How do locks work?

Answer 1

A sequence of pins with a tumbler. Ridges on a key lift pins so the tumbler has no pins hindering the 'spin' when you turn the key and it allows free movement to open bolt. Door unlocks.

Answer 2

If you mean security locks, it depends entirely upon the type of lock :)

Cylinder locks or pin tumbler locks as developed by Linus Yale based on egyptian design work on a series of pins, drivers and springs. As the key is inserted, the pins are lifted flush with the plug, permitting it to be turned. http://students.cup.edu/mou2519/PinTumbler-LL8.jpg a good picture demonstrating what I mean. When the key is withdrawn again the pins and drivers drop into the plug to prevent it from being turned. There are various ways to prevent drill attacks and picking - hardened parts, different shapes of pins and other parts etc.

When the plug is turned, it can be used to turn a cam (in a double cylinder) or a bar (in a rim cylinder - usually used in a nightlatch/rimlock)

Nightlatches usually work on a dual cam system, one from the cylinder side and one from the handle side. The complexity of these and the security depends on how expensive it is and how much work has gone into it.

Mortice locks (Also spelt mortise depending on where in the world you're from) work on a lever basis. As the key is turned, the levers are lifted and a "thrower" - a type of cam - pushes the bolt out. If the wrong key is inserted, the levers will not be lifted and will jam or snag.

There are other systems of cylinder as well as the pin tumbler. The keso system uses pins on all sides of the key and is very high security. Some systems use rotating discs.

And that's without discussing padlocks! It's hard to give a better answer without knowing what kind of lock you mean.

Answer 3

If you want to find out how an incredibly cool lock works, look at the video on the site below.

The Wilkes Detector Lock was made by John Wilkes in about 1680. It was used on the door of a room where valuables were kept and it was the pinnacle of lockmaking of its time.

A figure in brass points at a number on an engraved dial. This mechanism counts any sneaky openings and closings of the lock. So if someone opens your safe while you are away you know about it.

The keyhole is concealed behind the guardian's leg, discovered only by the pressing of a secret button which causes him to kick out. To throw the bolt you need to first tilt the man's hat.

Engraved on the lock are the words:
If I had ye gift of tongue
I would declare and do no wrong
Who ye are ye come by stealth
To impare my Master's wealth.

Answer 4

They don't always! Especially when you need them to work.
You should always remember...Locks are only made for honest people...'cos if someone is determined enough...a lock is nothing.

Answer 5

They fill up with water to allow boats to go up and down canals and rivers.

Answer 6

Go to www.howstuffworks.com - very useful

Answer 7

with keys