Supplementary access control system for an rfid-controlled cat flap and method for supplementary access control using an rfid-controlled cat flap

Abstract

A supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) comprises: a sensor (8) for detecting an approaching cat (130) and a camera (10) for capturing at least one image of the approaching cat (130); an image processing unit (18) that is coupled to the camera (10) and that is configured, based on the at least one image, to determine whether the cat (130) is carrying prey (140) in its mouth; a radiofrequency signal generator (14) that is designed to transmit an interfering signal, wherein the interfering signal is suitable for preventing opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100); and a control unit (20) that is coupled to the sensor (8), to the image processing unit (18) and to the radiofrequency signal generator (14), wherein the control unit (20) is configured: based on the detection of the approaching cat (130), to prompt the radiofrequency signal generator (14) to transmit the interfering signal; and based on the image processing unit (18) determining that the cat (130) is not carrying prey (140) in its mouth, to prompt the radiofrequency signal generator (14) to end the transmission of the interfering signal.

Description

[0001] Supplementary access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap and method for supplementary control of access through an RFID-controlled cat flap

[0002] The present invention is in the field of cat flaps. In particular, the present invention is in the field of RFID-controlled cat flaps.

[0003] Cat flaps are technical systems that allow a cat access to a building without a front door, balcony door, window, or similar being open. Cat flaps usually allow cats to exit and enter a building. RFID-controlled cat flaps are widespread. Their purpose is to ensure that not just any cat has access to a building through the cat flap, but only one or more predetermined cats. RFID-controlled cat flaps remain closed as long as a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap cannot be identified by an RFID tag and the cat flap control system determines that the detected RFID tag belongs to a predetermined cat, thus allowing the opening of a pivoting door element.

[0004] Although RFID-controlled cat flaps represent a major improvement over simple mechanical cat flaps, they are not ideal for controlling access to a building under all circumstances. For example, RFID-controlled cat flaps rely on the approaching cat carrying an RFID tag. Carrying the RFID tag in the collar is not ideal due to the risk of the collar being lost. Implanting RFID tags is not always desirable for animal welfare reasons. Existing RFID-controlled cat flaps are also unable to prevent cats carrying prey from entering the house.

[0005] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide systems and methods that can overcome one or more of the shortcomings described above in RFID-controlled cat flaps. Example embodiments of the invention include a supplemental access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap, comprising: a sensor for detecting an approaching cat and a camera for recording at least one image of the approaching cat; an image processing unit coupled to the camera and configured to determine, based on the at least one image, whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth; a radio frequency signal generator configured to transmit a jamming signal, the jamming signal being suitable for preventing the RFID-controlled cat flap from opening;and a control unit coupled to the sensor, to the image processing unit, and to the radio frequency signal generator, wherein the control unit is configured to: based on the detection of the approaching cat, cause the radio frequency signal generator to transmit the jamming signal; and based on the determination by the image processing unit that the cat is not carrying prey in its mouth, cause the radio frequency signal generator to stop transmitting the jamming signal.

[0006] Exemplary embodiments of the invention allow the override of an RFID-controlled cat flap until it is positively determined that the cat is not carrying prey in its mouth. This requires no tampering with the technical system consisting of the RFID-controlled cat flap and the RFID tag worn by the cat. Existing RFID-controlled cat flaps can be easily enhanced with the functionality that denies access to a cat that is otherwise authorized to enter but is carrying prey in its mouth. The unwanted introduction of live or dead prey, such as mice, birds, etc., can be implemented highly effectively in an existing system architecture consisting of an RFID-controlled cat flap and an RFID tag.

[0007] The access control system is described as a supplementary access control system because it works in conjunction with the RFID-controlled cat flap, which is functional in itself but has more limited functionality. The supplementary access control system adds functionality. The supplementary access control system can also be referred to as an additional access control system or a higher-level access control system. It builds on the functioning access control system consisting of the RFID-controlled cat flap and the RFID tag worn by the cat.The control unit of the supplementary access control system is coupled to the sensor, the image processing unit, and the radio frequency signal generator. It is configured to cause the radio frequency generator to transmit the jamming signal based on the detection of the approaching cat. It is configured to cause the radio frequency generator to stop transmitting the jamming signal based on the image processing unit determining that the cat is not carrying prey in its mouth. Thus, the control unit is configured to control the transmission of the jamming signal by the radio frequency generator in such a way that the RFID-controlled cat flap does not open until the image processing unit determines that the cat is not carrying prey in its mouth.The mechanism of emitting the jamming signal upon detection of an approaching cat and terminating the jamming signal once the image processing unit has determined that the cat is not carrying any prey in its mouth effectively prevents the RFID-controlled cat flap from immediately opening upon identification of a cat that is otherwise authorized to enter. The supplementary access control system first establishes a secure default state in which the RFID-controlled cat flap does not allow the cat access. Only after actively determining that the cat is not carrying any prey in its mouth and after the jamming signal has been terminated can the RFID-controlled cat flap and the cat's RFID tag communicate with each other in such a way that the RFID-controlled cat flap allows opening.

[0008] The image processing unit is configured to determine, on the basis of at least one image, whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth. In other words, the image processing unit is configured to analyze the at least one image to determine whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth. The image processing unit makes a determination, which may, for example, be in the form of a yes / no decision. It is also possible for the image processing unit to output a relative indicator, such as a probability value, as to whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth. The control unit can then control the radio frequency signal generator using appropriate logic, e.g. using an appropriate threshold value for the probability value. The image processing unit is configured to make a determination, on the basis of the at least one image, as to whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth.The image processing unit does not have to deliver a result that is correct 100% of the time. It is clear that 100% reliability cannot always be achieved given the multitude of degrees of freedom that exist when capturing at least one image.

[0009] The supplementary access control system has a camera for taking at least one image of the approaching cat. The camera is a digital camera. The camera can be equipped with a light source for illuminating the approaching cat or can be coupled to such a light source. The light source can be an LED, in particular an LED that emits white light. The light source can be controlled such that, after detecting the approaching cat, it emits light for a predetermined time and ensures continuous exposure during this time. It is also possible for the light source to be coupled to the triggering time for taking the at least one image, like a photo flash. It is possible for the light source to be switched on or off depending on the ambient brightness.

[0010] According to a further embodiment, the image processing unit is configured to analyze the at least one image using artificial intelligence to determine whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth. The inventors have discovered that, with the help of artificial intelligence, an image processing unit can be implemented that can determine with high reliability whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth or not. It has been found that artificial intelligence is highly suitable for dealing with the many degrees of freedom of the images of the approaching cat under different environmental conditions and for achieving a high degree of accuracy in the evaluation of the recorded images. The term artificial intelligence refers to a data processing entity that did not arise through conventional programming, but is the product of a machine learning process based on training images.

[0011] According to a further embodiment, the artificial intelligence comprises a neural network. In particular, the artificial intelligence can comprise a convolutional neural network. The term convolutional neural network is known to those skilled in the art and can be translated into German as folding neural network. The neural network described herein is an artificial neural network. An example of a suitable neural network is MobileNet from Keras. It is understood that this example is purely exemplary and that there are many different neural networks that can be used in the image processing unit of the present invention. According to a further embodiment, the artificial intelligence is a pre-trained artificial intelligence.In particular, the artificial intelligence can be a pre-trained artificial intelligence that has been trained with at least 200 images of cats without prey in their mouths and at least 200 images of cats with prey in their mouths, which are annotated accordingly. Further in particular, the artificial intelligence can have been trained with between 500 and 1500 images of cats without prey in their mouths and between 500 and 1500 images of cats with prey in their mouths, which are annotated accordingly. The images of cats without prey in their mouths can be images of more than 20 different cats. The images of cats with prey in their mouths can also be images of more than 20 different cats. Due to the fact that prey is usually only prey once, a comparable number of different prey can be present in the images of cats with prey in their mouths.With the stated number of images of cats without prey in their mouths and images of cats with prey in their mouths, a very good basic robustness of the artificial intelligence can be achieved. After training with the stated number of images of cats without prey in their mouths and images of cats with prey in their mouths, it may be possible to achieve a hit rate of more than 95%, and in particular a hit rate of more than 99%, in a newly analyzed image when determining whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth. It is clear that there is a correlation between the number of images available for training the artificial intelligence and the hit rate achievable in operation. If a lower hit rate is acceptable, a smaller number of images may be sufficient for training the artificial intelligence.Conversely, increasing the number of annotated images available for training can increase the hit rate achievable in operation.

