UWB Gesture Access for Vehicle Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle access systems, such as passive entry systems and infrared-based hands-free systems, face limitations in accurately detecting gestures and securely unlocking vehicles without manual intervention, particularly in varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A gesture access system utilizing ultra-wide band (UWB) transceivers mounted on vehicles to emit and detect radiation signals, processing these signals with a processor to determine the presence and gestures of objects, thereby controlling vehicle access closures such as locks and doors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If passive entry systems using key fobs are used, then vehicle access is automated, but security may be compromised if the key fob is lost or stolen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key fob systems with a gesture recognition system using electromagnetic radiation detection. The system detects specific hand gestures through emitted and reflected electromagnetic signals, eliminating the need for physical keys or fobs while maintaining automated access control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary gesture recognition system between the user and vehicle access. Instead of direct key fob communication, the system uses electromagnetic radiation detection of hand gestures as an intermediary mechanism to authenticate and trigger access control, adding a layer of security verification.
2Ease of operation
If infrared-based hands-free systems are used, then contactless access is enabled, but detection accuracy deteriorates in varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the detection system by using ultra-wideband electromagnetic radiation instead of infrared. This frequency change allows penetration through certain materials and reduces interference from environmental factors like ambient light, improving detection accuracy in varying conditions while maintaining contactless operation.
3Ease of operation
If gesture recognition systems are implemented, then hands-free access is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the gesture recognition system with existing vehicle access control infrastructure. The electromagnetic radiation detection system serves multiple functions including gesture recognition, proximity detection, and authentication, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and thereby managing system complexity while enabling hands-free access.
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
Enables secure and hands-free vehicle access by accurately detecting predefined gestures, improving convenience and security by automating the unlocking and locking of vehicle access points.
Implementation Method 1
at least one ultra wide band (UWB) transceiver configured to be mounted to the motor vehicle, the at least one UWB transceiver responsive to activation signals to emit UWB radiation signals outwardly away from the motor vehicle
Implementation Method 2
the UWB radiation detection signals including at least one reflected UWB radiation signal if at least one of the emitted UWB radiation signals is reflected by an object toward and detected by the at least one UWB transceiver
Data Source
AI summary
A gesture access system includes at least one ultra wide band transceiver to be mounted to a motor vehicle, and a processor to operate in either of (i) a gesture access mode to control an actuator associated with an access closure of the motor vehicle to lock, unlock, open or close the access closure in response to an object within a sensing region of the at least one UWB transceiver exhibiting a predefined gesture, and (ii) an inactive mode in which the at least one processor does not receive or does not act on UWB radiation detection signals, the at least one processor to operate in the gesture access mode in response to known mobile communication device being within a perimeter defined about the motor vehicle, and to otherwise operate in the inactive mode.