VISIBLE LIGHT COMMUNICATION LOCKS

Abstract

This disclosure relates to visible light communication (VLC) for locks. A VLC smart lock apparatus may include a photodetector, a VLC decoder, a controller, a memory, a lock, and/or other components. The photodetector may be configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device. The VLC decoder may be coupled to the photodetector and configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code. The memory may be configured to store a preset key code. The controller may be coupled to the VLC decoder, the memory, and the lock. The controller may be configured to unlock the lock when the preset key code is associated with the key code.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to locks, and more specifically to locks using visible light communication.

BACKGROUND

Locks may refer to security devices/tools used to restrict access to tangible things (e.g., buildings, structures, containers, vehicles) or intangible things (e.g., accounts, information). Smart locks may refer to locks that use electronics/software to operate. For example, a smart lock may include a wirelessly-controlled electronic locks. A wireless electronic lock may use an electronic key (i.e., an electronic card) to control a lock remotely without using a traditional key. The electronic card, when brought near the electronic lock, may transmit a wireless signal (including a key) to be received by a receiver embedded inside a lock to unlock it. Keys may be transmitted using radio-frequency (RF) signals of various types, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and/or other wireless RF technologies.

Such smart locks suffer from deficiencies of RF communication. First, RF communication may be insecure. Signals transmitted using RF communication may be intercepted by an entity using an RF signal receiver. The entity may decode the signals to obtain the keys and open the locks. Second, RF communication may be unreliable. Signals transmitted using RF communication may be disrupted by nearby RF signal within the same frequency spectrum, which may result in malfunctions (e.g., jamming, accidental opening) of the locks. Moreover, signal transmitted using RF communication may not be adequately received by the lock receiver (e.g., due to poor wireless signal quality, environmental factors, or device pairing issues), which may cause electronic triggering problem for the locks (e.g., a user may be required to attempt to open the lock many times). Third, RF-based wireless communication is invisible to humans, making wireless operations of electronic locks neither intuitive nor user-friendly.

SUMMARY

This disclosure relates to visible light communication (VLC) for locks. In one aspect of the disclosure, a VLC smart lock apparatus may include a photodetector, a VLC decoder, a controller, a memory, a lock, and/or other components. The photodetector may be configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device. The VLC decoder may be coupled to the photodetector and configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code. The memory may be configured to store a preset key code. The controller may be coupled to the VLC decoder, the memory, and the lock. The controller may be configured to unlock the lock when the preset key code is associated with the key code.

In some implementations, the key code may comprise an identification of the hardware key device. The controller may be configured to unlock the lock when preset key code is associated with the identification of the hardware key device.

In some implementations, the hardware key device may comprise a smartphone, and the identification of the smartphone may be selected from a group consisting of an IMEI number, a MEID number, a product serial number, and a phone number of the smartphone. In some implementations, the hardware key device may comprise a first smartphone, and the first smartphone may be configured to receive the key code from a second smartphone remotely via wireless communication. In some implementations, the first smartphone may be configured to receive the key code from the second smartphone via text messaging.

In some implementations, the hardware key device may be configured to obtain biometric information of a user. The key code may comprise an identification of the user based on the biometric information of the user. The controller may be configured to unlock the lock when preset key code is associated with an identification of the user.

In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus may further comprise an input device for inputting the preset key code. In some implementations, the input device may comprise a field programming tool.

In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus may further comprise an LED and a VLC encoder. The LED may be configured as a VLC transmitter to emit visible light in accordance with a VLC signal. The VLC encoder configured to encode the VLC signal.

In some implementations, the controller, the memory, and the VLC decoder may be integrated in an integrated circuit (IC).

In some implementations, the lock may comprise/be embedded in a door. For example, the lock may comprise/be embedded in a door lock for a vehicle. The lock may comprise/be embedded in a door lock for a garage, and the hardware key device may comprise a light of a car. The lock may comprise/be embedded in a bicycle lock. In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus may further comprise a battery to power the VLC smart lock apparatus and a photovoltaic (PV) panel configured to charge the battery. Some PV pixels may be configures as PDs to receive VLC signals emitted from the LED.

In one aspect of the disclosure, an integrated circuit for a VLC smart lock apparatus may comprise a VLC signal channel, a VLC decoder, a controller, a memory, and/or other components. The VLC signal channel may be configured to receive a digital signal from a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device. The VLC decoder may be coupled to the VLC signal channel and configured to decode the digital signal from the photodetector to obtain a key code. The memory may be configured to store a preset key code. The controller may be coupled to the VLC decoder and the memory. The controller may be configured to determine whether the preset key code is associated with the key code.

In some implementations, the key code may comprise an identification of the hardware key device. The preset key code may be associated with to the identification of the hardware key device.

