Single BLE Module for Dual-Role Vehicle Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle authentication systems require two Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) modules to connect with both advertising and scanning role devices, increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A single BLE module with a control unit is used to alternately operate in scanning and advertising roles, enabling connections with both types of devices using a single antenna and control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two BLE modules are used (one for advertising role, one for scanning role), then connectivity with both advertising and scanning role devices is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advertising and scanning functions into a single BLE module by implementing role switching capability. The control unit alternates the single BLE module between advertising mode and scanning mode, allowing one module to perform functions that previously required two separate modules, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining connectivity versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The single BLE module is designed to be universal by implementing both advertising and scanning roles. The control unit enables the module to adapt its function based on operational requirements, making a single component capable of performing multiple roles that traditionally required dedicated separate modules.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two BLE modules are used, then both advertising and scanning role connections are enabled, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining advertising and scanning functionalities into one BLE module, the patent reduces the bill of materials and assembly requirements. Manufacturers only need to produce, test, and assemble one BLE module per vehicle instead of two, directly lowering manufacturing costs while preserving full connection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal BLE module design allows manufacturers to use a single standardized component for both advertising and scanning operations. This multi-functionality simplifies the supply chain, reduces inventory complexity, and lowers per-unit manufacturing costs compared to producing and managing two specialized modules.
3Device complexity
If a single BLE module is used, then device complexity and cost are reduced, but the ability to connect to both advertising and scanning role devices simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit implements periodic switching between advertising and scanning modes for the single BLE module. By alternating between these roles in time-divided fashion, the module can interact with both advertising role devices (when in scanning mode) and scanning role devices (when in advertising mode), maintaining versatility while using only one module.
Data Source
AI summary
An authentication system for a vehicle for authenticating a number of portable authentication devices to the vehicle has at least one BLE module having at least one BLE antenna and a control unit for controlling the BLE antenna The control unit operates the BLE module alternately in a first operating mode and a second operating mode (B), wherein the BLE module in the first operating mode establishes a connection in a scanning role with at least one portable authentication device which works in an advertising role, and wherein the BLE module in the second operating mode establishes a connection in an advertising role with at least one portable authentication device which works in a scanning role.