Decentralized Access Controllers with Solid State Relays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional access control systems are inflexible, costly, and require specialized maintenance due to their complex, closed architecture, leading to high operational costs and inefficiencies, especially when managing access to multiple doors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an access control system that utilizes a network of access controllers with solid state relays, allowing for decentralized control and authentication, and a communication module that can operate in both network and standalone modes, reducing the need for centralized control panels and enabling easier configuration and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional access control systems use centralized control panels with relay banks to control multiple doors, then access control functionality is achieved, but the system consumes large amounts of space and requires specialized maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized control panel into distributed access control units, each capable of independent operation. Each unit contains its own relay bank and control logic, eliminating the need for a large centralized panel. This segmentation reduces maintenance complexity as each unit can be serviced independently and allows for easier system expansion without requiring centralized panel upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The access control units are designed with self-diagnostic capabilities and standardized interfaces that allow for easier maintenance. The system can automatically detect and report issues, reducing the need for specialized technician intervention for routine maintenance tasks.
2Reliability
If conventional access control systems use dedicated control panels for each door or small groups of doors, then reliable access control is provided, but the cost of installation and maintenance increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal access control units that can control multiple doors through programmable relay configurations. A single unit type can be deployed throughout the system, replacing the need for different control panels for different door configurations. This universality reduces installation costs through standardized components and simplifies maintenance through parts commonality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated access control unit that can manage several doors. By merging the control logic, relay banks, and communication interfaces into one unit, the system reduces the total number of components needed, lowering both installation and maintenance costs while maintaining reliable control over multiple access points.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional access control systems use closed architecture with proprietary designs, then specific access control requirements are met, but the system becomes inflexible and requires specialized technicians for upgrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements programmable access control units with configurable relay banks that can be adapted to different door types and access requirements through software programming. The system allows dynamic reconfiguration of access permissions, relay assignments, and operational parameters without hardware changes, providing flexibility while maintaining ease of upgrading through software updates rather than specialized technician interventions.
4Reliability
If conventional access control systems use electromechanical relays for door control, then reliable switching is achieved, but the system consumes more power and generates more wear and maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional electromechanical relay banks with solid-state switching components in the distributed access control units. This substitution eliminates moving parts, reducing wear and maintenance requirements while improving reliability. The solid-state switches also consume less power and generate less heat, addressing the energy consumption issue while maintaining the reliable switching function needed for door control.
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 solution enhances flexibility and reduces costs by allowing individual access controllers to manage multiple doors independently, improving scalability and user-friendliness while minimizing the need for specialized technicians and infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
The reader/controller is then instructed to send an unlock signal through a solid state relay within the reader/controller to power a door lock
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides methods, devices, and systems for controlling access to a controlled area. The method may comprise receiving a credential identifier in an access controller associated with an entrance to the enclosed area, and then authenticating the credential identifier. The method may then comprise sending an unlock signal through a solid state relay within the access controller to power a lock associated with but external to the access controller to unlock a door at the entrance to the enclosed area when the credential identifier has been successfully authenticated.