DK3061893T3

DK3061893T3 - Key to a lock cylinder and locking device

Info

Publication number: DK3061893T3
Application number: DK16175098.9T
Authority: DK
Inventors: Mario Papagelidis
Original assignee: Dom Sicherheitstechnik
Priority date: 2015-07-22
Filing date: 2016-06-17
Publication date: 2017-12-18
Also published as: DE202016003806U1; ES2649526T3; EP3061893A2; HRP20230847T1; EP3301248B1; EP3301248C0; EP3061893A3; EP3061893B1; HRP20172005T1; DE102015111914A1; ES2950360T3; EP3301248A1; PL3061893T3; HUE062524T2; HUE035785T2; PL3301248T3; NO2748426T3; SI3061893T1

Description

Key for a Lock Cylinder and Locking Device [0001] The present invention concerns a key for a lock cylinder, wherein the key comprises a key shank which extends in a longitudinal direction and which has two mutually opposed key broad side faces, wherein the key shank has a cutout through the key broad side faces, wherein a shaft extends through the cutout transversely to the longitudinal direction, and wherein the shaft is arranged in the key shank in a rotationally fixed manner. The present invention furthermore concerns a locking device with a key and a lock cylinder.

[0002] Such keys and lock cylinders are known for example from DE 100 58 590 C1.

[0003] This publication discloses a key for a lock cylinder with a key shank which has lock cutouts cooperating with the key pins of the lock cylinder and in which a spacer is movably mounted, the movement direction of which is angled at an angle of around 455 to the key broad side face. The spacer is a ring arranged in an oblique slot of the key bit, and a peg engaging in an oblique bore of the key broad side face passes through the ring with movement clearance.

[0004] Such keys with movable elements are known in principle in the prior art. They serve to increase the security against counterfeiting of the key. Furthermore, they serve to increase the security of a locking device consisting of a key and an assigned lock cylinder. The movable elements increase the potential for security-relevant sensing in the lock cylinder and thus increase security against unauthorised unlocking of the lock cylinder.

[0005] Furthermore, publication EP 1 662 077 A1 for example discloses a key with a ring which is movably arranged and mounted rotatably on a pin.

[0006] Also, publications DE 699 16 570 T2 and DE 699 29 530 T2 disclose a key in which a ring is also mounted rotatably on a shaft.

[0007] Moreover, publication EP 2 754 792 A1 discloses a further key with a cutout, wherein a plurality of shafts extends transversely through the cutout and key shank, and wherein precisely one ring is mounted rotatably without play on each shaft.

[0008] Furthermore, publication FR 2 762 345 A1 discloses a key with two cutouts, wherein a respective shaft passes through each of the cutouts and a single movable element is arranged in each cutout.

Publication WO 2009/012541 shows a further cylinder lock and a corresponding key and a key blank therefor.

Publication EP 2 930 290 A1 shows a lock-key-system and is post-published prior art under Article 54(3) EPC.

[0009] Based on this prior art, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved key and an improved locking device which allow greater security of the locking device against unauthorised unlocking, and which increase the security of the key against unauthorised duplication.

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention therefore, a key for a lock cylinder is disclosed, wherein the key comprises a key shank which extends in a longitudinal direction and which has two key broad side faces, wherein the key shank has a cutout through the key broad side faces, wherein a shaft extends through the cutout, in particular transversely to the longitudinal direction, and wherein the shaft is arranged or mounted in the key shank in a rotationally fixed manner, and wherein two rings are arranged next to one another on the shaft in the cutout. In particular, an inside diameter of each ring is larger than an outside diameter of the shaft, in particular a maximum outside diameter of the shaft. Further, the key has exactly two rings, and the rings are each formed symmetri- cally to a rotational symmetry axis, and are formed asymmetrically relative to a ring centre plane extending perpendicularly to the rotational symmetry axis.

[0011] [0012] The term "ring" here means a rotationally symmetrical element with constant ring cross-section, an outside diameter and an inside diameter. The inside diameter indicates the diameter of the opening through the ring. The ring cross-section may in principle be configured arbitrarily, for example also asymmetrically to a so-called ring centre plane. The ring centre plane here is a plane running perpendicular to a rotational symmetry axis, halfway through the width of the ring. The inside diameter of the ring is greater than an outside diameter of the shaft. The shaft, which may also be called a pin or bolt, need not necessarily be rotationally symmetrical. For example, an outer periphery of the shaft may have a circular cross-section. For example, an outer periphery of the shaft may also have an elliptical cross-section. The term "outside diameter" therefore indicates the largest outer diameter of the outer periphery of the shaft. In other words, it is the diameter of an outer circle around the outer periphery of the shaft. If the outer circumferential contour of the shaft is formed circular, the outside diameter is constant and consequently corresponds to the largest outside diameter of the shaft. Accordingly, the ring can rotate about the shaft and is mounted on the shaft with a play which also allows a translational movement of the ring relative to the shaft.

[0013] At least two rings are arranged on the shaft next to each other. In particular, the rings are arranged directly next to each other. The phrase "next to each other" here means that the rings are arranged adjacent to each other, in particular directly adjacent. There are therefore no sleeve elements, spacers or other elements between the rings. The rings may in particular lie against each other. It is evident that a degree of play is maintained in order to allow the rotation of the rings relative to each other or a translational movement of the rings relative to each other. The at least two rings are arranged next to each other on the common shaft. In the embodiment according to the invention, the rings can rotate on the shaft independently of each other. Furthermore, the rings can be moved independently of each other, perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the shaft. This is achieved since their inside diameter is larger than the outside diameter of the shaft. The extent by which a ring can be moved perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the shaft is therefore measured by how much greater the inside diameter of the ring is than the outside diameter of the shaft. In particular, the inside diameter of the ring may amount to 1.25 times the outside diameter of the shaft, in particular to 1.5 times, in particular 2 times, further particularly 2.5 times.

