Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
UTILITY PATENT APPLICATION
TITLE: LOCK AND SWITCH CONTROLLER SYSTEM, LOCK AND
SWITCH DEVICE WITH OFFLINE RESPONSIVENESS, LOCK
AND SWITCH CONTROLLER SYSTEM WITH FLEXIBLE
COMMANDS
INVENTOR: Marat Kushnir
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS:
[1] The present application claims priority to the U.S. Patent Application
No.
17/321,942 which was filed on May 17, 2021, which is hereby incorporated by
reference herein
in its entirety, including any figures, tables, or drawings.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE:
[2] This disclosure relates to a lock and switch controller system, a lock
and switch
device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch controller system
with flexible
commands. More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure
relates to a lock and
switch controller system with offline responsiveness and flexible commands for
operating the
lock and controller system and devices.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE:
[3] At least a portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material that
is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to
the facsimile
reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it
appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent files and/or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyright
rights whatsoever. The following notice applies to the software and data as
described below and
in the drawings that form a part of this document. Copyright Marat Kushnir.
All rights reserved.
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BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE:
[4] Locks and fastening mechanisms are well known in the art. Generally
speaking, a
lock and/or a lock and key is a mechanical, and sometimes electrical,
fastening device. The lock
and/or lock and key is operated - operated meaning unlocked and/or opened
and/or locked and/or
closed - through use of a key or other type of security access. Some other
types of security access
include an electronic keycard, a magnetically activated keycard, a fingerprint
reader, a radio
frequency identification card or other wireless emitting device - such as a
mobile phone -, and/or
a password.
[5] In this way, locks and keys have grown in recent times so that locks
can be
operated by more than just a key. The term key is now used to describe many
different types of
keys, not just metal or mechanical keys. Key may now be referred to a numeric
code
combination entered on a keypad or the like. This type of numeric combination
on a keypad can
allow for a user to remotely access or operate a lock without the need of a
physical key such as a
metal key or a key card.
[6] Modern electronic keys are able to provide some advanced convenience
over
originally developed keys. For example, an electronic lock works by electric
current and can be
operated by a non physical key such as a keycard or other wireless
transmission. In this way, the
access signature for the lock must match the access signature on the card.
Another similar type of
lock is a remote keyless system or radio frequency key. This type of lock is
commonly used in
modem car remotes and may also be, similarly, found for garage door locks
and/or door
operators. In this way, modem locks can be operated by keycode, or even
through wireless
internet, bluetooth, mobile phones and the like. Wireless internet, bluetooth
and mobile phones
have been critical for remote access control and management.
[7] In addition to locks, switches are a common feature found in the state
of the art.
At a basic level, a switch removes or restores the conducting path in a
circuit. Switches are
known in the art as an electrical component that connects or disconnects part
of an electrical
circuit thus interrupting the flow of current or diverting it from one
conductor to another. In this
way, a switch may be operated manually or by a moving object or by a sensing
element such as
pressure, temperature or flow. A switch will have one or more sets of
contacts, which may
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operate simultaneously, sequentially, or alternately.
[8] The most common type of switch, in the art, is a manually operated
electromechanical device with one or more sets of electrical contacts, which
are connected to
external circuits. Each set of contacts can be in one of two states either
"closed" where contacts
are touching and electricity can flow between them, or "open" where contacts
are separated and
the switch is not conducting. The mechanism actuating the transition between
the open or closed
states is usually continuous by changing the position of the switch which
remains in its new state
or momentary where the switch remains in its state as long as it is being
pushed.
[9] In this way, switches are important in the state of the art because
switches are
used to ignite vehicles, control machinery or lighting, reverse electric
motors, activate
environmental sensors or trigger communications. A switch is also a means of
activating an
actuator which is commonly known as the part responsible for moving and
controlling a
mechanism. A switch is the -trigger" whilst an actuator is the "mover" which
changes the
source's energy into mechanical motion. In the context of the invention the
term switch
incorporates an actuator in so far as control of a device or apparatus is
concerned.
[10] A switch may be directly manipulated by a human or automatically operated
to
control the motions or functions of machines. Switches may be operated by
process variables
such as pressure, temperature, flow, current, voltage, and force, acting as
sensors in a process and
used to automatically control a system. Some switches are used to isolate
electric power from a
system and can be padlocked if necessary, to prevent accidental operation of a
machine during
maintenance or to prevent electric shock.
[11] A switch, as an electromechanical toggle or push button device, can
also occur in
the faun of a key. It may not only open or close thereby changing the
electrical state of a device
from off to on (or vice versa) but it may also change a device's status from
being idle and
unresponsive to being responsive to a user's commands.
