Remote Vehicle Control via Cellular Network Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vehicle key fobs require users to be within a certain distance of the vehicle for remote control functions and are an additional item to carry, limiting convenience and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system for remotely controlling vehicle components using a nomadic device or computer, which communicates over a telecommunications network to send and execute remote operation instructions for entertainment systems and other components, including volume control, seat positioning, and locking systems, through a vehicle data bus and cellular communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional key fob is used for remote control, then the user can control vehicle functions, but the user must be within a limited distance (about 300 feet) of the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cellular communication device as an intermediary between the user and the vehicle. Instead of direct short-range communication between key fob and vehicle, the cellular device relays commands over the cellular network, enabling remote control beyond line-of-sight distance while maintaining system security through authenticated communication protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from spatial proximity-based control (physical distance within 300 feet) to network-based control (telecommunications network connectivity). This dimensional shift allows users to control vehicles from any location with cellular service, effectively removing the distance constraint while adding network dependency
2Ease of operation
If a traditional key fob is used, then remote control functions are available, but it becomes an additional item that must be carried by the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal nature of cellular communication devices that most users already possess. The same device used for calls, texts, and internet access is also used for vehicle control, eliminating the need for a separate key fob while maintaining all necessary remote control functions through software-based implementation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the key fob functionality with the existing cellular communication device. By integrating vehicle control software into a device users already carry and interact with daily, the system consolidates multiple functions (communication, navigation, entertainment, and vehicle control) into a single device, reducing overall system complexity from the user perspective
3Loss of information
If advanced key fob features are added for checking vehicle status, then more information is available to the user, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the cellular device's existing capabilities (display, processing power, communication interfaces) to present vehicle status information. Instead of adding specialized hardware for status display, the system leverages the universal features of smartphones and tablets to show comprehensive vehicle information including security status, entertainment system state, and diagnostic data
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical key fob hardware with software-based information presentation on cellular device screens. Vehicle status information that would traditionally require dedicated LED indicators or small displays on a key fob is now presented through the cellular device's high-resolution display, eliminating the need for specialized display hardware while providing more comprehensive information
Data Source
AI summary
A method for remotely controlling one or more vehicle components includes receiving over a telecommunications network signals originating from a remote terminal. The signals include remote operation instructions for remotely operating a vehicle entertainment system component. The remote operation instructions are executed. Operation status identifiers transmitted over a vehicle data bus are received from the vehicle entertainment system component. Based on the operation status identifiers, an operating status of the vehicle entertainment system component is determined. A return signal including an operation status message and an instruction for displaying the operation status message at the remote terminal is generated. The signal is transmitted to the remote terminal for display.