Apparatus and method for digitally linking multiple access keys and locations

Abstract

To provide methods and devices for digitally combining multiple access or entry enabling items or keys and / or location data of multiple destinations.SOLUTION: A device may wirelessly communicate with a plurality of access control devices. The access control devices may individually authenticate a digital key of a plurality of digital keys identifiable by key identification data stored in a memory of the device. The device may further include a processor. The processor may be configured to determine that the digital key is authenticated by one of the access control devices. The processor may be further configured to communicate with the one access control system to prompt the one access control system to allow access to a user of the device. The processor may be further configured to communicate location data to a navigation system. The processor may be further configured to transmit access tokens and / or the location data to other devices.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure is directed to a method and apparatus for digitally combining multiple access or entry enabling items and / or location data of multiple destinations.

Background Art

[0002] In daily life, there may be a need to access multiple locations, positions, objects or items (such as vehicles, homes, hotel rooms, mailboxes, public transportation). For each access device or access point, at least one entry enabling item (such as a mechanical key, security code, key fob, access card, remote control device, remote control keypad, ticket, etc.) is generally required for access. Carrying multiple entry enabling items physically on the body causes unnecessary bulk, and there is a possibility of losing, forgetting, or misplacing the items, making it difficult to identify the correct key for a given access device or point. Further, when providing entry enabling items to others (such as for a vacation home, rental car, hotel check-in, etc.), there may be a need to create duplicates and / or physically deliver them. This can be inefficient, costly, and cumbersome. A person moving to multiple destinations for access may notice that it is difficult to identify, search for, and plan a route to a planned destination, especially when not familiar with the destination and / or the general area of the destination.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a method and apparatus for combining multiple access keys in a single portable device and combining location data of multiple destinations for transportation.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] Apparatus and method for obtaining access through multiple access control systems and / or accessing multiple areas. The apparatus may have a wireless transceiver capable of communicating with each of the access control systems. The apparatus may receive key identification data from one of the access control systems. The apparatus may further have memory for storing authentication data. The apparatus may further have a processor coupled to the wireless transceiver and memory. The processor may determine that the received key identification data matches authentication data. The processor may then transmit the authentication data to one of the access control systems via the wireless transceiver. Upon transmission of the authentication data, one of the access control systems may grant access to the user of the apparatus.

[0005] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a portable digital access device may be provided having a wireless transceiver configured to exchange information with a plurality of access control systems. This information may include key identification data and authentication data. The authentication data may have a plurality of keys for one or more of the plurality of access control systems. The key identification data may identify one or more of a plurality of keys that complement one of the plurality of access control systems. The device may have a memory configured to store the authentication data. The device may have a processor coupled to the wireless transceiver and the memory. The processor may be configured to determine that the authentication data matches key identification data received from one of the plurality of access control systems. The processor may be further configured to control the wireless transceiver to transmit the authentication data to one of the plurality of access control systems and prompt one of the plurality of access control systems to grant access to the user of the portable digital access device. One of the plurality of access control systems may be a lock, ticket reader, gate, or turn signal.

[0006] The memory may be further configured to store location data for multiple access control systems. The processor may be further configured to transmit location data to a navigation system by controlling a wireless transceiver to guide the user to multiple access control systems. The wireless transceiver may exchange information with a server. The server may be configured to store location data for multiple access control systems. The server may be further configured to transmit location data to a navigation system to guide the user to multiple access control systems when the processor determines that the authentication data matches the key identification data.

[0007] The processor may be further configured to transmit authentication data to other portable digital access devices by controlling a wireless transceiver upon receiving user input. The processor may be further configured to receive authentication data from a server. The processor may be further configured to set a timer to count down to a predetermined time, and to delete the authentication data from memory when the timer reaches that time.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for obtaining access through multiple access control systems may be employed. This method may include receiving key identification data from the multiple access control systems by a wireless transceiver. The key identification data may associate one digital key from a plurality of digital keys with one of the multiple access control systems. This method may further include a processor determining that authentication data stored in memory, having a plurality of digital keys, matches the identification data. This method may further include transmitting the authentication data to the multiple access control systems by a wireless transceiver to prompt the multiple access control systems to provide access. This method may further include inputting the key identification data by an input device. This method may further include a processor or server generating authentication data based on the key identification data.

[0009] This method may further include a server transmitting location data of multiple access control systems to a navigation system to provide directions to the multiple access control systems. This method may further include a wireless transceiver transmitting location data of multiple access control systems stored in memory to a navigation system to provide directions to the multiple access control systems. This method may further include a wireless control sensor transmitting location data of multiple access control systems to an electronic control unit (ECU) of a vehicle with autonomous driving capabilities. This method may further include the ECU prompting the vehicle to drive toward the multiple access control systems.

[0010] This method may further include transmitting a copy of the authentication data, which will be used as an access token, via a wireless transceiver. This method may further include setting a timer, which will count down until a predetermined time has elapsed, via a processor. This method may further include removing the authentication data from memory when the timer has reached the predetermined time.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for accessing multiple areas may be employed. This method may include receiving location data for multiple areas by a wireless transceiver. This method may further include storing the location data in memory. This method may further include determining, by a processor, that the vehicle has started. This method may further include transmitting the location data to a navigation system by a wireless transceiver. The vehicle may have an autonomous driving function, and the navigation system may be linked to the vehicle's ECU. This method may further include, by a processor, starting the vehicle for driving to multiple areas, based on the location data, by the ECU. This method may further include transmitting the location data by a wireless transceiver to one or more portable devices capable of storing the location data and transmitting the location data to other navigation systems.