[12] The present disclosure refers particularly to control of functionality
based on
users' credentials and refers interchangeably to locks and switches concerning
the ability to
govern access to their respective functionality.
[13] Thus, the present disclosure provides for a lock and switch controller
system with
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this type of expanded functionality and more. The present disclosure provides
for an alternative
control lock and switch controller which can be remotely and/or locally
programmed by an
owner and/or administrator to enable or restrict certain functionality and/or
access to others
based on a user's credentials and the like.
[14] The disclosure herein provides these advantages and others as will become
clear
from the specification and claims provided.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE:
[15] A lock and switch controller system, a lock and switch device with
offline
responsiveness, and a lock and switch controller system with flexible commands
are presented.
More specifically, and without limitation, the present disclosure provides the
state of the art with
a lock and switch controller system with offline responsiveness and flexible
commands for
operating the lock and controller system and devices.
[16] Thus, the present disclosure improves upon the state of the art for
access and/or
securement and provides the state of the art with a novel lock and a
controller system.
[17] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that integrates and/or replaces electronic switches.
[18] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that integrates and/or replaces mechanical
locks.
[19] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that provide operation logic and electronic circuitry
so that an owner
and/or administrator can remotely control a lock without any direct access to
the lock and/or
without any wireless communication with the lock. In other words, and said
another way, the
system provides flexible commands that provide operation logic and electronic
circuitry so that
an owner and/or administrator can remotely control a lock even when the device
is offline. In this
arrangement, and in this way, when reference is made to being offline, it
means that the lock
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and/or switch is remotely controllable, manageable, and configurable without
such lock or switch
having any wireless communication capability and without any connectivity to
the interne.
[20] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provide operation logic and electronic
circuitry so that an
owner and/or administrator can access the controlling switch and/or actuator
while the
components are offline.
[21] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that provide operation logic and electronic circuitry
so that an owner
and/or administrator can remotely control a lock while the lock is not
connected to any
communication network.
[22] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provide operation logic and electronic
circuitry so that an
owner and/or administrator can access the controlling switch and/or actuator
while the
components are not connected to any communication network.
[23] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that can still manage and provide access control to a
premise, room,
locker, safe, equipment, and/or other facility or operational device where
access or usage
credentials require monitoring and control.
[24] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that can still manage and provide access where
access or usage
credentials require monitoring and control when not communicatively connected
and/or offline.
[25] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that reduces and/or eliminates the limitations of
existing locks and/or
CA 03173437 2022- 9- 26
switches due to duplication, loss, time, compromise, rigidity, stagnation,
visibility, locality,
gadget connectivity concerns, and the like.
[26] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that solves problems plaguing the art,
including, but not limited
to, those associated with conventional system and devices by providing an
innovative control
system.
[27] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that solves problems plaguing the art by providing a
convenient and
effective means of controlling switches and/or locks while incorporating other
features,
components, and functionality.
[28] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provide for the ability to control and/or
manipulate the lock
and switch controller disclosed herein through a novel means of control, such
that the lock can
be used to control and/or provide controlled access to target securements.
[29] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that uses a sequence or sequences of symbols as an
encrypted means, or
code for controlling the lock and switch.
[30] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provides for a sequence or sequences of
symbols, in human
readable form, as an encryption means within the lock and/or controller.
[31] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that contains various functions associated with a
user's code; including
but not limited to, setting access limits, user types, and/or operational and
other programming
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functions.
[32] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provide a replacement lock mechanism.
[33] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that provide a retrofit lock mechanism.
[34] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provide a unique controller system.
[35] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that is easy to use.
[36] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that can run autonomously.
[37] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that tracks historical data.
[38] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that provides alerts.
[39] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that is safe to use.
[40] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that are accurate.
[41] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
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a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that works with various digital platforms.
[42] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that is quick and efficient.
[43] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that are robust.
[44] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that can be programmed to various predetermined
rule sets.
[45] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that saves time for a user.
[46] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that are high quality.
[47] Another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller system,
a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch
controller system
with flexible commands that work remotely and do not require the presence or
the proximity of
the owner and/or administrator.
[48] Yet another object of the disclosure is to provide a lock and switch
controller
system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and
switch controller
system with flexible commands that work remotely even when offline.
[49] These and other objects, features, or advantages of the present
disclosure will
become apparent from the specification and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
[50] Fig. 1 is an illustration of one embodiment for operation of the system
disclosed
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herein; the view showing a code generator; the view showing the controller;
the view showing
the access unit; the view showing an appliance and/or target device.
