Movable barrier operator configured for remote actuation

The present invention is generally a movable barrier operator configured for remote actuation, and more specifically, to a movable barrier operator configured to generate a barrier command in response to an authorized mobile device joining wireless network. The authorization may be established by connecting the mobile device to the operator through a wireless communication means. The wireless communication means may include known protocols such as Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi, NFC, ZigBee™, or any other type of wireless communication.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to a movable barrier operator configured for remote actuation, and more specifically, to a movable barrier operator configured to generate a barrier command in response to an authorized mobile device joining a wireless network.

COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typically, access to a secure location, such as a gated area, building, parking structure or walkway, has been controlled remotely by devices including remote controls and the like. Some of these devices include a keypad for inputting a passcode, a radio transmitter, and sometimes other devices that include use of biometric information such as finger prints, a user's iris, voice or facial characteristics. All of these devices require additional expensive equipment, and some of these devices require users to carry additional components to access the desired doorway or gate.

For example, vehicle access to barrier-controlled premises, such as a gated community, may require a radio transmitter. These devices do not typically form an integral part of the vehicle, but rather a separate remote control, which the driver must engage in order to activate a signal that commands the gate to open and grant access to the vehicle. Naturally, these devices may be lost, stolen or misplaced. Newer vehicle models offer radio transmitters integral with the vehicle, avoiding the need to have a separate radio transmitter or remote control. Nevertheless, the user is required to press a button when approaching the gate or movable barrier that ultimately grants access to the premises. More importantly, users inviting guests to the premise cannot share these remote access capabilities, and usually depend on additional means of granting access to their guests.

Similarly, access to secured premises may require access keys. These often prove expensive and may be easily lost or stolen. Furthermore, managing who carries the access key with authorization to enter through a restricted area is exceedingly difficult, as access keys may be shared or misplaced and used by an unauthorized party.

Therefore, there is a need in the art for a more efficient means of enabling users with authorized access to a particular premises or location, which does not require the user to carry with them keys, remote controls, or require expensive components at each movable barrier in order to gain entry. Furthermore, there is a need to provide a means of enabling users with access privileges to share or delegate access privileges to other users without having to share or provide separate components like keys or remote controls. It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present invention describes a movable barrier operator configured for remote actuation from a mobile device. The movable barrier operator may be configured to generate a barrier actuation command in response to an authorized mobile device joining an existing common wireless network.

A movable barrier operator system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a mobile device; a movable barrier; a local wireless network; and a movable barrier operator connected to the local wireless network and configured to control the movable barrier, the movable barrier operator including a processor, a memory, and one or more programs stored in the memory to be executed by the processor, the one or more programs including: instructions for detecting the mobile device whenever the mobile device is within a programmable proximity of the movable barrier; instructions for broadcasting an invitation for the mobile device to join the local wireless network; instructions for receiving an access request accepting the invitation to join the local wireless network from the mobile device; and instructions for generating a movable barrier actuation command in response to the mobile device joining the local wireless network.

A movable barrier operator system, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a movable barrier; a local wireless network; a server for managing access to the movable barrier, the server connected to the local wireless network; and a movable barrier operator, including: a motor configured to control the movable barrier, a network interface connecting the movable barrier operator to the local wireless network, and a controller connected to the network interface and the motor, the controller configured to generate a barrier actuation command in response to an authorized mobile device joining the local wireless network.

A movable barrier operator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a wireless network interface for communicating with a local wireless network; a motor configured to control a movable barrier; a controller configured to operate the motor and communicate with the wireless network interface, the controller including a processor, a memory, and one or more programs stored in the memory to be executed by the processor, the one or more programs including: instructions for detecting a mobile device whenever the mobile device is within a programmable proximity of the movable barrier; instructions for broadcasting an invitation for the mobile device to join the local wireless network; instructions for receiving an access request accepting the invitation to join the local wireless network from the mobile device; and instructions for generating a movable barrier command in response to the mobile phone joining the local wireless network.

