Car Key PKI Module for Secure Vehicle Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current authentication methods for securing access to road vehicles via network communication are cumbersome and vulnerable to unauthorized access, compromising safety and user acceptance.

Innovation Solution

A car key with an integrated electronic PKI module and communication module that provides digital public key infrastructure functionality, allowing secure communication with road vehicles through a terminal device without the need for additional devices, using public key encryption and decryption methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If chip card readers with radio communication modules are used for secure authentication, then security is improved, but device complexity and bulkiness increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the PKI module, radio communication module, and mechanical key function into a single car key device. This merging eliminates the need for separate chip card readers and additional authentication devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The car key is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a mechanical key, an electronic key with radio communication, and a PKI authentication device. This universal design allows the single device to perform multiple functions that previously required separate devices, reducing complexity for the end user.

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

2Reliability

If additional devices like chip card readers are required for authentication, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By merging all authentication functions (mechanical key, electronic key, PKI module) into a single car key, the system eliminates the need for users to carry and operate multiple separate devices. The user simply uses their existing car key for all authentication purposes, significantly improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The car key autonomously provides all necessary authentication functions without requiring external辅助设备. The PKI module within the car key itself performs cryptographic operations, and the radio communication module handles wireless authentication, allowing the device to serve itself without additional equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If radio communication modules are installed in vehicles for network access, then connectivity is improved, but vulnerability to unauthorized access increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveconnectivityVSAvoidunauthorized access
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary authentication using the PKI module and cryptographic key pairs before allowing any network communication or vehicle access. This preliminary security check ensures that only authorized devices can establish communication, preventing unauthorized access before it can occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The car key acts as an intermediary authentication device between the user/terminal and the vehicle's radio communication system. It mediates the authentication process by verifying cryptographic credentials before allowing network access, adding a security layer that prevents direct unauthorized access to the vehicle's communication systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3135546B1Car key, communication system and method for same
Publication Date: 2021.10.06 CERTGATE
  • EP3135546B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3135546B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to a car key for road vehicles, wherein the car key comprises a PKI module to provide a public key infrastructure functionality to an end device. The invention also relates to a communication system comprising such a car key, an end device, and a third communication participant, such as a road vehicle.