Method and apparatus for virtual property key

Abstract

The invention relates to a door lock system. More specifically, the invention relates to a virtual key (109) in a door lock system for properties such as houses and apartments and public properties such as parking lots or sports facilities. The invented invention relates to a system and method for managing virtual key-based access of a temporary user from a mobile phone of a permanent user (105) to a property or vehicle closed by a self-powered lock. This is accomplished by a virtual configurable software key that can operate with the mobile application (108, 113) and can be configured from the mobile application (108) of the permanent user (105). These virtual configurable software keys are typically text strings, whose data footprint is sufficiently small for transmission over NFC.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to door locking systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to virtual keys in door locking systems for properties (such as houses and apartments) and public properties (such as parking lots or sports facilities). Background Art

[0002] Physical metal door keys are the current popular choice in the free market. However, software-based virtual keys can be designed in a more consumer-friendly and environmentally friendly way to obtain a superior end product.

[0003] US11468723 discloses a software virtual key based on a photo that can be read using artificial intelligence. More complex virtual keys and key reading processes increase authentication alternatives and have the disadvantage of consuming more data and power.

[0004] US11421445 discloses a lock that can be operated using NFC.

[0005] More sophisticated software-based property access systems tend to save costs by reducing the use of physical keys. However, locking systems that operate without physical keys tend to be expensive, difficult to install, and still costly to operate on the property.

[0006] The present invention will now alleviate these deficiencies. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The invention under study relates to a system and method for managing a temporary user's virtual key-based access to a property or vehicle that is locked with a self-powered lock from a mobile phone of a permanent user.

[0008] This is achieved through virtual configurable software keys that can be operated by a mobile application and configured from the permanent user's mobile application. These configurable virtual software keys are typically text strings whose data footprint is small enough to be transmitted via NFC.

[0009] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a configurable restricted key that allows a permanent user to provide access to a temporary user, but only to a restricted portion of a property or vehicle, and / or for a restricted time.

[0010] One aspect of the invention also allows permanent and temporary users to transfer virtual keys via a cloud network, for example, from application to application, and / or from inbox to inbox, or from inbox to application and vice versa. In one aspect of the invention, the lock is a self-powered lock that derives operating power by inserting the virtual key via an NFC connection.

[0011] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a mobile application that includes a configurable virtual key that, in addition to a lock or key, is also connected to a household appliance (such as a dishwasher, washing machine, or air conditioner). Furthermore, the mobile application can be connected to a database that stores information about property units and the household appliances in the property units (such as operating instructions for a dishwasher, etc.).

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, the present invention generates a data output or actionable data that links household appliance data with access data associated with locks and keys within a property unit. For example, if a virtual key indicates a possible entry time, the present invention can be used to activate, for example, the air conditioning in the property when the key is available, so that the property is cooled when a temporary user arrives, but energy is not wasted cooling the property when no one is present or expected to be present in the near future.

[0013] Some or all of the above-mentioned advantages of the present invention are achieved with a system for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle according to the present invention, the system comprising a cloud server, a mobile device for use by a user, and a communication network, and

[0014] - a mobile device having a mobile application connected to a cloud server configured to store a virtual key for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door, and

[0015] - the virtual key is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application also connected to the cloud server,

[0016] - The permanent user of a property unit or vehicle can configure a restricted virtual key in the mobile application,

[0017] - A restricted virtual key will only open a restricted set of doors from all doors in a property unit or vehicle, and / or will only open one or more doors during a restricted time period,

[0018] - The permanent user can send a restricted virtual key to another user via a communication network, and the lock is a self-powered lock that derives operating power by inserting the virtual key via an NFC connection.

[0019] A software program product stored in a non-transitory storage medium is according to the present invention and is operable in a system comprising a cloud server, a mobile device for use by a user, and a communication network for locking and unlocking at least one door leading to a property unit or a vehicle, and

[0020] - a mobile device having a mobile application connected to a cloud server configured to store a virtual key for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door with a lock, and

[0021] - the virtual key is configured to be sent to and received from a second mobile application also connected to the cloud server,

[0022] - The permanent user of a property unit or vehicle can configure a restricted virtual key in the mobile application,

[0023] - A restricted virtual key will only open a restricted set of doors from all doors in a property unit or vehicle, and / or will only open one or more doors during a restricted time period,

[0024] - The permanent user can send a restricted virtual key to another user via a communication network, and the lock is a self-powered lock that derives operating power by inserting the virtual key via an NFC connection.

[0025] A system for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit is according to the present invention and comprises a cloud server, a mobile device for use by a user, and a communication network, and

[0026] - a mobile device having a mobile application connected to a cloud server configured to store a virtual key for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door with a lock, and

[0027] - the virtual key is configured to be sent to and received from a second mobile application also connected to the cloud server,

[0028] - The permanent user of a property unit or vehicle can configure a virtual key in a mobile application,

[0029] -The virtual key will unlock at least one door in the property unit,

[0030] -In addition to locks or keys, mobile applications are connected to home appliances,

[0031] - the mobile application is connected to a database that stores information of property units and home appliances in the property units, and

[0032] - The system is configured to generate a data output or actionable data linking the household appliance data with lock and key related access data in the property unit.

[0033] A software program product stored in a non-transitory storage medium is according to the present invention and is operable in a system comprising a cloud server, a mobile device for use by a user, and a communication network for locking and unlocking at least one door leading to a property unit, and

[0034] - a mobile device having a mobile application connected to a cloud server configured to store a virtual key for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door with a lock, and

[0035] - the virtual key is configured to be sent to and received from a second mobile application also connected to the cloud server,

[0036] - The permanent user of a property unit or vehicle can configure a virtual key in a mobile application,

[0037] -The virtual key will unlock at least one door in the property unit,

[0038] -In addition to locks or keys, mobile applications are connected to home appliances,

[0039] - the mobile application is connected to a database that stores information of property units and home appliances in the property units, and

[0040] - The system is configured to generate a data output or actionable data linking the household appliance data with lock and key related access data in the property unit.

[0041] The present invention has many advantages. Because virtual keys can be configured with restrictions in the permanent user's application, the administrative costs associated with generating and tracking keys are extremely low. Because the configured virtual keys can be transferred between users within the cloud network, the logistics of delivering temporary keys are greatly simplified. Because the configuration of the virtual keys is software-based, the keys can be restricted to any lock configuration on the property. Because the self-powered lock draws its power from the NFC that delivers the virtual key, the lock does not need to be connected to the grid or other power source. In addition, because the mobile application with the virtual key is also connected to home appliances, when the valid virtual key holder needs to use the home appliances, the user can be provided with instructions for operating the home appliances, or the virtual key holder can operate the appliances on his behalf, such as by turning off selected appliances when he leaves the property or starting selected appliances when he enters the property.

[0042] Furthermore, with reference to the above-mentioned advantageous embodiments, the best mode of the present invention is considered to be a system for operating a self-powered lock in a property with an NFC-compatible mobile device.

[0043] The mobile device has an app installed, and the user can open and close the lock by transmitting a virtual software key to the lock to be opened or closed via NFC. The permanent user can configure a restricted virtual key for the temporary user and send the restricted virtual key to the temporary user via in-app messaging or other conventional messaging routes (such as email) to enter and use the property within the restricted boundaries set by the permanent user. The best mode further links the restricted virtual key (which is a small data footprint text string type key) to the home appliance. For example, the temporary user is allowed and instructed on how to use the dishwasher, but is restricted from using, for example, a pool heater or cleaning equipment, as these may need to be operated by a professional. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments according to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0045] Figure 1 An embodiment 10 of the system of the present invention for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle is illustrated in a block diagram.

