Deviated Key Locking System with Rotating Idler Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current high security locking systems are susceptible to tampering and unauthorized access due to the accessibility of tumbler pins from the keyhole, which can be picked using straight tools, and may be vulnerable to drilling attacks.
Innovation Solution
A high security locking system featuring a deviated key, lock housing, lock cylinder, and idler block, where the deviated key rotates the idler block to align with pin slots, preventing direct access to tumbler pins and incorporating a stationary block and long pin to obstruct drilling attempts, using materials like tungsten carbide and hardened steel for enhanced security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a common shaped linear key with multiple tumbler pins is used, then key copying difficulty is increased, but the lock remains susceptible to picking with straight tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a rotational dimension to the key operation. Instead of linear insertion only, the key must be rotated to a specific angular position to align the pick path with the tumbler pins. This transforms a one-dimensional linear problem into a two-dimensional rotational problem, preventing picking attempts that do not account for the correct angular orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (the rotating element with offset pick path) between the key and the tumbler pins. This intermediary forces the picking tool to follow a deviated path that does not directly access the pins, adding a layer of complexity that prevents straightforward picking attempts.
2Ease of operation
If tumbler pins are made accessible from the keyhole, then key operation is simplified, but the lock becomes vulnerable to drilling attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite materials with varying hardness levels. The rotating element and surrounding structure incorporate hardened materials (such as tungsten carbide or hardened steel) strategically positioned to resist drilling attacks, while maintaining operational passages for the key. This creates a composite structure that is both operationally accessible and defensively robust.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary protective measures by pre-positioning hardened materials and structural features that counteract drilling attacks before they occur. The design anticipates drilling threats and incorporates countermeasures (hardened zones, offset pathways) that neutralize this harmful factor in advance.
3Reliability
If multiple tumbler pins on different axes are used, then key copying is made difficult, but the manipulation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple security functions into a single integrated rotating element. Instead of having separate mechanisms for each security feature, the rotation mechanism combines key angular verification, pick path deviation, and tumbler alignment into one unified component, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high security.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the key interface, creates the deviated pick path, controls the alignment of tumbler pins, and provides the angular verification mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device while enhancing security.
Data Source
AI summary
A high security locking system comprising a deviated key and a lock housing. The lock housing may further comprise a face plate with a keyhole for receiving the deviated key and first pin slots disposed within the lock housing. The high security locking system may comprise a lock cylinder disposed within the lock housing and include second pin slots disposed within the lock cylinder. An idler block may be disposed within the lock cylinder and may be rotatable, which may allow the deviated key to align with one or more of the second pin slots in the lock cylinder. Additionally, a stationary block may be disposed within the lock cylinder and the deviated key may rotate around the lock without interfering with the stationary block.