Shared PKES Key Fob Access With Driver Authentication Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle PKES systems require additional smart keys for each driver, which can be costly and inconvenient, and there is a risk of unauthorized access when multiple drivers share a vehicle.

Innovation Solution

A device and method for a vehicle with a PKES system that securely holds a key fob, uses a wireless interface for communication with a driver's device, and includes a processor to authenticate and authorize drivers, controlling wireless communication and door access based on the driver's location and authorization, allowing intelligent sharing of a single key among multiple drivers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple smart keys are provided for multiple drivers, then each driver has independent access, but the cost increases substantially and security risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedriver access convenienceVSAvoidnumber of key fobs

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple key fob functionalities into a single shared key fob that can be used by multiple drivers. The system allows one key fob to authenticate multiple drivers through a shared access system, eliminating the need for each driver to have a separate key fob while maintaining independent access capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The key fob is designed with universal functionality to serve multiple drivers. A single key fob can authenticate different drivers and grant them access to the vehicle, making the key fob multi-functional rather than dedicated to a single user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If multiple smart keys are provided for multiple drivers, then each driver has independent access, but the security risk of unauthorized access increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedriver access convenienceVSAvoidsecurity against unauthorized access

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the key fob and vehicle communication system continuously verify driver authorization. The system monitors and validates each access attempt, providing feedback to confirm whether the driver is authorized, thereby maintaining security while allowing convenient access for legitimate drivers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If additional key fobs are ordered from manufacturer, then more drivers can access the vehicle, but the cost and provisioning time increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of authorized driversVSAvoidkey provisioning time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service functionality where the key fob can be reconfigured for different drivers without requiring manufacturer intervention. The key fob itself contains the capability to adapt to different drivers through internal reconfiguration, eliminating the need for time-consuming manufacturer provisioning processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

4Adaptability or versatility

If additional key fobs are ordered from manufacturer, then more drivers can access the vehicle, but the cost increases substantially

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of authorized driversVSAvoidnumber of key fobs

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enhances security and convenience by allowing multiple drivers to use a single key, reducing costs and preventing unauthorized access, while maintaining vehicle control based on driver authentication and location.

Implementation Method 1

a wireless interface for local communication with a driver's device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a jamming transmitter... For locking/unlocking doors of the vehicle, the device also has either at least one mechanical or electronic actuator

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic interference: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

a switchable RF shield for disabling wireless communications of the key fob inside the housing

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic shielding: Faraday Cage

Data Source

PatentUS12534045B2Vehicle control system

Publication Date: 2026.01.27 LIGHT WAVE TECH INC

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an apparatus, method and system for use with a vehicle having passive keyless entry and start (PKES) system including a vehicle unit and a key fob storage unit. The vehicle unit is to be installed with the vehicle having a first transceiver, a first relay transceiver an authentication unit, a first controller for controlling said first relay transceiver allowing said transmission if said user is authenticated. The key fob storage unit comprises at least one housing for securely holding at least one key fob associated with said PKES systems of said vehicles, a second, said second wireless relay w wherein said first relay transceiver and said second relay transceiver allows said PKES system and said key fob to communicate from a distance larger than a range of said PKES system signals.