Abstract: A lock release tool including a stopper block, a finger grip extending from the stopper block, and a key tab extending from the stopper block. The key tab is sized for insertion within a keyhole slot in a locking assembly, the stopper block is sized to limit insertion of the key tab within the keyhole slot, and the key tab includes a contact surface at a distal end thereof. The contact surface is configured to release the locking assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a key carrier comprising a base body (1) and a window, wherein one respective end of the base body (1) and window (6) is provided with a fork-shaped termination. A key ring (21) can be introduced into a gap (18) defined by the prongs (10,11) of the fork-shaped end of the window (6). When inserted, said key ring is secured by means of a retaining bolt (14). The prongs (10,11) of the window can be clipped in between the prongs (2,3) of the base body. When clipped in, the window is retained by pivoting journals (16,17) which engage with the opposite ends of the window bores (12,13) receiving the retaining bolts (14).

Abstract: A key storage casing having a key recognition function is disclosed, which includes an insertion unit having a certain specific impedance value for receiving a key therein, at least two key insertion arrangement units, an impedance recognition unit for recognizing whether the key inserted into the key insertion arrangement unit is a corresponding key with the help of an impedance value, and a display unit which displays a key return/discharge/storage information. So, it is possible to reliably store and check the state of a discharge/return/storage of a corresponding key. A data communication unit is provided for transmitting a data concerning a discharge/return/storage to an external terminal for thereby reliably managing a data concerning a discharge/return/storage of a key.

Abstract: A colored heat-shrinkable label and labeling system including a key label and a lock label having a substantially cylindrical sleeve having an inner surface and an outer surface and formed of a colored heat shrink material of a size to fit around a head end of a key and a portion of a lock and to be shrunk to substantially encase the head end of the key (12), and a portion of a lock, forming a flat surface that can be written upon. The key label and the lock label being color coded to indicate that the key and the lock are associated with each other.

Abstract: A removable core lock and key device comprises a cylinder housing (10) and a cylinder core (20), which is accommodated in a circular opening in the cylinder housing. A plurality of pin tumblers (22) are movable under influence from code surfaces of a key, wherein at least part of the pin tumblers are provided in a recess (20b) in the mantle surface of the cylinder core. A cam adapter (40) is rotatably provided in the opening in the cylinder housing. The cam adapter comprises an engagement portion (40c) which engages the recess (20b) in the mantle surface of the cylinder core when the cylinder core is in an operative position, wherein at least one of the pin tumblers is movable between a blocking position, in which the engagement portion of the cam adapter cooperates with the at least one pin tumbler to prevent mutual axial movement of the cam adapter and the cylinder core, and a release position, in which mutual axial movement between the cam adapter and the cylinder core is allowed.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided including a first member, a second member, a device for holding one or more keys, and an ornament. The ornament may be attached to a second end of the first member. The first member may be attached to the second member so that the first member pivots with respect to the second member. The device for holding one or more keys may be attached the second member. The apparatus may further include a spring and a ball, which help to retain the apparatus in a first state in which the first member is at a first angle with respect to the second member. The apparatus can be attached to a purse to easily locate keys.

Abstract: A combination padlock with a name card has a housing, a card clamp, multiple dial cores, a shackle, a locking shaft and a key core. The housing has a card surface. The card clamp is mounted detachably on the card surface and holds a name card to indicate who owns the padlock. The dial cores are mounted in the housing, have a combination and provide a combination locking capability. The shackle is U-shaped and has a mounting end and a locking end. The mounting end is mounted through the dial cores. The locking end detaches from the housing. The locking shaft is mounted in the housing and selectively meshes the shackle with the dial cores. The key core is mounted in the housing, locks and releases the shackle by a key and allows a person to unlock the padlock when the combination is forgotten.

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 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 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: 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 key system using an ID card which can output ID data is combined with a mechanical ignition key. The key system is provided with a transceiver for receiving data from the ID card, a flash memory for storing the ID data and a CPU. When the stored ID data in the flash memory coincides with the ID card data obtained by the transceiver an operation is performed with the ignition key, the CPU enables the operation of an engine start. Furthermore, if the present protection time has elapsed since the CPU recognizes the coincidence of the stored and ID card data, the operation by the ignition key is nullified.

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 ring in the present invention includes an ornamental block and a buckle ring. The one-piece ornamental block is made of plastic material and may be any kind of configuration. A plurality of spaced cavities are disposed in the at least one surface of the ornamental block. The inner surface of each cavity is treated by vacuum gilding so as for the ornamental block to achieve diamond-shining effect. A through hole is provided in one end of the ornamental block for the buckle ring to penetrate through.

