Apparatus and Method for Supporting Keys and Key Blanks During Cutting Thereof

摘要

An apparatus and method for supporting angled or chevron-shaped keys or key blanks during cutting of bit surfaces in the blade portions thereof. The angled key blank is supported at the intermediate horizontal ledge portion thereof such that the upper portion of the key which is to be cut is oriented in a horizontal manner so as to be properly engaged by the cutting mechanism. The apparatus may include a plurality of lower vice jaws each of which is configured to support a particular angled key blank, or it may include a plurality of detachable inserts that form part of a modular system which allows a single lower vice jaw to detachably receive any of various inserts, thereby permitting the jaw to support various angled key blanks. A support member also is provided which may be utilized on preexisting vice jaws of a key cutting machine to permit the machine to be modified so as to properly support and cut bit surfaces into the upper portion of an angled key blank.