Connected Lock With Mechanical Fallback Against Battery Lockout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional connected locks face issues with battery drain leading to lock blocking, lack of user identification, and vulnerabilities to hacking, particularly through internet connection or unlocking signal manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A connected lock system with a secure unlocking mechanism, including a camera, detector, and communication module, utilizing IoT protocols like NB-IoT, Li-Fi, and dual frequency communication, along with features like a physical emergency key, USB charging, and integration with Blockchain or Holochain networks for enhanced security and battery management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional connected locks use battery-powered electronic unlocking mechanisms, then remote access control is enabled, but the lock may block when the battery goes flat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a mechanical emergency key unlocking mechanism as a backup to the electronic unlocking system. This mechanical backup is prepared in advance and activates when the battery fails, ensuring continuous access without interruption. The emergency key mechanism is integrated into the lock housing and can be accessed through a concealed opening, providing reliable fallback operation when electronic power is unavailable.
2Loss of information
If connected locks integrate multiple functions (camera, detector, communication), then user identification and security monitoring are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions including camera for visual identification, motion detector for presence detection, and communication module for remote control into a single lock system. These components work together to provide comprehensive user identification and security monitoring. The camera captures images of approaching individuals, the detector senses motion, and the communication module transmits data and control signals, creating a multi-functional security system that addresses various security needs simultaneously.
3Ease of operation
If connected locks use traditional internet-based communication protocols, then remote unlocking is enabled, but the system becomes vulnerable to hacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional internet-based wireless communication with a dedicated ultra-wideband (UWB) radio frequency communication system for the lock. This specialized communication protocol operates at a different frequency band and uses direct line-of-sight transmission, making it resistant to remote hacking and signal interception. The UWB system provides secure remote unlocking while eliminating the vulnerability to internet-based cyberattacks that affects traditional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth-based lock systems.
4Volume of moving object
If the lock housing is made compact, then installation space is reduced, but the number of integrated functions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the camera module, detector, communication antenna, and emergency key mechanism are integrated within the compact lock housing structure. The camera and detector are positioned to detect approaching individuals, the communication module is embedded in the housing with its antenna extending outward, and the emergency key mechanism is concealed within the housing. This nesting allows multiple functions to coexist in a compact volume without compromising performance or accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a connected lock system (1) for a door in the form of a housing, comprising at least one secure unlocking means (4, 5) connected to a door lock (2), a camera (6) and a detector (7) connected to the camera (6), a module for connection to an access management application, a communication module comprising a microphone (8) and a loudspeaker (9) that can be connected to the camera (6).The invention further relates to a kit, a method and a corresponding assembly.