LOCK CYLINDER, KEY AND PROCEDURE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a locking cylinder with a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the cylinder core has a keyway for inserting a key shaft in a key insertion direction, wherein the locking cylinder further comprises a plurality of locking devices configured to effect a locked state or a release state of the locking cylinder, wherein in the release state rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing is permitted and in the locked state it is locked, and wherein the locking cylinder can be moved from the locked state to the release state by fully inserting the key into the keyway of the cylinder core, wherein the locking cylinder comprises a first scanning element and at least one second scanning element for scanning a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key.Furthermore, the present invention relates to a key, wherein the key has a cross-sectional profile on a first of two narrow sides. The present invention further relates to a locking system comprising such a locking cylinder and such a key. The present invention further relates to a method for unlocking or locking a locking cylinder. The present invention further relates to a method for manufacturing such a key and a complementary first query element for such a locking cylinder. The present invention further relates to a method for manufacturing such a key. The present invention further relates to a method for configuring such a locking system.

[0002] Prior art already includes locking cylinders with keys that provide additional profiles, particularly on the narrow side of the key, to increase profile variation and thus enhance security. Furthermore, prior art includes coding elements that are rigidly or movably inserted into the keyway and query the additional profile to further increase security.

[0003] German patent application DE 30 04 992 A1 discloses a profiling design for increasing profile variation. For this purpose, at least one additional longitudinal groove is provided in the back of the flat key to increase the profile variation. This groove interacts with at least one segment-shaped disc inserted into a transverse slot of the rotary cylinder. The arcuate edge of this disc is flush with the cylindrical surface of the rotary cylinder and, extending from its chord-shaped edge, features an opening for the back of the flat key that is adapted to the profile of the flat key. A projection corresponding to the longitudinal groove of the key's back is provided at the bottom of this opening. The possible profile variation can be further increased by arranging several discs one after the other in the keyway, provided that the respective longitudinal groove extends only over a portion of the key's insertion length.

[0004] The publication DE 10 2020117 226 A1 shows a coding element that can be inserted into the cylinder core and has coding sections that protrude into the key channel as a projection in order to query corresponding profiling on the broad sides of the key.

[0005] The publication EP 0 81 4 222 A2 shows a flat key for cylinder locks, which has control surfaces on the flat side (wide side) of the key for lateral scanning, which can be arranged at different depths to achieve locking variations, characterized in that the control surfaces are formed by ribbed webs on at least one of the key edges, the position of which within the key thickness determines the variation.

[0006] The publication EP 3 670 793 B1 shows a cylinder lock key with a key bow and a key shaft extending from the key bow along an axial direction, wherein the key shaft has a wave-shaped profile on the back side, which is turned away from the narrow side of the key shaft which is provided with cuts, wherein the wave-shaped profile on the back side is formed over the entire axial length of the key shaft.

[0007] Publication WO 2015 / 000963 A1 shows a key and a rotary lock cylinder for a security lock, wherein the rotary lock cylinder has a rotor (1), a stator (3) and several tumblers, and wherein the key has several control elements cooperating with the tumblers. The rotary lock cylinder includes at least one coding element and the key includes at least one coding track matching the coding element and extending in the insertion direction.

[0008] The publication DE 30 04 992 C2 discloses a profile variation for flat keys of cylinder locks for master key systems by means of longitudinal ribs and / or longitudinal grooves provided on the side surfaces of the flat key, wherein further longitudinal grooves usable for the profile variation are provided in the back of the flat key, which are arranged next to each other over the width of the key back and cooperate with at least one circular segment-shaped disc, which is inserted in a rotationally fixed manner in a transverse slot of the cylinder core, the arcuate edge of which is flush with the lateral surface of the cylinder core and which, starting from its edge formed by the chord, has an opening adapted to the profile of the flat key for the back part of the flat key, wherein projections corresponding to the longitudinal grooves of the key back are provided at the bottom of the opening.

[0009] Starting from these locking cylinders, it is an object of the present invention to provide a locking cylinder that offers increased security while being easier and more cost-effective to install. In particular, it is further an object of the present invention to provide a locking cylinder that offers increased resistance to manipulation. In particular, it is further an object of the present invention to provide a locking cylinder that offers an improved service life or a reduced probability of failure. In particular, it is further an object of the present invention to provide a locking system that offers increased flexibility in the configuration of the locking system.

[0010] According to the invention, a locking cylinder is provided with a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the cylinder core has a keyway for inserting a key shaft in a key insertion direction, wherein the locking cylinder further comprises a plurality of locking devices configured to effect a locked state or a released state of the locking cylinder, wherein in the released state rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing is permitted and in the locked state it is locked, and wherein the locking cylinder can be moved from the locked state to the released state by fully inserting the key into the keyway of the cylinder core, wherein the locking cylinder comprises a first scanning element and at least one second scanning element for scanning a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key.wherein the cross-sectional profile extends in a longitudinal direction of the key shaft and is constant in the longitudinal direction over the entire length of the key's narrow side, wherein the first scanning element is arranged in the cylinder core and projects into the key channel, wherein the first scanning element is configured to scan the cross-sectional profile of the key's narrow side, in particular during key insertion, and wherein the at least one second scanning element is radially biased inwards with respect to the cylinder core and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein each second scanning element is configured to scan the cross-sectional profile, in particular when the key is fully inserted, wherein the at least one second scanning element releases the rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing in the respective release position and locks it in the respective locking position.wherein the first query element is configured to query the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key in an unrotated position of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing, and wherein the at least one second query element is configured to query the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key in a rotated position of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing, wherein the rotated position is the result of the rotational movement from the unrotated position.

[0011] The "unrotated position" refers to a relative position between the cylinder housing and the cylinder core in which the cylinder core is not rotated relative to the cylinder housing. "Unrotated" means that the cylinder core is aligned so that all locking mechanisms, especially pin tumblers, allow the insertion of the key. In the unrotated position, the key can be inserted into and removed from the keyway. Specifically, in the unrotated position, at least one second scanning element is held radially by the cylinder surface of the cylinder core in its respective release position.

[0012] The twisted position refers to a relative position between the cylinder housing and the cylinder core in which the cylinder core is twisted relative to the cylinder housing compared to its unrotated position. In the twisted position, the radial direction of the cylinder core defines an angle between itself and the radial direction of the cylinder core in its unrotated position. In the twisted position, the key cannot be inserted into or removed from the keyway. In the twisted position, the radial direction and the radial direction in which the at least one second scanning element is radially biased are parallel and opposite to each other. In the twisted position, the keyway is radially accessible to the at least one second scanning element.If the cross-sectional profile is arranged radially outside in the keyway, the cross-sectional profile is radially accessible to at least one second scanning element, particularly through the radial opening of the keyway.

[0013] This provides particularly effective tamper protection, as the second check is not performed in the unrotated position. Access to the second check element is therefore more difficult; the first check element must be overcome to insert the key, and the multiple locking mechanisms must be bypassed to release the cylinder in order to perform the rotation and gain access to the second check element.

[0014] Particularly when the lock cylinder has multiple secondary scanning elements, the cross-sectional profile of all secondary scanning elements can be scanned in the rotated position. This has the advantage that all secondary scanning elements can then penetrate the cylinder core in the rotated position, and thus all secondary scanning elements together can block the rotational movement if no matching key is inserted.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the invention, a locking system is provided with at least one locking cylinder according to the invention and at least one key, wherein the key, in particular a bit key, is provided for the locking cylinder with a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the key has a key shaft extending along a longitudinal direction with two broad sides and two narrow sides, wherein the key shaft is configured for insertion into a keyway of the cylinder core, wherein the key has a cross-sectional profile on a first of the narrow sides, wherein the cross-sectional profile extends in the longitudinal direction of the key shaft and is constant in the longitudinal direction over the entire length of the first narrow side, wherein the cross-sectional profile is configured toto be queried on a test profile of a first query element of the locking cylinder projecting into the key channel, in particular during the insertion of the key into the locking cylinder, and wherein the cross-sectional profile is further configured to be queried on at least a second query element of the locking cylinder, in particular when the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder.

[0016] Accordingly, this locking system has the same advantages as the locking cylinder according to the invention.

[0017] One or more locking systems can be used in a master key system. Each locking system can restrict access to an area within the master key system. If different access requirements are to apply to individual areas within the master key system, these areas must be restricted with a locking system with a different code. In the following, a master key system is understood to be a security device that restricts access to at least one area by means of at least one locking system.

[0018] The cylinder core has an essentially cylindrical shape. Corresponding to this cylindrical shape, a radial direction and an axial direction are defined. Furthermore, a tangential direction is defined, which runs orthogonally to the radial and axial directions. A cylinder coordinate system can be defined by these directions. The cylinder core is rotatably mounted about a cylinder axis in the cylinder housing. The cylinder core can rotate about the cylinder axis. The radial direction points outwards from the cylinder axis. The cylinder core has a keyway for receiving the key. If the key matching the locking mechanisms is fully inserted into the keyway, all locking mechanisms are unlocked, thus releasing the cylinder. If a non-matching key is inserted, the cylinder is locked.In other words, the turning motion is only possible when the correct key has been fully inserted. In particular, the locking mechanisms may be pin tumblers.

[0019] The keyway extends axially and has an opening at one axial end of the cylinder core through which the key can be inserted. The key is inserted into the keyway of the cylinder core with its shank in the insertion direction and removed from the keyway in the opposite direction. The insertion direction corresponds to the axial direction. When the key is inserted into the keyway with its shank, the longitudinal direction of the shank is parallel to both the insertion direction and the axial direction.

[0020] The key shaft extends lengthwise and has two opposing broad sides and two opposing narrow sides that connect the broad sides. The key shaft is essentially rectangular in cross-section. This cross-section can be considered as a surface oriented orthogonally to the longitudinal direction. In cross-section, the two longer sides of the rectangle are the broad sides of the key. The two shorter sides are the narrow sides. The narrow sides are spaced apart along the vertical direction of the key shaft. The broad sides are spaced apart along the horizontal direction of the key shaft. The vertical, horizontal, and longitudinal directions are all orthogonal to each other.When the key is inserted into the key channel with the key shaft, the vertical direction of the key is parallel to the radial direction and points in the same direction.

[0021] The key is specifically a bit key. The key has the cross-sectional profile on the first narrow side. The bit key has the bit on the second narrow side. It goes without saying that the key can have the cross-sectional profile on both narrow sides if it is a reversible key.

[0022] The first narrow side of the key extends along its entire length in the longitudinal direction of the key shaft along a section of the key shaft between a key tip and a key head of the key.

[0023] The cross-sectional profile serves for querying by the first and at least one second query element of the lock cylinder. The cross-sectional profile is designed to be queried both during insertion by the first query element and, once the key is fully inserted, by the second query element (at least one second query element). Viewed in cross-section of the key shaft, the cross-sectional profile represents a contour of the first narrow side of the key. The contour extends in both the vertical and horizontal directions of the key shaft. The cross-sectional profile, or contour, has at least two sections of different heights in the vertical direction. When the key is fully inserted into the lock cylinder, the vertical direction of the key shaft aligns with the radial direction of the cylinder core. Thus, the cross-sectional profile...When the key is fully inserted into the cylinder, the contour of the cylinder core has at least two sections of different heights in the radial direction. These sections can be used as a security feature and are checked by the first and second scanning elements. The cross-sectional profile or contour is constant along the entire length of the narrow side of the key in the longitudinal direction.

[0024] The keyway also has an opening in the radial direction in the outer surface of the cylinder core. This opening allows the keyway to open radially, so that when the key is fully inserted, the first narrow side of the key, with its cross-sectional profile, is radially accessible from the outside through the opening in the keyway.

[0025] The first scanning element serves to scan, or initially scan, the cross-sectional profile. The first scanning element is arranged, in particular detachably, within the cylinder core. The first scanning element is fixed, in particular rigidly, within the cylinder core. The first scanning element is arranged, in particular can be arranged, such that it projects section by section into the keyway. In particular, the first scanning element projects radially into the keyway through the opening in the cylindrical surface of the cylinder core. The first scanning element is configured to scan the cross-sectional profile when the cross-sectional profile passes the first scanning element, in particular during the insertion of the key. The first scanning element can, for example, be a plate-shaped element with a thickness. In particular, the thickness can be 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, and in particular 1 mm.The first scanning element has a cross-sectional contour, viewed orthogonally to the axial direction of the cylinder core, which has at least two sections of different heights in the radial direction of the cylinder core. To scan the cross-sectional profile, the first scanning element can further have a test profile, which then has the contour.