[0046] Figure 2 An embodiment 20 of a user interface diagram of the present invention for a software program product of the present invention for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle is shown.

[0047] Figure 3 An embodiment 30 of the method according to the invention for a permanent user operating system 10 or software 20 according to the invention is shown in a flow chart.

[0048] Figure 4 An embodiment 40 of the system of the present invention for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle integrated with a household appliance is shown in a block diagram.

[0049] Figure 5 An embodiment 50 of a user interface diagram of the present invention for a software program product of the present invention integrated with a household appliance for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle is shown.

[0050] Figure 6 An embodiment 60 of the method according to the invention for a permanent user operating system 40 or software 50 according to the invention is shown in a flow chart.

[0051] Figure 7 A further embodiment 70 of the system of the present invention for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle is shown in a block diagram.

[0052] Figures 8A to 8CA further embodiment 80 of the present invention of a user interface diagram of the present invention software program product for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or vehicle is shown.

[0053] Figure 9A and Figure 9B A further embodiment 90 of the method according to the invention for a permanent user operating system 70 or software 80 according to the invention is shown in a flow chart.

[0054] Figure 10 A further embodiment 91 of the inventive system for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or a vehicle, integrated with a household appliance, is shown in a block diagram.

[0055] Figures 11A to 11G A further embodiment 92 of the inventive user interface diagram of the inventive software program product integrated with a household appliance for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit or a vehicle is shown.

[0056] Figure 12A and Figure 12B A further embodiment 93 of the method according to the invention for a permanent user operating system 91 or software 92 according to the invention is shown in a flow chart.

[0057] Some embodiments are described in the dependent claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Figure 1 An embodiment 10 is shown with a mobile application 108 for handling virtual keys. The cloud-based mobile application 108 may be available from Google Play TM Store for Android smartphones to download, available from AppStore TM For iOS TM Smartphone download, and / or available from any other known application store.The cloud-based mobile application 108 may be available for free or as a paid application.

[0059] In embodiment 10, system 100 is integrated with cloud server 111 via communication network 104. Cloud server 111 may include a CPU (central processing unit) and / or a GPU (graphics processing unit) or multiple CPUs and / or GPUs. The communication network 104 used for communication in the present invention is a wireless or wired Internet or telephone network, which is typically a cellular network such as UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access), 3G, 4G, 5G, Wi-Fi and / or WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) network.

[0060] In an example, the cloud server 111 may include multiple servers (not shown). In an example implementation, the cloud server 111 may be any type of database server, file server, network server, application server, etc., configured to store data related to the cloud-based locking system 100. The cloud server 111 may also include multiple databases for storing data files. The databases may be, for example, structured query language (SQL) databases, NoSQL databases, such as SQL Server, server, Database, etc. The cloud server 111 may be deployed in a cloud environment managed by a cloud storage service provider, and the database may be configured as a cloud-based database implemented in the cloud environment.

[0061] The cloud server 111 may include input-output devices, such as a monitor (display), keyboard, mouse, and / or touch screen. However, typically, more than one computer server is used at a time, so some computers may only contain the computer itself, without a screen or keyboard. These types of computers are typically stored in server farms that are used to implement a cloud network for use by the cloud server 111 of the present invention. The cloud server 111 can be purchased as a standalone solution from known vendors (such as Microsoft, Amazon, and / or HP (Hewlett-Packard)). The cloud server 111 typically runs Unix, Microsoft, iOS, Linux, or any other known operating system and typically includes a microprocessor, memory, and data storage device, such as an SSD flash memory or hard drive. To improve the responsiveness of the cloud architecture, data is preferably stored in whole or in part on an SSD, i.e., a flash memory storage device. Either this component is selected / configured from an existing cloud provider (such as Microsoft or Amazon), or an existing cloud network operator (such as Microsoft or Amazon) is configured to store all data on a flash-based cloud storage operator, such as Pure Storage, EMC, Nimble storage, etc. Using flash memory as the primary storage device for cloud server 222 is preferred despite its high cost due to the reduced latency it provides.

[0062] System 100 includes a mobile device 106, typically a smartphone and / or tablet, etc., which is used to manage a user's virtual key using an operating software application installed on the smartphone, etc. Mobile device 106 is typically a mobile smartphone (such as an iOS, Android, FireOS, Windows Phone smartphone) or any other mobile smartphone capable of executing applications. The smartphone has a CPU or GPU.

[0063] However, the mobile device 106 may also be a computer, such as a PC computer, an Apple Macintosh computer, a PDA device (Personal Digital Assistant). The mobile device 106 may also be a device with an operating system such as any of the following: Microsoft Windows, Windows NT, Windows CE, Windows Pocket PC, Windows Mobile, GEOS, Palm OS, Meego, Mac OS, iOS, Linux, BlackBerry OS, Google Android and / or Symbian, or any other computer or smartphone operating system.

[0064] Embodiments 10, 20, and 30 describe substantially the same embodiment, except that embodiment 10 describes how the present invention works as a system, embodiment 20 describes how the present invention works as software, and embodiment 30 describes the method of using system 10 and software 20 and the user experience.

[0065] In the present invention, a mobile device 106 has a mobile application 108 connected to a cloud server 111. The mobile application 108 and the cloud server are configured to store at least one virtual software key 109 for facilitating the locking or unlocking of a door 103. The system can also generate virtual keys 109, and the mobile application 108 can be used to generate virtual keys under the direction of the owner / lessee of the property unit 102 or vehicle 101 (typically user 105), who is characterized as an administrator user or permanent user in the system 100. In a sense, the lessee / owner can now independently control the lock-key management process and generate new virtual keys for opening and locking door locks, without having to call a locksmith company to make new metal keys, as people have done in the past according to the prior art.

[0066] The generated virtual key 109 is configured to be sent to and / or optionally received from a second mobile application 113, also connected to the cloud server 111, for use by another user 114. Typically, for example, user 105 might be a parent, while another user 114 might be a child residing on the same property 102. Alternatively, all family members (such as a parent and a child) can be configured as permanent users 105, and in some embodiments, visiting friends and relatives can be configured as additional users 114. Similarly, property owners and / or landlords are typically configured as permanent users, while tenants and lessees are typically provided with restricted virtual keys. In some embodiments, for example, restricted virtual keys can be configured to automatically renew each month upon timely receipt of rent. The transmission of virtual keys occurs as an electronic data transfer over the cloud network 104. Thus, the physical handover of a metal key between user 105 and another user 114 is no longer necessary. In some embodiments, restricted virtual keys may be allowed to be transferred between other temporary users 114. For example, another user 114 may send a copy of the restricted virtual key to another person, thereby conditionally granting him access to certain doors or locks, eg, based on authentication.

[0067] A permanent user 105 of property unit 102 or vehicle 101 can configure a restricted virtual key in mobile application 108, and then the restricted virtual key 110 is sent to a second mobile application. For example, the restricted virtual key can only open a restricted set of doors from all doors in property unit 102 or vehicle 101, thereby preventing a child user 114 from accessing a room with dangerous mechanical devices or firearms, or the driver's seat in vehicle 101.

[0068] Alternatively, or in addition, the restricted virtual key can only open one or more doors during a restricted time period. If the other user 114 is, for example, an Airbnb guest, the renter / owner user 105 can limit the operating time of the restricted key to match the Airbnb guest's stay duration.

