System and method for reproducing coded keys

摘要

Coded keys are produced by reference to a set of matrix keys, each matrix key of a set has uniform notch spacing and a uniform but different depth compared to the others. A holder carries a complete matrix key set. The holder, in turn, is securable to a carriage having a key blank-retaining vise. By manipulating the holder, any selected one of the matrix keys may be brought into fixed coplanar and linear registration with the key blank. As the holder and carriage are moved synchronously, a first matrix key is urged toward a stylus at a given code location defined by a notch of specific depth and a cutter removes material from the key blank to form a corresponding notch. The process is repetitively performed until a notch of the prescribed code depth is defined at each location along the key blank needed to form a replacement key.

主权项

1. A system for reproducing coded keys based on reference to notch spacing and depth of a plurality of matrix keys, each respective matrix key of a set having a common notch spacing and a notch depth representative of a correspondingly different code digit specified by a lock manufacturer, the system comprising:
a base; a rotary cutter and a stylus respectively coupled to the base; a carriage having a clamping vise secured thereto, the vise being positionable by the carriage in two directions relative to the rotary cutter and stylus so as to bring a working surface of a key blank held by the vise into engagement with the rotary cutter; and a holder carrying a plurality of matrix keys in fixed registration relative to one another, the holder being securable to the carriage for synchronized movement therewith and further being manipulable to position any selected one of the matrix keys in fixed alignment with a key Hank held by the vise without a need to remove from the holder any matrix key already retained, whereby movement of the carriage so as to urge a first respective notch location, of a first selected matrix key aligned in a common plane with the key blank, toward registration with the stylus causes the rotary cutter to remove material from the key blank to form a first corresponding notch location thereon, and whereby movement of the carriage so as to urge a second respective notch location, of a second selected matrix key aligned in a common plane with the key blank, toward registration with the stylus causes the rotary cutter to remove material from the key blank to form a second corresponding notch location thereon.