Spring-Loaded Ball Detents: Tactile 360-Degree Positioning in High-Security Plugs
Engineering Overview: Engineering analysis of spring-loaded ball detents providing positive 360-degree rotational positioning and key extraction alignment.
Technical & Engineering Specifications
| Benefit | Prevents key entrapment due to misaligned plugs |
|---|---|
| Function | Positive 360-degree resting alignment |
| Material | Stainless Steel 304 Ball & Spring |
| Mechanism | Spring-Loaded Stainless Steel Ball Detent |
Precision Rotational Alignment
In complex multi-axis cylinders, keys can become trapped if the plug is removed slightly out of alignment with pin chambers.
Ball Detent Mechanics
- Spring-Loaded Steel Ball: A $\Phi 2.0 ext{ mm}$ stainless ball seated in the body engages a precision dimple on the plug at exact 360° rest.
- Tactile Click: Gives users a positive tactile click when the lock is fully unlocked or locked, ensuring smooth key removal.
Frequently Asked Engineering & Selection Questions
Q1: What is a ball detent on a lock cylinder?
A small spring-loaded ball that clicks into a groove when the key completes a 360-degree turn, ensuring the key is perfectly aligned for easy removal.