Vehicle Alert Activation via Non-Paired Nomadic Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle alert systems require the user to be in close proximity with their paired key fob, limiting the ability to activate vehicle alarms for locating lost vehicles or signaling assistance from a distance.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system that allows access to non-paired nomadic devices to activate the horn and exterior lights based on messages containing identifying information, using a controller to authenticate and limit access, thereby enabling distant alert activation without direct key fob proximity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vehicle alarm system requires a paired key fob for activation, then the system security and access control are improved, but the ability to activate the alarm from a distance or when the key fob is not accessible is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a nomadic device as an intermediary between the vehicle and the user. This device can store vehicle identification information and transmit it to the vehicle system wirelessly, enabling alarm activation without direct physical access to a paired key fob. The nomadic device acts as a mediator that bridges the gap between security requirements and distant activation needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the authentication process into two parts: the nomadic device holds the vehicle identification information, while the vehicle system verifies this information and controls alarm activation. This segmentation allows the alarm to be activated by anyone with the correct identification data in the nomadic device, not just the original key fob holder, thereby improving accessibility while maintaining security through verification.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the vehicle system restricts access to paired devices only, then the unauthorized access risk is reduced, but the capability to locate a lost vehicle or signal for help from a distance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts access permissions based on the verification of vehicle identification information. Instead of a static paired-device-only approach, the vehicle controller can temporarily grant access to nomadic devices that present valid identification data. This dynamic permission structure enables distant activation capabilities while maintaining security through conditional verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The nomadic device serves multiple functions: it can store vehicle identification information for authentication, transmit this information wirelessly to the vehicle, and potentially serve as a remote control interface. This multi-functionality allows a single device type to both maintain security protocols and enable versatile remote operation, including locating lost vehicles and signaling for help.
3Device complexity
If the alarm system requires physical proximity with the key fob, then the system complexity is kept simple, but the productivity in terms of rapid remote vehicle location is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical proximity-based key fob system with a wireless communication system using nomadic devices. Instead of requiring physical proximity and mechanical button pressing, the system uses wireless transmission of vehicle identification information and electronic control signals. This substitution maintains relative system simplicity while dramatically improving the productivity of rapid vehicle location from a distance.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes a horn, a plurality of exterior lights, and at least one controller. The at least one controller is configured to grant vehicle system access to a nomadic device paired to the vehicle, and in response to receiving a message that contains data identifying a source of the message while the vehicle is in a key-off state from a nomadic device not paired to the vehicle, activate the horn and exterior lights according to respective patterns.