[0069] A permanent user 105 can send a restricted virtual key 109 to another user 114 via the communication network 104. In a preferred embodiment, the locks 102a, 101a are self-powered locks that derive operating power from the insertion of the virtual key 109 or restricted virtual key 110 via an NFC connection. A virtual key is typically an alphanumeric string of data configured to open the lock and optionally authenticate the user 105, 114. In some embodiments, the restrictions of the virtual keys comprising the restricted virtual key are also preferably encoded into the text string comprising the virtual key. When the virtual key or restricted virtual key is presented to the lock 102a in the door via NFC (near field communication) from the mobile device 106, a small amount of power is wirelessly transferred to the lock via NFC in addition to the virtual key or restricted virtual key, but the transferred power is sufficient to open or close the door lock 102a. However, in some embodiments, the vehicle's lock will typically draw power from the vehicle's electrical system.

[0070] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 10 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0071] Figure 2 An embodiment 20 of a software interface in a mobile application 108 is shown. The mobile application 108 is a software program product stored in a non-transitory storage medium and operable in a system including a cloud server 111, mobile devices 106 for use by users 105 and 114, and a communication network 104 for locking and unlocking at least one door leading to a property unit 102 or a vehicle 101.

[0072] Mobile device 106 has a mobile application 108 connected to a cloud server 111, which is configured to store virtual keys 109 for facilitating the locking or unlocking of doors with locks. In embodiment 20, a toggle key 201 defines and lists the doors and locks in property 102 or vehicle 101. Toggle key 202 defines corresponding keys, providing access to each door and lock in toggle key 201. By selecting the key for door 1 from toggle key 203 but not selecting other keys or doors, a permanent user can configure a restricted virtual key 110 that can open the lock in door 1 but not other locks. By selecting toggle key 204, the virtual key is configured and sent to a second mobile application 113, also connected to cloud server 111. This view is from the mobile application 108 of a permanent user 105 of property unit 102 or vehicle 101, who has user permissions to configure restricted virtual keys in the mobile application. Another user 114 does not have these permissions. He can only receive the virtual key 109 , 110 and use it, but he cannot configure restrictions in the virtual key 109 , 110 .

[0073] Restricted virtual key 110 will only open a restricted set of doors from among all doors in property unit 102 or vehicle 101, for example, only door 1 as discussed above. In some embodiments of the present invention, restricted virtual key 110 may also only open one or more doors during a restricted time period. In these embodiments, the restricted time period is configured in restricted virtual key 110 using a toggle similar to 201, 202, or 203, or via keyboard input or some other form of data input.

[0074] Once the restricted key has been configured, the permanent user 105 can send the restricted virtual key 110 to another user 114 via the communication network 111. The other user 114 can then receive the restricted virtual key 110 in his mobile application 113 (second mobile application) and unlock the door 1. The lock is typically a self-powered lock that derives operating power by inserting the restricted virtual key 110 via the NFC connection.

[0075] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 20 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0076] Figure 3Embodiment 30 is presented as a flow chart illustrating the use of system 100 and software 200 of embodiments 10 and 20, respectively. Method 30 utilizes software program product 200 stored in a non-transitory storage medium, operable within system 100 comprising cloud server 111, mobile device 106 for permanent user 105, and communication network 104, for locking and unlocking at least one door to property unit 102 or vehicle 101.

[0077] In stage 301, a mobile device 108 has a mobile application 106 connected to a cloud server 111, which is configured to store a virtual key for facilitating locking or unlocking a door with a lock. The virtual key is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application 113 also connected to the cloud server 111.

[0078] In stage 302, a permanent user 105 of a property unit 102 or vehicle 101 configures a restricted virtual key 110 in a mobile application 106. The restricted virtual key 110 will only open a restricted set of doors from among all doors in the property unit 102 or vehicle 101, and / or will only open one or more doors during a restricted time period. The permanent user 105 uses, for example, Figure 2 , to configure the restricted virtual key 110. Configuration options equivalent to these restrictions are typically encoded as an alphanumeric or binary data string, which, in some embodiments, is inserted in whole or in part into the virtual key 109, thereby forming the restricted virtual key 110. In some embodiments of the present invention, the binary or alphanumeric string format is preferred because the amount of data transmitted is small, which results in low power consumption during the operation of the lock during reading of the virtual key and subsequently when the virtual key is authorized to open or close the lock.

[0079] In stage 303, the permanent user 105 sends the restricted virtual key 110 to another user 114 via the communication network 104. Preferably, the lock is a self-powered lock that derives its operating power via the NFC connection by inserting the restricted virtual key 110. If the restricted virtual key 110 is authorized to open the lock and all restricted parameters (such as time) are met, the lock is opened. However, if the virtual key is not authorized to open the lock, or if a restriction encoded in the restricted virtual key is violated when attempting to open the lock, the lock remains closed.

[0080] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 30 may be easily combined or substituted with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0081] Figure 4 Embodiment 40 is shown, which can be implemented as an embodiment in combination with system 100 of embodiment 10. Embodiments 40, 50, and 60 describe substantially the same embodiment, except that embodiment 40 describes how the present invention works as a system, embodiment 50 describes how the present invention works as software, and embodiment 60 describes a method of using system 40 and software 50 and a user experience.

[0082] The system for locking and unlocking at least one door 403 leading to a property unit 402 or a vehicle 401 includes a cloud server 410, a mobile device 404 for use by a user 408, and a communication network 412. The mobile device 404 has a mobile application 406 connected to the cloud server 410. The mobile application 406 and / or the cloud server 410 are configured to individually or collectively store a virtual key 407 for facilitating locking or unlocking the door 403 with a lock.

[0083] The virtual key 407 is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application 409 that is also connected to the cloud server 410. The permanent user 105 or 408 of the property unit 402 or vehicle 401 can configure the virtual key 407 in the mobile application 406 similarly as explained in embodiments 10, 20, and 30. The virtual key 407 will open at least one door lock in the property unit 402 and / or vehicle 401.

[0084] Additionally, in addition to locks and keys, mobile application 406 is connected to household appliances 413. The household appliances may include any of the following: a dishwasher, a refrigerator, a washing machine, a vacuum cleaning drone, a heater, an air conditioner, an oven, a pool control, lighting, and the like. Mobile application 406 is connected to a database 414 that stores information about property unit 402 and at least one household appliance 413 in the property unit. System 400 is configured to generate data output 418 or actionable data 417 that links household appliance data 415 with access data 416 associated with the lock and key of property unit 402.

[0085] For example, this allows user 408 to configure different room temperatures for different users with virtual keys in different rooms of property 402 at different times.

[0086] Assume that user 408 is a parent and second mobile application 409 is for use by a child who has received virtual key 407. If the child prefers cooler temperatures than the parent, then knowing that the child is inside property 402, actionable data 417 can be generated for the air conditioning unit or heater to lower the temperature by utilizing the child's use of virtual key 407 to enter property 402. If the virtual key is restricted (e.g., as restricted virtual key 110), only the air conditioning in those rooms accessed by restricted virtual key 110 is controlled by the actionable data.

[0087] Embodiments 40, 50, and 60 describe substantially the same embodiment, except that embodiment 40 describes how the present invention works as a system, embodiment 50 describes how the present invention works as software, and embodiment 60 describes the method of using and the user experience of system 400 and software 500. According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 40 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91, 92, and / or 93.

