Access Control System And Method For Use By An Access Device

What is this patent about?

’474 is related to the field of access control systems, particularly those used for door locks. The background acknowledges the increasing popularity of electronic access devices, such as hotel room locks and electric vehicle charging stations. A key problem addressed is the need for a convenient and secure way to manage access, especially reservations and authorization, without relying solely on internet connectivity at the access point.

The underlying idea behind ’474 is to use a portable terminal, like a smartphone, to act as an intermediary for securely activating a door lock. A server provides the smartphone with a reservation certificate containing a time interval for access. The smartphone then communicates this certificate to the door lock's access device, which verifies the certificate's validity against its internal clock before unlocking the door. This allows for pre-booked access without requiring the door lock itself to be constantly connected to the internet.

The claims of ’474 focus on an access control system comprising an access device with a communication module and processor controlling a door lock, an application on a portable terminal, and a server. The server provides a communication setting to the application, enabling it to communicate with the access device. Crucially, the server also provides a reservation certificate with a time interval. The application checks if the certificate is current and then activates the door lock by communicating with the access device using the provided communication setting.

In practice, a user would make a reservation through a website or app, which then sends a reservation certificate to their smartphone. As the user approaches the door, the smartphone application uses a short-range wireless technology like Bluetooth to transmit the certificate to the access device. The access device then verifies the certificate's validity by comparing the reservation time interval with its own internal clock. If the times align, the processor activates the door lock, granting access.

This system differentiates itself from prior approaches by enabling secure access even when the door lock lacks a reliable internet connection. The use of a time-based reservation certificate and a portable terminal as an intermediary provides a layer of security and control. Furthermore, the system can use different communication protocols for the server-to-smartphone and smartphone-to-access device communication, adding flexibility and potentially enhancing security against interception or replay attacks.