Abstract: Systems and methods for duplicating keys are disclosed. A key duplication system receives a key blank into a key receiving module. The key receiving module includes opposable jaws that assist with alignment of the key blank within the module. The key receiving module also includes an end stop that engages the tip of the received key blank and is linearly displaced as the key blank is further inserted. The linear displacement of the end stop is compared to a known value corresponding to a length of the shank of the key blank, and if the displacement does not match the known value, the user is instructed to re-orient the key blank.

Abstract: A fitting (20) for holding a flat component (1), including radial support stops (2; 3), and a chamber (40) bordered by jaws (21; 22) including clamping surfaces (310; 320) for holding the component (1), open on one side by a recess (41; 42) to perform an operation on the component (1), this fitting (20) is deformable between an open position and a closed position around the component (1) tightened by said jaws (21; 22) subjected to a closing force exerted by manoeuvring means arranged to bring these jaws (21; 22) closer to each other.

Abstract: A cylinder lock and key system. The plugs comprise a housing having a cylindrical bore; and a cylindrical plug which is rotatable and which exhibits a front end and a keyway. The keys comprise a key bow; and a key blade is rotatable about the rotational axis when inserted. The plugs and keys are provided with cooperating stop surfaces for defining the fully inserted position of the keys. At least one first stop surface is in contact with a corresponding second stop surface when a key is inserted in the keyway of a lock. At least two first stop surfaces of each key are arranged adjacent each other and at least two second stop surfaces of each lock are arranged adjacent each other, at or in proximity to the keyway. A cylinder lock and key combination, a key, a key blank and a cylinder lock are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for forming a profile groove in an elongated key blank having a key blade with opposite side surfaces. The profile groove is formed in a surface of the key blank by a punching or a broaching tool with at least one tooth. The punching or broaching tool is forced and guided longitudinally in parallel to the key blank so as to cut out the material of the key blank into the desired profile shape, corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the at least one tooth. At the same time, the opposite side surfaces portions of the key blank are clamped or held firmly between opposite holding surfaces of a fixture, causing a firm abutment and retaining action on the longitudinal side surface portions of the key blank located adjacent to and all along the profile groove being formed.

Abstract: A method for profiling the broad sides of a flat key, a key blank being clamped in a clamping device so that the broad side of the key blank is exposed. Guide grooves and variation grooves which are complementary to the longitudinal sectional profile of the cutter teeth are milled into the broad side by advance in the longitudinal direction of the key, in one work operation, using a milling cutter that has cutter teeth on its peripheral surface and rotates about a cutter shaft. To produce undercut grooves, the axis of the cutter shaft is inclined at an angle of inclination relative to the longitudinal center plane of the key, ribs of the cutter teeth producing an undercut guide wall using at least one rib.

Abstract: A method for profiling broad sides of a flat reversible key. A key blank is clamped to expose the first broad side of the key blank and complementary grooves and ribs are milled using a milling cutter with cutter teeth by advance in the longitudinal direction of the key relative to the longitudinal section profile of the cutter teeth. The key blank is then clamped in a position turned by 180° about the longitudinal center axis of the key so that the second broad side of the blank is exposed, and complementary grooves and ribs are milled into the broad side with milling cutter, by advance in the longitudinal direction of the key. The cutter shaft axes is inclined at an angle of inclination (?) relative to the longitudinal center plane of the key, at least one cutter tooth rib of the cutter teeth producing an undercut guide wall.

Abstract: A device for capturing at least three views of an object with a camera includes a housing having a cavity. A slot in the housing communicates with the cavity and is adapted to accept an object. A plurality of mirrors in the cavity reflects at least three views of the object towards the camera, allowing the camera to capture an image of the views. A system for capturing multiple views of an object includes a housing having a cavity. A slot in the housing communicates with the cavity and is adapted to receive an object. A camera, a light source, and a plurality of mirrors in the cavity reflect at least three views of the object towards the camera, allowing the camera to capture an image three views.

