Schlüssellochformen

Schlüssellochformen, also known as keyhole shapes, refer to the characteristic outline formed by the intersection of a lock mechanism and a keyway. The specific shape of the keyhole is designed to accept a corresponding key, ensuring that only the correct key can engage the tumblers or pins within the lock.

Historically, keyhole shapes varied widely depending on the lock's complexity and security level. Early locks might have featured simple, large openings, while more sophisticated designs evolved to incorporate intricate shapes that were more difficult to pick or bypass. The term "Schlüssellochform" often evokes images of traditional warded locks, where the key's bit had to navigate around obstructions within the keyhole to operate the bolt.

Modern keyholes, particularly those found in pin tumbler or wafer tumbler locks, are typically more standardized. The visible part of the keyhole, where the key is inserted, often has a relatively simple shape, such as a cylinder or a rectangle. However, the internal complexity of the keyway, which guides the key to the locking mechanism, is crucial for security. The precise milling and profiling of both the key and the keyway are what define the unique "Schlüssellochform" in a functional sense.

The design of a Schlüssellochform is directly linked to the type of lock and the security it provides. Different lock manufacturers and keying systems utilize distinct keyway profiles, often referred to by proprietary names. This specialization prevents keys from one system from being inserted into or operating locks of another, thereby enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access. The term can also extend to decorative or architectural features that mimic the shape of a keyhole.