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 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: 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: 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 lock device having a rotatable identification brand includes a lock body defining a receiving space and formed with at least one view window, a rotatable member rotatably mounted in the receiving space of the lock body and provided with identification information that may be seen through the view window of the lock body, and a drive mechanism mounted on the rotatable member for rotating the rotatable member. The rotatable member may be driven and rotated by the drive mechanism, so that the user may watch the information printed on the rotatable member through the view window, thereby facilitating other people identifying the owner of the lock device, and thereby enhancing the aesthetic quality of the lock device.

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 key includes a stem connected to a head and an identification system positioned within the head. The head has two opposing surfaces and an aperture that forms a visible area. The aperture extends along the opposing surfaces and interior walls of the aperture connect the opposing surfaces. The identification system is configured to be positioned within the aperture and includes a cover and an identification card that carries a key identification. When inserted, the cover extends across the visible area within the aperture so that the key identification is visible.

Abstract: A precision electronic apparatus and method for decodes a lock key, wherein the coded key is inserted into the warded keyway. Simultaneously, this engages a toggle switch and rod. The rod engages a spring-loaded linear switch for each groove. The spring-loaded switch selects only one linear trace on the circuit board. Each circuit board converts the selected linear trace into a binary code. The toggle switch conducts the electronic circuitry and the binary codes are decoded for each notch in the shank of the key. The combined digits result as the complete key code on the LED segment display on the front faceplate.

Abstract: A key system using an ID card which can output ID data is combined with a mechanical ignition key. The key system is provided with a transceiver for receiving ID data from the ID card, a flash memory for storing the ID data and a CPU. When the stored ID data in the flash memory coincides with the ID card data obtained by the transceiver and operation is performed with the ignition key, the CPU enables the operation of an engine start. Furthermore, if a preset protection time has elapsed since the CPU recognizes the coincidence of the stored and ID card data, the operation by the ignition key is nullified.

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 connecting device is provided which is formed of a connecting section for supporting a discrete article such as a key, a display section which displays an image and a flexible section joined to the connecting section and display section.

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: An identification system utilizes a plastic housing which is appropriately sized to hold either a key or a coin as well as an information sheet on which the user may place selected indicia referring to the key or to himself. Each embodiment utilizes a living hinge closure attachment to secure the key or coin and information sheet within the housing. Utilizing the housing and indicia for identifying the key minimizes the excess material and connections thereby simplifying the identification and storage problem, yet because the use of the housing with the key slightly increases the size of the key head, it provides a slightly greater moment arm for turning the key in a lock and gives a slightly larger gripping surface to be employed when so turning the key. These factors are significant when dealing with children and with elderly people who may not have the physical strength and dexterity required for some small headed keys.

Abstract: An emergency color and tactile coded identification plate comprising a face plate, a clear tamper resistant plastic center, and a back plate is used to control access to and from locations within and around a secured facility. The face plate has configured openings that correspond to configured markings on the back plate such that the configured markings on the back plate fill the configured openings of the face plate when the identification plate is assembled by aligning and bringing the face plate, the clear plastic center, and the back plate into contact with each other to form a single unit. The present invention provides a multiple indicia emergency plate that allows fast identification of the correct key for a specific door in a secured facility that uses both visual and tactile indicia.

Abstract: A key 10 and lock 20 are disclosed for use and can be identified by knocking-out area 17 or breaking of tab 14 for identification of what numbered, lettered or Braille key goes with what lock.

Abstract: A compact assembly for retaining keys or other domestic articles permits retention, rapid identification, and selection of an appropriate object by single-hand operation without the necessity of visual observation. The assembly comprises a tubular housing which can be grasped by the hand of the user, and a key retaining mechanism, a key advancing mechanism and a driving mechanism mounted within the housing. The key retaining mechanism can carry a plurality of keys, disposed in a plurality of storing stations provided with key receiving grooves. A selected key can be driven along the groove by the key advancing mechanism after the storing station corresponding to the particular key is brought into alignment with a key exit opening of the housing. The assembly can be provided with a remote control mechanism and/or alarm mechanism.

Abstract: A code locking mechanism that transmits information between a key and a locking mechanism secured against interception misuse, but flexible with respect to original equipment, replacement parts, and emergency functions, is obtained if the key code is, in each case, cryptographically encoded through a hardware encoder. When the locking mechanism is first operated, a control element, inductively coupled to a locking mechanism read-write unit with a new key once and in a non-overwritable manner, transmits an indent number to the object memory. Object-specific identity data are also stored in the control element. With the latter, a key number from a key register of the control element is combined with the key code to read the latter together with a roll-in random code into the set of first still-neutral keys and into the object memory. Thus, a key is valid only if the object-specific identity data are taken into account in its key code.

