Distributed Vehicle Key Cloning via Transceiver and Network Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for duplicating vehicle access devices like transponder keys are costly, require physical presence at a retail store or locksmith, and involve complex equipment and expertise, making it difficult for consumers to obtain duplicates efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A distributed cloning system using a transmitter/receiver device and a computing device with a cloning application that communicates with a network server to generate and transmit cloning security information, allowing consumers to program a duplicate key without physical presence, using a t/r device with an antenna to communicate with the master key and program a generically programmable duplicate key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If OEM programming tools are used to program new keys, then vehicle access devices can be programmed, but the equipment cost and expertise requirement increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses cloning tools to create electronic duplicates of existing transponder keys by copying their security codes. Instead of requiring complex OEM programming tools, the system reads the code from a working key and creates an identical copy, significantly simplifying the equipment and expertise needed while maintaining reliable key programming capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables consumers to duplicate their own keys using portable cloning devices and online services, eliminating the need for professional locksmiths or dealership equipment. The consumer can independently program replacement keys using the cloning tool and follow online instructions
2Ease of operation
If retail store cloning services are used, then key duplication is simplified, but physical presence at a location is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables consumers to perform key duplication at home using a portable cloning device. The consumer can read the code from their existing key, order a replacement key online, and program it themselves without traveling to a retail store, eliminating travel time while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a portable cloning device as an intermediary tool that bridges the gap between professional locksmith equipment and consumer capability. This device can be used at home to achieve the same results as retail store services, eliminating the need for physical presence at a location
3Ease of manufacture
If aftermarket cloning tools are used, then equipment cost is reduced, but the cloning process requires physical presence at a store
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines affordable portable cloning equipment with online ordering and programming instructions, enabling consumers to duplicate keys at home. This maintains the cost advantage of aftermarket tools while dramatically improving accessibility by eliminating the need to visit a physical store
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 cost-effective, self-service duplication of vehicle access devices, reducing the need for expensive equipment and expert assistance, allowing consumers to create functional duplicates remotely and securely.
Implementation Method 1
These systems involve wireless communication of codes, typically using close field connection like transformer inductance or radio frequency. Vehicle access devices and immobilizer systems often involve a transponder component or other feature that operates through such electromagnetic radiation.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a system and method for duplicating a master key for a vehicle. The system includes determining that a first device is communicating with a t/r device, the t/r device including an antenna for communicating with the master key. A cloning application associated with said t/r device may be operating on the first device. The t/r device may retrieve security information from said master key. The cloning application may communicate the security information for said master key to said central network system. The central network system may generate duplicate security information. The central network system may communicate the duplicate security information to the cloning application. The cloning application may transmit the duplicate security information to the t/r device to program a duplicate master key with the duplicate security information.