GB2574675A - Access control device, system and methods - Google Patents
Access control device, system and methods Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2574675A GB2574675A GB1809874.9A GB201809874A GB2574675A GB 2574675 A GB2574675 A GB 2574675A GB 201809874 A GB201809874 A GB 201809874A GB 2574675 A GB2574675 A GB 2574675A
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- GB
- United Kingdom
- Prior art keywords
- access control
- locking arrangement
- electronic locking
- access
- control device
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/20—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass
- G07C9/27—Individual registration on entry or exit involving the use of a pass with central registration
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- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
- G07C9/00571—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by interacting with a central unit
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
- G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
- G07C2009/00753—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys
- G07C2009/00769—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys with data transmission performed by wireless means
- G07C2009/00793—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys with data transmission performed by wireless means by Hertzian waves
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C2209/00—Indexing scheme relating to groups G07C9/00 - G07C9/38
- G07C2209/60—Indexing scheme relating to groups G07C9/00174 - G07C9/00944
- G07C2209/62—Comprising means for indicating the status of the lock
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- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
Abstract
An access control device 410, for use in an access control system, comprises a user interface and a controller operatively associated with the user interface. The controller is configurable via the user interface to manage access to a secure space. The controller is configured to communicate directly with one or more access control modules 420, 450 of the access control system for controlling access to the secure space. The management of access may comprise user, operator, vehicle of equipment access rights. An access control apparatus comprises a sensor for determining an open or closed state of a door, an electronic lock and a device, such as the access control device, to monitor the accessibility to the secure space. A further access control apparatus comprises an electronic lock and a device to transition to lock when it is supplied with power and provided with a key.
Description
ACCESS CONTROL DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHODS
FIELD
This relates to an access control device, an access control apparatus, an access control system and associated methods.
BACKGROUND
Valuable items such as cash, jewellery or documents may be stored in a secure space, such as a safe, Automated Teller Machine (ATM) or other secure storage area which is accessible only by a limited number of personnel.
A wide variety of access control systems have been developed in order to control access to the secure space, ranging from simple mechanical keys to more complex digital and interlock systems.
Conventional access control systems are, however, subject to a number of drawbacks.
In the case of mechanical keys, for example, the keys are vulnerable to being copied or lost, or may be vulnerable to other forms of physical attack. While digital access control systems may overcome some of the problems associated with mechanical keys, conventional digital access control systems are cumbersome, expensive and complex to install, configure, manage and operate, to the extent that the security of such systems may be compromised e.g. by personnel seeking to circumvent these shortcomings.
SUMMARY
According to a first aspect, there is provided an access control device for use in an access control system for controlling access to a secure space, the access control device comprising:
a user interface; and a controller operatively associated with the user interface, the controller configurable via the user interface to manage access to the secure space, wherein the controller is configured to communicate directly with one or more access control modules of the access control system for controlling access to the secure space.
Beneficially, embodiments of the access control device provide a single device for managing and controlling access to the secure space, reducing the complexity of, and simplifying the installation of, an access control system that uses the access control device. By having the control of accesses and the management of accesses handled by a single access control device, use of the system may be simplified and may be made more convenient to personnel. Moreover, the costs of such a system may also be reduced relative to conventional access control systems since fewer components are required.
As described above, communication between the access control device and the one or more access control modules is direct on an independent network. That is, the communication is not made over a shared network, such as via a digital switch, router or the like, as may be the case in a conventional access control system. This beneficially increases the security of the system, because the direct communication means that the access control device can be implemented in an access control system without connecting the access control device, or any other feature of the access control system, to any computer or network that is not part of the access control system. Such an arrangement reduces the likelihood of a successful physical or software attack on the access control system.
The user interface may comprise a touch screen interface.
The user interface may comprise a keypad.
The user interface may comprise a camera.
The user interface may comprise a microphone.
The user interface may comprise a card identification device, for use with, for example, an RFID card, a magnetic card, or the like.
The user interface may comprise a biometric sensor.
Beneficially, by having the controller and the user interface within a single access control device, the user may more securely interact with the access control device without concern that data, such as secure data or personal data, is communicated to another entity, device or network. Further, any processing of data input by the user, for example execution of face recognition software upon an image captured by a camera, may be handled locally at the access control device and not by a separate component, such as a computer, which may incur non-deterministic processing delays and or reliability issues, or the like.
The access control device may comprise a Graphical User Interface (GUI).
The access control device may be configured to implement a Graphical User Interface (GUI).
The GUI may be integrated into the user interface.
The GUI may be displayed on the user interface.
Beneficially, the provision of a GUI makes the access control device significantly more configurable than a device comprising, for example, only a keypad or the like. Such a GUI makes the appearance of the access control device customisable. Further, the provision of a GUI makes the access control device more effective at responding to interactions with a user, and providing feedback, such as whether an attempt to access a secure area has been successful.
The access control device and/or the controller may be configured to communicate directly with a plurality of access control modules.
Beneficially, a single controller can control an access control system with more than one access control module, thus reducing the overall cost of the system by avoiding a requirement to implement multiple controllers.
