Systems and methods for programming an RFID reader

Various embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for performing RFID reader updates. As an example, systems are described that include a server, an RFID reader, and a portable update device. The server is operable to provide an RFID reader update via a communication network. The RFID reader has an nfc interface. The portable update device is operable to receive the RFID reader update via the communication network, and to transfer the RFID reader update to the RFID reader via the nfc interface.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to radio frequency identification (RFID) readers, and more particularly, to systems and methods for updating an RFID reader using a mobile credential.

RFID readers are capable of reading a credential presented within a defined proximity of the RFID reader. Such a credential read may be used as the basis of, for example, allowing access or another operation requiring identification. In many cases it is not possible to modify an installed RFID reader, while in other cases, any modification is both costly and time consuming. Such modifications may require, for example, physically opening the RFID reader and replacing an internal read only memory maintaining firmware instructions. As another example, updating an RFID reader may include replacing a current RFID reader with a new model. While these approaches provide an ability to update or upgrade a currently installed RFID reader, they are often unacceptably cumbersome and costly.

Hence, for at least the aforementioned reasons, there exists a need in the art for advanced systems and methods for updating RFID readers.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to radio frequency identification (RFID) readers, and more particularly, to systems and methods for updating an RFID reader using a mobile credential.

Various embodiments of the present invention provide portable update devices. Such portable update devices include a cellular telephone interface, a processor, an nfc interface, and a memory. The memory includes instructions executable by the processor to: store an RFID reader update received via the cellular telephone interface to the memory, receive an indication from the nfc interface indicating that it is receiving communications from an RFID reader, access the RFID reader update from the memory, and transfer the RFID reader update to the RFID reader via the nfc interface. In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the nfc interface operates at 13.56 MHz and the memory is a non-volatile memory.

Other embodiments of the present invention provide methods for updating an RFID reader. Such methods include transferring an RFID reader update to a portable update device via a wireless communication link. The portable update device is moved within proximity of the RFID reader that detects the presence of the portable update device. The RFID reader update is transferred to the RFID reader. The RFID reader update modifies operation of the RFID reader. In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the RFID reader update causes a change in an authorization code of the RFID reader. As such, a different set of credentials are authorized to the RFID reader. As some examples, the RFID reader may be used to authorize access via an access point or as part of a point of sale device.

In particular instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the portable update device is a cellular telephone that supports near field communication. In some such instances, the near field communication are used to transfer the RFID reader update to the RFID reader using a programming frequency and protocol recognized by the RFID reader.

Where the RFID reader is operable to authorize access via the access point when an appropriate credential is brought within proximity of the RFID reader, the RFID reader update may render the credential unauthorized. In other cases, the RFID reader update renders the credential authorized. In yet other cases, the RFID reader update renders the RFID reader able to receive information from a credential at a new frequency.

Yet other embodiments of the present invention provide RFID reader update systems. Such systems include a server, an RFID reader, and a portable update device. The server is operable to provide an RFID reader update via a communication network. The RFID reader has an nfc interface. The portable update device is operable to receive the RFID reader update via the communication network, and to transfer the RFID reader update to the RFID reader via the nfc interface. In particular instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the nfc interface operates at 13.56 MHz. In some instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the portable update device is a cellular telephone, and wherein the RFID reader update is received via the communication network via a cellular telephone interface. In some cases, the RFID reader is implemented as part of a point of sale device, while in other cases, the RFID reader is used to control access to a location.

In various instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the RFID reader update causes a change in an authorization code of the RFID reader. In some cases, the RFID reader is associated with an access point. In such cases, by authorizing a credential to the RFID reader the access point is opened. In various instances of the aforementioned embodiments, the RFID reader includes a processor. In such instances, the RFID reader update may include instructions executable by the processor to modify the function performed by the RFID reader. In a particular case, the portable update device transmits authorization information at a first frequency, and the RFID reader is operable to receive authorization information at a second frequency. The RFID reader update renders the RFID reader able to receive authorization information at the first frequency.

