NFC Guest Access System with Remote Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the hospitality industry, traditional keycard security systems require guests to check-in at the front desk for keycard issuance and retrieval, which is cumbersome and inefficient, especially in environments without a front desk, such as vacation rentals, and does not allow for remote access or easy access for third parties.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a cloud computing environment and NFC technology to enable guests to access building spaces through their personal devices, allowing for remote programming of access rights and eliminating the need for physical keycards, by using a unique identifier and authorization process that can be managed through an app on their device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional keycard systems are used, then security access control is provided, but guests must check-in at the front desk for keycard issuance and retrieval which is cumbersome and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical keycard system with a mobile device-based NFC system. Guests use their smartphones or wearable devices with NFC capabilities to access rooms, eliminating the need for physical keycards and front desk keycard issuance. The mobile device communicates with the access control system via NFC tags at doorways, providing contactless entry.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service check-in where guests can register and receive digital access credentials through a mobile application without requiring front desk staff assistance. Guests can complete check-in procedures independently using their mobile devices, and the system automatically manages access rights based on reservation information.
2Adaptability or versatility
If keycards are used for access, then building space security is maintained, but the system does not allow for remote access or easy access for third parties
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system dynamically adjusts access rights based on guest profiles, reservation types, and authorization levels. The system can grant different permission sets to different users (guests, staff, third parties) and can modify access rights in real-time without physical keycard reissuance. Access credentials can be remotely provisioned, modified, or revoked through the mobile application.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device acts as an intermediary between the guest and the building access control system. It contains NFC tags that communicate with readers at access points, and it serves as a secure container for digital credentials. The mobile application mediates between the guest's access needs and the building's security requirements, providing flexible access while maintaining control.
3Reliability
If front desk staff program keycards for each patron, then access control is provided, but the front desk must spend time and effort to program keycards and retrieve them after visit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual keycard programming process with automated digital credential provisioning. The system uses NFC technology and mobile devices to electronically transmit access credentials without physical keycard manipulation. This eliminates the time-consuming processes of keycard writing, distribution, collection, and reprogramming that burden front desk staff.
Solution Approach 2:
Access credentials are pre-provisioned to guests' mobile devices during the check-in process or even before arrival. The system can automatically generate and distribute digital keys in advance, eliminating the need for front desk staff to program keycards at the moment of guest arrival. Credentials can be remotely updated or revoked without physical intervention.
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
This solution allows for seamless and efficient guest access to building spaces without the need for physical keycards, enabling remote access and reducing the burden on hotel staff, while enhancing customer satisfaction by providing convenient and secure access.
Implementation Method 1
near field communication (NFC) was developed. NFC works only in the range of a few inches. NFC is a set of standards for smartphones, and other mobile devices, such as tablet computers and MP3 players, to establish radio communication with each other by bringing them into close proximity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of extending user access to a guest in a building space in a building system including at least one of a cloud computing environment and a control device associated with the building system to execute the method. The method includes receiving a request for access to a building space, the request associated with providing access to the building space for the guest, the request including a unique identifier associated with the building space, notifying a user associated with the building space of the request and requesting an authorization to provide the access to the building space, and receiving an authorization from the user associated with permitting the guest access to the building space associated with the unique identifier. The method also includes transmitting the authorization to the guest and permitting access to the building space associated with the unique identifier based on the authorization.