EVVA Electronic Locks

A defibrillator can save the life of a person suffering from cardiac arrest – but it is most effective when used in the first few minutes of the patient collapsing. Studies have shown that a shock given within the first three minutes provides the best chance of survival and even one minute of further delay can substantially lower the chances of recovering. Public Access Defibrillators (PADs) were created to allow untrained members of the public to deliver life-saving treatment in those precious minutes before an ambulance arrives. There are currently over 10,000 in the UK, located in parks, offices, high streets and sporting venues, and they are especially popular in rural communities, where ambulance response times are longer. Every second counts Over the years there has been a long-running debate as to whether PADs should be kept openly accessible or locked. Leaving them open could lead to theft, vandalism or misuse. Leaving them locked could mean that precious moments are lost waiting for a local guardian to arrive – and could even cost a life. To save as many lives as possible, it’s clear that PADs need to be available 24/7, fully operational and easily accessible to users and local guardians. But there is a solution that can meet all these conditions – a lock that can protect against vandalism while providing convenient instant access when required. Life-saving solutions Over the years there has been a long-running debate as to whether PADs should be kept openly accessible or lockedDigital locks are ideal for securing PADs because they don’t require a key, and anyone can be given access over the phone. In the case of a cardiac arrest, the user calls 999 and the ambulance controller provides them with a simple, easy-to-remember code. The ambulance controller can then advise them, step by step, what to do. Local guardians, who have responsibility for the PAD, can be provided with an override key to enable them to monitor and maintain the defibrillator. The PAD cabinets built by Duchy Defibrillators show exactly how this works in practice. Based in rural Cornwall, Duchy Defibrillators manufactures, supplies and installs monitored PAD cabinets. To provide public access to the defibrillators, it needed a lock that could keep its cabinets secure, make them easily accessible and withstand the stormy Cornish weather. Codelocks recommended a digital electronic lock that could operate on a standalone battery, making it especially suitable for remote areas. As well as offering flexible access, digital locks come with a range of varying options and functions to suit different applications. As Duchy Defibrillator cabinets are installed in a wide variety of locations and sometimes need to withstand outdoor exposure, it opted for a robust electronic digital lock that is both affordable and easy to set up. A digital-access revolution Using smart locks in combination with a dedicated app or portal allows operators to send time-sensitive codes to end-users The example of Duchy Defibrillators shows how digital locks can be used to keep defibrillator cabinets secure while affording instant access to users when they are needed. But the flexibility of digital locks also makes them suitable for securing property and equipment in a wide variety of situations, especially for shared and public facilities. This is why you’ll increasingly see digital locks used to secure restricted areas in hospitals, schools and offices, as well as shared facilities like hotel and gym lockers, public restrooms and more. Digital locks are available for a number of specific applications, including doors, lockers and cabinets. They can range from simple mechanical locks through to more sophisticated electronic locks and state-of-the-art smart locks. Using smart locks in combination with a dedicated app or portal allows operators to send time-sensitive codes to end users – making them very popular for contactless entry and with facilities managers that need to manage access to buildings and campuses. One thing is certain – whatever your access control requirements are, there’s a keyless lock solution to suit. The digital access revolution is here.

