Vehicle Valet Access Using Unified Keycodes and Secure Idle Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valet mode systems in vehicles face limitations such as the need for multiple keycodes, reduced security due to keypad limitations, and conflicts with passive entry and start systems, leading to potential unauthorized access and operational inconveniences.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Enhanced Valet Mode (EVM) generates unique, encrypted keycodes for vehicle access and starting, allowing valet operation without PEPS key fobs or PaaK devices, and modifies secure idle mode to accommodate keycodes for drive-away authorization, ensuring enhanced security and convenience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple keycodes are generated for valet access (door keypad and HMI), then security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to the need to manage and enter multiple codes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple keycode functions into a single integrated system. The valet mode utilizes existing vehicle access systems (door keypads, push-button start, passive entry) with a single unified keycode that the valet enters once, eliminating the need to manage separate keycodes for different access methods while maintaining security through the vehicle's existing authentication mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The valet mode system is designed to work universally across multiple vehicle access methods. A single valet keycode can be used with door keypads, push-button start systems, and passive entry systems, making the system multi-functional and eliminating the need for valets to learn or manage multiple different code sets for different access points.
2Ease of operation
If a shorter keycode compatible with door keypad is used, then ease of operation is improved, but security deteriorates compared to longer keycodes available in HMI
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces valet mode as an intermediary authentication layer that works through existing vehicle systems. The valet keycode acts as a mediator that the vehicle's control systems recognize and process, allowing the valet to access vehicle functions without directly exposing the limitations of door keypad security or requiring the valet to use the full HMI interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a simplified copy of the normal authentication process specifically for valet use. Instead of requiring the valet to use the full HMI authentication system, the vehicle creates a valet-specific authentication path that mirrors the security requirements but adapts to the valet's needs for simpler code entry through existing access points.
3Ease of operation
If passive entry and start devices are present in vicinity during keycode entry, then convenience is improved, but security deteriorates as vehicle may exit valet mode prematurely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic detection and response to the presence of passive entry devices during valet mode activation. The system continuously monitors for key fobs or smartphones in the vicinity and dynamically adjusts its behavior - detecting when such devices are present and preventing premature exit from valet mode, thereby maintaining security while allowing convenience when appropriate.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the detection of passive entry devices to control valet mode activation. When the system detects a key fob or smartphone during the keycode entry process, it provides feedback that prevents the vehicle from exiting valet mode, ensuring that the intended security restrictions remain in place until the valet mode is properly deactivated through the correct procedure.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for an enhanced valet mode for vehicles. An example method may include receiving a request to enter a valet mode of the vehicle. The example method may also include enabling the valet mode of the vehicle. The example method may also include disabling, based on the valet mode of the vehicle being enabled, a secure idle mode of the vehicle, wherein the secure idle mode of the vehicle includes locking a gear shifter of the vehicle in a park position when an occupant of the vehicle is outside of a cabin of the vehicle.