[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to antitheft systems. More specifically,
it pertains to an antitheft system for a vehicle, which authenticates driver, and also prevents
minors and unauthorized users from accessing and driving the vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in
understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information
provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any
publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Anti-theft systems in vehicles are used to detect and prevent any unauthorised
access or use of vehicle by unknown drivers, thereby preventing unauthorised driver to take
ownership of the vehicle to their benefit at expense of original owner. Till date active devices
and passive devices have been developed to prevent theft or robbery of a vehicle. Active
devices require some independent physical action to be performed by driver to activate such
devices every time, for example, pushing a button, locking door of the vehicle, steering wheel
locking device. Passive devices do not require any intervention from the driver, i.e passive
devices automatically activates themselves when the vehicle is turned off, for example, car
alarming system.
[0004] Antitheft systems ranging from steering lock to radio frequency identification
(RFID) tags have been developed to secure the vehicle from any unauthorised driver. Another
type of antitheft system includes, but not limited to, a brake lock being attached to brake of
the vehicle, clutch pedal lock, car alarming system, voice recognition system, and wheel lock
clamped with wheels of the vehicle preventing wheels from spinning.
[0005] Existing antitheft systems for the vehicle are less secure as these systems can
be damaged or pilfered easily by hacking them, thereby increasing larceny rate. Various cases
have been reported where after breaking or tampering with the anti-theft systems,
unauthorised user drives away the vehicle to a far off place that makes it difficult to locate the
vehicle. Such stolen vehicles are rarely reclaimed and rendered to owner. Global Positioning
System (GPS) enabled vehicles can still be tracked but it causes a lot of harassment to the
vehicle owner. Moreover, in many cases, vehicle are untraceable as unauthorised driver can
disable GPS after stealing the vehicle.
3
[0006] Nowadays, vehicles are easily accessible to minors at a very early age, and
frequent use and driving of vehicles by minors is a common thing. Day by day generation is
becoming smarter, curbing underage driving is becoming a challenging task for government.
A vehicle in hands of an untrained driver or minors is a weapon, capable of inflicting serious
harm. The minors without having a driving license do reckless driving for thrilling purpose,
which becomes a major reason for a vehicle accident on road.
[0007] There is, therefore, a need in the art to provide a simple and cost-effective
antitheft system for vehicle preventing unauthorised driver and minors to drive the vehicle.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] A general object of the present disclosure is to provide an efficient and
economical solution of an antitheft system for a vehicle.
[0009] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an antitheft system for a
vehicle to allow only authenticated driver to access and drive the vehicle.
[0010] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an antitheft system for a
vehicle to help overcome larceny rate.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an antitheft system for a
vehicle allowing only valid vehicle license holder to drive the vehicle, preventing minors
from driving, thereby reducing number of accidents.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an antitheft system for a
vehicle to allow only authenticated driver to access and drive the vehicle, which also alerts
owner of the vehicle in case of an attempt to access the vehicle by an unauthorized user.
[0013] These and other objects of the present invention will become readily apparent
from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
SUMMARY
[0014] Aspects of the present disclosure relates to antitheft systems. More
specifically, it pertains to an antitheft system for a vehicle, which authenticates driver, and
also prevents minors and unauthorized users from accessing and driving the vehicle.
[0015] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the inventive subject
matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred
embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent
like components.
4
[0016] An aspect of the present disclosure pertains to an antitheft system for a
vehicle, said system comprising: a GSM module coupled to a vehicle; a positioning unit
configured to determine position of the vehicle; and a control unit operatively coupled to the
GSM module and the positioning unit, the control unit comprising one or more processors
coupled with a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more
processors configured to: generate a first set of signals based on a set of input signals
received from mobile computing devices associated with a first entity, wherein the generated
first set of signals may be transmitted to the GSM module, and in response the GSM module
generates a set of acknowledgement signals; and generate a second set of signals, based on
the set of acknowledgement signals generated from the GSM module associated with the
vehicle, to enable the positioning unit to identify location of the vehicle, and correspondingly
generate a set of location signals.
[0017] In an aspect, the control unit may be configured to generate and transmit a first
set of key codes to mobile computing devices associated with one or more registered entities.
[0018] In an aspect, the control unit may be configured to authenticate a second set of
key codes entered by the one or more registered entities by matching the second set of key
codes with the first set of key codes.
