Publication details

Non-destructive lock-picking of a historical treasure chest by means of X-ray computed tomography

Authors

ZIKMUNDOVÁ Eva ZIKMUND Tomas SLADEK Vladimir KAISER Jozef

Year of publication 2020
Type Article in Periodical
Magazine / Source Plos one
MU Faculty or unit

Faculty of Science

Citation
web https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0235316
Doi http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0235316
Keywords Coffin; Archaeological Wood; Ray Tubes
Description An innovative approach to a non-destructive lock mechanism examination by means of X-ray computed tomography (CT) was involved in a careful opening of a locked 19(th)century chest missing the key, as an interdisciplinary cooperation with the restorers. In regard of the exploration and conservation of such locked objects, their opening is important to the restorers. However, the opening may be complicated, if not impossible, without damaging the object when the key is missing. Moreover, the historical locks might be equipped with protective mechanisms. Despite the exceeding dimensions and the weight of the steel chest, a CT analysis was performed, which enabled a detailed exploration of the lock based on a system of levers and bolts handled by a single key, located in a case on the inside of the chest lid, including the dimensions essential for manufacturing of a new key copy. Moreover, two secret protective mechanisms were revealed, as well as all the damages of the object.
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