The experience of the COVID-19 pandemic has made us all more conscious of who is coming and going from our property. Whether it is a family home, business premises or public building, property owners want full control over access for protection and peace of mind. As a provider of access control technologies, we are seeing a growing demand for automated gates with a variety of access control systems. There are a number of considerations that buyers need to make when investing. And as an installer, there is advice that you can offer to help your clients make the right choice for their property. Here are some of the key considerations you’ll need to make and discuss with your client. Whomever you buy from, you should be offered more than a simple instruction manual. Electronic locks, magnetic locks and code security In the first instance, you’ll need to advise on the type of lock and access control available. Electronic locks release on the operation of the automation system to allow the gates to open. Locks are required for all non-locking (also known as reversible) operators and are recommended for any gate on a multi-user site or any gate over 2.5m. Apply the same logic to an automated gate as you would to a domestic door – for example, you wouldn’t fit your front door with a lock on the same side as the hinges or a drop bolt at the hinge end of a manual gate so why dispense with this logic when the gate is automated? Electronic locks release on the operation of the automation system to allow the gates to open There are a number of locks on the market including magnetic locks, drop locks that “shoot” a bolt into the ground and side latching locks. These are all designed for external use. While the gate itself will provide physical security, the customer will want to feel in control of who enters their property, when and for what purpose. Consider access for mail and deliveries, waste disposal and visitors arriving on foot etc. There is a range of options available. Intercom systems will allow the user to vet visitors, keypad entry can allow remote access for visitors with a specific code, remote controls allow an oncoming driver to open the gates without getting out of the vehicle, and a timer control can be used to open or close the gates at certain times of the day. Vehicle detection loops can be installed discreetly under the tarmac allowing the presence of vehicles to exit the gates and prevent closing while obstructed. Sliding gates versus swinging gates There are a number of locks on the market including magnetic locks, drop locks that “shoot” a bolt into the ground and side latching locks Gates can be automated to either swing or to slide open and in the case of swinging gates, the opener may be concealed underground or gate mounted. The most suitable opener for your installation will depend on the space available and the type of gate selected. Concealed underground automation is ideal for highly ornate gates. However, where gates are fully infilled (typical of many timber designs), gate mounted openers are concealed from the front of the gate by the gate leaf and present a cost-effective option. The choice between slide and swing is largely down to space - swing gates require a clear space for their opening arc while sliding gates require space to one or both sides of the gate. Sliding gates are perhaps the best choice where the drive slopes or when drive space is limited, as they use the least space when opening. Voltage Most swing gate and sliding systems are available in 24v or 230v. The 24v systems still need 230v mains power – there is a transformer built into the 24v control panels. Deciding which voltage to use can include a combination of factors such as the material of the gates, the location of the system and the safety features you want. Concealed underground automation is ideal for highly ornate gates With wrought iron gates, the wind can pass through them whereas with fully boarded wooden gates (popular because they give full privacy) the wind has nowhere to go, so they act like sails. For commercial or industrial applications with larger entrances and a heavy gate, you may need 3 Phase 400v power (sliding gates only). Installing gate motors in confined spaces The environment in which you are fitting may well influence which gate and motor you recommend. Will it be in an exposed area which is subject to the elements? Will it be positioned on a slope? Sliding gates are perhaps the best choice where the drive slopes or when drive space is limited Installers have always faced the challenge of installing gate motors in confined spaces. When fitting a pedestrian gate, there is often limited space in which to work – potentially making an installation time consuming and technically demanding. If this is the case for you, consider a gate operator which is designed specifically for installations with limited space for maneuver. An example of this is the E5 compact gate operator. The operator is not only small but has an optional slide lever attachment designed for installations where there is extremely limited space, meaning that just 8cm of the pillar is needed for installation. What’s more, improved fixing points and a simple ‘hook and fasten’ process means assembly is safe, quick and straight forward. Ultimately, you’ll be looking for a good quality, reliable product with good service. Work with a supplier that offers more than just a manual. If they are happy to offer training, their time and advice when you buy, the chances are you’ll get their support long term.