[0019] In an aspect, the control unit may be configured to generate a set of alert
signals, upon negative authentication of the entered second set of key codes.
[0020] In an aspect, the control unit may be configured to generate a set of ignition
signals upon a positive authentication of the entered second set of key codes.
[0021] In an aspect, the system may comprise an ignition unit operatively coupled to
the control unit and engine of the vehicle, and wherein the ignition unit may be configured to
receive the set of ignition signals upon the positive authentication, and correspondingly allow
ignition of the engine of the vehicle.
[0022] In an aspect, the set of alert signals may be transmitted to any or a
combination of the vehicle, and the mobile computing devices associated with the one or
more registered entities.
[0023] In an aspect, the system may comprise an image acquisition unit operatively
coupled to the control unit, and configured to capture one or more images of the first entity.
[0024] In an aspect, the control unit may be configured to match the one or more
captured images of the first entity with pre-stored images of the one or more registered
entities, and correspondingly the control unit may perform authentication of the first entity.
5
[0025] In an aspect, the image acquisition unit may be configured to monitor size of
pupil of the first entity, and wherein the control unit may be configured to compare the
monitored size of pupil with a predefined size of pupil, and wherein if the monitored size of
pupil found to be less than the predefined size of pupil, the control unit may be configured to
generate the set of alert signals.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding
of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.
The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with
the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIGs. 1A and 1B illustrate a block diagram of the proposed antitheft system
for a vehicle, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 2 illustrates exemplary functional units of a control unit 106, in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary diagram associated with working of the
antitheft system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure
depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly
communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit
the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all
modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0031] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to
provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be
apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced
without some of these specific details.
[0032] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or
“might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not
required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0033] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the
meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates
6
otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on”
unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0034] The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof
herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as
additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but
rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms
“first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or
importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.
[0035] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”)
provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate
the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed.
No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element
essential to the practice of the invention.
[0036] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed
herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and
claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other
elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from,
a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion
occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the
written description of all groups used in the appended claims.
[0037] The present disclosure generally relates to antitheft systems. More
specifically, it pertains to an antitheft system for a vehicle, which authenticates driver, and
also prevents minors and unauthorized users from accessing and driving the vehicle.
[0038] According to an aspect the present disclosure pertains to an antitheft system
for a vehicle, said system including: a GSM module coupled to a vehicle; a positioning unit
configured to determine position of the vehicle; and a control unit operatively coupled to the
GSM module and the positioning unit, the control unit including one or more processors
coupled with a memory, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more
processors configured to: generate a first set of signals based on a set of input signals
received from mobile computing devices associated with a first entity, wherein the generated
first set of signals can be transmitted to the GSM module, and in response the GSM module
generates a set of acknowledgement signals; and generate a second set of signals, based on
the set of acknowledgement signals generated from the GSM module associated with the
7
vehicle, to enable the positioning unit to identify location of the vehicle, and correspondingly
generate a set of location signals.
[0039] In an embodiment, the control unit can be configured to generate and transmit
a first set of key codes to mobile computing devices associated with one or more registered
entities.
[0040] In an embodiment, the control unit can be configured to authenticate a second
set of key codes entered by the one or more registered entities by matching the second set of
key codes with the first set of key codes.
[0041] In an embodiment, the control unit can be configured to generate a set of alert
signals, upon negative authentication of the entered second set of key codes.
[0042] In an embodiment, the control unit can be configured to generate a set of
ignition signals upon a positive authentication of the entered second set of key codes.
[0043] In an embodiment, the system can include an ignition unit operatively coupled
to the control unit and engine of the vehicle, and wherein the ignition unit can be configured
to receive the set of ignition signals upon the positive authentication, and correspondingly
allow ignition of the engine of the vehicle.
[0044] In an embodiment, the set of alert signals can be transmitted to any or a
combination of the vehicle, and the mobile computing devices associated with the one or
more registered entities.
[0045] In an embodiment, the system can include an image acquisition unit
operatively coupled to the control unit, and configured to capture one or more images of the
first entity.
[0046] In an embodiment, the control unit can be configured to match the one or more
captured images of the first entity with pre-stored images of the one or more registered
entities, and correspondingly the control unit can perform authentication of the first entity.