Abstract: A fully automatic key duplicating machine. A master key alignment module is movably disposed into and out of proximity with a master key clamping module, the master key being aligned by the alignment module within the master key clamping module. A master key identification module is disposed in fixed relation to the master key clamping module and identifies a type of key secured in the master key clamping module. A central positioning base is provided automatically movable into and out of engagement with the key cutting module and optionally the alignment module, adapted to move the master key alignment module into proximity with the master key clamping module and adapted to secure a key blank to be cut at the key cutting module in accordance with the tooth pattern of a clamped master key.

Abstract: A key conversion workstation converts conventional keys, in their many shapes and sizes, into a key assembly having a standardized head that can be used, among other uses, within a key organizing device.

Abstract: A key blank selector has a base, a template and a clamp. The base defines a chamber and a platform having a recess communicating with the chamber. The template is soft and pliable corresponds to and is detachably mounted in the recess of the platform. The clamp is detachably mounted around the platform of the base to hold and position the template in the recess and has an opening formed corresponding to the chamber of the base. A mother key is positioned perpendicularly on and force applied to pierce through the template and form a figure corresponding to a cross sectional profile of the mother key in the template; therefore, facilitating key blank selection and preventing misjudgment.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and other embodiments associated with a key duplication machine are described. In one embodiment, an assembly for duplicating a master key includes an optical imaging device, a logic, a clamping assembly, and a cutting member. The optical imaging device is capable of capturing an optical image of at least a portion of the master key. The logic is capable of determining a key pattern of the master key from the optical image of the master key. The clamping assembly is capable of clamping a key blank and the cutting member is capable of cutting a key pattern into said key blank.

Abstract: The decoding of a lock, such as a pin tumbler type of lock, is completed by utilizing a method that includes the insertion of a key blank or other material with one or more reference indicators on a modifiable surface, into a keyway of the lock. The key blank is inserted until a stopping resistance is detected. Such a resistance occurs when a pin of the lock reaches a shear line position. After such a position is reached a marking is made on the key blank and a measurement is made. The measurement is compared to markings on a novel decoding template to determine the depth of a cut that should be made on an uncut key.

Abstract: A key duplication system employs a modular key duplication attachment in combination with a high-speed, rotary powered tool and a profiled abrasive cutter. The attachment comprises a base, a carriage assembly movable relative to the base, a profiled stylus secured to the base, a first clamping vise for retaining a specimen key at a fixed (i.e., stationary) position relative to the carriage assembly and a second clamping vise for retaining a key blank at a fixed position relative to the carriage assembly. When so-retained, a bottom flat surface of the specimen key and a bottom flat surface of the key blank rest in a common working plane and the tip of each key is separated by a first distance. The cutter and stylus are aligned and secured to the base such that movement of the carriage, relative to the base, simultaneously brings them both into contact with appropriate surfaces of the key blank and the specimen key, respectively.

Abstract: Novel modifications to a standard Pro-lok Blue Punch manual punch press machine have been developed which permit the modified machine to accurately and consistently cut Sargent brand L and R series keys to code. Modifications to the same machine are presented such that both Sargent L and R series keys may be cut to code on the same Pro-lok Blue Punch manual punch press machine. Primary features of the modifications are (1) moving the indexing stops from the lower jaw to the upward facing surface of the die and (2) providing two indexing stops on the die such that each stop is laterally positioned on opposite sides of the punch from the other.

Abstract: A portable, mechanically operated, key-duplicating machine that relies on a punch-cutting system that selectively punches out the particular notches or “bittings” of a key blank in response to the details of an adjacent and aligned master key. The duplicating machine comprises a frame having cutting end and an alignment end. The frame defines a longitudinal axis. A carriage is movable along the longitudinal axis and includes a transverse axis. A key clamping assembly has a first key clamp for holding the key blank and a second key clamp for holding the master key. The key assembly is selectively slidable along the transverse axis. A cutting assembly is located at the cutting end and includes a punch-type cutter pin that is adapted to selectively cut pre-shaped notches from the held key blank. The cutter pin includes a guide section that aligns with the notch-profile of the held master key.