[0012] This method may further include receiving one or more access tokens for an area having multiple access control systems via a wireless transceiver. This method may further include storing one or more access tokens in memory. This method may further include transmitting one or more access tokens to an access control system via a wireless transceiver in order to gain access. This method may further include receiving one or more access tokens for one or more access control systems via a wireless transceiver. This method may further include storing one or more access tokens to an access control system in memory in order to gain access. One or more access control systems may be locks, ticket readers, gates, or turn signals. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following figures and detailed description. The components shown in the drawings do not necessarily have to be to a specific scale and may be exaggerated to better illustrate important features of the present invention.

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram of a device for combining multiple access keys and location data of multiple destinations, according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows the device of Figure 1, which communicates with multiple access control systems to provide access to users of the device, transfers information to a second device, and provides the second device with access and / or navigation functions according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart of a method for combining multiple access keys and location data of multiple destinations, according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]This figure shows the apparatus of Figure 1, which transmits location data of multiple destinations to the vehicle's navigation system and transfers the information to the second apparatus of Figure 2, thereby providing the second apparatus with a navigation function according to one aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This is a flowchart of a method for moving to a destination by combining location data of multiple destinations, according to one aspect of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0015] The methods and apparatus described herein digitally combine multiple access or entry activation items (e.g., mechanical keys, security codes, key fobs, access cards, remote control devices, remote keypads, tickets, etc.) with location data for multiple destinations (e.g., points of interest, delivery addresses, etc.). Entry activation items may hereafter be referred to as "keys." Combining keys with location data for destinations offers the advantage of efficiently and securely managing keys and travel. Combining keys of various shapes, sizes, and media into a single digital device (e.g., a handheld electronic device such as a smartphone) reduces the burden of carrying items on the body, helps avoid loss, misplacement, or retrieval of items, and streamlines travel. Keys may be associated with combined destinations. For example, one of the combined keys may be a hotel room key at one of the destinations. In another example, one of the keys may be a ticket for a theatrical or sporting event that may be located at another of the destinations. In yet another example, one of the combined keys may open a mailbox at one of the destinations. An autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle equipped with autonomous driving capabilities may be unlocked and activated with one of a combination of keys, and the combination of location data may be uploaded to the vehicle so that the vehicle can begin autonomous or semi-autonomous travel to its destination. The term “driver” may be replaced with “passenger” when referring to an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle.

[0016] An exemplary device may include a wireless transceiver capable of exchanging information with multiple access control systems. The term “access control device” may be used throughout this disclosure instead of “access control system.” The information may include key identification data and authentication data. The authentication data may have multiple keys for one or more of the access control systems. The key identification data may identify one or more keys that complement one of the access control systems. The device may further include a memory configured to store the authentication data. The device may further include a processor coupled to the wireless transceiver and the memory. The processor may be configured to determine that the authentication data received from one of the access control systems matches the key identification data. The processor may further be configured to control the wireless transceiver to transmit the authentication data to one of the access control systems, prompting one of the access control systems to grant access to the device's user and anyone else in the user's company. If the processor determines that the authentication data matches the key identification data, it may further be configured to transmit location data stored in memory to a navigation system, or to prompt a server in an access control system to transmit location data to a navigation system. The navigation system may be linked to the ECU of a vehicle equipped with autonomous driving capabilities, and the transmission of location data may prompt the ECU to drive the vehicle based on the location data. The processor may be further configured to transmit access tokens and / or location data that are about to expire or are not about to expire to other devices.

[0017] Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a device 100 for combining multiple access keys and location data of multiple destinations, according to one aspect of the present disclosure. The device 100 may be a portable device with wireless connectivity. The device 100 may be a mobile phone, as shown in Figure 1. The device 100 may also be a tablet device, a laptop computer, a key fob, a car key, a remote keypad, an access card, a portable multimedia player, a portable game console, and any other portable electronic and electromechanical device. The device 100 may be molded, sized, and weighed so as to be easily held and transported. For example, the device 100 may fit in a pocket. The device 100 may include a controller 102, a wireless transceiver 104, a memory 106, a display 108, and an input device 110.

[0018] The controller 102 may be one or more integrated circuits configured to control and manage the operation of the device 100. The controller 102 may include one or more processors configured to execute machine-readable instructions. One or more processors may be, for example, microprocessors or microcontrollers. The controller 102 may be connected to the wireless transceiver 104, memory 106, display 108, and input device 110.

[0019] The wireless transceiver 104 may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth®, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), or WiFi-based communication hardware. In some embodiments, some or all of the aforementioned communication methods may be available for selecting users of the device 100 based on preference or suitability (e.g., signal travel distance, signal availability, signal interference, signal travel speed, etc.). The wireless transceiver 104 may utilize other wireless communication technologies that are well-regarded by those skilled in the art.

[0020] Memory 106 may be random access memory (RAM), a disk, flash memory, an optical disc drive, hybrid memory, or any other storage medium capable of storing data. Memory 106 may store program code executable by controller 102. Memory 106 may store data in an encrypted format or any other suitable secure format.

[0021] The display 108 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode display (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a plasma display, a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, a digital light processing display (DLPT), a microdisplay, a projection display, or any other display that is well-regarded by those skilled in the art. The display 108 may display a user interface, text, images, etc. The display 108 may be a touchscreen and may be combined with or integrated with the input device 110.

[0022] The input device 110 may receive visual input, auditory input, and / or touch input. For example, the input device 110 may be a camera, microphone, touchscreen, button, or remote control. The user of device 100 may control the controller 102 by inputting commands and information into the input device 110. For example, the input device 110 may receive biometric information, the user's voice, and / or touch input from the user with one or more fingers.

