Lock Insert Decoding for Internally Machined Key Patterns

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for duplicating vehicle door lock inserts are limited to those with external machining and cannot effectively decode inserts with internal patterns.

Innovation Solution

A method using an electronic system with specific software to decode inserts by superimposing a network of lines on an image of the insert, selecting predetermined points of intersection, and converting these into a code, applicable to both internal and external machining patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If image processing methods from existing patents are used, then external machining inserts can be decoded, but internal machining inserts cannot be decoded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplicability to different insert typesVSAvoiddecoding capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal decoding system that handles both externally machined and internally machined inserts through a single image processing methodology. The software platform is designed to accommodate different insert types by allowing customization of the reference line network configuration, making the system multi-functional rather than type-specific.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of the reference line network (number of lines, spacing, orientation) to adapt to different insert types. For internal machining patterns, the software adjusts the line network density and configuration to properly intersect with the internal features, enabling decoding of previously unreadable insert types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If a fixed reference line network is used, then the decoding process is simple, but it cannot accommodate different insert types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding process simplicityVSAvoidcompatibility with various insert patterns
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The reference line network transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The software allows the line network parameters to be modified based on the insert type being decoded, providing adaptability while maintaining ease of operation through automated adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The software performs preliminary analysis of the insert image to automatically determine the appropriate reference line network configuration before decoding begins. This preliminary action selects optimal line spacing, number, and orientation based on the detected insert type, simplifying the user process while ensuring compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If manual point selection is required for each intersection, then precise decoding is achieved, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintersection point accuracyVSAvoiddecoding time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The software performs self-service by automatically identifying and selecting the relevant intersection points between the reference line network and the insert pattern. The system autonomously processes the image data to extract code information without requiring manual user intervention at each intersection point, maintaining precision while dramatically reducing time consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of selecting each intersection point is replaced by an automated computational system. The software uses image processing algorithms to automatically detect, identify, and extract information from intersection points, substituting human manual operation with automated digital processing that maintains accuracy while eliminating time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3830753B1Method for decoding an internally machined insert
Publication Date: 2025.09.10 RENAULT SA
  • EP3830753B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3830753B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3830753B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for decoding an insert (1, 20, 40) provided with a pattern (4, 5, 25, 45), said method being carried out by means of an electronic system (100) provided with a screen (101) and having specific software for decoding inserts (1, 20, 40), characterised in that it comprises the following steps: - a step of using as input data a file containing an image of the insert (1, 20, 40) in the software so as to display said image in a specific area (102) of the screen (101) where a grid of lines appears which is then superimposed on said image; - a step of selecting certain intersection points (110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115) between the lines (103, 104) of the grid and a contour of the pattern (4, 5, 25, 45) of the insert (1, 20, 30); - a step of restitution by the electronic system (100) of a code comprising a plurality of components (116), each corresponding to the location of a particular intersection point (110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115).