DESC:VEHICLE REMOTE LOCKING AND UNLOCKING
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICTIONS
The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202321075054 filed on 03/11/2023, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by a reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Generally, the present disclosure relates to remote access control mechanism. Particularly, the present disclosure relates to a remote access control system of a vehicle. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a method of remote access control of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
The usage of automobiles has rapidly increased in recent years due to growing needs of transportation and advancements in technology. The increasing demand of the vehicles significantly increases the safety concerns in terms of theft prevention and accessibility of vehicles. Traditionally, the locking systems in the vehicles, require physical keys to lock and/or unlock the vehicle. However, such locking systems may suffer certain limitations such as loss of key that may render the locking system non-functional. Furthermore, such locking systems may be compromised by physically copying the key, leading to unauthorized access of the vehicle. Moreover, the mechanical locks may be easily picked or manipulated by experienced thieves using basic tools which is prone to compromising the vehicle's security. Furthermore, such locking systems may limit the accessibility of the vehicles.
Presently, the locking systems in vehicles have evolved beyond the traditional mechanical locks to incorporate electronic and smart security features. The evolved locking techniques includes a remote locking and unlocking systems based on the server. Such remote locking systems are convenient and advanced and overcome the drawbacks associated with traditional mechanical locking. However, the current remote locking and unlocking system suffers several key challenges including latency and security. The latency may arise due to communication and/or network delays between a mobile device, the server, and the vehicle.
The remote locking and unlocking system rely heavily on secure communication channels between the mobile device, the server, and the vehicle. However, the server systems are potential targets for cyberattacks, including man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, where hackers intercept or manipulate the communication between the device and the server, or denial of service (DoS) attacks, where the server may be compromised due to malicious traffic. Moreover, any downtime, maintenance, or failure of the server may render the entire system non-functional and makes difficult for users to access their vehicles.
Thus, there exists a need for an improved locking unlocking system or method that overcomes the one or more problems as set forth above.
SUMMARY
An object of the present disclosure is to provide a remote access control system of the electric vehicle.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method of remote access control of a vehicle.
In accordance with an aspect of present disclosure there is provided a remote access control system of a vehicle. The remote access control system comprises a user device configured to be linked with the vehicle, a server arrangement communicably coupled with the user device and the vehicle. The server arrangement is configured to link the user device with the vehicle, authenticate a user via the user device and communicate at least one user request of the authenticated user to the vehicle to remotely access the vehicle.
The remote access control system of the present disclosure is advantageous in terms of security, convenience, and user experience. The system beneficially links a user device, such as a smartphone, tablet with a vehicle control system to enable remote access control of the vehicle. The system beneficially eliminates the need for physical keys. Furthermore, the system beneficially authenticates the user on the user device to ensures that only authorized users may remotely access the vehicle. Furthermore, the remote access control system beneficially offers flexible, long-distance vehicle security management. Furthermore, the remote access control system beneficially provides enhanced security, and greater operational convenience, thereby contributing to a seamless and modern vehicle ownership experience.
In accordance with another aspect of present disclosure there is provided a method of remote access control of a vehicle. The method comprises linking a user device with the vehicle, authenticating a user via the user device, and communicating at least one user request of the authenticated user to the vehicle to remotely access the vehicle.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments constructed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.
Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:
Figure 1 illustrates a block diagram of a remote access control system of a vehicle, in accordance with an aspect of present disclosure.
Figure 2 illustrates a flow chart of a method of remote access control of a vehicle, in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure.
In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognise that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.
The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of a remote access control system and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilised. The description sets forth the various structures and/or functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.
As used herein, the terms “comprise”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.
The present disclosure will be described herein below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, well known functions or constructions are not described in detail since they would obscure the description with unnecessary detail.
As used herein, the term “vehicle” refers to a machine used to transport people or goods from one place to another. The vehicle may be powered by different types of energy sources. It is to be understood that the vehicle may operate based on various power generation mechanisms, such as internal combustion engine, electric motors and so on.
