Access device and method of operation

Abstract

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an access device comprising: an ultra wide band (UWB) ranging unit configured to perform one or more ranging operations; a gait determination unit configured to determine a gait of a user of the access device; and a processing unit configured to analyze the gait determined by the gait determination unit and allow the UWB distance measurement unit to perform the distance measurement operation according to a result of analyzing the gait. According to further aspects of the present disclosure, a corresponding method of operation is conceived, and a corresponding computer program is provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an access device. Furthermore, this disclosure relates to a corresponding method for operating the access device, and a corresponding computer program. Background Technology

[0002] Ultra-wideband (UWB) communication technology is a technology that utilizes high signal bandwidth, specifically for transmitting digital data over a wide frequency spectrum with extremely low power. For example, UWB technology can use a spectrum from 3.1 to 10.6 GHz and can feature high-frequency bandwidths greater than 500 MHz and very short pulse signals, potentially supporting high data rates. UWB technology can provide communication devices with high data throughput and enable high-precision positioning of the devices. Specifically, UWB technology can be used for so-called ranging operations, i.e., for determining the distance between communication devices. Therefore, UWB technology can be advantageously used in a variety of applications, particularly for enabling access to different types of objects (e.g., vehicles and buildings). Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, an access device is provided, the access device comprising: an ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging unit configured to perform one or more ranging operations; a gait determination unit configured to determine the gait of a user of the access device; and a processing unit configured to analyze the gait determined by the gait determination unit and allow the UWB ranging unit to perform the ranging operations based on the result of the gait analysis.

[0004] In one or more embodiments, the processing unit is configured to analyze the gait by comparing the gait determined by the gait determination unit with a stored predetermined gait profile.

[0005] In one or more embodiments, the gait profile has been pre-defined using a machine learning model.

[0006] In one or more embodiments, the processing unit is configured to allow the UWB ranging unit to perform the ranging operation if the gait determined by the gait determination unit matches the gait profile.

[0007] In one or more embodiments, the processing unit is configured to initiate a manual user authentication process if the gait determined by the gait determination unit does not match the gait profile.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the gait determination unit is implemented as an accelerometer or an inertial measurement unit.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the gait determination unit includes a receiver configured to receive data indicating the results of one or more UWB-based radar operations performed by an external UWB radar unit.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the gait determination unit is configured to extract gait from a previous ranging operation performed by the UWB ranging unit.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the gait profile is stored in the secure memory of the access device.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the access device is configured to enable access to a vehicle or building.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the access device is implemented as a smartphone, smartwatch, or key card.

[0014] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a method for operating an access device is conceived, the method comprising: determining the gait of a user of the access device by a gait determination unit included in the access device; analyzing the gait determined by the gait determination unit by a processing unit included in the access device; and allowing an ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging unit included in the access device to perform one or more ranging operations based on the result of the gait analysis by the processing unit.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the processing unit analyzes the gait by comparing the gait determined by the gait determination unit with a stored predetermined gait profile.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the gait profile has been pre-defined using a machine learning model.

[0017] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a computer program is provided that includes executable instructions, which, when executed by a processing unit included in an access device, cause the processing unit to: analyze the gait of a user of the access device, wherein the gait has been determined by a gait determination unit included in the access device; and allow an ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging unit included in the access device to perform one or more ranging operations based on the result of the gait analysis. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0019] Figure 1 An illustrative embodiment of the access device is shown.

[0020] Figure 2 An illustrative embodiment of a method for operating an access device is shown.

[0021] Figure 3An illustrative embodiment of a secure access system is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0022] As mentioned above, UWB technology can be advantageously used in a variety of applications, particularly for enabling access to different types of objects. More specifically, systems for enabling access to objects (e.g., vehicles and buildings) typically rely on UWB secure ranging technology to measure the distance between a user holding an access device (e.g., a smartphone, smartwatch, or dedicated key card) and the locked object, so that the object is only unlocked when the user approaches it. These systems rely on a single-factor authentication process based on password verification using a digital key stored in the user's access device. However, if a thief steals the access device, he or she may be able to access the locked object using that device. This represents a security threat.

[0023] This invention now describes an access device, a corresponding method for operating the access device, and a corresponding computer program, which help improve the security level of access systems of the described type. The access device, operating method, and computer program disclosed herein can be used to achieve more secure access to, for example, vehicles or buildings. Furthermore, the access device disclosed herein can be implemented as, for example, a smartphone, a smartwatch, or a key card.

