An Anti-jamming method and device

Abstract

An anti-jamming method (10.1, 10.2) and a vehicle anti-theft device (20) are disclosed. The device (20) includes a signal jammer detection module (22) and a processor (18). The signal jammer detection module (22) is configured to monitor wireless signal strength or connectivity status of modules such as a GSM module (25), GPS module (26), and Bluetooth module (21). The processor (18) is configured to determine the presence of a signal jammer (7) when the monitored signal strength exceeds a predetermined threshold or upon simultaneous connectivity failure. In response, the processor (18) autonomously initiates one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24), which may depend on the engine's operational state (33). The anti- theft measures (24) may include forcing the vehicle's transmission (6) into a Park position to immobilise the vehicle (1). The invention overcomes the problem of being unable to remotely communicate with and control a stolen vehicle due to the presence of a signal jammer (7).

Description

[0001] AN ANTI-JAMMING METHOD AND DEVICE

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] This invention relates to the field of vehicle security.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[0005] Due to the rampant theft of motor vehicles, many, if not most, new vehicles come fitted with a tracking device to facilitate tracing, tracking and retrieval of the vehicle should it be reported stolen. For certain high-risk vehicles, insurance companies have mandated that at least one or more tracking devices be installed in the vehicle before it is insured.

[0006] As a result, when a vehicle is stolen, thieves immediately start stripping the vehicle in an attempt to locate and disable the tracking device(s). Naturally, this results in significant damage to the interior of the vehicle. In many instances, thieves have failed to disable one or more of the tracking devices which has led to tracking and retrieval of the vehicles. The Applicant has noticed that more sophisticated vehicle theft syndicates have started to make use of signal jamming devices to prevent onboard tracking devices from broadcasting their location to a remote control room. As a result, when a vehicle is stolen with a signal jamming device present, tracking companies are unable to trace, track and retrieve the vehicle. In this way, the thieves nullify the presence of tracking units in the vehicle without having to physically locate and remove or disconnect them.

[0007] A commercially available vehicle anti-theft device can be remotely activated by the owner or authorised entity in the event of vehicle theft or hi-jacking. However, signal jamming devices, which effectively block communication in all available frequency bands, have been used by thieves to block or prevent remote control of these vehicle anti-theft devices. The present invention aims to alleviate the drawbacks discussed above.

[0008] SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0009] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle antitheft device configured to be mounted to a vehicle, the vehicle anti-theft device including: at least one wireless communication module; and a processor operatively coupled to the at least one wireless communication module; characterised by a signal jammer detection module configured to monitor a signal strength of at least one wireless communication frequency band; and wherein the processor is configured to: determine the presence of a signal jammer when the monitored signal strength exceeds a predetermined signal strength threshold; and in response to determining the presence of the signal jammer, autonomously initiate one or more vehicle anti-theft measures.

[0010] The signal jammer detection module may be configured to monitor connectivity of a plurality of distinct wireless communication modules. The processor may be configured to determine the presence of the signal jammer upon detection of a simultaneous connectivity failure of the plurality of wireless communication modules.

[0011] The at least one wireless communication module may comprise at least one of a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) module, a Global Positioning System (GPS) module, and a Bluetooth module.

[0012] The processor may further be configured to determine an operational state of an engine of the vehicle, and the autonomous initiation of the one or more vehicle antitheft measures may be dependent on the determined operational state. If the determined operational state is that the engine is on, the processor may be configured to first activate a warning signal and to initiate the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures only after the presence of the signal jammer has been detected for longer than a predetermined activation threshold period. If the determined operational state is that the engine is off, the processor may be configured to immediately initiate the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures. The one or more vehicle anti-theft measures may comprise the processor instructing a transmission controller to force a transmission of the vehicle into a Neutral position and subsequently into a Park position.

[0013] The signal jammer detection module may be configured to monitor signal strength of at least one predetermined Global Positioning System (GPS) frequency band. The processor may be configured to determine the presence of a signal jammer when the monitored signal strength in the predetermined GPS frequency band exceeds a predetermined GPS signal strength threshold.

