Bluetooth Locking System with Repeater Nodes for Extended Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless access control systems for doors and other secured objects face limitations in range and power efficiency, particularly with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, which restricts communication distance and reliability, especially in home environments where longer ranges are needed while conserving battery power.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode operation system for Bluetooth wireless communication in locking devices, incorporating a low power state without amplification for battery-powered devices and a high power state with amplification for extended range, utilizing a pseudo-mesh network with repeater nodes to enhance communication range between mobile devices and locking systems, and a gateway that bridges Bluetooth and broadband data networks for remote access and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology is used for wireless access control, then power consumption is reduced, but communication range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the communication network into multiple hops using repeater nodes. Instead of requiring direct communication between the mobile device and the locking system, the patent divides the communication path into segments connected by intermediate repeater devices that relay signals, thereby extending the effective range while maintaining low power consumption at each node.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces repeater nodes as intermediary devices that facilitate communication between the mobile device and the locking system. These repeaters act as mediators that receive, process, and forward Bluetooth signals, enabling extended range communication without requiring the mobile device or locking system to transmit at high power levels.
2Length of stationary object
If signal amplification is used to extend Bluetooth range, then communication distance increases, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by having different nodes perform different functions based on their power availability. Repeater nodes that are powered locally (e.g., via AC power or energy harvesting) can provide signal amplification and regeneration, while battery-powered nodes maintain low power consumption. This allows the network as a whole to achieve extended range without requiring every device to consume high power.
3Use of energy by moving object
If direct Bluetooth communication is used, then power consumption is low, but reliability over long distances deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by implementing a mesh network with multiple redundant communication paths. If one path between the mobile device and locking system is blocked or experiences interference, the signal can continue through alternative routes via different repeater nodes, maintaining reliable communication without requiring increased transmission power.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where repeater nodes monitor signal quality and dynamically adjust their operation. When signal degradation is detected, repeaters can increase their transmission power or activate alternative communication paths, ensuring reliable delivery of access control commands while minimizing overall power consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is described for controlling a locking system restricting physical access (e.g. a door lock). The locking system is accessed (e.g., actuated and monitored) via dual communication path types used by a mobile wireless communication device. The locking system includes an electro-mechanical access control security device, and a receiving unit controlling the electro-mechanical access control security device. The receiving unit is paired with the mobile wireless communication device for receiving input from the mobile wireless device for activating the electro-mechanical access control security device using both low energy and high energy operating modes. The mobile wireless device is configured to access the locking system via both direct BLUETOOTH and indirect mobile wireless data network communications. Moreover, the operating range of the receiving unit is extended by connections to networked devices operating BLUETOOTH 4+LE at a high power—extended range mode through the use of an amplifier stage.