This summary provides only a general outline of some embodiments according to the present invention. Many other objects, features, advantages and other embodiments of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is related to radio frequency identification (RFID) readers, and more particularly, to systems and methods for updating an RFID reader using a mobile credential.

Some embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for updating an RFID reader. As used herein, the phrase “RFID reader” is used in its broadest sense to mean any device that is capable wireless interaction with a credential, and upon recognizing or authorizing the credential, a particular function is implemented. Such a function may be, but is not limited to, performing a payment or value transfer from an individual associated with the credential or allowing access via an access point associated with the RFID reader. The performed function and/or access to the performed function may be modified by providing an RFID reader update to the RFID reader. As used herein, the phrase “RFID reader update” is used in its broadest sense to mean any modification that operates to change the functionality of the RFID reader. As just one example, an RFID reader update may be a set of firmware or software instructions written to the memory of the RFID reader that cause a change in functionality of the RFID reader. The change in functionality may be, but is not limited to, a change in authorization codes accepted by the RFID reader or a change in the function of the RFID reader upon successfully authorizing a credential. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of RFID reader updates that may be used in relation to different embodiments of the present invention.

As used herein, the term “credential” is used in its broadest sense to mean any portable device that includes information useful in completing an access and/or transaction. Thus, for example, a credential may be a smart card with information allowing a user of the credential to pass through an access point. Such credentials may be, but are not limited to, access control cards, smart cards, cellular telephones, personal digital assistants, and/or the like. Such credentials may be capable of communicating via a wireless communication interface. The wireless communication interface may be, but is not limited to, a radio frequency interface, an optical interface, or the like. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of credentials and mechanisms for facilitating communication with RFID readers that may be used in relation to different embodiments of the present invention.

As an example, a method for updating an RFID reader is disclosed that includes transferring an RFID reader update to a portable update device via a wireless communication link. The portable update device is moved within proximity of the RFID reader that detects the presence of the portable update device. The RFID reader update is transferred to the RFID reader. The RFID reader update modifies operation of the RFID reader. As used herein, the phrase “portable update device” is used in its broadest sense to mean any portable device that is capable of interacting with an RFID reader. As defined herein, credentials may be used as portable update devices. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of portable update devices that may be used in relation to different embodiments of the present invention.

In some cases, the portable update device is a cellular telephone that supports near field communication. In some such instances, the near field communication is used to transfer the RFID reader update to the RFID reader using a programming frequency and protocol recognized by the RFID reader. As used herein, the phrase “near field communication” or “nfc” (without capitalized letters) is used in its broadest sense to mean any wireless communication protocol that allows for two devices disposed close together to transfer information. As just one example, near field communication may be Near Field Communication or NFC (with capitalized letters). Such Near Field Communication may be, for example, compliant with either Near Field Communication Interface and Protocol-1 (ISO/IEC 18092/ECMA-340) or Protocol-2 (ISO/IEC 21481/ECMA-352). As specified, Near Field Communication operates at 13.56 MHz and transfers data at up to 424 Kbits/second. Near Field Communication provides the ability to both read and write between devices that are within ten centimeters of each other. The data transfer is effectuated via magnetic field induction where two loop antennas are located within one another's near field, effectively forming an air-core transformer. Near Field Communication commonly operates in either a passive communication mode or an active communication mode. In the passive communication mode, the initiating device provides a carrier field and the target device answers by modulating existing field. In this mode, the target device may draw its operating power from an electromagnetic field provided by the initiating device, thus eliminating the need for an internal power supply. In the active communication mode, both the initiating device and the target device communicate by alternately generating their own electromagnetic field. A receiving device deactivates its RF field while it is waiting for data from the other device. In this mode, both devices would typically have some access to a power source independent of the other device. As another example, near field communication may be a communication protocol consistent with the ISO 14443 proximity-card standard. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of near field communication protocols, techniques and/or frequencies that may be used in relation to different embodiments of the present invention.

