Smart Card Lock Actuation With Pseudo-Random Logical Keys
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lock systems face issues such as bulkiness of mechanical keys, wear and tear, complex biometric procedures, reliance on memorized PIN codes, and security vulnerabilities in RFID-based systems, particularly in public use scenarios where temporary access is needed without subscription or physical key management.
Innovation Solution
A lock system utilizing a smart card with a pseudo-random number generator that generates a logical key for locking and unlocking, eliminating the need for data exchange and ensuring secure, convenient operation through contactless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical key is used, then the lock can be operated simply, but the key is bulky and inconvenient to carry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical key system with an electronic identification system using a smart card and RFID reader. The smart card contains an electronic identifier that is read wirelessly by the RFID reader in the actuating device, eliminating the need for a physical mechanical key and resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and portability.
2Reliability
If a mechanical key is used, then the lock can be operated reliably, but mechanical wear causes malfunctions over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical key-lock interface with an electronic identification and authentication system. The smart card's electronic identifier is read by the RFID reader and verified by the control unit, eliminating mechanical contact and wear between the key and lock components, thereby maintaining reliability over extended periods without degradation from friction or wear.
3Ease of operation
If a PIN code system is used, then the lock can be operated without physical keys, but users must memorize or store secret codes which creates security risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a smart card that contains a unique electronic identifier as a physical copy of authorization credentials. Instead of requiring users to memorize PIN codes or store secret information, the authorization data is embedded in the smart card's memory chip, providing a secure, tangible credential that is difficult to replicate or steal compared to written-down codes.
4Ease of operation
If biometric authentication is used, then the lock can be operated without memorizing codes, but the procedure becomes complex and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication function from complex biometric systems and implements a simpler electronic identification system using a smart card. The smart card contains a unique identifier that is read by the RFID reader and verified by the control unit, providing secure authentication without the complexity of biometric scanning, processing, and matching algorithms.
5Ease of operation
If RFID-based logical key systems are used, then the lock can be operated conveniently, but data transmission creates security vulnerabilities to interception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the authentication parameter from transmitting readable logical key data to verifying a unique electronic identifier stored in the smart card's memory chip. The RFID reader reads this identifier and the control unit verifies it against authorized identifiers, changing the system from data transmission-based authentication to identifier verification, which does not expose sensitive data to interception.
6Reliability
If subscription-based logical key systems are used, then the lock can be securely operated, but users must take out subscriptions and management entities must provision locks for each new subscription
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service operation where users with authorized smart cards can directly access locks without requiring subscription management or provisioning by a management entity. The smart card contains pre-loaded authorized identifiers that work with compatible locks in the system, allowing users to operate locks independently without administrative overhead or subscription management infrastructure.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for actuating a lock using a smart card capable of remotely communicating with an actuating device associated with said lock, wherein a digital identifier, referred to as a logic key, can be associated with said smart card. Said method includes the following steps: during each locking of the lock (30), said actuating device (20) records a logic key contained or to be contained in a so-called first smart card (1) which communicates with said actuating device (20), said logic key being a pseudo-random number, and then the lock is locked (30); and, during each unlocking of the lock (30), said actuating device (20) compares the logic key contained in a so-called second smart card (1'), which communicates with said actuating device (20), with the logical key contained in said first smart card and recorded during the last locking of the lock (3), and then the lock (30) is unlocked only if the logic keys contained in the first (1) and second (1') smart cards are identical. The invention can be used for locks for public use.