Abstract: A key duplication system employs a modular key duplication attachment in combination with a high-speed, rotary powered tool and a profiled abrasive cutter. The attachment comprises a base, a carriage assembly movable relative to the base, a profiled stylus secured to the carriage, a first clamping vise for retaining a specimen key at a fixed (i.e., stationary) position relative to the base and a second clamping vise for retaining a key blank at a fixed position relative to the base. When so-retained, a bottom flat surface of the specimen key and a bottom flat surface of the key blank rest in a common plane and the tip of each key is separated by a first distance. The cutter and stylus are aligned such that movement of the carriage, relative to the base, simultaneously brings them both into contact with appropriate surfaces of the key blank and the specimen key, respectively.

Abstract: A versatile adjustable stylus for key duplicating machine comprising an arm laterally secured at one end on the periphery of a cylindrical body, and laterally movably arranged at the other end on an engagement base secured on a substrate of the key duplicating machine in accordance with the different duplicating distances between the duplicating cutter and the original keys to be duplicated; a retractable spring-loaded tracer movably engaged in one end of the cylindrical body, for pre-tracing the depths of the key teeth of an original key; and a regulating grip angularly movably engaged in the other end of the cylindrical body, for regulating the retractable movement amount of the retractable spring-loaded tracer.

Abstract: A clamp for a key cutting machine includes a base portion having opposing shoulders defining an accommodation. A pair of jaws is housed in the accommodation of the base portion for holding a key blank for cutting thereof. At least one of the jaws is movable relative to the other one of the jaws. An adjustable locator device is disposed on at least one of the base portion and the pair of jaws for bringing the key blank into a cutting position. Opposed plates close open ends of the accommodation. One of the plates includes a key insertion aperture for insertion of the key blank between the pair of jaws to identify the key blank as a correct match and prevent the key blank from tipping over.

Abstract: A method to identify a key profile, comprising: illuminating with two laminar beams emitted by two laser light sources said two sides of said shank of a key driven to move axially relative to said beams, reading with two video cameras, fixed relative to said sources and having their optical axis inclined to said planes in which said light beams lie, said two light profiles formed by said laminar beams striking said two surfaces of said shank of said keys, digitizing said optical images read in this manner, to obtain two sequences of signals representative of said profiles of said two lateral surface portions of said key, as instantaneously illuminated by said laminar beams and read by said video cameras, reconstructing from said signals, by means of a processor unit, a signal representative of the entire key profile, and comparing said thus reconstructed signal with said signal representative of profiles stored in said processor unit to obtain data identifying said profile of said read key.

Abstract: A key cutting machine for cutting a notch pattern on a key blank is disclosed. The key cutting machine comprises a pair of cutting heads and a clamp mechanism. Each cutting head includes a cutting wheel having an edge and an alignment structure mounted behind the cutting wheel. Each alignment structure has a key guide portion aligned tangent to the edge of a corresponding cutting wheel to engage and position a key blank laterally. The clamp mechanism is positioned between the cutting heads and is configured to hold the key blank stationary.

Abstract: A key imaging system and method for identifying and matching a key blank with an original key when duplicating an original key by placing the key on a supporting flat surface and forming images of the grooves and indentations on the shank of the original key by illuminating the lateral surface containing the grooves and indentations and imaging those grooves and indentations by reflecting light off of the surrounding reflective surface and scattering light off of the grooves and indentations. The resultant images are scanned and recorded by means of a digital video camera/scanner. The scanned image is relayed to a computer where it is saved in computer memory. The saved image is compared to previously stored known original key blank images for the purpose of indicating a precise duplicate key blank matching the original key.

