Abstract: An electronic device (100) includes a housing (11) defining a mounting hole (1111), a key mechanism (10) mounted to the housing and partially exposed by the mounting hole, and a printed circuit board (20) received in the housing and corresponding to the key mechanism. The key mechanism includes a key body (13). The key body has a band (133) surrounding an edge thereof and is sealingly connected to the housing.

Abstract: A portable remote control key case including a first case shell and a second case shell that are securely fastened to each other. The case includes a case body, which has a component chamber and a key socket, and a mechanical key, which is partially received in the key socket. First and second engagement projections are formed extending across a boundary between the first and second case shells. The mechanical key includes clamp portions for clamping the first and second engagement projections.

Abstract: The body of a portable device of an electronic key system includes a lock mechanism for removably holding an emergency key held in a housing of the body. The mechanism includes a rotary member and a torsion coil spring. The rotary member is supported rotatably on the body, and when a first end of the member is pushed inward of the body in the direction perpendicular to the rotary shaft, a second end of the member is raised outward of the body. The spring applies a constant force to the first end outward of the body. The second end is formed with a protrusion adapted to be fitted in a hole of the forward end of the key held in the housing. With the key held in the housing, the protrusion is disengaged from the hole and the key can be pulled out by pushing the first end.

Abstract: A device for opening a locked door or drawer, which device comprises; a) means for facilitating the insertion of a key into a lock; and b) means for rotating said key when inserted.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of swiftly identifying by touch or sight (including in low light) different keys in a set. Different keys are tagged with protrusions from their surface, and identifiers for different keys may differ in the total number of protrusions (which can vary in arrangement patterns in accordance with the number of protrusions), the shapes of the protrusions, and/or the color of the protrusions. The protrusions are fluorescent to allow identification in low light or dark. The set of protrusions for each key can be adhered to the key by placing them on one side of a support strip, which is coated with adhesive on the other side.

Abstract: A mechanical key and lock cylinder with mechanical bittings include an electronic access control feature, with minimal modification and without affecting or interfering with the mechanical function of the key and cylinder. A small, low-profile memory cell is embedded in a recess or later hole through the key, with one cell terminal grounded to the key and the other having a contact extension. When the key is inserted into the keyway of the cylinder plug, the ground connection is made with the cylinder and the memory cell contact extension engages a spring-loaded contact of a connector unit which extends from the cylinder plug. An insulated wire carries the conductive path out of the lock cylinder. The key remains of very low profile, and the cylinder plug is modified only by a small longitudinal bore from front to rear. Existing mechanical locks and cylinders can easily be retrofitted with the electronic access control feature.

Abstract: A transponder key assembly is provided with a key blade and head assembly, with the head formed with a transponder holder opening therein from a face of the head and a separable transponder carrier matingly configured to the opening and adapted to be received into and be removable from the opening so as to prevent separation of the transponder from the key blade and head assembly to preserve the transponder for use in a subsequent key blade and head assembly.

Abstract: A key unit includes a grip case which includes at least a pair of synthetic resin case members joined to each other, and a mechanical key supported in the grip case and having a pivotable key head. A plurality of fitting projections are projectingly provided integrally on a metal holder ring held between the case members. The fitting projections are respectively fitted into a plurality of fitting holes provided in at least one of the case members. An engagement hook resiliently engaging with an engagement hole provided in the holder ring is projectingly provided integrally on one of the case members. This facilitates assembling and enhances assembly strength in attaching the metal holder ring to the grip case.

Abstract: The safety key has a shank which is provided with a plurality of control surfaces for properly positioning tumblers and has a front end and a rear end. At a front end, the rotor of the associated locking cylinder has at least one further control surface, which interacts with a further control surface arranged at the rear end of the shank. The safety key is backward compatible and is relatively difficult to copy.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for securing a wireless fob in a vehicle. The fob has a control thereon for controlling a vehicle function. The system comprising a first vehicle region having an opening for receiving the fob. The opening is configured to render the control accessible from the exterior of the vehicle. A second vehicle region is capable of having first and second positions with respect to the first vehicle region. The opening receives the fob when the second vehicle region is in the first position. The second vehicle region prevents removal of the fob from the opening when the second vehicle region is in the second position.

