Electronic locking device system for distribution panel using vibration / solar energy harvesting and its operation method

Abstract

According to various embodiments, an electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard comprises: an internal harvesting unit that converts vibration energy inside the switchboard into electrical energy; an external harvesting unit that converts light energy outside the switchboard into electrical energy; an energy storage unit that stores energy converted from the internal harvesting unit and the external harvesting unit; a sensor unit for inputting user identification information; a locking unit that locks or opens the door of the switchboard; an external communication unit provided outside the switchboard for processing communication with a remote server; and a processor that receives power from the energy storage unit. The processor may be configured to receive identification information from the sensor unit, transmit it to the remote server through the external communication unit to request authorization, receive authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit, and instruct the opening of the locking unit based on the received authorization approval information. According to various embodiments, a method of operation of an electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard may include: (a) converting vibration energy inside the switchboard and light energy outside the switchboard and storing them in an energy storage unit; (b) receiving power from the energy storage unit and receiving user identification information from a sensor unit provided outside the switchboard; (c) transmitting the received identification information to a remote server through an external communication unit provided outside the switchboard to request authorization; (d) receiving authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit; and (e) opening a lock inside the switchboard based on the received authorization approval information. Various other embodiments are also possible.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and system for security and management control of opening and closing of a distribution board (distribution box, distribution board, etc.) door and a method of operation thereof. More specifically, it relates to an electronic locking system configured to enable self-operation even in environments where power supply is difficult, such as electronic locking devices and wireless communication units, by harvesting vibration energy and solar energy (light) inside and outside the distribution board, and a system for controlling and managing remote monitoring and worker authorization flows by linking the same with a cloud server. Background Technology

[0003] Switchboards are a core component of power distribution facilities, housing branching, circuit breaker, and protection devices for various power systems. As regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency repair work are frequently performed on these boards, controlling worker access and managing switching history are critical.

[0004] However, conventional switchboard door locking systems are generally composed of mechanical locks or simple electronic control devices, which presents limitations in that they cannot systematically manage opening and closing permissions, record access history, or perform remote monitoring. In particular, since most sites where switchboards are installed are outdoors or locations where power supply is difficult, it is challenging to provide external power to operate locking or communication devices. Consequently, this results in significant maintenance costs for battery replacement or power wiring work.

[0005] Furthermore, existing systems often required manual verification of worker authorization or the presence of dedicated management personnel to perform work approvals and control opening and closing. This structure makes it difficult to block unauthorized access in real time and challenging to manage opening and closing logs collectively. Moreover, security vulnerabilities exist due to the lack of a system to immediately detect and notify administrators when a switchboard door is forcibly opened without authorization or communication is interrupted.

[0006] Meanwhile, with the recent advancement of energy harvesting technology that converts minute energy from the surrounding environment into electrical energy, the development of self-reliant electronic devices that reduce or completely eliminate battery dependency is actively underway. In particular, hybrid harvesting technologies utilizing vibration, solar power, and thermal energy are being applied to low-power sensors and IoT devices, enabling systems to operate for extended periods without maintenance.

[0007] However, these technologies have mainly remained at the level of general doors, indoor security devices, or experimental modules, and harvesting-based electronic locking systems specialized for industrial facilities with complex environments such as high voltage, metal shielding, moisture, and vibration, like switchboards, have rarely been proposed. Furthermore, there has been a lack of practical systems that integrate operator authentication, server-based authorization management, opening and closing history storage, remote control, and encrypted communication.

[0008] Therefore, a new type of self-supporting electronic locking system is required that can operate stably even in power-constrained environments of switchboards, while simultaneously improving security and management efficiency. Prior art literature

[0010] Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2017-0059386 (May 30, 2017) Korean Registered Patent Application No. 10-2212765 (February 1, 2021) Korean Registered Patent Application No. 10-2074174 (January 31, 2020) The problem to be solved

[0011] Accordingly, the technical problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an electronic locking system capable of autonomous operation without a separate external power source or battery replacement, even in a distribution panel environment where power supply is difficult. To this end, a vibration harvesting unit that converts vibration energy inside the distribution panel into electrical energy and a small solar harvesting unit that converts external light energy into electrical energy are configured together, thereby enabling the stable securing of driving power for the locking device, communication unit, sensor unit, etc.

[0012] In addition, the present invention enables only authorized users to open the switchboard by performing an authorization verification procedure through a server using a worker's identification card or an RFID-based ID card, and allows for systematic management of access history by automatically recording the opening and closing process and history in a server database. Through this, administrators or operators can monitor the status of the switchboard in real time via a web or mobile application even from a remote location and receive immediate warning notifications in the event of unauthorized access.

[0013] Furthermore, the present invention enables real-time monitoring of the open / closed status, communication status, and work status of the distribution panel through bidirectional communication with a cloud server, and periodically receives status responses from sensors on each door to update the central database. Through this, managers can intuitively grasp the work status of each site and take rapid action in the event of abnormal opening / closing or communication failures.

[0014] In addition, since all communication data is transmitted and received after undergoing an encryption process, risks such as data falsification or external hacking can be prevented. Consequently, the present invention aims to realize an intelligent electronic locking system capable of independently securing power in a switchboard environment while integrally performing authentication, control, security, and management functions.

[0015] The technical problems that the present invention aims to solve are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0017] An electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard according to the present invention for solving the above technical problem comprises: an internal harvesting unit that converts vibration energy inside the switchboard into electrical energy; an external harvesting unit that converts light energy outside the switchboard into electrical energy; an energy storage unit that stores energy converted from the internal harvesting unit and the external harvesting unit; a sensor unit for inputting user identification information; a locking unit that locks or opens the door of the switchboard; an external communication unit provided outside the switchboard for processing communication with a remote server; and a processor that receives power from the energy storage unit. The processor may be configured to receive identification information from the sensor unit, transmit it to the remote server through the external communication unit to request authorization, receive authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit, and instruct the locking unit to open based on the received authorization approval information.

