Filter System Authentication via Dual Data Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter systems for motor vehicles do not adequately prevent the use of counterfeit or unsuitable filter elements, which can compromise filter performance, especially in critical applications, as they can be circumvented by removing and reusing RFID chips or storing data on replica elements.
Innovation Solution
An operating method that ensures only suitable filter elements are used by comparing initial data from the packaging with data from a radio identification means, using a reading device and evaluation unit to prevent operation if the data does not match, and includes a central database for further information verification, thereby increasing the logistics effort for unauthorized replicas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only RFID chip reading is used for filter element identification, then the checking process is simple, but the system is vulnerable to counterfeit elements with cloned or reused chips
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by storing reference data about the filter element (manufacturing date, type, serial number) in the control unit before the filter element is actually installed. This pre-stored data serves as a reference for subsequent comparison with the RFID chip data, enabling authentication before the filter element becomes operational.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously comparing the data read from the RFID chip on the installed filter element with the pre-stored reference data. This comparison provides feedback on whether the installed element matches the authorized element, and the system can issue warnings or prevent operation if mismatches are detected.
2Reliability
If data is stored and compared in a control unit, then authentication reliability is improved, but the system complexity and data management burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it stores reference data, reads RFID chip data, compares the two data sets, and controls filter element operation based on the comparison result. By making the control unit multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the filter element can be freely replaced, then maintenance flexibility is high, but unauthorized or counterfeit elements can be installed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational state based on authentication results. The filter element can be replaced and reinstalled freely, but the system's response changes dynamically: if authentication succeeds, normal operation is permitted; if authentication fails, warnings are issued or operation is blocked. This dynamic control maintains flexibility while ensuring authenticity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method reliably ensures the use of authentic filter elements by repeatedly comparing data during the filter element's lifespan, preventing operation if data does not match, thus enhancing safety and performance by reducing the risk of counterfeit elements.
Implementation Method 1
The filter element has a radio identification means with second data about the filter element. The second data of the radio identification means can be read out with the reading device when the filter element is installed in the filter housing.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to an operating method (2) for a filter system (100), in particular of a motor vehicle, wherein the filter system (100) comprises: - a filter element (102) for a fluid filter (129), wherein the filter element (102) is provided in a package (104) with first data (200) about the filter element (102), and wherein the filter element (102) has a radio identification means (110; 110a-110d) with second data (202) about the filter element (102), - a filter housing (114) of the fluid filter (129) in which the filter element (102) can be arranged interchangeably, and which has a reader (122) for the radio identification means (110;110a-110d), - an evaluation unit (126) and a storage unit (128), comprising the steps: a) inserting (14) the filter element (102) into the filter housing (114) and reading (12) the first data (200) from the packaging (104) of the filter element (102) into the storage unit (128), b) reading (16) the second data (202) of the radio identification device (110; 110a-110d) with the reader (122), c) comparing (22) the first and second data (200, 202) in the evaluation unit (126), and outputting (28) a warning message and/or preventing (30) operation of the fluid filter (129) if the comparison (22) has shown that the second data (202) of the radio identification device (110;110a-110d) and the first data (200) from the packaging (104) do not match in a predetermined manner. The invention further relates to a filter system (100). The invention can reliably ensure that only suitable filter elements intended for the filter system are used.