Fully automatic key duplicating machine with automatic key model identification system
A fully automatic key duplicating machine. A master key alignment module is movably disposed into and out of proximity with a master key clamping module, the master key being aligned by the alignment module within the master key clamping module. A master key identification module is disposed in fixed relation to the master key clamping module and identifies a type of key secured in the master key clamping module. A central positioning base is provided automatically movable into and out of engagement with the key cutting module and optionally the alignment module, adapted to move the master key alignment module into proximity with the master key clamping module and adapted to secure a key blank to be cut at the key cutting module in accordance with the tooth pattern of a clamped master key.
1. System for extracting a key blank from a pre-selected plurality of key blanks for cutting into a duplicate of a master key, comprising:
at least one magazine housing a plurality of key blanks;
a base movable into and out of proximity with said magazine, said base having a key blank securing groove and a key blank clamp on at least one side of said key blank securing groove adapted to secure a key blank inserted into said key blank securing groove from said magazine;
a key extraction module engageable with said movable base substantially adjacent said key blank securing groove, said key extraction module including a reciprocatable push rod, disposable behind a lowermost key blank housed in one of said magazines, adapted to push the lowermost key blank out of said magazine.
2. System for extracting a key blank from a pre-selected plurality of key blanks according to claim 1 , wherein said at least one magazine comprises a plurality of said magazines, each of said magazines adapted to house a different type of said key blanks, and wherein one of said key extraction module and said plurality of magazines is relatively movable with respect to the other of said key extraction module and said plurality of magazines to select a specific type of key blank.
3. System for extracting a key blank from a pre-selected plurality of key blanks according to claim 1 , further comprising a guide roller disposable adjacent the key blank being pushed out of said magazine by said push rod, said guide roller being substantially opposite said key blank securing groove of said movable base when said movable base engages said key extraction module.
4. System for extracting a key blank from a pre-selected plurality of key blanks according to claim 2 , each of said magazines further comprising a pair of substantially parallel leaf springs disposed at one end of said magazine, said leaf springs being spaced apart to guide a lowermost key blank in said magazine out of said magazine during extraction.
5. System for extracting a key blank from a pre-selected plurality of key blanks according to claim 1 , said extraction module further comprising:
an extraction base supporting said push rod and said guide roller;
a cam rider projecting from and mechanically linked to said push rod; and
a key support arm hingedly attached to said extraction base and cammingly connected to said push rod via said cam rider, said key support arm having a blade support platform at a distal end, said key support arm being spring-based upward towards said push rod,
wherein when a key blank is being removed from said magazine, said key support arm is biased upward to cause contact between said blade support platform and the blade of the emerging key blank.
6. System for extracting a key blank from a pre-selected plurality of key blanks according to claim 5 , said key support arm further comprising a proximal raised camming surface, a distal raised camming surface, and a central lowered camming surface,
wherein when said cam rider rides over either of said proximal or distal camming surfaces, said cam rider pushes said key support arm down away from the emerging key blank to prevent contact between the emerging key blank and said blade support platform.