Dual-Level Access Control Using Wearable Sensor and Location Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional access control systems (ACSs) lack the ability to track individuals' exits from restricted areas and rely on single credential security methods, which are less secure compared to dual-level identification systems.
Innovation Solution
A dual-level human 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 to determine entry and exit intentions, along with location confirmation using RSSI-based techniques, to authorize access and log entry/exit events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional access control systems use single credential verification (badge or wireless device), then the system is simpler to implement, but the security level is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system divides the identification process into two separate stages: first verifying the wearable access sensor (badge) and then verifying the portable communication device (mobile phone). This segmentation allows dual-level security without requiring a completely new monolithic system, maintaining simplicity while enhancing security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds a second dimension of verification by introducing location confirmation through GPS coordinates. Instead of only verifying credentials, the system now verifies credentials plus location, creating a two-dimensional verification matrix that enhances security without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Loss of information
If conventional access control systems track only entries through restricted areas, then the tracking system is simpler, but the ability to monitor exits and occupancy is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring the portable communication device's location and comparing it against the restricted area's GPS coordinates. This preliminary location tracking enables automatic detection of both entry and exit events without requiring separate exit detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the centralized server continuously receives location data from portable communication devices, processes this information, and generates real-time alerts when individuals enter or exit restricted areas. This feedback loop provides comprehensive tracking information without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Reliability
If dual level identification system requires both wearable sensor and portable device verification, then security is enhanced, but the time required for access authorization increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic location updates from the portable communication device's GPS functionality to verify presence at the restricted area. Instead of requiring real-time interaction during the verification process, the system checks pre-captured location data, reducing authorization time while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable communication device automatically provides its location information and identification data without requiring manual input from the user. The device self-services the verification process by autonomously communicating its GPS coordinates and device identifier to the access control system, streamlining the authorization process.
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 utilizing dual credential verification and reduces manual intervention, allowing for accurate tracking of entries and exits without the need for traditional access control equipment, thereby lowering implementation costs.
Implementation Method 1
an energy storage device used in an electromagnetic field energy harvesting circuit disposed within the WAS
Implementation Method 2
Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) measurement data specifying a power present in a signal received from a Wearable Access Sensor (WAS)
Implementation Method 3
The RSSI technique comprises: performing operations by the PCD to survey an available networks' Media Access Control (MAC) addresses within range thereof; and collecting RSSI levels for signals received from devices associated with the available networks' MAC addresses
Data Source
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Figure 3A
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.