The safeguarding of premises through the monitoring of entrance and exit points has traditionally been a very manual aspect of security. Human operators have been relied on to make decisions about who to admit and deny based on levels of authorization and the appropriate credentials. The access control business, like many industries before it, is undergoing its own digital transformation But the access control business, like many industries before it, is undergoing its own digital transformation; one where the protection of premises, assets and people is increasingly delivered by interconnected systems utilising IoT devices and cloud infrastructure to offer greater levels of security and protection. Modern access control solutions range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification, right through to complex networks of thermal cameras, audio speakers and sensors. These systems, connected through the cloud, can be customized and scaled to meet the precise requirements of today’s customer. And it’s the ease of cloud integration, combined with open technologies and platforms that is encouraging increasing collaboration and exciting developments while rendering legacy systems largely unfit for purpose. Remote management and advanced diagnostics Cloud technology and IoT connectivity means remote management and advanced diagnostics form an integral part of every security solution.Cloud technology and IoT connectivity means remote management and advanced diagnostics form an integral part of every security solution. For example, as the world faces an unprecedented challenge and the COVID-19 pandemic continues to cause disruption, the ability to monitor and manage access to sites remotely is a welcome advantage for security teams who might otherwise have to check premises in person and risk breaking social distancing regulations. The benefits of not physically having to be on site extend to the locations within which these technologies can be utilised. As an example, within a critical infrastructure energy project, access can be granted remotely for maintenance on hard to reach locations. Advanced diagnostics can also play a part in such a scenario. When access control is integrated with video surveillance and IP audio, real-time monitoring of access points can identify possible trespassers with automated audio messages used to deter illegal access and making any dangers clear. And with video surveillance in the mix, high quality footage can be provided to authorities with real-time evidence of a crime in progress. Comprehensive protection in retail The use of connected technologies for advanced protection extends to many forward-looking applications. Within the retail industry, autonomous, cashier-less stores are already growing in popularity. Customers are able to use mobile technology to self-scan their chosen products and make payments, all from using a dedicated app. From an access control and security perspective, connected doors can be controlled to protect staff and monitor shopper movement. Remote management includes tasks such as rolling out firmware updates or restarting door controllers, with push notifications sent immediately to security personnel in the event of a breach or a door left open. Remote monitoring access control in storage In the storage facility space, this too can now be entirely run through the cloud with remote monitoring of access control and surveillance providing a secure and streamlined service. There is much to gain from automating the customer journey, where storage lockers are selected online and, following payment, customers are granted access. Through an app the customer can share their access with others, check event logs, and activate notifications. With traditional padlocks the sharing of access is not as practical, and it’s not easy for managers to keep a record of storage locker access. Online doors and locks enable monitoring capabilities and heightened security for both operators and customers. The elimination of manual tasks, in both scenarios, represents cost savings. When doors are connected to the cloud, their geographical location is rendered largely irrelevant. Online doors and locks enable monitoring capabilities and heightened security for both operators and customers They become IoT devices which are fully integrated and remotely programmable from anywhere, at any time. This creates a powerful advantage for the managers of these environments, making it possible to report on the status of a whole chain of stores, or to monitor access to numerous storage facilities, using the intelligence that the technology provides from the data it collects. Open platforms powers continuous innovation All of these examples rely on open technology to make it possible, allowing developers and technology providers to avoid the pitfalls that come with the use of proprietary systems. The limitations of such systems have meant that the ideas, designs and concepts of the few have stifled the creativity and potential of the many, holding back innovation and letting the solutions become tired and their application predictable. Proprietary systems have meant that solution providers have been unable to meet their customers’ requirements until the latest upgrade becomes available or a new solution is rolled out. This use of open technology enables a system that allows for collaboration, the sharing of ideas and for the creation of partnerships to produce ground-breaking new applications of technology. Open systems demonstrate a confidence in a vendor’s own solutions and a willingness to share and encourage others to innovate and to facilitate joint learning. An example of the dynamic use of open technology is Axis’ physical access control hardware, which enables partners to develop their own cloud-based software for control and analysis of access points, all the while building and expanding on Axis’ technology platform. Modern access control solutions range from simple card readers to two factor authentication systems using video surveillance as a secondary means of identification Opportunities for growth Open hardware, systems and platforms create opportunities for smaller and younger companies to participate and compete, giving them a good starting point, and some leverage within the industry when building and improving upon existing, proven technologies. This is important for the evolution and continual relevance of the physical security industry in a digitally enabled world. Through increased collaboration across technology platforms, and utilising the full range of possibilities afforded by the cloud environment, the manufacturers, vendors and installers of today’s IP enabled access control systems can continue to create smart solutions to meet the ever-changing demands and requirements of their customers across industry.

