Smart Lock Translator for Unified Multi-Platform Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of smart locks without keyholes poses challenges for service providers like real estate agents, as there is no unified mobile app to access multiple smart lock platforms, and traditional lockboxes are not viable for these locks.
Innovation Solution
A wireless translator that communicates with a home automation system to control locking devices, receiving access credentials from a mobile device, verifying them, and transmitting lock commands via wireless signals to unlock smart locks from different manufacturers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional lockboxes are used to store physical keys, then service providers can access homes, but smart locks without keyholes make this method ineffective
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a translator device as an intermediary between service providers and smart locks. This translator receives access credentials from service providers, verifies them, and translates the unlock command into the specific protocol required by the smart lock system, enabling universal access without physical keys
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical key-lock system with an electronic credential verification system. Instead of using physical keys inserted into keyholes, the system uses wireless or wired electronic communication to transmit and verify access credentials, thereby unlocking the smart lock electronically
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple manufacturer-specific apps are used for different smart locks, then each smart lock can be accessed, but service providers must manage multiple apps and credentials
Solution Approach 1:
The translator device is designed with universal functionality to work with multiple smart lock manufacturers and protocols. It contains a database of different smart lock communication protocols and can automatically select and translate to the appropriate protocol based on the target smart lock, eliminating the need for multiple manufacturer-specific apps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple smart lock protocol capabilities into a single translator device. Instead of requiring separate apps for each manufacturer, the translator integrates support for multiple protocols (e.g., Zigbee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) and credential verification methods, consolidating access to various smart lock systems into one unified interface
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless translator and a method for controlling a locking device using a wireless translator are provided. The wireless translator includes a wireless receiver configured to receive at least one wireless signal from a mobile device, and a processor connected to the wireless receiver. The wireless translator includes a memory system including one or more computer-readable media that include instructions that, when executed by the processor, causes the wireless translator to perform the following operations: (i) receiving access credentials and a lock command for the locking device from the mobile device via a first wireless signal; (ii) verifying the access credentials; and (iv) transmitting the lock command to the home automation system via a second wireless signal, the home automation system paired with the locking device, the home automation system configured to transmit the lock command to the locking device via a third wireless signal.