UWB Access Reader Module for Interference-Resistant Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current access control systems face challenges in providing robust and efficient authorization and authentication methods, particularly in environments where traditional credential systems may be compromised by interference or multipath fading, and require more reliable and secure communication protocols for secure area access.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of an ultra-wide band (UWB) module within access control systems, which utilizes short, low-power pulses across a wide frequency spectrum for secure communication, encoding data via time modulation, and integrates with existing reader systems to enhance authorization and authentication processes, including the use of BLE and NFC for credential exchange and UWB ranging to derive user intent.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional credential systems (RFID) are used for access control, then the system is simple to implement, but the system is vulnerable to interference and multipath fading

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from traditional RFID frequency to ultra-wideband (UWB) frequency spectrum, changing the fundamental operating parameters of the communication system. This parameter change enables more reliable authentication by utilizing the broader frequency spectrum that is less susceptible to interference and multipath fading effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces UWB technology as an intermediary communication protocol between the credential device and reader system. This intermediary layer provides more robust signal transmission through the use of time-modulated pulses across a wide frequency spectrum, resolving the vulnerability to interference while maintaining system functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If UWB module is integrated into access control systems, then authentication accuracy and robustness are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the access control system into separate functional modules: the credential device with UWB transmitter, the reader system with UWB receiver, and the host server. This segmentation allows the UWB module to be independently implemented and tested, managing complexity through modular architecture while achieving high authentication accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The UWB module is designed to perform multiple functions including authentication, ranging for intent detection, and secure communication. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional module, the patent reduces overall system complexity compared to implementing separate systems for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of repair

If battery-powered operation is used for UWB module, then ease of maintenance is improved, but power consumption becomes a critical parameter

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance easeVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The UWB module uses periodic pulse transmission instead of continuous operation. The time-modulated pulses are transmitted only when needed for authentication or ranging, significantly reducing power consumption while maintaining battery-powered operation. This periodic action allows the battery to last longer and makes the device easier to maintain

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The UWB module enhances the robustness of access control systems by reducing interference and improving authentication accuracy, allowing for secure and efficient access control with reduced power consumption and easier maintenance through battery-powered operation.

Implementation Method 1

ultra-wide band (UWB) module for an access control system... utilizes short, low power, pulses over a wide frequency spectrum

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectUltra-wide band electromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

encoding data via time modulation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime modulation: Phase Modulation

Implementation Method 3

UWB ranging to derive user intent

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTime of flight: Time of Flight

Data Source

PatentUS12142102B2Ultra-wide band device for access control reader system
Publication Date: 2024.11.12 ASSA ABLOY AB
  • US12142102B2 patent drawing
  • US12142102B2 patent drawing
  • US12142102B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device connectable to a reader of an access control system includes an antenna, an ultra-wide band (UWB) front end circuit, a controller, and a communication link. The (UWB) front end circuit is connected to the antenna to facilitate UWB communication with a credential device. The controller is connected to the UWB front end and configured to perform ranging for the credential device using the UWB communication. The communication link is configured to interface with the reader.