[0023] FIG. 2 shows an apparatus 100 that communicates with a plurality of access control systems 200 to provide access to a user of the apparatus 100 according to one aspect of the present disclosure, and transfers information to a second apparatus 202 to provide access and / or navigation functions to the second apparatus 202. The term “access control system” may be replaced with “access control device” throughout this disclosure. The access control system 200 may be any electronic, mechanical, or electromechanical machine, structure, device, etc. that prohibits, controls, monitors, and / or regulates entry or access to points beyond the system. For example, the access control system 200 may be a vehicle lock system 204, a door lock 206, or an entrance / exit gate 208. Other examples include security gates, ticket checkpoints (e.g., for public transportation, movies, plays, sports events, etc.), mailboxes, delivery lockers, lock screens of electronic devices, and direction indicators configured to switch a user's passage to a permitted passage (e.g., a designated booth), but are not limited to those listed here. Each access control system 200 may have a transceiver for wirelessly exchanging information with the apparatus 100. The transceiver may include Bluetooth (registered trademark), infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), or WiFi-based communication hardware, but is not limited to those listed here. In some embodiments, the access control system 200 may have a plug-in port in addition to, or instead of, the wireless transceiver. The plug-in port may allow the apparatus 100 to be physically inserted and connected to the access control system 200 to exchange information. Further, the access control system 200 may have a mechanical lock, keypad, proximity reader, biometric scanner, quick response (QR) code scanner, etc. that function regardless of the interaction with the apparatus 100.

[0024] Device 100 may exchange authentication and identification information with each of access control systems 200. The access control system 200 may authenticate, authorize, permit, or enable access to its user via the information exchange. Permitting or enabling access may be, for example, unlocking a lock, opening a gate, passing through a checkpoint, or starting a vehicle. More specifically, device 100 may receive key identification data from one of access control systems 200, and device 100 may check whether the key identification data identifies any of the keys within the authentication data stored in or accessible by device 100. If identification occurs, device 100 may send the authentication data to the same access control system 200 to permit or enable the user access. Device 100 may permit or enable the user to access each of the plurality of access control systems 200 one by one or simultaneously.

[0025] Device 100 may further send to the navigation system the location data of the access control system 200 or any other location of interest stored in or accessible by device 100. Via the location data, the user may plan a route to move to the access control system 200 and other locations of interest. Next, the user may move along the route using the navigation system and / or the vehicle's autonomous driving function.

[0026] Device 100 may transmit an access token, or authentication data and / or location data, to a second device 202. The second device 202 may enable a second user to have the same access and mobility functions as device 100. In some embodiments, the second device 202 may have such functions for a limited time only. This means that after a predetermined time has elapsed, the transmitted data is erased or the function is disabled. Whether the access token expires, and if so, the predetermined time limit, may be determined by the user of device 100 or a third party (e.g., a travel agent, car rental company, delivery company, etc.) that has some control over the access control system 200. The second device 202 may be used to duplicate device 100 by copying the authentication data of device 100. In addition, the second device 202 may be used to replace device 100 by transferring the authentication data of device 100. This means that after the transfer is complete, device 100 no longer stores the authentication data. The user may choose to selectively copy or transfer authentication data so that only one or more keys, rather than all keys, are accessible by the second device 202. In addition to the second device 202, a device having the functionality of the second device 202 may be provided.

[0027] Figure 3 shows a flowchart of a method for combining multiple access keys and location data of multiple destinations according to one aspect of the present disclosure. This method may be carried out using the apparatus 100 in Figures 1 and 2 and a second apparatus 202 in Figure 2. In block 300, this method may be initiated by inputting key identification data to communicate with apparatus 100.

[0028] Key identification data may be data that distinguishes keys from one another. Key identification data may provide information regarding the pairing of the key access control system 200. In some embodiments, two or more keys may be associated with a particular access control system 200. Therefore, multiple keys may be required to unlock the access control system 200 or to allow user access. In such embodiments, there may be an order in which the keys are used. For example, the access control system 200 may require keys A and B to allow access in which key A must be used before key B. Key identification data may be a code or a series of codes. Key identification data may be in the form of a series of numbers, letters, symbols and / or codes. A user may input key identification data using a keyboard, mouse, keypad, touchpad, or any other input hardware appreciated by those skilled in the art. A user may input key identification data via the input device 110 of the device 100. Alternatively, a user may input key identification data via the input device of the access control system 200. Alternatively, a user may input key identification data via a third device such as a smartphone or computer. In some embodiments, the user may receive the key identification data directly, from the management server of each access control system 200, or from a third party that controls the access control system 200 to some extent (e.g., a travel agency, a car rental company, a delivery company, etc.). In such embodiments, the steps in block 300 may be omitted, and the method may begin from block 302.

[0029] In block 302, device 100 may receive key identification data. This key identification data may be the key identification data entered in block 300. Separately, key identification data may be transmitted by each of the access control systems 200. In some embodiments, key identification data may be downloaded from a server. The server may be the management server of the access control system 200. In some embodiments, key identification data may be transmitted directly via the wireless transceiver of the access control system 200. Device 100 may then receive the key identification data transmitted via the wireless transceiver 104. Before data transmission can begin, wireless pairing may be required between device 100 and the specific access control system 200 that is to be accessed. For example, device 100 and the access control system 200 may be paired via Bluetooth® or must be on the same WiFi network. Key identification data may be encrypted and / or otherwise protected so that it cannot be easily understood or deciphered. Key identification data may be encrypted during transmission and decrypted upon reception. In some embodiments, the key identification data may be transmitted directly via a wired connection between the access control system 200 and the device 100. Once the key identification data is received by the device 100, the method may continue with block 304.

