Integrated Key Fob With Removable Valet Key Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle key systems are inconvenient for valet parking as they require separate valet keys, which can be easily misplaced and allow unauthorized access to vehicle interiors, and they do not provide a secure method for storing or handling additional keys.
Innovation Solution
A removable key fob design that integrates a valet key within the electronic key fob, allowing access to the vehicle but not interior compartments, with a mechanism to hang and securely store additional keys, maintaining aesthetic appeal and reducing bulk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate valet key is provided to allow vehicle access, then the valet can start the engine, but the valet also gains access to interior compartments which creates security risks
Solution Approach 1:
The key system is segmented into two distinct components: an electronic key fob for engine operation and a separate removable mechanical key for interior compartment access. This segmentation allows the owner to provide only the electronic fob to the valet, enabling vehicle access and engine starting while preventing access to locked interior compartments that require the mechanical key.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical key component is extracted as a separate removable element from the key fob assembly. This extracted mechanical key can be retained by the owner while the electronic fob is given to the valet, thereby removing the harmful capability (interior compartment access) from the valet's key set while preserving the useful capability (vehicle access and engine operation).
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate valet key is provided, then the valet can access the vehicle, but the owner must remember to bring the separate valet key which is inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic key fob and mechanical key are merged into a single integrated assembly where the mechanical key is stored within a compartment of the fob. This merging allows the owner to carry one unified device instead of managing separate keys, eliminating the time loss associated with locating and organizing multiple keys while maintaining the ability to provide restricted access to the valet.
3Ease of operation
If the entire ring of keys is provided to the valet for convenience, then the valet can access all vehicle functions, but this creates security risks and the valet must carry a bulky ring of keys
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical key component is extracted from the complete key set and separated into a removable element that can be retained by the owner. This extraction allows the valet to receive only the essential electronic fob for vehicle operation, eliminating the security risk of providing unrestricted access while improving ease of operation by reducing the number of keys the valet must handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The complete key system is segmented into functional components: the electronic fob for engine operation and the mechanical key for interior access. This segmentation enables selective provision of key components, allowing the valet to handle only the necessary electronic fob without the burden of carrying an entire ring of keys, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining security.
4Ease of manufacture
If a traditional key design is used, then the key can be easily manufactured, but it lacks the aesthetic appeal and integrated functionality of modern electronic key fobs
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical key and modern electronic key fob are merged into a single integrated design where the mechanical key is housed within the electronic fob structure. This merging combines the manufacturing simplicity of traditional keys with the aesthetic appeal and advanced functionality of electronic fobs, creating a unified device that satisfies both ease of manufacture and design requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A key fob for a vehicle has a first end that is used as a key for insertion into a vehicle ignition receptacle and a second end that defines an opening for internal storage of a separate, removable key. While the key fob will remotely unlock the vehicle doors and start the vehicle engine when turned in the vehicle ignition, the removable key is an auxiliary, mechanical access key that may be used on door locks and interior storage compartments. The key fob will not unlock interior storage compartments and the removable key will not sustain operation of the vehicle engine.