[0014] In particular, the shaft extends "transversely" to the longitudinal direction through the cutout. The shaft may therefore extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis or at an angle a of 0 < a < 90 to the longitudinal direction, for example an angle a = 45Q is possible.

[0015] The arrangement of two rings next to each other on the same shaft allows the two rings to be sensed separately from each other in blocking means, in particular pin tumblers. Only if the two rings are successfully sensed and deflected separately from each other can each of the assigned blocking means be unlocked. Two rings provided directly adjacent or next to each other can firstly increase the security of the locking device, and secondly - as will be explained in more detail below - allow the function as a reversible key to be retained. Security is also increased with regard to the possibility of unauthorised duplication of the key. For example, using conventional machines for key profile machining and key cutting, firstly as part of a 3-D printing process the key may be scanned to detect the key features and be able to replicate these. Movable elements can indeed be detected statically, but their movability cannot be read. The proposed key hinders this further by arranging two rings next to each other on the same shaft, since the two rings cannot easily be detected as separate movement elements which can move independently of each other. The proposed key however allows the at least two rings to be deflected relative to each other, separately from each other and in particular in different ways, i.e. for example in different directions, and be sensed in a security-relevant fashion.

[0016] According to a further aspect of the invention, a locking device is proposed with a key according to the first aspect of the invention or one of its embodiments, and with a lock cylinder, wherein the lock cylinder has a housing and a cylinder core, wherein the lock cylinder has a plurality of blocking means, in particular pin tumblers, corresponding at least to the number of rings, wherein each blocking means, in particular pin tumbler, is movable between a blocking state and a release state and blocks a rotary movement of the cylinder core with respect to the housing in the blocking state and releases it in the release state, wherein each ring is assigned one of the blocking means, in particular pin tumblers, and wherein the lock cylinder can be transferred from the blocking state into the release state by completely inserting the key into a key channel of the cylinder core, wherein the cylinder core has, for each ring, a supporting pin assigned to the respective blocking means, in particular pin tumbler, and wherein the respective assigned blocking means, in particular pin tumbler, can be moved into the release state by inserting each of the rings between the respective assigned supporting pin and the respective assigned blocking means, in particular pin tumbler.

Further, it is provided that the key has precisely one first ring and precisely one second ring, wherein the lock cylinder has at least one first blocking means, in particular a pin tumbler, assigned to the first ring, and at least one second blocking means, in particular a pin tumbler, assigned to the second ring, wherein the cylinder core has a first supporting pin assigned to the first blocking means, in particular pin tumbler, and a second supporting pin assigned to the second blocking means, in particular pin tumbler, wherein the first supporting pin supports the first ring in the release state against the first blocking means, in particular pin tumbler, and wherein the second supporting pin supports the second ring in the release state against the blocking means, in particular pin tumbler.

[0017] By means of the proposed locking device, because of the plurality of blocking means corresponding to the number of rings, it is possible to sense each ring individually or sense the rings separately from each other. The plurality of blocking means corresponds at least to the number of rings. This means that a blocking means is assigned to each of the rings. The blocking means may in particular be a pin tumbler. In addition, however, further blocking means or pin tumblers may be provided for sensing other features of the key in the locking device. A "supporting pin" here is a pin which is fixedly arranged in the cylinder core, for example pressed in. The pin is therefore not movable and deflects the respective assigned ring when the key is fully inserted. It then supports the ring against the respective assigned blocking means or pin tumbler, so that the blocking means or pin tumbler is moved into the release position by means of the ring supported via the supporting pin. Instead of the term "supporting pin", for example the term "deflecting pin" could be used. The locking device can therefore only be moved from the blocking state to the release state when the key actually has a corresponding number of separate rings on the shaft which can be deflected by the supporting pins independently of each other. The security of the locking device is thus further increased.

In this case of the embodiment with exactly two rings, therefore at least two blocking means are provided. The first blocking means is assigned to the first ring, the second blocking means is assigned to the second ring. The blocking means may each be a pin tumbler. Furthermore, a first supporting pin assigned to the first blocking means is arranged on a side of the key channel opposite the first blocking means. Correspondingly, a second supporting pin is arranged on a side of the key channel opposite the second blocking means. With the key in the fully inserted position in the key channel, a respective supporting pin supports the corresponding ring and deflects it in the direction of the opposite blocking means. In this way, the blocking means is moved and enters the release state.

[0018] The object originally imposed is therefore achieved in full.

[0019] [0020] In this embodiment, exactly two rings are provided which are arranged adjacent to each other on the shaft. Apart from a conventional clearance, the rings adjoin each other directly. The rings can rotate on the shaft relative to each other and be moved translationally relative to the shaft. The embodiment with two rings provides the advantages according to the invention and in addition offers a simple structure which, because of the even number of rings, facilitates a symmetrical arrangement on the shaft and the provision of the key as a reversible key.

[0021] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the rings are of identical design. In particular, the rings may have an identical form and dimensions.

[0022] In principle, it is possible that the rings are designed differently from each other. To simplify production of the individual elements of the key, and to provide the key as a reversible key, it may however be provided that the rings are identical. The ring cross-sections are formed asymmetrically relative to a ring centre plane.

[0023] According to the invention, the rings are formed symmetrically relative to a rotational symmetry axis, and asymmetrically relative to a ring centre plane running perpendicularly to the rotational symmetry axis. In particular, an outer circumferential face of the ring may be formed asymmetrically to the ring centre plane.

[0024] The asymmetric configuration may for example allow the ring cross-section to be used as an additional sensing means. For example, such an asymmetric ring cross-section, in particular the outer circumferential face, may correspond to a corresponding recess in a key channel, so that only correspondingly configured asymmetric rings allow the insertion of the key in the key channel.

