Sub-Reader Protocol Conversion for Existing Door Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access control systems in old buildings, particularly hotels, require significant time and cost to replace conventional magnetic-based systems with newer communication methods like Bluetooth or RFID due to the need for replacing installed door operating devices.
Innovation Solution
A sub-reader system that connects to existing door operating devices, allowing access control using unsupported communication methods by obtaining and converting request information from terminals using a first method to a second method compatible with the existing door reader, without replacing the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing door operating devices are replaced to support new communication methods, then communication method compatibility is improved, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sub-reader as an intermediary device between the terminal and the existing door operating device. The sub-reader receives communication requests from terminals using new communication methods (Bluetooth, RFID) and converts them into magnetic card format signals that the existing door reader can process. This mediator approach enables communication method compatibility without replacing the existing door operating device, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-reader is designed with multi-functionality to support multiple communication methods (Bluetooth, RFID, magnetic card) simultaneously. It can act as a universal interface that translates between different communication protocols, allowing the existing door operating device to work with various terminal types without modification. This universal approach improves communication method compatibility while avoiding the need for device replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing door operating devices are replaced to support new communication methods, then authentication method compatibility is improved, but construction cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sub-reader serves as a cost-effective intermediary that adds authentication method compatibility without the high construction costs of replacing door operating devices. It translates authentication requests from new methods (mobile devices with Bluetooth/RFID) into formats the existing magnetic card reader can understand, providing versatility at low construction cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-reader creates a virtual copy of the magnetic card authentication process by capturing communication data from terminals using new methods and converting it into magnetic card format signals. This copying approach allows the existing door reader to authenticate users through multiple methods without physical modification, reducing construction costs while improving compatibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing door operating devices are replaced, then system functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two independent parts: the existing door operating device and the new sub-reader. The sub-reader handles all complexity of multiple communication methods and protocol conversion, while the existing door reader maintains its simple magnetic card reading function. This segmentation improves system functionality without increasing the complexity of the door operating device itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The sub-reader acts as an intermediary layer that manages system complexity by handling protocol conversion and communication method compatibility. This allows the existing door operating device to remain simple and unchanged while the system as a whole gains enhanced functionality through the sub-reader's multi-protocol support.
Data Source
AI summary
A sub-reader and a method of controlling the sub-reader are provided. The method of controlling the sub-reader which is connected to a door reader provided in an existing installed door operating device to provide a communication method that is not supported by the door reader includes: obtaining first open request information using a first communication method from a terminal; obtaining second open request information for transmission to the door reader based on the first open request information; and transmitting the second open request information to the door reader using a second communication method different from the first communication method.