Abstract: A locking device to be secured in a weapon, comprising a first locking means manoeuvrable by a lock cylinder (56), which locking means has a friction body (10) displaceably arranged in relation to the lock body (3-5) and insertable into the chamber or barrel of the weapon, and blocking elements (23) arranged to be moved into engagement with the inside wall of the chamber/barrel in case of mutual displacement between the friction body (10) and the lock body (3-5). The locking device furthermore comprising a second locking means (73), which by means of the lock cylinder (56) is movable into engagement with a space in the weapon located adjacent to the chamber/barrel in order to secure the locking device in the weapon.

Abstract: A system for ornamenting a key. The system for ornamenting a key according to the present invention includes a casing. One or more threaded rods with casing are provided for securing a key or key blank within the casing. In an alternative embodiment, a bore, a notch, and a tray formed with a neck for securing a key or key blank using one or more threaded rods is provided. The casing itself may be ornamented, and the securing a key or key blank within the casing also may be ornamented. The key is removably securable within the casing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an electronic key (10) for an automotive vehicle, said key being of generally flat parallelepipedal shape and comprising: a housing (12) for an electronic card, said card being adapted to control electronically a locking/unlocking device onboard the vehicle and permitting the locking/unlocking of the openings of the vehicle, and an insert compartment (11) housing an emergency insert adapted to lock/unlock mechanically the openings of a vehicle in case of malfunction of the electronic card, said electronic key being characterized in that the insert (13) is constituted solely of a key blade and is provided with recesses (16) adapted to coact with retaining means (15) provided in the insert compartment to hold firmly the insert in the compartment no matter what its position.

Abstract: A key assembly for use in a lock. The key assembly includes a key shank having a toe end and a head end. The head end includes a pair of opposed spaced apart legs. An insert is disposed between the spaced apart legs, and has a pair of opposing faces. Material is overmolded onto the key shank head end and at least a portion of the insert. In one embodiment, at least a portion of at least one of the faces is not covered by the material to provide at least one surface for displaying indicia.

Abstract: A biometric electronic key for use with an electronic lock is programmable to contain data representative of the fingerprint of the user. When so programmed, successful use of the key requires that a fingerprint of the user, as sensed by a fingerprint identification sensor installed in the handle of the key and touched by a user in the course of gripping the key, match an electronic template of an authorized key user's fingerprint that has been programmed into memory within the key's on-board electronics. Otherwise the key will fail to operate the lock.

Abstract: Methods and processes of making and assembling key assemblies each having a key blank, a transponder, a transponder holder and a key head section cover molded to encapsulate the transponder and at least part of its holder. If a logo is desired on the finished key, it may be provided on one or both sides of the key head section cover, or on a transponder holder which is molded about a part of the key head section.

Abstract: An improved cover assembling structure of a key ring, the key ring has a main body being provided respectively on an upper and a lower surface thereof with recesses that are provided at middle peripheral sections of the lateral sides of the main body with notches, at least an insertion hole is provided at each middle section of the recesses of the upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower covers have contours in coincidence with those of the recesses, and have lateral wing pieces for inserting into the notches. Thereby, the upper and lower covers can be inserted into the recesses; insertion stubs provided on the upper and lower covers are insertion engaged with the insertion holes on the main body to complete assembling of the key ring.

Abstract: The Key Identification System enables a key to be quickly and easily related to a object/structure/item. It accomplishes this by having the key manufactured in a way to have the head/bow take on the appearance/shape of the object/structure/item that the key will be opening. It will NOT have the appearance/shape of a door/lid or lock because the door/lid and lock are not a distinguishable part of the object/structure/item that the key is used for. So therefore a key that opens the front door of a house is in the appearance/shape of a house, the key that opens a car is in the appearance/shape of a car and so on.

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: The rotation of a rotary switch is limited by stop ribs in a knob that facilitates the rotation of the rotary switch. The stop ribs can be configured to limit the rotational stress that is applied to the rotary switch, or to limit the states of the switch that are realizable by a particular knob. Using keyed detachable knobs, different keys can be configured to provide different ranges of rotation of the rotary switch, thereby enabling different switching authorizations, based on the particular knob that is used.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to an electronic touch key for electronic lock sets, and more particularly to an electronic key for use with a lock set. In an electronic key according to the invention, a cylinder plug associated with the lock set includes a fixed data contact pin, which is preferably flush with the face of a cylinder plug, to prevent tampering. The electronic key thus is designed to properly contact the fixed data contact associated with the lock set for proper operation. The present invention provides a construction which facilitates making the contact, and yet provides a durable and simple construction for the electronic key.