[0024] Figure 1 An illustrative embodiment of an access device 100 is shown. The access device 100 includes a UWB ranging unit 102, a gait determination unit 104, and a processing unit 106. The UWB ranging unit 102 is configured to perform one or more ranging operations. The gait determination unit 104 is configured to determine the gait of a user of the access device 100. Furthermore, the processing unit 106 is configured to analyze the gait determined by the gait determination unit 104 and allow the UWB ranging unit 102 to perform the ranging operation based on the result of the gait analysis. In this way, a second factor (i.e., the user's gait) is added to UWB ranging-based authentication, thereby enhancing the security level of the system in which the access device 100 is used. It should be noted that although the UWB ranging unit 102, the gait determination unit 104, and the processing unit 106 are shown as separate units, some or all of these units can be integrated into a single physical component of the access device 100.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the processing unit is configured to analyze the gait by comparing the gait determined by the gait determination unit with a stored predetermined gait profile. In this way, the user's gait can be easily analyzed. In one or more embodiments, the gait profile has been predetermined using a machine learning model. In this way, a reliable gait-based second authentication factor can be obtained. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the processing unit is configured to allow the UWB ranging unit to perform the ranging operation if the gait determined by the gait determination unit matches the gait profile. This facilitates conditional execution of UWB ranging, i.e., UWB ranging is performed only if the conditions for successfully verifying the user's gait are met. This further contributes to improving the security level of the type of access system described. Those skilled in the art should understand that the term "match" does not mean that the data being compared should always be exactly the same. In fact, in some embodiments, a predefined error margin may be considered when comparing these data, while in other embodiments, an error margin will not be allowed.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the processing unit is configured to initiate a manual user authentication process if the gait determined by the gait determination unit does not match the gait profile. In this way, additional authentication steps can be easily triggered if a security vulnerability is suspected, which further helps to improve the security level of the type of access system described.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the gait determination unit is implemented as an accelerometer or inertial measurement unit (IMU). An accelerometer or IMU can provide reliable gait measurements. Furthermore, many user devices are already equipped with accelerometers or IMUs, eliminating the need to add additional components to the device. In one or more embodiments, the gait determination unit is implemented as a receiver configured to receive data indicating the results of one or more UWB-based radar operations performed by an external UWB radar unit. In this way, the access device itself does not need to be equipped with dedicated hardware for determining or sensing gait. Specifically, a UWB radar unit included in, for example, a vehicle or building, can sense the gait of an approaching user by performing one or more UWB radar operations and transmit the results of these operations to the gait determination unit of the access device. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the gait determination unit is configured to extract gait from previous ranging operations performed by a UWB ranging unit. In this way, the access device can use the UWB ranging unit for two purposes: first, to perform one or more ranging operations to determine gait, and then allow the UWB ranging unit to perform subsequent ranging operations to achieve access to vehicles or buildings. For example, these prior ranging operations for determining gait may include angle of arrival and distance measurements.

[0028] Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the gait profile is stored in the secure memory of the access device. This makes it more difficult to access and manipulate the gait profile, thereby further enhancing the security level of the system in which the access device is used.

[0029] Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology—also known as ultra-wideband pulse radio (IR-UWB)—is an RF communication technology that uses short-duration pulses for data communication. A key feature of IR-UWB technology is its ability to provide secure and accurate distance measurement between two or more devices. Typical distance measurement methods include the so-called single-sided two-way ranging (SS-TWR) and two-sided two-way ranging (DS-TWR) methods. In addition to this type of ranging operation, UWB devices can also perform radar operations. Therefore, UWB devices can operate in both ranging and radar modes.

[0030] In ranging operation mode, frames are typically exchanged between the two devices via at least one antenna on each device, and at least SS-TWR operation (also known as ping-pong operation) is performed. Specifically, the channel impulse response (CIR) is estimated on both devices, timestamps are generated based on the CIRs on both devices, and those timestamps are exchanged. The time of flight (ToF) is then calculated based on the timestamps, and the range (i.e., distance) is calculated based on the ToF. Alternatively, DS-TWR operation (also known as ping-pong operation) can be performed. It should be noted that angle of arrival (AoA) operation mode is similar to ranging mode, but it involves at least two antennas on one device. Specifically, in AoA operation mode, two phase values ​​associated with at least two CIRs are calculated on one device. The phase difference of arrival (PDoA) is then calculated based on the two phase values, and the AoA is calculated based on the PDoA. AoA operation mode facilitates more accurate determination of object location and thus complements the ranging operation performed in ranging mode. As used herein, the ranging operation mode can therefore be extended to include an AoA operation mode, whereby when the device operates in ranging mode, it may optionally perform additional operations typically performed in AoA operation mode. Furthermore, as used herein, ranging mode may include operations based on so-called Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA) technology rather than Time of Flight (ToF) technology. TDoA technology is particularly suitable for real-time positioning operations. Generally, the term "ranging mode" encompasses all types of positioning operations based on UWB message exchange with external UWB communication devices. It should be noted that AoA calculation can be used in combination with both ToF calculation and TDoA calculation.

