The information is printed on the referral ticket and dispensed to the consumer at the master key identification system with instructions on where the consumer should take the referral ticket to get the key duplicated. Provisional Patent Applications: 61/411,401 to Mueller et al. 15, 2011, 61/411,148 to Mueller et al. Aspects and applications of the disclosure presented here are described below in the drawings and detailed description. No. The display associated with the identification system indicates to the consumer that the self-serve kiosk cannot create a duplicate key for that particular key but that if the consumer takes the key and the referral ticket to the automotive department service desk, a store employee will gladly create the duplicate key for the consumer. This may be accomplished by scanning the duplicate key in the same way the master key was scanned, and performing an image comparison to determine whether the duplicate key matches the master key within a predetermined, limited tolerance far error. FIG. 4B, the key receiving aperture 44 may dynamically revise its perimeter's 46 shape after a consumer or system identifies a master key type through a digital interface coupled with a side of the duplication housing. The Hillman Group, Inc. (Cincinnati, OH, US), FINNEGAN, HENDERSON, FARABOW, GARRETT & DUNNER (WASHINGTON, DC, US). According to another aspect, a master key model identification, duplication, and feedback system may comprise a key identification housing, a master key receiving aperture on the housing sized to receive a master key, a master key identifier adjacent to the master key receiving aperture and configured to capture physical characteristics of the master key, a key duplication system operatively associated with the key identification housing, housing a plurality of available key blanks of the known key models, and configured to dispense an available key blank when a user selects the available key blank, a processor, in communication with the master key identifier, the processor may be configured to access a database defining a plurality of known key models, compare the physical characteristics of the master key with physical characteristics of the known key models in the database to identify a model of the master key, determine whether the model of the master key matches a model of at least one of the plurality of available key blanks, and communicate the model of the master key to a feedback module, comprising a printer and coupled to the key identification housing, when the model of the master key does not match a model of at least one of the plurality of available key blanks, wherein the feedback module, responsive to the communication from the processor, prints on a ticket an indication of the model of the master key and directions to a location remote from the key identification housing where a key blank having the same model of the master key is available for duplicating the master key. From this disclosure, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand the versatility with which this disclosure may be applied. The salesperson selects the appropriate model key blank from stock, takes the user's master key, and provides a duplicate key in a conventional manner. An overview for a process of enabling a consumer to cut its own duplicate key is illustrated in FIG. According to a first aspect, a master key model identification and feedback system may comprise a key identification housing, a master key receiving aperture on the housing, sized to receive a master key, a master key identifier adjacent to the master key receiving aperture and configured to capture physical characteristics of the master key, and a processor, in communication with the master key identifier, the processor configured to access a database defining a plurality of known key models, compare the physical characteristics of the master key with physical characteristics of the known key models in the database to identify a model of the master key, and communicate the model of the master key to a feedback module coupled to the key identification housing, wherein the feedback module, responsive to the communication from the processor, outputs an indication of the model of the master key and directions to a location remote from the key identification housing where a key blank having the same model of the master key is available for duplicating the master key. & Terms of Use. Another recent key duplication system described in U.S. Pat. As illustrated in FIG. Because particular embodiments of the disclosed key duplication systems are configured to receive two different key types in the same key receiving aperture, there is a chance that a user may insert a master key of a first type and accidentally select a key blank of a second type. When the store employee receives the referral ticket, the store employee briefly, visually confirms that the key appears to be what the system identified it as (Lexus Auto key), pulls an appropriate key blank as identified on the referral ticket, and pulls the Axxess key cutting system cassette identified on the referral ticket to create the duplicate key. 6,836,553 to Campbell et al., titled Key identification System, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, automatically identifies the appropriate key blank and indicates that number for key selection. entitled Key Duplication Identification Systems and Cutting Machines and Related Methods, which was filed Jan. 12, 2011, the disclosures of all of which are hereby incorporated herein in their entirety by this reference. This may be in addition to or in lieu of other master key identification data. Communicating, with the processor, the model of the master key to the feedback module when the model of the master key is not among the plurality of available keys. This process can be accomplished before, during or after the scanner 114 or a related component identifying the master key bit pattern 124 and its type for duplication. 