[0026] The test profile is formed integrally with the first scanning element. In other words, the test profile is formed with the first scanning element. The test profile projects, particularly in sections, radially inwards into the keyway. In other words, the test profile projects into the keyway in the opposite direction to the radial direction.

[0027] The initial query, or first query, is performed by scanning the contour of the key's narrow side. This query occurs when the cross-sectional profile passes the first query element during key insertion. The differently sized sections of the first query element's contour can then scan the differently sized sections of the cross-sectional profile. This initial query serves, in particular, to scan the deeper section, or security feature, of the at least two differently sized sections of the cross-sectional profile located radially around the cylinder core. Specifically, this query can be achieved through the segmental engagement of the first query element and the cross-sectional profile.

[0028] The second scanning element serves to scan, or for a second scan, of the cross-sectional profile. The second scanning element is preferably arranged in the cylinder housing such that, in its locked position, it projects into the cylinder core, and in its unlocked position, it does not project into the cylinder core. In other words, the second scanning element is not located within the cylinder core in its unlocked position. In its locked position, the second scanning element can penetrate into the keyway with a section of its profile if the keyway is aligned radially with the opening in the cylinder core's outer surface to the second scanning element. In other words, the second scanning element assumes its respective locked position when it can penetrate the keyway through the opening in the outer surface.In the locked position, the second sensing element is arranged sectionally within the cylinder core and the cylinder housing, thus preventing the rotation of the cylinder core. In particular, the second sensing element can then be subjected to shear stress between the cylinder core and the cylinder housing, thus preventing the rotation of the cylinder core. The second sensing element can, for example, be a substantially cylindrical or substantially cuboid element that is movable in a radial direction by means of a spring or an elastic element. The second sensing element can, in particular, have a flat or conical end configured to bear against the cross-sectional profile.If the cylindrical surface of the cylinder core faces the second scanning element, or if the opening in the cylindrical surface is blocked by the first narrow side of the key so that the second scanning element cannot penetrate the keyway, then the second scanning element cannot be moved into its respective locked position. In other words, the second scanning element is then held in its respective unlocked position. In the present disclosure, "penetration" means that the second scanning element penetrates sufficiently deeply into the cylinder core so that the rotational movement is blocked; if only one end, in particular a round one, of the second scanning element protrudes into the cylinder core, and if, by contacting an edge of the keyway, the rotational movement causes the second scanning element to move back into the unlocked position, this does not constitute penetration.

[0029] The initial query, or second query, using at least one second query element, is performed when the key is fully inserted into the cylinder by scanning the contour of the key's narrow side. This second query serves specifically to check the higher section, or security feature, of the at least two sections of different heights in the cross-sectional profile located radially around the cylinder core. Specifically, only the highest section in the vertical direction is checked. In other words, only the section located furthest outwards radially is checked. This query can occur when the cross-sectional profile passes the second query element during the rotation of the cylinder core.During the query process, the penetration of the second query element into the keyway can either be prevented by the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key, thus keeping the second query element in its release position, or allowed, thus moving the second query element into its locking position. Specifically, the querying by means of the second query element takes place through the opening in the cylinder's outer surface.

[0030] This allows for an improved query. The improved query is achieved through a two-stage process. The two-stage query queries the cross-sectional profile twice, by querying at least individual sections or security features of the profile using two different query methods sequentially. In other words, the second query checks a defined section or security feature of the cross-sectional profile that must have already passed the first query. Individual security features of the cross-sectional profile must therefore withstand two different query methods. This two-stage query thus goes beyond simply increasing the number of possible profile variations or key combinations. Rather, at least individual sections of the profile must meet two criteria.In particular, the cross-sectional profile must be low enough for the first stage of the verification process and high enough for the second stage. This creates a direct correlation between the first and second verification steps, thereby increasing security. Furthermore, the two-stage verification process ensures tamper resistance because the cross-sectional profile has at least two sections or security features of different heights along its vertical axis. In other words, the higher section of the cross-sectional profile cannot simply be removed or ground down to bypass the first verification step, as it would then no longer be available for the subsequent second verification step.

[0031] The design of the first scanning element offers further advantages. Since the first scanning element is fixed within the cylinder core, there is no wear-inducing relative movement between it and other components of the locking cylinder. Furthermore, a fixed arrangement is mechanically less complex than a movable one. This ensures a reduced failure probability and / or an extended service life for the locking cylinder. Moreover, only a single element, the first scanning element, is required to provide the two-stage scanning function, particularly for retrofitting. Installation is therefore quick and easy, reducing the potential for errors during installation and lowering installation costs.

[0032] According to the invention, a method for releasing or unlocking or locking a lock cylinder is provided, comprising a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the cylinder core has a keyway for inserting a key shaft in a key insertion direction, wherein the lock cylinder further comprises a plurality of locking devices configured to effect a locked state or a release state of the lock cylinder, wherein in the release state a rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing is permitted and in the locked state it is restricted, and wherein the lock cylinder can be moved from the locked state to the release state by fully inserting the key into the keyway of the cylinder core, characterized by the following steps: providing the lock cylinder and the key,wherein the locking cylinder has a first scanning element and at least a second scanning element for scanning a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key, wherein the cross-sectional profile extends in a longitudinal direction of the key shaft and is constant in the longitudinal direction over the entire length of the narrow side of the key, wherein the first scanning element is arranged in the cylinder core and projects into the keyway, first scanning of the cross-sectional profile, wherein the cross-sectional profile is guided along the first scanning element in the key insertion direction during the insertion of the key and is checked as it passes the first scanning element, in particular wherein the first scanning element and the cross-sectional profile engage with each other, wherein the first scanning ends when the key is fully inserted, followed by a second scanning of the cross-sectional profile with the key fully inserted.wherein the cross-sectional profile moves with the cylinder core during the rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing and is guided along the at least one second scanning element in one direction of rotation of the rotational movement, wherein the cross-sectional profile is arranged radially outside in the cylinder core and is radially accessible to the at least one second scanning element through the keyway, wherein the at least one second scanning element is radially biased inwards with respect to the cylinder core and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein the cross-sectional profile is checked when passing the at least one second scanning element, wherein the second checking ends,when the cross-sectional profile has completely passed the at least one second scanning element, or when the at least one second scanning element has been moved into the locking position, and either releasing or unlocking the rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing by holding the at least one second scanning element in the respective release position to unlock the locking cylinder, wherein the holding is effected by the at least one second scanning element bearing radially on the cross-sectional profile, or locking the rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing by moving the at least one second scanning element into the respective locking position to lock the locking cylinder.

[0033] The method is particularly suitable for use with a locking cylinder according to the invention or a locking system according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0034] The first query step serves in particular to query the deeper section or security feature of at least two sections of the cross-sectional profile of different heights in the radial direction of the cylinder core. The first query allows the, in particular, complete contour of the key's narrow side to be queried. The differently heightd sections of the contour of the first query element can query the differently heightd sections of the cross-sectional profile. In particular, the query can be performed by the first query element and the cross-sectional profile engaging with each other section by section. The first query step occurs as the cross-sectional profile is traversed. This means that the query is not performed across the entire cross-sectional profile simultaneously, but successively along the longitudinal direction of the key shaft. The first query allows sections of the contour that differ in height or depth to be detected.The radial section is too high. If a key being tested has a section that is too high, the initial query cannot proceed, and the key is prevented from being inserted further into the keyway by positive locking. In other words, the initial query can prevent the key from being inserted. Specifically, the initial query step is performed with the cylinder core in an unrotated position.

[0035] The second query step requires that a key matching the lock cylinder has been inserted, which releases the cylinder into the unlocked state. This second query step is specifically used to check the higher section, or security feature, of the at least two differently sized sections of the cross-sectional profile located radially within the cylinder core. The second query step is executed when the cross-sectional profile is guided along the at least one second query element in the direction of rotation. Since the keyway extends axially within the cylinder core, the entire keyway passes the at least one second query element simultaneously during the rotation. Thus, the complete cross-sectional profile is radially accessible to every second query element at this moment.This means that the entire cross-sectional profile can be scanned simultaneously, particularly at any point along the profile. The second scanning element can scan the cross-sectional profile radially by contact. This second scanning action verifies whether defined sections of the contour are sufficiently high in the vertical or radial direction. Specifically, the scanning is performed by the second scanning element through the opening in the cylinder's outer surface. During scanning, the penetration of the second scanning element into the keyway by the cross-sectional profile at the narrow end of the key can either be prevented, thus keeping the second scanning element in its release position, or allowed, thus moving the second scanning element into its locking position.In other words, the second query can prevent the inserted key from turning, thus preventing a full rotation to unlock the lock cylinder. Specifically, the second query occurs when the cylinder core is in a twisted position.

[0036] The release step requires that a key with the correct cross-sectional profile has been inserted into the cylinder at its narrow end. Releasing the rotation allows the complete rotation to be performed in either direction. Specifically, the remaining rotation can be carried out until the cylinder is unlocked. Particularly when multiple secondary locking elements are present, all of them must be held in their respective release positions to execute the release step.

[0037] The locking step is an alternative to the unlocking step. The locking step requires that a key without the correct cross-sectional profile has been inserted into the cylinder on its narrow side. The movement of at least one second scanning element into the respective locking position can be achieved through the opening in the cylinder's outer surface into the keyway. Once the locking step is complete, no further rotation is possible. The cylinder core is fixed in place by the at least one second scanning element. The cylinder core thus remains in its current position within the cylinder housing. Since the key can only be removed in the unrotated position, locking also prevents the removal of an incorrect key, particularly a counterfeit or manipulated key.In particular, when there are multiple second query elements, moving one of the second query elements into the respective locking position is sufficient to perform the locking step.

[0038] The method thus offers the same advantages as the aforementioned locking cylinder according to the invention or the locking system according to the exemplary embodiment of the invention. In particular, the two-stage query is provided by the defined sequence of the first query step before the second query step.

[0039] A method not belonging to the invention for manufacturing a key, in particular a bit key, and a complementary first scanning element for a locking cylinder according to the invention comprises the following steps: providing a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shaft extending along a longitudinal direction with two broad sides and two narrow sides; providing a scanning element blank for the first scanning element, in particular wherein the scanning element blank is plate-shaped; machining one of the narrow sides of the key to form a cross-sectional profile of the first narrow side of the key.wherein the cross-sectional profile in the longitudinal direction of the key shank is formed constantly over the entire length of the first narrow side of the key and machining of the query element blank for the first query element to form a test profile for checking the cross-sectional profile of the first narrow side of the key, wherein the test profile and the cross-sectional profile are formed section by section complementary to each other, so that the test profile and the cross-sectional profile can engage section by section.

[0040] The method is particularly suitable for manufacturing a key and for manufacturing a first query element of a locking cylinder according to the invention.

[0041] The key blank may already have a profile, particularly on the broad sides of the key, for unlocking a multiple of the locking cylinder's tumblers.

[0042] The test profile and the cross-sectional profile are formed complementarily to each other in sections. Complementary means that individual sections of both profiles can correspond to each other in terms of their geometric shape and form counterparts. In particular, the lowest section of each profile, relative to the vertical direction of the key or the radial direction of the cylinder core, is manufactured complementarily. However, both machining steps must be carried out in such a way that a sufficiently large clearance is ensured between the corresponding complementary sections of both profiles, so that the key can be inserted without the first key back contacting the first scanning element. To this end, overlapping manufacturing tolerance areas for both machining steps must be avoided.In particular, a section of the first probe element can be manufactured in such a way as to limit the maximum penetration depth in the recess. This ensures that the probe profile projects into the keyway to a defined depth in the opposite direction to the radial direction. This allows for the adjustment of clearance between the probe profile and the cross-sectional profile. The same applies to the production of multiple keys or probe elements. The machining steps can be carried out using forming or cutting processes, especially machining with a geometrically defined cutting edge, or chip-removing machining.