In some implementations, the hardware key device may comprises a smartphone, and the identification may be selected from a group consisting of an IMEI number, a MEID number, a product serial number and a phone number of the smartphone.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit for the VLC smart lock apparatus may further comprise an input port for inputting the preset key code. In some implementations, the preset key code may be field programmable.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit for the VLC smart lock apparatus may further comprise an LED and a VLC encoder. The LED may be configured as a VLC transmitter to emit visible light in accordance with a VLC signal. The VLC encoder may be configured to encode the VLC signal.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit for the VLC smart lock apparatus may further comprise the photodetector. In some implementations, the integrated circuit may comprise a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) system. The controller, the memory, and the VLC decoder may be fabricated on a first portion of a silicon substrate, and the photodetector may be fabricated from silicon or a compound semiconductor island selectively grown on a second portion of the silicon substrate. In some implementations, the compound semiconductor may be GaN.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit may be packaged in a System-in-a-Package (SiP) system. The controller, the memory, and the VLC decoder may be fabricated on a silicon substrate, and the photodetector may be fabricated from a compound semiconductor.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit may be embedded in a first device in a payment system. In some implementations, the hardware key device may comprise a second device in the payment system.

These and other objects, features, and characteristics of the system and/or method disclosed herein, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structure and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates example VLC smart lock apparatus and hardware key device in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates example master-slave relay smartphones in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example VLC bicycle lock in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example block diagram of an integrated circuit for VLC smart lock apparatus in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates an example receiver system-on-a-chip in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example receiver system-in-a package system in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate example coding methods in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

FIGS. 11-12 illustrate example payment systems in accordance with some implementations of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure relates to VLC for locks. Locks controlled using VLC may provide enhanced security measures, greater reliability and visibility than locks controlled using RF communication. VLC refers to wireless communication using visible light to transmit and receive data/information. Particular data/information may be transmitted based on the light be turned on and off. For example, LEDs may be switched ON/OFF at high speed to tens of MHz without flickering to human eyes. The fast ON/OFF of LEDs is equivalent to modulation, enabling wireless VLC at very high data rates. VLC may provide greater spectrum of use than RF wireless communication. Visible light, being radiation harmless, may allow for use of more emission power for higher data rates/stronger signals without risking human health. Because VLC requires line-of-sight (between emitter and receiver) for use, VLC may provide higher security than RF wireless communication that is ubiquitous. Unlike RF wireless communication, signal transmitted using VLC may not be intercepted without the intercepting entity having access to the light of sight between the VLC emitter and the VLC receiver. For example, a VLC smart lock may be implemented as a near-field lock that requires a user to place the LED key device close to the smart lock, preventing others from “stealing” the visible light signal. VLC may co-exist and/or complement RF wireless communication. That is, RF wireless communication does not interfere with VLC (signal transmitted using VLC is not disrupted by RF wireless communication) and the VLC smart lock may operate reliably regardless of nearby RF wireless communication. Moreover, a VLC smart lock may be used in conjunction with RF wireless communication.

FIG. 1 illustrates a VLC smart lock apparatus 100 and a hardware key device 150. The VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may include a photodetector 102, a VLC decoder 104, a controller 106, a memory 108, a lock 110, and/or other components. In some implementations, the controller 106, the memory 108, and/or the VLC decoder 104 may be integrated in an integrated circuit, as described below.

The photodetector 102 (e.g., light receiver, image sensor, photodiode) may be configured to receive visible light emitted from the hardware key device 150. The photodetector 102 may receive a key signal encoded in the visible light (light signals) and convert the light signals into electronic signals. The received light-converted electronic signals may be processed by a receiver logic/circuitry and the signals may be amplified by an amplifier circuit.

The hardware key device 150 may replace traditional keys. The hardware key device 150 may include an LED 152, which transmits visible light including VLC signals/key codes. The hardware key device 150 may include logics (implemented in hardware and/or software) used to include the VLC signals/key codes in the transmitted visible light. For example, the hardware key device 150 may include an interface logic/circuit, a coding logic/circuit, and a modulation logic/circuit. The interface logic/circuit may receive key signals that will be coded for the “open the lock” signals by the coding logic/circuit. The coding logic/circuit may implement lock security by encrypting the key signals using one or more encryption methods. The modulation logic/circuit may modulate the operation of the LED 152 with the key signals, i.e., switching ON/OFF the LED 152 in accordance with the key signals. In some implementations, the key signals may be amplified by a driver circuit to drive the LED 152 (i.e., turn on the LED bulb). The LED 152 may emits the encrypted “open the lock” signals via the light to the VLC smart lock apparatus 100.

Referring to the VLC smart lock apparatus 100, the VLC decoder 104 may be directly or indirectly coupled to the photodetector 102. The VLC decoder 104 may be configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector 102 to obtain one or more key codes. That is, the (amplified) light-converted electronic signals may be processed (e.g., decoded, demodulated) by the VLC decoder 104 to retrieve the key codes embedded in the visible light transmitted by the hardware key device 150. In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may include/implement varying-gain amplification logic/circuitry/technique to counter background light noises.