Turning toFIG. 1a, a block diagram of a cellular telephone100is shown. Cellular telephone100includes a cellular telephone interface114, a processor116, a web browser application118, an RFID reader update application120, and an nfc interface122. Cellular telephone interface114is capable of receiving and transmitting information via a cellular telephone link. Cellular telephone interface114may be any cellular telephone interface known in the art. Any received information is provided to a processor116. Similarly, processor116provides information that is to be transmitted to cellular telephone interface114. Processor116may be any device capable of executing software or firmware instructions to cause cellular telephone100to perform defined functions. A memory112is included that is capable of storing information that is to be used by cellular telephone100. In some cases, memory112stores software or firmware instructions executable by processor116to perform defined functions. Memory112may be any device capable of storing data. For example, memory may be an SRAM, a DRAM, a Flash DRAM, an EPROM, EEPROM, and/or the like. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of memory types and/or combinations thereof that may be used to implement memory112. Web browser application118allows for searching the Internet via cellular telephone interface114as is known in the art.

RFID reader update application120is capable of providing an RFID reader update in a format that nfc interface122is capable of transmitting to an RFID reader via a near field communication link. In general, the RFID reader update includes a first set of instructions operable to uniquely identify the particular RFID reader that is to be updated. A second set of instructions are included that are operable to cause an RFID reader to write subsequent information to a defined location in the memory of the RFID reader. The RFID reader update also includes subsequent data that, in accordance with the preceding write instructions, is written to the defined location in the RFID reader memory. This subsequent information may be either data or firmware instructions designed to modify operation of the RFID reader. The subsequent data may include, for example, replacement or additional authorization codes. As another example, the subsequent data may include firmware instructions causing the RFID reader to perform communications with presented credentials at additional frequencies. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of data and/or firmware instructions that may be prepared for writing by RFID reader update application120. The RFID reader update may also include a final set of instructions closing off communication. The nfc interface122may be any interface known in the art that is capable of carrying out near field communications with an RFID reader.

In operation, cellular telephone100receives an RFID reader update via cellular telephone interface114. Processor116stores the RFID reader update to memory112. When cellular telephone100is brought within proximity of an RFID reader, attempts to communicate with the RFID reader is performed via nfc interface122. Once nfc communications are established with the RFID reader, the RFID reader update application120requests identification information from the RFID reader. Where the identification information corresponds to the RFID reader update to be programmed, the RFID reader update is pulled from memory112by RFID reader update application120and transmitted to the RFID reader via nfc interface122.

Turning toFIG. 1b, an RFID reader150including a cellular telephone interface178is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. In particular, RFID reader150includes an RFID interface172, a processor174, firmware memory176, and an RFID reader function180. Cellular telephone interface178may be any cellular telephone interface known in the art that provides at least for receiving information via a cellular network. RFID interface172may be any interface known in the art that allows for receiving wireless communications at an RFID reader. RFID reader function180is a control circuit that effectuates the function that is to be performed by RFID reader150. Thus, for example, where RFID reader150is used to authorize access via an access point such as a physical doorway, RFID reader function180provides an electronic unlock signal to a lock controlling access via the doorway when an authorized credential is brought within proximity of the RFID reader. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of functions that may be implemented by RFID reader function180. Firmware memory176stores instructions executable by processor174. Firmware memory176may be any device capable of storing data. For example, memory may be an SRAM, a DRAM, a Flash DRAM, an EPROM, EEPROM, and/or the like. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of memory types and/or combinations thereof that may be used to implement memory176.

Turning toFIG. 2, an RFID reader update system200is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. RFID reader update system200includes a cellular telephone200that is communicably coupled to a server250via a communication network240. In one implementation, communication network240includes a cellular telephone network. Server250provides a remote control that is capable of uploading information to cellular telephone200. This uploaded information may then be downloaded to an RFID reader270once cellular telephone200is brought within a communicable proximity of RFID reader270. RFID reader270includes an RFID interface272, a processor274and firmware memory276. RFID device270operates similar to that described in relation to RFID reader150, except that there is no cellular telephone interface.