[0043] The machining of the first of the key's narrow sides is also carried out taking into account the shape, particularly the diameter, of the cylinder core. Specifically, a raised section of the cross-sectional profile can be designed to prevent every second probe element from entering the keyway. In other words, the raised section can be manufactured as the highest part of the cross-sectional profile, positioned at the level of the cylinder's outer surface. Furthermore, the machining of the first of the key's narrow sides can be carried out taking into account the shape of at least one second probe element. For example, the second probe element can be tapered at one end and designed to penetrate the keyway.In this case, the raised section in the width direction of the key shaft can be arranged with a width corresponding to the width of the cone of the second scanning element, so that the raised section can support the second scanning element, particularly at the level of the cylinder's outer surface, to prevent the second scanning element from penetrating the keyway. It goes without saying that, with a reversible key, a cross-sectional profile can also be formed on the second narrow side of the key by machining this narrow side. This is then a similar and functional cross-sectional profile, designed such that both cross-sectional profiles are rotationally symmetrical to each other with respect to a longitudinal axis of the key.

[0044] The processing of the query element blank is further carried out taking into account the acquisition of the cross-sectional profile. In particular, the query element blank must be processed in such a way that the acquisition of the cross-sectional profile can pass through the first query element when the key is inserted.

[0045] By manufacturing the key and its complementary first interrogation element for a locking cylinder in a coordinated manner, minimal play can be achieved between the corresponding complementary sections of both profiles. As the play decreases, the demands on the accuracy of the manufacturing steps increase. In particular, it can be more difficult for unauthorized third parties without knowledge of the tolerances to produce the key. In this way, the counterfeit resistance of the key and thus the security of the locking system can be improved.

[0046] A method for manufacturing a key, in particular a bit key, for a locking cylinder with a first scanning element and at least a second scanning element comprises the following steps: providing a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shaft extending along a longitudinal direction with two key broad sides and two key narrow sides, and machining a first of the key narrow sides to form a cross-sectional profile of the first key narrow side, wherein the cross-sectional profile is formed in a constant manner along the longitudinal direction of the key shaft over the entire length of the first key narrow side, wherein the cross-sectional profile is formed section by section complementary to a test profile of the first scanning element.so that the test profile and the cross-sectional profile can interlock section by section, and wherein the cross-sectional profile is designed with at least one projection such that a highest point of the projection, when the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder, is arranged in a radial direction with respect to a cylinder core of the locking cylinder at a height of the cylinder shell surface.

[0047] The method is particularly suitable for manufacturing a key that does not belong to the invention.

[0048] In particular, the step of machining the first of the key's narrow sides can be carried out in accordance with the step of machining the first of the key's narrow sides taking into account a shape, in particular the diameter, of the cylinder core and in particular taking into account a shape of the at least one second scanning element. In particular, the machining is carried out with knowledge of the manufacturing tolerances of the first scanning element of the locking cylinder for which the key is intended, wherein it can be a locking cylinder according to the invention.

[0049] In this way, keys suitable for two-stage authentication in a locking cylinder, particularly according to the invention, or for two-stage authentication during the method according to the invention, can be manufactured without the first authentication element having to be manufactured in the same process. In this way, for example, keys can be duplicated or the cross-sectional profile can be subsequently manufactured on the first narrow side of the key if keys of an existing locking system are to be retrofitted for two-stage authentication.

[0050] A method for configuring a locking system with at least one locking cylinder and at least one key comprises the following step: Inserting a first query element into the at least one locking cylinder, wherein the first query element is configured to query the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key of the at least one key, wherein the insertion is carried out such that the first query element protrudes into the keyway in order to query the cross-sectional profile, in particular over an entire length of the cross-sectional profile during the insertion of the key.

[0051] The method is particularly suitable for configuring a locking system according to the embodiment of the invention.

[0052] The insertion step fixes the first sensor element immovably, and in particular rigidly, to the cylinder core. Insertion is typically performed with the cylinder core removed. Specifically, the first receiving element can be fixed by inserting a section into a slot or receiving bore in the cylinder core. The insertion process can be reversible. This allows for simple and cost-effective installation of the first sensor element.

[0053] The installation can be carried out retroactively, particularly after the locking system has been commissioned. This makes it possible to subsequently change the coding for unlocking each cylinder in the system. For example, similar to construction locks, two types of keys can be used, so that after construction is complete, the profile detection elements can be installed to allow the use of only one type of key—namely, the key with a corresponding cross-sectional profile on the first narrow side of the key. In another application, access to specific areas can be selectively restricted by equipping only the relevant cylinders with a first detection element, thus regulating access to those areas.In this case, identical keys can be used throughout the entire locking system, differing only in the design of the narrow side of the key. This ensures that only those keys with the matching cross-sectional profile on a narrow side grant access to the selectively restricted areas. This provides greater flexibility in configuring the locking cylinder.

[0054] The task posed at the beginning is therefore completely solved.

[0055] In one embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is arranged in the cylinder core in the key insertion direction in front of every second query element.

[0056] This ensures that no section of the cross-sectional profile is made accessible to the second query using at least one other query element without first being queried by the first query using the first query element. Thus, the two-stage query process is guaranteed.

[0057] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the first query element is designed to query the cross-sectional profile in the key insertion direction over the entire length of the key's narrow side during the insertion of the key into the key channel.

[0058] The first scanning element can be positioned in the front section of the keyway in the key insertion direction, so that the first narrow side of the key completely passes the first scanning element when the key is inserted. In other words, the first scanning element must be positioned such that, when the key is fully inserted, it lies in a position along the length of the key shaft between the first narrow side of the key and the key head.

[0059] In this way, the cross-sectional profile can be used for two-stage querying over the entire length of the key's narrow side.

[0060] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that at least one second query element is designed to block the rotational movement in its locking position, so that the cylinder core is irreversibly fixed in the twisted position and the key can no longer be removed from the key channel.

[0061] In this way, the lock cylinder is protected against further attacks with an incorrect key, as the fixed key must first be removed. Furthermore, the fixed key blocks access to the locking mechanisms and every other interrogation element, preventing any manipulation of these components. An additional advantage is that the attempted break-in will not go undetected, since the key is left in the lock cylinder.

[0062] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the cylinder core has at least one radially inwardly projecting receptacle, in particular a bore, into the keyway for receiving the at least one second scanning element, wherein the fixing of the cylinder core in the rotated position is provided by means of a positive locking of the at least one second scanning element in the at least one receptacle.

[0063] The receptacle forms a radial access point or opening into the keyway. The receptacle is designed to correspond to the outer shape of the second scanning element. The receptacle is provided in a quantity corresponding to the number of second scanning elements. Each receptacle is designed such that the cross-sectional profile of a matching key prevents the penetration of every second scanning element into the corresponding receptacle. For this purpose, the receptacle can, for example, be positioned radially further inward than the highest point of the cross-sectional profile in the vertical direction.

[0064] In this way, every second sensor element in the locked position can be positioned in a defined location, preferably across its entire surface, in the tangential direction within the fixture. This improves the locking of the rotational movement.

[0065] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the twisted position is twisted by 90° to 270°, particularly preferably by 120° to 240°, especially by 180° to the untwisted position.

[0066] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first scanning element has a test profile that projects radially inwards into the keyway, and wherein the first scanning element is configured by means of the test profile to scan the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key, in particular during the insertion of the key, and wherein the at least one second scanning element is configured to penetrate radially into the cylinder core in the keyway, such that the at least one second scanning element is in the respective locking position to lock the rotational movement of the cylinder core, and wherein the at least one second scanning element is further configured, in particular when the key is fully inserted, to support itself radially on the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key in order to remain in the respective release position to release the rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing.

[0067] The test profile is formed integrally with the first scanning element. In other words, the test profile is formed with the first scanning element. The test profile projects radially inwards into the keyway, particularly in sections. In other words, the test profile projects into the keyway in the opposite direction to the radial direction. The test profile may have a projection for this purpose. The test profile forms the contour of the first scanning element inside the keyway. For the initial scanning, the test profile can scan the differently sized sections of the cross-sectional profile using the varying heights of the contour of the first scanning element.

[0068] The second scanning element, due to its radial preload, tends to move radially towards the cylinder axis of the cylinder core. If the keyway with its radial opening points towards the second scanning element, the second scanning element can penetrate radially into the keyway due to the preload. However, if the first narrow side of the key is positioned with the cross-sectional profile in such a way that it blocks the opening, the second scanning element is in contact with the cross-sectional profile and is held in this position. In other words, the second scanning element then rests against the cross-sectional profile. Specifically, a contact surface can be provided to rest against the contour of the cross-sectional profile in such a way that no part of the second scanning element can penetrate the keyway and block the rotational movement. The contact surface can be, for example, flat, round, or conical.

[0069] In this way, the locking cylinder provides two different query methods for querying the security features of the cross-sectional profile for a two-stage query.

[0070] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the test profile has at least one projection for querying at least one depression of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key.

[0071] The depression can be, in particular, a groove. The depression extends against the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction.

[0072] The projection can detect the recess, particularly during key insertion. For this purpose, the projection can be designed to be complementary to the recess. This means that at least one section of the projection is designed to be complementary to a section of the recess. The projection has a length opposite to the radial direction. The length can be 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm, and more specifically 0.4 mm. The projection has a width in the tangential direction. The width can be 0.4 mm to 1.2 mm, preferably 0.6 mm to 1 mm, and more specifically 0.8 mm.

[0073] The protrusion and the recess are designed in such a way that no collision can occur between them when the key is inserted. In this way, the initial query is achieved through shape matching.

[0074] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is set up by means of the projection to query the depth of the recess of the cross-sectional profile of the key's narrow side.

[0075] The depth serves as a safety feature of the cross-sectional profile. The depth extends from a surface of the narrow side of the key, perpendicular to the surface and opposite the vertical direction, into the key shaft. The depth can be 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.7 mm, particularly preferably 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm, and especially 0.5 mm.

[0076] In particular, a plurality of protrusions can be provided, each querying a plurality of depressions. In this case, each protrusion checks the depth of one of the depressions. The plurality of protrusions and depressions then correspond.

[0077] The first query element allows the key to be inserted if the key is inserted deep enough to bypass the projection of the first query element. In this case, the first security feature is fulfilled. This enables the first stage of the two-stage verification process for the lock cylinder.

[0078] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the projection has a radially inwardly pointing end face which is designed according to a bottom of the recess of the key narrow side, wherein the end face is designed straight and wherein the end face is configured to query a contour of the bottom.

[0079] The bottom is the lower surface of the depression. The bottom contour is a part or section of the cross-sectional profile's contour. In particular, the bottom contour can be the deepest section of the cross-sectional profile's contour. The bottom contour can also serve as an additional safety feature.

[0080] The straight design of the end face is particularly well-suited for scanning the contour of the base, especially when the base also has a straight contour. In this context, "straight" means that the end face or base is not wavy or corrugated in cross-section. In other words, the contour in the area of ​​the end face or base does not change direction. With minimal clearance, even small angular deviations between the straight contours can lead to a collision during the initial scanning of the cross-sectional profile. This places high demands on manufacturing accuracy, thereby increasing counterfeit protection. Another advantage of the straight design lies in its excellent reproducibility, particularly through machining processes. This allows for maintaining high accuracy even with larger production runs.

[0081] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is equipped by means of the front face of the projection to query an inclination angle of the bottom of the depression of the cross-sectional profile of the key narrow side.

[0082] The angle of inclination defines an inclination of the base relative to a transverse plane of the key shaft that is perpendicular to the broad sides of the key and parallel to a longitudinal plane. In particular, the end face has an angle of inclination complementary to that of the base. The angle of inclination of the base can be an additional security feature.

[0083] In conjunction with the straight design of the front and base, the angle of inclination creates a combined security feature. In other words, both the angle of inclination and the flatness of both elements must match to overcome the first stage of the two-stage verification of the lock cylinder. This further increases the counterfeit protection.

[0084] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the projection also has at least one outer surface which is designed according to at least one flank of the recess, wherein each outer surface is designed straight and wherein each outer surface is configured to query a contour of the flank.

[0085] The flank is a side or lateral surface of the recess. The contour of the flank is a part or section of the cross-sectional profile's contour. In particular, the flank contour can be a section of the cross-sectional profile's contour that defines the recess's width. The flank contour can also serve as an additional safety feature.

