Vehicle Emergency Unlocking Using External Low-Power Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle unlocking systems fail to provide a reliable and cost-effective emergency unlocking solution in the event of a control unit malfunction or power supply failure, particularly lacking authorization verification and requiring specialized devices or power sources.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an input interface for receiving authorization data, an analysis unit to determine control commands, and an output interface to supply power to unlocking actuators, utilizing existing communication protocols and external energy sources like smartphones, ensuring authorized unlocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If wireless power transmission is used for emergency unlocking, then power can be supplied to the unlocking system, but the range of potential power sources is limited and a special device must be carried
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's control units are designed to perform multiple functions: normal vehicle operation control and emergency unlocking authorization. The control unit can operate in two modes - normal mode for vehicle control and emergency mode for authorization-only operations when power is limited, allowing the same hardware to serve universal purposes without requiring specialized equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The authorization function is extracted and separated from the power supply function. The control unit can operate in a low-power authorization-only mode where it verifies credentials and grants unlocking permission without requiring full power for actuator operation, allowing the system to function with minimal power from various sources including smartphones
2Reliability
If an external power supply is used for emergency unlocking, then unlocking can be enabled, but the solution requires specialized devices or mechanical keys that may not be readily available
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to accept authorization from multiple types of devices including smartphones, key fobs, and other electronic credentials through universal communication protocols. The control unit can verify authorization data from various sources and grant emergency unlocking without requiring specialized emergency equipment, making the solution as accessible as regular keyless entry
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses digital copies of authorization credentials (electronic keys, smartphone apps, NFC tags) instead of requiring physical mechanical keys or specialized emergency tools. These digital credentials can be replicated and stored on common personal devices like smartphones that everyone already carries
3Ease of operation
If Bluetooth-based solutions with programmed key secrets are used, then unlocking can be achieved, but theft protection issues are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit implements feedback mechanisms to monitor and verify the authenticity of authorization requests. It checks multiple parameters including device identification, credential validity, and authorization permissions before granting emergency unlock, providing feedback control to prevent unauthorized access while allowing legitimate users to unlock the vehicle
4Reliability
If the vehicle's built-in computer is used for emergency unlocking with external power, then authorized opening can be enabled, but the solution is costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The emergency unlocking authorization function is extracted as a separate operational mode from the full vehicle control system. The control unit can operate in a minimal mode that only handles authorization verification and unlock command generation without requiring the full complexity of the vehicle's computer system, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
The existing vehicle control units are designed to serve dual purposes - normal vehicle operation and emergency unlocking authorization. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated emergency unlocking hardware, reducing device complexity and cost while maintaining reliable authorized access
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) for the emergency unlocking of a motor vehicle (28) in the event of a malfunction of a control unit (32) and/or a power supply failure of the motor vehicle's (28) electronics, as well as a corresponding method, computer program, and system (18). Furthermore, the invention relates to a motor vehicle (28). It provides a method for the emergency opening of vehicles (28) when the 12V battery (30) is depleted. The 12V battery (30) in the vehicle (28) supplies power to the authorization computer (32) and the control unit for the vehicle's (28) locks. Currently, authorized emergency unlocking requires a key blade located on the remote key (22) and a mechanical lock on the vehicle (28). These two components can be eliminated with this invention. Additionally, the invention eliminates the need for an additional high-current power supply unit for the emergency power supply of the authorization computer (32) and the control unit for the locks.It is provided that an emergency opening and authorization system can be activated by an external power source (20), such as a mobile phone charger or a power bank, to open the vehicle (28).