GB2558601A

GB2558601A - Vehicle access

Info

Publication number: GB2558601A
Application number: GB1700334.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Drummond Gilbert
Original assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Current assignee: Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Priority date: 2017-01-09
Filing date: 2017-01-09
Publication date: 2018-07-18
Also published as: GB201700334D0

Abstract

A method and system for unlocking a vehicle having a remote keyless entry (RKE) receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The method and system comprises sending a request for key generation information to a server, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle, the request comprising an identifier for authentication; receiving the key generation information from the server; and using the key generation information to generate an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The electromagnetic signal may unlock a compartment of the vehicle while leaving other compartments in a locked state. The electronic device may be on-board the vehicle and may generate the signal from a received instruction signal, preferably received from a wireless communication device. Conversely, the electronic device may be a wireless communication device. The key generation information may be received from the server when the wireless communication device is proximate to the vehicle. The key generation information may allow the retrieval of a virtual key for the vehicle from a remote computer. The unlocking may be used to deliver a package to a users vehicle.

Description

(71) Applicant(s):

Jaguar Land Rover Limited (Incorporated in the United Kingdom)

Abbey Road, Whitley, Coventry, Warwickshire, CV3 4LF, United Kingdom (72) Inventor(s):

Gilbert Drummond (56) Documents Cited:

DE 102011107554 A1 US 20160098876 A1 US 20160098870 A1 US 20130082820 A1

US 8841987 A1 US 20160098871 A1 US 20150019304 A1 US 20050088280 A1 (58) Field of Search:

Other: WPI, EPODOC, Patents Fulltext (74) Agent and/or Address for Service:

Jaguar Land Rover

Patents Department W/1/073, Abbey Road, Whitley, COVENTRY, CV3 4LF, United Kingdom (54) Title of the Invention: Vehicle access

Abstract Title: Providing vehicle access to a package delivery service (57) A method and system for unlocking a vehicle having a remote keyless entry (RKE) receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The method and system comprises sending a request for key generation information to a server, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle, the request comprising an identifier for authentication; receiving the key generation information from the server; and using the key generation information to generate an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The electromagnetic signal may unlock a compartment of the vehicle while leaving other compartments in a locked state. The electronic device may be on-board the vehicle and may generate the signal from a received instruction signal, preferably received from a wireless communication device. Conversely, the electronic device may be a wireless communication device. The key generation information may be received from the server when the wireless communication device is proximate to the vehicle. The key generation information may allow the retrieval of a virtual key for the vehicle from a remote computer. The unlocking may be used to deliver a package to a user’s vehicle.

100

Item Sender

-140

Delivery	s—150 .---	' ^x \^120
Service		_	Server
Provider

Computer

RKE System

-176 s—170

FIG. 1

1/9

100

FIG. 1

2/9

200

FIG. 2

3/9

300

^310 ^320 ^330 ^340

FIG. 3

4/9

400 ^V-A/

FIG. 4

5/9

500

FIG. 5

6/9

FIG. 6A

7/9 ο

FIG. 6Β

8/9

FIG. 6C

9/9

700

^710 ^720 ^730

FIG. 7

VEHICLE ACCESS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to methods and systems for vehicle access. In particular, but not exclusively the present invention relates to methods and systems for unlocking or locking a vehicle by a third party, such as a delivery service provider.

BACKGROUND

With the proliferation of e-commerce websites, greater strain has been put on the delivery sector, which is required to cope with ever greater numbers of deliveries of parcels, packages and other items. Any inefficiencies or problems that arise in the delivery sector lead to extra cost, storage capacity challenges, and inconvenience.

For example, one common practice is for a delivery service provider to attempt to deliver an item to an address associated with the intended recipient, which may be the intended recipient’s home address or work address. As the time of the delivery attempt may be hard to predict, often the intended recipient or an associate will need to wait at the address in order to accept the delivery, leading to inconvenience and time inefficiencies for the user. Also often, if an attempt is made to deliver the item to the address when the intended recipient or an associate is not present at the address to accept the delivery, the item may be rerouted to a depot or other warehouse. This leads to inconvenience and delay for the intended recipient awaiting the item, and leads to inconvenience and cost for the delivery service provider who stores the item until another delivery attempt can be made or until the intended recipient retrieves the item from the depot.