[0088] Figure 5 An embodiment 50 of software for operating systems 100 and 400 is shown. A mobile device 404 has a mobile application 406 connected to a cloud server 410, which is configured to store a virtual key 407 for facilitating locking or unlocking a door 403 with a lock 402a. The virtual key 407 is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application 409 also connected to the cloud server 410. A permanent user 408 of the property unit 402 or vehicle 401 can configure the virtual key 407 in the mobile application 406. Figure 5 As can be seen in FIG, the mobile application 406 is connected to the home appliance 413 and can generate a virtual key by selecting in the switch key 503, which will open at least one door lock among the doors 1, 2, 3, 4 in the property unit 402.

[0089] As shown at the top of the screen, the mobile application 406 is connected to a database 414 that stores information about the property unit 403 and the household appliances 413 in the property unit. The system 400 is configured to generate data output 418 and / or actionable data 417 that links the household appliance data 415 with the lock and key related access data 416 in the property unit 402. The generated data output 418 may include, for example, user-guided commands for the air conditioning unit in the room when room 1 is selected from the toggle key 503. These user-guided commands are sent to the air conditioning unit when room 1 is accessed using the restricted virtual key 110 configured herein, thereby allowing access to room 1. The actionable data 417 may include, for example, a desired temperature range for room 1 when accessed via the restricted virtual key 110 configured herein. As Figure 5 As shown in , at the bottom of the screen, both generated data output 418 and actionable data 417 are selected as actionable.

[0090] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 50 may be easily combined or substituted with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0091] Figure 6 An embodiment 60 using system 400 and software 500 is shown in a flow chart.

[0092] In stage 601, a mobile device 404 has a mobile application 406 connected to a cloud server 410, which is configured to store a virtual key 407 for facilitating locking or unlocking a door 403 with a lock 402a, and the virtual key 407 is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application 409 also connected to the cloud server 410.

[0093] In stage 602, a permanent user 408 of an asset unit 402 or vehicle 401 configures a virtual key 407 in a mobile application 406. The virtual key will open at least one door lock 402a in the asset unit 402, such as a self-powered lock or an NFC self-powered lock.

[0094] In stage 603, in addition to the lock or key, the mobile application 406 is connected to the home appliance 413. In some embodiments, for example, the home appliance 413 may be a dishwasher or an air conditioner.

[0095] In stage 604, mobile application 406 connects to database 414, which stores information about property unit 402 and home appliance 413 in property unit 402. For example, database 414 may store user manuals for home appliance 413 (such as a user manual for an air conditioner or a user manual for a dishwasher).

[0096] At stage 605, the system 400 and software 500 generate data output 418 or actionable data 417 that links the appliance data 415 with the lock and key-related access data 416 in the property unit 402. For example, the virtual key 407 can be configured so that when the key is used to access the property unit 402, the air conditioning turns on and the user manual for the dishwasher is shared with the second user in the second mobile application 409. The second user is now instructed on how to use the dishwasher while in the air-conditioned property. In some embodiments, when the virtual key 407 expires, actionable data 417 or computerized instructions can be automatically generated to remove the user manual from the second mobile application 409.

[0097] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 60 can be easily combined or substituted with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 70, 80, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0098] Figure 7 There is shown a further version 70 of embodiment 10. The system 700 is otherwise similar to the system 100, but includes further functionality.

[0099] Another user 723 receives a restricted virtual key 718 in a mobile application 707 or a message inbox 721 on his mobile device 716. The other user 723 can use the restricted virtual key to open the restricted set of doors 705 at the property unit 702 or vehicle 701 during a restricted time. The other user 723 is authenticated when opening the message with the restricted virtual key 718, typically from the permanent user 105, and the restricted virtual key 718 is only effective if the authenticated person is the intended user of the restricted virtual key 718. In some embodiments, the recipient of the restricted virtual key 718 is preferably authenticated based on his cloud service account details, bank credentials, and / or biometrics (e.g., by using biometric authentication, such as a fingerprint or FaceID (facial bone scan) on his smartphone).

[0100] Mobile application 707 features toggles for controlling access to portions of property unit 702, such as any of the following: main entrance 705, rear entrance 706, garage door 707, intercom 708. Additionally, in some embodiments, mobile application 707 features toggles for reserving access to portions of property unit 702, such as any of the following: gym 709, laundry room 710, conference room 711, sauna 712.

[0101] In some embodiments, the restricted virtual key 718 is a code that includes an access key for the property unit 702 or vehicle 701 and a block list 720 that lists blocked locations and the times at which the locations are blocked. Typically, at least one door has an NFC reader 704 that is configured to read the restricted virtual key 718 and unlock the door if the restricted virtual key 718 is authorized for access through the door at the current time.

[0102] Embodiments 70, 80, and 90 describe substantially the same embodiment, except that embodiment 70 describes how the present invention works as a system, embodiment 80 describes how the present invention works as software, and embodiment 90 describes the method of using and the user experience of system 700 and software 800.

[0103] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 70 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0104] Figures 8A to 8C A further version 80 of embodiment 20 is shown. Software program product 800 is otherwise similar to software program product 200, but includes further functionality. Another user 723 receives a restricted virtual key 718, as shown by icon 801, in the mobile application 800 or in the message inbox 721 on their mobile device 716. The other user 723 can use the restricted virtual key 718 to open the restricted set of doors 703 at property unit 702 or vehicle 701 during a restricted time.

[0105] Another user 723 is authenticated when opening a message with the restricted virtual key 718, and the restricted virtual key 718 is only valid if the authenticated person is the intended user of the restricted virtual key 718. In some embodiments, the other user 723 can be authenticated using a password decrypted from the virtual key and the user ID 802. Additionally, the recipient of the restricted virtual key can be authenticated based on their cloud service account details (such as iCloud, Google Cloud, or Microsoft credentials) or through banking credentials and / or biometrics 803 (e.g., fingerprint or facial scan FaceID).

[0106] like Figure 8B As shown in , the mobile application features a toggle key 804 for controlling access to portions of the property unit, such as any of the following: main entrance, rear entrance, garage door, intercom. Figure 8C As shown in FIG, in some embodiments, the mobile application 707 features a toggle 806 for reserving access to a portion of the property unit (such as any of the following: a gym, a laundry room, a conference room, a sauna).

[0107] The restricted virtual key is a code that typically includes an alphanumeric or binary access key for a property unit 702 or vehicle 701 and a block list 720 that lists blocked locations and the times they are blocked. Typically, at least one door has an NFC reader 704 configured to read the restricted virtual key 718 and, if the restricted virtual key is authorized for access through the door at the current time, use power received from a smartphone via NFC to open the lock 702a in the door. This enables the creation of a self-powered virtual key lock, where the lock 702a in the door does not require a power source.

[0108] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 80 may be easily combined or substituted with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 90, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0109] FIG9 shows a further version 90 of embodiment 30, wherein method 900 is Figure 9A and Figure 9B Shown in.

[0110] In stage 901, a mobile device 716 has a mobile application 707 connected to a cloud server 713, which is configured to store a virtual key 718 for facilitating the locking or unlocking of a door with a lock 703. The mobile application 707 features a toggle key 804 for controlling access to portions of the property unit 702 (such as any of the following: the main entrance, the rear entrance, the garage door, the intercom, etc.). Similarly, the mobile application 707 may feature a toggle key 806 for reserving access to portions of the property unit (such as any of the following: the gym, the laundry room, the conference room, and the sauna). The virtual key is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application 113, also connected to the cloud server 111, 713.

[0111] In stage 902, a permanent user 105 of a property unit 702 or vehicle 701 configures a restricted virtual key 718 in a mobile application 707. The restricted virtual key will only open a restricted set of doors from all doors in the property unit 702 or vehicle 701, and / or will only open one or more doors during a restricted time period. Typically, at least one door has a near field communication (NFC) reader configured to read the restricted virtual key 718 and unlock the door if the restricted virtual key is authorized to access the door 703 at the time the restricted virtual key is being used.

