English Title

    
FINGERPRINT RECOGNITION DOOR LOCK SYSTEM
Publication date2003-08-28

Standardized: IFKEY CO LTD      KOO HONG-SIK 

Abstract
Novelty  
The system has a sender with a control part that receive fingerprint of user from a finger recognition part and transmits the
information with the senders apparatus to a receiver through a wireless communication part (212). The receiver has a control part
(210) that directs a door locking driving part (224) to open door when the received information coincides with the information
stored in the sender memory.

Use  
Used for recognizing fingerprints.

Advantage  
The receiver compares only the fingerprints registered in the senders memory and hence saves time required for finger
print authentications.

Drawing description  
The drawing shows a block diagram of internal structure of receiver.
210 - Control part.
212 - Wireless communication part.
224 - Door lock driving part.
What is claimed is:

1. A fingerprint recognition door lock system comprising: a plurality of senders

capable of scanning fingerprints and transmitting the same by radio, and one
or more receiver(s) installed at one or more door(s) for locking/unlocking
said door based on the fingerprint information received, wherein said sender
comprises a fingerprint recognition part for scanning fingerprints of users; a
wireless communication part for wireless transmission of said fingerprint
information and of said sender's apparatus information; an input part for
selection of a function menu; a display part for displaying status of said sender;
a memory part for storing said sender's apparatus information as well as
operation programs of said sender; and a control part for controlling said
sender to receive fingerprint of a user through said fingerprint recognition part
after said user has started the door unlock function by manipulating said input
part, and to transmit said fingerprint information together with said sender's
apparatus information to said receiver by radio through said wireless
communication part, while said receiver comprises a wireless communication
part for receiving data from said sender by radio; a memory part for storing
said receiver's apparatus information, fingerprint information as classified by
said senders, and operation programs of said receiver; a door lock driving part
for outputting signals required for locking/unlocking said door; and a control
part which controls said door lock driving part to open said door, if said
sender's apparatus information and said fingerprint information received from
said wireless communication part coincide with any one of said fingerprint
information stored in said memory part for said sender.

2. The fingerprint recognition door lock system as set forth in Claim 1, wherein

said memory part of said sender stores apparatus information of receivers that
can be controlled using said sender; and said control part of said sender
receives fingerprint of a user through said fingerprint recognition part, and
then transmits said fingerprint information together with apparatus
information of said sender as well as of selected receiver to said receiver by
radio through said wireless communication part, if said user starts door unlock
function by selecting one receiver among receivers stored in said memory part
of said sender; and then, controls said door lock driving part to open said door,
if said receiver's apparatus information received coincides with its own
apparatus information, and said sender's apparatus information as well as said
fingerprint information received from said wireless communication part
coincide with any one of fingerprint information stored in its memory part for
said sender.

3. The fingerprint recognition door lock system as set forth in Claim 1, wherein

said memory part of said sender stores passwords set by users, said control
part of said sender enables sender lock function if said user selects sender lock
function, and said control part of said sender requests to input a password if
said user selects a menu to use said sender while said sender is in sender lock
mode, and allows said user to use said sender only when said inputted
password coincides with one stored in said' memory part.

4. A fingerprint recognition door lock system comprising: a plurality of senders

capable of scanning fingerprints and transmitting the same by radio, and one
or more receiver installed at one or more door for locking/unlocking
said door based on said information received from said senders, wherein said
sender comprises a fingerprint recognition part for scanning fingerprints of
users; a wireless communication part for wireless transmission of said
fingerprint information and of said sender's apparatus information; an input
part for selection of a function menu; a display part for displaying status of said
sender; a memory part for storing said sender's apparatus information as well
as operation programs of said sender; and a control part for controlling said
sender to receive fingerprint of a user through said fingerprint recognition part
after said user has started the door unlock function by manipulating said input
part, and to transmit said fingerprint information together with said sender's
apparatus information to said receiver by radio through said wireless
communication part, while said receiver comprises a wireless communication
part for receiving data from said sender by radio; a memory part for storing
said receiver's apparatus information, fingerprint information as classified by
said senders, and operation programs of said receiver; a door lock driving part
for outputting signals required for locking/unlocking said door; and a control
part which controls said door lock driving part to open said door, if said
sender's apparatus information and said fingerprint information received from
said wireless communication part coincide with any one of said fingerprint
information stored in said memory part for said sender, whereby said control
part of said sender requests to input fingerprint of a registered user when
authorization function is selected, and transits to authorization mode after
having received a fingerprint inputted through said fingerprint recognition part
and stored said inputted fingerprint information in said memory part of said
sender; and said control part of said sender transmits fingerprint information
stored in said memory part of said sender through said wireless
communication part, instead of receiving fingerprint from said user and
outputting the same, if door unlock function is selected while said sender is in
authorization mode.

