Locking cylinders, keys and procedures

Abstract

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.

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 key channel for inserting a key shank of a key in a key insertion direction, wherein the locking cylinder further has a plurality of locking safeguards which are configured to bring about a locking state or a release state of the locking cylinder, wherein in the release state a rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing is enabled and in the locking state it is locked, and wherein the locking cylinder can be transferred from the locking state to the release state by fully inserting the key into the key channel of the cylinder core, wherein the locking cylinder has a first interrogation element and at least one second interrogation element for interrogating 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 key sides. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a locking system with such a locking cylinder and such a key. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for unlocking or locking a locking cylinder. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for producing such a key and a complementary first interrogation element for such a locking cylinder. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for producing such a key. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for configuring such a locking system.

[0002] Lock cylinders with keys that provide additional profiling, particularly on the narrow side of the key, are already known in the state of the art. These profiling elements are used to increase profile variation and thus enhance security. Furthermore, coding elements are known in the state of the art. These coding elements are rigidly or flexibly inserted into the keyway and scan the additional profiling to increase security.

[0003] The document DE 30 04 992 A1 shows a profiling for increasing profile variation. For this purpose, at least one further longitudinal groove is provided in the back of the flat key to increase the profile variation. This groove interacts with at least one circular-segment-shaped disc inserted into a transverse slot in the rotary cylinder. The disc's curved edge is aligned with the outer surface of the rotary cylinder and, at 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. A projection corresponding to the longitudinal groove of the key back is provided at the bottom of the opening. The possible profile variation can be further increased by arranging several discs one behind the other in the keyway if the respective longitudinal groove extends over only part of the insertion length of the key.

[0004] The document 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 in order to query the corresponding profiling on the key broadsides.

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

[0006] Based on these locking cylinders, it is an object of the present invention to provide a locking cylinder that provides increased security and can be installed more easily and cost-effectively. In particular, it is a further object of the present invention to provide a locking cylinder that provides increased security against tampering. In particular, it is a further object of the present invention to provide a locking cylinder that provides an improved service life and a reduced probability of failure. In particular, it is a further object of the present invention to provide a locking system that provides increased flexibility in the configuration of the locking system.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the invention, a locking cylinder is therefore provided with a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the cylinder core has a key channel for inserting a key shank of a key in a key insertion direction, wherein the locking cylinder further has a plurality of locking safeguards configured to effect a locking state or a release state of the locking cylinder, wherein in the release state, a rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing is enabled and is locked in the locking state, and wherein the locking cylinder can be transferred from the locking state to the release state by fully inserting the key into the key channel of the cylinder core,wherein the locking cylinder has a first interrogation element and at least one second interrogation element for interrogating a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key, wherein the cross-sectional profile extends in a longitudinal direction of the key shank and is constant over an entire length of the narrow side of the key in the longitudinal direction, wherein the first interrogation element is arranged in the cylinder core and projects into the key channel, wherein the first interrogation element is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key, in particular during insertion of the key, and wherein the at least one second interrogation element is pretensioned radially inwardly with respect to the cylinder core and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein each second interrogation element is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile, in particular when the key is fully inserted,wherein the at least one second interrogation element releases the rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing in the respective release position and blocks it in the respective blocking position.,

[0008] According to a second aspect of the invention, a key, in particular a bit key, for a locking cylinder with a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the key has a key shank extending along a longitudinal direction with two key broad sides and two key narrow sides, wherein the key shank is designed for insertion into a key channel of the cylinder core, wherein the key has a cross-sectional profile on a first of the key narrow sides, wherein the cross-sectional profile extends in the longitudinal direction of the key shank and is constant over an entire length of the first key narrow side in the longitudinal direction, wherein the cross-sectional profile is designed to be pressed against a test profile of a first interrogation element of the locking cylinder projecting into the key channel, in particular during the insertion of the key into the locking cylinder,to be interrogated and wherein the cross-sectional profile is further configured to be interrogated on at least one second interrogation element of the locking cylinder, in particular when the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder.

[0009] The key according to the second aspect is particularly suitable for use in the locking cylinder according to the first aspect.

[0010] According to a third aspect of the invention, a locking system is provided with at least one locking cylinder according to the first aspect and at least one key according to the second aspect.

[0011] Accordingly, this locking system has the same advantages as the locking cylinder according to the first aspect and the key according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0012] One or more locking systems can be used in a locking system. Each locking system can restrict access to an area within the locking system. If different access requirements apply to individual areas within the locking system, these areas must be restricted using a locking system with a different code. In the following, a locking system is defined as a security device that restricts access to at least one area using at least one locking system.

[0013] The cylinder core has an essentially cylindrical shape. According to this cylindrical shape, a radial direction and an axial direction are defined. Furthermore, a tangential direction is defined which runs orthogonal to the radial and axial directions. A cylindrical coordinate system can be defined by these directions. The cylinder core is rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing about a cylinder axis. The cylinder core can rotate about the cylinder axis. The radial direction points radially outwards from the cylinder axis. The cylinder core has the keyway for receiving the key. If the key that matches the locking devices is fully inserted into the keyway, all locking devices are unlocked, thus causing the locking cylinder to be released. If an unsuitable key is inserted, the locking state is caused.In other words, the rotational movement is only possible when the appropriate key is fully inserted. In particular, the locking devices may be pin tumblers.

[0014] The keyway extends in the axial direction and has an opening at one axial end of the cylinder core through which the key can be inserted or pushed into the keyway. The key is inserted into the keyway of the cylinder core with the key shank in the key insertion direction and removed from the keyway of the cylinder core in the opposite direction to the key insertion direction. The key insertion direction corresponds to the axial direction. If the key is inserted into the keyway with the key shank, the longitudinal direction of the key shank is parallel to the key insertion direction and the axial direction.

[0015] The key shank extends in the longitudinal direction and has two opposing key broad sides and two likewise opposing key narrow sides that connect the key broad sides. The key shank is essentially rectangular in cross-section. The cross-section can be viewed as a cutting surface arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal direction. Viewed in cross-section, the two longer sides of the rectangle are the key broad sides. The two shorter sides are the key narrow sides. The key narrow sides are spaced from each other in a height direction of the key shank. The key broad sides are spaced from each other in a width direction of the key shank. The height direction, the width direction, and the longitudinal direction are each orthogonal to each other.If the key is inserted into the keyway with the key shank, the height direction of the key is parallel to the radial direction and points in the same direction.

[0016] The key is, in particular, a bit key. The key has the cross-sectional profile on the first narrow side of the key. 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 of the key if the key is a reversible key.

[0017] The first narrow side of the key extends with 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.

[0018] The cross-sectional profile is used for interrogation by the first and the at least one second interrogation element of the locking cylinder. The cross-sectional profile is designed to be interrogated both during insertion by the first interrogation by means of the first interrogation element and when the key is fully inserted by the second interrogation by means of the at least one second interrogation element. The cross-sectional profile, viewed in the cross-section of the key shank, represents a contour of the first narrow side of the key. The contour extends in the height direction and in the width direction of the key shank. The cross-sectional profile or contour has at least two sections of different heights in the height direction. When the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder, the height direction of the key shank points in the radial direction of the cylinder core. Thus, the cross-sectional profile or contourWhen the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder, the contour has at least two sections of different heights in the radial direction of the cylinder core. These sections can be used as a security feature and interrogated by the first and second interrogation elements. The cross-sectional profile or contour is constant along the entire length of the key's narrow side in the longitudinal direction.

[0019] The keyway also has a radial opening in the cylinder core's lateral surface. This opening opens the keyway radially, so that when the key is fully inserted, the first narrow side of the key with its cross-sectional profile is arranged in the keyway, radially accessible from the outside through the opening.

[0020] The first interrogation element serves to interrogate or for the first interrogation of the cross-sectional profile. The first interrogation element is arranged, in particular detachably, in the cylinder core. The first interrogation element is arranged immovably, in particular rigidly, in the cylinder core. The first interrogation element is arranged, in particular can be arranged, in such a way that it protrudes sectionally into the key channel. In particular, the first interrogation element protrudes radially into the key channel through the opening in the lateral surface of the cylinder core. The first interrogation element is designed to interrogate the cross-sectional profile when the cross-sectional profile passes the first interrogation element, in particular during insertion of the key. The first interrogation element can, for example, be a plate-shaped element that has a thickness. In particular, the thickness can be 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, in particular 1 mm.The first interrogation 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 interrogate the cross-sectional profile, the first interrogation element can further have a test profile, which then has the contour.

[0021] The test profile is formed in one piece with the first interrogation element. In other words, the test profile is formed integrally with the first interrogation element. The test profile protrudes, particularly in sections, radially inward into the keyway. In other words, the test profile protrudes into the keyway counter to the radial direction.

[0022] The query or first query using the first query element is carried out by querying the contour of the narrow side of the key. The query can occur when the cross-sectional profile passes the first query element during insertion of the key. The differently high sections of the contour of the first query element can query the differently high sections of the cross-sectional profile. The first query 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. In particular, the query can be carried out by the first query element and the cross-sectional profile engaging with each other in sections.

[0023] The second interrogation element is used to interrogate or secondly interrogate the cross-sectional profile. The second interrogation element is preferably arranged in the cylinder housing such that it protrudes into the cylinder core in its locked position and does not protrude into the cylinder core in its release position. In other words, the second interrogation element is not arranged in the cylinder core in its release position. The second interrogation element can penetrate into the key channel with a section in its locked position if the key channel is aligned radially with the opening in the outer surface of the cylinder core to the second interrogation element. In other words, the second interrogation element assumes its respective locked position when it can penetrate into the key channel through the opening in the outer surface.In the locked position, the second interrogation element is arranged in sections in the cylinder core and in the cylinder housing, so that the rotational movement of the cylinder core is locked. In particular, the second interrogation element can then be subjected to shear stress between the cylinder core and the cylinder housing, so that the rotational movement of the cylinder core is locked. The second interrogation element can, for example, be a substantially cylindrical or substantially cuboid-shaped element that is movable in a radial direction by means of a spring or an elastic element. The second interrogation element can, in particular, have a flat or conical end that is designed to bear on the cross-sectional profile.If the cylinder surface of the cylinder core points towards the second interrogation element, or if the opening in the cylinder surface is blocked by the first narrow side of the key, so that the second interrogation element cannot penetrate into the keyway, then the second interrogation element cannot be moved into its respective locked position. In other words, the second interrogation element is then held in its respective release position. The term penetration in the present disclosure means that the second interrogation element penetrates sufficiently deeply into the cylinder core so that the rotational movement is blocked; if only one end, in particular a round end, of the second interrogation element protrudes into the cylinder core, which end, by bearing against an edge of the keyway upon continuation of the rotational movement, causes the second interrogation element to move back into the release position, this does not constitute penetration.

[0024] The query or second query by means of the at least one second query element takes place when the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder by querying the contour of the narrow side of the key. The second query serves in particular to query the higher section or security feature of the at least two sections of the cross-sectional profile of different heights in the radial direction of the cylinder core. In particular, only a highest section in the height direction or in the radial direction is queried. In other words, in particular only a section that is arranged radially furthest outwards is queried. The query can take place when the cross-sectional profile passes the second query element during the rotational movement of the cylinder core.During interrogation, the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key can either prevent the second interrogation element from entering the keyway, leaving the second interrogation element in its release position, or allow it to enter, moving the second interrogation element to its locked position. In particular, interrogation is performed by the second interrogation element through the opening in the cylinder surface.

[0025] In this way, it is possible to provide an improved query. The improved query is provided by a two-stage query. The two-stage query queries the cross-sectional profile twice by querying at least individual sections or security features of the cross-sectional profile using two different query methods one after the other. In other words, the second query queries 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 goes beyond simply increasing the possible profile variations or locking secrets. Rather, at least individual sections of the profile must meet two criteria.In particular, the cross-sectional profile must be low enough for a first level of interrogation and high enough for a second level of interrogation. This creates a direct connection between the first and second interrogations. This increases security. Furthermore, the two-level interrogation ensures tamper resistance because the cross-sectional profile has at least two sections or security features of different heights in the vertical direction. In other words, the higher section of the cross-sectional profile cannot simply be removed or ground down to overcome the first interrogation, as it would then no longer be available for the subsequent second interrogation.

[0026] The design of the first interrogation element offers further advantages. Since the first interrogation element is immovably mounted in the cylinder core, there is no wear-promoting relative movement between the first interrogation element and other components of the locking cylinder. Furthermore, a stationary arrangement is mechanically less complex than a movable one. This ensures a reduced probability of failure and an improved service life of the locking cylinder. Furthermore, only a single element, the first interrogation element, needs to be used to provide the two-stage interrogation, particularly when retrofitted. Installation is therefore quick and easy. This reduces the susceptibility to errors during installation and reduces installation costs.

