Mobile Device Access Control With IMEI Location Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current physical access control systems relying on physical access cards are cumbersome and error-prone, and there is a need for a system that allows mobile devices to act as access credentials while detecting tailgating events.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using mobile devices for access control that utilizes wireless communication between access points and mobile devices, employing unique IMEI-based identifiers and location services to authenticate users and detect unauthorized access, with integrated sensors to monitor for tailgating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical access cards are used for building access control, then access authorization can be managed, but the system becomes cumbersome and error-prone in issuance and management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical access cards with mobile devices using wireless communication technology. The mobile device's unique identifier (IMEI) is transmitted wirelessly to the access control system, eliminating the need for physical card swiping and reducing mechanical interaction complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the mobile device's inherent unique identifier (IMEI) as a digital copy/representation of the access credential, replacing the physical access card. This digital identifier is transmitted wirelessly and recognized by the access control system, simplifying the credential management process.
2Productivity
If mobile devices are used as access credentials, then access control becomes more efficient, but the system cannot detect tailgating events
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the access control system continuously monitors the presence of mobile devices using wireless communication. When a door is unlocked for an authorized user, the system detects whether additional unauthorized devices enter the secure area and provides feedback by generating tailgating alerts, thereby maintaining security awareness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent takes preliminary anti-action by establishing baseline security monitoring before tailgating occurs. The system proactively tracks authorized users' mobile devices and immediately detects when unauthorized individuals follow them through the door, preventing security breaches before they can be exploited.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical access cards are issued to users, then access rights can be granted, but the issuance and management process is time-consuming and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service access control where mobile devices automatically provide their unique identifiers (IMEI) to the access control system through wireless communication. Users simply need to have their mobile device near the access point, and the system automatically authenticates them without requiring manual card issuance or physical presentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the mobile device a universal access credential that can function across multiple access points and scenarios. The same mobile device with its IMEI identifier can be used for building entry, room access, and other security-controlled areas, eliminating the need for separate physical cards for different locations.
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
Enables secure, efficient access control without the need for physical badges and effectively detects tailgating incidents, enhancing security and streamlining access management.
Implementation Method 1
establishing a wireless communication between one or more wireless access points and each of a plurality of mobile devices
Implementation Method 2
One or more of the wireless access points wirelessly identify a current location of each of the plurality of mobile devices
Data Source
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AI summary
A mobile device is used as an access control device to gain access to a secure area of a facility. One or more wireless access points receives and an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI)-based identifier that is unique to the user's mobile device, and identifies a currently location of the user's mobile device. The door is electrically unlocked when the current location of the user's mobile device is determined to be within a predetermined proximity to the door and the received IMEI based identifier of the user's mobile device is associated with a user that has access rights to access through the door. Various techniques are employed to detect possible tailgating events.