Vehicle Valet Passcode Control for Passive Start Conflicts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing valet mode systems in vehicles are limited by the need for multiple keycodes, reduced security due to keypad limitations, and conflicts with passive entry and start systems, requiring two-handed operations and potential for premature exit from valet mode.

Innovation Solution

The enhanced valet mode generates unique, encrypted keycodes for vehicle access and starting, integrates with modern keycode systems, and modifies secure idle mode to work with keycodes rather than trackable devices, allowing one-handed operation and improved security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple keycodes are generated for valet mode (one for door keypad, one for HMI), then vehicle access and starting are enabled, but security is reduced due to keypad limitations and complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle access capabilityVSAvoidsystem security
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the door keypad code and HMI code into a single unified keycode that can be used for both vehicle entry and engine starting. This merging eliminates the security vulnerability of having separate codes and simplifies the system while maintaining full functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The unified valet keycode serves multiple functions: it can be entered in the door keypad for vehicle entry, entered in the HMI for engine starting, and works across different vehicle states (off, accessory, run). This multi-functionality replaces the need for separate keycodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If valet mode uses traditional keycode entry, then vehicle access is enabled, but two-handed operations are required reducing ease of operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle access controlVSAvoidkeycode entry convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically provides the valet keycode to the mobile device without requiring the valet to manually write it down. The keycode is digitally delivered and stored, allowing the valet to access it conveniently during one-handed operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of writing down keycodes with a digital delivery system through mobile devices. This substitution eliminates the need for manual recording and enables easier retrieval during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If passive entry and start devices are present in vicinity, then convenient access is enabled, but conflicts occur causing premature exit from valet mode

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepassive access convenienceVSAvoidvalet mode stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system preemptively disables passive entry and passive start functionality when valet mode is activated. This preliminary action prevents potential conflicts before they can occur, ensuring valet mode stability while maintaining secure keycode-based access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and removes passive entry and start capabilities from the system during valet mode operation. By taking out these conflicting features, the system eliminates the source of instability while preserving the core valet functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Reliability

If secure idle mode is enabled, then vehicle security is improved, but conflicts with keycode-based valet mode reduce adaptability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle securityVSAvoidvalet mode compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts secure idle mode behavior based on valet mode status. When valet mode is active, secure idle is configured to recognize and accommodate keycode-based starting, allowing both security features to coexist harmoniously through adaptive behavior.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11919478B2Systems and methods for enhanced vehicle valet mode
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 FORD GLOBAL TECH LLC
  • US11919478B2 patent drawing
  • US11919478B2 patent drawing
  • US11919478B2 patent drawing

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 for a temporary valet passcode. The example method may also include generating a temporary valet passcode. The example method may also include displaying a request for entry of the temporary valet passcode. The example method may also include determining that an input has been received. The example method may also include determining that a mobile device is located within the vehicle or within a threshold distance from the vehicle. The example method may also include preventing the vehicle from starting based on authorization of the mobile device for a period of time subsequent to the input being received.