The controller 106 may be directly or indirectly coupled to the VLC decoder 104, the memory 108, and the lock 110. The memory 108 (including permanent and/or temporary memory) may be configured to store one or more preset key codes. The lock 110 may include one or more mechanical (e.g., padlocks, deadbolts, spring locks, cylinder locks) and/or software (e.g., access-control) locking mechanism. Coupling between the components of the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may include one or more electrical coupling and/or one or more mechanical coupling. For example, coupling between the controller 106 and the VLC decoder 104/memory 108 may include one or more electronical connections. Coupling between the controller 106 and the lock 110 may include one or more electronical connections and/or one or more mechanical connections.

One or more components of the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may be implemented via software, via hardware, or both software and hardware. For example, the VLC decoder 104 may be implemented via hardware to implement the logics to decode key codes from visible light received by the photodetector 102. As another example, the VLC decoder 104 may be implemented via a processor executing computer-executable instructions stored in computer-readable medium to decode the key codes from visible light received by the photodetector 102.

Although components of the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 are shown in FIG. 1 as separate blocks, this is merely for ease of reference and is not limiting. In some implementations, one or more components of the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may be contained within a single or multiple components.

The controller 106 may be configured to unlock the lock 110 when the preset key code(s) stored in the memory 108 is associated with the key code(s) decoded from the visible light received from the hardware key device 150. A preset key code being associated with a key code may include the whole or a portion of the preset key code being matched to the whole or a portion of the key code/value derived from the key code. Based on matching between the preset key code stored in the memory 108 and the key code decoded from the visible light received from the hardware key device 150, the controller may trigger electrical and/or mechanical components to open the lock 110 (give access to tangible/intangible thing restricted by the lock 110). In some implementations, the controller 106 may be configured to lock the lock 110 based on reception of command/key code from the hardware key device 150.

In some implementations, the key code may comprise an identification of the hardware key device 150. The controller 106 may be configured to unlock the lock 110 when preset key code is associated with the identification of the hardware key device 150. For example, the hardware key device 150 may comprise a smartphone, and the identification of the smartphone may be selected from a group consisting of an IMEI number, a MEID number, a product serial number, and a phone number of the smartphone. Opto-electronic transmitter components of the hardware key device 150 may be implemented via hardware and/or software (e.g., a lock App that includes encryption and modulation software to modulate LED/flashlight) in the smartphone. In some implementations, one or more lighting components (e.g., LED, flashlight) of the smartphone may be used as the LED 152. Hence, the smartphone LED/flashlight may serve a dual purpose: as an LED/flashlight and a light transmitter for the VLC smart lock apparatus 100.

In some implementations, VLC smart lock apparatus 100 and the hardware key device 150 may communicate interactively via VLC. VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may include a light transmitter (e.g., LED) and the hardware key device 150 may include a light sensor (e.g., PD). In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 and the hardware key device 150 may each include a pair of light transmitter and light sensor. In some implementations, rather than using discrete light transmitter and light sensor, the light transmitter and the light sensor may be integrated into one device (e.g., one visible light transceiver die). For example, a traditional LED flash device in a smartphone may be designed and fabricated as one integrated light chip where the LED part may be optimized for high light emission efficiency and output light power, while the PD may be optimized for ultra-high light detection sensitivity being able to receive very weak light signals. The CMOS imager device of a smartphone may be designed to have certain pixels optimized as PD receiving devices. Such integration of optical devices may improve performance and reliability, as well as reducing the sizes of opto-electronic circuitry for the VLC lock devices.

In some implementations, one or more components of the hardware key device 150 may be implemented as a plug-in device for another computing device. For example, rather than designing the LED of a smartphone to transmit modulated key code using light, a plug-in LED device (including VLC transmitter IC and LED) may be provided to be connected to the smartphone (e.g., via audio jack, USB connection). The plug-in LED device for use via audio jacks may receive key code to be modulated via one or more audio files and/or one or more digital files.

In some implementations, the hardware key device 150 may be configured to obtain biometric information of a user. The key code may comprise an identification of the user based on the biometric information of the user. The controller 106 may be configured to unlock the lock 110 when preset key code (stored in the memory 108) is associated (e.g., matched) with an identification of the user. Use of biometric information may provide security against the hardware key device 150 being misused (e.g., stolen) by an unauthorized user. For example, the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may utilize two separate levels of security. The first level may include the use of the identification of the hardware key device 150, as discussed above. The second level may include verification of the user's identify through biometric information authentication (e.g., facial recognition, fingerprint recognition, iris recognition). The biometric information may be obtained using components of the hardware key device 150 and/or other components. For example, the hardware key device 150 may include a smartphone and the user's biometric information may be obtained using the smartphone's built in sensors (e.g., built-in fingerprint sensor, built-in CMOS imager).