The access control device and/or the controller may be configured to communicate wirelessly with the/each access control module.
Beneficially, a wireless connection simplifies the installation of the system, and mitigates the possibilities of physical attacks on the access control system.
The access control device and/or the controller may be configured to communicate via an electrically conductive and/or optical connection with the/each access control module. The controller may be configured to communicate with the/each access control module via a serial connection and a serial interface, such as an RS232, RS422 or RS485 interface, or the like.
The controller may comprise a wireless communication module.
The wireless communication module may be a wireless receiver, wireless transmitter or wireless transceiver.
The controller may wirelessly communicate with the/each access control module using a protocol, for example a protocol conforming to a standard such as an IEEE 802 standard such as, for example, the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, any IEEE 802.11 standard, or the like.
The wireless communication module may be configured to operate as a node of, or form a part of, a network with the/each access control module, such as a private and non-shared network.
The network may be or comprise a mesh network. The network may be or comprise a star, bus, or ring network. The network may be a hybrid network of two or more of a mesh, star, bus, or ring network.
The access control device may be connected, such as communicably connected wirelessly or by a conductive or optical connection, to a plurality of access control modules by means of point-to-point connections.
The network may comprise a combination of wireless and physical connections, such as electrically conductive or optical connections.
The access control device may be configured to encrypt and/or decrypt data. The controller may be configured to encrypt and/or decrypt data.
The controller may comprise an encryption and/or decryption module.
The controller may implement encryption/decryption by software.
The encryption may be public key or private key encryption. The encryption may conform to an encryption standard, such as AES128, AES256, 3DES, RSA, or the like.
The data may be or comprise data suitable for direct communication with an access control module.
The data may be or comprise data directly received by or transmitted to, an access control module.
The data may be or comprise data directly received by or transmitted to, an access control module, wherein the data is from or to another access control module on the network, e.g. the private network.
The access control device may comprise a housing.
The user interface and the controller may be disposed within the housing.
Beneficially, by disposing the access control device within housing, all of the functionality associated with managing and controlling access to a secure space can coexist in a convenient, single installation. Further, by disposing the access control device within the housing, the security of the access control device may be improved, because visibility and access to internal nodes of the access control device may be restricted. Further, by having all of the functionality associated with managing and controlling access to a secure space, there is no need to locate the controller on a network outside the network associated with the access control system, thus further reducing the possibility of physical attacks.
According to a second aspect, there is provided an access control system comprising the access control device of the first aspect.
The access control system comprises at least one access control module.
The at least one access control module may comprise a wireless communication module, such as a wireless transceiver.
The wireless communication module may be configured to form a network, such as a mesh network, with the/each access control module and/or the access control device.
The access control module may be, or may comprise, a further controller.
The further controller may be a door controller.
The further controller may be an interlock controller.
The access control module may comprise a further user interface.
The access control module may be configured to control and/or communicate with and/or receive data or a signal from at least one of: a door sensor, a locking apparatus, an interlock apparatus, a lock sensor, an electric strike, a keypad, a door release, a light, an emergency door release.
The access control device may be powered by a power supply unit, such as a low-voltage DC supply. The access control device may be powered directly or indirectly by a mains power supply. The access control device may comprise a transformer, rectifier, or other regulation circuitry suitable for converting a supply, such as a mains supply or unregulated supply, to a regulated supply, such as a low-voltage DC supply.
The access control device and/or the access control module may be battery powered.
The access control device may be configured to allow, in use, one or more access control modules to be added to, removed from or substituted in, the access control system.
According to a third aspect, there is provided a security installation, the security installation comprising the access control system according to the second aspect and a secure space.
The secure space may be an asset or device, such as a safe, secure retainer, repository, ATM, vault, or other enclosed space.
According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of use of an access control device for use in an access control system, the method comprising the steps of providing an access control device according to the first aspect and configuring the access control device to communicate directly with at least one access control module.
The step of configuring the access control device to communicate directly with at least one access control module may comprise configuring the controller via the user interface to manage access to the secure space.
The step of configuring the access control device to communicate directly with at least one access control module may comprise configuring the controller to control access to the secure space.
The management of accesses may comprise determining access rights, such as predetermined and/or scheduled or dynamic access rights, of at least one user, operator, vehicle or equipment.
The management of accesses may comprise controlling access rights, such as predetermined and/or scheduled or dynamic access rights, of at least one user, operator, vehicle or equipment.
The management of accesses may comprise monitoring accesses by at least one user, operator, vehicle or equipment to at least one asset or device, such as a safe, secure retainer, repository, ATM, vault, door, interlock apparatus or zone.
The management of accesses may comprise logging accesses by at least one user, operator, vehicle or equipment to at least one asset or device, such as a safe, secure retainer, repository, ATM, vault, door, interlock apparatus or zone.
Controlling access to the secure space may comprise configuring at least one of a locking apparatus, an interlock apparatus, an electric strike, a door release, an emergency door release.
