Switch cabinet key and key production

Abstract

The invention relates to a key (100), in particular a control cabinet key, with several key elements (9) for opening / closing locking devices known per se and / or for actuating fastening elements known per se. The key (100) comprises a first key arm (1) and a second key arm (2) rotatably connected to the first key arm (1) by means of a joint connection (7) about a key pivot axis. The key arm pivot axis and the direction of the longitudinal extension of the key arms (1, 2) are perpendicular to each other. Each key arm (1, 2) has a joint mounting receptacle (15) defining the pivot axis at its first end and a key element (9) for actuating a locking device or a fastening element at its opposite end.The key arms (1, 2) are closely adjacent to each other in a transport position and form an angle between the first and second key arms (1, 2) in a handling position. The key element (9) of the first and / or the second key arm (1, 2) is arranged in an angled section (8) of the second key arm (2).

Description

AREA OF INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a control cabinet key according to the preamble of claim 1. Such a control cabinet key is already known from WO 2011 / 101397 A1. The key is equipped with several key elements for opening / closing locking devices known per se and / or for actuating fastening elements known per se, such as screws, nuts, and the like. The key comprises a first key arm and a second key arm which is rotatably or pivotably connected to the first key arm by means of a joint connection about a key axis of rotation. The key arm axis of rotation and the direction of the longitudinal extension of the key arms are perpendicular to each other. Each key arm has a joint connection receptacle (bore) defining the key axis of rotation at its first end and a key element for actuating a locking device or a fastening element at its opposite end.In a transport position, the key arms are close together, and in a handling position, they form an angle between the first and second key arms.

[0002] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a control cabinet key according to the preamble of claim 13. . TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0003] Multifunctional tools are now widespread. The more functions a tool is supposed to cover, the larger, and therefore more unwieldy, it becomes. This is where the invention comes in. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The invention is based on the objective of improving the handling of multifunctional tools with many tool functions. This objective is achieved by a key according to claim 1. Further embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. The key is thus provided in such a way that the key element of the first and / or the second key arm is arranged in an angled region of the respective (first and / or second) key arm. Therefore, one key arm with an angled region and one key arm without an angled region, or two key arms, each with an angled region, can be provided. The key arms are preferably made of metal.In the transport position, the key arms are aligned. In the handling position, the key arms are spread apart, forming a common plane and creating an angle, for example, between approximately 45° and 135°. The pivoting nature of the key arms allows the key to be very compact in the transport position (i.e., when carried in luggage or a pocket), and provides a convenient lever for operating the key elements in the handling position (i.e., with the key arms spread). This effect is further enhanced by the fact that at least one key arm is angled at its end, allowing the key element to be inserted easily and without difficulty into the corresponding counterpart (locking device).If both key arms have an angled section, it is advantageous for the second key arm to be shorter than the first, with the angled sections of the key arms being positioned close to each other in the transport position. The angled section is bent about a (bending or folding) axis that is perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal extension (x) of the respective key arm. Preferably, the angled section is bent at 90° relative to the key arm, but a larger or smaller bending angle is also possible, for example, less than approximately 140° or more than approximately 40°. In the compact key arm position, the key arms and the angled key elements thus fit snugly against each other, at least in some areas, which in turn saves space and improves handling in the transport position.

[0005] An improvement in the handling of multifunctional tools with many tool functions is further achieved by a key according to claim 2. Accordingly, the key element of the second key arm is arranged in an angled region of the second key arm, and the key element of the first key arm, without an angled region, is formed as an end-arranged U-shaped element with stable, in particular flat, legs. The U-shaped key element of the first key arm is suitable for actuating a double-bitted locking device known per se. In this respect, the end-arranged key element of the first key arm, without any angle, is formed as a "U" or as a fork with two prongs. The geometry of the key element of the first key arm can optionally approximate a (flat, highly simplified) crown.The "U," fork, or crown shape ensures high stability of the key element when operating the familiar double-bitted lock. Furthermore, the key element is very compact compared to a conventional double-bitted lock because it is essentially flat. It is also relatively easy to manufacture, as it is stamped or cut from a sheet of metal and does not require die casting, as is usually the case with conventional double-bitted locks. Because the first key arm can pivot relative to the second, the U-shaped key element of the first arm can penetrate relatively deeply into the counterpart of the key element, i.e., into the double-bitted lock, so that the locking function is not impaired by the second key arm.