[0014] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided an antijamming method of preventing vehicle theft using a vehicle anti-theft device installed in a vehicle, the method comprising using at least one wireless communication module and a processor of the device; characterised by the steps of: monitoring, by a signal jammer detection module of the device, a signal strength of at least one wireless communication frequency band; determining, by the processor, the presence of a signal jammer when the monitored signal strength exceeds a predetermined signal strength threshold; and in response to determining the presence of the signal jammer, autonomously initiating, by the processor, one or more vehicle anti-theft measures.

[0015] Determining the presence of the signal jammer may comprise: monitoring connectivity of a plurality of distinct wireless communication modules; and determining the presence of the signal jammer upon detection of a simultaneous connectivity failure of the plurality of wireless communication modules.

[0016] The monitoring of signal strength or connectivity may be performed for at least one of a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) signal, a Global Positioning System (GPS) signal, and a Bluetooth signal.

[0017] The method may further include determining an operational state of an engine of the vehicle, wherein the step of autonomously initiating the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures is dependent on the determined operational state. If the determined operational state is that the engine is on, the method may comprise first activating a warning signal and initiating the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures only after the presence of the signal jammer has been detected for longer than a predetermined activation threshold period. If the determined operational state is that the engine is off, the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures may be initiated immediately.

[0018] The step of initiating one or more vehicle anti-theft measures may comprise forcing a transmission of the vehicle into a Park position to immobilise the vehicle. The step of initiating one or more vehicle anti-theft measures may include forcing the transmission into a Neutral position and subsequently into Park position to immobilise the vehicle.

[0019] The method may include monitoring, by the signal jammer detection module of the device, a signal strength of at least one Global Positioning System (GPS) frequency band; and determining, by the processor, the presence of a signal jammer when the monitored signal strength in the predetermined GPS frequency band exceeds a predetermined GPS signal strength threshold.

[0020] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an anti-jamming method of preventing vehicle theft using a vehicle anti-theft device installed to a vehicle, the method including: detecting, using the vehicle anti-theft device, presence of a signal jammer in or in close proximity to the vehicle; and if detected, automatically initiating, using the vehicle anti-theft device, vehicle anti-theft measures.

[0021] The vehicle anti-theft measures may be on-board vehicle anti-theft measures.

[0022] Following detection, the method may include the step of warning, using the vehicle anti-theft device, a driver or vehicle occupant of imminent activation of vehicle antitheft measures. The registered user of the vehicle anti-theft device may be able to interrupt and / or deactivate initiation of the anti-theft measures, e.g. in the event of a false detection, through use of a special code entered into or forwarded to the vehicle anti-theft device. Detecting may include using a spectrum analyser to detect the presence of the signal jammer.

[0023] Detecting may include measuring, using the vehicle anti-theft device, wireless signal strength greater than a predetermined signal strength threshold.

[0024] Detecting may include determining, using the vehicle anti-theft device, when measured Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) signal strength exceeds a predetermined GSM signal strength threshold. Measuring may include determining when a Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) value exceeds a normalised RSSI threshold value. The method includes automatically initiating the vehicle anti-theft measures if the measured GSM signal strength exceeds the predetermined GSM signal strength threshold.

[0025] Detecting may include determining, using the vehicle anti-theft device, when measured Global Positioning System (GPS) signal strength exceeds a predetermined GPS signal strength threshold. The method includes automatically initiating the vehicle anti-theft measures if the measured GPS signal strength exceeds the predetermined GPS signal strength threshold.

[0026] Detecting may include determining, using the vehicle anti-theft device, when measured Bluetooth signal strength exceeds a predetermined Bluetooth signal strength threshold.

[0027] Detecting may include using a signal jammer detection module to detect the presence of the signal jammer.

[0028] Alternatively, detecting may include monitoring, using the vehicle anti-theft device, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Bluetooth signal strength or connectivity. Detecting may include monitoring, using the vehicle anti-theft device, GPS signal strength or connectivity. Accordingly, should the anti-theft device detect failure of both GSM and Bluetooth signals / connectivity, it may be configured automatically to initiate vehicle anti-theft measures. The method may include monitoring GSM, GPS and Bluetooth connectivity and automatically initiating antitheft measures should all three fail.

