WO2025027533A1

WO2025027533A1 - Key duplicating machine

Info

Publication number: WO2025027533A1
Application number: PCT/IB2024/057391
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gianfranco VARONE; Mao BINGYONG; Luca Bolognese; Nicola BETTIOL
Original assignee: Silca S.P.A.
Priority date: 2023-08-03
Filing date: 2024-07-31
Publication date: 2025-02-06

Abstract

Electronic key duplicating machine (1), preferably of the professional or semi- professional type, comprising: - a support structure (10), - an operational front area (2) which is accessible by the operator, - at least one milling and/or cutting device (11) of a key, said device comprising: ▪ a chuck (26), which is positioned inside said operational front area (2), for the removable mounting of at least one milling and/or cutting tool (15) of a key, ▪ a motor, preferably of the electric type, for driving in rotation said milling and/or cutting tool (15) when it is mounted on said chuck (26), and characterized in that it comprises a recognition device which is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool (15) of the milling and/or cutting device (11), said recognition device comprising a first communication module (51) which is mounted on board the machine (1) and which is configured to receive or exchange signals via wireless with a second communication module (52) which is mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool (15).

Description

KEY DUPLICATING MACHINE.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention concerns a key duplicating machine with an innovative device for recognizing the milling and/or cutting tool.

The present invention also concerns a milling and/or cutting tool for a key duplicating machine.

The present invention also concerns a method for recognizing the milling and/or cutting tool in a key duplicating machine.

STATE OF THE ART

The known professional or semi-professional electronic duplicating machines (which are generally present and used in key duplication centres) have an operational work area at the front which substantially corresponds to the visible area wherein the cutter or the cutters to obtain the bitting cuts on the key, any probe or optical reader, at least one clamp to hold the key to be encrypted or duplicated, and the trolleys for moving the clamp(s) are provided.

As is known, the processing to define the bitting on the blade of a key is generally carried out using a cutter which can be disc-shaped, with a prismatic or hacksaw profile, or an end mill. In particular, for example, while the bitting of the edge of the blade of the flat keys is obtained using a disc cutter, for the so-called "laser" or "track" keys, the bitting, both internal and external, is carried out by obtaining, using an end mill, a groove on one or both faces of the key blade.

Currently, the operator acts on the interface of the key duplicating machine by selecting the type of key to be duplicated, or in any case its characteristics, and on the basis of this the key duplicating machine is programmed to signal to the operator himself, on the user interface (display) with which the machine itself is generally equipped, which cutter should be used to obtain the machining required on the key blank for the purpose of duplicating the original key, as well as to indicate which clamp and which key blank to use.

In essence, currently, it is the duplicating machine that suggests to the operator which cutter to use to duplicate a specific key. However, it is then up to the operator to identify and pick up the cutter thus suggested, to mount it on a corresponding chuck with which the duplicating machine is equipped.

However, currently, the operation of identifying the correct cutter is particularly complicated given that there are often multiple cutters that are visually quite similar to each other, for example differing only in the material with which they are made. In view of this, in order to facilitate identification, generally a laser recognition marking is made on each cutter, which however over time tends to erase or in any case to become unrecognizable, thus preventing the prompt identification of the correct cutter.

In essence, currently, the prompt identification of the correct cutter in order to carry out a specific key duplication process depends essentially on the operator's experience.

US2016114412 shows a key duplicating machine wherein the cutters are equipped with corresponding barcodes that can be read through a camera in order to recognize where each cutter has been mounted. Furthermore, the orientation and positioning of all drills can be detected through the camera.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

The object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine which allows to overcome, at least in part, the drawbacks of known solutions.

Another object of the invention is to allow the identification of the correct tool even by less experienced operators.

Another object of the invention is to allow a quicker identification of the correct tool.

Another object of the invention is to signal to the operator if a tool, which is not the correct one to carry out a specific process and/or for a specific key to be machined, has been mounted on the key duplicating machine.

Another object of the invention is to signal to the operator whether the tool has been effectively and/or correctly mounted on the duplicating machine.

Another object of the invention is to allow the unambiguous identification of the tool type/model to be used.

Another object of the invention is to allow the unique identification of each tool.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a key duplicating machine that allows the useful life of each tool to be monitored.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a key duplicating machine which also provides information relating to the useful life of each tool.

Another object of the invention is to increase the useful life of the tools used for key bitting operations.

Another object of the present invention is to optimize the performance of the machine, while allowing to obtain a high-quality duplicate key.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine which makes the cutting phase of a key blank of the laser, track or similar type particularly efficient so as to reproduce on the blade of said key, or on a portion thereof, a specific bitting profile.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine that can be manufactured simply, quickly and at low costs.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine that is highly automated.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine which is suitable for a professional or semi-professional use.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine that is simple, quick and intuitive to use.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine of reduced dimensions.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine that is an improvement and/or alternative compared to traditional solutions.

Another object of the invention is to propose a duplicating machine with an alternative characterization, both in functional and implementational terms, compared to traditional ones.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

All these objects, both individually and in any combination thereof, and others that will result from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a duplicating machine having the characteristics indicated in claim 1. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The present invention is further clarified hereinafter in a preferred embodiment, reported for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawings, wherein: figure 1 shows a perspective view of an electronic key duplicating machine according to the invention, figure 2 shows a detail of the machine in fig. 1 around the tool, figure 2A shows an enlarged detail of fig. 2, figure 3 shows a detail of the machine in fig. 1 according to a vertical section passing through the rotation axis of the tool, figure 3A shows an enlarged detail of fig. 3, figure 4 shows a perspective view of a detail of the machine in fig. 1 at the receiver/transceiver of the first communication module mounted on board the machine itself, figure 4A shows a perspective view of a section of the detail in fig. 4, figure 5 shows a perspective view of a milling and/or cutting tool used/usable in the machine in fig. 1 , figure 5A shows a perspective view of a section of the tool in fig. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION AND OF SOME OF ITS PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

As can be seen from the figures, according to the invention, the electronic key duplicating machine 1 comprises a support structure 10 and also comprises an operational front area 2 which is accessible by the operator.

