Access Control Device with Individually Activated Credential Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery-powered access control devices face high power consumption due to the need to support multiple credential interfaces, which is infeasible for prolonged operation.
Innovation Solution
An access control device with multiple credential interfaces that activate individually upon user interaction, remaining in a low-power state until activated, and utilizing energy harvesting from user actions to power the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple credential interfaces are provided in the access control device, then the device can accept a wide variety of credentials (RFID tags, smartphones, passcodes, etc.), but the power consumption becomes infeasible for battery-powered devices
Solution Approach 1:
The access control device segments its credential interfaces into independent, separately controllable units. Each credential interface (RFID reader, Bluetooth module, keypad, camera) can be independently activated or deactivated based on detected user interaction types, allowing the system to provide multiple credential options while consuming minimal power when fewer interfaces are needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts which credential interfaces are active based on real-time detection of user interaction. The processor monitors for specific interaction patterns (e.g., tapping a card vs. approaching with a smartphone) and activates only the relevant credential interface, transforming the system from a static all-or-nothing power model to a dynamic adaptive power model.
2Reliability
If all credential interfaces are activated simultaneously, then the device can respond to any type of credential presentation, but unnecessary interfaces consume power that could be saved
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by leveraging the user's own interaction behavior to trigger interface activation. The processor detects the type of interaction (tap, wave, approach, key press) and automatically activates the appropriate credential interface without requiring manual user selection or pre-activation of all interfaces, making the power management autonomous and responsive.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of user interaction type before activating the credential interface. By detecting the interaction pattern first (e.g., sensing a tap gesture or RFID field presence), the system prepares and activates only the necessary interface in advance, avoiding the power waste of having all interfaces continuously active or requiring trial-and-error activation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Significantly reduces power consumption by minimizing unnecessary activation of credential interfaces and leveraging user interactions for power generation, resulting in an efficient and intuitive access control process.
Implementation Method 1
The electronic lock may further comprise an energy harvesting device configured to convert mechanical energy from regular lock or door manipulations by the user to electrical energy to power the electronic lock
Data Source
AI summary
It is provided an electronic lock for controlling access to a restricted physical space. The electronic lock comprises: a first credential interface for accepting a credential from a user for evaluating whether access for the user should be granted; and a second credential interface for accepting a credential from a user for evaluating whether access for the user should be granted. The first credential interface is configured to be activated when the user causes an interaction with the first credential interface, without activating any other credential interfaces. The second credential interface is configured to be activated when a user causes an interaction with the second credential interface, without activating any other credential interfaces.