Active RFID Access Control for Mobile Work Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional access authorization systems for mobile working machines require operators to be in close proximity to the vehicle, leading to inefficiencies and security vulnerabilities, as they necessitate manual handling of keys or PIN entry and do not effectively prevent unauthorized use when the authorized operator is away.
Innovation Solution
An access authorization system utilizing active transmitter-receiver devices, either active RFID or ultra-wideband technology, that identifies authorized operators and triggers vehicle reactions based on distance, enabling secure and efficient operation without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional access authorization systems (keys, PINs, passive RFID) are used, then security control is achieved, but operator convenience deteriorates due to manual handling requirements and close proximity necessity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical key systems and manual PIN entry with active RFID transmitter-receiver technology. The operator wears an active RFID transmitter that communicates wirelessly with the vehicle's receiver, eliminating the need for manual key handling or code entry while maintaining secure access authorization through authenticated wireless communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces active RFID transmitters and receivers as intermediary devices between the operator and the vehicle control system. These intermediaries enable automatic identification and authorization without requiring direct contact or close proximity, as the active transmitters can communicate over longer distances compared to passive RFID systems.
2Reliability
If conventional access control systems requiring close proximity are used, then security is maintained, but operational efficiency deteriorates due to time loss from manual key handling and vehicle activation delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by enabling the vehicle control unit to automatically activate and prepare the vehicle for operation as soon as the authorized operator's active RFID transmitter is detected in proximity. This eliminates the need for manual key insertion, ignition switching, or system initialization delays, allowing the operator to immediately begin work upon approaching the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle control system performs self-service by automatically detecting the operator's presence through the active RFID transmitter, verifying authorization, and activating vehicle functions without requiring any manual intervention from the operator. The system serves itself by autonomously completing the access authorization and vehicle activation process.
3Device complexity
If passive RFID transponders are used, then simple identification is achieved, but communication range deteriorates limiting operator distance from the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional passive RFID approach by using active RFID transmitters worn by the operator instead of passive transponders embedded in access cards or keys. The active transmitter continuously emits or responds to RFID signals with sufficient power to maintain communication over extended distances, allowing the operator to work at a greater distance from the vehicle while maintaining reliable identification and authorization.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user comfort, security, and operational efficiency by allowing remote access and automatic vehicle activation/deactivation, reducing the risk of unauthorized use and minimizing manual handling, thus improving safety and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) is a technology for the automatic and contactless identification and localization of objects using radio waves. Conventional RFID systems consist of a transponder (also known as a radio tag) and a reader.
Implementation Method 2
This is achieved through coupling via short-range alternating magnetic fields generated by the reader.
Implementation Method 3
An access authorization system utilizing active transmitter-receiver devices, either active RFID or ultra-wideband technology
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an access control system (Z) of a mobile work machine (A) with a vehicle control unit (MCU) for controlling vehicle functions, wherein the access control system (Z) is configured to recognize the access authorizations of operators (P) and to enable authorized operators (P) to access at least one of the vehicle functions. It is proposed that the access control system (Z) comprises at least a first transmitter-receiver unit (SE1) arranged on the mobile work machine (A) and at least a second transmitter-receiver unit (SE2) that is wearable by the operator (P) and individually assigned to the operator (P), wherein the first transmitter-receiver unit (SE1) is operatively connected to the vehicle control unit (MCU), and the access control system (Z) is configured toThe first transmitter-receiver unit (SE1) and the second transmitter-receiver unit (SE2) are used to identify the operator (P) located at a distance from the mobile working machine (A) and to determine the distance (d) of the operator (P) from the mobile working machine (A), and, if the operator (P) is identified as having access authorization, to cause the vehicle control unit (MCU) to trigger at least one defined reaction function of the mobile working machine (A), depending on the distance of the operator (P) from the mobile working machine (A).