[0112] In stage 903, the permanent user 105 sends the restricted virtual key to another user via the communication network 715. At least one of the locks opened by the restricted virtual key is typically a self-powered lock that derives operating power by inserting the virtual key via the NFC connection.

[0113] At stage 904, another user 723 receives a restricted virtual key 718 in a mobile application 707 or message inbox 721 on their mobile device. The other user 723 uses the restricted virtual key 718 to open a restricted set of doors at property unit 702 or vehicle 701 during a restricted time period. Typically, the restricted virtual key 718 is a code that includes an access key for property unit 702 or vehicle 701 and a block list that lists blocked locations and times for the locations and / or doors. The restricted virtual key is typically in the form of alphanumeric or binary data to keep the data footprint, and therefore the power consumption of the system 700, low.

[0114] In stage 905, another user 723 is authenticated based on his cloud service account details 802, which may include a user ID and / or password, electronic banking credentials, and / or biometrics (which may involve recording fingerprints and / or facial scans), when opening the message 801 with the restricted virtual key 718. Typically, the restricted virtual key 718 is only used to open the lock if the authenticated user is the intended user of the restricted virtual key 718.

[0115] In stage 906, in addition to the lock or key, the mobile application 707 is connected to the home appliance 413. The home appliance 413 can be, for example, any of the following: a dishwasher, a washing machine, a vacuum cleaning drone, a heater, an air conditioner, an oven, a pool control, a lighting device, and / or a refrigerator.

[0116] In stage 907, the mobile application 707 connects to a database 414 that stores information about the property unit 702 and the home appliance 413 in the property unit 702. This information may include a user manual for the home appliance 413 and operating information required to operate the home appliance manually, automatically, or both manually and automatically.

[0117] In stage 908, the system 700 is configured to generate data output 418 or actionable data 417 that links the household appliance data 415 with the lock and key-related access data 416 in the property unit 702. When another user 723 enters the property 702 with the restricted virtual key, the household appliance 413 operates according to his restricted virtual key 718, and / or provides guidance to the other user 723 on the authority to access the operation of one or more household appliances according to his restricted virtual key 718.

[0118] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 90 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 91, 92 and / or 93.

[0119] Figure 10 A further version 91 of embodiment 40 is shown. Embodiments 91, 92, and 93 describe substantially the same embodiment, except that embodiment 91 describes how the present invention works as a system, embodiment 92 describes how the present invention works as software, and embodiment 93 describes the method of using system 1000 and software 1100 and the user experience.

[0120] Here, home appliance 1024 is turned on or off based on a change or anticipated change in key and lock data 1026. Additionally, based on virtual key and lock data 1026, user manual file 1025 for home appliance 1024 is displayed to the user of property unit 1002 on a display in property unit 1002 or on mobile device display 1016.

[0121] Another user 1023 receives the restricted virtual key in a mobile application 1017 on his mobile device 1016 or in a message inbox 1021. In some embodiments, the message inbox 1021 can be the email inbox of the other user 1023, or the text message inbox of the other user 1023, or the social media message inbox of the other user 1023. The message inbox can be implemented in the mobile application 1017, or according to the present invention, it can be a separate message inbox.

[0122] Permanent user 1027 sends a restricted virtual key to another user 1023 as before. Restricted virtual key 1018 can open a restricted set of doors at property unit 1002 during an optionally restricted time period. Another user 1023 is authenticated when opening the message with restricted virtual key 1018, and restricted virtual key 1018 becomes effective only if the authenticated person is the intended user of restricted virtual key 1018. Typically, the recipient of restricted virtual key 1018 is authenticated based on their cloud service account details (such as iCloud, Google Cloud, or Microsoft credentials), other social media credentials, or electronic banking credentials, a PIN code, security questions, and / or biometrics. Biometric authentication can use any biometric authentication method available on mobile device 1016 (such as a fingerprint, facial scan, etc.).

[0123] Mobile application 1017 features toggles for controlling access to portions of property unit 1002, such as any of the following: main entrance 1005, rear entrance 1006, garage door 1007, intercom 1008. Mobile application 1017 also features toggles for reserving access to portions of property unit 1002, such as any of the following: gym 1009, laundry room 1010, conference room 1011, sauna 1012.

[0124] Typically, restricted virtual key 1018 is a code that includes an access key for property unit 1002 or vehicle 1001. In some embodiments, restricted virtual key 1018 includes a block list 1020 that lists blocked locations and the times at which the locations are blocked.

[0125] Typically, at least one door 1003 has an NFC reader 1004 that is configured to read a restricted virtual key 1018 and, if the restricted virtual key 1018 is authorized to access the door 1003 at the time the restricted virtual key 1018 is read, unlock the door. Additionally, in some embodiments, a physical key or key dongle configured to open the property's door 1003 is associated with a cloud account in the system 1000. This allows the restricted virtual key 1018 to also be transferred to the memory of the physical key 1031 or key dongle 1032. Typically, this type of physical key or key dongle includes a memory chip, a battery or some other power source (such as a photovoltaic cell), and an NFC transceiver.

[0126] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 91 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 92 and / or 93.

[0127] Figures 11A to 11G A further version 92 of embodiment 50 is shown. A software program product 1100 is stored in a non-transitory storage medium and is operable in a system including a cloud server 1030, a mobile device 1016 for use by another user 1023 and a permanent user 1027, and a communication network 1015 for locking and unlocking at least one door 1003 leading to a property unit 1002. Mobile device 1016 has a mobile application 1017 connected to cloud server 1030, which is configured to store a virtual key 1018 for facilitating locking or unlocking door 1003 with lock 1002a. Virtual key 1018 is configured to be sent from mobile device 1028, which is also connected to cloud server 1030, to mobile application 1017.

[0128] A permanent user 1027 of a property unit 1002 or vehicle 1001 can configure a restricted virtual key 1018 in his mobile application 108, 406. The restricted virtual key 1018 is configured to open at least one door lock 1002a in the property unit 1002. In addition to locks or keys, the mobile application 108 is also connected to home appliances 1101. The restricted virtual key 1018 is configured to open or close the door lock 1002a in the property unit 1002 based on the change or expected change of the key and lock data as shown by the toggle button 1104. Figure 11A 100 is a household appliance shown as a refrigerator 1102. For example, the refrigerator can be opened when the key and lock data indicates that the restricted virtual key 1018 can open the door in the property unit within 24 hours.

[0129] Typically, the mobile application 108, 406 is connected to a database 414 that stores information about the property unit 1002 and the home appliance 1101 in the property unit 1002. The system 1100 is configured to generate data output 418 or actionable data 417 that links the home appliance data 415 with the lock and key related access data 416 in the property unit 1002. Based on the virtual key and lock data, the user manual file 1025 of the home appliance 1101 is accessed 1105 and displayed in the property unit 1002 on a display within the property unit 1002 or on a mobile device 1016, 1028. Figure 11B As shown in , the user manual instructs the user on how to operate the refrigerator-freezer combination machine 1101.

[0130] like Figure 11C As shown in , another user 1023 receives a restricted virtual key 1018 in the mobile application 1017 on his mobile device 1016 . Figure 11D 10 shows how the other user 1023 receives the restricted virtual key 1018 in the message inbox 1021 of his mobile device 1016. In some embodiments, the restricted virtual key 1018, 110 is integrated into the Figure 11D In some embodiments, the virtual key or restricted virtual key can be activated by simply tapping the icon 1111 in the message, and this causes the virtual key 109 or restricted virtual key 1018 to be transmitted from the mobile device 1016, 1028 via NFC.

