Intelligent Lock Proximity Mode and RF Shielding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remotely activated locks lack adaptability and configurability to optimize user needs and environments, leading to challenges in avoiding unintentional activation or deactivation and managing trusted device interactions.
Innovation Solution
An intelligent lock that uses wireless communication to detect and authenticate trusted devices within a selectable proximity range, allowing for customizable operation and secure one-touch unlocking or locking through a trusted device, with features like RF shielding for improved communication and user notification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote activation is enabled for convenience, then user convenience is improved, but risk of unauthorized activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trusted device as an intermediary between the user and the lock system. This mediator device stores cryptographic credentials and must be present and authenticated before the lock can be activated, thereby maintaining convenience while preventing unauthorized access through the use of secure cryptographic verification
2Ease of operation
If automatic activation in proximity mode is enabled, then user convenience is improved, but unintentional activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback through an indicator that illuminates when a trusted device is detected in proximity mode. This feedback mechanism allows the user to confirm that the correct device is present before activation occurs, preventing unintentional activation while maintaining the convenience of automatic operation
3Ease of operation
If proximity range is extended for convenience, then ease of access is improved, but risk of unauthorized access increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent allows the proximity range parameter to be configurable by the user. This enables optimization of the detection range based on specific installation environments and user needs, maintaining ease of access while allowing users to set appropriate security boundaries to prevent unauthorized access
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple trusted devices are supported, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple different types of trusted devices (smartphones, wearables, key fobs) using standard wireless communication protocols. The system manages multiple devices through a unified cryptographic authentication framework, providing multi-functionality without proportionally increasing complexity
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 user convenience and security by enabling customizable proximity modes, reducing unintentional lock activation, and providing a secure, intuitive operation through trusted devices, while maintaining control over unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
senses, using wireless communication (Bluetooth, Bluetooth LE, etc.) via a wireless antenna, the presence of one or more trusted interactive portable devices
Implementation Method 2
This zone can be made more precise by providing a radiofrequency (RF) shield such as a Faraday shield for the wireless antenna of the lock
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a lock. A wireless command is received from a trusted device in a proximity range of the lock to enable a proximity mode. The proximity range is selectable by a user of the trusted device via an application. The proximity mode is enabled, and while enabled, a command is received to activate or deactivate the lock. The lock is activated or deactivated in response to the received activating or deactivating command.