Wireless access control system

Abstract

A system configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functionalities, the system comprising: a host device having an application installed thereon and having a processor configured to send communication signals; a first transceiver and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the host device; a first electronic device associated with the first transceiver, the first transceiver configured to operate the first electronic device; a second electronic device associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver configured to operate the second electronic device; wherein the first electronic device and the second electronic device differ from each other in their functionalities; wherein the communication signals sent by the host device and the client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver are not configured for operation by the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application relates to and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 538,998, filed September 18, 2023, entitled “WIRELESS ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to systems for providing controlled access to such secure areas, and more specifically to electronic access control systems. Background Technology

[0004] Electronic access control systems are used to control access to secure areas, including but not limited to data centers, research laboratories, vaults, storage areas, and other types of enclosed spaces. Some systems are equipped with one or more latches, each of which facilitates the unlocking and locking of panels, doors, or other structures that control access to the secure area.

[0005] Driven by the pursuit of convenience, performance, security, cost, and / or operability, there is a continuous need for advancements in the field of electronic access control systems. For example, there remains a demand for new electronic access control systems, such as latching components that offer at least one of the following: improved performance, enhanced security, improved operability, a simpler user interface, and a more cost-effective design. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a system is configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functions. The system includes: a host device having a client application installed thereon and having a processor, the processor and the client application being jointly configured to transmit communication signals; a first transceiver and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the host device via the communication signals; a first electronic device associated with the first transceiver, the first transceiver being configured to operate the first electronic device; and a second electronic device associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; wherein the first electronic device and the second electronic device are different from each other in terms of their functions; wherein the communication signals transmitted by the host device and the client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver are not configured based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device for operation of the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device, respectively; wherein, although the first electronic device and the second electronic device are different in terms of their functions, the first transceiver is still configured to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signals; and wherein, although the second electronic device is different from the first electronic device in terms of their functions, the second transceiver is still configured to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signals.

[0007] According to another aspect of the invention, a transceiver is configured to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application and associated with a first electronic device or a second electronic device, the first and second electronic devices being different from each other in terms of their functions, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive communication signals from the host device, these communication signals being configured for operation of the transceiver of the first or second electronic device respectively, based on the functions of the first and second electronic devices, wherein the transceiver is configurable to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signals, and wherein the transceiver is configurable to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signals, although the second electronic device is different from the first electronic device in terms of its functions.

[0008] According to another aspect of the invention, a transceiver group is configured to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application and associated with a first electronic device or a second electronic device, the first and second electronic devices being different from each other in terms of their functions, wherein the first transceiver and the second transceiver of the transceiver group are configured to receive communication signals from the host device, these communication signals being configured, based on the functions of the first and second electronic devices, respectively, for operation of the transceivers of the first electronic device or the second electronic device, wherein, despite the difference in their functions, the first transceiver is pre-configured to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signals, and wherein, despite the difference in their functions, the second transceiver is pre-configured to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signals.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for communicating with electronic devices having different functions is provided, the method comprising: associating a first electronic device with a first transceiver, the first transceiver being configured to operate the first electronic device; associating a second electronic device with a second transceiver, the second electronic device being functionally different from the first electronic device, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; transmitting communication signals from a host device and a client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver, the communication signals being configured not based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device for operation of the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device, respectively; operating the first electronic device in response to communication signals received by the first transceiver, despite the functional differences between the first and second electronic devices; and operating the second electronic device in response to communication signals received by the second transceiver, despite the functional differences between the second and first electronic devices.

[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, a system is configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functions. The system includes: a host device having a client application installed thereon and having a processor, the processor and the client application being jointly configured to receive communication signals; a first transceiver and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the host device via the communication signals; a first electronic device associated with the first transceiver, the first transceiver being configured to operate the first electronic device; and a second electronic device associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; wherein the first electronic device and the second electronic device are different from each other in terms of their functions, and the communication signals received by the host device and the client application from the first transceiver and the second transceiver are different from each other based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device; wherein, in response to the communication signals received by the host device from the first transceiver, the client application displays a first set of information associated with the operation of the first electronic device, and in response to the communication signals received by the host device from the second transceiver, the client application displays a second set of information associated with the operation of the second electronic device, and the first set of information and the second set of information are different based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for displaying the state of electronic devices having different functions is provided, the method comprising: associating a first electronic device with a first transceiver configured to operate the first electronic device; associating a second electronic device with a second transceiver, the second electronic device being different from the first electronic device in terms of its function, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; transmitting communication signals from the first transceiver and the second transceiver to a host device and a client application, the communication signals being different from each other based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device; and displaying, via the client application, a first set of information associated with the operation of the first electronic device in response to a communication signal received by the host device from the first transceiver, and displaying, via the client application, a second set of information associated with the operation of the second electronic device in response to a communication signal received by the host device from the second transceiver, the first set of information and the second set of information being different based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0012] According to another aspect of the invention, a kit includes: a locking device or latching device; and a transceiver, pre-configured or user-configurable, for receiving communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application, and in response to the communication signals received from the host device, remotely operating the locking device or latching device of the kit from the host device, and operating at least one other device besides the locking device or latching device of the kit, the at least one other device having a different function from the locking device or latching device of the kit.

[0013] According to another aspect of the invention, a method of packaging a kit includes: selecting an electronic device from a plurality of electronic devices having different functions; packaging a pre-configured or user-configurable transceiver with the selected electronic device, the transceiver being pre-configured or user-configurable to receive communication signals sent by a host device having a client application, and remotely transmitting the communication signals to the selected electronic device and at least one other electronic device selected from the plurality of electronic devices, the at least one other electronic device and the selected electronic device having different functions. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a system for communicating with electronic devices having different functions according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a host device running a client application commands the electronic device via a transceiver.

[0015] Figure 2 A system for communicating with electronic devices having different functions, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. The system includes a latch module, a transceiver, and a host device.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a block diagram of a host device used with a system for communicating with electronic devices having different functions, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 4 A system for communicating with electronic devices having different functions, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. The system includes two latching modules, a transceiver, and a host device.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of a system for communicating with electronic devices having different functions according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein a host device running a client application commands multiple transceivers using the same data content.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a system block diagram according to another embodiment of the present invention for communicating with electronic devices having different functions, wherein the electronic device reports a state change to a transceiver, and the transceiver forwards the information, along with information about the type of electronic device associated with the transceiver, back to the host device.

