Access control and smart delivery of product information

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Solution Overview

Problem

Accessing product-specific information in building management systems (BMS) is challenging due to the need for secure delivery to authorized users while preventing access to malicious users and competitors, with existing systems lacking user-friendly and secure mechanisms for up-to-date information dissemination and role-based access control.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method using proximity-based sensors, such as Near Field Communication (NFC) circuits, to identify products and transmit unique user information, allowing access to relevant content based on user authentication and permissions, and a server-based system to manage and deliver product information and service notifications to authorized personnel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If product information is made widely accessible, then ease of operation is improved, but security against malicious users and competitors deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess to product informationVSAvoidunauthorized access to product information

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the product information database and users. The server receives product identifiers from various sensors, authenticates user credentials, and selectively delivers information based on authorization levels. This mediator architecture enables widespread information accessibility while maintaining security through centralized control and authentication mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements role-based access control where different user groups (technicians, administrators, competitors) receive different subsets of product information based on their credentials and authorization levels. This local quality approach ensures each user receives appropriate information for their needs while preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple user groups are granted access to product documentation, then adaptability is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess rights for different user groupsVSAvoidaccess control mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The server implements a universal authentication and authorization system that handles multiple user groups (technicians, administrators, contractors, competitors) through a single unified platform. This multi-functional access control mechanism manages diverse user requirements without requiring separate systems for each user type, thereby reducing overall complexity while maintaining adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If product information is delivered securely through authentication, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecure information deliveryVSAvoiduser authentication process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables users to authenticate themselves and receive appropriate product information through self-service mechanisms. Users present their credentials (employee ID cards, mobile devices with NFC, or other identification methods), and the server automatically verifies authorization and delivers relevant information without requiring manual intervention from administrators, thus maintaining both security and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Enables secure, user-friendly access to up-to-date product information and service data within BMS, ensuring that only authorized personnel receive necessary documentation and instructions, enhancing security and efficiency in installation and maintenance processes.

Implementation Method 1

the proximity based sensor includes a near field communication (NFC) circuit in communication with a NFC tag coupled to the product

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectNear Field Communication (NFC): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10529153B2Access control and smart delivery of product information

Publication Date: 2020.01.07 JOHNSON CONTROLS TYCO IP HLDG LLP

AI summary

A method for accessing information about a product. The method includes receiving identifying information, from the product, at a device via a sensor. The method further includes transmitting the identifying information to a server. Additionally, the method includes receiving a request to provide user identification data to the server at the device, and receiving the user identification data at the device. The method further includes transmitting the user identification data to the server, and accessing content related to the product based on the user identification data.