[0029] The method may include monitoring at least one of GSM, GPS and Bluetooth signal strength and automatically initiating vehicle anti-theft measures should at least one of the measured signal strengths exceed a predetermined signal strength threshold.

[0030] The method may include mapping geo-specific GSM signal quality / connectivity to identify cellular reception dead zones. The method may include comparing sensed or measured GSM signal quality / connectivity or strength against the geo-specific mapping of GSM signal quality / connectivity or strength, prior to initiating vehicle antitheft measures. Should the comparison indicate that the geo-specific mapping corresponds with the measured signals, the anti-theft measures may not be initiated. This will make allowance for dead zones in cellular reception. This may involve the use of artificial intelligence.

[0031] After detection of a signal jammer, the anti-jamming method may include the further step of determining whether an engine of the vehicle is on or off. This may include determining, using the vehicle anti-theft device, whether a vehicle ignition is on or off.

[0032] If the engine is off, the anti-jamming method may include automatically initiating the anti-theft measures. In addition, the method may include sending out an alert signal to warn the driver and potentially other bystanders of the presence of a signal jammer. The alert signal way be in the form of an audible siren. Furthermore, the sending out of an alert signal may include sending out an alert notification to the mobile device of the owner / driver to inform them of the detection of a signal jammer by the vehicle anti-theft device. The functionality of sending out an alert signal may be enabled / disabled by the owner / user via a mobile application associated with the vehicle anti-theft device.

[0033] If the engine in on, the method may include warning of the detection of the signal jammer by activating an alarm. This alarm may also be in the form of an audible siren. Alternatively, or in addition, it may be in the form of a mobile phone notification pushed via a dedicated mobile application. A frequency of the audible siren may be correlated with a detected proximity of the signal jammer to the vehicle. The method may further include, determining, using the vehicle anti-theft device, whether presence of the signal jammer has been detected for longer than a predetermined activation threshold period. If the answer is, yes, the method includes automatically initiating the vehicle anti-theft measures using the vehicle anti-theft device.

[0034] Initiating vehicle anti-theft measures may include locking the vehicle anti-theft device. Locking may include activating a locked state of the vehicle anti-theft device. This may include physically immobilising a drivetrain of the vehicle using a locking member. Locking may include maintaining a gearbox of the vehicle in its Park position. Locking may include inhibiting gear shifting using a locking member.

[0035] Prior to the locking step, the method may include automatically disabling, using the vehicle anti-theft device, drive to the vehicle wheels to prevent the vehicle from being driven away. This disabling step may include forcing, using the vehicle anti-theft device, a transmission of the vehicle into its Neutral position irrespective of vehicle speed. Following this step, the method may include locking the vehicle anti-theft device by forcing the transmission of the vehicle into a Park position, provided that the vehicle is stationary or moving below a predetermined speed. Forcing may include mechanically forcing an automatic transmission using an actuator. Alternatively, forcing may include electronically forcing the automatic transmission using a transmission controller.

[0036] Initiating vehicle anti-theft measures may also include interrupting electrical power supply to the vehicle. Also, initiating anti-theft measures may include interrupting fuel supply to the vehicle. Furthermore, initiating anti-theft measures may include recording and storing video footage using one or more onboard video cameras installed to the vehicle. This video footage may be used in legal proceedings to prosecute suspects.

[0037] Initiating vehicle anti-theft measures may include the prior step of first performing facial recognition using onboard cameras to detect the presence of one or more unregistered users in the vehicle. The vehicle anti-theft measures may be initiated if unregistered occupants are detected in the vehicle. Initiating anti-theft measures may also include activating an audible alarm, e.g. a siren. Furthermore, initiating anti-theft measures may also include activating a visible alarm, e.g. emergency lights or smoke screens. Initiating anti-theft measures may also include activating a pre-recorded voice message to warn a driver of imminent deactivation of the vehicle.

[0038] Initiating anti-theft measures may include warning an occupant of the vehicle of a trigger event e.g. through use of a siren or voice message. Initiating anti-theft measures may include sending a warning notification to a vehicle owner should the presence of a jammer be detected, irrespective of a state of the vehicle anti-theft device.

[0039] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle anti-theft device which is configured to be mounted to a vehicle, the vehicle anti-theft device including a signal jammer detection module which is configured to detect the presence of a signal jammer, and, if detected, automatically to initiate vehicle antitheft measures.