[0006] For effective handling, it has proven advantageous if the angled section of the key arm(s) is bent at an angle of 90° or nearly 90° relative to the key arm. From a manufacturing perspective, this can be achieved by forming the angled section, for example, by bending the end of the key arm. To minimize manufacturing effort for the key, it is advantageous if at least one key arm is made from a sheet metal bend. An opening, particularly a slot, can be arranged in or on the angled section of the key arm. This (slot-shaped) opening reduces the amount of material that needs to be bent to create the angled section. Furthermore, the (slot-shaped) opening prevents material compression or deformation at the bend point during the bending process.The (slot-shaped) opening can be arranged so that it projects into a recess of the key element, or so that a recess of the key element projects into the (slot-shaped) opening. This geometric combination of recess and slot-shaped opening allows the key element to be made smaller and more compact, thereby improving the key's handling.

[0007] For optimized ergonomics when operating the key, it can be advantageous if the cross-sectional area of ​​each key arm is the same size, or nearly the same size. To minimize key weight and dimensions, the key arm can be tapered such that the cross-sectional area near the key element is smaller than the cross-sectional area near the joint connection. This tapering also allows for a narrower design of the key arm ends, particularly the angled section and the key elements, so that they fit into the locking mechanisms without further design modifications.

[0008] The key becomes particularly compact and easy to handle if each key arm is at least partially flat. That is, each key arm has a rectangular or nearly rectangular cross-section, with the narrow sides of the cross-sectional area being significantly shorter than the long sides. In the transport position, the narrow sides of the flat key arms form, in particular in the section between the key's pivot mounting and the key elements, at least one flat or nearly flat surface of the key, preferably two opposing flat or nearly flat surfaces. When the key arms are arranged in the transport position, a compact key is formed with a rectangular or nearly rectangular overall cross-sectional area in the region between the ends of the key arms.At one end of the key arms is the joint connection, and at the other end are the partially angled key elements. The angled end of each key arm has the same orientation. Therefore, in the transport position, the key has an L-shaped geometry. In the handling position, one of the key arms is pivoted relative to the other key arm(s) by, for example, 90°. This causes one key arm to protrude from the compact L-shape of the key. When operating the key, the user holds the compact key in their hand so that their fingers grasp the key arms that remain in the transport position. In this position (0° pivot angle), the key arms act as a lever for the pivoted key arm, which is now in its 90° handling position.

[0009] A key is particularly effective in performing as many key element functions as possible, according to an advantageous embodiment, when it has multiple, i.e., more than two, key arms. For example, a third key arm can be provided, which is rotatably connected to the first and second key arms around the key's axis of rotation by means of a hinge connection. The third key arm is shorter than the second key arm. The key element of the third key arm is located in an angled section of the third key arm, with the angled sections of the second and third key arms being closely adjacent to each other in the transport position. Thus, even a key with more than two key arms is very compact and easy to handle in the transport position.The key arms can be rotated out of the transport position; for example, to select a key element, the key arms can be fanned out. After selecting the key element to be operated, the unused key arms can be rotated back into the transport position, leaving only the key arm to be used protruding from the key, for example, at an angle of 90° or nearly 90°. The key can have further key arms, with the fourth key arm being shorter than the third, the fifth shorter than the fourth, the sixth shorter than the fifth, and so on. The nth key arm would be shorter than the (n-1)th key arm, where n is a natural number greater than 5 (i.e., n = 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, ...).