[0012] According to a further embodiment, the images of cats with prey in their mouths are images of cats with mice in their mouths and / or images of cats with birds in their mouths and / or images of cats with other prey in their mouths.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the radio frequency generator to transmit the jamming signal during predetermined blocking periods, regardless of whether the image processing unit detects that the cat is carrying prey in its mouth or not. In this way, the supplemental access control system can implement blocking periods for the RFID-controlled cat flap without such functionality having to be present in the RFID-controlled cat flap itself. Accordingly, the entry of a cat into a building and / or the exit of a cat from a building during times that represent preferred hunting times for cats can be categorically excluded. In this way, the risk of a cat entering with prey in its mouth can be further reduced. Blocking periods for other purposes can also be conveniently implemented without having to tamper with the RFID-controlled cat flap.During the predetermined blocking periods, the control unit can cause the radio frequency signal generator to transmit the jamming signal as long as the sensor detects the cat's presence. It is also possible for the control unit to cause the radio frequency signal generator to transmit the jamming signal continuously during the predetermined blocking periods. It is also possible for the supplementary access control system to have a sensor that detects communication between the RFID-controlled cat flap and an RFID tag, and for the control unit to cause the radio frequency signal generator to transmit the jamming signal upon detection of such communication during the predetermined blocking periods.

[0014] According to a further embodiment, the control unit is configured to cause the radio frequency generator to transmit the jamming signal depending on one or more of the input variables: time of day, weather data, season, and temperature, regardless of whether the image processing unit detects that the cat is carrying prey in its mouth or not. Thus, additional locking functionality can be implemented using the supplementary access control system without such functionality having to be present in the RFID-controlled cat flap itself. For example, the control unit can ensure that the RFID-controlled cat flap remains closed in the rain unless the temperature drops below a critical value. The logic implemented in the control unit for locking the RFID-controlled cat flap can take into account one or more of the aforementioned input variables in any combination.

[0015] According to a further embodiment, the radio frequency signal generator is configured to transmit an interference signal with a fundamental frequency of between 100 kHz and 200 kHz, in particular with a fundamental frequency of between 120 kHz and 140 kHz. This makes the radio frequency signal generator highly suitable for effectively interfering with frequently used RFID frequencies of 125 kHz and 134 kHz.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, the radio-frequency signal generator comprises an oscillating circuit. The components of the oscillating circuit, in particular one or more capacitors and one or more inductors, can be designed to provide an interference signal with a fundamental frequency in the aforementioned frequency ranges.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the radio-frequency signal generator is designed to modulate a random or pseudo-random identification number onto a fundamental oscillation of the interference signal. In this way, the radio-frequency signal generator can simulate an identification that is highly unlikely to be stored in the RFID-controlled cat flap and thus cannot lead to the RFID-controlled cat flap being opened. The pseudo-random identification number can be predefined or generated when the interference signal is transmitted.

[0018] According to a further embodiment, the radio-frequency signal generator is designed to modulate a random or pseudo-random bit pattern onto a fundamental oscillation of the interference signal. In this way, the radio-frequency signal generator can provide a data pattern that is undecodable or does not correspond to an expected communication protocol of the RFID-controlled cat flap, and thus is not useful from the perspective of the RFID-controlled cat flap. The pseudo-random bit pattern can be predefined or generated when the interference signal is transmitted.

[0019] The modulation of the fundamental frequency of the interference signal can be an amplitude modulation, a frequency modulation, a phase modulation or any other suitable modulation.

[0020] The radio frequency signal generator can prevent the cat flap from opening in two ways. Firstly, the radio frequency signal generator can generate an overall signal by superimposing the interference signal and the identification emitted by the cat's RFID tag, which cannot be meaningfully decoded by the RFID-controlled cat flap. Secondly, the radio frequency signal generator can prevent the cat flap from opening by actively providing an identification that is not stored in the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0021] The radio frequency signal generator can actively transmit the interference signal or provide the interference signal in the form of a passive, or essentially passive, response to a read signal transmitted by the RFID-controlled cat flap. When passively transmitting the interference signal, the radio frequency signal generator can, for example, switch its oscillating circuit on and off in a random or pseudo-random sequence, or change the parameters of its oscillating circuit in a random or pseudo-random sequence. Depending on the technology used, such changes to the oscillating circuit of the radio frequency signal generator are perceived by the RFID-controlled cat flap as modulation of the inductive load or as modulation of the reflection of the transmitted signal, i.e., as modulation of the so-called backscatter.Since passive RFID tags also provide this type of feedback to the RFID-controlled cat flap, the behavior of a radio frequency signal generator operating in the passive manner described above is perceived as a source of interference. The passively operated radio frequency signal generator can be viewed as an entity that emulates the behavior of a passive RFID tag without transmitting any meaningful information. Regardless of whether the radio frequency signal generator has an active or passive implementation, it is considered herein as a component that transmits an interference signal. From the perspective of the RFID-controlled cat flap, the influence of the radio frequency signal generator on the communication between the RFID-controlled cat flap and the RFID tag carried by a cat is perceived as the reception of an interference signal.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the radio frequency signal generator has a transmission power that is of the same order of magnitude as or greater than the transmission power of RFID tags commonly used in animal identification. A comparable transmission power may be sufficient to effectively disrupt the communication between the RFID-controlled cat flap and the RFID tag, and such a transmission power level can be provided in a very energy-efficient manner.

[0023] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system further comprises a network connection. In particular, the supplementary access control system can have a wireless network connection, such as a WLAN connection. The supplementary access control system can be conveniently parameterized via a network connection. The network connection can also be used to implement the supplementary access control system as a distributed system, wherein some of the components are arranged close to the RFID-controlled cat flap, also referred to herein as local components, and other components are arranged remotely from the RFID-controlled cat flap. The network connection enables those components of the supplementary access control system that are arranged close to the RFID-controlled cat flap to correspond with an external data processing entity, such as an external server.The supplementary access control system can also be monitored and / or controlled via a user interface, such as a smartphone or tablet app. A partially cloud-based implementation of the supplementary access control system is possible.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system is a distributed system in which the image processing unit or a part of the image processing unit is implemented remotely from the sensor, the camera, the radio-frequency signal generator, and the control unit. In particular, the sensor, the camera, the radio-frequency signal generator, the control unit, and optionally a part of the image processing unit can be implemented as an integrated device, which can be arranged near the RFID-controlled cat flap. This device can be referred to as a local device or as a local part of the supplementary access control system. The local device can have the network connection via which the device can communicate with the remotely implemented image processing unit or with the remotely implemented part of the image processing unit.In this way, a computationally intensive implementation of the image processing unit can be split between a local device and a backend designed purely for data processing, such as an external server. This allows for an optimized compromise between local energy consumption, device size near the RFID-controlled cat flap, and implementation costs.

[0025] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system is configured to transmit the at least one image to the remotely configured image processing unit via the network connection and to receive the image processing unit's determination of whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth via the network connection. In this way, the image processing unit can be implemented without the technical limitations of the local device near the RFID-controlled cat flap, in particular without the limitations regarding local computing power and local storage capacity.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, the control unit and the image processing unit are integrated. In particular, the control unit and the image processing unit can be integrated together in the local device, which can be arranged near the RFID-controlled cat flap. The control unit and the image processing unit can, for example, be implemented in a common microcontroller.

[0027] According to a further embodiment, the image processing unit, if provided locally in this way, is configured to receive an installation of an artificial intelligence system trained with an expanded database via the network connection. In other words, even with a locally implemented image processing unit, it may be possible to achieve greater reliability in determining whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth through appropriate updates.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system is configured to receive modified locking times via the network connection. This allows the supplementary access control system to be conveniently parameterized in another dimension during operation.

[0029] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system is configured to receive the time and / or date and / or weather data and / or temperature data via the network connection. In this way, additional data, which may be useful for additional functionality of the supplementary access control system, can be conveniently provided externally.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the sensor is a passive infrared sensor. A passive infrared sensor enables particularly reliable detection of an approaching cat, while implementing it using a passive infrared sensor is very energy-efficient.

[0031] According to a further embodiment, the passive infrared sensor is configured to cause the supplementary access control system to transition from a standby state to an operating state based on the detection of the approaching cat. In this way, the passive infrared sensor can wake up the supplementary access control system when needed, enabling extended operation in the energy-saving standby state. An implementation with an overall low power requirement can be enabled.

