Physical Lock Code Reset with Single Override Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional physical locks face challenges such as burdensome lock management, high costs, power consumption, electronic lock failures, and compromised unlock codes, particularly in environments with month-to-month customers or limited lock combinations.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a single override or code reset device, such as a physical key or mobile communications device, to manage and reset the combinations of multiple locks without unique identifiers, enabling secure and efficient lock management through near field communication and mobile applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional electronic locks are used to provide automated and remote locking/unlocking functions, then accessibility and convenience are improved, but capital improvement costs, power consumption costs, and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electronic control components from the lock system, leaving only the simple mechanical lock body. The lock mechanism itself remains basic and inexpensive, while accessibility is achieved through remote mechanical override devices that can be triggered remotely without requiring electronic components in the lock itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote trigger mechanism as an intermediary between the user and the lock. This intermediary allows remote activation of the lock release without requiring the lock itself to have electronic components. The trigger acts as a mediator that transmits the unlocking command mechanically rather than electronically.
2Ease of manufacture
If standard combination locks are used with limited lock combinations, then cost is reduced, but security deteriorates as customers recognize and compromise unlock codes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic code changes where the combination or unlock code is not fixed but can be changed remotely. The system allows the code to evolve over time, preventing customers from recognizing and compromising the same code repeatedly. This dynamic adjustment maintains security while keeping the lock mechanism simple and inexpensive.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of the unlock code from static to variable. By allowing remote modification of the code parameter, the system prevents code recognition and compromise. The code can be changed without replacing the physical lock, maintaining both low cost and high security.
3Ease of operation
If lock identifiers are placed on physical locks to enable tracking and management, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates as identifiers can be recognized and exploited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a database or central management system as an intermediary between the lock and the identification process. Instead of putting identifiers directly on the lock, the system uses remote devices and databases to track and identify locks. This intermediary approach allows management functionality without exposing identifiers on the physical lock surface.
4Adaptability or versatility
If physical locks are placed and removed frequently for month-to-month customers, then adaptability is improved, but operational burden and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary setup where locks are pre-installed and configured before customer occupancy. The locking mechanism is prepared in advance with the ability to be remotely activated or deactivated. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for frequent physical placement and removal of locks during the tenancy period, reducing operational time and burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physically placing and removing locks with a remote activation system. Instead of manually installing or removing lock components, the system uses remote triggers or electronic signals to control the locking mechanism, significantly reducing the time and effort required for access control adjustments.
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
Facilitates easy and secure resetting of lock combinations, reducing operational burdens and costs, while maintaining security by eliminating the need for lock identifiers and minimizing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
enabling secure and efficient lock management through near field communication and mobile applications
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure establish unlock codes for groups of physical locks and include a single code reset or override device to render the combination of each lock settable. In embodiments, based on a request to reset a first unlock code associated with one of the physical locks, a replacement unlock code is generated and transmitted to a mobile communications device, whereupon the first unlock code can be changed to the replacement unlock code.