As used herein, the term “remote access control system” and “system” are used interchangeably and refer to a system that enables the access for monitoring, management, and control of a vehicle from a remote location. The remote access control system may include a combination of hardware and software components, such as sensors, authentication devices, communication interfaces, and control units, which work together to allow authorized users to access the vehicle via a network or communication link (e.g., the internet or cellular network). The remote access control system may allow accessing of the vehicle or the components of the vehicle via remote authentication. In other words, the remote access control system may lock and/or unlock the vehicle remotely without a user to be present with the vehicle or without a physical interaction of the user with the vehicle.
As used herein, the term “user device” refers to a portable electronic device associated with a user of the vehicle. The user device may be capable of receiving user instructions, communicating with a server arrangement and so on. The user device may include a memory unit, a processing unit, a display unit and so on. The user device may include handheld computing device such as a smartphone, tablet, or any similar device.
As used herein, the term “server arrangement” refers to a remote computing unit with organization of one or more CPUs, memory, databases, network interfaces etc. to provide required information via network-based communication. more CPUs, memory, databases, network interfaces etc. to provide required information via network-based communication to the electric vehicle. The server arrangement is configured to receive and provide any required information related to the vehicle. It would be appreciated that the server arrangement is in a two-way communication with the vehicle. The server arrangement may include hardware and software components that process, authenticate, and execute locking or unlocking commands transmitted over a wireless network. The server arrangement may also store encryption keys, user data, and vehicle access settings. The server arrangement may ensure secure and reliable interaction for remote operations while maintaining communication integrity between all connected devices.
As used herein, the term “user” refers to any individual or entity authorized to interact with the remote locking and unlocking system of an electric vehicle. The user may include vehicle owners, authorized drivers, and designated service personnel.
As used herein, the term “communicably coupled” refers to a bi-directional connection between the various components of the system. The bi-directional connection between the various components of the system enables exchange of data between two or more components of the system.
As used herein, the term “at least one user request” refers to a user input received from a user to remotely communicate with the vehicle. The request is transmitted remotely via a communication network to the vehicle’s control system, trigger the corresponding action based on the user's input.
As used herein, the term “remotely lock/unlock” refers to a process of securing access to the vehicle locking mechanisms using a remote-control system. The remote locking/unlocking operates wirelessly through various communication protocols. The user initiates the lock/unlock action from a remote location, typically via mobile application, or any other connected device. The signal is transmitted to the vehicle's control unit, which interprets the command and actuates the corresponding locking or unlocking mechanism which enhance the convenience and security in vehicle access.
As used herein, the term “display unit” refers to a user interface unit of the user device capable of visually presenting operational information, status updates, and control options related to the remote locking and unlocking functions of an electric vehicle. The display unit may be integrated into the user device and is operable to receive and display data regarding the vehicle's lock state, unlock state, security alerts, and other relevant notifications in real-time.
As used herein, the term “user interface” refers to the system or medium through which the user interacts with the electric vehicle's remote locking and unlocking functionality. The user interface may include software applications on the user device such as smartphones or tablets. The user interface facilitates input commands, such as lock or unlock requests, and displays relevant vehicle status, ensures seamless communication between the user and the vehicle's control systems via wireless communication protocols.
As used herein, the term “processing unit” refers to the computing device or module configured to receive, interpret, and execute commands on the vehicle. The processing unit is communicatively connected to both remote control devices and the vehicle's locking mechanism. The processing unit processes input signals, authenticates user commands, and triggers the corresponding actions, ensures secure and accurate control over the vehicle's access system.
As used herein, the term “lock request” refers to a user request containing instructions to lock the vehicle.
As used herein, the term “unlock request” refers to a user request containing instructions to lock the vehicle.
As used herein, the term “lock command” refers to a processed electronic signal containing the lock request of the user and security information. The lock command may be encrypted by the server arrangement to secure the communication between the vehicle and the server.
As used herein, the term “unlock command” refers to a processed electronic signal containing the unlock request of the user and security information. The unlock command may be encrypted by the server arrangement to secure the communication between the vehicle and the server.