Abstract: A key sheath has a casing, an attracting element and a connector. The casing is hollow and has an inserting groove, a chamber, an opening and two mounting holes. The inserting groove is defined in the front end of the casing. The chamber is defined inside the casing and is communicated with the inserting groove. The opening is defined in the rear end of the casing and is communicated with the chamber. The mounting holes are respectively formed through the top and the bottom of the casing near the rear end and are communicated with the chamber. The attracting element is magnetic, is mounted in the chamber of the casing and has a through hole aligned with the mounting holes. The connector is tubular, is connected securely to the casing and the attracting element, and extends through the mounting holes and the through hole.

Abstract: A key head cover includes a body adapted to cover an upper portion of a key. The body has a first face, a second face, and an inner cavity for retaining the upper portion of the key. A recess is provided in at least one of the first face or the second face for receiving an insert. The recess has a peripheral edge. The recess is adapted to receive an insert having a peripheral edge, such that the peripheral edge of the insert is immediately adjacent to the peripheral edge of the recess.

Abstract: A starter assembly for a vehicle includes a housing adapted to be coupled to a vehicle ignition system. A carrier has a key opening and is movably mounted within the housing. A latch is movably mounted to the carrier and is movable between a first latch position and a second latch position. An electronic key is provided to be received in the key opening of the carrier. The key has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis. The first end includes a first end wall. The first end wall has an opening defining an axially extending cavity therein.

Abstract: A portable remote control key case including a first case shell and a second case shell that are securely fastened to each other. The case includes a case body, which has a component chamber and a key socket, and a mechanical key, which is partially received in the key socket. First and second engagement projections are formed extending across a boundary between the first and second case shells. The mechanical key includes clamp portions for clamping the first and second engagement projections.

Abstract: A key system (1) for a motor vehicle comprises transmitter electronics arranged inside a housing (2) and used for the contactless locking and/or unlocking of a door of the motor vehicle and/or operation of the motor vehicle. The system further comprises an emergency key (3) for mechanically locking and/or unlocking the door of the motor vehicle and/or for the operation of the motor vehicle. The emergency key is received inside the housing (2) in a substantially complete manner.

Abstract: A key unit includes a grip case which includes at least a pair of synthetic resin case members joined to each other, and a mechanical key supported in the grip case and having a pivotable key head. A plurality of fitting projections are projectingly provided integrally on a metal holder ring held between the case members. The fitting projections are respectively fitted into a plurality of fitting holes provided in at least one of the case members. An engagement hook resiliently engaging with an engagement hole provided in the holder ring is projectingly provided integrally on one of the case members. This facilitates assembling and enhances assembly strength in attaching the metal holder ring to the grip case.

Abstract: A key assembly includes a key, a cap and a fastener to selectively secure the cap to the key. The cap may include an opening for receiving a key ring, or other structure, therethrough. In one embodiment, the key includes a grip, and the cap and grip cooperate to enclose the key when the cap is secured in place.

Abstract: A tool for turning keys comprising a tool body having an elongate slot adapted to removably receive the head of a key. The tool has an aperture, by means of which a key ring is attached to the tool. The aperture may have a constriction to prevent the key ring sliding along its length, therefore preventing the key becoming accidentally engaged in the slot in someone's pocket. A second slot is provided, crossing the elongate slot and perpendicular to it, to accommodate the part of the key ring nearest to the key. In addition to its use to turn a key, the elongate slot may also be used to engage with the ring pull on a can, and the tool body used to lever the ring pull, opening the can.

