Vehicle Lock Set Using Passive RFID and Mechanical Passcode Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current key and lock systems for vehicles and other applications face issues with security, convenience, and cost, particularly with electronic keys that are expensive, unreliable, and difficult to manage, as well as mechanical keys that are cumbersome and prone to loss or theft.
Innovation Solution
A key and lock system utilizing non-powered electronic keys, such as RFID tags, combined with electronic key identifiers and passcode or biometric authentication, powered by ambient energy sources like solar or thermoelectric modules, and integrated with portable electronic devices for secure and convenient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If remote key or smart key is used, then keyless operation is enabled, but ease of operation deteriorates due to large size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy smart keys with lightweight passive RFID tags that can be embedded in various forms such as cards, stickers, or integrated into existing items like keychains or ID badges. This dramatically reduces weight while maintaining keyless operation functionality.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical key is retained for spare, then ease of operation is maintained, but security deteriorates as previous owner can still open car door
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the mechanical key component from the locking system entirely, implementing a purely electronic RFID-based locking mechanism. This eliminates the security vulnerability of retained mechanical keys while maintaining operational ease through contactless RFID authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical key-and-lock system with an electronic RFID authentication system. The passive RFID tag communicates with the vehicle's receiver through electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for physical mechanical keys and their associated security risks.
3Ease of operation
If electronic keypad is mounted on car door, then ease of operation is improved for keyless entry, but device complexity increases and installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex electronic keypad assembly and its associated wiring, power requirements, and installation infrastructure. Instead, it employs simple passive RFID tags that require no installation on the vehicle, eliminating device complexity while maintaining keyless entry functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic keypad system with a passive RFID electromagnetic field-based authentication system. This eliminates the need for complex electronic components, wiring harnesses, power supplies, and professional installation, while providing equally convenient keyless entry.
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
The system provides enhanced security, convenience, and cost-effectiveness by enabling secure keyless entry and engine start without the need for batteries, reducing the risk of key loss or theft, and simplifying management through ambient power generation and integrated electronic devices.
Implementation Method 1
non-powered contactless card-shaped RFID tag key
Implementation Method 2
solar power generation assembly
Implementation Method 3
thermoelectric power generation assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A key and lock set for a vehicle includes: a vehicle lock set with both vehicle door lock and vehicle engine start lock; a passcode for mechanical lock; a rotary mechanical passcode dialer or push-button mechanical passcode keypad that is mounted in vehicle and accessible from vehicle outside; an electronic key in the form of a card key, tag key, passcode or biometric for an electronic lock, wireless key with a built-in power source, portable electronic appliance with key software or key hardware of cell phone, smart phone, tablet, computer, smart watch, digital camera or digital multimedia player; and an electronic key identifier that is mounted in vehicle for the electronic key.