Hardware Stop Switch for Software Vehicle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connected cars and automated vehicles face challenges in accommodating unexpected situations, particularly due to the risk of cyberattacks, where software-operated systems may fail, necessitating a solution to ensure safe operation without relying solely on software.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle configuration with a first mechanical operation section and a second software-operated section, equipped with a communicator and a physically accessible stop switch that uses a hardware logic circuit to disconnect power from the software-operated section, allowing for emergency shutdown without software intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If software is used to operate the vehicle (second operation section), then the vehicle can achieve automated operation and connectivity functions, but the vehicle becomes vulnerable to cyberattacks and software failures
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's operation system is segmented into two independent sections: a first operation section that operates without software and a second operation section that uses software for automated functions. This segmentation allows the vehicle to maintain automated capabilities while having a fallback mechanism that is immune to software-based cyberattacks.
Solution Approach 2:
A stop switch apparatus acts as an intermediary between the driver and the software-operated second operation section. When activated, it physically disconnects power supply to the second operation section using a hardware logic circuit, providing a manual override that prevents software-based systems from taking full control in security threats.
2Reliability
If a stop switch is provided to stop the second operation section, then the vehicle can stop software-operated functions in emergencies, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stop switch apparatus extracts the critical safety function from the complex software control system and implements it as a separate, simple hardware-based mechanism. By taking out the power supply control function and implementing it through a straightforward hardware logic circuit that directly controls the power supply switch, the patent achieves emergency stop capability without adding significant complexity to the overall system.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle and a stop switch apparatus capable of accommodating various unexpected situations in a software operable vehicle. The vehicle is provided with a first operation section that allows operation of the vehicle without software, a second operation section capable of operating the vehicle by using software, a communicator that communicates with an external apparatus, and a stop switch that is provided physically and operable to stop operation of the second operation section without software.