[51] Fig. 2 is a diagram of one embodiment for operation of the system
disclosed
herein; the view showing a code generator generating a token; the view showing
the transfer of
the token; the view showing the controller receiving the token; the view
showing decryption by
the controller of the at least one command parameter; the view showing access
being controlled
for the access unit.
[52] Fig. 3 is an illustration of one embodiment showing interactions of an
administrator and user with the system disclosed herein; the view showing
various computing
devices; the view showing an access unit which can be associated with various
target appliances
and/or target devices.
[53] Fig. 4 is an illustration of one embodiment, showing an administrator and
a user
controlling targets, via access units, integrated within the controller; the
view showing a user
operating with the access unit.
[54] Fig. 5 is an illustration of one embodiment of a controller of the system
and the
access unit integrating with a user interface and other interfaces.
[55] Fig. 6 is an overview of the operation of the system.
[56] Fig. 7 is an illustration showing the relationship of the code generation
and the
functionality of the controller; the view showing an illustration of one
embodiment of a
controller of the system and the access unit integrating with an
administrator.
[57] Fig. 8 is an illustration showing further functionality
of the code generation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE:
[58] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the
accompanying
drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of
illustration specific
embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are
described in
sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the
disclosure, and it is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical,
procedural, and other
changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
disclosure(s). The
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following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting
sense, and the scope of
the disclosure(s) is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full
scope of equivalents
to which such claims are entitled.
[59] As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top,
bottom, front,
back, end, sides and the like are referenced according to the views, pieces
and figures presented.
It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of
description, and
are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an
object or a combination
of objects may change without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
[60] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an
embodiment,"
"one example," or "an example" means that a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic
described in connection with the embodiment or example is included in at least
one embodiment
of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearance of the phrases "in one
embodiment," "in an
embodiment," "one example," or "an example" in various places throughout this
specification
are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment or example.
Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, databases, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable combinations
and/or sub-combinations in one or more embodiments or examples. In addition,
it should be
appreciated that the figures provided herewith are for explanation purposes to
persons ordinarily
skilled in the art and that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.
[61] Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure may be embodied as
an
apparatus, method, or computer program product. Accordingly, the present
disclosure may take
the form of an entirely hardware-comprised embodiment, an entirely software-
comprised
embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.), or an
embodiment
combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to
herein as a
"circuit," "module," or "system." Furthermore, embodiments of the present
disclosure may take
the form of a computer program product embodied in any tangible medium.
[62] Any combination of one or more computer-usable or computer-readable media
may be utilized. For example, a computer-readable medium may include one or
more of a
portable computer removable drive, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM)
device, a
read-only memory (ROM) device, an erasable programmable read-only memory
(EPROM or
CA 03173437 2022- 9- 26
Flash memory) device, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), an
optical storage
device, and a magnetic storage device. Computer program code for carrying out
operations of the
present disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more
programming languages.
Such code may be compiled from source code to computer-readable assembly
language or
machine code, or virtual code, or framework code suitable for the disclosure
herein, or machine
code suitable for the device or computer on which the code will be executed.
[63] Embodiments may also be implemented in cloud computing environments. In
this
description and the following claims, "cloud computing" may be defined as a
model for enabling
ubiquitous, convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of
configurable computing
resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that
can be rapidly
provisioned via virtualization and released with minimal management effort or
service provider
interaction and then scaled accordingly. A cloud model can be composed of
various
characteristics (e.g., on-demand self-service, broad network access, resource
pooling, rapid
elasticity, and measured service), service models (e.g., Software as a Service
("Saas"), Platform
as a Service ("PaaS"), and Infrastructure as a Service ("laaS")), and
deployment models (e.g.,
private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, and hybrid cloud).
[64] The flowchart and block diagrams in the attached figures illustrate the
architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of
systems, methods, and
computer program products according to various embodiments of the present
disclosure. In this
regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module,
segment, or
portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for
implementing the
specified logical function(s). It will also be noted that each block of the
block diagrams and/or
flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams
and/or flowchart
illustrations, may be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems
that perform the
specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and
computer
instructions. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a
computer-readable
medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing
apparatus to function
in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-
readable medium
produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement
the function/act
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specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
[65] In the arrangement shown, as one example, a lock and controller system is
presented. The lock system and controller system are for use with a device or
appliance or
residence that one desires to be secured. In some cases, an owner or
administrator controls access
and functionality. In some cases, a customer or client or user or employee is
accessing based on a
set of credentials.