[0040] The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to carry out any of the method steps described above. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to keep record of wireless communication devices in close proximity to the device for accident reporting and insurance claim purposes. As an anti-theft measure, the vehicle antitheft device may be configured to lock which may include physically immobilising the vehicle using a locking member. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to measure wireless signal strength. Furthermore, the vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to detect GSM signal strength. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to determine Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) values. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to detect GPS signal strength. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to detect or determine Bluetooth signal strength. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to determine whether an engine of the vehicle is on or off. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to detect when at least one or more of measured GSM signal strength, measured GPS signal strength and measured Bluetooth signal strength exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0041] As an interim anti-theft measure, the vehicle anti-theft device may be configured automatically to disable drive to the vehicle wheels. Accordingly, the vehicle antitheft device may be configured to force a transmission of the vehicle from its Drive position into its Neutral position, irrespective of vehicle speed, thus preventing the vehicle from being driven away. Following this step, the vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to force an automatic transmission of the vehicle into its Park position, provided that the vehicle is stationary or moving below a predetermined speed. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured mechanically to force the transmission into its Neutral position. The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured mechanically to force the automatic transmission into its Park position. Alternatively, the vehicle anti-theft device may be configured electronically to force the automatic transmission into its Neutral and / or Park positions.

[0042] The invention extends to a method of securing a vehicle against theft using a vehicle anti-theft device, the method including: recording in-cabin video footage using at least one on-board camera; performing facial recognition of vehicle occupants using the vehicle anti-theft device; and triggering an alarm should unregistered users be detected in the vehicle.

[0043] Triggering the alarm may include forwarding an emergency signal to a remote control room. Triggering the alarm may further include automatically initiating vehicle anti-theft measures using the vehicle anti-theft device.

[0044] The invention also extends to a method of securing a vehicle against theft using a vehicle anti-theft device which is enabled with wireless connectivity, the method including: detecting using a wireless communication protocol presence of a heart-rate monitor worn by a vehicle occupant; and triggering an alarm should the vehicle anti-theft device detect an abnormal heart-rate.

[0045] Triggering the alarm may include forwarding an emergency signal to a remote control room. Triggering the alarm may further include automatically initiating vehicle anti-theft measures using the vehicle anti-theft device.

[0046] An abnormal heart-rate may include a heart-rate which exceeds a predetermined upper threshold. Alternatively, an abnormal heart-rate may include a heart-rate below a predetermined minimum threshold. This may also be sensed as a result of disconnection or removal of the heart-rate monitor.

[0047] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a computer- readable storage medium having program instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a computing device, enable the method steps described above to be performed.

[0048] The invention also extends to a vehicle which includes a vehicle anti-theft device as described above.

[0049] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0050] The invention will now be further described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings.

[0051] In the drawings:

[0052] Figure 1 shows a flow diagram of a first embodiment of an anti-jamming method of preventing vehicle theft in accordance with the invention;

[0053] Figure 2 shows a flow diagram of part of the method of Figure 1 , in more detail;

[0054] Figure 3 shows a functional block diagram of a vehicle in accordance with another aspect of the invention;

[0055] Figure 4 shows a flow diagram as an alternative part of the method of Figure

[0056] 1 ; Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of an alternative embodiment of the antijamming method; and

[0057] Figure 6 shows a functional block diagram of a signal jammer detection module.

[0058] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT

[0059] The following description of the invention is provided as an enabling teaching of the invention. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognise that many changes can be made to the embodiments described, while still attaining the beneficial results of the present invention. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present invention can be attained by selecting some of the features of the present invention without utilising other features. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognise that modifications and adaptations to the present invention are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances, and are a part of the present invention. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present invention and not a limitation thereof.

[0060] Figure 3 illustrates a vehicle 1 in accordance with an aspect of the invention. The vehicle 1 includes a vehicle anti-theft device 20 in accordance with another aspect of the invention which is installed to the vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 further includes a drivetrain 4 and transmission 6 amongst other conventional parts. The vehicle antitheft device 20 includes an electronic control unit (ECU) or processor 18, a signal jammer detection module 22, anti-theft measures 24, wireless communication modules in the form of a Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) module 25, Global Positioning System (GPS) module 26, Bluetooth module 21 and at least one accelerometer 23.