[0030] In block 304, authentication data may be provided to the device 100. The authentication data may be one or more virtual keys configured to authenticate the device 100 to one or more access control systems 200. Authentication of the device 100 prompts one or more access control systems 200 to grant access to the user of the device 100. In some embodiments, multiple keys may be required to authenticate the device 100 to a single access control system 200. Each key of the authentication data may be a code or a series of codes. The code may be in the form of a series of numbers, letters, symbols and / or signs. The authentication data may be encrypted and / or otherwise protected so that it cannot be easily understood or deciphered. The authentication data may be encrypted in transmission and decrypted upon reception. The authentication data may be stored in the memory 106 of the device 100 or on the cloud. For example, a user may provide the device 100 with authentication data pre-installed by a travel agent, an airplane ticket, a rental car key, a hotel access card and at least one key related to a music concert. In another example, a travel agency may provide a downloadable file that is downloaded by device 100 and accessible from a server, which contains authentication data for the user's access to transportation and points of interest. In some embodiments, the authentication data may be generated rather than stored. The generated authentication data may be random. A code that operates to transmit the authentication data to device 100 may be entered into one of the access control systems 200. For example, the authentication data may be generated in response to the key identification data input step of block 300. In some embodiments, a code may be entered into device 100 via an input device 110 that generates the authentication data. Such a code may be provided to the user by a third party (e.g., a travel agency, car rental company, delivery company, etc.) that has some control over the access control systems 200. Once generated, the authentication data may be temporarily stored in memory 106 or the cloud.Authentication data may be automatically deleted after it has been successfully used to obtain access or after a predetermined time limit has been reached. After the authentication data has been provided to device 100, the method may continue with block 306.

[0031] In block 306, the processor of the controller 102 of the device 100 may determine that the key identification data matches the authentication data. The processor may perform this determination, for example, by comparing the key identification data with the authentication data. A match is possible if the key identification data and the authentication data are identical. Alternatively, a match is possible if the key identification data and the authentication data complement each other (for example, if they have compatible shapes, complementary representations, etc.). If the device 100 receives key identification data for a particular access control system 200 for which it cannot retrieve or generate authentication data, the access control system 200 may not permit the user's access. Once it has been determined that the authentication data matches the key identification data, the method may continue to block 308. In some embodiments, the method may also continue to block 307.

[0032] In block 307, device 100 may transmit authentication data as an access token to a second device 202. Device 100 may transmit the access token to multiple devices. The second device 202 may have the same or substantially the same functions and operating principles as device 100. For example, the second device 202 may have components configured to perform the steps performed by device 100 in the method shown in Figure 3. The access token may enable the second device 202 to be authenticated by one of the access control systems 200 and to provide access to users of the second device 202. A single access token may function for only one access control system 200. If access to multiple access control systems 200 is desired, device 100 may transmit multiple access tokens to the second device 202. Transmission of the access token may be performed between the wireless transceiver 104 of device 100 and the wireless transceiver 104 of the second device 202. Pairing may be required before data transmission. For example, device 100 and the second device 202 may need to be paired via Bluetooth® or be on the same WiFi network. The access token may be encrypted and / or otherwise protected so that it cannot be easily understood or decrypted. The access token may be encrypted during transmission and decrypted upon reception. In some embodiments, data transmission may be via a wired connection. In some embodiments, data transmission may require a third device (e.g., a personal computer, tablet, etc.) as an intermediate device to facilitate data transmission.

[0033] In block 309, a timer may be set so that the transmitted access token expires. The timer may be set for a predetermined period. For example, the timer may be set for a predetermined number of seconds, minutes, hours, days, months, or years. Alternatively, the timer may be set for a predetermined time. For example, the timer may be set for a predetermined time, day, month, or year. The timer may be set by the user of device 100 or by another party that has some control over the access control system 200 in question (e.g., a travel agency, car rental company, delivery company, etc.). In some embodiments, the access token may expire when it is used by the user of the second device 202. When the predetermined time limit expires or the access token is used, the access token may be removed from the second device 202, or the necessary authentication data may be modified so that the access token is no longer functional.

[0034] In block 308, the processor of the controller 102 of the device 100 may transmit location data of the access control system 200 whose matching authentication data is recognized in block 306 to the navigation system. For example, the device 100 may remotely receive key identification data with matching authentication data for a hotel room, transmit its address to the hotel, and transmit it to the navigation system of the user's vehicle. If there is matching authentication data for multiple access control systems 200, the navigation system may plan an efficient route that passes through each of the multiple access control systems 200. Efficiency may be based, for example, on the time it takes to complete the journey or how many miles need to be traveled to complete the journey. The location data may be in the form of coordinates or addresses. The location data for each access control system 200 may be stored in the memory 106 of the device 100, or accessed or downloaded via the cloud. Transmission of location data may be wired or wireless. Wireless transmission may be performed via the wireless transceiver 104 of the device 100 and the wireless transceiver 104 of the navigation system or a system (e.g., a vehicle) in which the navigation system is a component. Pairing may be required between the two wireless transceivers. For example, Bluetooth® pairing or being on the same WiFi network may be required. The navigation system may be a portable handheld device or fixed to the vehicle. The navigation system may be projected onto the display of the portable handheld device or the vehicle's display (e.g., infotainment unit). Routes and / or location pins drawn to the location of the access control system 200 may be shown on a map displayed on the display. In some embodiments, the route direction determined by the navigation system may be provided to the user via a speaker as voice instructions. Transmission of location data may occur, for example, when the user unlocks the vehicle, gets into the vehicle, or starts the vehicle.In some embodiments, the device 100 may include a position sensor, and the display 108 or speaker of the device 100 may, instead of transmitting position data to another device or system with navigation capabilities, or in addition to transmitting such data, present directions to the user. The method may continue to block 310 once the navigation system has determined the route the user should take based on the transmitted position data.

