nomeclature

Dec 19, 2005 Last reply: 20 years ago 5 Replies

Here's a question for the real professionals in this group.


What does it take to qualify as a "lock" ? Do the more or less toy handcuffs sold at Spencer Gifts have a "lock" or is that merely a latch ? Why do "locks" with bolts that ride on springs even in the locked state qualify, along with dead bolts ? Is it the "authentication" mechanism, the requirement of a key or combination that makes the difference, regardless of how easily spoofed the key might be ? In cases of biometric devices, are they still "locks" if the protection is provided to information systems and there is no physical component barring entry at all ? Is the child proof cap on a plastic prescription drug bottle a lock, with a combination of simply pushing down before one turns it ?



Just curious...


TR



If it requires a special token or special knowledge to open it, it's a lock. It may not be a *good* lock, but it's a lock.

If it wasn't printed with "to open, push down and twist", I'd call it a trivial lock... IF you insist on trying to draw a sharp line through a space that is inherently fuzzy.

Reality is fractal. Defitinitions are likewise. Deal.

lock n. any device which prevents access or use by requiring special knowledge or equipment

Tom Rauschenbach wrote:

Even toy handcuffs can be impossible for a victim to remove if the victim has no implement to open them or cannot reach the keyhole. Some have an accessible lever, etc so they can be opened without a key if need be.

"Tom Rauschenbach" snipped-for-privacy@tomsdomain.org wrote in message news: snipped-for-privacy@tomsdomain.org...

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