In operation, a command to update RFID reader270along with an RFID reader update is sent from server250to cellular telephone200via communication network240. In some cases, the command to update RFID reader270is sent as a text message to cellular telephone200that may include, for example, instructions on where the target RFID reader(s) is located. In addition to the text message, an RFID reader update is sent to cellular telephone200. In yet other cases, web browser application118of cellular telephone200may be used to request an RFID reader update from server250. The received RFID reader update is directed by processor116to memory112. Cellular telephone200is then moved within proximity of RFID reader270. When cellular telephone200is within communicable proximity of RFID reader270, RFID reader270and cellular telephone200begin a communication session using nfc interface122as is known in the art. The nfc interface122indicates the ongoing communication session to RFID reader update application120, and in response, RFID reader update application120accesses the previously received RFID reader update from memory112and provides the RFID reader update to RFID reader270via nfc interface122. As an example, the RFID reader update may include, but is not limited to, a first set of instructions that are operable to cause an RFID reader to write subsequent information to a defined location in the memory of the RFID reader. The RFID reader update also includes subsequent data that, in accordance with the preceding write instructions, is written to the defined location in the RFID reader memory. This subsequent information may be either data or firmware instructions designed to modify operation of the RFID reader. The RFID reader update finishes with a set of instructions closing off communication. Upon writing the RFID reader update to RFID reader270, the operation of RFID reader270is changed to conform to the update.

Turning toFIG. 3, an RFID reader update system300facilitating direct RFID reader updating using a cellular telephone link is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. RFID reader update system300includes a server350that is communicably coupled to one or more RFID readers370via a communication network340. Similar to RFID reader150, RFID readers370each include a cellular telephone interface178capable of receiving cellular telephone communications via communication network340. Each of RFID readers370is further capable of authorizing one or more credentials305via RFID reader interface172that are brought within communicable proximity of the particular RFID reader370.

In operation, an RFID reader update is sent from server350to a selected one of RFID readers370or to a group of RFID readers370via cellular telephone interfaces178that are included in each of the readers. The RFID reader update may include, for example, instructions on where in firmware memory176to write the update and the actual update. Once received, via cellular telephone interface178, the RFID reader update is passed to processor174. In turn, processor174writes the received RFID update the appropriate memory locations in firmware memory176. Upon writing the RFID reader update to RFID reader(s)370, the operation of RFID reader(s)370is changed to conform to the update.

Turning toFIG. 4, an RFID reader update system400for facilitating direct RFID reader updating using an ultra wideband link is shown in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. As shown, RFID reader update system400includes a server450that is communicably coupled to one or more RFID readers460via an ultra wideband hub420. Ultra wideband hub420is capable of communicating with RFID reader460, along with various other ultra wideband devices440. Ultra wideband hub420includes an ultra wideband transmitter430that transmits various information to one or more devices capable of ultra wideband communications. As noted above, one of the devices is RFID reader460that includes an ultra wideband capable RFID interface462. In some cases, RFID interface462is capable of receiving standard RFID communications along with ultra wideband communications using the same circuitry. RFID reader460further includes a processor464, a firmware memory466, and an RFID function480. RFID function480is a control circuit that effectuates the function that is to be performed by RFID reader460. Thus, for example, where RFID reader460is used to authorize access via a physical doorway, RFID reader function480provides an electronic unlock signal to a lock controlling access via the doorway when an authorized credential is brought within proximity of the RFID reader. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of functions that may be implemented by RFID reader function480.

In operation, an RFID reader update is sent from server450to RFID reader460via ultra wideband hub420. The ultra wideband communication including the RFID reader update is received by ultra wideband capable RFID interface462and passed to processor464. The RFID reader update may include, for example, instructions on where in firmware memory176to write the update and the actual update. Processor464writes the update to the appropriate location in firmware memory466. Upon writing the RFID reader update to RFID reader460, the operation of RFID reader460is changed to conform to the update.

