How door locks work
|
| This iron metalwork object is a 16th century rim lock and key from France. |
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
A door lock is a mechanism used for security purposes - preventing a door from being opened by unauthorised people. There are many different types of door locks. Two of the most basic types of locks are rim locks and cylinder locks.
[edit] Rim locks
One of the oldest types of locks, the rim lock uses a bolt and key to secure the door. The bolt in the lock is moved when the correct key is inserted into the mechanism and turned. This action presses the tumbler - which is kept in place by a spring - up, and frees the bolt.
Next, the key bit engages with the corresponding notch under the bolt. Turning the key moves the bolt until the catch of the tumbler fits into next notch on the top of the bolt.
In simple locks, this completes the locking action. Greater safety is provided by a lock having not one, but several tumblers.
[edit] Cylinder locks
A cylinder lock uses a rotating mounted plug. When locked, the cylinder is held in place by several pin tumblers that have been moved into the proper position by springs. This allows the pins to fit into corresponding holes in the cylinder and keep the cylinder from moving.
A key is then inserted into the lock, which raises the pins so their tops move to a position that corresponds to the top of the outer surface of the cylinder. When the different segments of the tumbler are not connected, the cylinder can move freely when the key is turned. This allows the bolt to move and unlocks the door.
Another type of cylinder lock is the disc tumbler lock. This type of lock uses movable discs instead of pins to lock the cylinder.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
IHBC share news on the Social Housing Retrofit Accelerator
To support in Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund bids
A change to adoptive architecture.
A must read for all built environment professionals.
A sun, tide, mass or scratch dial.
A brief description of time in the sun.
ICE Trustee Board update June 2022
Given by ICE President Ed McCann.
Artificial intelligence and project management
Two new research reports published by APM.
Association for Project Management membership offer
50% off APM Associate membership for Designing Buildings users.
Building safety, a shifting landscape for professionals
A commentary from the insurance perspective.
In brief with further links.
Walter Segal: self-built architect
A definitive book on a pioneer of green architecture.
Funding for heritage on the high street
Using heritage as a catalyst for reviving historic centres.
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting update.
Declaration prioritising sustainable urbanisation adopted.
A small hidden, often distant but key building component.
Some brief words about the actuator.
CIAT Chief Executive steps down.
After 34 years at the Institute.
Volunteer opportunity launched by the ICE
To support the next generation of engineers.
Provisional findings show illegal cartels in the industry.
CIAT reporting from the Competition and Markets Authority.
Making sustainable construction number one priority.
The future of construction report.
Interview with ECA CEO.
Many provisions came into force on June 28, 2022.
With room to expand.
An information packed session at the BSRIA conference.
Refurbishment, Energy Efficiency, Indoor air and process.
Create a profile, write informed product articles and share.
Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) is one example.
We are indeed now 10 years old, so go on and be bold !
Write about something you know, help us build and grow !