5. The fingerprint recognition door lock system as set forth in Claim 4, wherein

said control part of said sender cancels automatically authorization mode if a
predetermined time limit has expired after said authorization mode was set.

6. The fingerprint recognition door lock system as set forth in Claim 4, wherein

said control part of said sender cancels automatically authorization mode if
use of said door unlock function in authorization mode has reached a
predetermined time.

7. The fingerprint recognition door lock system as set forth in Claim 6, wherein

said predetermined time of use can be determined by said user.

8. The fingerprint recognition door lock system as set forth in Claim 4, wherein

said memory part of said sender stores passwords set by users, said control
part of said sender enables sender lock function if said user selects sender lock
function, and said control part of said sender requests to input a password if
said user selects a menu to use said sender while said sender is in sender lock
mode, and allows said user to use said sender only if said inputted password
coincides with one stored in said memory part.
           

Description

DWPI Drawing description

    
The drawing shows a block diagram of internal structure of receiver.
210 - Control part.
212 - Wireless communication part.
224 - Door lock driving part.

Description    
Collapse Description
FINGERPRINT RECOGNITION DOOR LOCK SYSTEM
Technical Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a fingerprint recognition door lock system, and, in
particular, to a fingerprint recognition door lock system capable of locking/unlocking a door by controlling a receiver
installed in the door using a sender with fingerprint recognition function, in which system fingerprint can be registered at the
receiver as classified by the senders and a third party can be authorized to use the sender temporarily.

Background of the Invention

Conventionally, a door is locked or unlocked by locking or unlocking, respectively, a door lock installed at the door using a
key usually made of metal. However, where a lot of doors are used by a multiple of users as in a hotel, an intelligent building,
etc., management of keys becomes problematic, because different doors require different keys.

In order to solve inter alia this problem, lock devices capable of locking/ unlocking a door using an ID card with personal
information stored therein have been introduced and are being used. However, a problem with such devices is that the ID
card can be used for unauthorized entrance of a door by a third party either by theft or inappropriate lending thereof.

In order to solve this problem, door lock systems using specific biometric information peculiar to each individual including
iris, fingerprint, etc. have been provided and are being used. A conventional fingerprint recognition door lock is equipped
with a fingerprint recognition sensor to allow a user to put his finger thereon so that the door lock device recognizes the
fingerprint and unlocks the door if the user is recognized as an authorized registered user.

However, this device is inconvenient in that a user must register his fingerprint at a door equipped with the above door lock
device by putting his finger thereon. Further drawbacks of such device are that, since the fingerprint recognition sensor is
exposed outwardly, the fingerprint information stored in the device can be leaked to a third person and the
fingerprint recognition sensor is likely to be contaminated and/or damaged.

In order to solve these problems, the present inventor has provided door lock devices using a portable
fingerprint recognition key comprising a fingerprint recognition sensor and wireless communication circuits in it, allowing a
user to carry the portable fingerprint recognition key like a usual key or an entrance ID card; whereby, if the user inputs his
fingerprint using the portable fingerprint recognition key, the fingerprint information is transmitted wirelessly to
the door lock device installed at a door; and the door lock device authenticates the fingerprint using the fingerprint
information received, and unlocks the door if the fingerprint is confirmed to be one of an authorized user.

Various door lock devices using a portable fingerprint recognition key have been disclosed by the present inventor in Korean
patent publications (Nos. 2000-0072132 and 2000-0072206) as well as in Korean patent applications (Nos. 2000-0077260,
2000- 0084489, 2001-0022500, 2001-0026584, and 2001-0076769).

Detailed Description of the Invention

The present invention, conceived to solve the above problems, aims to provide a fingerprint recognition door lock system
capable of registering fingerprints as classified by the keys to reduce fingerprint search time as well as liability of
unauthorized use. of the door through theft, etc. of the keys, in contrast to the above described devices, wherein the
fingerprints are registered without regard to the keys.

However, if fingerprints are registered as classified by the keys in accordance with the aimed system as above, a  door can be
opened only by users using a key with fingerprints of these users stored in it, excluding any third party from opening
the door, which may cause inconvenience at occasions when the door needs to be opened by a third party.

Thus, another objective of the present invention is to provide a fingerprint recognition door lock system, wherein a non-
registered third person can be authorized to unlock/lock the door using a key temporarily.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Fig. 1 illustrates outer appearance of an embodiment example of a sender in accordance with the present invention. Fig. 2 is
a block diagram showing the internal structure of a sender in accordance with the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing the internal structure of a receiver in accordance with the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing a fingerprint registration process at the sender. Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing a fingerprint
registration process at the receiver.
Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing operations performed at the sender to unlock a door based on fingerprint recognition.

