Dual Short-Range Wireless Relay for Secure Vehicle Pairing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing pairing protocols for mobile devices with infotainment systems in vehicles are cumbersome and insecure, particularly due to the need for sharing encryption keys, leading to confusion and potential unauthorized connections that consume bandwidth.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a communication module with dual short-range wireless communication technologies, such as Near Field Communication (NFC) and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), to establish separate communication channels between a mobile device and the infotainment system, enabling secure and intuitive pairing without additional wiring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pairing protocols are used for mobile device connection, then security measures can be implemented, but the pairing process becomes cumbersome and confusing for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (such as a smartphone or portable electronic device) that acts as a mediator between the mobile device and the target system. This intermediary handles the complex pairing protocol and encryption key exchange, while presenting a simple user interface. The intermediary translates complex security procedures into simple user actions, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing trust relationships and encryption keys through the intermediary device before actual content transfer begins. The pairing process is completed in advance through the user-friendly intermediary, so that subsequent content sharing occurs automatically without repeated complex authentication, thus simplifying the user experience while maintaining security.
2Reliability
If encryption key sharing is implemented for secure communication, then unauthorized connections are prevented, but the pairing process becomes more complex and problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary device consolidates the encryption key management and pairing protocol complexity within itself, shielding the end users from these complexities. The intermediary handles key generation, exchange, and management automatically, presenting only simple approval or rejection actions to users, thus reducing perceived complexity while maintaining strong security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service pairing mechanisms where the intermediary device automatically manages encryption keys and pairing protocols without requiring users to manually configure security settings. The complex key exchange processes are handled automatically through pre-programmed protocols, reducing both user burden and operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mobile devices attempt to communicate with infotainment systems, then user connectivity needs are met, but bandwidth consumption increases and connection management becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication channels by creating dedicated connections between each mobile device and the intermediary, rather than allowing direct peer-to-peer connections to the infotainment system. This segmentation enables independent management of each connection's bandwidth and data flow, allowing multiple devices to connect efficiently without overwhelming the system, as the intermediary can prioritize and manage traffic from different sources.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing wireless communication between a handheld mobile device and an embedded vehicle system of a motor vehicle. The system includes a communication module that utilizes at least two different short range wireless communication technologies to facilitate communication and/or pairing of an occupant's smartphone or other mobile device with an embedded vehicle system such as a vehicle infotainment system. This includes the use of a very short range communication technology, such as Near Field Communication (NFC), to communicate between the mobile device and an embedded vehicle system that is located outside of the operational range of the NFC or other very short range communication technology used by the mobile device.