[0020] Figure 7 An invitation screen interface for a client application used with a system for communicating with electronic devices having different functions, according to an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0021] Figures 8A to 8DA series of screen interfaces are shown for use with a client application for setting up and communicating with electronic devices having different functions, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figures 9A to 9C A series of screen interfaces are shown for use with a client application for communicating with electronic devices having different functions, according to an embodiment of the present invention, which lists a plurality of electronic devices.

[0023] Figure 10 A kit of components for communicating with electronic devices having different functions is shown according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 11 The system is illustrated schematically, in which the client application displays either a first set of information or a second set of information depending on whether the communication between the host device and the client application is with a first transceiver / electronic device or with a second transceiver / electronic device. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The invention will now be described with reference to exemplary embodiments and variations thereof. Although the invention has been illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown and described. Rather, various modifications to the details may be made within the scope of the equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention.

[0026] Optionally, the latch includes a built-in user interface, such as an actuator or "reader," which receives input from a user attempting to enter a secure area. Depending on the type of input, the input can be converted into a signal and sent to a controller. If the user's input is accepted, the controller sends a signal to unlock each latch. For example, one type of actuator / latch assembly uses a lever or mechanical cable to attach the user interface (such as an actuator or "reader") to, for example, a latch. In many applications, electrically operated latches are desired due to the need for remote or button input, password entry, keyless entry, or monitored entry. In some cases, the end user needs access to multiple secure areas, each of which may have different types of latches.

[0027] The system described in this paper implements a host device that runs a client application and is operated by an end user, thereby allowing the end user to access and / or control specific downstream electronic devices via a transceiver without requiring any prior knowledge of the specific functionality of the electronic device. However, if the end user of the client application wishes to modify the transceiver's behavior to better accommodate a specific type of electronic device, information containing the user-requested change can be passed from the host device to the transceiver, provided that the desired electronic device configuration can be mapped to a pre-existing device configuration value determined by the transceiver's source code or the client application's source code.

[0028] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a system is configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functions. The system includes: a host device having a client application installed thereon and having a processor, the processor and the client application being jointly configured to transmit communication signals; a first transceiver and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the host device via the communication signals; a first electronic device associated with the first transceiver, the first transceiver being configured to operate the first electronic device; and a second electronic device associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; wherein the first electronic device and the second transceiver... The electronic devices differ from each other in their functions; wherein the communication signals sent by the host device and the client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver are not configured based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device for operation of the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device, respectively; wherein, although the first electronic device and the second electronic device differ in their functions, the first transceiver is still configured to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signals; and wherein, although the second electronic device and the first electronic device differ in their functions, the second transceiver is still configured to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signals.

[0029] The host device can be configured to transmit communication signals via wired or wireless communication with the first and second transceivers. For example, the host device can be configured to transmit communication signals via wireless communication selected from the group consisting of: Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols. The host device can also be communicatively coupled to a server.

[0030] The first or second electronic device may include an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor. The first electronic device and the first transceiver may be integrated together. Alternatively, the first electronic device and the first transceiver may be separate and coupled by wires or wirelessly.

[0031] Another first electronic device may be associated with the first transceiver. The first electronic device and the other first electronic device may differ from each other in terms of their functions. Although the first electronic device and the other first electronic device differ in terms of their functions, the first transceiver may still be configured for the operation of the first electronic device and the other first electronic device.

[0032] The first transceiver may be the same as the second transceiver, and the first and second transceivers are configurable to operate the first or the second electronic device.

[0033] The host device may also include a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium and a client application that includes a series of instructions.

[0034] The unencrypted data in the communication signals sent from the host device and the client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver can be the same.

[0035] According to another aspect of the invention, a transceiver is configured to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application and associated with a first electronic device or a second electronic device, the first and second electronic devices being different from each other in terms of their functions, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive communication signals from the host device, these communication signals being configured for operation of the transceiver of the first or second electronic device respectively, based on the functions of the first and second electronic devices, wherein the transceiver is configurable to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signals, and wherein the transceiver is configurable to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signals, although the second electronic device is different from the first electronic device in terms of its functions.

[0036] The transceiver can be configured to receive communication signals via wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols. The first or second electronic device may include an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

[0037] According to another aspect of the invention, a transceiver group is configured to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application and associated with a first electronic device or a second electronic device, the first and second electronic devices being different from each other in terms of their functions, wherein the first transceiver and the second transceiver of the transceiver group are configured to receive communication signals from the host device, these communication signals being configured, based on the functions of the first and second electronic devices, respectively, for operation of the transceivers of the first electronic device or the second electronic device, wherein, despite the difference in their functions, the first transceiver is pre-configured to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signals, and wherein, despite the difference in their functions, the second transceiver is pre-configured to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signals.

[0038] The first and second transceivers can be configured to receive communication signals via wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols. The first or second electronic device may include an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for communicating with electronic devices having different functions is provided, the method comprising: associating a first electronic device with a first transceiver, the first transceiver being configured to operate the first electronic device; associating a second electronic device with a second transceiver, the second electronic device being functionally different from the first electronic device, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; transmitting communication signals from a host device and a client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver, the communication signals being configured not based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device for operation of the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device, respectively; operating the first electronic device in response to communication signals received by the first transceiver, despite the functional differences between the first and second electronic devices; and operating the second electronic device in response to communication signals received by the second transceiver, despite the functional differences between the second and first electronic devices.

[0040] The method may further include: configuring the transceiver as a first transceiver to operate a first electronic device in response to a communication signal; and configuring the transceiver as a second transceiver to operate a second electronic device in response to a communication signal.

[0041] The configuration steps may include pre-configuring the transceiver. The configuration steps may also include user configuration of the transceiver.

[0042] According to another aspect of the invention, a system is configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functions. The system includes: a host device having a client application installed thereon and having a processor, the processor and the client application being jointly configured to receive communication signals; a first transceiver and a second transceiver configured to communicate with the host device via the communication signals; a first electronic device associated with the first transceiver, the first transceiver being configured to operate the first electronic device; and a second electronic device associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; wherein the first electronic device and the second electronic device are different from each other in terms of their functions, and the communication signals received by the host device and the client application from the first transceiver and the second transceiver are different from each other based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device; wherein, in response to the communication signals received by the host device from the first transceiver, the client application displays a first set of information associated with the operation of the first electronic device, and in response to the communication signals received by the host device from the second transceiver, the client application displays a second set of information associated with the operation of the second electronic device, and the first set of information and the second set of information are different based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0043] The host device can be configured to receive signals via wired or wireless communication with the first and second transceivers. For example, the host device can be configured to receive signals via wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols. The host device can also be communicatively coupled to a server.