Figs. 7a and 7b are examples of screens displayed on the display part of a sender, wherein Fig. 7a shows a function menu of
the sender, while Fig. 7b shows a list of receivers that can be opened by the sender. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing operations
performed at the receiver to unlock a door based on fingerprint recognition.

Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing operations performed at the sender to authorize a third person for temporal use of the sender.
Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing operations performed at the sender in authorization mode.

Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the process of setting/canceling a sender lock mode.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments A fingerprint recognition door lock system in accordance with the present
invention comprises a plurality of senders (keys) capable of scanning fingerprints and transmitting the same by radio, and
one or more receiver(s) (door lock controller) installed at one or more door for locking/unlocking the door based on the
information received.

The sender, on its part, comprises a fingerprint recognition part for scanning fingerprints of the users; a wireless
communication part for wireless transmission of the recognized fingerprint information and of the sender apparatus
information; an input part for selection of the function menu; a display part for displaying status of the sender; a memory
part for storing the sender apparatus information as well as operation programs of the sender; and a control part for
controlling the sender to receive fingerprint of a user through the fingerprint recognition part after the user has started
the door unlock function by manipulating the input part, and to transmit the fingerprint information together with the
sender information to the receiver by radio through the wireless communication part.

On the other hand, the receiver comprises a wireless communication part for receiving data from the sender by radio; a
memory part for storing the receiver apparatus information, fingerprint information as classified by the senders, and
operation programs of the receiver; a door lock driving part for outputting signals required for locking/unlocking the door;
and a control part which controls the door lock driving part to open the door, if the sender apparatus information and the
fingerprint information received from the wireless communication part coincide with any one of the fingerprint information
stored in its memory part for that sender.

The memory part of a sender stores apparatus information of the receivers that can be controlled using that sender. If a user
starts door unlock function by selecting one receiver among the receivers stored in the memory part of the sender, the
control part of the sender receives fingerprint of the user through the above fingerprint recognition part, and then transmits
the fingerprint information together with apparatus information of the sender as well as of the selected receiver to the
receiver by radio through the wireless communication part. Then, the control part of the receiver controls the  door lock
driving part to open the door, if the receiver apparatus information received coincides with its own apparatus information,
and the sender apparatus information as well as the fingerprint information received from the wireless communication part
coincide with any one of the fingerprint information stored in its memory part for that sender.

Furthermore, the above sender of the present invention is equipped with an authorization function, wherein the sender
transmits one of the registered fingerprints instead of requesting to input a fingerprint, if a registered user unlocks
a door using the sender while registering his fingerprint at the sender with the sender in authorization mode. The user can
also set the sender in a manner that the sender can used only in combination with a password to prevent an unauthorized
use of the sender by a third person.

< Structures of the Sender and of the Receiver > Fig. 1 illustrates outer appearance of an embodiment example of a sender.

The sender 100 comprises a cover 118 for protection of the fingerprint recognition sensor 111, power connection terminals
116a, 116b for connection with recharging power, and a data communication terminal 117 in addition to an LCD 113, a
fingerprint recognition sensor 111, and buttons 112a ~ 112e. If a user wishes to open a door, he starts a desired function
using a button 112a -112e and initiates a fingerprint recognition process by putting his fingerprint on the
fingerprint recognition sensor 111, whereupon the sender

100 transmits the fingerprint information, the sender apparatus information, etc. by radio.

Next, the internal structure of the sender 100 is described below making reference to Fig. 2.

The sender 100 comprises a fingerprint recognition part 11 for scanning fingerprints; a wireless communication part 124 for
wireless transmission of the authentication information inclusive of the fingerprint information recognized and of the
apparatus information inclusive of the sender code number; an input part 122 for selection of a function menu as well as for
other manipulations; a display part 123 for displaying status of the sender; a memory part 131 for storing the sender
apparatus information as well as operation programs of the sender; and a control part 120 for controlling the sender to
transmit the fingerprint information recognized by the fingerprint recognition part 111 to the receiver by radio through the
wireless communication part 124. The wireless communication part 124 can be embodied in various forms, using e.g.

