Vehicle Security System Using Facial Recognition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional vehicle security systems do not effectively prevent unauthorized use or theft of vehicles, as they lack a mechanism to verify the identity of the vehicle occupant before allowing engine start-up.

Innovation Solution

A vehicle security system that includes an in-vehicle device with an information acquisition unit, such as a camera and lighting, to capture and verify the facial image of the occupant, and a management center to determine the usability of the image data, enabling or restricting the vehicle's driving functions based on the verification.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional vehicle security systems using portable devices and transponders are used, then engine starting can be controlled, but theft of the portable device cannot be prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevehicle securityVSAvoidtheft of portable device
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical portable device system with a biological identification system. Instead of relying on physical keys or transponders that can be stolen, the system uses facial image recognition to identify the driver. The camera captures the driver's facial features and compares them against registered data, eliminating the need for portable authentication devices that are vulnerable to theft.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If the in-vehicle device periodically transmits wireless request signals, then the portable device can be activated, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveauthentication functionVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic facial image verification at specific trigger moments rather than continuous monitoring. The system activates the camera and processing functions only when the vehicle ignition is turned on or when driving conditions change, rather than continuously transmitting signals or monitoring. This periodic action maintains security while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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

Enhances vehicle security by ensuring only authorized occupants can operate the vehicle, even if the key or portable device is stolen, and promotes safety by requiring seatbelt fastening during operation, while minimizing unnecessary power consumption.

Implementation Method 1

an information acquisition unit, such as a camera and lighting, to capture and verify the facial image of the occupant

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

an information acquisition unit, such as a camera and lighting, to capture and verify the facial image of the occupant

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight: Light

Data Source

PatentUS7760070B2Vehicle security device and system
Publication Date: 2010.07.20 KK TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO
  • US7760070B2 patent drawing
  • US7760070B2 patent drawing
  • US7760070B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A vehicle security device for providing a vehicle with improved security. The security device includes a camera for generating a facial image of a vehicle occupant. A security controller, which is connected to the camera, restricts driving of the vehicle. If the facial image includes the necessary facial features, the security controller enables the driving of the vehicle.