FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to biometric authentication and in particular, relates to systems and methods for biometric activation of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND
With the advent of technology and increasing demand for preventing access by the unauthorized users, use of biometric authentication is becoming popular. The biometric authentication is used in several devices, such as electronic devices, for example, smartphones, PDAs, Laptops etc. and specifically allows only registered users to access the devices. The biometric authentication enabled devices are installed in residential/office premises to prevent unauthorized access to the premises, thereby providing a secure environment.
The need for secure access also arises in case of vehicles. There are many anti-theft and/or theft-deterrent devices that are present in the market to prevent unauthorized access to a vehicle and thereby preventing or thwarting theft of the vehicle. These anti-theft and/or theft-deterrent devices are either mechanical devices or electronic devices. Examples of such devices are gear lock, steering wheel lock, central locking, hood lock, ignition cut-office devices, etc. These mechanical and electrical devices are operated using mechanical or electronic keys. However, disadvantage of such keys is that they can be lost or stolen, and thus there is always a risk that the unauthorized users can gain access to the vehicle.
Currently, biometric identification systems are provided in the vehicle for protecting the vehicle from unauthorized access. Such biometric identification systems may include an ignition mode setting unit, a matching board, and an engine control unit. The ignition mode setting unit identifies an ignition mode, scans and reads a biometric input, for example a fingerprint. The ignition mode setting unit sets and deletes the biometric input. The matching board stores the biometric input and compares such biometric input with a registered biometric data to generate an output signal. The engine control unit receives the output signal to output a control signal for either controlling a key lock or releasing a lock, such as a steering wheel lock. Further, such biometric identification systems require substantially large space for installation. Furthermore,

the biometric identification systems are susceptible to moisture and dust, and thereby overall service life of such biometric identification systems is substantially reduced.
Therefore, there is a need for an improved solution for protecting vehicles from unauthorized access.
SUMMARY
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for biometric activation of a vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a biometric switching unit disposed on the vehicle. The biometric switching unit includes an input sensing unit configured to obtain biometric data. Further, the biometric switching unit includes a first controlling unit in communication with the input sensing unit. The first controlling unit is configured to receive the biometric data from the input sensing unit. Further, the first controlling unit is configured to compare the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data. Furthermore, the first controlling unit is configured to generate an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data. The system also includes a vehicular activation unit in communication with the first controlling unit. The vehicular activation unit is configured to receive the activation request from the first controlling unit. Further, the vehicular activation unit is configured to determine whether a state of each of an engine switch and a clutch switch of the vehicle is an active state. Furthermore, the vehicular activation unit is configured to activate ignition of the vehicle if the state of each of the engine switch and the clutch switch is determined as the active state.
In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for biometric activation of the vehicle is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by a first controlling unit, biometric data from an input sensing unit. The input sensing unit is communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit. The method includes comparing, by the first controlling unit, the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data. Further, the method includes generating, by the first controlling unit, an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data. The method also includes receiving, by a vehicular activation unit, the activation request from the first controlling unit. The vehicular activation unit is communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit. Further, the method includes determining, by the vehicular activation unit, whether a state of each of an engine switch and a clutch switch of the vehicle is in an active

state. Furthermore, the method includes activating, by the vehicular activation unit, ignition of the vehicle if the state of each of the engine switch and the clutch switch is determined as the active state.
In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a biometric switching unit for a vehicle is disclosed. The biometric switching unit includes a housing member. Further, the biometric switching unit includes an input sensing unit disposed in the housing member. The input sensing unit includes a fingerprint sensing configured to obtain biometric data. Further, the biometric switching unit includes a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly in communication with the input sensing unit. Furthermore, the biometric switching unit includes a first controlling unit in communication with the input sensing unit and the PCB assembly. The first controlling unit is configured to receive the biometric data from the input sensing unit. Further, the first controlling unit is configured to compare the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data. Furthermore, the first controlling unit is configured to generate an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data.
To further clarify advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
Figure la illustrates a schematic view of a system for biometric activation of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Figure lb illustrates a front view of the biometric switching unit of the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figures 2a, 2b illustrate partial exploded views of the biometric switching unit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figures 3a, 3b, 3c illustrate side views of different biometric switching units depicting arrangement of fingerprint sensors, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;
Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of the system for biometric activation of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 5 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for biometric activation of the vehicle by the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 6 illustrates a block diagram of the system for biometric activation of the vehicle, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for biometric activation of the vehicle by the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart depicting operation of the biometric switching unit of the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
Figure 9 illustrates a schematic view of the biometric switching unit in communication with a display unit, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method for biometric activation of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the flow charts illustrate the method in terms of the most prominent steps involved to help to improve

understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Figure la illustrates a schematic view of a system 100 for biometric activation of a vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 may be provided to activate ignition of the vehicle based on biometric authentication of a user of the vehicle. The system 100 may be employed in the vehicle including, but not limited to, a two-wheeler vehicle, a three-wheeler vehicle, and a four-wheeler vehicle. The present disclosure is explained with respect to the system 100 employed in the two-wheeler vehicle. However, it should be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that it should not be construed as limiting, and the system 100 is equally employable in other types of vehicle, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In an embodiment, the system 100 may include a vehicular activation unit 102 and a biometric switching unit 104 communicatively coupled with the vehicular activation unit 102. Construction and operation details of the vehicular activation unit 102 are explained with respect to description of Figure 4 of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the biometric switching unit 104 may be provided to authenticate identity of a user of the vehicle based on biometric data received from the user.
The biometric switching unit 104 may be ergonomically positioned on the vehicle for allowing the user to conveniently access the biometric switching unit 104. In an embodiment, the biometric switching unit 104 may be disposed on a handlebar 106 of the vehicle. The biometric switching unit 104 may be adapted to receive the biometric data from the user prior to ignition of the vehicle. Subsequently, based on the authentication by the biometric switching unit 104, the vehicular activation unit 102 may activate the ignition of the vehicle.
Figure lb illustrates a front view of the biometric switching unit 104 of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 2a, 2b illustrate partial exploded views of the biometric switching unit 104, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure lb, Figure 2a, and Figure 2b, the biometric switching unit 104 may include a housing member 200 for encapsulating various components of the biometric switching unit 104. The housing member 200 may include a front cover 202 and a rear cover 204. The front cover 202 and the rear cover 204 may be provided with a plurality of cavities and protrusions adapted to accommodate and support various components of the biometric switching unit 104.
Referring to Figure 2a, the biometric switching unit 104 may include an input sensing unit 206, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly 208, a first controlling unit 210, a blinker assembly 212, an engine switch 214, a dust cover 216, and a plurality of fastening members 218. The blinker assembly 212 and the engine switch 214 may be accommodated within the plurality of cavities formed in the front cover 202 through the plurality of fastening member 218.
In an embodiment, the input sensing unit 206 may be configured to obtain biometric data of the user. The input sensing unit 206 may include a fingerprint sensor 220 for obtaining the biometric data, such as images of fingerprints of the user. In an alternate embodiment, the biometric switching unit 104 is communicatively coupled with at least one external device via a

network. In such an embodiment, the input sensing unit 206 of the biometric switching unit 104 is configured to obtain the biometric data from the at least one external device. The network may include, but is not limited to, Local Interconnect Network (LIN), Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi), Wireless broadband (Wibro), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), and Near Field Communication (NFC).
The input sensing unit 206 may be accommodated within the housing member 200 of the biometric switching unit 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 220 may be positioned in a recess 221 formed in the front cover 202 of the biometric switching unit 104. The fingerprint sensor 220 may be supported in the recess 221 through a sensor mounting bracket 222. Owing to positioning of the fingerprint sensor 220, the user may conveniently access the fingerprint sensor 220 for activating ignition of the vehicle.
Further, the input sensing unit 206 may be communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit 210. In an embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 220 may be communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit 210 through the PCB assembly 208. In an embodiment, the PCB assembly 208 may be embodied as a flexible PCB assembly. Therefore, the PCB assembly 208 may interchangeably be referred to as the flexible PCB assembly 208. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may be implemented in the biometric switching unit 104 via another PCB assembly. In such an embodiment, the PCB assembly having the first controlling unit 210 may supply required amplitude of voltage and current to the fingerprint sensor 220 via the flexible PCB assembly 208.
The flexible PCB assembly 208 and the first controlling unit 210 may be supported in the biometric switching unit 104 through a supporting bracket 224. The first controlling unit 210 may be configured to authenticate the biometric data of the user obtain by the fingerprint sensor 220 of the input sensing unit 206. Operation and constructional details of the first controlling unit 210 is explained with respect to the description of Figure 4, Figure 5, Figure 6 and Figure 7 of the present disclosure.
Figures 3a, 3b, 3c illustrate side views of different biometric switching units 104-1, 104-2, 104-3 depicting arrangement the fingerprint sensor 220, according to various embodiments of