[66] The lock system disclosed may be built into a device or apparatus or
location or
may be retrofitted. Similarly, the present disclosure may be adapted to
existing locks and/or
switches that are capable of performing the functionality herein.
[67] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the present disclosure provides
for
new features related to locks and/or switches, including but not limited to,
the elimination of
security shortcomings such as issues with unauthorized duplication, absence of
physical keys,
loss of physical keys, provides for instantaneous virtual key generation, and
other components,
features, and functionality.
[68] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the present lock and controller
system
provides for security of master keys, such as those which might be found in
industrial settings.
The present disclosure also provides for configuring and/or re-configuration
of master keys when
needed.
[69] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the present disclosure provides
for
changes in the access of the lock and/or controller system without the need to
be present at the
location of the lock. Furthermore, the present disclosure provides for changes
in the access of the
lock and/or controller system without the need for a communication network to
be connected to
and/or communicating with the lock system and/or controller system. Similarly,
the present
disclosure provides for the ability to change access among a group of people
and/or a plurality of
users (which use the same access code), which can be completed remotely and/or
off site.
[70] In the arrangement shown, the present disclosure provides and solves
scalability
issues plaguing the art. in other words, the lock and controller system
provides flexibility and
functionality related to controlling access to numerous locks and/or a
plurality of lock systems
simultaneously, such as, numerous facilities or doors, multiple containers or
lockers and a variety
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of equipment and/or equipment types. Similarly, the present disclosure
provides functionality
and benefits for access to rural or other access points such as rural or
remote locations, especially
those for which wireless communication is not available or desired.
[71] System:
[72] With reference to the figures, a lock and switch controller system, a
lock and
switch device with offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch controller
system with flexible
commands 10 are presented. Lock and switch controller system, a lock and
switch device with
offline responsiveness, and a lock and switch controller system with flexible
commands 10
(hereafter referred to as "lock system", "switch system", "controller system",
"lock and
controller system", "lock and switch controller system", "lock and switch
device", or simply
"system") is formed of any suitable size, shape and design.
[73] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the lock and switch controller
system
is an electronic switch including a locking device and/or mechanical locking
device. In this
arrangement, the lock and switch controller system 10 is used to secure an
appliance and provide
access to users even when the system is offline and/or lacks a connection to a
communication
network. In the arrangement shown, as one example, the users and/or access
codes can be
changed, remotely, even when the lock mechanism and system 10 are not
connected to a
communication network.
[74] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes operation
logic
and electronic circuitry. In this way, system 10 provides an owner and/or
administrator the ability
to remotely control the lock and/or access the controlling switch and/or
access the features and
functionality of the actuator mounted to an apparatus and/or retrofitted. This
functionality, with
system 10, is available to an owner and/or administrator even when the lock
system is offline
and/or not connected to a communication network. In this way, an owner and/or
administrator
can control and/or restrict access to a locked appliance, whether the
appliance is a premises, a
room, a locker, a safe, a plurality of containers, equipment, a vehicle, or
other secured
appliances. Furthei ___ fore, and in this way, an administrator and/or owner
can control operational
functionality of the device where access and/or usage credentials require
monitoring and control.
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[75] In this way, system 10 provides many advantages over the existing state
of the art,
including, but not limited to, duplication issues, loss of key issues, time
savings, compromising
or lost features, rigidity in functionality, stagnation, visibility, locality,
gadget and/or connectivity
concerns.
[76] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lock system 10 may be embodied
as a
latch lock. In this arrangement, a latch lock would allow - and is commonly
associated with - a
door lock. Similarly, a latch lock version of lock system 10 can allow for
opening and closing of
doors, gates, and the like, as embodied herein.
[77] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lock system 10 may be embodied
as a
switch device. In this arrangement, a switch device lock would allow - and is
commonly
associated with - an ignition switch for machinery and/or equipment and/or
vehicles.
[78] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lock system 10 may be embodied
as
an actuator. In this arrangement, an actuator lock system would allow - and is
commonly
associated with - control relays for the purpose of signaling, alarming,
billing, or controlling
access to features of an apparatus. For example, the lock device may control
access to the floor
of an elevator. Some users may have access to a particular floor at a given
time, etc.
[79] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 also includes a code
generator, a controller, an access unit, and an appliance, and communication
and control
components, among other components, features, and functionality.
[80] In the arrangement shown, as one example, lock and controller system 10
may
also include remote servers, databases, application servers, application
databases, appliance
databases, databases, mobile applications, and/or computers; all of which in
continuity or as
separate acts fulfill the functions disclosed herein.Lock and controller
system 10 also includes, in
the embodiment(s) depicted, a graphical user interface, a user, a sensor
system, a computing
system, a communication and/or control system, an application server, and a
mobile computing
application, among other components, features, and functions.