Controlling access to the secure space may comprise determining a status of at least one of a locking apparatus, an interlock apparatus, an electric strike, a door release, an emergency door release, a disposition of a door.
According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a method of installation of an access control system, the method comprising the steps of providing the access control device according to the first aspect, providing at least one access control module, and configuring the device to communicate directly with the at least one access control module.
According to a sixth aspect, there is provided an access control apparatus for controlling access to a secure space, the apparatus comprising: a sensor for determining an open or closed state of a door; an electronic locking arrangement configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state; and a device operatively associated with the electronic locking arrangement, the device configured to monitor or determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space based on a signal from the sensor and a status of the electronic locking arrangement.
Beneficially, such an apparatus may reliably confirm the actual state of a secure area, i.e. whether the secure area is in any way accessible. For example, it may be that although an electronic locking arrangement, such as a high security lock, has been configured in a locked state, a door to which the locking arrangement is configured to secure was not closed at the time of configuring the lock in the locked state. This may result in a breach of the secure area, because conventional systems and apparatuses may have detected that the electronic locking arrangement was locked and assumed the door was closed at the time and locked.
The device may be an access control device according to the first aspect.
Beneficially, the access control device may allow the electronic locking arrangement to be controlled and monitored remotely, or integrated into a network, in a simple and cost-effective manner. Further, installation of the apparatus may be simplified.
The device may be configured to communicate directly with and/or control the electronic locking arrangement.
The device may be integrated into, or attached to, or comprised within a housing with, the electronic locking arrangement.
The device may be configured to communicate directly with at least one access control device according to the first aspect.
Beneficially, by communicating directly with the access control device, it is not necessary for the device to be made over a shared network, such as via a digital switch, router or the like.
The apparatus may comprise an access control device according to the first aspect.
The electronic locking arrangement may be a high security lock.
A high security lock is typically characterised by requiring a digital key or code to lock and/or unlock the lock. Further typical characteristics of a high security lock are high levels of manipulation resistance and destructive resistance. Beneficially, such a lock is electronically controlled, permitting integration with an apparatus or system comprising an electronic access control device.
The electronic locking arrangement may comprise a user interface. The device may comprise a user interface.
The electronic locking arrangement may be configured to communicate wirelessly and/or via an electrically conductive and/or optical connection with an access control device according to the first aspect.
The device may be configured to communicate wirelessly and/or via an electrically conductive and/or optical connection with an access control device according to the first aspect.
The electronic locking arrangement may comprise a wireless communication module, such as a wireless transceiver.
The device may comprise a wireless communication module, such as a wireless transceiver.
The electronic locking arrangement may be configured between the locked and unlocked states in response to a signal received by the wireless communication module. The device may configure the electronic locking arrangement between the locked and unlocked states in response to a signal received by the wireless communication module.
The electronic locking arrangement may only be configured between the locked state or unlocked state in response to, or when in receipt of, a signal, code or digital key, such as an encrypted or authenticated signal, code or key.
Beneficially, the encryption and/or authentication, or any additional authentication or encryption, may be processed in the access control device, which may be disposed remote from the access control apparatus.
The electronic locking arrangement may only be configured between the locked state or unlocked state when electrical power is supplied to the electronic locking arrangement.
The sensor may be a magnetic sensor. The sensor may be an optical sensor. The sensor may be a switch. The sensor may be, comprise, or cooperate with at least one of: a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a pressure sensor, an accelerometer, a MEMs sensors, or the like.
The electronic locking arrangement may be configured to control and/or communicate with and/or receive data or a signal from, the sensor. The device may be configured to control and/or communicate with and/or receive data or a signal from, the sensor.
The state of the level of accessibility to the secure space may correspond to one of: a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in a locked state and the door is in a closed state; a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in a locked state and the door is in an open state; a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in an unlocked state and the door is in a closed state; or a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in an unlocked state and the door is in an open state.
Beneficially, by determining the specific state of the lock and of the door, the accessibility of the secure space can be reliably determined, managed and/or controlled.
The electronic locking arrangement may be configured to provide an indication of the state of the level of accessibility to the secure space. The device may be configured to provide an indication of the state of the level of accessibility to the secure space.
The device and/or the electronic locking arrangement may be powered by a power supply unit, such as a low-voltage DC supply. The device and/or the electronic locking arrangement may be powered directly or indirectly by a mains power supply. The device and/or the electronic locking arrangement may comprise a transformer, rectifier, or other regulation circuitry suitable for converting a supply, such as a mains supply or unregulated supply, to a regulated supply, such as a low-voltage DC supply.
The device and/or the electronic locking arrangement may be battery powered.
The apparatus may be configured to communicate with and/or control a plurality of electronic locking arrangements.
According to a seventh aspect, there is provided an access control apparatus for controlling access to a secure space, the system comprising:
an electronic locking arrangement configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state; and a device operatively associated with the electronic locking arrangement, the device configured to transition the electronic locking arrangement between the locked state when the electronic locking arrangement is supplied with power and provided with a key.
The key may be a digital key.