[0018] A method of operation of an electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard according to the present invention may include: (a) converting vibration energy inside the switchboard and light energy outside the switchboard and storing them in an energy storage unit; (b) receiving power from the energy storage unit and receiving user identification information from a sensor unit provided outside the switchboard; (c) transmitting the received identification information to a remote server through an external communication unit provided outside the switchboard to request authorization; (d) receiving authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit; and (e) opening a lock inside the switchboard based on the received authorization approval information. Effects of the invention

[0020] According to the present invention, long-term operation is possible without replacing external power lines or batteries through a harvesting structure that combines vibration energy and solar energy, allowing for stable operation even in switchboard sites with severe power constraints. This significantly reduces installation and maintenance costs and enables the operation of a self-reliant system in remote areas or outdoor environments where establishing energy supply infrastructure is difficult.

[0021] In addition, the reliability of access control and history management can be ensured through worker authentication procedures using RFID and a server-linked authorization system, and security is significantly enhanced by immediately sending a warning to the administrator in the event of unauthorized access. All opening and closing history is automatically recorded in a database on a cloud server, which can be utilized for statistical analysis, work efficiency evaluation, and maintenance record management.

[0022] Furthermore, the present invention provides a cloud-based integrated management system, enabling centralized real-time monitoring and control of multiple switchboard doors. The administrator interface (UI / UX) supports both web and mobile environments to enhance accessibility, thereby allowing for efficient operation and management in various locations.

[0023] Meanwhile, the present invention includes a power management structure that efficiently stores and supplies harvested energy, so stable operation is possible even with instantaneous load changes or environmental factors, and environmental friendliness and safety can be simultaneously secured by minimizing battery usage.

[0024] As a result, the present invention solves the structural limitations and maintenance problems of existing systems in the field of electronic locking and remote control technology for switchboards, and provides the effect of realizing technological advancements in various aspects such as independent power operation, integrated security management, maintenance efficiency, and environmental friendliness.

[0025] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and potential effects expected from the technical features of the present invention will be clearly understood from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0027] FIG. 1 is an example diagram of a switchboard to which the present invention is applied. Figure 2 is a flowchart of the operation of the present invention. Figure 3 is an overall system configuration diagram of the present invention. FIG. 4 is an external configuration diagram of a switching device according to the present invention. FIG. 5 is an internal configuration and energy flow diagram of a switching device according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a control block diagram of a system according to the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0028] Hereinafter, various embodiments of this document are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technology described in this document to specific embodiments and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or substitutions of said embodiments. In relation to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components. A singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, expressions such as "A or B" or "at least one of A and / or B" may include all possible combinations of items listed together. Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" may modify said components regardless of order or importance and are used only to distinguish one component from another and do not limit said components. When it is mentioned that a certain (e.g., 1st) component is "(functionally or telecommunicationally) connected" or "connected" to another (e.g., 2nd) component, said certain component may be directly connected to said other component or connected through another component (e.g., 3rd component).

[0029] In this document, "configured to" may be used interchangeably with, depending on the context, for example, hardware- or software-wise, "suitable for," "capable of," "modified to," "made to," "capable of," or "designed to." In some cases, the expression "device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" in conjunction with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "processor configured to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated processor for performing the corresponding operations (e.g., an embedded processor), or a general-purpose processor capable of performing the corresponding operations by executing one or more software programs stored in a memory device (e.g., a CPU or application processor).

[0030] An electronic device according to various embodiments of the present document may include, for example, at least one of a smartphone, a tablet PC, a desktop PC, a laptop PC, a netbook computer, a workstation, and a server.

[0032] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various different forms. These embodiments are provided merely to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0033] Throughout the specification, the same reference numeral refers to the same component.

[0034] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram of a switchboard to which the present invention is applied. Referring to FIG. 1, a switchboard (1) to which a switching device (10) according to the present invention can be attached is illustrated. The switchboard (1) is a facility that performs the role of distributing, protecting, and controlling power in a power system. Such a switchboard (1) is typically installed in industrial sites, power plants, substations, large buildings, etc., and is made of a metal material such as steel to protect internal high-voltage equipment and sensitive electronic devices from the external environment; however, this can paradoxically act as a factor that interferes with wireless communication with the outside. Considering the characteristics of such a switchboard (1), the present invention solves the power supply and communication problems of existing switchboards and provides a high-reliability electronic locking device system capable of remote control and monitoring.

[0036] FIG. 2 shows an operation flowchart of the present invention. Below, the system configuration and operation of the present invention will be described in detail, focusing on the operation flowchart illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0038] FIG. 3 shows the overall system configuration diagram of the present invention, FIG. 4 shows the external configuration diagram of the switching device, FIG. 5 shows the internal configuration and energy flow diagram of the switching device, and FIG. 6 shows the control block diagram of the system. In the following description, the components illustrated in these figures will be described in detail with reference numerals.

[0040] In operation 201, according to various embodiments, the processor (200) of the system can control the conversion of vibration energy inside the switchboard and light energy outside the switchboard to be stored in the energy storage unit (160). Specifically, the system of the present invention includes an internal harvesting unit (150) and an external harvesting unit (110) to collect energy and efficiently store it in the energy storage unit (160). Here, energy harvesting refers to a technology that collects energy that is wasted or consumed from the surrounding environment, converts it into small-scale power, and utilizes it. The present invention proposes a hybrid method optimized for switchboard environments where power supply is unstable.

[0041] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 5, an external harvesting unit (110) is installed outside the distribution board to convert light energy, such as sunlight, into electrical energy, and an internal harvesting unit (150) is installed inside the distribution board to convert mechanical vibration energy into electrical energy. These harvesting units may operate independently or collect energy simultaneously in a complementary manner depending on environmental conditions to maximize the power self-sufficiency rate of the system. For example, they may operate in such a way that the contribution of solar power generation is high during the day, and the contribution of vibration power generation is high at night or in environments where sunlight is scarce (e.g., underground substations).

