Temporary Guest Access Codes for Automated Home Entry Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current home security and automation systems lack a method to automatically grant and revoke temporary access for guests to both the home and its associated systems without direct homeowner intervention, posing security and logistical challenges.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves receiving a reservation request from a guest, approving it, and automatically communicating a temporary guest code for access to the home and its automation/security systems, which expires at the end of the reservation period, allowing for automatic deactivation and optional extension through the home automation system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical keys are provided to guests for home access, then guests can easily access the home, but security risks increase if guests lose or fail to return the key
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical keys with electronic key codes that can be transmitted digitally. The host can generate and send access codes to guests through a communication interface, eliminating the need for physical key transfer while maintaining secure access control through programmable authentication mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical key-lock system with an electronic access control system. The door lock is replaced with an electronic lock that accepts digital codes, and the key distribution mechanism is replaced with electronic communication interfaces that can programmatically generate and revoke access permissions
2Reliability
If access codes are provided to guests for home access, then security is improved compared to physical keys, but guests must manually track and remember the code
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages the entire lifecycle of access codes. When a reservation is confirmed, the system automatically generates and transmits the access code to the guest. When the reservation ends, the system automatically revokes the code. This eliminates the need for guests to manually track or remember codes, as the system handles all code management operations automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating access codes before guest arrival and pre-revoking them after departure. The access control system is configured in advance with reservation details, allowing automatic code generation and distribution prior to the guest's need for access, and automatic revocation after the reservation period expires
3Ease of operation
If home security systems allow guest access codes, then guest access is enabled, but manual activation and deactivation by homeowner is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the automated system performs all code generation, transmission, and revocation operations without requiring host intervention. The host simply needs to confirm the reservation through a communication interface, and the system automatically handles the entire access code lifecycle, eliminating the time-consuming manual processes of code creation, distribution, and revocation
Solution Approach 2:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single automated platform: reservation management, code generation, code transmission via communication interfaces, access control enforcement, and code revocation. This multi-functional integration allows the system to handle the entire guest access workflow through a unified automated process rather than separate manual operations
4Reliability
If guest access codes are limited to door access only, then security is maintained, but access to security and automation system components is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements differentiated access rights where different code types provide different levels of access. Standard guest codes provide basic door access, while enhanced codes can be generated that additionally grant access to specific system components such as thermostats, lighting, or entertainment systems. Each code can be configured with specific permissions tailored to the guest's needs and the host's security requirements
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method for security and/or automation systems. In some embodiments, the method may include receiving a reservation request for a reservation at a building from a guest. The method may further include approving the reservation request. The method may further include automatically communicating a temporary guest code to the guest based at least in part on the approving, the temporary guest code granting access to the building and access to operate at least one component of the security and/or automation system.