[0061] In Figure 1 , reference numeral 10.1 refers generally to an anti-jamming method of preventing vehicle theft using the vehicle anti-theft device 20 installed to the vehicle 1. The anti-jamming method 10.1 includes detecting 11 , using the signal jammer detection module 22, presence of a signal jammer 7 in, or in close proximity to, the vehicle 1. If detected, the method 10.1 includes warning 12, using the vehicle antitheft device 20, a driver or vehicle occupant of imminent activation of vehicle anti- theft measures 24. Provided that a registered user of the vehicle anti-theft device 20 has not interrupted 13 and deactivated initiation of the vehicle anti-theft measures 24, e.g. in the event of a false detection, through use of a special code entered into or forwarded to the vehicle anti-theft device 20, the method 10.1 includes automatically initiating 14, using the vehicle anti-theft device 20, vehicle anti-theft measures 24. The step of detecting 11 may include monitoring, by the signal jammer detection module 22 of the device 20, a signal strength of at least one wireless communication frequency band; and determining, by the processor 18, the presence of a signal jammer 7 when the monitored signal strength exceeds a predetermined signal strength threshold 11.2.

[0062] Referring now to Figure 2, detecting 11.1 includes monitoring 11.1.1 , using the GSM module 25, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) signal strength or connectivity. Detecting further includes monitoring 11.1.2, using the GPS module 26, GPS signal strength or connectivity. Finally, detecting 11.1 includes monitoring 11.1.3, using the Bluetooth module 21 , Bluetooth connectivity to a registered or paired Bluetooth device e.g. a driver’s mobile phone. Should a jammer 7 be present in the vehicle 1 , the GSM and GPS modules 25, 26 will detect connectivity failure due to the jamming action of the jammer 7. Also, the Bluetooth module 21 will detect when the registered / paired Bluetooth device of the vehicle owner is not in range of the vehicle 1. Accordingly, should GSM, GPS and Bluetooth connectivity fail, it serves as an indication to the vehicle anti-theft device 20 of the presence of a jammer 7 and the absence of the owner. Accordingly, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 and method 10.1 automatically moves on to the next step, i.e. warning 12 of imminent activation of the anti-theft measures 24 e.g. activating a siren.

[0063] The vehicle anti-theft device 20 is configured to keep track of historic and mapped GSM and GPS dead zones, e.g. tunnels, mountain ranges and parkades etc. to prevent inadvertently activating anti-theft measures when the vehicle passes through such areas where GSM and GPS connectivity may be temporarily interrupted. The vehicle anti-theft device 20 may therefore compare present connectivity with the mapping before initiating anti-theft measures. Alternatively, the method 10.1 may include monitoring for failure of just GSM and Bluetooth connectivity, following which the vehicle anti-theft device 20 may automatically initiate warning and anti-theft measures. Alternatively, the method may include monitoring for failure of any one or more of GSM, GPS and Bluetooth connectivity.

[0064] Reference is now made to Figure 4 where reference numeral 11.2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the detection step 11. In this instance, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 is configured, using the signal jammer detection module 22, to monitor wireless signal strength. It will be appreciated that, in the presence of the signal jammer 7, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 will measure an increased wireless signal strength across an operational frequency band of the signal jammer 7, specially a GPS frequency band. This in itself, may serve as a trigger for the vehicle anti-theft device 20 to establish the presence of the signal jammer 7. In other words, increased measured signal strength in any of the operational frequency bands (GSM, GPS, Bluetooth, amongst others) of the vehicle anti-theft device 20 may serve to indicate the presence of the signal jammer 7.

[0065] Therefore, should the signal jammer detection module 22 measure 11.2.1 GSM signal strength which exceeds a predetermined GSM or RSSI signal strength threshold, this will serve to indicate to the vehicle anti-theft device 20 that a signal jammer is in close proximity to the vehicle and the vehicle anti-theft device 20 will move on to the next step of the anti-jamming method 10.