[0035] In block 310, the user of device 100 may move to the access control system 200. The user may follow a route mapped in block 308 via instructions from the navigation system. In some embodiments, block 308 may be omitted, and the user may plan the route independently. In some embodiments, the user may use an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle with autonomous driving capabilities, which may transport the user to the access control system 200 based on transmitted location data. The user may unlock such a vehicle, get into the vehicle, or start the vehicle, and the vehicle's ECU, connected to the navigation system, may initiate control of the vehicle's steering and acceleration functions based on the navigation system's location data and route setting. Information regarding driving conditions such as weather, traffic, accidents, and road construction may be received by sensors connected to and evaluated by the ECU to control steering and acceleration.

[0036] In block 312, the processor of the controller 102 of the device 100 may transmit authentication data to the target access control system 200. Transmission may be initiated by selecting authentication data to be transmitted via the input device 110 of the device 100. For example, a list of authentication data identified for each specific access control system 200 may be displayed on the display 108 of the device 100, and the user may then perform the selection. Transmission may be performed via a wireless transceiver 104 or via a wired connection between the device 100 and the access control system 200. Authentication data may be encrypted and / or otherwise protected so that it cannot be easily understood or deciphered. Authentication data may be encrypted during transmission and decrypted upon reception. Upon receiving authentication data, the access control system 200 may authenticate the authentication data. Authentication may be performed by one or more processors or servers of the access control system 200. In some embodiments, authentication may be completed as soon as the access control system 200 receives authentication data that matches key identification data. In some embodiments, authenticity may be determined, for example, by comparing the authentication data with authentication data stored in the memory of the access control system 200 or on the server. If the received authentication data and the stored authentication data are the same, they may match. Alternatively, if the received authentication data and the stored authentication data complement each other (e.g., they have compatible shapes, complementary representations, etc.), they may match.

[0037] In some embodiments, block 312 may be performed before the position data transmission step of block 308 and the movement step of block 310. In some embodiments, the determination of the key identification data-authentication data match step of block 306 may proceed directly to block 312. In such embodiments, blocks 308 and 310 may be omitted when performing the method.

[0038] In block 314, device 100 may prompt the target access control system 200 to grant access to the user via transmitted authentication data. For example, device 100 may perform actions such as unlocking doors, unlocking and / or starting vehicles, opening security gates, authorizing reversals at entry / exit gates, passing through checkpoints, registering boarding passes, scanning theater tickets, and opening mail / delivery boxes. The user may choose to make the access control system 200 accessible indefinitely, keep it accessible for a predetermined time, and / or provide access to the user's company.

[0039] Figure 4 shows a device 100 that transmits location data 400 of multiple destinations to the navigation system of a vehicle 402, transfers the information to a second device 202, and provides the second device 200 with a navigation function according to one aspect of the present disclosure. The vehicle 402 is a means of transport capable of transporting people, objects, or equipment that is permanently or temporarily attached. The vehicle 402 may have an automatic or manual transmission. The vehicle 402 may be a self-propelled wheeled means of transport such as an automobile, SUV, truck, bus, van, or other motor or battery-powered vehicle. For example, the vehicle 402 may be an electric vehicle, hybrid vehicle, plug-in hybrid vehicle, fuel cell vehicle, or any other type of vehicle including a motor / generator. The vehicle 402 may be an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle with autonomous driving capabilities.

[0040] Vehicle 402 may have an ECU configured to control various components of vehicle 402. Vehicle 402 may have a transceiver connected to the ECU for wirelessly exchanging information with device 100. The transceiver may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth®, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), or WiFi-based communication hardware. In some embodiments, in addition to, or instead of, the vehicle 402 may have a socket (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port). The socket may allow the device 100 to be physically inserted and connected to vehicle 402 for information exchange. Device 100 may receive location data 400 wirelessly via the wireless transceiver 104 or a wired connection, and / or store the location data 400 in memory 106. Device 100 may then wirelessly transmit the location data 400 via the wireless transceiver 104 or via a wired connection to a navigation system. The transmission of location data 400 to the navigation system may be triggered by an action involving the vehicle 402. For example, the transmission may be triggered by activating the ignition system or by starting the vehicle 402 in any other way. Other examples may include unlocking the vehicle 402 via the device 100 or by any other way, opening the driver's side door or any other door of the vehicle 402, or sitting in the driver's seat or any other seat of the vehicle 402. The action may be sensed by one or more sensors connected to the ECU.

[0041] The navigation system may be a portable handheld device or fixed to the vehicle 402, as shown in Figure 4. The navigation system may be projected onto a display 404 of the vehicle 402 (e.g., an infotainment unit) or a display of the portable handheld device, as shown in Figure 4. In embodiments where the navigation system is a portable handheld device, the device may be device 100 or communicate with the vehicle 402 as device 100. A drawn route to locations determined based on location data 400 and / or location pins may be shown on a map 406 displayed on the display 404. For example, the navigation system may receive location data 400 for locations A, B, and C. The navigation system may then plan a route that passes through locations A, B, and C. The display 404 may then display the planned route, locations A, B, and C, and the location of the vehicle 402 on the map 406 in real time. In some embodiments, the navigation system may provide the user with voice instructions, such as when to turn or when to exit the highway, via a speaker, instead of or in addition to projections on the display 404.