[0086] The design of the flank can be analogous to the design of the base. This results in the same advantages for this design. In particular, the safety is further increased by the additional safety feature.

[0087] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is further configured by means of each outer surface of the projection to query a flank angle of at least one flank of the recess of the cross-sectional profile of the key's narrow side, wherein the flank angle is arranged between the flank and a bottom of the recess.

[0088] To determine the flank angle, each outer side can be arranged at an angle to the front face, with the respective angle corresponding to the flank angle of the respective flank to the bottom of the depression.

[0089] The design of the outer surface and the flank angle can be analogous to the design of the front face and the angle of inclination of the base. This results in the same advantages for this design. In particular, safety is further increased by this additional safety feature.

[0090] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is equipped by means of the projection to query a depth and a width of the recess, wherein the at least one recess is a groove with two flanks.

[0091] The groove has a width between the flanks in the lateral direction (tangential direction) and a depth opposite to the vertical direction (radial direction). The first sensing element is thus designed such that there is clearance between the end face and the base, and between each outer surface and a flank. The manufacturing tolerances of both outer surfaces and both flanks form a tolerance chain, further increasing the requirements for manufacturing accuracy.

[0092] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the test profile also has at least one recess for querying at least one protrusion of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key, and wherein the at least one second query element is arranged to support itself radially on the at least one protrusion of the narrow side of the key in order to remain in the respective release position.

[0093] The raised section extends vertically. In other words, the raised section is positioned higher than the recess. The raised section is offset from the recess in the lateral direction, so that the projection of the first scanning element and the raised section are not aligned axially. In other words, the raised section and the projection are designed so that they cannot collide when the key is inserted.

[0094] The recess can detect the protrusion, particularly during key insertion. For this purpose, the recess can be designed to be complementary to the protrusion. This means that at least one section of the recess is designed to be complementary to a section of the protrusion. The recess has a radial length. The recess length can be 0.04 mm to 0.4 mm, preferably 0.06 mm to 0.3 mm, and more preferably 0.08 mm to 0.2 mm, particularly 0.1 mm. The recess has a tangential width. The recess width can be 0.4 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm, particularly 0.6 mm. The recess extends axially through the entire thickness of the first detection element. The recess is positioned higher than the end face of the projection in the radial and vertical directions.

[0095] The recess and the raised section are designed so that no collision can occur between them when the key is inserted. In this way, the first check is achieved through a shape comparison. The first check element allows the key to be inserted if the raised section can bypass the first check element in the area of ​​the recess. In particular, this fulfills an additional security feature. Thus, the first stage of the two-stage check of the locking cylinder can also be implemented.

[0096] The second query element can rest against the raised section, particularly during the rotational movement and with the key fully inserted. For this purpose, the raised section of the cross-sectional profile can be designed such that it prevents the penetration of each second query element into the keyway. In other words, the raised section can be designed as the highest part of the cross-sectional profile, positioned at the same level as the cylinder's outer surface. This allows for a second stage of the two-stage verification of the locking cylinder.

[0097] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the first query element is further equipped, by means of at least one recess, to query the height of at least one elevation of the cross-sectional profile of the key's narrow side.

[0098] The height serves as a further safety feature of the cross-sectional profile. The height extends perpendicularly from the surface of the key's narrow side in the vertical direction. The height can be 0.05 mm to 0.41 mm, preferably 0.07 mm to 0.31 mm, particularly preferably 0.09 mm to 0.21 mm, and especially 0.11 mm.

[0099] In particular, multiple cutouts can be provided, each querying multiple surveys. In this case, each cutout checks the value of one of the surveys. The majority of the cutouts and surveys then correspond.

[0100] The second query element allows the key to be inserted if the height of the elevation is sufficiently deep to bypass the first query element in the area of ​​the recess.

[0101] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the recess has an end face pointing radially inwards with respect to the cylinder core, which is designed according to a surface of at least one elevation, and wherein the end face is designed straight and wherein the end face is configured to query a contour of the surface.

[0102] The surface contour can be another security feature. In particular, the surface contour can be the highest section of the cross-sectional profile's contour.

[0103] The design of the front face of the recess and the contour of the raised surface can be analogous to the design of the front face of the projection and the contour of the base. This design offers the same advantages. In particular, safety is further enhanced by this additional safety feature.

[0104] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is configured, by means of the end face of each recess, to query an angle of inclination of the surface of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key, wherein the inclined surface defines a highest point in the profile cross-section, and wherein the at least one second query element is configured to support itself on the elevation at a contact line, wherein each elevation has the contact line extending from the respective highest point in the longitudinal direction of the key shaft, in particular wherein the transition from the surface to the respective flank is a chamfer.

[0105] The surface angle defines an inclination of the surface to a transverse plane perpendicular to the broad sides of the key and parallel to a longitudinal plane of the key shank. In particular, the end face of the recess has an angle of inclination complementary to the surface. The surface angle of inclination can be a further security feature. The angle of inclination can, in particular, be zero.

[0106] The highest point in the profile cross-section is the highest point of the profile's contour. This highest point can be located at the level of the cylinder's lateral surface.

[0107] The contact line is a projection of the highest point in the longitudinal or axial direction. The width of the end of the second scanning element and the position of the contact line in the width direction of the key shaft can be defined such that the end of the second scanning element meets the contact line radially, and the raised section can support the second scanning element, particularly at the level of the cylinder's outer surface, to prevent the second scanning element from penetrating the keyway.

[0108] The chamfer provides a defined edge for the contact line. In particular, this makes it very easy to determine the position of the contact line.

[0109] In this way, the interaction of the data, in addition to querying the height of the cross-sectional profile, can also provide a safety feature, including the position of the contact line.

[0110] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the test profile is designed to project with the projection between two protrusions of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key into the recess or groove of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key in order to probe a contour of the recess or groove, wherein the test profile has two recesses and the test profile is further designed to probe a protrusion of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key with each of the two recesses, in particular wherein the recesses each probe a contour of the protrusion, in particular wherein the respective highest point of the protrusions is at the same height, so that both protrusions are designed to jointly support the at least one second probe element.

[0111] The same height of the protrusions is a height in the radial direction of the cylinder core or the vertical direction of the key shaft. If the second query element can be supported on both protrusions, the load can be distributed across both protrusions.

[0112] This design of the test profile and the cross-sectional profile enables the profiles to interact. Because the lowest section or point and simultaneously the highest section or points of the cross-sectional profile are queried to overcome the first stage of the two-stage verification process, and because the highest points of the cross-sectional profile are queried again to overcome the second stage, increased tamper resistance is provided. Removing the cross-sectional profile to overcome the first stage therefore leads to failure at the second stage.

[0113] It goes without saying that the test profile and the cross-sectional profile can also be designed in exactly the opposite way. In other words, the test profile can have two protrusions and a single recess, and the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key can have a single protrusion and two recesses, each correspondingly shaped.

[0114] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element is designed in a plate-like form and has at least one fastening section for fastening the first query element in the cylindrical core.

[0115] The first sensor element has an axial dimension that is smaller than its radial and tangential dimensions. Its plate shape makes the first sensor element particularly easy and efficient to manufacture.

[0116] The mounting section is spaced apart from the test section. The mounting section can, for example, be an extension that can be inserted into a receptacle, such as a recess, slot, or bore in the cylindrical core.

[0117] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that at least one second query element is a locking element, in particular a locking element, especially a housing pin.

[0118] Particularly when the second query element is a housing pin, it can be provided in a particularly efficient manner. For example, the housing pin of one of the locking devices can then be used both as a housing pin for the locking device's pin tumbler and as the second query element.

[0119] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the locking cylinder has a plurality of second query elements, preferably at least 4 second query elements, particularly preferably at least 6 second query elements.

[0120] A higher number of secondary locking elements increases the security of the locking cylinder. Firstly, it reduces the likelihood that every second locking element can be manipulated in such a way that it remains in the release position; secondly, it also increases the resistance to breaking into the locking cylinder, since every second locking element can block the rotation of the cylinder core.

[0121] In a further embodiment, the cross-sectional profile may have at least one recess, wherein the recess is configured to be scanned by at least one projection of the test profile of the first scanning element over the entire length of the first narrow side of the key, and wherein the cross-sectional profile has at least one projection, wherein the at least one projection is configured to be scanned by the at least one second scanning element, wherein the at least one second scanning element is radially biased inwards with respect to the cylinder core and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein the at least one projection is further configured to radially support the at least one second scanning element with respect to the cylinder core in order to hold the at least one second scanning element in the respective release position.to release a rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing.

[0122] The deepening, the advancement, and the survey can in particular refer to the deepening, the advancement, and the survey according to one of the other configurations.

[0123] The indentation, in particular its depth, and the raised section, in particular its height, can each be a security feature of the key. By designing the indentation and the raised section in such a way that no collision occurs with the first interrogation element when the key is inserted, it is possible to overcome the first stage of the two-stage interrogation of the locking cylinder.

[0124] By designing the elevation in such a way that each second query element is radially supported on the elevation during the rotational movement, it is possible to overcome the second stage of the two-stage query of the locking cylinder.

[0125] In this way, the cross-sectional profile provides a code for a two-stage query using the security features.

[0126] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that at least one recess has a depth that can be queried from the projection of the test profile.

[0127] The depth can refer in particular to the depth specified in one of the other configurations. The depth can be a security feature of the key.

[0128] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one recess has a bottom, wherein the bottom has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein the bottom is arranged to be queried by an end face of a projection of the first query element of the locking cylinder which points radially inwards with respect to the cylinder core.

[0129] The base and its contour can refer in particular to the base and its contour according to one of the other configurations. The base's contour can be a further security feature of the key.

[0130] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the base has an angle of inclination which defines an inclination of the base to a transverse plane of the key shaft extending perpendicular to the broad sides of the key and parallel to a longitudinally extending transverse plane of the key shaft, wherein the angle of inclination of the base can be queried from the end face of the projection.

[0131] The angle of inclination of the floor can refer in particular to the angle of inclination of the floor according to one of the other configurations. The angle of inclination of the floor can be a further security feature of the key.

[0132] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one recess has at least one flank, wherein each flank has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein each flank is configured to be queried from an outside of the projection of the first query element of the locking cylinder.

[0133] The flank and the flank contour can refer in particular to the flank and the flank contour according to one of the other configurations. The flank contour can be a further security feature of the key.

[0134] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that each flank has a flank angle that defines an inclination of the flank to the ground, whereby the flank angle of the flank can be queried from the outside of the projection.

[0135] The flank angle can refer in particular to the flank angle according to one of the other configurations. The flank angle can be a further security feature of the key.

[0136] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that at least one recess is a groove with two flanks and has a depth and a width that can be queried from the projection of the test profile.

[0137] The groove can be, in particular, a groove according to one of the other designs. The depth and width of the groove can each be an additional security feature of the key.

[0138] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that at least one measurement has a height that can be queried from at least one recess of the test profile.

[0139] The level of the fee can refer in particular to the level of the fee according to one of the other configurations. The level of the fee can be an additional security feature of the key.

[0140] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that each projection of the first narrow side of the key has a surface, wherein the surface of each projection in the profile cross-section has a straight contour, wherein each projection is configured to be queried by an end face of the recess of the first query element that points radially inwards with respect to the cylinder core.

[0141] The surface and its contour, as well as the face of the recess, can be, in particular, the surface and its contour, as well as the face of the recess, according to one of the other configurations. The surface contour can be a further security feature of the key.

[0142] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the surface of each projection is inclined at an angle of inclination, wherein the inclined surface defines a highest point in the profile cross-section, wherein the angle of inclination of the surface is configured to be queried from the face of the recess, and wherein each projection has a contact line extending from the respective highest point in the longitudinal direction of the key shaft, wherein the projection is configured to support the at least one second query element on the contact line, in particular wherein the transition from the surface to the respective flank is a chamfer.

[0143] The surface inclination angle, the highest point, the contact line, and the chamfer can refer, in particular, to the surface inclination angle, the highest point, the contact line, and the chamfer according to one of the other configurations. The height of the respective highest point or contact line in the radial or vertical direction can be a further security feature of the key. Furthermore, the position of the contact line in the lateral direction can also be a security feature of the key.