In some implementations, one or more of the security measures described herein may be implement using hardware. For example, referring to the example of smartphone hardware key device, the IMEI and MEID number, the user biometric information, and/or other information may be hardcoded into a programmable memory circuity. A full duplex VLC light transceiver circuit for the interactive checking functions may be designed and fabricated as part of the lock system on a chip. One or more electronic programming tools may be used to allow the users to program and re-program (modify) the security checking circuitry.

In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may further comprise an input device for inputting the preset key code. For example, the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may include button (digital/mechanical), voice input, image sensor, QR sensor, and/or other sensors which may be used by a user to input the preset key code for storage in the memory 108. In some implementations, the input device may comprise one or more field programming tools.

In some implementations, the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may further comprise an LED and a VLC encoder. The LED may be configured as a VLC transmitter to emit visible light in accordance with a VLC signal. The VLC encoder may be configured to encode the VLC signal. Through the LED and the VLC encoder, the smart lock apparatus 100 may communicate back and forth with the hardware key device 150 and/or other VLC devices. Such interactivity between the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 and the hardware key device 150 may provide further level of security for the VLC locks. For example, the hardware key device 150 may send an “open” light signal to the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 via the LED 152. The VLC smart lock apparatus 100 may use its LED to send back a light signal containing a security question to the hardware key device 150. The security question may be rolling and may be modified regularly by the users/VLC smart lock apparatus 100. The security question may need to be answered correctly by a user through the hardware key device 150 in order for the lock 110 to be opened by the controller 106.

In some implementations, a master-slave relay system may be used to provide key codes for use by the hardware key device 150. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, two different smartphones 210, 220 may be used. The smartphone 210 may include LED 212 and imager 214. The smartphone 220 may include LED 222 and imager 224. The smartphone 220 may be configured to receive one or more key codes from the smartphone 210, or vice versa. The key codes may be exchanged using wireless communication (e.g., cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth) of the smartphones 210, 220. The wireless communication may include direct communication between the smartphones 210, 220 or indirect communication between the smartphones 210, 220. For example, referring to FIG. 2, the wireless communication 230 may be indirectly sent from the smartphone 210 to the smartphone 220 through a wireless communication relay 235 (e.g., cellular tower, router). The wireless communication 230 may include communication formatted as commands, notifications, text messages, emails, and/or other communication formats. The smartphone 220 may use the key codes received from the smartphone 210 to emits the “open the lock” signals via the LED 222 to the PD 202 of the smart lock apparatus 200 (which includes IC 204 to operate the locking mechanism(s) based on the signal received from the smartphone 220).

In some implementations, the master device may generate the key signals using encryption codes, and the slave device may operate as a passive key to transmit visible light containing the key signals generated by the master device. This master-slave configuration may provide additional level of security and/or flexibility. The master device may be used to generate real-time encrypted codes from a distance and send the key codes through wireless communication to the slave device for one-time/limited use of key codes. For example, after a VLC smart lock apparatus receives the “open” light signal from a slave device, the lock electronic circuitry may verify the user's authentication. After the verification, the VLC smart lock may send a “disable”/“reduce” light signal to the slave device to disable/decrement the number of uses of the key code before “opening” the lock. Thus, the slave device may only open the lock one time/limited number of times.

VLC locks disclosed herein may be used in a variety of situations/environments. For example, a VLC lock may be embedded/configured to be embedded in a door (e.g., as part of the door lock). For example, the VLC lock may be embedded/configured to be embedded in a door of a vehicle. Many vehicles use remote control keys utilizing RF wireless communication. The use of RF wireless communication for vehicles may be unsafe, unreliable and invisible as described above. By using VLC locks for vehicle doors, the security and reliability of vehicle door locks may be improved, and its operation is visible to human eyes. In some implementations, for light-controlled vehicle key/lock system, unique vehicle VIN number and/or other vehicle identifiers may be coded into the hardware key device and/or the hardware key device identifier (e.g., IMEI, MEID number) may be coded into the VLC smart lock apparatus. Field programming tools may be used to modify the coded information as needed.

As another example, a VLC lock may be embedded/configured to be embedded in a door lock for a garage, and the hardware key device may comprise (e.g., implemented through, embedded in) a light of a car. For the garage smart lock system, the VLC smart lock apparatus may be installed in or near the garage door to receive the key signal from the hardware key device. For example, the VLC smart lock apparatus may be embedded/configured to be embedded in a door of a garage. The hardware key device may be installed in the vehicle (e.g., implemented through, embedded in headlight, tail light). A driver/passenger of the vehicle may use the light of the vehicle to transmit open/unlock, close/lock signals to the VLC smart lock apparatus. Many garage door systems use remotely control keys utilizing RF wireless communication. The use of RF wireless communication for structures may be unsafe and unreliable as described above. By using VLC locks for garage doors, the security and reliability of garage door locks may be improved. In some implementations, for light-controlled garage key/lock system, unique vehicle VIN number and/or other vehicle identifiers may be coded into the VLC smart lock apparatus and/or the smart lock apparatus identifier may be coded into the hardware key device. Field programming tools may be used to modify the coded information as needed.