As used herein, the term “encryption key” refers to a unique identifier that secures communication between the vehicle and the remote access control system which significantly prevents unauthorized access and ensures only authenticated users can operate the locking mechanisms. The strength and complexity of the encryption key directly influence the security level of the remote access functionality, thereby safeguarding against potential cyber threats and breaches.
As used herein, the term “vehicle control unit” and “VCU” are used interchangeably and refer to an electronic control unit capable of operating a locking system of the vehicle. The vehicle control unit may be further configured to operate other components such as a vehicle instrument cluster, a storage compartment lock and so on.
As used herein, the term “vehicle access request” refers to a user request containing instructions to access at least one component of the vehicle. The vehicle access request may contain the request to access the vehicle instrument cluster, storage compartment of the vehicle and so on.
As used herein, the term “at least one component of vehicle” refers to any part, subsystem, or element of the vehicle that may be independently controlled or accessed through the remote access control system. The at least one component of vehicle may include storage compartments such as the trunk or glove box, the Vehicle Interface Controller (VIC) and so on.
As used herein, the term “vehicle access command” refers to a processed electronic signal containing the vehicle access request of the user and security information. The vehicle access command may be encrypted by the server arrangement to secure the communication between the vehicle and the server.
Figure 1, in accordance with an embodiment describes a remote access control system 100 of a vehicle. The system 100 comprises a user device 102 configured to be linked with the vehicle, a server arrangement 104 communicably coupled with the user device 102 and the vehicle. The server arrangement 104 is configured to link the user device 102 with the vehicle, authenticate a user via the user device 102 and communicate at least one user request of the authenticated user to the vehicle to remotely access the vehicle.
The remote access control system 100 of the present disclosure is advantageous in terms of security, convenience, and user experience. The system 100 beneficially links a user device 102, such as a smartphone, tablet with the vehicle to enable remote access control of the vehicle. The system 100 beneficially eliminates the need for physical keys. Furthermore, the system 100 beneficially authenticates the user on the user device to ensures that only authorized users may remotely access the vehicle. Furthermore, the remote access control system 100 beneficially offers flexible, long-distance vehicle security management. Furthermore, the remote access control system 100 beneficially provides enhanced security, and greater operational convenience, thereby contributing to a seamless and modern vehicle ownership experience.
In an embodiment, the user authentication for the remote access control system 100 may be performed via biometric identification which provides enhanced security and convenience to the user and vehicle. The user device 102, such as a smartphone or tablet is equipped with a biometric sensor capable of capturing unique physiological data, such as a fingerprint, facial recognition and so on. The biometric data is pre-registered during the initial setup, creating a secure link between the user and the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the user authentication for the remote access control system 100, may be performed via personal identification number (PIN) entered on the user device 102 such as smartphone or tablet. The authentication method starts with the user linking the user device 102 with the vehicle, typically through the mobile application. The PIN authentications works when the user tries to remotely access the vehicle, the user needs to enter the pre-configured PIN on the user interface of the user device 102.
In an embodiment, the user authentication for the remote access control system 100 of a vehicle may be done via password authentication. The user device 102, such as smartphone or tablet may be linked to the vehicle via a secure connection. While initiating a request for remote access (such as locking, unlocking, or starting the vehicle), the system 100 prompts the user to input the password. The password may be a predefined sequence of characters chosen by the user and stored securely within the system 100.
In another embodiment, the user authentication for the remote access control system 100 of the vehicle may be done via combination of the biometric and PIN authentication or the PIN and password authentication or the password and biometric authentication and so on. Advantageously, the user authentication methods enhance the security of the vehicle by layering multiple verification methods, thereby make harder for unauthorized users to gain access of the vehicle. The biometric authentication offers convenience and unique identity verification, while PIN and password authentication add additional layers of protection. The multi-factor approach ensures robust security, reducing the risk of breaches even if one method is compromised.
