Vehicle Key Image Capture for Accurate Duplicate Key Cutting
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and cost of replacing vehicle keys, particularly for older vehicles, due to incompatibility issues across different vehicle brands and models, and the need for specialized tools and programming.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for duplicating vehicle keys using a key duplication device with a touch screen display, integrated transponder reader, and camera, which captures images of the master key, processes the key bitting information, and sends it to a server for processing, allowing for the cutting and shipping of a duplicate key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional key replacement methods are used with physical key cutting equipment and specialized locksmiths, then key duplication accuracy and vehicle system compatibility are ensured, but device complexity and operational difficulty increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key cutting equipment with an optical imaging system. A camera captures an image of the master key, and image processing algorithms automatically extract key bitting information, eliminating the need for physical key cutting machines and specialized locksmith tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the key through image capture and processing. The captured key image is processed to extract bitting data, which is then used to generate a new key, replacing the traditional direct mechanical copying process.
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized locksmiths and extensive employee training are required for key replacement, then key duplication accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation and accessibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service key duplication by automating the entire process. The camera automatically captures the key image, the processing system automatically extracts bitting information, and the new key is automatically generated, eliminating the need for trained locksmiths or employees.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual operations by trained locksmiths are replaced with automated image capture and digital processing. The system performs key analysis and duplication through software algorithms rather than human expertise and manual tools.
3Manufacturing precision
If physical key cutting equipment and specialized tools are used, then key duplication quality is ensured, but loss of substance and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces resource-intensive mechanical key cutting equipment with a digital imaging and processing system. This eliminates consumption of cutting tools, key blanks for testing, and other physical resources associated with traditional key duplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital representation of the key through imaging, avoiding the need for physical trial-and-error cutting processes that consume materials. The digital copy is then used to precisely manufacture the replacement key.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional key replacement processes are used, then compatibility with various vehicle systems is achieved, but loss of time and processing duration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary key analysis through automated image processing to determine compatibility and extract all necessary bitting information before physical key manufacturing begins. This preliminary digital analysis prevents rework and ensures first-time compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Time-consuming manual key analysis and vehicle compatibility verification by locksmiths are replaced with rapid automated image processing and database matching, significantly reducing the overall process time.
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
This solution simplifies the key replacement process by eliminating the need for physical key cutting equipment, extensive employee training, and specialized locksmiths, while ensuring accurate key duplication and compatibility with various vehicle systems.
Implementation Method 1
a camera or imaging device configured to capture an image of the key
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to the field of replicating or copying keys. More specifically, the present invention relates to creating a copy of a master key based on a captured image of the master key. The present invention identifies a set of target key information based on vehicle and or lock information as well as the image of the master key to provide for the cutting of a duplicate key blade copy to be delivered to a user or to another location. Additional key information may also be captured along with the image of the master key.