Technical improvements are thus required to enable more efficient delivery systems to be established.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A method is provided, the method for provision of a delivery service requiring access to a user’s vehicle by a delivery service provider, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The method comprises receiving service user information, the service user information comprising a service user identifier for identifying the user of the service. The method comprises receiving vehicle information, the vehicle information identifying the vehicle associated with the user of the service. The method comprises receiving key generation information, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The method comprises storing, in association with one another, the service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information, to enable provision of the key generation information to the delivery service provider following an authenticated request. An authenticated request may be a request for key generation information, about which it is determined that various security conditions are met such that key generation may be provided to the requesting party.

Advantageously, the method allows for service user information, vehicle information and key generation information to be collated and stored in such a way that key generation information can be retrieved at a later date by referencing the service user information and/or the vehicle information. As the key generation information is configured to enable an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal compatible with an RKE receiver of the vehicle, the service may be implemented while remaining agnostic of the type of vehicle concerned. The method is scalable to multiple service users and multiple vehicles as it need not be tailored to a specific vehicle.

The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle. The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and to maintain one or more compartments in a locked state. For example, the electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the boot or trunk of the vehicle, while leaving the passenger doors of the vehicle locked. Advantageously, when key generation information is provided to a third party such as the delivery service provider said third party may only access a particular compartment of the vehicle. This ensures greater security of the vehicle and greater assurance for the service user.

The electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency signal. The electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency identification (RFID) signal. The electromagnetic signal may comprise a microwave signal. The electromagnetic signal may comprise an optical signal. The skilled person that the electromagnetic signal may take any suitable form compatible with a remote keyless entry system of the target vehicle.

The electronic device may be a wireless communication device. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key for enabling the wireless communication device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. Alternatively, the key generation information may comprise instructions for retrieving a virtual key from a remote computing means, for example a third party server. The electronic device may be, for example, a mobile phone, a laptop computer, a tablet or other device operated by the delivery service provider.

The electronic device may be installed within the vehicle. The electronic device does not need to be a wireless communication device in the possession of the delivery service provider, but may instead be a passive or active device awaiting an instruction signal. The electronic device may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal. The key generation information may comprise information for enabling a separate wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. The instruction signal may comprise a Bluetooth® signal or a cellular signal, such as a GSM signal.

The RKE receiver of the vehicle may be configured to receive a second electromagnetic signal to lock the vehicle. The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate a second electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle to lock the vehicle or a compartment of the vehicle. Accordingly, key generation information may be retrievable to lock the vehicle in order to secure the vehicle after the vehicle has been accessed.

The method may comprise receiving location information for identifying a location of the vehicle. The method may comprise tracking the location of the vehicle using the received location information. The method may comprise storing the location information in association with the vehicle information. Advantageously, location information may be received in order to ensure that an authorised party may locate the vehicle. The location information may be received in any suitable manner, for example, the location information may be received periodically, aperiodically or continuously. The location information may be received as part of the vehicle information or separately from the vehicle information.

The service user information may comprise a name of the user and/or an address of the user. The service user identifier may comprise a unique identifier number.

The vehicle information may comprise a registration number of the vehicle. The vehicle information may comprise a make and model number of the vehicle.

The method may comprise storing identifiers of one or more authorised parties in association with the service user information. The request may be a request from an authorised party of the one or more authorised parties. The one or more authorised parties may comprise one or more online retail outlets.

A computer readable medium is provided, the computer readable medium having instructions stored thereon. When read by a computer, the instructions are configured to perform any of the methods disclosed herein.

An apparatus is provided, the apparatus for provision of a delivery service requiring access to a user’s vehicle by a delivery service provider, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The apparatus comprises one or more receivers. The one or more receivers are configured to receive service user information, the service user information comprising a service user identifier for identifying the user of the service. The one or more receivers are configured to receive vehicle information, the vehicle information identifying the vehicle associated with the user of the service. The one or more receivers are configured to receive key generation information, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The apparatus comprises control means arranged to store, in association with one another, the service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information. The control means is arranged to provide the key generation information to the delivery service provider in dependence on an authenticated request.