the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 3a, the biometric switching unit 104-1 may include the fingerprint sensor 220 supported in the front cover 202 and aligned parallel to an axis Y-Y'. In particular, the fingerprint sensor 220 may be inclined vertically with respect to a front surface of the front cover 202. The fingerprint sensor 220 may be projected at an angle for allowing the user to ergonomically access the fingerprint sensor 220. Owing to such arrangement of the fingerprint sensor 220, overall touch capability of the fingerprint sensor 220 may be substantially enhanced.
Referring to Figure 3b, the biometric switching unit 104-2 may include the fingerprint sensor 220 supported in the front cover 202 and aligned parallel to an axis X-X'. The fingerprint sensor 220 may be arranged at a desired angle with respect to the front cover 202. In particular, the fingerprint sensor 220 may be inclined horizontally with respect to the front cover 202 for allowing the user to ergonomically access the fingerprint sensor 220.
Referring to Figure 3c, the biometric switching unit 104-3 may be provided with a cap member 302 to conceal the fingerprint sensor 220 supported in the front cover 202. The cap member 302 may be provided on a lower end of the front cover 202 of the biometric switching unit 104-3. The cap member 302 may be adapted to protect the fingerprint sensor 220 from contaminants, such as dust and water, and exposure of Ultraviolet (UV) rays. Therefore, overall service life of the fingerprint sensor 220 may be substantially enhanced.
Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of the system 100 for biometric activation of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 4, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the input sensing unit 206. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the input sensing unit 206 via an encrypted communication mode. Further, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the vehicular activation unit 102. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the vehicular activation unit 102 via the encrypted communication mode.
In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicular activation unit 102 may include a second controlling unit 402 and an electronic starter 404, hereinafter referred as E-starter. In an embodiment, the second controlling unit 402 may be embodied as an Electronic Control Unit

(ECU) of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 and the second controlling unit 402 may collectively be referred to as controlling units 212, 402, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
In an embodiment, each of the controlling units 212, 402 may include a processor, memory, modules, and data. The modules and the memory are coupled to the processor. The processor can be a single processing unit or a number of units, all of which could include multiple computing units. The processor may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any devices that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor is configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions and data stored in the memory.
The memory may include any non-transitory computer-readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and magnetic tapes. The modules, amongst other things, include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., which perform particular tasks or implement data types. The modules may also be implemented as, signal processor(s), state machine(s), logic circuitries, and/or any other device or component that manipulate signals based on operational instructions.
Further, the modules can be implemented in hardware, instructions executed by a processing unit, or by a combination thereof. The processing unit can comprise a computer, a processor, such as the processor, a state machine, a logic array or any other suitable devices capable of processing instructions. The processing unit can be a general-purpose processor which executes instructions to cause the general-purpose processor to perform the required tasks or, the processing unit can be dedicated to perform the required functions. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the modules may be machine-readable instructions (software) which, when executed by a processor/processing unit, perform any of the described functionalities.
In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may be configured to obtain the biometric data from the input sensing unit 206. The biometric data may include, but is not limited to,

scanned fingerprints of a finger or a thumb of a user through the fingerprint sensor 220. Further, the first controlling unit 210 may be configured to compare the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data. The pre-stored data may include registered fingerprints of different users. The first controlling unit 210 may compare the scanned fingerprints of the user with the registered fingerprints of different users.
In one embodiment, the pre-stored biometric data may include the registered fingerprints of different users scanned through the fingerprint sensor 220 of the biometric switching unit 104. In such an embodiment, the biometric switching unit 104 may be configured to allow deletion, updation, and addition of fingerprints of different users, which is explained in detail with respect to description of Figure 8 of the present disclosure.
In another embodiment, the pre-stored biometric data may include registered fingerprints of the user scanned through the at least one external device including, but not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet, a notebook computer, a tablet PC, and a PDA. In such an embodiment, the at least one external device may be in communication with the first controlling unit 210 for transmitting the scanned fingerprints to the first controlling unit 210. The at least one external device may be in communication with the first controlling unit 210 via the network.
Further, the first controlling unit 210 may be configured to generate an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may generate the activation request based on comparison of the scanned fingerprints of the user with the registered fingerprints of different users. In such an embodiment, when the scanned fingerprint corresponds to at least one of the registered fingerprints, the first controlling unit 210 may authenticate identity of the user as an authorised user to activate the vehicle. Subsequently, the first controlling unit 210 may generate the activation request indicative of the authentication of the user.
As explained earlier, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the second controlling unit 402. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the second controlling unit 402, via an encrypted communication mode. The second controlling unit 402 may be configured to receive the activation request from the first controlling unit 210. Further, the second controlling unit 402 may be configured to