[0032] According to a further embodiment, the sensor is designed as a distance sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the supplementary access control system can have an additional distance sensor coupled to the control unit. By providing a distance sensor, a quantitative statement can be made as to how close the cat is to the distance sensor and thus to the other components of the supplementary access control system. This information can be taken into account when controlling the other components. It is also possible that by providing a distance sensor, a statement can be made as to whether the cat is located in a specific area of ​​the supplementary access control system. The distance sensor can be designed as a type of light barrier. Such information can also be taken into account when controlling the other components.

[0033] According to a further embodiment, the sensor or the additional distance sensor provides a signal indicating the distance of the approaching cat, and the control unit is configured to control the trigger time for capturing the at least one image based on the distance of the approaching cat. In this way, relatively constant conditions can be achieved for the size of the cat's head in the at least one image and for the illumination of the cat's head in the at least one image. This, in turn, can contribute to a particularly high accuracy rate in determining whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the sensor designed as a distance sensor or the additional distance sensor is configured to continuously monitor the presence of the approaching cat. In particular, the control unit can be configured to control the radio frequency signal generator on the basis of the continuous monitoring by the sensor or the additional distance sensor. In particular, the control unit can be configured to cause the radio frequency signal generator to send the interference signal as long as the presence of the approaching cat is indicated by the sensor or the additional distance sensor, unless the image processing unit determines that the cat is not carrying any prey in its mouth. By coupling it to the actual presence of the cat, as detected by the sensor orthe additional distance sensor, the transmission of the jamming signal can be implemented without any kind of assumption about the communication between the RFID-controlled cat flap and the RFID tag carried by the cat, and an extremely reliable blocking of the RFID-controlled cat flap can be achieved when the cat is carrying a prey animal in its mouth.

[0035] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system is a self-contained system. The term "self-contained system" herein means that the supplementary access control system does not require any control or commands from outside the system during operation. In particular, it is not necessary for a data connection or control connection to exist between the RFID-controlled cat flap and the supplementary access control system. The supplementary access control system can fulfill its additional functionality by transmitting or not transmitting the interference signal and, beyond that, does not need to exchange any information with the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0036] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system has an internal power supply. The supplementary access control system can, in particular, have a rechargeable battery. In this way, the supplementary access control system can be operated independently of a power connection, in particular independently of a power connection to a building's network. It is also possible for the supplementary access control system to be supplied with electrical energy continuously or at intervals as needed. For this purpose, the supplementary access control system can have a standard plug that can be inserted into a household socket.

[0037] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system can be attached to the RFID-controlled cat flap or to a building structure. "Attachable" here means that the supplementary access control system can be mechanically attached to the RFID-controlled cat flap or to the building structure. No electrical connection is necessary. The supplementary access control system can be installed as a standalone system to cooperate with the RFID-controlled cat flap. The supplementary access control system can be retrofitted to existing RFID-controlled cat flaps. Retrofitting a supplementary access control system into the architecture of existing RFID-controlled cat flaps is possible.

[0038] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system has a frame structure that can be inserted into a door opening and / or a window opening and / or a wall opening and / or that can be attached to an RFID-controlled cat flap. In particular, the frame structure of the supplementary access control system can be attached to a frame structure of the RFID-controlled cat flap. Thus, the frame structures of the RFID-controlled cat flap and the supplementary control system can form a common passage / tunnel through which the cat gains access to the building. The mechanical architecture of the supplementary control system can be coordinated with the mechanical architecture of the RFID-controlled cat flap in such a way that neither a changed usage behavior is required for the cat nor is there any visual impairment for the human being due to the supplementary access control system.

[0039] According to a further embodiment, the radio frequency signal generator comprises a coil as an antenna, which is arranged in the frame structure of the supplementary access control system. In this way, the frame structure can fulfill the dual function of a passage adapted to the RFID-controlled cat flap and a support structure for the antenna of the radio frequency signal generator.

[0040] According to an alternative embodiment, the radio-frequency signal generator has a coil as an antenna, which is not arranged in the frame structure. The complete radio-frequency signal generator, including the antenna, can be housed, for example, in an electronics housing.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, the camera is mounted on the side of the frame structure facing the building's interior and directed through the frame structure. In this way, the frame structure can act as a shutter to ensure that conditions are as similar as possible when recording approaching cats. This, in turn, can contribute to a particularly high accuracy rate in determining whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth.Exemplary embodiments of the invention further include an RFID-controlled cat flap, comprising: a mounting device with which the RFID-controlled cat flap can be attached to a building wall and / or to a building door and / or to a building window; a door element pivotable relative to the mounting device; a locking mechanism that selectively enables the opening of the pivotable door element; an RFID-based controller configured to communicate with an RFID tag carried by a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap and configured to cause the locking mechanism to enable the opening of the pivotable door element when it detects an approved RFID tag; and a supplementary access control system according to any one of the preceding embodiments.The additional features, modifications and effects described above with respect to the supplementary access control system are analogously applicable to the RFID-controlled cat flap having such a supplementary access control system.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the supplementary access control system is integrated into the RFID-controlled cat flap. The components of the supplementary access control system can, for example, be mechanically embedded into the architecture of the RFID-controlled cat flap. The RFID-controlled cat flap and the supplementary access control system can also share a common power supply.

[0043] According to an alternative embodiment, the supplementary access control system is designed as a standalone system and is arranged relative to the RFID-based controller in such a way that the camera of the supplementary access control system is capable of recording at least one image of the cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap. The supplementary access control system is also considered a standalone system if a detachable mechanical connection, such as a clip connection, exists between the RFID-controlled cat flap and the supplementary access control system.

[0044] Exemplary embodiments of the invention further comprise a method for additionally controlling access through an RFID-controlled cat flap, wherein the RFID-controlled cat flap is configured to communicate with an RFID tag carried by a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap and to selectively enable the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap, the method comprising: detecting a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap; based on the detection of the cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap, emitting a radio frequency jamming signal suitable for preventing the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap; taking at least one image of the cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap; based on the at least one image, determining whether the cat is carrying a prey animal in its mouth;and based on the determination that the cat is not carrying prey in its mouth, terminating the transmission of the radiofrequency jamming signal. The above steps may be performed in the order stated or in any other reasonable sequence, or, where reasonably possible, in parallel. The additional features, modifications, and effects described above with respect to the supplementary access control system are analogously applicable to the method for supplementary access control through an RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0045] Exemplary embodiments of the invention further comprise a computer program / computer program product which contains program instructions which, when executed on a computer-based device, cause the following steps: Providing a graphical user interface; on the graphical user interface, displaying at least one image of an approaching cat which has been taken by a camera of a supplementary access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap or by a camera of an RFID-controlled cat flap; on the graphical user interface, displaying a determination of an image processing unit of the supplementary access control system orDisplaying a determination by an image processing unit of the RFID-controlled cat flap as to whether the cat in the at least one image is carrying prey in its mouth; receiving a user input, wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the cat in the at least one image is carrying prey in its mouth, or wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the determination by the image processing unit is correct; and providing the user indication for training the image processing unit with an expanded database. By means of the computer program or computer program product, user feedback can be conveniently and efficiently collected as to whether the determinations by the image processing unit regarding the prey in the cat's mouth are correct. In particular, incorrect determinations by the image processing unit can be conveniently and efficiently identified.With the help of the feedback, the hit rate of the image processing unit can be improved for the future. For example, if a certain number of user indications are present, the image processing unit can be retrained. The user indications can originate from one user or be compiled for retraining by a plurality of users who use a plurality of identical / similar computer programs / computer program products. The supplementary access control system for the RFID-controlled cat flap can be a supplementary access control system according to one of the embodiments of the invention described above. The RFID-controlled cat flap can be an RFID-controlled cat flap according to one of the embodiments of the invention described above.

[0046] The computer program or computer program product is designed to run on a computer-based device. The computer-based device can be a user terminal, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC. It is also possible for the computer program to run on a server, such as a cloud server, and for a user to access the computer program or the computer program's graphical user interface via a web interface, such as a browser.