Under the headline “Start-up since 1919”, EVVA presented the company to journalists from eight countries at a two-day international media event from 13 to 14 November 2019. True to EVVA's innovative spirit, the event started with a start-up tour of Vienna. On the second day, the media representatives were able to participate in an exclusive press conference and tour of the Wienerberg facility where they were given personal insights into the site and a current outlook on future challenges and new opportunities - keyword ‘digitalization’. In the conference, Stefan Ehrlich-Adám, CEO of the EVVA Group, Michael Kiel, Group Division Executive of Operations and Johann Notbauer, Group Division Executive of Market Innovation and Technology reported on the most important milestones since EVVA was founded 100 years ago. In addition to this, they presented upcoming product and manufacturing innovations and gave an outlook on the future of security technology. Mechanical locking systems Having witnessed constant innovation since its foundation in 1919, the internationally renowned and recognized supplier of high-quality security systems has been successfully combining tradition with innovation for 100 years, making it one of the world’s leading manufacturers of mechanical and electronic locking systems. Stefan Ehrlich-Adám, CEO of the EVVA Group, gave an outline of the company, “Since the company was founded as the ‘Invention, Experimentation and Application Institute’, it has been defined by courageous and forward-looking entrepreneurship and the pursuit of innovation”. EVVA's innovative strength is visible in the invention and patenting of the GPI and MCS mechanical systems A successful example of EVVA's innovative strength - and at the same time an important milestone in the company's expansion - was the invention and patenting of the GPI and MCS mechanical systems, which are still important today, four decades ago. But the permanent further development also continues for the mechanical locking systems. “As patents expire after 20 years, we need to continually develop mechanical locking systems and come up with new ideas.” EHRLICH-ADÁM explains. Electronic locking systems The cultivation with  in-house electronic locking systems division on the European market demonstrates EVVA's pioneering spirit. In the 1970s, the Viennese family-owned company EVVA was considered to be the world’s first company in the industry to use computer programs to calculate and control the most complex master key systems. Meanwhile, Xesar and AirKey are well-established on the market and they are a unique solution for the challenges of global megatrends in the security industry. “We had a head start with our in-house development when electronic locking systems were introduced about 25 years ago. And from the very beginning, we had important expertise in the area of mechanical locking systems and to this day we are constantly striving to complement this as well as possible with electronic access control systems. The combination of mechanical locking systems and electronic access control systems is the technically sensible response to the specific security and organizational needs”, said Ehrlich-Adám. In-house research and development We aspire to invent and develop durable, very high-quality products in-house; therefore we have an in-house research and development department, which has grown substantially in recent years. “The engineering is done by us and we decide on the product concept. We know the market, the customers and know which solutions the operators expect”, explained Ehrlich-Adám. EVVA employs around 460 people at the main production facility in Vienna and has rapidly increased its workforce, particularly in the area of electronic systems and software, coupled with ongoing investments in machinery. For EVVA, the transition from mechanical systems to mechatronic systems ultimately means an increased need for technicians and software engineers. “Going forward, we will also invest in staff who are able to assist with installations”, Ehrlich-Adám explained. In addition to securing and creating jobs, the Viennese family-owned company is also pursuing a targeted CSR strategy at the site, which is being implemented through the Clean Production Approach. The proportion of clean production is currently at 60%. EVVA locking systems EVVA locking systems have been installed throughout the world, for instance, on the Queen Mary ocean liner In addition to the main site in Vienna, there are now a total of ten subsidiaries throughout Europe and a network of already over 1,000 electronic and other mechanical locking system sales partners. These are an important factor in our further expansion and international success. Interesting target markets include Southeast Asia and Australia. EVVA locking systems have been installed throughout the world, for instance, on the Queen Mary ocean liner, in Copenhagen's opera