[0027] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for releasing or unlocking or locking a locking cylinder having a cylinder housing and a cylinder core rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing, wherein the cylinder core has a keyway for inserting a key shank of a key in a key insertion direction, wherein the locking cylinder further has a plurality of locking safeguards configured to effect a locking state or a release state of the locking cylinder, wherein in the release state, a rotational movement of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing is released and is locked in the locking state, and wherein the locking cylinder can be transferred from the locking state to the release state by fully inserting the key into the keyway of the cylinder core, characterized by the following steps: providing the locking cylinder and the key,wherein the locking cylinder has a first interrogation element and at least one second interrogation element for interrogating a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key, wherein the cross-sectional profile extends in a longitudinal direction of the key shank and is constant over an entire length of the narrow side of the key in the longitudinal direction, wherein the first interrogation element is arranged in the cylinder core and projects into the key channel, first interrogation of the cross-sectional profile, wherein the cross-sectional profile is guided along the first interrogation element in the key insertion direction during insertion of the key and is checked when passing the first interrogation element, in particular wherein the first interrogation element and the cross-sectional profile engage with each other, wherein the first interrogation ends when the key is fully inserted, followed by a second interrogation of the cross-sectional profile when the key is fully inserted,wherein the cross-sectional profile is moved along 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 interrogation element in a direction of rotation of the rotational movement, wherein the cross-sectional profile is arranged radially outward in the cylinder core and is radially accessible to the at least one second interrogation element through the key channel, wherein the at least one second interrogation element is prestressed radially inward 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 upon passing the at least one second interrogation element, wherein the second interrogation ends,when the cross-sectional profile has completely passed the at least one second interrogation element or when the at least one second interrogation 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 interrogation element in the respective release position to unlock the locking cylinder, wherein the holding takes place by the at least one second interrogation element being supported 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 interrogation element into the respective locking position to lock the locking cylinder.

[0028] The method is particularly suitable for implementation with a locking cylinder according to the first aspect and a key according to the second aspect or a locking system according to the third aspect.

[0029] 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 with different heights in the radial direction of the cylinder core. By means of the first query, the contour of the narrow side of the key can be queried, in particular the complete contour. The sections of the contour of the first query element with different heights can query the sections of the cross-sectional profile with different heights. In particular, the query can be carried out by the first query element and the cross-sectional profile engaging with one another in sections. The first query step takes place when passing the cross-sectional profile. This means that the query is not carried out across the entire cross-sectional profile at the same time, but successively along the longitudinal direction of the key shank. By means of the first query, sections of the contour can be detected which differ in the height direction orin the radial direction are too high. If a key to be tested has a section that is too high, the first interrogation cannot be continued, and the key is prevented from being inserted further into the keyway by a positive locking action. In other words, the first interrogation can prevent the key from being inserted. In particular, the first interrogation step takes place with the cylinder core in an unrotated position.

[0030] The second query step requires that a key matching the locking cylinder has been inserted, which puts the locking cylinder into the release state. The second query step serves in particular to query the higher section or security feature of the at least two sections of the cross-sectional profile of different heights in the radial direction of the cylinder core. The second query step is carried out when the cross-sectional profile is guided along the at least one second query element in the direction of rotation. Since the key channel extends in the axial direction in the cylinder core, the entire key channel passes the at least one second query element at the same time during the rotation. Thus, the complete cross-sectional profile is radially accessible to every second query element at this moment.This means that the query can be carried out across the entire cross-sectional profile simultaneously, in particular at any point along the cross-sectional profile. The second query element can, in particular, scan the cross-sectional profile in the radial direction by contact. The second query can be used to check whether defined sections of the contour are sufficiently high in the height direction or the radial direction. In particular, the query is carried out by means of the second query element through the opening in the cylinder surface. During the query, the penetration of the second query element into the key channel can either be prevented by means of the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key, whereby the second query element remains in its release position, or permitted, whereby the second query element is moved into its locked position.In other words, the second query can prevent the inserted key from turning, preventing it from fully rotating to unlock the lock cylinder. In particular, the second query step occurs with the cylinder core in a rotated position.

[0031] The step of releasing the rotary movement requires that a key with the appropriate cross-sectional profile has been inserted into the locking cylinder on the key's narrow side. By releasing the rotary movement, the complete rotary movement can be performed in the direction of rotation or in the opposite direction. In particular, the remaining rotary movement can be performed until the locking cylinder is unlocked. In particular, if a plurality of second interrogation elements is present, all of the second interrogation elements must be held in the respective release position to perform the releasing step.

[0032] The step of blocking the rotational movement occurs alternatively to the release step. The blocking step requires that a key without the matching cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key has been inserted into the locking cylinder. The movement of the at least one second interrogation element into the respective blocking position can occur through the opening in the cylinder jacket surface into the key channel. The step of blocking the rotational movement prevents any further rotational movement. The cylinder core is fixed by the at least one second interrogation element. The cylinder core thus remains in its current position in the cylinder housing. Since the key can only be removed in the non-rotated position, the blocking can also prevent the removal of an unsuitable key, in particular a counterfeit or tampered key.In particular, if there are a plurality of second interrogation elements, moving one of the second interrogation elements into the respective blocking position is sufficient to carry out the blocking step.

[0033] The method thus has the same advantages as those described for the locking cylinder according to the first aspect mentioned above or for the locking system according to the third aspect. In particular, the two-stage query is provided by the defined sequence of the first query step before the second query step.

[0034] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for producing a key, in particular a bit key according to the second aspect, and a complementary first interrogation element for a locking cylinder according to the first aspect, characterized by the following steps: providing a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shank extending along a longitudinal direction with two key broad sides and two key narrow sides, providing an interrogation element blank for the first interrogation element, in particular wherein the interrogation element blank is plate-shaped, 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 constant in the longitudinal direction of the key shank over an entire length of the first narrow side of the key, and machining the interrogation element blank for the first interrogation element to form a test profile for testing the cross-sectional profile of the first narrow side of the key, wherein the test profile and the cross-sectional profile are formed in sections complementary to one another, so that the test profile and the cross-sectional profile can engage with one another in sections.

[0035] The method is particularly suitable for producing a key according to the second aspect and for producing a first interrogation element of a locking cylinder according to the first aspect.

[0036] The key blank may already have a profile, particularly on the broad sides of the key, for unlocking a plurality of locking mechanisms of the locking cylinder.

[0037] The test profile and the cross-sectional profile are designed to complement each other in sections. Complementary means that individual sections of both profiles can correspond in terms of their geometric shape and form counterparts to each other. In particular, the deepest section of both profiles, based on the height direction of the key or the radial direction of the cylinder core, is manufactured to be complementary. However, both processing 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 coming into contact with the first interrogation element. To this end, overlapping manufacturing tolerance ranges for both processing steps must be avoided.In particular, a contact section of the first interrogation element can be manufactured in such a way that a maximum penetration depth in the receptacle is limited. This ensures that the test profile protrudes into the keyway to a defined depth, counter to the radial direction. This allows for the adjustment of the clearance between the test profile and the cross-sectional profile. The same applies to the production of a plurality of keys or interrogation elements. The machining steps can be performed, in particular, using forming or cutting processes, in particular machining with a geometrically defined cutting edge, or machining by cutting.

[0038] The step of machining the first of the narrow sides of the key can also be carried out taking into account a shape, in particular the diameter, of the cylinder core. In particular, an elevation of the cross-sectional profile can be designed such that the cross-sectional profile can prevent every second interrogation element from penetrating the key channel. In other words, the elevation can be manufactured as a highest section of the cross-sectional profile such that the section is arranged at the level of the cylinder jacket surface. The step of machining the first of the narrow sides of the key can also be carried out taking into account a shape of the at least one second interrogation element. For example, the second interrogation element can be manufactured conical at one end and configured to penetrate the key channel.In this case, the elevation can be arranged in the width direction of the key shank with a width corresponding to the width of the cone of the second interrogation element, such that the elevation can support the second interrogation element, in particular at the level of the cylinder jacket surface, in order to prevent the second interrogation element from penetrating the key channel. It goes without saying that in the case of a reversible key, a cross-sectional profile can also be formed on the second narrow side of the key by the step of machining the narrow side of the key. This is then a similar and equally effective cross-sectional profile that is formed in such a way that both cross-sectional profiles are rotationally symmetrical to one another with respect to a longitudinal axis of the key.

[0039] The step of machining the interrogation element blank also takes into account the elevation of the cross-sectional profile. In particular, the interrogation element blank must be machined in such a way that the elevation of the cross-sectional profile can pass the first interrogation element when the key is inserted.

[0040] By coordinating the production of the key and the complementary first interrogation element for a locking cylinder, the smallest possible play can be achieved between the corresponding complementary sections of both profiles. As the play decreases, the demands on the precision of the processing steps increase. In particular, it can be difficult for unauthorized third parties without knowledge of the tolerances to produce the key. This can improve the forgery resistance of the key and thus the security of the locking system.

[0041] According to a sixth aspect of the invention, a method is provided for producing a key, in particular a bit key, for a locking cylinder with a first interrogation element and at least one second interrogation element, characterized by the following steps: providing a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shank 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 to be constant in the longitudinal direction of the key shank over an entire length of the first key narrow side, wherein the cross-sectional profile is formed in sections to be complementary to a test profile of the first interrogation element,so that the test profile and the cross-sectional profile can engage with each other in sections, and wherein the cross-sectional profile is formed with at least one elevation such that a highest point of the elevation is arranged at a height of the cylinder jacket surface in a radial direction relative to a cylinder core of the locking cylinder when the key is fully inserted into the locking cylinder.

[0042] The method is particularly suitable for producing a key according to the second aspect.

[0043] 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 according to the fifth aspect, 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 interrogation element. In particular, the machining is carried out with knowledge of the manufacturing tolerances of the first interrogation element of the locking cylinder for which the key is intended, which can be a locking cylinder according to the first aspect.

[0044] In this way, keys can be manufactured that are suitable for two-stage interrogation in a locking cylinder, in particular according to the first aspect, or for two-stage interrogation during the method according to the fourth aspect, without the first interrogation element having to be manufactured using the same process. In this way, for example, keys can be copied 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 subsequently configured for two-stage interrogation.

[0045] According to a seventh aspect of the invention, a method is provided for configuring a locking system with at least one locking cylinder and at least one key, characterized by the following step: inserting a first interrogation element into the at least one locking cylinder, wherein the first interrogation element is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key of the at least one key, wherein the insertion is carried out in such a way that the first interrogation element projects into the key channel in order to interrogate the cross-sectional profile, in particular over an entire length of the cross-sectional profile during the insertion of the key.

[0046] The method is particularly suitable for configuring a locking system according to the third aspect.

[0047] Through the insertion step, the first interrogation element is immovably, in particular rigidly, fixed to the cylinder core. The insertion takes place, in particular, with the cylinder core removed. In particular, the first receiving element can be fixed with a section in a slot or a receiving bore in the cylinder core. The insertion can be reversible. In this way, the first interrogation element can be mounted easily and cost-effectively.

[0048] The installation can be carried out retrospectively, particularly after the locking system has been put into operation. This makes it possible to subsequently change the coding for unlocking each locking cylinder in the locking system. For example, similar to construction locks, two types of keys can be used, so that after construction work is completed, the profile interrogation elements are inserted 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 individual areas can be selectively restricted by equipping only the corresponding locking cylinders with a first interrogation element that regulates access to these areas.In this case, identical keys can be used throughout the entire locking system, differing only in the design of the key's narrow side, so that only those keys with the appropriate cross-sectional profile on one of the key's narrow sides allow access to the selectively restricted areas. This provides increased flexibility in the configuration of the locking cylinder.

[0049] The task posed at the beginning is therefore completely solved.

[0050] In one embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first interrogation element is arranged in the cylinder core in front of every second interrogation element in the key insertion direction.

[0051] In this way, it can be ensured that no section of the cross-sectional profile is made accessible to the second query using the at least one second query element without first being queried by the first query using the first query element. Thus, the two-stage query can be ensured.

[0052] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first interrogation element is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile in the key insertion direction over the entire length of the key narrow side during insertion of the key into the key channel.

[0053] For this purpose, the first interrogation element can be arranged in a front area of ​​the key channel in the key insertion direction, so that the first narrow side of the key completely passes the first interrogation element when the key is inserted. In other words, the first interrogation element must be arranged such that, when the key is fully inserted, it is located in a position that lies between the first narrow side of the key and the key head in the longitudinal direction of the key shank.

[0054] In this way, the cross-sectional profile can be used over the entire length of the key's narrow side for two-stage interrogation.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first query element is configured to query the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key in an untwisted 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 rotated from the untwisted position by the rotational movement.