[0131] Another user 1023 can use the restricted virtual key 1018 to open a restricted set of doors at the property unit 1002 during a restricted time. Figure 11E In the example, another user 1923 is authenticated when opening a message with a restricted virtual key, and the restricted virtual key 1018 is only valid if the authenticated person is the intended user of the restricted virtual key 1018. The recipient of the restricted virtual key 1018 is authenticated based on his cloud service account details 1113, electronic banking credentials and / or biometrics 1114.

[0132] Go to Figure 11F The mobile application 108, 200 features a toggle button for controlling access to portions of the property unit 102, 1002 (such as any of the following: main entrance, rear entrance, garage door, intercom). The mobile application 108, 200 features a toggle button for reserving access to portions of the property unit 102, 1002 (such as any of the following: gym, laundry room, conference room, sauna). Figure 11F In the example embodiment, in screen segment 1116, these restrictions are explained to another user 1023 who receives the restricted virtual key 1018. For example, the present invention enables coordinated car sharing, where the car 1001 is assigned to another user 1023 for two hours, as shown in screen segment 1116.

[0133] Restricted virtual key 1018 is a code that includes an access key to property unit 1002 or vehicle 1001 and may include a block list that lists blocked locations and the times at which the locations are blocked. Figure 11G The figure shows the process of opening at least one door, which has an NFC reader 1004 configured to read a restricted virtual key 1018 and unlock the door if the restricted virtual key 1018 is currently authorized to be accessed through the main entrance door 1005. As shown in FIG11 , a mobile application 1017 of another user 1023 can guide the other user in the process of using the restricted virtual key 1018 using the operation instructions shown in screen sections 1118 and 1119.

[0134] In some embodiments, the restricted virtual key 1018 can be transferred to a physical key 1031 or key dongle 1032, which is configured to open a door to the property 1002 and is associated with a cloud account of the system 1100. The physical key 1031 or key dongle 1032 typically does not have a screen, but in some embodiments, it can output instructions to a screen on another device (e.g., mobile device 1016, 1028) via Bluetooth or NFC.

[0135] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 92 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91 and / or 93.

[0136] Figure 12A and Figure 12B A further embodiment 93 of embodiment 60 is shown.

[0137] In stage 1201, mobile device 1028 has a mobile application (not shown) connected to cloud server 1030, which is configured to store a virtual key for facilitating the locking or unlocking of a door with lock 1002a. The mobile application features toggle keys for controlling access to portions of property unit 1002 (such as any of main entrance 1005, rear entrance 1006, garage door 1007, and intercom 1008). Preferably, the toggle keys featured in the mobile application of mobile device 1028 also serve as toggle keys for reserving access to portions of property unit 1002 (such as any of gym 1009, laundry room 1010, conference room 1011, and sauna 1012). The virtual key is configured to be sent to, and optionally received from, a second mobile application 1017, also connected to cloud server 1030, for use by another user 1023.

[0138] In stage 1202, a permanent user of property unit 1002 or vehicle 1001 configures a virtual key in a mobile application on a mobile device 1028, and the virtual key will open at least one door lock 1002a in property unit 1002. The at least one door has a near field communication (NFC) reader 1004 configured to read the restricted virtual key 1018 and, if the restricted virtual key 1018 is authorized for door access when used, open the lock 1001a, 1002a in the door.

[0139] In stage 1203, the mobile application of the mobile device 1028 is connected to the home appliance 1024, in addition to the lock or key. This can be, for example, Figures 11A to 11G The refrigerator or any other household appliance shown in .

[0140] In stage 1204 , the mobile application of the mobile device 1028 connects to the database 414 , which stores information about the property unit 1002 and the home appliance 1024 in the property unit 1002 .

[0141] In stage 1205, the system 1000 is configured to generate data output 418 or actionable data 417 that links the household appliance data 1024 with the lock and key-related access data 416 in the property unit 1002. When all or some of stages 1201 to 1205 are performed, the restricted virtual key 1018 is sent to the mobile application 1017 of another user 1023, who in this case will be using the property 1002 and / or vehicle 1001 with the restricted virtual key 1018. Alternatively, stages 1206 and 1207 are performed first to prepare the property 1002 for use by the other user 1023, and the restricted virtual key is sent in stage 1208.

[0142] In stage 1206, based on changes or anticipated changes in key and lock data, home appliances 1024 are turned on or off. For example, if another user 1023 is expected to enter the property within 24 hours, the refrigerator can be automatically turned on. Similarly, if another user 1023 is expected to use the vehicle 1001, the air conditioning appliance or heater in the vehicle can be turned on based on the ambient temperature and the anticipated start time of the drive.

[0143] In stage 1207 , based on the restricted virtual key 1018 and the lock data 1026 , the user manual file 1025 of the home appliance 1024 is displayed to another user of the property unit 1002 on a display in the property unit 1002 or on a display of the mobile device 1016 .

[0144] In stage 1208, another user 1023 receives a restricted virtual key 1018 in a mobile application 1017 on his mobile device or in a message inbox 1021. The other user 1027 can use the restricted virtual key 1018 to open a restricted set of doors at the property unit 1002 during a restricted time, wherein the restricted virtual key 1018 is a code that includes an access key for the property unit 1002 or the vehicle 1001. The restricted virtual key 1018 may also include a block list that lists blocked locations and the blocked times for the locations.

[0145] In stage 1209, another user 1023 is authenticated based on his cloud service account details, electronic banking credentials and / or biometrics when opening the message with the restricted virtual key 1018. The restricted virtual key 1018 is only valid if the authenticated user is the intended user of the restricted virtual key 1018.

[0146] In some embodiments, a physical key 1031 or key dongle 1032 configured to open a door of a property is associated with a cloud account of the system 1000. In some embodiments, this allows another authenticated user 1023 to move a restricted virtual key 1018 to the physical key 1031 and / or key dongle 1032 via the communication network 1015. The other user 1023 can then use the physical key 1031 and / or key dongle 1032 that the user carries with them to open the naturally restricted lock 1001a, 1002a or door 1003 of the property without moving the device 1016 or reauthenticating.

[0147] According to the present invention, any feature of embodiment 93 can be easily combined or replaced with any of the other embodiments 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 91 and / or 92.

[0148] The following will describe a virtual key system that utilizes artificial intelligence for several purposes. Known machine learning tools / deep learning frameworks can be utilized, with or without modifications. Several such known machine learning tools include Caffe TM 、Api.ai TM 、TensorFlow TM Mahout TM 、OpenNN TM 、H20 TM MLlib TM 、NuPIC TM 、OpenCyc TM 、Oryx 2 TM 、PredictionIO TM 、SystemML TM 、TensorFlow TM and Torch TM Artificial intelligence may be used to coordinate, for example, home appliance operation in response to actionable data 417 or data output 418. However, the virtual key data itself preferably remains completely deterministic, without any machine learning aspects involved.

[0149] In some embodiments of the present invention, the virtual key may be received as a mobile application, a physical key or key dongle, a messaging software inbox, a software wallet (such as Apple Wallet or Google Wallet), a server device or cloud account, or a device (such as a drone or self-driving car). TM App Clip or Google TMThis allows the user to use the virtual key 109 or the restricted virtual key 110 without installing the second mobile application 113.

