Vehicle Access Control Key Fob Low-Power Switching by Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Keyless entry systems for vehicles face challenges in minimizing energy consumption to extend battery life, particularly due to the need for accurate positional tracking which requires extensive wireless communication.
Innovation Solution
A controller for an access control device that selectively switches between two operating modes, activating a low-power mode based on determined positional data, such as when the device is in a designated area like home or work, to conserve energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the access control device continuously monitors position and maintains full operational readiness, then the positional tracking accuracy and response capability are improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access control device dynamically adjusts its operational state based on position. When the device detects it is in a designated area (such as home or work) where usage is unlikely, it transitions to a low-power mode with limited response capability. When moved outside these areas, it returns to full operational mode, thereby optimizing energy consumption while maintaining positional tracking accuracy when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its operational parameters based on location. In low-power mode, it reduces communication frequency and limits certain functions while maintaining position monitoring. This parameter adjustment allows the device to achieve acceptable positional resolution with significantly reduced energy consumption in areas where full functionality is not required
2Use of energy by moving object
If the access control device enters sleep mode to conserve power, then the energy consumption is reduced, but the response time and availability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies different operational qualities to different locations. In designated areas where the device is likely to remain stationary (home, work), it enters low-power mode with reduced response capability. Outside these areas, it maintains full operational readiness. This spatial differentiation of operational quality optimizes the balance between energy consumption and response availability based on location-specific usage patterns
3Ease of operation
If the access control device maintains full operational mode continuously, then the response capability and functionality are improved, but the battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device implements periodic monitoring of position and usage patterns to determine when to transition between operational modes. By periodically assessing whether the device is in a designated area and has been stationary for a threshold period, it can safely enter low-power mode, thereby extending battery life while maintaining the ability to quickly resume full functionality when needed
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a controller (20) for controlling operation of an access control device (2) for a vehicle (3). The access control device (2) is selectively operable in a first operating mode (P1) and a second operating mode (P2). The access control device (2) is in a limited response mode when operating in the first operating mode (P1). The controller (20) includes a processor (24) and a memory means (23). The processor (24) is configured to determine a position of the access control device (2) and to generate a control signal for activating the first operating mode (P1). The control signal is generated in dependence on the determined position of the access control device (2). The controller (20) may be provided in the access control device (2). The present disclosure also relates to a method of controlling operation of an access control device (2).