7,890,878 to Bass et al., titled Object identification System, discloses a system that identifies an appropriate key blank by flashing a light adjacent the appropriate key blank on a product display next to a key blank cutter so that the consumer or a trained worker can select the appropriate key for insertion into the key blank cutter. This application also claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. In yet other implementations, pressure, heat or other sensors, including mechanical sensors, are used to capture the data indicating the physical characteristics. This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not limited to the specific components or assembly procedures disclosed herein. Particular embodiments and implementations may comprise one or more of the following. FIG. Which clamp surface 16, 18 matches which corresponding key surface 24, 26 is not critical to the clamp 14, but an arrangement where the right clamp 30 and surface 22 topography engages the right key side keyway groove of a Kwikset 42 key side topography and the left clamp 28 surface 20 engages the left key side keyway groove of a Schlage 40 key side topography is most likely and provides the advantage of a more secure engagement for these two particular key types than the reverse configuration. In the particular implementation illustrated in FIG. In a particular implementation of the key duplication system, as illustrated in FIG. generation, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLED-FRACTURE MACHINING, TABLE TOP FOR MATERIAL SHAPING MACHINE AND METHOD OF MOUNTING THEREOF, Machine tool having a vertical main spindle and a method of making the same, MACHINE TOOL AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING GEARING, High-Speed Movable Bearing in Particular for the Mounting of a Main Spindle of a Machine Tool, DYNAMICALLY OPTIMIZED MACHINE TOOL HAVING SUPERIMPOSED DRIVE SYSTEMS, MACHINE TOOL AND FEED SADDLE STRUCTURE THEREOF, MACHINE TOOL COMPRISING AN ULTRASONIC SENSOR, METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUSES FOR PRODUCING PRODUCTS FROM BLANKS. 4A) by one of the keyway groove guides 36, 38 engaging with the correct key blank, and that the key is securely held by the clamp closing after the key is fully inserted with one of the keyway groove guides 36, 38 engaging a keyway groove on one side of the key for a majority of the length of the key blade, and in some implementations for substantially all of the length of the key blade where the key blade is cut. In a first implementation, the at least one cutter may relocate laterally along a support bar 134 in relation to the at least two key blank receiving apertures 130, 132 depending upon Which of the at least two key blank receiving apertures has a key positioned therein for cutting. To the contrary, if the provisions of 35 112, 6 are sought to be invoked to define the inventions, the claims will specifically and expressly state the exact phrases means for or step for, and will also recite the word function (i.e., will state means for performing the function of [insert function]), without also reciting in such phrases any structure, material or act in support of the function. The consumer can then take the ticket to the counter, part of the store or other location or store indicated on the referral ticket, submit the referral ticket to a sales associate at the duplication location and have the key duplicated. No. The feedback module is configured to receive data from a processor that is in communication with the master key identifier. In some vending implementations, such a system is configured to identify an appropriate key blank based on the data indicating the physical characteristics of the master key identified in the master key identification system, search the available key blanks in the associated vending system, allow the user to choose from the available key blanks, and either automatically dispense the key blank to be cut or automatically transfer the key blank to the cutting system for cutting prior to dispensing. If the processor is unable to identify the model of the master key from the physical characteristics of the master key, the feedback module may output an indication that the model of the master key is unknown and directions to tie location remote from the key identification housing where additional identification assistance is available to identify the model of the master key. The printer may further be configured to print the directions to the remote location on the ticket. For example, if a simplified, consumer operated key duplication system is needed for a small lock shop, two of the most commonly sold small lock key side topographies could be matched (one on one clamp side and the other on the other clamp side) to create an inexpensive, easy to operate key duplication system for a specialized key duplication location. 15, 2010, the disclosures of all of which are hereby incorporated. The processor is configured to access a database defining a plurality of known key models, compare the physical characteristics of the master key with physical characteristics of the known key models in the database to identify a model of the master key, and communicate the model of the master key to the feedback module coupled to the key identification housing. Because of the information on the ticket, the sales associate can quickly ascertain which key blank model is needed. & Terms of Use. entitled Two-Key Duplication ID and Cutting Machine with Specialized Clamp which was filed on Nov. 8, 2010, and 61/432,089 to Hagen et al. All changes that come within the meaning of and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced therein. The key blade clamp forward edges 48, 50 may also be tapered, for example as shown in FIG. 4A, the at least one key clamp 14, implemented as a key blank clamp 14 in this illustration, possesses clamping surfaces 16, 18 that allow the at least one key clamp 14 to directly interface with and engage the surface 24, 26 and keyway grooves of a key blank blade 40, 42 in order to securely hold each of two specific and different key blank cross-sections in a determined position in relation to a cutting wheel 15 during the cutting process. No. ), the manufacturer of the key, the duplicate key blank code (i.e. Furthermore, at least one key blank receiving aperture 8 is located on the housing (same side for this particular implementation, though not required for all implementations), and at least one key blank clamp 10 is located adjacent to the least one key blank receiving aperture. 10 and 11 further illustrate a ticket printer 231 and printed ticket 233, described more fully later in this disclosure. entitled Key Blank and Carrier Adapted for Positioning a Key Blank in a Cutter During Bit Cutting, which was filed on Jul. In particular implementations of the key duplication housing 126, the at least one key blank cutter may furthermore remove added features 136 on a key blank 138. 