Dual-Level Access Control Using Wearable and Mobile Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional access control systems (ACSs) lack the ability to track individuals' entry and exit from restricted areas, relying on single credential security methods that are not robust enough to ensure accurate identification and location verification, leading to potential security vulnerabilities.
Innovation Solution
A dual-level identification and location system using a Wearable Access Sensor (WAS) and a Portable Communication Device (PCD) that employs Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) measurements and energy harvesting technology to determine authorization and location, ensuring secure entry and exit through a mechanical actuator system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single credential method (badge or wireless device) is used for access control, then the system is simple to operate, but the security and identification accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two different identification credentials (badge with LF RFID and wireless communication device with Bluetooth) into a single access control system. The reader integrates both LF RFID and Bluetooth receivers to read both credentials simultaneously, merging their functions to provide enhanced verification and identification accuracy while maintaining system coherence.
Solution Approach 2:
The access control system uses a composite authentication approach by validating multiple credential types (LF RFID badge and Bluetooth wireless device) together. This composite verification method combines the security features of both credential systems, creating a more reliable identification process that leverages the strengths of each credential type.
2Loss of information
If conventional ACS tracks entry through restricted areas, then the tracking function is provided, but the exit tracking capability is missing
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring both entry and exit events. The reader detects when credentials are presented at the access point, determines whether this represents an entry or exit event, and updates the tracking database accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures complete tracking of individuals throughout the restricted area.
3Reliability
If LF passive RFID badges are used for access control, then the detection range is limited to about 5 cm, but this provides basic security
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system segments the authentication process into two distinct stages: first, the LF RFID badge provides close-range verification (within 5 cm) for basic authentication, and second, the Bluetooth wireless device provides extended-range verification for location confirmation. This segmentation allows each credential type to operate at its optimal detection range while contributing to overall system security.
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
Enhances security by providing a higher degree of identification through dual credential verification, eliminating the need for manual actions and reducing costs by eliminating certain access control equipment, while enabling accurate tracking of entry and exit times.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic field energy harvesting circuit disposed within the WAS
Implementation Method 2
collecting RSSI levels for signals received from devices associated with the available networks' MAC addresses
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling access to a Restricted Area (“RA”). The methods involve: determining whether a person desires to enter RA; checking whether the person is authorized to enter RA using a first unique identifier associated with a wearable access sensor being worn thereby; causing the person's Portable Communication Device (“PCD”) to transmit a second unique identifier and location information useful in determining the PCD's location within a surrounding environment, when a determination is made that the person is authorized to enter RA; using the second unique identifier and location information to confirm that the person is currently located at an access point of RA; and causing actuation of a mechanical actuator to enable the person's entrance into RA when it is determined that the person desires to enter RA, the person is authorized to enter RA, and the person is currently located at the access point of RA.