Abstract: A key code cutting device includes a base, a milling tool, a carriage mounted on the base and movable along a first transverse direction, a work table mounted on the carriage and movable along a second transverse direction, a key holding member mounted on the work table and having a clamp member that is adapted to hold a key blank and that is rotatable about an axis, an urging member for urging the carriage to move along the first transverse direction, a key coding member for adjusting cutting positions of the key blank along the first transverse direction, and a locking member for locking the clamp member against angular movement about the axis.

Abstract: A key plate includes a key plate body that extends longitudinally and has a grip portion and a keyhole insertion portion connected to the grip portion. The keyhole insertion portion includes a flat surface with a generally U-shaped groove formed into the flat surface. The generally U-shaped groove has a longitudinally-extending first cord groove, a longitudinally-extending second cord groove and a transversely-extending connecting groove that is disposed adjacent the grip portion and interconnects the first cord groove and the second cord groove. A method for manufacturing the key plate is also described.

Abstract: A key imaging system for identifying and matching a key blank with an original key when duplicating an original key by placing the key on a supporting flat surface and forming images of the grooves and indentations on the shank of the original key by illuminating the lateral surface containing the grooves and indentations and imaging those grooves and indentations by reflecting light off of the surrounding reflective surface and scattering light off of the grooves and indentations. The resultant images are scanned and recorded by means of a digital video camera/scanner. The scanned image is relayed to a computer where it is saved in computer memory. The saved image is compared to previously stored known original key blank images for the purpose of indicating a precise duplicate key blank matching the original key.

Abstract: A portable machine for processing keys, which uses computer-controlled sensors and servo motors to control the position of a bevel scale and the position of a cutting depth scale, so as to accurately control the feeding of a reamer in processing a blank into a key.

Abstract: Shadow image acquisition device for the purpose of further digital key identification. Proposed device acquires a shadow image of a cross-section of a key by sending light rays along the groves and indentations of the key shank towards the screen. Captured cross-sectional images will be picked up by a digital scanner and stored in the computer memory for further identification, comparison and database storage. The computer uses specially designed Shadow Image Recognition software to match the captured shadow images to the stored images. When a match is made the operator is notified by means of visual output.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for duplicating an original key, the keyway and keycode of the original key are measured and duplicated in a preform. The preform used in the duplication process need not include any keyway or keycode prior to the duplication process and, therefore, a single type of preform may be used in generating duplicates of many different types of keys. The apparatus may be automated to take the measurements of the original key and to cut the duplicate key, thus reducing the possibility of producing a nonfunctional duplicate.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for supporting angled or chevron-shaped keys or key blanks during cutting of bit surfaces in the blade portions thereof. The angled key blank is supported at the intermediate horizontal ledge portion thereof such that the upper portion of the key which is to be cut is oriented in a horizontal manner so as to be properly engaged by the cutting mechanism. The apparatus may include a plurality of lower vice jaws each of which is configured to support a particular angled key blank, or it may include a plurality of detachable inserts that form part of a modular system which allows a single lower vice jaw to detachably receive any of various inserts, thereby permitting the jaw to support various angled key blanks. A support member also is provided which may be utilized on preexisting vice jaws of a key cutting machine to permit the machine to be modified so as to properly support and cut bit surfaces into the upper portion of an angled key blank.

Abstract: A key duplicating machine and the method of operating the machine wherein one or more key cutters move linearly along an axis perpendicular to the rotation of the key cutters. The linear movement enables the cutters to precisely cut a single sided or double sided key blank to a profile corresponding to the key to be duplicated. In addition, the key to be duplicated and the key blank are clamped together in a single operation in one clamping unit with one clamping force.