[0047] In an embodiment, the image acquisition unit can be configured to monitor
size of pupil of the first entity, and wherein the control unit can be configured to compare the
monitored size of pupil with a predefined size of pupil, and wherein if the monitored size of
pupil found to be less than the predefined size of pupil, the control unit can be configured to
generate the set of alert signals.
[0048] FIGs. 1A and 1B illustrate a block diagram of the proposed antitheft system
for a vehicle, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.
[0049] In an embodiment, the proposed antitheft system 100 (interchangeably
referred to as antitheft system 100 and system 100, hereinafter) can be implemented in
8
various vehicles, such as car, scooty, bicycle, bike, and the like. In an embodiment, antitheft
system 100 can include a GSM module 102, a positioning unit 104, and a control unit 106. In
an exemplary embodiment, GSM module 102 can be in form of a mini electronic chip that
can be configured with a vehicle. In an embodiment, positioning unit 104 can be configured
to determine position of the vehicle, and can be any or a combination of Global Positioning
System (GPS), Global Navigational Satellite System (GNSS), Navigation with Indian
Constellation (NAVIC), and the like.
[0050] In an embodiment, antitheft system 100 can detect real-time geographical
location of the vehicle through positioning unit 104. In another embodiment, in case of the
negative authentication by said system 100, control unit 106 can send real-time geographical
location notification to mobile computing device of entity, which can be owner of the vehicle,
one or more registered user, but not limited to the likes.
[0051] In an embodiment, control unit 106 can be operatively coupled to GSM
module 102 and positioning unit 104. In an exemplary embodiment, control unit 106 can
include one or more processors coupled with a memory that can be storing instructions
executable by the one or more processors.
[0052] In an embodiment, an entity can perform input operations on his/ her mobile
computing devices, and correspondingly, the mobile computing devices can generate a set of
input signals that can be transmitted to antitheft system 100. Antitheft system 100 can
generate a first set of signals based on the received set of input signals, where the generated
first set of signals can be transmitted to GSM module 102. In an embodiment, in response to
the received first set of signals, GSM module 102 can generate a set of acknowledgement
signals.
[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, an entity can select one or more icons
associated with a vehicle of the entity on an application or a program executable at a mobile
computing device, such as, but not limited to, laptop, smartphone, and tab of the entity. The
selection of the one or more icons can result in generation of a set of input signals that can be
transmitted to antitheft system 100, and correspondingly, control unit 106 of antitheft system
100 can generate a first set of signals that can be further transmitted to GSM module 102.
[0054] In an embodiment, control unit 106 can generate a second set of signals, based
on the set of acknowledgement signals generated by GSM module 102, to enable positioning
unit 104 to identify location of the vehicle, and correspondingly, generate a set of location
signals, which can be transmitted to one or more mobile computing devices associated with
one or more registered entities.
9
[0055] In an embodiment, control unit 106 can be configured to generate a first set of
key codes that can be transmitted to the mobile computing devices associated with the one or
more registered entities. Further, control unit 106 can be configured to authenticate a second
set of key codes being entered by the registered entity, by matching the second set of key
codes with the first set of key codes. In an embodiment, in case of positive authentication,
i.e., when the first set of key codes matches with the second set of key codes, control unit 106
is configured to generate a set of ignition signals. In another embodiment, in case of negative
authentication, i.e., when the first set of key codes does not match with the second set of key
codes, control unit 106 is configured to generate a set of alert signals. In an exemplary
embodiment, the set of alert signals can be transmitted to any or a combination of the vehicle,
and the mobile computing devices associated with the one or more registered entities.
[0056] In an embodiment, antitheft system 100 can include an ignition unit (not
shown) that can be operatively coupled to control unit 106, and an engine of the vehicle. In
an embodiment, the ignition unit can be configured to receive the set of ignition signals from
control unit 106 upon the positive authentication, and correspondingly allow ignition of the
engine of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the ignition unit can be configured to receive
the set of alert signals upon the negative authentication, and correspondingly block ignition of
the engine of the vehicle as well as other operations of the vehicle.
[0057] In an embodiment, antitheft system 100 can include an image acquisition unit
108 that can be operatively coupled to control unit 106, and can be configured to capture one
or more images of an entity. In an exemplary embodiment, image acquisition unit 108 can
include a camera 108-1, a scanner 108-2, a biometric device 108-3 and the like. In an
embodiment, camera 108-1 can be any or a combination of a fund us camera and a high
definition camera.