[0044] The first or second electronic device may include an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor. The first electronic device and the first transceiver may be integrated together. The first electronic device and the first transceiver may also be separate and coupled by wires or wirelessly.

[0045] Another first electronic device may be associated with the first transceiver. The first electronic device and the other first electronic device may differ from each other in function. The first transceiver may be configured to send different signals to the host device based on the functions of the first electronic device and the other electronic device. The first or second electronic device may include an electronic lock or electronic latch, and the first or second set of information includes the locked or unlocked state of the electronic lock or electronic latch. The first or second electronic device may include a sensor, and the first or second set of information includes the presence or absence of a sensed condition.

[0046] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for displaying the state of electronic devices having different functions is provided, the method comprising: associating a first electronic device with a first transceiver configured to operate the first electronic device; associating a second electronic device with a second transceiver, the second electronic device being different from the first electronic device in terms of its function, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; transmitting communication signals from the first transceiver and the second transceiver to a host device and a client application, the communication signals being different from each other based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device; and displaying, via the client application, a first set of information associated with the operation of the first electronic device in response to a communication signal received by the host device from the first transceiver, and displaying, via the client application, a second set of information associated with the operation of the second electronic device in response to a communication signal received by the host device from the second transceiver, the first set of information and the second set of information being different based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

[0047] The method may further include: configuring the transceiver as a first transceiver to operate a first electronic device in response to a communication signal; and configuring the transceiver as a second transceiver to operate a second electronic device in response to a communication signal.

[0048] The configuration steps may include pre-configuring the transceiver. Alternatively, the configuration steps may include user configuration of the transceiver.

[0049] According to another aspect of the invention, a kit includes: a locking device or latching device; and a transceiver, pre-configured or user-configurable, for receiving communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application, and in response to the communication signals received from the host device, remotely operating the locking device or latching device of the kit from the host device, and operating at least one other device besides the locking device or latching device of the kit, the at least one other device having a different function from the locking device or latching device of the kit.

[0050] The transceiver can be configured to receive communication signals from a host device via wireless communication selected from the group consisting of: Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols. The kit may include cables for coupling a locking device or latching device to the transceiver. The locking device or latching device may be integrated with the transceiver, or it may be separate from the transceiver and capable of being coupled via wires or wirelessly.

[0051] The transceiver can be pre-configured to operate a locking device or a latching device. At least one other device may include an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

[0052] The kit may also include or provide a method for obtaining operating instructions for coupling the transceiver to a client application to receive communication signals from the host device.

[0053] According to another aspect of the invention, a method of packaging a kit includes: selecting an electronic device from a plurality of electronic devices having different functions; packaging a pre-configured or user-configurable transceiver with the selected electronic device, the transceiver being pre-configured or user-configurable to receive communication signals sent by a host device having a client application, and remotely transmitting the communication signals to the selected electronic device and at least one other electronic device selected from the plurality of electronic devices, the at least one other electronic device and the selected electronic device having different functions.

[0054] The method may also include pre-configuring the transceiver to operate the locking or latching device. The method may also include providing a method for acquiring operating instructions associated with the kit for coupling the transceiver to a client application to receive communication signals from the host device.

[0055] An exemplary embodiment is described with reference to the accompanying drawings, disclosing a wireless system 100 for communicating with electronic devices having different functions. Figure 1 This is particularly relevant for wireless systems 100 that provide controlled access to secure areas. System 100 generally includes a host device 102, electronic devices 106, and a transceiver 108. For example, the host device 102 can be a mobile device, such as a mobile phone, tablet, smartwatch, etc., or a personal computer, such as a desktop or laptop computer. The host device 102 is configured to receive input from a user, for example, via a user interface, to operate the electronic device 106. For example, the electronic device 106 can be an electronic lock, electronic latch, or sensor. Although... Figure 1 Only one electronic device 106 is shown, but system 100 may include two or more electronic devices 106.

[0056] When the electronic device 106 is an electronic latch, it includes at least one latch 202 and is configured to be mounted to, for example, a panel (not shown) that provides access to a secure area. Once mounted, the latch 202 is operable in two different modes to control access to the secure area. Specifically, the latch 202 is operable in a locked mode to lock the panel and prevent access to the secure area. The latch 202 is also operable in an unlocked mode to unlock the panel and allow access to the secure area. For example, the latch 202 may include an electromechanical actuator, such as a solenoid, motor, etc. (not shown), for actuating the latch by retracting or extending a pawl (not shown). The electromechanical actuator may be controlled by a motor controller (not shown), which may be an external controller or a controller embedded in the latch 202, for example, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 224,310 of Southco, Inc., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Generally, a motor controller may include devices capable of performing various operations, such as a microprocessor, storage devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, etc.), analog input / output (I / O), digital I / O, etc. (not shown). The motor controller's memory typically stores programming information for the motor controller. Specifically, the memory stores instructions that, when executed by the motor controller, cause the motor controller to lock and unlock latch 202, display the status of latch 202 (e.g., locked or unlocked), etc.

[0057] The latch can have different configurations. For example, the latch can be an electronic latch or an electronic slip latch. The latch can have different power supply configurations. For example, the latch can be powered by a 12V wall power supply or a 12V battery pack. In another configuration, the latch can be configured to be used with a sensor, so that the latch does not change its behavior when an unlock or lock command is received. In yet another configuration, the latch can be an electronic latch configured to be used with a door sensor. In yet another configuration, the latch can be an electronic latch or an electronic swing handle. In yet another configuration, the latch can be configured to be used with an electromechanical latch having both a door sensor and a latch sensor. In yet another configuration, the latch can be configured to be used with an extension retaining actuator without a door sensor or a latch sensor.

[0058] Figure 3This is a block diagram of host device 102. Host device 102 includes PCB 302. PCB 302 includes at least a microprocessor CPU 304 for controlling various components within host device 102, a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium (e.g., memory) 306 (e.g., RAM, ROM, etc.) for storing data of CPU 304, and a wireless transceiver 308 (e.g., Bluetooth) for wirelessly communicating with electronic device 106 and other external devices. ® (NFC, WiFi, RFID, LoRa, cellular networks, etc.). The host device 102 may also include a touchscreen display interface 104 (e.g., LCD, E-ink, LED, etc.) for displaying information to a user of the host device 102 and accepting user input from the user of the host device 102; a battery 310 (e.g., rechargeable, replaceable, etc.) for powering the host device 102; a power supply circuit 312 (e.g., charging circuit, voltage regulator, etc.) for charging the battery 310 from an external source 314 via a power port 316 (e.g., micro USB) and supplying regulated voltage to the components of the host device 102; and a sensor port 318 for connecting an external sensor 320 to the host device 102. The external sensor 320 may be a capacitive touch sensor, an infrared proximity sensor, a resistive touch sensor (such as a force-sensitive resistor (FSR)), etc., which, for example, serves as an input device for interacting with various controls and displays on the user interface 104. A wireless transceiver 308 may be operatively connected to at least one external sensor 320. For example, the wireless transceiver 308 can be configured to communicate wirelessly with the electronic device 106 and one or more wireless components (such as servers, cloud services, etc.) outside the electronic device 106.

[0059] Optionally, RFID contacts or NFC tags (not shown) for contacting or interacting with, for example, RFID cards can be provided on the host device 102 for providing authorized user access to the electronic device 106. It should be noted that, for clarity, Figure 3 The specific electrical interconnections between these components are not explicitly shown. Such electrical interconnections will be obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0060] Return to Figure 1 The transceiver 108 can be, for example, using a standard wireless protocol (such as Bluetooth). ® The wireless transceiver 108 is a wireless transceiver that uses one or more wireless links and / or protocols. However, the embodiments are not limited to this. For example, the wireless transceiver 108 may communicate with the electronic device 106 and the host device 102 via one or more wireless links and / or protocols. Examples of wireless links and / or protocols may include WPAN (such as ZigBee or Z-Wave), low-power links (such as Bluetooth), and other protocols. ® Low Energy or LE (BLE), Bluetooth® Smart, iBeacon), near-field communication protocols (such as NFC) and / or WLAN (WiFi / 802.11) protocols, long-range (LoRa) or LoRaWAN protocols, and any other suitable wireless links and protocols. For example, Bluetooth. ® The wireless protocol can be configured for bidirectional connectivity, which allows transmission and reception between the wireless transceiver 108 and the electronic device 106 and / or between the wireless transceiver 108 and the host device 102 via the same connection.

[0061] The wireless transceiver 108 can be integrated with the electronic device 106. Alternatively, the wireless transceiver 108 and the electronic device 106 can be separate devices or components of the system 100 coupled via wires or wirelessly. For example, in Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, wires and connectors are coupled to the electronic device.

[0062] The wireless transceiver 108 can be Bluetooth. ® A low-power (BLE) device is configured to connect to a BLE central device (e.g., a server) and, once connected, to send and receive security messages to operate the attached (or integrated) electronics 106 and provide feedback from the electronics 106. The electronics 106 can be “attached” or coupled to the wireless transceiver 108; that is, when the electronics 106 and the wireless transceiver 108 are separate devices, the electronics 106 is connected to the wireless transceiver 108 and can be detected, paired, and connected to the host device 102. Furthermore, the electronics 106 can be coupled to the transceiver 108 via wires, cables, and / or connectors. Alternatively, when the wireless transceiver 108 is integrated with the electronics 106, the electronics 106 can connect to the wireless transceiver 108 based on its proximity and connection / integration, and after successful authentication. The wireless transceiver 108 may include an encoder that digitally converts signals transmitted by the electronics 106 or an external sensor 320 (e.g., an FSR). Alternatively, the encoder's functionality can be executed by a microprocessor (MCU), which can be part of the microprocessor CPU 204 or a separate processor (e.g., Bluetooth). ® (Onboard signal processor). After the signal transmitted by the electronic device 106 or external sensor 320 (e.g., FSR) is encoded by the encoder (or MCU), the transceiver 108 transmits the encoded signal to the electronic device 106 or the host device 102.

[0063] The wireless transceiver 108 may have an architecture based on administrators (e.g., Admin) and users. A party authorized to access and operate one or more electronic devices 106 attached to the wireless transceiver 108, but not authorized to change the characteristics of the wireless transceiver 108, is designated as a user. A party authorized not only to operate the attached electronic devices 106 but also to change certain characteristics of the wireless transceiver 108 itself is designated as an Admin.

[0064] For example, host device 102 can scan for electronic devices 106 in its vicinity. This scan allows host device 102 to determine the presence of and number of nearby electronic devices 106 within its area. When host device 102 detects an electronic device 106 it wishes to pair with, host device 102 can send a BLE Generic Access Profile (GAP) connection request, followed by a BLE GAP connection parameter response from transceiver 108. Host device 102 can select various connection parameters that are within the range set by transceiver 108, or it can choose not to connect. If the connection parameters are suitable for transceiver 108, a connection will be established.

[0065] All communication with transceiver 108 utilizes encrypted messages by sharing a key, continuously updating a known value called a "salt" (randomly generated by the controller each time a message exchange occurs), and transmitting a payload carrying the information from one party to the other. The key can be a master key and a secondary key. The master key can be a 16-byte value shared between the administrator and transceiver 108 for encrypting messages. The secondary key can also be a 16-byte value, consisting of a hash of the master key, an index value, and the port number on transceiver 108 that one party might want to command. For example, if transceiver 108 is a single-output transceiver, this number is always zero. Secure messages can be used to perform functions of transceiver 108, such as opening and closing attached latches, retrieving sensor and battery data, etc.

[0066] Wireless transceiver 108 can be pre-programmed or pre-configured (e.g., via security messages from an administrator to a user) with information associated with each of a plurality of electronic devices 106. For example, wireless transceiver 108 can be pre-programmed with data (e.g., bytes) related to the type of electronic device 106 (e.g., latch type, lock type, or sensor type), operation or command bytes (e.g., open / close, unlock / lock), the time for performing the operation (e.g., unlock time, lock time, open time, close time), device status (open, closed, locked, unlocked), sensor status, operating voltage, battery data, etc. This information can be stored in a payload that may contain the GAP address of a particular electronic device 106, a registration byte (indicating whether transceiver 108 is currently registered), and real-time data about a particular port on transceiver 108. The payload may carry information about the status of a particular electronic device 106 attached to transceiver 108. The payload can be configured to carry information that may include individual bytes or groups of bytes related to the status, operation, unlocking time, battery data, and latch type bytes of the electronic device 106 (e.g., the type of the electronic device 106).

[0067] The latch type byte can indicate the specific latch type that a particular port on transceiver 108 is currently set to operate. This value can include the meaning of the output from that port on transceiver 108 and the input to that port on transceiver 108.

[0068] For example, the operation byte can be used to command transceiver 108 to perform a function, such as opening or closing a latch connected to a specific port. When sending back a response message from electronics 106, the operation byte can reflect the operation currently being performed by transceiver 108 on the port (e.g., open, close, or idle). For example, when transceiver 108 is sending a notification back to a connected user, the operation byte can indicate the current state of the latch on that port. For example, if transceiver 108 is sending a notification back to a connected user to update sensor values ​​for the user, and the latch is remaining open, the operation byte can be set to an open command value.

[0069] The unlock time byte can carry the number of seconds the administrator wants transceiver 108 to remain open. If a connected user is issuing a command, the unlock time byte has no value. If the administrator is issuing a command, the value of the unlock time byte set by the administrator's central device can be programmed into transceiver 108 as the new unlock time for all subsequent open commands. If transceiver 108 is sending a notification back to the administrator or user, the unlock time byte can reflect the number of seconds the open command will remain open, but it is not a real-time tracker of the remaining unlock time of the latch. The sensor status byte can carry the current value of the input to a specific port on transceiver 108 in the lowest two bits of the byte. When a sensor on a port changes state, transceiver 108 generates a new security message and encrypts it using the key last addressed to that port (defaulting to the master key). The latch type value, combined with the current sensor state, can provide complete information about the status of the attached latch.

[0070] The battery data byte can carry information about the voltage level of the power supply relative to a minimum value, in steps of 100mV (for a wide voltage range) or 20mV (for finer resolution over a smaller range). If the voltage level detected by transceiver 108 is below the minimum or above the maximum value, the battery data byte will be set to the minimum or maximum value, respectively.

[0071] For example, transceiver 108 and electronic device 106 can be connected via wired or wireless communication interface 404. Figure 4 The communication interface 404 can be wired, wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. For example, when the communication interface 404 is a wired connection, it can include at least one cable or wire 204 or a bundle or bunch of cables or wires 404, a transceiver connector 206, and a locking connector 208. Figure 2 and Figure 4 (As shown in the diagram). For example, transceiver 108 can be connected to more than one electronic device 106 via wires, cables, and / or connectors, such as... Figure 4 As shown. For example, transceiver 108 is also provided with a power connector 210 for connection to a 12V DC power supply. Transceiver 108 may also be provided with mounting plates 212a, 221b for mounting on a wall or panel near electronic device 106.

[0072] For example, host device 102 and electronic device 106 can be interconnected via wireless communication interface 108. For example, communication interface 108 is designed to provide an interface (e.g., sending and receiving communication) between host device 102 and one or more downstream electronic devices 106. Communication interface 108 can use standard wireless protocols (including, but not limited to, Bluetooth as described above). ® Wireless transceiver 108 (protocol).

[0073] Return to turn Figure 1 Users of host device 102 can control the operation of electronic device 106 using an associated proprietary mobile client application (or "application") 114 (e.g., a computer program, algorithm, or software application) downloaded to and installed on host device 102. The client application 114 includes a series of instructions that, once downloaded and stored in the memory 206 of host device 102, can be executed by the processor 204 of host device 102 to operate electronic device 106 (e.g., lock or unlock), display the status of electronic device 106 (e.g., lock or unlock) on the display 104 of host device 102, etc.

[0074] The client application 114 can work on mobile devices or personal computers (PCs).

[0075] In the sense that client application 114 typically requires user credentials (e.g., login and / or authentication) and can be stored on host device 102 (such as a mobile phone or tablet), which may also generally require user credentials to access any content thereon, client application 114 is a "secure" application. Wireless transceiver 108 uses a messaging scheme that provides data encryption and authentication, and its Bluetooth profile and internal architecture not only provide the ability to send and receive commands for operating one or more electronic devices 106, but also the ability to securely change values ​​used to encrypt and decrypt data.

[0076] Client application 114 may be a separate proprietary software application downloaded to and installed on host device 102. Alternatively, client application 114 may be a module capable of integrating with another end-user Internet of Things (IoT) platform or existing third-party software applications. Such integration can be performed using the application programming interface (API) of client application 114 and / or transceiver 108 to enhance the functionality and capabilities of existing third-party IoT platforms. In particular, the API of client application 114 and / or transceiver 108 may allow lock control and monitoring to be integrated into existing third-party mobile applications or Bluetooth-enabled devices.

[0077] Client application 114 can provide a complete end-to-end wireless access control solution for a variety of electronic devices, regardless of their functionality. The electronic key used in the user interface of client application 114 can improve and simplify workflows, reduce costs and installation time, and provide a low-power solution for latch or locking systems that can be operated using batteries.

[0078] Client application 114 is specifically designed to allow end users to send and receive messages via transceiver 108, messages which are sent by host device 102 to downstream electronic device 106 and received by host device 102 from downstream electronic device 106. For example, during operation, based on instructions received from the end user via the user interface of client application 114, host device 102 running client application 114 can send signal 110 to transceiver 108. Figure 1 The transceiver 108 performs a function. For example, the requested function may include, but is not limited to, locking and / or unlocking the electronic device 106. The communication signal 110 transmitted from the host device 102 and the client application 114 to the transceiver 108 is not specifically configured for operation by the transceiver 108 for a specific type of electronic device 106 (e.g., a specific type of lock, a specific type of latch, or a specific type of sensor). Upon receiving a command from the user, the transceiver 108 can convert or map the function requested by the end user into a corresponding electromechanical action 112 and initiate an electromechanical action on the electronic device 106 to induce a specific state in the electronic device 106. The transceiver 108 can then send a response signal (shown as) to the host device 102 running the client application 114. Figure 4 (e.g., response signal 402). For example, response signal 402 may indicate the type of electronic device 106 to which transceiver 108 is configured to operate and / or the state of electronic device 106. In this disclosure, the term "state" of electronic device 106 includes, but is not limited to, latched / unlatched, locked / unlocked, etc. Client application 114 may use response information received from transceiver 108 (e.g., response signal 402) to modify its user interface to indicate not only a change in the state of electronic device 106, but also a different type of electronic device 106.

[0079] The data contained in the signal 110 sent from host device 102 to transceiver 108 may not include information other than information about the desired state of electronic device 106. If transceiver 108 is programmed to interface with a specific type of electronic device 106 attached to or integrated with it, transceiver 108 can map the desired function transmitted from host device 102 to transceiver 108 to a mechanical / electrical function 112 specific to the type of electronic device 106 attached to or integrated with it. However, if a user of a client application wants to change the type of mechanical / electrical action 112 output by transceiver 108 to better operate the attached or integrated electronic device 106, information about the type of electronic device 106 that transceiver 108 should interface with can be transmitted along with the desired state of the electronic device 106, and transceiver 108 can output appropriate modified mechanical / electrical actions 112 according to the type of electronic device 106 that host device 102 requests transceiver 108 to operate with. Furthermore, transceiver 108 can remain in this configuration until the end user explicitly instructs transceiver 108 via host device 102 to change the current configuration to a different configuration among the multiple electronic device 106 configurations.

[0080] For example, in Figure 5 In another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the system 500 depicted herein, the host device 102 may be configured to send the same or substantially the same data signals 110 to two transceivers 108 and 508. In this disclosure, the terms "same" or "substantially the same" mean that although the signals are sent to different transceivers or different electronic devices, these signals are not or need not be customized according to the type of transceiver or the type of electronic device they operate on. In other words, the signals are generic or independent of communication protocols or devices. The two transceivers 108 and 508 may be the same type of transceiver or different transceivers.

[0081] The electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 attached to or integrated with the two transceivers 108 and 508 may differ from or be identical in function. For example, some or all of the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 may be electronic or electromechanical latches, door sensors, latch sensors, etc. The two transceivers 108 and 508 may be configured to map or convert the desired state of the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510, as indicated by the end user in the data signal 110 transmitted via the host device 102 to the transceivers 108 and / or 508, into a corresponding mechanical / electrical action specific to the type of electronic device 106, 506, and 510. Each of the two transceivers 108 and 508 is configured to interface with the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510. For example, in the case of transceiver 508, user commands may be mapped to two different device configurations for the two electronic devices 506 and 510 attached to transceiver 508. The functions of the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510, which are attached to or integrated with transceivers 108 and 508, may differ from or be the same as each other. However, from the perspective of the host device 102, the functions of the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 are not important because the corresponding transceivers 108 or 508 attached to or integrated with the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 can map or translate the functions expected by the end user into appropriate electromechanical actions 112, 512a, or 512b for the corresponding electronic devices 106, 506, and 510. In other words, even if the function of at least one of the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 may differ from the functions of the remaining electronic devices 106, 506, and 510, the corresponding transceivers 108 or 508 attached to or integrated with the electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 can still relay the information contained in the communication signal 110 (sent from the host device 102 to the transceivers 108 or 508 respectively) to the corresponding electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 via communication signals 112, 512a, and 512b, respectively, and can transmit the end-user-expected functions related to the appropriate electrical / mechanical operation of the corresponding electronic devices 106, 506, and 510. Similarly, the communication signal 110 transmitted by the host device 102 and the client application 114 to the first transceiver 108 and the second transceiver 508 is not specifically configured based on the functions of the first electronic device 106 and the second electronic devices 506 and 510 for operation performed by the first transceiver 108 of the first electronic device 106 and the second transceiver 508 of the second electronic devices 506 and 510, respectively.

[0082] Another aspect of systems 100 and 500 for communicating with electronic devices having different functions is that a client application running on host device 102 can adjust the information displayed on the display interface 104 of host device 102 based on information returned by transceiver 108 and / or 508. For example, Figure 6 A client application running on host device 102 is shown displaying the status or current state value 502 of each of electronic devices 106, 506, and 510, for example, based on a signal 402 relayed from electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 by transceivers 108 and / or 508. This could be the state of a door and / or the state of a latch. Furthermore, depending on the type of electronic device configuration returned by transceivers 108 and / or 508 (e.g., latch, lock, door), the client application running on host device 102 may display both the latch state (e.g., 506a) and the door state (e.g., 506b), or only the latch state (e.g., 502), without displaying the door state. This flexibility can be achieved, for example, by mapping the device configuration returned by transceiver 108 and / or 508 to a predetermined list of specific functions of electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 defined and / or stored in the source code of client application 114. These specific functions include, but are not limited to, the presence of a latch state sensor or a door state sensor, or both. Similarly, the actual value 504 detected by the corresponding sensor (which may be of different types) of electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 (also returned by transceiver 108 and / or 508) can be mapped to a predetermined interpretation specific to the configuration of the corresponding electronic devices 106, 506, and 510 defined and / or stored in the source code of client application 114, such as, but not limited to, "door open" or "door closed" and "locked" or "unlocked".

[0083] Figure 7 and Figures 8A to 8D The user interface of client application 114 is shown. (Example) Figure 7 As shown, a party that has been added as an authorized user of electronic device 106 but does not have a user account for client application 114 can receive an email message notifying them that they have been invited to access and join client application 114. The party is then prompted to create a user account for client application 114 by entering their name and email address, and to set a password ( Figure 8B Once a user account for client application 114 is created, the new user can configure electronic device 106 or multiple electronic devices 106 in the following ways ( Figure 8C): Search for available electronic devices 106 within the range of host device 102, select the electronic device 106 that the user wants to monitor and / or control, and enter settings related to the selected electronic device 106, such as device name, device location, device unlock time (e.g., in seconds), device-related notes, etc.

[0084] like Figure 8D As shown, after electronic device 106 is added to a user account for client application 114, the user interface of client application 114 displays electronic device 106 (e.g., Figure 8D The device includes a tool cabinet and icons, including icon 802 indicating the device type (e.g., latch) and whether the device is currently accessible. Clicking icon 802 unlocks the device. Icon 804 indicates the device's access level (e.g., administrator or user). Figure 8D Icon 804 in the diagram has a gear-shaped mark in the lower right corner, indicating that the device has an administrator privilege level. Each device 106 can have one administrator and an unlimited number of users. Icons 806a and 806b indicate the status of device 106 (e.g., latch closed, latch open, door closed, door open). Figure 8D Icons 806a and 806b indicate that the latch is closed and the door is closed. Some devices 106 support only the latch state, only the door state, both the latch state and the door state, or none of the states.

[0085] Using the user interface of client application 114, the administrator of each electronic device 106 can, for example, grant users unrestricted access to the corresponding electronic device 106 (e.g., access 24 / 7) or restricted access (e.g., access limited to specific days and times of the week, or access that begins on a certain date and ends on a certain date).

[0086] The user interface of the client application 114 can provide the access history of each electronic device 106 to the administrator of each electronic device 106 and certain users (if authorized).

[0087] Figures 9A to 9C Additional flow diagrams of the user interface of client application 114 are shown. For example, such as... Figure 9B As shown, after multiple electronic devices 106 are added to a user account for the client application 114, the user interface of the client application 114 displays a list of the electronic devices 106 (e.g., Figure 9BThe access control panels, medical supply cabinets, storage cabinets, tool cabinets, generator access control, self-service terminal doors) and icons, including icons 902a-902e indicating the type of device (e.g., latch, lock, sensor) and whether the device is currently accessible, icons 904a-904e indicating the device's permission level (e.g., administrator or user), and icons 906a-906e indicating the device's status (e.g., locked, unlocked, panel open, panel closed). Figure 9B Icon 906a indicates that the access control panel is closed, while icon 906b indicates that the medical supply cabinet is closed.

[0088] like Figure 9B and Figure 9C As shown, some of the electronic devices 106 are indicated as inactive (e.g., by means of gray icon 902e), indicating that the user cannot access the corresponding electronic device 106. This could be because: the electronic device 106 is outside the range of the host device 102; the device is not powered on or connected to the internet; the user may not be authorized to access the device; the user may have attempted to access the device during an unauthorized period (a time when the user's access to the device is restricted); or the device may have a problem that needs to be resolved, such as... Figure 9B The "exclamation mark" icon 908 indicates this. More information about device issues can be found on the device details page in the client application 114. For example, one possible issue with the device could be the availability of new Bluetooth device firmware.

[0089] Turn now Figure 10 The wireless access control systems 100 and / or 500 may be provided in the form of a kit 1000. The kit 1000 may include a packaging assembly comprising a box 1002 containing the components of the wireless access control systems 100 and / or 400, and an outer sleeve 1004 configured to slide onto the box 1002 and provide a lid for the box 1002. The kit 1000 also includes a base tray 1006. The base tray 1006 is configured to house a Bluetooth controller (e.g., a wireless transceiver 108 or 508), a power adapter, and various cables, plugs, connectors, and harnesses for connecting the Bluetooth controller to the power adapter and to the electronic device 106.

[0090] For example, kit 1000 also includes a top support 1008 configured to house components of electronic device 106, such as locking devices or latching devices. For example, electronic device 106 may include multiple latching or locking components (e.g., latches, locks, pawls, impactors, electromechanical actuators, motor controllers, etc.) configured to assemble into locking devices or latching devices.

[0091] Kit 1000 may also include an insert card 1010 configured to cover top tray 1008. Insert card 1010 may also include pre-printed quick start instructions for assembling all components of kit 1000 and / or instructions for coupling transceiver 108 to client application 114 to receive communication signals from host device 102.

[0092] The wireless transceiver 108 included in kit 1000 can be pre-configured or user-configurable to receive communication signals 110 transmitted by a host device 102 on which a client application 114 is installed, and in response to the communication signals 110 received from the host device 102, remotely operate the locking device or latching device of kit 1000 from the host device 102 via the client application 114, and operate at least one other device besides the locking device or latching device of kit 1000. The at least one other device has a different function than the locking device or latching device of kit 1000.

[0093] The method of packaging kit 1000 may include: selecting electronic device 106 from a plurality of electronic devices with different functions (e.g., locking devices and / or latching devices with different configurations), and packaging a pre-configured or user-configurable transceiver 108. The wireless transceiver 108 may be pre-configured or user-configurable to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device 102 on which a client application 114 is installed, remotely transmit communication signals to the selected electronic device 106 and at least one other electronic device selected from the plurality of electronic devices with different functions, and remotely operate the selected electronic device 106 via the client application 114.

[0094] Figure 11 The system is illustrated schematically, in which the client application displays either a first set of information or a second set of information depending on whether the communication between the host device and the client application is with a first transceiver / electronic device (shown as "state 1") or with a second transceiver / electronic device (shown as "state 2"). Figure 11 An embodiment of the system including a server is also shown.

[0095] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it is to be understood that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Various changes, modifications, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A system configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functions, the system comprising: A host device having a client application installed thereon and having a processor, the processor and the client application being configured together to send communication signals; The first transceiver and the second transceiver are configured to communicate with the host device via the communication signal; A first electronic device, associated with the first transceiver, wherein the first transceiver is configured to operate the first electronic device; A second electronic device, associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; The first electronic device and the second electronic device are different from each other in terms of their functions; The communication signals sent by the host device and the client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver are not configured based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device to be used for operations performed by the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device, respectively. Although the first electronic device and the second electronic device differ in function, the first transceiver is still configured to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signal; and Although the second electronic device differs from the first electronic device in its function, the second transceiver is still configured to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signal.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the host device is configured to transmit the communication signal via wired or wireless communication with the first transceiver and the second transceiver.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the host device is configured to transmit the communication signal via a wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the host device is communicatively coupled to the server.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first electronic device or the second electronic device comprises an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first electronic device and the first transceiver are integrated together.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the first electronic device and the first transceiver are separated and coupled by wires or wirelessly.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein another first electronic device is associated with the first transceiver.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The first electronic device and the other first electronic device are different from each other in terms of their functions.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the first transceiver is configured for operation of both the first electronic device and the other first electronic device, even though the first electronic device differs from the other first electronic device in function.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the first transceiver is the same as the second transceiver, and the first transceiver and the second transceiver are configurable to operate the first electronic device or the second electronic device.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the host device further comprises a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium, and the client application comprises a series of instructions.

13. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The unencrypted data of the communication signals sent by the host device and the client application to the first transceiver and the second transceiver is the same.