Bluetooth, infrared communication, wireless LAN (Local Area Network), etc., but not limited to a specific communication
means. For the input part 122, keypad, touch screen, and the like can be used, while LED (Light Emitting Diode), LCD (Liquid
Crystal Display), and the like can be used for the display part 123. Memory devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM
(Random Access Memory), flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), and the like can be used for
the memory part 131. In particular, it is preferable that a non-volatile memory device is used for storage of the apparatus
information so that its storage is guaranteed even in the absence of power supply. The memory part 131 of the sender 100
stores apparatus information of that sender 100, names and apparatus number of the receivers accessible by the sender 100.
Further, opening records of the doors unlocked by the sender 100 can also be stored. The door opening record, which the
sender 100 receives from the receiver 200 and stores in its memory part 131, comprises the occurrence (ordinary opening,
authorized third party opening, etc.), time of the occurrence, the result, etc. The sender 100 can additionally comprise a
power source terminal 116 to supply power for recharging of the battery, a charge/discharge part 125 including
corresponding circuits, and a power source regulator 126 for stable supply of power. Moreover, a switch 127 can be added so
that the fingerprint recognition part is applied with power only when it is in use. Furthermore, a voice regeneration part 130
can also be included for outputting through a speaker 128 instructions or warnings in connection with manipulation of the
sender 100.

The sender 100 can further comprise a wire connection part 121 for inputting data. It is also possible that this wire
connection part 121 is used to unlock the door by establishing a wire connection to the door lock device in case the wireless
communication fails.

Though not shown in the drawing, the sender 100 can also comprise an encoding part for encryption of information to be
transmitted. In such case, security of the information to be transmitted via the wireless communication part 124 can be
maintained by encryption thereof through the encoding part. In the following, a description of the internal structure of the
receiver 200 in accordance of the present invention is given making reference to Fig. 3.

The receiver 200 comprises a wireless communication part 212 for wireless reception of authentication information from the
sender 100; a memory part 228 for storing apparatus information inclusive of receiver code number, authentication
information, and operation programs of the receiver; a door lock driving part 224 for outputting signals required for
unlocking the door 400; and a control part 210 for controlling the door lock driving part 224 to unlock the door 400, if the
authentication information received from the wireless communication part 212 coincides with the corresponding
authentication information stored in the memory part 228. For the wireless communication part 212 various forms of
wireless communication interfaces, e.g. Bluetooth, infrared communication, wireless LAN (Local Area Network), etc. can be
used. For the memory part 228, memory devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), flash
memory, EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), and the like can be used. In particular, it is preferable that a
non- volatile memory device is used for storage of the apparatus information so that its storage is guaranteed even in the
absence of power supply.

The memory part 228 of the receiver 200 stores apparatus information of that receiver 200 as well as fingerprint information
as classified by the senders 100. Further, door openings and opening attempts by the receiver 200 can also be stored therein.
The door lock driving part 224 locks/unlocks the door by applying power to the door lock.

The receiver 200 can additionally comprise peripheral device connection part 222 for connection with external devices such
as notebook computer, PDA, etc. A wire interface such as RS-232C, USB, RS-422, or a wireless interface such as infrared
communication, Bluetooth, etc., or other various interfaces can be used as the peripheral device connection part 222. It is
also possible that receiver apparatus code number and fingerprint information as classified by the senders are registered
through the peripheral device connection part 222.

It is preferable that the receiver 200 additionally comprises a real time clock 226 to obtain time information required for
making door unlock records.

The receiver 200 comprises an input part 214 for inputting data or selecting a function and a display part 216 for indicating
status of the receiver 200 or a message to the user. Moreover, the receiver 200 can comprise a speaker 218 for outputting
warning sound.

Though not illustrated in the drawing, the receiver 200 can further comprise a decoding part for decoding encoded
information received from the wireless communication part 212.

<Fingerprint Registration as Classified by the Senders>

The process of fingerprint registration as classified by the senders is described below making reference to Figs. 4 and 5.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart showing a fingerprint registration process at the sender, while Fig. 5 is a flow chart showing a fingerprint
registration process at the receiver.

For registering a new fingerprint, an authentication by a user whose fingerprint has already been registered is required.
Accordingly, for registering a fingerprint of a new user input of fingerprint of a user already registered at the sender is
required.

For the first registration of a fingerprint at each sender, however, an authentication by a master registered at the receiver is
required. Accordingly, input of fingerprint of the master is required for registration of a sender at a receiver.

The process of fingerprint registration at a sender 100 is described below making reference to Fig. 4. First, a user intending to
register his fingerprint selects the fingerprint registration menu among the menus of a sender (step S401). Fig. 7a illustrates
an example of such function menu of a sender.

Then, the sender displays a list of receivers capable of registering fingerprints

(step S403). Alternatively, the list of receivers capable of registering fingerprints can be stored in advance in the sender's
memory 131 through the wire transceiver part 121 or the wireless communication part 124. Moreover, it is also possible that
receivers 200 which can be communicated are searched and then displayed. For example, the control part 120 of the sender
100 outputs through the wireless communication part 124 a signal for requesting apparatus information of the receivers 200
that can be communicated when a user selects the fingerprint registration menu, whereupon the receivers 200 transmit their
apparatus information. The sender 100 receives the transmitted information and displays the same on its display part.

