Mobile App Key Management System with QR Authorization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current asset management systems for vehicle or property keys/key fobs lack a mobile application-based solution for safe guarding and providing selective access, which is essential for entities like vehicle dealerships and real estate offices to manage key distribution and access efficiently.
Innovation Solution
An asset management system utilizing a mobile application that communicates with a remote storage device and controller, enabling users to locate, reserve, retrieve, and track keys/key fobs through networks, with features like QR code scanning for authorization, barcode scanning for asset information, and SMS notifications for access requests.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mobile application-based asset management system is implemented, then ease of operation and accessibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile application as an intermediary between users and the key storage system. The mobile app serves as a mediator that communicates with the key storage device via QR code scanning and wireless communication, allowing users to access keys remotely without directly interacting with the physical storage device, thereby improving ease of operation while managing complexity through software abstraction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key management systems with a digital/mobile-based system. Instead of physical key exchanges and manual tracking, the system uses mobile applications, QR codes, and wireless communication to manage key distribution, reducing the need for physical infrastructure and simplifying user interaction
2Productivity
If remote access and tracking capabilities are added, then productivity and efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile application performs multiple functions within a single interface: it can scan QR codes to access keys, track key location and status, communicate with the storage device, and provide notifications. This multi-functionality improves productivity by consolidating key management tasks while managing complexity through integrated software design
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the mobile application receives real-time information about key status, location, and access events from the storage device. This feedback loop enables remote tracking and monitoring capabilities, improving productivity by providing visibility into key distribution while managing complexity through automated information exchange
Data Source
AI summary
An asset management system, comprising: a remote storage device coupled to a controller collectively configured to selectively retain an asset and selectively release the asset to an authorized user; and a mobile device configured to execute a mobile application in communication with one or more of the remote storage device and the coupled controller via one or more networks, wherein the mobile application is operable for directing operation of the one or more of the remote storage device and the coupled controller. The mobile device comprises a QR scanner operable for scanning a QR code and subsequently authorizing the authorized user. The mobile device also comprises a barcode scanner operable for scanning a barcode associated with the asset or a related asset.