Abstract: An auxiliary light device for a key comprises a base, a lighting element, two batteries and a casing assembly. The base is to be fixed permanently on a gripping portion of a key, in the base are formed two battery chambers, in a front portion of the base is defined a notch facing the shaft of the key, the notch is connected to the battery chambers via a groove, in a rear portion of the base is formed a threaded hole. The lighting element is inserted in the notch of the base, two conductive terminals of the lighting element are engaged in the groove of the base and extended into the chambers. The two batteries are disposed in the chambers of the base and connected to the two conductive terminals, respectively. The casing assembly serves to cover the abovementioned components and includes a cover, a button and a partition.

Abstract: A device for opening a locked door or drawer, which device comprises; a) means for facilitating the insertion of a key into a lock; and b) means for rotating said key when inserted.

Abstract: An apparatus for use in storing and positioning one or more keys includes a housing on which a key retainer is pivotally mounted. A key is connected with the key retainer. An actuator assembly is manually actuatable to release the key for movement between stored and active positions. When the apparatus includes a plurality of keys, a plurality of actuator assemblies are provided. The actuator assemblies may all have manually engageable members disposed on the same side of the housing.

Abstract: A key assembly which includes a key shank having a forward portion and a handle portion having an aperture. A shuttle is also included. The shuttle includes first and second substantially planar portions and a center portion connected to the substantially planar portions. A transponder recess is located on the shuttle. The shuttle is configured and dimensioned to mate with the aperture on the handle portion of the key shank. After mating with the aperture, the shuttle rotates within the aperture. After mating with and rotating within the aperture, the shuttle is securely retained within the aperture. A transponder is located within the transponder recess. The transponder receives a wireless interrogation signal and transmitting a wireless response signal in response to the interrogation signal. A key head is formed about the shuttle, transponder, and handle portion of the key shank.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an attachment device for keys which includes a key holding body by which the head and shaft of a key can be secured and a joining mechanism configured to join with the joining mechanism on like attachment devices. The present invention can be configured into a variety of shapes and receive print thus providing the opportunity for the attachment device to act as a promotional vehicle.

Abstract: A Child Proof Key for Barrel-housed Gun Lock is disclosed. Also disclosed object of the present invention to provide a Child Proof Key for Barrel-housed Gun Lock. The lock includes a handle defined by a slot formed along its length for acceptance of the shaft. The shaft is hinged at one end which permits the shaft to be stowed within the shaft slot. The shaft terminates in a key socket at its head for engagement with the keyed head of a bore-housed gun lock. The key further includes a bushing along the length of the shaft for centering the key socket within the barrel of the weapon, and further to identify the size by indicia inscribable thereon (or other desirable indicia). Very importantly, the shaft slot formed in the handle is defined by a shoulder and a shaft bore, with the gap between the two shoulders being slightly smaller than the diameter of the shaft such that the shaft snaps into the slot when stowed.

Abstract: A handcuff key “universal” shank and paddle for a common handcuff is attached, in-line, with an enlarged shank extension and bow or grip of a size and shape allowing its use while wearing heavy gloves. The shank extension is sufficiently long to accommodate heavily gloved fingers between the bow or grip and the universal shank and paddle. The enlarged bow or grip of the key is generally circular to fit the palm of a heavily gloved hand, and having a variety of apertures for key rings. The enlarged shank extension defines concave finger-holds for the gloved index and middle finger. The extended shank extends outward from the hand, while the heel of the glove hand engages the rounded rear surface of the bow or grip. The double-lock engaging stem is radially mounted about 60 degrees from the centerline. The key with extended shank is reversed for double-locking.

Abstract: A system and apparatus for controlling keys or other objects is provided. The key can only be removed when an access control key identifying the individual who is removing the key is inserted. The access control key cannot be removed until the key is returned.

Abstract: The safety key has a shank (6) which is provided with a plurality of control surfaces (7) for properly positioning tumblers and has a front end and a rear end (6a, 6b). At a front end (4a), the rotor (4) of the associated locking cylinder (2) has at least one further control surface (8), which interacts with a further control surface (9) arranged at the rear end (6b) of the shank (5). The safety key is backward compatible and is relatively difficult to copy.