Turning toFIG. 5, a flow diagram500depicts a method in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention for performing an RFID reader update. Following flow diagram500, it is determined whether an RFID reader update is available (block505). This may include, for example, identifying a new RFID reader update in a server supporting the update system. In some cases, determining that a new RFID reader update is available includes modifying an existing RFID reader program and identifying the program as an update. In various cases, identifying a new update may be initiated remotely by a technician using a cellular telephone to request a new update. It is then determined whether a direct update capability exists (block510). Direct update capability provides an ability to communicate directly with an RFID reader via a communication network. Such direct update capability may be, for example, facilitated by a cellular telephone interface integrated into the RFID reader that is to be updated. As another example, direct updates may be facilitated by ultra wideband communication. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of direct update approaches that may be used in relation to different embodiments of the present invention.

Where direct update capability exists (block510), the RFID reader update is transferred to the identified RFID reader via the direct update interface (block520). The transferred RFID reader update may include an initial set of instructions that are operable to cause an RFID reader to write subsequent information to a defined location in the memory of the RFID reader. The RFID reader update also includes subsequent data that, in accordance with the preceding write instructions, is written to the defined location in the RFID reader memory. This subsequent information may be either data or firmware instructions designed to modify operation of the RFID reader. The subsequent data may include, for example, replacement or additional authorization codes. As another example, the subsequent data may include firmware instructions causing the RFID reader to perform communications with presented credentials at additional frequencies. The RFID reader update may also include a final set of instructions closing off communication. Once the RFID reader update is transferred, the functionality of the receiving RFID reader is modified in accordance with the update.

Alternatively, where direct update capability does not exist (block510), a portable update device is selected to perform the update (block515). This may include, for example, selecting the cellular telephone of a technician in the general area of the RFID reader that is to be updated. As another example, where a request for an update is received from a technician, the cellular telephone of the technician may be chosen to perform the update. Once the portable update device is identified, the RFID reader update is transferred to the identified portable update device (block540). This may include, for example, providing the RFID reader update to an identified cellular telephone via a cell communication link. The RFID reader update may indicate a particular RFID reader or class of RFID readers to which the RFID reader update is to be applied. In addition, a text message may be sent to the portable update device providing instructions for uploading the RFID reader update to an RFID reader. The portable update device is then moved within communicable distance of an RFID reader (block525). By bringing the portable update device within communicable distance, an nfc communication is initiated between the portable update device and the RFID reader.

With communications with the RFID reader established, the portable update device pulls the previously received RFID reader update from memory and transfers it to the RFID reader (block530). The transferred RFID reader update may include an initial set of instructions that are operable to cause an RFID reader to write subsequent information to a defined location in the memory of the RFID reader. The RFID reader update also includes subsequent data that, in accordance with the preceding write instructions, is written to the defined location in the RFID reader memory. This subsequent information may be either data or firmware instructions designed to modify operation of the RFID reader. The subsequent data may include, for example, replacement or additional authorization codes. As another example, the subsequent data may include firmware instructions causing the RFID reader to perform communications with presented credentials at additional frequencies. The RFID reader update may also include a final set of instructions closing off communication. Once the RFID reader update is transferred, the functionality of the receiving RFID reader is modified in accordance with the update.

Turning toFIG. 6, a credential update system600is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Credential update system600includes one or more cellular telephones600that are each communicably coupled to a server650via a communication network640. In one implementation, communication network640includes a cellular telephone network. Server650is capable of processing requests to upload new or modified authorization codes to cellular telephone(s)600. In some cases, server650may be used to modify access codes to many cellular telephones600as part of upgrading an access control system, or of providing an authorization code to a newly authorized credential or of modifying the authorization codes maintained by a currently authorized credential. The uploaded authorization codes are received from server650via cellular telephone interface114. Cellular telephone interface114provides the received authorization code(s) to processor116that stores the received information to memory112. When cellular telephone600is brought within communicable distance of an RFID reader670, an nfc communication is initiated using nfc interface122. Once initiated, nfc interface122requests authorization information from an RFID reader authorization application620. RFID reader authorization application620pulls the uploaded authorization information from memory112, and provides the authorization information to nfc interface122. The authorization information is then provided to RFID interface272via the nfc communication channel. Where the authorization is recognized by RFID reader670, the function of RFID reader670is triggered. Thus, for example, where RFID reader670is associated with a doorway, once the authorization is accepted, the door is opened. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of RFID functions that may be performed by RFID reader670.

