[0001] This invention relates to a lock and key combination and more particularly to the
type of lock known as a radial pin tumbler lock or sometimes known as an axial tumbler
pin lock.
[0002] With some known types of such locks, the radial pin lock itself has axially-extending
holes arranged around a circle to receive mating actuating pins of a key. Such a surface
of the lock is generally planar, which permits the possible abuse of the lock by drilling
the tumbler out.
[0003] US-A-3 783 661 shows a typical tumbler lock incorporating an anti-pick lock assembly.
[0004] According to the present invention, there is provided a lock and key combination,
characterised in that the key has a surface with protruding actuating pins arranged
in a circle which mate with corresponding holes in one surface of the lock and the
two surfaces having respective non-planar mating configurations with the lock having
a protruding, central conical formation and the key having a central, recessed conical
formation corresponding to the protruding formation of the lock.
[0005] For a better understanding of the present invention and to show how the same may
be carried into effect, reference will now be made, by way of example, to the accompanying
drawings, in which:-
Figure 1 is a perspective view of a key for a radial pin tumbler lock,
Figure 2 is a plan view of the key shown in Figure 1,
Figure 3 is a diagrammatic sectional view of the key, with its pin holder and a radial
pin tumbler lock for the key, the parts being shown separated, and
Figure 4 is a view of the components shown in Figure 3 with the key inserted in the
lock core.
[0006] Referring to the drawings, a key 1 includes a key grip 2 and a circular key pin insert
or pin holder 4. The pin holder 4 holds, in use, a plurality of protruding pins (not
shown) arranged in a circle around the end surface of the pin holder, the pins being
of different lengths to provide some four and a half million different key combinations
with the lock by interacting with appropriate length combination pins (not shown)
and driving pins (not shown) situated, and free to move axially, within the tumbler
core holes 9.
[0007] The key 1 is designed to be inserted into a plurality of holes 9 in a radial pin
lock core 5, the holes being arranged in a corresponding circle on an end surface
6 of the tumbler 5.
[0008] In order to prevent misuse of an inappropriate key and to inhibit the user of a drill
from getting a purchase on the surface 6, the surface 6 is given a central, non-planar
configuration. This configuration, as indicated, is a protruding conical configuration
7.
[0009] The end surface of the pin holder 4 of the key 1 is given a similar central, non-planar
configuration which is of hollow conical form as indicated by the numeral 8. Thus,
the key 1 can mate precisely with the lock 5.
1. A lock (5) and key (1) combination, characterised in that the key (1) has a surface
(8) with protruding actuating pins arranged in a circle which mate with corresponding
holes in one surface (6) of the lock and the two surfaces (6, 8) having respective
non-planar mating configurations with the lock having a protruding, central conical
formation and the key having a central, recessed conical formation corresponding to
the protruding formation of the lock.
2. A lock and key combination according to claim 1, wherein said actuating pins are held
in a pin holder (4) of the key.