[0056] The untwisted position refers to a relative position between the cylinder housing and the cylinder core in which the cylinder core is not twisted relative to the cylinder housing. "Untwisted" means that the cylinder core is aligned such that all locking devices, in particular pin tumblers, allow the insertion of the key. In the untwisted position, the key can be inserted into the keyway and removed from the keyway. In particular, the at least one second interrogation element is held radially by the cylinder surface of the cylinder core in the respective release position in the untwisted position.

[0057] The rotated position refers to a relative position between the cylinder housing and the cylinder core, in which the cylinder core is rotated relative to the cylinder housing, starting from the untwisted position. The radial direction of the cylinder core in the rotated position defines an angle between itself and the radial direction of the cylinder core in the untwisted position. In the rotated position, the key cannot be inserted into the keyway or removed from the keyway. In the rotated position, the radial direction and the radial direction in which the at least one second interrogation element is radially preloaded are parallel to one another and are opposite directions. In the rotated position, the keyway is radially accessible to the at least one second interrogation element.If the cross-sectional profile is arranged radially outward in the key channel, the cross-sectional profile is radially accessible to the at least one second interrogation element, in particular through the radial opening of the key channel.

[0058] This provides particularly effective protection against tampering, as the second interrogation is not performed in the unrotated position. Access to the second interrogation element is thus made more difficult, as the first interrogation element must be overcome to insert the key, and the plurality of locking devices must be overcome to achieve the release state of the locking cylinder in order to perform the rotational movement and gain access to the second interrogation element.

[0059] Particularly if the locking cylinder has multiple second interrogation elements, the cross-sectional profile of all second interrogation elements can be interrogated in the rotated position. This has the advantage that all second interrogation elements can then penetrate the cylinder core in the rotated position, thus allowing all second interrogation elements to jointly block the rotational movement if no matching key is inserted.

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

[0061] This protects the locking cylinder from further attacks using an unsuitable key, as the fixed key must first be removed. Furthermore, the fixed key blocks access to the locking devices and every other interrogation element, preventing tampering with these elements. Another advantage is that the attempted break-in will not go undetected, as the key is left in the locking cylinder.

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

[0063] The receptacle forms a radial access or opening into the keyway. The receptacle is designed, in particular, according to an outer shape of the second interrogation element. The receptacles are provided, in particular, in a number corresponding to the number of second interrogation elements. Each receptacle is designed such that the cross-sectional profile of a matching key prevents any second interrogation element from penetrating the corresponding receptacle. For this purpose, the receptacle can, for example, be arranged radially further inward than a highest section of the cross-sectional profile in the vertical direction.

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

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

[0066] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first interrogation element has a test profile that projects radially inward into the key channel, and wherein the first interrogation element is configured by means of the test profile to interrogate the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key, in particular during insertion of the key, and wherein the at least one second interrogation element is configured to penetrate radially into the cylinder core into the key channel, so that the at least one second interrogation element is in the respective locking position in order to lock the rotational movement of the cylinder core, and wherein the at least one second interrogation element is further configured, in particular when the key is fully inserted, to radially support itself 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, in particular, formed in one piece with the first interrogation element. In other words, the test profile is formed integrally with the first interrogation element. The test profile protrudes, in particular in sections, radially inward into the keyway. In other words, the test profile protrudes into the keyway counter to the radial direction. For this purpose, the test profile can have a projection. The test profile forms the contour of the first interrogation element inside the keyway. For the first interrogation, the test profile can interrogate the different heights of the cross-sectional profile using the different heights of the contour of the first interrogation element.

[0068] The at least one second interrogation element, because it is radially prestressed, strives radially in the direction of the cylinder axis of the cylinder core. If the key channel with the radial opening points towards the second interrogation element, the second interrogation element can penetrate radially into the key channel due to the prestress. However, if the first narrow side of the key with the cross-sectional profile is arranged in such a way that it blocks the opening, the second interrogation element is in contact with the cross-sectional profile and is held in this position. In other words, the second interrogation element then rests on the cross-sectional profile. In particular, a contact surface can be designed to bear against the contour of the cross-sectional profile in such a way that no section of the second interrogation element can penetrate into the key channel and block the rotational movement. The contact surface can, for example, be 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 of the aspects, it can be provided that the test profile has at least one projection for querying at least one recess of the cross-sectional profile of the key narrow side.

[0071] The recess can, in particular, be a groove. The recess extends opposite to the vertical direction and in the width direction.

[0072] The projection can interrogate the recess, particularly during insertion of the key. For this purpose, the projection can be configured complementarily to the recess. This means that at least a portion of the projection is configured complementarily to a portion 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, in particular 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, in particular 0.8 mm.

[0073] The projection and recess are designed to prevent collision between the projection and recess when inserting the key. This allows the initial interrogation to be performed by a shape comparison.

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

[0075] The depth serves as a security feature of the cross-sectional profile. The depth extends from a surface of the key's narrow side, perpendicular to the surface, into the key shank, counter to the vertical direction. 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, especially 0.5 mm.

[0076] In particular, a plurality of projections can be provided that interrogate a plurality of recesses. Each projection then checks the depth of one of the recesses. The plurality of projections and recesses then correspond to one another.

[0077] The first interrogation element allows the key to be inserted if the depth is sufficient to circumvent the projection of the first interrogation element. In particular, the first security feature is then fulfilled. In this way, a first stage of the two-stage interrogation of the locking cylinder can be realized.

[0078] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the projection has a radially inwardly facing end face which is designed corresponding 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 side of the recess. The bottom contour, or bottom contour, is a part or section of the cross-sectional profile contour. In particular, the bottom contour can be the deepest section of the cross-sectional profile contour. The bottom contour can be an additional safety feature.

[0080] The straight design of the front side is particularly well suited to querying the contour of the base, especially when the base also has a straight contour. In this context, straight means that the front side or base is not corrugated or wavy in cross-section. In other words, the contour does not change direction in the area of ​​the front side or base. If there is only slight play, even small angular deviations between the straight contours can lead to a collision when the cross-sectional profile is first queried. This places high demands on manufacturing accuracy, which increases security against counterfeiting. A further advantage of the straight design is its good reproducibility, particularly when using machining processes. In this way, the straight design enables a high level of accuracy to be maintained even with larger quantities.

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

[0082] The angle of inclination defines the inclination of the base relative to a plane perpendicular to the key's broad sides and parallel to a transverse plane of the key shank extending longitudinally. In particular, the front side has an angle of inclination complementary to 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 interrogation of the locking cylinder. This further increases counterfeit security.

[0084] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the projection further comprises at least one outer side which is configured corresponding to at least one flank of the recess, wherein each outer side is configured straight and wherein each outer side is configured to interrogate a contour of the flank.

[0085] The flank is a side or lateral surface of the recess. The contour of the flank or flank contour is a part or section of the contour of the cross-sectional profile. In particular, the contour of the flank can be a section of the contour of the cross-sectional profile that delimits the recess in the width direction. The contour of the flank can be an additional safety feature.

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

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

[0088] To query the flank angle, each outer side can be arranged at an angle to the front side, wherein the respective angle corresponds to the flank angle of the respective flank to the bottom of the recess.

[0089] The design of the outer side and the flank angle can be analogous to the design of the front side and the angle of inclination of the floor. Thus, the same advantages arise for this design of the aspects. In particular, safety is further increased by this additional safety feature.

[0090] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first query element is configured 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 width direction or tangential direction, and a depth opposite the height direction or radial direction. The first sensing element is thus designed in such a way that a clearance is created between the end face and the base, and between each outer side and each flank. The manufacturing tolerances of both outer sides or both flanks form a tolerance chain, which further increases the demands on manufacturing accuracy.

[0092] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the test profile further comprises at least one recess for querying at least one elevation of the cross-sectional profile of the narrow side of the key, and wherein the at least one second query element is configured to be supported radially on the at least one elevation of the narrow side of the key in order to remain in the respective release position.

[0093] The protrusion extends in the vertical direction. In other words, the protrusion is positioned higher in the vertical direction than the recess. The protrusion is offset from the recess in the width direction, so that the protrusion of the first interrogation element and the protrusion are not aligned in the axial direction. In other words, the protrusion and the protrusion are designed so that they cannot collide with each other when the key is inserted.

[0094] The recess can interrogate the elevation, in particular during insertion of the key. For this purpose, the recess can be designed to be complementary to the elevation. This means that at least a section of the recess is designed to be complementary to a section of the elevation. The recess has a recess length in the radial direction. The recess length can be 0.04 mm to 0.4 mm, preferably 0.06 mm to 0.3 mm, particularly preferably 0.08 mm to 0.2 mm, in particular 0.1 mm. The recess has a recess width in the tangential direction. The recess width can be 0.4 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm, in particular 0.6 mm. The recess extends in the axial direction through the entire thickness of the first interrogation element. The recess is arranged higher in the radial direction or the height direction than the end face of the projection.

[0095] The recess and the raised portion are designed so that there is no collision between the recess and the raised portion when the key is inserted. This allows the first interrogation to be carried out by matching the shape. The first interrogation element allows the key to be inserted if the raised portion can pass under the first interrogation element in the area of ​​the recess. In particular, this fulfills an additional security feature. This allows the first stage of the two-stage interrogation of the locking cylinder to be additionally implemented.

[0096] The second interrogation element can rest on the raised portion, particularly during the rotational movement and when the key is fully inserted. For this purpose, the raised portion of the cross-sectional profile can be designed such that it can prevent every second interrogation element from penetrating the keyway. In other words, the raised portion can be designed as a highest section of the cross-sectional profile such that the section is located at the level of the cylinder surface. In this way, a second stage of the two-stage interrogation of the locking cylinder can be realized.

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

[0098] The height serves as a further security feature of the cross-sectional profile. The height points vertically away from the surface of the key's narrow side in the height 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, in particular 0.11 mm.

[0099] In particular, a plurality of recesses can be provided that query a plurality of elevations. Each recess then checks the height of one of the elevations. The majority of recesses and elevations then correspond.

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

[0101] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the recess has an end face which points radially inwards with respect to the cylinder core and which is designed corresponding to a surface of the 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 contour of the surface can be a further safety feature. In particular, the contour of the surface can be a highest section of the contour of the cross-sectional profile.

[0103] The design of the front side of the recess and the contour of the surface of the raised part can be analogous to the design of the front side of the projection and the contour of the base. Thus, the same advantages arise for this design of the aspects. In particular, safety is further increased by the additional safety feature.

[0104] In a further embodiment of the aspects, 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 be supported on the elevation at a contact line, wherein each elevation has the contact line starting from the respective highest point in the longitudinal direction of the key shank, in particular wherein the transition from the surface to the respective flank is a chamfer.

[0105] The angle of inclination of the surface defines the inclination of the surface relative to a plane perpendicular to the key's broad sides and parallel to a transverse plane of the key shank extending longitudinally. In particular, the front side of the recess has an angle of inclination complementary to the surface. The angle of inclination of the surface 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 contour of the cross-sectional profile. The highest point can be located at the level of the cylinder surface.

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

[0108] The chamfer provides a defined edge for the contact line. This makes it particularly easy to determine the position of the contact line.

[0109] In this way, the interaction of the height of the cross-sectional profile and the position of the contact line can also be a safety feature.

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

[0111] The equal height of the protrusions is a height in the radial direction of the cylinder core or the height direction of the key shank. If the second interrogation element can support itself on both protrusions, the load can be distributed across both protrusions.

[0112] This design of the test profile and the cross-sectional profile ensures that the profiles interlock. Since the deepest section or a lowest point and the highest section or points of the cross-sectional profile are simultaneously interrogated to overcome the first stage of the two-stage interrogation, and the highest points of the cross-sectional profile are interrogated again to overcome the second stage of the two-stage interrogation, increased tamper resistance is provided. Removing the cross-sectional profile to overcome the first stage thus leads to failure at the second stage.

[0113] It goes without saying that the inspection profile and the cross-sectional profile can also be configured in exactly the opposite way. In other words, the inspection profile can have two projections and a single recess, while the cross-sectional profile of the key's narrow side can have a single elevation and two depressions, each of which is configured in a corresponding manner.

[0114] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first interrogation element is plate-shaped and has at least one fastening section for fastening the first interrogation element in the cylinder core.

[0115] The first sensing element has an axial dimension that is smaller than its radial and tangential dimensions. The plate shape allows for particularly simple and efficient manufacturing of the first sensing element.

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

[0117] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the at least one second query element is a blocking element, in particular a tumbler element, in particular a housing pin.

[0118] In particular, if the second sensing element is a housing pin, the second sensing element 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 the housing pin for the locking device's pin tumbler and as the second sensing element.

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

[0120] A higher number of second interrogation elements increases the security of the locking cylinder. Firstly, the probability that every second interrogation element can be manipulated to such an extent that it remains in the release position is reduced. Secondly, the resistance to breaking open the locking cylinder is increased, since every second interrogation element can block the rotation of the cylinder core.

