Vehicle Start Activation Using UWB Cabin Presence Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 'hands-free' vehicle start systems face challenges in precisely and reliably locating a mobile device using ultra-wideband technology due to variability in received power values and interference, leading to potential security issues.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using at least two ultra-wideband transceiver modules to transmit and receive waves, calculating time-of-flight values, and comparing received power values with predetermined values to determine the presence of a portable device within a vehicle, with a correction mechanism to stabilize received power readings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ultra-wideband technology is used to locate a mobile device, then location capability is achieved, but received power values vary widely leading to imprecise location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a correction mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the raw received power measurements and the final location determination. A correction value is calculated based on the difference between measured and expected received power values, then applied to compensate for device-specific variations. This intermediary correction process enables reliable location precision despite variability in received power values across different mobile devices.
2Measurement precision
If multiple transceiver modules are used to improve location accuracy, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the location determination function into multiple independent transceiver modules, each capable of measuring received power values separately. This segmentation allows the system to use multiple measurement sources to improve precision through comparison and correction, while each module remains a simple, standardized component. The correction mechanism then integrates these segmented measurements to achieve high location accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If signal intensity measurements are used to determine device location, then location can be determined, but interference and false detections occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system compares measured received power values against expected values, calculates correction values based on discrepancies, and applies these corrections to improve subsequent location determinations. This feedback loop continuously refines the location accuracy by learning from measurement errors and compensating for interference, thereby maintaining reliable operation despite challenging signal conditions.
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
This approach enables precise and reliable location of a portable device inside a vehicle, enhancing security by accurately triggering vehicle functions such as starting, while minimizing false detections and interference issues.
Implementation Method 1
calculating a time-of-flight value for the waves thus received and comparing it with predetermined time-of-flight values
Implementation Method 2
measuring a received power value for the waves received by said modules and comparing it with predetermined received power values
Data Source
AI summary
A method for starting a motor vehicle by an activation device, from a user's portable device. The method includes: Detecting closure of the opening elements of the vehicle; Transmitting ultra-wideband waves into the passenger compartment; Receiving the waves and, for each transmitter module: i) Comparing a time-of-flight value with predetermined time-of-flight values, ii) Determining the presence of the portable device in the passenger compartment, iii) If the portable device is situated in the passenger compartment, then iv) Activating the vehicle function, and v) Comparing a received power value with predetermined received power values, vi) Determining the presence of the portable device in the passenger compartment: 1) If the portable device is not detected in the passenger compartment, then calculating a correction value between the received power and the predetermined received power, 2) The activation device storing the correction value for subsequent presence detection of the device in the passenger compartment.