Vehicle Electronic Key System with Color-Coded Status Indicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle door locking and unlocking systems lack simplicity and user feedback regarding the current status of the door locking/unlocking function, often requiring multiple sensors and complex wiring.
Innovation Solution
A single button or sensor on a vehicle's door handle or key FOB that changes function between lock and unlock modes, indicated by color lights, retractable side view mirrors, or tinting/window clearing, allowing users to easily determine the current function and status through visual cues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single button is used for both lock and unlock functions, then device complexity is reduced, but it becomes difficult for users to determine the current function of the button
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-changing indicators (such as LED lights or color-coded displays) to visually indicate the current function of the button. When the button is in lock mode, it displays one color, and when in unlock mode, it displays another color, allowing users to easily determine the button's current function without adding physical complexity to the system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system provides visual information back to the user about the current state of the button. This feedback loop ensures that users are always aware of whether the button will perform a lock or unlock function, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining system simplicity.
2Loss of information
If multiple sensors are used to indicate door status, then user feedback is improved, but device complexity and wiring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single indicator component perform multiple functions by using color changes or different visual states to convey different door statuses (locked, unlocked, locking, unlocking). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple separate sensors and indicators, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive user feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color-changing visual indicators to communicate different door status information. Different colors represent different states (e.g., green for unlocked, red for locked, yellow for transitioning), allowing a single indicator to provide comprehensive feedback without requiring multiple separate components.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic key system utilizes a single switch or sensor to perform multiple functions. The function of the single switch or sensor is changed based upon a condition of a component of the vehicle when a controller verifies the presence of a mobile unit. An indicator is utilized to tell an individual what the function of the switch screen is currently.