FIG. 7is a flow diagram700showing a method in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention for remotely updating credentials. Following flow diagram700, it is determined whether a request is received to authorize access via a new credential (block705). Such a request may be entered, for example, via a server supporting a credential update system. Entry into the server may be done directly on the server, or remotely by calling in from a cellular telephone or via the Internet. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of approaches that may be used for requesting new credential access. Where a request to authorize access via a new credential is received (block705), access information for the new credential is identified (block715). This access information may be, for example, included in the received request. As one example, where the credential is embodied in a cellular telephone, the access information may include the telephone number for the cellular telephone. Once the access information is identified (block715), an authorization code(s) corresponding the requested access authorization is transferred to the credential (block720). Where, for example, the credential is a cellular telephone, the authorization code(s) is received via the cell interface of the cellular telephone and stored to the memory of the cellular telephone. At this juncture, the credential is capable of authorizing to one or more RFID readers utilizing the authorization code(s). In addition to transferring the authorization code(s), the credential is identified on a list of credentials capable of accessing particular RFID readers that is maintained by the server (block725).

Alternatively, where a request to authorize access via a new credential is not received (block705), it is determined whether a request to modify an authorization code(s) in a currently authorized credential is received (block710). Where such a request is received (block710), access information for the credential is identified (block730). This access information may be, for example, included in the received request. As one example, where the credential is embodied in a cellular telephone, the access information may include the telephone number for the cellular telephone. Once the access information is identified (block730), it is determined whether one or more authorization codes maintained by the credential are to be modified or whether one or more authorization codes are to be removed or revoked (block735). Where existing authorization codes are to be removed or revoked (block735), an upload is performed to the credential that operates to delete or overwrite the previously provided authorization code(s) maintained in the memory of the credential (block740). Once this is completed, the credential is no longer able to authorize to the RFID readers associated with the request. Further, the credential is removed from a list of credentials capable of accessing particular RFID readers that is maintained by the server (block745). Alternatively, where existing authorization codes are to be modified (block735), an upload is performed to the credential that operates to overwrite the previously provided authorization code(s) maintained in the memory of the credential with the new authorization code(s) (block750). Once this is completed, the credential is able to authorize to the RFID readers associated with the request using the modified information.

Turning toFIG. 8, a remote authorization, guest access system800is depicted in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Remote authorization, guest access system800includes one or more cellular telephones800that are each communicably coupled to a server850via a communication network840. In one implementation, communication network840includes a cellular telephone network. Server850is capable of receiving a request to grant or revoke authorization for a given credential, and to implement the request by accessing the identified credential. As an example, a request to access a location860may be sent from a guest via their cellular telephone800ato a cellular telephone800bof the owner of location860. This request may be received as, for example, an audio conversation or a text message. The owner may then decide to grant the request or not. Where a decision is made to grant the request, the owner may send an authorization request to server850via communication network840. The authorization request indicates to server850that cellular telephone800ashould be updated to allow access to location860.

In response to the authorization request, server850uploads an authorization code(s) for an RFID reader870to cellular telephone800a. The uploaded authorization code(s) are received from server850via cellular telephone interface114. Cellular telephone interface114provides the received authorization code(s) to processor116that stores the received information to memory112. When cellular telephone800is brought within communicable distance of RFID reader870, an nfc communication is initiated using nfc interface122. Once initiated, nfc interface122requests authorization information from RFID reader authorization application620. RFID reader authorization application620pulls the uploaded authorization information from memory112, and provides the authorization information to nfc interface122. The authorization information is then provided to RFID interface272via the nfc communication channel. Where the authorization is recognized by RFID reader870, an RFID reader function880is triggered. In this case, RFID reader function880operates to grant access to location860by unlocking a door where an authorized credential is presented.

