Integrated Access Control and Location Tracking System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing access control systems fail to simultaneously provide physical access and track the location of individuals and assets within restricted areas, limiting their effectiveness in managing operations, securing high-security zones, and preventing asset loss.

Innovation Solution

An integrated access control and location tracking system utilizing a server, gateway device, access card, access control device, location tracking device, and locking mechanism, which employs NFC and UWB signals to verify credentials and determine locations, generating a visual model for real-time location tracking within restricted areas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If traditional access control systems with access cards and readers are used, then physical access to restricted areas is provided, but location tracking of individuals and assets is not achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation informationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines access control functionality with location tracking functionality into a single integrated system. The access card contains both access credentials and location tracking identifiers, while the access card reader also functions as a location tracking device. This merging eliminates the need for separate tracking systems and reduces overall system complexity while enabling continuous location monitoring of individuals and assets within the restricted area.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The access card is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an access credential and a location tracking identifier. Similarly, the access card reader performs dual functions: verifying access credentials and tracking location. This universal design allows a single device to perform multiple tasks, addressing the information loss about location without requiring additional complex infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If separate access control systems and location tracking systems are deployed, then access and tracking functions are provided, but the number of devices required increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess control reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges access control devices with location tracking devices into single integrated units. Each access card reader also functions as a location tracking device, and each access card contains both access credentials and tracking identifiers. This consolidation reduces the quantity of devices required while maintaining reliable access control through the integrated verification and tracking functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Productivity

If traditional access card systems are used, then access verification is achieved, but simultaneous location tracking of multiple individuals and assets is not possible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational management efficiencyVSAvoidtracking capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The access card is designed with universal functionality to serve both access verification and location tracking purposes. The card contains unique identifiers that work for both authentication and tracking, while the reader system processes both functions simultaneously. This multi-functionality enables the system to track multiple individuals and assets concurrently, significantly improving operational management efficiency without sacrificing adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements continuous location tracking as individuals and assets move through the restricted area. The integrated readers continuously detect and record location data from access cards and tracking tags, providing real-time location information throughout the entire area. This continuous action enables simultaneous tracking of multiple targets, enhancing both productivity and versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

The system efficiently provides access and tracks multiple locations of individuals and assets in real-time, enhancing security and operational management within restricted areas, such as commercial buildings and high-security zones, without the limitations of prior art systems.

Implementation Method 1

The access card transmits a near field communication (NFC) signal and a Bluetooth or Ultra-wideband (UWB) signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear-field communication (NFC):

Implementation Method 2

The access card transmits a near field communication (NFC) signal and a Bluetooth or Ultra-wideband (UWB) signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBluetooth wireless communication:

Data Source

PatentUS11341792B2Access control and location tracking system
Publication Date: 2022.05.24 E SMART SYST PVT LTD
  • US11341792B2 patent drawing
  • US11341792B2 patent drawing
  • US11341792B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for providing controlled access and tracking location of an individual within a restricted area includes access cards, access control devices, location tracking devices, a gateway device, and a server. The access card includes identification data which facilitates the access control devices to provide physical access to the individual into the restricted area. The access cards also transmit beacon signals to facilitate the access control devices and the location tracking devices to track location of the individual within the restricted area. The gateway device is connected to the access control devices and the location tracking devices. The server is connected to the gateway device.