Mobile Device Position Verification for Vehicle Engine Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle security systems face challenges in preventing unauthorized access and operation, particularly with the increasing use of keyless entry and starting systems, which lack robust authentication methods for ensuring that the vehicle is being operated by a legitimate owner.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a mobile communication device, such as a smartphone, to determine its position within the vehicle and verify a digital key value, allowing the vehicle engine to be operated only when the device is inside the vehicle and the key value is valid, thereby enhancing theft prevention and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If keyless entry and starting systems are used, then ease of operation is improved, but security against unauthorized access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the authentication parameters from simple proximity detection to multi-factor verification including signal strength thresholds, device position verification, and digital key validation. This transforms the security parameter while maintaining ease of operation through automated verification processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile communication device serves as an intermediary between the user and the vehicle system. It holds the digital key and communicates authentication data to the control module, adding a security layer while keeping the user interface simple and easy to operate.
2Reliability
If digital key verification is implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex authentication logic from the vehicle's control system and places it in the mobile communication device. The control module only needs to verify credentials provided by the mobile device, reducing its complexity while maintaining strong security through the mobile device's authentication capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital key is a cryptographic copy of the authentication credentials stored securely in the mobile communication device. This allows verification without requiring the physical key or complex mechanical systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining security through cryptographic validation.
3Measurement precision
If position determination using signal strength measurements is used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic signal strength measurements rather than continuous monitoring. The control module measures signal strength at specific intervals and compares it against predefined thresholds to determine device position. This periodic approach achieves sufficient measurement precision for security verification while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring.
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
This solution provides enhanced security by ensuring that the vehicle can only be started or operated when the authorized owner is present, using signal strength measurements and biometric authentication to accurately determine the device's location and validate the digital key, thus preventing unauthorized use.
Implementation Method 1
The control module (14) is designed for determining a position of a mobile communication device (200)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for checking an authorization of a mobile communication device for operating a vehicle engine of a vehicle which includes determining a position of a mobile communication device. The position of the mobile communication device is inside or outside the vehicle. The method also includes receiving a digital key value from the mobile communication device and checking the authorization of the mobile communication device for operating the vehicle engine, based on the position of the mobile communication device and based on the digital key value.