[0144] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the cross-sectional profile has two protrusions and a depression or groove, wherein the cross-sectional profile is designed by means of the protrusions to allow the projection between the protrusions to extend into the depression and to expose a contour of the depression or groove for scanning by the protrusion, and wherein the protrusions each extend past the protrusion into a recess of the test profile for scanning the respective protrusion, in particular wherein a contour of the protrusion can be scanned from the recess, in particular wherein the highest point of the protrusions is at the same height, so that both protrusions are designed to jointly support the at least one second scanning element.

[0145] The same height of the protrusions is a height in the radial direction of the cylinder core or the vertical direction of the key shaft. If the second query element can be supported on both protrusions, the load can be distributed across both protrusions.

[0146] This design of the key's cross-sectional profile to match the test profile enables the profiles to interlock. Since the lowest section or point and the highest section or points of the cross-sectional profile are configured to be queried simultaneously to overcome the first stage of the two-stage verification process, and the highest points of the cross-sectional profile are further configured to be queried again to overcome the second stage of the two-stage verification process, increased tamper resistance is provided. Removing the cross-sectional profile to overcome the first stage therefore leads to failure at the second stage.In particular, even a partial removal of the surveys can lead to failure at the second stage of the two-stage query if the surveys are no longer designed to prevent the intrusion of at least one second query element.

[0147] It goes without saying that the test profile and the cross-sectional profile can also be designed in exactly the opposite way. In other words, the test profile can have two protrusions and a single recess, and the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key can have a single protrusion and two recesses, each correspondingly shaped.

[0148] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the cross-sectional profile of the first narrow side of the key is designed symmetrically to a central plane of the key shaft extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the key and parallel to the broad sides of the key.

[0149] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element, during the first query by means of a test profile that projects radially inwards into the key channel, simultaneously queries a lowest point of a depression of the cross-sectional profile and a highest point of a protrusion of the cross-sectional profile, wherein the highest point, with the key fully inserted, is located further outwards in a radial direction than the lowest point with respect to the cylinder core, and wherein the step of releasing the rotational movement of the cylinder core is carried out by the at least one second query element bearing radially on the protrusion of the cross-sectional profile.

[0150] The test profile, the lowest point of the depression and the highest point of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile, as well as the radial direction, can in particular be the test profile, the lowest point of the depression and the highest point of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile, as well as the radial direction according to one of the other configurations.

[0151] As previously described, the support on the elevation does not necessarily have to be placed at the highest point in order to prevent the penetration of the second query element.

[0152] The deepest point of the depression and the highest point of the ridge can simultaneously represent the deepest and highest points of the cross-sectional profile. The deepest and highest points can each serve as a safety feature for the first check. The highest point can also serve as a safety feature for the second check. The deepest and highest points are offset from each other vertically (radially) and tangentially (laterally). This results in an interlocking of the test profile and the cross-sectional profile. In this way, it is ensured that passing the first stage of the two-stage check is only successful if at least the safety feature of the deepest point can be successfully verified.By rechecking the highest point through the second query, it is ensured that this security feature must overcome both the first and second stages of the two-stage query.

[0153] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one second query element queries the highest point of the elevation during the second query, and wherein the step of releasing the rotational movement of the cylinder core takes place by the at least one second query element supporting itself radially on the highest point of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile.

[0154] In this way, a particularly strict standard is placed on the examination of the cross-sectional profile during the second query, thereby increasing the safety of the second stage of the query.

[0155] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element, when first querying using the test profile, also simultaneously queries a lower point of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile, wherein the lower point, with the key fully inserted, is arranged in the radial direction between the highest point and the lowest point with respect to the cylinder core.

[0156] The lower point of the elevation, alongside the highest point, is a second prominent feature that serves as a security indicator. Since the lower point is located deeper than the highest point in the radial direction of the elevation, it can also be checked during the initial query whether the depth of the lower point is exceeded by the elevation.

[0157] In this way, a more complex form of data collection can be queried using a corresponding test profile. This increases the security of the first stage of the query.

[0158] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element, during the first query, also queries a contour of a bottom of a depression of the cross-sectional profile and / or a contour of at least one flank of the depression and / or a contour of a surface of a raised section of the cross-sectional profile, in particular wherein each contour in the profile cross-section is a straight contour.

[0159] The contour of the bottom of the depression and the contour of at least one flank of the depression as well as the contour of the surface of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile can in particular be the contour of the bottom of the depression and the contour of at least one flank of the depression as well as the contour of the surface of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile according to one of the other embodiments.

[0160] In this way, a more complex form of in-depth analysis and / or data collection can be queried using a corresponding test profile. This increases the reliability of the first stage of the query. In particular, a straight contour provides the advantages of the first three aspects described above.

[0161] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the first query element, during the first query, also queries an inclination angle of the bottom of the depression and / or a flank angle of at least one flank of the depression and / or an inclination angle of the surface of each elevation.

[0162] The angle of inclination of the bottom of the depression, the flank angle of at least one flank of the depression and the angle of inclination of the surface of each elevation may in particular be the angle of inclination of the bottom of the depression, the flank angle of at least one flank of the depression and the angle of inclination of the surface of each elevation according to one of the other embodiments.

[0163] The tilt angle and the flank angle can each provide an additional security feature for the initial query.

[0164] In this way, a more complex form of in-depth analysis and / or data collection can be queried using a corresponding test profile. This increases the security of the first stage of the query.

[0165] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that the first query element queries a depth of the recess relative to the radial direction of the cylinder core and a width of the recess relative to a direction of the cylinder core orthogonal to the radial direction and to the key insertion direction during the first query, and wherein the at least one second query element queries a height of the protrusion during the second query.

[0166] The depth and width of the depression as well as the height of the elevation can refer in particular to the depth and width of the depression as well as the height of the elevation according to one of the other configurations.

[0167] Furthermore, it can be provided that at least one second query element, during the second query, queries the position of the elevation in the latitude or tangential direction. As described above, this can be achieved in particular by querying the position of the contact line.

[0168] In this way, the cross-sectional profile can provide various security features designed to be queried using a two-stage verification process. These security features are specifically configured to be queried using two different methods. It may be necessary for individual security features to be present simultaneously when overcoming a stage of the verification process. For example, the width and depth of the recess must correspond to the test profile when the key is inserted in order to overcome the first stage. Similarly, the height and position of the raised section during the rotation of the cylinder core must ensure that the second verification element is held in the release position to overcome the second stage. This increases security and ensures tamper resistance.

[0169] In a further embodiment, it can be provided that at least three, preferably three to six, particularly preferably five, geometrically complementary features of the test profile and the cross-sectional profile are formed by the processing steps in such a way that a code is generated.

[0170] The geometric features can be, in particular, individual safety features described above, according to one of the configurations. Specifically, they can be the position of a point or section of the profiles in the radial or tangential direction. Specifically, they can be the design or shape of the contour of a section of the profiles. Specifically, they can be the geometric dimensions that exist between two sections of the profiles, such as an angle or a distance.

[0171] The coding is created by equipping the cross-sectional profile – and the complementary test profile – with a combination of individual features designed to undergo the two-stage query as described above. The number of features used increases the security of the locking cylinder. Different codings can be provided by varying the features.

[0172] In this way, it is possible to provide different pairs of cross-sectional profiles and complementary test profiles. This allows for the provision of locking systems that differ only in the cross-sectional profile of the matching keys and the complementary test profile of the respective first query element. This makes it possible to specify a locking system that offers increased flexibility in its configuration.

[0173] In a further embodiment, the method may be further characterized by the following step: Insertion of a further first query element into at least one further locking cylinder, wherein the further first query element is configured to query the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key of at least one key or to query a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of at least one further key, wherein the insertion is carried out in such a way that the further first query element projects into the key channel in order to query the cross-sectional profile, in particular over an entire length of the cross-sectional profile during the insertion of the key or the further key, wherein the further first query element has a test profile that is different from the test profile of the first query element.

[0174] The additional locking cylinder can be a second locking cylinder in a master key system. In this context, a master key system is understood to be, for example, a system that locks or unlocks different access points, particularly in a building, each with its own locking cylinder.

[0175] The second initial query element and its test profile can be of a similar design to the first query element and its test profile according to one of the other configurations. However, the second initial query element and its test profile differ from the first query element and its test profile with regard to the coding. In other words, the locking system then has at least two locking cylinders that differ with regard to the test element and the coding to be queried.

[0176] In this way, different codings for various locking systems can be provided within the master key system. In other words, it is then possible to vary the coding for individual locking cylinders. In particular, such a master key system can also include locking cylinders without the first query element according to the invention, and thus also without two-stage querying. For example, all keys in the master key system will then fit into every locking cylinder without a first query element; however, only the keys with the matching cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key will fit into the locking cylinders with a first query element. In this example, the additional first query element can have a projection that widens in the width direction. Therefore, only those keys whose cross-sectional profile has a groove that widens in the width direction on the narrow side of the key will fit into the additional locking cylinder.

[0177] This offers the advantage that, by configuring individual locking systems within a master key system, different access areas can be easily defined based on their different coding. Each key can be identical except for the design of the first narrow side of the key.

[0178] In a further embodiment, the method may be further characterized by the following steps: removing the first query element from the locking cylinder; and in particular, replacing the first query element of the locking cylinder with another first query element, wherein the replacement step includes a step of inserting the other first query element; and in particular, providing at least one further key for the at least one locking cylinder of the locking system, in particular wherein the further key has a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key.

[0179] The removal process can be carried out particularly easily if the first sensor element can be removed manually. For this purpose, a suitable fit can be provided between the mounting section of the first sensor element and the receptacle of the cylinder core, which on the one hand allows for a defined positioning of the first sensor element in the cylinder core and on the other hand enables removal by hand.

[0180] The second initial query element can be of a similar design to the first query element according to one of the other configurations. However, the second initial query element differs from the first query element with regard to the coding of the test profile.

[0181] The additional key can, in particular, have a cross-sectional profile complementary to the test profile of the additional first query element. However, the additional key can also be designed without the complementary cross-sectional profile.

[0182] The design of the first query element offers the advantage that it can be inserted or replaced, particularly retroactively. This allows for easy replacement of the first query element. In other words, the coding of individual locking systems can be changed even after installation. Thus, for example, if a key is lost, a new code can be provided efficiently and cost-effectively without having to replace the entire cylinder of every locking system.

[0183] Another advantage is that the coding of individual locking cylinders can be changed, particularly temporarily, depending on the time of day. For example, before planned construction work in a building, the first query element might be removed only from the locking cylinders that restrict access to the areas where the construction work is to take place. The contracted construction company could then be provided with keys that, while suitable for unlocking the locking cylinders themselves, do not have a cross-sectional profile on the back of the key and therefore do not meet the coding requirements of those locking cylinders with a first query element.Furthermore, it is also possible to subsequently provide the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of such keys, particularly by machining, if, after the construction work, the first or the next query element is inserted into the locking cylinders by the insertion step, so that the keys can continue to unlock the locking cylinders.

[0184] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawing and are explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a locking system in an unrotated position; Fig. 2 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the locking cylinder made of Fig. 1 in an unrotated position; Fig. 3 an exploded view of the locking system on Fig. 1 and individual elements of the lock cylinder; Fig. 4 an isometric view of an embodiment of the key; Fig. 5 a side view of the key made of Fig. 4 ; Fig. 6 a cross-sectional view along a line VI-VI in Fig. 5 Fig. 7 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the first scanning element of the locking cylinder; Fig. 8 a front view of the first scanning element made of Fig. 7 ; Fig. 9 an isometric view of the key made of Fig. 4 and the first query element from Fig. 7 ; Fig. 10 a side view of the key and the first query element from Fig. 9 ; Fig. 11 a cross-sectional view along a line XI-XI in Fig. 10 Fig. 12A an isometric view of an embodiment of the locking system in a twisted position; Fig. 12B legs isometric view of the embodiment of the locking system in a twisted position Fig. 12A , shown without the cylinder housing; Fig. 13 a side view of the locking system made of Fig. 12A Fig. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the lock cylinder. Fig. 12 and a key without or with a filed cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key along a line XIV-XIV in Fig. 13 Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the lock cylinder and the key with the matching cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key. Fig. 12 along a line XV-XV in Fig. 13 ; Fig. 16 an enlargement of the area marked XVI from Fig. 8 ; Fig. 17 an enlargement of the area marked XVII from Fig. 6 Fig. 18 a schematic flowchart of a method for unlocking or locking a lock cylinder; Fig. 19 a schematic flowchart of a method for producing a key and a complementary first query element for a lock cylinder; Fig. 20 a schematic flowchart of a method for producing a key; Fig. 21 a schematic flowchart of a method for configuring a locking system; Fig. 22 a schematic flowchart of a further method for configuring a locking system; and Fig. 23 a schematic flowchart of a further method for configuring a locking system.

