Smart Device Access Credentials for Multi-Location Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional physical access control systems require dedicated hardware and software for managing user access to secure areas, are inflexible, and often limit credentials to specific facilities, necessitating manual user management and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A cloud-based access control system utilizing smart devices and a subscription service that manages access across multiple locations by processing user device data to determine authentication credentials, allowing self-service identity authentication and customizable access rules, with smart devices acting as credentials across a network of locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional physical access control systems use dedicated hardware and software for each facility, then access control reliability is improved, but device complexity and manual management requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal credential system where a single credential (such as a mobile device or RFID card) can provide access control across multiple different facilities and locations. Instead of requiring separate dedicated hardware systems for each facility, the system uses a centralized access control platform that manages credentials universally across the entire network of facilities, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable access control.
2Reliability
If credentials are specific to individual facilities, then access control security is improved, but adaptability and user convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments access control permissions into hierarchical levels and categories, allowing a single credential to contain multiple permission sets for different facilities, zones, or access levels. The system divides access rights into manageable segments that can be independently controlled and assigned, enabling users to access multiple facilities with one credential while maintaining security through granular permission management.
3Reliability
If manual user management is implemented, then access control reliability is improved, but productivity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service capabilities that allow users to automatically register, enroll credentials, and manage their own access permissions without requiring manual intervention from administrators. The system automatically provisions credentials, manages user profiles, and handles permission assignments through automated workflows, thereby maintaining reliable user management while significantly improving operational efficiency and reducing administrative burden.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a flexible and customizable physical access control system that allows for a smart device to execute an authentication application that users subscribe to for various physical locations with pre-determined rule sets that correspond to registration information of the physical location's qualifications and rules sets. A user's smart device is used as a credential for large number of locations so long as that location is in the subscriber network.