Abstract: An apparatus indicates the closure state of a key-operated lock, having a housing that is fitted to the key and has a rotation detection sensor which is held therein and comprises a hollow body that is filled with a first electrically conductive liquid and has electrically conductive contacts for production of electrical contact sequences which are dependent on the closing direction, and having an electronic evaluation unit which uses the contact sequences to determine the closure state of the lock. The hollow body is substantially completely filled with the first electrically conductive liquid and with a second electrically non-conductive fluid that repels the first liquid.

Abstract: An improved disk-tumbler lock and key for use with a gun-lock device includes a key specifically adapted to be ring-mounted so that it may be worn by and is thus available for the user at all times. The particular shape of the key includes those characteristics which would be desirable for such a key which will function as a ring for the most part, including a sufficient strength to endure physical abuse resulting from common use as a ring, attractive appearance so that the user would be willing to wear it for extended periods, and an inconspicuous jewelry-like appearance to avoid unwarranted attention. In addition, the particular shape of the key and the mating keyway in the lock assembly are aimed at further improving the speed and reliability at which the key may be inserted into the lock assembly aided only by the user's tactile senses. The physical shape also lends itself to be easily and inexpensively manufactured using various fabrication processes.

Abstract: A key includes a blade, a bow formed on an end of the blade, and an ornamental member mounted in a hole of the bow. A transparent casing accommodates the bow and thus retain the ornamental member in the hole of the bow. In another embodiment, the hole is delimited by a bottom wall, and a transparent lid is force-fitted in the hole that receives the ornamental member and thus retains the ornamental member in the hole. The key may be used as an ornament in addition to its original utility. The ornamental member can be replaced by the user with a desired one at any time when desired.

Abstract: A method of decreasing resonant frequency shifting of an electrical circuit mounted on a vehicle key includes providing a frame in an opening in the head portion of a vehicle key and locating the transponder in the frame. The frame comprises substantially rigid non-metallic material, and the frame includes a support structure for supporting the transponder while decreasing forces produced on the transponder by thermal expansion and contraction of the head portion of the key, thereby decreasing shift in the resonance of the electrical circuit of the transponder. The frame, the transponder and the head portion of the key are overmolded providing an outer covering that encloses and protects the transponder.

Abstract: The key with a lock-unlock indicator is operable with a complementary lock set. The key has a body and an elongated key stem extending therefrom. A toggle bar is pivotally mounted or disposed on the key stem. The toggle bar operates in conjunction with a lock cam and an unlock cam mounted on the face of the complementary lock set. When the operator turns the key in one direction, the lock cam motivates the toggle bar thereby shifting its position. An indicator disposed in the key body displaying a lock condition and an unlock condition. The lock cam is shielded with a retractable shield.

Abstract: A universal key cap for receiving the head of a key, where the key includes a key head portion with edged segments and an extending shank portion, including a pair of spaced-apart planar walls in close proximity to each other for developing a tight frictional fit against the key head portion, wherein the pair of spaced-apart planar walls includes an inner and an outer surface and an outer periphery which are joined together by a rind for providing a full cover over the key head, the rind having an inner and outer surface; wherein the cap forms a slot at the bottom of the cap between the walls into which the key head can be inserted, a hollow chamber formed between the pair of spaced-apart planar walls and the rind for providing sufficient internal volume to receive the head portion of the key in close confronting relationship therewith, and edged segments molded on the inner surface of the rind wherein the edged segments register with at least one of the edged segments of the key head portion.

Abstract: A mechanical key and lock cylinder with mechanical bittings include electronic access control feature. A small, low-profile memory cell is embedded in a recess or hole through the key, with one cell terminal grounded to the key and the other having a contact extension. When the key is inserted into the keyway of the cylinder plug, the ground connection is made with the cylinder and the memory cell contact extension engages a contact of a connector unit from the cylinder plug. The key remains of very low profile. In another embodiment the key has its contacts on one or both sides of the key blade rather than at the shoulder of the key head. The memory cell device in or on the key head can include a microprocessor, battery and read/write memory.

