Wireless Key Device Authentication for Access Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic access control systems for physical spaces face challenges in efficiently updating access rights, particularly when key devices are lost, as current methods using large and cumbersome update devices lead to security compromises due to delayed propagation of new access rights across lock devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and key device that detect the presence of a lock device, determine if new authorization data is required, send a request for authorization data to an access control server, receive and verify the data, and send an unlock signal, allowing for secure and efficient control of access rights, with some locks mandating online access and others not, based on stored access lists.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated key update devices are used to update access rights, then access rights can be updated, but the devices are large and cumbersome leading to infrequent updates and security compromises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical dedicated key update device with a wireless communication system. The key device communicates with the access control server via wireless transmission to receive updated access rights, eliminating the need for physical update devices and enabling frequent, convenient updates while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication module as an intermediary between the key device and the access control server. This intermediary enables the key device to receive updated access rights wirelessly without requiring physical contact with dedicated update devices, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining security through controlled wireless communication.
2Reliability
If there is a delay in propagating updated access rights to all lock devices, then system complexity is reduced, but security is compromised due to outdated access rights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the key device check with the access control server for updated access rights before each access attempt. This ensures that the key device has the latest authorization data before trying to open a lock, eliminating security delays while maintaining system efficiency through on-demand updates rather than continuous propagation.
3Reliability
If all locks mandate online access control, then security is improved, but system efficiency decreases due to constant server communication requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different lock devices to have different authorization modes. Some locks can be configured to mandate online access control for high-security areas, while other locks can operate with stored access lists for lower-security areas, allowing the system to optimize security and efficiency based on local requirements rather than applying a uniform approach system-wide.
Data Source
AI summary
It is presented a method performed in a key device for authenticating a user for access to a physical space. The method comprises the steps of: detecting the presence of a lock device; sending a request for authorisation data to an access control server, the request comprising an identifier of the key device; receiving authorisation data from the access control server; determining whether the key device is authorised to open the lock device; and sending an unlock signal to the lock device when the key device is allowed to open the lock device.