According to a eighth aspect, there is provided a system comprising the apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect, and/or at least one access control device according to the first aspect.
According to an ninth aspect, there is provided a security installation, the installation comprising the access control system according to the eighth aspect, and a secure space.
According to an tenth aspect, there is provided a method of use of an access control apparatus for controlling access to a secure space, the method comprising the steps of: providing the apparatus of either of the sixth or seventh aspects; and configuring the apparatus to communicate directly with at least one access control device according to the first aspect.
According to an eleventh aspect, there is provided a method of installation of an access control system, the method comprising the steps of: providing the apparatus according to the sixth or seventh aspect; providing at least one access control device according to the first aspect; and configuring the apparatus to communicate directly with the at least one access control device.
According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a high security lock for locking access to a secure space, the lock comprising: an electronic locking arrangement configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state; and a controller operatively associated with the electronic locking arrangement, the controller configured to transition the electronic locking arrangement between the locked and unlocked states in response to a signal received from an access control device according to the first aspect.
It should be understood that the features defined above or below may be utilised, either alone or in combination with any other defined feature, in any other aspect or embodiment or to form a further aspect or embodiment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
These and other aspects will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which:
Figure 1 is a block diagram of an access control device;
Figure 2 is a block diagram of an access control system;
Figure 3 is a further block diagram of the access control system of Figure 4;
Figure 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary installation of an access control system;
Figures 5a-d are block diagrams of an apparatus and system according to the sixth to eighth aspects; and
Figures 6a-d are diagrams representing a state of a level of accessibility to a secure space.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Referring firstly to Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a device 300 for use in an access control system for controlling access to a secure space.
As shown in Figure 1, the device 300 comprises a user interface 310 and a controller 320. In the illustrated device 300, the user interface 310 is a touch screen interface although one of skill in the art will appreciate that the user interface 310 may comprise another type of interface, such as a keypad, a camera, a microphone, a card identification device, a biometric sensor.
The controller 320 is operatively associated with the user interface 310. The controller 320 is configurable via the user interface 310 to manage access to a secure space. In the illustrated device 300, the user interface 310 is connected to the controller 320 by a connecting element 330.
It will be appreciated that the term ‘connected’, and ‘connections’ may refer to a wireless, conductive or optical connection.
The controller 320 comprises a wireless communication module 340. The wireless communication 340 module may be a wireless receiver, wireless transmitter or wireless transceiver.
As shown in Figure 1, the device 300 comprises a housing 360. The user interface 310 and the controller 320 are disposed within the housing 360.
It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made to the access control device without departing from the scope of the invention.
For example, whereas in the device 300 shown in Figure 1 the controller 320 comprises an encryption and/or decryption module 350, one of skill in the art will appreciate that any encryption and/or decryption may be implemented in software instead of by an encryption and/or decryption module, without deviating from the disclosed invention. Similarly, the controller 320 may not comprise any encryption and/or decryption module 350 and may not perform any encryption and/or decryption by software.
Referring now also to Figures 2 and 3 of the accompanying drawings, there is shown an access control system, generally denoted 400.
The access control system 400 comprises a device 410. The device 410 may be identical to or similar to the device 300 described above in relation to Figure 1.
In the illustrated access control system 400 shown in Figures 2 and 3, there is a first access control module 420 associated with a door 440. The device 410 is connected to the first access control module 420 by connection 430. There is also shown a second access control module 450 associated with a repository 460. The device 410 is connected to the second access control module 450 by connection 470. Although the connections 430, 470 are shown by lines in Figure 2, in the illustrated system 400 the device 410 communicates with the access control modules 420, 450 wirelessly. In the access control system 400 shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first access control module 420 is connected to a features associated with the door 440 by a connection 480, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 3. Similarly, the second access control module 450 is connected to a features associated with the repository 460 by a connection 480, as will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 3.
One will appreciate that Figure 2 is an exemplary access control system, and that the device 410 may be connected (wirelessly or otherwise) to further access control modules associated with further doors, repositories, safes, ATMs or other secure spaces
The device 410 is not connected to any computer or any other network other than the direct connections 430, 470 to the access control module 420, 450. That is, the control and management of accesses to a secure space are all handled by the device 410.
Figure 3 shows the features associated with the repository 460 that are controlled by second access control module 450. Figure 3 also shows the features associated with the door 440 that are controlled by first access control module 420.
As shown in Figure 3, the repository 460 comprises a door 510, a door sensor 520 and a high security lock 530. The high security lock 530 comprises a lock sensor 540. The door sensor 520, the high security lock 530 and the lock sensor 540 are connected to the access control module by a connection 550. Although Figure 3 shows connection 550 routed to each of the door sensor 520, the high security lock 530 and the lock sensor 540, it will be appreciated that each of the door sensor 520, the high security lock 530 and the lock sensor 540 may be individually and/or directly connected to the second access control module 450.
As described above with respect to Figure 1, it will be appreciated that the term ‘connected’, and ‘connections’ may refer to a wireless, conductive or optical connection.
In this illustrated system 400, the second access control module 450 takes the form of an end device comprising a keypad.