[0042] More specifically, the external harvesting unit (110) can be implemented as a small solar cell (110), which can be manufactured as a small module based on polycrystalline silicon or monocrystalline silicon. Such a solar cell (110) can have an output voltage of approximately 5V to 12V and an output power of 0.5W to 5W, and is attached to the top or side of a distribution board to collect light energy from direct sunlight as well as diffused light or ambient lighting (e.g., work lights) and convert it into electrical energy. In addition, the energy collected through solar harvesting serves as the main power source for the system, especially during the day, and can provide sufficient power to fully charge the energy storage unit (160) on clear days.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the internal harvesting unit (150) can be implemented as a vibration harvesting device (150) that generates electrical energy using minute vibrations generated by the operation of internal equipment (e.g., transformer, circuit breaker, cooling fan) in the switchboard. This vibration harvesting device (150) can be designed using a piezoelectric method or an electromagnetic method. The piezoelectric method utilizes the principle that a piezoelectric material (e.g., PZT ceramic) deforms to generate voltage when vibrations of a specific frequency are applied, while the electromagnetic method generates electricity through the phenomenon of electromagnetic induction via relative motion between a vibrating magnet and a coil. Although this vibration energy is small, ranging from microwatts (μW) to milliwatts (mW), it is continuously generated in an environment where the switchboard is in constant operation, so when accumulated, it can be utilized as a stable auxiliary power source required for system operation. Furthermore, vibration harvesting can significantly improve the independent operational reliability of the system by enabling power production even at night or in environments where solar power generation is difficult.

[0044] According to another embodiment, the collected electrical energy can be transferred to and stored in an energy storage unit (160). The energy storage unit (160) can be implemented as a supercapacitor or a capacitance capacitor, which has a longer lifespan than a standard battery, allows for rapid charging and discharging, and operates stably over a wide temperature range. The capacitance of the capacitor can be designed, for example, to 1F (Farad) to 10F or more, and can maintain a charge level to enable power supply for at least 24 hours, taking into account the maximum instantaneous power consumption and standby power consumption of the system. In addition, this capacitor (160) can perform a key role in supplying stable and continuous power to all components of the system, such as the locking unit (170), sensor unit (130), external communication unit (120), and processor (200). By continuously collecting and storing power through hybrid energy harvesting in this way, a fully independent power system can be established that enables stable long-term operation even in switchboard environments where external power supply is difficult, thereby reducing maintenance costs and increasing system uptime.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the energy storage unit (160) can supply stable power to all power-consuming components within the system, such as the locking unit (170), sensor unit (130), and external communication unit (120), as well as the processor (200), external display unit (140), open / close confirmation unit (180), internal memory, and clock (RTC) module, based on energy stored from the internal harvesting unit (150) and the external harvesting unit (110). Referring to FIG. 5, the flow of power organically supplied from the energy storage unit (160) to various components of the system can be visually confirmed. The processor (200) can efficiently manage the power of the energy storage unit (160) by incorporating a Power Management Unit (PMU) to monitor the power consumption of each component and, as needed, by temporarily cutting off the power of a specific module or switching to a low-power mode.

[0048] In operation 203, according to various embodiments, the processor (200) of the system may receive power from the energy storage unit (160) and control it to receive user identification information from a sensor unit (130) located outside the distribution board. Specifically, the switching device (10) of the present invention includes a sensor unit (130), and the sensor unit (130) is located on an easily accessible external surface of the distribution board.

[0049] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 4, it can be seen that a sensor unit (130) is clearly positioned on the outer front of the opening and closing device (10). The sensor unit (130) can be implemented as an RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) reader, which can obtain identification information in a contactless manner from an RFID tag, such as a user ID card (400) held by a user, using a HF (High Frequency) communication method in the 13.56 MHz band or a UHF (Ultra High Frequency) communication method in the 900 MHz band. Additionally, the RFID tag (400) can be provided in the form of an employee ID card, and the user can input their unique identification information (e.g., a 128-bit or 256-bit encrypted ID code) into the system simply by bringing their employee ID card within the recognition range (e.g., within 5 cm) of the sensor unit (130).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the processor (200) receives stable power from the energy storage unit (160) to activate the sensor unit (130) and receives user identification information detected through the sensor unit (130), which can then be temporarily stored in internal memory. This identification information serves as core data to be used to determine whether the user is authorized. This step serves as the first gateway for physical access control to the distribution board and is essential for the system to quickly and accurately identify who is attempting access. The contactless RFID method offers faster access speeds compared to physical key or password input methods, and provides superior security with a lower risk of key loss or password exposure.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the sensor unit (130) is physically fixed and located outside the distribution board (1) and can obtain unique identification information by detecting the proximity or contact of an RFID card (e.g., a tag conforming to ISO / IEC 14443 or ISO / IEC 15693 standards) that stores an authorized identifier, such as a user ID card (400). As illustrated in FIG. 4, the sensor unit (130) can be mounted on the outer surface of the distribution board to maximize user accessibility. For example, when an employee ID card with an embedded RFID tag (400) is brought within 5 cm of the sensor unit (130), the sensor unit (130) reads the 64-bit or 128-bit encrypted unique identification information stored on the card via a radio frequency signal. This method is superior in terms of security and ease of use compared to methods using a number pad or physical key, which pose a risk of password leakage. The processor (200) may perform additional security processing, such as generating a one-time token by combining this identification information with a random number immediately upon receiving it.

[0054] In operation 205, according to various embodiments, the processor (200) of the system may control the transmission of the received identification information to a remote server (300) via an external communication unit (120) provided outside the distribution board to request authorization. Specifically, the processor (200) may, in operation 203, configure the unique ID information of the distribution board (1) where the switchgear (10) is installed, current time information, etc., including the user identification information received through the sensor unit (130), into a packet form, and then transmit it to the external communication unit (120) to command transmission to the remote server.

[0055] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIGS. 4 and FIG. 6, the external communication unit (120) may be implemented as a communication module including an external antenna (120) installed outside the switching device (10), and the processor (200) may control the external communication unit (120) through the communication unit (210). Additionally, the external communication unit (120) may be physically installed outside the switchboard to resolve wireless communication interference caused by the iron door of the switchboard (Faraday Cage effect or radio wave absorption / reflection by the metal enclosure). This minimizes communication signal attenuation occurring inside the switchboard and establishes a stable wireless communication environment (e.g., 4G LTE, 5G NR, LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, etc.) to enable real-time data transmission and reception with a remote server (300). In particular, low-power long-range communication (LPWAN) technologies such as LoRaWAN or NB-IoT can be more suitable for the system of the present invention because they enable stable communication over a wide area even with a small amount of harvested energy.