[0066] The same holds true for the measured GPS signal strength. If the measured GPS signal strength 11.2.2 in the proximity of the vehicle exceeds a predetermined GPS signal strength threshold, the anti-jamming method 10 moves to the next step in the flow.

[0067] Finally, if the measured Bluetooth signal strength 11.2.3 exceeds a predetermined Bluetooth signal strength threshold, then the anti-jamming method 10 moves to the next step. Therefore, detection of signal strength in excess of any of the thresholds mentioned above by the signal jammer detection module 22 will trigger the vehicle anti-theft device 20 to move to the next step in the anti-jamming method 10. The vehicle anti-theft device 20 may be configured to detect the presence of a signal jammer due to a spike in measured or received signal strength. Alternatively, or in addition, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 may be configured to detect the presence of a signal jammer due to a loss of wireless connectivity.

[0068] Reference is now made to Figure 5 which illustrates an alternative embodiment of the anti-jamming method in accordance with the invention. Reference numeral 10.2 refers generally to this alternative anti-jamming method. As a first step, the method 10.2 involves detecting 11 , using the vehicle anti-theft device 20, the presence of the signal jammer 7 in the same way as described above. Following on this step, the method 10.2 includes determining 33 whether a vehicle engine is on or off. In the event that the vehicle engine is off, the method 10.2 includes automatically initiating the anti-theft measures 14.3. In addition, the method includes transmission of an alert signal 12.3. The alert signal may be in the form of a siren which sounds to warn bystanders including the vehicle owner of the presence of a signal jammer in proximity to the vehicle. Under normal circumstances, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 is configured to send the owner / driver a notification on their mobile phone when the anti-theft measures are initiated, but due to the presence of the signal jammer 7, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 may not be successful in sending out the notification, hence the need for an audible alarm or siren to warn the owner and others in close proximity to the vehicle of the presence of thieves. The functionality of transmitting an alert signal or sounding a siren when the anti-theft measures are initiated may be enabled / disabled via the dedicated mobile application.

[0069] If the vehicle engine is on, then the method includes activating 12.2 a warning signal to inform the driver of the presence and detection of a signal jammer. Understandably, it may be undesirable automatically to initiate anti-theft measures when the vehicle anti-theft device 20 detects a signal jammer whist the driver is in the vehicle or whilst the vehicle is being driven. Therefore, the method 10.2 is configured first to notify the driver so that they can take steps in the best interest of their safety, e.g. to drive away from the detected signal. The warning signal frequency or intensity or interval may be correlated to detected signal jammer signal strength. I.e. the closer the signal jammer gets to the vehicle, the higher the frequency or intensity or shorter the interval of the warning signal may get and vice versa.

[0070] Warning of the detection of the signal jammer 7 may include activating an alarm. As mentioned, the alarm may be in the form of an audible siren or a pre-recorded voice message. Alternatively, or in addition, it may be in the form of a mobile phone notification pushed via a dedicated mobile application. The method 10.2 further includes, determining 35, using the vehicle anti-theft device 20, whether presence of the signal jammer has been detected for longer than a predetermined activation threshold period. If the answer is, yes, the method 10.2 includes automatically initiating 14.2 the vehicle anti-theft measures using the vehicle anti-theft device 20. This step is there to prevent vehicle theft by delaying activation of the signal jammer until after the thief has started the vehicle.

[0071] Automatically initiating vehicle anti-theft measures 14 includes locking the vehicle anti-theft device 20. This means the device 20 enters a locked state. In one embodiment of the vehicle anti-theft device 20, entering its locked state means physically immobilising the drivetrain 4 of the vehicle 1 using a locking member (not shown).

