Vehicle Radar Perimeter Security and Dynamic Door Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current vehicle security and control systems are not dynamically controlled based on vehicle perimeter information, leading to inefficiencies such as not automatically unlocking the closest door when approaching with a key fob, especially in scenarios like carrying a child seat for the back seat.

Innovation Solution

An ultra-short range radar system is integrated into the vehicle to dynamically control doors based on the location of a communication unit relative to the vehicle, using a multi-input multi-output (MIMO) radar system with an array of transmit and receive elements, and a controller to process signals and perform security and control actions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional key fob proximity system is used, then the vehicle can be unlocked when the key is within range, but the system cannot dynamically determine which door to unlock based on the key's location

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAutomatic door unlocking convenienceVSAvoidLocation information of key fob
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional radio frequency (RF) key fob system with a radar-based detection system. The radar system uses electromagnetic waves to detect the position, orientation, and movement of the key fob, providing precise spatial information that RF alone cannot deliver. This substitution enables dynamic door selection based on real-time location data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a radar system as an intermediary between the key fob and the door locking mechanism. The radar detects the key fob's position and translates it into control signals for specific doors, acting as a mediator that converts proximity information into actionable door unlocking commands based on spatial relationships.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Length of stationary object

If a long-range radar system is used, then the detection range is extended, but false alarms increase and power consumption rises

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRadar detection rangeVSAvoidFalse alarm rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes radar detection parameters including range, frequency, and power settings to match the specific requirements of vehicle proximity detection. By adjusting these parameters, the system achieves an optimal balance between detection range and false alarm reduction, ensuring reliable operation within the vehicle's immediate vicinity without excessive power consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Length of stationary object

If a long-range radar system is used, then the detection range is extended, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveRadar detection rangeVSAvoidRadar power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment where the radar system modifies its transmission power, pulse duration, and detection frequency based on operational conditions. This allows the system to extend detection range when necessary while consuming minimal power during normal operation, achieving energy efficiency without sacrificing detection capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Measurement precision

If a narrow-field radar system is used, then the detection is more focused, but the field of view is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDetection precisionVSAvoidField of view
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs multiple radar units positioned at different locations on the vehicle (front, rear, sides) to create a segmented detection coverage. Each radar unit provides focused detection in its specific direction, and together they form a comprehensive 360-degree field of view, maintaining both precision and broad coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional radar detection to three-dimensional detection by incorporating vertical angle measurement and multi-height detection capabilities. This dimensional expansion allows the system to detect objects at different elevations and angles, providing both precision and comprehensive field of view coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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

The solution effectively determines the closest door to unlock or open based on the key fob's location, reduces false alarms with a shorter detection range, and enhances security by identifying potential threats and alerting the owner, while maintaining low power consumption and a wider field of view.

Implementation Method 1

a radar system arranged in the vehicle, a maximum range of the radar system being less than 100 meters

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadar: Radar

Data Source

PatentUS10549722B2Radar-based vehicle perimeter security and control
Publication Date: 2020.02.04 GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
  • US10549722B2 patent drawing
  • US10549722B2 patent drawing
  • US10549722B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system perform perimeter security and control of a vehicle. The system includes a radar system arranged in the vehicle, a maximum range of the radar system being less than 100 meters, and a communication unit to communicate with the radar system. The system also includes a control system of the vehicle to control the platform based on the radar system. The control system dynamically controls each door of the vehicle according to a location of the communication unit relative to the platform.