[0056] According to another embodiment, the reason the processor (200) requests authorization from a remote server may be to maximize security and efficiency by systematically managing all access rights information on a centralized remote server (300) rather than managing it in a local database at the distribution panel site. This request can be transmitted using an encrypted protocol (e.g., TLS / SSL) to minimize the risk of data theft and tampering.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the external communication unit (120) may be installed in a form that penetrates the door (1-1) of the distribution board (1) or installed robustly so as to be fully exposed on the outer surface of the distribution board door (1-1), thereby fundamentally preventing wireless communication interference caused by the metal door of the distribution board. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the external communication unit (120) may be implemented in the form of a high-performance antenna located on the top or outside of the opening / closing device (10). For example, a patch antenna or a dipole antenna combined with a 4G / 5G module may be used. This solves the problems of radio wave shielding (Faraday Cage effect) and signal attenuation occurring inside the metal box, thereby ensuring stable high-speed wireless communication with the remote server (300) (e.g., a data transmission rate of at least 1 Mbps). Additionally, TCP / IP-based HTTPS or MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) may be used as the communication protocol, and MQTT is a lightweight protocol optimized for low-power IoT devices and is very suitable for harvesting energy-based systems, and the pointed-out communication problem can be successfully solved through the strategic installation method of this external communication unit (120).

[0060] In operation 207, according to various embodiments, the processor (200) of the system may be controlled to receive authorization information from the remote server (300) through the external communication unit (120). Specifically, the processor (200) may receive and analyze the response (authorization approval or non-authorization information) from the remote server (300) to the authorization request transmitted in operation 205 through the external communication unit (120).

[0061] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 3, it can be seen that a switchboard system, such as a switch (10-1), communicates bidirectionally with a cloud (remote server) (300) via a network (500). Specifically, the remote server (300) can store and manage detailed information in a pre-established database, such as access rights for each user (e.g., administrator, worker A, worker B), a unique ID for each switchboard (e.g., HV-001, LV-002), and an access permission period or time zone for a specific switchboard (e.g., Monday to Friday 09:00 to 18:00, one-time permission for specific emergency work). Additionally, the remote server (300) can determine whether the user currently has the authority to access the switchboard by comparing and analyzing user identification information, switchboard ID, and current time information received from the processor (200) with its own database.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the result of such determination, namely 'authorization approval' (access allowed) or 'non-authorization' (access denied), can be transmitted to the processor (200) via an external communication unit (120) in an encrypted form. This process is typically completed within several hundred milliseconds (ms) to minimize user waiting time. The processor (200) can verify the integrity of the received response packet and parse the included authorization information to determine the next action.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the system may further include an external display (140) that intuitively and visually displays an authorized or unauthorized status based on authorization information received from a remote server (300). Specifically, referring to FIG. 4, the external display (140) may be implemented as a high-brightness LED display (140) located outside the switching device (10) and may include at least one multi-color LED (e.g., red, green, yellow). For example, if authorization is approved, the LED may light up green for 3 seconds, and if unauthorized, it may flash red (e.g., 3 times at 1-second intervals). In addition, in the event of a system error or power shortage, it may light up yellow to immediately notify the user or administrator of the system status. This improves the user experience by allowing the user to immediately recognize the result of their access attempt (authorization or denial) and provides intuitive status feedback of the system.

[0066] According to one embodiment, when the processor (200) receives 'unauthorized' information rather than authorization information from the remote server (300), it may immediately request a warning by sending a warning message to the remote server (300) through an external communication unit (120), which includes the fact of receiving the unauthorized information, unique identification information of the distribution panel (1) where the system is installed, the time of the unauthorized access attempt, and identification information of the attempter (if possible). For example, if an unauthorized user attempts to unlock by touching their ID card to the sensor unit (130) or uses an invalid card, the processor (200) determines this as an intrusion attempt and reports it to the remote server (300) to immediately notify that there has been an unauthorized access attempt. In addition, when such an unauthorized access attempt occurs, the remote server (300) can send a warning message in real time in the form of SMS, push notification, email, etc. to a pre-registered administrator contact (e.g., mobile phone number, email address) so that the administrator can immediately recognize the situation and take measures such as dispatching an on-site response team, and at the same time, the LED of the external display (140) can be rapidly flashed red to notify the surroundings that there is an unauthorized access status.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the remote server (300) can determine whether to grant final authorization by comparing and analyzing user identification information transmitted from the processor (200), the unique ID of the switchboard (1) where the system is installed, and a preset access period or time. Specifically, referring to FIG. 3, it can be seen that the remote server (300) acts as a central control and data management hub for the entire system. In addition, the database of the remote server (300) (e.g., relational database or NoSQL database) systematically stores information such as the access authority level of each user (e.g., general worker, senior worker, administrator), the unique identifier (ID) of each switchboard, the permitted time for specific tasks (e.g., regular inspection work is allowed every Wednesday from 14:00 to 16:00), and the qualifications of the worker for the corresponding switchboard (e.g., whether they possess a high-voltage work license). By comprehensively analyzing this various information to perform multi-factor authorization and making a final authorization decision, the remote server (300) can apply the system's security policy strictly yet flexibly. In addition, the history management system records all access attempts and lock / unlock history along with timestamps, which can be utilized for future audits and incident cause analysis.

[0070] In operation 209, according to various embodiments, the processor (200) of the system may control the opening of the lock (170) inside the distribution board based on the received authorization information. Specifically, if the information received in operation 207 is 'authorization approval', the processor (200) may transmit an opening signal to the lock (170) to physically open the door of the distribution board.