A system for operating a movable barrier from a vehicle, in accordance with the present invention, comprises: a vehicle onboard computer including a wireless network interface configured to connect to a local wireless network, the vehicle onboard computer including one or more sets of programmable instructions for: detecting an access point to the local wireless network, and requesting access to the local wireless network whenever the vehicle onboard computer is within a programmable proximity to the access point; and a movable barrier operator including: a motor mechanically connected to the movable barrier, and a controller configured to operate the motor and communicate with the local wireless network, the controller including a processor, a memory, and one or more programs stored in the memory to be executed by the processor, the one or more programs for: broadcasting an invitation to join the local wireless network via the access point; receiving an access request from the vehicle onboard computer within a programmable proximity to the access point; and generating a movable barrier actuation command in response to the vehicle onboard computer joining the local wireless network.

Another system for operating a movable barrier, in accordance with the present invention, comprises: a movable barrier; a local wireless network; a server for managing access to the movable barrier, the server connected to the local wireless network; an access point for providing wireless access to the local wireless network; a movable barrier operator, including: a motor configured to control the movable barrier, a network interface connecting the movable barrier operator to the local wireless network, and a controller connected to the network interface and the motor, the controller configured to generate a barrier actuation command in response to an authorized mobile device joining the local wireless network.

A method for remotely controlling a movable barrier, in accordance with the present invention, comprises: transmitting, from an access point in proximity to the movable barrier, an invitation to join a local wireless network; receiving, from a mobile device, a request to join the local wireless network, wherein the access request includes authorization credentials; providing the mobile device with access to the local wireless network upon verification of the authorization credentials; and automatically generating a movable barrier command in response to the mobile phone joining the local wireless network.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a movable barrier operator configured for remote actuation from an onboard computer residing in a vehicle.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a movable barrier operator configured for remote actuation from a smartphone.

It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a user interface that facilitates authorization to access a premise.

It is yet another objective of the present invention to eliminate the need for access keys, remote controls, or other additional components in order to actuate a movable barrier operator.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention are described herein with specificity so as to make the present invention understandable to one of ordinary skill in the art.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments and applications of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where depictions are made, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

In the following detailed description, a movable barrier operator system may be any system that controls a barrier to an entry, an exit, or a view. The barrier could be a door for a small entity (i.e. a person), or a gate for a large entity (i.e. a vehicle), which may swing, slide, roll upwards, lock, unlock, or achieve any other type of action suitable to control access through the barrier. The operator, which controls the barrier, may move the barrier from an open position to a closed position and vice-versa, or simply provide a means to lock and unlock the barrier. The operator may be automatic and may be controlled locally or remotely. Additionally, an operator may comprise one or more motors for moving one or more barriers or a locking mechanism for locking and unlocking one or more doorways. Furthermore, in the present disclosure, the term motor is defined broadly and may be a device that creates motion, a machine that converts electricity into a mechanical motion, a mechanical or electromagnetic device for moving or controlling a mechanism or system, and may include without limitation, an electric motor, an actuator, hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical locks, or even electromagnetic locks. Electromagnetic locks may comprise of a solenoid, magnetic lock or strike, an electromagnet and armature plate, or any other locking means. Electromagnetic locks may include fail safe electromagnetic devices that are unlocked when de-energized, or fail secure electromagnetic devices that remain locked when power is lost.

Generally, the present invention involves a movable barrier system, which may include a movable barrier operator configured with a network interface to communicate with a mobile device such as a smartphone or an onboard computer of a vehicle. The mobile device may be configured to communicate with the operator via a local wireless network, or establish a connection with the local wireless network; the operator may further be configured to receive a signal when the mobile device has joined the local wireless network, and generate a movable barrier command that controls the movable barrier. The command to control the barrier may be automatically generated, or one or more security prompts may be requested of the mobile device via a user interface. The user interface may be a graphical user interface (GUI) provided via a smartphone application or an application for vehicle onboard computers. The GUI may alert the user to input a password, an access key, or a biometric input (e.g. fingerprint) in order to generate the authorization code. Moreover, the system may include a server that hosts the local wireless network, or a server on a wide area network that can access the movable barrier operator. The server may include a database and a GUI for managing the system, or a GUI that allows access to a local database on the operator. For example, the GUI may allow for authorizations to be delegated and revoked from the server; new users may be added or deleted; security levels may be administered for each user; and other parameters may be altered or otherwise managed remotely. Since each mobile device must provide the system with an authorization code in order to join the local wireless network, a system manager may revoke or limit permissions to mobile devices from the centralized server.

