Shared Vehicle Virtual Key Access With Multi-Device Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for managing shared vehicle access lack efficient methods for authenticating and managing access privileges, leading to potential security issues and user inconvenience in accessing and maintaining access to shared vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a reservation management device and vehicle device that generates and manages virtual keys, allowing users to access vehicles through authentication via identification devices, with the option to provide access to vehicles and maintain access using separate user devices, enabling flexible authentication and access management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional access control systems are used for shared vehicles, then security can be maintained, but user convenience and access flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtual keys as digital copies of physical access credentials. These virtual keys can be generated, stored, and transmitted electronically to multiple user devices, enabling convenient access while maintaining security through cryptographic verification. The virtual key system replaces traditional physical keys or access cards with programmable digital equivalents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical access control systems (physical keys, locks, and switches) with electronic and software-based systems. The vehicle device communicates with user devices through electronic messages and protocols, eliminating the need for physical key exchange and mechanical locking mechanisms, thereby improving both convenience and security.
2Reliability
If multiple authentication methods are implemented, then security is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the authentication system into distinct modular components: the reservation management device that generates virtual keys, the vehicle device that verifies them, and user devices that store and present them. Each component has a specific function, and they communicate through standardized protocols. This segmentation allows for multiple authentication methods without creating a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual key system is designed to be universal and multi-functional. The same virtual key infrastructure supports various authentication scenarios including vehicle access, rental management, and authorization verification. The system can accommodate different authentication methods (cryptographic verification, credential checking) within a unified framework, reducing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual keys are provided to multiple devices, then user flexibility is improved, but access security may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the vehicle device continuously verifies virtual keys presented by user devices. The reservation management device can revoke or update virtual keys based on authentication outcomes. This feedback loop ensures that even if multiple devices hold virtual keys, security is maintained through active verification and the ability to invalidate compromised keys.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary authentication and verification actions before granting access. The vehicle device verifies the virtual key credentials before unlocking the vehicle, and the reservation management device pre-validates user authorization. These preliminary checks ensure that distributing virtual keys to multiple devices does not compromise security, as each access attempt is independently verified.
Data Source
AI summary
To utilize a shared vehicle, a user can request access to the vehicle, which results in the generation of a virtual key. The virtual key is provided to a plurality of different devices, such as a vehicle device at the vehicle, and a user device in the possession of the user. Access to the vehicle can be granted and maintained by verification of the virtual key against data from an identification device at the vehicle, or from the user device. In this way, multiple options for vehicle access are available to the user, which increases flexibility and user-friendliness.