Vehicle Position Estimation via LF and RF Signal Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle key systems lack the ability to accurately estimate a driver's position using wireless communication and perform remote control functions based on that position, limiting the vehicle's autonomous operations and user interface capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system that performs low-frequency (LF) and radio-frequency (RF) communication with a fob key to estimate the driver's position and control connections with a portable device, establishing vehicle controllable areas and authenticating the device to enable remote control operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication with fob key is used for automatic door locking, then driver convenience is improved, but the ability to accurately estimate driver position is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement mechanism (signal strength detection and time-based measurement) between the fob key wireless communication and the driver position estimation. The controller measures the strength of LF signals and RF signals, and calculates time intervals for position estimation, serving as an intermediary that enables position tracking while maintaining wireless convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical key insertion systems with wireless communication systems that incorporate signal strength-based position estimation. The mechanical key system is substituted with an electronic wireless system that can simultaneously provide automatic door locking and driver position tracking through signal measurements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If remote control via portable device is enabled, then user interface capabilities are enhanced, but system security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication actions before enabling remote control. The controller authenticates the portable device through credential verification and position validation before allowing connection, and continuously monitors driver position during operation to maintain security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the driver's position relative to the vehicle and compares it against predefined safe zones. This feedback loop enables the system to detect unauthorized access attempts and terminate connections when security thresholds are violated.
3Reliability
If driver position estimation is implemented, then autonomous operation safety is improved, but communication system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing wireless communication system multi-functional by enabling it to perform both its original purpose (door locking, remote control) and the new function (driver position estimation) using the same communication infrastructure. The LF and RF communication channels serve multiple purposes, reducing the need for additional dedicated hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts position information by analyzing changes in signal parameters (strength, time intervals) rather than adding new measurement hardware. The controller estimates position by measuring signal strength variations and time delays in wireless communication, transforming communication parameters into positional data.
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 accurate positioning of the driver and secure remote control of the vehicle, enhancing autonomous driving and user interface functionalities by allowing the vehicle to determine the driver's location and authenticate the portable device for authorized control.
Implementation Method 1
a communication unit performing low frequency (LF) communication and radio frequency (RF) communication with a fob key
Implementation Method 2
a communication unit performing low frequency (LF) communication and radio frequency (RF) communication with a fob key
Implementation Method 3
a communication unit performing low frequency (LF) communication and radio frequency (RF) communication with a fob key and performing short-range communication with a portable device
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle includes: a communication unit performing low frequency (LF) communication and radio frequency (RF) communication with a fob key and performing short-range communication with a portable device; and a controller estimating a position of a user having the fob key using the LF and RF communication with the fob key and controlling a connection between the portable device and the communication unit according to the estimated position of the user using the short-range communication with the portable device.