Access Control System Using BLE and Magnetic Field for Device Proximity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access control systems face limitations due to the short range of RFID interactions, high energy consumption, limited device compatibility, and uncomfortable user experiences, especially in multi-lane environments where determining the closest mobile device is complex and imprecise.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method using a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for long-range, low-power communication and a short-range standard like NFC or magnetic field influence to accurately identify the closest mobile device to an access control device, eliminating the need for additional user interaction and reducing errors in multi-lane access control systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If RFID reading devices are used for contactless reading of access authorizations, then access control can be performed wirelessly, but the interaction range is relatively small and long-range interactions consume a lot of energy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that receives broadcasted IDs from mobile devices, determines which device is closest to the access control device, and manages the access authorization process. This mediator enables long-range communication without requiring high transmission power from the access control device itself, as the server handles the complex determination logic centrally.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RFID transponders are used as data carriers for access authorizations, then access control can be implemented, but the number of mobile devices that support RFID standards is relatively small and costs are higher
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the access control system universal by accepting access authorization IDs from any mobile device with broadcasting capability, not just devices with RFID transponders. The server evaluates the broadcasted IDs and determines closest device proximity, making the system compatible with standard mobile devices while maintaining security through the centralized evaluation process.
3Ease of operation
If blocking elements are provided in access control devices, then access authorization can be enforced, but access becomes uncomfortable for people and the conveying capacity of means of transport is not fully utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical blocking elements with an electronic evaluation system. The server determines which mobile device is closest to the access control device based on broadcasted IDs and transmission power measurements, then grants or denies access authorization electronically. This eliminates the need for physical blocking mechanisms while maintaining reliable access control enforcement.
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
This approach enhances access control efficiency by extending range, reducing power consumption, and simplifying the identification of the closest device, thereby improving user experience and system accuracy in multi-lane environments.
Implementation Method 1
wherein the access control device is designed and/or arranged and/or shielded in such a way that a magnetic field can be influenced in a targeted manner in a defined area around the access control device in such a way that this can be detected by a mobile electronic device located in this area
Data Source
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Figure 2
AI summary
A method for access control in an access control system for persons or vehicles, comprising at least one access control device (11, 12), is proposed, in which the verification of access authorization is carried out by evaluating an ID, uniquely assigned to at least one access authorization, which is transmitted at regular intervals by a first standard in a "broadcast" by a mobile electronic device (4, 4') located nearest to an access control device (11, 12) of the access control system in the direction of access, and which is received by transmitting and receiving units connected to a computer (8, 20) comprising a CPU and storage means within range of the mobile electronic device (4, 4'), wherein a mobile electronic device (4, 4') is recognized as the mobile electronic device (4, 4') located nearest to an access control device (11, 12) in the direction of access.if a connection is established between the mobile electronic device (4, 4') and the access control device (11, 12) by means of a second standard which has a range covering an area around the access control device (11, 12) in which, in the case of a person access control system, only one person or, in the case of a vehicle access control system, only one vehicle can be located, or if the mobile electronic device (4, 4') receives a short-range signal which is emitted by or caused by the access control device (11, 12) and has a range covering an area around the access control device (11, 12) in which only one person or one vehicle can be located.