Layered Vehicle Access Control for Role-Based Autonomous Fleet Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face challenges in securely and efficiently managing access to different users and areas, particularly in ridesharing scenarios where varying levels of access are needed for passengers, technicians, and maintenance personnel, and existing solutions like master keys pose security risks and logistical difficulties.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a secure layered access system using electronic locks and a remote computing system that authenticates users through a mobile application or key fob, allowing controlled access to different areas of the autonomous vehicle based on user identity and role, with the option to revert to physical keys in case of communication loss with the remote system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If master keys are used to provide access to all areas of the autonomous vehicle, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access control system is segmented into multiple electronic locks (first electronic lock, second electronic lock) that control different areas (first area, second area) of the autonomous vehicle. Each lock can be independently controlled based on user authentication, allowing granular access management rather than using a single master key for all areas.
Solution Approach 2:
Different areas of the autonomous vehicle are assigned different security levels and access requirements. The first area and second area have distinct electronic locks that can be activated or deactivated independently, providing localized security control tailored to the specific needs of each area.
2Reliability
If multiple electronic locks are implemented for different areas, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor serves multiple functions: it controls the first electronic lock, controls the second electronic lock, receives authentication inputs, and manages the overall access control logic. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated control units for each lock, thereby managing complexity while maintaining security.
Solution Approach 2:
The access control system merges the control of multiple electronic locks into a single integrated system managed by one processor. The processor handles authentication, decision-making, and control signals for both locks, consolidating what could be separate systems into one unified control architecture.
3Reliability
If electronic locks with remote authentication are used, then security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened due to communication requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous vehicle's processor autonomously performs authentication by receiving an input from the user and automatically determining whether to grant access based on predefined criteria. This self-service authentication reduces the need for manual intervention or complex remote verification processes, simplifying the user experience while maintaining security.
4Reliability
If access is restricted to authenticated users only, then security is improved, but adaptability is worsened in case of communication loss
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication by receiving and processing user input before granting access. This advance verification ensures that only authenticated users can access restricted areas, while the processor is already prepared to execute the access decision immediately once authentication succeeds, reducing delays and maintaining operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle having at least one vehicle access secured by a first lock and at least one secure area secured by a second lock. The vehicle may also have a receiver configured to receive a command from a remote computing system to unlock the vehicle access or the secure area.