[0071] According to one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 5, the locking unit (170) may be implemented as an electronic locking device (170) based on a solenoid or a stepping motor, and may receive stable power from an energy storage unit (160). For example, the processor (200) may apply a trigger signal of 3.3V or 5V to the locking unit (170) for 200ms to operate the solenoid of the electronic locking device (170) to release the locking pin, or rotate the stepping motor to unlock the locking mechanism. In addition, this electronic locking device (170) may perform a key role of physically locking or opening the switchboard door according to a control signal from the processor (200), and by allowing unlocking only to authorized users, it can effectively prevent unauthorized access to expensive or dangerous equipment inside the switchboard and enhance security. At the same time, the LED of the external display (140) can be lit green to visually indicate to the user that access is permitted.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the system may further include an opening / closing confirmation unit (180) that precisely detects the open or closed state of the distribution board door (1-1). Specifically, referring to FIG. 5, the opening / closing confirmation unit (180) may be implemented as a door opening / closing sensor (180), which can detect the opening / closing of the door using a Hall sensor, a Reed switch, or a magnetic sensor. For example, when a user opens the distribution board door after the lock (170) is opened, a sensor built into the opening / closing confirmation unit (180) detects a change in the physical state of the door and transmits a 'door open' signal to the processor (200), and the processor (200) can report this 'door open' state and the time of the event occurrence to a remote server (300) in real time via an external communication unit (120). This allows the administrator to monitor the real-time physical access status of a specific switchboard 24 hours a day through the administrator terminal (310a, 310b), thereby strengthening security management and generating an immediate warning in the event of unauthorized access.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the processor (200) may instruct the lock (170) to close when the worker re-enters identification information, such as their user ID card (400), through the sensor unit (130) after completing a task while the lock (170) is open. For example, when the worker completes work inside the distribution panel and exits, and touches their user ID card (400) to the sensor unit (130) again, the processor (200) recognizes this as work completion and a lock request, and transmits a closing signal to the lock (170) to automatically lock the distribution panel door. At the same time, the LED of the external display unit (140) may be lit red to visually indicate the locked state. This enhances convenience by automatically restoring the locked state without the need for the worker to manually operate the lock, and in particular, contributes to fundamentally preventing security accidents caused by a missing lock that may occur when the worker forgets to lock it. This can signify an important function that reduces human error through the automation of the workflow.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the processor (200) may instruct the opening of the lock (170) when emergency remote authorization information is received from the administrator of the remote server (300) via the external communication unit (120) after the unauthorized warning request. For example, after an unauthorized access attempt, the administrator of the remote server (300) may issue an emergency instruction to immediately unlock the corresponding switchboard remotely via an administrator terminal (310a, 310b) (e.g., smartphone app, web-based console). This significantly improves the flexibility and emergency response capabilities of the system by allowing the administrator to take immediate action without physically going to the site in the event that an authorized person at the site accidentally loses their ID card or an unexpected emergency occurs. Security vulnerabilities may also be minimized by setting the lock to be unlocked for only a specific period of time (e.g., 5 minutes) during remote authorization, which is an important feature that enhances the practicality of the system.

[0079] This invention presents an advanced solution that overcomes the limitations of existing switchboard management systems by organically integrating energy harvesting, external communication, and remote server-based control technologies into an electronic locking system for switchboards, thereby simultaneously ensuring power independence, communication stability, centralized management, and high security. This can function as a core technology for the safe and efficient operation of power distribution facilities in future industrial environments such as smart grids and smart factories, and further provides a foundation for the implementation of predictive maintenance and digital twins.

[0080] 1. Optimization of ultra-low power hybrid energy harvesting to secure power independence: Conventional power distribution boards are often located in remote areas where power supply is difficult, or require additional power line connections due to outdated facilities. The present invention fundamentally solves this problem by adopting a hybrid method that combines a small solar cell (110) and a vibration harvesting device (150). The external harvesting unit (110) uses, for example, a monocrystalline silicon module of 5Wp (Watt-peak) to 10Wp class, which has optimized low-light performance to enable efficient power generation even in cloudy weather. The internal harvesting unit (150) can be implemented as a piezoelectric or electromagnetic harvester designed to resonate with vibrations in the 50Hz or 60Hz frequency band generated during the operation of internal equipment (transformers, circuit breakers, cooling fans, etc.) in the switchboard. Specifically, it is manufactured in a form that integrates a self-generating MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems)-based vibration sensor and harvester to maximize space efficiency. The micro-power collected from these harvesters is efficiently rectified into AC / DC, converted into DC-DC, and controlled for charging through a power management unit (PMU) and stored in a super capacitor, which is an energy storage unit (160). The super capacitor has a capacity of up to 10F (Farad), has a high charge / discharge efficiency of over 95%, and has a cycle life of hundreds of thousands of times, enabling stable power supply for a long period. By optimizing the average power consumption of the entire system to, for example, 10mW or less (1mW or less in standby mode), the system can be designed to operate stably 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with minimal harvesting energy. This reduces the costs of external power line installation and additional battery replacement, and provides an environmentally friendly and sustainable power solution.In particular, the processor (200) can perform an intelligent power management algorithm that extends the operating time of the system by constantly monitoring the state of charge (SoC) of the energy storage unit (160) and switching to a low-power mode, such as temporarily disabling unnecessary functions (e.g., excessive lighting of the external display unit (140)) or increasing the polling interval, when the charge amount falls below a specific threshold (e.g., 30%).

[0082] 2. Optimization of multiple communication methods and external antennas to ensure communication stability: The metal enclosure of a switchboard shields electromagnetic waves, making wireless communication within the unit very difficult and creating communication dead zones. By physically installing an external communication unit (120) outside the switchboard, the present invention avoids this 'Faraday Cage' effect and simultaneously supports multiple communication methods for more stable communication. For example, a 4G / 5G LTE module (supporting Cat-M1 or NB-IoT) can be used for primary communication, and low-power long-range communication technologies such as LoRaWAN or satellite communication (e.g., Iridium SBD) can be utilized as backup channels for auxiliary communication to maximize communication reliability. The antenna of the external communication unit (120) can be designed as a high-gain antenna (e.g., 3dBi to 5dBi) optimized for a specific frequency band and placed inside an industrial-grade housing with waterproof / dustproof capabilities of IP67 or higher, so as to withstand changes in the external environment (temperature -40°C It operates robustly at 85°C and humidity levels of 0% to 95%. Through this, the switching device (10) can reliably transmit and receive data with a remote server (300), which enables the implementation of core functions such as real-time monitoring, remote control, unauthorized access warnings, and firmware over-the-air (FOTA). In the event of a communication interruption, data is stored in local memory (e.g., several MB of flash memory), and a 'Store and Forward' function is implemented to prevent data loss by transmitting the data in batches when communication is restored.

