Wireless Vehicle Control Configuration via Smartphone Telematics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle control systems lack efficient methods for initial configuration and reconfiguration, as well as effective communication techniques with remote servers, limiting their functionality and user control capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system (VCS) with a processor, external wireless RF interface, non-volatile programmable memory, and a bus that enables wireless configuration and reconfiguration by reading vehicle information, transmitting it to a user control and communication device (UCCD), receiving configuration parameters, and storing them for self-configuration, allowing for remote start and telematics communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If vehicle control systems use traditional configuration methods, then installation is straightforward, but configuration efficiency and user control capability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/manual configuration methods with wireless electronic communication. The VCS uses an external wireless RF interface to communicate with a UCCD, allowing configuration parameters to be transmitted wirelessly and stored in non-volatile programmable memory, eliminating the need for manual wiring or physical configuration processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a UCCD (user control and communication device) as an intermediary between the user and the VCS. The UCCD facilitates wireless communication and configuration parameter transmission, serving as a mediator that enables efficient system configuration without requiring direct physical connection or complex manual procedures.
2Ease of operation
If vehicle control systems implement remote configuration capabilities, then user control improves, but communication reliability with remote servers may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary configuration actions by storing configuration parameters in non-volatile programmable memory within the VCS. This allows the system to retain configuration data locally without requiring continuous connection to remote servers, ensuring operational reliability even when communication with external systems is unavailable.
3Speed
If vehicle control systems use volatile memory for configuration, then write speed is fast, but configuration data is lost when power is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary storage of configuration parameters in non-volatile programmable memory, ensuring that configuration data is preserved before power removal occurs. This preliminary action of storing data in a stable medium prevents data loss while maintaining system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the memory parameter from volatile to non-volatile, transforming the storage medium's characteristics to maintain data retention stability. This parameter change allows the system to preserve configuration data permanently or for extended periods without power, while still accepting configuration inputs during operation.
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
Enables seamless wireless configuration and reconfiguration of vehicle systems, enhancing connectivity with remote servers and user control, thereby improving the functionality and convenience of vehicle control systems.
Implementation Method 1
an external wireless radio frequency (RF) interface
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle control system (VCS) includes external communication interfaces, such as a Bluetooth® interface, for communicating with a user communication and control device, such as a smart phone or a tablet. The user is enabled to operate certain features of the vehicle, such as the remote start, power locks/trunk, climate control, and security features, through the smart phone. The VCS may also communicate with a remote server via the user's smartphone, for example, providing telematics data and receiving service reminders for display to the user on the smartphone, the VCS, or a display built into the vehicle. The VCS may be custom installed in the vehicle using the user's or the installer's smartphone, without a physical connection from the VCS to the smartphone.