determine whether a state of each of the engine switch 214 and a clutch switch (not shown) of the vehicle is an active state.
Furthermore, the second controlling unit 402 may be configured to activate ignition of the vehicle if the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the active state. Referring to Figure 4, in the illustrated embodiment, the second controlling unit 402 may be configured to activate the E-starter 404 of the vehicular activation unit 102. In particular, upon receiving the activation request, the second controlling unit 402 may activate the E-starter 404, when the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is in the active state. The E-starter 404 may be configured to operate a motor i.e., a starter motor 406 for activating ignition of an engine 408 of the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the system 100 may also include an auxiliary authentication unit for authenticating the user of the vehicle in addition to the biometric switching unit 104. In one example, the auxiliary authentication unit may include an interactive display unit or any alphanumeric keypad for entering a password. In another example, the auxiliary authentication unit may be embodied as a vehicle key access. In such an embodiment, the second controlling unit 402 may activate ignition of the vehicle upon receiving authentication from both of the biometric switching unit 104 and the auxiliary authentication unit. Therefore, in such an embodiment, the system 100 may provide enhanced security to the vehicle, and thereby effectively protecting the vehicle from unauthorized access.
Figure 5 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method 500 for biometric activation of the vehicle by the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the present embodiment, the system 100 may be embodied as the system explained in description of Figure 4 of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, details of the present disclosure that are explained in details in the description of Figure la, Figure lb, Figure 2a, Figure 2b, Figure 3a, Figure 3b, Figure 3 c, and Figure 4, are not explained in detail in the description of Figure 5.
At block 502, the biometric data, i.e., scanned fingerprints may be obtained from the user through the fingerprint sensor 220. Upon receiving the biometric data, the system 100 may compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data. At block 502, if the system 100 fails to authenticate the identity of the user, the method 500 may branch to block 504. At

block 504, the system 100 may re-compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data. In an embodiment, the system 100 may re-compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data for more than 10 times within a predefined time period, such as 60 seconds, until the user is identified as one of the registered user of the vehicle. If the system 100 fails to authenticate the identity of the user within the predefined time period, the method 500 may branch to block 506.
At block 506, the first controlling unit 210 may transmit an instruction indicative of blowing a horn of the vehicle to the second controlling unit 402, i.e., ECU. At block 508, upon receiving the instruction, the second controlling unit 402 may operate the horn of the vehicle in order to prevent theft of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the second controlling unit 402 may send a warning notification to the registered user. The warning notification may indicate that a non-registered user is attempting to activate the vehicle. In an example, the registered user may receive the warning notification on at least one external device, such as a smartphone.
Alternatively, at block 502, if the system 100 authenticates the identity of the user as one of the registered users, the state of the engine switch 214 may be determined. At block 510, if the state of the engine switch 214 is determined as an in-active state, the method 500 may branch back to block 502 for re-scanning of fingerprints of the user. Alternatively, if the state of the engine switch 214 is determined as the active state, the method 500 may branch to block 512.
At block 512, the first controlling unit 210 may transmit the activation request to the second controlling unit 402 of the vehicle. Upon receiving the activation request, at block 514-1, the second controlling unit 402 may activate the E-starter 404 based on the states of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle. At block 514-2, the second controlling unit 402 may determine the states of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle. If the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the in-active state, the method 500 may branch back to block 502 for re-scanning of fingerprints of the user. Alternatively, if the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the active state, the second controlling unit 402 may activate the E-starter 404.
At block 516-1, the E-starter 404 may operate the starter motor 406 of the vehicle based on the states of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle. At block 516-2, the

