Abstract: A core having a plurality of pin bores penetrating from the core surface to the keyway, and a plurality of activator pins and filler pins, such that the installer can locate one or more activator pins in any of the pin bores, and one or more filler pins in any of the remaining bores, to thereby define a code to be provided in the respective flank or flanks of an authorized key. Preferably at least three bores are provided on at least one side of the core; especially preferred are five pin bores on either side of the core fitted with a pattern of activator pins and filler pins, whereas a sixth pin bore on each side, closest to the back end of the core, is fitted with a blocking pin. In various embodiments, the present invention is directed to a programmable cylinder lock system, a programmable core for a cylinder lock, a core kit by which the installer can program the core in the field, and a novel key adapted to be used with the programmable core.

Abstract: A security system requires the bringing together, at the locking mechanism to be operated from a locked to an unlocked state, of a properly bitted mechanical key and the generator of a digitally coded electrical command signal. The electrical command signal is transmitted through the lock to an actuator so that the lock, when enabled by insertion of the mechanical key, may be operated. The key may define a portion of the signal transmission path between the command signal generator and the actuator.

Abstract: A removable lock for selectively blocking an aperture in a plate-like member includes a stepped housing which receives a cylinder lock. A rotatable blade, operated by the cylinder lock, is spaced from a shoulder defined by the stopped housing to define a single slot for receiving the plate-like member in the unlocked state of the lock. Rotation of the blade to the locked position results in establishment of a pair of diametrically opposed plate-like member receiving slots.

Abstract: A rekeyable look includes at least one chamber housing a tumbler pin stack having a master pin disposed between the driver pin and the bottom pin. The bitting of a change code key inserted in the keyway displaces the tumbler pin stack containing the master pin such that the interface between the master pin and the bottom pin is placed on the shear line defined by the cylinder shell and plug. Rotation of the change code key aligns a first slot on the change code key with the master pin wherein the master pin is received by the first slot. The master pin is carried with the change code key on removal of the key from the keyway. A replacement master pin disposed in the first slot is inserted into the keyway with the change code key. Rotation of the change code key aligns the replacement master pin with the drive pin.

Abstract: A lock, particularly well suited for installation in the T-handle of a vending machine or the like, which acts as a spring latch during opening and as a deadbolt in the locked position. The lock has a cylinder with a rotatable plug supporting a drive pin, the drive pin being parallel to and offset from the axis of plug rotation. The drive pin engages a ramped guide groove in a spring biased bolt, the guide groove being configured to return the drive pin to a position where it is in registration with, but displaced from, its starting position after a complete rotation of the plug.