Portable Vehicle Remote Control via Private LTE Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems require specialized, costly equipment and lack efficient communication security, often necessitating extra maintenance and regulatory approvals, while being electrically inefficient and impractical for remote or off-board control scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system utilizing a portable operator control unit (OCU) with a wireless communication unit operating on high-frequency networks like LTE or 5G, enabling remote control of vehicles by generating and transmitting control signals over a private LTE network, which includes a mobile server unit for coordinating communications between vehicles and ensuring secure data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If proprietary radios are used for remote vehicle control, then wireless control functionality is achieved, but equipment cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling standard cellular telephones to perform remote vehicle control functions. Instead of requiring specialized proprietary radios, the system uses universally available mobile phones with standard cellular capabilities to communicate with the vehicle control unit, thereby eliminating the need for expensive specialized equipment while maintaining reliable remote control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by utilizing the existing infrastructure of public cellular networks and the user's personal mobile phone. The mobile phone's built-in communication capabilities, processor, and interface are leveraged to provide remote control functionality without requiring additional specialized hardware or services from the vehicle system.
2Reliability
If proprietary radios are used for remote vehicle control, then wireless control functionality is achieved, but electrical efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the multi-functionality of standard mobile phones, which already contain power-efficient cellular communication modules designed for continuous operation. These existing power management systems and communication protocols are more energy-efficient than specialized proprietary radio systems would require.
3Reliability
If proprietary radios are used for remote vehicle control, then control functionality is achieved, but communication security is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms through the mobile phone's interface, allowing the user to receive confirmation of control signal transmission and vehicle status. The control unit provides feedback on signal delivery and system state, enabling the user to verify secure communication and respond to any security concerns in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system includes a portable operator control unit (OCU). The OCU includes a housing, a power supply inside the housing, a controller inside the housing, and a wireless communication unit attached to the housing. The controller is configured to generate control signals for controlling a vehicle from an off-board location of the OCU. The wireless communication unit is configured to wirelessly communicate the control signals to the vehicle over an LTE network.