Wireless Valet Key Transfer System for Secure Vehicle Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for valet parking, such as geo-fencing and access codes, do not effectively address the need to securely transfer vehicle access without physically handing over a device, which can be lost or require managing multiple codes.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows a processor to receive a valet-key request, authenticate, and transfer vehicle data and key data from an owner's mobile device to a valet's mobile device, enabling wireless access and activation with constraints like time limits and usage restrictions, allowing the valet device to function as a key fob without physical exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical keys are handed over to valet, then vehicle access is enabled, but security risk increases due to potential loss or unauthorized use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the key functionality through a valet key code that can be transferred wirelessly between mobile devices. Instead of physically handing over the actual key, the system generates and transfers a cryptographic representation (valet key code) that enables vehicle access. This digital copy can be selectively revoked or limited, solving the security concern while maintaining ease of access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical key system with a wireless electronic key transfer system. The physical key fob is replaced by a mobile device that can receive and store valet key codes through wireless communication protocols. This substitution eliminates the need for physical handover while maintaining the ability to grant vehicle access, thereby improving security without compromising convenience.
2Adaptability or versatility
If access codes are provided to multiple valets, then vehicle access is enabled for multiple users, but complexity increases due to managing and reconfiguring multiple codes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal valet key code system that can be transferred to multiple mobile devices without requiring separate configuration for each user. The same valet key code can be wirelessly transferred to different valet mobile devices, allowing multiple users to access the vehicle using their own devices. This eliminates the need for the owner to manage multiple different codes or reconfigure access settings for each valet.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service key distribution where the valet can independently receive and store the valet key code on their own mobile device without requiring the owner's presence or active participation in each transfer. The wireless transfer mechanism allows the key code to be automatically delivered to the valet's device, reducing the administrative burden on the owner.
3Ease of operation
If wireless key transfer is implemented, then physical device exchange is eliminated, but authentication security requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication measures where the vehicle system pre-approves the valet mobile device before allowing key code transfer. The system checks whether the requesting device is authorized to receive a valet key, and only if approved does it enable the transfer process. This preliminary security check simplifies the overall process by automating authentication rather than requiring complex manual verification during the transfer.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a processor configured to receive a valet-key request from a valet mobile device. The processor is also configured to request authentication of a key transfer, responsive to the request and transfer, from an owner mobile device to the valet mobile device, vehicle data, describing a vehicle, and key data, usable to access and activate the vehicle, responsive to authentication approval.