The door 440 is associated with a door sensor 570, and electric strike 565, a keypad 575, a door release 580 and an emergency door release 590. The door release comprises a halo light 585. The electric strike comprises a lock sensor 560.
Although Figure 3 shows connection 555 routed to each of the door sensor 570, the electric strike 565, the keypad 575, the door release 580, the emergency door release 590, the halo light 585 and the lock sensor 560, one will appreciate that each of the door sensor 570, the electric strike 565, the keypad 575, the door release 580, the emergency door release 590, the halo light 585 and the lock sensor 560 may be individually and/or directly connected to the second access control module 450.
In this exemplary system 400, the second access control module 450 is generally shown as a door controller.
Figure 4 shows a security installation 600, wherein a device 610 is configured to control and manage accesses to access to a secure room 620 (for example a room of a bank) comprising walls 625. The device 610 is identical to or similar to the device 300. Access to the room 620 is provided by an outer door 630, which is openable about hinges 640. The outer door 630 is locked by an electronically actuated locking mechanism 650. The outer door is openable by use of an access code entered into a key pad 660, when the locking mechanism 650 is in an actuatable state (i.e. responsive to user input to the key pad).
Adjacent to the outer door 630, inside the room 620, is an outer door control module 670, comprising an arrangement of magnetic proximity sensors (not shown) operable to detect whether the door is open or closed. The outer door control module
670 further comprises a wireless transceiver 685. The outer door control module is powered by a power supply unit (not shown), for example a 12 V Power Supply unit.
A cash dispenser 680 is located in the room and is of a conventional type; provided with apparatus 690 for dispensing cash to customers outside of the room, from a storage area 695695, inside the cash dispenser. Access to the storage area 695 is provided by a hinged retaining door 615, openable about a hinge 605. The retaining door comprises an electromechanically releasable locking mechanism 645 such as a high security lock. The electromechanically releasable locking mechanism requires a digital key/code to unlock.645645.
The cash dispenser (also known as an ATM) is further provided with a retaining door control module 635 (which comprises a wireless transceiver 655). The retaining door control module 635 is disposed outside the storage area 695. In this exemplary embodiment, the retaining door control module 635 is disposed on the hinged retaining door 615. 695 The retaining door control module is operatively associated with the electromechanically releasable locking mechanism 645.
The outer door control module 670 is in wired communication (not shown) with the electronically actuated lock mechanism 650, and the retaining door control module 635 is in wired communication (not shown) with the electromechanical latch mechanism of the retaining door lock mechanism. As a consequence, the control modules 670, 635 are operable to place each of the locking mechanisms in a secured state, so preventing the doors from being unlocked, and are operable to place each of the locking mechanisms in an actuatable state in which the outer door can be unlocked by use of the key pad, and the retaining door can be unlocked by use of a key.
The control modules 670, 635 are each “ZigBee” modules, and conform to the ZigBee wireless protocol. Each module is also provided with RS232 inputs (or in other embodiments, not shown, RS485 inputs) and capacity to interface with other devices or wired networks. In the exemplary installation 600 shown in Figure 4, device 610 is connected to outer door control module 670 by connection 665. The device 610 is connected to retaining door control module 635 by connection 699. In this way, the device 610 is able to control and manage access to the secure room 620 and the storage area 695.
As described above, it will be appreciated that the term ‘connected’, and ‘connections’ may refer to a wireless, conductive or optical connection. For example, connections 665, 699 are shown for purposes of example only, and may represent wireless communications or conductive or optical connections.
Referring now to Figures 5a to 5d of the accompanying drawings, there is shown apparatus 700a-d, providing examples of different topologies of apparatuses for controlling access to a secure space.
As shown in Figure 5a, the apparatus 700a shows a door 705a. The door 705a is a door for a secure area. The apparatus 700a comprises a sensor 710a. The sensor 710a is sensor for determining an open or closed state of the door 710a.
In the embodiment shown in Figure 5a, the sensor 710a is a magnetic sensor. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the sensor 710a may be of another type suitable for indicating the status of a door, such as an optical sensor, a switch, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a pressure sensor, an accelerometer, a MEMs sensor, or the like.
The apparatus 700a comprises an electronic locking arrangement 715a. The electronic locking arrangement 715a is a high security lock. The electronic locking arrangement 715a is operatively connected to a device 720a.
The electronic locking arrangement 715a requires a digital code/key to be configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state.
In one embodiment, a user interface such as a key pad, is integrated with, or forms part of the electronic locking arrangement 715a. In another embodiment, the user interface for inputting the key/code is integrated with, or forms part of, the device 720a. In yet another embodiment, a separate module associated with the electronic locking arrangement 715a (not shown) is provided for inputting a key-code.
In the illustrated apparatus 700a shown in Figure 5a, the sensor 710a is coupled to the electronic locking arrangement 715a. The sensor provides a signal that indicates the open or closed state of a door to the electronic locking arrangement 715a.
