Key Duplication Machine Using Interchangeable Jig Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods require the original key or its code to create a copy, making it difficult or impossible to duplicate a key if the original is lost or unknown.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a milling cutter and feeler, along with interchangeable jig modules, allows for the creation of a duplicate key by analyzing the lock's interaction with a malleable key, identifying and replicating the necessary grooves and notches to match the lock's mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional key copying methods are used, then the original key or its code must be available, but this makes it impossible to duplicate a key if the original is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a malleable key as an intermediary object that is inserted into the lock to transfer the lock's internal configuration information onto the key's surface through mechanical interaction. This mediator enables information transfer from the lock to the key without requiring the original key or electronic codes, resolving the contradiction between duplicating capability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional electronic or code-based key copying systems with a mechanical information transfer system. The malleable key mechanically interacts with the lock's internal components (pistons, springs, channels) to physically imprint the lock's configuration, eliminating the need for complex electronic scanners or code databases while achieving key duplication without the original
2Adaptability or versatility
If a machine is designed to process keys and define encryption, then functional capability is improved, but the machine size and portability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is segmented into distinct functional modules: a milling cutter unit for creating key grooves, a feeler unit for measuring piston positions, and interchangeable jig modules for different key types. This segmentation allows each component to be compact while maintaining full key processing and encryption capabilities when assembled together
Solution Approach 2:
The machine incorporates universal components that can handle multiple key types through interchangeable jig modules. The milling cutter and feeler units serve multiple functions by working with different jig configurations, enabling the compact machine to provide versatile key processing and encryption capabilities without requiring separate specialized equipment for each key type
3Manufacturing precision
If precise key duplication is achieved through milling and feeling operations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The malleable key performs part of the information transfer process itself by mechanically interacting with the lock's internal components during the feeling operation. The key's malleable material allows it to be deformed by the lock's pistons and springs, automatically recording the lock's configuration without requiring complex measurement or data input procedures from the operator
Solution Approach 2:
The feeler unit provides real-time feedback during the key duplication process by measuring the actual positions of the lock's pistons and springs. This feedback information is used to control the milling cutter's movements, ensuring that grooves are cut at the precise depths and positions required to match the lock's internal configuration, thereby maintaining high manufacturing precision while simplifying operator intervention
Data Source
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AI summary
Improved machine (2) for processing a key (50), preferably for machining aimed at defining the encryption of said key (50), characterized in that it comprises: - a unit (4") on which a mill cutter (7) and a feeler (8) are mounted, side by side and joined together, said unit (4") being movable with respect to a portion (3) which faces said mill cutter (7), and said feeler (8), or vice versa, - at least a first operative seat (24) and at least a second operative seat (34), respectively facing said mill cutter (7) and said feeler (8), and formed in said portion (3) and/or in said unit (4"), - at least a first jig module (20), which is configured to receive at least the stem (54) of said key to be machined (50), which is removably inserted, at least in part, into said first operative seat (24) and which is slidable inside it so that said cutter (7) is facing, and can thus work in sequence, on different regions of said stem (54) of said key (50), - at least a second jig module (30), which is configured so as to comprise portions (33) of different depths, which is removably inserted, at least in part, into said second operative seat (34) and which is slidable inside it that said feeler (8) is facing, and can come into contact with its tip, with one of said portions (33).