Preferably, the operational front area 2 is removably covered and separated, at least partially, from the external environment 3 by means of a covering and/or protective casing 4 which is mobile with respect to said support structure 10.

Conveniently, the machine 1 can also include a rear containment area 5 which is covered and separated from the external environment by a housing 6 which is preferably fixed, i.e. non-movable with respect to said support structure 10.

Conveniently, the duplicating machine 1 is of the professional or semi- professional type, that is, it is of the type generally present and used in centers/shops for key duplication. In particular, the duplicating machine 1 is of a type that is not suitable for use in an industrial context and/or in mass production.

Conveniently, the support structure 10 can comprise a support base 7 at the bottom and also a dividing element 8 which separates the operational front area 2 from the rear containment area 5. Preferably, said dividing element 8 has a substantially vertical development and, more preferably, it is defined by a dividing wall (or even more dividing walls) with a substantially vertical development, which is mounted on said support base 7. In particular, the aforementioned two areas 2, 5 are defined above the support base 7 and are separated from each other by said dividing element 8. Advantageously, in this way the components of the duplicating machine not intended for processing are protected from the processing that can be carried out in the operational front area 2 and also the electromagnetic interference that these components can emit on a first and a second communication module described hereinafter are weakened.

Preferably, the casing 4 is associated with the support structure 10 so that it can be rotated or otherwise moved with respect to the latter; furthermore, the housing 6 is conveniently associated stably with the support structure 10 by means of suitable mechanical fixing means, for example by interlocking engagement and/or traditional fixing members (screws, rivets, bolts, etc.). The machine 1 is provided with a milling and/or cutting device 11 for keys, which comprises:

- a chuck 26 which is positioned inside said operational front area 2 and which is configured for the removable mounting of at least one milling and/or cutting tool 15 of a key,

- a motor, preferably of the electric type, to rotate said milling and/or cutting tool 15 when it is mounted on said chuck 26.

Preferably, the device 11 of the machine 1 includes at least one milling and/or cutting tool 15 with which to carry out a specific processing on a key; said tool 15 is configured and intended to be mounted on the chuck 26 so as to act within the operational front area 2 of the machine 1 .

In particular, the chuck 26 is configured to receive and hold/lock the milling and/or cutting tool 15, to thus carry out a specific processing of a specific key by means of the tool 15 thus mounted on the chuck and driven in rotation by the motor of the device 11 , and also to remove, if necessary, the tool thus mounted and/or used in order to mount another milling and/or cutting tool on the chuck itself. In essence, several (at least two) milling and/or cutting tools 15 can be removably mounted and locked in sequence on the same chuck 26.

Preferably, at least two or in any case a plurality of milling and/or cutting tools 15 are provided which, in sequence and if necessary, can be mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 .

Preferably, the milling and/or cutting tool 15 comprises an end mill 40 or other cutting tool with a rotating tip, which is driven in rotation by said motor around its longitudinal development axis.

Preferably, said milling and/or cutting device 11 is configured for the processing of laser or track keys or, in general, keys wherein the bitting groove or grooves on one, or on both faces, of the key blade can be made by means of an end mill 40.

Conveniently, the end mill 40 comprises a body 41 , preferably cylindrical, for its assembly on a suitable chuck 26, and a head 42 wherein the cutting profiles 43 of the cutter itself are obtained. Conveniently, between the cylindrical body 41 and the cutting profiles 43 of the tip of the head 42 there can be a frustoconical or tapered connection section 44.

Preferably, said end mill 40 has a particularly small diameter, for example a minimum of approximately 0.1 mm at the head 42 and a maximum of approximately 10 mm at the body 41 . Conveniently, the machine 1 includes, at/ in proximity to the milling and/or cutting device 11 , at least one clamp (not shown) to hold a key, which can be a blank key to be machined or an already encrypted key to be duplicated and of which the bitting has to be read/acquired, or an already encrypted key on which to make successively an engraving corresponding to one side of its head.

Preferably, the machine 1 also includes, in the operational front area 2, movement means 14 of the clamp to move the key held by the corresponding clamp with respect to the tool of the milling and/or cutting device 11. In a possible and preferential embodiment, these movement means 14 of the clamp comprise two carriages on which at least one clamp is mounted. Preferably, the movement means 14 can be configured to move, as mentioned, the key held by the corresponding clamp with respect to the tool 15 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 , and also to move the key thus held between the action of the tool 15 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 and the action area of a further processing device with which the machine itself can be provided.

Preferably, in a possible and preferential embodiment, a first carriage is provided which is motorized so as to allow the movements of said first carriage in both directions along a first horizontal axis X of the machine. Preferably, on the first carriage it is mounted a second carriage, which is also motorized so as to allow movements of the latter with respect to the first carriage in both directions along a second horizontal axis Y (which is perpendicular to the first horizontal axis X) of the machine 1 .

Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, a further carriage (not shown) can be provided which is motorized so as to allow movements of the clamp and/or of the first carriage and/or of the second carriage along a third axis Z, which is substantially vertical and perpendicular to the horizontal X and Y axes.

Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the clamp is of the traditional type and, in particular, includes a support and two overlapping jaws mounted on a pivot fixed to said support. Preferably, the jaws have a squared plan and the facing surfaces are differently shaped so as to be able to hold keys with different profiles in between. Preferably, to the upper portion of the pivot of the clamp it can be associated a knob having the function of controlling the approach and separation of the two jaws and their locking to the support. Conveniently, the clamp can be configured to hold the key blade between its jaws and, in particular, to hold it at its lateral edge which is not intended to be encrypted (and which is generally substantially straight).

