Lock Cylinder Key Partial Obstruction Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional key-operated pin-tumbler lock mechanisms are vulnerable to picking and have limited combinations, which compromises security, as space constraints restrict the number of possible combinations, making them less secure than desired.
Innovation Solution
A key-operable lock cylinder design where a locking member extends out of the plug and/or casing, allowing for axial movement to relocate the locking mechanism, providing additional security features such as partial obstructions in the keyway and multiple unlocking positions, enabling increased combinations and easier key configuration for unique locks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional pin-tumbler lock mechanisms are used, then the lock structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the lock is vulnerable to picking and has limited combinations
Solution Approach 1:
The lock mechanism is divided into multiple independent pin pairs, each pair consisting of a key pin and a driver pin that can move independently. This segmentation allows for exponentially more combination possibilities while maintaining the basic pin-tumbler structure, thereby improving security without requiring a complete redesign of the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where driver pins are positioned within the plug body, and key pins are nested within the keyway. The driver pins are housed in recesses that allow them to protrude into the keyway when activated, creating a nested arrangement that increases security while maintaining a compact form factor.
2Reliability
If the number of pin combinations is increased to improve security, then the lock becomes more secure, but the space required in the plug increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the radial dimension of the plug by arranging pin pairs around the circumference rather than only in a linear sequence. This dimensional change allows multiple pin pairs to be packed into the available space by distributing them radially, enabling increased combination numbers without proportionally increasing the overall plug volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug is designed with localized recesses at specific radial positions to accommodate driver pins only where needed. This local quality approach allows the plug to maintain a compact overall volume while providing sufficient space for multiple pin pairs by optimizing the distribution and positioning of recesses in high-density areas.
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
Enhances security by increasing the number of unique lock combinations, simplifying key management, and providing a visual deterrent against tampering, while allowing authorized personnel to easily replace or modify locking members without disassembling the lock.
Implementation Method 1
Each passage contains a pair of pins which are biased towards each other by compression springs
Data Source
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Figure 3a~3b
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AI summary
The invention relates to a key comprising a handle, a shaft, a stop shoulder and an unlocking shoulder. The stop shoulder and the unlocking shoulder are axially spaced apart by a predetermined distance such that when the shaft is inserted into the keyway of a complementary lock, the unlocking shoulder serves to move the lock into an unlocked position when the stop shoulder abuts the lock to denote that the shaft is fully inserted in the keyway. The unlocking shoulder is provided by a first partial transverse cut-out in the stop shoulder. The key further comprises a second partial transverse cut-out extending along the length of the shaft to allow the shaft to by-pass a partial obstruction in the keyway, and wherein the width of the shaft is narrowed to produce a gap, the gap being provided to permit the key to turn past the obstruction to unlock the lock. Also disclosed is a lock for use with the above key and a method of manufacturing the key.