[0150] In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, mobile application 108 or second mobile application 113 adapts to user roles. For example, there may be user roles of "permanent user" or "temporary user," as described in the previous embodiments. Mobile application 108 and / or second mobile application may be implemented as modular software, wherein the user view or the availability of different software modules depends on the user role of the user using mobile application 108 and / or second mobile application. For example, a user with the "permanent user" user role may be provided with a user view of everything in the property they own. A user with the "temporary user" user role may be provided with a user view of only those rooms, facilities, and appliances that another user 114 with the restricted virtual key 110 is permitted to use. In practice, user data is hosted in a cloud server, and the user's mobile application 108, 113 can be updated with the user role from cloud server 111. As the user role is updated in the mobile application 108, 113, the user interface 200, 1100 of the mobile application 108, 113 adapts to the current user role to display only those software modules and user views that have been given the current user role in the system 100, 400, 700 and / or 1000. These user roles apply to all previously described embodiments of the present invention.

[0151] A typical software architecture for implementing the user roles mentioned above associates the user roles with an asset structure for a property unit 1002, which would contain floor plans, locks, access points, access permissions, and keys. The asset structure could also have virtual hierarchies (e.g., countries or regions) to help manage assets with more than two property units 1002 in more than two countries or regions. When a new person is added to the system 100, 400, 700, 1000, a user role or roles are selected for that person. User roles can control access to log views that show a log of recorded events from different software modules and / or portions of a property unit as a function of time, e.g., "main entrance remotely opened, time, date, name of user who opened the main entrance." Reservations for use of facilities (such as a gym, sauna, or home appliances 413) can similarly be recorded for each user and their user role in the log view. Similarly, according to the present invention, all physical keys 1031 , key dongles 1032 and / or virtual keys 407 for which the user is granted management rights may be shown in a view controlled by the user's role.

[0152] In a preferred embodiment, the visitor contacts the property unit's intercom system 800. The intercom system can then call the property's user, and the intercom system connects to the mobile application 108, 113 in the user's device. The visitor's speech, which is received through the intercom system's microphone, is transmitted via the connection from the intercom system to the mobile application 108, 113, and the property's user hears the visitor using the intercom system. In some embodiments, the intercom system provides a QR code or NFC call tag that allows personnel at the entrance to call residents directly.

[0153] Depending on the defined user role, the user view can also be adapted to different screen sizes. For example, public information compatible with the general "resident" role can be displayed on mobile phone screens and tablet screens, as well as large screens in the lobby of a building or property unit.

[0154] In some embodiments, a virtual key is a data packet that, in addition to the key, also includes system maintenance data. This system maintenance data is used to update data for self-powered locks that are not connected to a communications network. Therefore, the lock's system maintenance data is updated as the virtual key is opened for self-powered locks that are not connected to a communications network. This is because such a network connection would consume the very power that the self-powered lock is attempting to conserve. Both permanent and temporary user keys can contain this system maintenance data and assign it to a lock. The system maintenance data in the virtual key may include, for example, the following:

[0155] - access rights to the lock and the locks that are allowed to be entered via virtual keys,

[0156] - time limits, such as the time or time interval during which the virtual key is allowed to access the lock,

[0157] - A block list, such as a list of the latest blocked keys from the smartphone to the lock or from the lock to the smartphone, depending on which list is more recent. In some embodiments, the block list is kept confidential to permanent users, temporary users, or both.

[0158] - Lock programming. In some embodiments, the virtual key may also include a lock programming script that modifies access permissions or time limits in the lock's memory. In some embodiments, the lock programming script remains confidential to permanent users, temporary users, or both.

[0159] - Audit trail. This typically includes log information about the usage history of a lock, multiple locks, and / or virtual key usage history.

[0160] The present invention has been described above with reference to the aforementioned embodiments and demonstrates several commercial and industrial advantages. The methods and arrangements of the present invention allow for programmable resident privileges to be exchanged between tenants and guest users using a mobile application and a self-powered lock. Physical keys and lock power sources can be eliminated entirely while still maintaining a fully programmable key-lock system. This provides ease of use for tenants and reduces costs for property owners without compromising security.

[0161] The invention has been described above with reference to the above mentioned embodiments. However, it is obvious that the invention is not limited to these embodiments, but comprises all possible embodiments within the spirit and scope of the inventive idea and the following patent claims.

[0162] References

[0163] US11468723,ACCESS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM,Ronald Carter.

[0164] US11421445,SMART LOCK DEVICE WITH NEAR FIELD COMMUNICATION,Johnson&Dow.

Claims

1. A system for locking and unlocking at least one door to a property unit (102) or a vehicle (101), comprising: A cloud server (111), a mobile device (106) for use by a user (105), and a communication network (104), and - the mobile device (106) has a mobile application (108) connected to the cloud server (111), the cloud server being configured to store a virtual key (109) for facilitating locking or unlocking of the lock (1002a) of the door (1005), and - said virtual key (109) being configured to send to and optionally receive from a second mobile application (113) also connected to said cloud server (111), in, - the permanent user (105) of the property unit or vehicle can configure a restricted virtual key (110) in the mobile application (108), - the restricted virtual key (110) will only open a restricted set of doors from all doors in the property unit (102) or the vehicle (101), and / or will only open one or more doors during a restricted time period, - the permanent user (105) can send a restricted virtual key (1110) to another user (1023) via the communication network (104), and the lock is a self-powered lock (102a) that derives operating power by inserting the virtual key via an NFC connection (704, 1004).

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: - another user (1023) receives the restricted virtual key (1018) into a mobile application or message inbox on his mobile device (1016), - Another user (1023) can use the restricted virtual key (1018) to open the restricted set of doors at the property unit (1002) or the vehicle (1001) during a restricted time.

3. The system according to claim 2, characterized in that Another user (1023) is authenticated when opening the message with the restricted virtual key (1018), and the restricted virtual key (1209) is only effective if the authenticated person is the intended user of the restricted virtual key.

4. The system according to claim 1, 2 or 3, characterized in that The recipient of the restricted virtual key (1018) is authenticated based on the recipient's cloud service account details, electronic banking credentials and / or biometrics (1209).

5. The system according to claims 1 to 4, characterized in that - the mobile application (108) features a toggle for controlling access to portions of the property unit (1002), such as a toggle for controlling access to any of the following: a main entrance, a rear entrance, a garage door, an intercom (203, 804); and / or the mobile application (108) features a toggle for reserving access to portions of the property unit (806), such as a toggle for reserving access to any of the following: a gym, a laundry room, a conference room, a sauna.

6. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The restricted virtual key (1018) is a code that includes an access key to the property unit (1002) or the vehicle (1001) and a block list that lists blocked locations and blocked times for the locations.

7. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that At least one door has an NFC reader (1004) configured to read the restricted virtual key (1018) and unlock the lock in the door if the restricted virtual key (1018) is authorized to access through the door (1005) at a time of use.

8. A software program product stored in a non-transitory storage medium, operable in a system comprising a cloud server (1030), a mobile device (1016, 1028) for use by a user, and a communication network, for locking and unlocking at least one lock (1002a) in a door leading to a property unit (1002) or a vehicle (1001), and - the mobile device (1028) has a mobile application (108) connected to the cloud server (1030), the cloud server being configured to store a virtual key for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door (1005) with a lock (1002a), and - said virtual key is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application (1017) also connected to said cloud server (1030), in, - a permanent user (1027) of the property unit (1002) or the vehicle (1001) can configure a restricted virtual key (1018) in the mobile application (1017), - the restricted virtual key (1018) will only open a restricted set of doors from all doors in the property unit (1002) or the vehicle (1001), and / or will only open one or more doors during a restricted time period, - the permanent user (1027) can send the restricted virtual key (1018) to another user (1023) via a communication network (1015), and the lock is a self-powered lock (1002a) that derives operating power by inserting the virtual key via an NFC connection (1004).