[81] Code Generator:
[82] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a code
generator
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110 (also referred to herein as -code generation"). Code generator 110 is
formed of any suitable
size, shape, and design and is configured to generate codes, codes which will
subsequently be
input into the controller 120 (to be further described herein). In the
arrangement shown, as one
example, the code generated by the code generator 110 is encrypted and used to
issue commands
and/or other programming functions to the controller 120. In one arrangement,
as is shown, the
code generated by the code generator may be in human readable format. In one
example, the
code may be used for manual input into the controller's keypad. In another
format, as another
example, other formats are also hereby contemplated for use, including but not
limited to a quick
read code, a barcode, a sound tone, a combination thereof, and the like.
[83] Controller:
[84] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a controller
120.
Controller 120 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is
configured to control the
function of the access unit (as described herein). Said another way, the
controller includes the
electronic circuitry containing a microcontroller and/or processing units,
which are connected to
the lock or switch referred to as the access unit. In the arrangement shown,
as one example, the
controller contains the decryption key used for decrypting token 240 and logic
with a variety of
commands and/or reprogramming logic used for particular access units and
appliances 250.
[85] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the controller may also include
command parameters. Command parameters are included within an encrypted token
and provide
instructions for the controller. Various command parameters include, but are
not limited to,
command type, serial number, access users -such as allowing access only once,
allowing access
multiple times, allowing access on a set count - , access type, access count,
allow access before
check in, check in date/time, duration, personal passcode option - such as
allowing a user to
select the passcode, prescribing a passcode to a user, and not allowing access
to a user, personal
passcode, override other users, allowed failed entries, consequence of failed
entries,
consequences of expiry, and the like.
[86] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the command type may include
allowing access until a given date and/or time, allowing access for a given
duration, erasing
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access for existing respective user types, resetting tamper state, setting
clock date or time,
changing decoding key, a combination thereof, and the like.
[87] In the arrangement shown, as one example, various consequences for failed
entries may be included, including but not limited to, no consequence,
blackout for specified
duration of time, sounding an alarm - whether silent or noise -, closing the
contactor, opening the
contactor, initiating communication - whether initiating audio communication,
visual
communication, a combination thereof, and the like.
[88] Access Unit:
[89] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes an access
unit 130.
Access unit 130 is formed of any suitable size, shape, and design and is
configured as a lock or
switch which controls functional access to an appliance. In the arrangement
shown, as one
example, the access unit is operably connected to and/or interacts with the
controller (inclusively
known as "switch controller system"). In the arrangement shown, as one
example, the access unit
typically also includes an integrated controller and also may include
associated circuitry, and the
like.
[90] Appliance:
[91] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 is used in
association with
an appliance 140. Appliance 140 may be formed of any suitable size, shape, and
design. In the
arrangements shown, "appliance" is used generally to refer to the equipment
which is being
controlled. This includes a variety of locks such as latch locks, pad locks or
deadbolt locks,
switches, doors, safety boxes, machinery, vehicles, buildings, containers, and
the like, for which
system 10 is controlling access to and/or functionality of. Said another way,
the appliance may
be used to refer to the target device.
[92] Control System:
[93] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a control
system
100. With reference to Fig. 1, control system 100 includes a plurality of
processors and a
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plurality of memories, with the latter containing instructions that when
executed by a processor
trigger, a code generation 110 containing encrypted instructions which when
input into a
controller 120, provides directives to the access unit 130 and hence control
of the appliance or
target device 140. Such instructions may include routines, programs, objects,
data structures, and
the like.
[94] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the control system 100 includes
a
controller 120. Controller 120 is configured to receive and interpret data
generated by the code
generator 110. The code generator generates code (data) that is encrypted and
presented in
human readable format covert instructions (in some circumstances; such as a
numeric token) and
can be transferred to a user verbally. This code may also be transferred by
email, paper receipt,
text, and the like. Furthermore, the controller 120 can accept the code in
person through the
manual input into a keypad 331 by a user, customer or guest.
[95] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 may include a
customer,
the customer receiving the encrypted token containing covert data from the
code generator 110
by the administrator and/or owner of the system 10. This infoimation can then
be used to gain
access to an appliance and/or reprogram the controller 120 without
compromising security, and
the like.