Conveniently, the carriages are controlled and advanced with respect to the tool of the milling and/or cutting device 11 within the action area (defined in the operational front area 2) of the tool itself, so as to obtain in sequence on the blade of a key blank the corresponding bitting slots.

Preferably, in a possible embodiment, said end mill 40 with its chuck 26 is mounted on a support unit 24. Preferably, the motor (not shown) configured to actuate the rotation of said end mill 40 around its longitudinal axis, as well as the mechanical transmission members (not shown, for example transmission belts and return pulleys) to connect the motor output shaft to said end mill 40, can also be mounted on the support unit 24.

Conveniently, the end mill 40 is mounted on a support unit 24 so that the rotation axis of the mill itself is oriented substantially vertically (i.e. substantially along the direction of development of the Z axis), while the face of the key to be machined, held by the clamp, lies on a substantially horizontal plane (preferably defined by the X and Y axes).

In a possible and preferred embodiment, the milling and/or cutting device 11 is configured so that the milling and/or cutting tool 15 is mobile along the vertical axis Z, but not along the horizontal axes X and Y of the machine 1. Conveniently, in this case, the mutual movement between the key to be machined and the tool along the X and Y axes is carried out by means of the movement means 14 of the clamp, while the movement along the vertical axis Z to bring the key to be machined into contact with the milling and/or cutting tool 15 (or even to move it away so as to avoid such contact) can be carried out by moving the device 11 (or possibly also) of the clamp along the Z axis.

Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the machine 1 can include means for moving the milling and/or cutting device 11 along the vertical axis Z to thus cause contact of the milling and/or cutting tool 15 with the key to be machined, and/or along the horizontal (and mutually perpendicular) axes X and/or Y to thus advance the milling and/or cutting tool 15 along the key to be machined.

Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the milling and/or cutting device 11 may be fixed and, in particular, the milling and/or cutting tool 15 may not be mobile along any of the X, Y and Z axes. Conveniently, in this case, both the movement along the vertical axis Z to bring the key to be machined into contact with the milling and/or cutting tool 15 (or even to move it away so as to avoid such contact), and the mutual movement between the key to be machined and the tool along the X and Y axes, is carried out by means of the movement means 14 of the clamp.

Preferably, in another possible embodiment, the milling and/or cutting device 11 can be configured so that the milling and/or cutting tool 15 is mobile along the vertical axis Z and also along the axis X and/or Y. Conveniently, in this case, the mutual movement between the piece to be machined and the tool along the X, Y and Z axes can be carried out by moving the device and/or the clamp along said axes.

Preferably, in a possible embodiment shown in the figures, the milling and/or cutting device 11 is mounted on the dividing element 8. Conveniently, the device 11 can include a bracket which is associated with the support unit 24 and which is fixed to the face of said dividing element 8 facing the operational front area 2.

Preferably, the milling and/or cutting device 11 can comprise a covering structure 25 wherein the support unit 24 and/or the motor of said device is housed; from the covering structure 25 protrudes - at least in part - the chuck 26 on which a corresponding milling and/or cutting tool 15 is intended to be removably mounted.

Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the milling and/or cutting device 11 can be entirely housed inside the operational front area 2 of the machine. Conveniently, in any case, the chuck 26 with the milling and/or cutting tool 15 are positioned inside the operational front area 2 of the machine.

Conveniently, the rear containment area 5 is configured to house components of the machine 1 for which direct access by the operator is not required during normal operation of the machine itself.

Preferably, the motors (not shown), preferably of the step type, for moving the two carriages are housed in the rear containment area 5 and/or in the base 7.

Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the motor of the milling and/or cutting device 11 for driving in rotation the milling and/or cutting tool 15 can be positioned in the rear containment area 5 and be mechanically connected with the chuck 26 which carries the tool 15, which is arranged in the operational front area 2 of the machine, by means of suitable mechanical transmission members (not shown).

Conveniently, in another possible embodiment, the motor of the milling and/or cutting device 11 for rotating the milling and/or cutting tool 15 can be housed inside a covering structure 25 which protrudes from the dividing element 8 inside the operational front area 2 of the machine.

Preferably, in one of its possible embodiments, the machine 1 can include a further processing device (not shown) to create the coding bittings on one, or on both lateral edges, of the blade of a traditional flat key. More preferably, a further processing unit can be of the traditional type. Conveniently, said further processing unit can comprise, as a processing tool, a further milling cutter - preferably a disc cutter - which, conveniently, is driven in rotation by a corresponding electric motor. More in detail, the disc cutter can include an annular element which is mounted on a cutter holder shaft and wherein, along its external edge, the cutting profiles of the cutter itself are obtained. Conveniently, the cutting profiles of the disc cutter can have various toothed profiles.

Preferably, in one of its possible embodiments, the machine 1 can include an engraving device (not shown) to obtain an engraving at at least one of the two faces of the key, preferably to engrave a predefined code on the head of a key and/or a default image.

Conveniently, the machine 1 includes command and management means 19. Preferably, said means 19 supervise the operation of the entire machine and also command and manage the motorization of the movement means 14 of the clamp and/or of the movement means of the milling and/or cutting device 11 and/or the actuation of the tool 15 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 , as well as any further cutting elements with which the machine 1 may be provided.

Conveniently, said command and management means 19 comprise at least one electronic board configured and programmed for the control/command and coordination of the various components of the machine 1 . Conveniently, said command and management means 19 comprise at least one microcontroller and/or microprocessor.

Preferably, said command and management means 19 are electronically connected with the motors and/or sensors provided on the machine itself in order to manage and monitor its operation.