[0121] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the cross-sectional profile has at least one depression, wherein the depression is designed to be interrogated by at least one projection of the test profile of the first interrogation element over the entire length of the first narrow key side, and wherein the cross-sectional profile has at least one elevation, wherein the at least one elevation is designed to be interrogated by the at least one second interrogation element, wherein the at least one second interrogation element is prestressed radially inward with respect to the cylinder core and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein the at least one elevation is further designed to radially support the at least one second interrogation element with respect to the cylinder core in order to hold the at least one second interrogation element in the respective release position,to enable rotation of the cylinder core in the cylinder housing.

[0122] The recess and the projection as well as the elevation can in particular be the recess and the projection as well as the elevation according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention.

[0123] The recess, in particular the depth of the recess, and the elevation, in particular the height of the elevation, can each be a security feature of the key. By designing the recess and elevation in such a way that no collision with the first interrogation element occurs when inserting the key, 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 every 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 coding for a two-stage query using the security features.

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

[0127] The depth can, in particular, be the depth according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The depth can be a security feature of the key.

[0128] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the at least one recess has a base, wherein the base has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein the base is designed to be interrogated by an end face of a projection of the first interrogation element of the locking cylinder, said end face pointing radially inward with respect to the cylinder core.

[0129] The base and the contour of the base can, in particular, be the base and the contour of the base according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The contour of the base can be a further security feature of the key.

[0130] In a further embodiment of the aspects, 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 shank which is perpendicular to the key broad sides and parallel to a transverse plane of the key shank which extends in the longitudinal direction, 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 base may, in particular, be the angle of inclination of the base according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The angle of inclination of the base may be a further security feature of the key.

[0132] In a further embodiment of the aspects, 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 designed to be interrogated by an outer side of the projection of the first interrogation element of the locking cylinder.

[0133] The flank and the contour of the flank can, in particular, be the flank and the contour of the flank according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The contour of the flank can be a further security feature of the key.

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

[0135] The flank angle can, in particular, be the flank angle according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The flank angle can be a further security feature of the key.

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

[0137] The groove can, in particular, be the groove according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The depth and width of the groove can each be a further security feature of the key.

[0138] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the at least one elevation has a height that can be interrogated by at least one recess of the test profile.

[0139] The height of the raised portion may, in particular, be the height of the raised portion according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. The height of the raised portion may be a further security feature of the key.

[0140] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that each elevation of the first key narrow side has a surface, wherein the surface of each elevation has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein each elevation is designed to be interrogated by an end face of the recess of the first interrogation element pointing radially inward with respect to the cylinder core.

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

[0142] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the surface of each elevation 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 designed to be interrogated by the end face of the recess and wherein each elevation has a contact line starting from the respective highest point in the longitudinal direction of the key shank, wherein the elevation is designed to support the at least one second interrogation element on the contact line, in particular wherein the transition from the surface to the respective flank is a chamfer.

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

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

[0145] The equal height of the protrusions is a height in the radial direction of the cylinder core or the height direction of the key shank. If the second interrogation element can support itself on both protrusions, the load can be distributed across both protrusions.

[0146] This design of the key's cross-sectional profile, matching the test profile, enables the profiles to mesh with each other. Since the deepest section or lowest point and the highest section or highest points of the cross-sectional profile are configured to be interrogated simultaneously to overcome the first stage of the two-stage interrogation, and the highest points of the cross-sectional profile are further configured to be interrogated again to overcome the second stage of the two-stage interrogation, increased security against tampering is provided. Removing the cross-sectional profile to overcome the first stage thus leads to failure at the second stage.In particular, even a partial removal of the elevations can lead to failure at the second stage of the two-stage query if the elevations are no longer designed to prevent penetration by at least one second query element.

[0147] It goes without saying that the inspection profile and the cross-sectional profile can also be configured in exactly the opposite way. In other words, the inspection profile can have two projections and a single recess, while the cross-sectional profile of the key's narrow side can have a single elevation and two depressions, each of which is configured in a corresponding manner.

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

[0149] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first interrogation element, during the first interrogation, simultaneously interrogates a lowest point of a depression of the cross-sectional profile and a highest point of an elevation of the cross-sectional profile by means of a test profile that projects radially inward into the key channel, wherein the highest point, when the key is fully inserted, is arranged further outward in a radial direction relative to the cylinder core than the lowest point, and wherein the step of releasing the rotational movement of the cylinder core takes place in that the at least one second interrogation element is supported radially on the elevation 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 embodiments of the aspects of the present invention.

[0151] As previously described, support on the elevation does not necessarily have to be at the highest point to prevent penetration by the second interrogation element.

[0152] The lowest point of the depression and the highest point of the elevation can simultaneously represent the lowest and highest points of the cross-sectional profile. The lowest point and the highest point can each serve as a safety feature for the first scan. The highest point can also serve as a safety feature for the second scan. The lowest and highest points are offset from one another in the height direction or radial direction and in the width direction or tangential direction. This results in an interlocking of the test profile and the cross-sectional profile. This ensures that overcoming the first stage of the two-stage scan can only be successful if at least the safety feature of the lowest point can be successfully tested.Re-checking the highest point with the second check ensures that this security feature must overcome the first and second stages of the two-stage check.

[0153] In a further embodiment of the aspects, 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 in that the at least one second query element is supported radially on the highest point of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile.

[0154] In this way, a particularly strict standard is applied to the examination of the cross-sectional profile during the second interrogation, thereby increasing the reliability of the second stage of the interrogation.

[0155] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first interrogation element, during the first interrogation by means of the test profile, simultaneously interrogates a lower point of the elevation of the cross-sectional profile, wherein the lower point, when the key is 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 is, in addition to the highest point, a second feature of the elevation, which represents a security feature. Since the lower point is located radially lower on the elevation than the highest point, it can also be checked during the first scan whether the elevation exceeds the depth of the lower point.

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

[0158] In a further embodiment of the aspects, it can be provided that the first query element, during the first query, further 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 an elevation 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 the 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 the 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 of the aspects of the present invention.

[0160] In this way, a more complex shape of the depression and / or elevation can be interrogated using a corresponding test profile. This increases the reliability of the first stage of the interrogation. A straight contour, in particular, provides the advantages of the first to third aspects described above.

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

[0162] The angle of inclination of the bottom of the depression, the flank angle of the at least one flank of the depression and the angle of inclination of the surface of each elevation can in particular be the angle of inclination of the bottom of the depression, the flank angle of the 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 of the aspects of the present invention.

[0163] The inclination 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 and / or elicitation can be requested using a corresponding test profile. This increases the reliability of the first stage of the query.

[0165] In a further embodiment of the aspects, 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 that is 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 elevation during the second query.

[0166] The depth and width of the depression and the height of the elevation can in particular be the depth and width of the depression and the height of the elevation according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention.

[0167] Furthermore, it can be provided that the at least one second interrogation element interrogates a position of the elevation in the width direction or in the tangential direction during the second interrogation. This can be done, as described above, in particular by interrogating the position of the contact line.

[0168] In this way, the cross-sectional profile can provide different security features that are designed to be interrogated using the two-stage interrogation. The security features are designed, in particular, to be interrogated using two different interrogation methods. It may be necessary for individual security features to be present simultaneously when overcoming a stage of the interrogation. For example, the width and depth of the recess when inserting the key must correspond to the test profile in order to overcome the first stage. For example, the height and position of the elevation during the rotational movement of the cylinder core must hold the second interrogation element in the release position in order to overcome the second stage. This increases security. Furthermore, tamper resistance is guaranteed.

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

[0170] The geometric features can, in particular, be individual security features described above according to one of the embodiments of the aspects. In particular, they can be the position of a point or section of the profiles in the radial or tangential direction. In particular, they can be the configuration or shape of the contour of a section of the profiles. In particular, 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 providing the cross-sectional profile—and the complementary test profile—with a combination of individual features designed to undergo the two-stage verification process as described above. The number of features used increases the security of the locking cylinder. By varying the features, different codings can be provided.

[0172] This makes it possible to provide different pairs of cross-sectional profiles and complementary verification profiles. This allows locking systems to be provided that differ only in terms of the cross-sectional profile of the matching keys and the complementary verification profile of the respective first interrogation element. This makes it possible to specify a locking system that offers increased flexibility in the configuration of the locking system.

[0173] In a further embodiment according to the seventh aspect, it can be provided that the method is further characterized by the following step: inserting a further first interrogation element into at least one further locking cylinder, wherein the further first interrogation element is designed to interrogate the cross-sectional profile on the narrow side of the key of the at least one key or to interrogate a cross-sectional profile on a narrow side of the key of at least one further key, wherein the insertion takes place in such a way that the further first interrogation element projects into the key channel in order to interrogate 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 interrogation element has a test profile that is different from the test profile of the first interrogation element.

[0174] The additional locking cylinder can be a second locking cylinder in a locking system. In this context, a locking system is understood, for example, to be a system that locks or unlocks different entrances, particularly in a building, with a locking cylinder.

[0175] The additional first interrogation element and its test profile can be of a comparable design to the first interrogation element and its test profile according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. However, the additional first interrogation element or its test profile differs from the first interrogation element or 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 interrogated.

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

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

[0178] In a further embodiment according to the seventh aspect, it can be provided that the method is further characterized by the following steps: removing the first interrogation element from the locking cylinder; and in particular replacing the first interrogation element of the locking cylinder with a further first interrogation element, wherein the step of replacing comprises a step of inserting the further first interrogation 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 step can be carried out particularly easily if the first interrogation element can be removed manually. For this purpose, a corresponding fit can be provided between the fastening section of the first interrogation element and the cylinder core receptacle, which, on the one hand, enables a defined positioning of the first interrogation element in the cylinder core and, on the other hand, enables removal manually.

[0180] The further first query element can be of a similar design to the first query element according to one of the other embodiments of the aspects of the present invention. However, the further first query element differs from the first query element with regard to the coding of the test profile.

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

[0182] The design of the first interrogation element offers the advantage that it can be inserted or replaced, particularly retroactively. This allows the first interrogation element to be easily replaced. In other words, the coding of individual locking systems can also be changed retroactively. This allows, for example, a new coding to be provided efficiently and cost-effectively if a key is lost, without the need to replace the entire locking cylinder of every locking system in the locking system.

[0183] A further advantage may be that the coding of individual locking cylinders can be changed over time, especially temporarily. For example, prior to planned construction work in a building, the first interrogation element can be removed from only those locking cylinders that restrict access to the areas where the construction work is to take place. This allows the contracted construction company to be provided with keys that, while suitable for unlocking the locking cylinders themselves, lack a cross-sectional profile on the back of the key and thus do not meet the coding requirements for those locking cylinders with a first interrogation element.Furthermore, it is also possible for such keys to subsequently provide the cross-sectional profile, in particular by machining, on the narrow side of the key if, after the construction work, the first or further interrogation element is inserted into the locking cylinders by the insertion step, so that the keys can continue to unlock the locking cylinders.

[0184] It is understood that the features mentioned above and those to be explained below can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0185] Embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a locking system in a non-rotated position; Fig. 2 is an isometric view of an embodiment of the locking cylinder from Fig. 1 in an untwisted position; Fig. 3 an exploded view of the locking system on Fig. 1 and individual elements of the locking cylinder; Fig. 4 an isometric view of an embodiment of the key; Fig. 5 a side view of the key from Fig. 4 ; Fig. 6 a cross-sectional view along a line VI-VI in Fig. 5 ; Fig. 7 an isometric view of an embodiment of the first interrogation element of the locking cylinder; Fig. 8 a front view of the first interrogation element of Fig. 7 ; Fig. 9 an isometric view of the key from Fig. 4 and the first query element 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 an 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 from Fig. 12A . Fig. 14 a cross-sectional view of the locking cylinder from Fig. 12 and a key without or with filed cross-sectional profile on the key narrow side along a line XIV-XIV in Fig. 13 ; Fig. 15 a cross-sectional view of the locking cylinder and the key with the matching cross-sectional profile on the key narrow side 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 flow diagram of a method for unlocking or locking a locking cylinder; Fig. 19 a schematic flow diagram of a method for producing a key and a complementary first interrogation element for a locking cylinder; Fig. 20 a schematic flow diagram of a method for producing a key; Fig. 21 a schematic flow diagram of a method for configuring a locking system; Fig. 22 a schematic flow diagram of a further method for configuring a locking system; and Fig. 23 a schematic flow diagram of a further method for configuring a locking system.

[0186] Fig. 1shows an isometric view of a locking system 100. The locking system 100 includes a locking cylinder 10 and a key 60. The locking system 100 is in a non-rotated position. This means that the key 60 has not been rotated after being inserted into the locking cylinder 10.