[0010] For operating locking devices, such as those used in electrical cabinets, at least one key element comprises at least one recess whose geometry corresponds to that of the locking device. Locking devices exist with a triangular, square, or other geometry. Therefore, it is advantageous if the geometry of the recess in the key element is triangular, square, or polygonal, so that the key element can operate a locking device with a triangular, square, or similar shape. At least one key element can be designed as a stepped key element. A stepped key element preferably comprises angular key elements of different sizes / dimensions, which are arranged in a graduated sequence in or on a key arm. The stepped key element can be flat, i.e.,The material thickness of the key element is significantly less than its length and width. The material thickness of the stepped key element can correspond exactly to, or nearly to, the material thickness of the key arm to which the stepped key element is attached. At least one key element can incorporate a can and / or bottle opener. The key element encompassing the can / bottle opener can also be flat.

[0011] The key becomes particularly efficient in terms of manufacturing effort and handling when the geometry of one of the recesses consists of a first square and a second square, rotated at an angle of 45° to the first and positioned above it, which is either larger or smaller than the first square. In this way, for example, a first square lock and a second (larger or smaller) square lock can be operated per key element. Alternatively, the geometry of one of the recesses can consist of a first square and a triangle, particularly an equilateral one, positioned above it. In this way, multiple locks can be operated per key element; for example, one key element can operate both a square lock and a triangular lock.Alternatively, the geometry of one of the recesses can be formed by a first, in particular equilateral, triangle and a second triangle rotated by an angle of 60° relative to the first triangle, where the second triangle is larger or smaller than the first triangle. Thus, for example, a first triangular locking mechanism and a second (larger or smaller) triangular locking mechanism can be operated per key element.

[0012] According to a further embodiment, each key arm can have a square, particularly hexagonal, opening in the area between the joint mounting and the key element. The openings of the first and each subsequent key arm are aligned in the transport position, parallel to the axis of rotation of the joint mounting, and the aligned openings of the key arms form a bit receptacle in the transport position. This allows a tool insert or (screw) bit to be arranged in the key (in the transport position), thereby significantly expanding the key's functionality. The bit held in the bit receptacle has a particularly secure fit if the key arms involved in the bit receptacle are slightly rotated or offset relative to each other in the respective transport position. This alters the opening of the bit receptacle, resulting in a more secure fit for the bit.This is particularly advantageous when the bit has become jammed in a screw and a greater force is required to separate the bit and screw after the screw has been tightened.

[0013] The key can include a bit element, preferably a single, double, or multiple bit, which is captive and attached to a flexible fastening element, in particular a chain, strap, wire, or wire loop. A retaining device, in particular a retractable or coilable device, such as a winding mechanism comprising a wire or cord, allows the key to be attached to the user's clothing, bag, or suitcase. The retaining device or winding mechanism can include a retaining clip.

[0014] Handling is improved in particular by providing at least one stop on one or more key arms, which limits the swivel angle of at least one key arm relative to another, especially such that a maximum swivel angle of 110° or nearly 110° is provided, preferably 90° or nearly 90°. The swivel angle of approximately 110° allows for optimal leverage and good ergonomics, meaning the key fits better in the hand than with other swivel angles. The stop can include a cam located approximately in the area of ​​the joint connection on the narrow side of the key arm, the cam then abutting a stop surface of the stop when the maximum swivel angle (approximately 90°) is reached. The stop surface can, for example, be located on the narrow side of the first key arm.

[0015] In an advantageous key variant, at least one additional key element may be provided, which is arranged on one of the key arms such that, in the transport position of the key arms, the additional key element is located on the key side. The additional key element may, for example, comprise or be formed from a radiator venting device, with the compact key in the transport position of the key arms forming a handle for the additional key element. If the key arm on which the additional key element is arranged is flat, as described above, it would be advantageous for the additional key element to be arranged on the narrow side of the respective key arm.