The electronic locking arrangement 715a is operatively associated with the device 720a. The device 720a is configured to monitor or determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space based in part on a status of the electronic locking arrangement 715a. The status of the electronic locking arrangement 715a may be locked or unlocked. The device 720a is configured to monitor or determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space based in part on the signal from the sensor 710. In one embodiment, a signal representative of the signal may be relayed to the device 720a by the electronic locking arrangement 715a. In another embodiment, a signal representative of the signal may be processed or used by the device 720a, to determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space.
The device 720a communicates with an access control device 725a. The access control device is an access control device according to the first aspect.
As described above, it will be appreciated that the term ‘connected’, and ‘connections’ may refer to a wireless, conductive or optical connection. Communication between the access control device 725a and the device 720a is wireless. However, one will appreciate that in other embodiments, communication between the access control device 725a and the device 720a may be over a conductive or optical connection.
The apparatus 700b shows a door 705b. The door 705b is a door for a secure area. The apparatus 700b comprises a sensor 710b. The sensor 710b is sensor for determining an open or closed state of the door 710b. The apparatus 700b comprises an electronic locking arrangement 715b. The electronic locking arrangement 715b is a high security lock. The electronic locking arrangement 715b is operatively connected to a device 720b. The electronic locking arrangement 715b requires a digital code/key to be configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state. In one embodiment, a user interface such as a key pad, is integrated with, or forms part of the electronic locking arrangement 715b. In another embodiment, the user interface for inputting the key/code is integrated with, or forms part of, the device 720b. In yet another embodiment, a separate module associated with the electronic locking arrangement 715b (not shown) is provided for inputting a key-code.
In the illustrated apparatus 700b shown in Figure 5b, the sensor 710b is coupled to the device 720b. The sensor provides a signal that indicates the open or closed state of a door to the device 720b. The electronic locking arrangement 715b is operatively associated with the device 720b. The device 720b is configured to monitor or determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space based in part on a status of the electronic locking arrangement 715b. The status of the electronic locking arrangement 715b may be locked or unlocked. The device 720b is configured to monitor or determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space based in part on the signal from the sensor 710b.
The device 720b communicates with an access control device 725b. Communication between the access control device 725b and the device 720b is wireless. However, one will appreciate that in other embodiments, communication between the access control device 725b and the device 720b may be over a conductive or optical connection.
The apparatus 700c has the same arrangement of door 705c, sensor 710c and electronic locking arrangement 715c as the apparatus 700a of Figure 5a. In the apparatus 700c shown in Figure 5c, the electronic locking arrangement 715c is operatively associated with an access control device 725c. The access control device 725c is an access control device according to the first aspect. The electronic locking arrangement 715c requires a digital code/key to be configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state. In one embodiment, a user interface such as a key pad, is integrated with, or forms part of the electronic locking arrangement 715c. In another embodiment, the user interface for inputting the key/code is integrated with, or forms part of, the access control module 725c. In yet another embodiment, a separate module associated with the electronic locking arrangement 715c (not shown) is provided for inputting a key-code.
In the apparatus 700c of Figure 5c, the sensor 710c is shown communicating with, i.e providing a single to, the access control device 725c. In other embodiments, the sensor 710c is directly coupled to the electronic locking arrangement 715c as shown, for example, in the embodiment of Figure 5a.
The apparatus 700d is, in effect, a combination of the apparatus 700a of Figure 5a and the apparatus 700b of Figure 5b. The apparatus 700d exemplifies that a plurality of apparatuses can be monitored and/or controlled and/or managed by a single access control device 725d. That is, a single access control device 725d is used for controlling and managing access to a plurality of secure spaces. One will appreciate that, although Figure 5d shows a single access control device 725d controlling and access to two secure spaces, the single access control device 725d may be configured to manage and control access to more than two secure spaces.
Referring now to Figures 6a to 6d of the accompanying drawings, there is shown a series of diagrams of a state of a level of accessibility to a secure space. Figure 6a shows a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in an unlocked state and the door is an open state. This is a typical state when access to the secure area is to be permitted.
Figure 6b shows a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in a locked state and the door is an open state. In this state, a conventional access control system may erroneously determine that the secure area is secured.
Figure 6c shows a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in a locked state and the door is a closed state. This is a typical state when access to the secure area is prohibited, that is the area is secured.
Figure 6d shows a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement is in an unlocked state and the door is a closed state. This is a typical state when a conventional access control system may erroneously determine that the secure area is secured.
As described above, various modifications may be made to the access control device, system and methods described above without departing from the scope of the invention.
Claims (51)
1. An access control device for use in an access control system for controlling access to a secure space, the device comprising:
a user interface; and a controller operatively associated with the user interface, the controller configurable via the user interface to manage access to the secure space, wherein the controller is configured to communicate directly with one or more access control modules of the access control system for controlling access to the secure space.
2. The access control device according to claim 1, wherein the user interface comprises at least one of: a touch screen interface, a keypad, a keyboard, a camera, a microphone, a card identification device and/or a biometric sensor.