[0025] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the cutout is arranged symmetrically to a centre plane of the key shank that extends perpendicularly to the key broad side faces and parallel to a centre plane of the key shank that extends in the longitudinal direction.

[0026] The key shank has the mutually opposing key broad side faces and two also mutually opposing key narrow side faces which connect the key broad side faces.

The key shank is substantially rectangular in cross-section. The two longer sides of the rectangle are the "key broad side faces". The two short sides are the "key narrow side faces". Consequently, the centre plane runs precisely centrally between the key narrow side faces and parallel thereto. Consequently, the centre plane extends parallel to the longitudinal direction. The cutout is arranged symmetrically to this central plane. This means that the cutout has a cross-section which is configured symmetrically relative to the centre plane. Consequently precisely half of the cutout lies on each side of the centre plane. Such a configuration allows the arrangement described below of the at least two rings symmetrically to the centre plane.

[0027] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the rings are arranged symmetrically to a centre plane of the key shank that extends perpendicularly to the key broad side faces and parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0028] With regard to the position of the centre plane, the statements above apply. In this case, the rings are configured symmetrically to the centre plane. Precisely two rings are present, one ring being arranged on each side of the centre plane.

[0029] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that in each case one of the two rings is arranged on each side of a centre plane of the key shank that extends perpendicularly to the key broad side faces and parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0030] This designates the case according to the invention in which exactly two rings are provided. One of the rings is then arranged on each side of the centre plane. In this way, the key may be configured as a reversible key. Irrespective of its orientation in the key channel, one of the rings is arranged on each side of the centre plane and can actuate a corresponding blocking means.

[0031] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the rings are arranged on the shaft in mirror-image fashion with respect to one another. In particular, the rings may be arranged in mirror-image fashion with respect to the centre plane.

[0032] As has been described above, the rings each have an asymmetric ring cross-section. If the rings are configured identically, these may however still be arranged symmetrically relative to the centre plane. Their ring cross-sections are then arranged symmetrically, or in mirror-image fashion relative to each other, in relation to the centre plane. The two rings are then effectively arranged "back-to-back" on the shaft.

[0033] In one embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the cutout is dimensioned in such a way that the rings are guided perpendicularly to the key broad side faces and can be rotated on the shaft.

[0034] In other words, the cutout surrounds the rings with a degree of clearance which allows a rotation and movement of the rings perpendicularly to the key broad side faces, but prevents movements parallel to the key broad side faces beyond the clearance. The usual clearance may for example amount to 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm or 0.2 mm on each side.

[0035] Thus in one embodiment of the key, it may be provided that a width of the cutout is somewhat larger than a total width of the rings which are arranged next to one another, thereby allowing a movement of each ring, guided by the cutout and the respective other ring, perpendicularly to the key broad side faces. Furthermore, a length of the cutout parallel to the longitudinal direction may be slightly greater than a respective outside diameter of the rings.

[0036] As explained above, for example the length of the cutout may be greater by 0.05 mm or 0.1 mm or 0.2 mm or 0.3 mm or 0.4 mm than the respective outside diameter of the rings. In other words, the length of the cutout may be greater by 0.05 mm to 0.4 mm than the respective outside diameter of a ring. Accordingly, the width of the cutout may be greater by 0.05 mm to 0.4 mm, in particular 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm or 0.4 mm than a total width of the rings arranged next to each other. This total width therefore designates the sum of the widths of the individual rings. If exactly two rings are provided which are configured identically, the total width corresponds approximately to twice the width of an individual ring.

[0037] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the shaft is arranged parallel to the key broad side faces in the key shank.

[0038] In other words, in this case the shaft does not lie obliquely in the key shank, but a longitudinal axis of the shaft extends parallel to the key broad side face. As a result, the rings are arranged perpendicularly to the key broad side faces. This facilitates a symmetrical arrangement of the rings relative to a centre plane of the key shank and provision as a reversible key.

[0039] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the key shank has at least one longitudinal groove in at least one of the key broad side faces, said longitudinal groove extending parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0040] In principle, naturally a longitudinal groove may be provided in each of the broad side faces. This is provided for example in the case of a reversible key. By means of the longitudinal grooves, the cross-sectional profile of the key bit can be set and further sensing enabled, for example by corresponding configuration of a cross-sectional profile of a key channel in a cylinder core of the lock cylinder.

[0041] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the key shank has, in at least one of the key broad side faces, at least one depression to be sensed by a profiled pin.

[0042] In this way, by means of the depression, a further security feature can be implemented in the key in order to further increase the security of the key.

[0043] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the cutout is arranged in a front third, in particular a front quarter, of the key shank that is directed away from a key head.

[0044] This ensures that the rings must be inserted deeply into the key channel in order to insert the key completely in a cylinder core of a lock cylinder. In this way, for example, the movability of the rings may be sensed, in that during insertion of the key in the lock cylinder, the rings must each pass through a labyrinth. In this way, the security of the locking device provided by the key can be further increased.

[0045] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that the key is designed as a reversible key.

[0046] The design as a reversible key is distinguished in that the orientation in which the key is inserted in the key channel is irrelevant. For example, this may be achieved by a symmetrical, in particular locally symmetrical, configuration of the securityrelevant features of the key shank relative to a centre plane of the key shank. Naturally, the key may also be designed as a non-reversible key.

[0047] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the shaft extends through the entire key shank, wherein the key shank has two mutually opposite key narrow side faces, and wherein each key narrow side face has an opening for pressing in the shaft.

[0048] In this way, assembly of the shaft and rings is significantly simplified.

The rings may be held in the cutout and mounted by pressing in the shaft from the outside. Alternatively, it may also be provided that the key only has an opening on one of the key narrow side faces. In particular, this opening may be configured as a blind hole.

