Remote Vehicle Starter Activation via Mobile Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote vehicle starters have limitations in activation distance, requiring users to be close to the vehicle, exposing them to undesirable weather conditions and are often complex and costly, with small receivers making them difficult to locate.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a handheld mobile communication device and a wireless transmitter with a speaker and start switch circuit, allowing for remote activation and deactivation of the vehicle starter, using a variable resistor to manage voltage and prevent unauthorized use, providing audible confirmation of the vehicle's status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional remote starters are used, then the vehicle can be started remotely, but the activation distance is limited and users must be close to the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile communication device as an intermediary between the user and the vehicle starter. The device receives commands from a remote location via cellular networks and relays them to the vehicle's starter system, enabling activation from distances far beyond traditional remote control ranges without requiring the user to physically approach the vehicle
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from line-of-sight radio frequency communication to cellular network-based communication, adding a dimensional shift from direct short-range transmission to indirect long-range transmission through the cellular infrastructure, thereby dramatically extending operational distance
2Length of stationary object
If complex remote starter systems are implemented to increase distance, then activation range improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the mobile communication device's existing multi-functionality (cellular communication, audio processing, vibration capabilities) for remote starter activation. By repurposing these existing functions rather than adding dedicated specialized components, the system achieves extended range without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile communication device's speaker and vibration mechanisms, originally designed for other purposes, are utilized to provide feedback and confirmation for starter activation. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate feedback devices, reducing overall system complexity
3Volume of moving object
If small remote receivers are used, then the device is compact, but it becomes difficult to locate in purse, pocket or briefcase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates vibration feedback through the mobile communication device to provide tactile confirmation of starter activation. This vibration mechanism serves as both a locational identifier (the user can feel where the device is) and a functional confirmation (the starter has been activated), solving the locatability problem without increasing device size
4Ease of operation
If remote starter systems are installed, then vehicle starting is enabled, but unauthorized use may occur without proper verification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback loop where the mobile communication device receives confirmation signals from the vehicle's starter system and provides audible and tactile feedback to the user. This closed-loop verification ensures that only authorized commands (initiated by the user through their personal device) result in starter activation, preventing unauthorized use while maintaining ease of operation
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 remote starting from longer distances, simplifies installation, prevents unauthorized use, and provides cost-effective and audible confirmation of the vehicle's status, effectively addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
The wireless communication device has at least a sound emitting speaker mounted therewithin
Data Source
AI summary
A system for activating and deactivating a remotely controlled vehicle starter includes a handheld mobile communication device having at least a speaker mounted therein and a wireless transmitter having at least a start switch mounted therein. A first wire connects a negative voltage supply path to the speaker circuit with a negative voltage supply path to the start switch circuit. A variable resistor is provided and has a pair of end terminals. There is a second wire having each of a first end thereof electrically connected to a positive voltage supply path to the speaker circuit and an opposed second end thereof electrically connected to one terminal end of the variable resistor. A third wire is also provided to connect an opposed end terminal of the variable resistor to a positive voltage supply path to the start switch.