Dynamic Unlocking Authority Transfer for Reserved Lockable Spaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in accessing reserved spaces, especially when the reserved user is unable to use the space, as electronic locks restrict access to authorized individuals only.

Innovation Solution

An information processing system that includes a receiving unit for reserving lockable spaces and an authority giving unit to grant unlocking authority to designated individuals, allowing them to access the space within a specified time window.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If electronic locks restrict access to authorized individuals only, then security is improved, but accessibility for persons different from the reserver deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidaccessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The unlocking authority is made dynamic by allowing it to be transferred from the original reserver to other persons. The system enables the reserver to dynamically grant access rights to third parties through a transfer request mechanism, making the authorization flexible rather than static.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The management server acts as an intermediary between the reserver and the third party. It receives the transfer request from the reserver, processes the authority transfer, and issues the unlocking authority to the designated third party, facilitating secure access without compromising the lock's security protocol.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If only the reserver can use the reserved place, then security is improved, but user convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiduser convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system transforms the static authorization model into a dynamic one where the reserver can adaptively grant access to others. The ability to transfer unlocking authority on-demand provides convenience while maintaining security through controlled authorization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The reserver themselves initiates the process of granting access to third parties by sending a transfer request. This self-service approach eliminates the need for administrative intervention while maintaining security, as only the authorized reserver can initiate transfers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If unlocking authority is transferred to second persons, then accessibility is improved, but system complexity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The management server performs multiple functions: it manages reservations, processes transfer requests, validates authority, and issues unlocking credentials. This multi-functionality consolidates complexity into a single centralized system rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The management server as an intermediary handles all the complex logic of authority transfer, validation, and issuance. This shields the lock and users from complexity, as the server absorbs the computational and procedural burden of managing multiple authorization states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11200764B2Authorization to unlock a space
Publication Date: 2021.12.14 FUJIFILM BUSINESS INNOVATION CORP
  • US11200764B2 patent drawing
  • US11200764B2 patent drawing
  • US11200764B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing system includes a receiving unit that receives request to reserve a lockable place for a time window from a first person; and an authority giving unit that gives one or more second persons an unlocking authority to unlock the place within the time window.