[0049] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that an outside diameter of each ring is larger than a distance between the key broad side faces.

[0050] In this way, in any case each ring protrudes from the cross-sectional profile of the key shank. In this way for example, it may be ensured that an outer cross-sectional contour of each ring must be sensed on insertion in a key channel.

[0051] In a further embodiment of the key, it may be provided that the key shank has at least one tip depression in at least one of the key broad side face, wherein the at least one tip depression adjoins the cutout.

[0052] This ensures that further security-relevant features may be provided and, in addition, facilitates deflection of the rings by means of corresponding supporting pins without these colliding with the key broad side face. Also, the openings provided in the edges of the cutout by means of the at least one tip depression serve for example to facilitate a better sliding of the profiled pins provided in the lock cylinder.

[0053] [0054] In a further embodiment of the locking device, it may be provided that the first supporting pin and the second supporting pin are arranged on opposite sides of the key channel.

[0055] In this way, the two rings are deflected in opposite directions on a movement into the release state. This achieves the movability of the rings relative to each other and increases the security of the locking device.

[0056] In a further embodiment of the locking device, it may be provided that the first supporting pin and the second supporting pin are arranged on the same side of the key channel.

[0058] The first supporting pin and the second supporting pin may in particular protrude to different extents into the key channel. In particular, the first supporting pin and the second supporting pin arranged on the same side of the key channel may be configured to cause a deflection of the first ring which differs from a deflection of the second ring. In particular, the distances by which the first ring and the second ring are deflected may thus be different.

[0059] In a further embodiment of the locking device, it may be provided that the first supporting pin and the second supporting pin are arranged obliquely with respect to the key channel. In particular, it may be provided here that the first supporting pin and the second supporting pin are each arranged at an angle of 45° with respect to the key channel. In this way, a further security feature may be implemented. In order to deflect a ring accordingly, this has an outer circumferential face which cannot catch on a supporting pin or a profiled pin. For example, with the connecting pin at an angle of 45° to the key channel, an outer circumferential contour also of 45° or a semicircular outer circumferential contour may be provided on the respective ring, in order for it to be deflected along the corresponding supporting pin without blocking.

[0060] In a further embodiment of the locking device, it may be provided that the key channel has a plurality of longitudinal grooves corresponding at least to the number of rings, wherein each ring is assigned a longitudinal groove whose cross-sectional contour is designed to be complementary with an outer cross-sectional contour of the respective ring.

[0061] In this way, the outer cross-sectional contour of the ring may serve as a further security feature which is sensed by means of the key channel. The respective ring then rolls in the respective, complementarily formed cross-sectional contour of the key channel during insertion of the key, and is deflected by the respective supporting pin at the channel end. In this way, a labyrinth may be formed which serves as a further security feature.

[0062] In a further embodiment, it may be provided that a first longitudinal groove is assigned to the first ring and a second longitudinal groove is assigned to the second ring, wherein the first longitudinal groove and the second longitudinal groove are formed in mutually opposite faces of the key channel.

[0063] In this way, labyrinths running opposite to each other are formed for the first ring and the second ring. On insertion of the key in the key channel, the rings are deflected in different directions in order to release the advance of the key in the key channel. At its end, they are then deflected in opposite directions by the mutually opposing supporting pins. In this way, the movability of the two rings opposite to each other and in both directions relative to the non-deflected position is sensed, which further increases security. It may also be provided that a first longitudinal groove is assigned to the first ring, and a second longitudinal groove is assigned to the second ring, and wherein the first longitudinal groove and the second longitudinal groove are formed in the same face of the key channel. This embodiment may be provided in particular when both supporting pins are arranged on the same side of the key channel.

[0064] [0065] Embodiments of the invention are depicted in the drawing and explained in more detail in the description which follows. The drawings show:

Fig. 1 an isometric view of an embodiment of a key,

Fig. 2 an opposite isometric view of the key in Fig. 1,

Fig. 3 a top view of the key from Fig. 2,

Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV of Fig. 3,

Fig. 5 a cross-sectional view along line V-V of Fig. 3,

Fig. 6 a side view of an individual ring,

Fig. 7 a cross-sectional view in which the ring is cut in a ring centre plane,

Fig. 8 an isometric view of a ring,

Fig. 9 a cut-away isometric view of a ring,

Fig. 10 an assembly depiction of two rings on a shaft, wherein a cutout is depicted in top view in dotted lines,

Fig. 11 an isometric view of the rings deflected opposite to each other when deflected perpendicularly to the drawing plane depicted in Fig. 10,

Fig. 12 an exploded depiction to illustrate individual elements of the key and the locking device,

Fig. 13 an isometric depiction of an assembled locking device,

Fig. 14 a side view of the locking device in Fig. 13,

Fig. 15 a cross-sectional view of the locking device along line XV-XV of Fig. 14,

Fig. 16a a top view in the direction of arrow XVI of Fig. 13, wherein no key is arranged in the key channel in order to illustrate its profile cross-section, the rings being in the state inserted in the key channel at the start of the key channel,

Fig. 16b a top view in the direction of arrow XVI of Fig. 13, wherein no key is arranged in the key channel in order to illustrate its profile cross-section, the rings here being in the deflected state,

Fig. 17 exposed elements of the locking device in order to illustrate a deflection of the rings for achieving the release state, and

Fig. 18 an isometric depiction of the arrangement in Fig. 17.

[0066] Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a key 10. The key has a key head 12 which is also known as the key grip. The key head 12 serves for manual gripping of the key 10. A key shank 14 extends from the key head 12. Various security features are arranged on the key shank 14 which are sensed when the key 10 is inserted in a corresponding locking device. On positive sensing, the locking device can be brought from a blocking state to a release state.