Preferably, the command and management means 19 can comprise:

- a first electronic unit 19' (preferably comprising a microcontroller) which is configured to control/command the motors of the movement means 14 of the clamp and/or of the movement means of the milling and/or cutting device 11 and/or of the actuation of the tool 15 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 ; conveniently, said first electronic unit is electronically connected with the corresponding motors to be controlled/commanded;

- a second electronic unit 19" (preferably including a microprocessor) which coordinates the operation of the various components and/or supervises the operation of the entire machine.

Preferably, said first electronic unit 19' and said second electronic unit 19" are electronically connected to each other, for example by means of a USB connection.

Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the command and management means 19 comprise a microcontroller to control/command the various motors of the machine 1 and also comprise a microprocessor to coordinate and/or supervise the operation of the entire machine 1 . Preferably, said command and management means 19 are housed inside the rear containment area 5.

Preferably, said command and management means 19 can also include storage means.

Advantageously, said command and management means 19 - and preferably the second electronic unit 19" - can be connected to an external electronic device via one or more data communication interfaces (for example, traditional ports for cables or connectors), or via wireless connections, to thus allow the machine 1 to exchange (in reception and/or transmission) data, commands or information with the outside.

Advantageously, said command and management means 19 - and preferably the second electronic unit 19" - can be connected to a user interface, for example a touch screen 23 and/or a control panel which allow the user to control the machine 1.

Conveniently, the milling device 11 can be electronically connected with said command and management means 19, and preferably it can be connected with the first electronic unit 19' which is then electronically connected with the second electronic unit 19".

The machine 1 includes a recognition device which is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool 15 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 .

Preferably, the recognition device is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool 15 when said tool 15 is inside or close to an area 48, which is defined inside the operational front area 2, and wherein the milling and/or cutting tool 15 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 works and/or moves inside of it.

Conveniently, the recognition device is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool 15 even without it being mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11. Advantageously, this is particularly useful since the tools (and in particular end mills) are very similar to each other and it is very difficult for the operator to distinguish them one from the other; therefore, if undecided, the operator can bring a tool closer to the recognition device to thus read on the screen 23 which tool it is, to then mount on the chuck 26 the correct one for the cut.

Preferably, the recognition device is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool 15 when it is mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11.

Preferably, the recognition device is configured to recognize the type/model of the milling and/or cutting tool 15 mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11. Preferably, the recognition device is configured to uniquely recognize, and in particular to uniquely identify, the milling and/or cutting tool 15 mounted on the chuck of the milling and/or cutting device 11 .

The recognition device includes a first communication module 51 mounted on board the machine 1 which is configured to receive or exchange signals via wireless with a second communication module 52 which is mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15.

Conveniently, the recognition device also includes a second communication module 52 mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15. Conveniently, the machine 1 can comprise at least two (preferably a plurality of) milling and/or cutting tools 15, and wherein a corresponding and dedicated second communication module 52 is mounted on at least one tool 15 - preferably on each of said at least two tools 15.

Conveniently, the first communication module 51 and the second communication module 52 are configured to communicate in transmission and/or reception with each other via wireless using radio signals, preferably at short range.

Conveniently, the first module 51 can include a control and/or processing unit which can be defined by the command and management means 19 or can be defined by its own electronic unit (for example comprising a microcontroller and/or microprocessor) which is further and distinct from the command and management means 19, although being electronically connected to the latter.

The second module 52 mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15 and the first module 51 mounted on board the machine 1 are configured to communicate with each other via wireless to thus transfer from said second module to said first module at least one piece of data of said tool 15, since it is stored in said second module, thus allowing the recognition of said tool.

Advantageously, in the solution according to the invention, the tool is recognized when it is actually mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 of the machine 1 , thus allowing to recognize in a certain and safe manner the tool 15 which the operator selected/picked up and which he actually mounted on chuck 26 of machine 1.

Preferably, said at least one piece of data of the tool 15 comprises at least one piece of data for recognizing said tool. Conveniently, said recognition data can include a piece of data representative of the type and/or model of said milling and/or cutting tool 15 and/or it can include a unique data representative of that specific milling and/or cutting tool. Conveniently, on the basis of said at least one piece of data of said tool thus acquired by the first module 51 and representative of the type and/or model of said tool 15, a processing unit with which the machine 1 is provided (which preferably includes the command and management means 19, and more preferably includes said second electronic unit 19") is programmed to provide the operator with corresponding information relating to the type and/or model of said tool and/or to determine whether the tool type/model thus mounted on the chuck and for which the corresponding data has been acquired, is or is not the correct one for a specific process and/or for a specific key to be duplicated. Advantageously, based on the tool type/model thus determined, the machine 1 can be configured to send a corresponding signal to the operator, preferably via the user interface.

Conveniently, on the basis of said at least one piece of data of said tool 15 thus acquired by the first module 51 and representative of a code that uniquely identifies each milling and/or cutting tool 15 (even if of the same type/model), a processing unit with which the machine 1 is provided (which preferably includes the command and management means 19, and more preferably includes said second electronic unit 19") is programmed to provide the operator with corresponding information relating to the type and/or model of said tool and/or to determine whether or not the tool type/model thus mounted on the chuck 26 and for which the corresponding data has been acquired is the correct one for a specific process and/or for a specific key to be duplicated and, preferably, also to reconstruct the number of machining processes already carried out by that tool 15 (i.e. the "history" of that specific tool is reconstructed), thus being able to advantageously determine its wear and/or its residual useful life. Advantageously, on the basis of what is thus determined, the machine 1 can be configured to send a corresponding signal to the operator, preferably via the user interface.

Advantageously, the information thus acquired relating to the tool 15 actually mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 of the machine 1 can be conveniently combined with what is determined according to the teachings described in WO2021084487A1 , to thus provide the operator with further information and/or reports regarding the tool.