In exemplary embodiments, the operator itself includes a storage module with a local database, eliminating the need for a server altogether. In such embodiments, the GUI on an authorized mobile device may be used to access the database and manage the system. The local wireless network may use any number of known technologies such as Wi-Fi™, Bluetooth™, ZigBee™, near field communication (NFC), or any other known protocol to establish a wireless personal area network (WPAN) or any suitable network which may be joined by a mobile device such as a smartphone, a tablet, a vehicle onboard computer or any other mobile device users normally utilize from day to day. To join the network, the system may include one or more access points, which may use the same or different protocol to communicate with the mobile device and facilitate the connection between the mobile device and the WPAN.

Turning now to the figures,FIG. 1depicts a system, in accordance with the present invention, which includes a movable barrier operator configured to generate a barrier command in response to an authorized mobile device joining an existing wireless network. More specifically,FIG. 1shows system100, which includes a movable barrier (barrier101), a movable barrier operator (operator102), server103, a wireless network such as a WPAN (network104a), a wide area network (network104b), and an access point (AP105).

Barrier101may be any type of barrier as mentioned above. For example, barrier101may be a doorway to a walkway, a room, or a storage space; barrier101may be a gate to a gated community, a parking structure, or any secured area. In one embodiment, barrier101is a sliding gate; in another embodiment, barrier101is a swing gate; in yet another embodiment, barrier101may be a lockable doorway inside a building or a lockable gate on a walkway.

Operator102may be any type of movable barrier operator suitable to actuate, operate, or otherwise control access via barrier101. Thus, operator102may be a swing gate operator that swings open, a sliding gate operator that moves a gate on a track, a locking mechanism that locks and unlocks a door to an entry, or any other type of operator suitable for controlling the type of movable barrier that may be implemented with system100. Typically, operator102may include network interface106, controller107, and motor108.

Operator102is configured to communicate with mobile devices110,111, and112via a network104a, which is typically a local wireless personal area network (WPAN) built with known technologies such as ZigBee™, Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi™, NFC, or any other suitable protocols for establishing a short ranged communication between operator102and mobile devices110,111,112. In some embodiments, operator102is also configured to communicate with server103via a wide area network such as network104b. Network104bmay be, for example, the World Wide Web. While some applications of the present invention may not require server103, other applications may benefit as server103may provide a remote means of backing up database109, or managing system100without having to be in proximity to operator102.

Server103may include one or more computers suitable for connecting to network104band remotely accessing operator102. Server103typically includes a user interface that facilitates management of system100as well as database109, which holds user information associated with authorized mobile devices that may be provided access via barrier101. In some embodiments, database109is a back-up database of database113, which is stored locally at operator102. In such embodiments, server103may be accessed by an administrator to manage database113from a remote location. In yet other embodiments, operator102does not include a local database113, and system100relies solely on a remote database109. In yet other embodiments, server103and database109are not required at all, and operator102merely relies on a local database such as database113. These various embodiments will be discussed further below.

Network104ais typically a WPAN, as mentioned above, and may implement any number of known technologies. Typically, an access point, such as AP105may be implemented within a proximity to operator102. Mobile devices, such as mobile device110,111, and112, may be detected or otherwise detect AP105when within a programmable range. Network104athus allows authorized mobile devices to communicate with operator102.

Network104bis typically a wide area network, as mentioned above, for example the World Wide Web. Network104bmay be a means to remotely access operator102in order to manage system100and perform maintenance such as back-up a database, update, and or change permissions for operator102.

AP105may be any type of access point suitable for connecting mobile devices110,111, and112to operator102via network104a. As such, AP105may utilize known protocols such as Wi-Fi™, Bluetooth™, ZigBee™, NFC, or any other suitable protocol that enables mobile devices to join network104a.

