Fleet TCU Access Control Using LEO Satellite Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fleet management systems lack a comprehensive and integrated platform for managing connected fleets of vehicles, which includes planning, operations, and control across various aspects such as vehicle acquisition, maintenance, and user access, especially in scenarios with limited communication connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a programmable Telematics Control Unit (TCU) connected to the vehicle's CAN bus, enabling two-way communication, short-range communication technologies like Bluetooth Low Energy, and satellite connectivity for real-time management, along with a microsatellite constellation for global coverage, to manage vehicle operations, maintenance, and user access across diverse fleet types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fleet management systems are used, then basic vehicle tracking is possible, but comprehensive integrated management across planning, operations, and control is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple previously separate fleet management functions (planning, operations, control, maintenance, user access) into a single integrated platform. The TCU consolidates telematics control, satellite communication, and vehicle network integration in one device, achieving comprehensive management while reducing overall system complexity through functional consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The TCU is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: vehicle monitoring, satellite communication, short-range communication (Bluetooth), CAN bus integration, and coordination with fleet management servers. This multi-functional approach enables comprehensive integrated management without requiring separate specialized systems for each function.
2Reliability
If satellite communication is added for global coverage, then connectivity in remote areas is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses satellite communication as an intermediary to bridge the gap between remote vehicles and fleet management servers when traditional cellular networks are unavailable. The TCU acts as a mediator that automatically switches between satellite and short-range communication modes, maintaining reliable connectivity without requiring complex manual intervention or multiple independent communication systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple communication protocols are integrated for universal compatibility, then adaptability to different vehicles and networks is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The TCU incorporates self-service capabilities that automatically detect and adapt to different vehicle types, communication networks, and operational environments. The system automatically configures itself to work with various vehicle makes, models, and network protocols without requiring manual setup or complex configuration by operators, thereby maintaining ease of operation while achieving universal compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and related methods for management, planning and control of a connected fleet of vehicles. A unique, single integrated platform may be provided for management, planning and control of a connected fleet of vehicles, including fleet planning, in-fleeting operations, vehicle acquisition and provisioning, vehicle assignment, vehicle transfers, vehicle use operations, vehicle servicing, vehicle maintenance and repairs, and de-fleeting operations. Fleet communications can be by cellular, wireless, or low earth orbit satellite communications. Fleet vehicles include a programmable TCU installed in the vehicle and connected, directly or indirectly, to the CAN bus or similar vehicle network, and carries out various operations, including controlling vehicle access. Where outside communications links are not available, access to a vehicle may be through a protected, secure, single-use token stored on a user's computing device upon making a reservation, which is later securely communicated to the vehicle. The vehicle processes the token and allows access if the information in the token is valid.