In an embodiment, the user device 102 comprises a display unit 106 configured to render a user interface. The user interface allows the user to interact and control various functions related to the remotely access the vehicle and security features. The user through the display unit 106 visually monitors the status of the vehicle, such as whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked, and execute commands such as locking, unlocking, or granting access to the vehicle remotely. Beneficially, the user device 102 with display unit 106 provides intuitive controls for easy navigation, enabling the user to quickly access security-related options. The user device 102 may include smartphones, tablets, computerised system etc.
In an embodiment, the system 100 comprises a processing unit 108 installed in the vehicle and the server arrangement 104. The server arrangement 104 is communicably coupled with the vehicle via the processing unit 108. The server arrangement 104 linked to the processing unit 108, authenticates the user via the user device 102 which significantly transmits encrypted user commands and enables remote access to the vehicle. Beneficially, by incorporating the processing unit 108, the system 100 ensures a reliable and secure connection that enhances the vehicle’s overall access control and security management capabilities. The processing unit 108 is configured to receive communication from the server arrangement 104.
In an embodiment, the at least one user request comprises a lock request to lock the vehicle, an unlock request to unlock the vehicle and/or a vehicle access request to access at least one component of the vehicle. The lock request allows the user to remotely lock the vehicle which ensures security even when the user may not physically present. The unlock request enables the user to unlock the vehicle from a distance which offers the convenience when the user approaches the vehicle or needs to grant access to another individual. Additionally, the vehicle access request allows the user to access the at least one components of the vehicle remotely. The at least one components of the vehicle include a storage compartment such as the trunk or glove box, the Vehicle Interface Controller (VIC) and so on.
In an embodiment, the server arrangement 104 is configured to generate a lock command comprising the lock request and an encryption key, an unlock command comprising the unlock request and the encryption key and/or a vehicle access command comprising the vehicle access request and the encryption key. The server arrangement 104 is configured to generate the respective commands after verification and encryption of the various user requests. Beneficially, the lock command, the unlock command and the vehicle access command are secure and tamper-proof.
In an embodiment, the server arrangement 104 is configured to communicate the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to the processing unit 108 of the vehicle. The processing unit 108, located within the vehicle receives the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command from the server arrangement 104 and process the corresponding vehicle functions, such as locking or unlocking of the vehicle and access the at least one component of vehicle. Beneficially, the secure connection between the vehicle and user may be established with the help of the server arrangement 104 and the processing unit 108.
In an embodiment, the system 100 comprises a vehicle control unit 110 configured to execute the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command received by the processing unit 108 to lock the vehicle, unlock the vehicle, and/or access the at least one component of the vehicle, respectively. The vehicle control unit 110 is communicably linked with the processing unit 108, which receives user commands transmitted through a server arrangement 104. The commands include the lock command, the unlock command, and the vehicle access command. The vehicle control unit 110 may operate a corresponding component of the vehicle to execute the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command.
In an embodiment, the processing unit 108 of the vehicle may further comprise secondary encryption key to decrypt the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command along with their respective encryption keys. Beneficially, such arrangement may enable double-layered security of the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command.
In an embodiment, the system 100 comprises the user device 102 configured to be linked with the vehicle, the server arrangement 104 communicably coupled with the user device 102 and the vehicle. Furthermore, the user device 102 comprises the display unit 106 configured to render the user interface. Furthermore, the system 100 comprises the processing unit 108 installed in the vehicle and the server arrangement 104. The server arrangement 104 is communicably coupled with the vehicle via the processing unit 108. Furthermore, the at least one user request comprises the lock request to lock the vehicle, the unlock request to unlock the vehicle and/or the vehicle access request to access at least one component of the vehicle. Furthermore, the server arrangement 104 is configured to generate the lock command comprising the lock request and the encryption key, the unlock command comprising the unlock request and the encryption key and/or the vehicle access command comprising the vehicle access request and the encryption key. Furthermore, the server arrangement 104 is configured to communicate the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to the processing unit 108 of the vehicle. Furthermore, the system 100 comprises the vehicle control unit 110 configured to execute the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command received by the processing unit 108 to lock the vehicle, unlock the vehicle, and/or access the at least one component of the vehicle, respectively.