Abstract: A magnetic key holding plaque comprised of a plaque having an inner surface and an outer surface. A plurality of magnets are secured within the inner surface of the plaque. A plurality of magnetic pendants are secured within the outer surface of the plaque opposed from the plurality of magnets.

Abstract: A loader 30 and method of loading lock pins 104 and 112 into the plug portion 100 of a cylindrical lock. The loader 30 includes a body 32 and cover 34. The body 32 has a plurality of pin dispensing barrels 36 which are loaded with a preestablished plurality of lock pins 104 and 112. The body 32 fits under the plug portion 100 so that the pin dispensing barrels 36 abut and coaxially align with a corresponding plurality of pin cavities 102 in the plug portion 100, The combined body 32 and plug portion 100 are then turned upside down (rotated approximately 180') and gravity causes the lock pins 104 and 112 to vacate the pin dispensing barrels 36 and enter the pin cavities 102 in the plug portion 100.

Abstract: An identification system utilizes a plastic housing which is appropriately sized to hold either a key or a coin as well as an information sheet on which the user may place selected indicia referring to the key or to himself. Each embodiment utilizes a living hinge closure attachment to secure the key or coin and information sheet within the housing. Utilizing the housing as the indicia for identifying the key minimizes the excess material and connections thereby simplifying the identification and storage problem, yet because the use of the housing with the key slightly increases the size of the key head, it provides a slightly greater moment arm for turning the key in a lock and gives a slightly larger gripping surface to be employed when so turning the key. These factors are significant when dealing with children and with elderly people who may not have the physical strength and dexterity required for some small headed keys.

Abstract: An electronic security enclosure conceals a device, such as a switch, valve, outlet, or lock, behind a movable member. When the movable member is unlocked, by an electronic key, and moved to reveal the concealed device, the key is captured, preventing its removal until the enclosure is again secured over the device. A variety of operational features, including provision for keyholder access restrictions, time-of-day restrictions, provision of different classes of keys for employees and vendors, etc., are also provided. The invention also contemplates a plurality of access control devices, including lock boxes, padlocks, mortise locks, cam locks, etc., that are each operable by a common electronic key.

Abstract: A locking key ring for supporting keys and for preventing the unauthorized removal and duplication of the keys. The locking key ring carries identification and instructions to contact the identified party prior to copying the keys thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized duplication. The locking key ring comprises a cylinder lock assembly adapted to receive a shackle in the form of a key ring. Removal of the keys from the key ring is not permitted unless the lock cylinder releases the key ring. This is accomplished through use of an operating key which matingly engages the lock cylinder. The cylinder housing carries identifying inscription and instructions for a locksmith to receive authorization prior to making copies of the keys.

Abstract: A key and clip combination useful for securing a spare key in a wallet or purse and for key identification. The clip is low profile and prevents the wallet or purse from becoming bulky. The clip may also include apertures for exposing the hole within the key used for placing the key on a key chain or key peg.

Abstract: A system for identifying, carrying and storing keys including a portable holder having a body with a central portion and outer peripheral edge. The body includes at least one receptacle extending from the outer peripheral edge toward the central portion. The receptacle includes a bore and a locking shoulder within the bore. The system includes at least one insert configured to be insertable into and removed from a receptacle. The insert includes a member engaging the locking shoulder so as to lock the insert in the receptacle. An element for coupling at least one key to the insert is also provided.

Abstract: A key storage tag facilitates storage of a key blank. The key storage tag includes a tag main body, a key to tag interface, a junction body and a hinge. The hinge enables the tag main body to be deflected between a key blank storage configuration where the tag main body is positioned substantially parallel with the key blank and a key duplication configuration where the tag main body is deflected away and separated from the lower surface of the key blank.

Abstract: A flat key for or a lock which is coded mechanically as well as electronically, includes a flat basic shaped part (11) consisting of metal, with a shank section (9) and a bow section (13). A circuit chip (23), fitted with structural parts (25) of an electronic circuit, is in a recess (21) in the bow section, formed by an integral bottom (19) of the basic shaped part (11) and sealed by a casting compound (29). Housing shells (15, 17) surrounding the bow section (13) are on facing flat sides of the bow section (13). The housing shell (15) lying over the recess (21) is bonded to the bow section (13). The other housing shell (17) bears a U-shaped rib (43) by which it engages behind the bonded housing shell (15).

Abstract: A padlock having a body, a U-shaped keeper at one end of the body, and a key receptor at the opposite end of the body, the body containing a row of pieces to be engaged by key teeth comprising an indicator device on the body; the device having a location on the body relative to the pieces to indicate the left or right directional orientation of key teeth insertion into the reception, to effect opening of the padlock keeper.