second controlling unit 402 may again determine the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch. If the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the in-active state, the method 500 may branch back to block 502 for re-scanning of fingerprints of the user. Alternatively, if the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the active state, the E-starter 404 may operate the starter motor 406 of the vehicle. Subsequently, at block 518, the starter motor 406 may drive the engine 408 for activating ignition of the vehicle.
Figure 6 illustrates a block diagram of the system 100 for biometric activation of the vehicle, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, details of the present disclosure that are explained in details in the description of Figure la, Figure lb, Figure 2a, Figure 2b, Figure 3a, Figure 3b, Figure 3c, Figure 4, and Figure 5, are not explained in detail in the description of Figure 6.
Similar to the system 100 explained with respect to Figure 4, the system 100 of the illustrated embodiment includes the input sensing unit 206 for obtaining the fingerprints of the user. Further, the system 100 may include the first controlling unit 210 in communication with the input sensing unit 206 for receiving the scanned fingerprints from the fingerprint sensor 220 of the input sensing unit 206. Upon receiving the scanned fingerprints, the first controlling unit 210 may compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data, such as the registered fingerprint. Based on the comparison, the first controlling unit 210 may generate the activation request. Further, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the vehicular activation unit 102.
However, in the illustrated embodiment, the vehicular activation unit 102 may include, but is not limited to, a starter relay 604 in communication with the starter motor 406 of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may be in communication with the starter relay 604 via the encrypted communication mode. Upon generation of the activation request, the first controlling unit 210 may activate the starter relay 604. Subsequently, the starter relay 604 may actuate the starter motor 406 for activating ignition of the vehicle.
Figure 7 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method 700 for biometric activation of the vehicle by the system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the present

embodiment, the system may be embodied as the system 100 explained in description of Figure 6 of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, details of the present disclosure that are explained in details in the description of Figure la, Figure lb, Figure 2a, Figure 2b, Figure 3a, Figure 3b, Figure 3c, Figure 4, Figure 5, and Figure 6, are not explained in detail in the description of Figure 7.
At block 702, the biometric data, i.e., scanned fingerprints may be obtained from the user through the fingerprint sensor 220. Upon receiving the biometric data, the system 100 may compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data, i.e., the registered fingerprints. At block 702, if the system 100 fails to authenticate the identity of the user, the method 700 may branch to block 704. At block 704, the system 100 may re-compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data. In an embodiment, the system 100 may re-compare the scanned fingerprints with the pre-stored biometric data for more than 10 times within a predefined time period, such as 60 seconds, until the user is identified as one of the registered user of the vehicle. If the system 100 fails authenticate the identity of the user within the predefined time period, the method 700 may branch to block 706.
At block 706, the first controlling unit 210 may transmit an instruction indicative of blowing a horn of the vehicle to an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). At block 708, upon receiving the instruction, the ECU may operate the horn of the vehicle in order to prevent theft of the vehicle. In an embodiment, the ECU may send a warning notification to the registered user. The warning notification may indicate that a non-registered user is attempting to activate the vehicle.
Alternatively, at block 702, if the system 100 authenticates the identity of the user as one of the registered users, the state of the engine switch 214 may be determined. At block 710, if the state of the engine switch 214 is determined as an in-active state, the method 700 may branch back to block 702 for re-scanning of fingerprints of the user. Alternatively, if the state of the engine switch 214 is determined as the active state, the method 700 may branch to block 712.
At block 712, the first controlling unit 210 may transmit the activation request, such as a signal to the starter relay 604 of the vehicle. Upon receiving the activation request, at block 714-1, the starter relay 604 may be activated based on the states of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle. At block 714-2, the states of the engine switch and the clutch switch

