Magnetically operated locking device and key
US4022038A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 20, 1976 |
| Grant date | May 10, 1977 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 20, 1996 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T70/7904
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A magnetically operated lock includes a fixed lock body in which a plurality of fixed permanent magnets are disposed in a predetermined pattern. Aligned with each permanent magnet is a hole in which a movable magnet is slidably disposed, the movable magnet being oriented to be repelled by the fixed magnet. A lock shaft is pivotally secured through the lock body, and a rotor secured to the shaft is disposed adjacent to the openings of the holes receiving the movable magnets. The rotor includes a plurality of detents which receive the movable magnets, locking the shaft in a fixed position. The key comprises a disc having a plurality of magnets embedded therein and oriented to repel the movable magnets and free the rotor and shaft for rotation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.