Abstract: A marker plate receptacle, formed by two plates pivotably connected with each other via a film hinge, in which a marker plate is received. A tongue is formed in one piece on the lower end of one of the two plates. It has a hook which can be put over a wall extending perpendicularly to the surface of the inside of the plate and around a through hole. Once the marker plate is inserted and the hook of the tongue, on which a key is placed, is put over the annular wall, the two plates are folded together. The tongue is then form-fittingly maintained between the two plates and the plates themselves are maintained by a form-fitting ridge formed on the annular wall, which extends through the through hole in the rear plate. The form fit is additionally improved with ribs engaging grooves.

Abstract: Various methods are disclosed for securing a label, such as a bar code label, to a key blank. A first layer, preferably formed from any clear or solid plastic, includes indicia defining the bar code information. The first layer is welded, fused, or rivet connection to a second layer, again preferably formed from plastic, through a key opening. Alternatively, a rivet extends through the key opening and mechanically retains the first layer to the key blank.

Abstract: A key with a resistor pellet is assembled by mechanically inserting the pellet into a suitable aperture in the key and displacing a portion of the key material into the body of the pellet by compressing the key around the perimeter of the pellet in a swaging process. The pellet is automatically selected from a plurality of pellets having a plurality of distinctive resistance properties. The pellet is tested to determine conformance with a pre-selected resistance property prior to insertion in the key. After insertion and swaging of the pellet in the key, the resistance properties of the pellet are reconfirmed.

Abstract: A key selector device which comprises a switch means to be secured in the vicinity of the lock to be opened, and having an inners protrusion formed for pushing one of the actuating rods movably secured in alignment on the upper wall of a box, in order to enable one of the key hangers pivotably secured in alignment on a lateral axis supported by the opposing side walls of said box, to be angularly moved to a suitable position in which an enlarged triangular protrusion of said one of the key hangers which generally rests on one of the spring leaves, slides over a triangular curved portion of said one of the spring leaves secured in alignment on the rear wall of said box, while a foot portion of said one of the key hangers carrying a desired key projects upward.

Abstract: A key holder having a main body portion with an eyelet-like extension extending from one end thereof through which a chain or other element can be inserted to support one or more objects such as keys and the like and wherein an elongated channel is provided in the body portion extending along a substantial length of the body but terminating from the edge thereof adjacent the eyelet portion in which channel a plurality of individual indicia bearing slide elements may be selectively received and locked therein by means of an adjustable locking member.

Abstract: A key locator allows identification of a given key on a key ring. A flexible tab, or strip of leather or similar material, is folded around the end of a key, and a spring clip holds the strip in place on the key. Holes through both the tab and the clip allow the key to be placed on a conventional key ring in conventional fashion. The tab extends beyond the key and includes a unique identifier so a given key can be easily selected from a group of keys. Several key locators can be placed on keys on the same key ring, and different identifiers can be used on each locator. The locators can be determined by feel alone, and are easily grasped while wearing gloves and the like.

Abstract: An electronic locking device having a key unit and lock unit which units each have substantially identical integrated circuits contained therein for electronically controlling the operation of the locking device. The integrated circuit in the key element is adapted to transmit a stream of pulses into a plurality of trains of pulses upon insertion of the key unit into the lock unit. Each train of pulses is of a predetermined length. The integrated circuit in the lock unit is adapted to receive the train of pulses emitted from the key unit, to determine the length of the train of pulses, and compare the length of the train of pulses received to determine whether such train length coincides with the predetermined length. The integrated circuit in the lock unit will then emit a signal to allow the lock unit to open. If the length of the train of pulses does not coincide with the predetermined length, the lock unit integrated circuit will not emit a signal and the locking device will remain locked.

Abstract: Exchangeable key covers, and a related system and method, each key cover at least partially enclosing the proximal end of a hotel or like key, each cover being preferably formed of synthetic resinous material, such as polyethylene, and removably force-fit over the proximal end of the key to display room identification indicia and, if desired, other indicia, whereby no key interconnecting chains, tags or the like are required and the key covers are easily and accurately exchanged between keys in correspondence with rotation of the locks.

Abstract: A key holder, especially for keys for locking and unlocking cabins or lockers at a bathing establishment, is adapted to slide onto a receiving bar of an automatic key dispensing machine and is coded, for example by means of a combination of projections and notches, so as to be received only by a particular machine. For example, there may be one machine for keys for men, another for keys for women and still another for keys for children. The key holder is also provided with means for attaching it to the clothing or to the person of a customer.