[0067] The key shank 14 extends in a longitudinal direction 16. The key shank 14 has a rectangular or substantially rectangular cross-sectional profile. The two longer sides of this rectangle are known as the key broad side faces 18,18'. The two shorter sides of this rectangle in cross-section are referred to below as the key narrow side faces 20, 20'. The key broad side faces 18, 18' and the key narrow side faces 20, 20' are consequently arranged opposite each other. Each of the key broad side faces 18,18' may have at least one protrusion 22, furthermore at least one longitudinal groove 24 may be provided. Both the at least one protrusion 22 and the at least one longitudinal groove 24 serve as further security features of the key shank 14, which cooperates with a corre sponding complementary configuration of a cross-sectional profile of a key channel of the locking device in order to allow insertion of the key 10 only when the cross-sectional profiles match.

[0068] A shaft 26 runs transversely to the longitudinal direction 16. This is pressed into the key shank 14 and thus arranged fixedly, in particular rotationally fixedly, in the key shank 14. Two rings 28, 30, or a first ring 30 and a second ring 28, are arranged on the shaft 26. The dimensioning of the rings 28, 30 will be explained in more detail below. An inside diameter of each ring 28, 30 is greater than an outside diameter of the shaft 26. This allows a play of the rings 28, 30 on the shaft 26, and hence a movement of each of the rings 28, 30 relative to the shaft 26.

[0069] Also, a cutout 32 is provided which extends through the entire key shank 14 and the key broad side faces 18, 18'. The shaft 26 extends through the cutout 32. In the embodiment shown, the cutout 32 has an elongate form and extends parallel to the longitudinal direction 16. The rings 28, 30 are arranged on the shaft 26 and in the cutout 32. With regard to the dimensioning of the cutout 32 relative to the rings 28, 30, this will also be explained in more detail below. The cutout 32 is made slightly larger than an overall width of the two rings 28, 30, and has a longitudinal extension parallel to the longitudinal direction 16 which is slightly greater than the outside diameter of the rings. In this way, the rings 28, 30 are guided through the cutout 32 with a slight clearance. Apart from the clearance, the rings cannot move in the longitudinal direction 16, and also cannot move transversely to the longitudinal direction 16 on the shaft 26 apart from a clearance provided. The clearance allows rotation of the rings 28, 30 of the shaft 26. In this way, in particular a frictional resistance from the rings 28, 30 on insertion of the key 10 is reduced. Furthermore, however, a movement is possible perpendicular to the key broad side faces 18, 18' or in the longitudinal direction 16 and parallel to the key narrow side faces 20. The rings 28, 30 may thus be guided separately from each other through the cutout 32 and moved relative to the shaft 26 and the key shank 14.

[0070] According to the invention, exactly two rings 28, 30 are provided. The rings 28, 30 are arranged next to each other on the shaft. This means that they have no spacers, sleeve elements or similar between them to space them apart. The rings 28, 30 thus lie directly next to each other. In the embodiment shown, the first ring 28 and the second ring 30 are arranged adjacent to each other on the shaft 26.

[0071] The cutout with the rings 28, 30 is arranged in a front third 15 of the key shank 14. The front third 15 here means a third 15 of the key shank 14 which is furthest away from the key head 12 starting from the key head 12.

[0072] Fig. 2 shows the key 10 from Fig. 1 in an isometric view from the opposite perspective. Thus the key broad side face 18' opposite the key broad side face 18 is shown. The same elements carry the same reference signs and not explained again. As can be seen, each of the key narrow side faces 20, 20' has an opening 42 through which the shaft 26 can be pressed into the key shank. Furthermore, in the embodiment depicted, the key broad side face 18' has a plurality of depressions 34 which can be sensed by profiled pins of a lock cylinder and serve as further security features.

[0073] Fig. 3 shows a top view of the key depicted in Fig. 2. The same elements again carry the same reference signs and are not explained again. In this top view, the geometry of the cutout 32 and the position of the rings 28, 30 can be seen. The key 10 or the key shank 14 has a centre plane 36. The centre plane 36 lies halfway between the key narrow side faces 20, 20'. The cutout 32 is arranged symmetrically relative to the centre plane 36. One of the rings 28, 30 is arranged on each side of the centre plane 36.

In this way, by the symmetrical arrangement of the rings 28, 30, in particular a function of the key 10 as a reversible key becomes possible. Such a reversible key can achieve a transition to the release state irrespective of its orientation in the key channel of a locking device. This is ensured by the corresponding configuration of the features, in particular the key broad side faces 18, 18'. To this extent, in order to allow a function as a reversible key, corresponding features, such as for example the depressions 34, may also be arranged in the key broad side face 20' opposite the key broad side face 20, although this is not shown in the embodiment depicted for clarity reasons.

[0074] Furthermore, the key broad side face 18' may have at least one tip depression 38; in the embodiment shown, two tip depressions 38. This for example makes it easier for a profiled pin to slide along an edge of the cutout 32 during insertion of the key 10.

[0075] Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV of Fig. 3. This therefore shows a cross-section in the longitudinal direction 16 in the centre plane 36 through the key 10. The cutout 32 and the shaft 26 arranged in the cutout 32, the longitudinal direction of which runs transversely to the longitudinal direction 16 and perpendicularly to the centre plane 36 in the embodiment depicted, are shown in cross-section. A distance between the key broad side faces 18' and 18 is designated with reference sign 41. As can be seen, the ring 28 and also the ring 30, formed identically in the embodiment depicted, have an outside diameter which is greater than this distance 41. Consequently, the ring 28 protrudes beyond the key broad side face 18 in the deflected position shown in Fig. 4. In the position depicted, the ring 28 is deflected in the direction of arrow 40 which runs within the plane 36 perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction 16. This movement is guided by the cutout 32 which is only slightly greater, for example greater by 0.05 mm, 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.3 mm in its extension parallel to the longitudinal direction 16, than an outside diameter of the ring 28. In this way, a deflection of the ring 28 parallel to direction 40 is possible. The same applies to the ring 30. The two rings 28, 30 may be deflected independently of each other.