As another example, a VLC lock may be embedded/configured to be embedded in a bicycle lock. An example bicycle lock 300 is shown in FIG. 3. The bicycle lock 300 may include a VLC smart lock apparatus that unlocks the bicycle lock 300 based on reception of the appropriate key code via VLC from a hardware key device. In some implementations, the bicycle lock may 300 further comprise a battery to power the VLC smart lock apparatus. In some implementations, the bicycle lock 300 may further comprise a photovoltaic (PV) panel 310 configured to charge the battery. The photovoltaic panel 310 may include one or more arrays of PV cells (e.g., solar cells). Such may provide power to the VLC smart lock apparatus in situations where other power source (e.g., power plug) may not be available to charge the battery. In some implementations, one or more PV cells may be converted into a visible light PD devices/pixels 320 configured to receive light signals from a hardware key device. The PV cell reconfigured as PD pixels can be arranged at different locations on the PV panel, which would make it easier to receive a VLC signal. Similarly, the VLC lock may have more than one PD that are arranged at different locations on a lock panel, which makes it easier to get a light signal from a LED/smartphone.

The usages of VLC locks for vehicle door, garage door, and the bicycle lock described above are provided merely for illustrative purposes and are not meant to be limiting. VLC locks may be used for other structures/things/applications.

FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of an integrated circuit 400 for a VLC smart lock apparatus. The integrated circuit 400 may comprise a VLC signal channel 402, a VLC decoder 404, a controller 406, a memory 408, and/or other components. The VLC signal channel 402 (e.g., physical transmission medium and/or logical connection or medium used to convey information signals) may be configured to receive a digital signal from a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device. The VLC decoder 404 may be directly or indirectly coupled to the VLC signal channel 402. The VLC decoder 404 may be configured to decode the digital signal from the photodetector (received through the VLC signal channel 402) to obtain one or more key code. The memory 408 may be configured to store one or more preset key codes. The controller 406 may be coupled to the VLC decoder 404 and the memory 408. The controller 406 may be configured to determine whether the preset key code(s) is associated with the key code(s). One or more components of the integrated circuit 400 may include hardware/software/logic and/or operate as described above with respect to the VLC smart lock apparatus 100 (shown in FIG. 1).

In some implementations, the integrated circuit 400 may further comprise an input port for inputting the preset key code. The input port may receive user input defining/specifying the preset key code. The input port may be configured to receive input signals via buttons (digital/mechanical), voice input, image sensor, QR sensor, and/or other sensors which may be used by a user to input the preset key code for storage in the memory 408

In some implementations, the integrated circuit 400 may further comprise an LED and a VLC encoder. The LED may be configured as a VLC transmitter to emit visible light in accordance with a VLC signal. The VLC encoder may be configured to encode the VLC signal. The LED and the VLC encoder of the integrated circuit 400 may be used to effectuate communication with a hardware key device.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit 400 may further comprise the photodetector. For example, the integrated circuit may include a photodetector coupled to the VLC signal channel 402. In some implementations, the VLC signal channel may be part of the photodetector.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit 400 may comprise a receiver system-on-a-chip (SoC) system 500, shown in FIG. 5. The controller 506, the memory 508, and the VLC decoder 504 may be fabricated on a first portion of a silicon substrate 510, and the photodetector 502 may be fabricated from silicon or a compound semiconductor island selectively grown on a second portion of the silicon substrate. In some implementations, the compound semiconductor may be GaN. The components of the receiver SoC 500 may include/implement one or more of amplifier, decoder, demodulator, trigger (for unlocking/locking) a lock, and/or other components/functionalities.

A 3D heterogeneous integration technology may be used to integrate the Si IC(s) with LED(s) on a single semiconductor substrate. The IC(s) may be designed and fabricated on a Si wafer. After standard IC fabrication, selective growth of GaN (or other direct bandgap semiconductors for making LEDs) may be performed on top of the Si substrate using various growth techniques (e.g., MBE or CVD methods) to make the LED devices. For example, GaN islands may be grown on Si, which will form the LED devices. The selective GaN growth technique may eliminate the long-term challenge in growing large area or wafer scale GaN film on the full Si wafer (the GaN film quality may be poor due to crystalline mismatch between Si and GaN materials). In some implementations, multiple buffer layers may be used between the Si substrate and the GaN layer to resolve the semiconductor lattice mismatch. Thus, the control circuit and the LED may be integrated into one single-chip SoC die. The advantage for the SoC solution includes small and thin footprint, while achieving high performance and reliability.

In some implementations, one or more components of a hardware key device may be integrated into a SoC (transmitter SOC). A transmitter SOC may include integrations of one or more of LED, driver, coder, modulator, and/or other components.