[0016] Further improvements in haptics and key handling can be achieved if each key arm is angled in the area of ​​the joint connection such that a key arm angle is provided between the key arm's longitudinal direction and its axis of rotation. This key arm angle can, for example, be in a range between approximately 5° and approximately 50°, preferably approximately 20°.

[0017] The handling of multifunctional tools with numerous functions is further improved by a key manufacturing method according to claim 13. Accordingly, a key described herein is manufactured by cutting or punching the key arms from a sheet of metal, and by forming the angled section of a key arm by bending the end of the key arm. A complex casting or die-casting process is therefore unnecessary, as the intended punching / cutting is achieved with less equipment and time. Bending the ends of the key arms constitutes the second and final step, with the recesses for the key elements being formed in the first punching / cutting step.

[0018] Before bending the key arm, an opening, particularly a slot, can be arranged in, on, or immediately adjacent to the angled section. The (slot-shaped) opening is preferably located in the center of the key arm. The (slot-shaped) opening effectively reduces the amount of key arm material that needs to be bent, which facilitates the bending process and allows the key arm to be made more robust, i.e., thicker.

[0019] In or on the angled section of at least one of the key arms, a slot-shaped opening can be provided, located approximately centrally in the key arm and extending into the recess in the key element. This reduces the effective width of the material to be bent, thus facilitating the bending process. Undesirable deformations during bending, particularly in the area of ​​the recesses, are thereby avoided.

[0020] Since control cabinet keys are always carried by the user, there is a particular need to use a compact key that is as easy and convenient to handle as possible.

[0021] The aforementioned components, as well as those claimed and described in the exemplary embodiments, to be used according to the invention, are not subject to any special exceptional conditions with regard to their size, shape, material selection and technical conception, so that the selection criteria known in the field of application can be applied without restriction.

[0022] Further details, features, and advantages of the subject matter of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims, as well as from the following description and the accompanying drawing, in which an exemplary embodiment of a control cabinet key is shown. Individual features of the claims or embodiments can also be combined with other features of other claims and embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0023] The drawing shows Fig. 1 shows a control cabinet key in perspective view (transport position), Fig. 2 shows a control cabinet key according to Fig. 1 with fanned-out key arms, Fig. 3 a switch cabinet key according to Fig. 1 u. 2 in side view, Fig. 4 a switch cabinet key according to Figs. 1 to 3 in front view, Fig. 5 a switch cabinet key according to Figs. 1 to 4 In top view, Fig. 6A / Legs variant of a switch cabinet key in different views, Fig. 7 a variant of a key arm in perspective view and Fig. 8A / B perspective views of a variant of a key. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EXECUTION

[0024] A perspective view of a 100 mm control cabinet key can be seen in the Fig. 1The key 100 comprises a first key arm 1 and four further key arms 2, 3, 4, 5, which are rotatably or pivotally connected to each other by the joint connection 7. A view of the key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 in a fanned-out position can be seen in the Fig. 2 can be taken.

[0025] With the exception of the first key arm 1, the ends of the key arms 2, 3, 4, 5, which are opposite the joint connection receptacles 15 of the arms 2, 3, 4, 5, form an angled region 8 in which the respective key element 9 of the key arm 2, 3, 4, 5 is arranged. This is in Fig. 1 The angled key elements 9 each have recesses 10, which allow locking devices of control cabinets to be operated.

[0026] In the variant according to Fig. 1The cross-sectional area of ​​each key arm 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 is of equal or nearly equal size. A taper 14 of the key arm 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 is provided such that the cross-sectional area near the key element 9 is smaller than the cross-sectional area near the joint connection receptacle 15. By giving the key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 a slightly larger cross-section at the joint end, a pocket for a (tool) bit can be arranged in the wider section of the key arm 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, which is described in the Figures 6A and 6B is shown.