9. The software program product according to claim 8, wherein: - another user (1023) receives the restricted virtual key (1018) in the mobile application (1017) or the message inbox (1021) on his mobile device (1016), - Another user (1023) can use the restricted virtual key (1018) to open the restricted set of doors (1003) at the property unit (1002) or the vehicle (1001) during a restricted time.

10. The software program product according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that The user is authenticated when opening a message with the restricted virtual key (1018), and the restricted virtual key is only effective if the authenticated person (1023) is the intended user of the restricted virtual key (1018).

11. The software program product according to claim 8, 9 or 10, characterized in that The recipient of the restricted virtual key (1023) is authenticated based on the recipient's cloud service account details, electronic banking credentials and / or biometrics (1209).

12. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The mobile application (108) features toggles for controlling access to portions of the property unit (1002), such as toggles for controlling access to any of the following: a main entrance (1005), a rear entrance (1006), a garage door (1007), an intercom (1008); and / or the mobile application (108) features toggles for reserving access to portions of the property unit (1002), such as toggles for reserving access to any of the following: a gym (1009), a laundry room (1010), a conference room (1011), a sauna (1012).

13. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The restricted virtual key (1018) is a code that includes an access key to the property unit (1002) or the vehicle (1001) and a block list that lists blocked locations and blocked times for the locations.

14. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that At least one door has an NFC reader (1004) configured to read the restricted virtual key (1018) and, if the restricted virtual key is authorized for access through the door (1005) at the current time, unlock the lock (1002a) in the door.

15. A system for locking and unlocking at least one lock in a door (403) leading to a property unit (402), comprising a cloud server (410), a mobile device (404) for use by a user (408), and a communication network (412), and - the mobile device (404) has a mobile application (406) connected to the cloud server (410), the cloud server being configured to store a virtual key (407) for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door (403) with a lock (402a), and - the virtual key (407) is configured to be sent to and received from a second mobile application (409) also connected to the cloud server (410), wherein - a permanent user (408) of the property unit (402) or vehicle (401) can configure a virtual key (407) in the mobile application (406), - the virtual key (407) will open at least one door lock (402a) in the property unit (402), - in addition to said lock or said key, said mobile application (406) is connected to a household appliance (413), - the mobile application (406, 407) is connected to a database storing information of the property unit and the household appliances in the property unit (402), and - The system is configured to generate a data output (418) or actionable data (417) linking the household appliance data (415) with the lock and key related access data (416) in the property unit (402).

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein: The home appliance (1024) is turned on or off based on a change or anticipated change in the key and lock data (1026).

17. The system according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that Based on the virtual key and lock data (1026), a user manual file (1025) for the home appliance (1024) is displayed to a user of the property unit (1002) on a display in the property or on a display of the mobile device (1028, 1016).

18. The system according to claim 15, 16 or 17, characterized in that - Another user (1023) receives the restricted virtual key (1018) in the mobile application (1017) or in the message inbox (1021) on his mobile device (1016), - Another user (1023) can use the restricted virtual key (1018) to open the restricted set of doors at the property unit (1002) during the restricted time.

19. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The user is authenticated when opening the message with the restricted virtual key (1018), and the restricted virtual key is only effective if the authenticated person is the intended user of the restricted virtual key (1209).

20. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The recipient of the restricted virtual key (1018) is authenticated based on the recipient's cloud service account details, electronic banking credentials and / or biometrics (1209).

21. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The mobile application (108) features toggles (804) for controlling access to portions of the property unit (1002), such as toggles for controlling access to any of the following: a main entrance, a rear entrance, a garage door, an intercom; and / or the mobile application (108) features toggles for reserving access to portions of the property unit (1002), such as toggles for reserving access to any of the following: a gym, a laundry room, a conference room, a sauna.

22. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The restricted virtual key (1018) is a code that includes an access key to the property unit (1002) or vehicle (1001) and a block list that lists blocked locations and blocked times for the locations.

23. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that At least one door has an NFC reader (1004) configured to read a restricted virtual key (1018) and unlock the lock (1002a) in the door if the restricted virtual key is authorized for access through the door at the current time.

24. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that A physical key (1031) or key dongle (1032) configured to open a door (1003) of the property (1002) is linked to the cloud account of the system (1000).

25. A software program product stored in a non-transitory storage medium, operable in a system comprising a cloud server (1030), a mobile device for use by a user, and a communication network (1015), for locking and unlocking at least one lock (1002a) of a door (1003) leading to a property unit (1002), and - the mobile device has a mobile application (108) connected to the cloud server (111), the cloud server being configured to store a virtual key (109) for facilitating locking or unlocking of a door (103) with a lock (102a), and - said virtual key is configured to be sent to and optionally received from a second mobile application (1017) also connected to said cloud server (1030), in, - a permanent user (105) of the property unit (102) or vehicle (101) can configure a virtual key in the mobile application (108), - the virtual key will open at least one door lock in the property unit, - said mobile application is connected to a household appliance (1024) in addition to said lock or said key, - the mobile application (108, 1017) is connected to a database (414) that stores information about the property unit and the home appliances in the property unit, and - The system is configured to generate a data output (418) or actionable data (417) linking household appliance data with lock and key related access data (1026) in the property unit.

26. The software program product according to claim 25, wherein: The home appliance is turned on or off based on the change or anticipated change in the key and lock data (413, 1024).

27. The software program product according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that Based on the virtual key and lock data (1026), a user manual file (1025) for the home appliance (1024) is displayed to the user of the property unit (1002) on a display within the property or on a screen of the mobile device.

28. A software program product according to claim 25, 26 or 27, characterized in that - another user (1023) receives the restricted virtual key (1018) into the mobile application (1017) on his mobile device (1016), - Another user (1023) can use the restricted virtual key (1018) to open the restricted set of doors at the property unit (1002) during the restricted time.

29. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that - Another user (1023) receives the restricted virtual key (1018) into the message inbox (1110) on his mobile device, - Another user (1023) can use the restricted virtual key (1115, 1116) to open the restricted set of doors at the property unit (1002) or vehicle (1001) during the restricted time.

30. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The user is authenticated when opening the message with the restricted virtual key (1018), and the restricted virtual key is only effective if the authenticated person is the intended user of the restricted virtual key.

31. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The recipient of the restricted virtual key is authenticated based on the recipient's cloud service account details, electronic banking credentials and / or biometrics (1209).

32. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The mobile application (108) features a toggle (203) for controlling access to portions of the property unit (102), such as a toggle for controlling access to any of the following: a main entrance, a rear entrance, a garage door, an intercom; and / or the mobile application features a toggle (806) for reserving access to portions of the property unit, such as a toggle for reserving access to any of the following: a gym, a laundry room, a conference room, a sauna.

33. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The restricted virtual key (110) is a code that includes an access key to the property unit (102) or vehicle (101) and a block list that lists blocked locations and blocked times for the locations.

34. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that At least one door (1005) has an NFC reader (1004) configured to read a restricted virtual key (1018) and, if the restricted virtual key is authorized to access through the door (1005) at the time of attempted entry, open the lock (1002a) in the door.

35. Software program product according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that A physical key (1031) or key dongle (1032) configured to open a door (1005) of the property (1002) is linked to the cloud account of the system (1000).

36. A system comprising the features according to claims 1 and 15.

37. A software program product comprising the features according to claims 8 and 25.

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