Conveniently, the reconstruction of the number of machining processes already carried out by a specific tool 15 can be carried out on the basis of said tool recognition data, which the first module 51 acquires from the second module 52 of that specific tool 15, and thus correspondingly updating the value of a counter which can be stored (also keeping it appropriately updated) locally on the machine 1 or on a remote unit (for example a PC, a real or virtual server, or a cloud server) with which the machine itself is in data connection.

Preferably, the second module 52 mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15 and the first module 51 on board the machine 1 are also configured to communicate with each other via wireless so as to write in said second module, in particular to transfer a further data from the first module 51 to the second module 52 so as to store said further data in said second module. For example, said further data to be transferred from the first module 51 to the second module of a tool 15 can concern the updated number of machining processes carried out by that specific tool.

Conveniently, the reconstruction of the number of processes already carried out by a given tool 15 can be carried out on the basis of said further data, which is transferred from the first module 51 to the second module 52 mounted on a given tool 15 and which is representative of the updated number of processes carried out by that specific tool.

As mentioned, a respective second module 52 is associated with the milling and/or cutting tool 15, which includes:

- a transmitting or transceiver unit for the wireless transmission or reception and transmission of signals, preferably for short-range wireless transmission or reception and transmission, and

- a memory unit wherein at least one piece of data for said tool is stored.

Conveniently, said second module 52 is mounted on said milling and/or cutting tool 15.

Advantageously, therefore, said second module 52 transmits data via wireless communication.

Preferably, said second module 52 is inserted inside and/or incorporated into said milling and/or cutting tool 15. Conveniently, the milling and/or cutting tool 15 can include an insertion and housing seat 54, preferably obtained inside the body of said tool 15, of said second module 52. More preferably, said seat 54 is defined by a cavity

- for example shaped like a pocket - wherein said second module 52 is inserted and housed, at least in part.

Preferably, the second module 52 is mounted on the tool at a section of said tool which is free of cutting profiles 43 and which, when the tool is mounted on the chuck 26, protrudes from the chuck itself. Conveniently, in a possible embodiment represented for example in the figures wherein the tool 15 is defined by an end mill 40, the seat 54 for the second module 52 can be obtained on the cylindrical body 41 of the cutter 40 near the head 42, but spaced from the cutting profiles 43 of the tool itself. Preferably, a covering element 53 can be provided which is associated with the tool 15 to cover the second module 52. Preferably, said covering element 53 can comprise a collar or in any case an equivalent annular element which is fitted around the body of the tool 15 and which is configured to cover the insertion and housing seat 54 of the second module 52. Preferably, said covering element 53 is made of plastic. Advantageously, the covering element 53 allows to hold in the seat 54 the second module 52 inserted therein. Conveniently, when the tool 15 is mounted on the chuck 26, the covering element 53 remains external with respect to the chuck. Advantageously, the covering element 53 allows the seat 54 to be obtained along the section of the lateral surface of the tool 15 which is then covered by the same element, said seat being protected from the operations carried out during machining, so that it is not necessary to obtain slots or passages between the inside and outside of the tool to facilitate communication between the second module 52 and the first module 51. Conveniently, the positioning of the seat 54 in the tool 15 can be advantageous for reducing the influence on the second module 52 of the electromagnetic interference produced by the metallic components surrounding the same second module.

Preferably, said data of said tool 15 which is stored in the memory unit of the second module 52 comprises at least one recognition data of said tool. Conveniently, said recognition data can include a piece of data representative of the type and/or model of said milling and/or cutting tool 15 and/or it can include a unique data representative of that specific milling and/or cutting tool.

As mentioned, correspondingly, on board the duplicating machine 1 it is provided a first module 51 which includes:

- a receiver or transceiver 55 for wireless reception or reception and transmission of signals, preferably for short range wireless transmission or reception and transmission,

- a control and/or processing unit.

Preferably, said first module 51 is positioned on board the support structure 10 of the machine and, in particular, can be mounted (directly or indirectly) on the support structure 10 of the machine itself and/or in any case is associated with said structure.

Preferably, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is positioned so that, when a tool 15 is mounted on the chuck 26, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 substantially faces the section of said tool 15 wherein the second module 52 is mounted. Essentially, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is positioned so that, when the tool 15 is mounted on the chuck 26, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 substantially faces the section of said tool 15 which comes out from the chuck 26. Advantageously, this allows to obtain better communication between the first module 51 and the second module 52, reducing the influence of interference and thus expanding the area which is covered via wireless by the first module and wherein the tool 15 can be used.

Preferably, the receiver or transceiver 55 of said first module 51 is mounted on board the machine 1 so as to be able to receive or exchange signals via wireless with a second communication module 52 of a milling and/or cutting tool 15 both when the tool 15 is mounted on said chuck 26 and when the tool is not mounted on the chuck 26 and is brought closer to said receiver or transceiver 55. Conveniently, this allows the tool 15 to be recognized both when it has actually been mounted on the chuck 26 and before it is mounted on the chuck 26 of the milling and/or cutting device 11 , and this is particularly advantageous since often the tools (and in particular the end mills) are very similar to each other and it is very difficult for the operator to distinguish one from the other; therefore, if undecided, the operator can bring a tool 15 close to the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 to thus read on the screen 23 which tool it is, to then mount on the chuck 26 the correct one for the cut.

Preferably, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is positioned at the dividing element 8 and/or the base 7.

Preferably, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is positioned at or in any case close to the area 48 wherein said tool 15 works and/or moves. Preferably, said receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is configured so as to cover the entire or most of the area 48 wherein said tool 15 works and/or moves. More preferably, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is associated with the dividing element 8 in a position substantially facing the operational area of the tool 15.