Network interface106may be a wired or wireless network interface; in one embodiment, AP105may be a separate component from network interface106; in another embodiment, AP105and network interface106may comprise a single component. Typically however, network interface106may communicate with AP105in order to detect when an authorized device has joined network104a. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, in one embodiment, AP105may utilize a well known protocol such as Bluetooth™ to detect a mobile device within a predetermined proximity. Once in range, an invitation to join the network104amay be provided to the mobile device via AP105. This invitation may include an authorization protocol or a security protocol in order to verify that the mobile device has permissions to enter or pass through barrier101. As such, AP105may be configured to connect authorized mobile devices to network104ausing well known means. Network interface106may be configured to alert controller107when the mobile device has joined the network. In turn, controller107may generate a desired command for motor108to operate barrier101.

System100may use signal strength indication (RSSI) to determine the proximity of the mobile device, and based upon pre-programmed parameters, determine when it is appropriate to provide access via barrier101. For example, and without deviating from the scope of the present invention, AP105and/or network interface106may implement RSSI in order to provide users with a programmable means of determining a desirable distance at which a command to control barrier101may be generated by controller107of operator102. This would prevent undesirable situations in which an authorized mobile device opens or unlocks a barrier of system100unintentionally due to passing within range of AP105.

Controller107may comprise of one or more processors configured to access and process a set of instructions in a program code stored in a programmable memory of operator102. As such, the one or more processors of controller107may run or execute the one or more set of instructions stored in the programmable memory in order to perform the various functions of operator102. For example, controller107may processes, relay, or carry out either pre-programmed or user-entered instructions for detecting the mobile device whenever the mobile device is within a programmable proximity of the movable barrier; instructions for broadcasting an invitation for the mobile device to join network104a; instructions for receiving an access request accepting the invitation to join network104afrom the mobile device; instructions for generating a movable barrier command in response to the mobile device joining network104a; and any other type of instructions suitable for achieving typical functions of a movable barrier operator. In the present description, a movable barrier command may refer to: an activation of the motor that may cause movement of the barrier; an activation of the motor that may cause locking of the barrier; an activation of the motor that may cause unlocking of the barrier; or any other command that achieves a typical function of a movable barrier operator.

Motor108may be any motor suitable for controlling a movement or function of barrier101. As such, motor108may cause barrier102to slide, swing, roll, lock, unlock, or perform the function for which barrier101has been designed. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, operator102may receive a signal indicating that mobile device110has joined network104avia AP105. Operator102may generate a barrier command in response to this signal in order to unlock barrier101, which may comprise a doorway. In such embodiment, motor108may be a locking mechanism that locks and unlocks barrier101.

Database109typically stores user and/or device information associated with mobile devices that are authorized to use system100. Thus, database109may be a simple list of user authorization codes, passwords, MAC addresses, or any other information associated with the authorized mobile devices of system100, which may be updated by a system administrator from time to time. To these ends, server103may include a software component such as a GUI with access to database109in order to manage authorized users and client mobile devices.

In one embodiment, as mentioned above, database109and server103are not required at all and system100relies solely on database113to store a list of authorized users and associated mobile devices. In other embodiments, database109may be a back-up database used to manage system100from a remote location via network104b(i.e. the Wireless World Wed). In such embodiment, database109may be managed and synchronized with a local database113. This may allow a user with administrative permissions to update a list of authorized users, update user permissions, or otherwise manage database113.

Database113may be a locally stored database that may be accessed by controller107of operator102. As with database109, database113typically stores user and/or device information associated with mobile devices that are authorized to use system100. Thus, database113may be a simple list of unique identifiers associated with one or more mobile device, authorization codes, passwords, MAC addresses, or any other information associated with the authorized mobile devices of system100, which may be updated by a system administrator from time to time. Furthermore, database113may include temporary user identification codes associated with one or more mobile devices that may be granted access on a temporary basis. Also, database113may include a historical data or a history of devices that have accessed barrier101, including the dates and times each device has accessed barrier101. Also, database113may include profiles for each user or profiles associated with one or more mobile devices wherein each profile contains user permissions associated with a level of access to one or more barriers of system100.

Database113may be managed remotely (i.e. from a computer such as server103via network104b), or locally from a mobile device with administrative privileges. To these ends, a mobile device with administrative permissions may include a software component such as a GUI with access to database113in order to manage authorized users and client mobile devices.