[0042] The navigation system may be connected to the ECU. The ECU of vehicle 402 may transport the user of device 100 along a planned route and stop at all predetermined destinations based on transmitted location data 400. The user may unlock such a vehicle, get into the vehicle, or start the vehicle, and the vehicle's ECU, connected to the navigation system, may initiate control of the vehicle's steering and acceleration functions based on the navigation system's location data and route setting. Information regarding driving conditions such as weather, traffic, accidents, and road construction may be received by sensors connected to the ECU, evaluated by the ECU, and used to control steering and acceleration.

[0043] In an exemplary application, a delivery driver may receive location data 400 of delivery destinations assigned to be delivered during a shift via the device 100. The location data 400 may then be transmitted to the delivery truck's navigation system when the delivery driver starts the truck. The navigation system may plan a route that includes all delivery destinations and communicate that route to the driver. The driver may then either drive to the delivery destinations or be driven to them in order to carry out the deliveries.

[0044] Device 100 may transmit location data 400 to a second device 202. The second device 202 may allow a second user to have the same mobility functionality as device 100. In some embodiments, the second device 202 may have such functionality for a limited time only. This means that after a predetermined time has elapsed, the transmitted data is erased or the functionality is disabled. Whether the location data 400 expires, and if so, a predetermined time limit, may be determined by the user of device 100. The second device 202 may be used to duplicate device 100 by copying the location data 400 of device 100. In addition, the second device 202 may be used to replace device 100 by transferring the location data 400 of device 100. This means that after the transfer is complete, device 100 no longer stores the location data 400. The user may choose to selectively copy or transfer the location data 400 so that only one or more locations, rather than all locations, are accessible by the second device 202. In addition to the second device 202, a device having the functionality of the second device 202 may be provided, which can transmit and receive position data 400 to and from the device 100.

[0045] Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a method for combining location data of multiple destinations to travel to a destination, according to one aspect of the present disclosure. This method may be carried out using the apparatus 100 in Figures 1 and 4 and a second apparatus 202 in Figure 4. In block 500, the method may be initiated by the apparatus 100 that receives location data 400.

[0046] Location data 400 may provide location information for one or more points of interest. One or more points of interest may be the locations of the access control system 200 in Figure 2. Location data 400 may be in the form of coordinates or addresses. Location data 400 may be encrypted and / or otherwise protected so that it cannot be easily understood or deciphered. Location data 400 may be encrypted during transmission and decrypted upon reception. For example, a delivery company may wirelessly transmit location data 400 to a delivery driver's device 100, which may include locations related to each delivery, such as home addresses, company addresses, post office box locations, delivery access points, and delivery lockers. Device 100 may further receive any keys that may be required to access the above locations, as described in Figures 2 and 3. In another example, a travel agency or tourism website may prepare a downloadable file accessible from a server, which is downloaded by device 100, and which may include the locations of recommended landmarks, cultural heritage sites, restaurants, and attractions. After the position data 400 is provided to the device 100, the method may continue with block 502.

[0047] In block 502, the received location data 400 may be stored in the device 100's memory 106 or on the cloud. In some embodiments, the location data 400 may be pre-installed in the device 100, and the step in block 500 may be omitted. For example, a user who may be a delivery driver may provide the device 100 with location data 400 pre-installed by the delivery company, which includes locations associated with each delivery, such as a home address, company address, post office box location, delivery access point, and delivery locker. The device 100 may further store any keys that may be required to access the above locations, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. Location data 400 for a given location may be automatically deleted when the user arrives at that location or when a predetermined time limit is reached.

[0048] In block 503, the processor of the controller 102 of device 100 may transmit location data 400 to a second device 202. Device 100 may transmit location data 400 to multiple devices. The second device 202 may have the same or substantially the same functionality and operating principles as device 100. For example, the second device 202 may have components configured to perform the steps performed by device 100 in the method shown in Figure 5. The transmission of location data 400 may be performed between the wireless transceiver 104 of device 100 and the wireless transceiver 104 of the second device 202. Pairing may be required before data transmission. For example, device 100 and the second device 202 may need to be paired via Bluetooth® or be on the same WiFi network. The location data 400 may be encrypted and / or otherwise protected so that it cannot be easily understood or deciphered. The location data 400 may be encrypted during transmission and decrypted upon reception. In some embodiments, data transmission may be via a wired connection. In some embodiments, data transmission may require a third device (e.g., a personal computer, tablet, etc.) as an intermediate device to facilitate data transmission.

[0049] In block 504, the processor of the controller 102 of the device 100 may determine that the vehicle 402 has started. The vehicle 402 may start when the ignition system is activated as a result, causing its engine to begin running. The vehicle 402 may also be said to have started when its battery begins to supply power to its components, regardless of whether the engine is running. The vehicle 402 may be started by turning a key, pressing a button, and / or via the device 100. The vehicle 402's ECU may communicate with the controller 102 of the device 100, wirelessly or wired, that the vehicle 402 has started. The vehicle 402 may have a transceiver connected to the ECU for wirelessly exchanging information with the device 100. The transceiver may include, but is not limited to, Bluetooth®, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), or WiFi-based communication hardware. Pairing may be required between two wireless transceivers. For example, Bluetooth® pairing or being on the same WiFi network may be required. In some embodiments, the vehicle 402 may have a socket (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port) in addition to, or instead of, a wireless transceiver. The socket may allow the device 100 to be physically inserted and connected to the vehicle 402 to exchange information. Once it is determined that the vehicle 402 has started, the method may continue with block 506.