[0047] The at least one image of the approaching cat and the detection by the image processing unit can be displayed together. The image processing unit's detection as to whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth can be displayed in text form or via color coding, e.g. green for no prey in the mouth and red for prey in the mouth, or in any other suitable manner. User input can be received via corresponding buttons in the graphical user interface, which the user can click on or select via a touch screen, for example. Before the at least one image of the approaching cat is displayed and the image processing unit is detected, the corresponding data can have been received from the supplementary access control system or from the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0048] Providing the user indication for training the image processing unit with an expanded database can comprise providing the user indication to an external data processing device, such as an external server in the cloud. On the external server, an updated version of the image processing unit or an updated version of parts of the image processing unit can be created using the feedback data. The updated version of the image processing unit or the updated version of parts of the image processing unit can be imported as an update into the supplementary access control system or the RFID-controlled cat flap. In particular, an artificial intelligence can be retrained on the external server using the feedback data, and the result of this new training run can be imported into the image processing unit of the supplementary access control system orthe RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0049] Exemplary embodiments of the invention further include a supplementary access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap, comprising: a sensor for detecting an approaching cat and a camera for recording at least one image of the approaching cat; an image processing unit coupled to the camera and configured to determine, based on the at least one image, whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat; a radio frequency signal generator configured to transmit an identification signal, wherein the identification signal is suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap;and a control unit coupled to the sensor, to the image processing unit, and to the radio frequency signal generator, wherein the control unit is configured to cause the radio frequency generator to transmit the identification signal based on the determination by the image processing unit that the cat is the predefined, specific cat;

[0050] Exemplary embodiments of the invention enable the emulation of an RFID tag, which enables access through the RFID-controlled cat flap. Thus, exemplary embodiments of the invention can enable the selective opening functionality of an RFID-controlled cat flap to be extended to cats that neither have an implanted RFID tag nor carry an RFID tag in another form, for example, in a collar. This requires no tampering with the technical system consisting of the RFID-controlled cat flap and the RFID tag worn by the cat. Existing RFID-controlled cat flaps can be easily supplemented with the functionality that allows access to authorized cats that do not carry an RFID tag. The potentially unwanted implantation of RFID tags or the risk of loss of an RFID tag in a collar can be avoided.In such embodiments, the radio frequency signal generator is configured to transmit an identification signal suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap. In other words, the radio frequency signal generator is configured to transmit an identification signal that encodes an identity stored in the RFID-controlled cat flap as authorized access. For this purpose, the RFID-controlled cat flap can be pre-programmed with a corresponding identity. It is also possible for the radio frequency signal generator to transmit an identification signal with a master identity of the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0051] The additional features, modifications and effects described above with respect to the supplementary access control system for the analysis relating to a prey animal in the mouth of the cat are analogously applicable to the supplementary access control system for the analysis relating to a predefined, specific cat.

[0052] According to a further embodiment, the image processing unit is configured to analyze the at least one image using artificial intelligence to determine whether the cat is the predefined, specific cat.

[0053] According to a further embodiment, the artificial intelligence comprises a neural network, in particular a convolutional neural network.

[0054] According to a further embodiment, the artificial intelligence is a pre-trained artificial intelligence, wherein the artificial intelligence has been trained in particular with at least 200 images of the predefined, specific cat and at least 200 images of other cats that are annotated accordingly. In particular, a very good basic robustness of the artificial intelligence can be achieved by training with between 200 and 500 images of the predefined, specific cat. The number of images of other cats can, but does not have to, be many times higher. By creating appropriate databases when operating several supplementary access control systems, it is relatively quickly possible to build up a broad database for the images of other cats. The broad database of images of other cats can be incorporated into the training of the artificial intelligence with regard to the predefined, specific cat.After training with the mentioned number of images of the predefined, specific cat and other cats, it may be possible to achieve a hit rate of more than 95%, in particular a hit rate of more than 99%, in a newly analyzed image with regard to determining whether the cat is the predefined, specific cat.

[0055] Exemplary embodiments of the invention further include an RFID-controlled cat flap, comprising: a mounting device with which the RFID-controlled cat flap can be attached to a building wall and / or to a building door and / or to a building window; a door element pivotable relative to the mounting device; a locking mechanism that selectively enables the opening of the pivotable door element; an RFID-based controller configured to communicate with an RFID tag carried by a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap and configured to cause the locking mechanism to enable the opening of the pivotable door element when it detects an approved RFID tag; and a supplementary access control system according to any one of the preceding embodiments.The additional features, modifications and effects described above with respect to the supplementary access control system are analogously applicable to the RFID-controlled cat flap having such a supplementary access control system.

[0056] According to a further embodiment, the supplementary access control system is integrated into the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0057] According to an alternative embodiment, the supplementary access control system is designed as a stand-alone system and arranged in relation to the RFID-based control such that the camera of the supplementary access control system is capable of recording at least one image of the cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0058] Exemplary embodiments of the invention further comprise a method for additionally controlling access through an RFID-controlled cat flap, wherein the RFID-controlled cat flap is configured to communicate with an RFID tag carried by a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap and to selectively enable the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap, the method comprising: detecting a cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap; taking at least one image of the cat approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap; based on the at least one image, determining whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat; and based on the determination that the cat is a predefined, specific cat, emitting an identification signal suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap.The above steps can be performed in the order mentioned or in any other reasonable sequence, or, where reasonably possible, in parallel. The additional features, modifications, and effects described above with reference to the supplementary access control system are analogously applicable to the method for supplementary access control using an RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0059] Exemplary embodiments of the invention further comprise a computer program / computer program product which contains program instructions which, when executed on a computer-based device, cause the following steps: Providing a graphical user interface; on the graphical user interface, displaying at least one image of an approaching cat which has been taken by a camera of a supplementary access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap or by a camera of an RFID-controlled cat flap; on the graphical user interface, displaying a determination of an image processing unit of the supplementary access control system orDisplaying a determination by an image processing unit of the RFID-controlled cat flap as to whether the cat in the at least one image is a predefined, specific cat; receiving a user input, wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the cat in the at least one image is the predefined, specific cat, or wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the determination by the image processing unit is correct; and providing the user indication for training the image processing unit with an expanded database. By means of the computer program or computer program product, user feedback can be conveniently and efficiently collected as to whether the determinations by the image processing unit regarding the predefined, specific cat are correct. In particular, incorrect determinations by the image processing unit can be conveniently and efficiently identified.With the help of the feedback, the hit rate of the image processing unit can be improved for the future. For example, if a certain number of user indications are present, the image processing unit can be retrained. The user indications can originate from the user whose supplementary access control system or RFID-controlled cat flap regulates access for the predefined, specific cat. The images of other users whose supplementary access control system or RFID-controlled cat flap regulates access for other cats and who use the same / similar computer programs / computer program products can be used as additional images of other cats for retraining. The supplementary access control system for the RFID-controlled cat flap can be a supplementary access control system according to one of the embodiments of the invention described above.The RFID-controlled cat flap may be an RFID-controlled cat flap according to one of the embodiments of the invention described above.

[0060] The computer program or computer program product is designed to run on a computer-based device. The computer-based device can be a user terminal, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or PC. It is also possible for the computer program to run on a server, such as a cloud server, and for a user to access the computer program or the computer program's graphical user interface via a web interface, such as a browser.

[0061] The at least one image of the approaching cat and the detection by the image processing unit can be displayed together. The image processing unit's determination as to whether the cat is the predefined, specific cat can be displayed in text form or via color coding, e.g., green for the predefined, specific cat and red for other cats, or in any other suitable manner. User input can be received via corresponding buttons in the graphical user interface, which the user can, for example, click on or select via a touch screen. Before the at least one image of the approaching cat is displayed and the image processing unit is detected, the corresponding data can have been received from the supplementary access control system or from the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0062] Providing the user indication for training the image processing unit with an expanded database can comprise providing the user indication to an external data processing device, such as an external server in the cloud. On the external server, an updated version of the image processing unit or an updated version of parts of the image processing unit can be created using the feedback data. The updated version of the image processing unit or the updated version of parts of the image processing unit can be imported as an update into the supplementary access control system or the RFID-controlled cat flap. In particular, an artificial intelligence can be retrained on the external server using the feedback data, and the result of this new training run can be imported into the image processing unit of the supplementary access control system or the RFID-controlled cat flap.the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0063] The computer program or computer program product may not only be designed to collect user feedback for retraining the image processing unit. It is also possible for the computer program or computer program product to be configured to compile annotated images for the initial training of the image processing unit.In a claim-like manner, exemplary embodiments of the invention further comprise a computer program / computer program product containing program instructions which, when executed on a computer-based device, initiate the following steps: providing a graphical user interface; displaying, on the graphical user interface, at least one image of an approaching cat which has been taken by a camera of a supplementary access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap or by a camera of an RFID-controlled cat flap; receiving a user input, wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the cat in the at least one image is the predefined, specific cat; and providing the user indication for the initial training of the image processing unit.The additional features, modifications, and effects described above with regard to retraining the image processing unit are analogously applicable to the initial training. Images of other cats can be drawn from a database for initial training. The database can, in particular, contain images of other users who use the same / similar computer programs / computer program products. In this way, after commissioning a supplementary access control system for an RFID-controlled cat flap or an RFID-controlled cat flap, a database can be achieved quite quickly that enables a high hit rate for determining whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat.