Preferably, the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 is mounted on a covering support 56, which in turn is configured to be fixed to the face of the dividing element 8 which faces the operational front area 2. More preferably, the covering support 56 is made of polymeric material, in particular plastic.

Preferably, the dividing element 8 can include a through opening obtained in a position substantially facing the area 48 wherein the tool 15 works and/or can move and, at this opening, the covering support 56 is mounted with the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 .

Advantageously, the covering support 56 allows the first module 51 to be protected from any damage that may occur during the machining carried out in the operational front area 2, for example from the impact of the chips that form during the milling process. Preferably, the control and/or processing unit of the first module 51 can be electronically connected or can be incorporated into the command and management means 19 of the entire machine 1 , and more preferably into the second electronic unit 19".

Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the control and/or processing unit of the first module 51 is electronically connected (for example via USB connection) with the second electronic unit 19" (including, for example, a microprocessor) which, in turn, is electronically connected (for example by means of a further USB connection) with the first electronic unit 19' (comprising, for example, a microcontroller).

Preferably, the control and/or processing unit of the first module 51 is positioned inside the rear containment area 5 of the duplicating machine 1 .

Preferably, the transmitting/receiving unit of the second module 52 mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15 is configured to transmit/exchange signals (in particular containing or connected to/based on said recognition data) at short distances and at low power to/with the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 mounted on board the support structure 10 of the duplicating machine 1.

Preferably, the transmitting/receiving unit of the second module 52 of the milling and/or cutting tool 15 is configured to send the recognition data contained in the memory unit of the second module 52 of the milling and/or cutting tool 15 to said first module 51 mounted on board the support structure 10 of the machine 1.

Preferably, the transmitting or transceiving unit with the corresponding memory unit of the second module 52 can define an RFID type tag or transponder; essentially, the second module 52 can be an RFID type tag or transponder. Conveniently, the second module 52 can be a “Read- Only ” or “Read-Write” RFID tag/transponder.

Conveniently, the RFID tag/transponder of the second module 52 can be provided with its own power battery or it can be without a power battery and be configured so as to absorb the energy necessary for its operation from the electromagnetic field produced by the antenna of the first module 51 .

Preferably, the second module 52 can be an RFID tag/transponder that operates in the UHF frequency band and, in particular, in the 800 - 1000MHz band. The use of this band of frequencies is particularly advantageous as no license is required for use and there are no particular restrictions (i.e. it is a free band) and, furthermore, this band of transmission frequencies is particularly suitable (allowing thus correct transmission without disturbances or interference) in the presence of metallic materials, which is the material with which the tool 15 is made. Conveniently, the second module 52 of the milling and/or cutting tool 15 can include a second antenna (thus defining the transmitting and transceiving unit) and a microchip containing said memory unit and also the processing logic for storing and transmitting the data. Preferably, the transmitting or transceiving unit with the corresponding memory unit are mounted on the same electronic board.

Preferably, the second module 52 of the milling and/or cutting tool 15 is an RFID type tag or transponder (from the English "Radio-Frequency IDentification") and, correspondingly, the first module 51 on board the machine 1 includes a RFID type reader which is configured to send an interrogation radio signal to the RFID transponder/tag of the second module to thus receive signals representative of the data stored in the RFID transponder/tag from it.

Preferably, the RFI D reader of the first module 51 comprises a first antenna for receiving or transceiving short-range radio signals (thus defining the receiver or transceiver 55 of the first module 51 ) and an electronic board provided with a control and/or processing circuit (which thus defines said control and/or processing unit) which thus manages the communication with the RFID transponder/tag of the second module 52 and which also processes (for example decodes) the signals received from the RFID transponder/tag, to then send them to a further unit for any further processing; the electronic board with the control and/or processing circuit is electrically connected to the first antenna. Conveniently, the first antenna of the RFID reader of the first module 51 is suitable for radio reception or reception and transmission according to the RFID technology and, in particular, it is suitable for communication with the RFID transponder/tag of the second module 52.

Conveniently, the first module 51 is in electrical connection with the command and management means 19. Preferably, the RFID reader of the first module 51 is in electrical connection with the command and management means 19. Preferably, the electrical connection between the RFID reader of the first module 51 and the command and management means 19 is of the USB type.

Preferably, the electronic board of the RFID reader of the first module 51 is defined on a PCB which is positioned in the rear containment area 5 of the machine 1 and is in electrical connection with the first antenna which is positioned at and/or in proximity to the area 48 wherein said tool 15 works and/or moves.

In a possible embodiment, the PCB of the electronic board of the RFID reader of the first module 51 can be distinguished from the PCB of the command and management means 19. Preferably, in a possible embodiment, the RFID reader of the first module 51 is electronically connected (for example via USB connection) with the second electronic unit 19" (including for example a microprocessor) which supervises the operation of the machine 1 and which, in turn, is electronically connected (for example by means of a further USB connection) with the first electronic unit 19' (including for example a microcontroller) which controls/commands the motors of the machine 1.

Preferably, the RFID reader of the first module 51 mounted on board the machine 1 can also generate an electromagnetic field to supply the RFID transponder/tag of the second module 52 mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15.

Conveniently, the first module 51 can use NFC technology (from the English "Near Field Communication") and/or the Bluetooth standard. Correspondingly, the second module 52 can use NFC technology (from the English "Near Field Communication") and/or the Bluetooth standard.