[0058] In an exemplary embodiment, camera 108-1 can be configured to capture one
or more images of an entity. In an embodiment, the one or more captured images of the entity
can be matched with pre-stored images of the one or more registered entities.
[0059] In an exemplary embodiment, antitheft system 100 can utilize a face
recognition technology to identify an entity trying to access the vehicle. Images captured by
camera 108-1 can be further processed at control unit 106 to detect face of the entity from the
captured images. Once the face is detected, it can further identify alignment of the face. In an
embodiment, control unit 106 can extract features from the detected face, and can further
match the extracted features with features associated with pre-stored images to recognize the
face. In an implementation, a matrix can be designed on the basis of pixel values calculated at
10
corner of the detected face. In an exemplary embodiment, the pixel values can be calculated
based on different illuminations conditions for 2D face recognition. The images of the face
can be represented through a high dimensional vector containing pixel values. Feature
matching can be implemented to match the face that can be detected from image or video
from available database including pre-stored images with unique face identity. In yet another
embodiment, the facial representation can be detected even with a change in hairstyle, putting
glasses on the face, or any change in shape and size of the driver.
[0060] In another exemplary embodiment, camera 108-1, which can be a fund us
camera, can be configured to monitor ophthalmic attributes of an entity that may be at driving
seat of the vehicle. The control unit 106 can be configured to compare the ophthalmic
attributes of the entity with predefined ophthalmic attributes, and if the monitored ophthalmic
attributes do not match the predefined ophthalmic attributes, control unit 106 can be
configured to generate the set of alert signals.
[0061] In an implementation, camera 108-1 can be placed at the door or window of
the vehicle, whereas, scanner 108-2 and biometric device 108-3 can be placed at dashboard of
the vehicle to easily scan a document and recognize biometrics of an entity (can
interchangeably be referred to as user, driver, person, hereinafter) respectively. The control
unit 106 can be integrated with an existing system of the ignition unit of the vehicle and can
provide instructions to enable or disable the ignition unit based on images obtained from
scanner 108-2 and biometric device 108-3.
[0062] In another implementation, camera 108-1 can be mounted adjacent to the
dashboard of the vehicle to sense pupil size of the driver, and can be configured to regularly
transmit corresponding signals to control unit 106. Further, control unit 106 can compare
monitored pupil size with predefined or threshold size. If pupil size is less than the threshold
size, control unit 106 can transmit a set of alert signals indicative to stop ignition unit thereby
switching off the vehicle engine. In another embodiment, the alert signal can activate any or a
combination of a horn, indoor light, and indicator lights, associated with the vehicle.
[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, if an authenticated driver starts the ignition unit
of the vehicle and starts driving the vehicle, and if in between the route an unauthenticated
driver replaces the authenticated driver. In such a case, through continuous monitoring,
camera 108-1 can send images of the unauthenticated driver driving the vehicle, further
control unit 106, in a predefined time, can send the set of alert signals and correspondingly
the ignition unit of the vehicle gets switched off.
11
[0064] In an embodiment, scanner 108-2 associated with antitheft system100 can be
mounted on dashboard of the vehicle at a proximal distance from the driver. Scanner 108-2
can be configured to scan unique identity document, which can be in form of hard copy or
digital copy, of the driver, said scanner 108-2 can be operatively coupled with the control unit
106 to send the scanned information to control unit 106. In an exemplary embodiment,
scanner 108-2 can be any or a combination of a flatbed scanner, sheet-fed scanner, handheld
scanner, and drum scanners. In another embodiment, scanner 108-2 can scan any type of
unique identity documents including but not limited to Aadhaar card, passport, voter-ID,
driving license, ration card in any or combination of hard copy or soft copy. In an exemplary
embodiment, scanner 108-2 can scan one-dimensional code and two-dimensional codes
printed on the unique identity documents, where the one-dimensional codes can include an
code, code 39, interleaved, Codabar, GS1 Databar, MSI Plessey, and the two-dimensional
codes can include Quick Response (QR) codes, DataMatrix code, PDF417, and AZTEC.
