Movable Barrier Operator With Updatable Security Protocols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing movable barrier operators, such as garage door openers, are unable to update their security protocols without replacing hardware, limiting their functionality and security as new features and more secure protocols become available over time.
Innovation Solution
A movable barrier operator system that allows for the update of security protocols without replacing hardware, enabling compatibility with newer protocols and facilitating features like remote multi-user credentialing and temporary access through cloud-based computing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the security protocol is programmed into the controller at the manufacturing facility, then the security protocol is fixed and reliable, but the system cannot be updated with newer security protocols or features without replacing the entire hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the controller into two separate components: a first controller that retains the original fixed security protocol and a second controller that implements the updated security protocol. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability of the original protocol while enabling adaptability through the new protocol, resolving the contradiction between fixed reliability and updateability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of security protocol version by introducing a second controller with an updated protocol. The system can switch between different protocol parameters (first security protocol vs. second security protocol) depending on which controller is active, allowing the system to evolve from an immutable parameter to a changeable one while maintaining operational reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new garage door operator hardware with larger memory and faster processing is introduced, then newer security protocols and features are enabled, but the existing functional hardware must be replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the system universal by designing the second controller to be compatible with the existing first controller infrastructure. The second controller can be integrated into the existing hardware architecture and can work alongside or replace the first controller, allowing the same physical system to support multiple security protocols and feature sets without requiring complete hardware replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic configurability to the system by allowing the security protocol to be changed from a static, manufacturing-fixed state to a dynamic, updatable state. The system can adapt its protocol configuration based on the presence and activation of the second controller, enabling features and capabilities to evolve over time without replacing the entire hardware system.
3Reliability
If the security protocol is eliminated from compatibility with older protocols after updating, then security is enhanced, but compatibility with existing remote controls is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a compatibility layer or intermediary mechanism that allows the second controller (with updated security protocol) to communicate with both the updated and legacy remote controls. This intermediary function enables the system to maintain ease of operation with existing remote controls while simultaneously implementing enhanced security through the new protocol, resolving the contradiction between security enhancement and compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A proxy device comprising a processor and a communication interface communicatively coupled to the processor. The communication interface configured to transmit information representative of a second security protocol to a remote control. The remote control operable to transmit communications to a movable barrier operator utilizing a first security protocol. In response to transmitting the information representative of the second security protocol to the remote control, the communication interface receives a first acknowledgement communication from the remote control indicating the remote control utilizes the second security protocol.