What are locks?

Locks are mechanical devices that secure an opening by keeping a door closed until a release mechanism is activated. This usually includes using a lever, knob, key or a thumb-turn.

What are the different types of locks?

Mechanical locks come in four different variations, including:

Cylinder
Spring bolt
Mortise
Deadbolt

How do locks work?

The lock attaches itself behind a spindle, which goes through a set of wheels and attaches at the back to a drive cam. A number of wheels can be found behind the dial, equal to the number in the combination. It makes contact with the wheel fly on the back wheel, making the wheel spin.

When was the mechanical lock invented?

The Romans invented these in the sixth century to keep their valuables in secured lockboxes within their households. A few historians say that mechanical locks advanced in Egypt, especially in Ancient Egypt, where it consisted of a wooden post that was affixed to a door and a bolt that slid into the post.

Where are mechanical locks used?

Mechanical locks are mainly found in safes. On addition to this, other applications include:

Briefcases
Safe deposit boxes
Lockers