[0185] Fig. 1 Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a locking system 100. The locking system 100 comprises a locking cylinder 10 and a key 60. The locking system 100 is in an unrotated position. This means that the key 60 has not been rotated after being inserted into the locking cylinder 10.

[0186] Fig. 2 shows an isometric view of the locking cylinder 10 of the locking system 100. Fig. 1 The lock cylinder 10 has a cylinder housing 12 and a cylinder core 14 rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing 12. The cylinder core has a keyway 16 for inserting a key shaft 62 of the key. The lock cylinder 10 is in the unrotated position. This means that the cylinder core 14 is not rotated in the cylinder housing 12. In the unrotated position, the key 60 can be inserted into and removed from the keyway 16.

[0187] Fig. 3 shows an exploded view of the locking system 100 from Fig. 1 Furthermore, it shows Fig. 3 Individual elements of the locking cylinder 10. Non-essential components are not shown in the exploded view. The locking system 100 is located in Fig. 3 also in the unrotated position. This means that the cylinder core 14 is not rotated relative to the cylinder housing 12 by a rotational movement 28.

[0188] The cylinder core 14 has a substantially cylindrical shape with a cylinder axis 18 and a cylindrical surface 15. Corresponding to this cylindrical shape, a radial direction 22 and an axial direction 20 are defined. The axial direction 20 runs parallel and the radial direction 22 orthogonal to the cylinder axis 18. Furthermore, a tangential direction 24 is defined, which runs orthogonal to both the radial and axial directions. The cylinder core 14 is rotatably mounted about the cylinder axis 18 in the cylinder housing 12. The cylinder core 14 is located in an axial receptacle or axial bore 13 of the cylinder housing 12. The cylinder core 14 can perform the rotational movement 28 about the cylinder axis 18. The radial direction 22 points radially outwards from the cylinder axis 18.

[0189] The cylinder core 14 has a keyway 16 for receiving the key 60. When the key 60, which matches the locking mechanisms (not shown), is fully inserted into the keyway 16, all locking mechanisms are unlocked, thus releasing the cylinder 10. If a non-matching key is inserted, the cylinder remains locked. In other words, rotation 28 is only possible when the correct key 60 is fully inserted. The locking mechanisms can be pin tumblers.

[0190] The keyway 16 extends in the axial direction 20 and has an axial opening 21 at one axial end of the cylinder core, through which the key 60 can be inserted or pushed into the keyway. The key 60 can be inserted into the keyway 16 in a key insertion direction 26 and removed from the keyway 16 in the opposite direction to the key insertion direction 26. The key insertion direction 26 corresponds to the axial direction 20. When the key 60 is inserted into the key channel 16, a longitudinal direction 64 of the key 60 is parallel to the key insertion direction 26 and the axial direction 20. Furthermore, a vertical direction 67 of the key 60 is parallel to the radial direction 22, and a horizontal direction 69 of the key 60 is parallel to the tangential direction 24. The vertical direction 67, the horizontal direction 69, and the longitudinal direction 64 are each orthogonal to each other.

[0191] When the key 60 is inserted into the cylinder core 14, it passes a first scanning element 30 of the locking cylinder 10. In particular, the key 60 can be guided past a test profile 32 of the first scanning element 30. The first scanning element 30 is arranged, in particular releasably, in the cylinder core 14 such that it projects section by section into the keyway 16. In particular, the first scanning element 30 projects radially into the keyway 16 through a radial opening 23 in the outer surface 15 of the cylinder core 14. The first scanning element 30 is configured to scan a cross-sectional profile 70 when the cross-sectional profile 70 passes the first scanning element 30, in particular at the test section 32.The first scanning element 30 is fixed, in particular rigidly, arranged in the cylinder core 14 so that it can prevent insertion if the cross-sectional profile 70 is so high in the radial direction 22 that it comes into contact with the first scanning element 30. The first scanning element 30 is arranged in the region of the axial opening 21 of the key channel 16. In other words, the scanning element 30 is arranged in the front part of the cylinder core in the key insertion direction. In the present embodiment, the first scanning element 30 is arranged in the key insertion direction 26 in front of every second scanning element 50 in the cylinder core 14 (the installed state of the scanning element 30 is shown in Figure 1). Fig. 12 shown).

[0192] The locking cylinder further comprises at least one, and in the present embodiment four, second sensing elements 50. In the present embodiment, the second sensing elements 50 are arranged in the cylinder housing 12. Each second sensing element 50 can project radially into the axial bore 13 and into the cylinder core 14 in a respective locked position. In particular, each second sensing element 50 can project radially into the axial bore 13 through a radial access bore 56. In a respective unlocked position, the second sensing element 50 does not project into the axial bore 13 or into the cylinder core 14.

[0193] In the unrotated position, the radial opening 23 does not point towards the second sensing elements 50, or in particular towards the radial bores 56. The cylindrical surface 15 blocks access to the axial bore 13, or to the cylinder core 14. In other words, in the unrotated position, each second sensing element 50 is held radially in its respective release position by the cylindrical surface 15 of the cylinder core 14. In the rotated position, the cylinder core is rotated by the rotary motion 28 such that the radial opening 23 is aligned with the second sensing elements 50, or in particular with the radial bores 56, such that the second sensing elements 50, which are radially preloaded (corresponding spring elements are included in the Fig. 3 not shown; see also Fig. 14 and 15 ), can penetrate into the cylinder core 14 or the keyhole 16 (see also Fig. 12 ).

[0194] Based on the Figuren 4 bis 6 The characteristics of key 60 are presented and explained.

[0195] Fig. 4 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of key 60.

[0196] In the illustrated embodiment, the key 60 has a key head 61 at one end, which serves as a handle for gripping and turning the key. At another end, the key 60 has a key tip 63. Furthermore, the key 60 has a key shaft 62, which is inserted into the lock cylinder 10. The key shaft 62 extends between the key head 61 and the key tip 63.

[0197] The key shaft 62 extends in the longitudinal direction 64 and has two opposing broad sides 68, 68' and two opposing narrow sides 66, 66', which connect the broad sides 68, 68'. The key shaft 62 is essentially rectangular in cross-section. The narrow sides 66, 66' are spaced apart vertically 67. The broad sides are spaced apart horizontally along the shaft.

[0198] The key 60 has the cross-sectional profile 70 on its narrow side 66. The cross-sectional profile 70 serves for querying by the first query element 30 and at least one second query element 50 of the locking cylinder 10. The first query by the first query element 30 is followed by the Fig. 9 bis 11 The second query using the second query element 50 will be discussed in more detail below. Fig. 12 bis 15 discussed in more detail.

[0199] The cross-sectional profile 70, viewed in the cross-section of the key shaft 62, represents a contour of the first narrow side of the key 66 (see also Fig. 6 ). As in Fig. 4 The cross-sectional profile 70 or the contour over an entire length 65 is shown (see also Fig. 5 The narrow side of the key 66 is constant in the longitudinal direction 64. The cross-sectional profile 70 is designed to be queried both during insertion by the first query using the first query element 30 and when the key 60 is fully inserted by the second query using at least one second query element 50.

[0200] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the key from Fig. 4 .

[0201] In the illustrated embodiment, the key 60 is designed as a bit key. The bit key 60 has the bit on the other narrow side 66'. It goes without saying that the key can have the cross-sectional profile 70 on both narrow sides 66, 66' if the key is a reversible key.

[0202] The narrow side of the key 66 extends with its entire length 65 in the longitudinal direction 64 of the key shaft 62 along a section of the key shaft 62 between the 63 key tip and the key head 61 of the key 60.

[0203] If the key is cut parallel to the height direction 67, the contour of the cross-sectional profile 70 is revealed (see Fig. 6 Since the cross-sectional profile 70 is constant, the cut can be made at any position along the length 65.

[0204] Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view along a line VI-VI in Fig. 5 The cross-sectional profile 70 extends in the vertical direction 67 and in the horizontal direction 69. The cross-sectional profile 70, or the contour, has at least two sections of different heights in the vertical direction 67. Fig. 6 This is shown by means of a depression 72 and the elevations 78, 78'. In Fig. 6 This is therefore a groove 72. The projections 78, 78' each have a surface 80, 80' pointing in the vertical direction 67. The surface 80, 80' can define a highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70. The depression 72 has a bottom 74. The bottom 74 can define a lowest point 83 of the cross-sectional profile 70. The depression 72 also has a flank 76, 76' on each side in the lateral direction 69. The surfaces 80, 80', flanks 76, 76' and the bottom 74 represent individual sections of the cross-sectional profile 70. The cross-sectional profile 70 has at least two sections of different heights in the vertical direction 67. In the present embodiment, these are the bottom 74 and the projection 78, 78'.

[0205] These sections, as well as the lowest and highest points 83, 94, can be used as security features and queried by the first query element 30 and the second query element 50. Possible codings of these security features and corresponding geometric variations of the cross-sectional profile 70 are discussed in the Fig. 16 und 17 discussed in more detail.

[0206] Based on the Figuren 7 und 8 The features of the first query element 30 of the locking cylinder 10 are presented and explained.

[0207] Fig. 7 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the first query element 30 of the locking cylinder 10.

[0208] The first query element serves to query, or rather to perform the initial query of, the cross-sectional profile 70. In the present embodiment, the first query element 30 is designed in the shape of a plate. For querying the cross-sectional profile 70, the first query element 30 can further comprise a test profile 32.

[0209] The test profile 32 is formed integrally with the first query element 30. In other words, the test profile is formed integrally with the first query element 30. Referring to the installed state of the query element 30 (see...) Fig. 3 and 12 The test profile 32, in particular in sections, projects radially inwards into the keyway 16. In other words, the test profile 32 projects into the keyway 16 in the opposite direction to the radial direction 22.

[0210] To secure the scanning element 30 in the cylinder core 14, the scanning element 30 can have at least one mounting section 48, 48'. Each mounting section 48, 48' can be inserted into a corresponding receptacle (not shown) in the cylinder core 14 to fix the scanning element 30. To fix the scanning element 30 in a defined position in the vertical direction 22 within the cylinder core 14, the mounting section 48 can, for example, have a contact section 46. The contact section 46 can limit a maximum penetration depth in the receptacle. In this way, it can be ensured that the test profile 32 projects into the keyway 16 to a defined depth opposite the radial direction 22. In particular, a clearance between the test profile 32 and the cross-sectional profile 70 can be set in this way.

[0211] Fig. 8 shows a front view of the first query element from Fig. 7 The first query element 30 has a contour in cross-section, orthogonal to the axial direction 20, which has at least two sections of different heights in the radial direction 20.

[0212] In Fig. 8 This is shown using a projection 34 and the recesses 38, 38'. The recesses 38, 38' each have an end face 44, 44' pointing in the opposite direction to the radial direction 22. The projection 34 also has an end face 36. Furthermore, the projection 34 has an outer surface 42, 42' on both sides in the tangential direction 24. The end faces 44, 44', the outer surface 42, 42' and the end face 36 can be used to query security features.

[0213] Based on the Figuren 9 bis 11 The interaction of the cross-sectional profile 70 of the key 60 and the first query element 30 of the locking cylinder 10 is shown and explained.

[0214] Fig. 9 shows an isometric view of key 60 from Fig. 4 and the first query element 30 from Fig. 7 In the position shown, the key 60 is fully inserted into the cylinder core 14 (not shown) and the first query element 30 is properly positioned in the cylinder core 14 (the same position is used with all components of the locking cylinder 10 in Fig. 1 (shown). In the position shown, the cylinder core is in its untwisted position.