Turning toFIG. 9, a flow diagram900shows a method in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention for remote authorization of guest access. Following flow diagram900, a request for access is received (block905). This may include, for example, receipt of a request from a potential guest to access a particular property. The guest may be, but is not limited to, a realtor trying to show a property, a friend trying to access a residence when the owner is not home, or a client trying to access a condominium that they have rented. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of guests that may be granted access to a location. It should further be noted that while access is being discussed in relation to a property, that access could be granted to, for example, an item. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of properties, items and/or operations to which a guest may request access.

The request is provided to an authorized entity or person that determines whether to grant the request (block910). For example, where the request is to access a residence, the request may be sent to the owner of the residence. In some cases, the authorized entity may be a computer capable of determining whether the requestor should be authorized. Where the request is accepted by the authorized person or entity (block910), an authorization request is sent by the authorizing party to a server supporting a remote authorization, guest access system (block915). The request may be, for example, in the form of a text message to the server that the server is able to automatically parse and authorize. Alternatively, the authorizing party may use a web browser to access the server and authorize the grant of access. A typical authorization request includes access information for the credential that is to be authorized, a duration of the authorization, and information capable of assuring that the party submitting the authorization request has authority to grant access. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a variety of mechanisms that may be used to provide a request to grant access to the server supporting a remote authorization, guest access system.

Once the request is received at the server (block920), the server parses the request to identify access information for the credential that is to be authorized (block925). As one example, where the credential is embodied in a cellular telephone, the access information may include the telephone number for the cellular telephone. Once the access information is identified (block925), an authorization code(s) corresponding the requested access authorization is transferred to the credential (block930). Where, for example, the credential is a cellular telephone, the authorization code(s) is received via the cell interface of the cellular telephone and stored to the memory of the cellular telephone. At this juncture, the credential is capable of authorizing to one or more RFID readers utilizing the authorization code(s). In some cases, transferring the authorization code(s) further includes sending a message (e.g., voice or text) to both the authorizing party and the guest. In some cases, this may be to the cellular telephones of the two parties, or to some other designated message area such as a remote email tool. The newly authorized credential is identified on a list of credentials capable of accessing the RFID reader associated with the request that is maintained by the server (block935). Further, where the duration of the authorization is finite, that duration is recorded and monitored by the server (block940). As an example, an authorization may be granted to a guest for a three day period. Based upon the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize appropriate durations depending upon the particular scenario.

As shown in a flow diagram901, the server continues to monitor the duration of the authorization. When the duration expires (block951), the server identifies the access information for the credential (block961). The access information is used to access the credential and overwrite or otherwise revoke the previously provided authorization code(s) (block971). Once the revocation is complete, the credential is no longer capable of authorizing itself to the RFID reader. With this complete, the credential is removed from the server maintained list of credentials capable of accessing the RFID reader associated with the request (block981).

Turning toFIG. 10, an emergency access security system1000is depicted in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Emergency access security system1000includes one or more cellular telephones1095that are each communicably coupled to a server10950via a communication network1040. In one implementation, communication network1040includes a cellular telephone network. Server1050is capable of receiving a request to grant or revoke authorization for a given credential, and to implement the request by accessing the identified credential. As an example, all of cellular telephones1095may be held by employees of a company operating at a facility1090. Access to facility1090is controlled by an RFID reader1080. As such, cellular telephones1095are originally capable of authorizing to RFID reader1080. An emergency associated with the company or region in which the company is operating may be detected. In such a case, it may be the company's desire to direct its employees to a safe house1060. In such a case, server1050may upload a text message to each of cellular telephones1095instructing the employee holding that phone to report to safe house1060. In addition, server1050uploads an authorization code enabling cellular telephones1095as access credentials capable of authorization to an RFID reader1070controlling access to safe house1060. The authorization code is provided via cellular telephone interface114and stored to memory112.

Once the newly enabled cellular telephone1095is brought within communicable proximity of RFID reader1070, an nfc communication is initiated using nfc interface122. Once initiated, nfc interface122requests authorization information from an RFID reader authorization application620. RFID reader authorization application620pulls the uploaded authorization information from memory112, and provides the authorization information to nfc interface122. The authorization information is then provided to RFID interface272via the nfc communication channel. Where the authorization is recognized by RFID reader1070, access to safe house1060is granted by unlocking a door associated with RFID reader1070.