The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle. The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and maintain one or more compartments of the vehicle in a locked state.

The electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency signal.

The electronic device may be a wireless communication device. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key for enabling the wireless communication device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The key generation information may comprise instructions for retrieving a virtual key from a remote computing means.

The electronic device may be installed within the vehicle. The electronic device may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in dependence on receiving an instruction signal. The key generation information may comprise information for enabling a wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. The instruction signal may comprise a Bluetooth® signal or a cellular signal.

The RKE receiver of the vehicle may be configured to receive a second electromagnetic signal to lock the vehicle. The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate a second electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle to lock the vehicle or a compartment of the vehicle. The second electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency signal.

The one or more receivers may be configured to receive location information for identifying a location of the vehicle. The control means may be configured to track the location of the vehicle using the received location information and/or store the location information in association with the vehicle information.

The service user identifier may comprise the name of the user. The service user identifier may comprise the address of the user. The service user identifier may comprise an identifier number. The vehicle information may comprise a registration number of the vehicle. The vehicle information may comprise a make of the vehicle. The vehicle information may comprise a model of the vehicle.

The control means may be configured to store identifiers of one or more authorised parties in association with the service user information. The request may be a request from an authorised party of the one or more authorised parties.

A method is provided, the method for providing key generation information to a delivery service provider requiring access to a vehicle associated with a user of the service, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The method comprises receiving an indication of a pending delivery, the indication comprising a service user identifier for identifying the user of the service. The method comprises associating the service user identifier with a delivery identifier for the pending delivery. The method comprises retrieving, using the service user identifier, vehicle information identifying the vehicle. The method comprises receiving a request for key generation information from the delivery service provider, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle, wherein the request comprises the delivery identifier. The method comprises retrieving the key generation information in dependence on a positive authentication of the received request for key generation information. The method comprises causing at least a part of the retrieved key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider.

The method may comprise causing the vehicle information to be sent to the delivery service provider.

The request for key generation information may comprise one or more of a delivery identifier, a service user identifier, or vehicle information.

The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle. The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and to maintain one or more compartments in a locked state. For example, the electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the boot or trunk of the vehicle, while leaving the passenger doors of the vehicle locked.

The indication of the pending delivery may comprise the delivery identifier. For example, or accordingly, the delivery identifier may be received in the indication of a pending delivery. Alternatively, the method may comprise generating the delivery identifier and causing the delivery identifier to be sent to the delivery service provider.

The electronic device may be a wireless communication device. Causing the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider may comprise causing the key generation information to be sent to the wireless communication device. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key for enabling the wireless communication device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle.

The electronic device may be installed within the vehicle. The electronic device may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal. The key generation information may comprise information for enabling a wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. The instruction signal may comprise a Bluetooth® signal or a cellular signal.

The method may comprise retrieving location information identifying a location of the vehicle. Retrieving location information identifying a location of the vehicle may comprise using the vehicle information to retrieve the location information. The method may comprise causing the location information to be sent to the delivery service provider. Causing the location information to be sent to the delivery service provider may comprise sending the location information to the delivery service provider or may comprise sending the location information to a third party for communication to the delivery service provider. Advantageously, location information may be received in order to ensure that an authorised party may locate the vehicle. The location information may be received in any suitable manner, for example, the location information may be received periodically, aperiodically or continuously. The location information may be received as part of the vehicle information or separately from the vehicle information.

Causing the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider may comprise sending the key generation information to the delivery service provider. Causing the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider may comprise sending the key generation information to the authorised party for communication to the delivery service provider. The authorised party may be a retailer or other item sender.

Receiving an indication of a pending delivery may comprise receiving an indication from an authorised party.

Causing the vehicle information to be sent to the delivery service provider may comprise sending the vehicle information to the authorised party for communication to the delivery service provider.

The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate the electromagnetic signal such that it is only compatible with the RKE system of the vehicle for a limited period of time and/or a predetermined number of uses. The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE system of the vehicle only on a one-time-use basis.