[0187] Fig. 2 shows an isometric view of the locking cylinder 10 of the locking system 100 from Fig. 1 The locking 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 shank 62 of the key. The locking cylinder 10 is in the untwisted position. This means that the cylinder core 14 is not rotated in the cylinder housing 12. In the untwisted position, the key 60 can be inserted into and removed from the keyway 16.

[0188] Fig. 3shows an exploded view of the locking system 100 from Fig. 1 . In addition, 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 non-rotated position. This means that the cylinder core 14 is not rotated relative to the cylinder housing 12 by a rotational movement 28.

[0189] The cylinder core 14 has a substantially cylindrical shape with a cylinder axis 18 and a cylinder surface 15. A radial direction 22 and an axial direction 20 are defined corresponding to this cylindrical shape. The axial direction 20 runs parallel and the radial direction 22 is orthogonal to the cylinder axis 18. Furthermore, a tangential direction 24 is defined, which runs orthogonal to the radial and axial directions. The cylinder core 14 is rotatably mounted in the cylinder housing 12 about the cylinder axis 18. The cylinder core 14 is located in an axial receptacle or axial bore 13 of the cylinder housing 12. The cylinder core 14 can execute the rotary movement 28 about the cylinder axis 18. The radial direction 22 points radially outwards from the cylinder axis 18.

[0190] The cylinder core 14 has the keyway 16 for receiving the key 60. If the key 60 matching the locking devices (not shown) is fully inserted into the keyway 16, all locking devices are unlocked, thus resulting in the release state of the locking cylinder 10. If a non-matching key is inserted, the locking state is achieved. In other words, the rotary movement 28 is only possible if the matching key 60 has been fully inserted. In particular, the locking devices can be pin tumblers.

[0191] The key channel 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 key channel. The key 60 can be inserted into the key channel 16 in a key insertion direction 26 and removed from the key channel 16 in the opposite direction to the key insertion direction 26. The key insertion direction 26 corresponds to the axial direction 20. If the key 60 is inserted into the key channel 16, then a longitudinal direction 64 of the key 60 is parallel to the key insertion direction 26 and the axial direction 20. Furthermore, a height direction 67 of the key 60 is parallel to the radial direction 22 and a width direction 69 of the key 60 is parallel to the tangential direction 24. The height direction 67, the width direction 69 and the longitudinal direction 64 are each aligned orthogonally to one another.

[0192] When the key 60 is inserted into the cylinder core 14, it passes a first interrogation element 30 of the locking cylinder 10. In particular, the key 60 can be guided past a test profile 32 of the first interrogation element 30. The first interrogation element 30 is arranged, in particular detachably, in the cylinder core 14 such that it protrudes sectionally into the key channel 16. In particular, the first interrogation element 30 protrudes radially into the key channel 16 through a radial opening 23 in the outer surface 15 of the cylinder core 14. The first interrogation element 30 is configured to interrogate a cross-sectional profile 70 when the cross-sectional profile 70 passes the first interrogation element 30, in particular at the test section 32.The first interrogation element 30 is arranged immovably, in particular rigidly, in the cylinder core 14, such that it can prevent insertion if the cross-sectional profile 70 in the radial direction 22 is so high that it comes into contact with the first interrogation element 30. The first interrogation element 30 is arranged in the region of the axial opening 21 of the key channel 16. In other words, the interrogation element 30 is arranged in the front part of the cylinder core in the key insertion direction 26. In the present exemplary embodiment, the first interrogation element 30 is arranged in front of every second interrogation element 50 in the cylinder core 14 in the key insertion direction 26 (the installed state of the interrogation element 30 is shown in FIG. Fig. 12 shown).

[0193] The locking cylinder further comprises at least one, in the present embodiment four, second interrogation elements 50. In the present embodiment, the second interrogation elements 50 are arranged in the cylinder housing 12. In a respective locking position, each second interrogation element 50 can protrude radially into the axial bore 13 and into the cylinder core 14. In particular, each second interrogation element 50 can protrude radially into the axial bore 13 through a radial access bore 56. In a respective release position, the second interrogation element 50 does not protrude into the axial bore 13 or into the cylinder core 14.

[0194] In the untwisted position, the radial opening 23 does not point towards the second sensing elements 50 or, in particular, towards the radial bores 56. The cylinder surface 15 blocks access to the axial bore 13 or, respectively, into the cylinder core 14. In other words, each second sensing element 50 is held radially by the cylinder surface 15 of the cylinder core 14 in the respective release position in the untwisted position. In the twisted position, the cylinder core is rotated by the rotary movement 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 prestressed (corresponding spring elements are in Fig. 3 not shown; see Fig. 14 and 15 ), can penetrate into the cylinder core 14 or the key slot 16 (see also Fig. 12 ).

[0195] Based on the Figures 4 to 6the features of key 60 are presented and explained.

[0196] Fig. 4 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the key 60.

[0197] 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. The key 60 has a key tip 63 at another end. Furthermore, the key 60 has a key shank 62, which is inserted into the locking cylinder 10. The key shank 62 extends between the key head 61 and the key tip 63.

[0198] The key shank 62 extends in the longitudinal direction 64 and has two opposing key broad sides 68, 68' and two likewise opposing key narrow sides 66, 66', which connect the key broad sides 68, 68'. The key shank 62 is substantially rectangular in cross-section. The key narrow sides 66, 66' are spaced apart from one another in a vertical direction 67. The key broad sides are spaced apart from one another in a width direction of the key shank.

[0199] The key 60 has the cross-sectional profile 70 on the key narrow side 66. The cross-sectional profile 70 is used for interrogation by the first interrogation element 30 and the at least one second interrogation element 50 of the locking cylinder 10. The first interrogation by the first interrogation element 30 is Fig. 9 to 11 The second query by the second query element 50 is discussed in more detail in the Fig. 12 to 15 discussed in more detail.

[0200] The cross-sectional profile 70, viewed in the cross-section of the key shank 62, represents a contour of the first key narrow side 66 (see also Fig. 6 ). As in Fig. 4 shown is the cross-sectional profile 70 or the contour over a total length 65 (see also Fig. 5 ) of the key narrow side 66 in the longitudinal direction 64 is constant. The cross-sectional profile 70 is configured to be interrogated both during insertion by the first interrogation using the first interrogation element 30 and, when the key 60 is fully inserted, by the second interrogation using the at least one second interrogation element 50.

[0201] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the key from Fig. 4 .

[0202] In the illustrated embodiment, the key 60 is designed as a beard key. The beard key 60 has the beard on the other narrow key side 66'. It goes without saying that the key can have the cross-sectional profile 70 on both of the narrow key sides 66, 66' if the key is a reversible key.

[0203] The key narrow side 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 key tip 63 and the key head 61 of the key 60.

[0204] If the key is cut parallel to the height direction 67, the contour of the cross-sectional profile 70 is shown (see Fig. 6 ). Since the cross-sectional profile 70 is constant, the cut can be made at any position along the length 65.

[0205] Fig. 6shows a cross-sectional view along a line VI-VI in Fig. 5 . The cross-sectional profile 70 extends in the height direction 67 and in the width direction 69. The cross-sectional profile 70 or the contour has at least two sections of different heights in the height direction 67. In Fig. 6 This is shown by means of a depression 72 and the elevations 78, 78'. In Fig. 6This is therefore a groove 72. The elevations 78, 78' each have a surface 80, 80' pointing in the height 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 further has a flank 76, 76' on each of its sides in the width 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 height direction 67. In the present embodiment, this is the bottom 74 and the elevation 78, 78'.

[0206] These sections as well as the lowest and highest points 83, 94 can be used as a security feature and can be interrogated by the first interrogation element 30 and the second interrogation element 50. Possible coding of these security features and corresponding geometric variations of the cross-sectional profile 70 are described in the Figs. 16 and 17 discussed in more detail.

[0207] Based on the Figures 7 and 8 the features of the first query element 30 of the locking cylinder 10 are shown and explained.

[0208] Fig. 7 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the first interrogation element 30 of the locking cylinder 10.

[0209] The first interrogation element serves to interrogate, or first interrogate, the cross-sectional profile 70. In the present embodiment, the first interrogation element 30 is plate-shaped. To interrogate the cross-sectional profile 70, the first interrogation element 30 can further comprise a test profile 32.

[0210] The test profile 32 is formed in one piece with the first interrogation element 30. In other words, the test profile is formed integrally with the first interrogation element 30. Relative to the installed state of the interrogation element 30 (cf. Fig. 3 and 12 ), the test profile 32 projects, in particular in sections, radially inwards into the key channel 16. In other words, the test profile 32 projects counter to the radial direction 22 into the key channel 16.

[0211] To fasten the interrogation element 30 in the cylinder core 14, the interrogation element 30 can have at least one fastening section 48, 48'. Each fastening section 48, 48' can be inserted into a corresponding receptacle (not shown) in the cylinder core 14 to fix the interrogation element 30. In order to be able to fix the interrogation element 30 in the height direction 22 in the cylinder core 14 in a defined manner, the fastening 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 protrudes into the keyway 16 to a defined depth counter to the radial direction 22. In particular, a clearance between the test profile 32 and the cross-sectional profile 70 can be adjusted in this way.

[0212] Fig. 8 shows a front view of the first query element from Fig. 7shown looking in the axial direction 20. The first interrogation element 30 has, in cross-section, orthogonal to the axial direction 20, a contour which has at least two sections of different heights in the radial direction 20.

[0213] 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 opposite to the radial direction 22. The projection 34 also has an end face 36. The projection 34 further has an outer side 42, 42' on each side in the tangential direction 24. The end faces 44, 44', the outer side 42, 42', and the end face 36 can be used to query security features.

[0214] Based on the Figures 9 to 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.

[0215] 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 interrogation element 30 is properly arranged in the cylinder core 14 (the same position is with all components of the locking cylinder 10 in Fig. 1 shown). In the position shown, the cylinder core is in the untwisted position.

[0216] To reach the position shown, the key 60 must be inserted into the keyway with the key shank 62 in the key insertion direction 26 parallel to the cylinder axis 18. During insertion, the cross-sectional profile 70 is guided along the test profile 32 of the first interrogation element 30. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70 then passes the first interrogation element 30 in the area of ​​the test profile 32. Upon passing the first interrogation element 30, the cross-sectional profile is interrogated. In other words, the first interrogation takes place by means of the first interrogation element 30 by successively interrogating the contour of the key narrow side 66. The first interrogation is completed when the key 60 and the first interrogation element 30 are in the position shown in Fig. 9 are arranged in the position shown.

[0217] Fig. 10 shows a side view of the 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 interrogation element 30 over the entire length 65 of the key's narrow side 66. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70 was interrogated by the first interrogation using the first interrogation element 30 over the entire length 65 of the key's narrow side 66.

[0218] Fig. 11 shows a cross-sectional view along the line XI-XI in Fig. 10 It can be seen that the test profile 32 and the cross-sectional profile 70 are designed to complement each other in sections, so that the test profile 32 and the cross-sectional profile 70 can engage with each other in sections. Complementary means that individual sections of both profiles 32, 70 can correspond in terms of a geometric shape and form counterparts to each other.

[0219] In this way, the different height sections of the contour of the test profile 32 can interrogate the different height sections of the cross-sectional profile 70. In particular, the end faces 44, 44' can interrogate the surfaces 80, 80' and / or the outer side 42, 42' can interrogate the flanks 76, 76' and / or the end face 36 can interrogate the bottom 74.

[0220] The projection 34 can interrogate 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 striking it. In this way, the cross-sectional profile 70 can be interrogated by the interlocking of both profiles 32, 70. In this way, a first stage of the two-stage interrogation of the locking cylinder 10 is realized. In other words, the cross-sectional profile 70 had to be deep enough over the entire length 65 of the key's narrow side 66 to pass under the first interrogation element in order to overcome the first stage. The same applies to the other security features if they are designed to be complementary.

[0221] Fig. 12 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the locking system 100 in a twisted 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.

[0222] In the illustrated position, the cylinder core 14 is in the rotated position. In this case, the cylinder core 14 is rotated 180° relative to the cylinder housing 12, starting from the non-rotated position. However, the rotated position can also be rotated at a different angle from the non-rotated position.

[0223] In Fig. 12A The four second interrogation elements 50 are arranged in four of the radial access bores 56. The number of second interrogation elements 50 may differ from the number shown. In particular, the number of second interrogation elements 50 and the number of access bores 56 may correspond.

[0224] In the rotated position shown, the second query can be carried out by means of the second query elements 50 when the key 60 is fully inserted.

[0225] In the rotated position, the key cannot be inserted into the keyway or removed from the keyway. In the rotated position, the radial direction 22 points toward the second interrogation elements 50 or the access holes 56.