[0064] In the embodiments presented so far, the aspects of determining whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth and determining whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat have been described separately. However, it is possible for the two aspects to be implemented together. In particular, it is possible and hereby expressly disclosed that supplementary access control systems, RFID-controlled cat flaps, and methods for supplementary control of access via an RFID-controlled cat flap according to exemplary embodiments of the invention have features of both aspects. Further in particular, it is possible for the same or different sub-combinations of features of both aspects to be implemented in the supplementary access control systems, RFID-controlled cat flaps, and methods for supplementary control of access via an RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0065] Furthermore, it is hereby emphasized and expressly disclosed that the aspect of determining whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat represents an invention independent of the implementation of the cat flap as an RFID-controlled cat flap and independent of the implementation of a supplementary access control system. In other words, the aspect of determining whether a cat approaching the cat flap is a predefined, specific cat and controlling the cat flap on the basis of this determination is regarded as an independent invention. In the form of a claim, exemplary embodiments of the invention comprise a cat flap which has: a mounting device with which the cat flap can be attached to a building wall and / or to a building door and / or to a building window; a door element which can be pivoted relative to the mounting device;a locking mechanism that selectively enables the opening of the pivoting door element; a sensor for detecting an approaching cat and a camera for capturing at least one image of the approaching cat; an image processing unit coupled to the camera and configured to determine, based on the at least one image, whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat;and a control unit coupled to the sensor and to the image processing unit, wherein the control unit is configured to cause the locking mechanism to enable the opening of the pivoting door element based on the image processing unit's determination that the cat is the predefined, specific cat. The additional features, modifications, and effects described above with reference to the supplementary access control system and with reference to the RFID-controlled cat flap are, where appropriate, analogously applicable to such a cat flap. A corresponding method for operating a cat flap is also expressly disclosed here.

[0066] Further exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] Figure 1 shows an RFID-controlled cat flap with which a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention can cooperate or into which a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention can be integrated, partly in a schematic cross-sectional view and partly as a block diagram.

[0068] Figure 2 shows a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in a schematic perspective view.

[0069] Figure 3 shows a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in a block diagram.

[0070] Figure 4 illustrates the operation of a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention using a flowchart.

[0071] Figure 5 shows two exemplary images of a cat without prey in its mouth and the same cat with prey in its mouth, as they can be captured and processed in a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0072] Figure 6 illustrates the operation of a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention using a flowchart. Figure 7 shows two exemplary images of two different cats, as they can be captured and processed by a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0073] Figure 1 shows an RFID-controlled cat flap 100 according to an exemplary embodiment, partly in a schematic cross-sectional view and partly as a block diagram. The RFID-controlled cat flap 100 can be provided with a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention or can cooperate with a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The RFID-controlled cat flap 100 can thus be viewed as a starting point for the expansion with the supplementary access control system according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.

[0074] The RFID-controlled cat flap 100 has a frame structure 102, which is shown in cross-section in Figure 1. The frame structure 102 forms a passage / tunnel through which a cat 130 can enter and exit a building, such as a residential building. Figure 1 shows a situation in which the cat 130 is about to enter the building from the outside into the tunnel formed by the frame structure 102. The frame structure 102 can be inserted into a corresponding opening in a front door or into a corresponding opening in another building area.

[0075] The RFID-controlled cat flap 100 has a pivoting door element 104. If the pivoting door element 104 is not locked, the cat 130 can push it open with its snout / head and gain access to the building. The pivoting door element 104 is essentially dimensioned to completely close the tunnel through the frame structure 102.

[0076] In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1, the RFID-controlled cat flap has a locking mechanism which consists of several components.

[0077] On the one hand, the locking mechanism has a first pivotable stop 106 and a second pivotable stop 108, wherein the second pivotable stop 108 is movable by an actuator 110 and / or can be fixed in its upright position by the actuator 110. The first pivotable stop 106 and the second pivotable stop 108 are arranged on the frame structure 102 in an area in which the lower end of the pivotable door element 104 is positioned when the pivotable door element 104 is in its equilibrium position. Upon entering the building, the trolley 130 can bring the second pivotable stop 108 into a lying position with the aid of the pivotable door element 104, provided the second pivotable stop 108 is not fixed in its upright position. When exiting the building, the trolley 130 can bring the first pivoting stop 106 into a lying position with the aid of the pivoting door element 104.In a closed state, the lower end portion of the pivotable door element 104 is arranged between the first pivotable stop 106 and the second pivotable stop 108.

[0078] On the other hand, the locking mechanism has a locking pin 113, which is arranged in an upper region of the frame structure 102 above the pivotable door element 104 and can be inserted into and pulled out of a corresponding recess 105 in the upper region of the pivotable door element 104 by means of an actuator 112.

[0079] With the help of the locking pin 113 and the second pivoting stop 108, which can be secured in the upright position, the pivoting door element 104 can be secured in the closed position. In other words, the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 is capable of selectively allowing or preventing the opening of the pivoting door element.

[0080] It is emphasized that the locking mechanism described above is purely exemplary. Any other suitable type of locking mechanism may be provided. It is also possible for the locking to be effected solely by means of the locking pin 113 or by means of the second pivoting stop 108.

[0081] The RFID-controlled cat flap 100 can be configured to be generally closed, i.e., with the locking pin 113 inserted into the receptacle 105 and the second pivoting stop 108 fixed in the upright position. Selective opening of the pivoting door element 104 is enabled during operation by identifying the cat 130 and releasing the locking mechanism. Identification of the cat 130 occurs as follows. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1, the cat 130 has an implanted RFID tag 132, also referred to as an RFID chip. It is understood that the RFID tag can also be part of a collar of the cat 130. When the cat 130 approaches the RFID-controlled cat flap 100, a control unit 116 of the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 initiates communication with the RFID tag 132. For this purpose, the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 has a coil 118.The coil 118 is wound around a central portion of the frame structure 102 and acts as an antenna on the side of the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 for communication with the RFID tag 132. The control unit 116 and the RFID tag 132 communicate using a suitable protocol to read the identification information stored in the RFID tag 132. The read identification information is compared with the data stored in the control unit 116 for authorized cats. If the control unit 116 identifies the cat 130 as authorized, it causes the actuator 110 and the actuator 112 to release the second pivoting stop 108 and retract the locking pin 113. As a result, the cat 130 can open the pivoting door element 104 and enter the building.

[0082] The RFID-controlled cat flap 100 further includes a power supply 114, which supplies electrical power to the control unit 116 and the actuators 110, 112. The power supply 114 can be a local power supply, such as a rechargeable battery, or a power connection to a household outlet, or any other suitable type of electrical power supply.

[0083] Figure 2 shows a supplementary access control system 2 for an RFID-controlled cat flap, such as the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 in Figure 1, in a schematic perspective view. The supplementary access control system 2 has a frame structure 4. The frame structure 4 can be attached to the frame structure of an existing RFID-controlled cat flap, such as the frame structure 102 of the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 in Figure 1, via clip connections 5. The frame structure 4 of the supplementary access control system 2 can thus form an extension of the tunnel through which a cat passes when entering or leaving a building. In the lower region of the frame structure 4 of the supplementary access control system 2, an electronics housing 6 is arranged which contains various components of the supplementary access control system 2, described in detail below.A sensor 8 for detecting an approaching cat is arranged on the outward-facing end of the electronics housing 6. The sensor 8 can be a passive infrared sensor. Furthermore, an additional distance sensor 12 is provided on the top side of the electronics housing 6, close to the end of the electronics housing 6.

[0084] In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 2, the additional distance sensor is directed upwards and has an IR light source, such as an IR LED, and an IR photosensor, such as an IR photodiode. By emitting IR light using the IR light source and evaluating the measured values ​​of the IR photosensor, the additional distance sensor 12 can provide an indication as to whether the approaching cat is located with at least part of its body in the frame structure 4. A cat located in the frame structure 4 significantly reflects IR light, which is noticeable in the measured values ​​of the IR photosensor. The additional distance sensor can function as a type of light barrier, providing an indication of how close the cat has already approached the additional access control system 2 or whether the cat is still at / in the additional access control system 2.

