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Jun 1, 2011

Printed Keys for Any Lock

Apple software engineer Nirav Patel wanted to create something useful with his 3D printer, so he designed a system that generates any key from any lock from any manufacturer using just the lock code.
Using a specialized CAD program and the manufacturers' various pin depth specifications, he was able to generate functioning keys for the two most common American cylinder types, the Kwikset KW1 and the Schlage SC1.

To make a key, Patel first fashions an appropriate-sized blank, then generates a model of the key in a specialized CAD program using the manufacturer's lock code to determine the correct bitting and then hits Print.
 
 

13 comments:

phosports said...

hopefully they wont break into my house

VersionDouble said...

thats crazy. 3d printers are really the next level.

TIMMYTHEROBOT said...

Pretty cool - technology really is amazing.

Dejch said...

as long as they stay away from my car and my apartment, we are ok! :D

Zombie said...

I can see a whole lot more break ins happening now. lol.

Dave said...

Very very clever that.

Athanasian Complexio said...

Damn those people at Apple! Looking for new ways to rob ya!

ZKMin said...

Serious this could cause a lot problems in the wrong hands.

RedHeadRob said...

3d printers are boss!

Bunny Hill said...

I'm not sure about this

Astronomy Pirate said...

I'll take one!

Unknown said...

thats pretty dope but if it works everyone would be doing it by now if this works cool..but i dont think it does

charlie said...

wow, for security you'll need an electronic key pad & the door key, some video cameras accessible via smartphone app & monitor your doors with direct link to the local PD to report potential break-ins