Wireless Latching Relay for Vehicle Start Authorization Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle anti-theft systems are complex and expensive, making them unsuitable for vehicle sharing applications, as they often rely on physical key mechanisms and are not compatible with modern electronic validation methods, which can be easily bypassed if a valid remote is left inside the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A system and method involving a vehicle sharing control unit with a controller and transmitter for wireless signal transmission, combined with a wireless latching relay that cuts and controls the vehicle wiring harness, allowing for secure engine start authorization without physical connections, using a microcontroller unit and low-power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electronic validation systems are used, then the vehicle can start with a valid remote, but the vehicle cannot prevent starting if the remote is left inside
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the anti-theft function into two independent components: a control unit that monitors remote presence and a latching relay that physically controls engine starting. This segmentation allows each component to be simple while the combination provides robust security.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching relay acts as an intermediary between the control unit and the vehicle's starting system. It receives wireless control signals and physically interrupts the wiring harness to prevent engine starting, providing a reliable security barrier without complex electronics in the relay itself.
2Reliability
If complex electronic validation systems are implemented, then security may be improved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The latching relay uses a simple, inexpensive electromagnetic mechanism rather than expensive microprocessors or cryptographic hardware. The relay coil and contacts are basic electrical components that can be manufactured at low cost while providing reliable security function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces complex electronic validation mechanisms with a simpler approach: a wireless control signal actuates an electromagnetic relay that physically interrupts the wiring harness. This mechanical/electromagnetic solution is more cost-effective than sophisticated electronic authentication systems.
3Reliability
If continuous power is supplied to the control system, then the system remains always active, but the battery is drained
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit operates in a low-power state most of the time and only activates fully when it receives a wireless control signal. The latching relay maintains its latched state without continuous power to the coil, using the magnetic field to hold the circuit open or closed position.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching relay uses its own magnetic field to maintain its state without requiring continuous external power. Once actuated by a control signal, the relay coil's magnetic field sustains the latched position, allowing the system to remain secure with minimal power consumption from the vehicle battery.
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
Provides a simple, efficient, and cost-effective anti-theft solution by preventing unauthorized engine starts, even if the remote is left inside the vehicle, with the ability to install the relay anywhere and maintain security without draining the battery.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter for transmitting wirelessly vehicle sharing control signals
Implementation Method 2
a receiver configured for receiving the vehicle sharing control signals from the transmitter
Implementation Method 3
a latching relay
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling a transmission of electrical signals in a vehicle wiring harness (12) of a vehicle (10). The system includes: a vehicle sharing control unit (14) including a controller (16) and a transmitter (18) for transmitting wirelessly vehicle sharing control signals (20); a wireless latching relay (22) including a receiver (24) configured for receiving the vehicle sharing control signals (20) from the transmitter (18), and a latching relay (26). In use, the vehicle wiring harness (12) is cut to define first and second ends (28, 30), and the first and second ends (28, 30) are connected in series with the latching relay (26).