of the vehicle may be determined. If the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the in-active state, the method 700 may branch back to block 702 for re¬scanning of fingerprints of the user. Alternatively, if the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the active state, the starter relay 604 may be activated.
At block 716-1, the starter relay 604 may operate the starter motor 406 of the vehicle based on the states of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle. At block 716-2, the states of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle may be determined. If the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the in-active state, the method 700 may branch back to block 702 for re-scanning of fingerprints of the user. Alternatively, if the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the active state, the starter relay 604 may operate the starter motor 406 of the vehicle. Subsequently, at block 718, the starter motor 406 may drive the engine 408 for activating ignition of the vehicle.
Figure 8 illustrates a flowchart depicting operation of the biometric switching unit 104 of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, details of the present disclosure that are explained in details in the description of Figure la, Figure lb, Figure 2a, Figure 2b, Figure 3a, Figure 3b, Figure 3c, Figure 4, Figure 5, and Figure 6, are not explained in detail in the description of Figure 8.
At block 802, the biometric switching unit 104 may obtain the biometric data, i.e., scanned fingerprints from the user. Upon receiving the scanned fingerprints, the biometric switching unit 104 may determine whether the pre-stored biometric data is available for comparing the scanned fingerprints. In the illustrated embodiment, the biometric switching unit 104 may be operable in at least three operational modes, i.e., a registration mode, an authentication mode, and a deletion mode.
In the registration mode, at block 804, the biometric switching unit 104 may notify the user for registering the biometric data in the memory through the fingerprint sensor 220. At block 806, the biometric switching unit 104 may obtain a fingerprint image of the user for registration. If the captured fingerprint image is not suitable, then the biometric switching unit 104 may notify the user for re-capturing the fingerprint image. Upon receiving the fingerprint

image, at block 808, the biometric switching unit 104 may register the user as a master user. At block 810, upon registration of the master user, multiple slave users may be registered based on authorisation request received from the master user.
In the authentication mode, at block 812, the biometric switching unit 104 may compare the scanned fingerprint with the registered fingerprint of the master user. At block 814, the biometric switching unit 104 may determine that the scanned fingerprint corresponds to the registered fingerprint of the master user. Subsequently, at block 816, the biometric switching unit 104 may identify the user as the master user having privileges to operate the vehicle.
In the deletion mode, at block 818, the biometric switching unit 104 may allow a user to delete the pre-stored biometric data. Upon identifying the user as the master user, at block 820, the biometric switching unit 104 may allow the user to delete the registered fingerprints of the user from the memory. Alternatively, if the user is identified as a slave user, the biometric switching unit 104 may allow the user to delete the registered fingerprints of such slave user. However, the biometric switching unit 104 may allow the slave user to delete the registered fingerprints of the master user, upon receiving authorization from such master user.
Figure 9 illustrates a schematic view of the biometric switching unit 104 in communication with a display unit 902, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 9, the system 100 may include the display unit 902 communicatively coupled with the biometric switching unit 104. The display unit 902 may be configured to be operated based on an input received via the input sensing unit 206. In an embodiment, the display unit 902 may be embodied as a LCD panel. In one embodiment, the display unit 902 may be employed for operating and monitoring various operational parameters of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the display unit 902 may be employed for performing various applications associated with the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the display unit 902 may be employed for a navigation application. In such an embodiment, the fingerprint sensor 220 may be embodied as a capacitive touch sensor for operating the display unit 902. The fingerprint sensor 220 may be configured to obtain data indicative of finger movement on a surface of the fingerprint sensor 220. In an embodiment, the data may include a position and a direction of movement of fingers on the fingerprint sensor 220. Further, the fingerprint sensor 220 may

transmit the data to the first controlling unit 210. Upon receiving the data, the first controlling unit 210 may operate the display unit 902.
In the illustrated embodiment, a user interface of the display unit 902 displays a menu list depicting elements, such as menu 1, menu 2, menu 3, menu 4, menu 5, menu 6, menu 7, and menu 8. In such an embodiment, the elements of the menu list may be navigated by moving a finger in one of a left direction, a right direction, an upward direction, and a downward direction on the fingerprint sensor 220.
Figure 10 illustrates a flowchart depicting a method 1000 for biometric activation of the vehicle, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, details of the present disclosure that are explained in details in the description of Figure la, Figure lb, Figure 2a, Figure 2b, Figure 3a, Figure 3b, Figure 3c, Figure 4, Figure 5, Figure 6, Figure 7, Figure 8, and Figure 9 are not explained in detail in the description of Figure 10.
At block 1002, the method 1000 includes receiving the biometric data from the input sensing unit 206. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may receive the biometric data from the input sensing unit 206. The input sensing unit 206 may be communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit 210. At block 1004, the method 1000 includes comparing the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data. In an embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may compare the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data. Further, the first controlling unit 210 may be configured to receive an instruction indicative of one of registering biometric data of the user and deleting biometric data of the user. Based on the instruction, the first controlling unit 210 may update the pre-stored biometric data.
At block 1006, the method 1000 includes generating the activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data. In embodiment, the first controlling unit 210 may generate the activation request based on the comparison. At block 1008, the method 1000 includes receiving the activation request from the first controlling unit 210. In an embodiment, the vehicular activation unit 102 may receive the activation request from the first controlling unit 210. At block 1010, the method 1000 includes determining whether the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle is in the active state. In an embodiment, the vehicular activation unit 102 may determine whether the state of each of