theater, the new Juventus Stadium in Turin, as well as St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna. “Our well-developed sales network is one of our greatest strengths. Our core competencies include the project planning, calculation and realization of large systems,“ Ehrlich-Adám said. Industry 4.0 and excellence In the second part of the conference, Michael Kiel, Head of Operations, outlined EVVA's status and its plans in the area of Industry 4.0. “EVVA does not see Industry 4.0 as just digitalization, but also a variety of opportunities for its own development of excellence. We have defined four development focus areas for our claim to excellence associated with Industry 4.0: Digitalization; Automation, Site development Collaborations. Our highest priority has always been, and will continue to be, to bring “the people” with us, through the relevant qualification measures and participation in projects”, Kiel explained. Digitalization A flagship tool for ‘lived digitalization’ is EVVA’s Order Fulfillment Tool, which was developed in-house. It provides order support by showing the current status of orders. With the Next Generation Cross Link Production (Xpro) project, EVVA is pursuing several goals: On the one hand, the goal is to create a blueprint for a flexible manufacturing system. To achieve this, in collaboration with TU Vienna, EVVA ‘digitally upgraded’ a machine, adding collaborative robotics to it. On the other hand, we are also accelerating digitalisation in the sense of going “paperless” with drawingless Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM), which is already in use as a prototype. Automation For EVVA, the mid-term goal is to use ‘digital twins’ to create fully digital models of production to plan and optimize processesFor EVVA, the mid-term goal is ultimately to use ‘digital twins’ to create fully digital models of production to plan and optimize processes and procedures. To achieve this, a digital production plan with simulation and optimization will be implemented by 2020, as part of the AutProSim research project with the Fraunhofer Institute.  “By 2023, EVVA will invest a volume of 20 million euros in shaping the development of excellence, of which two thirds will be spent on high-quality automation solutions”, Kiel explained, adding “We will particularly drive forward new technologies for 3D printing of plastic parts for machine construction and image processing for testing scenarios that are integration into the automation line.” Collaborative robots But EVVA is also increasingly using collaborative robots (cobots) to support employees in simple, monotonous tasks, such as sorting. “Using automation, we can bring certain tasks and consequently orders from low-wage countries back to the Wienerberg facility. Apart from reducing errors and raising the qualification level, cobots will allow EVVA to increase its competitiveness”, Group Division Executive Michael Kiel explained. On the topic of site development, Kiel explained why Industry 4.0 is connected to internationalization. “As part of our Powerplant Strategy with satellite sites, in the future the three sites of Vienna, Tišnov and Krefeld will become a Powerplant, meaning that they will be production units for the manufacturing of components and automated assembly. In turn, the satellite sites will consist of eight Europe-wide distribution sites for manual assembly of smaller production batches.” By 2023, EVVA plans to have established all Powerplants and satellite sites as a unified process chain. Collaborations EVVA is a co-partner of the Austrian Center for Digital Production on research of end-to-end digitalisation Finally, Kiel outlined the various research collaborations as the fourth development focus area on the path to excellence. For instance, we have worked together with TU Vienna on feasibility studies on the possible ways in which cobots can be used or machine-to-machine communication solutions in production. EVVA and the Fraunhofer Institute are The University of Vienna, in turn, is supporting EVVA in the development and expansion of the centurio.work production platform. Furthermore, EVVA is a co-partner of the Austrian Center for Digital Production (CDP), where, among other things, we are researching end-to-end digitalization from order placement through to production and delivery. A look into the future “For EVVA, however, the aim of excellence development is not just about continuous development, but about regularly determining our position. For example, next year, EVVA will face the industry benchmark, “Fabrik 2020 – die beste Produktion Österreichs” (Factory 2020 – Austria’s best production),” Kiel concluded. Finally, Johann Notbauer, Group Division Executive of Market Innovation and Technology reported on trends and developments, also based on recent impressions in Silicon Valley at ARM and Microsoft. In his view, the possible scenarios are based on two future technologies: 1. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, linked to 2. Connectivity. Both topics are also linked to the disruptive changes for the security technology sector. Machine learning According to Notbauer, machine learning will be disruptive, as machines in the future will be “intelligent” – and therefore the processing and evaluation of the continually calculated data will be done by the machines themselves. Various other possible applications arise from linking digital data with physical data. Digital data is generated through the various touchpoints; physical data refers to diverse sensory data. In the future, we will be able to gain an even greater understanding of how end components and entire systems are used by combining these different forms of data in a targeted way. Intelligent systems The calculated algorithm would be able to recognize when and for which component a battery failure will occur" Notbauer described an application example “For instance, for a Xesar system it will be possible in the future for all ‘intelligent’ components to continually measure their own voltage curve and this data could then be centrally evaluated in a ‘neural’ network.” “The calculated algorithm would be able to recognize when and for which component a battery failure will occur. In turn, this optimizes the sustainability and maintenance costs of the system and gives the sales department valuable information for a required modernization of the whole system. The added value and benefit for the customer consists is in “predictive maintenance”, i.e. failure-free operation linked to cost-optimized maintenance”, explained Notbauer. Connectivity The second biggest driver of innovation is connectivity, as a result of the many new opportunities that the game changing 5G has opened up. “5G makes it possible for us to connect production machines directly to the cloud. There is no longer any need for a local programmable logic controller, which is time-consuming to program. This takes place in a central cloud – quickly set up and quickly changed if products or the market demand changes,” explained Notbauer. This trend is called ‘access as a service’. However, despite machine learning and 5G - EVVA will continue to drive forward innovations in mechanical locking systems, in addition to the benefits of new Technologies as there is still a mechanical element at the end of the chain.

Security Essen is continuing to consolidate its position as a platform for the security industry. Numerous companies have confirmed their participation in the leading international trade fair, which will take place at Messe Essen from 22 to 25 September 2020. Particularly pleasing: In addition to many long-standing customers, the registrations also include companies which will take part in Security Essen again for the first time after a break. Amongst others, Telenot and Securiton will present their innovations at Messe Essen. "We are delighted about the exhibitors' commitment to Security Essen," says Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen. "This emphasizes the significance of Security Essen as an important platform for the security industry". Innovations in burglar alarm technology The application specialist for everything to do with alarm and security systems will present its innovations Thomas Taferner, Head of Marketing and Sales at Telenot Electronic, justifies the return to Security Essen as follows: "We are delighted to be on board again at Security Essen 2020. In the past three years, we have increasingly tested smaller events. But Security Essen has proved to be the only all-encompassing trade fair for us where the entire industry from the installing specialist company to security officers from industry, planning offices, trade associations, building property insurers, CID advisory centers, fire departments and many other target groups obtains information. “The trade fair is particularly interesting for us in 2020, because Telenot will present extensive innovations and will greatly expand its spectrum. In addition to burglar alarm technology, we now also have fire alarm technology in our portfolio and, from 2020, access control technology, too." Also after a break, Securiton Deutschland will take part in Security Essen again. The application specialist for everything to do with alarm and security systems will present its innovations in Hall 3 - the exhibition area for access, mechatronics, mechanics, systems and perimeter protection. Locking technology and electronic access systems The two North Rhine-Westphalian companies Dom and Wilka have been continuous exhibitors at Security Essen for many years already. Moreover, they have already registered again for Security Essen 2020. Dom Sicherheitstechnik GmbH & Co. KG, headquartered in Brühl, is a manufacturer of innovative locking technology and electronic access systems. Wilka Schließtechnik GmbH is at home in the key Velbert