How does a lock work?

(2010-05-30 12:20:46)

1. Bonquiqui Says: you know how you put the key in the lock and turn it and the door opens but what does on in the process of the 3 seconds so what goes on inside there

2. gimpalomg Says: D's answer is very good, simple and easy to understand. I thought you might like a bit more information with a few pictures. Have a look at the following: http://www.howstuffworks.com/search.php?terms=locks

Cheers

GIMP

3. D Says: In a conventional lock your key is simply pushing small pins back in a way which allows the tumbler to turn, moving a rod that unlocks the actual lock. When the key is out, the pins pop back and keep the lock from turning.

4. idontgivafork Says: the lock cyl is connected to the door latch,where the real lock is at.it just doesnt allow the mechanism to operate when locked. as for the key and tumbler assy,think of having 4 different length deadbolts on a door.each one must be in the correct position.in to far or out to far and it doesnt work,only with deadbolts, they only open or close.each little bump on your key allows the bolts to aligh correctly, or incorrectly.if even 1 of the miniture bolts are out of alignment, the tumbler assy will not turn.these mini bolts are known as tumblers.they must align(they have a different set of heights for every key combination.the right key in the tumbler assy brings them all level allowing the lock to turn.the wrong key will place the tumblers to high or 2 low in the tumbler channel.