The user selects a receiver at which he wish to register his fingerprint among the list of receivers displayed (step S405),
whereupon the control part 120 of the sender 100 displays a message on the display part 123, or releases a voice message via
the voice regeneration part 130 requesting input of a fingerprint.

Then, if the user puts his finger on the fingerprint recognition part 111 of the sender 100, the control part 120 scans the
fingerprint and transmits fingerprint registration information comprising the scanned fingerprint information, the sender's
apparatus code, and a code number signifying request for a fingerprint registration to the selected receiver

200 (step S409). It is preferable that apparatus code of the corresponding receiver 200 is outputted here as well.

After having received the fingerprint registration information, the receiver 200 registers the same as a fingerprint for that
sender and transmits the process result to the sender. Further processes at the receiver 200 is described herein later. After
transmission of the fingerprint registration information, the sender 100 waits for process result from the receiver 200 (step
S411). If no process result is received from the receiver 200 within a predetermined time limit, the sender 100 terminates the
fingerprint registration process after having released an error message at step S423. If no fingerprint has been registered at
the receiver 200 at all, in other words, if a fingerprint is registered for the first time at the receiver 200, this first fingerprint
becomes a master fingerprint. In such a case, a process result signifying completion of registration is received from the
receiver 200 at step S411, whereupon the sender 100 terminates the fingerprint registration procedure after having indicated
the registration result (step S421). If any fingerprint has already been registered at the receiver 200, the receiver 200 outputs
a process result requesting input of a fingerprint of a registered user. Upon receiving the above process result, the sender 100
displays a message on the display part 123 or outputs a voice message via the voice regeneration part 130, requesting input
of a fingerprint of a registered user, and then receives a fingerprint of a registered user (step S413).

Subsequently, the sender 100 transmits the inputted fingerprint to the receiver 200 (step S415), and waits for a process result
for a predetermined time period (step S417).

If no process result has been received during the predetermined time period, the fingerprint registration procedure ends
after an error message has been outputted at step S423.

If a process result has been received, it is confirmed whether this process result indicates completion of an ordinary
registration (step S419). If the process result does not indicate completion of an ordinary registration, the fingerprint
registration procedure ends after an error message has been outputted at step S423. If, however, the received process result
indicates completion of an ordinary registration, the fingerprint registration procedure ends after the result of registration
has been displayed at step S421.

Now, the process of fingerprint registration at receiver 200 is described below making reference to Fig. 5. Upon receiving a
request signal for fingerprint registration from the sender 100 at step S501, the receiver 200 stores the received information .
in the memory part 228 temporarily and confirms whether any fingerprint has been registered for the respective sender using
the sender apparatus code number contained in the fingerprint registration information received (step S503). If no
fingerprint is registered for the sender, it is confirmed whether a master fingerprint is registered for the respective receiver
200 at step S521. If no master fingerprint has been registered at the receiver 200, the received fingerprint information is
registered as master fingerprint in the memory part 228 of the receiver 200 (step S531), considering the received fingerprint
information as a master fingerprint, since it is the first fingerprint registration at the receiver 200.

Subsequently, the received fingerprint information is registered at the corresponding sender at step S541, and then, a
process result indicating an ordinary registration is transmitted to the sender 100 at step 543.

In case it is confirmed at step S521 that a master fingerprint has already been registered, in other words, a request for
fingerprint registration is made for the first time using the respective sender 100, a fingerprint registration is only possible
with authentication by a user who has registered a master fingerprint. Accordingly, the receiver 200 transmits a process
result to the sender 100 requesting input of a master fingerprint (step S523). After that, the receiver 200 waits for master
fingerprint information from the sender 100 for a predetermined time period (step S525). If no master fingerprint information
is received within the predetermined time limit, a process result is transmitted to the sender 100 notifying that registration is
impossible at step S551.

If master fingerprint information has been received within the predetermined time limit, it is confirmed whether this data is
from the same sender that has requested registration of the fingerprint (step S527). If the data is not from the same sender, a
process result is transmitted to the sender 100 notifying that registration is impossible at step S551.

If the data is from the same sender, it is confirmed whether the received fingerprint information coincides with master
fingerprint information stored in the memory part 228 (step S529). If the fingerprint information does not coincides with each
other, a process result is transmitted to the sender 100 notifying that registration is impossible at step S551 ,

If the fingerprint information coincides with each other, the fingerprint information stored temporarily in the memory part
228 at step S501 is stored in the memory part 228 as fingerprint information for the corresponding sender at step S541, and
then, a process result notifying completion of an ordinary registration is transmitted to the sender 100 at step S543.

