Secure Idle Vehicle Generator Power Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems lack secure idle functionality, allowing unattended vehicles equipped with external AC power outlets to be stolen since keyless systems do not facilitate idling with the key fob outside, and separate keys or spares can be compromised.
Innovation Solution
A powertrain control module (PCM) manages the vehicle's powertrain to secure the vehicle while idling by transitioning through various states, including low and high power voltage states, authentication, and post high power voltage states, using switches and sensors to prevent unauthorized operation, and automatically shutting down the engine if the transmission is shifted out of 'PARK'.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the vehicle is left in the 'run' position to provide AC power to external outlets, then power supply capability is improved, but vehicle security deteriorates as the vehicle may be stolen while unattended
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between different idle modes (standard idle and secure idle) based on operational conditions. The secure idle mode activates when the vehicle is unattended, automatically adjusting engine control parameters to maintain security while continuing power supply. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the vehicle to switch between productivity-oriented and security-oriented operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes engine control parameters when transitioning to secure idle mode, including adjusting idle RPM, fuel injection timing, and throttle position. These parameter changes ensure the engine maintains a secure state that prevents unauthorized operation while continuing to generate electrical power for external outlets, thus resolving the security-productivity contradiction through parameter optimization.
2Ease of operation
If keyless systems are used to facilitate idling with the key fob outside, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates as separate keys or spares can be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary security layer between the keyless entry system and engine operation. A dedicated secure idle switch and associated control logic act as mediators, requiring specific authentication sequences or physical switch positions to enable secure idle mode. This intermediary mechanism maintains convenience for authorized users while preventing unauthorized access, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary security verification before allowing idle operation. The secure idle mode requires predefined authentication actions (such as specific switch combinations or sequences) to be completed beforehand, ensuring that only authorized users can activate the idle function. This preliminary action prevents compromise of keyless systems while maintaining operational convenience for legitimate users.
3Reliability
If the engine is shut down when the ignition is off, then security is improved, but power supply capability deteriorates as the vehicle cannot provide continuous AC power
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the ignition system into two independent pathways: standard ignition control and secure idle control. The secure idle switch creates a separate control circuit that can activate the idle function independently of the main ignition switch position. This segmentation allows the engine to remain running for power generation while the ignition switch is off, preventing theft through other security mechanisms while maintaining continuous power supply capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The secure idle switch acts as an intermediary device that decouples the relationship between ignition switch position and engine operation. By introducing this intermediate control element, the system enables the engine to run in a secured state independent of the ignition switch, thus maintaining power supply continuity while enhancing security through separate authentication requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are disclosed for secure idle for a vehicle generator. An example vehicle includes an outlet external to the vehicle, a power inverter dedicated to supplying AC power to the outlet, and a powertrain control module. The powertrain control module controls the power inverter to supply first power level when a switch is in a first position and a second power level when the switch is in a second position. Additionally, the powertrain control module, after entering a secure mode, controls an engine to remain idling when an ignition switch is off.