Self-Powered NFC Locks for Virtual Key Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door lock systems that operate without physical keys are often expensive, difficult to install, and costly to maintain, while also consuming more data and power with complex virtual key systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for managing virtual key-based access using a mobile application, where virtual configurable software keys are operable with NFC, allowing permanent users to grant restricted access to temporary users for specific times and areas, and integrating with domestic appliances for coordinated access and energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex software-based virtual key systems are used, then authentication alternatives increase, but data consumption and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential authentication data needed for lock operation, storing it locally in the lock device rather than requiring continuous cloud communication. This eliminates unnecessary data transmission while maintaining authentication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements local authentication by storing virtual key data and authorization information directly in the lock device's memory. This allows the lock to verify credentials independently without consuming power for network communication, resolving the contradiction between reliable authentication and low power consumption.
2Ease of manufacture
If NFC-based self-powered locks are used, then operational costs decrease, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock device integrates multiple functions including NFC communication, self-powering capability, virtual key storage, and appliance control into a single unit. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies installation while maintaining low operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock derives operating power automatically from the NFC interaction with the mobile device, eliminating the need for external power wiring during installation. This self-powered mechanism reduces installation complexity while keeping operational costs low.
3Reliability
If restricted virtual keys are implemented, then security improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent user pre-configures all restriction parameters (time windows, accessible appliances, duration) into the virtual key before issuance. The lock device simply verifies these pre-set conditions without requiring complex real-time decision-making, thereby improving security while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual key contains dynamic restriction parameters that are automatically evaluated by the lock's simple verification logic. The system adapts to different security requirements through configurable parameters rather than complex algorithms, balancing security with system simplicity.
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
The solution reduces administrative costs, simplifies key management, and lowers operational expenses by using self-powered locks and minimizing physical key usage, while enhancing security and convenience through restricted access and appliance integration.
Implementation Method 1
the lock is a self-powered lock deriving its operating power from the insertion of the virtual key via an NFC connection
Data Source
AI summary
Door lock systems are disclosed. More particularly, virtual keys in door lock systems of properties such as houses and apartments, and public properties such as parking garages, or sports facilities, are disclosed. This includes managing virtual key based access of temporary users, to a property or a vehicle sealed by a self-powered lock, from the mobile phone of a permanent user. This is achieved by virtual configurable software keys which are operable with a mobile application, and configurable from the mobile application of the permanent user. These virtual configurable software keys are typically text strings with a data footprint sufficiently small to be transmitted over NFC.