Dynamic Physical Access via Client Device Credentials

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current access control systems are inadequate in dynamically adjusting authorization based on changing conditions and often require human intervention, failing to efficiently manage physical access with evolving user permissions and resource availability.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing a remote server to authenticate and authorize physical access credentials, where a client device communicates with a remote server to receive access permissions based on user and device credentials, compliance rules, and biometric data, enabling dynamic access control and logging of access events.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lock and key mechanisms, RFID readers and fobs are used, then physical access control is provided, but the system cannot dynamically adjust authorization based on changing conditions and requires human intervention

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedynamic authorization adjustmentVSAvoidhuman intervention requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic access control by enabling the system to adjust authorization levels in real-time based on changing conditions. The server can modify user permissions, revoke access credentials, and update security parameters dynamically without requiring physical reconfiguration or human intervention at the access point, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the server continuously monitors user credentials, device status, and security conditions, then automatically adjusts authorization decisions based on this feedback. This closed-loop control enables dynamic adaptation to changing conditions while maintaining full automation, eliminating the need for human intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If human monitored access/check points are used, then security control is provided, but labor intensive operations are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity controlVSAvoidlabor efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service access control where users automatically present their credentials through client devices, and the system autonomously verifies and grants or denies access based on pre-configured policies and real-time conditions. This eliminates the need for human security personnel to manually check credentials, maintaining reliable security control while dramatically improving labor efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual human monitoring with an automated electronic verification process. The server-based authentication system substitutes human security guards with algorithmic decision-making, maintaining security reliability while eliminating labor-intensive operations. The electronic credential verification process automates what was previously a manual task.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of manufacture

If existing resources are utilized for access control, then low cost implementation is achieved, but dynamic changing of authorization bounds is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation costVSAvoiddynamic authorization binding
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent leverages existing multi-functional client devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) that users already possess for other purposes. These devices serve dual roles: their primary functions remain intact while they also function as access control credentials. This universal approach reduces implementation costs while enabling dynamic authorization changes through software-based credential management.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables dynamic authorization by changing software parameters rather than physical configurations. The server can modify access credentials, update permission levels, and revoke access by altering digital parameters stored on client devices, maintaining low implementation costs while achieving full dynamic adaptability that would be impossible with static physical access control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2973442B1Controlling physical access to secure areas via client devices in a networked environment
Publication Date: 2023.09.20 AIRWATCH LLC
  • EP2973442B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2973442B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2973442B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method is disclosed for providing physical access credentials to a client device. The method may include receiving a request for a physical access credential, where the first request includes at least one user access credential and at least one physical access point identifier. The method may also include determining whether the request should be granted based at least in part on the at least one user access credential. The method may further include, in response to determining that the request should be granted, sending the physical access credential associated with the physical access point.