Abstract: The key with a lock-unlock indicator is operable with a complementary lock set. The key has a body and an elongated key stem extending therefrom. A toggle bar is pivotally mounted or disposed on the key stem. The toggle bar operates in conjunction with a lock cam and an unlock cam mounted on the face of the complementary lock set. When the operator turns the key in one direction, the lock cam motivates the toggle bar thereby shifting its position. An indicator disposed in the key body displaying a lock condition and an unlock condition.

Abstract: A tool for remotely turning a key includes a key unit including an engagement assembly adapted to engage the key and an operator unit including a control assembly. At least one cable segment is provided linking the key unit and the operator unit such that the engagement assembly can be mechanically rotated via the cable segment by manipulation of the control assembly to thereby rotate the key when the key is engaged by the engagement assembly.

Abstract: A key case comprises three parts, a center body, a first case piece, and a second case piece. The center body has a first cavity which side facing the first case piece is opened. The second case piece has four tabs extending toward the first case piece at positions substantially opposite to the peripheral surface of the first cavity. Each tab includes a claw on its distal end. The center body has apertures through which the corresponding tabs can pass therethrough. Following to each aperture, a groove and a shoulder are formed in the peripheral surface of the first cavity. A wireless module is contained in the first cavity while claws pass through the corresponding apertures to be engaged with the shoulders. The wireless module is sized to prevent the claws from disengaging from the shoulders.

Abstract: A vehicle ignition key having an ornamental element molded onto the key. The key includes a key blank and an undermold which is formed by molding a first plastic material over a portion of a key blank, defining a mounting surface for the element. The ornamental element is located on the mounting surface and secured to the heel portion of the key blank by an overmold which is formed by molding a second plastic material over the heel portion of the key blank, the undermold, and at least a portion of the element. In one embodiment, the overmold material covers substantially the entire peripheral edge of the element.

Abstract: An improved lock key having exchangeable key heads manufactured from jewelry and an interlocking blade so that they cannot be separated from one another in normal usage. Thus providing a means for identification for which key operates which lock and to provide for a pleasing design with insignia.

Abstract: The individual keys in a set of keys are configured to fit together in a compact arrangement, with the heads of the keys being in alignment with one another in one direction and stacked against one another in another direction, and with the shanks extending essentially in alignment with one another but spaced apart along the heads. A set of keys may be formed using two outer key configurations or by using the two outer key configurations, together with a central key configuration. One or more of such sets of keys may be stored in a holder including pockets for their storage.

Abstract: An apparatus indicates the closure state of a key-operated lock, having a housing that is fitted to the key and has a rotation detection sensor which is held therein and comprises a hollow body that is filled with a first electrically conductive liquid and has electrically conductive contacts for production of electrical contact sequences which are dependent on the closing direction, and having an electronic evaluation unit which uses the contact sequences to determine the closure state of the lock. The hollow body is substantially completely filled with the first electrically conductive liquid and with a second electrically non-conductive fluid that repels the first liquid.

Abstract: A universal key cap for receiving the head of a key, where the key includes a key head portion with edged segments and an extending shank portion, including a pair of spaced-apart planar walls in close proximity to each other for developing a tight frictional fit against the key head portion, wherein the pair of spaced-apart planar walls includes an inner and an outer surface and an outer periphery which are joined together by a rind for providing a full cover over the key head, the rind having an inner and outer surface; wherein the cap forms a slot at the bottom of the cap between the walls into which the key head can be inserted, a hollow chamber formed between the pair of spaced-apart planar walls and the rind for providing sufficient internal volume to receive the head portion of the key in close confronting relationship therewith, and edged segments molded on the inner surface of the rind wherein the edged segments register with at least one of the edged segments of the key head portion.

Abstract: A key blank is provided with an enlarged head end encased in plastics material and enclosing a permanent magnet received in an opening through the key head and retained in an intermediate grommet holder, the magnet having a sufficient strength to attach the key removably to ferrous surface.