[0084] 3. Intelligentization of the Centralized Remote Control and Management System: The present invention establishes a centralized system in which all access rights management and lock control are performed at a remote server (300) rather than at the site. This enables the efficient management of tens or hundreds of switchboards and reduces the risk of authorization forgery or physical damage at the site. The manager can grant or revoke access rights for specific users in real time through manager terminals (310a, 310b), and can remotely check or change the lock status of specific switchboards. In addition, historical information such as all access attempts (authorized / unauthorized), opening / closing status, and work time is recorded in the database of the remote server (300) along with timestamps, which can be utilized as effective audit and analysis data in the event of future problems. This is an essential element for compliance with industrial safety and security regulations. The remote server (300) may include a machine learning-based anomaly detection module. For example, by learning normal access patterns (day of the week, time of day, user) for a specific distribution panel, if abnormal patterns are detected—such as an access attempt at an unusual time or access to multiple panels within a short period using the same ID card—it can determine this as an unauthorized attempt and send an immediate alert to the administrator. This implements an intelligent security system that goes beyond simple permission comparison.

[0086] 4. High reliability and multi-layer security: The present invention minimizes the risk of system paralysis due to power failure through hybrid energy harvesting technology and reduces the risk of communication interruption through an external communication unit (120). In addition, the contactless RFID authentication method using a user ID card (400) eliminates the risk of loss or duplication of physical keys, and centralized authorization management based on a remote server (300) ensures the consistency and integrity of security policies. Communication data is encrypted (Claim 20) using the Transport Layer Security (TLS) 1.2 or 1.3 standard and transmitted, and each switching device (10) has a unique device certificate embedded so that only trusted devices can communicate with the server through mutual authentication.

[0088] According to additional embodiments, the system of the present invention may further include a function for monitoring the internal environment of a switchboard.

[0089] Specifically, the switchgear (10) may additionally include environmental sensors (not shown), such as a temperature / humidity sensor, a smoke detection sensor, a harmful gas detection sensor, or a leak detection sensor. These sensors receive power from the energy storage unit (160) to periodically measure environmental data inside the switchboard, and the processor (200) collects this data and transmits it to a remote server (300) via an external communication unit (120).

[0090] For example, the temperature inside the distribution panel is 40 If the temperature rises above a certain level or the humidity is maintained above 80%, the processor (200) determines this as an abnormal sign and can send a warning notification to the remote server (300). Based on the received data, the remote server (300) visualizes the temperature / humidity trends inside the switchboard as a graph and provides it to the administrator terminals (310a, 310b), and if the set threshold is exceeded, it sends an immediate notification (SMS, email, app push) to the administrator. Through this function, the administrator can detect potential failure factors such as overheating, short circuits, and fire hazards inside the switchboard in advance and perform preventive maintenance to increase the reliability of the equipment and prevent major accidents. This provides a core foundation for predictive maintenance that goes beyond simple access control.

[0092] According to an additional embodiment, the system of the present invention may further include an internal video monitoring function for a switchboard.

[0093] Specifically, a small camera module (not shown) capable of ultra-low power operation is installed inside the switchgear (10) to capture or stream video inside the switchgear in real time when the switchgear door is opened or when an unauthorized access attempt is detected. This camera module can capture video at 15 frames per second (fps), for example, at 720p or 1080p resolution, and may have an infrared (IR) LED built in to enable shooting even at night. When the processor (200) receives a door opening signal from the switchgear confirmation unit (180) or detects unauthorized access, it activates the camera module to capture video and transmits it to a remote server (300) via an external communication unit (120). The transmitted video data is compressed with an H.264 or H.265 codec for efficient transmission and is encrypted for enhanced security. The remote server (300) stores the received video and allows the administrator to view the video in real time or play the recorded video through the administrator terminal (310a, 310b). Through this function, the administrator can visually check the internal working conditions when opening the distribution panel or accurately identify the face or actions of the intruder in the event of unauthorized intrusion, thereby securing clear evidence in the event of an accident. This provides powerful post-analysis and evidence collection functions beyond simple recording, thereby increasing the completeness of the security system.

[0095] According to additional embodiments, the system of the present invention may further include a safety management function for workers inside a switchboard.

[0096] Specifically, a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon or an Ultra-Wideband (UWB) module (not shown) can be installed inside the switchgear (10) to precisely determine the location of a worker who has entered the switchgear, or to monitor the safety status through linkage with safety equipment carried by the worker (e.g., smart helmet, safety vest). For example, when a worker approaches the switchgear, unlocks it, and enters the interior, the system detects the worker's BLE tag or UWB tag and reports the 'worker entering the interior' status to the remote server (300). If the worker does not move for a certain period of time (e.g., 30 minutes) or if an emergency signal (e.g., abnormal heart rate, collapse detection) is detected by the worker's safety equipment, the processor (200) determines this as an emergency situation and immediately sends a warning notification to the remote server (300). The remote server (300) can propagate this warning to the manager and, if necessary, automatically generate an emergency call to a nearby rescue team. This feature allows for real-time management of worker safety in hazardous work environments, such as switchboards, and enables a rapid response in the event of an accident, thereby minimizing casualties.

[0098] According to additional embodiments, the system of the present invention may further include a switchboard asset management function.

