Signal Sensitivity Control for RKE and PASE Systems

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of external antennas and low noise amplifier (LNA) circuits in remote keyless entry (RKE) systems interferes with passive entry and starting (PASE) systems, rendering the PASE system non-functional and requiring manual vehicle entry or reducing RKE performance.

Innovation Solution

A method to control the signal sensitivity of the receiver module by temporarily shutting off the external antenna or LNA circuit during PASE activation, reducing interference and allowing simultaneous operation of both RKE and PASE systems without performance degradation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If an external antenna is used to increase the operating range of the RKE system, then the RKE system performance is improved, but the PASE system becomes non-functional due to increased noise and signal interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating rangeVSAvoidPASE system functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the antenna system configurable between different states. The receiver module can dynamically switch between using the external antenna for RKE operations and using an internal antenna for PASE operations, allowing both systems to function properly by adapting the antenna configuration to the specific mode of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the antenna functionality by providing separate external and internal antenna paths that can be independently controlled. The receiver module can selectively activate either the external antenna or the internal antenna based on whether RKE or PASE mode is active, thereby resolving the interference problem while maintaining both system types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If an LNA circuit is used to amplify the incoming signal for large operating range, then the RKE system performance is improved, but the PASE system is rendered non-functional due to amplified noise interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperating rangeVSAvoidPASE system functionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The LNA circuit is made dynamic by enabling selective activation. The receiver module can turn the LNA on during RKE operations to amplify weak signals from distant transmitters, and turn the LNA off during PASE operations to prevent noise amplification that would interfere with the passive authentication process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The signal processing path is segmented into separate processing chains for RKE and PASE modes. The LNA is placed in the RKE signal path where it provides necessary amplification, while the PASE signal path can bypass the LNA or have it disabled, preventing noise interference with the sensitive passive authentication signals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Reliability

If the external antenna is unplugged to eliminate interference with the PASE system, then the PASE system functions properly, but the RKE system performance is severely diminished

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovePASE system functionalityVSAvoidRKE system operating range
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of permanently removing the external antenna, the system dynamically configures which antenna to use based on the active mode. During PASE operations, the system switches to the internal antenna to eliminate interference, while during RKE operations, the external antenna is activated to restore long-range functionality. This dynamic switching allows both systems to operate at full capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8970346B2Signal sensitivity control during passive authentication
Publication Date: 2015.03.03 CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS INC
  • US8970346B2 patent drawing
  • US8970346B2 patent drawing
  • US8970346B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of controlling the signal sensitivity of a receiver module of a remote signal communication system includes initializing a PASE function and actuating a switch from a first position to a second position. The second position represents an open switch wherein either an external antenna or a LNA circuit or both are shut off. The switch is returned to a first position in response to completion of a PASE command.