Abstract: A key duplicating machine comprising a rotating cutting tool directly secured on an output shaft of a driving motor; a duplicating stylus secured on a rack means secured on a substrate; a pair of clamping devices for clamping a key blank and a key sample, secured on a rectangular base releasably secured on an upper slide slidably secured on a lower slide slidably secured on said substrate; a compression spring arranged between said upper slide and a rear wall of said lower slide for constantly forcing said key blank to move toward and touch said rotating cutting tool for effecting a steady key cutting.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for duplicating an original key, the keyway and keycode of the original key are measured and duplicated in a preform. The preform used in the duplication process need not include any keyway or keycode prior to the duplication process and, therefore, a single type of preform may be used in generating duplicates of many different types of keys. The apparatus may be automated to take the measurements of the original key and to cut the duplicate key, thus reducing the possibility of producing a nonfunctional duplicate.

Abstract: This invention relates to a programmable semiautomatic portable key cutting machine. More particularly, this invention pertains to a portable key cutting machine which semi-automatically cuts key blanks in accordance with key blank manufacturers' key profile information which is stored in a programmable memory. We have invented a portable semi-automatic computer code key machine with a built-in user definable master key system. The system can be used in the field and operated on 12 volts or 110 volts to create without key patterns or duplicate keys simulated key manufacturers' originals which are programmed in a computer which is part of the machine. A built-in data base of all known manufacturers, spaces and depths. In addition, the user of the machine can add new key specifications as they become available from the manufacturer.

Abstract: A key cutting machine includes a cutter wheel, a key follower and a key positioning fixture for retaining a master key and a key blank in defined positions. Longitudinal and lateral displacement elements displace the cutter wheel and the key blank relative to each other. First and second electronic position sensors generate cutter wheel longitudinal and lateral position signals which electrically define the position of the cutter wheel relative to the key blank blade. A mode control system selectively operates the key cutting machine in either an analog mode where the bit notch pattern of a master key is mechanically traced and duplicated in the key blade blank or in a digital mode in which an electronically defined bit notch pattern is electrically duplicated in the key blank blade without reference to or tracing the master key bit notch pattern.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for supporting angled or chevron-shaped keys or key blanks during cutting of bit surfaces in the blade portions thereof. The angled key blank is supported at the intermediate horizontal ledge portion thereof such that the upper portion of the key which is to be cut is oriented in a horizontal manner so as to be properly engaged by the cutting mechanism. The apparatus may include a plurality of lower vice jaws each of which is configured to support a particular angled key blank, or it may include a plurality of detachable inserts that form part of a modular system which allows a single lower vice jaw to detachably receive any of various inserts, thereby permitting the jaw to support various angled key blanks. A support member also is provided which may be utilized on preexisting vice jaws of a key cutting machine to permit the machine to be modified so as to properly support and cut bit surfaces into the upper portion of an angled key blank.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the simultaneous duplication of both the bit notch pattern and shoulder position of a master key onto a key blank. The key blank is longitudinally and laterally aligned relative to a key cutter. A master key is longitudinally and laterally aligned relative to a key follower. The key follower is then longitudinally and laterally displaced relative to the master key to trace the contour of the key master. The key cutter is simultaneously displaced relative to the key blank in an identical manner to reproduce the traced contour of the master key on the key blank and to longitudinally reposition the key blank shoulder to coincide with the relative longitudinal location of the master key shoulder by cutting away a portion of the shank to reduce the length of the shank.

Abstract: A cylinder lock-key-combination includes a lock cylinder, a cylinder housing (2) and a cylinder plug (3) provided with a key slot (3a) and a row of tumblers (5). The tumblers (5) and associated key (4) present mutually adapted engaging and receiving members which function to forcibly guide movement of the tumblers in two opposite axial directions as the key is inserted into the lock. For instance, the pin tumblers (5) include a circular flange (5a) and a side surface of the key (4) includes a groove (4b) which extends along the length of the key and whose width varies so as to accommodate the flanges of the rotatable or twistable tumblers. Alternatively, the tumblers are provided with a groove or a waisted portion and the key is provided on a side surface thereof with a rail which engages in the groove or waisted portion.