If it is confirmed at step S503 that a fingerprint has already been registered for the respective sender, a process result is
transmitted to the sender 100 requesting input of fingerprint of a registered user at step S511 After that, the receiver 200
waits for fingerprint information of a registered user from the sender 100 for a predetermined time period (step S513). If the
fingerprint information is not received within the predetermined time limit, a process result is transmitted to the sender 100
notifying that registration is impossible at step S551.

If the fingerprint information has been received within the predetermined time limit, it is confirmed whether this data is from
the same sender that has requested registration of the fingerprint (step S515). If the data is not from the same sender, a
process result is transmitted to the sender 100 notifying that registration is impossible at step S551.

If the data is from the same sender, it is confirmed whether the received fingerprint information coincides with any
fingerprint information of the registered users (step S517). If there exists no coinciding fingerprint information, a process
result is transmitted to the sender 100 notifying that registration is impossible at step S551.

If the fingerprint information coincides with each other, the fingerprint information stored temporarily in the memory part
228 at step S501 is stored additionally in the memory part 228 as fingerprint information for the corresponding sender at step
S541, and then, a process result notifying completion of an ordinary registration is transmitted to the sender 100 at step
S543.
In the above description of the preferred embodiments, fingerprint of a user desiring to be registered is scanned and
transmitted first, and then, fingerprint of a registered user is scanned and transmitted upon request of the receiver. However,
the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it is possible that fingerprint of a registered user is scanned first,
then, fingerprint of a user desiring to be registered is scanned, and both fingerprint information are transmitted together.
Alternatively, fingerprint of a registered user can be scanned and transmitted first, and then, fingerprint of a user desiring to
be registered can be scanned and transmitted upon request of the receiver.

<Door Unlock Procedure Based on Fingerprint Recognition>

The operations to be performed at the sender 100 to unlock a door based on fingerprint recognition, is described below
making reference to Fig. 6.

If a user turns on the power switch of the sender 100 to use the sender 100, a screen as in Fig. 7a is displayed on the display
part 123 of the sender 100. The user selects a desired function from the displayed menu.

If the user selects Door Unlock menu (step S601), the control part 120 of the sender 100 fetches a list of receivers 200 capable
of unlocking the door using the sender 100 from the memory part 131, and displays the list on the display part 123 (step
S603). An example of such list is shown in Fig. 7b.

Alternatively, it is also possible that only receivers 200 communicable upon request for communication by the sender 100 are
enlisted, instead of storing a list of all receivers 200 capable of unlocking the door. In other words, if the sender 100 outputs a
communication request signal, the receivers 200 transmit a response signal thereto, whereupon the sender 100 displays only
those receivers 200 from which a response signal has been received on the display part 123.

After that, the user selects a door from the list he desires to unlock (step S 605), whereupon the control part 120 of the sender
100 displays a message on the display part 123 requesting input of a fingerprint, and then, waits for input of a fingerprint. If
the user puts his fingerprint on the fingerprint recognition part 111, the latter scans the fingerprint (step S607). Repeated
requesting for fingerprint input is also possible in case the scanned fingerprint image does not suffice a predetermined
quality standard.
After scanning the fingerprint, the sender 100 outputs door unlock information via the wireless communication part 124
(step S613). Alternatively, it is also possible that a request signal for a communication channel is transmitted to the sender
and then, a communication channel is opened, before the door unlock information is outputted. The door unlock
information preferably comprises a code signifying a signal for door unlock request based on fingerprint recognition, the
sender apparatus information, and the inputted fingerprint information. Moreover, apparatus information of the receiver
selected by the user shall preferably be included therein as well. After having transmitted the door unlock information, the
sender 100 waits for a process result from the receiver 200. If no process result is received within a predetermined time limit,
the control part 120 outputs an error message on the display part 123 (step S621). If a process result is received from the
receiver 200, the control part 120 displays the same on the display part 123 and stores it in the memory part 131
as door unlock record (step S619). This step of storing process results in the memory part is for eventual later use of such
results in confirming as to whether the door was opened using the respective sender by an unauthorized third party.
However, this step can be omitted if necessary. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing operations performed at the receiver 200 to
unlock a door based on fingerprint recognition upon request of the sender 100.

If a request signal for a communication channel is received from the sender 100 (step S801), the receiver 200 responds to this
signal by transmitting its own apparatus information (step S803), whereby information for encoding can also be exchanged.
Also, apparatus information of the sender 100 included in the received signal can temporarily be stored for checking whether
the next signal received is from that sender.