[0072] If the vehicle 1 happens to be travelling above a predetermined speed and the device 20 is unable to engage the locking member, as an interim anti-theft measure, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 is configured automatically to disable drive to the vehicle wheels. Accordingly, in this instance, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 forces the transmission 6 of the vehicle from its Drive position into its Neutral position, irrespective of vehicle speed, thus preventing the vehicle from being driven any further. Following this step, the vehicle anti-theft device will force the automatic transmission of the vehicle 1 into its Park position, once the vehicle is stationary or moving below the predetermined speed in order to completely immobilise the vehicle. In one embodiment of the vehicle anti-theft device 20, it mechanically forces the automatic transmission into its Neutral and Park positions using an actuator. In another embodiment of the vehicle anti-theft device, it electronically forces the automatic transmission into its Neutral and Park positions using a transmission controller. Accordingly, if the vehicle 1 is moving above the predetermined speed and anti-theft measures need to be activated, the method includes automatically disabling, using the vehicle anti-theft device 20, drive to the vehicle wheels to prevent the vehicle from being driven away. As mentioned, this disabling step includes forcing, using anti-theft measures 24, the automatic transmission 6 of the vehicle into its Neutral position irrespective of vehicle speed. Following this step, the method 10 includes locking the vehicle anti-theft device 20 by forcing the automatic transmission 6 of the vehicle into its Park position, provided that the vehicle is stationary or moving below a predetermined speed. Again, forcing may be achieved mechanically using an actuator. Alternatively, forcing may be achieved electronically using a transmission controller.

[0073] Initiating vehicle anti-theft measures 14 may also include interrupting electrical power supply to the vehicle. Also, initiating anti-theft measures may include interrupting fuel supply to the vehicle. Furthermore, initiating anti-theft measures may include recording and storing video footage using one or more onboard video cameras installed to the vehicle 1. This video footage may be used in legal proceedings to prosecute suspects.

[0074] Initiating vehicle anti-theft measures may include the prior step of first performing facial recognition using onboard cameras to detect the presence of one or more unregistered users in the vehicle. The vehicle anti-theft measures may be initiated if unregistered occupants are detected in the vehicle.

[0075] Initiating anti-theft measures may also include activating an audible alarm, e.g. a siren. Furthermore, initiating anti-theft measures may also include activating a visible alarm, e.g. emergency lights or smoke screens.

[0076] The vehicle anti-theft device may be configured to keep record of wireless communication devices in close proximity to the device for accident reporting and insurance claim purposes. Figure 6 illustrates a functional block diagram of the signal jammer detection module 22. The module 22 has a Radio Frequency (RF) antenna which receives transmitted RF signals and passes them to a Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) filter 22.1 to filter out unwanted frequencies. Further signal processing is performed on the filtered RF signals by way of a low noise amplifier 22.2 and an RF power detector 22.3 followed by a low pass filter 22.4. The RF power detector 22.3 is configured to measure signal strength intensity in the filtered frequency band. Finally, the filtered RF signal is passed to the ECU or processor 18 where it is converted from analogue to digital by and analogue to digital converter 18.1 and subjected to threshold detection by a threshold detector 18.2 to determine if the measured signal strength exceeds the predetermined signal strength threshold.

[0077] Due to the anti-jamming method 10, the vehicle anti-theft device 20 in accordance with the invention exhibits intelligent and autonomous decision-making functionality, even if remote communication with a control room is blocked by a jamming device. Therefore, the problem of not being able remotely to communicate with a stolen vehicle, due to the presence of a jamming device in the vehicle, in order to activate its locking mechanism and to immobilise the vehicle, is effectively addressed by the current invention. The effective breakdown in communication with the stolen vehicle and hence inability to remotely activate or lock / immobilise the vehicle is overcome by the anti-jamming method 10 and device 20, due to the fact that the vehicle anti-theft device 20 has the ability to detect the presence of the jammer 7, due to a spike in measured signal strength, or a loss of connectivity, and in response thereto, autonomously to proceed to lock and immobilise the vehicle or to activate other antitheft measures necessary to prevent theft. The presence of the signal jammer 7 itself, in or close to the vehicle, serves as a trigger which initiates autonomous locking of the vehicle anti-theft device 20 or activation of other anti-theft measures as described above.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A vehicle anti-theft device (20) configured to be mounted to a vehicle (1 ), the device (20) including: at least one wireless communication module (21 , 25, 26); and a processor (18) operatively coupled to the at least one wireless communication module (21 , 25, 26); characterised by a signal jammer detection module (22) configured to monitor a signal strength of at least one wireless communication frequency band; and wherein the processor (18) is configured to: determine the presence of a signal jammer (7) when the monitored signal strength exceeds a predetermined signal strength threshold; and in response to determining the presence of the signal jammer (7), autonomously initiate one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24).

2. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to claim 1 , characterised in that the signal jammer detection module (22) is configured to monitor connectivity of a plurality of distinct wireless communication modules (21 , 25, 26), and wherein the processor (18) is configured to determine the presence of the signal jammer (7) upon detection of a simultaneous connectivity failure of the plurality of wireless communication modules.

3. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the at least one wireless communication module comprises at least one of a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) module (25), a Global Positioning System (GPS) module (26), and a Bluetooth module (21 ).

4. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the processor (18) is further configured to determine an operational state of an engine of the vehicle (1), and wherein the autonomous initiation of the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24) is dependent on the determined operational state (33).

5. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to claim 4, characterised in that, if the determined operational state is that the engine is on, the processor (18) is configured to first activate a warning signal (12.2) and to initiate the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (14.2) only after the presence of the signal jammer (7) has been detected for longer than a predetermined activation threshold period (35).

6. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to claim 4, characterised in that, if the determined operational state is that the engine is off, the processor (18) is configured to immediately initiate the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (14.3).

7. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24) comprises the processor (18) instructing a transmission controller to force a transmission (6) of the vehicle (1 ) into a Neutral position and subsequently into a Park position.

8. The vehicle anti-theft device (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the signal jammer detection module (22) is configured to monitor signal strength of at least one predetermined Global Positioning System (GPS) frequency band; and wherein the processor (18) is configured to determine the presence of a signal jammer (7) when the monitored signal strength in the predetermined GPS frequency band exceeds a predetermined GPS signal strength threshold.

9. An anti-jamming method (10.1 , 10.2) of preventing vehicle theft using a vehicle anti-theft device (20) installed in a vehicle (1 ), the method comprising using at least one wireless communication module (21 , 25, 26) and a processor (18) of the device (20); characterised by the steps of: monitoring (11 ), by a signal jammer detection module (22) of the device (20), a signal strength of at least one wireless communication frequency band; determining, by the processor (18), the presence of a signal jammer (7) when the monitored signal strength exceeds a predetermined signal strength threshold (11 .2); and in response to determining the presence of the signal jammer (7), autonomously initiating (14), by the processor (18), one or more vehicle antitheft measures (24).

10. The method (10.1 ) according to claim 9, characterised in that determining the presence of the signal jammer (7) comprises: monitoring (11.1) connectivity of a plurality of distinct wireless communication modules (21 , 25, 26); and determining the presence of the signal jammer (7) upon detection of a simultaneous connectivity failure of the plurality of wireless communication modules.

11. The method (10.1 , 10.2) according to claim 9 or 10, characterised in that the monitoring of signal strength or connectivity is performed for at least one of a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) signal (11.1.1 ), a Global Positioning System (GPS) signal (11.1 .2), and a Bluetooth signal (11.1.3).

12. The method (10.2) according to any one of claims 9 to 11 , further comprising determining (33) an operational state of an engine of the vehicle (1 ), wherein the step of autonomously initiating the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24) is dependent on the determined operational state.

13. The method (10.2) according to claim 12, characterised in that if the determined operational state is that the engine is on, the method comprises first activating a warning signal (12.2) and initiating the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (14.2) only after the presence of the signal jammer (7) has been detected for longer than a predetermined activation threshold period (35).

14. The method (10.2) according to claim 12, characterised in that if the determined operational state is that the engine is off, the one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (14.3) are initiated immediately.

15. The method (10.1 , 10.2) according to any one of claims 9 to 14, characterised in that the step of initiating one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24) comprises forcing a transmission (6) of the vehicle (1) into a Park position to immobilise the vehicle.

16. The method (10.1 , 10.2) according to any one of claims 9 to 15, characterised in that the step of initiating one or more vehicle anti-theft measures (24) includes forcing the transmission (6) into a Neutral position and subsequently into Park position to immobilise the vehicle (1 ).

17. The method (10.1 , 10.2) according to any one of claims 9 to 16, which includes monitoring (11 ), by the signal jammer detection module (22) of the device (20), a signal strength of at least one Global Positioning System (GPS) frequency band; and determining, by the processor (18), the presence of a signal jammer (7) when the monitored signal strength in the predetermined GPS frequency band exceeds a predetermined GPS signal strength threshold (11.2.2).

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