Keyfob Diagnostic Mode for Vehicle Door Lock Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle door lock systems lack an effective method to diagnose operational status, making it difficult to identify and address component failures or wear-outs.
Innovation Solution
A keyfob with an integrated diagnostic system, featuring an electronic controller, command inputs, a keyfob antenna, and a feedback device, which can switch doors between locked and unlocked states and enter a diagnostic mode to test the operational status of the door lock system components, providing feedback on their functioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional keyfob is used for door lock control, then the basic locking and unlocking function is achieved, but the ability to diagnose operational status of components is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The keyfob is designed to perform multiple functions: normal door lock/unlock operations and diagnostic testing of door lock system components. The same keyfob hardware and controller can switch between standard operation mode and diagnostic mode, eliminating the need for separate diagnostic tools and making the device universal for both everyday use and maintenance purposes.
2Ease of operation
If dedicated diagnostic tools are used to test door lock components, then accurate diagnosis is achieved, but the complexity and cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic functionality is merged into the existing keyfob device. The controller, antenna, and feedback mechanisms that already exist in the keyfob are utilized for both normal operation and diagnostic testing. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate diagnostic equipment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining ease of operation since users already carry the keyfob.
Solution Approach 2:
The door lock system performs self-diagnosis through the keyfob. The system uses its own built-in components (controller, antenna, feedback device) to test its operational status without requiring external specialized tools. This self-service capability allows users to easily diagnose issues using the keyfob they already possess, improving convenience while avoiding additional complex equipment.
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 simple and convenient testing of door lock system components, allowing users to identify malfunctions and determine battery status, thereby facilitating maintenance and ensuring proper operation.
Implementation Method 1
a keyfob antenna configured to detect and receive low frequency signals from the door handle mechanism antennae
Implementation Method 2
The feedback device can include a light emitting diode (LED), an audible alarm, or a vibration mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A keyfob has an electronic controller, a plurality of command inputs, a keyfob antenna and a feedback device. The plurality of command inputs, the keyfob antenna and the feedback device are in electronic communication with the controller. The controller is configured to send signals to a vehicle door lock system in response to operation one or more of the plurality of command inputs that instruct the vehicle door lock system to switch at least one door between a locked state and an unlocked state. The controller is further configured to enter a diagnostic mode in response to a predetermined operation of the plurality of command inputs such that in the diagnostic mode the keyfob operates as a diagnostic tool that detects an operating state of at least one of the keyfob and the vehicle door lock system.