Passenger Airbag Switch Using RFID Contactless Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing passenger airbag systems are complex and require key blades for manual switching, which is inconvenient, and lack user-friendly indicators for the airbag status, especially when used by temporary drivers.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system with a reduced number of mechanical parts, incorporating a radio frequency unit in the vehicle and remote key for easy switching of the passenger airbag status, along with a switch status indicator, such as an LED, and an acoustic signal for confirmation, allowing for easy access and visibility of the airbag status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional key-based switching system is used for the passenger airbag, then the switching function is achieved, but the device complexity and ease of operation are compromised due to mechanical components and key blade requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical key-based switching system with a contactless radio frequency identification (RFID) system. The RFID tag embedded in the keyless entry remote communicates with the RFID reader in the vehicle, enabling airbag status switching without mechanical key blades or contacts. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear, simplifies the user interface, and reduces the number of moving parts while maintaining secure access control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual switching with key blades is used, then the airbag status can be changed, but user convenience deteriorates due to the need for physical key manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the airbag status switching function into the existing keyless entry remote, which already serves multiple functions such as locking, unlocking, and trunk release. The RFID tag in the remote can store multiple identifiers that trigger different functions when brought near the vehicle. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate key blades or switches, allowing users to control airbag status as easily as they control other vehicle access functions.
3Loss of information
If no status indicator is provided, then the system remains simple, but information availability deteriorates for temporary drivers and users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates visual and/or acoustic feedback mechanisms that provide real-time information about the airbag status to the user. When the RFID tag is detected and the airbag status is changed, the system activates indicators such as LED lights or audible signals to confirm the new status. This feedback loop ensures that users, including temporary drivers, are immediately aware of whether the airbag is active or deactivated without requiring them to remember or manually check the status.
4Ease of operation
If radio frequency units are added for contactless switching, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID reader in the vehicle is designed to activate only when the vehicle is locked or unlocked, or when the user interacts with the vehicle's access system. The RFID tag in the remote continuously emits low-power signals, but communication only occurs periodically when triggered by the vehicle's security system. This periodic operation significantly reduces energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring, while still providing contactless switching capability when the user needs it.
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
The solution simplifies the switching process, reduces mechanical complexity, provides clear status indication, and conserves energy, enhancing user convenience and safety by allowing easy status changes without physical key blades and ensuring awareness of airbag activation or deactivation.
Implementation Method 1
a first radio frequency unit arranged in the vehicle and a second radio frequency unit arranged in a vehicle remote key such that when said radio frequency units are brought in contact with each other one of the units is arranged to send a signal
Implementation Method 2
a switch status indicator, such as an LED
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A passenger airbag system (1) comprises a control unit (2) connected to a switch (3) for switching the passenger airbag (6) between an active and a non-active state. The system (1) further comprises a first radio frequency unit arranged in the vehicle and a second radio frequency unit arranged in a vehicle remote key arranged such that when said radio frequency units are brought in contact with each other one of the units is arranged for sending a signal to the control unit (2) for changing the setting of the switch (3).