Mobile devices110,111, and112may also implement a software component in order to facilitate implementation of security protocols for system100, including providing each device with permissions to access barrier101. Such software component provides system100a means to obtain user or device identification from each mobile device and provides authorized users with the right access code, password, or any other means of authorization verification to facilitate the user's access via barrier101. The software component may range in complexity: in some embodiments, a simple application for storing an authentication means on the mobile device110may be implemented. An administrator of system100may provide a user of mobile device110with the application, including the authentication means. The authentication means may include a password, access code, a unique identifier, a user identification code, a temporary unique identification code, or any other means of identifying and authenticating a mobile device110. Other more complex applications may include a GUI that enables the mobile device user with options to further more stringent security protocols or have access to administrative information of system100.

In one embodiment, more stringent security protocols may be implemented by automatically launching the GUI whenever mobile device110enters a predefined range from an access point such as AP105. The GUI may launch a screen displaying a request to input information to further identify the user of the mobile device (SeeFIG. 10, for example).

In another embodiment, access to administrative information of system100may be provided via mobile device110by providing a GUI configured to display historical data and settings options that allow a user to manage system100parameters (SeeFIG. 9, for example).

The software component of system100, whether available at the server, via mobile devices or both, may also include a variety of functions to help manage system100. For example, and without deviating or limiting the scope of the present invention, a software component may provide the following functions: displaying historical data showing which mobile devices access barrier101and the dates and times that access occurred; issuing a request granting access or generating opening commands (i.e. to unlock or open a barrier) directly from server103or mobile device110; locking a particular movable barrier such as a gate, a doorway or a window; setting system parameter such as timers for locking mechanisms, or timers to maintain a barrier open. For example, a user with administrative privileges may access select a time during which to keep barrier101opened or accessible to users—this may include a 7-day timer for unlocking barrier101(a doorway) during business hours, a 5-day timer, for locking and unlocking the doorway during certain days, or any other timer that helps the system administrator manage access through barrier101.

By implementing the software component with system100, authorization to gain access via barrier101may be shared with multiple devices and managed at any time. Each device may be individually authorized or de-authorized depending on the administrator's needs without having to re-program a common access code or requiring a user to return an access key-as is typically the case with traditional access systems.

Turning toFIG. 2, a system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated; in this embodiment, the mobile device comprises a vehicle onboard computer and the operator comprises a gate operator. More specifically,FIG. 2shows system200, which includes a movable barrier (barrier201), a movable barrier operator (operator202), and a vehicle onboard computer (device205); Operator202includes network interface206, which may be configured to communicate with device205via a WPAN such as network204a, and may also be configured to communicate with server203via network204b, which may be a wide access network such as the internet. System200is very similar to system100, although system200's designed is focused primarily for movable barrier systems used to control access to vehicles. As such, barrier201is typically a gate for controlling vehicle access and device205is typically a vehicle's onboard computer that has been configured to communicate with operator202via network204a.

The components of system200may be similar to those of system100. For example, operator202will similarly include network interface206, controller207, and motor208, which is configured to move barrier201. Network interface206of operator201is configured to allow discovery, detection, and connection with device205.

Device205typically includes network interface209, controller210, and memory module211, which stores executable instructions for providing a user interface—in the illustrated embodiment, the user interface comprises GUI212, which may facilitate more stringent security protocols such as requiring a driver to enter an access code prior to generating a command to move barrier202.

In this embodiment, the vehicle's onboard computer or device205, may be configured to transmit and receive signals utilizing any number of protocols such as Bluetooth™, Wi-Fi™, NFC, ZigBee™ or any other similar communication means via network interface209. As such, network interface209may be configured with the appropriate protocol to detect, discover, or otherwise establish a communication with network interface206of operator202. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, as the vehicle approaches barrier201, the vehicle's onboard computer may receive an invitation continuously being broadcasted from operator202; alternatively, a discovery mode may be implemented by device205in order to detect network204awhen within a desired proximity to network interface206. Once the devices recognize each other (i.e. device205is authenticated and allowed to join the network or WPAN used by operator202to communicate with device205), operator202may generate a barrier command that automatically moves barrier201in order to allow access through.

In other embodiments, an authentication algorithm may be engaged prior to generating a barrier command, wherein the user may be provided with a prompt via GUI212to provide authenticating information such as a passcode, a biometric input (e.g. fingerprint on sensor similar to those on modern smartphones), or any other input that authorizes operator202to generate the command to open barrier201.