Figure 2, describe a method 200 of the remote access control system 100 of a vehicle. The method 200 starts at step 202 and completes at 206. At step 202, the method 200 comprises linking a user device 102 with the vehicle. At step 204, the method 204 comprises authenticating a user via the user device 102. At step 206, the method 200 comprises communicating at least one user request of the authenticated user to the vehicle to remotely access the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the method 200 comprises rendering a user interface on the user device 102.
In an embodiment, the method 200 comprises generating a lock command, an unlock command, and/or a vehicle access command based on the at least one user request.
In an embodiment, the method 200 comprises communicating the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to a processing unit 108 of the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the method 200 comprises executing, by a vehicle control unit 110, the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to lock the vehicle, unlock the vehicle and/ or access at least one component of the vehicle, respectively.
It would be appreciated that all the explanations and embodiments of the remote access control system 100 also applies mutatis-mutandis to the method 200.
In the description of the present invention, it is also to be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified or limited, the terms “disposed,” “mounted,” and “connected” are to be construed broadly, and may for example be fixedly connected, detachably connected, or integrally connected, either mechanically or electrically. They may be connected directly or indirectly through intervening media, or they may be interconnected between two elements. The specific meaning of the above terms in the present invention can be understood in specific cases to those skilled in the art.
Modifications to embodiments and combination of different embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non- exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural where appropriate.
Although embodiments have been described with reference to a number of illustrative embodiments thereof, it should be understood that numerous other modifications and embodiments can be devised by those skilled in the art that will fall within the spirit and scope of the principles of this disclosure. More particularly, various variations and modifications are possible in the component parts and/or arrangements of the subject combination arrangement within the scope of the present disclosure, the drawings and the appended claims. In addition to variations and modifications in the component parts and/or arrangements, alternative uses will also be apparent to those skilled in the art.
,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A remote access control system (100) of a vehicle, wherein the system (100) comprises:
- a user device (102) configured to be linked with the vehicle; and
- a server arrangement (104) communicably coupled with the user device (102) and the vehicle, wherein the server arrangement (104) is configured to:
- link the user device (102) with the vehicle;
- authenticate a user via the user device (102); and
- communicate at least one user request of the authenticated user to the vehicle to remotely access the vehicle.
2. The remote access control system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the user device (102) comprises a display unit (106) configured to render a user interface.
3. The remote access control system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a processing unit (108) installed in the vehicle, and wherein the server arrangement (104) is communicably coupled with the vehicle via the processing unit (108).
4. The remote access control system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one user request comprises:
- a lock request to lock the vehicle;
- an unlock request to unlock the vehicle; and/or
- a vehicle access request to access at least one component of the vehicle.
5. The remote access control system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the server arrangement (104) is configured to generate:
- a lock command comprising the lock request and an encryption key;
- an unlock command comprising the unlock request and the encryption key; and/or
- a vehicle access command comprising the vehicle access request and the encryption key.
6. The remote access control system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the server arrangement (104) is configured to communicate the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to the processing unit (108) of the vehicle.
7. The remote access control system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a vehicle control unit (110) configured to execute the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command received by the processing unit (108) to lock the vehicle, unlock the vehicle, and/or access the at least one component of the vehicle, respectively.
8. A method (200) of remote access control of a vehicle, wherein the method (200) comprises:
- linking a user device (102) with the vehicle;
- authenticating a user via the user device (102); and
- communicating at least one user request of the authenticated user to the vehicle to remotely access the vehicle.
9. The method (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the method (200) comprises rendering a user interface on the user device (102).
10. The method (200) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the method (200) comprises generating a lock command, an unlock command, and/or a vehicle access command based on the at least one user request.
11. The method (200) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the method (200) comprises communicating the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to a processing unit (108) of the vehicle.
12. The method (200) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the method (200) comprises executing, by a vehicle control unit (110), the lock command, the unlock command, and/or the vehicle access command to lock the vehicle, unlock the vehicle and/ or access at least one component of the vehicle, respectively.