Vehicle Secure Idle Control via Key Fob Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Securing a vehicle during an extended idle is challenging, especially when multiple keys are not available, and even with multiple keys, ensuring the vehicle's safety through safeguard checks is desirable to prevent unauthorized use or tampering.
Innovation Solution
A control module integrated into the vehicle's system that processes key fob data to determine if secure idle conditions are met, inhibiting vehicle mobility by locking the powertrain and external locks, and ceasing this inhibition when exit conditions are met, while continuously monitoring for safeguard violations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple keys are used to secure the vehicle during extended idle, then vehicle security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a key fob that transmits a copy or representation of the authorization code wirelessly, eliminating the need for multiple physical keys. The control module receives and processes the key fob data to verify authorization, providing security through digital copying rather than multiple physical copies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical key system with a wireless electronic communication system. Instead of inserting physical keys into ignition switches, the system uses radio frequency transmission from the key fob to the control module, substituting mechanical interaction with electromagnetic field-based communication.
2Reliability
If safeguard checks are continuously performed during extended idle, then vehicle security is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module performs safeguard checks at periodic intervals rather than continuously. The processor is configured to check safeguard conditions during the extended idle period at defined intervals, reducing energy consumption while maintaining security through periodic verification of vehicle status.
3Ease of operation
If the vehicle transmission is put into park while the engine is running, then vehicle mobility is inhibited, but ease of operation improves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control module as an intermediary between the driver's intent and the vehicle's security systems. The control module processes key fob data, determines authorization, and coordinates the activation of security measures during extended idle, mediating between operational convenience and security requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for an extended secure idle (SI) for a mobile platform. The SI may be entered and exited responsive to a variety of SI entry and SI exit conditions. SI entry and exit conditions include receiving key fob data from a key fob authenticated with the mobile platform. In addition, various predetermined safeguard conditions for scenarios to monitor may be designated a priori. The described system and method will continually check that the predetermined safeguard conditions are not violated during an extended SI.