6). 112, 6, to define the invention. Particular embodiments and implementations may comprise one or more of the following, The indication of the model of the master key comprises one or more of: a manufacturer name, a model name, a SKU, a graphic representation of the master key, a barcode, and a unique identification number. entitled Key Duplication Machine Identification System which was filled on Nov. 8, 2010, and 61/364,644 to Hagen et al. FIG. 4 are both shown within the same clamp in FIG. The feedback module, responsive to the communication from the processor, outputs an indication of the model of the master key and directions to a location remote from the key identification housing where a key blank having the same model of the master key is available for duplicating the master key. In the particular implementation illustrated in FIG. Dispensing, with the key duplication system, a selected available key blank matching the model of the master key when a user selects the available key blank. These instructions may be as simple as merely an indication of which key blank is needed, or more complex instructions as to how to operate the key duplication system at the remote location. The master key identifier may comprise a scanner that captures the physical characteristics of the master key, The indication of the model of the master key may comprise one or more of: a manufacturer name, a model name, a SKU, a graphic representation of the master key, a barcode, and a unique identification number. Absent the use of such adjectives, descriptive terms, or modifiers, it is the intent that such nouns, terms, or phrases be given their plain, and ordinary English meaning to those skilled in the applicable arts as set forth above. 4A, in a particular implementation of the key clamp, key clamping surfaces 16, 18 may include mating keyway groove guides 36, 38 on the clamp surfaces that engage the key surface. 9-11. In places where the description above refers to particular implementations of key duplication system, key receiving aperture, and key blank carrier, it should be readily apparent that a number of modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof and that these implementations may be applied to other key duplication system, key receiving aperture, and key blank carrier or in combination. The consumer, either at the user interface or later through a web site accessed from another location such as the consumer's home, may later custom design a duplicate key from the options at the web site and request that the custom key be mailed to the consumer or to a store of the consumer's choosing. KW5, KW10, KW11, SC4, SC6, SC7, etc. in some embodiments, the referral is forwarded electronically, either automatically or upon consumer option, to a separate terminal (such as by wired or wireless transmission, through intranet or Internet). The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent to those artisans of ordinary skill in the art from the DESCRIPTION and DRAWINGS, and from the CLAIMS. More specific implementations relate to simplified key duplication systems for identifying a predetermined number of keys for duplication. By specific example, the processor may communicate data that causes the feedback device to display on a visual display 240 and/or a printed display 231 provided to the user, a ticket with directions to a location remote from the key identification housing where a key blank having the same model of the particular master key is available for duplicating the master key. The presently disclosed implementations are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure being indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. herein in their entirety by this reference. The specific cutting and checkout processes are also not crucial to the present disclosure and any discussion of them is provided as an example for clarity of discussion and is not intended as a limitation for use of the key receiving aperture, key clamp, key identifier or key clamp. 6 is a view of a key duplication system and related key vending display for a two-key vending kiosk; FIG. In some embodiments, key identification is accomplished with the assistance of a laser that uses optical sensors to capture data indicating structural features of the key. Conventionally, key cutting and key duplication machines are used to copy a key by cutting a bit pattern of a master key onto a key blank. The key identification system either asks the consumer questions to assist in identification of the key or simply identifies the master key. In a particular implementation of a key receiving aperture, by non-limiting example such as that illustrated in FIG. In some implementations, if a particular key blank model is not available at a key vending system associated with the key duplication system 110, the system display 116 may communicate instructions to the consumer that they should go to another, remote location, where the key blank model is available for cutting. In places where the description above refers to particular implementations of key duplication system, it should be readily apparent that a number of modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof and that these implementations may be applied to other key duplication system or system portion. In some implementations, it is inconvenient to supply every possible model of key blank at the duplication system. For example, often an overwhelming portion of commonly duplicated keys corresponds to only a few key models. According to particular embodiments, a printed ticket 233 generated by the feeback module 231 at least identifies the master key, by data such as which classification of key the key falls into (home, office, auto, small lock, etc. The inventors are fully aware that they can be their own lexicographers if desired. data representing physical characteristics, such as dimensions, patterns, or other parameters indicative of a particular key model either received from the master key identifier or from data input by the operator or a combination of both). The master key identifier may comprise a scanner that captures the physical characteristics of the master key. . For example, a visual display monitor 240 or a wired or wireless communication device may be used in some implementations. into the housing. It is known to use methods such as tracer bars, stylus, or other types of mechanical arms to trace a master key bit pattern. Furthermore, the various components forming a particular implementation of a key blank or carrier may be manufactured separately and then assembled together, or any or all of the components may be manufactured simultaneously and integrally joined with one another. 