History of the lock
The lock is an instrument that we regularly use to protect ourselves. This proven mechanism serves as a lock and can only be unlocked with a key or code. This deterrent allows us to avoid burglaries and break-ins that are commonplace today. If Cro-Magnon man protected his caves using large stones, which served as doors, the history of the lock teaches us that evolution has made this protection easier.
Your locksmith Tampa is, in a way, the last link in the long history of the evolution of locks. Indeed, the current transition from the lock with a manual opening to the biometric lock is not insignificant but just a natural extension of the technological evolution of locks.
Antique locks
The first “hap” locks to be recognized date from 3,000 BC. These Egyptian fabrications, contemporary with the monumental sculptures they protected, had keys and were made from teak. They constituted an essential element of the device elaborated to guard the entrance to the temples. These locks were made of bolts and a slot where the key was inserted. This model, however, is not considered the first lock.
These Egyptian locks influenced their African counterparts. These were used to protect the grain silos. They were usually adorned with figurines of protective deities. The Roman locks that appeared later are quite similar to those we use today. They had systems made either of a pusher or a rotation. At this time, the so-called “Laconian” lock also appeared.
Modern-day locks
During part of the following period, especially the medieval period, the aesthetics of locks became monotonous and repetitive. The renaissance will stop this long phase of stability by involving sculptors who presented complex models to master locksmiths. The locks become works of art, the development of which can take up to two years.
Famous locksmiths like All In One Locksmith gave locksmithing its letters of nobility by helping to shape the reputation of this craft.
Contemporary locks
The Victorian era marks the beginning of a mixture between ornament and security. It gives rise to unique creations. The history of the lock is also marked by bronze which is the material of this time. If the locks were decorated with motifs of buildings such as churches during the transition period, the Victorian era opens on a more pastoral tone with representations made of flowers. The 20th century sees ornament relegated to second place while security takes over.
The use of the lock is also diversifying and is gaining coffers. Thanks to the dials, these locks are more efficient. Later, Linus Yale Jr. perfected the cylindrical tumbler lock and filed its patent in 1861. It marks the history of the lock because it has a flat notched key similar to that produced today. It was around this time that the different categories of locks that we know today were established:
- The trim lock has trim. To open, the inserted key bit must match.
- The tumbler locks its metal parts rest on a pivot. The key bit raises the pivot to a certain height thanks to the rotation and unlocks the lock.
- The tumbler lock or Yale lock has several pins of different sizes.
- The tubular lock has pins that form a circle concerning the cylinder.
- The pump lock or security lock.
- The cremone lock.
- The biometric lock uses a unique element in the individual as a key.
- The secret lock.
- The disc lock