[0215] To reach the position shown, the key 60 with the key shaft 62 must be inserted into the key channel parallel to the cylinder axis 18 in the key insertion direction 26. During insertion, the cross-sectional profile 70 is guided along the test profile 32 of the first scanning element 30. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70 then passes the first scanning element 30 in the area of ​​the test profile 32. As it passes the first scanning element 30, the cross-sectional profile is scanned. In other words, the first scanning by means of the first scanning element 30 is carried out by successively scanning the contour of the narrow side of the key 66. The first scanning is completed when the key 60 and the first scanning element 30 are relative to each other in the Fig. 9 are arranged in the position shown.

[0216] Fig. 10 shows a side view of key 60 and the first query element 30 from Fig. 9 . in the same relative position to each other. As in Fig. 10 As can be seen, the cross-sectional profile 70 has passed the first query element 30 over the entire length 65 of the key narrow side 66. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70 was queried by the first query using the first query element 30 over the entire length 65 of the key narrow side 66.

[0217] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view along line XI-XI in Fig. 10 It can be seen that the test profile 32 and the cross-sectional profile 70 are designed to be complementary to each other in sections, so that the test profile 32 and the cross-sectional profile 70 can interlock in sections. Complementary means that individual sections of both profiles 32 and 70 can correspond to each other with respect to a geometric shape and form counterparts to each other.

[0218] In this way, the differently heightd sections of the contour of the test profile 32 can query the differently heightd sections of the cross-sectional profile 70. In particular, the end faces 44, 44' can query the surfaces 80, 80' and / or the outer surface 42, 42' the flanks 76, 76' and / or the end face 36 the bottom 74.

[0219] The projection 34 can detect the deepest point 83 of the recess 72 when the key 60 is inserted. This means that the cross-sectional profile 70 must pass under the projection 34 of the test profile 32 via the recess 72 without touching it. In this way, the cross-sectional profile 70 can be detected by the interlocking of both profiles 32 and 70. This completes the first stage of the two-stage detection of the locking cylinder 10. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70 had to be deep enough along the entire length 65 of the narrow side 66 of the key to pass under the first detection element and thus overcome the first stage. The same applies to the other security features if they are designed to be complementary.

[0220] Fig. 12 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the locking system 100 in a rotated position, shown once with (see Fig. 12A ) and once without the cylinder housing (see 12B). In Fig. 12 The interaction of the cross-sectional profile 70 with the second query elements 50 is illustrated.

[0221] In the depicted position, the cylinder core 14 is in a rotated position. In this case, the cylinder core 14 is rotated 180° relative to the cylinder housing 12 from its unrotated position. However, the rotated position can also be at a different angle relative to the unrotated position.

[0222] In Fig. 12A The four second query elements 50 are arranged in four of the radial access bores 56. The number of second query elements 50 can differ from the number shown. In particular, the number of second query elements 50 and the number of access bores 56 can be equal.

[0223] In the depicted rotated position, the second query can be performed using the second query elements 50 when the key 60 is fully inserted.

[0224] In the rotated position, the key cannot be inserted into or removed from the keyway. In the rotated position, the radial direction 22 points towards the second scanning elements 50 or towards the access bores 56.

[0225] In Fig. 12B Without the cylinder housing 12, it can be seen that in the rotated position, the keyway 16 is radially accessible to every second scanning element 50. If the cross-sectional profile 70 is arranged radially outside the keyway 16, as in the present case, the cross-sectional profile 70 is radially accessible to every second scanning element 50, in particular through the radial opening 23 of the keyway 16.

[0226] In this way, the radially inwardly prestressed second scanning elements 50 can scan or query the cross-sectional profile 70 by supporting themselves on the cross-sectional profile 70.

[0227] The second query element 50 is thus used to query, or rather to query a second time, the cross-sectional profile 70. The exact functionality of the second query is described below. Figuren 14 and 15 described.

[0228] Every second query element 50 can, as in Fig. 12B For example, it can be an essentially cylindrical element that extends in a radial direction (in Fig. 14 and 15(represented by arrow 59, which indicates the direction of the preload force) is movable between a respective release position and a respective locking position by means of a spring or other elastic element. The second sensing element 50 can, in particular, have a flat or conical end designed to bear against the cross-sectional profile 70.

[0229] Fig. 13 shows a side view of the locking system Fig. 12 and serves to illustrate the position of the cutting plane of the cross-sectional views of the following Figuren 14 and 15 The cutting plane is marked by line XIV-XIV or line XV-XV. The cut runs through the center of one of the second query elements 50, which is located in Fig. 13 is located inside the cylinder housing 12.

[0230] Fig. 14 shows the cross-sectional view of the lock cylinder 10. Fig. 12 with a key 60' without the cross-sectional profile 70 on the key narrow side 66 along a line XIV-XIV in Fig. 13 For example, the key spine was filed down in the area of ​​the key's narrow side 66 in order to bypass the first query element and overcome the first stage of the two-stage query. The in Fig 14 The key 60' shown thus only fits the lock cylinder 10 insofar as the insertion of the key 60' causes the majority of locking devices (not shown) to release the lock cylinder 10 in order to prevent the rotational movement 28 (see Fig. 12A ) to release until the twisted position shown is reached. However, the key 60' is not suitable without the matching cross-sectional profile 70 to overcome the second stage of the two-stage query, since the absence of the cross-sectional profile 70 on the narrow side 66 of the key can be detected by the second query.

[0231] The second query using the second query elements 50 is performed with the key 60, 60' fully inserted into the locking cylinder 10 by querying the contour of the key's narrow side 66. The second query serves to query the protrusions 78, 78'. In particular, security features provided by the design of the surface 80, 80' of the protrusions 78, 78' can be queried (the design of the security features is described in Figs. 16 und 17 (discussed in more detail). In particular, the highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70 is queried. In other words, only a section of the cross-sectional profile 70 that is radially furthest out can be queried.

[0232] The second query can occur when the cross-sectional profile passes the second query elements 50 during the rotational movement 28 of the cylinder core 14. This is the case in the rotated position (see Fig. 14 and15 ).

[0233] In Fig. 14 The key 60' has a flat cross-sectional profile 70'. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70' has no depressions 72 or protrusions 78 that extend beyond the projection 34 in the radial direction 22. In particular, the cross-sectional profile 70' does not have the highest point 94. Thus, the cross-sectional profile 70' has no section that can radially support the second scanning element 50, so that the second scanning element 50 does not penetrate the cylinder core 14. The second scanning element 50 is then in its locked position 52. The second scanning element 50 is radially biased inwards in the direction of arrow 59 by means of a spring element 58, which is supported on a support element 57. Consequently, the second scanning element 50 can, as shown in Fig. 14 As shown, the key penetrates the cylinder core 14, thus blocking or locking the rotational movement 28. Since the key 60' can only be removed from the lock cylinder 10 in the unrotated position, the key 60' is no longer removable in the situation shown.

[0234] Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the lock cylinder 10 and the key 60 with the matching cross-sectional profile 70 on the narrow side 66 of the key. Fig. 12 along a line XV-XV in Fig. 13 ;

[0235] It can be seen that the second scanning element 50 rests on the cross-sectional profile 70 and is radially supported in such a way that it does not penetrate the cylinder core 14. Thus, the second scanning element 50 is held in its release position 54, and the rotational movement 28 is released. In this way, the second stage of the two-stage scanning of the locking cylinder 10 can be overcome.

[0236] The bracing is done in Fig. 15 exclusively at the highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70. In the present embodiment, the highest point 94 is located in the radial direction 22 at the level of the cylindrical surface 15 of the cylinder core 14. Since the cross-sectional profile 70 is constant in the longitudinal direction 64, the highest point 94 is a contact line 96 that extends from the highest point 94 in the longitudinal direction 64 over the entire length 65 of the narrow side 66 of the key. In particular, all second scanning elements 50 can be supported on the contact line 96.

[0237] However, the support can in principle be provided on any section of the survey 78, 78' which is suitable to support every second query element 50 in the manner described.

[0238] The Figuren 16 und 17 The figures illustrate the design of the security features of a cross-sectional profile 70 and a matching test profile 32. By selecting and designing the security features, a coding of the locking system 100 can be provided. The coding can also include a variation of the profiles 70 and 32. For example, the test profile 32 can have a plurality of projections and the cross-sectional profile 70 a plurality of recesses. In the Figuren 16 und 17 However, the security features will be explained using the already known profiles 70, 32 of the previously described designs.

[0239] Fig. 16 shows an enlargement of the area marked XVI from Fig. 8 In Fig. 16 The contour of the test profile 32 of the first query element 30 can be seen.

[0240] As already mentioned in Fig. 11 As shown, the surfaces 80, 80' and / or the flanks 76, 76' and / or the bottom 74 can represent safety features of the cross-sectional profile 70, which can be queried by the first query element 30 by means of the end faces 44, 44', the outer surface 42, 42' or the end face 36 of the test profile 32.

[0241] Possible safety features of the cross-sectional profile 70 (see also Fig. 17 ) can represent a depth T of the depression 72, a width B of the depression 72, a height H of the elevation 78, 78', an inclination angle α of the bottom 74, a flank angle β of the flanks 76, 76', an inclination angle γ of the surface 80, 80'.

[0242] The first query element 30 can be designed to complement the first query in such a way that it is configured to query these security features. For this purpose, the projection 34 can extend into the keyway 16 to a depth T' in the radial direction 22, so that the recess 72 with depth T can pass under the projection 34 with a defined clearance. The clearance between T' and T is determined by their absolute difference. In this way, the lowest point 83 can be queried in particular. Similarly, the projection 34 can extend into the keyway 16 with a width B' in the tangential direction 24, such that the recess must have a sufficient width B to allow the projection to pass under the projection with a defined clearance between the flanks 76, 76' and the outer surfaces 42, 42'.Furthermore, the recess 38 can have a height H', such that the protrusion 78, 78' with height H can bypass the recess 38 with a defined clearance. The clearance between H' and H results from their absolute difference.

[0243] The first query element 30 can furthermore be designed to be complementary to the geometric design of the security features in such a way that it is configured to query these security features. For example, the end faces 44, 44' of the recess 38, 38' and / or the outer surface 42, 42' and / or the end face 36 of the projection 34 can be designed to be straight in order to query the straight shape of the surfaces 80, 80' of the raised area 78, 78' and / or that of the flanks 76, 76' and / or that of the bottom 74 of the recess 72. As in Fig. 16 und 17 As can be seen, the contour sections are essentially straight. This means they are neither wavy nor curved. The radii of the transitions between the straight sections are negligible and result from manufacturing constraints.

[0244] Even small angular deviations between the straight contours can lead to a collision with the first scanning element 30 when the cross-sectional profile 70 is initially scanned. Therefore, the angles α, β, γ described above are particularly well-suited as additional safety features. In other words, there is a synergy between the straight design of individual contours and the angular design using the angles α, β, γ. To scan these angles α, β, γ, the end face 36 of the projection 34 can be designed at an angle α' complementary to the inclination angle α of the base 74. The angular tolerance for manufacturing must be selected, taking into account the clearance between the projection 34 and the recess 72, such that the cross-sectional profile 70 can pass the test profile 32 in every case.Similarly, the end faces 44, 44' of the recess 38, 38' can be formed at an angle γ' complementary to the inclination angle γ of the surface 80, 80' and / or the outer surface 42, 42' of the projection 34 can be formed at an angle β' complementary to the flank angle β of the flanks 76, 76'. In this case, the profiles 32, 70 are symmetrical about a plane of symmetry parallel to the radial direction 22. However, the angles of the flanks 76, 76' and / or the surfaces 80, 80' of both sides of the recess 72 can also differ.

[0245] Fig. 17 shows an enlargement of the area marked XVII from Fig. 6 In Fig. 17 The contour of the cross-sectional profile 70 on the key narrow side 66 and the previously described safety features, in particular the depth T, the width B, the height H, the angle of inclination α, the flank angle β and the angle of inclination γ, can be seen.

[0246] The highest point 94 can represent an additional security feature for the second query using the second query elements 50. The highest point 94, or the contact line 96, can be used as in Fig. 17 shown by means of a chamfer 98. Depending on the selected angle and distance of the chamfer, the position of the highest point 94 or the contact line 96 varies in the lateral direction 69.

[0247] The latitude 69 and the altitude 67 of the highest point 94 or the contact line 96 can represent further security features that can be queried by appropriately designing the second query element 50. For example, as in Fig. 15 shown, the diameter of the second query element 50 is chosen such that the end of the second query element 50 cannot be moved between the elevations 78, 78'.

