Retrofit Controller for Door Entry Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing door entry systems require invasive and permission-intensive upgrades to enhance functionality, limiting unit owners' ability to control access and manage visitor access efficiently, especially when they are not present.
Innovation Solution
A device that augments existing door entry systems by allowing remote access control through integration with the existing system, enabling pre-recorded messages, SMS-based access, and various verification methods without modifying the communal area, using a modular design that recognizes different buzzer signals and communicates via cellular networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an integrated door entry system is installed with all functionality contained in the door panel, then the system provides comprehensive access control, but upgrading functionality requires invasive replacement of the entire system and permission from management
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the access control functionality from the door panel by introducing a standalone controller unit that operates independently. The controller receives signals from the door panel and executes access control decisions, allowing functionality to be upgraded by replacing or reconfiguring the controller rather than the entire door entry system. This segmentation enables individual unit owners to upgrade their controllers without affecting communal infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to be installed and configured by the individual unit owner without requiring permission from building management or involvement of professional installers. The device autonomously integrates with the existing door panel through standard wiring and provides immediate functionality, eliminating the need for management approval and complex installation procedures.
2Reliability
If a new lock or sophisticated locking mechanism is installed at the entrance, then access control capability is improved, but permission from relevant parties is required and key management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional mechanical key-based locking systems with an electronic controller that can be operated remotely via mobile phone or other wireless communication devices. The controller electronically manages access authorization, eliminating the need for physical keys and simplifying access control while maintaining or improving security reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller dynamically changes operational parameters such as authorized access times, duration of access, and verification methods based on pre-configured settings. This allows flexible control over access conditions without requiring physical reconfiguration of the locking mechanism or distribution of multiple keys.
3Ease of manufacture
If the door entry system is designed for a single handset design, then the system is simpler to manufacture, but upgrading functionality is not straightforward and requires system replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed with universal compatibility to work with multiple types of handsets and door panels through standardized signal interfaces. It can recognize and communicate with various handset designs, allowing unit owners to upgrade their handsets or door panels independently while maintaining compatibility with the existing controller infrastructure.
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller (5) suitable for retrofit connection to a pre-installed door entry system of an area having a communal entrance secured by a communal door having a first electrically operated lock (2) and a non-communal internal region secured by an internal door having a second electrically operated lock (4), the door entry system comprising a door panel (1) associated with the communal entrance and an entry phone (3) located within the internal region; the controller (5) being connectable the existing circuitry of the entry phone (3) so as to be able to receive a request for entry into the internal region from the door panel (1); and transmit an electrical signal to the entry phone (3) to unlock the first and second electrically operated locks (2, 4); the controller (5) comprising: a detector arranged to detect the request for entry by a person; a verifier arranged to verify the right of access of the person into internal region; and a lock controller arranged to generate the signals to control the entry phone (3) to unlock the first and second electrically operated locks (2, 4) when the right of access of the person into the internal region has been verified.