![]() ![]() When the correct key is inserted, it will clear the wards and rotate about the center post. The key has a corresponding hole which fits over the post. Its purpose is to provide a point of leverage and pivot for rotating the key, and to help correctly align the key with the wards. For single-sided locks, a cylindrical post is typically located in the center of the lock. Double-sided ward locks nearly always have perfectly symmetrical bits. In double-sided locksets (meaning locksets where the key can be inserted from either side of the door) the centre of the key shaft is solid and protrudes past the end of the bit, which slots into a hole on the opposite side of the lock. Although this is not commonly recognized when discussing warded locks, it is more applicable to current locksmithing applications such as pin-tumbler or wafer-tumbler locks. As the key slides into the lock through the keyway, the wards align with the grooves in the key's profile to allow or deny entry into the lock cylinder. Īdditionally, a series of grooves on either side of the key's blade may limit the type of lock the key can slide into. Unless the notches or slots in the key correspond to the wards in the lock, the key will strike an obstruction and will not turn. Warded locks may have one simple ward, or many intricate wards with bends and complex protrusions the principle remains the same. In a basic warded lock, a set of obstructions, often consisting of concentric plates protruding outwards, blocks the rotation of a key not designed for that lock. Warded locks are still in use today in the UK and Ireland for low-security applications, and on heritage sites such as ancient monuments and churches to preserve original features, with primary security being provided by other means such as a lever lock mechanism installed in addition. During the Middle Ages they were used prolifically on monasteries where, because money and time were available, their complexity grew. The warded lock is one of the oldest lock designs, found as far back as ancient China and Rome. ![]() ![]() History An old-style warded lock which is rim mounted to a door The correct key has notches or slots corresponding to the obstructions in the lock, allowing it to rotate freely inside the lock. The one on the right is a skeleton key.Ī warded lock (also called a ward lock) is a type of lock that uses a set of obstructions, or wards, to prevent the lock from opening unless the correct key is inserted. Type of keyed lock Keys for some types of warded locks often have a characteristic symmetrical shape. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |