Multimodal communication system with physical access unit (QR code, NFC or RFID), PIN-protected web access and modular messaging function for everyday use

Abstract

Multimodal communication system for everyday use, consisting of - a physical access unit in the form of a QR code, an NFC tag or an RFID transponder, - a digital communication area uniquely assigned to the physical access unit, characterized by that a PÜ4 authentication unit is assigned to the digital communication area and that the digital communication area is accessible exclusively via this PIN authentication unit, wherein the physical access unit is connected to an access trigger unit which enables PIN-protected access to the digital communication area.

Description

1. Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a multimodal communication system that enables access to a personalized, web-based communication interface via physically attached access devices – such as QR codes, NFC chips, or RFID tags. This interface is protected by a personal PIN and allows the sending and retrieval of various message types (e.g., text, audio, image, file). The system is designed for everyday use in families, care facilities, offices, educational institutions, and logistics environments, and is an app-free, registration-free solution. 2 State of the art

[0002] Currently, various individual applications exist that use QR codes or NFC tags for information transmission or authentication. However, these systems are generally limited to displaying static content or isolated authentication processes within closed networks. A unified solution that combines the physical-digital interaction of different access technologies (QR, NFC, RFID) with a web-based, PIN-protected communication interface, while avoiding the collection of personal data, is not yet known. 3. Object of the invention

[0003] The aim of the invention is to create an easily accessible communication system that enables secure, registration-free access to a web-based platform via physical access units. The following requirements are to be met: • Multimodal access: The system can be activated via a QR code, an NFC chip, or an RFID tag. • Safety aspect: Access is granted via an individual PIN, thus preventing unauthorized use. • Flexible message transmission: Users can leave or retrieve content in various formats (text, audio, image, file). • Time control: It is possible to have messages displayed within a defined time window (e.g. 24 hours) and then automatically deleted. • User-friendliness: The system can be used without an additional app or prior registration, making it suitable even for less technically experienced users. 4. Solution of the invention

[0004] The present system accomplishes the task through the following technical features: a) Physical access unit: • Integration of a QR code, NFC chip or RFID tag as a physical access element. • This access unit can be attached to a wide variety of objects (e.g. furniture, key fobs, labels). b) Web-based communication platform: • When scanning the QR code or using an NFC / RFID reader, a specific web address is accessed. • The website provides an input form where the user enters a previously set PIN to unlock access. c) Message management: • After successful authentication by entering a PIN, users gain access to a system that allows them to leave and retrieve messages in the form of text, audio, image or file. • Optionally, an automated, time-limited display can be implemented, whereby messages are automatically deleted after a set time (e.g., after 24 hours) to ensure data protection and timeliness. d) Technical implementation: • The web platform is designed to be usable across platforms (PC, smartphone, tablet) - without a dedicated app. • PIN authentication is managed server-side to ensure a high level of security. • The ability to use different physical access technologies is supported by a flexible backend that reliably registers accesses and grants access as long as the correct data (access device + PIN) is combined. 5. Advantages of the invention • Enhanced accessibility: The system can be activated via multiple physical access technologies, facilitating its use in diverse areas. • Enhanced data protection: By foregoing mandatory registration and securing access via a PIN, the privacy of users is preserved. • No app required: The service is entirely web-based, eliminating the need for additional software installations. • Scalability: The system can be integrated into different environments and use cases (private, commercial, institutional). • Automated control: Optionally, a time limit can be implemented for displaying messages. which is particularly advantageous for applications in the field of time-critical communications. 6. Further explanations and possible variations

[0005] • Expandability: The system can be expanded in the future to include further physical access technologies (e.g. BLE, UWB) by adapting the underlying server-side authentication and communication logic.

[0006] • Adjustment of security features: In addition to PIN-based security, other security mechanisms can be integrated, such as time-limited sessions, IP monitoring, or two-factor authentication.

[0007] • User customizations: The web platform allows for individual settings, such as the duration of message display or specific rights for different user groups, be configured.

[0008] • Integration into existing systems: The concept allows for an interface extension to other digital systems, enabling the physical access unit to be used as a portal for further services. Summary:

[0009] The invention presents an innovative, multimodal communication system that enables PIN-protected access to a web-based messaging platform via a flexible physical access device (QR, NFC, RFID). This concept offers numerous advantages in terms of accessibility, data protection, and user-friendliness and is suitable for both private and institutional applications. The elimination of mandatory registration and a dedicated app significantly simplifies use, while security is maintained through PIN access and additional, optional security measures.

Claims

[1] Multimodal communication system for everyday use, consisting of - a physical access unit in the form of a QR code, an NFC tag or an RFID transponder, - a digital communication area uniquely assigned to the physical access unit, characterized by , that a PÜ4 authentication unit is assigned to the digital communication area and that the digital communication area is accessible exclusively via this PIN authentication unit, wherein the physical access unit is connected to an access trigger unit which enables PIN-protected access to the digital communication area. [2] Communication system according to claim 1, characterized by , that the digital communications sector includes a modularly structured news platform, which is equipped to provide and store messages in at least one of the following formats: text, audio, image or file. [3] Communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the physical access unit is permanently or temporarily attached to any everyday object or location. [4] Communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that multiple physical access units are provided, where each physical access unit is assigned its own digital communication area, so that several separate digital communication areas can be used in parallel. [5] Communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the digital communication area can be used without installing a mobile application and is provided via a standard internet-enabled browser. [6] Communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the digital communication area is equipped with an access restriction unit, Access to the digital communication area is granted exclusively to authorized persons. [7] Communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the messages stored in the digital communication area can be displayed chronologically and are designed to be retrievable individually or in combination. [8] Communication system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the digital communications sector is designed for storing and retrieving information or messages, where storage and retrieval are enabled via the physical access unit.