Proxy Remote Actuation for Secure Vehicle Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle remote control systems require extensive custom engineering and professional installation to interface with vehicle electronics, and they often lack compatibility with various remote control designs and secure connectivity solutions, especially for long-range remote actuation and secure key fob operation outside the vehicle's communication range.
Innovation Solution
A remote control button actuation system that includes a three-axis button actuator, a controller, and a proxy remote, allowing for secure operation of vehicle functions using a mobile device, with the key fob securely located outside the vehicle's communication range, utilizing a Faraday cage for RF signal blocking and a smartphone application for button press simulation, enabling compatibility with various vehicle systems and secure communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a standardized OBD-II connector system is used for remote control installation, then ease of installation and cost are improved, but compatibility with various vehicle RF security systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a proxy remote control device as an intermediary between the mobile device and the vehicle. The proxy remote contains the original key fob and acts as a mediator that can physically press the key fob buttons when activated by the mobile device, thereby bypassing the need for direct electronic integration with the vehicle's RF security system while maintaining full compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex electronic/RF integration mechanisms with a simple mechanical button-pressing mechanism. Instead of attempting to electronically interface with the vehicle's RF security system through the OBD-II connector, the system uses a mechanical actuator to physically press the buttons on the key fob, which then transmits the authorized RF signals to the vehicle
2Ease of operation
If the key fob is kept inside the vehicle for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates due to risk of theft
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the key fob access function from the vehicle itself by using a proxy remote control device. The original key fob can be securely stored outside the vehicle (even in a Faraday cage to block RF signals), while the proxy device remains with or near the vehicle. This separation allows the key fob to be physically secure while still providing easy access through the proxy mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The proxy remote control serves as an intermediary that enables key fob functionality without requiring the key fob itself to be present near the vehicle. The proxy device can be positioned anywhere within the vehicle while the actual key fob remains securely stored elsewhere, eliminating the security risk while maintaining operational convenience
3Productivity
If proprietary telematics systems with built-in wireless connectivity are used, then long-range remote actuation capability is improved, but device complexity and installation complexity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a universal remote control solution that works with any vehicle equipped with a standard OBD-II connector, regardless of the vehicle's native telematics system. By using the existing OBD-II infrastructure and a standardized installation process, the system provides long-range remote actuation capabilities through a mobile device application without requiring vehicle-specific customization or professional installation
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables consumers to self-install the remote control functionality without requiring professional technicians. The standardized OBD-II connector allows the device to be easily plugged in by the consumer themselves, and the system automatically configures itself to work with the specific vehicle through the mobile device application, eliminating the need for extensive custom engineering or professional installation services
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 secure, user-friendly, and cost-effective remote control of vehicle functions from a mobile device, eliminating the need for professional installation and enhancing security by keeping the key fob outside the vehicle's range, while supporting various vehicle systems and designs through advanced communication protocols.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing a Faraday cage for RF signal blocking
Data Source
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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, based upon commands that are generated from a mobile device. The actuation system includes a key fob enclosure located remotely from the vehicle. When a command is received on the mobile device, the command is relayed to a controller within the key fob enclosure, causing a button on the key fob to be depressed. The RF signal from the key fob is translated into a digital message which is relayed to a proxy remote located within the vehicle. The proxy remote, in turn, translates the digital message to an RF signal which is transmitted and received by systems within the vehicle. In this manner, the proxy remote is able to communicate using RF signals with the vehicle without requiring the key fob to be located near the vehicle.