Valet Dongle Keyless Access Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Keyless entry systems for vehicles, such as PEPS and PaaK, do not provide a secure method for valet parking as drivers are reluctant to hand over their phones, leading to inefficiencies in valet services and control issues.
Innovation Solution
A valet dongle system that connects to the vehicle, enabling keyless entry and ignition when removed from a dock with an authorized passcode provided via the infotainment head unit, and disabling when docked or an authorized mobile device is present, with optional restrictions on vehicle usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If drivers use traditional keyless entry systems (PEPS or PaaK) for valet parking, then keyless access is provided, but drivers must relinquish control of their phone which they are reluctant to do
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the keyless access function from the driver's personal mobile device by introducing a separate valet dongle. The dongle contains the necessary authentication credentials and communicates with the vehicle independently, allowing the driver to maintain control of their phone while still enabling valet access through the dedicated dongle device.
Solution Approach 2:
The valet dongle acts as an intermediary device between the driver's authorization and the vehicle's access system. The driver authorizes the dongle through the infotainment system, and the dongle subsequently mediates all keyless entry and ignition operations, eliminating the need for the driver to hand over their personal mobile device.
2Reliability
If a valet dongle is used to provide temporary access, then driver control is maintained, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valet dongle is designed as a multi-functional device that handles both keyless entry and keyless ignition operations. By consolidating these functions into a single universal access method, the system avoids the complexity of managing separate systems for different access scenarios while maintaining comprehensive driver control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service authorization where the driver can independently activate and deactivate valet mode through the infotainment head unit using a passcode. This self-service capability eliminates the need for dealer intervention or complex configuration procedures, reducing operational complexity despite the added hardware component.
3Productivity
If the valet dongle enables keyless ignition, then temporary driver access is granted, but security restrictions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts security parameters based on the active valet mode. When the valet dongle is detected as the active key, the system automatically applies restricted settings such as disabling steering wheel heating, limiting infotainment access, and restricting climate control features. These dynamic adjustments ensure vehicle security is maintained while enabling efficient valet service operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are disclosed for a system for keyless entry. An example vehicle includes a valet dongle, a dock configured to connect to the valet dongle; and a valet manager. The valet manager enables the valet dongle to authorize keyless entry and keyless ignition when (a) the valet dongle is removed from the dock while an ignition of the vehicle is on and (b) an authorized passcode is provided via an infotainment head unit.