[0099] Specifically, individual RFID tags (not shown) are attached to each major asset (e.g., circuit breakers, transformers, relays) installed inside the switchboard (1), and an auxiliary RFID reader capable of scanning these tags may be included inside the switchgear (10) or the sensor unit (130). When a worker opens the switchboard and accesses a specific asset, the auxiliary RFID reader automatically scans the tag of the asset and transmits it to the processor (200). The processor (200) transmits this information to a remote server (300) to record a detailed history of 'who, when, and which asset of which switchboard was accessed'. Through this function, the history of access and changes to high-value or critical assets can be accurately managed, and unauthorized replacement, theft, or mishandling of assets can be prevented. In addition, when a worker completes maintenance work on a specific asset, the completion of the work is reported to the system by rescanning the RFID tag of the asset, and the change in the asset's status (e.g., replacement, repair completion) is updated in the database of the remote server (300), thereby enabling efficient management of the asset's lifecycle.

[0101] In summary, the present invention presents an advanced solution that overcomes the limitations of existing switchboard management systems by organically integrating energy harvesting, external communication, and remote server-based control technologies into an electronic locking system for switchboards, thereby simultaneously ensuring power independence, communication stability, centralized management, and high security. Furthermore, it offers the potential for expansion into a smart switchboard system through additional embodiments such as environmental monitoring, video surveillance, worker safety management, and asset management. This can function as a core foundational technology for the safe and efficient operation of power distribution facilities in future industrial environments such as smart grids, smart factories, and smart cities. The present invention can contribute to accelerating the digital transformation of switchboard operations, reducing human error, lowering operating costs, and ultimately maximizing safety in industrial sites.

[0103] According to various embodiments, an electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard comprises: an internal harvesting unit that converts vibration energy inside the switchboard into electrical energy; an external harvesting unit that converts light energy outside the switchboard into electrical energy; an energy storage unit that stores energy converted from the internal harvesting unit and the external harvesting unit; a sensor unit for inputting user identification information; a locking unit that locks or opens the door of the switchboard; an external communication unit provided outside the switchboard for processing communication with a remote server; and a processor that receives power from the energy storage unit. The processor may be configured to receive identification information from the sensor unit, transmit it to the remote server through the external communication unit to request authorization, receive authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit, and instruct the opening of the locking unit based on the received authorization approval information.

[0104] According to various embodiments, the energy storage unit may be characterized by supplying power to the locking unit, the sensor unit, and the external communication unit using energy stored from the internal harvesting unit and the external harvesting unit.

[0105] According to various embodiments, the sensor unit may be located outside the distribution board and may be characterized by detecting access to or contact with a card storing an authorized identifier to obtain the identification information.

[0106] According to various embodiments, the external communication unit may be installed through the door of the distribution panel to prevent communication interference caused by the door of the distribution panel.

[0107] According to various embodiments, the device further includes an opening / closing confirmation unit that detects the open or closed state of the switchboard door, and the processor may be characterized by transmitting the open or closed state detected by the opening / closing confirmation unit to the remote server through the external communication unit.

[0108] According to various embodiments, the processor may be characterized by instructing the closing of the lock when the identification information is re-entered through the sensor unit while the lock is in an open state.

[0109] According to various embodiments, it may further include an external display unit that visually displays an authorized or unauthorized status based on authorization information received from the remote server.

[0110] According to various embodiments, the processor may be characterized by requesting a warning by transmitting the fact of receiving the unauthorized information and the identification information of the distribution panel where the system is installed to the remote server through the external communication unit when receiving unauthorized information rather than authorized approval information from the remote server.

[0111] According to various embodiments, the processor may be characterized by instructing the opening of the locking unit when remote approval information is received through the external communication unit from the administrator of the remote server after the warning request.

[0112] According to various embodiments, the remote server may be characterized by determining whether to authorize by comparing the identification information with the unique ID of the distribution panel where the system is installed and a preset access period or time.

[0113] According to various embodiments, a method of operation of an electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard may include: (a) converting vibration energy inside the switchboard and light energy outside the switchboard and storing them in an energy storage unit; (b) receiving power from the energy storage unit and receiving user identification information from a sensor unit provided outside the switchboard; (c) transmitting the received identification information to a remote server through an external communication unit provided outside the switchboard to request authorization; (d) receiving authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit; and (e) opening a lock inside the switchboard based on the received authorization approval information.

[0114] According to various embodiments, the energy stored in step (a) may be characterized as being supplied as a power source for performing steps (b) through (e).

[0115] According to various embodiments, the step (c) may further include the step of determining whether to authorize by comparing the identification information, the unique ID of the distribution panel where the system is installed, and a preset access time.

[0116] According to various embodiments, after step (d), the method may further include a step of visually displaying an authorized or unauthorized status on an external display outside the distribution panel based on authorization information received from the remote server.

[0117] According to various embodiments, after step (e), the method may further include the step of the open / closed confirmation unit detecting the open state of the switchboard door; and the step of transmitting the detected open state to the remote server through the external communication unit.

[0118] According to various embodiments, the method may further include, after step (e), a step of re-entering the identification information through the sensor unit; and a step of closing the lock unit based on the re-entered identification information.

[0119] According to various embodiments, the method may further include the step of detecting the closed state of the switchboard door by an open / closed confirmation unit after the lock is closed; and the step of transmitting the detected closed state to the remote server through the external communication unit.

[0120] According to various embodiments, if unauthorized information other than authorized approval information is received from the remote server in step (d), the method may further include the step of requesting a warning by transmitting the fact of receiving the unauthorized information to the remote server through the external communication unit.

[0121] According to various embodiments, the method may further include: a step of receiving remote approval information from an administrator of the remote server through the external communication unit after the warning request step; and a step of opening the lock based on the received remote approval information.

[0122] According to various embodiments, the identification information transmitted in step (c) and the authorization approval information received in step (d) may be characterized by being encrypted and transmitted and received through the external communication unit.

[0123] According to various embodiments, the process may further include the step of recording and storing the operation process, including the authorization request of step (c), the authorization approval of step (d), and the opening of step (e), in a database of the remote server.