In other embodiments, operator202may use an RSSI value as mentioned above in order to avoid undesirable activation of operator202. In this way, users can be prompted for passwords, or merely be granted access, only when device205enters within a desired proximity to the gate or barrier201.

System200may include database215stored locally at operator202, the database comprising of authorized user profiles216with each user including one or more associated mobile devices such as device205, which have been authorized to access barrier201. Profiles216may be updated, edited, and shared between one or more locations by accessing server203, or in alternative embodiments, where system200does not implement server203nor require network204b, a mobile device with administrative permissions may be used to access database215and make the desired adjustments to database215.

In an embodiment that does not implement server203, a mobile device with administrative permissions may include a smartphone or table configured to communicate with operator202via network204aand access database215directly. Such mobile device may be used by a field technician, for example, who may also have access to administrative or management information such as historical data, and other parameters for controlling barrier201.

In the embodiment shown, server203is implemented to access operator202via network204a, which may be a local wireless network or a wide access network such as the World Wide Web. Server203may be useful for gated communities comprising many tenants, and particularly with premises that include more than one barrier and barrier operators. With server203, each barrier operator may be updated with new users or list of authorized devices that may access the barriers of the premises. Furthermore, as mentioned above, server203may be used to store a backup of database215.

Whether server203is implemented, or system200need not rely on such remote access to operator202, in some embodiments, temporary user authorizations may be granted so that guests to a location may be provided with a temporary access. Similarly, any authorized user may be provided a time limit of authorization via a programmable or predetermined scheduled length of time, or predetermined expiration date for authorization. These and other functionalities may be provided to a user via the GUI or user interface. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, the stored events, such as historical access data, or programmed authorizations and de-authorizations, may be provided to a user (e.g. maintenance or security personnel). The GUI may further include means of temporarily blocking one or more mobile devices associated with vehicles or users or temporarily granting access to one or more mobile devices associated with vehicles or users.

Turning now to the next figure,FIG. 3depicts a system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention wherein the mobile device comprises a lockable doorway and the operator is a locking mechanism. More specifically,FIG. 3shows system300, including barrier301, operator302, mobile device305, and network interface306. Although similar to system100, system300is designed specifically for indoor type of applications wherein the barriers controlled by the system comprise of doorways or entries into rooms. Such a system may be implemented in university settings, hospital premises, office buildings, or any other facility that may require access control to rooms, storage, or any other spaces that may benefit from controlled access by users.

Barrier301may be a lockable doorway into an office, a classroom, a hotel room, a hospital room, a storage room, an employees-only room, an equipment room, a medicine cabinet, or any other space within a building. Alternatively, barrier301may be a gate on a sidewalk or passage that is located outdoors or indoors, which leads into or out of a premises.

Operator302may include a locking mechanism, such as a magnetic locking system or similar electrical means that causes a locking mechanism to engage and disengage. Whatever the locking mechanism implemented, operator302typically includes a network interface306for communicating with device305. Network interface306may use an RSSI value in order to provide users with a programmable means of determining a desirable distance at which a command to control barrier301may be generated by operator302once device305is detected and authorized.

In this exemplary embodiment, a user of a mobile device that approaches a locked door, retrofitted with an operator in accordance with the present invention, may be prompted with a request for a password upon reaching a specific proximity to the locked door. This prompt may be displayed on the user's mobile device after the mobile device has been authorized and joined network304.

Device305may include a GUI, which has been provided to the mobile device via a mobile device application. The mobile device application may be downloaded into device305from the internet or from a mobile device application server. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, a mobile application may be provided to device305via The App Store or any other mobile device host that offers applications for mobile devices.

Although not shown, a larger system with a server with remote access to operator302may also be implemented with system300. Such server may provide a means to manage database307, include a back-up database, and provide administrative management of barrier302. As explained above, a server may be useful for implementing a centralized system that allows an administrator to control more than one barrier. For simpler applications however, the server may be excluded from system100and operator302may be managed by user with administrative permissions. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, mobile device305may include a GUI that enables mobile device305to access database307in order to update permissions, etc. Similarly, the GUI in device305may include instructions that facilitate controlling or modifying programmable instructions stored in a controller of operator302, such as instructions to keep barrier301opened, unlocked or accessible to users during a predetermined period—this may include a 7-day timer for unlocking barrier301during business hours, a 5-day timer, for locking and unlocking the doorway during certain days, or any other timer that helps the system administrator manage access through barrier301.