[0076] Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view along line V-V of Fig. 3. It is evident that the shaft 26 extends through the entire key shank 14. As already mentioned, each of the key narrow side faces 20 has an opening 42. In this way, the shaft 26 can be pressed transversely through the key shank 14. The other elements are identified with the same reference signs and not explained again.

[0077] The Fig. also shows the deflection of the rings 28, 30 in opposite directions. The ring 28 here protrudes beyond the key broad side face 18. The ring 30 protrudes beyond the key broad side face 18'. Thus the rings 28, 30 can not only move in the same direction, but can also move in opposite directions. This further increases the security of a locking device provided by means of the key 10.

[0078] Figs. 6 to 9 show a single ring 28. Fig. 6 shows a side view of the ring. Fig. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the ring. Fig. 8 shows an isometric depiction of the ring 28 of Fig. 6. Fig. 9 shows an isometric depiction of a cutaway half of the ring 28.

[0079] The ring has an inside diameter 50 and an outside diameter 52. The ring 28 is formed so as to be rotationally symmetrical about a rotational symmetry axis 62. On an outer periphery, the ring has an outer circumferential face 56. A width of the ring is designated with reference sign 51 in Fig. 7. The so-called ring centre plane 64 lies halfway across the width of the ring. The ring 28 is formed asymmetrically relative to the ring centre plane 64. In particular, an outer circumferential face 56 of the ring 28 is formed asymmetrically. The outer circumferential face 56 has a portion 58. In the embodiment shown, this is tilted by around 45° to the ring centre plane 64. In principle, this portion 58 is configured such that it cannot catch on a profiled pin or supporting pin of the lock cylinder. Furthermore, the outer circumferential face 56 has a concave portion 60. Such a concave portion 60 may for example be provided in order to allow the advance of the ring 28 in the key channel by means of the clearance it provides. Because of the smaller cross-sectional area of the ring 28 provided by the concave portion 60, collisions can thus be avoided or more space provided for other security features of a locking device.

[0080] Fig. 10 shows the shaft 26 and the identically configured rings 28 and 30 arranged thereon. A top view is shown, the direction of which corresponds to that of Fig. 3. The shaft 26, as indicated by arrow 66, here extends transversely to the longitudinal direction 16 of the key and perpendicularly to the centre plane 36. An outside diameter of the shaft is designated with reference sign 54. As already described, the inside diameter 50 of the rings 28, 30 is greater than the outside diameter 54 of the shaft 26. A length of the cutout parallel to the longitudinal direction 16 is designated with reference sign 74. A width of the cutout 32 is designated with reference sign 76. As already stated, the width 76 of the cutout 32 is slightly larger than an overall width 72 of the rings 28, 30. The overall width here means the combined width of the rings 28, 30. In the case of the embodiment shown with two identically configured rings 28, 30, the overall width 72 is thus twice the width 51. The length 74 of the cutout 32 is slightly greater than the outside diameter 52 of the rings 28, 30. In particular to allow a function as a reversible key, the rings 28, 30 are arranged symmetrically relative to the centre plane 36. The rings 28, 30 are thus configured identically but arranged in opposite orientations on the shaft 26. This gives a quasi "back-to-back" position. This means that the concave portions 60 are facing each other. Despite the asymmetric configuration of each of the rings relative to its ring centre plane 74, this gives an overall symmetrical arrangement relative to the centre plane 36.

[0081] Fig. 11 again shows an isometric view of the depiction in Fig. 10. From the "neutral position" shown in Fig. 10, in which the rings 28, 30 are not deflected, Fig. 11 shows a deflected state in which the ring 30 is deflected in direction 68 and the ring 28 in the opposite direction 70. As will be explained below, this configuration state is particularly security-relevant for a locking device in order for this to be transferred to the release state.

[0082] Fig. 12 shows an exploded view of a locking device 80. The locking device 18 has the key 10 as described above in connection with Figs. 1 to 11. The same elements therefore carry the same reference signs and not explained again. In addition, the locking device 80 has a lock cylinder 81. In the embodiment shown, the lock cylinder 81 is a profiled cylinder. It may however also have another form, for example as a round cylinder or oval cylinder.

[0083] The lock cylinder 81 has a housing 82 and a cylinder core 84. The cylinder core 84 is mounted in the housing 82 by means of a retaining ring 86. The housing 83 is otherwise for example provided with a mounting bore 87 or threaded bore so that the lock cylinder 81 can be screwed to a door. Furthermore, the housing 82 and also the cylinder core 84 may have a plurality of bores in which respective blocking means, in particular pin tumblers, are guided in order to sense different security features of a key 10. Only the blocking means, in particular pin tumblers, connected with rings 28 and 30 and cooperating with rings 28, 30 are depicted and explained below.

[0084] The cylinder core 84 has a key channel 88. The key 10 is inserted in this key channel 88. After the key 10 has been fully inserted and all security features of the key 10 have been positively sensed, all blocking means are moved into a position which allows a rotation of the cylinder core relative to the housing 82. This is the release state. If the key 10 has not been completely inserted in or extracted from the key channel 88, rotation of the cylinder core 81 relative to the housing 82 is not possible. This is called the blocking state.

