Abstract: A system and method for identifying a key blank from a master key is provided. The system includes a housing, a first source of uniform light fixed relative to the housing, and a second source of uniform light fixed relative to the housing and disposed at an angle relative to the first source of uniform light. A reflecting device is proviced that has a reflective surface and a transparent surface. The reflecting surface is configured to reflect light generated by the second source of uniform light towards the first source of uniform light such that when a master key is disposed in the housing, the first source of uniform light generates a profile image of the master key and the second source of uniform light illuminates a surface of the master key. A receiver is operable to capture an image of the master key through the transparent surface of the reflecting device.

Abstract: A system for identifying the key blank corresponding to a master key is provided. The system includes a first luminous surface and a second luminous surface. The second luminous surface is disposed opposite the first luminous surface such that the master key is disposable therebetween. The first and second luminous surfaces are operable to generate an image of the master key. A receiver is provided to capture the image of the master key. The system also includes a control having a memory that stores information on a plurality of key blanks. The control is operable to identify the key blank corresponding to the master key based on the image captured by the receiver.

Abstract: A method and system for identifying a key blank corresponding to a master key is provided. The system includes a housing. A first source of uniform light is fixed relative to the housing. A second source of uniform light is fixed relative to the housing and is disposed opposite the first source of uniform light such that the master key is disposable therebetween. The first and second sources of uniform light are operable to generate an image of the master key. A receiver captures the image of the master key. A control having a memory configured to store information on a plurality of key blanks identifies the key blank corresponding to the master key based on the captured image.

Abstract: A system and method for identifying a key blank from a master key is provided. The system includes a housing, a first source of uniform light fixed relative to the housing, and a second source of uniform light fixed relative to the housing and disposed at an angle relative to the first source of uniform light. A reflecting device is proviced that has a reflective surface and a transparent surface. The reflecting surface is configured to reflect light generated by the second source of uniform light towards the first source of uniform light such that when a master key is disposed in the housing, the first source of uniform light generates a profile image of the master key and the second source of uniform light illuminates a surface of the master key. A receiver is operable to capture an image of the master key through the transparent surface of the reflecting device.

Abstract: A method and system for identifying a key blank corresponding to a master key is provided. The system includes a housing. A first source of uniform light is fixed relative to the housing. A second source of uniform light is fixed relative to the housing and is disposed opposite the first source of uniform light such that the master key is disposable therebetween. The first and second sources of uniform light are operable to generate an image of the master key. A receiver captures the image of the master key. A control having a memory configured to store information on a plurality of key blanks identifies the key blank corresponding to the master key based on the captured image.

Abstract: A key identifier enables an operator to select a key blank design functionally compatible with an unknown key by directing the operator to implement a primary classification step followed by a secondary classification step to sort an unknown key into a specified secondary classification category. The key identifier operator then implements a key blade matching procedure within the specified secondary classification category where the cross section of the blade of the unknown key is matched with a defined blade cross sectional configuration. When a match is obtained between the unknown key blade configuration and the known blade configuration, the known key blank design can be identified and a compatible key blank can be selected.