In some implementations, the integrated circuit 400 may be packaged in a receiver system-in-a-package (SiP) system 600, shown in FIG. 6. The controller 606, the memory 608, and the VLC decoder 604 may be fabricated on a silicon substrate, and the photodetector 602 may be fabricated from a compound semiconductor. The components may be fabricated from a single die (receiver die 610). In some implementations, one or more components of a hardware key device may be integrated into a SiP (transmitter SiP). A transmitter SiP may include fabrications of one or more of LED, driver, coder, modulator, and/or other components on a single die.

In some implementations, a VLC lock device (e.g., VLC smart lock apparatus, hardware key device) may utilize a combination of SoC and SiP technology where the components are packaged in a single system package. Typically, electronic circuits may be implemented as an integrated circuit fabricated using Silicon wafers, while LED devices may be made in compound semiconductors (e.g. GaN) for high opto-electronic (OE) conversion efficiency. As such, the Si ICs may not be integrated with LED devices in the same semiconductor substrate. As a solution, electronic circuits of a VLC lock device may be made as one piece of IC fabricated in a Si wafer (e.g., one Si IC die) (considered a sub-SoC). In parallel, the LED devices may be made in a GaN substrate (or other direct bandgap compound semiconductors). The Si IC die (sub-SoC) and the LED die may be put together into one SoC+SiP module using various packaging technologies, such as, flip-chip or stacked-chip methods. The interconnects between the SoC IC die and LED die may be be formed using through-silicon via (TSV) (for vertical electronic connection) and interposer layer (complex electronic connection between dies are made on a separate substrate plane with complex metal routes for circuit interconnects). The advantage of SiP solution includes a small footprint while achieving high performance and reliability of electronics.

FIGS. 7-10 illustrate example coding methods for operating VLC lock devices. Referring to FIG. 7, a smartphone may be used as a hardware key device. At step 710, initialization may include requesting permission to use LED of the smartphone. At step 720, idle may indicate that the LED of the smartphone is ready to be used. At step 730, a button (mechanical, digital) press of the smartphone may be detected. At step 740, the LED may be driven following a VLC protocol, with sequences of bits “0” and “1” represented by the width of the optical pulse to transmit the necessary information (e.g., key code, open signal, lock signal) via visible light. At step 750, the operation may end.

Referring to FIG. 8, a smartphone may be used as a hardware key device. At step 810, initialization may include requesting permission to use LED of the smartphone. Initialization may include setting an SMS message listener. At step 820, idle may indicate that the LED of the smartphone is ready to be used. At step 830, a reception (via SMS message) of an open lock command may be detected. The open lock command may be transmitted by another smartphone (e.g., master-slave relay system). Rolling codes may be used for security purposes. At step 840, the LED may be driven following a VLC protocol, with sequences of bits “0” and “1” represented by the width of the optical pulse to transmit the necessary information (e.g., key code, open signal, lock signal) via visible light. At step 850, the operation may end.

Referring to FIG. 9, a smartphone may be used as a hardware key device. At step 910, initialization may include requesting permission to use audio playback functionality of the smartphone. At step 920, idle may indicate that the playback functionality of the smartphone is ready to be used. At step 930, a button (mechanical, digital) press of the smartphone may be detected. At step 940, the LED of the smartphone may be driven by playing a prerecorded audio code to transmit the necessary information (e.g., key code, open signal, lock signal) via visible light. The prerecorded audio code may include an audio file to drive the LED through the smartphone's audio jack. The prerecorded audio code may include a two-channel audio file which may drive the LED (e.g., to 38 kHz via a 20 kHz audio jack). In some implementations, the two-channels of the audio file may be reverse of each other (e.g., the left channel is inverse of the right channel). At step 950, the operation may end.

Referring to FIG. 10, at step 1010, a VLC smart lock apparatus may be initialized (set input/output pin configurations). At step 1020, idle may indicate that the VLC smart lock apparatus is waiting for incoming signals. At step 1030, if input pins status changes, an interrupt service routine may be called. The interrupt service routine may receive the signal using finite state machine on the change on input pin level. At step 1040, if an appropriate signal (containing key) is received, a global flag (e.g., keyReceived) may be set to TRUE. At step 1050, lock motor may be enable to operate (e.g., unlock) a lock. An electronic key signal may drive to lock motor to open the lock. At step 1060, the operation may end.

In some implementations, the VLC lock devices disclosed herein may be used to control access to intangible things. For example, a VLC smart lock apparatus and a hardware key device may be used for facilitating (electronic) payment. The VLC smart lock apparatus may be included/embedded in a payment device (e.g., ATM, smartphone) and the hardware key device may be included/embedded in a user device (e.g., smartphone). The payment device and the user device may each include a pair of VLC transmitter and receiver to facilitate communication between the payment machine and the user device. The LED (e.g., flashlight) of the user device may be modulated to transmit data-modulated visible light signal to the PD in the payment device. Security verification and transaction confirmation information may be sent from the payment device to the user device using VLC. The payment transaction information may be carried on modulated visible light signals.