After responding to the communication channel request signal, the receiver 200 waits for door unlock information (step
S805). If no door unlock information is received within a predetermined time limit, control part 210 of the receiver 200 erases
the sender apparatus information, etc. stored temporarily, and escapes from the routine procedure.

If door unlock information is received from the sender 100, control part 210 of the receiver 200 confirms whether this
information is from the sender which has requested for opening of a communication channel (step S807). In case
the door unlock request is not from the same sender, control part 210 of the receiver 200 stores the door unlock request in
the memory part 228 and transmits a process result to the respective sender via the wireless communication part 212 (step
S817). Alternatively, the process result can be displayed on the display part 216 of the receiver 200.
However, in the absence of a communication channel opening request from the sender 100, the steps S801, S803, S805, and
S807 can be omitted. In case door unlock information is received from the sender 100 which has requested for opening a
communication channel, the control part 210 confirms by searching the memory part 228 if the sender 100 is a registered
sender. If the door unlock request is from a non-registered sender, a corresponding process result is displayed as well as
stored, and then, transmitted to the sender 100 at step S817. In case the door unlock request is from a registered sender, the
control part 210 confirms if the fingerprint information contained in the door unlock information coincides with any
fingerprint information for that sender stored in the memory part 228 (step S811). If there exists no coinciding fingerprint
information, the fingerprint information received is stored in the memory part 228 (step S815). The fingerprint information
thus stored can be used in eventual future search for unauthorized door open attempts. After that, a corresponding process
result is displayed as well as stored, and then, transmitted to the sender 100 at step 817.

If there exists any coinciding fingerprint information, the control part 210 unlocks the door lock by controlling the door lock
driving part 224 (step S813). After that, a corresponding process result is displayed as well as stored, and then transmitted to
the sender 100 at step S817.

<Temporary Authorization>

Normally, in order to unlock a door using a sender, only those users who have registered their fingerprints using that sender
are allowed to unlock the door. However, there can be instances where users who have not registered their fingerprints shall
also be allowed to open the door, e.g. when a registered user is hampered to move, he could ask some one else to open
the door using the sender and take something for him; a registered user can go out leaving the sender to a third party so that
the third party could open the door during his absence; and the like. Further, in an environment where user of a key
alternates frequently, such as in a hotel, it would be troublesome to register fingerprint of each new hotel guest. Instead, it
would be convenient if the guests are allowed to open a door using a sender, after the administrator has authorized a
receiver installed at a hotel room to be used for the sender containing his fingerprint registered in it. The  door lock system in
accordance with the present invention provides an authorization function to solve the above problems. To elaborate, if a
registered user registers his fingerprint at a sender with the sender set to authorization mode, the sender outputs registered
fingerprint instead of requesting input of a fingerprint when a door shall be opened using the sender. Now, an explanation of
the authorization function is given below making reference to Figs. 9 and 10.

Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing operations performed at the sender to authorize a third person for temporal use of the sender,
while Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing operations performed at the sender in authorization mode. A user desiring to authorize a
third party to unlock a door using the sender selects authorization mode from the menu of the sender 100 as in Fig. 7a (step
S901), whereupon the sender 100 displays a list of receivers capable of unlocking the door on the display part (step S903).
The user selects the door(s) to be opened by the authorized user (step S905). Here, a setting can be made in a manner that
only specific doors are opened, or all the receivers containing the user's fingerprint registered in them are controlled. It is
also possible that all the receivers registering the user are controlled with the above authorization, skipping step S905.

It is also possible that a time limit of validity is set when an authorization is given. For setting a time limit, authorization time
limit menu is selected, and then, a time limit is given (step S907). Alternatively, a screen enabling a user to set a time limit
can be displayed after step S905.

After a validity time limit has been set, the sender 100 outputs a screen for requesting fingerprint input of a registered user,
whereupon the user inputs his fingerprint to the sender 100 (step S909). The inputted fingerprint is stored in the memory
part 131 of the sender 100, and outputted when a user authorized to use the sender 100 selects a door unlock menu.

Next, a description of operations at a sender as set in an authorization mode follows, making reference to Fig. 10.

In an authorization mode, the sender 100 checks first whether the time limit of authorization has expired (step SI 001). This
step can be omitted where no such time limit has been set.

If the authorization time limit has expired, the stored fingerprint is erased at step SI 021 and the authorization mode is
terminated at step SI 023.

If the authorization time limit has not expired, it is confirmed whether the user has selected door unlock menu (step SI 003).
If no door unlock menu has been selected, the procedure begins from step SI 001 anew.