Abstract: A key positioning fixture facilitates the accurate duplication of double-sided key on a key cutting machine and includes a first key alignment element having an upper clamping element with a first clamping surface and a lower clamping element with a second clamping surface. A position control element engages the upper and lower clamping elements to control the spacing between the clamping surfaces to align the centerline of the key with the centerline of the first key alignment element. A second key alignment element engages the first and second sides of the key blade to maintain the key in a fixed position.

Abstract: A key duplicating machine which automatically liens the original and blank keys, clamping the keys in alignment with the appropriate clamping pressure, cuts double-sided keys in a single pass, prevents operation of the machine without the presence of the original and blank keys in the machine and which is capable of accepting virtually any type of key shape for duplication. The invention includes a single-sided key duplicating module having a motor driven cutter wheel which is slidably mounted on a travel table that, in turn, is slidably mounted on a base plate. The travel table includes a motor driven stacked cam assembly which engages fixed cam followers in the base plate, so when rotated, the cam assembly, travel table and cutter wheels are moved first in a cutting pass, then in a return pass with respect to the original and blank keys. The cam assembly also includes a cam follower which displaces the cutting wheel sidewardly away from the blank key on the return pass.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the simultaneous duplication of both the bit notch pattern and shoulder position of a master key onto a key blank. The key blank is longitudinally and laterally aligned relative to a key cutter. A master key is longitudinally and laterally aligned relative to a key follower. The key follower is then longitudinally and laterally displaced relative to the master key to trace the contour of the key master. The key cutter is simultaneously displaced relative to the key blank in an identical manner to reproduce the traced contour of the master key on the key blank and to longitudinally reposition the key blank shoulder to coincide with the relative longitudinal location of the master key shoulder by cutting away a portion of the shank to reduce the length of the shank.

Abstract: A code-duplicating machine for security keys usable in cylinder locks with a bolt operable by a plug and with a plurality of pins operable axially and rotataby by a cut key inserted into said plug to release it and enable it to rotate. The machine comprises a cutter (6), a clamp (14) for a key (8) to be cut, and means for causing said clamp (14) and said cutter (6) to undergo mutual movement resulting in said key being cut in accordance with a predetermined code.

Abstract: An electronic key and lock system, particularly useful for solenoid-operated locks employs a key that can operate electronically and mechanically. The key is mechanically polarized with its blade forming a first electrical contact and a separate second contact which is flush or raised relative to the blade. Each of the key and the cylinder employs respective light emitting and light receiving IR devices for communications between the electronics in the key and communications within the lock. The lock includes a solenoid-operated electronic cylinder.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the simultaneous duplication of both the bit notch pattern and shoulder position of a master key onto a key blank. The key blank is longitudinally and laterally aligned relative to a key cutter. A master key is longitudinally and laterally aligned relative to a key follower. The key follower is then longitudinally and laterally displaced relative to the master key to trace the contour of the key master. The key cutter is simultaneously displaced relative to the key blank in an identical manner to reproduce the traced contour of the master key on the key blank and to longitudinally reposition the key blank shoulder to coincide with the relative longitudinal location of the master key shoulder by cutting away a portion of the shank to reduce the length of the shank.

Abstract: A code selectable key duplicating system is adapted to function with a key cutting machine having a key follower for engaging and tracing the contour of a bit notch pattern formed in the blade of a master key and a key cutter coupled to the key follower to reproduce the traced bit notch pattern of the master key in the blade of a key blank. The code selectable duplicating system includes a bit notch simulator which is divided into a selectable series of n adjacent notch segments to form a surface contour creating a simulated bit notch pattern corresponding to the bit notch pattern designated by a coded sequence. An alignment fixture positions the notch pattern simulator relative to the key follower enabling the key follower to trace the simulated bit notch pattern such that the key cutter reproduces the simulated bit notch pattern in the blade of the key blank.