[0248] The combination of the in the Figuren 16 und 17 The described security features and their variations represent the coding of the locking system 100.

[0249] The Fig. 18 Figure 200 shows a schematic flowchart of a method 200. The method is used to unlock or lock a locking cylinder 10. In step 202, the locking cylinder 10 and the key 60 are first provided. The locking cylinder 10 and the key 60 can be of one of the previously described embodiments.

[0250] In step 204, the key 60 is fully inserted into the locking cylinder 10 in the key insertion direction 26 and, during this process, is queried by the first query element 30, as described previously. The first query serves in particular to query a deepest section or security feature of the cross-sectional profile 70 in the radial direction 22. Specifically, the query can be performed by the first query element 30 and the cross-sectional profile 70 engaging section by section (see also [reference to be added]). Fig. 9 bis 11 ).

[0251] Step 206 follows. In step 206, the cylinder core 14 is rotated from its unrotated position relative to the cylinder housing 12 into the rotated position. Upon reaching the rotated position, the second query is performed using the second query elements 50. This second query serves, in particular, to query a highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70. During the second query, the penetration of each second query element 50 into the keyway 16 by means of the cross-sectional profile 70 at the narrow side 66 of the key, as described previously, can either be prevented, thereby holding each second query element 50 in its release position in a subsequent step 208 (see Figure 208). Fig. 15 ), or be permitted, whereby the second query element is moved into its blocking position in an alternative subsequent step 210. In particular, the second query is carried out by means of the second query element through the opening 23 in the cylindrical surface 15 (cf. Fig. 12B ).

[0252] Step 208 releases the rotary movement 28, allowing the cylinder core 14 to be rotated further beyond the twisted position by the rotary movement 28 until the locking cylinder is fully unlocked.

[0253] The alternative step 210 blocks the rotational movement 28, preventing the cylinder core 14 from performing the rotational movement 28. In other words, the lock cylinder is then locked and cannot be fully unlocked. In particular, the key 60 can no longer be removed.

[0254] The Fig. 19 Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of a process 220. The process is used to manufacture the key 60 and the complementary first query element 30 for the locking cylinder 10. In step 222, a key blank is first provided. In a further step 224, a query element blank is provided. In a subsequent step 226, the key's narrow side 66 is machined so that the cross-sectional profile 70 in the longitudinal direction 64 of the key shaft 62 is constant over the entire length 65 of the first key's narrow side 66. In a further subsequent step 228, the query element blank is machined so that the test profile 32 for checking the cross-sectional profile 70 of the key's narrow side 66 is formed. In particular, steps 226 and 228 can provide the previously described security features, especially the lowest point 83 and the highest point 94 (see Figure 228). Fig. 16 und 17 ). Profiles 32 and 70 are manufactured complementarily and can interlock (see Fig. 11 ).

[0255] The Fig. 20 Figure 230 shows a schematic flowchart of a process. This process is used to manufacture the key 60 for the locking cylinder 10. In step 232, a key blank is first prepared. In a subsequent step 234, the narrow side 66 of the key is machined so that the cross-sectional profile 70 in the longitudinal direction 64 of the key shaft 62 is constant and complementary to the test profile 32 of the first scanning element 30 of the locking cylinder 10 over the entire length 65 of the first narrow side 66. In particular, step 234 allows the previously described security features, especially the highest point 94, to be provided (see Figure 234). Fig. 17 The manufactured cross-sectional profile 70 can then engage with the test profile 32 or vice versa (see figure). Fig. 11 ).

[0256] The Fig. 21 Figure 240 shows a schematic flowchart of procedure 240. This procedure is used to configure the locking system 100 with at least one locking cylinder 10 and at least one key 60. The procedure includes step 242. In step 242, the first query element 30 is inserted into the locking cylinder 10. The first query element 30 is configured to query the cross-sectional profile 70 on the narrow side 66 of the key 60. It is inserted such that the first query element 30 protrudes into the keyway 16 to query the cross-sectional profile 70 as described above.

[0257] Fig. 22 Figure 1 shows a schematic flowchart of another procedure 240 for configuring the locking system 100. This procedure includes the additional step 244. In step 244, another first query element 30' is inserted into at least one additional locking cylinder 10'.

[0258] Fig. 23Figure 240 shows a schematic flowchart of another procedure for configuring the locking system 100. This procedure includes the additional steps 246, 248, and 250. In step 246, the first query element 30 is removed from the locking cylinder 10. In the optional step 248, the first query element 30 is replaced by another first query element 30". This additional first query element 30" can be another first query element 30'. Step 248 can include step 244. In the optional step 250, another key 60" is provided. The key has a cross-sectional profile of 70". The first query elements 30', 30" and the key 60" differ from the first query element 30 and the key 60 with regard to their coding.

Claims

1. A lock cylinder (10) with a cylinder housing (12) and a cylinder core (14) rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing (12), wherein the cylinder core (14) has a key channel (16) for inserting a key shank (62) of a key (60) in a key insertion direction (26), wherein the lock cylinder (10) further has a plurality of locking mechanisms which are configured to bring about a locked state or a release state of the lock cylinder (10), wherein in the release state a rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) is enabled and in the locked state is blocked, and wherein the lock cylinder (10) is transferable from the locked state into the release state by fully inserting the key (60) into the key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), wherein the lock cylinder (10) has a first sensing element (30) and at least one second sensing element (50) for sensing a cross-sectional profile (70) on a narrow side (66) of the key (60), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) extends in a longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) and is constant over an entire length (65) of the narrow side (66) of the key in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the first sensing element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) and projects into the key channel (16), wherein the first sensing element (30) is configured to sense the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side (66) of the key, in particular during insertion of the key (60), and wherein the at least one second sensing element (50) is biased radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14) and is movable between a respective locking position (52) and a respective release position (54), wherein each second sensing element (50) is configured to sense the cross-sectional profile (70), in particular with the key (60) fully inserted, wherein the at least one second sensing element (50) releases the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) in the respective release position and blocks it in the respective locking position, wherein the first sensing element (30) is configured to sense the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key (60) in an unrotated position of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12), and wherein the at least one second sensing element (50) is configured to sense the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key (60) in a rotated position of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12), wherein the rotated position is rotated relative to the unrotated position by the rotational movement (28).

2. The lock cylinder (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first sensing element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) in the key insertion direction (26) in front of each second sensing element (50).

3. The lock cylinder (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first sensing element (30) is configured to sense the cross-sectional profile (70) in the key insertion direction (26) over the entire length (65) of the narrow side (66) of the key during insertion of the key (60) into the key channel (16).

4. The lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the at least one second sensing element (50) is configured, in its locking position, to block the rotational movement (28) such that the cylinder core (14) is irreversibly fixed in the rotated position and the key (60) is no longer removable from the key channel (16).

5. The lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the rotated position is rotated relative to the unrotated position by 90° to 270°, particularly preferably by 120° to 240°, in particular by 180°.

6. The lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the first sensing element (30) has a test profile (32) which projects radially inward into the key channel (16), and wherein the first sensing element (30) is configured, by means of the test profile (32), to sense the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key, in particular during insertion of the key (60), and wherein the at least one second sensing element (50) is configured to penetrate radially into the cylinder core (14) into the key channel (16) such that the at least one second sensing element (50) is in the respective locking position in order to block the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14), and wherein the at least one second sensing element (50) is further configured, in particular with the key (60) fully inserted, to be radially supported on the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key (60) in order to remain in the respective release position, in order to release the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12).

7. The lock cylinder (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that the test profile (32) has at least one projection (34) for sensing at least one recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side (66) of the key.

8. The lock cylinder (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that the first sensing element (30) is configured, by means of the projection (34), to sense a depth (T) of the recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side (66) of the key.

9. The lock cylinder (10) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the projection (34) has a radially inwardly facing end face (36) which is configured corresponding to a bottom (74) of the recess (72) of the narrow side (66) of the key, wherein the end face (36) is configured to be flat and wherein the end face (36) is configured to sense a contour of the bottom (74).

10. The lock cylinder (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that the first sensing element (30) is configured, by means of the end face (36) of the projection (34), to sense an inclination angle (α) of the bottom (74) of the recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side (66) of the key.

11. The lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 7 to 10, characterized in that the projection (34) further has at least one outer side (42) which is configured corresponding to at least one flank (76) of the recess (72), wherein each outer side (42) is configured to be flat and wherein each outer side (42) is configured to sense a contour of the flank (76).

12. A locking system (100) with at least one lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 11 and at least one key, in particular a bit key, for the lock cylinder (10) with a cylinder housing (12) and a cylinder core (14) rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing (12), wherein the key (60) has a key shank (62) extending along a longitudinal direction (64) with two wide sides (68, 68') of the key and two narrow sides (66, 66') of the key, wherein the key shank (62) is configured to be inserted into a key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), wherein the key (60) has a cross-sectional profile (70) on a first one of the narrow sides (66) of the key, wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) extends in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) and is constant over an entire length (65) of the first narrow side (66) of the key in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is configured to be sensed at a test profile (32) of a first sensing element (30) projecting into the key channel (16) of the lock cylinder (10), in particular during insertion of the key (60) into the lock cylinder (10), and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is further configured to be sensed at at least one second sensing element (50) of the lock cylinder (10), in particular with the key (60) fully inserted into the lock cylinder (10).

13. A method (200) for releasing or blocking a lock cylinder (10) with a cylinder housing (12) and a cylinder core (14) rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing (12), wherein the cylinder core (14) has a key channel (16) for inserting a key shank (62) of a key (60) in a key insertion direction (26), wherein the lock cylinder (10) further has a plurality of locking mechanisms which are configured to bring about a locked state or a release state of the lock cylinder (10), wherein in the release state a rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) is released and in the locked state is blocked, and wherein the lock cylinder (10) is transferable from the locked state into the release state by fully inserting the key (60) into the key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), characterized by the following steps: • Providing (202) the lock cylinder (10) and the key (60), wherein the lock cylinder (10) has a first sensing element (30) and at least one second sensing element (50) for sensing a cross-sectional profile (70) on a narrow side (66) of the key (60), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) extends in a longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) and is constant over an entire length (65) of the narrow side (66) of the key in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the first sensing element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) and projects into the key channel (16); • first Sensing (204) of the cross-sectional profile (70), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is guided along the first sensing element in the key insertion direction (26) during insertion of the key (60) and is checked when passing the first sensing element (30), in particular wherein the first sensing element (30) and the cross-sectional profile (70) engage with one another, wherein the first sensing ends when the key (60) is fully inserted; subsequently • second Sensing (206) of the cross-sectional profile (70) with the key (60) fully inserted, wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is moved along with the cylinder core (14) during the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) and is guided along the at least one second sensing element (50) in a direction of rotation of the rotational movement (28), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is arranged radially outwardly in the cylinder core (14) and is radially accessible for the at least one second sensing element (50) through the key channel (16), wherein the at least one second sensing element (50) is biased radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14) and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is checked when passing the at least one second sensing element (50), wherein the second sensing ends when the cross-sectional profile (70) has completely passed the at least one second sensing element (50) or when the at least one second sensing element (50) has been moved into the locking position; and either • Releasing (208) the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) by holding the at least one second sensing element (50) in the respective release position for unlocking the lock cylinder (10), wherein the holding takes place by the at least one second sensing element (50) being radially supported on the cross-sectional profile (70); or • Blocking (210) the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) by moving the at least one second sensing element (50) into the respective locking position for locking the lock cylinder (10).

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that the first sensing element (30), during the first sensing (204), by means of a test profile (32) which projects radially inward into the key channel (16), simultaneously senses a lowest point (83) of a recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) and a highest point (94) of an elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70), wherein the highest point (94), with the key (60) fully inserted, is arranged further radially outward with respect to the cylinder core (14) than the lowest point (83), and wherein the step of releasing (208) the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) takes place by the at least one second sensing element (50) being radially supported on the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70).

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that the at least one second sensing element (50), during the second sensing (206), senses the highest point (94) of the elevation (78), and wherein the step of releasing (208) the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) takes place by the at least one second sensing element (50) being radially supported on the highest point (94) of the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70).