RFID-Based Security System for Portable Power Storage Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a secure system to control the removal of portable electrical energy storage devices from vehicles, such as scooters and motorbikes, to prevent theft and misuse, while ensuring convenient access for charging and maintenance, especially in densely populated areas with high air pollution from combustion engine vehicles.

Innovation Solution

A portable electrical energy storage device security system that includes a controller and communications module, capable of authenticating external devices wirelessly, unlocking or locking the device based on authentication information, and using a secret algorithm for secure communication, ensuring the device can only be removed by authorized external devices, such as a collection and charging machine.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a locking mechanism is implemented to prevent unauthorized removal of energy storage devices, then security against theft and misuse is improved, but the complexity of the system increases due to authentication requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical locking systems with an electronic authentication system using RFID tags and controllers. The RFID tag stores unique identification data, and the controller automatically verifies this data against authorized lists, eliminating the need for complex mechanical locks while maintaining security. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving reliability through electronic verification.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an RFID tag as an intermediary carrier of authentication information. Instead of direct mechanical or electronic locking mechanisms requiring complex key systems, the RFID tag serves as a mediator that holds and transmits authorization data. The controller reads this data and makes authentication decisions, simplifying the overall system architecture while enhancing security through centralized authorization management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If authentication systems are implemented to control device removal, then unauthorized access is prevented, but the ease of operation is reduced due to authentication steps

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service authentication system where the RFID tag automatically transmits its identification data to the controller when brought into proximity. The controller autonomously verifies the data against stored authorization lists and actuates the locking mechanism accordingly. This eliminates the need for users to manually input credentials or follow complex authentication procedures, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring security through automatic verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If secure authentication protocols are used to prevent theft, then device security is improved, but the time required for authentication and removal processes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidauthentication time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-stores lists of authorized RFID tag identification data in the controller's memory before operation. When authentication is required, the controller simply compares the incoming RFID data against these pre-prepared lists rather than performing complex real-time verification procedures. This preliminary preparation of authorization data enables rapid authentication decisions, reducing the time required for secure removal while maintaining reliability through verified authorization checks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2737597B1Apparatus, method and article for physical security of power storage devices in vehicles
Publication Date: 2019.10.16 GOGORO
  • EP2737597B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2737597B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2737597B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A network of collection, charging and distribution machines collect, charge and distribute portable electrical energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, supercapacitors or ultracapacitors). To avoid theft and tampering of the portable electrical energy storage devices, by default, each portable electrical energy storage device is locked in and operably connected to the vehicle to which it provides power unless the vehicle comes within the vicinity of a collection, charging and distribution machine or other authorized external device such as that in a service center. Once within the vicinity of a collection, charging and distribution machine or other authorized external device a locking mechanism in the vehicle or within the portable electrical energy storage device unlocks and allows the portable electrical energy storage device to be exchanged or serviced.