region. Robert Schlieper, Managing Partner, Wilka: "In our industry, the focus is naturally on the security topic. For more than 150 years, Wilka has represented high quality standards in an area where it really matters that the product delivers what it promises. We are always looking forward to the interesting discussions on our stand""At Security, we have shown our (potential) customers exactly that for years already - patented mechanical cylinders, locks and locking systems for a wide range of requirements and the innovations from the field of electronics. And of course, we are always looking forward to the interesting discussions on our stand, because personal contact is rarely as easy to establish as it is there". Participation in Security Essen 2020 Many other companies - including market leaders, niche providers and new entrants - have also already confirmed their participation in Security Essen 2020. From Germany, these include Abus August Bremmicker Söhne, EVVA Sicherheitstechnik, Kötter Security, lunaHD, NSC Sicherheitstechnik, Salto Systems, T-Systems International, Videor E. Hartig and the Wagner Group. The trade fair will be a premiere, for example, for the Bosch start-up SAST. The young company will present its Internet of Things platform for security cameras for the first time at the trade fair. Security Essen is also seeded for international stars: Hanwha Techwin Europe, Hikvision, Inim Electronics, Vanderbilt International, Zhejiang Dahua and Zhejiang Uniview, among others, have confirmed their participation in the world's leading trade fair. Open, functional architecture After a construction period of around three and a half years, the modernization of Messe Essen has been concluded since September 2019. From now on, exhibitors at and visitors to Security Essen will benefit from open, functional architecture, short distances, eight spacious, single-storey halls and plenty of daylight. For example, visitors can, for the first time, expect a complete and coherent range of available video products in the new Hall 5.

The team opted for the AirKey locking system for identification media/key cards The idea for the Solar Decathlon originates in the USA. Since 2002, the competition has been bringing together universities from around the world with the objective of designing and operating an energy-efficient, solar-powered house. The aim is to support solar technologies in buildings. Each year the competition is hosted alternately in Europe and America. In summer 2014, it was held in Paris Versailles for the first time. Twenty pavilions that had been designed by teams of students from 16 nations were made accessible to the public at the "Cité du Soleil". The pavilions were assessed in ten categories by a panel of judges. This year was the first time a Swiss university took part in the renowned competition. The Team Lucerne Suisse faced up to the challenge with the your+ project. The vision of the your+ project is "to strive to sharing resources and efficiently using spaces with our concept of sharing and exchanging. Our living concept involves shared rooms to create a platform for exchanging objects and making mobility more flexible."  "Smart" is the keyword With the "smart sharing" concept, your+ aims at providing more options on a smaller area thanks to an intelligent layout and use of domestic and working environments. The your+ prototype presented at Solar Decathlon Europe 2014 in Paris featured three room types, each with various application options. The three room types are linked by space+, a popular and communicative development tool with a host of potential applications. The prototype was equipped with a sophisticated energy concept which was incidentally also based on the principle of sharing. Innovative project, innovative partner EVVA is a Silver Partner of Solar Decathlon. The project team opted for the innovative AirKey locking system. AirKey turns smartphones and identification media into keys. The system is just as dynamic as customers’ needs and consequently, it ideally suits the your+ project. "We opted for the AirKey locking system because of its flexible programming options for identification media/key cards", Marcel Wyss – architecture student and Student Team Leader explains. The particularly flexible AirKey solutions requires nothing more than a mobile phone or identification media with NFC functionality, the Internet and an AirKey cylinder. Keys are sent online. The AirKey app and the unique EVVA KeyCredits make this smart locking system a user-friendly, comprehensive solution. "Most of all the option to also directly grant authorisations to rooms using the AirKey app sparked a very positive response", Wyss continues. The Solar Decathlon 2014 concluded in mid-July. your+ ranked in an impressive 5th position. The team received particular praise in the following categories: convenience, communication, easy use, architecture and innovative light design.