6) and a processor associated with the system can determine Whether the Do Not Duplicate message is included on the key head through many different methods of image comparison or even text recognition known in the art. According to a particular method of and system for identifying a master key, the scanner 114 comprises an image capture function, such as through a camera or other image capture device, to determine whether a master key head includes the words Do Not Duplicate and stops the duplication process if the words exist on the key head. The disclosure further sheds light on structure of a key clamp capable of interfacing with and securely holding keys made by different key manufacturers. All rights reserved. If the processor is unable to identify the model of the master key from the physical characteristics of the master key, the feedback module may print on a ticket an indication that the model of the master key is unknown and directions to the location remote from the key identification housing where additional identification assistance is available to identify the model of the master key. If the processor is unable to identify the model of the master key from the physical characteristics of the master key, outputting, with the feedback module, an indication that the model of the master key is unknown and directions to the location remote from the key identification housing where additional identification assistance is available to identify the model of the master key. step for performing the function of . In use as a master key clamp, particular implementations of the key clamps disclosed herein may be used to identify the master key for the consumer to signal which key blank to choose, to confirm that the master key is properly aligned with a key bit identifier whether implemented as a mechanical or other tracing system or as an optical trace, optical image capture or other identifier, and to hold the master key still and prevent removal of the master key during the key identification and/or duplication process. This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. The processor may communicates the model of the master key to the feedback module when the model of the master key is not among the plurality of available keys. , if the claims also recite any structure, material or acts in support of that means or step, or that perform the recited function, then it is the clear intention of the inventors not to invoke the provisions of 35 112, 6. 3. Outputting an indication and directions may further comprise printing the directions to the remote location on the ticket. 13/183,982 to Mueller et al. Those parts include the key head or bow, the shoulder, the blade and the tip. This disclosure further reveals various groupings of a master key identifier, a key blank receiving aperture, a key blank cutter, and a key blank clamp in a key duplication system. Multiple key blank receiving apertures may be used, for example, to allow each key blank receiving aperture 130 or 132 to be specifically designed for a particular key blank cross-sectional shape. 5, 2011, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference. The consumer is informed by the user interface that the master key is an auto key and possibly that the key is for a 2010 Camaro. Privacy Policy In the non-limiting example of FIG. The at least one key clamp 14 further comprises at least two distinct clamping surface 16, 18 topographies such that the surfaces 16, 18 are configured to mate with and correspond to different key blade surfaces 24, 26. By way of a non limiting example, the perimeter shape 46 of at least one key receiving aperture 44 may be partially defined by a surface shape of at least one key clamp element wherein one of the clamp elements with a profile corresponding to the surface topography of a particular key may be positioned in the way of key receiving aperture to allow only a key with a single matching profile to be inserted. The indication of the model of the master key may comprise one or more of: a manufacturer name, a model name, a SKU, a graphic representation of the master key, a barcode, and a unique identification number. The custom key may be mailed as a key blank that the consumer takes to the store to be cut, or may, in particular implementations, be a fully cut key, cut according to the bit code identified from the master key. 11) is provided in FIG. If a key blank is mailed, the consumer can take it back to the store and, using the previously printed referral ticket or with reference to a referral number or code, put or have a worker put the custom key blank into a key cutting machine and cut the custom key blank. The accompanying claims are intended to cover such modifications as would fall within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure set forth in this document. Other implementations may include any other key identification method or structure known in the art including, but not limited to, image recognition and full or partial user identification of the master key from a display. 8 is a front view of a key duplication system with a front panel. 2 illustrates a general key of the type to be identified through the key identification system embodiment and methods described herein include several important parts as identified in the image immediately below this paragraph. Particular implementations of the key cutting machine with a standard reference features may include a key blank cutter to cut a key blank carried within a key blank carrier or not within a key blank carrier, a key blank receiving aperture and a key blank carrier clamp to align a key blank or key blank carrier by holding at least a portion of the key or the blank carrier within the key cutting machine housing in a predetermined position with respect to the key blank cutter. FIG. Click for automatic bibliography Outputting an indication and directions may comprise printing, with the feedback module, the indication of the model of the master key on a ticket. In implementations where the ticket is printed for the customer, the customer may take and deliver the ticket 233 to a sales associate at the remote location.