the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch of the vehicle is in the active state. At block 1012, the method 1000 includes activating ignition of the vehicle if the state of each of the engine switch 214 and the clutch switch is determined as the active switch.
As would be gathered, the present disclosure offers the system 100 and the methods 500, 700, 1000 for biometric activation of the vehicle. As explained earlier, the system 100 may be provided to authenticate the user as one of the registered users of the vehicle prior to activating ignition of the vehicle. Based on the authentication, the system 100 may activate ignition of the vehicle. Therefore, the system 100 of the present disclosure prevents the vehicle to be accessed by an unauthorized user.
The system 100 may include the biometric switching unit 104 and the vehicular switching unit 102 in communication with the biometric switching unit 104. The biometric switching unit 104 may be provided with a waterproof sealing which is IP67 complaint and automotive grade complaint. Owing to such waterproof sealing, the biometric switching unit 104 restricts ingress of contaminants, such as dust and moisture, and thereby enhancing overall service life of the biometric switching unit 104.
Further, the biometric switching unit 104 of the present disclosure includes a number of sub-components, such as the input sensing unit 206, the PCB assembly 208, and the first controlling unit 210. The biometric switching unit 104 of the present disclosure includes a less number of sub-components which are efficiently assembled to form the biometric switching unit 104 for the vehicle. Firstly, less number of sub-components reduces manufacturing cost of the biometric switching unit 104. Further, owing to presence of less number of sub-components, maintenance cost of the biometric switching unit 104 is also significantly reduced. Furthermore, owing to the presence of less number of sub-components, a weight and a size of the biometric switching unit 104 is substantially reduced.
The biometric switching unit 104 may be integrated with a switch assembly, such as the engine switch 214 and the blinker assembly 212. Owing to such construction, the biometric switching unit 104 may be arranged in substantially less space on the vehicle, and thereby reducing space constraint associated with positioning of the biometric switching unit 104. Further, the biometric switching unit 104 may be resistance to vibration dampening, and thereby

enhancing service life of the biometric switching unit 104. Furthermore, the biometric switching unit 104 of the present disclosure may be provided with provisions for voltage and current conditioning.
As explained earlier, the fingerprint sensor 220 of the biometric switching unit 104 is in communication with the vehicular activation unit 102 via the encrypted communication mode. Similarly, the first controlling unit 210 is in communication with the vehicular activation unit 102 via the encrypted communication mode. Owing to implementation of such communication modes, the present disclosure offers the system 100 with a high level of security protocols, thereby protecting the system 100 against tempering by unauthorized users. Further, the biometric switching unit 104 is arranged on the handlebar 106 in such a manner that the user may conveniently access the biometric switching unit 104 for activating the vehicle. Also, the fingerprint sensor 220 is arranged in the biometric switching unit 104 for allowing the user to ergonomically access the fingerprint sensor 220 to provide fingerprint impression. Therefore, the present disclosure offers the systems 100, and the methods 500, 700, 1000 that are efficient, economical, flexible, and effective for biometric activation of the vehicle.
While specific language has been used to describe the present subject matter, any limitations arising on account thereto, are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein. The drawings and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.

WE CLAIM:
1. A system (100) for biometric activation of a vehicle, the system (100) comprising:
a biometric switching unit (104) disposed on the vehicle, the biometric switching unit (104) comprising:
an input sensing unit (206) configured to obtain biometric data; and a first controlling unit (210) in communication with the input sensing unit (206), the first controlling unit (210) configured to:
receive the biometric data from the input sensing unit (206); compare the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data; and generate an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data; and a vehicular activation unit (102) in communication with the first controlling unit (210) of the biometric switching unit (104), the vehicular activation unit (102) configured to:
receive the activation request from the first controlling unit (210); determine whether state of each of an engine switch and a clutch switch of the vehicle is an active state; and
activate ignition of the vehicle if the state of each of the engine switch and the clutch switch is determined as the active state.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the biometric switching unit (104) is communicatively coupled with at least one external device via a network, wherein the input sensing unit (206) of the biometric switching unit (104) is configured to obtain the biometric data from the at least one external device.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the input sensing unit (206) includes a fingerprint sensor (220).
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a display unit (902) communicatively coupled with the biometric switching unit (104), wherein the display unit (902) is configured to be operated based on an input received via the input sensing unit (206).