[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, scanner 108-2 can scan driving license code
number of the driver that can be 7234656433. Scanner 108-2 can further transmit
corresponding signals to control unit 106, where control unit 106 matches 7234656433 with
pre-stored driving license numbers. Further, if 7234656433 matches with pre-stored numbers,
then control unit 106 transmits the set of ignition signals to the ignition unit of the vehicle.
[0066] In an embodiment, biometric device 108-3 associated with antitheft system
100 can also be mounted on the dashboard of the vehicle, and said device 108-3 can sense
one or more biometric attributes related to the driver, and can transmit the sensed attributes to
control unit 106 for comparison of monitored attributes with the pre-stored biometric
attributes. In an embodiment, the biometric attributes include but not limited to facial
recognition, psychological biometrics, behavioral biometrics, fingerprints biometric
associated with the driver. In another embodiment, biometric device can be placed at a
position adjacent to the driver such that continuous monitoring of the driver could easily be
done.
[0067] In an embodiment, control unit 106 can generate the set of ignition signals
upon positive authentication of the identified driver to enable unlocking of the ignition unit
for initiating ignition process of the engine of the vehicle. In an embodiment, antitheft system
100 can include a transceiver operatively coupled with control unit 106. The transceiver,
based on negative authentication, can transmit the set of alert signals to the mobile computing
device of the registered user. In another embodiment, the driver can also have registered
mobile computing device. Further, if control unit 106 detects negative authentication, then
12
the driver’s computing device can receive a notification “Authentication unsuccessful and
ignition unit is going to be switched off” to alert the driver.
[0068] FIG. 2 illustrates exemplary functional units of a control unit 106, in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0069] As illustrated, control unit 106 can include one or more processor(s) 202. One
or more processor(s) 202 can be implemented as one or more microprocessors,
microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic
circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate data based on operational instructions. Among
other capabilities, one or more processor(s) 202 are configured to fetch and execute
computer-readable instructions stored in a memory 204 of control unit 106. The memory 204
can store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines, which may be fetched and
executed to create or share the data units over a network service. The memory 204 can
include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as
RAM, or non-volatile memory such as EPROM, flash memory, and the like.
[0070] In an embodiment, control unit 106 can also include an interface(s) 206. The
interface(s) 206 may include a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for data input and
output devices, referred to as I/O devices, storage devices, and the like. The interface(s) 206
may facilitate communication of control unit 106 with various devices coupled to the control
unit 106. The interface(s) 206 may also provide a communication pathway for one or more
components of control unit 106. Examples of such components include, but are not limited to,
processing engines(s) 208 and database 210.
[0071] In an embodiment, processing engine(s) 208 can be implemented as a
combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to
implement one or more functionalities of the processing engine(s) 208. In examples described
herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several
different ways. For example, the programming for processing engine(s) 208 may be processor
executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the
hardware for processing engine(s) 208 may include a processing resource (for example, one
or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the machinereadable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing
resource, implement processing engine(s) 208. In such examples, control unit 106 can include
the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to
execute the instructions, or the machine-readable storage medium may be separate but
accessible to control unit 106 and the processing resource. In other examples, processing
13
engine(s) 208 may be implemented by electronic circuitry. Database 210 can include data that
is either stored or generated as a result of functionalities implemented by any of the
components of processing engine(s) 208.
[0072] In an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, processing engine(s) 208 can
include a vehicle location determining unit 212, an extracting unit 214, an authenticating unit
216, an actuating unit 218, and other unit(s) 220. The other unit(s) 220 can implement
functionalities that supplement applications or functions performed by control unit 106 or
processing engine(s) 208.
[0073] In an embodiment, vehicle location determining unit 212 can facilitate
determination of location of a vehicle associated/ registered with antitheft system 100. In an
embodiment, when a registered entity performs input operations on his/ her mobile
computing device, the mobile computing device can generate a set of input signals that can be
transmitted to control unit 106, and correspondingly, control unit 106 can generate a first set
of signals, where the generated first set of signals can be transmitted to GSM module 102. In
an embodiment, in response to the received first set of signals, GSM module 102 can
generate a set of acknowledgment signals. In an embodiment, based on the set of
acknowledgment signals received from GSM module 102, vehicle location determining unit
212 can enable positioning unit 104 to identify location of the vehicle, and correspondingly
generate a set of location signals.
