Factory Code Display via RF Signal Counting in Keyless Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing keyless entry systems face challenges with misplaced or lost factory code cards, leading to complexity and unnecessary expense for vehicle manufacturers, as well as difficulties in retrieving and updating the original factory code, resulting in inefficiencies during vehicle assembly and servicing.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced that uses a keyless entry system with a controller and RF transmitters to increment counts based on received signals, comparing these counts to predetermined values, and transmitting keypad information to a display device, allowing the factory or personalized code to be displayed, thereby eliminating the need for physical code cards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical factory code cards are provided with each vehicle, then customers can access the factory code for keypad programming, but the system becomes complex and expensive due to card production, distribution, and retrieval logistics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the factory code information from the physical card medium and stores it directly in the vehicle's electronic control modules (BCM, body control module). The code is embedded in the controller firmware, eliminating the need for separate physical cards. When needed, the code is displayed on the vehicle's existing display screens (instrument cluster, infotainment system), removing the entire card distribution and retrieval infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of the vehicle's electronic control modules and display interfaces. Instead of directly providing physical cards to customers, the system uses the BCM and other controllers as intermediaries to store and provide the factory code through authorized access methods. The display system acts as an intermediary to present the code on-screen, eliminating the need for physical card handling.
2Ease of manufacture
If key code cards are shipped with each vehicle, then customers receive the factory code, but production and service handling procedures become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the factory code storage function into the existing electronic control modules that are already part of the vehicle's standard equipment. The BCM and other controllers serve dual purposes: their original control functions plus storing and providing the factory code. This consolidation eliminates the separate card production and distribution process, simplifying manufacturing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing authorized users to access the factory code directly through the vehicle's electronic systems without requiring external card distribution. The code is automatically available through the control modules and display system, eliminating the need for manual card handling during assembly and service operations.
3Loss of information
If dealership technicians retrieve factory codes via diagnostic tools, then the original code can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and requires specialized equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the factory code within the vehicle's control modules during the manufacturing process. The code is embedded in the BCM firmware before the vehicle reaches the dealership. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for time-consuming diagnostic retrievals later, as the code is already readily accessible in the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by displaying the factory code on the vehicle's existing screens when appropriate conditions are met. This immediate feedback mechanism allows authorized users to obtain the code directly from the vehicle's own systems without requiring external diagnostic equipment or time-consuming retrieval processes.
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 simplifies the process of accessing and updating key codes, reducing costs and complexities associated with physical code cards, while ensuring secure and authorized access to the factory or personalized codes, thereby streamlining vehicle production and servicing processes.
Implementation Method 1
receiving a first radio frequency (RF) signal from a first transmitter and increasing a first count in response to detecting the first RF signal
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing keypad information to a user for a keypad coupled to an exterior portion of the vehicle is provided. The method includes receiving a first radio frequency (RF) signal from a first transmitter and increasing a first count in response to detecting the first RF signal. The method includes receiving a second RF signal from a second transmitter and increasing a second count in response to detecting the second RF signal. The method includes comparing the first count to a first predetermined count and comparing the second count to a second predetermined count. The method includes transmitting the keypad information to the display device based on at least one of the comparison of the first count to the first predetermined amount and the comparison of the second count to the second predetermined amount.