Key Shank Torsion Section Spatial Coding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking systems are vulnerable to manipulation and lack sufficient coding options for enhanced security, necessitating the development of a key with a key bow and shank that provides increased protection against forced entry and manipulation.
Innovation Solution
The key shank features a torsion section, which is cold-formed along its longitudinal axis, offering additional coding options through a twisted profile that protrudes beyond the basic cross-section, combined with profile elements like longitudinal grooves and recesses, and a variable twisting angle, enhancing security by providing a spatial coding function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional key shank with simple profile is used, then the key is easy to manufacture and copy, but the locking system is vulnerable to manipulation and lacks sufficient coding options
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a torsion section that adds a third dimension to the key shank profile by twisting it around the longitudinal axis. This creates a spatially coded key with protruding cross-sections that extend beyond the basic cross-section, transforming a two-dimensional profile problem into a three-dimensional coding solution that significantly increases security against manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The key shank is divided into distinct functional sections: a basic cross-section area, a torsion section with twisted profile elements, and profile elements with specific geometries. This segmentation allows each section to contribute differently to the coding function, with the torsion section providing additional coding options through its twisted structure and protruding cross-sections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the key shank is twisted with a torsion section, then additional coding options are created, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torsion section is pre-formed during the key manufacturing process using cold-forming techniques. Profile elements such as longitudinal grooves and recesses are created in advance with specific twisting angles and protrusion distances, allowing the complex three-dimensional structure to be produced efficiently without requiring post-manufacturing assembly or adjustment.
3Reliability
If profile elements with torsion are added to the key shank, then spatial coding function is enhanced, but the key complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies profile elements with specific local characteristics at different positions along the key shank. The torsion section contains profile elements with specific twisting angles and protrusion distances that vary locally, creating a unique spatial coding pattern. This local differentiation enhances security while maintaining a systematic structure that can be manufactured consistently.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The key's torsion section and profile elements create a complex, spatially coded key that fits precisely into a lock with complementary decoding elements, significantly increasing security against manipulation and offering multiple coding options.
Implementation Method 1
the key shank having a torsion section, in particular a cold-formed one, at least in sections along the longitudinal axis
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a key, having a key head and a key shank (10), wherein the key shank (10) has an in particular cold-worked torsion section (20) at least in some sections along the longitudinal axis (L), wherein the key shank (10) has a base cross-section (26) in a region of transition to the torsion section (20), wherein the cross-section (30) of the key shank (10) in the torsion section (20) protrudes beyond the base cross-section (26) at least in some sections in the direction toward the key tip (70).