3. The access control device according to claim 1 or 2, comprising or configured to implement a Graphical User Interface (GUI), and optionally wherein the GUI is integrated into, or displayed on, the user interface.
4. The access control device according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the controller is configured to communicate directly with a plurality of access control modules.
5. The access control device according to any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to communicate wirelessly and/or via an electrically conductive and/or optical connection with the/each access control module.
6. The access control device according to any preceding claim, wherein the controller comprises a wireless communication module, such as a wireless transceiver.
7. The access control device according to any preceding claim, wherein the wireless communication module is configured to operate as a node of, or form a part of, a network, such as a mesh network, with the/each access control module.
8. The access control device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured to encrypt and/or decrypt data, such as data for direct communication with an access control module.
9. The access control device according to any preceding claim, comprising a housing, wherein the user interface and the controller are disposed within the housing.
10. An access control system, the access control system comprising the device of any one of claims 1 to 9, and at least one access control module.
11. The access control system according to claim 10, wherein the at least one access control module comprises a wireless communication module, such as a wireless transceiver.
12. The access control system according to claim 11, wherein the wireless communication module is configured to form a network, such as a mesh network, with the/each access control module and/or the device.
13. The access control system according to claim 10, 11 or 12, wherein the access control module is, or comprises, a further controller, such as a door controller, an interlock controller.
14. The access control system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the access control module comprises a further user interface.
15. The access control system according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the/each access control module is configured to control and/or communicate with and/or receive data or a signal from at least one of: a door sensor, a locking apparatus, an interlock apparatus, a lock sensor, an electric strike, a keypad, a door release, a light, an emergency door release.
16. The access control system according to any of claims 10 to 15, wherein the device is configured to allowone or more access control devices to be added to, removed from or substituted in, the access control system.
17. A security installation, the installation comprising the access control system of any of claims 10 to 16 and a secure space.
18. The security installation of claim 17, wherein the secure space is an asset or device, such as a safe, secure retainer, repository, ATM, vault, or other enclosed space.
19. A method of use of an access control device for use in an access control system, the method comprising the steps of:
providing the access control device of any of claims 1 to 9;
configuring the access control device to communicate directly with at least one access control module.
20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the step of configuring the device to communicate directly with at least one access control module comprises configuring the controller via the user interface to manage access to the secure space
21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the step of configuring the device to communicate directly with at least one access control module comprises configuring the controller to control access to the secure space.
22. The method according to any of claims 19 to 21, wherein the management of accesses comprises determining and/or controlling access rights, such as predetermined and/or scheduled or dynamic access rights, of at least one user, operator, vehicle or equipment.
23. The method according to any of claims 19 to 22, wherein the management of accesses comprises monitoring and/or logging accesses by at least one user, operator, vehicle or equipment to at least one asset or device, such as a safe, secure retainer, repository, ATM, vault, door, interlock apparatus or zone.
24. The method according any of claims 19 to 23, wherein controlling access to the secure space comprises configuring at least one of a locking apparatus, an interlock apparatus, an electric strike, a door release, an emergency door release.
25. The method according any of claims 19 to 24, wherein controlling access to the secure space comprises determining a status of at least one of a locking apparatus, an interlock apparatus, an electric strike, a door release, an emergency door release, a disposition of a door.
26. A method of installation of an access control system, the method comprising the steps of:
providing the access control device of any of claim 1 to 9;
providing at least one access control module;
configuring the access control device to communicate directly with the at least one access control module.
27. An access control apparatus for controlling access to a secure space, the apparatus comprising:
a sensor for determining an open or closed state of a door;
an electronic locking arrangement configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state; and a device operatively associated with the electronic locking arrangement, the device configured to monitor or determine a state of a level of accessibility to the secure space based on a signal from the sensor and a status of the electronic locking arrangement.
28. The access control apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the device is an access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
29. The access control apparatus according claim 27 or 28, wherein the device is configured to control the electronic locking arrangement.
30. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 29, wherein the device is configured to communicate directly with at least one access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
31. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 30, wherein the apparatus comprises an access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
32. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 31, wherein the electronic locking arrangement is a high security lock.
33. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 32, wherein the electronic locking arrangement and/or the device comprises a user interface.
34. The device according to any of claims 27 to 33, wherein the electronic locking arrangement and/or the device is configured to communicate wirelessly and/or via an electrically conductive and/or optical connection with an access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
35. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 34, wherein the electronic locking arrangement and/or the device comprises a wireless communication module, such as a wireless transceiver.
36. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 35, wherein the electronic locking arrangement can be configured between the locked and unlocked states in response to a signal received by the wireless communication module.
37. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 36, wherein the device configures the electronic locking arrangement between the locked and unlocked states in response to a signal received by the wireless communication module.
38. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 37 to 37, wherein the electronic locking arrangement can only be configured between the locked state or unlocked state in response to, or when in receipt of, a signal, code or digital key, such as an encrypted or authenticated signal, code or key.
39. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 38, wherein the electronic locking arrangement can only be configured between the locked state or unlocked state when electrical power is supplied to the electronic locking arrangement.
40. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 39, wherein the sensor is a magnetic sensor.
41. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 40, wherein the electronic locking arrangement and/or the device is configured to control and/or communicate with and/or receive data or a signal from, the sensor.
42. The access control apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 41, wherein the state of the level of accessibility to the secure space corresponds to one of:
a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement being in a locked state and the door being in a closed state;
a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement being in a locked state and the door being in an open state;
a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement being in an unlocked state and the door being in a closed state; or a state wherein the electronic locking arrangement being in an unlocked state and the door being in an open state.
43. The access control apparatus according to claim 42, wherein the electronic locking arrangement and/or the device is configured to provide an indication of the state of the level of accessibility to the secure space.
44. The apparatus according to any of claims 27 to 43, wherein the apparatus is configured to communicate with and/or control a plurality of electronic locking arrangements.
45. An access control apparatus for controlling access to a secure space, the system comprising:
an electronic locking arrangement configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state; and a device operatively associated with the electronic locking arrangement, the device configured to transition the electronic locking arrangement between the locked state when the electronic locking arrangement is supplied with power and provided with a key.
46. The access control apparatus of claim 45, wherein the key is a digital key.
47. An access control system, the system comprising the apparatus of any of claims 27 to 46, and at least one access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
48. A security installation, the installation comprising the access control system of claim 47 and a secure space.
49. A method of use of an access control apparatus for controlling access to a secure space, the method comprising the steps of:
providing the apparatus of any of claims 27 to 46;
configuring the apparatus to communicate directly with at least one access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
50. A method of installation of an access control system, the method comprising the steps of:
providing the apparatus of any of claim 27 to 46;
providing at least one access control device of any of claim 1 to 9; configuring the apparatus to communicate directly with the at least one access control device.
51. A high security lock for locking access to a secure space, the lock comprising:
an electronic locking arrangement configurable between a locked state and an unlocked state; and a controller operatively associated with the electronic locking arrangement, the controller configured to transition the electronic locking arrangement between the locked and unlocked states in response to a signal received from an access control device according to any of claims 1 to 9.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1809874.9A GB2574675A (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Access control device, system and methods |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1809874.9A GB2574675A (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Access control device, system and methods |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| GB201809874D0 GB201809874D0 (en) | 2018-08-01 |
| GB2574675A true GB2574675A (en) | 2019-12-18 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1809874.9A Withdrawn GB2574675A (en) | 2018-06-15 | 2018-06-15 | Access control device, system and methods |
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| Country | Link |
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| GB (1) | GB2574675A (en) |
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| FR2661446A1 (en) * | 1990-04-27 | 1991-10-31 | Pieddeloup Georges | Mechanical lock selected, programmed, and controlled remotely by means of access management devices, with the standard, optical-code keys which are intended for it |
| US6064316A (en) * | 1994-03-30 | 2000-05-16 | Dallas Semiconductor Corporation | Electrical/mechanical access control systems and methods |
| US20040003257A1 (en) * | 2002-06-26 | 2004-01-01 | Mitchell Ernst Kern | Network accessible and controllable security system for a multiple of electronic door locks within a multi-room facility |
| WO2010106474A1 (en) * | 2009-03-19 | 2010-09-23 | Honeywell International Inc. | Systems and methods for managing access control devices |
| US20140135980A1 (en) * | 2012-11-15 | 2014-05-15 | Alfonso Barragan | Protected Communications Vending Machine System |
| US20170243416A1 (en) * | 2016-02-19 | 2017-08-24 | Taiwan Fu Hsing Industrial Co., Ltd. | Door access management method and door access management system |
| CN107341881A (en) * | 2017-06-28 | 2017-11-10 | 林海 | A kind of method of gate control system control apparatus |
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2018
- 2018-06-15 GB GB1809874.9A patent/GB2574675A/en not_active Withdrawn
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2661446A1 (en) * | 1990-04-27 | 1991-10-31 | Pieddeloup Georges | Mechanical lock selected, programmed, and controlled remotely by means of access management devices, with the standard, optical-code keys which are intended for it |
| US6064316A (en) * | 1994-03-30 | 2000-05-16 | Dallas Semiconductor Corporation | Electrical/mechanical access control systems and methods |
| US20040003257A1 (en) * | 2002-06-26 | 2004-01-01 | Mitchell Ernst Kern | Network accessible and controllable security system for a multiple of electronic door locks within a multi-room facility |
| WO2010106474A1 (en) * | 2009-03-19 | 2010-09-23 | Honeywell International Inc. | Systems and methods for managing access control devices |
| US20140135980A1 (en) * | 2012-11-15 | 2014-05-15 | Alfonso Barragan | Protected Communications Vending Machine System |
| US20170243416A1 (en) * | 2016-02-19 | 2017-08-24 | Taiwan Fu Hsing Industrial Co., Ltd. | Door access management method and door access management system |
| CN107341881A (en) * | 2017-06-28 | 2017-11-10 | 林海 | A kind of method of gate control system control apparatus |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB201809874D0 (en) | 2018-08-01 |
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