Pin tumbler lock
part · 700 BC · Ancient world
Pins lined up by a key; the idea dates back to Egypt, the modern one to Yale, 1861.
Principles and materials it uses
- Wood — is made of. The pins of the Egyptian lock are wooden.
- Universal gravitation — uses. The pins drop into holes in the bolt under their own weight.
Where it is used
- Lock and key — is part of. The pins keep the cylinder from turning without a key.
- Padlock — is part of. A secret mechanism.