Vehicle Head Unit Application Introduction via Secure Server Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for introducing applications into vehicle head units are inefficient and lack flexibility, with static content availability and security concerns, particularly in dynamic environments where vehicle configurations may change post-production.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the transmission of a vehicle identification number and metadata via encrypted channels to a server, allowing for the secure and dynamic introduction, storage, and updating of applications in a vehicle head unit, utilizing an invariable software component and archive files signed with cryptographic hash functions for security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If applications are loaded dynamically from a server, then flexibility and adaptability to vehicle configurations are improved, but security risks and communication dependency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-loading applications onto the head unit during vehicle production or before first use. The system retrieves applications from a server and stores them locally in the head unit's memory, so that applications are already available when the vehicle is delivered to the customer. This eliminates the need for real-time server communication during operation while maintaining the ability to update applications later through optional server connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the application delivery process into two distinct phases: a preliminary phase where applications are loaded from the server to local storage, and an operational phase where applications run independently from local storage. This segmentation allows the system to enjoy the benefits of dynamic content adaptation while reducing security risks by minimizing ongoing communication requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If web browsers are used to display web pages, then flexibility in content display is improved, but loading time and user experience are worsened due to network dependency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-loading application content and resources onto the head unit before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. Applications are retrieved from a server during production or setup, stored locally in the head unit's memory, and made immediately available for execution. This eliminates the need for real-time network loading during vehicle operation, ensuring fast access and improved user experience while maintaining content flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating local copies of applications and their associated content on the head unit's storage medium. Instead of repeatedly accessing content over the network, the system copies applications to local storage during the preliminary loading phase, enabling fast local access during operation. This copying mechanism resolves the contradiction between content flexibility and loading speed.
3Ease of manufacture
If the head unit is configured during vehicle production, then initial setup is simplified, but post-production adaptability and updates are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing the application loading process during vehicle production or initial setup. The head unit retrieves applications from a server and stores them locally before the vehicle is delivered to the customer. This preliminary configuration simplifies the manufacturing process while simultaneously enabling post-production adaptability, as the system can later connect to the server to update or modify applications without requiring complex reconfiguration procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the head unit's application set flexible and changeable after production. While the initial configuration is performed during manufacturing, the system maintains the ability to dynamically update applications by reconnecting to the server at any time. This dynamic capability allows the head unit to adapt to new vehicle configurations, customer preferences, or software updates without requiring physical modifications or complex reconfiguration procedures.
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
Enables efficient, flexible, and secure introduction and updating of applications in vehicle head units, ensuring quick availability and adaptability to vehicle configurations, with enhanced security through encrypted channels and validation processes.
Implementation Method 1
archive files signed with cryptographic hash functions for security
Implementation Method 2
transmission of a vehicle identification number and metadata via encrypted channels to a server
Data Source
AI summary
A method introduces applications into a head unit of a vehicle. The method transfers a first identifier by a software component of the head unit via a first communication channel to a server; receives a main application in response to the transferring; transfers a vehicle identification number of the vehicle by the main application via a second communication channel to the server; receives metadata associated with the vehicle identification number, wherein the metadata include one or more identifiers; transfers at least one identifier of the received metadata from the main application to the software component; transfers the identifier by an invariable software component via the first communication channel to the server; receives an application associated with the identifier by the software component; saves the application; and forwards a storage location of the application from the software component to the main application.