Vehicle Function Control via UWB Position Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicle communication systems face issues with unintentional or inadvertent commands being executed due to the lack of precise positioning verification, leading to undesirable consequences such as unnecessary engine operation or window activation.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle communication system utilizing a base station with at least three ultra-wideband transceivers to accurately determine the position of a mobile communication unit relative to the vehicle along multiple axes, ensuring that vehicle functions are only performed if the unit satisfies specific criteria, thereby reducing the likelihood of unintended commands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passive communication systems are used to enable automatic vehicle function performance based on mobile communication unit position, then user convenience and operator experience are enhanced, but the system increases the possibility of unintentional or inadvertent command execution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional passive RF-based proximity detection with active ultra-wideband (UWB) time-of-flight measurement technology. This substitution enables precise three-dimensional position tracking of the mobile communication unit relative to the vehicle, allowing the system to distinguish between intentional and unintentional commands by verifying whether the unit is within a predetermined safe distance threshold before executing vehicle functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary position verification mechanism that acts as a mediator between the mobile communication unit and vehicle function execution. The base station calculates the three-dimensional position of the mobile unit using UWB time-of-flight measurements and compares it against predetermined criteria before allowing command execution. This intermediary step prevents direct execution of potentially unintentional commands while maintaining user convenience.
2Adaptability or versatility
If active communication is enabled for user-initiated vehicle function control, then functional versatility is improved, but the likelihood of inadvertent commands increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary position verification before executing vehicle functions. The base station calculates the three-dimensional position of the mobile communication unit using UWB time-of-flight measurements and verifies whether it satisfies predetermined criteria (such as being within a safe distance threshold) before allowing any vehicle function to be executed. This preliminary check prevents inadvertent commands from causing harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station continuously monitors the position of the mobile communication unit relative to the vehicle and uses this information to determine whether to permit command execution. The system provides feedback by comparing real-time position data against predetermined safety criteria, allowing versatile functional control while preventing harmful inadvertent commands.
3Reliability
If position-based control criteria are implemented to prevent unintentional commands, then command reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ultra-wideband (UWB) transceivers that serve multiple functions: they enable precise time-of-flight based position measurement, provide secure communication between the mobile unit and base station, and support authentication protocols. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity compared to using separate dedicated position sensing and communication systems.
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
The system effectively minimizes the occurrence of unintentional vehicle function activations by accurately tracking the mobile unit's position, enhancing user control and reducing potential errors or damages.
Implementation Method 1
determine a position of the mobile communication unit relative to the vehicle along two or more axes based on a time of flight method
Data Source
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AI summary
A vehicle communication system (100) for facilitating control over a function of a vehicle (102) comprises a base station (104) positioned in the vehicle (102) and a mobile communication unit (122). The base station (104) comprises a first transmitter for transmitting a signal to the mobile communication unit and a first receiver for receiving a signal from the mobile communication unit (122). The base station (104) is configured to receive a first request from the mobile communication unit (122), wherein the first request seeks performance of a first vehicle function, determine a position of the mobile communication unit (122) relative to the vehicle (102), compare the position of the mobile communication unit (122) relative to the vehicle (102) to a first criteria, and facilitate performance of the first vehicle function if the position of the mobile communication unit (122) relative to the vehicle (102) satisfies the first criteria.