Abstract: A device adapted to limit the bending of a flexible tongue (15) in a bending direction includes an abutment (18) disposed in this direction at a distance (19) from the deformable end of the tongue (15). As a confinement device for a substantially flat object (7), includes a lower portion (1) supporting at least one locking element (15) flexible in a bending direction, and a member (18) for limiting bending of the locking element (15) in this direction. Application particularly to an electromagnetic automotive key housing with a removable button battery (7).

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for facilitating the turning of a key in a keyhole of a lock. The key has a head, an insertion portion and a connecting portion between the head and the insertion portion. The apparatus has a body for gripping by an operator and applying torque to the key. The body has at least a front surface, a back surface, a peripheral edge where the front and back surfaces meet, and a slot extending through the body between the front and back surfaces. The slot is adapted to allow the insertion portion of the key to extend beyond the front surface and engage the connecting portion when the key is inserted through the slot. In this manner, when torque is applied to the peripheral edge by the operator, the torque is transmitted through the body at least to the connecting portion of the key. This facilitates the turning of the key when the insertion portion is in the keyhole of the lock.

Abstract: A small object-assistance device including a combination key/button/zipper assist device having a button/zipper assist device that releasably engages a key assist device thereby forming a multi-functional small-object assistance device. Also, methods for using the multi-functional small-object assistance device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic key comprising electronic components for receiving or transmitting signals. Said components are integrated in a housing (20). A mechanical emergency key (30′) is provided in case of an electronics failure. Said emergency key (30′) can be inserted into a recess (27) in the housing (20) together with its key shaft (31′). The aim of the invention is to produce a key which can be handled easily. To this end, one end of the housing is provided with a recess which is undercut at least in places and which usually prevents the inserted emergency key (30′) from being pulled out. Usually, the key is in a holding position in the housing (20) with an essentially positive fit.

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 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 present invention relates to an attachment device for keys which includes a securing means by which the shaft of the key can be secured and joining mechanism (5,6) configured to join with the joining mechanisms (5, 6) on like attachment devices. The present invention can be configured into a variety of shapes thus making it given the opportunity for the attachment device to act as a promotional vehicle. Likewise, the attachment device can receive print, again making it a promotional vehicle.

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: 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 said 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. Said electronic components are enclosed by a housing-like capsule and form therewith a prefabricated electrocapsule (20).

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic flat key having a grip element (2) and a key bit (3), the grip element (2) including a casing (4) in which are arranged an electronic switching device (12) for remote operation of a lock or locking system and a holder (16) for at least one battery (17) for supplying power to the switching device, the grip element casing (4) including two side elements (5, 6) constructed in the form of shells, and the key bit (3) being arranged on the grip element casing (4) in a manner enabling it to be swiveled from a retracted position, in which it is situated in a lateral well (10) in the grip element casing (4), into an extended position.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for facilitating the turning of a key in a keyhole of a lock. The key has a head, an insertion portion and a connecting portion between the head and the insertion portion. The apparatus has a body for gripping by an operator and applying torque to the key. The body has at least a front surface, a back surface, a peripheral edge where the front and back surfaces meet, and a slot extending through the body between the front and back surfaces. The slot is adapted to allow the insertion portion of the key to extend beyond the front surface and engage the connecting portion when the key is inserted through the slot. In this manner, when torque is applied to the peripheral edge by the operator, the torque is transmitted through the body at least to the connecting portion of the key. This facilitates the turning of the key when the insertion portion is in the keyhole of the lock.

Abstract: A mechanical key (17) is housed in a mechanical key storing part (15) offset to one side within a key body (1), a bulge (18a) of a key head (18) being housed in an extension part (16a) of an aperture (16), a bridging part (19) that forms a holder linking hole (20) being formed so as to protrude at just the center of the rear end surface of the key body (1) thereby establishing left-to-right symmetry and avoiding an unbalanced appearance. Because the key head (18) of the mechanical key (17) can be formed so that the lever length from the key center axis line is large, it is possible to lighten the key rotational force when the mechanical key is used.