[0085] As already described above, several profiled pins 90 are provided in the lock cylinder 80 and may serve to sense depressions 34 in the key shank 14. These are not however of primary importance in relation to the functionality of the rings 28, 30. A first supporting pin 92 and a second supporting pin 94 cooperate with the rings 28, 30. The supporting pins 92, 94 are pressed into the cylinder core 84. They are not movable. The supporting pins 92, 94 deflect a respective ring 28, 30 into the position indicated in Fig. 11, and support this against a respective blocking means or pin tumbler 104, 106. A first blocking means or pin tumbler is designated with reference sign 104. This cooperates with the first supporting pin 92. The first blocking means is indicated diagrammatically and usually has a core pin 96. A housing pin 98 is supported by means of a spring element 100 or supporting spring against the support element 102. In the blocking state, the protrusion of the housing pin 98 into the cylinder core 84 prevents a rotation of the cylinder core 84. In the release state, a contact face between the core pin 96 and the housing pin 98 is arranged such that the housing pin 98 does not protrude into the cylinder core 84, wherein the core pin 96 also does not protrude into the housing 82. This allows the rotation of the cylinder core 84 relative to the housing 82. In addition, the second blocking means or pin tumbler 106 is indicated merely diagrammatically via a core pin 98. The other elements of this blocking means are not depicted for reasons of clarity. This second blocking means 106 cooperates with the second supporting pin 94.

[0086] Fig. 13 shows an isometric, assembled view of the locking device 80. The key 10 is fully inserted in the cylinder core 84. The cylinder core is mounted in the housing opening 82 by means of the retaining ring 86.

[0087] Fig. 14 shows a corresponding side view of the assembly view of Fig. 13. The same elements carry the same reference signs.

[0088] Fig. 15 shows a cross-sectional view along line XV-XV of Fig. 14. The same elements as in the exploded view of Fig. 12 carry the same reference signs and are not explained again. In the view shown, the locking device 80 is in a release state. The key 10 is fully introduced into the locking channel 88. In this position, the first supporting pin 92 deflects the ring 30 and hence moves the core pin 96. This in turn shifts the housing pin 98 against the force of the spring 100 which rests on the supporting element 102. As can be seen, a contact face between the core pin 96 and the housing pin 98 thus lies directly on a circumferential face of the cylinder core 84, so that this can be turned in the housing 82. A corresponding deflection results from a deflection of the ring 28 on the second supporting pin 94, so that the core pin 99 is deflected. As already stated, the other side of the blocking means or pin tumbler 106 is indicated merely diagrammatically. Each of the supporting pins 92 and 94 is arranged at an angle of around 45° obliquely to the key channel. Each of the supporting pins 92 and 94 has a conical tip which slides along the respective outer circumferential face 56 of each ring 28, 30, in order to deflect this on insertion of the key 10. The supporting pins 92 and 94 are arranged on opposite sides of the key channel 88. Also the first pin tumbler 104 and the second pin tumbler 106 are arranged accordingly on opposite sides of the key channel 88.

[0089] Fig. 16a shows a view of the key channel 88. The view direction is shown in Fig. 13. The key 10 here is cut away as far as the shaft 26 and the rings 28, 30.

It has already been explained that the outer circumferential face 56 is formed asymmetrically relative to a ring centre plane 64. As can be seen, each key channel 88 has on opposite faces a complementary cross-sectional profile in order to sense this asymmetric outer circumferential cross-section of each ring 28, 30. It is thus evident that the ring 28 is first guided to a neutral position in the key channel 88, offset "upward" in Fig. 16a. The ring 30 is guided through the key channel 88, correspondingly offset "downward". The respective asymmetric, outer circumferential cross-sections here fit in the complementary profile cross-sections 109 and 110. The complementary profile cross-sections 109, 110 extend as longitudinal grooves fully through the key channel 88, and during insertion of the key 10 guide the rings up to a rear end of the key channel 88 in which the rings 28, 30 are deflected by the supporting pins 92 and 94.

[0090] Fig. 16b shows a view of the key channel 88. In the position shown in Fig. 16b, the locking device 80 is in a release state. As evident from Fig. 16b, the rings here are deflected in correspondingly opposed directions away from their respective complementary profile cross-sections 109, 110. This provides a labyrinth through which the rings 28, 30 as movable elements must be guided in order to reach the release state.

It is thus absolutely necessary that the rings 28, 30 can be moved separately or independently of each other on the shaft 26. In this way, the security of the locking device 80 shown can be significantly increased. Furthermore, security of the key 10 against unauthorised reworking or copying is significantly increased, because the rings 28, 30 must be identified as elements movable separately from each other and reproduced accordingly.

[0091] Moreover, further longitudinal grooves 112,112', 113,113' are shown which cooperate with corresponding protrusions 22 of the key and also serve for securityrelevant sensing. It is evident that the key channel 88 is formed so as to be locally symmetrical in its cross-section, in order to support the function of the key 10 as a reversible key. The complementary profile cross-sections 109, 110 are accordingly arranged on opposite sides 115, 117 of the key channel 88.

[0092] Figs. 17 and 18 again show a free view onto the elements of the locking cylinder 81 in the release state and in cooperation with the rings 28 and 30. Once again, the deflection of the rings 28 and 30 in opposite directions can be seen. These are deflected via the supporting pins 92 and 94 tilted by an angle 108, in particular an angle of 45°, relative to the key channel 88 or a longitudinal extension of the shaft 26. These each deflect one of the rings 28, 30 and support this against a respective core pin 96, 99. By insertion of the key 10, each of the rings 28, 30 is thus pushed between an assigned supporting pin and core pin. The ring 30 is pushed between the supporting pin 92 and the core pin 96. The ring 28 is pushed between the supporting pin 94 and the core pin 99. Because of the fixed arrangement of the supporting pins 92, 94, a respective ring 29, 30 is thus deflected and moves a corresponding core pin 96, 99 so that an associated blocking means 104, 106 is moved into the release state. As already explained above, in particular the rings 28, 30 here move in opposite directions to each other.

