key
Let an agent handle keys by lock system, type, duplication rules and loss response, without giving instructions for defeating locks.
Research draft, second pass
A second pass drafted this model: the structure a model of this thing needs, and what is known about it in the world. The line under this one says how the second half was obtained - researched against sources, or recalled without web access, in which case nothing here was read anywhere and every claim is a lead to verify. Unreviewed either way.
written by Claude from model knowledge without web access - no source was read, every claim is a lead to verify
Researched by: Claude
Purpose and description
Let an agent handle keys by lock system, type, duplication rules and loss response, without giving instructions for defeating locks.
A small device, usually of metal, shaped to operate a specific lock: inserted and turned to move pins, levers or wafers, or presented electronically as a card or fob.
What it is for: Controlling access to doors, vehicles, containers and equipment.
It can be open and lock a matching lock; duplicate it where permitted; manage keys in a master key system; rekey locks after loss.
Distinguishing features
Matched to a specific lock
Mechanical or electronic
Some profiles are patent-restricted
Keys on keyboards or in music are other senses
What it looks like
A bow to hold and a blade with cuts or a patterned shank; electronic keys are cards or fobs.
Physical character
blade length: 20-60 mm - typical door keys
How it is recognised
Blade profile and cuts
Brand and key number stamped on the bow
Restricted keys marked do not duplicate
Related models
operates - device
is a kind of - physical tool
is managed in - access control
is confused with - another sense
In practice
Families and kinds
pin tumbler keys
lever and warded keys
dimple and laser-cut keys
padlock keys
transponder and smart keys
Identifiers
key code manufacturer code or bitting number for authorised duplication
Standards and regulation
EN 1303 cylinders for locks
Restricted key profile patents
Workplace access control policies
Failure modes and hazards
Lost keys compromising security
Unauthorised copies
Worn keys breaking in the lock
Also called
Where this came from
wikidata · CC0 1.0
Also registered as vr.tr.key-artifact
Drafted structure
Bundle to layer to finding to question, as the second pass will find it: 4 bundles · 8 layers · 8 findings · 16 questions.
Type Which key.
Type decides duplication and use.
Lock system
Pin, lever, smart.
System
Lock system.
- Which lock system does the key belong to? definition
- Is the profile restricted? boundary
Condition
Wear.
Condition
Key condition.
- Is the key worn or bent? boundary
- Should it be replaced from the code rather than copied? action
Duplication Copies.
Copies must be authorised.
Rules
Authorisation.
Rules
Duplication rules.
- Is the holder authorised to copy this key? boundary
- What proof does the locksmith need? provenance
Records
Key register.
Records
Key register.
- Who holds copies of this key? provenance
- When were they issued? provenance
Loss Lost keys.
Loss is a security risk.
Response
What to do.
Response
Loss response.
- Should the lock be rekeyed or replaced? action
- Who should be told? action
Lockout
Getting back in.
Lockout
Lockout.
- Who can legitimately help after a lockout? action
- What proof of residence is needed? provenance
Senses Disambiguation.
Key has many senses.
Other senses
Music, keyboard, crypto.
Senses
Other senses.
- Is a musical key, keyboard key or cryptographic key meant? boundary
- Which entry fits? action
Limits
Lock defeat.
Limits
What not to explain.
- Is the request about opening a lock the user does not control? boundary
- How should the agent respond? action
What the second pass must settle
- Should key types be separate entries?
- How should electronic keys be linked?
- How should the music and cryptography senses be split off?