[0031] In radar operating mode, frames are transmitted by at least one device and received by the same device and / or by one or more other devices. The CIR is then estimated on one or more devices receiving the frames, and the range and / or velocity and / or AoA are calculated based on the estimated CIR. Therefore, AoA calculation can also be performed in radar operating mode. Radar operating mode can be used advantageously to detect (i.e., sense) the presence of objects or people. However, radar operating mode can also be used to estimate distances, but with less accuracy than that typically achieved in ranging operating mode. Those skilled in the art should understand that the given examples are non-limiting examples of how different operating modes can be implemented. In other words, the modes can be implemented in different ways, depending on, for example, the requirements imposed by the application.

[0032] Figure 2 An illustrative embodiment of a method 200 for operating an access device is shown. Method 200 includes the following steps: At 202, a gait determination unit included in the access device determines the gait of a user of the access device. At 204, a processing unit included in the access device analyzes the gait determined by the gait determination unit. Furthermore, at 206, the processing unit allows a UWB ranging unit included in the access device to perform one or more ranging operations based on the results of the gait analysis. (See reference...) Figure 1 As illustrated by the corresponding access device, the method helps to improve the security level of a system in which the access device is used.

[0033] According to this disclosure, secure access to objects can be achieved. Specifically, UWB-based ranging can be used to achieve seamless access to protected objects such as vehicles and buildings. Specifically, the digital key can be stored on a chip integrated into a traditional physical car key. Alternatively, the digital key can be stored in a mobile device such as a smartphone or smartwatch. Additionally, sensor signals from, for example, an accelerometer or IMU (which is typically integrated into the portable device holding the digital key) can be used to train a machine learning model. This machine learning model can learn a user's gait profile to classify whether the user is authorized to access the protected object at a later stage (i.e., when the access device is in use). Human gait adds unique, personally specific information to the access request, which can be evaluated before granting access to the protected object. In this way, a seamless two-factor authentication process can be achieved, which does not require human interaction with the digital key. Therefore, strong security features are added without compromising user convenience.

[0034] Figure 3An illustrative embodiment of a secure access system 300 is shown. System 300 includes a protected object 302 and an access device storing a digital key 306, carried by a key holder 304. In this system 300, a secure authentication process can be implemented as follows: First, the gait of the key holder 304 can be learned during a learning phase of system 300. During this learning phase, the key holder 304 trains the access device storing the digital key 306; this access device is equipped with a suitable gait determination unit and a processing unit capable of performing gait analysis. The training generates a gait profile, which can be securely stored in the access device. Subsequently, during the application phase of system 300, the trained access device monitors the gait of the key holder 304 when he or she approaches the protected object 302. If a match is found between the determined gait and the gait profile, the processing unit can trigger the access device to initiate a UWB-based secure ranging session. Then, if the ranging session outputs data indicating that the access device carried by the key holder 304 is within a predefined area surrounding the protected object 302, access to the object 302 can be granted. In contrast, if the determined gait does not match the gait profile, additional authentication may be required before a UWB-based secure ranging session can be initiated. This additional authentication could be authentication requiring user input, such as PIN entry, facial recognition to a camera, or fingerprint input.

[0035] Technical personnel should understand that the above references... Figure 3 The application flow described in the secure access system illustration is merely a non-limiting example. In another non-limiting example, Bluetooth channel probing might be used to sense proximity to the protected object 302. Subsequently, if the protected object 302 has been sensed, one or more of the methods described above can be used to determine and analyze the user's gait. Then, if the determined gait matches a gait profile, UWB ranging can be initiated to accurately measure the distance to the protected object 302 and unlock it. Therefore, if the protected object 302 has been sensed, Bluetooth channel probing can be used as a low-power method to trigger gait determination, gait analysis, and UWB ranging.

[0036] The systems and methods described herein may be embodied, at least in part, by one or more computer programs, which may exist in various forms, in both active and inactive states, either within a single computer system or across multiple computer systems. For example, they may exist as software programs consisting of program instructions in source code, object code, executable code, or other formats for performing some of the steps described. Any of the above formats may be embodied in compressed or uncompressed form on a computer-readable medium, which may include storage devices and signals.