[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the entity can get registered with antitheft
system 100 by creating a login id and password, and registering his/ her vehicle number,
mobile number, providing his/ her licence, image, fingerprint, by enabling face recognition
technique, and the like. After registering, the entity can select one or more icons or buttons,
associated with the registered vehicle, at a mobile computing device including, but not
limited to, laptop, smartphone, and tab of the entity, thereby querying and confirming about
real-time location of the vehicle.
[0075] In an embodiment, based on the set of acknowledgment signals received from
GSM module 102, vehicle location determining unit 212 can enable positioning unit 104 to
obtain time of arrival (TOA) ), also referred to as time of flight (ToF),from a satellite
associated with positioning unit 104 to GSM module 102. In an exemplary embodiment,
TOA can be defined as the travel time of a signal from a single transmitter to a remote single
receiver associated with positioning unit 104. Depending on where and when the signal was
sent, and analyzing it with speed of light taken as reference, the receiver can compute
location of the vehicle as well as the mobile computing device of the entity. In an exemplary
14
embodiment, if the vehicle is moving along a highway, positioning unit 104 can calculate
speed of the vehicle based on the time difference of the signals received at the receiver of
positioning unit 104, where the speed calculated by positioning unit 104 can be typically a
couple of miles per hour slower than what the car speedometer shows, and compass heading.
Positioning unit 104 further places that data on map of a navigation system associated with
positioning unit 104.
[0076] In an embodiment, signal to and from a satellite associated with positioning
unit 104 can be delayed due to passing through the ionosphere, which constitutes the earth’s
upper atmosphere stretching from 40-600 miles altitude, to mitigate such delay positioning
unit 104 applies a correction factor, and thereby, through such computations and corrections,
positioning unit 104 can locate the vehicle.
[0077] In an implementation, it takes minimum three signals that are transmitted to
three different satellites in order to determine (triangulate) the location of the vehicle.
Further, a fourth signal can facilitate determining altitude of the location of the vehicle. If the
receiver picks up more satellites, the accuracy of the determined location improves. In an
embodiment, if any problem, such as atomic clock drift, or some other inaccuracy comes into
play, a correction factor can be transmitted as well.
[0078] In an embodiment, extracting unit 214 can facilitate extraction of attributes
associated with images captured by an image acquisition unit 108 that can be a camera 108-1,
a scanner 108-2, a biometric device 108-3 and the like. In an exemplary embodiment, camera
108-1 can be configured to capture one or more images of an entity. Extracting unit 214 can
be configured to extract attributes of the captured one or more images, and identify face of an
entity from the captured one or more images by converting the captured one or more images
into greyscale, segmenting pixels associated with the identified entity, analyzing facial
attributes of the identified entity from the captured one or more images, utilizing face
recognition technique, and the likes. In case, more than one entity is identified in the captured
one or more images, then the control unit 106 can intelligently differentiate the entity whose
facial attributes has to be analysed, by analyzing portion of the face captured of the identified
entities, their standing position, gesture, and the like, using Convolution Neural Networks and
machine learning. In another embodiment, extracting unit 214 can facilitate extraction of
ophthalmic attributes of pupil of an entity driving the vehicle, such as, size, colour, rate of
movement of eyelids, and the like, based on images obtained from camera 108-1, and
accordingly size of the pupil of the entity can be monitored.
15
[0079] In another exemplary embodiment, scanner 108-2, which can be any or a
combination of a flatbed scanner, sheet-fed scanner, handheld scanner, and drum scanners,
can be configured to scan unique identity document, which can be in form of hard copy or
digital copy, of the driver, said scanner 108-2 can send the scanned information to extracting
unit 214, and further, extracting unit 214 can extract unique id parameters from the scanned
unique identity document, which can be analyzed and computed that can be used to verify
about the driver. In an embodiment, scanner 108-2 can be configured to scan any type of
unique identity documents including but not limited to Aadhaar card, passport, voter-ID,
driving license, ration card in any or combination of hard copy or soft copy. In another
embodiment, scanner 108-2 can scan one-dimensional code and two-dimensional codes
printed on the unique identity documents, the one-dimensional codes includes ean code, code
39, interleaved, Codabar, GS1 Databar, MSI Plessey, and two-dimensional codes including
Quick Response (QR) codes, DataMatrix code, PDF417, and AZTEC.