Abstract: A code key cutting apparatus for cutting keys according to the majority of key-lock manufacturers codes as to the location, depth and shape of notches cut into a key blank. The apparatus includes a notch location mechanism and a depth location mechanism, each having a carriage coupled to an indexing dial to indicate the extent of travel of the carriage. The indexing dial is positionable without moving the carriage thus enabling the indexing mechanism to be initialized according to any lock manufacture specifications. In addition, the apparatus includes a notch tracing mechanism to cut a variety of notch shapes into a key blank without changing the cutting blade.

Abstract: A flat plastic key suitable for replacing a corresponding metal key having a key alignment groove disposed in a side of the key is configured to actuate a rotary cylinder lock having a rectangular lock entrance slot. The plastic key includes a head, a shank and a bit. The shortened key alignment groove extends along the side of the key creating a decreased key thickness adjacent to the groove. The shortened groove terminates in the key shank at a groove termination point to define a groove length less than the corresponding groove length of the metal key to thereby increase the volume and strength of the plastic key shank relative to the volume and strength of an exact plastic duplicate of the metal key shank to increase the strength of the plastic key and its capacity to transfer the input torque to the sidewalls of the lock entrance slot.

Abstract: A universal key blank incorporates special geometry enabling it to be used as a blank for duplicating a variety of related but geometrically dissimilar keys. The universal key blank functions with a lock having a lock entrance slot with opposing sides and first and second opposed key interface ribs protruding from the sides of the slot with relative vertical alignment to rib geometry configured to engage first and second grooves formed in opposing sides of the blade of the universal key blank. A novel method duplicates keys by measuring and reproducing a reference distance defined by the spacing between the bit notch pattern and the key reference surface forming the first groove of the master key.

Abstract: This invention relates to the method for producing a coded reference key for use in the locksmithing trade. The method comprises cutting a key blank at a first coded depth and at a first shank position, to create a partial silhouette of a reference key. Upon cutting a number of such partial reference key silhouettes at a number of positions and common depths, a set of partial reference key silhouettes can be created. When a locksmith is required to reproduce a reference key which has certain depth cuts at certain positions, he merely assembles the appropriate pre-cut partial reference keys, thereby creating the required complete silhouette. This complete reference key silhouette may then be duplicated by using a standard reference key duplicating machine.

Abstract: A system for identifying and matching key blanks when duplicating an original key. A key holder is provided which positions the key horizontally along its longitudinal axis with the key's flat sides in a vertical plane. A lensing subsystem lights and forms an image of the front profile of the key. A video camera converts the light image into an electrical signal which is digitized and stored in computer memory. The computer compares the key image with stored images of known key blanks and signals the locksmith by means of an output subsystem the proper key blank to be used in duplicating the key.

Abstract: A method and tool is provided for deciphering electronic codes and recreating lost or missing vehicle ignition keys for vehicle ignition systems in which an ignition key is employed which has a diode containing one of a plurality of possible electronic codes which must be sensed to operate the vehicle. Once the mechanical key code is determined for the cuts on the key by removal of the ignition lock portion, a key blank without cuts but containing a diode having one of the possible electronic codes is inserted into the lock portion, and a tool is inserted into the steering column which has been opened by the removal of the lock portion to move the rack gear to operate the ignition switching assembly to the start position. If the diode code on the key blank is the correct code, the engine will start. If it is the incorrect code, a different key blank containing a diode having another one of the possible codes is inserted in the lock portion, and the foregoing procedure is repeated until the engine starts.

Abstract: A key manufacturing method, which includes a first procedure to produce key bodies through material shape molding, side-edge cutting process, thickness, curvature and length milling process, bitting forming process, and numbering and classification process according to shape of bitting; a second procedure to produce sheaths through copper rod planing process, conical front end milling process, groove lathing process and opposite inner wall trimming process; and a third procedure to fixedly fasten a key body in a sheath to form a unitary round key.