Smart Door Lock with Facial Recognition, PIN Access, and Remote Control

Project Domain / Category

Digital Logic Design/Internet of Things (IoT) with Mobile Application Interface

Abstract / Introduction

Security is a primary concern for homeowners, businesses, and institutions. Traditional locks rely on physical keys, which can be lost, duplicated, or stolen. PIN-based systems offer an alternative but are susceptible to password leaks. Facial recognition provides a secure, keyless, and contactless method of authentication. However, in cases where the camera fails to recognize a face due to poor lighting or other issues, a backup PIN mechanism will be provided via a numeric keypad. Additionally, a mobile app will allow users to remotely monitor and control the lock, making it a highly secure and practical real-world solution.

Existing door locks have several limitations:

·        Physical keys can be misplaced or duplicated, leading to security risks.

·        PIN-based locks are vulnerable to unauthorized access if passwords are observed or shared.

·        Facial recognition alone may fail in cases of poor lighting, camera malfunctions, or changes in appearance.

·        No remote access in traditional locks, making it hard to monitor door activity remotely.

This project aims to design and implement a Smart Door Lock System that integrates:

·        Facial Recognition – Secure, keyless, and contactless access.

·        PIN-based Backup Authentication – In case facial recognition fails, users can enter a PIN on a numeric keypad.

·        Mobile App-Based Remote Control – Users can lock/unlock the door remotely, manage access, and receive alerts via a smartphone application.

Functional Requirements:

The proposed Smart Door Lock System must meet the following functional requirements:

1.      Dual-Authentication System (Facial Recognition & PIN Entry)

·         Implement facial recognition using a camera module and OpenCV-based deep learning algorithms.

·         Store authorized users' facial data securely in a database (local or cloud).

·         Detect and recognize faces in real-time when a person approaches the door.

·         If the face is recognized, the system should automatically unlock the door.

·         In case of facial recognition failure (e.g., poor lighting, system malfunction), allow authentication via a backup PIN entry on a 4x4 numeric keypad.

·         Validate PINs against a secure database and grant access if the entered PIN is correct.

·         Implement security measures such as account lockout or alerting the admin after multiple failed authentication attempts.

2.      Motorized Locking Mechanism

·         Integrate an electromagnetic lock or servo motor to physically control the door locking/unlocking process.

·         Ensure the lock only disengages when authentication is successful.

·         Implement an auto-lock feature to relock the door after a set duration if left unlocked.

·         Include a manual override option (e.g., mechanical key or emergency release button) in case of system failure.

3.      Mobile Application for Remote Monitoring & Control

·         Develop a mobile app (Android & iOS) using Flutter or React Native.

·         Allow authorized users to unlock/lock the door remotely via the app.

·         Display real-time access logs, showing who entered, when, and via which method (Face/PIN/App).

·         Send push notifications for security alerts, such as unauthorized access attempts or system errors.

·         Enable multi-user access control, where an admin can add/remove authorized users.

·         Provide battery/health status monitoring (if running on battery power).

4.      Full Practical Implementation on an Actual Door

·         The prototype must be mounted and tested on an actual door to ensure real-world usability.

·         Design the lock mechanism to fit standard door frames for easy integration.

·         Conduct thorough testing in various lighting conditions to improve facial recognition accuracy.

·         Ensure the system is physically robust and tamper-proof to prevent unauthorized bypassing.

5.      Security & Access Logging

·         Maintain an access log database recording:

o    Entry time, date, and method used (Face/PIN/App).

o    Failed authentication attempts with timestamps.

o    Alerts generated for suspicious activities.

·         Implement real-time alert notifications via the mobile app and optionally via email.

·         Encrypt all stored user data to prevent unauthorized access or data breaches.

System Workflow:

1.      Motion sensor activates the camera when a person approaches.

2.      Camera captures an image and processes it using facial recognition.

3.      If the face matches, the door unlocks automatically.

4.      If not, the system prompts the user to enter a PIN on the keypad.

5.      If the PIN is correct, the door unlocks.

6.      If authentication fails, an alert is sent to the mobile app, and a buzzer sounds.

7.      The mobile app allows remote monitoring and control.

Expected Outcomes:

·        A fully operational smart lock installed on an actual door.

Tools:

The system consists of both hardware and software tools/components for authentication and control.

·        Hardware Components:

o    Raspberry Pi (Main processing unit)

o    Camera Module (For facial recognition)

o    4x4 Numeric Keypad (Backup authentication)

o    Servo Motor / Electromagnetic Lock (Locking mechanism)

o    Motion Sensor (To detect presence and activate system)

o    Wi-Fi Module (Remote connectivity)