[96] In the arrangement shown, as one example, the controller 120 may also
include a
plurality of cameras, microphones, scanners, bluetooth functionality, wireless
connectivity
features and functionality, other sensory equipment and the like. In the
arrangement shown, as
one example, an administrator and/or owner may opt to transfer the encrypted
numeric token,
containing covert instructions, instead of using a numeric token to be input
into a keypad rather
in the foim of an image, a sound file, URL or file by email or through an
application, and the
like. In the arrangement showm, and in this example, if a customer receives
such code format,
this can be used via a smartphone, tablet, or other device with appropriate
features 350 which can
transfer the code to the controller using this transfer method and/or an
alternative transfer
method.
[97] In the arrangement shown, as one example, code generator 110 may be
implemented in the form of an application and may be implemented via a
computer system (to be
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further described herein). Some examples may include a mainframe, personal
computer, server,
application server, mobile device, and the like. This application may be
stored on a storage
media as part of the control system 100 and locally accessible by the owner or
administrator of a
remote appliance.
[98] In the arrangement shown, as one example, code generator 110 may include
various code generating methods known in the art and provide data to be
transferred to the
controller 120, wherein the data can include one or more command parameters
and can be used
by the controller 120 to control an access unit 130 (as described herein), and
a target device or
appliance.
[99] In this way, once the controller 120 has deciphered the input and/or
instructions,
the controller then functions in accordance with a predetermined set of rules,
routines, and/or
operations. This particular set of rules, routines, and/or operations may vary
depending on the
user and/or the particular appliance.
[100] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a process
200 for
controlling a target device or appliance. With reference to Fig. 2, the
process 200 includes a
block 210 which generates a code 110 containing encrypted command parameters
presented in
the form of a numeric readable token. This generated code or token is
transferred at a block 220
to a controller. This transfer at block 220 occurs verbally and/or by paper
receipt and/or text
and/or any other means 330 between an administrator or owner of the target
device and an
intended user or guest of that device. The user or guest later inputs the
token into the controller at
block 230. The input of the token into the controller at block 230 occurs by
manual entry by a
user or a guest using a keypad or other means as described herein.
Furthermore, the token is
decrypted at block 240 providing functional instructions for the controller
and/or access unit. In
this way, the controller may contain a decryption key and logic algorithms
with a list of
commands and/or programming logic for one or more target devices and/or
appliances. In this
example, at block 250, the controller acts upon the access unit to operably
manipulate a target
device and/or appliance according to the functional instructions included in
the command
parameters.
[101] In the arrangement shown, and in one example, system 10 also includes a
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computing device 320 of an administrator and/or owner (computing device to be
further
described herein).
[102] In the arrangement shown, as one example, and specifically with
reference to Fig.
5. system 10 includes a controller having a user interface 410. The user
interface may be limited
to a keypad and/or display. The user interface may also include a
communication interface 440, -
having a radio frequency, a bluetooth, a camera, a microphone, and the like -
and the ability to
receive input for the processing unit 420. Furtheimore, the controller may
also include a storage
unit 430 for use of storing programs to be executed by the processing unit
420, and the like.
[103] Graphical User Interface:
[104] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 may include a
graphical
user interface at the access unit for a user or guest 410 and a graphical user
interface for an
administrator or owner using a computer system or mobile phone. Graphical user
interface 410
of the controller at the access unit is formed of any suitable size shape and
design and is
configured to allow a user to view interact with, manipulate, and visually
access the controller
part of the system related to the access unit and information related thereto,
and/or view various
data pertaining to the access unit and/or object data and/or change the
settings of the sensors
and/or change the settings of the operation of the target device.
[105] Graphical user interface 410 is an exemplary method by which systems of
the
present disclosure may make programming changes to the operation of the
controller. Employing
graphical user interface 410, enhances a user's interactions and/or an
administrator's interactions
in the form of awareness and knowledge of data within the controller or target
device.
[106] Display of Graphical User Interface: In the arrangement shown, as one
example,
system 10 might also include a graphical user interface display for the owner
or administrator
when connected to a computer system 310 or mobile device 320. Such a graphical
user interface
display may be configured to show and display infoimation, including data, for
review and
interpretation of a user or plurality of users, or of a plurality of users
interacting with one another
and/or target devices. In the arrangement shown, as one example, an
interactive user interface
display is formed of a display screen, such as that of a desktop computer,
laptop computer,
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monitor, tablet, smart phone, smart TV, projector, virtual reality display or
any other device or
form of a display. In the arrangement shown, as one example, interactive user
display comprises
a series of interactive user display pages, however, the interactive user
display may consist of a
single page or any other method of displaying information on a display as
could be adapted to
various size screens, devices, or user preferences. The interactive user
display can display
various parameter and/or rights and/or conditions and/or risk elements
pertaining to an appliance
or target device.