Abstract: The individual keys in a set of keys are configured to fit together in a compact arrangement, with the heads of the keys being in alignment with one another in one direction and stacked against one another in another direction, and with the shanks extending essentially in alignment with one another but spaced apart along the heads. A set of keys may be formed using two outer key configurations or by using the two outer key configurations, together with a central key configuration. One or more of such sets of keys may be stored in a holder including pockets for their storage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a combined mechanical and key comprising a key housing for electronic components and an L-shape flat key (30). Said flat key consists of a bearing limb (31) which enables the key to pivot into a storage position and a shank (32) which mechanically operates the lock. The shank (32) of the flat key (30) can be displaced between an inoperative position, retracted into the key housing and an operative position, in which it projects out of the hosing. A push-button preferably also acts as the pivoting axis for the flat key (30). The push-button and the housing have profiled sections and the bearing limb has co-operating profiled sections (37, 38, 39), to subject the flat key (30) to a force in the operative position and to lock the key in one of its positions. The invention aims to produce a simple, cost-effective key. To this end, the flat key is configured as a planar plate (34) with an L-shaped outline, the shank (32) sharing the same plane as the bearing limb.

Abstract: A tool for remotely turning a key includes a key unit including an engagement assembly adapted to engage the key and an operator unit including a control assembly. At least one cable segment is provided linking the key unit and the operator unit such that the engagement assembly can be mechanically rotated via the cable segment by manipulation of the control assembly to thereby rotate the key when the key is engaged by the engagement assembly.

Abstract: In a combined mechanical and electronic key, electronic components and mechanical flat keys (30) are normally housed in a common key holder (10). In order to place the flat key (30) between a lowered rest position in a holder (10) and a projecting in-use position, the flat key (30) is movably located in a container (10) and secured in at least one of the positions by a push button (40). The key contain is assembled from an upper and a lower shell. In order to avoid sealing problems between both shells, according to the invention, the upper shell (11) is provided with an outbreak in a region pertaining thereto which lies outwith the push button. The outbreak creates a void chamber which can be accessed from the outside and is located on the inside of the shell interior. The electronic components are enclosed by a housing-like capsule and form therewith a prefabricated electrocapsule (20).

Abstract: A key is provided with an actuator. The key also has operation structure and interaction structure. When the key is inserted into a lock, a force is applied to the operation structure and the position of the interaction structure is altered. The movement of the interaction structure is used in the locking and/or un-locking mechanism of the lock. A key handle and lock are also provided which incorporate such a mechanism.

Abstract: A Child Proof Key for Barrel-housed Gun Lock is disclosed. Also disclosed object of the present invention to provide a Child Proof Key for Barrel-housed Gun Lock. The lock includes a handle defined by a slot formed along its length for acceptance of the shaft. The shaft is hinged at one end which permits the shaft to be stowed within the shaft slot. The shaft terminates in a key socket at its head for engagement with the keyed head of a bore-housed gun lock. The key further includes a bushing along the length of the shaft for centering the key socket within the barrel of the weapon, and further to identify the size by indicia inscribable thereon (or other desirable indicia). Very importantly, the shaft slot formed in the handle is defined by a shoulder and a shaft bore, with the gap between the two shoulders being slightly smaller than the diameter of the shaft such that the shaft snaps into the slot when stowed.

Abstract: A lock with a fixable key includes a shell, an upper half core, a lower half core, an elastic member and a fixable key. The upper and the lower half core contained in the shell respectively have a lengthwise passageway for a flexible moving member of the key to extend in to unlock the lock. The lower half core has a key hole in a rear end, and a groove for containing the elastic member having an upper end to fit in a notch formed in the groove. The key has the moving member, a push block and a housing having a position recess to engage the upper end of the elastic member so as to position the key in unlocking and make the moving member smoothly slide in the passageway of the lock to prevent the key from deadlocked or breaking in handling in unlocking or locking.