Abstract: Provided in accordance with the present invention, are preferred embodiments for increasing or decreasing the lever arm on a key, specifically the bow portion of the key. The invention includes a master segment that preferably is round or oval in shape and easily griped by a user. The master segment includes a means for securing thereto a key, and at an end opposite the key, a means for securing additional segments thereto for increasing the lever arm on the key, hence the key blade. In different embodiments, the segments may be secured together using a screw or bolt that passes through the segments, or more preferably, each segment, excluding the master segment, may have a means for securing to a segment and a means for securing a segment thereto. In use the user inserts the blade portion of the key in a normal fashion and then uses the segments or Universal Key Stick to rotate the key, hence the blade portion, thereby rotating the lock or tumbler assembly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (10) for starting and for locking/unlocking a motor vehicle, of the type comprising: a key (11) carrying at least one control for locking/unlocking the vehicle, a support (12) designed to accommodate the key in an appropriate housing (13) and to detect the presence of this key in the housing, and an element for starting/stopping the vehicle engine, the device being characterized in that the starting/stopping element is a bistable button (15) formed on the support (12), the said button (15) furthermore constituting a structure for immobilizing the key (11) in the housing (13) when the vehicle is in operation.

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: A lock apparatus includes: a control unit carrying out transmission and reception of an electronic signal between the electronic key and the control unfit so as to perform ID verification; a rotating member disposed rotatably inside a casing; a lock actuator receiving a lock release signal from the control unit so as to release a lock on the rotating member to the casing; a key insertion hole disposed to the rotating member; a slider hole going through the rotating member; a slider inserted into the slider hole and disposed such that its inner end is protruded into the key insertion hole; and a check lever supported rotatably and in which one end thereof is an operating portion activating the transmission and reception of the control unit and the other end makes contact with the outer end face of the slider.

Abstract: An improved key fob and key combination allows the mechanical key to be removed from the key fob and given to a valet attendant. The key is provided with a mechanical latch which may be easily removed from the key fob. When the key is removed, secured areas on the vehicle are locked. Moreover, the vehicle has limited operation when the mechanical key is not received with the key fob. In a second feature of this invention, a locator function on the key fob provides an indication of an approximate direction to a vehicle in a parking area. The key fob relies upon RF transmissions from the vehicle to determine an approximate direction to the vehicle.

Abstract: A lock apparatus of the invention capable of being locked/unlocked by an electronic key, comprises: an electronic key having a circuit chip generating an electronic signal, and an insertion portion provided at an end thereof and comprised of a pair of opposing flat portions and slope portions on both sides so as to be formed in a tapered flat shape; and a rotating member having an insertion hole opening at an end face thereof and in which the insertion portion of the electronic key is to be inserted, an opening portion of the key insertion hole having a rectangular sectional shape corresponding to a cross section of the insertion portion and being larger than an end of the insertion portion, and an interior of the key insertion hole being formed in a tapered flat shape corresponding to the tapered flat shape of the insertion portion and having a slant wall as a side face.

Abstract: A key assembly for mounting an electronic component in the head of the key. The electronic component is mounted in either an opening such as a bore or recess formed in the key head, or a carrier connected to the heel end of the key shank. In the former case, a closure member such as a plug or adhesively backed panel member is employed to close off the opening. In the latter case, the carrier is encapsulated within a plastic key head.

Abstract: A key assembly for mounting an electronic component in the head of the key. The electronic component is mounted in either an opening such as a bore or recess formed in the key head, or a carrier connected to the heel end of the key shank. In the former case, a closure member such as a plug or adhesively backed panel member is employed to close off the opening. In the latter case, the carrier is encapsulated within a plastic key head.

Abstract: A locking device suitable for NID housing security. The device includes a slotted cylinder, a key and key tool. The slotted cylinder has a resistance component contained in the cylinder. The key is mateable with the slotted cylinder and is held in place by the force of the resistance component. The key head has a cavity therein of a complimentary shape to the key tool so that the tool may be used to turn the key for locking or unlocking. A cylindrical sleeve is used for additional security. The sleeve fits over the mated key and slotted cylinder to protect against release of the parts and may further provide a barrier to removal from a structure being locked. By use of different key head cavity shapes each subscriber may only access their own line in a NID.