[0050] In block 506, the processor of the controller 102 of the device 100 may transmit location data 400 to the navigation system. The navigation system may plan an efficient route that passes through each of the locations of the location data 400. Efficiency may be based, for example, on the time it takes to arrive at and stop at all locations and complete the journey, or on the number of miles to travel to complete the journey. The transmission of location data may be wired or wireless. Wireless transmission may be performed via a wireless transceiver 104 of the device 100 and a wireless transceiver 104 of a system such as the navigation system or a vehicle 402 in which the navigation system is a component. Pairing may be required between the two wireless transceivers. For example, Bluetooth® pairing or being on the same WiFi network may be required. The navigation system may be a portable handheld device or fixed to the vehicle 402. The navigation system may be projected onto the display of the portable handheld device or onto a display 404 of the vehicle 402 (e.g., an infotainment unit). The route drawn on the location and / or location pins may be shown on the map 406 displayed on the display 404. In some embodiments, the navigation system may provide voice instructions to the user via a speaker. In some embodiments, the device 100 may include a location sensor, and the display 108 or speaker of the device 100 may, instead of transmitting the location data 400 to another portable device or system with navigation capabilities, or in addition to such transmission, present directions to the user. Once the navigation system has determined the route the user will take based on the transmitted location data 400, the method may continue to block 508.

[0051] In block 508, the user of device 100 may move to a location. The user may follow a route mapped in block 506 via instructions from the navigation system. In some embodiments, the vehicle 402 may be an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle with autonomous driving capabilities, and the vehicle 402 may transport the user to that location. The ECU of the vehicle 402, connected to the navigation system, may control the steering and acceleration functions of the vehicle 402 based on location data 400 and the route setting of the navigation system. Information regarding driving conditions such as weather, traffic, accidents, and road construction may be received by sensors connected to the ECU, evaluated by the ECU, and used to control steering and acceleration.

[0052] Exemplary embodiments of the method / system have been disclosed in an exemplary manner. Therefore, terms used throughout this specification should be read non-limitingly. While minor modifications to the teachings herein may occur to those skilled in the art, it should be understood that any scope intended to be limited within the scope of the patents guaranteed herein is reasonably included within the scope of the technological advance to which this specification contributes, and that scope is not limited except as provided for in the appended claims and their equivalents. The inventions disclosed herein include the following embodiments: [Aspect 1] A portable digital access device, A wireless transceiver configured to exchange information with a plurality of access control devices, wherein the information includes key identification data and authentication data, the authentication data having a plurality of keys for one or more of the plurality of access control devices, and the key identification data identifying one or more of the plurality of keys complementing one of the plurality of access control devices, A memory configured to store the aforementioned authentication data, A processor connected to the wireless transceiver and the memory, wherein the processor is It is determined that the authentication data matches the key identification data received from one of the multiple access control devices. A processor configured to control the wireless transceiver, thereby transmitting the authentication data to one of the multiple access control devices and prompting one of the multiple access control devices to grant access to the user, A portable digital access device equipped with the following features. [Aspect 2] The portable digital access device according to Embodiment 1, wherein the memory is further configured to store location data of the plurality of access control devices, and the processor is further configured to transmit the location data to a navigation system by controlling the wireless transceiver to guide the user to the plurality of access control devices. [Aspect 3] The portable digital access device according to Embodiment 1, wherein the wireless transceiver exchanges information with a server, the server stores location data of the plurality of access control devices, and when the processor determines that the authentication data matches the key identification data, it transmits the location data to a navigation system to guide the user to the plurality of access control devices. [Aspect 4] The portable digital access device according to embodiment 1, wherein one of the plurality of access control devices is a lock, a ticket reader, a gate, or a direction indicator. [Aspect 5] The portable digital access device according to embodiment 1, wherein the processor is further configured to transmit the authentication data to another portable digital access device by controlling the wireless transceiver upon receiving input from the user. [Aspect 6] The portable digital access device according to embodiment 1, wherein the processor is further configured to receive the authentication data from the servers of the plurality of access control devices. [Aspect 7] The portable digital access device according to embodiment 1, wherein the processor is further configured to set a timer to count up to a predetermined time, and to remove the authentication data from the memory when the timer reaches the predetermined time. [Aspect 8] A method for obtaining access via multiple access control devices, The wireless transceiver receives key identification data from the multiple access control devices, wherein the key identification data associates one of the multiple digital keys with one of the multiple access control devices. The processor determines that the authentication data stored in memory, which has the plurality of digital keys, matches the identification data. The wireless transceiver transmits the authentication data to the plurality of access control devices, prompting the plurality of access control devices to provide access. Methods that include... [Aspect 9] The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising inputting the key identification data by an input device and generating the authentication data based on the key identification data by a processor or server. [Aspect 10] The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising a server transmitting the location data of the plurality of access control devices to a navigation system to provide directions to the plurality of access control devices. [Aspect 11] The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising transmitting the position data of the plurality of access control devices stored in the memory to a navigation system via the wireless transceiver to provide directions to the plurality of access control devices. [Aspect 12] The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising transmitting position data of the plurality of access control devices to an electronic control unit (ECU) of a vehicle equipped with an autonomous driving function using the wireless control sensor, and prompting the vehicle to operate the plurality of access control devices using the ECU. [Aspect 13] The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising transmitting a copy of the authentication data used as an access token by the wireless transceiver. [Aspect 14] The method according to embodiment 8, further comprising the processor setting a timer to count up to a predetermined time, and removing the authentication data from the memory when the timer reaches the predetermined time. [Aspect 15] A method for accessing multiple areas, The wireless transceiver receives location data for the aforementioned multiple areas, The aforementioned position data is stored in memory, The processor determines that the vehicle has started, The wireless transceiver transmits the location data to the navigation system, Methods that include... [Aspect 16] The method according to embodiment 15, further comprising: receiving one or more access tokens for an area of ​​the plurality of areas having an access control device via the wireless transceiver; storing the one or more access tokens in the memory; and transmitting the one or more access tokens to the access control device via the wireless transceiver to obtain access. [Aspect 17] The method according to embodiment 15, further comprising: receiving one or more access tokens for one or more access control devices by the wireless transceiver; storing the one or more access tokens in the memory; and transmitting the one or more access tokens to the access control device by the wireless transceiver to obtain access. [Aspect 18] The method according to embodiment 17, wherein the one or more access control devices are a lock, a ticket reader, a gate, or a turn signal. [Aspect 19] The method according to embodiment 15, further comprising the following: the vehicle has an autonomous driving function, the navigation system is connected to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU), and the processor initiates, based on the location data, the ECU drives the vehicle to the plurality of areas. [Aspect 20] The method according to embodiment 15, further comprising transmitting the location data by a wireless transceiver to one or more portable devices capable of storing the location data and transmitting the location data to other navigation systems.