[0027] The shapes and geometries of the recesses 10 can be seen in the illustration. Fig. 2can be extracted. Accordingly, the recess 10 of the second key arm 2 comprises a combination of two triangular geometries, that of the third key arm 3 a combination of two square shapes, that of the fourth key arm 4 a triangular geometry, and that of the fifth key arm 5 a combination of a triangular and a square geometry.

[0028] The Figure 1 and 2 It can be seen that the key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 of the key 100 have different lengths. This ensures that the angled key elements 9 of the key arms 2, 3, 4, 5 are in the transport position according to Fig. 1 are arranged close together. Between the angled sections 8 of the second, third, fourth and fifth key arms 2, 3, 4, 5 there is only a small gap 11, so that the key arms 2, 3, 4, 5 can pivot against each other with minimal friction.

[0029] The Fig. 2 It can further be seen that in each angled section 8 of the key arms 2, 3, 4, 5, a slot-shaped opening 26 is provided, which is located approximately in the middle of the key arm 2, 3, 4, 5. The slot-shaped opening 26 extends into the recess 10 in the key element 9. The slot 26 reduces the effective width of the material to be bent, which facilitates the bending and thus the production of the key arm 2, 3, 4, 5. Deformations during bending, for example in the area of ​​the recesses 10, are thereby avoided. Furthermore, the geometric combination of the recess 10 and the slot-shaped opening 26 allows the key elements 9 of the key arms 2, 3, 4, 5 to be designed more compactly, which improves the handling of the key 100.

[0030] According to Fig. 1In the transport position, the narrow sides 12 of the key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 form a flat surface 13 of the key 100 in sections. The key 100 therefore has a compact and handy shape in the transport position. This can also be seen in the illustration. Fig. 5 to be removed, which provide supervision of key 100 according to Fig. 1 The figure shows the transport position. The side surfaces 13 of the key 100 are planar in sections. Due to a taper 14 in the area of ​​each key arm 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 between the key element 9 and the joint connection receptacle 15, the key 100 lies more comfortably in the user's hand when one of the elements 9 is actuated.

[0031] According to the representation Fig. 2The characteristics of the key element 9 of the first key arm 1 can be determined. The key element 9 of the first key arm 1 comprises a forked or U-shaped crown 16, which can be used to operate a double-bitted lock. Unlike a conventional double-bitted lock tool, the key element 9 of the first key arm 1 is formed from a flat sheet metal part. It is characterized by high stability and comparatively low manufacturing costs.

[0032] The Figure 1 and 2 It can be seen that a cam 16 of a stop element 18 is arranged on the narrow side of each of the second, third, fourth and fifth key arms 2, 3, 4, 5. Based on the Fig. 2It can be understood that the cam 17 of each key arm 2, 3, 4, 5 moves towards the stop plate 19 of the stop device 18 when the arm 2, 3, 4, 5 is pivoted, with the stop plate 19 being located on the narrow side 12 of the first key arm 1. The stop device 18 ensures that the second, third, fourth, and fifth key arms 2, 3, 4, 5 can each only be pivoted by an angle of approximately 90° relative to the first key arm 1. The key arm pivoted by 90° assumes the handling position, i.e., the position in which the key element 9 of the respective arm can be operated with optimal handling and leverage.

[0033] In the area of ​​the stop plate 19 of the first key arm 1, as in the Figure 1 and 2As shown, an additional key element 20 is provided, which is preferably operable when the key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 are arranged in the transport position.

[0034] A side view of key 100 according to Fig. 1 is in the Fig. 3 The figure shows that the flat key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 are arranged close together in the transport position, resulting in a very compact shape for the key 100. Because the ends of the key arms 2, 3, 4, 5, with the exception of the first key arm 1, are angled, the key 100 has an L-shape in the transport position shown. The joint connection 7 comprises two connecting plates 21, which are connected to each other by a screw / nut connection and an intermediate key pivot axis. The pivot axis sits in the joint connection receptacles 15 of the key arms 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.