[107] User (or plurality thereof):
[108] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 may include a user.
User
may be any user interacting with or utilizing the system 10. This may include
viewing,
controlling, analyzing, manipulating, and/or interacting with system 10. User
is not limited to a
single user but may be a plurality of users. Furthermore, user may include an
owner, an
administrator, a supervisor, an employee, a guest, and a plurality of
individuals or groups seeking
access to the secured appliance and/or appliances.
[109] Computing Platform:
[110] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a computing
platform (or "computer", or "computer platform") 310. Computing platform is
formed of any
suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to provide computing
support, power, and
computing processing for both onboard computing functionality as well as
communication for
off-board or server computing functionality.
[111] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a computer
310 or
computing device such as a smartphone 320. A computer or computing device is
formed of any
suitable size, shape, and design and is configured to provide for the main
computing processing
and implementation of handling of data including code generation and
management of rights
and/or features and/or credentials related to target devices. Data processing
and analysis may
include, but is not limited to, artificial intelligence of sorting and
organizing commands
associated with any given user and/or encrypted token, which may include
updating controller or
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switch and/or lock rules in an access unit as it pertains to an appliance or
target device, and the
like.
[112] Sensor System and Other Features:
[113] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 includes a sensor
system
such as motion detectors and/or camera working in concert with a lock or
switch in an access
unit. Sensor system is fatmed of any suitable size, shape, and design and may
include one or
more sensors and/or one or more sensing technologies. As one example, the
sensor system is
configured to detect and communicate information related to the target device
as well as its
surroundings and/or environment. Such gathered infatmation is processed by the
controller and
an appropriate response can be initiated based on rules extrapolated from
prior input tokens
containing various commands.
[114] Application and Application Server:
[115] In the arrangement shown, as one example, system 10 may comprise remote
servers, databases, and/or computers 310 that fulfill the functions disclosed
and described herein.
In the embodiment depicted, system 10 comprises an application server residing
on a computer
or computing device such as a mobile phone 320. Application server comprises
one or more
computer systems or computing devices adapted to collate data related to a
variety of target
devices or appliances, creating and/or storing rules and managing credentials
and access control
with an ultimate purposes of issuing instructions used in generating code 110,
i.e. a token
containing instructions corresponding to a particular controller of an
appliance or target device.
Application server is adapted to query databases and to retrieve information
related to various
aspects, features and functionality of system 10, its users, and monitoring.
[116] As one of ordinary skills in the art may understand, application server,
database,
and other databases mentioned herein may be implemented in one or more
servers. Furthetmore,
each may be on multiple servers to increase system efficiency, especially when
handling large
data gathering, following extended guidelines, extended ranges, ranges
discussed herein.
Additionally, multiple servers may have mirrored data to prevent data loss in
case of disk failure
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and/or to decrease access and response times for database queries. In
alternative embodiments,
application server, and other database procedures may be carried out on
computer-readable
instructions and data stored on the administrator's mobile computing device or
a user's mobile
device 350, as it may apply.
[117] In addition to the above identified features, options, controls, and
components,
system 10 may also include other features and functionalities, among other
options, controls, and
components.
[118] In Operation:
[119] In one example, an example of operation, a command parameter is used and
can
include a plurality of references. In one example, the command parameter might
include A-0
references, each having a different parameter. For example, A may be for a
command type, B
may be for a serial number, C may be for a user category, D may be used for an
access type, E
may be for an access count, F may be for allowing access before a designated
check-in time, G
may be for check-in date and/or time, H may be a checkout date and/or time, I
may be for a
duration, J may be for passcode options, K may be for personal passcode, L for
override options,
M for failed entry rules, N for consequence of failed entries, and 0 to set
the consequence at
expiry.
[120] In another example of use, an administrator and/or owner may print a
token on a
receipt and send a message with the token to a user. At an appropriate date
and time, and upon a
first entry, the user would insert the token into the lock and thereafter use
a code, for a
subsequent duration of time - such as a four digit code or the like- to gain
entry and/or access for
a number of minutes, days, hours, weeks, etc. In this example, after a
checkout date, the user will
no longer be able to enter using the four digit code.
