EV Locking System Using Mobile Device Trajectory Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional vehicle locking and unlocking systems require users to physically interact, which can be inconvenient when hands are full or occupied, and do not provide advanced security features based on user location and movement trajectories.

Innovation Solution

A system that communicates with a user's mobile device to determine their location and movement trajectories, automatically locking or unlocking an electric vehicle by turning on or off its power based on proximity, allowing for customizable zones and security settings, and enabling secure access through authentication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional physical keys are used for locking and unlocking vehicles, then the locking mechanism is simple and reliable, but the ease of operation deteriorates when users have full hands or are occupied

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical key-based locking system with an automated system that uses mobile device communication, location tracking, and trajectory analysis to automatically lock and unlock the vehicle. This eliminates the need for physical key interaction while providing hands-free operation capability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables the vehicle to automatically perform locking and unlocking operations based on the user's location and movement patterns. The vehicle monitors the mobile device's trajectory and autonomously determines when to lock or unlock, eliminating the need for manual user intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If automated locking systems based on mobile device location are implemented, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system leverages the existing mobile device's capabilities (GPS location tracking, communication functions) to perform vehicle locking and unlocking. By reusing the mobile device's multi-functional capabilities, the system avoids adding separate dedicated hardware components.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The mobile device serves as an intermediary between the user and the vehicle's locking system. It communicates location and trajectory information to the vehicle controller, which then automatically performs the locking/unlocking actions, bridging the gap between user intent and system response.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If traditional locking systems are used, then the device complexity remains low, but the security level deteriorates as no advanced security features based on user location and movement are provided

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors the mobile device's location and movement trajectory, using this feedback information to dynamically determine when to lock or unlock the vehicle. The trajectory analysis provides additional security by verifying the user's approach pattern matches expected behavior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary location tracking and trajectory analysis before executing the locking or unlocking action. By monitoring the user's approach in advance and analyzing movement patterns, the system can preemptively secure the vehicle or prepare for authorized access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS11377071B2Methods for locking and/or unlocking electric vehicle and associated apparatus
Publication Date: 2022.07.05 GOGORO
  • US11377071B2 patent drawing
  • US11377071B2 patent drawing
  • US11377071B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for locking and/or unlocking a vehicle based on a location of a mobile device associated with the vehicle. In one embodiment a processor in a vehicle analyzes a position of a mobile device relative to the vehicle and allows the vehicle to be unlocked when the mobile device is determined to be approaching the vehicle.