[0226] In Fig. 12B Without removing the cylinder housing 12, it can be seen that in the rotated position, the key channel 16 is radially accessible to every second interrogation element 50. If the cross-sectional profile 70, as in the present case, is arranged radially outward in the key channel 16, the cross-sectional profile 70 is radially accessible to every second interrogation element 50, in particular through the radial opening 23 of the key channel 16.

[0227] In this way, the radially inwardly prestressed second sensing elements 50 can scan or interrogate the cross-sectional profile 70 by resting on the cross-sectional profile 70.

[0228] The second query element 50 is thus used to query or secondly query the cross-sectional profile 70. The exact functioning of the second query is described below in the Figures 14 and 15 described.

[0229] Every second query element 50 can, as in Fig. 12B exemplified, be a substantially cylindrical element which extends in a radial direction (in Fig. 14 and 15The second interrogation element 50 can be moved between a respective release position and a respective locking position by means of a spring or other elastic element (represented by arrow 59, which represents the direction of the preload force). The second interrogation element 50 can, in particular, have a flat or conical end configured to bear on the cross-sectional profile 70.

[0230] 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 Figures 14 and 15 The section plane is marked by the line XIV-XIV or line XV-XV. The section runs centrally through one of the second query elements 50, which is Fig. 13 is arranged inside the cylinder housing 12.

[0231] Fig. 14 shows the cross-sectional view of the locking cylinder 10 from Fig. 12with 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 back was filed down in the area of ​​the key's narrow side 66 in order to circumvent the first interrogation element and overcome the first stage of the two-stage interrogation. Fig. 14 The key 60' shown thus only fits the locking cylinder 10 insofar as the insertion of the key 60' causes the plurality of locking devices (not shown) to release the locking cylinder 10 in order to prevent the rotational movement 28 (see Fig. 12A ) until the rotated position shown is reached. However, without the appropriate cross-sectional profile 70, the key 60' is not suitable for overcoming the second stage of the two-stage interrogation, since the second interrogation can detect the absence of the cross-sectional profile 70 on the key's narrow side 66.

[0232] The second query by means of the second query elements 50 takes place when the key 60, 60' is 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 elevations 78, 78'. In particular, security features can be queried that are provided by the design of the surface 80, 80' of the elevations 78, 78' (the design of the security features is referred to in Figs. 16 and 17 (described in more detail below). In particular, the highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70 is queried. In other words, in particular, only a section of the cross-sectional profile 70 that is arranged radially furthest outward can be queried.

[0233] The second query can be performed 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 ).

[0234] 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 elevations 78 that project beyond the projection 34 in the radial direction 22. The cross-sectional profile 70' in particular does not have the highest point 94. Thus, the cross-sectional profile 70' has no section that can radially support the second interrogation element 50, so that the second interrogation element 50 does not penetrate into the cylinder core 14. The second interrogation element 50 is then in its locking position 52. The second interrogation element 50 is prestressed radially inward in the direction of arrow 59 by means of a spring element 58, which is supported on a support element 57. As a result, the second interrogation element 50, as in Fig. 14shown, penetrate into the cylinder core 14, so that the rotational movement 28 is blocked or locked. Since the key 60' can only be removed from the locking cylinder 10 in the non-rotated position, the key 60' can no longer be removed in the situation shown.

[0235] Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the locking cylinder 10 and the key 60 with the matching cross-sectional profile 70 on the key narrow side 66 from Fig. 12 along a line XV-XV in Fig. 13 ;

[0236] It can be seen that the second interrogation 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 interrogation 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 interrogation of the locking cylinder 10 can be overcome.

[0237] The support is carried out in Fig. 15 exclusively on the highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70. In the present embodiment, the highest point 94 in the radial direction 22 is located at the level of the cylinder 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 which, starting from the highest point 94, extends in the longitudinal direction 64 over the entire length 65 of the key narrow side 66. In particular, all second interrogation elements 50 can be supported on the contact line 96.

[0238] However, the support can in principle be provided on any section of the elevation 78, 78' that is suitable for supporting every second interrogation element 50 in the manner described.

[0239] The Figures 16 and 17illustrate the design of the security features of a cross-sectional profile 70 and a matching test profile 32. The selection and design of the security features can provide a coding of the locking system 100. The coding can also include a variation of the profiles 70, 32. For example, the test profile 32 can have a plurality of projections and the cross-sectional profile 70 a plurality of recesses. Figures 16 and 17 However, the security features are explained using the already known profiles 70, 32 of the previously described embodiments.

[0240] 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.

[0241] As already mentioned in Fig. 11As shown, the surfaces 80, 80' and / or the flanks 76, 76` and / or the bottom 74 may represent security features of the cross-sectional profile 70, which may be interrogated by the first interrogation element 30 by means of the end faces 44, 44`, the outer side 42, 42`, or the end face 36 of the test profile 32.

[0242] Possible safety features of the cross-section 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'.

[0243] The first interrogation element 30 can be designed to complement the first interrogation so that it is configured to interrogate these security features. For this purpose, the projection 34 can protrude into the keyway 16 to a depth T' in the radial direction 22, so that the recess 72 with the depth T can pass under the projection 34 with a defined clearance. The clearance between T' and T results from their difference in magnitude. In this way, in particular, the deepest point 83 can be interrogated. In the same way, the projection 34 can extend to a width B' in the tangential direction 24 in the keyway 16, so that the recess must have a sufficient width B to allow the projection to pass through with a defined clearance between the flanks 76, 76' and the outer sides 42, 42'.Furthermore, the recess 38 can have a height H', so that the elevation 78, 78' with the height H can pass under the recess 38 with a defined clearance. The clearance between H' and H results from their difference in magnitude.

[0244] The first interrogation element 30 can further be configured to complement the geometric configuration of the security features such that it is configured to interrogate these security features. For example, the end faces 44, 44' of the recess 38, 38' and / or the outer side 42, 42' and / or the end face 36 of the projection 34 can be configured to be straight in order to interrogate the straight shape of the surfaces 80, 80' of the elevation 78, 78' and / or the flanks 76, 76' and / or the bottom 74 of the depression 72. As shown in Figs. 16 and 17As 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.

[0245] Even small angular deviations between the straight contours can lead to a collision with the first sensing element 30 when the cross-sectional profile 70 is first interrogated. The angles α, β, γ described above are therefore 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 interrogate these angles α, β, γ, the front side 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 production must be selected, taking into account the play between the projection 34 and the recess 72, such that the cross-sectional profile 70 can pass the test profile 32 in each case.Analogously, the end faces 44, 44' of the recess 38, 38' can be configured at an angle γ' complementary to the inclination angle γ of the surface 80, 80' and / or the outer side 42, 42' of the projection 34 can be configured at an angle β' complementary to the flank angle β of the flanks 76, 76'. In the present case, the profiles 32, 70 are symmetrical to a plane of symmetry running parallel to the radial direction 22. However, the angles of the flanks 76, 76' and / or the surfaces 80, 80' on both sides of the recess 72 can also differ.

[0246] 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 security 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.

[0247] The highest point 94 can represent an additional security feature for the second query by means of the second query elements 50. The highest point 94 or the contact line 96 can be 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 in the width direction 69 varies.

[0248] The position of the width direction 69 and the height in the height direction 67 of the highest point 94 or the contact line 96 can represent further security features that can be queried by a corresponding design of the second interrogation element 50. For example, as in Fig. 15 shown, the diameter of the second interrogation element 50 is selected such that the end of the second interrogation element 50 cannot be moved between the elevations 78, 78'.

[0249] The combination of the Figures 16 and 17The security features described and their variations represent the coding of the locking system 100.

[0250] The Fig. 18 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 200. The method is used to unlock or lock a locking cylinder 10. In a step 202, the locking cylinder 10 and the key 60 are first provided. The locking cylinder 10 and the key 60 can be the locking cylinder 10 and the key 60 of one of the previously described embodiments.

[0251] In a step 204, the key 60 is fully inserted into the locking cylinder 10 in the key insertion direction 26 and, during this, is interrogated by the first interrogation by means of the first interrogation element 30, as described above. The first interrogation serves in particular to interrogate a deepest section or security feature of the cross-sectional profile 70 in the radial direction 22. In particular, the interrogation can be carried out by the first interrogation element 30 and the cross-sectional profile 70 engaging in sections (see also Fig. 9 to 11 ).

[0252] This is followed by a step 206. In step 206, the cylinder core 14 is rotated from the non-rotated position relative to the cylinder housing 12 into the rotated position. Upon reaching the rotated position, the second interrogation takes place by means of the second interrogation elements 50. The second interrogation serves in particular to interrogate a highest point 94 of the cross-sectional profile 70. During the second interrogation, the penetration of each second interrogation element 50 into the key channel 16 can be prevented by means of the cross-sectional profile 70 on the key narrow side 66, as previously described, whereby each second interrogation element 50 is held in its release position in a subsequent step 208 (cf. Fig. 15), or permitted, whereby the second interrogation element is moved into its blocking position in an alternative subsequent step 210. In particular, the second interrogation is carried out by means of the second interrogation element through the opening 23 in the cylinder surface 15 (cf. Fig. 12B ).

[0253] By step 208, the rotary movement 28 is released so that the cylinder core 14 can be further rotated beyond the rotated position by the rotary movement 28 until the locking cylinder is completely unlocked.

[0254] The alternative step 210 blocks the rotational movement 28, so that the cylinder core 14 can no longer perform the rotational movement 28. In other words, the locking cylinder is then locked and cannot be fully unlocked. In particular, the key 60 can then no longer be removed.

[0255] The Fig. 19shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 220. The method serves to produce the key 60 and the complementary first interrogation element 30 for the locking cylinder 10. In a step 222, a key blank is first provided. In a further step 224, an interrogation element blank is provided. In a subsequent step 226, the key narrow side 66 is machined so that the cross-sectional profile 70 in the longitudinal direction 64 of the key shank 62 is constant over the entire length 65 of the first key narrow side 66. In a further subsequent step 228, the interrogation element blank is machined so that the test profile 32 for testing the cross-sectional profile 70 of the key narrow side 66 is formed. In particular, the previously described security features, in particular the lowest point 83 and the highest point 94, can be provided with steps 226 and 228 (cf. Figs. 16 and 17). The profiles 32, 70 are manufactured complementarily and can interlock (cf. Fig. 11 ).

[0256] The Fig. 20 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 230. The method serves to produce the key 60 for the locking cylinder 10. In a step 232, a key blank is first provided. In a subsequent step 234, the key narrow side 66 is machined so that the cross-sectional profile 70 in the longitudinal direction 64 of the key shank 62 is constant over the entire length 65 of the first key narrow side 66 and complementary to the test profile 32 of the first interrogation element 30 of the locking cylinder 10. In particular, the previously described security features, in particular the highest point 94, can be provided with step 234 (cf. Fig. 17 ). The manufactured cross-sectional profile 70 can then engage with the test profile 32 or vice versa (cf. Fig. 11 ).

[0257] The Fig. 21 shows a schematic flow diagram of a method 240. The method is used to configure the locking system 100 with at least one locking cylinder 10 and at least one key 60. The method comprises step 242. In step 242, the first interrogation element 30 is inserted into the locking cylinder 10. The first interrogation element 30 is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile 70 on the narrow side 66 of the key 60. The insertion takes place such that the first interrogation element 30 protrudes into the key channel 16 in order to interrogate the cross-sectional profile 70 in the manner described above.

[0258] Fig. 22shows a schematic flow diagram of a further method 240 for configuring the locking system 100. The method includes the additional step 244. In step 244, a further first interrogation element 30' is inserted into at least one further locking cylinder 10'.

[0259] Fig. 23shows a schematic flow diagram of a further method 240 for configuring the locking system 100. The method has the further additional steps 246, 248 and 250. In step 246, the first interrogation element 30 is removed from the locking cylinder 10. In the optional step 248, the first interrogation element 30 is replaced by a further first interrogation element 30". The further first interrogation element 30" can be the further first interrogation element 30'. Step 248 can include step 244. In the optional step 250, a further key 60" is provided. The key has a cross-sectional profile 70". The first interrogation elements 30', 30" and the key 60" differ from the first interrogation element 30 and the key 60 with regard to the coding.

