Pivoting Element Key for Cylinder Lock Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cylinder locks and keys are vulnerable to unauthorized reproduction due to their geometric complexity, which can be easily cloned using conventional or rapid prototyping machines, and previous solutions either compromise security or are overly complex.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a pivoting element as a force-transferring means within the key, which enhances security by requiring specific alignment of rotor pins and stator pins for rotation, making key reproduction more difficult and allowing for reversible key designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If geometric complexity of key and lock is increased to improve security, then unauthorized reproduction becomes more difficult, but the key can still be cloned using conventional or rapid prototyping machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pivoting element that can move between a first position (engaging with the first rotor pin) and a second position (engaging with the second rotor pin). This dynamic component transforms the static geometric complexity into an active mechanical system that requires precise alignment and force transfer, making unauthorized reproduction significantly more difficult while maintaining manageable key geometry.
2Reliability
If the number of interacting components (pins and cavities) is increased to increase lock combinations, then security is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the key's interaction with the lock into distinct segments: the pivoting element is segmented into two functional positions, each engaging with different rotor pins. This segmentation allows the system to achieve enhanced security through multiple engagement points without proportionally increasing the total number of components, as the same pivoting element serves multiple security functions.
3Reliability
If a moving element is added to the key to prevent cloning, then security is improved, but the key becomes non-reversible and permutation ability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The pivoting element serves multiple functions: it acts as a coding element by selecting which rotor pin to engage, serves as a force transfer mechanism, and maintains key reversibility when properly designed. This multi-functionality allows the moving element to enhance security without sacrificing permutation ability, as the pivoting element can be positioned in different configurations to create various key codes.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a key for a cylinder lock. The key (3a) comprises a key shaft (22) for inserting into a key channel of the cylinder lock; and a force transferring means (31) disposed in the key shaft (22) and comprising a first pin engaging surface (391) for engaging with a first rotor pin of the cylinder lock, and a second pin engaging surface (392) for engaging with a second rotor pin of the cylinder lock. The force transferring means (31) is configured such that, in response to a first force exerted by the first pin on the first pin engaging surface (391) in a first direction, the second pin engaging surface (392) exerts a second force on to the second pin in a second direction. The second direction is substantially opposite to the first direction. The invention also relates to the corresponding cylinder lock.