Vehicle Passive Entry Using BLE and UWB Secure Localization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional PEPS systems using low-frequency signals face limitations in communication range and are vulnerable to attacks due to their proprietary nature, making them inefficient and insecure for modern devices like smartphones.

Innovation Solution

A PEPS system utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication with a sensor network that measures signal characteristics and timing to securely locate and authenticate wireless devices, eliminating the need for devices to advertise and protecting against injection attacks through synchronized timing and data verification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional low-frequency PEPS systems are used, then authentication can be performed, but communication range is limited and the system is vulnerable to attacks

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidcommunication range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple communication technologies (BLE and UWB) with traditional LF PEPS into a unified system. The sensor network integrates devices from different manufacturers using standardized protocols, merging the advantages of each technology to achieve both extended range and maintained security through multi-layer authentication

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements universal communication protocols that allow the PEPS system to work with various wireless devices (smartphones, key fobs, wearables) from different manufacturers. The sensor network can detect and authenticate multiple types of devices simultaneously, making the system versatile and adaptable to different communication standards

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If proprietary LF protocols are used, then authentication is possible, but the system is insecure against injection attacks

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication securityVSAvoidvulnerability to attacks
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary authentication checks before granting access. The sensor network validates device credentials and communication protocols in advance, detecting potential injection attacks before they can compromise the PEPS system. The multi-layer authentication process prevents unauthorized access by verifying device identity through multiple independent checks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary sensor network layer between the wireless device and the vehicle's central system. This intermediary layer acts as a security buffer, performing initial authentication and filtering out malicious injection attempts before they reach the core PEPS authentication mechanism, thereby enhancing overall system security

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If devices advertise continuously, then discoverability is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice discoverabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous advertising, the system uses periodic advertising intervals where devices transmit their presence at scheduled times. The sensor network is configured to listen for these periodic signals, allowing devices to maintain discoverability while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous transmission modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor network automatically detects and tracks advertised devices without requiring continuous active scanning by the vehicle system. Once a device is detected, the network maintains connection information and automatically monitors for subsequent advertisements, reducing the energy burden on both the wireless device and the vehicle's central processing units

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3526777B1Passive entry / passive start systems and methods for vehicles
Publication Date: 2026.01.07 DENSO CORP
  • EP3526777B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3526777B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3526777B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Systems and methods for vehicle passive entry / passive start (PEPS) are provided. A communication gateway establishes a Bluetooth low energy communication connection with a portable device. A localization module determines a portable device location based on two-way ranging using impulse radio ultra-side band. The PEPS system performs vehicle functions, such as unlocking a door or trunk, allowing the vehicle to be started, or activating wireless charging, based on the portable device location. Another system includes at least one low frequency (LF) antenna configured to transmit a wireless charging ping signal within a predetermined range to a portable device configured for wireless charging. A communication gateway authenticates the portable device based on a response to the ping signal by the portable device. A PEPS performs vehicle functions, such as unlocking a door or trunk, or allowing the vehicle to be started, in response to authenticating the portable device.