Vehicle Biometric Authentication with Key Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle authentication systems are complex and do not allow for convenient granting or revocation of driving authorization, particularly when the driver prefers not to use biometric features or when precise key location is required to prevent unauthorized starts.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that capture and compare biometric features of the driver with stored data, allowing authorization if a matching key is detected, either by radio or in the ignition lock, ensuring only authorized individuals can start the vehicle, with optional biometric feature storage and deletion for authorized users.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If biometric authentication is implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The authentication system is divided into two independent modules: biometric authentication module and key-based authentication module. Each module can function independently, allowing the system to maintain high security through biometric verification while avoiding the complexity of requiring both methods simultaneously for all authentication scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the authentication method based on the situation. When a key is detected in the ignition lock, biometric verification is required. When no key is detected, the system can accept alternative authentication methods, making the system flexible and adaptive rather than rigid and complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If key location detection is required to prevent unauthorized starts, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects the key's presence in the ignition lock without requiring the user to manually indicate or activate anything. The detection process is transparent and automatic, maintaining ease of operation while ensuring security through automated key location verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If biometric features are captured and stored, then authorization control is improved, but loss of information increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthorization controlVSAvoidbiometric data privacy
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

Biometric data is stored locally in the vehicle's memory rather than being transmitted or stored externally. This localized storage minimizes the risk of data breaches and ensures that biometric information remains private to the specific vehicle, reducing information loss while maintaining authorization control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Reliability

If multiple authentication methods are required, then security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically determines which authentication method to use based on the detected key presence. When a key is detected in the ignition lock, biometric verification is required. When no key is detected, the system can accept alternative authentication methods, making the system flexible and adaptive rather than rigid and complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables secure and convenient vehicle operation by anyone with the authorized key, preventing unauthorized starts and allowing voluntary biometric feature capture, while protecting against relay attacks and ensuring only authorized drivers can initiate the vehicle.

Implementation Method 1

an antenna for detecting radio signals from a key authorized for the vehicle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadio signal detection: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP2543561B1Method and system for checking the driving authorisation for a vehicle
Publication Date: 2017.03.29 VOLKSWAGEN AG
  • EP2543561B1 patent drawing
  • EP2543561B1 patent drawing
  • EP2543561B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The method involves detecting biometric characteristics of a person located on a driver seat of a vehicle (10). The biometric data is compared with stored biometric data for the person having the driving authorization. An authorized key (3) for the vehicle is searched. A positive identification of the driving authorization is indicated when the stored biometric data matches with the detected biometric characteristics of the person located on the driver seat. An independent claim is also included for a system for checking a driving authorization of a vehicle.