[0260] Furthermore, the following disclosure includes embodiments according to the following sentences: Set 1. 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 safeguards configured to effect a locking 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 is locked in the locking state, and wherein the lock cylinder (10) can be transferred from the locking state to the release state by fully inserting the key (60) into the key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), characterized in thatthe locking cylinder (10) has a first interrogation element (30) and at least one second interrogation element (50) for interrogating a cross-sectional profile (70) on a narrow key 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 key side (66) in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the first interrogation element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) and projects into the key channel (16), wherein the first interrogation element (30) is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow key side (66), in particular during insertion of the key (60), and wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is prestressed radially inwardly 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 interrogation element (50) is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70), in particular when the key (60) is fully inserted, wherein the at least one second interrogation 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 blocking position. Sentence 2. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 1, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is arranged in front of every second interrogation element (50) in the cylinder core (14) in the key insertion direction (26). Sentence 3. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 1 or 2, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is configured to interrogate 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 the insertion of the key (60) into the key channel (16). Sentence 4. Locking cylinder (10) according to one of the sentences 1 to 3,characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key (60) in a non-rotated position of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12), and wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is configured to interrogate 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 from the non-rotated position by the rotational movement (28). Sentence 5. Lock cylinder (10) according to sentence 4, characterized in that the at least one second interrogation element (50) is configured to block the rotational movement (28) in its locked position.so that the cylinder core (14) is irreversibly fixed in the rotated position and the key (60) can no longer be removed from the keyway (16). Sentence 6. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 4 or 5, characterized in that the rotated position is rotated by 90° to 270°, particularly preferably by 120° to 240°, in particular by 180°, relative to the non-rotated position. Sentence 7. Lock cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 1 to 6, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) has a test profile (32) which projects radially inward into the key channel (16), and wherein the first interrogation element (30) is designed by means of the test profile (32) to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key, in particular during the insertion of the key (60), and wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is designed to penetrate radially into the cylinder core (14) into the key channel (16),so that the at least one second interrogation element (50) is in the respective blocking position in order to block the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14), and wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is further configured, in particular when the key (60) is fully inserted, to radially support itself on the cross-sectional profile (70) on the key 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). Sentence 8. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 7, characterized in that the test profile (32) has at least one projection (34) for interrogating at least one recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the key narrow side (66). Sentence 9. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 8, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is configured by means of the projection (34) toto query a depth (T) of the recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side of the key (66). Sentence 10. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 8 or 9, characterized in that the projection (34) has a radially inward-facing end face (36) which is designed to correspond to a bottom (74) of the recess (72) of the narrow side of the key (66), wherein the end face (36) is straight and wherein the end face (36) is designed to query a contour of the bottom (74). Sentence 11. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 10, characterized in that the first query element (30) is designed to query an angle of inclination (α) of the bottom (74) of the recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side of the key (66) by means of the end face (36) of the projection (34). Sentence 12. Lock cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 8 to 11, characterized in that the projection (34) further has at least one outer side (42),which is configured to correspond to at least one flank (76) of the recess (72), wherein each outer side (42) is configured to be straight and wherein each outer side (42) is configured to interrogate a contour of the flank (76). Sentence 13. Lock cylinder (10) according to sentence 12, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is further configured, by means of each outer side (42) of the projection (34), to interrogate a flank angle (β) of at least one flank (76) of the recess (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the key narrow side (66), wherein the flank angle (β) is arranged between the flank (76) and a bottom (74) of the recess (72). Sentence 14. Lock cylinder (10) according to one of the sentences 8 to 13, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is designed by means of the projection (34) to interrogate a depth (T) and a width (B) of the recess (72), wherein the at least one recess (72) has a groove with two flanks (76,76'). Sentence 15. Locking cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 7 to 14, characterized in that the test profile (32) further has at least one recess (38) for querying at least one elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side of the key (66), and wherein the at least one second query element (50) is designed to be radially supported on the at least one elevation (78) of the narrow side of the key (66) of the key (60) in order to remain in the respective release position. Sentence 16. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 15, characterized in that the first query element (30) is further designed, by means of the at least one recess (38), to query a height (90) of the at least one elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow side of the key (66). Sentence 17. Locking cylinder (10) according to sentence 15 or 16, characterized in thatthat the recess (38) has a front side (44) pointing radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14), which is configured corresponding to a surface (80) of the at least one elevation (78), and wherein the front side (44) is straight, and wherein the front side (44) is configured to query a contour of the surface (80). Sentence 18. Lock cylinder (10) according to Sentence 17, characterized in that the first query element (30) is configured, by means of the front side (44) of each recess (38), to query an angle of inclination (γ) of the surface (80) of the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the key narrow side (66), wherein the inclined surface (80) defines a highest point (94) in the profile cross-section, and wherein the at least one second query element (50) is configured to bear against the elevation (78) at a contact line (96).wherein each elevation (78) has the contact line starting from the respective highest point (94) in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62), in particular wherein the transition from the surface (80) to the respective flank (76) is a chamfer (98). Sentence 19. Lock cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 15 to 18, characterized in that the test profile (32) is designed to protrude with the projection (34) between two elevations (78, 78') of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the key's narrow side (66) into the recess (72), or groove, of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the key's narrow side (66) in order to interrogate a contour of the recess (72), or groove, wherein the test profile (32) has two recesses and the test profile (32) is further designed to interrogate with the two recesses (38, 38') each an elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70) of the key's narrow side (66), in particular wherein the recesses (38,38') each query a contour of the elevation (78), in particular wherein the respective highest point (94) of the elevations (78, 78') is at the same height, so that both elevations (78, 78') are designed to jointly support the at least one second query element (50). Sentence 20. Locking cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 1 to 19, characterized in that the first query element (30) is plate-shaped and has at least one fastening section (48) for fastening the first query element (30) in the cylinder core (14). Sentence 21. Locking cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 1 to 20, characterized in that the at least one second query element (50) is a blocking element, in particular a tumbler element, in particular a housing pin. Sentence 22. Locking cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 1 to 21, characterized in that the locking cylinder (10) has a plurality of second interrogation elements (50),preferably at least 4 second interrogation elements (50), particularly preferably at least 6 second interrogation elements (50). Set 23. Key (60), in particular a bit key, for a locking 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 key broad sides (68, 68') and two key narrow sides (66, 66'), wherein the key shank (62) is designed for insertion into a key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), , characterized in thatthe key (60) has a cross-sectional profile (70) on a first of the key narrow sides (66), 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 key narrow side (66) in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is designed to be interrogated on a test profile (32) of a first interrogation element (30) of the locking cylinder (10) projecting into the key channel (16), in particular during the insertion of the key (60) into the locking cylinder (10), and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is further designed to be interrogated on at least one second interrogation element (50) of the locking cylinder (10), in particular when the key (60) is fully inserted into the locking cylinder (10). Sentence 24. Key (60) according to sentence 23, characterized in that the cross-sectional profile (70) has at least one recess (72),wherein the recess (72) is configured to be interrogated by at least one projection (34) of the test profile (32) of the first interrogation element (30) over the entire length (65) of the first key narrow side (66), and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) has at least one elevation (78), wherein the at least one elevation (78) is configured to be interrogated by the at least one second interrogation element (50), wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is prestressed radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14) and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein the at least one elevation (78) is further configured to radially support the at least one second interrogation element (50) with respect to the cylinder core (14) in order to hold the at least one second interrogation element (50) in the respective release position,to release a rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12). Sentence 25. Key (60) according to sentence 24, characterized in that the at least one recess (72) has a depth (T) that can be interrogated by the projection (34) of the test profile (32). Sentence 26. Key (60) according to sentence 24 or 25, characterized in that the at least one recess (72) has a bottom (74), wherein the bottom (74) has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein the bottom (74) is designed to be interrogated by an end face (36) of a projection (34) of the first interrogation element (30) of the locking cylinder (10), which end face points radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14). Sentence 27. Key (60) according to sentence 26, characterized in that the base (74) has an angle of inclination (α) which provides an inclination of the base (74) to an angle perpendicular to the key broad sides (68,68') and parallel to a transverse plane of the key shank (62) extending in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the angle of inclination (α) of the base (74) can be interrogated from the end face (36) of the projection (34). Sentence 28. Key (60) according to one of sentences 24 to 27, characterized in that the at least one recess (72) has at least one flank (76), wherein each flank (76) has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein each flank (76) is designed to be interrogated from an outer side (42) of the projection (34) of the first interrogation element (30) of the locking cylinder (10). Sentence 29. Key (60) according to Sentence 28, characterized in that each flank (76) has a flank angle (β) that defines an inclination of the flank (76) to the base (74), wherein the flank angle (β) of the flank (76) can be sensed from the outer side (42) of the projection (34). Sentence 30. Key (60) according to one of Sentences 24 to 29, characterized in thatthat the at least one recess (72) is a groove with two flanks (76, 76') and has a depth (T) and a width (B) that can be sensed by the projection (34) of the test profile (32). Sentence 31. Key (60) according to one of sentences 24 to 30, characterized in that the at least one elevation (78) has a height (90) that can be sensed by at least one recess (38) of the test profile (32). Sentence 32. Key (60) according to one of Sentences 24 to 31, characterized in that each elevation (78) of the first key narrow side (66) has a surface (80), wherein the surface (80) of each elevation (78) has a straight contour in profile cross-section, wherein each elevation (78) is configured to be interrogated by an end face (44) of the recess (38) of the first interrogation element (30) facing radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14). Sentence 33. Key (60) according to Sentence 32, characterized in thatthat the surface (80) of each elevation (78) is inclined at an angle of inclination (γ), wherein the inclined surface (80) defines a highest point (94) in the profile cross-section, wherein the angle of inclination (γ) of the surface (80) is designed to be interrogated by the end face (44) of the recess (38) and wherein each elevation (78) has a contact line starting from the respective highest point (94) in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62), wherein the elevation (78) is designed to support the at least one second interrogation element (50) on the contact line (96), in particular wherein the transition from the surface (80) to the respective flank (76) is a chamfer (98). Sentence 34. Key (60) according to one of the sentences 24 to 33, characterized in that the cross-sectional profile (70) has two elevations (78, 78') and a depression (72) or groove, wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is designed by means of the elevations (78, 78') toto allow the projection (34) to protrude between the elevations (78, 78') into the depression (72) and to expose a contour of the depression (72), or groove, for interrogation by the projection (34), and wherein the elevations (78, 78') each extend past the projection (34) into a recess (38) of the test profile (32) for interrogating the respective elevation (78), in particular wherein a contour of the elevation (78) can be interrogated by the recess (38), in particular wherein the highest point (94) of the elevations (78, 78') is at the same height, so that both elevations (78, 78') are designed to jointly support the at least one second interrogation element (50). Sentence 35. Key (60) according to one of the sentences 23 to 34, characterized in that the cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66) is symmetrical to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (64) of the key (60) and parallel to the key broad sides (68,68') extending central plane of the key shaft (62). Sentence 36. Locking system (100) with at least one locking cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 1 to 22 and at least one key according to one of sentences 23 to 35. Sentence 37. Method (200) for releasing or locking a locking 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 locking cylinder (10) further has a plurality of locking safeguards configured to bring about a locking state or a release state of the locking 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 locking state, is blocked,and wherein the locking cylinder (10) can be transferred from the locked state to the released 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 locking cylinder (10) and the key (60), wherein the locking cylinder (10) has a first interrogation element (30) and at least one second interrogation element (50) for interrogating a cross-sectional profile (70) on a narrow key 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 key side (66) in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the first interrogation element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) and projects into the key channel (16); first interrogation (204) of the cross-sectional profile (70),wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is guided along the first interrogation element in the key insertion direction (26) during insertion of the key (60) and is checked when passing the first interrogation element (30), in particular wherein the first interrogation element (30) and the cross-sectional profile (70) engage with each other, wherein the first interrogation ends when the key (60) is fully inserted; subsequently, a second interrogation (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 interrogation 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 to the at least one second interrogation element (50) through the key channel (16),wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is prestressed radially inwardly with respect to the cylinder core (14) and is movable between a respective blocking position and a respective release position, wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is checked upon passing the at least one second interrogation element (50), wherein the second interrogation ends when the cross-sectional profile (70) has completely passed the at least one second interrogation element (50) or when the at least one second interrogation element (50) has been moved into the blocking 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 interrogation element (50) in the respective release position to unlock the locking cylinder (10), wherein the holding takes place,by the at least one second interrogation element (50) being supported radially 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 interrogation element (50) into the respective blocking position for blocking the locking cylinder (10). Sentence 38. Method according to Sentence 37, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30), during the first interrogation (204), by means of a test profile (32) which projects radially inward into the key channel (16), simultaneously interrogates a lowest point (83) of a depression (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), when the key (60) is fully inserted,is arranged further outward than the lowest point (83) in a radial direction (22) relative to the cylinder core (14), and wherein the step of releasing (208) the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) takes place by the at least one second interrogation element (50) being supported radially on the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70). Sentence 39. Method according to Sentence 38, characterized in that the at least one second interrogation element (50) interrogates the highest point (94) of the elevation (78) during the second interrogation (206), and wherein the step of releasing (208) the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) takes place by the at least one second interrogation element (50) being supported radially on the highest point (94) of the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70). Sentence 40. Method according to Sentence 38 or 39, characterized inthat the first interrogation element (30), during the first interrogation using the test profile (32), further simultaneously interrogates a lower point of the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70), wherein the lower point, with the key (60) fully inserted, is arranged between the highest point (94) and the lowest point (83) in the radial direction (22) relative to the cylinder core (14). Sentence 41. Method according to one of sentences 38 to 40, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30), during the first interrogation, further interrogates a contour of a bottom (74) of the depression (72) of the cross-sectional profile (70) and / or a contour of at least one flank (76) of the depression (72) and / or a contour of a surface (80) of the elevation (78) of the cross-sectional profile (70), in particular wherein each contour in the profile cross-section is a straight contour. Sentence 42. Method according to sentence 41, characterized inthat the first query element (30), during the first query, further queries an angle of inclination (α) of the bottom (74) of the recess (72) and / or a flank angle (β) of the at least one flank (76) of the recess (72) and / or an angle of inclination (γ) of the surface (80) of each elevation (78). Sentence 43. Method according to sentence 41 or 42, characterized in that the first query element (30), during the first query, queries a depth (T) of the recess (72) relative to a radial direction (22) of the cylinder core (14) and a width (B) of the recess (72) relative to a direction of the cylinder core (14) that is orthogonal to the radial direction (22) and to the key insertion direction (26), and wherein the at least one second query element (50) queries a height (90) of the elevation (78) during the second query. Sentence 44. Method (220) for producing a key (60), in particular a bit key,according to one of sentences 23 to 35 and a complementary first interrogation element (30) for a locking cylinder (10) according to one of sentences 1 to 22, characterized by the following steps: providing (222) a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shank (62) extending along a longitudinal direction (64) with two key broad sides (68, 68') and two key narrow sides (66, 66'); providing (224) an interrogation element blank for the first interrogation element (30), in particular wherein the interrogation element blank is plate-shaped; machining (226) a first of the key narrow sides (66) to form a cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66),wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed constant in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) over an entire length (65) of the first key narrow side (66); and machining (228) the interrogation element blank for the first interrogation element (30) to form a test profile (32) for testing the cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66), wherein the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) are formed in sections complementary to one another, so that the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) can engage with one another in sections. Sentence 45. Method according to Sentence 44, characterized in that by the machining steps, at least three, preferably three to six, particularly preferably five, geometrically complementary features of the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) are formed in such a way thatthat a coding is generated. Sentence 46. Method (230) for producing a key (60) according to one of sentences 23 to 35, in particular a bit key, for a locking cylinder (10) with a first interrogation element (30) and at least one second interrogation element (50), characterized by the following steps: providing (232) a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shank (62) extending along a longitudinal direction (64) with two key broad sides (68, 68') and two key narrow sides (66, 66'); and machining (234) a first of the key narrow sides (66) to form a cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66),wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed to be constant in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) over an entire length (65) of the first narrow key side (66); wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed to be complementary in sections according to a test profile (32) of the first interrogation element (30), so that the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) can engage with one another in sections, and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed with at least one elevation (78) such that a highest point (94) of the elevation (78) is arranged at a height of the cylinder jacket surface in a radial direction (22) relative to a cylinder core (14) of the lock cylinder (10) when the key (60) is fully inserted into the lock cylinder (10). Sentence 47. Method (240) for configuring a locking system (100) according to sentence 46 with at least one locking cylinder (10) and at least one key (60),characterized by the following step: inserting (242) a first interrogation element (30) into the at least one locking cylinder (10), wherein the first interrogation element (30) is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the at least one key (60), wherein the insertion takes place such that the first interrogation element (30) projects into the key channel (16) in order to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70), in particular over an entire length (65) of the cross-sectional profile (70) during the insertion of the key (60). Sentence 48. Method according to sentence 47, wherein the method is further characterized by the following step: inserting (244) a further first interrogation element (30') into at least one further locking cylinder (10'),wherein the further first interrogation element (30') is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) on the key narrow side (66) of the at least one key (60) or to interrogate a cross-sectional profile (70') on a key narrow side (66) of at least one further key (60'), wherein the insertion takes place such that the further first interrogation element (30') protrudes into the key channel (16) in order to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70, 70'), in particular over an entire length (65) of the cross-sectional profile (70, 70') during the insertion of the key (60) or the further key (60'), wherein the further first interrogation element (30') has a test profile (32') that is different from the test profile (32) of the first interrogation element (30). Sentence 49. Method according to a sentence 47 or 48,wherein the method is further characterized by the following steps: removing (246) the first interrogation element (30) from the locking cylinder (10); and in particular replacing (248) the first interrogation element (30) of the locking cylinder (10) with a further first interrogation element (30"), wherein the step of replacing comprises a step of inserting the further first interrogation element (30"); and in particular providing (250) at least one further key (60") for the at least one locking cylinder (10) of the locking system (100), in particular wherein the further key (60") has a cross-sectional profile (70") on a key narrow side (66).