[0125] As used in this document, the terms “module” or “part” include a unit composed of hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. “Module” or “part” may be a component formed integrally or a minimum unit or part thereof that performs one or more functions. “Module” or “part” may be implemented mechanically or electronically and may include, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chip, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or programmable logic device known or to be developed that performs certain operations, and may be executed by a processor (120). At least part of the device (e.g., modules or functions thereof) or method (e.g., operations) according to various embodiments may be implemented as instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., memory (130)) in the form of a program module. When the above instruction is executed by a processor (e.g., processor (120)), the processor may perform a function corresponding to the above instruction. Computer-readable recording media may include a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic medium (e.g., magnetic tape), an optical recording medium (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, magneto-optical medium (e.g., floptical disk), built-in memory, etc. Instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. A module or program module according to various embodiments may include at least one of the aforementioned components, some of which may be omitted, or additionally include other components. Operations performed by a module, program module, or other components according to various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added.

[0126] Furthermore, the embodiments disclosed in this document are presented for the purpose of explaining and understanding the disclosed technical content and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of this disclosure should be interpreted to include all modifications or various other embodiments based on the technical concept of this disclosure. Explanation of the symbols

[0128] 1: Distribution panel 1-1: Distribution panel door 10: Switching device 10-1, 10-n: Switching device (sensor) 110: External harvesting unit (small solar power) 120: External communication unit (external antenna) 130: Sensor part (sensor contact part) 140: External display (LED) 150: Internal harvesting unit (vibration harvesting device) 160: Energy storage (capacitor) 170: Locking part (electronic lock) 180: Open / Closed Confirmation Unit (Door Open / Closed Sensor) 200: Processor (Processing Unit) 210: Communications Department 220: Sensor section (internal) 230: Power supply 300: Remote Server (Cloud) 310a: Administrator Terminal (WEB) 310b: Administrator Terminal (APP) 400: User ID Card (RFID) 500: Network (Internet)

Claims

Claim 1 An electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard, comprising: an internal harvesting unit that converts vibration energy inside the switchboard into electrical energy; an external harvesting unit that converts light energy outside the switchboard into electrical energy; an energy storage unit that stores energy converted from the internal harvesting unit and the external harvesting unit; a sensor unit for inputting user identification information; a locking unit that locks or unlocks the door of the switchboard; an external communication unit installed through the door of the switchboard to prevent communication interference caused by the door of the switchboard and to process communication with a remote server; and a processor that receives power from the energy storage unit, wherein the processor receives identification information from the sensor unit, transmits it to the remote server via the external communication unit to request authorization, receives authorization approval information from the remote server via the external communication unit, instructs the opening of the locking unit based on the received authorization approval information, and is configured to instruct the closing of the locking unit when the identification information is re-input through the sensor unit while the locking unit is in an open state. Claim 2 A system according to claim 1, wherein the energy storage unit supplies power to the locking unit, the sensor unit, and the external communication unit using energy stored from the internal harvesting unit and the external harvesting unit. Claim 3 A system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor unit is located outside the distribution board and is characterized by detecting access to or contact with a card storing an authorized identifier to acquire the identification information. Claim 4 delete Claim 5 A system according to claim 1, further comprising an open / closed confirmation unit that detects the open or closed state of the switchboard door, wherein the processor transmits the open or closed state detected by the open / closed confirmation unit to the remote server through the external communication unit. Claim 6 delete Claim 7 A system according to claim 1, further comprising an external display unit that visually displays an authorized or unauthorized status based on authorization information received from the remote server. Claim 8 A system according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the processor receives unauthorized information rather than authorized approval information from the remote server, it transmits the fact of receiving the unauthorized information and identification information of the distribution panel where the system is installed to the remote server through the external communication unit to request a warning. Claim 9 A system according to claim 8, wherein the processor directs the opening of the locking part when remote approval information is received from the administrator of the remote server through the external communication part after the warning request. Claim 10 A system according to claim 1, wherein the remote server determines whether to authorize by comparing the identification information with the unique ID of the distribution panel where the system is installed and a preset access period or time. Claim 11 A method of operation for an electronic locking device system using vibration / solar harvesting for a switchboard, comprising: (a) converting vibration energy inside the switchboard and light energy outside the switchboard and storing them in an energy storage unit; (b) receiving power from the energy storage unit and receiving user identification information from a sensor unit provided outside the switchboard; (c) transmitting the received identification information to a remote server through an external communication unit installed through the door of the switchboard to prevent communication failure caused by the door of the switchboard, and requesting authorization; (d) receiving authorization approval information from the remote server through the external communication unit; (e) opening a lock inside the switchboard based on the received authorization approval information; (f) re-entering the identification information through the sensor unit while the lock is open; and (g) closing the lock based on the re-entered identification information. Claim 12 A method of operation according to claim 11, wherein the energy stored in step (a) is supplied as a power source for performing steps (b) to (g). Claim 13 A method of operation according to claim 11, wherein step (c) further comprises the step of determining whether to authorize by comparing the identification information, the unique ID of the distribution panel where the system is installed, and a preset accessible time. Claim 14 A method of operation according to claim 11, further comprising the step of visually displaying an authorized or unauthorized status on an external display outside the distribution panel based on authorization status information received from the remote server after step (d). Claim 15 A method of operation according to claim 11, further comprising, after step (e), a step in which an opening / closing confirmation unit detects the open state of the switchboard door; and a step in which the detected open state is transmitted to the remote server through the external communication unit. Claim 16 delete Claim 17 A method of operation according to claim 11, further comprising: a step in which, after the locking part is closed in step (g), an opening / closing confirmation part detects the closed state of the distribution panel door; and a step of transmitting the detected closed state to the remote server through the external communication part. Claim 18 A method of operation according to claim 11, characterized by further including the step of requesting a warning by transmitting the fact of receiving said unauthorized information to said remote server through said external communication unit when unauthorized information other than authorized approval information is received from said remote server in step (d). Claim 19 A method of operation according to claim 18, further comprising: a step of receiving remote approval information from an administrator of the remote server through the external communication unit after the warning request step; and a step of opening the lock based on the received remote approval information. Claim 20 A method of operation according to claim 11, wherein the identification information transmitted in step (c) and the authorization approval information received in step (d) are encrypted and transmitted and received through the external communication unit. Claim 21 A method of operation according to claim 11, further comprising the step of recording and storing the operation process, including the authorization request of step (c), the authorization approval of step (d), and the opening of step (e), in the database of the remote server.

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