Key Fob Button Actuation with RF-Shielded Removable Tray

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing remote control systems for vehicles require extensive custom engineering and professional installation, are limited by varying remote control designs, and lack integration with mobile devices, while also failing to prevent vehicle theft through RF detection.

Innovation Solution

A remote control button actuation system with a configurable button actuator tip, powered by a programmable controller, that can be positioned over the remote control buttons and actuated via wireless signals from a mobile device, housed in an isolation enclosure to prevent RF interference, and integrated with vehicle systems to enhance connectivity and security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a remote control actuation system is installed in a vehicle, then remote control functionality is added, but the system becomes vulnerable to RF detection and theft

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveremote control functionalityVSAvoidRF detection and theft vulnerability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the Faraday cage principle to block harmful RF signals from detecting the remote control inside the vehicle. By creating an RF-shielded environment, the system converts the potential harm of RF exposure into a protective measure that prevents theft while maintaining remote control functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an RF shielded container as an intermediary between the remote control and the external RF environment. This mediator allows the remote control to function normally inside the container while preventing external RF signals from detecting or interfering with it.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If a fixed button actuator system is designed for a specific remote control layout, then precise button actuation is achieved, but the system cannot adapt to different remote control designs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebutton actuation precisionVSAvoidcompatibility with various remote control designs

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a movable plunger mechanism that can be dynamically repositioned to match different remote control button layouts. Instead of a fixed actuator, the system allows the plunger to move to various positions and orientations, enabling precise actuation across multiple remote control designs while maintaining manufacturing precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal button actuation system that can work with multiple remote control designs. By making the plunger repositionable and the system configurable, a single device can serve multiple functions and adapt to different remote control layouts, eliminating the need for custom-designed actuators for each remote control type.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If professional installation procedures are used for remote control systems, then reliable vehicle integration is achieved, but installation cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevehicle integration reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost and complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables vehicle owners to perform the installation themselves without requiring professional technicians. By simplifying the installation process and making the system user-friendly, the patent allows end-users to complete the installation independently, reducing both cost and complexity while maintaining reliable vehicle integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 easy installation and adaptable remote control functionality across various vehicle designs, integrates with mobile devices, and enhances security by preventing RF detection and theft deterrence.

Implementation Method 1

The drawer housing assembly defines an isolation enclosure in the form of a Faraday cage that prevents radio frequency (RF) signals from entering into or leaving the open interior

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFaraday cage: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentEP3611703B1Remote control button actuator with removable tray

Publication Date: 2026.03.25 BLUE ECLIPSE LLC

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AI summary

An actuation system used to actuate one or more buttons on a remote control device, such as a key fob of a vehicle, based upon commands generated from a mobile device, such as a smartphone. The actuation system includes a key fob drawer that defines an isolation enclosure that prevents RF signals from entering into or leaving the isolation enclosure. A controller receives the command signals from the mobile device and converts the command signals into position commands that are used to activate a button actuator to move a plunger into alignment with one of the buttons on the key fob. The button actuator moves the plunger into contact with one of the buttons which generates an RF signal from the key fob. The key fob is contained in the isolation enclosure and the system includes a RF receiver and transmitter to re-transmit vehicle command signal for receipt by the vehicle.