Reader Device Protocol Configuration via Electronic Key
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reader devices for near field wireless access keys require specific protocols for each installation, making installation complex and vulnerable to unauthorized reconfiguration, and often necessitate multiple device types for different protocols.
Innovation Solution
A reader device configured using an electronic configuration key for local communication, enabling support for multiple protocols and allowing for protocol deactivation, with a configuration period to enhance security and simplify installation, and a reset feature to revert to a generic state for reuse or protocol updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If reader devices are configured for specific protocols for each installation, then access control functionality is achieved, but installation complexity increases and device versatility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The reader device is designed to support multiple electronic access key protocols (e.g., MIFARE Classic, MIFARE Ultralight, NFC) simultaneously. Instead of requiring separate reader devices for each protocol, a single universal reader device can be configured to work with different protocols by loading corresponding protocol-specific access key data, thereby reducing installation complexity and device variety needs
2Reliability
If reader devices are configured for specific protocols, then access control works, but the need for multiple device types increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reader device incorporates multiple protocol support within a single device type. The device can store and switch between different electronic access key protocols in its memory, allowing one physical device to replace multiple protocol-specific devices. This is achieved by configuring the device to recognize and process different protocol formats without requiring hardware changes
Solution Approach 2:
The reader device changes its operational parameters by loading different protocol-specific access key data into its memory. By modifying the data storage configuration rather than the hardware, the device can adapt to different protocols. This allows the same physical device to function with MIFARE Classic, MIFARE Ultralight, or NFC protocols by simply changing the loaded access key data
3Extent of automation
If remote configuration from central administration is used, then centralized control is achieved, but security vulnerability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration process where access key data is first loaded into the reader device during installation, and then the device operates independently without remote configuration capabilities. This intermediary approach eliminates the continuous remote configuration vulnerability while still allowing initial setup and protocol selection during the installation phase
Solution Approach 2:
The remote configuration capability is extracted and removed from the operational phase, retaining only the initial local configuration during installation. By separating configuration into two phases (local setup during installation, then independent operation), the system eliminates the security vulnerabilities associated with continuous remote access while maintaining centralized control during the initial setup
4Adaptability or versatility
If configuration is possible at any time, then flexibility is achieved, but unauthorized reconfiguration risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reader device is designed to accept configuration only during a limited configuration period after installation, after which it enters a locked operational state. This periodic acceptance of configuration (only during initial setup, not during operation) provides flexibility during installation while preventing unauthorized reconfiguration during normal operation. The device can be reset to restore configuration capability if needed
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
Simplifies reader device installation by allowing generic devices to be configured for specific installations without external connections, reduces unauthorized access risks, and facilitates protocol updates or reconfiguration, improving security and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
The near field radio frequency communication device (3) is operable around a centre frequency of 13.56 MHZ
Data Source
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AI summary
It is presented a reader device arranged to determine access rights of an electronic access key for gaining access to open an electronically controlled physical lock. The reader device supports a plurality of electronic access key protocols and the reader device comprises: a near field radio frequency communication device arranged to read access data from an electronic access key; a controller arranged to determine, based on the access data read from the electronic access key, whether the electronic access key is eligible to open the electronically controlled physical lock; wherein the near field radio frequency communication device is further arranged to read configuration data from an electronic configuration key; and the controller is arranged to inactivate at least one electronic access key protocol in the reader device based on the configuration data. A corresponding method is also presented.