[0080] In yet another illustrative embodiment, biometric device 108-3 that can be
mounted on the dashboard of the vehicle can be configured to sense one or more biometric
attributes related to the driver, such as, but not limited to facial recognition, psychological
biometrics, behavioral biometrics, fingerprints biometric associated with the driver. In
another embodiment, biometric device can be placed at a position adjacent to the driver such
that continuous monitoring of the driver can easily be done. In an embodiment, based on the
sensed one or more biometric attributes, extracting unit 214 can extract specific attributes
from the sensed one or more biometric attributes that are required to verify the driver.
[0081] In an embodiment, authenticating unit 216 can facilitate in authentication of an
entity trying to access the vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, based on facial attributes
extracted at extracting unit 214, authenticating unit 216 can authenticate the entity. In an
embodiment, the one or more captured images of the entity can be matched with pre-stored
images of the one or more registered entities. In another embodiment, facial attributes can be
matched with available database 210 including pre-stored images with unique face identity.
In case, the one or more captured images of the entity match with pre-stored images of the
one or more registered entities or face attributes get matched, then only the entity is positively
authenticated, and can be given access to the vehicle. However, in case, the one or more
captured images of the entity do not match with pre-stored images of the one or more
registered entities or the face attributes do not get matched then the entity is negatively
authenticated, and cannot be get access to the vehicle, moreover it may lead to locking of
ignition unit, steering, door, and the like.
16
[0082] In another exemplary embodiment, in a similar manner, based on matching of
the extracted unique id parameters, of the unique identity document that is being scanned by a
scanner 108-2, with a first dataset stored in database 210, authenticating unit 216 can
authenticate the unique identity document, and correspondingly allow and avert the entity
from accessing/ driving the vehicle based on positive authentication and negative
authentication, respectively, of the unique identity document.
[0083] In yet another exemplary embodiment, in a similar manner, based on matching
of the specific attributes being extracted from the sensed one or more biometric attributes,
with a second dataset of pre-defined biometric attributes being stored in database 210, the
authenticating unit 216 can authenticate the entity, and provide access to the vehicle. For
example, if fingerprint of the entity matches with the second dataset, then only he/ she will be
able to access and start the vehicle.
[0084] Further, in yet another exemplary embodiment, authenticating unit 216 can
facilitate authentication of key codes entered by an entity. In an embodiment, the key code
being entered by the entity can be in an encrypted form. The authenticating unit 216 can
facilitate in decrypting the encrypted key code, and can further match the decrypted key code
with pre-stored key codes for authenticating the entered key code.
[0085] In an embodiment, actuating unit 218 can facilitate in providing access of the
vehicle to an entity, and can allow actuation of ignition unit of the vehicle. In an exemplary
embodiment, when an entity is positively authenticated by authenticating unit 216, actuating
unit 218 can generate a set of ignition signals that can be transmitted to the ignition unit of
the vehicle. In an embodiment, the ignition unit can be operatively coupled with the engine of
the vehicle, and hence, can facilitate the entity to start the engine. In another embodiment,
when the entity is positively authenticated, actuating unit 218 can unlock door and windows
of the vehicle to provide access to the vehicle. In another exemplary embodiment, when an
entity is negatively authenticated by authenticating unit 216, actuating unit 218 can generate a
set of alert signals that can be transmitted to mobile computing devices of registered entity,
police, and related government authorities. In an embodiment, if a child is detected trying to
access or drive the vehicle, actuating unit 216 can generate the set of alert signals.
[0086] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary diagram associated with working of the
antitheft system.
[0087] In an embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 3, an entity can track location of his/
her vehicle 304 through his/ her registered number associated with smartphone 302. The
entity can select a tab or icon, associated with vehicle 304, on a smartphone 302. The
17
smartphone 304 can correspondingly transmit a set of input signals to control unit 106, which
can further track location of vehicle 304 via GSM module and positioning unit.
[0088] In another embodiment, the entity can give commands to the control unit 106
using smartphone 302 itself from a remote location to actuate ignition unit 306 of vehicle
304, which can further trigger engine 308 of vehicle 304, hence kick-starting vehicle 304.
[0089] In yet another embodiment, the entity can give commands from smartphone
302 itself to turn off ignition unit 306 of vehicle 304, which can further turn off engine 308
and other operations of vehicle 304, hence putting vehicle 304 in standstill position.