FIG. 4is a flowchart depicting one method for remotely actuating a movable barrier in accordance with the present invention, wherein an invitation is broadcasted via the operator, which may only be accepted by authorized mobile devices that approach the operator within a programmable proximity. More specifically, method400is shown in the following steps, however, it is understood that the process may be achieved in any other conceivable sequence without deviating from the scope of the present invention.

In step401, an invitation to join a local wireless network may be transmitted from an access point, router, or any communications module or network interface suitable for connecting a mobile device to a local wireless network. In one embodiment, the operator continuously broadcasts the invitation, which only authorized mobile devices may accept. The invitation may be transmitted via one or more access points using protocols such as Wi-Fi™, Bluetooth™, ZigBee™, or any other known technology suitable to connect a mobile device to the local wireless network.

In step402, an authorized mobile device may send a request to the operator in order to join the network. In one embodiment, prior to joining the network, the mobile device must be authenticated. In some embodiments, connecting to the network may require a prompt to the user requesting authenticating information. In alternative embodiments, if the mobile device does not have adequate authenticating information (i.e. the wrong MAC address or other authenticating information) then the device will be ignored even if the device detects or discovers the access point.

In step403, an authorized mobile device may provide the authenticating information; for example, the request from the mobile device may include a unique identifier associated with an authorized user. The authenticating information may include a MAC address, a passcode or authorization code provided to the user of the mobile device, or implemented with a mobile application for the mobile device.

In step404, the unique identifier of the mobile device may be confirmed; this may include accessing a database for permissions associated with a user profile concerning the mobile device. Where the mobile device has the required authorization according to permissions provided in the database, in step405, the mobile device is authorized. If the mobile device does not have the proper authorization, it may be ignored or a message may be displayed via the GUI on the mobile device informing the user that access has been denied. If the mobile device does have the proper authorization, the mobile device may be allowed access to the local wireless network. In some embodiments, an actuation command or barrier command may be generated in step406; in other embodiments, a message may be displayed via the GUI of the mobile device informing the user that access has been granted.

In step406, the operator may be informed that the mobile device has been permitted to join the local wireless network. As such, the operator may generate a barrier command in order to actuate or initiate control of the barrier and provide access. The barrier command may comprise moving the barrier, such as sliding a gate open, or unlocking a doorway such as unlocking a door to a locked office room.

FIG. 5(a)is a flowchart depicting one method for remotely actuating a movable barrier in accordance with the present invention, wherein the operator establishes a wireless communication for authorization of a mobile device, the operator configured as a wireless access point. Method500is shown in the following steps, however, it is understood that the process may be achieved in any other conceivable sequence without deviating from the scope of the present invention.

In step501a, an operator may detect a wireless client mobile device. This may be achieved via any number of wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth™, ZigBee™, or NFC; as such, the mobile device may be a Wi-Fi client, a Bluetooth™ client, a ZigBee™ client, or an NFC client.

In step502a, an authentication protocol may be initiated by the wireless access point in order to authenticate the client device; In step503athe wireless communication via the wireless medium may be established if the wireless client device is successfully authenticated; In step504a, an access code may be requested via a GUI of the client device; and in step505a, a barrier command to actuate a movable barrier connected to the operator may be generated in order to open, unlock or otherwise control access to through the barrier.

FIG. 5(b)is a flowchart depicting one method for remotely actuating a movable barrier in accordance with the present invention, wherein the operator establishes a wireless communication for authorization of a mobile device, the mobile device configured as a wireless access point. In this embodiment of method500, similar steps may be practiced, although different device configurations are involved.

In this embodiment, the operator is essentially retrofitted as a wireless client device looking to access a wireless access point to which the operator is allowed to access. Similarly, each authorized mobile device is configured as a wireless access point adapted to accept connection requests by the operator.

