3D printer produces working house keys
Bolt from the blueprint
3D printing tools have been used to roll out working house keys, meaning trips to the hardware store could soon be replaced by a straightforward PC set-up.
Apple software engineer Nirav Patel generates a key's blueprint with the manufacturer's lock code, which contains all the relevant bit dimensions. This information is fed into OpenSCAD, a program for creating solid objects, and finally churned out through his RepRap 3D printer.
Okay, they can be on the fragile side - you don't want to risk snapping a plastic key in your lock - but Patel claims they're strong enough to turn a deadbolt, so don't close the door on the idea just yet.
Patel even suggests the system could be used in conjunction with Sneakey, a tool for teleduplication through optical decoding. In other words, creating replicas simply from a photograph.
Sneakey describes itself as able to covertly steal keys without fear of detection. No doubt the company has an interesting range of clients. ®
COMMENTS
Only key cutting ?
If you can't also repair shoes with this device, it'll never catch on...
Hang on just came over all stupid for a moment there
Micky 1 you are 100% correct if ever you lock your keys in your car that's exactly what you should do, what was I thinking.
Anyone else might want to call the AA and watch what they do and shudder at how easy it is, or in some cases phone the manufacturer who will unlock it for you over the phone.
But Micky 1 a brick through the window is definitely the only possible way of getting into your car and the special cars of all the special people like you.
@Micky 1
I used to have a Ford Focus which was build in 2003. Whilst out shopping the wife managed to lock the keys in the boot.
Called out the AA who promptly arrived, unscrewed one of the lights (I won't say which one), removed the bulb and connected a small box of tricks to the connections in the bulb socked. Pressed a button and the central locking unlocked all the door.
Time taken to from start to finish was about 2 minutes.
So there you go. Ford named as a manufacturer that certainly has done this in the past and probably still does.
Admittably you would still need the small box of tricks but I would imagine it was nothing special and any self respecting car thief would have one of these in their arsenal.
You crazy boffins and your whacky spoon-based lab-pranks!
Hmmmm
@AC 10:56
I sincerely hope you don't let your victims drink the resulting brew. Lead and cadmium? Yummy!
