Automobile Control Module for Electronic Device Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing use of electronic devices in automobiles poses a risk of interference with the vehicle's electronic control and monitoring systems, necessitating a solution that allows for their use while minimizing undesirable interactions.
Innovation Solution
A control module integrated into the automobile's electrical system, utilizing a graphical user interface, signal analysis, and jamming technology to identify and prevent unauthorized electronic device usage, ensuring safe operation of safety-critical systems by distinguishing between authorized and unauthorized devices using RFID tags and communication modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electronic devices are used within the automobile, then convenience and entertainment are improved, but interference with electronic control and monitoring systems occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control module as an intermediary between electronic devices and the automobile's electronic control systems. This module monitors signals from electronic devices, identifies authorized devices through RFID tags, and selectively permits or blocks their communications. The control module acts as a mediator that allows convenient use of electronic devices while preventing harmful interference with critical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module continuously monitors signals transmitted within the automobile and provides feedback about device usage. It analyzes signal characteristics to identify unauthorized devices and adjusts its blocking behavior accordingly. This feedback mechanism enables dynamic control that maintains safety while allowing legitimate device operation.
2Reliability
If all electronic devices are turned off during critical operations, then safety is improved, but convenience and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control module applies different quality levels of signal permission to different electronic devices based on their authorization status. Authorized devices receive permission to transmit signals during all operations including critical ones, while unauthorized devices are blocked. This local differentiation allows safety-critical systems to maintain reliability while authorized electronic devices continue to provide convenience and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its blocking behavior based on operational context and device authorization. Rather than a static ban on all electronic devices, the control module continuously evaluates signals and adjusts permission in real-time. This dynamic approach maintains safety while allowing productive use of authorized devices throughout all operating conditions.
3Reliability
If jamming signals are transmitted to prevent unauthorized devices, then safety is improved, but interference with authorized devices may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control module uses feedback from RFID tags and signal analysis to distinguish between authorized and unauthorized devices. It continuously monitors device identities and adjusts jamming signal transmission accordingly, applying blocking only to unauthorized devices while permitting authorized ones. This feedback-driven selective blocking protects critical systems without interfering with authorized device operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control module applies jamming signals locally and selectively only to unauthorized electronic devices, not to all devices uniformly. By identifying unauthorized devices through RFID tags and signal signature analysis, it directs blocking actions precisely at the problematic devices while leaving authorized devices unaffected. This localized application of countermeasures ensures safety without creating unnecessary interference.
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 system effectively prevents interference from unauthorized electronic devices while allowing authorized ones to function, enhancing automobile safety by ensuring that electronic devices do not compromise the operation of critical systems like drive-by-wire and safety systems.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter issuing a jamming signal preventing future usage of the unauthorized electronic devices
Implementation Method 2
RFID tags incorporated into authorized electronic devices and an RF receiver forming part of the control module
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling the use of electronic devices within an automobile includes a control module integrated into the operation of the automobile, wherein the control module is linked to the electrical system of the automobile and is controlled, monitored and updated via a graphical user interface of the automobiles. The control module includes a mechanism for identifying use of electronic devices within the automobile, determining whether the usage is permitted and preventing usage of the electronic device if it is determined the usage is not permitted.