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicular activation unit (102)
includes a second controlling unit (402) in communication with an electronic-starter
(404), the second controlling unit (402) is configured to:
activate, upon receiving the activation request, the electronic-starter (404) when the state of each of the engine switch and the clutch switch is in the active state, wherein the electronic-starter (404) is configured to operate a motor (406) for activating ignition of the vehicle.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vehicular activation unit (102) includes a starter relay (604) in communication with a motor (406), wherein the starter relay (604) is configured to actuate the motor (406) for activating ignition of the vehicle.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first controlling unit (210) is configured to transmit a warning notification to the vehicular activation unit (102), if the first controlling unit (210) fails to authenticate the biometric data based on the comparison between the biometric data and the pre-stored biometric data.
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first controlling unit (210) is configured to:
receive an instruction indicative of one of registering biometric data of the user and deleting biometric data of the user; and
update the pre-stored biometric data based on the instruction received from the user.
9. A method (1000) for biometric activation of the vehicle, the method (1000) comprising:
receiving, by a first controlling unit (210), biometric data from an input sensing unit (206), wherein the input sensing unit (206) is communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit (210);
comparing, by the first controlling unit (210), the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data;
generating, by the first controlling unit (210), an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data;

receiving, by a vehicular activation unit (102), the activation request from the first controlling unit (210), wherein the vehicular activation unit (102) is communicatively coupled to the first controlling unit (210);
determining, by the vehicular activation unit (102), whether a state of each of an engine switch and a clutch switch of the vehicle is in an active state; and
activating, by the vehicular activation unit (102), ignition of the vehicle if the state of each of the engine switch and the clutch switch is determined as the active state.
10. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the biometric switching unit (104) is communicatively coupled with at least one external device via a network, wherein the input sensing unit (206) of the biometric switching unit (104) is configured to obtain biometric data from the at least one external device.
11. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the input sensing unit (206) includes a fingerprint sensor (220).
12. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 9, further comprising a display unit (902) communicatively coupled with the biometric switching unit (104), wherein the display unit (902) is configured to be operated based on an input received via the input sensing unit (206).
13. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the vehicular activation unit (102) includes a second controlling unit (402) in communication with an electronic-starter (404), the second controlling unit (402) is configured to:
activate, upon receiving the activation request, the electronic-starter (404) when the state of each of the engine switch and the clutch switch is in the active state, wherein the electronic-starter (404) is configured to operate a motor (406) for activating ignition of the vehicle.
14. The method (1000) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the vehicular activation unit (102)
includes a starter relay (604) in communication with a motor (406), wherein the starter
relay (604) is configured to actuate the motor for activating ignition of the vehicle.

The method (1000) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first controlling unit (210) is configured to transmit a warning notification to the vehicular activation unit (102), if the first controlling unit (210) fails to authenticate the biometric data based on the comparison between the biometric data and the pre-stored biometric data.
The method (1000) as claimed in claim 9, further comprising:
receiving, by the first controlling unit (210), an instruction indicative of one of registering biometric data of the user and deleting biometric data of the user; and
updating, by the first controlling unit (210) the pre-stored biometric data based on the instruction received from the user.
A biometric switching unit (104) for a vehicle, the biometric switching unit (104) comprising:
a housing member (200);
an input sensing unit (206) disposed in the housing member (200), wherein the input sensing unit (206) includes a fingerprint sensor (220) configured to obtain biometric data;
a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly (208) in communication with the input sensing unit (206); and
a first controlling unit (210) in communication with the input sensing unit (206) and the PCB assembly (208), wherein the first controlling unit (210) is configured to: receive the biometric data from the input sensing unit (206); compare the biometric data with pre-stored biometric data; and generate an activation request based on the comparison of the biometric data with the pre-stored biometric data.