Vehicle Locking System Using Dynamic Codes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vehicle locking and unlocking methods using code inputs are vulnerable to theft as the code can be easily observed, allowing unauthorized access.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing a mobile device to communicate with a server for generating and sending a temporary code for locking and unlocking a vehicle, which can be input via various devices such as sensors, cameras, or touch-sensitive fields, ensuring secure and convenient access without the physical key.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a fixed code is programmed in the vehicle for locking and unlocking, then the vehicle can be accessed without a physical key, but the code can be easily observed and stolen by unauthorized persons

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess without physical keyVSAvoidsecurity against theft
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic codes that change over time or after each use, transforming the static security system into a dynamic one. The code is generated based on time stamps, random values, or usage counters, ensuring that each code is unique and cannot be reused, thereby preventing theft while maintaining ease of access for authorized users

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of code validity from permanent to temporary. The code includes time-based expiration or usage-based limitations, so that even if observed, the code becomes invalid after a short period or single use, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If a code is used for locking and unlocking the vehicle, then extensive functions can be enabled, but the code input process can be spied on by observing door handle pulling or button tapping

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveextensive functions enabledVSAvoidcode observation and theft
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary verification process where the code is not simply compared but validated through multiple factors including time stamps, device identifiers, and server verification. This intermediary layer prevents simple observation from leading to unauthorized access, as the system verifies the authenticity and timing of each code submission

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses digital copies of authentication data stored securely in the vehicle's memory, comparing the submitted code against these stored references. The system creates and stores multiple valid code variations, allowing legitimate users access while preventing unauthorized replication through observation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If a mobile device and server communication is used to generate temporary codes, then security is improved, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against theftVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent leverages the mobile device's existing universal capabilities (communication, computing, timekeeping) to generate and verify codes, rather than requiring specialized hardware. The vehicle's existing communication systems are also utilized for server interaction, reducing the need for additional dedicated components and minimizing system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11110890B2Method for locking and/or unlocking a vehicle
Publication Date: 2021.09.07 MERCEDES BENZ GROUP AG
  • US11110890B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for locking and/or unlocking a vehicle having an input device for a code on the vehicle, via which the vehicle can be locked and/or unlocked, involves requesting the code via a mobile device having a mobile number registered to the respective vehicle with a data server. After the request, the data server generates a current code and send this to the mobile device and to the vehicle. The code can then be input via the input device and compared to the code sent to the vehicle and, should they match, locking and/or unlocking of the vehicle is enabled.