Door Module Communication Unit for Building Access Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing building door locking systems, while offering enhanced functionality through wireless communication and multiple access control methods, often require complex user management and separate integration of access devices, which can complicate ease of use and security features.

Innovation Solution

A communication module integrated into the building door as a door module, allowing for visible operation and housing various access control devices such as fingerprint scanners, code input devices, and transponders, which can manage user authorizations and provide additional features like video cameras and intercom systems, simplifying user management and enhancing security through a single point of configuration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If access control devices are integrated into the communication module housing, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates access control devices (fingerprint scanner, code input device, transponder reader) directly into the housing of the communication module 5. This merging of previously separate components into a single integrated unit allows users to operate multiple access control methods through one unified interface, improving ease of operation while the integration actually reduces overall system complexity by eliminating separate device training procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The communication module housing is designed to accommodate multiple types of access control devices (fingerprint scanner 15, code input device 14, transponder reader) within a single unit. This multi-functional design allows the same housing to support various access methods, making the system more versatile and easier to operate without requiring separate dedicated devices for each access type

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

2Ease of operation

If user management is centralized in the communication module, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser managementVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

User management functionality is merged into the communication module 5, which serves as a centralized configuration point for all access control devices. The control 3 communicates with the communication module to program and manage user authorizations, eliminating the need for separate training procedures for each access device and simplifying the manufacturing process through standardized integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The communication module 5 acts as an intermediary between the control 3 and the various access control devices (fingerprint scanner 15, code input device 14, transponder reader). This intermediary role allows centralized user management through a single interface while maintaining compatibility with multiple device types, reducing manufacturing complexity by providing a standardized communication protocol and configuration process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3293707A1Locking system and method for operating a locking system for a building door
Publication Date: 2018.03.14 CARL FUHR GMBH & CO
  • EP3293707A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3293707A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3293707A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a locking system for a building door (1) comprising at least: - a locking device, e.g., a motor-driven lock (2); - a control unit (3) with, e.g., a receiver for receiving an opening signal (6) via radio; - a communication module (5) as a network server, arranged within range of the control unit (3) or the receiver, which has a housing (13) and, e.g., is integrated into a local radio network and also has a transmitter for transmitting an opening signal (6) via radio to the receiver of the control unit (3); and - at least one terminal device (7) operating as a network client, which is registered in the communication module (5). This locking system is characterized in that the communication module (5) is designed as a door module and can be attached to or next to the building door in such a way that it is visible from the outside of the door. - Fig. 1