System and method for accessing a structure using directional antennas and a wireless token

摘要

A wireless device access system that employs directional antennas for short-range wireless communication to detect the proximity and orientation of a user device with respect to a structure is disclosed. The access system receives and authenticates an unlock request and confirms the proximity and orientation of the user device prior to transmitting an unlock command to the structure. This authentication may occur through the use of substantially opposing directional antennas separated by a ground plane. Additionally, the wireless device may require the proximity of a user token prior to operation and/or the access system may include an override within the structure blocking any unlock command.

主权项

1. An access system allowing a user to access an enclosed area using a wireless user device, the access system comprising:
a database storing access permissions identifying at least one wireless user device authorized to access said enclosed area; a mechanical locking device securing a point of entry to said enclosed area, said locking device operably connected to at least one short-range wireless receiver suitable for receiving an unlock request from said wireless user device and subsequently responding by granting access through said point of entry when said unlock request is authorized using said database,
wherein said at least one short-range wireless receiver includes a first and second directional antenna which are mounted to said point of entry, are separated by at least one ground plane, and are oriented such that the centers of their fields of reception are offset by an angle of at least 130 degrees, andwherein said authorizing requires a comparison of the received signal strength indicator of said first directional antenna to that of said second directional antenna.