[0090] Thus, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the
diagrams, schematics, illustrations, and the like represent conceptual views or processes
illustrating systems and methods embodying this invention. The functions of the various
elements shown in the figures may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well
as hardware capable of executing associated software. Similarly, any switches shown in the
figures are conceptual only. Their function may be carried out through the operation of
program logic, through dedicated logic, through the interaction of program control and
dedicated logic, or even manually, the particular technique being selectable by the entity
implementing this invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art further understand that the
exemplary hardware, software, processes, methods, and/or operating systems described
herein are for illustrative purposes and, thus, are not intended to be limited to any particular
named.
[0091] While embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and
described, it will be clear that the invention is not limited to these embodiments only.
Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent
to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as
described in the claim.
[0092] In the foregoing description, numerous details are set forth. It will be apparent,
however, to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, that the
present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, wellknown structures and devices are shown in block diagram form, rather than in detail, to avoid
obscuring the present invention.
[0093] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled
to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to
each other contact each other)and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element
is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with"
18
are used synonymously. Within the context of this document terms "coupled to" and "coupled
with" are also used euphemistically to mean “communicatively coupled with” over a
network, where two or more devices are able to exchange data with each other over the
network, possibly via one or more intermediary device.
[0094] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications
besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts
herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of
the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all
terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In
particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to
elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced
elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements,
components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers
to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….N, the text
should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus
N, etc.
[0095] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other
and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic
scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The
invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are
included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention
when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill
in the art.
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[0096] The present disclosure provides an efficient and economical solution of an
antitheft system for a vehicle.
[0097] The present disclosure provides an antitheft system for a vehicle to allow only
authenticated driver to access and drive the vehicle.
[0098] The present disclosure provides an antitheft system for a vehicle to help
overcome larceny rate.
[0099] The present disclosure provides an antitheft system for a vehicle allowing only
valid vehicle license holder to drive the vehicle, preventing minors from driving, thereby
reducing number of accidents.
19
[00100] The present disclosure provides an antitheft system for a vehicle to allow only
authenticated driver to access and drive the vehicle, which also alerts owner of the vehicle in
case of an attempt to access the vehicle by an unauthorized user.

We Claim:

1. An antitheft system for a vehicle, the system comprising:
a GSM module coupled to a vehicle;
a positioning unit configured to determine position of the vehicle; and
a control unit operatively coupled to the GSM module and the positioning
unit, the control unit comprising one or more processors coupled with a memory, the
memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors configured to:
generate a first set of signals based on a set of input signals received
from mobile computing devices associated with a first entity, wherein the
generated first set of signals is transmitted to the GSM module, and in
response the GSM module generates a set of acknowledgment signals; and
generate a second set of signals, based on the set of acknowledgment
signals generated from the GSM module associated with the vehicle, to enable
the positioning unit to identify location of the vehicle, and correspondingly
generate a set of location signals.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to generate
and transmit a first set of key codes to mobile computing devices associated with one
or more registered entities.
3. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the control unit is configured to
authenticate a second set of key codes entered by the one or more registered entities
by matching the second set of key codes with the first set of key codes.
4. The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the control unit is configured to generate a
set of alert signals, upon negative authentication of the entered second set of key
codes.
5. The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein the control unit is configured to generate a
set of ignition signals upon a positive authentication of the entered second set of key
codes.
6. The system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the system comprises an ignition unit
operatively coupled to the control unit and engine of the vehicle, and wherein the
ignition unit is configured to receive the set of ignition signals upon the positive
authentication, and correspondingly allow ignition of the engine of the vehicle.
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7. The system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the set of alert signals is transmitted to any
or a combination of the vehicle, and the mobile computing devices associated with the
one or more registered entities.
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system comprises an image acquisition
unit operatively coupled to the control unit, and configured to capture one or more
images of the first entity.
9. The system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the control unit is configured to match the
one or more captured images of the first entity with pre-stored images of the one or
more registered entities, and correspondingly the control unit performs authentication
of the first entity.
10. The system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the image acquisition unit is configured to
monitor size of pupil of the first entity, and wherein the control unit is configured to
compare the monitored size of pupil with a predefined size of pupil, and wherein if
the monitored size of pupil found to be less than the predefined size of pupil, the
control unit is configured to generate the set of alert signals.