Claims

1. A locking cylinder (10) comprising 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 locking cylinder (10) further comprises a plurality of locking safeguards configured to effect a locking state or a release state of the locking cylinder (10), wherein in the release state, a rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) is enabled and is locked in the locking state, and wherein the locking cylinder (10) can be transferred from the locking state to the release state by fully inserting the key (60) into the key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), characterized in thatthe locking cylinder (10) has a first interrogation element (30) and at least one second interrogation element (50) for interrogating a cross-sectional profile (70) on a narrow key 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 key side (66) in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the first interrogation element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) and projects into the key channel (16), wherein the first interrogation element (30) is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) of the narrow key side (66), in particular during insertion of the key (60), and wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is prestressed radially inwardly 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 interrogation element (50) is configured to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70), in particular when the key (60) is fully inserted, wherein the at least one second interrogation 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 blocking position.

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

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

4. Lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the first interrogation element (30) is designed to interrogate the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key (60) in an untwisted position of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12), and wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is designed to interrogate 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 from the untwisted position by the rotational movement (28).

5. Lock cylinder (10) according to claim 4, characterized in that the at least one second interrogation element (50) is designed to block the rotational movement (28) in its blocking position, so that the cylinder core (14) is irreversibly fixed in the rotated position and the key (60) can no longer be removed from the key channel (16).

6. Lock cylinder (10) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the rotated position is rotated by 90° to 270°, particularly preferably by 120° to 240°, in particular by 180° to the untwisted position.

7. Lock cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in thatthe first interrogation element (30) has a test profile (32) that projects radially inward into the key channel (16), and wherein the first interrogation element (30) is configured by means of the test profile (32) to interrogate 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 interrogation element (50) is configured to penetrate radially into the cylinder core (14) into the key channel (16), so that the at least one second interrogation 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 interrogation element (50) is further configured, in particular when the key (60) is fully inserted, to radially support itself on the cross-sectional profile (70) on the narrow side (66) of the key (60) in order to remain in the respective release position,to release the rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12).

8. Key (60), in particular a bit key, for a locking 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 shaft (62) extending along a longitudinal direction (64) with two key broad sides (68, 68') and two key narrow sides (66, 66'), wherein the key shaft (62) is designed for insertion into a key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), characterized in thatthe key (60) has a cross-sectional profile (70) on a first of the key narrow sides (66), 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 key narrow side (66) in the longitudinal direction (64), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is designed to be interrogated on a test profile (32) of a first interrogation element (30) of the locking cylinder (10) projecting into the key channel (16), in particular during the insertion of the key (60) into the locking cylinder (10), and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is further designed to be interrogated on at least one second interrogation element (50) of the locking cylinder (10), in particular when the key (60) is fully inserted into the locking cylinder (10).

9. Key (60) according to claim 8, characterized in thatthe cross-sectional profile (70) has at least one recess (72), wherein the recess (72) is configured to be interrogated by at least one projection (34) of the test profile (32) of the first interrogation element (30) over the entire length (65) of the first key narrow side (66), and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) has at least one elevation (78), wherein the at least one elevation (78) is configured to be interrogated by the at least one second interrogation element (50), wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is prestressed radially inward with respect to the cylinder core (14) and is movable between a respective locking position and a respective release position, wherein the at least one elevation (78) is further configured to radially support the at least one second interrogation element (50) with respect to the cylinder core (14) in order to hold the at least one second interrogation element (50) in the respective release position,to release a rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12)., 10. Key (60) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that each elevation (78) of the first key narrow side (66) has a surface (80), wherein the surface (80) of each elevation (78) has a straight contour in the profile cross-section, wherein each elevation (78) is designed to be interrogated by an end face (44) of the recess (38) of the first interrogation element (30) pointing radially inwards with respect to the cylinder core (14).

11. Key (60) according to claim 10, characterized in thatthe surface (80) of each elevation (78) is inclined at an angle of inclination (γ), wherein the inclined surface (80) defines a highest point (94) in the profile cross-section, wherein the angle of inclination (γ) of the surface (80) is designed to be interrogated by the end face (44) of the recess (38) and wherein each elevation (78) has a contact line starting from the respective highest point (94) in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62), wherein the elevation (78) is designed to support the at least one second interrogation element (50) on the contact line (96), in particular wherein the transition from the surface (80) to the respective flank (76) is a chamfer (98).

12. Locking system (100) with at least one locking cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7 and at least one key according to one of claims 8 to 11.

13. A method (200) for releasing or locking a locking cylinder (10) having 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 locking cylinder (10) further has a plurality of locking safeguards configured to bring about a locking state or a release state of the locking cylinder (10), wherein in the release state, a rotational movement (28) of the cylinder core (14) in the cylinder housing (12) is released and is blocked in the locking state, and wherein the locking cylinder (10) can be transferred from the locking state to the release state by fully inserting the key (60) into the key channel (16) of the cylinder core (14), characterized bythe following steps: - Providing (202) the locking cylinder (10) and the key (60), wherein the locking cylinder (10) has a first interrogation element (30) and at least one second interrogation element (50) for interrogating 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 interrogation element (30) is arranged in the cylinder core (14) and projects into the key channel (16); - first interrogation (204) of the cross-sectional profile (70), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is guided along the first interrogation element in the key insertion direction (26) during the insertion of the key (60) and is checked when passing the first interrogation element (30),in particular, wherein the first interrogation element (30) and the cross-sectional profile (70) engage with one another, wherein the first interrogation ends when the key (60) is fully inserted; subsequently - a second interrogation (206) of the cross-sectional profile (70) with the key (60) fully inserted, wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) moves 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 interrogation element (50) in a direction of rotation of the rotational movement (28), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is arranged radially outward in the cylinder core (14) and is radially accessible to the at least one second interrogation element (50) through the key channel (16), wherein the at least one second interrogation element (50) is prestressed 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 upon passing the at least one second interrogation element (50), wherein the second interrogation ends when the cross-sectional profile (70) has completely passed the at least one second interrogation element (50) or when the at least one second interrogation 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 interrogation element (50) in the respective release position to unlock the locking cylinder (10), wherein the holding takes place by the at least one second interrogation element (50) being supported radially 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 interrogation element (50) into the respective blocking position to block the locking cylinder (10).

14. Method (220) for producing a key (60), in particular a bit key, according to one of claims 8 to 11 and a complementary first interrogation element (30) for a locking cylinder (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized bythe following steps: - providing (222) a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shank (62) extending along a longitudinal direction (64) with two key broad sides (68, 68') and two key narrow sides (66, 66'); - providing (224) an interrogation element blank for the first interrogation element (30), in particular wherein the interrogation element blank is plate-shaped; - machining (226) a first of the key narrow sides (66) to form a cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed to be constant in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) over an entire length (65) of the first key narrow side (66);and - machining (228) the interrogation element blank for the first interrogation element (30) to form a test profile (32) for testing the cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66), wherein the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) are formed in sections complementary to one another, so that the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) can engage with one another in sections.; 15. Method (230) for producing a key (60) according to one of claims 8 to 11, in particular a bit key, for a locking cylinder (10) with a first interrogation element (30) and at least one second interrogation element (50), characterized bythe following steps: - providing (232) a key blank, wherein the key blank has a key shank (62) extending along a longitudinal direction (64) with two key broad sides (68, 68') and two key narrow sides (66, 66'); and - machining (234) a first of the key narrow sides (66) to form a cross-sectional profile (70) of the first key narrow side (66), wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed to be constant in the longitudinal direction (64) of the key shank (62) over an entire length (65) of the first key narrow side (66);wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed in sections to be complementary to a test profile (32) of the first interrogation element (30), so that the test profile (32) and the cross-sectional profile (70) can engage with one another in sections, and wherein the cross-sectional profile (70) is formed with at least one elevation (78) such that a highest point (94) of the elevation (78) is arranged at a height of the cylinder jacket surface in a radial direction (22) relative to a cylinder core (14) of the lock cylinder (10) when the key (60) is fully inserted into the lock cylinder (10);