[0085] On the side of the electronics housing 6 facing the interior of the building, a structure is provided into which a camera 10 and a light source 11 are integrated. The camera 10 and the light source 11 are directed obliquely upwards. In this way, the camera 10 and the light source 11 are directed towards the area in which the head of an approaching cat is expected to be when it is about to enter the building through the frame structure 4 of the supplementary access control system 2. The camera 10 is a digital camera. The light source 11 is intended to illuminate the approaching cat and can be implemented, for example, as an LED. The functional connection of the described components of the supplementary access control system 2 and their interaction during operation are described with reference to the following figures.

[0086] Figure 3 shows a supplementary access control system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention in a block diagram. The local components of the supplementary access control system 2 can be arranged in the device structure shown in Figure 2. However, it is also possible for the components of the supplementary access control system 2 shown in Figure 3 to be arranged in another suitable configuration.

[0087] The sensor 8, the camera 10 with the light source 11, and the additional distance sensor 12 are connected to a microcontroller 16. In the exemplary arrangement of Figure 2, the microcontroller 16 can be housed in the electronics housing 6. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3, part of an image processing unit 18 and a control unit 20 are implemented on the microcontroller 16.

[0088] The microcontroller 16 is further connected to a radio frequency signal generator 14. The radio frequency signal generator 14 is configured to transmit an interference signal suitable for disrupting communication between an RFID-controlled cat flap and an RFID tag carried by a cat, making it impossible to identify the cat using the RFID-controlled cat flap. The radio frequency signal generator 14 can comprise a resonant circuit having one or more capacitors and one or more inductors. The one or more inductors can serve as antennas for transmitting the interference signal.In the exemplary arrangement of Figure 2, the one or more capacitances, which may be capacitors, can be arranged in the electronics housing 6, and the one or more inductances can be coils that run in the frame structure 4 around the passage area for the cat. This coil(s) functions / functions as an antenna for emitting the interference signal, similar to the coil 118 shown in Figure 1, which is provided as the antenna of the RFID-controlled cat flap 100 for communication with the RFID tag 132. It is also possible for the one or more capacitances or capacitors and the one or more inductances or coils to be housed in the electronics housing 6.

[0089] In addition or alternatively to the ability of the radio frequency signal generator 14 to emit the interference signal described above, the radio frequency signal generator 14 can be designed to emit an identification signal which is suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0090] The microcontroller 16 is further connected to a network connection 22. The network connection 22 can in particular be a wireless network connection, such as a WLAN connection. The microcontroller 16 is connected to external data processing devices, shown here as part of a cloud 26, via the network connection 22. The microcontroller 16 can exchange data with external entities, such as a remotely located server 28 and / or with monitoring and control programs, such as smartphone apps or tablet apps, via the network connection 22. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3, part of the image processing unit 18 is implemented in the remotely located server 28.

[0091] The supplementary access control system 2 further includes an internal power supply 24. The internal power supply 24 supplies electrical power to the camera 10, the light source 11, the additional distance sensor 12, the microcontroller 16, and, if applicable, the radio frequency signal generator 14 and the network connection 22. The internal power supply 24 can be a rechargeable battery or a power connection to a household outlet or any other suitable type of electrical power supply.

[0092] In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 3, the image processing unit 18 is implemented partially on the microcontroller 16 and partially on the remotely located server 28. However, it is also possible for the image processing unit 18 to be implemented entirely on the microcontroller 16 or entirely in the cloud 26. If part of the image processing unit or the entire image processing unit is implemented in the cloud 26, the supplementary access control system is a distributed system. In such a distributed system, some of the components of the supplementary access control system 2, namely those components shown to the right of the network connection 22 in the block diagram of Figure 3, are arranged locally in the device structure shown in Figure 2, whereas other components are implemented remotely from the device structure shown in Figure 2, for example in the cloud 26.The interaction and cooperation of the components of the supplementary access control system 2 of Figure 3 is described below with reference to the flow chart of Figure 4.

[0093] Figure 4 shows a flowchart illustrating the operation of a supplementary access control system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in particular the operation of the supplementary access control system 2 of Figure 3, using an exemplary method run. In step 40, the sensor 8 detects a cat approaching the supplementary access control system 2. Based on this detection, the sensor 8 sends a signal to the microcontroller 16, which transitions it from a standby state to an operating state. This can also be referred to as waking up the microcontroller 16, shown as step 42. Based on the knowledge of the presence of a cat, the control unit 20 of the microcontroller 16 causes the radio frequency signal generator 14 to emit the interference signal. This is summarized in Figure 4 in step 44 as emission of the interference signal.

[0094] In step 46, the additional distance sensor 12 monitors whether the approaching cat is located within the frame structure 4 and thus the distance of the approaching cat to the camera 10 is within a suitable range. As soon as the distance is suitable for taking one or more images, the control unit 20, which continuously receives an indication of the cat's distance from the additional distance sensor 12, transmits a trigger signal to the camera 10. The camera 10 then takes at least one image of the cat in step 48. The trigger signal from the control unit can also be transmitted to the light source 11 or forwarded from the camera 10 to the light source 11. It is possible for the light source 11 to switch on the cat's exposure in response to the trigger signal. It is also possible for such exposure to only occur when the ambient lighting conditions require it.The camera 10 can be equipped with appropriate sensors and logic and control the light source 11 accordingly.

[0095] In step 50, the image captured of the cat is sent via the network port 22 to the external server 28 in the cloud 26. In step 52, the image analysis regarding whether or not the approaching cat is carrying prey in its mouth is performed in the part of the image processing unit 18 implemented on the external server 28 in the cloud 26. As described above, it is also possible for the image processing unit 18 as a whole to be implemented locally in the microcontroller 16. In other words, step 52 can be performed both in the cloud 26 and locally in the microcontroller 16. Accordingly, step 50, i.e., sending the image via the network port 22, can take place or be omitted.

[0096] In step 52, the image processing unit determines whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth according to the captured image. This determination is made using artificial intelligence. In particular, the image processing unit uses a pre-trained neural network to analyze whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth. The neural network, which has been trained with appropriately annotated images of cats without prey in their mouths and cats with prey in their mouths, determines whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth or not. The result can be a yes / no decision or can represent a probability value as to whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth, or can have another suitable form. The part of the image processing unit 18 implemented on the server in the cloud 26 sends the result of the image analysis back to the microcontroller 16 via the network connection 22.

[0097] In step 54, the control unit 20 of the microcontroller 16 receives the determination as to whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth via the network connection 22. Based on this determination, the control unit 20 makes a decision in step 56. If it has been determined that the cat is carrying prey in its mouth, in step 58 the additional distance sensor 12 continuously monitors whether the cat is still present in the vicinity of the supplementary access control system 2. If so, the control unit 20 ensures that the radio frequency signal generator 14 continues to transmit the jamming signal. This is illustrated in step 60. If the additional distance sensor 12 determines in step 58 that the cat is no longer present in the vicinity of the supplementary access control system 2, the control unit 20 causes the radio frequency signal generator 14 to stop transmitting the jamming signal in step 62.The control unit 20 also causes the radio frequency signal generator 14 to stop transmitting the jamming signal if it has been determined in step 56 that the cat is not carrying any prey in its mouth.

[0098] The two different paths between step 56 and step 62 achieve two things. First, the transmission of the jamming signal is stopped when the cat is not carrying prey in its mouth, allowing the cat to enter the building through the RFID-controlled cat flap. Second, based on the detection that the cat is carrying prey in its mouth, the jamming signal is transmitted until the cat has moved away from the supplementary access control system, thus preventing entry into the building with prey in its mouth.

[0099] After the interference signal has ended in step 62, the supplementary access control system 2, in particular the microcontroller 16, enters a standby state in step 64. The supplementary access control system 2 awakens from this standby state upon the next detection of an approaching cat via the sensor 8, as described above with reference to step 40.

[0100] Figure 5 shows two exemplary images of a cat without prey in its mouth and the same cat with prey in its mouth, as they can be captured and processed in a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0101] Figure 5A shows an image of a cat 130 without prey in its mouth. In the image shown, the head of the cat 130 is framed by the frame structure 4 of a supplementary access control system 2, as shown, for example, in Figure 2. Between the head of the cat 130 and the frame structure 4, a section of the surroundings of the supplementary access control system 2 can be seen as the background of the image.

