 will determine whether the current operating state of the lock mechanism 104 requires changing, and if so generate a drive signal to drive the motor 200 such that the correct operating state as shown in row 622 is achieved, as previously discussed. The power storage device 510 provides power for the micro-controller to carry out step 726. Once step 726 is complete, the method 720 returns to query step 722.

[0152] At step 728, the micro-controller 506 receives a power on/off input signal simultaneously received via both input lines 514 and 516. As previously described, a power off signal corresponds to a lock signal in the first and third operating modes 602, 606; and a power on signal corresponds to a lock signal in the second and fourth operating modes 604, 608.

[0153] At step 730, if a power on signal is simultaneously received by both input lines 514 and 516, the micro-controller 506 will set the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state as shown in row 620. If a power off signal is

simultaneously received by both input lines 514 and 51 6, the micro-controller 506 will set the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state as shown in row 622. After step 730, the method 700 returns to method step 722. In this step, the microcontroller 506 may only check input via input line 516 in the same manner as step 708 in method 700. Once step 730 is complete, the method 720 returns to query step 722.

[0154] Figure 7C is a process flow diagram illustrating another method 740 in which the micro-controller 506 determines whether to operate with a single input signal or two input signals. In one embodiment, the micro-controller 506 may default to receive a single input signal.

[0155] At query step 742, the micro-controller 506 determines whether power is supplied to the control module 128. If power is supplied to the control module 128, the method 740 proceeds to step 744. If no power is supplied to the control module 128, the method 740 proceeds to step 746. [0156] At step 744, the micro-controller 506 is operating at its default setting. In the default setting, a single input signal is received via input line 514 only and input line 516 is disconnected. The micro-controller 506 sets the lock mechanism 1041 to the appropriate operating state as shown in row 620 of table 600 if a power on signal is received, or the appropriate operating state as shown in row 622 of table 600 if a power off signal is received, based on the selected operating mode 602 to 608 (the fifth operating mode 610 is not available).

[0157] At step 746, the micro-controller 506 determines that a power failure event has occurred, and sets the lock mechanism 104 to the appropriate operating state based on the selected operating mode 602 to 608 as shown in row 622. The microcontroller 506 will determine whether the current operating state of the lock

mechanism 104 requires changing, and if so generate a drive signal to drive the motor 200 such that the correct operating state as shown in row 622 is achieved, as previously discussed. The power storage device 510 provides power for the microcontroller to carry out step 746.

[0158] At step 748, the micro-controller 506 determines whether a control signal is received via the input 516 using power detection circuit module 520. If power is detected via input line 516, the method 740 proceeds to step 750. If no power is detected via input line 516, the method 740 continues to operate with a single input signal and returns to step 752. Once step 748 is complete, the method 740 returns to query step 742.

[0159] At step 750, the micro-controller 506 detects a control signal received via input line 516 and switches to operate with two separate input signals. The microcontroller 516 executes method 700 as previously described with reference to Figure 7A.

[0160] 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. [0161 ] 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.

[0162] 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 mortice lock assembly for use with a door, the mortice lock assembly including

a housing,

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

an electronic control module for controlling operations of the lock mechanism, the electronic control module being configured to receive input signals including

a control signal for causing movement of the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and

2. A mortice lock assembly of claim 1 , wherein the electronic control module is further configured to receive a single input signal, wherein the single input signal provides power to the electronic control module and simultaneously drives the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states.

3. A mortice lock assembly of claim 2, wherein the electronic control module is configured to operate with either

the single input signal, or

two input signals including the control signal and the power signal.

4. A mortice lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic control module includes three contacts,

a first contact configured to receive the control signal,

a second contact configured to receive the power signal, and

a third contact configured for connection to ground.

5. A mortice lock assembly of claim 4, wherein the electronic control module is configured to allow

the second contact to receive a single input signal which delivers power to the electronic control module and simultaneously drives the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and

the first contact to be disconnected.

6. A mortice lock assembly of claim 4 or 5, wherein the electronic control module includes a signal detection circuitry for detecting a signal received via the first contact.

7. A mortice lock assembly of claim 4, wherein the electronic control module is configured to allow

the first contact to be coupled to second contact, and

the first and second contacts to simultaneously receive a single input signal which delivers power to the electronic control module and simultaneously drives the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states.