Claims

1. A portable digital access device, A wireless transceiver configured to exchange information with a plurality of access control devices, wherein the information includes key identification data and authentication data, the authentication data having a plurality of keys for one or more of the plurality of access control devices, and the key identification data identifying one or more of the plurality of keys complementing one of the plurality of access control devices, A memory configured to store the aforementioned authentication data, A processor connected to the wireless transceiver and the memory, wherein the processor is It is determined that the authentication data matches the key identification data received from one of the multiple access control devices. A processor configured to control the wireless transceiver, thereby transmitting the authentication data to one of the multiple access control devices and prompting one of the multiple access control devices to grant access to the user, A portable digital access device equipped with the following features.

2. The portable digital access device according to claim 1, wherein the memory is further configured to store location data of the plurality of access control devices, and the processor is further configured to transmit the location data to a navigation system by controlling the wireless transceiver to guide the user to the plurality of access control devices.

3. The portable digital access device according to claim 1, wherein the wireless transceiver exchanges information with a server, the server stores location data of the plurality of access control devices, and when the processor determines that the authentication data matches the key identification data, it transmits the location data to a navigation system to guide the user to the plurality of access control devices.

4. The portable digital access device according to claim 1, wherein one of the plurality of access control devices is a lock, a ticket reader, a gate, or a direction indicator.

5. The portable digital access device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to transmit the authentication data to another portable digital access device by controlling the wireless transceiver upon receiving input from the user.

6. The portable digital access device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to receive the authentication data from the servers of the plurality of access control devices.

7. The portable digital access device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to set a timer to count up to a predetermined time, and to remove the authentication data from the memory when the timer reaches the predetermined time.

8. A method for obtaining access via multiple access control devices, The wireless transceiver receives key identification data from the multiple access control devices, wherein the key identification data associates one of the multiple digital keys with one of the multiple access control devices. The processor determines that the authentication data stored in memory, which has the plurality of digital keys, matches the key identification data. The wireless transceiver transmits the authentication data to the plurality of access control devices, prompting the plurality of access control devices to provide access. Methods that include...

9. The method according to claim 8, further comprising inputting the key identification data by an input device, and generating the authentication data based on the key identification data by a processor or server.

10. The method according to claim 8, further comprising a server transmitting the location data of the plurality of access control devices to a navigation system to provide directions to the plurality of access control devices.

11. The method according to claim 8, further comprising transmitting the position data of the plurality of access control devices stored in the memory to a navigation system via the wireless transceiver to provide directions to the plurality of access control devices.

12. The method according to claim 8, further comprising transmitting position data of the plurality of access control devices to an electronic control unit (ECU) of a vehicle equipped with an autonomous driving function using a wireless control sensor, and prompting the vehicle to operate the plurality of access control devices using the ECU.

13. The method according to claim 8, further comprising transmitting a copy of the authentication data used as an access token by the wireless transceiver.

14. The method according to claim 8, further comprising the processor setting a timer to count up to a predetermined time, and removing the authentication data from the memory when the timer reaches the predetermined time.

15. A method for accessing multiple areas, The wireless transceiver receives location data for the aforementioned multiple areas, The wireless transceiver receives one or more access tokens for the area of ​​the plurality of areas having access control devices, The location data and the one or more access tokens are stored in memory. The processor determines that the vehicle has started, The wireless transceiver transmits the location data to the navigation system, The wireless transceiver transmits one or more access tokens to the access control device to obtain access, Methods that include...

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: receiving one or more access tokens for one or more access control devices by the wireless transceiver; storing the one or more access tokens in the memory; and transmitting the one or more access tokens to the access control device by the wireless transceiver to obtain access.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the one or more access control devices are a lock, a ticket reader, a gate, or a turn signal.

18. The method according to claim 15, further comprising the following: the vehicle has an autonomous driving function, the navigation system is connected to the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU), and the processor initiates, based on the location data, the ECU drives the vehicle to the plurality of areas.

19. The method according to claim 15, further comprising transmitting the location data by a wireless transceiver to one or more portable devices capable of storing the location data and transmitting the location data to other navigation systems.

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