[0102] Figure 5B shows an image of the same cat 130 as in Figure 5A, but with prey in its mouth. In the image of Figure 5B, the cat 130 has a mouse 140 in its mouth. Again, the head of the cat 130 is enclosed by the frame structure 4 in the image shown, and a section of the surroundings of the supplementary access control system 2 is visible as the background of the image.

[0103] As can be seen from the comparison of the images in Figures 5A and 5B, images taken with the camera 10 of a supplementary access control system 2 can differ in many respects, such as in the illumination, in the direction of view of the cat 130, in the blur of the image, in the brightness of the background, etc. Despite this large number of degrees of freedom in the image composition, it has been found that an artificial intelligence that has been trained with approximately 1000 images of cats without prey in their mouths and approximately 1000 images of cats with prey in their mouths can achieve a hit rate of greater than 95% or even greater than 99% when analyzing newly taken images to determine whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth.

[0104] Figure 6 shows a flowchart illustrating the operation of a supplementary access control system 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in particular the operation of the supplementary access control system 2 of Figure 3, using an exemplary method sequence. Some steps of the flowchart of Figure 6 are analogous to the corresponding steps of the flowchart of Figure 4. These steps are described again below, but additional reference is made to the description of Figure 4.

[0105] In step 70, sensor 8 detects a cat approaching the supplementary access control system 2. Based on this detection, sensor 8 sends a signal to microcontroller 16, which transitions it from a standby state to an operating state. This can also be referred to as waking up microcontroller 16, represented as step 72.

[0106] In step 74, the additional distance sensor 12 monitors whether the approaching cat is located within the frame structure 4 and thus the distance of the approaching cat to the camera 10 is within a suitable range. As soon as the distance is suitable for taking one or more images, the control unit 20, which continuously receives an indication of the cat's distance from the additional distance sensor 12, transmits a trigger signal to the camera 10. The camera 10 then takes at least one image of the cat in step 76. The trigger signal from the control unit can also be transmitted to the light source 11 or forwarded from the camera 10 to the light source 11. It is possible for the light source 11 to switch on the cat's exposure in response to the trigger signal. It is also possible for such exposure to only occur when the ambient lighting conditions require it.The camera 10 can be equipped with appropriate sensors and logic and control the light source 11 accordingly.

[0107] In step 78, the image analysis regarding the question of whether the approaching cat is a predefined, specific cat is performed in the part of the image processing unit 18 that is implemented locally in the microcontroller 16. It is also possible for step 78 to be performed on a part of the image processing unit 18 in the cloud 26, e.g., on a part of the image processing unit 18 that is implemented on an external server 28. For this purpose, before step 78 is performed, the image captured of the cat would be sent via the network connection 22 to the external server 28 in the cloud 26. In other words, step 78 can be performed both in the cloud 26 and locally in the microcontroller 16.

[0108] In step 78, the image processing unit determines whether the cat according to the captured image is a predefined, specific cat. This determination is made using artificial intelligence. In particular, the image processing unit uses a pre-trained neural network to analyze whether the cat according to the captured image is a predefined, specific cat. The neural network, which has been trained with appropriately annotated images of the predefined, specific cat and images of other cats, arrives at a result as to whether the cat according to the captured image is the predefined, specific cat. The result can be a yes / no decision or can represent a probability value as to whether the cat is the predefined, specific cat, or can have another suitable form.When step 78 is implemented in the cloud 26, the part of the image processing unit 18 implemented on the server in the cloud 26 sends the result of the image analysis back to the microcontroller 16 via the network connection 22.

[0109] In step 80, the control unit 20 of the microcontroller 16 receives the determination as to whether the cat is the predefined, specific cat. If it has been determined that the cat is the predefined, specific cat, the control unit 20 causes the radio frequency signal generator 14, in step 82, to transmit an identification signal suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap. The radio frequency signal generator 14 can transmit an identification signal encoding an identity stored in the RFID-controlled cat flap as having access authorization. For this purpose, the RFID-controlled cat flap can be pre-programmed with a corresponding identity. It is also possible for the radio frequency signal generator to be configured to transmit an identification signal with a master identity of the RFID-controlled cat flap.

[0110] The method illustrated in Figure 6 ensures that a cat that is intended to have access to a building but does not have or carry an RFID tag is granted access to the building through visual identification. Access control based on biometric identification of a predefined, specific cat can be implemented via the supplementary access control system 2.

[0111] After transmitting the identification signal in step 82, the supplementary access control system 2, in particular the microcontroller 16, enters a standby state in step 84. The supplementary access control system 2 awakens from this standby state upon the next detection of an approaching cat via the sensor 8, as described above with reference to step 70. The supplementary access control system 2 also enters the standby state in step 84 as a result of the determination that the cat is not the predefined, specific cat.

[0112] Figure 7 shows two exemplary images of two different cats as they can be captured and processed by a supplementary access control system according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0113] Figure 7A shows an image of a first cat 130, which in the nomenclature used herein is a predefined, specific cat. The head of the cat 130 is framed in the image shown by the frame structure 4 of a supplementary access control system 2, as shown, for example, in Figure 2. Between the head of the cat 130 and the frame structure 4, a section of the surroundings of the supplementary access control system 2 can be seen as the image background.

[0114] Figure 7B shows an image of a second cat 130', which, in the nomenclature used herein, is not the predefined, specific cat. Again, the head of the cat 130 is enclosed by the frame structure 4 in the image shown, and a section of the surroundings of the supplemental access control system 2 is visible as the background of the image.

[0115] As can be seen from the comparison of the images in Figures 7A and 7B, images taken with the camera 10 of a supplementary access control system 2 can differ in many respects, such as in the illumination, in the direction of view of the cat 130 or 130', in the blurriness of the image, in the brightness of the background, etc. Despite this multitude of degrees of freedom in the image composition, it has been found that an artificial intelligence that has been trained with approximately 400 images of a predefined, specific cat and approximately 400 images of other cats can achieve a hit rate of greater than 95% or even greater than 99% when analyzing newly taken images to determine whether the cat is the predefined, specific cat. This is even the case when the artificial intelligence is supposed to distinguish between very similar cats, such as the brothers shown in Figures 7A and 7B.With reference to Figures 4 and 5 on the one hand, and Figures 6 and 7 on the other, the aspects of determining whether the cat is carrying a prey item in its mouth and determining whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat have been described separately. It is emphasized again that it is possible for the two aspects to be implemented jointly. The methods of Figures 4 and 6 can be implemented jointly in a complementary access control system. Some steps can be simply performed and used for both aspects.

[0116] In the above description of Figures 4 and 6, it was explained that the part of the image processing unit that determines whether the cat is carrying prey in its mouth is implemented in the cloud, while the part of the image processing unit that determines whether the cat is a predefined, specific cat is implemented locally. This division is very efficient in that the artificial intelligence pre-trained for the first determination can be used for a variety of supplementary access controls that work with a variety of RFID-controlled cat flaps. In this respect, it is possible for only one implementation of the artificial intelligence to be maintained, maintained, and updated, while the functionality is available to a variety of RFID-controlled cat flaps.The latter finding is, by definition, associated with a predefined, specific cat and generally only makes sense in the context of a specific RFID-controlled cat flap. Thus, the reusability of a suitably trained artificial intelligence is limited, and a local implementation may be desirable. However, it is expressly emphasized that other divisions between cloud and local implementation are possible, and that a complete implementation of the image processing unit in the cloud or locally is also possible.

[0117] Furthermore, it is expressly emphasized that the functionality of the supplementary access control system, as described with reference to Figures 2 to 7, can be integrated into an RFID-controlled cat flap, such as the RFID-controlled cat flap of Figure 1. The RFID-controlled cat flap of Figure 1 can be an RFID-controlled cat flap according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0118] Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents employed without departing from the scope of the invention. The invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments described. Rather, it includes all embodiments falling within the appended claims.

Claims

Patent claims 1 . Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100), comprising: a sensor (8) for detecting an approaching cat (130) and a camera (10) for recording at least one image of the approaching cat (130); an image processing unit (18) coupled to the camera (10) and configured to determine, based on the at least one image, whether the cat (130) is carrying prey (140) in its mouth; a radio frequency signal generator (14) configured to transmit an interference signal, the interference signal being suitable for preventing the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100);and a control unit (20) coupled to the sensor (8), to the image processing unit (18), and to the radio frequency signal generator (14), wherein the control unit (20) is configured to: based on the detection of the approaching cat (130), cause the radio frequency signal generator (14) to transmit the interference signal; and based on the determination by the image processing unit (18) that the cat (130) is not carrying any prey (140) in its mouth, cause the radio frequency signal generator (14) to stop transmitting the interference signal.

2. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 1, wherein the image processing unit (18) is configured to analyze the at least one image using artificial intelligence to determine whether the cat (130) is carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth.

3. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 2, wherein the artificial intelligence comprises a neural network, in particular a convolutional neural network.

4. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the artificial intelligence is a pre-trained artificial intelligence, wherein the artificial intelligence is in particular trained with at least 200 images of cats without prey in their mouths and at least 200 images of cats with prey in their mouths, which were annotated accordingly.

5. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (20) is arranged to cause the radio frequency generator (14) to transmit the jamming signal during predetermined blocking times, regardless of whether the image processing unit (18) determines that the cat (130) is carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth or not.

6. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the radio frequency signal generator (14) is designed to transmit an interference signal with a fundamental frequency of between 100 kHz and 200 kHz, in particular with a fundamental frequency of between 120 kHz and 140 kHz; and / or wherein the radio frequency signal generator (14) is designed to modulate a random or pseudo-random identification number onto a fundamental oscillation of the interference signal, or wherein the radio frequency signal generator (14) is designed to modulate a random or pseudo-random bit pattern onto a fundamental oscillation of the interference signal.

7. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a network connection (22), in particular a wireless network connection, further in particular a WLAN connection.

8. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 7, wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is a distributed system in which the image processing unit (18) or a part of the image processing unit (18) is formed remotely from the sensor (8), the camera (10), the radio frequency signal generator (14) and the control unit (20), wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is in particular configured to transmit the at least one image to the image processing unit (18) via the network connection (22) and to receive the determination as to whether the cat (130) is carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth via the network connection (22).

9. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 7, wherein the control unit (20) and the image processing unit (18) are integrated and wherein the image processing unit (18) is configured to receive an installation of an artificial intelligence trained with an extended database via the network connection (22).

10. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (8) is a passive infrared sensor, wherein the passive infrared sensor (8) is in particular configured to cause the supplementary access control system (2) to transition from a standby state to an operating state based on the detection of the approaching cat (130).

11. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor (8) is designed as a distance sensor and / or wherein the supplementary access control system (2) has an additional distance sensor (12) which is coupled to the control unit (20); and wherein the sensor (8) orthe additional distance sensor (12) provides a signal indicating the distance of the approaching cat (130), and the control unit (20) is configured to control the triggering time for recording the at least one image based on the distance of the approaching cat (130); and / or wherein the sensor (8) or the additional distance sensor (12) is configured to continuously monitor the presence of the approaching cat (130).

12. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is a self-sufficient system; and / or wherein the supplementary access control system (2) has an internal power supply (24), in particular a rechargeable battery.

13. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the supplementary access control system (2) can be attached to the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) or to a building structure, wherein the supplementary access control system (2) in particular has a frame structure (4) which can be inserted into a door opening and / or into a window opening and / or into a wall opening and / or which can be attached to an RFID-controlled cat flap (100).

14. An RFID-controlled cat flap (100), comprising: a mounting device (102) with which the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) can be attached to a building wall and / or to a building door and / or to a building window; a door element (104) pivotable relative to the mounting device (102); a locking mechanism (108, 110; 112, 113, 115) which selectively enables the pivotable door element (104) to be opened; an RFID-based controller (116, 118) configured to communicate with an RFID tag (132) carried by a cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), and configured to cause the locking mechanism (108, 110; 112, 113, 115) to allow the pivoting door element (104) to open when it detects an approved RFID tag (132); and a supplementary access control system (2) according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 14, wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is integrated into the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), or wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is designed as a stand-alone system and is arranged in relation to the RFID-based controller (116, 118) in such a way that the camera (10) of the supplementary access control system (2) is able to record the at least one image of the cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100).

16. A method for additionally controlling access by an RFID-controlled cat flap (100), wherein the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) is configured is configured to communicate with an RFID tag (132) carried by a cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap and to selectively enable the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), comprising: Detecting a cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100); based on the detection of the cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), emitting a radio frequency interference signal suitable for preventing the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100); Taking at least one image of the cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100); based on the at least one image, determining whether the cat (130) is carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth; and based on the determination that the cat (130) is not carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth, terminating the transmission of the radio frequency jamming signal.

17. Computer program or computer program product containing program instructions which, when executed on a computer-based device, such as a smartphone or a tablet, cause the following steps: Providing a graphical user interface; Displaying at least one image of an approaching cat (130) taken by a camera (10) of a supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) or an RFID-controlled cat flap (100); Representing a determination by an image processing unit (18) of the supplementary access control system (2) or the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) as to whether the cat (130) in the at least one image is carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth; Receiving a user input, wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the cat (130) in the at least one image is carrying a prey animal (140) in its mouth, or a user indication as to whether the determination of the image processing unit (18) is correct; and Providing the user indication for training the image processing unit (18) with an extended database.

18. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100), comprising: a sensor (8) for detecting an approaching cat (130) and a camera (10) for recording at least one image of the approaching cat (130); an image processing unit (18) coupled to the camera (10) and configured to determine, based on the at least one image, whether the cat (130) is a predefined, specific cat; a radio frequency signal generator (14) configured to transmit an identification signal, the identification signal being suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100);and a control unit (20) coupled to the sensor (8), to the image processing unit (18) and to the radio frequency signal generator (14), wherein the control unit (20) is configured to cause the radio frequency generator (14) to transmit the identification signal based on the determination by the image processing unit (18) that the cat (130) is the predefined, specific cat; 19. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 18, wherein the image processing unit (18) is configured to analyze the at least one image using artificial intelligence to determine whether the cat (130) is the predefined, specific cat.

20. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 19, wherein the artificial intelligence comprises a neural network, in particular a convolutional neural network.

21. Supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the artificial intelligence is a pre-trained artificial intelligence, wherein the artificial intelligence has been trained in particular with at least 200 images of the predefined, specific cat and at least 200 images of other cats which are correspondingly annotated.

22. RFID-controlled cat flap (100), comprising: a mounting device (102) with which the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) can be attached to a building wall and / or to a building door and / or to a building window; a door element (104) pivotable relative to the mounting device (102); a locking mechanism (108, 110; 112, 113, 115) that selectively enables the opening of the pivotable door element (104); an RFID-based controller (116, 118) configured to communicate with an RFID tag (132) carried by a cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), and configured to cause the locking mechanism (108, 110; 112, 113, 115) to enable the opening of the pivotable door element (104) when it detects an approved RFID tag (132); and a supplementary access control system (2) according to any one of claims 18 to 21.

23. RFID-controlled cat flap (100) according to claim 22, wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is integrated into the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), or wherein the supplementary access control system (2) is designed as a stand-alone system and is arranged relative to the RFID-based controller (116, 118) in such a way that the camera (10) of the supplementary access control system (2) is capable of recording the at least one image of the cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100).

24. A method for additionally controlling access through an RFID-controlled cat flap (100), wherein the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) is configured to communicate with an RFID tag (132) carried by a cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) and to selectively enable the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100), comprising: Detecting a cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100); Taking at least one image of the cat (130) approaching the RFID-controlled cat flap (100); on the basis of the at least one image, determining whether the cat (130) is a predefined, specific cat; and on the basis of the determination that the cat (130) is a predefined, specific cat, transmitting an identification signal which is suitable for enabling the opening of the RFID-controlled cat flap (100).

25. A computer program or computer program product containing program instructions which, when executed on a computer-based device such as a smartphone or tablet, cause the following steps: Providing a graphical user interface; Displaying at least one image of an approaching cat (130) taken by a camera (10) of a supplementary access control system (2) for an RFID-controlled cat flap (100) or an RFID-controlled cat flap (100); Displaying a determination by an image processing unit (18) of the supplementary access control system (2) or the RFID-controlled cat flap (100) as to whether the cat (130) in the at least one image is a predefined, specific cat; Receiving a user input, wherein the user input comprises a user indication as to whether the cat (130) in the at least one image is the predefined, specific cat, or a user indication as to whether the determination of the image processing unit (18) is correct; and Providing the user indication for training the image processing unit (18) with an extended database.

Images