[0037] As used herein, the term "computer" refers to any electronic device that includes a processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a dedicated processor, or a microcontroller. A computer is capable of receiving data (input), performing a series of predetermined operations on the data, and producing results in the form of information or signals (output). Depending on the context, the term "computer" will specifically refer to a processor or more generally to a processor associated with a combination of related elements housed within a single chassis or housing.

[0038] The term "processor" or "processing unit" refers to a data processing circuit, which can be a microprocessor, coprocessor, microcontroller, microcomputer, central processing unit, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable logic circuit, and / or any circuit that manipulates signals (analog or digital) based on operation instructions stored in memory. The term "memory" refers to one or more storage circuits, such as read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and / or any circuit that stores digital information.

[0039] As used herein, "computer-readable medium" or "storage medium" can be any component that can contain, store, transmit, propagate, or deliver a computer program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, device, or apparatus. A computer-readable medium can be (e.g., but not limited to) an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, device, apparatus, or propagation medium.

[0040] It should be noted that the above embodiments have been described with reference to different subjects. Specifically, some embodiments may have been described with reference to method claims, while others may have been described with reference to device claims. However, those skilled in the art will understand from the foregoing that, unless otherwise specified, any combination of features relating to different subjects, particularly combinations of features from method claims and device claims, is also considered to be disclosed herein, except for any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter.

[0041] Additionally, it should be noted that the drawings are schematic. Similar or identical elements are represented by the same reference numerals in different drawings. Furthermore, it should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description of the illustrative embodiments, implementation details that are customary to those skilled in the art may not be described. It should be understood that, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made during the development of any such implementation to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Furthermore, it should be understood that this development work may be complex and time-consuming, but will still be the common practice for those skilled in the art to engage in design, fabrication, and manufacturing.

[0042] Finally, it should be noted that those skilled in the art will be able to devise numerous alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Any reference numerals placed between parentheses in the claims should not be construed as limiting the claims. The word “comprising” does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those listed in the claims. The words “a / an / a type” preceding an element do not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The measures recited in the claims can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several distinct elements and / or by means of a suitably programmed processor. In device claims listing several components, several of these components can be embodied by the same piece of hardware. The fact that certain measures are stated in mutually different dependent claims does not in itself imply that combinations of these measures cannot be advantageously used.

[0043] List of reference numerals

[0044] 100 Access Devices

[0045] 102 UWB ranging units

[0046] 104 Gait Determination Units

[0047] 106 processing units

[0048] 200 Method for operating the access device

[0049] 202 The gait of the user of the access device is determined by the gait determination unit included in the access device.

[0050] 204 The gait determined by the gait determination unit is analyzed by the processing unit included in the access device.

[0051] 206 The processing unit allows the UWB ranging unit included in the access device to perform one or more ranging operations based on the results of analyzing the gait.

[0052] 300 Secure Access System

[0053] 302 Protected Object

[0054] 304 Key Holder

[0055] 306 Digital Key.

Claims

1. An access device, characterized in that, include: An ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging unit, configured to perform one or more ranging operations; A gait determination unit configured to determine the gait of the user of the access device; A processing unit is configured to analyze the gait determined by the gait determination unit and allow the UWB ranging unit to perform the ranging operation based on the results of the gait analysis.

2. The access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The processing unit is configured to analyze the gait determined by the gait determination unit by comparing the gait with a stored predetermined gait profile.

3. The access device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The gait profile has been pre-defined using a machine learning model.

4. The access device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The processing unit is configured to allow the UWB ranging unit to perform the ranging operation if the gait determined by the gait determination unit matches the gait profile.

5. The access device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The processing unit is configured to initiate a manual user authentication process if the gait determined by the gait determination unit does not match the gait profile.

6. The access device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The gait determination unit is implemented as an accelerometer or an inertial measurement unit.

7. The access device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The gait determination unit includes a receiver configured to receive data indicating the results of one or more UWB-based radar operations performed by an external UWB radar unit.

8. The access device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The gait determination unit is configured to extract the gait from a previous ranging operation performed by the UWB ranging unit.

9. A method for operating an access device, characterized in that, include: The gait of the user of the access device is determined by a gait determination unit included in the access device. The gait determined by the gait determination unit is analyzed by a processing unit included in the access device; The processing unit allows the ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging unit included in the access device to perform one or more ranging operations based on the results of analyzing the gait.

10. A computer program, characterized in that, Includes executable instructions that, when executed by a processing unit included in the access device, cause the processing unit to: Analyze the gait of the user of the access device, wherein the gait has been determined by a gait determination unit included in the access device; The ultra-wideband (UWB) ranging unit included in the access device is allowed to perform one or more ranging operations based on the results of analyzing the gait.

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