For example, FIG. 11 shows an example payment system including two smartphones 1110, 1120. The smartphone 1110 may transmit light including VLC signals/key codes using the LED 1112 and receive light including VLC signals/key codes using the imager 1114. The smartphone 1120 may transmit light including VLC signals/key codes using the LED 1122 and receive light including VLC signals/key codes using the imager 1124. The optical communication 1140 enabled by the pairs of VLC transmitter and receiver may be used to facilitate communication between a payment machine (e.g., the smartphone 1110) and the user device (e.g., the smartphone 1120).

As another example, FIG. 12 shows an example payment system including a smartphones 1210 and an ATM 1220. The smartphone 1210 may transmit light including VLC signals/key codes using the LED 1212 and receive light including VLC signals/key codes using the imager 1214. The ATM 1220 may transmit light including VLC signals/key codes using the LED 1222 and receive light including VLC signals/key codes using the imager 1224. The optical communication 1240 enabled by the pairs of VLC transmitter and receiver may be used to facilitate communication between the ATM 1220 (the payment machine) and the smartphone 1210 (the user device). The payment transactions between the smartphone 1210 and the ATM 1220 may include one or more withdrawals (e.g., exchanging VLC signals between the smartphone 1210 and the ATM 1220 to receive physical/digital funds from the ATM 1220), one or more deposits (e.g., exchanging VLC signals between the smartphone 1210 and the ATM 1220 to transfer digital funds to the ATM 1220), and/or other payment transactions.

Example coding program functions for electronic payment are described below. The user device may be initialized for VLC communication (e.g., request permission to use camera and LED of the smartphone). The smartphone may idle once the LED is ready to be used. Responsive to a button press (e.g., a “Transaction” button on smartphone screen), payment/transaction routine may operate to turn on the LED. The LED may be drive using a VLC protocol, with sequences of bits “0” and “1” represented by the width of the optical pulse to transmit the necessary information.

The payment device may be initialized for VLC communication (e.g., request permission to use PD of the ATM). The payment device may idle while waiting for VLC signal. Once correct VLC signal is received, an interrupt service routine may be called to set a global flag (e.g., keyReceived) to TRUE. Once the value of the global flag is set to TRUE and the security codes are verified, payment transaction may be enabled. A “transaction” command may cause the ATM to process the electronic payment transaction.

As another example, the VLC smart lock and the hardware key device may be included/embedded in multiple user devices (e.g., multiple smartphones) in a payment system. Peer-to-peer transfer of money may be effectuated using VLC communication. Existing LED and PD of smartphone may be used as VLC transmitter and receiver, respectively. The LED of smartphone-1 may be modulated to transmit data-modulated visible light signals to the PD detector of smartphone-2. The security verification and transaction confirmation information may be transmitted by the LED of smartphone-2 and may be received by the PD of smartphone-1. The payment transaction information may be carried on the modulated visible light signals. In some implementations, one or more banks may be involved in the background to verify and complete the peer-to-peer transaction.

Example coding program functions for peer-to-peer transaction are described below. The smartphone-1 may be initialized for VLC communication (e.g., request permission to use camera and LED of the smartphone). The smartphone-1 may idle once the LED is ready to be used. Responsive to a button press (e.g., a “Transaction” button on smartphone screen), payment/transaction routine may operate to turn on the LED of the smartphone-1. The LED may be drive using a VLC protocol, with sequences of bits “0” and “1” represented by the width of the optical pulse to transmit the necessary information.

The smartphone-2 may be initialized for VLC communication (e.g., request permission to use PD of the smartphone-2). The smartphone-2 may idle while waiting for VLC signal. Once correct VLC signal is received, an interrupt service routine may be called to set a global flag (e.g., keyReceived) to TRUE. Once the value of the global flag is set to TRUE and the security codes are verified, transfer transaction may be enabled. The smartphone-1 and/or the smartphone-2 may send transaction information to one or more bank system (e.g., through cellular phone networks).

Spatially relative terms such as “under,” “below,” “lower,” “over,” “upper,” “left,” “right,” and the like, are used for ease of description to explain the positioning of one element relative to a second element. These terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to different orientations than those depicted in the figures. Further, terms such as “first,” “second,” and the like, are also used to describe various elements, regions, sections, etc. and are also not intended to be limiting. Like terms refer to like elements throughout the description.

As used herein, the terms “having,” “containing,” “including,” “comprising,” and the like are open ended terms that indicate the presence of stated elements or features, but do not preclude additional elements or features. The articles “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural as well as the singular, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain implementations and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed implementations to other alternative implementations and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed implementations described above.

Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different implementations. In addition to the variations described herein, other known equivalents for each feature can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to construct analogous systems and techniques in accordance with principles of the present invention.

