Telematics Device Testing via SMS Challenge-Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-vehicle telematics devices of emergency call systems cannot be easily tested without risking a real emergency call being sent to the emergency call center, as existing test methods activate the emergency call function, which is not permitted and can be misinterpreted as a genuine emergency.
Innovation Solution
A method using a special SMS command to establish a challenge-response communication between the test device and the telematics device, preventing the emergency call center from receiving test information, and utilizing a cellular connection to simulate a base station or satellite system for testing without additional infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the emergency call function is activated during testing, then the telematics device can be tested for its emergency call capability, but a real emergency call is sent to the emergency call center which is not permitted and disrupts the emergency call service
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a test center as an intermediary between the telematics device and the emergency call center. The test center intercepts emergency call signals during testing and prevents them from reaching the real emergency call center. This mediator allows testing to proceed while protecting the emergency call service from disruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the routing parameter of emergency call signals by introducing a test mode indicator. When testing is active, the system routes emergency call signals to the test center instead of the emergency call center. This parameter change enables the same emergency call function to serve different purposes (testing vs. real emergency) without conflict.
2Measurement precision
If the telematics device is tested in its installed state, then the device can be tested in real operational conditions, but the device cannot be easily removed for testing and reinstallation provides no guarantee of proper function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary identification of the telematics device through unique identifiers (IMEI, MSISDN) before testing begins. This preliminary action allows the test center to recognize and intercept signals from the specific device being tested, enabling accurate testing of the installed device without physical removal.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and a test device for testing a mobile-based emergency call system, in particular a mobile-based emergency call system for or in a motor vehicle. The invention utilizes an SMS function of a mobile-based emergency call system, such as a motor vehicle emergency call system, for testing a telematics device of the emergency call system. For testing purposes, an SMS return command is generated and sent to the telematics device under test. This specific SMS return command instructs the telematics device under test to send the requested response directly back to the sending test device, bypassing the emergency call center. This elegantly prevents the telematics device under test from unintentionally sending the requested test information to an emergency call center.