Depot Vehicle Data Connection With Automated Network Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current automated or semi-automated depots do not utilize the data connection between a terminal device in a vehicle and a central module of a stationary local area network to increase automation, resulting in time-consuming and inefficient loading and unloading operations due to manual intervention by drivers.

Innovation Solution

A method for establishing a data connection between a terminal device in a vehicle and a central module of a stationary local area network at a depot, involving the provision of access data via a global access network, automated transfer of this data to the terminal device, and subsequent automated authentication and authorization to set up a secure data connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual identification and authentication by drivers is used, then access control and coordination can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming and reduces productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess controlVSAvoidloading and unloading operations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal device automatically performs identification and authentication with the central module without requiring driver intervention. The system serves itself by establishing data connections autonomously, eliminating the need for manual processes while maintaining secure access control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of driver identification and authentication with an automated data connection system. The terminal device communicates electronically with the central module through automatic login procedures, substituting human physical actions with automated digital processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated data connection is implemented, then productivity and automation level increase, but system complexity and authentication security requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational processesVSAvoiddata connection system
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal device serves multiple functions: it acts as both a communication interface and an authentication credential holder. The device combines data connection capabilities with built-in access data storage, eliminating the need for separate authentication mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The terminal device is pre-configured with access data before arriving at the depot. This preliminary preparation enables the device to automatically authenticate with the central module upon arrival, streamlining the checkout-in process and reducing on-site complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If driver intervention is required for authentication, then access control security is maintained, but comprehension problems and operational delays occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess controlVSAvoidcheckout-in process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal device autonomously performs the authentication process with the central module without requiring driver involvement. The device automatically establishes data connections and completes login procedures, eliminating communication barriers and reducing the time required for checkout-in operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The terminal device acts as an intermediary between the vehicle and the central module, handling all authentication and communication tasks. This intermediary function protects the driver from comprehension problems by managing the complex authentication process electronically, while maintaining security through automated verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12255957B2Method for setting up a data connection, and data transfer system
Publication Date: 2025.03.18 ZF CV SYST GLOBAL GMBH
  • US12255957B2 patent drawing
  • US12255957B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method is for setting up a data connection between a terminal device of a telematics system in a vehicle and a central module of a stationary local area network (SLAN). The SLAN covers a depot. The method includes: providing access data for identifying and authenticating the terminal device in the SLAN, the access data being provided via an access network differing from the SLAN; transferring the provided access data to the terminal device in an automated manner using the access network; setting up a connection between the terminal device and the central module of the SLAN in an automated manner when the vehicle having the terminal device is located in range; authenticating the terminal device in an automated manner on the basis of the access data to check authenticity of the terminal device; and, authorizing the terminal device and/or the vehicle automatically if the terminal device is authentic.