If a user selects door unlock menu, a list of apparatus with authorization is displayed, whereupon the user selects one from
the list (step SI 004). Then, the sender 100 transmits fingerprint of registered user stored in the memory part 131 via the
wireless communication part 124. Since the operations following the above are identical with operations in a
general door unlock procedure, i.e. since steps SI 007, SI 009, SI 011, and SI 013 in Fig. 10 are the same as steps S615, S617,
S619, and S621 in Fig. 6, respectively, further explanations thereon are omitted here. The authorization mode can be
cancelled anytime regardless of the remaining authorization time, by selecting a function menu, "Authorization End", which
is provided for in the authorization mode.

Moreover, it is also possible that the authorization mode is cancelled automatically after the use of  door unlock function in
authorization mode has reached a predetermined time. In other words, the control part 120 of the sender counts every time
when the door unlock function is used in authorization mode, and cancels the authorization mode when such use reaches a
predetermined time. Here, it is also possible that this predetermined usage time is determined by the user.

However, there arises a problem that a sender as set in authorization can be used for door unlock by any one who happen to
get the sender, once the sender goes lost. In order to solve this problem, the sender can be equipped with a sender lock
function operable automatically whenever the sender is set to authorization mode, an explanation on said sender lock
function follows below. To elaborate, if the sender is set to authorization mode, the sender lock function is automatically
initiated so that further use of the sender is first possible in combination with a password.

<Sender Lock Function>

A user can set the sender in a manner that use of the sender is combined with input of a password, to prevent unauthorized
use of the sender by a third party. A description of the setting/canceling procedure of sender lock mode is given below
making reference to Fig. 11, whereby the sender lock mode setting/canceling is performed in toggle mode.

A user selects sender lock menu in a screen as Fig. 7a (step SI 101), whereupon the control part 120 of the sender 100
confirms whether the sender 100 is in sender lock mode (step SI 103).

If the sender is in sender lock mode, which means that the user has selected sender lock mode canceling function, the
control part 120 requests the user to input a password using the display part 123 or the voice regeneration part 130 (step SI
131). If the user inputs a password (step SI 133), the control part 120 confirms whether the inputted password coincides with
one stored in the memory part 131 (step SI 135). A password can be stored in the memory 131 at step S 1129 or using a
separate password input function.

If the passwords coincide with each other, the sender lock mode is cancelled (step SI 137). If the passwords do not coincide
with each other, the procedure ends after an error message has been outputted (step SI 141). If, however, the sender is not in
sender lock mode at the above step SI 103, this means that the user has selected sender lock mode setting function. For
setting sender lock mode, an appropriate passport shall be inputted if a password has already been registered. If no
password has been registered, a password needs first be registered.

Accordingly, it is confirmed at step SI 105 whether a password has been set. The control part 120 requests the user to input a
password using the display part 123 or the voice regeneration part 130, if a password has been set (step SI 107). If the user
inputs a password (step SI 109), the control part 120 confirms whether the inputted password coincides with one stored in
the memory part 131 (step S 1111 ).

If the passwords do not coincide with each other, the procedure ends after an error message has been outputted at step SI
141. If the passwords coincide with each other, the sender is set to sender lock mode (step SI 113).

If no password is set at the above step SI 105, the control part 120 requests the user to input a password using the display
part 123 or the voice regeneration part 130 (step

SI 127). Upon input of a password by the user, the control part 120 stores the inputted password in the memory part 131
(step SI 129) and sets the sender into sender lock mode at step 1113.

If a user selects door unlock menu with the sender set to sender lock mode, the control part 120 requests the user to input a
password after step S601 in Fig. 6. If the inputted password coincides with one stored in the memory part 131, the control
part 120 proceeds with operations from step S603 in Fig. 6. If the passwords do not coincide with each other, the door unlock
procedure ends after an error message has been outputted.

Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments, the scope of the
rights of the subject invention is not restricted thereto, but rather shall be determined by the claims attached herein below
and their equivalents, allowing various alterations, modifications, and adjustments, as those skilled in the art will
understand.

For example, although the above specification describes a door lock system, the present invention is not limited to
a door lock system, but rather, it is applicable, e.g., to a vehicle starting system, security system, etc. with same structure and
same work flow, by substituting, for example, the door lock driving part of a sender with a vehicle starting part, to allow a
user authenticated through fingerprint recognition to start the vehicle.

Industrial Applicability

As explained above, the present invention, by registering fingerprints as classified by the senders and allowing a receiver to
compare only fingerprints registered for a certain sender in the process of authenticating a fingerprint, helps to save time
required for a fingerprint authentication.

Further, the present invention provides convenience of use by providing an authentication mode, wherein a user who has
not registered his fingerprint at a sender can be allowed to unlock a door temporarily using the sender, if necessary.

Finally, the present invention provides a higher level of security by providing a sender lock function, combining use of a
sender with a password input.