Remote Access Control via Digital Link Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing remote access control systems for facilities are cumbersome, expensive, and require physical tracking of credentials, with limitations in convenience and security, especially when residents are not available to manage guest access.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for remote access control using a network interface and processor to manage temporary access to facilities via a unique link provided to guests, which authenticates and grants access to electromechanical locks through a web browser on a smartphone, eliminating the need for physical tokens and reducing maintenance costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If telephone entry systems with land line or cellular service are used, then remote audio communication is enabled, but monthly service fees are required and resident participation is needed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote access convenienceVSAvoidmonthly service fees

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the telephone-based audio communication system with a wireless data communication system using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The access control system communicates directly with mobile devices through data networks, eliminating the need for voice call infrastructure and monthly service fees while maintaining remote access capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (wireless transceiver module) that mediates between the access control system and mobile devices. This intermediary enables direct data exchange without requiring telephone networks or resident participation in voice calls

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If physical credentials (radio transmitter, keycode, keycard) are issued to guests, then access control is enabled, but physical tracking and management become cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess control securityVSAvoidcredential tracking management

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces physical credentials with digital credentials stored on mobile devices. The system creates and manages virtual access keys through software applications, eliminating the need for physical credential distribution, tracking, and collection. Digital credentials can be remotely revoked or updated without physical intervention

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the access control system to automatically manage credential distribution and revocation without requiring physical intervention. The system can autonomously generate digital credentials, track their usage, and revoke access remotely through network communication, eliminating cumbersome manual tracking

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If access control devices (radio receivers, keypads, card readers) are installed, then guest access is enabled, but expensive equipment and costly maintenance are required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveguest access capabilityVSAvoidaccess control device installation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive physical access control devices (keypads, card readers, radio receivers) with mobile device-based access control. The functionality is migrated to software applications on smartphones and tablets, eliminating the need for specialized hardware installation while maintaining guest access capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent leverages the universal capability of mobile devices to perform multiple functions including authentication, communication, and access control. A single mobile device can serve as both the credential holder and the communication interface, replacing multiple specialized devices with a universal platform

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Reliability

If traditional access control systems are used, then facility access is controlled, but vulnerable to vandalism and requiring costly maintenance

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccess control functionalityVSAvoidvandalism damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces vulnerable physical access control devices with software-based solutions running on mobile devices. Since the control logic resides in software rather than physical hardware, there is no vulnerable hardware to vandalize at the facility location, eliminating maintenance requirements for physical access control equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS12100250B2Remote access management apparatus, system and method

Publication Date: 2024.09.24 MAXIMUM CONTROLS

AI summary

A remote access control apparatus includes features for controlling an electro-mechanical actuator for locking or unlocking a door or gate mechanism in response to a signal from a wireless interface. The signal is generated by an application in communication with the access control apparatus via a wide area network or other electronic communication network. A managing user configures access for a guest via an online interface, which generates an executable addressed resource specifying conditions for entry. The managing user can grant access by enabling distribution of a link to the resource, which verifies the identity of the requesting device or user and transmits an access command to the lock controller if the request meets the user-specified conditions.