Offline Lock Controller Using Encrypted Token Commands
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock and switch systems face limitations such as duplication, loss, time-related risks, rigidity in configuration changes, visibility of passcodes, locality requirements for reprogramming, and connectivity issues, especially when operating offline without a communication network.
Innovation Solution
A system using encrypted symbols or 'coded language' for controlling locks or switches, allowing users to input encrypted codes to reprogram access units independently of the administrator's presence, enabling offline control without network connectivity, with embedded instructions in a readable token for secure and flexible access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical keys are used for lock operation, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened due to duplication and loss risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical keys with digital access codes that can be copied and distributed without physical duplication risks. Multiple users can be granted access through code entries in the lock's memory, eliminating the need for physical key copying while maintaining ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical key-lock system with an electronic code-based access system. The lock accepts numeric codes entered via a keypad, replacing the mechanical key insertion and turning mechanism with electronic verification and actuation.
2Reliability
If passcodes are used for lock operation, then security is improved, but rigidity in configuration changes worsens requiring administrator presence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to program their own access codes without requiring administrator presence. The lock's memory can be accessed and modified by users through a designated programming mode, allowing self-service code entry and elimination of the need for physical reprogramming by administrators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures the lock with a programming mode that allows code changes without requiring physical access to the lock by the administrator. The system prepares the necessary programming interfaces and authentication mechanisms in advance, enabling users to independently modify access codes.
3Ease of operation
If remote control via communication network is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but connectivity requirements worsen limiting offline operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the remote control functionality from the communication network dependency. The lock's memory stores access codes and control instructions locally, enabling remote operation through direct code entry without requiring active network connectivity. The essential control function is extracted from the networked system.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a control system that can be used to control switches and locks with a view to providing controlled access to target devices. The control system comprises a code-generating process that can generate commands or instructions to a target device which are encrypted. The commands can be presented as a numeric token and delivered to a customer, who can manually input the token into a controller of an access unit, containing a lock or a switch, which in turn manages access and functionality of a target device or appliance. A control system allows a lock or switch to operate independently based on internally programmed algorithms within a controller without any wireless communication.