[0035] The Fig. 4 A front view of the key 100 can be taken (transport position). A retaining device 22 is provided on the first key arm 1, to which a chain, strap, or the like can be attached.

[0036] In the key variant according to the Figures 6A In the top view (view) and 6B (side view), a bit holder 23 is provided. Each of the key arms 1, 2, 3, and 4 has a hexagonal opening 24. In the transport position shown, the openings 24 are oriented perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. Fig. 6AThe key arm 5 has a corresponding opening 24, which provides a stop surface and ensures the bit is held securely in the aligned openings 24. Alternatively, the arm 5 can also have a corresponding opening 24, allowing the bit to be inserted through the openings 24. A bit that can be inserted through the openings 24 can be prevented from slipping by tilting the key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5). The bit can be a double bit and be attached to the key 100, for example to the retaining element 22, by means of a chain or wire loop. The orientation of the bit receptacle 23 in the key 100 (transport position) is shown in Fig. 6B indicated by dashed lines.

[0037] One variant of a key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) is in Fig. 7This is illustrated by way of example. Accordingly, the key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) is angled in the area of ​​the joint connection receptacle 15 such that a key arm angle 25 is formed between the key arm's longitudinal direction x and the key arm's axis of rotation. The key arm angle 25 can be, for example, approximately 20°. In a key arm variant (not shown), all key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) can have an identical key arm angle 25, so that the key 100 fits better in the user's hand when all key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) are in the transport position, or when one of the key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) is in the handling position and the other key arms are in the transport position.

[0038] The Figures 8A and 8BThe figures show perspective views of a key 100 with additional key elements 9. One key element 9 is formed as a stepped key 27 and another key element 9 is formed as a bottle opener 28. The additional key element 20 is formed as a radiator bleed valve key, wherein the additional key element 20 is configured according to the Figures 8A / B is formed as a sheet metal bent part. A development of the additional key element 20 has an essentially U-shaped geometry. The bent additional key element 20 has a multi-sided recess that can engage in a counterpart of the radiator valve.

[0039] The key variant 100 according to the Figures 8A / B comprises a holding means 29 formed as a winding device 29, with which the key 100 can be attached to trousers or a bag using the clip 30 of the winding device 29. A wire or cord is arranged in the housing of the winding device 29, which can be wound or wound onto a shaft in the housing. The shaft is subjected to a spring force, so that the pulled-out wire or cord can be wound up automatically. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0040] 100 Key 1 First key arm 2 Second key arm 3 Third key arm 4 Fourth key arm 5 Fifth key arm 7 Joint connection 8 Angled area 9 Key element 10 Recess 11 Gap 12 Narrow side 13 Side surface 14 Tapered 15 Joint connection receptacle 16 Crown 17 Cam 18 Stop 19 Stop plate 20 Additional key element 21 Connecting plate 22 Retaining element 23 Bit receptacle 24 Opening 25 Key arm angle 26 Slot 27 Stepped key element 28 Bottle opener 29 Retaining element with rewind device 30 Retaining clip x Key arm longitudinal direction

Claims

1. Switch cabinet key (100) having a plurality of key elements (9) for opening / closing locking devices that are known per se and / or for actuating fastening means that are known per se, comprising a first key arm (1) and a second key arm (2) connected rotatably about a key axis of rotation to the first key arm (1) via an articulated joint (7), wherein the key arm axis of rotation and the direction of the longitudinal extension of the key arms (1, 2) extend perpendicularly or at a key arm angle to one another, wherein each key arm (1, 2) has an articulated joint seating (15) on the first end thereof that defines the axis of rotation and a key element (9) for actuating a locking device or a fastening means on the opposite end, and wherein the key arms (1, 2) are closely adjacent to one another in a transport position and form an angle between the first and second key arms (1, 2) in a handling position, characterized in that the key element (9) of the first and / or the second key arm (1, 2) is arranged in an angled region (8) of the respective key arm (1, 2).