Turning toFIG. 11, a flow diagram1100shows a method in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention for emergency location access authorization. Following flow diagram1100, an emergency condition is identified (block1105). This may include, for example, identifying a state of emergency in a city where a multi-national company does business. An access enable request is prepared for any personnel that may be affected by the identified emergency condition (block1110). Such an access enable request may include, for example, directions to a safe house, one or more authorization codes allowing access to the safe house, and a list of access information for credentials held by personnel that may be affected by the emergency situation. This information is sent to a server supporting an emergency access security system (block1115).

Once the request is received at the server (block1120), the server parses the request to select the first credential in the list (block1125) and to identify access information for that credential (block1130). As an example, where the credential is embodied in a cellular telephone, the access information may include the telephone number for the cellular telephone. Once the access information is identified (block1130), an authorization code(s) corresponding the requested access authorization is transferred to the credential (block1135). Where, for example, the credential is a cellular telephone, the authorization code(s) is received via the cell interface of the cellular telephone and stored to the memory of the cellular telephone. At this juncture, the credential is capable of authorizing to one or more RFID readers utilizing the authorization code(s). In some cases, transferring the authorization code(s) further includes sending a message (e.g., voice or text) to the party holding the credential guest. This message may include, for example, instructions on the location of the safe house. The newly authorized credential is identified on a list of credentials capable of accessing the RFID reader associated with the request that is maintained by the server (block1140). It is then determined whether there is another credential on the list that remains to be authorized (block1145). Where there is another credential to be authorized (block1145), the next credential is selected (block1150) and the processes of blocks1130-1140are repeated for the additional credential.

Turning toFIG. 12, a flow diagram1200shows a method in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention for multi-part credential updating. Following flow diagram1200, a secure access condition is identified (block1205). This may include, for example, receiving a request to access a secure location or secure information by a party. In some such cases, heightened security is imposed that requires two authorized individuals to operate together when accessing the secure location. In such a case, a multipart access enable is prepared (block1210). The multipart request includes an authorization code that is to be provided to one credential and another authorization code that is to be provided to another credential. In addition, the multipart request may include a duration associated with the authorization. Only when both credentials simultaneously within communicable distance of an RFID reader will the RFID reader grant access. As such, the RFID reader enforces the two person security. The multipart access enable is provided to a server supporting a secure access system.

Once the request is received at the server (block1220), the server parses the request and selects the first credential (block1225). Access information for the first credential is identified (block1230) and the first part of the multipart authorization code is provided to the identified credential (block1235). As one example, where the first credential is embodied in a cellular telephone, the access information may include the telephone number for the cellular telephone. The transferred authorization code(s) is received via the cell interface of the cellular telephone and stored to the memory of the cellular telephone. At this juncture, the first credential is capable of authorizing to one or more RFID readers utilizing the authorization code(s) assuming the second credential is simultaneously within communicable distance. The second credential is selected (block1240). Access information for the second credential is identified (block1245) and the second part of the multipart authorization code is provided to the identified credential (block1250). As an example, where the second credential is embodied in a cellular telephone, the access information may include the telephone number for the cellular telephone. The transferred authorization code(s) is received via the cell interface of the cellular telephone and stored to the memory of the cellular telephone. At this juncture, the second credential is capable of authorizing to one or more RFID readers utilizing the authorization code(s) assuming the first credential is simultaneously within communicable distance. The newly authorized credentials are identified on a list of credentials capable of accessing the RFID reader associated with the request that is maintained by the server (block1255). Further, where the duration of the authorization is finite, that duration is recorded and monitored by the server (block1260).

As shown in a flow diagram1201, the server continues to monitor the duration of the authorization. When the duration expires (block1251), the server identifies the access information for the credential (block1261). The access information is used to access the credential and overwrite or otherwise revoke the previously provided authorization code(s) (block1271). Once the revocation is complete, the credential is no longer capable of authorizing itself to the RFID reader. With this complete, the credential is removed from the server maintained list of credentials capable of accessing the RFID reader associated with the request (block1281).