Claims

A key (10) for a lock cylinder (81), wherein the key (10) shows a key shank (12) extending along a longitudinal direction (16), with two key width faces (18, 18 '), whereby the key shaft (14) shows a cut-out (32) through the key-width surfaces (18, 18 '), whereby an axis (26) extends through the cut-out (32), whereby the axis (26) is pivotally mounted in the key shaft (14) and whereby in the cut-out (32) ) are at least two rings (28, 30) arranged side by side on the axis (26), whereby an inner diameter (50) of each ring (28, 30) is larger than an outer diameter (54) of the axis ( 26), characterized in that the key (10) shows exactly two rings (28, 30) and that the rings (28, 30) are each designed symmetrically with respect to a axis of rotation (62), and are asymmetrically designed in relation to a ring center drum plane extending at right angles to the axis of rotation symmetry (62).

Key (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the rings (28, 30) are arranged adjacent to one another on the axis (26).

Key (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the rings (28, 30) are identical in shape.

A key (10) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that a respective outer circumferential surface (56) of the rings (28, 30) is asymmetrically shaped relative to the ring center plane (64).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the cutout (32) is arranged symmetrically and parallel to a center plane (36) in the key shaft (14) extending at right angles to the key width surfaces (18, 18 ') and longitudinally (16).

Key (10) relative to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rings (28, 30) are arranged symmetrically with respect to a center plane (36) of the key shaft (14) extending at right angles to the key width surfaces (18, 18 ') and parallel to the longitudinal direction (16).

Key (10) according to one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that one of the respective rings (28, 30) is arranged on each side of a center plane (36) in the key shaft (14) extending at right angles to the key width surfaces. (18, 18 ') and parallel to the longitudinal direction (16).

Key (10) according to one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the rings (28, 30) are arranged in a mirror-facing manner on the axis (26).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the cutout (32) is dimensioned in such a way that the rings (28, 30) are directed perpendicular to the key-width surfaces (18, 18 ') and can be rotated on axis (26).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a width (76) of the cutout (32) is slightly larger than a total width (72) of the rings (28, 30) arranged side by side. ) so that a movement (68, 70) of each ring (28, 30) guided through the cutout (32) and the respective second ring (30, 28) at right angles to the key width surfaces (18, 18 ') is possible.

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the shaft (26) is arranged parallel to the key-width side levers (18, 18 ') in the key shaft (14).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the key shank (14) in at least one of the key width side surfaces (18, 18 ') at least has a longitudinal groove (24) extending parallel to longitudinal direction (16).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the key shank (14) in at least one of the key width side surfaces (18, 18 ') has at least one recess (34) for capturing a profile pin ( 90).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the cutout (32) is arranged in a front third (15) of the key shaft (14) which is away from the key head (12).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the key (10) is designed as a reversible key.

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the axis (26) extends through the entire key shaft and whereby the key shaft (14) has two key template side faces (20, 20 ') and each key template faces one another. side surface shows an opening (42) for pressing the axis (26).

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that an outer diameter (52) of each ring (28, 30) is greater than a distance (41) between the key-width surfaces (18, 18 ').

Key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the key shank (14) has at least one of the key width side faces (18, 18 ') at least one pointed recess (38), drop one pointed recess (38) adjacent to the cutout (32).

A locking device (80) having a key (10) according to one of claims 1 to 18 and a locking cylinder (81), wherein the locking cylinder (81) has a casing (82) and a cylinder core (84), whereby the locking cylinder (81) shows a plurality of locking fuses (104, 106) corresponding to at least the number of rings (28, 30), whereby each locking fuse (104, 106) is movable between a locking state and a release state and locking in the locking state a pivoting movement in the cylinder core (84) against the casing (82), releasing in the release state, whereby each ring (28, 30) is aligned with one of the locking fuses (104, 106) and, by fully inserting the key (10) into a key channel (88) in the cylinder core, (84) can be transferred from the locking state to the release state, whereby the cylinder core (84) for each ring (28, 30) has a supporting pin (92, 94) provided for each locking lock (104, 106), and the rings (28, 30) between the respective assigned support pin (92, 94) and the respective assigned locking fuse (104, 106), the respective assigned locking fuse (104, 106) can move to the release state whereby the key (10) accurately displays a first ring (30) and a second ring (28), wherein the locking cylinder (81) exhibits at least one first locking fuse (104) assigned to the first ring (30) and a second locking fuse (106) assigned to the second ring (28), showing the cylinder core (84) a first support pin (92) assigned to the first locking fuse (104) and a second support pin (94) assigned to the second locking fuse (94), the first support pin (92) in the release state abutting the first ring (30) against the first locking fuse (104) and whereby the second support pin (94) in the release state abuts the second ring (28) against the second locking fuse (106).

Locking device according to claim 19, characterized in that the first support pin (92) and the second support pin (94) are arranged on opposite sides of the key channel (88).

Locking device according to claim 19, characterized in that the first support pin (92) and the second support pin (94) are arranged on the same side of the key channel (88).

Locking device according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the first support pin (92) and the second support pin (94) are disposed obliquely against the key channel (88).

Locking device according to one of claims 19 to 22, characterized in that the key channel (88) has several longitudinal grooves (109, 110) corresponding to at least the number of rings (28, 30), wherein each ring (28, 30) are aligned with a longitudinal groove (109, 110), the cross-sectional contour of which is complementary to an outer circumferential surface (56) of the respective rings (28, 30).

Locking device according to claims 20 and 23, characterized in that the first ring (30) is aligned with a first longitudinal groove (109) and the second ring (28) is aligned with a second longitudinal groove (110), whereby the first longitudinal groove (110) (109) and the second longitudinal groove (110) are formed in opposite faces (115, 117) of the key channel (88).