Abstract: The key designed to mechanically actuate a lock comprises a metallic stem (1) with a longitudinal axis (2) and a plastic casing (3) rigidly connected to one end of the said stem. The casing of this key consists of a lower half casing (4) connected to the stem by a link (5) free to slide along the said longitudinal axis and an upper half casing (6) that is rigidly connected to the lower half casing and that comprises a post (7) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis that fits into a corresponding hole in the said stem to prevent any translation movement between the stem and the casing along the said longitudinal axis. With this layout, the lower half casing alone resists the torsion torque applied to the casing by the stem when a lock is being opened, without the addition of any other connecting part between the stem and the lower half casing, which significantly reduces the manufacturing cost of such a key and avoids the use of any visible part that could modify the style and appearance of the key.

Abstract: A flat key having a grip element (2) and a key bit (3), the grip element (2) including a casing (4) and the key bit (3) being arranged in a manner enabling it to be moved into and out of the grip element casing (4) and to be fixed in its respective extreme position. In order to provide a flat key (1) with an axially displaceable key bit (3) which has an inexpensively manufactured drive and requires relatively small dimensions, a spring (7)—preferably a scroll spring—is disposed as the drive in the grip element casing (4), the two end zones (8, 9) of said spring each being wound spirally onto two holders (10, 11) arranged at the side of the key bit (3). The central zone (12) of the spring (7) rests against a support (13) on the end of the key bit (3) that is situated inside the grip element casing (4), with the usual result that when the key bit (3) is inserted into the grip element casing (4) the spring (7) becomes uncoiled from the holders (10, 11) and thus tensioned.

Abstract: Key assemblies each having a key blank, a transponder, a transponder holder and a key head section cover molded to encapsulate the transponder and at least part of its holder. A logo may be provided on one or both sides of the key head section cover, or on a transponder holder which is molded about a part of the key head section. In one embodiment, the transponder holder is premolded, after which the transponder is inserted in it and resiliently held in place by resilient parts of the holder. The transponder and holder subassembly is then slid into a generally U-shaped key head with the legs defining the sides of that key head sliding in open channels formed by legs of the holder which are moved against the resilience of the cantilever mounting of the legs to the transponder mounting section of the holder.

Abstract: A key assembly for mounting an electronic component in the head of the key. The electronic component is mounted in either an opening such as a bore or recess formed in the key head, or a carrier connected to the heel end of the key shank. In the former case, a closure member such as a plug or adhesively backed panel member is employed to close off the opening. In the latter case, the carrier is encapsulated within a plastic key head.

Abstract: The key holder comprises: a main body having a first opening for receiving a bow part of a key; a sandwiching member for elastically sandwiching the received bow part on both surfaces thereof, and for releasing the sandwich of the bow part by extracting the key forcedly; and a contacting part for contacting a head of the bow part therewith.

Abstract: An electronic key for actuating a lock, in particular for use in locking systems in automobiles, is described. The housing of the electronic key has the shape of a thin wedge, the narrow end of the wedge being designed for insertion into the lock. The parts active for the actuation of the lock are also accommodated here. Moreover, the housing has a receptacle for a key bit for a mechanical lock.

Abstract: A torque-limited key includes a grip and a lock or latch engaging member. A torque-limiting device connects the grip to the engaging member. The torque-limiting device may include a spring, a frictional engagement, or any other type of resilient member. The torque-limiting device allows a torque applied to the grip to rotate the engaging member, so long as the applied torque is less than a predetermined level. If the applied torque exceeds the predetermined level, the grip will rotate relative to the engaging member in order to prevent breaking the engaging member off inside the lock or latch, and also in order to prevent damaging the mechanism of the lock or latch.

Abstract: A training handcuff key for use during training of security officers in the use of handcuffs used to restrain a subject. The training key includes a magnet washer that holds the key adjacent the surface of the handcuff keyhole, even during violent jerking and/or dropping of the handcuffs during simulated apprehension situations. The training key operates in all respects as does a standard handcuff key, but includes the feature of remaining adjacent the handcuff keyhole, while having a profile which does not interfere with the training use of the handcuffs. The training key is removable after completion of the training exercises, permitting the handcuffs to be used in a standard manner. Use of the training handcuff key dramatically reduces the time required to remove the handcuffs after they have been applied to the subject, therefore allowing the trainer and the trainees more time to develop proper and efficient methods of handcuffing and dramatically improve their skills in proper handcuffing techniques.