14. A transceiver configured to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application and associated with a first electronic device or a second electronic device, the first electronic device and the second electronic device being different from each other in terms of their functions. in, The transceiver is configured to receive communication signals from the host device, the communication signals not being configured based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device for operation performed by the transceiver of the first electronic device or the second electronic device, respectively. Although the first electronic device and the second electronic device differ in function, the transceiver is still configurable to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signal, and Although the second electronic device differs from the first electronic device in its function, the transceiver is still configurable to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signal.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive the communication signal via a wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the first electronic device or the second electronic device comprises an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

17. A transceiver array configured to receive communication signals transmitted by a host device having a client application, and associated with a first electronic device or a second electronic device, the first electronic device and the second electronic device being different from each other in terms of their functions. in, The first and second transceivers of the transceiver group are configured to receive communication signals from the host device, the communication signals being configured, based on the functions of the first and second electronic devices, respectively, for operations performed by the transceivers of the first or second electronic device. Although the first electronic device and the second electronic device differ in function, the first transceiver is pre-configured to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signal. Although the second electronic device differs from the first electronic device in its function, the second transceiver is still pre-configured to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signal.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the first transceiver and the second transceiver are configured to receive the communication signal via a wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the first electronic device or the second electronic device comprises an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

20. A method for communicating with an electronic device having different functions, the method comprising: Associating a first electronic device with a first transceiver, wherein the first transceiver is configured to operate the first electronic device; Associate a second electronic device with a second transceiver, the second electronic device being different from the first electronic device in terms of its function, and the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; Communication signals from the host device and the client application are sent to the first transceiver and the second transceiver, and the communication signals are not configured to operate on the first transceiver of the first electronic device or the second transceiver of the second electronic device based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device, respectively. Although the first electronic device and the second electronic device differ in function, the first electronic device still operates in response to the communication signal received by the first transceiver. as well as Although the second electronic device differs from the first electronic device in its function, it still operates in response to the communication signal received by the second transceiver.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising: Configure the transceiver as the first transceiver to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signal; as well as Configure the transceiver as the second transceiver to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signal.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the configuration step includes pre-configuring the transceiver.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein the configuration step includes user configuration of the transceiver.

24. A system configured to communicate with electronic devices having different functions, the system comprising: A host device having a client application installed thereon and having a processor, the processor and the client application being configured together to receive communication signals; The first transceiver and the second transceiver are configured to communicate with the host device via the communication signal; A first electronic device, associated with the first transceiver, wherein the first transceiver is configured to operate the first electronic device; A second electronic device, associated with the second transceiver, the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; The first electronic device and the second electronic device are different from each other in terms of their functions, and the communication signals received by the host device and the client application from the first transceiver and the second transceiver are different from each other based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device. In this embodiment, the client application, in response to the communication signal received by the host device from the first transceiver, displays a first set of information associated with the operation of the first electronic device, and the client application, in response to the communication signal received by the host device from the second transceiver, displays a second set of information associated with the operation of the second electronic device, and the first set of information and the second set of information differ based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the host device is configured to receive signals via wired or wireless communication with the first transceiver and the second transceiver.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein the host device is configured to receive the signal via a wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols.

27. The system according to claim 24, wherein the host device is communicatively coupled to the server.

28. The system of claim 24, wherein the first electronic device or the second electronic device comprises an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

29. The system of claim 24, wherein the first electronic device and the first transceiver are integrated together.

30. The system of claim 24, wherein the first electronic device and the first transceiver are separated and coupled by wires or wirelessly.

31. The system of claim 24, wherein another first electronic device is associated with the first transceiver.

32. The system according to claim 31, wherein, The first electronic device and the other first electronic device are different from each other in terms of function.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the first transceiver is configured to send different signals to the host device based on the functions of the first electronic device and the other electronic device.

34. The system of claim 32, wherein the first electronic device or the second electronic device includes an electronic lock or an electronic latch, and the first set of information or the second set of information includes a locked state or an unlocked state of the electronic lock or the electronic latch.

35. The system of claim 32, wherein the first electronic device or the second electronic device includes a sensor, and the first set of information or the second set of information includes a state of presence or absence of a sensing condition.

36. A method for displaying the state of an electronic device having different functions, the method comprising: Associating a first electronic device with a first transceiver, wherein the first transceiver is configured to operate the first electronic device; Associate a second electronic device with a second transceiver, the second electronic device being different from the first electronic device in terms of its function, and the second transceiver being configured to operate the second electronic device; Communication signals from the first transceiver and the second transceiver are transmitted to the host device and the client application, and the communication signals are different from each other based on the functions of the first electronic device and the second electronic device; In response to the communication signal received by the host device from the first transceiver, a first set of information associated with the operation of the first electronic device is displayed via the client application, and In response to the communication signal received by the host device from the second transceiver, a second set of information associated with the operation of the second electronic device is displayed via the client application, the first set of information differing from the second set of information based on the functions of the first and second electronic devices.

37. The method of claim 36, further comprising: Configure the transceiver as the first transceiver to operate the first electronic device in response to the communication signal; as well as Configure the transceiver as the second transceiver to operate the second electronic device in response to the communication signal.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the configuration step includes pre-configuring the transceiver.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein the configuration step includes user configuration of the transceiver.

40. A kit comprising: Locking device or latching device; as well as Transceivers, either pre-configured or user-configurable, are as follows: Receive communication signals sent by a host device with a client application, and In response to the communication signal received from the host device, the locking device or latching device of the kit is operated remotely from the host device, and at least one other device other than the locking device or latching device of the kit is operated, the at least one other device having a different function from the locking device or latching device of the kit.

41. The kit of claim 40, wherein the transceiver is configured to receive the communication signal from the host device via a wireless communication selected from the group consisting of Bluetooth, NFC, WiFi, LoRa, and cellular communication protocols.

42. The kit of claim 40 further includes a cable for coupling the locking device or latching device to the transceiver.

43. The kit of claim 40, wherein the locking device or the latching device is integrated with the transceiver.

44. The kit of claim 40, wherein the locking device or the latching device is separate from the transceiver and can be coupled via wire or wirelessly.

45. The kit of claim 40, wherein the transceiver is pre-configured to operate the locking device or the latching device.

46. ​​The kit of claim 40, wherein the at least one other device comprises an electronic lock, an electronic latch, or a sensor.

47. The kit of claim 40, further comprising a method for obtaining operating instructions for coupling the transceiver to the client application to receive the communication signals from the host device.

48. A method of packaging a kit, the method comprising: Choose an electronic device from a variety of electronic devices with different functions; The transceiver is described as being packaged with a pre-configured or user-configurable transceiver and selected electronic devices, wherein the transceiver is pre-configured or user-configurable to: Receive communication signals sent by a host device with a client application, and The communication signal is remotely transmitted to the selected electronic device and at least one other electronic device selected from the plurality of electronic devices, wherein the at least one other electronic device and the selected electronic device have different functions.

49. The method of claim 48, further comprising: The transceiver is pre-configured to operate the locking device or the latching device.

50. The method of claim 48, further comprising: Provides a method for obtaining operational instructions associated with the kit for coupling the transceiver to the client application to receive the communication signals from the host device.

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