8. A mortice lock assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic control module includes one or more user configurable settings for selecting an operating mode for the mortice lock assembly, the operating mode including a fail-safe setting, a fail-secure setting or an escape setting for each of the inner and outer hubs.

9. A mortice lock assembly of claim 8, wherein the user configurable settings include one or more electronic switching elements.

10. A mortice lock assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the operating mode is selected from a plurality of operating modes comprising

a first operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail- secure setting for both the outer hub and the inner hub,

a second operating mode in which in which the user configurable settings include the fail-safe setting for both the outer hub and the inner hub,

a third operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail- secure setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub,

a fourth operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the failsafe setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub,

a fifth operating mode in which the user configurable settings include the fail- secure setting for the outer hub and the fail-safe setting for inner hub.

1 1 . A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the control signal provides a lock signal or unlock signal for driving the lock mechanism to operate in one of the operating states, and

when the selected operating mode includes either a fail-secure setting or failsafe setting for each of the inner hub and the outer hub, the electronic control module is configured to drive the lock mechanism such that

the inner hub and outer hub are rendered operable when an unlock signal is received, and

the inner hub and outer hub are rendered inoperable when a lock signal is received.

12. A mortice lock assembly of claim 1 1 , wherein when the selected operating mode includes an escape setting for either the inner hub or the outer hub, the hub associated with the escape setting is rendered operable irrespective of the control signal.

13. A mortice lock assembly of claim 1 1 or 12, wherein the lock signal includes a power on signal and the unlock signal includes a power off signal, or vice versa.

14. A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein in a power failure event in which both the control signal and the power signal are lost, the electronic control module is configured to

determine whether a change in operating state is required for the lock mechanism, and

15. A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the failsafe setting for the inner hub, the electronic control module is configured to drive the lock mechanism to the second operating state in a power failure event.

16. A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for each of the inner hub and the outer hub, the electronic control module is configured to maintain the lock mechanism in the third operating state in a power failure event.

17. A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein when the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for each of the inner hub and the outer hub, the electronic control module is configured to drive the lock mechanism in the first operating state in a power failure event.

18. A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 8 to 17, wherein when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub, the electronic control module is configured to maintain the lock mechanism in the fourth operating state in a power failure event.

19. A mortice lock assembly of any one of claims 7 to 18, wherein when the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub, the electronic control module is configured to drive the lock mechanism to the first operating state in a power failure event.

20. A mortice lock assembly of claim 3, wherein the electronic control module includes one or more user configurable settings for selecting an operating mode for the mortice lock assembly, the operating mode including a fail-safe setting, a fail- secure setting or an escape setting for each of the inner and outer hubs, and

maintain the lock mechanism in the third operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the inner hub and the fail-secure setting for the outer hub,

drive the lock mechanism to the first operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-safe setting for the inner hub and the fail-safe setting for the outer hub,

maintain the lock mechanism in the fourth operating state in a power failure event, when the selected operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the outer hub and the escape setting for the inner hub, and/or

21 . A mortice lock assembly according claim 8, wherein

the electronic control module includes a microcontroller for generating a drive signal based on the input signals and the selected operating mode, and

wherein the drive signal drives a motor associated with the lock mechanism, and the motor drives the lock mechanism to a desired operating state.

22. A mortice lock assembly according to claim 21 , wherein the electronic control module further includes a power storage device for providing power to the

microcontroller and motor to drive the lock mechanism to a desired operating state in a power failure event.

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

24. A mortice lock assembly of claim 23, the lock assembly includes

a manual actuator including an inner hub and an outer hub each being operable to independently move a bolt of the lock assembly from at least the extended position to the retracted position, and

25. A mortice lock assembly of claim 24, wherein a selectable operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the inner hub and the fail-safe setting for the outer hub.

26. A mortice lock assembly of claim 25, wherein when the operating mode includes the fail-secure setting for the inner hub and the fail-safe setting for the outer hub, in a power failure event, the electronic control module is configured to drive the lock mechanism to render

the inner hub of the manual actuator inoperable, and

the outer hub of the manual actuator operable.

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

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