Abstract: A key holder (1) with lamp, comprising a two-part housing, of which one housing part (2) bears as source of illumination (incandescent lamp 7) and has a first section (A) of a battery-receiving chamber (B) which is provided with a button (19) and of which the second section (A1) is formed by the other housing part (3), each housing part (2, 3) receiving one of the two contact elements (14, 40) in each case. The end sections (16, 41) of the contact elements (14, 40) are assigned to the two broad surfaces of the battery-receiving chamber (B) and are located opposite one anther at a distance which is greater than the distance between the two broad surfaces (29, 49) of the button-cell battery, and one of the two contact end sections (16, 41), upon actuation of the button, be displaced in the direction of the other contact end section.

Abstract: A bulbous hand grip facilitates the turning of a key within a lock by increasing the turning radius through which the key is turned, as well as providing finger and hand surfaces which may be utilized during turning. The hand grip may include a substantially arcuate or spheroidal surface contour. The key may be secured within the hand grip by elastic deformation forces and/or by conventional fasteners.

Abstract: A container made from a hard synthetic resin is provided on a key body (12). A container half (26) and the other container half (27) of the container (16) are attached to a key body (12) and a transmitting element (18) is secured to the container halves (26) and (27) in a sealed condition. A soft resin outer skin is molded on the outer surfaces of the key body (12) and the resin container (16). Heat and pressure during the molding of the resin outer skin are received by the resin container (16) so that the transmitting element 18 therein is protected therefrom.

Abstract: A handcuff key having a shank on which is mounted a paddle offset from the end of the shank so that a portion of the shank protrudes beyond the end of the paddle. The key has a first asymmetrical gripping surface as well as a second cylindrical gripping surface. The gripping surfaces are formed of an elastomer while the offset paddle and shank are formed of metal. The key is also provided with a quick release cap which snaps over a double-lock stem extending from the key. In an alternative embodiment, the quick-release cap is provided with an offset key ring to permit the key to hang substantially vertical from an officer's uniform or key ring during storage.

Abstract: A key and insert assembly is designed for the identification of keys or key blanks. The key is provided with a slot through the key head which is oriented in a plane parallel with the face of the key head. A window through the key head intersects the slot. The slot is designed to receive a thin insert made of synthetic resin and the window area allows a portion of the insert to be displayed. Information regarding the key or other codes may be printed on the insert region which is displayed. In a preferred embodiment, the insert is retained in the slot by a snap-fit arrangement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a keyring tool 1 suitable for storage on an expandable coil-type keyring 2 and disconnection therefrom which is used in connecting and disconnecting keys to and from the keyring 2. The keyring tool 1 comprises a bow portion 3 for connection of the tool 1 to the keyring 2 wherein the bow portion 3 has at least one circumferentially extending portion 5 having a generally wedge shaped-section extending from one side of the circumferentially extending portion 5 towards an opposite side thereof for insertion between one end 13, 19 of the coiled strip 14 of the keyring coil 2 and an axially adjacent part 15 of the coiled strip 14 for threading of the strip 14 through the bow portion 3 for connection or disconnection of the keyring tool 1 thereto or therefrom, respectively.

Abstract: A key body (14) is inserted into a recess (16) to be held on a card key support (12). When a spare key (10) is used, the key body (14) is removed from the recess (16) and inserted into the recess (26). Accordingly, a lock insertion portion (14B) protrudes from the card key support (12) for manipulation of the key. A transmitter element (18) is mounted to the card key support (12) near a base portion (14A) of the key body (14) which is mounted to the recess (26) so that an ID signal is transmitted from the transmitter element (18) in the direction of the key cylinder in the same manner as in an original key. An operating condition of an engine is thereby maintained.

Abstract: A hinged lock key has a bow and a shank from which extend two opposite transverse arms on which the bow is hinged and moves between the working position and folded positions; a snap-fastening connection acting between the bow and the arms keeps the working position stable and enables the folded positions to be reached by overcoming a given force. This key structure is inexpensive to produce.

Abstract: A key assembly for mounting an electronic component in the head of the key. The electronic component is mounted in either an opening such as a bore or recess formed in the key head, or a carrier connected to the heel end of the key shank. In the former case, a closure member such as a plug or adhesively backed panel member is employed to close off the opening. In the latter case, the carrier is encapsulated within a plastic key head.

Abstract: A universal key fob includes a housing to which is mountable one of a plurality of accessories. A key shank is mountable to the housing in order to provide a key head fob. A key ring is mountable to the housing in order to provide a key ring fob. Preferably, the accessories are connected to the housing via inserts which snap fit into a recess in the housing.