It is to be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular implementation of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

Claims

1. A visible light communication (VLC) smart lock apparatus, comprising: a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device;a VLC decoder coupled to the photodetector, the VLC decoder configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code;a controller coupled to the VLC decoder;a memory coupled to the controller, the memory configured to store a preset key code; anda lock coupled to the controller;wherein the controller is configured to unlock the lock when the preset key code is associated with the key code;wherein the key code comprises an identification of the hardware key device, and the controller is configured to unlock the lock when preset key code is associated with the identification of the hardware key device.

2. (canceled)

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hardware key device comprises a smartphone, and the identification of the smartphone is selected from a group consisting of an IMEI number, a MEID number, a product serial number, and a phone number of the smartphone.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hardware key device comprises a first smartphone, and the first smartphone is configured to receive the key code from a second smartphone via wireless communication.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first smartphone is configured to receive the key code from the second smartphone via text messaging.

6. A visible light communication (VLC) smart lock apparatus, comprising: a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device;a VLC decoder coupled to the photodetector, the VLC decoder configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code;a controller coupled to the VLC decoder;a memory coupled to the controller, the memory configured to store a preset key code; anda lock coupled to the controller;wherein the controller is configured to unlock the lock when the preset key code is associated with the key code wherein the hardware key device is configured to obtain biometric information of a user, the key code comprises an identification of the user based on the biometric information of the user, and the controller is configured to unlock the lock when preset key code is associated with an identification of the user.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an input device for inputting the preset key code.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the input device comprises a field programming tool.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an LED configured as a VLC transmitter to emit visible light in accordance with a VLC signal, and a VLC encoder configured to encode the VLC signal.

10. A visible light communication (VLC) smart lock apparatus, comprising: a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device;a VLC decoder coupled to the photodetector, the VLC decoder configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code;a controller coupled to the VLC decoder;a memory coupled to the controller, the memory configured to store a preset key code; anda lock coupled to the controller;wherein the controller, the memory, and the VLC decoder are integrated in an integrated circuit.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the lock is embedded in a door.

12. A visible light communication (VLC) smart lock apparatus, comprising: a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device;a VLC decoder coupled to the photodetector, the VLC decoder configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code;a controller coupled to the VLC decoder;a memory coupled to the controller, the memory configured to store a preset key code; anda lock coupled to the controller;wherein the lock comprises a door lock for a garage, and the hardware key device comprises a light of a car.

13. A visible light communication (VLC) smart lock apparatus, comprising: a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device;a VLC decoder coupled to the photodetector, the VLC decoder configured to decode the visible light received by the photodetector to obtain a key code;a controller coupled to the VLC decoder;a memory coupled to the controller, the memory configured to store a preset key code; anda lock coupled to the controller;wherein the lock comprises a bicycle lock.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a battery to power the VLC smart lock apparatus and a photovoltaic (PV) panel configured to charge the battery.

15. An integrated circuit for a visible light communication (VLC) smart lock apparatus, comprising: a VLC signal channel configured to receive a digital signal from a photodetector configured to receive visible light emitted from a hardware key device;a VLC decoder coupled to the VLC signal channel, the VLC decoder configured to decode the digital signal from the photodetector to obtain a key code;a controller coupled to the VLC decoder; anda memory coupled to the controller, the memory configured to store a preset key code;wherein the controller is configured to determine whether the preset key code is associated with the key code.

16. The integrated circuit of claim 15, wherein the key code comprises an identification of the hardware key device, and the preset key code is associated with the identification of the hardware key device.

17. The integrated circuit of claim 16, wherein the hardware key device comprises a smartphone, and the identification is selected from a group consisting of an IMEI number, a MEID number, a product serial number and a phone number of the smartphone.

18. The integrated circuit of claim 15, further comprising an input port for inputting the preset key code.

19. The integrated circuit of claim 18, wherein the preset key code is field programmable.

20. The integrated circuit of claim 15, further comprising an LED configured as a VLC transmitter to emit visible light in accordance with a VLC signal, and a VLC encoder configured to encode the VLC signal.

21. The integrated circuit of claim 15, further comprising the photodetector.

22. The integrated circuit of claim 21, wherein the integrated circuit comprises a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) system, wherein the controller, the memory, and the VLC decoder are fabricated on a first portion of a silicon substrate, and the photodetector is fabricated from silicon or a compound semiconductor island selectively grown on a second portion of the silicon substrate.

23. The integrated circuit of claim 22, wherein the compound semiconductor is GaN.

24. The integrated circuit of claim 21, wherein the integrated circuit is packaged in a System-in-a-Package (SiP) system, wherein the controller, the memory, and the VLC decoder are fabricated on a silicon substrate, and the photodetector is fabricated from a compound semiconductor.

25. The integrated circuit of claim 15, wherein integrated circuit is embedded in a first device in a payment system.

26. The integrated circuit of claim 25, wherein the hardware key device comprises a second device in the payment system.