Ford develops lock nut with sound wave engraved

Ford announced on January 28 (local time) that it has developed a lock nut with a voice waveform engraved on it.

The lock nut is a security part used to store wheel theft. The adapter slot for removal is in a special shape and cannot be removed without a dedicated device. Theft can be prevented by replacing one of the wheel-mounted nuts with a lock nut.

However, the lock nut is not universal, and can be a problem if the stealer has a special mechanism. That’s why Ford developed a lock nut technology that engraved the owner’s sound wave to improve security. Voice waveforms are unique to that person, such as fingerprints or irises. In other words, the nut is unique and cannot be removed so easily.

To make this locknut, first record the owner’s voice for at least one second, saying, “I drive a Ford Mustang.” This sound wave forms a nut groove shape. In this way, a lock nut is made with a 3D printer using stainless steel based on the groove pattern.

Since the lock nut can only be removed with the same corrugated adapter and has a complex shape, it is difficult to copy the pattern. In addition, the opening of the lock nut groove is narrow and spreads toward the inside. Even if you try to float the groove shape using clay, it is a structure that cannot be easily taken out because the front is narrow. It is said that it is possible to make various designs such as the Ford Mustang logo and the owner’s initials as a home as well as the voice waveform.

Ford is already using 3D printer technology in its production line and is producing engine parts and interior parts in vehicles with 3D printers. Related information can be found here .