Vehicle UHF Attenuation Layout for Precise Hands-Free Key Location

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 'hands-free' access systems for motor vehicles using Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy communication struggle to precisely locate portable devices at short distances due to imprecise RSSI measurements, making it difficult to unlock or start the vehicle, and also face challenges with long-range communication being compromised for precise location, which is necessary for remote control functions.

Innovation Solution

The system incorporates a locating device with multiple attenuation modules and impedance settings to control the range of Ultra High Frequency waves, allowing for precise location of portable devices in and around the vehicle while maintaining long-range communication capabilities, enabling remote control functions like locking/unlocking and starting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy communication is used for hands-free access, then long-range communication capability is improved, but measurement precision for locating portable devices deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication rangeVSAvoidlocation precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the communication and location system into two distinct functional segments: a first communication unit for long-range Bluetooth communication and a second communication unit for short-range precise location using RSSI measurements. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function without compromise

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism by using the first communication unit to establish initial contact and then transitioning to the second communication unit for precise location. The system acts as an intermediary between long-range and short-range communication requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If attenuation modules are added to control UHF wave range for precise location, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation precisionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the attenuation control function into a separate, dedicated module that can be independently optimized. The attenuation module is taken out as a distinct component with specific impedance settings, separating the precision location function from the main communication system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by creating specific impedance settings (first, second, and third impedance values) that are optimized for different location precision requirements. Each attenuation module is configured with specific electrical characteristics tailored to its function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple attenuation modules with different impedance settings are used, then adaptability for different location scenarios is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation scenario adaptabilityVSAvoidmodule quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by making the attenuation module switchable between different impedance settings based on operational requirements. The system can dynamically adjust between first, second, and third impedance values depending on the communication scenario and desired location precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The attenuation module serves multiple functions: it enables precise location measurement, maintains long-range communication capability, and adapts to different operational scenarios. A single multi-functional module replaces what would otherwise require separate dedicated systems

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

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

This solution allows for precise location of portable devices via Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy, enabling 'hands-free' starting and maintaining long-range communication, thus overcoming the limitations of previous systems by defining multiple locating areas and ensuring continuous location tracking.

Implementation Method 1

a transceiver (10) electrically connected to at least one antenna (A) by an electric communication line (20A)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic radiation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

at least one attenuation module (M1) located on the electric communication line (20) between the transceiver (10) and the antenna (A)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSignal attenuation: Absorption (EM radiation)

Data Source

PatentUS12049192B2Method for ultra high frequency continuous communication with and location of a portable device for “hands-free” access to a motor vehicle
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
  • US12049192B2 patent drawing
  • US12049192B2 patent drawing
  • US12049192B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and a system for ultra high frequency communication with and location of a portable device for “hands-free” access to a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having an on-board communication device comprising an ultra high frequency transceiver, an electrical power supply source and at least one antenna, the motor vehicle including a first arrangement, in which the transceiver is connected to the antenna, and a second arrangement, in which the transceiver is disconnected from the antenna. The transceiver is connected to an attenuation module located at a predetermined distance from the transceiver. The attenuation module includes an impedance of predetermined value connected to ground. The predetermined distance between the transceiver and the attenuation module, as well as the predetermined value of the impedance, defining a locating area of the portable device in and around the motor vehicle.