In step501bthe operator will discover a discoverable wireless access point (i.e. authorized mobile device); As with the previous method, this may be achieved via any number of wireless protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth™, ZigBee™, or NFC; as such, the operator may be a Wi-Fi client, a Bluetooth™ client, a ZigBee™ client, or an NFC client.

In step502b, the operator may send a request to establish communication, the request including an authentication code such as a MAC address, a password, or any other means of authentication. As such, the mobile device may be previously provided with the proper authentication verification information via a mobile application stored in the mobile device; this way, when the operator seeks to join the “access point” the mobile device will have the authentication information necessary to verify and establish communication with the operator.

In step503b, the operator and the mobile device establish wireless communication via the wireless medium. In step504a, an access code may be requested via a GUI of the mobile device; and in step505a, a barrier command to actuate a movable barrier connected to the operator may be generated in order to open, unlock or otherwise control access to through the barrier.

FIG. 6is a flowchart depicting one method for remotely actuating a movable barrier in accordance with the present invention, wherein the operator establishes a wireless communication for authorization of a mobile device, and wherein the operator may require a user input prior to generating an actuation command to open the barrier. More specifically, method600is shown in the following steps, however, it is understood that the process may be achieved in any other conceivable sequence without deviating from the scope of the present invention.

In step601, the mobile device may be detected. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, this may be achieved by discovering a discoverable device, by discovering an access point, by broadcasting an invitation that may be accepted by authorized devices, or by any other known means of detecting a mobile device via a wireless network interface in proximity to the mobile device.

In step602, the mobile device may be authenticated by the network interface. In one embodiment, the network interface may include a module for initiating a primary security protocol prior to authenticating the mobile device and allowing it to join the local wireless network.

In step603, the mobile device may be authenticated and allowed to join the local wireless network. In one embodiment, rather than automatically generating a barrier command, in step604, a user interface or GUI on the mobile device may be launched. The GUI may include an output requesting an input from the user. This request may require the user to input a password. In another embodiment, the request may include a voice command from the user; the request may include voice recognition to authorize the user before generating the actuation command; in other embodiments, the GUI may provide options for the user to either physically (i.e. touch) or verbally (i.e. speech recognition) provide a command (i.e. open the barrier) before generating a barrier command.

In step605, the user input may be received from the mobile device. Of course, many other means and options that implement known technologies may be employed with the present invention in order to increase security or improve practicality without deviating from the scope of the present invention. After receiving a user input (i.e. a voice command, a touch command on a screen of a mobile device, etc.) a barrier command may be generated to actuate a barrier.

FIG. 7illustrates output of a graphical user interface on a mobile device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, mobile device700is illustrated with display701wherein output702is provided along with tabs703and704. Output702may be a message or instruction for a user infirming the user of a required action or status. As shown output702informs the user that access to through the desired barrier has been granted. This message may be displayed automatically after device700is authenticated and joins a network triggering the operator to generate a barrier command to allow access through the barrier.

Tab703may provide a user with a means to glean administrative information such as access history. For example, and without deviating from the scope of the present invention, a user may click or select tab703in order to see historical data showing which mobile devices accessed the barrier in question and the dates and times that access occurred.

Tab704may provide a user with other type of administrative information such as settings information where a user can glean and control parameters of the system. For example, and without deviating from the scope of the present invention, a user may be provided with access to settings such as timers for locking mechanisms, or timers to maintain a barrier open. For example, a user with administrative privileges may access select a time during which to keep a barrier opened or accessible to users—this may include a 7-day timer for unlocking the barrier during business hours, a 5-day timer, for locking and unlocking the doorway during certain days, or any other timer that helps the system administrator manage access through the barrier in question.

FIG. 8illustrates output of a graphical user interface on a mobile device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. More specifically,FIG. 8illustrates output702wherein a request for authenticating information is required and provided to the user of the mobile device.

In this embodiment, output702may display a message such as instructions requesting entry of an access code. In alternative embodiments, the request may be a request to provide biometric information such as a fingerprint on sensor706of mobile device700. As shown, the request for input may include an additional output705providing a means to enter authentication—in this example, a numerical passcode to finalize a security protocol and generate a barrier command.

A movable barrier operator with remote monitoring capabilities has been described. The foregoing description of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the spirit of the invention.