2. Switch cabinet key (100) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the key element (9) of the second key arm (2) is arranged in an angled region (8) of the second key arm (2), and that the key element of the first key arm (1) is formed without an angled region as a U-shaped element (16) on the end thereof with stable, in particular flat legs, wherein the U-shaped key element (16) of the first key arm (1) is designed to actuate a double-bit locking device that is known per se.

3. Switch cabinet key (100) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the angled region (8) is angled about an angle of 90° or almost 90° relative to the key arm (1, 2), wherein the angled region (8) is preferably manufactured by bending the end of the key arm (1, 2).

4. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one key arm (1, 2) is made from a bent sheet metal part.

5. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that an opening (26), in particular a slot-shaped opening is arranged in or on the angled region (8) in the key arm (1, 2).

6. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least sections of each key arm (1, 2) are of flat construction, and that in the transport position the narrow sides (12) of the flat key arms (1, 2) form at least one flat or almost flat side surface (13) of the key (100), preferably two flat or almost flat side surfaces (13) of the key (100), in sections thereof, in particular in a section between the articulated joint seating (15) and the key element (9).

7. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, wherein a third key arm (3) is provided, which is connected to the first and second key arms (1, 2) rotatably about the key axis of rotation via an articulated joint (7), characterized in that the third key arm (3) is shorter than the second key arm (2), and that the key element (9) of the third key arm (3) is arranged in an angled region (8) of the third key arm (3), wherein the angled regions (8) of the second key arm (2) and the third key arm (3) are arranged closely adjacent to one another in the transport position, wherein in particular further key arms (4, 5) are provided, the fourth key arm (4) being shorter than the third, and the fifth key arm (5) being shorter than the fourth, and the n-th key arm being shorter than the (n-1)-th key arm, where n is a natural number greater than 5.

8. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that at least one key element (9) comprises at least one recess (10) which is triangular, quadrangular or polygonal, so that a locking device with triangular or square form can be actuated with the key element (9), and / or at least one key element (9) is formed as a stepped key element (27), and / or at least one key element (9) comprises a can and / or bottle opener (28).

9. Switch cabinet key (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that the geometry of the recess (10) is formed by a first square and a second square rotated about an angle of 45° relative to the first square and arranged above it, which second square is larger or smaller than the first square, or the geometry of the recess (10) is formed by a first square and a triangle, in particular an equilateral triangle, arranged above the first square, or the geometry of the recess (10) is formed by a first triangled, in particular an equilateral triangle, and a second triangle rotated about an angle of 60° relative to the first triangle, wherein the second triangle is larger or smaller than the first triangle.

10. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that an angular, in particular hexagonal opening (24) is arranged in the region between the articulated joint seating (15) and the key element (9) in each or almost every key arm (1, 2, 3, 4), wherein in the transport position the openings (24) in the first and each further key arm (2, 3, 4) are in alignment which is orientated parallel to the axis of rotation of the articulated joint (7), and that the aligned openings (24) of the key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) form a bit holder (23) in the transport position.

11. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that at least one stop means (18) is provided on one or more key arms (2, 3, 4, 5), and determines the pivot angle of at least one key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) relative to another key arm (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), in particular so that a maximum pivot angle of 110° or almost 110° is provided, preferably 90° or almost 90°.

12. Switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 11, characterized by at least one additional key element (20), which is arranged on one of the key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) in such a way that the additional key element (20) is arranged on the key side (13) when the key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) are in the transport position.

13. Method for producing a switch cabinet key (100) according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the key arms (1, 2, 3, 4, 5) are cut or punched out of a metal sheet, and that the angled region (8) of a key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) is formed by bending the end of the key arm (2, 3, 4, 5).

14. Method according to Claim 13, characterized in that an opening (26), in particular a slot-shaped opening, is created in the key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) in or on or immediately adjacent to the angled region (8) before the key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) is bent, so that the portion of the material of the key arm (2, 3, 4, 5) to be bent is effectively reduced.

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