[121] In another example, the above may apply to a piece of equipment such as
a
vehicle, the vehicle having an ignition device which is retrofitted with an
access unit 130
maintained by a controller 120. Assuming a guest wants to use the vehicle for
three hours or
some other duration. The administrator or owner, using a computing device or
mobile phone will
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select such options for the target device (i.e. vehicle) and generate an
encrypted token containing
the relevant commands for a given duration and/or date range and give it to
the guest. Once the
guest inputs the token into the controller's keypad installed in the vehicle,
it will provide
operation of the ignition of the vehicle for the duration or other such
parameters or credentials
encrypted in the token. In this way, and in this one example, the controller
would decrypt the
token command string, using the appropriate decoding key and/or paired key for
the vehicle
ignition controller and convert such string into a set of commands or routines
for operating the
ignition. Further expansion of the commands may include execution for the
controller enabling,
for example, the control for allowed speed or allowed travel distance, ability
to open a trunk or
refill a gas tank. A controller connected to a GPS device would be able to
dictate commands
associated with a travel location. In another example, a controller installed
on a crane or forklift
could decode commands related to limits of lifting height or weight. In
another example, a
controller on a tractor could allow the operation of a loader, and depending
on the user's
credentials, would prevent operation of a backhoe or other implements or
attachments. In
addition, encrypted token infoimation could include consequences for going
over any limits or
thresholds, for example attempting to pick up a heavier load than prescribed
could result in a
siren and/or going over a speed limit or entry into an unauthorized area could
result in delayed or
subsequent non-ignition requiring another "release" type token from an
administrator in order to
resume operations.
[122] In another example, the administrator and/or owner may accomplish
providing a
similar access to the guest through sending an image, a QR code, a sound file,
an electronic RF
key or permission for bluetooth access on an application on the user's mobile
device or the like,
which would allow the user to transfer such encoding to the controller, as
opposed to inputting a
token manually into a keypad, to gain ignition access for a user to a vehicle.
[123] In another example, instead of an administrator and/or owner printing a
token on a
receipt or sending the token to the user via short message service, a user may
download an
appropriate application - likely available for download to a smart device -
which would enable
the user to insert the token into the lock 10, wirelessly using bluetooth, a
sound file, barcode, QR
code or the like. In this way, the downloaded application provides ease for a
user. The user can
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then receive tokens and utilize the app for various equipment access and/or
appliance access as
provided by the administrator and/or owner. In this example, an owner may be
enabled to control
what devices and/or equipment a particular user can access and/or control,
such as on a
construction site and the like.
[124] In the arrangement above, the device and/or lock system 10 is embedded
with a
predetermined set of rules which can receive new rules or permutation of rules
with associated
embedded numeric tokens. The device, wherever located, can decrypt these rules
and provide
functionality of the lock as needed for control of the target device. In this
way, the controller can
then be manipulated to act in various ways, even if any rules weren't pre-
programmed at the
outset but delivered later. Based on the facilities or features of a target
device and any user's
respective credentials the system allows for custom reconfiguration or
reprogramming of the
operation of the target device for a particular instant without connection to
a communication
network. In this way, new sets of rules are delivered to the lock and
controller and the lock and
controller is configured to receive new instructions through the encrypted
token as included with
peimission for a user to access.
[125] Any encryption keys or such algorithm methodology can be changed,
manipulated or expanded using programming tokens.
[126] The capability of the programming or instructions for access tokens
depends on:
The type of device; Intended functions of the apparatus; Desired encryption
complexity; Input
method; And the desired token length. Simple devices with limited apparatus
functions require
less commands and hence shorter length of tokens. Input methods using numeric
keypads can
remit less information (per given string length) than character inputs
inputted into alphanumeric
keypads. Auxiliary input techniques such as Bluetooth, WiFi, RF, QR, Bar
Codes, or sound tones
can provide tokens containing more elaborate instructions and commands.
[127] Example: In one arrangement, encryption of human readable text means a
covert
and/or indiscernible description. As one example, only for ease of
explanation. An administrator
may verbally provide the following sentence to a user, "the chicken crossed
the road". To the
user, this sentence doesn't mean anything. However, when the user relays this
information into
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the access unit and/or controller, the information is translated into meaning
for functionality,
access, limitations of functionality and/or access, and the like.
[128] In the arrangement shown, as one example, and with reference to Fig. 3,
Computing device 320, of the administrator, can generate token and/or command
parameters.
The administrator can use this token and/or pass this token along, and the
like. In this way, a user
may accept the command parameters and/or tokens on a computing device 350 of a
user. The
computing device 350, in this way, of the user acts as a conduit for relaying
the token and/or
command parameters. In this way, the computing device 350 of the user does not
generate a
command parameter and/or token.
[129] These and other examples of process and methods of use are incorporated
by
reference.
[130] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various
modifications
could be made to the system, process, and method of use without parting from
the spirit and
scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and changes fall within the
scope of the claims
and are intended to be covered thereby.
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