Vehicle Key Image Decoding for Remote Duplicate Key Ordering
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and high cost of replacing vehicle keys, particularly due to the integration of transponder and remote keyless entry systems, make it difficult for consumers to obtain replacement keys without relying on dealerships or locksmiths, leading to inconvenience and expense.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for duplicating vehicle keys using a touch screen device that captures images of the master key, processes the key information, and communicates it to a central server for key cutting and delivery, eliminating the need for on-site locksmith services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional key replacement methods using dealerships or locksmiths are used, then key security and functionality are maintained, but consumer convenience deteriorates and service cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying technology to capture images of the master key blade and transponder data, creating a digital replica that can be processed and used to manufacture a replacement key without requiring physical access to specialized equipment or expertise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key cutting and programming systems with a digital workflow where key images are captured via camera, processed through software algorithms, and transmitted electronically to manufacturing facilities, eliminating the need for on-site mechanical key duplication equipment
2Manufacturing precision
If specialized locksmith services are used for key replacement, then key accuracy and functionality are ensured, but service cost increases and service time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing and processing key data in advance through automated image recognition algorithms that identify key bitting patterns and transponder information, preparing the data for manufacturing before the customer even places their order
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a digital intermediary system consisting of image capture devices, processing software, and communication networks that mediate between the customer's master key and the replacement key manufacturing process, enabling accurate key duplication without direct human intervention at the service location
3Productivity
If on-site key cutting equipment is deployed, then service speed improves, but capital expenditure and logistical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex key manufacturing equipment from the service location and relocates it to centralized facilities, leaving only simple image capture devices at customer sites. This separates the data collection function from the manufacturing function, enabling fast service without requiring expensive equipment at every location
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal digital key data format that can be captured by various imaging devices and processed through standardized software algorithms, making the system adaptable to different key types and manufacturing facilities without requiring location-specific equipment
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method to automatically extract bitting information, such as keycode information, for replicating original/master key. System comprises an imaging device that scans the key blade of the original key and sends images to the server where the keycode gets extracted using an iterative software algorithm based on maximum likelihood principle. In one example a system comprises a kiosk which includes SBC (Single Board Computer), imaging device, touch screen and transponder identification module determines compatible SKU (from internal SKU database) if needed, and a compatible key with a matched cut key blade gets delivered to the location of Kiosk to get paired to the car. Another type system comprises a Smartphone/tablet with CKE application instead of KIOSK to scan the original keyblade. The application sends images to a central server for decoding and cutting a duplicate key, and a compatible duplicate key with matched cut key blade is delivered to the associated customer.