What is a hardware lock and how does it work?

What is a hardware lock?

A hardware lock is a physical device that uses mechanical or electromechanical structures to achieve security control of enclosed spaces. Its core value lies in blocking unauthorized access. Unlike digital password locks, hardware locks are mainly made of metal parts. Common types include:

Mechanical padlocks (used in logistics and warehouses)

Door lock systems (covering handle locks, mortise locks, etc.)

Industrial special locks (such as distribution cabinet door locks, equipment protection locks)

An engineer from Zhejiang Yitai Locks pointed out: "High-reliability hardware locks must have three characteristics: physical anti-destruction, environmental tolerance, and adaptability to complex environments. This is the technical barrier of industrial-grade locks."

Dynamic analysis of the working principle of hardware locks

▶ The intelligent architecture of traditional mechanical locks

Take the common pin lock as an example (Yitai's main product structure):

Key intervention: the toothed key is inserted into the lock cylinder

Pin alignment: the key convex teeth lift the upper and lower rows of pins

Release the tumbler: when the separation lines of all pins are aligned with the lock cylinder shell

Rotation unlocking: the lock cylinder rotates freely to drive the lock tongue to retract

Upgrade and evolution of electronic hardware locks

Modern industrial locks integrate mechatronics technology, such as Yitai's latest intelligent distribution cabinet door lock:

Authentication command (password/IC card) → control module → solenoid valve/motor → lock tongue action

By visiting the production base of Zhejiang Yitai Lock Industry (located in Yueqing, Zhejiang), we observed the manufacturing standards of high-end hardware locks:

"Our special locks for distribution cabinets are providing protection for power grid facilities in 20 countries around the world. The core lies in solving two contradictions: the need for corrosion protection in extreme environments and mechanical loss due to high-frequency use." - Yitai R&D Director revealed.

From wooden pin locks in 2000 BC to today's smart locks that integrate IoT technology, the development history of hardware locks is the evolutionary history of human security protection. As a deep cultivator in the industry, Zhejiang Yitai Lock Industry relies on an intelligent production line consisting of 7 injection molding machines and 5 die-casting machines to continuously output industrial locks that meet CE/ROHS certification.