The present invention also specifically concerns a milling and/or cutting tool 15, for a key duplicating machine 1 , as described above in its essential characteristics, possibly in combination with one or more of its other characteristics presented above as preferential. Preferably, said tool 15 is of the end mill 40 type. In particular, the milling and/or cutting tool 15 according to the invention is provided with a corresponding second communication module 52 which is configured to transmit and/or exchange signals via wireless, preferably at short range, and which is mounted on the body of said tool 15 at a section of said tool which is devoid of cutting profiles 43 and which, when the tool is mounted on the chuck 26, comes out of the chuck itself. Preferably, the second communication module 52 is inserted and housed - at least in part - inside a seat 54 obtained in/on the body of said tool 15 at a section of said tool which is devoid of cutting profiles 43 and which, when the tool is mounted on the chuck 26, comes out of the chuck itself. Preferably, the second communication module 52 of the tool 15 according to the invention comprises a memory unit wherein at least one piece of data of said tool is stored. More preferably, said data of said tool includes at least one recognition data of said tool which, conveniently, can include data representative of the type and/or model of said milling and/or cutting tool 15 and/or can include a univocal data representative of that specific milling and/or cutting tool.

The present invention also concerns a method for identifying the milling and/or cutting tool 15 in a key duplicating machine 1 , wherein the following is used:

- a duplicating machine 1 , as described above in its essential characteristics, possibly in combination with one or more of its other characteristics presented above as preferential, - at least two milling and/or cutting tools 15, preferably a plurality of milling and/or cutting tools 15, as described above in their essential characteristics, possibly in combination with one or more of their other characteristics presented above as preferential.

The operation of the duplicating machine 1 according to the invention is clear from what is described now.

Advantageously, when the operator mounts a milling and/or cutting tool 15 on the chuck 26, the first communication module 51 mounted on board the machine 1 and the second module 52 mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool 15 communicate (in reception only or in reception and transmission) to each other via wireless to thus transfer from said second module 52 to said first module 51 at least one piece of data of said tool 15, the data being stored in said second module 52, thus allowing the recognition of the tool 15 which has actually been mounted on the chuck 26.

On the basis of the tool thus recognized, corresponding signals can advantageously be sent to the operator - preferably via the user interface of the machine itself - regarding the correctness or not of the tool thus mounted in order to carry out a specific process and/or regarding the history and/or useful life of that specific tool (for example in terms of processes already carried out and/or regarding its wear).

Advantageously, moreover, the fact that the recognition of the tool 15 occurs when it is mounted on the chuck 26 can also allow the operator to understand whether the tool has been mounted correctly or not on the chuck itself. For example, in the absence of a corresponding signal regarding tool recognition, the operator can thus realize that the tool itself has not been correctly mounted on the chuck. Conveniently, a dedicated warning can also be provided in the event that the tool 15 is not correctly mounted on the chuck 26 or is mounted but not recognized.

Preferably, the machine 1 can be configured so that - before starting processing on a specific key - the movement of the tool 15 is controlled so as to search for the key with the tip of the tool itself via electrical contact in two or more characteristic points that depend on the key to be duplicated and, if even just one of these electrical contacts fails, the interruption of the processing is commanded, and advantageously it can send a corresponding signal - for example on the screen 23 - to indicate to the operator to check the correct installation of the tool 15 and/or the correct positioning (or selection) of the key.

Conveniently, it is understood that potentially on the chuck 26 of the duplicating machine 1 according to the invention, which is provided with the first communication module 51 mounted on board the machine itself, a tool 15 of a traditional type can also be mounted, i.e. which is not provided with said second communication module 52. In essence, the duplicating machine 1 according to the invention, which is provided with the first communication module 51 , can also be used with tools 15 of the traditional type and without said second communication module 52. In this case, obviously, there will be no recognition of the tool 15 mounted on the chuck 26.

Conveniently, in a possible embodiment, the machine 1 can be configured so that:

- if the first communication module 51 is able to communicate with a second communication module 52, then a situation is identified wherein a tool 15 provided with said second communication module 52 is mounted on the chuck 26,

- if the first communication module 51 is unable to communicate with any second communication module 52, then a situation is identified wherein a tool of the traditional type (i.e. which is devoid of said second communication module 52) is mounted on the chuck 26.

From what has been said it is clear that the solution according to the invention is particularly advantageous as:

- it provides the operator with prompt feedback regarding the correctness of the tool actually mounted on the chuck of the key duplicating machine in order to carry out a specific bitting process and/or for a specific key,

- allows you to monitor the useful life of the tool,

- allows you to know the characteristics and history of a specific tool, thus optimizing the performance of the machine itself,

- the duplicating machine is easy to use and highly automated,

- the duplicating machine is more convenient and efficient.

The present invention has been illustrated and described in some of its preferred embodiments, but it is understood that executive variations may be made to them in practice, without however departing from the scope of protection of the present patent for industrial invention.

Claims

C L A I M S

1. Electronic key duplicating machine (1 ), preferably of the professional or semi- professional type, comprising:

- a support structure (10),

- an operational front area (2) which is accessible by the operator,

- at least one milling and/or cutting device (11 ) of a key, said device comprising:

■ a chuck (26), which is positioned inside said operational front area (2), for the removable mounting of at least one milling and/or cutting tool (15) of a key,

■ a motor, preferably of the electric type, for driving in rotation said milling and/or cutting tool (15) when it is mounted on said chuck (26), and characterized in that it comprises a recognition device which is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool (15) of the milling and/or cutting device (11 ), said recognition device comprising a first communication module (51 ) which is mounted on board the machine (1) and which is configured to receive or exchange signals via wireless with a second communication module (52) which is mounted on the milling and/or cutting tool (15).

2. Machine according to claim 1 , wherein the recognition device is configured to recognize a milling and/or cutting tool (15) when it is mounted on the chuck (26) of the milling and/or cutting device (11 ).

3. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said machine comprises at least one milling and/or cutting tool (15) which is provided with said second communication module (52).

4. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein the first communication module (51 ) and the second communication module (52) are configured to communicate in transmission and/or reception with each other via wireless using radio signals, preferably at short range .

5. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein at least one piece of data of the corresponding tool (15) is stored in said second module (52) mounted on a tool (15) and wherein the first communication module (51 ) and the second communication module (52) are configured to communicate in transmission and/or reception with each other via wireless to thus transfer from said second module (52) to said first module (51) said at least one piece of data of said tool (15).

6. Machine according to the previous claim, wherein said at least one piece of data of said tool (15) includes at least one recognition data of said tool (15) and wherein said recognition data includes a piece of data representative of the type and/or model of said milling and/or cutting tool (15) and/or includes a unique piece of data representative of that specific milling and/or cutting tool (15).

7. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said second module (52) mounted on a milling and/or cutting tool (15) comprises:

- a memory unit wherein at least one piece of data of said tool is stored.

8. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes:

- a receiver or transceiver (55).

9. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes:

- a receiver or transceiver (55),

- a control and/or processing unit.

10. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes a wireless transceiver and that said second module (52) mounted on a milling and/or cutting tool includes a wireless transceiver unit.

11 . Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein:

- said second module (52) mounted on a milling and/or cutting tool (15) includes an RFID type tag or transponder, and

- said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes an RFID type reader.

12. Machine according to the previous claim, wherein said second module (52) is an RFID tag/transponder which operates in the UHF frequency band and, preferably, in the 800 - 1000MHz band.

13. Machine according to claims 11 or 12, wherein the RFID reader of the first module 51 includes a first antenna for the reception or reception and transmission of short-range radio signals, said first antenna is positioned at and/or close to the area (48) wherein said tool (15) works and/or moves.

14. Machine according to the previous claims, wherein said second module (52) is mounted on a milling and/or cutting tool (15) at a section of said tool (15) which is devoid of cutting profiles (43) and which, when the tool (15) is mounted on the chuck (26), comes out of the chuck (26) itself.

15. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said first module (51) includes a receiver or transceiver (55) which is mounted on board the machine (1) so as to be able to receive or exchange signals via wireless with a second communication module (52) of a milling and/or cutting tool (15) when the tool (15) is mounted on said chuck (26) and also when the tool (15) is not mounted on the chuck (26).

16. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes a receiver or transceiver (55) and in that said receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51) is positioned so that, when a tool (15) is mounted on the chuck (26), the receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51 ) substantially faces the section of said tool (15) wherein the second module (52) is mounted.

17. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes a receiver or transceiver (55) and in that said receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51) is positioned at or in any case close to an area (48) wherein said tool (15) works and/or moves, preferably said receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51 ) being configured so as to cover the entire or most of the area (48) wherein said tool (15) works and/or moves.

18. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein:

- the support structure (10) includes a support base (7) at the bottom and a dividing element (8) which divides the operational front area (2) from a rear containment area (5),

- said first module (51) mounted on board the machine (1) includes a receiver or transceiver (55),

- the receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51) is positioned at the dividing element (8), preferably it is mounted on said dividing element (8).

19. Machine according to the previous claim, wherein the receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51) is mounted on a covering support (56) which is configured to be fixed to the face of the dividing element (8) which faces towards the operational front area (2).

20. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein the milling and/or cutting tool (15) includes an insertion and housing seat (54), preferably obtained inside the body of said tool (15), of said second module (52).

21. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein the second module (52) is mounted on the tool (15) at a section of said tool which is devoid of cutting profiles (43) and which, when the tool is mounted on the chuck (26), it protrudes from the chuck itself.

22. Machine according to the previous claim, wherein a covering element (53) is provided which is associated with said milling and/or cutting tool (15) to cover the second module (52) and/or which is configured to cover the insertion and housing seat (54) of the second module (52).

23. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said machine comprises:

- in the operational front area (2) movement means (14) of a clamp configured to hold a key, said movement means (14) being configured to move the key held by the corresponding clamp with respect to the milling and/or cutting tool (15) of the milling and/or cutting device (11 ),

- command and management means (19) which supervise the operation of the entire machine and also command and manage the motorization of the movement means

(14) of the clamp and/or of the movement means of the milling and/or cutting device (11) and/or the actuation of the tool (15) of the milling and/or cutting device (11), and of any additional cutting elements with which the machine (1) may be provided, and wherein said first module (51) is in electrical connection with said command and management means (19).

24. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein:

- the receiver or transceiver (55) of the first module (51) is positioned at the dividing element (8), preferably it is mounted on said dividing element (8), and

- said milling and/or cutting device (11) is mounted on the dividing element (8).

25. Machine according to one or more of the previous claims, wherein said machine comprises command and management means (19) comprising:

- a first electronic unit (19') which is configured to control/command the motors of the movement means the milling and/or cutting device (11) and/or actuating the tool

(15) of the milling and/or device cut (11 ),

- a second electronic unit (19") which coordinates the operation of the various components of the machine and/or supervises the operation of the entire machine.

26. Milling and/or cutting tool (15), preferably of the end mill (40) type, for an electronic key duplicating machine (1) according to one or more of the previous claims, characterized in that it is provided with a second communication module (52) which is configured to transmit and/or exchange signals via wireless, preferably at short range.

27. Tool according to the previous claim, characterized in that said second communication module (52) is mounted on the body of said tool (15) at a section of said tool (15) which is devoid of cutting profiles (43) and which, when the tool (15) is mounted on the chuck (26) of the duplicating machine (1), it comes out of the chuck (26) itself.

28. Method for identifying the milling and/or cutting tool (15) in a key duplicating machine (1), characterized in that it is used:

- a duplicating machine (1) according to one or more of the claims from 1 to 25,

- at least two milling and/or cutting tools (15), preferably a plurality of milling and/or cutting tools (15), according to claim 26 or 27.