An apparatus is provided, the apparatus for providing key generation information to a delivery service provider requiring access to a vehicle associated with a user of the service, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The apparatus comprises one or more memories. The apparatus comprises one or more receivers configured to receive an indication of a pending delivery, the indication comprising a service user identifier for identifying the user of the service. The one or more receivers are configured to receive a request for key generation information from the delivery service provider, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The apparatus comprises control means configured to associate the service user identifier with a delivery identifier for the pending delivery. The control means is configured to retrieve, using the service user identifier, vehicle information identifying the vehicle from the one or more memories. The control means is configured to retrieve, from the one or more memories, the key generation information in dependence on a positive authentication of the received request for key generation information. The control means is configured to cause at least a part of the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider.

The control means may be configured to cause the vehicle information to be sent to the delivery service provider.

The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle. The electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and maintain one or more compartments of the vehicle in a locked state. The electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency signal.

The indication of the pending delivery may comprise the delivery identifier. The control means may be configured to generate the delivery identifier. The control means may be configured to cause the delivery identifier to be sent to the delivery service provider.

The electronic device may be a wireless communication device. The control means may be configured to cause the key generation information to be sent to the wireless communication device. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key for enabling the wireless communication device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle.

The electronic device may be installed within the vehicle. The electronic device may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal. The key generation information may comprise information for enabling a wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. The instruction signal may comprise a Bluetooth® signal or a GSM signal, or any other type of instruction signal.

The control means may be configured to retrieve location information identifying a location of the vehicle. The control means may be configured to use the vehicle information to retrieve the location information. The control means may be configured to cause the location information to be sent to the delivery service provider. The control means may be configured to send the location information to the delivery service provider.

The control means may be configured to send the key generation information to the delivery service provider.

The one or more receivers may be configured to receive the indication of the pending delivery from an authorised party of one or more authorised parties associated with the service user information. The control means may be configured to send the key generation information to the authorised party for communication to the delivery service provider.

The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate the electromagnetic signal such that it is only compatible with the RKE system of the vehicle for a limited period of time and/or a predetermined number of uses.

The service user identifier may comprise a name of the user and/or an address of the user and/or an identifier number. The vehicle information may comprise a registration number of the vehicle and/or a make of the vehicle and/or a model of the vehicle.

A method is provided, the method for unlocking a vehicle, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. The method comprises sending a request for key generation information to a server, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle, the request comprising an identifier for authentication. The method comprises receiving the key generation information from the server. The method comprises, using the key generation information, causing the electromagnetic signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle.

Causing the electromagnetic signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle may comprise generating the electromagnetic signal. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key for enabling the wireless communication device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. Receiving the key generation io information from the server may comprise receiving the key generation from the server when the electronic device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server.

The key generation information may comprise instructions for retrieving a virtual key from a third party server. The method may comprise retrieving the virtual key from the third party server.

The electronic device may be installed within the vehicle. Sending a request for key generation information to a server comprises sending the request from a wireless communication device. The electronic device may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal. The key generation information may comprise information for enabling the wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. Causing the electromagnetic signal to be generated may comprise transmitting the instruction signal to the electronic device. The instruction signal may comprise a Bluetooth® signal or a cellular signal.

Receiving the key generation information from the server may comprise receiving by the wireless communication device. Receiving the key generation information from the server may comprise receiving the key generation information when the mobile communication device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server.

The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE system of the vehicle only on a one-timeuse basis.

The RKE receiver of the vehicle may be configured to receive a second electromagnetic signal to lock the vehicle. The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate a second electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle to lock the vehicle.

The method may comprise, using the key generation information, causing the second electromagnetic signal to be generated to lock the vehicle.

A wireless communication device is provided. The wireless communication device comprises a transmitter. The wireless communication device comprises a receiver. The wireless communication device comprises a processor. The processor is configured to send a request for key generation information to a server, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver of a vehicle, the request comprising an identifier for authentication. The processor is configured to receive the key generation information from the server. The processor is configured to, using the key generation information, cause the electromagnetic signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle.

The generated electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle. The generated electromagnetic signal may be operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and maintain one or more compartments of the vehicle in a locked state. The electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency signal.

The processor may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key for enabling the processor to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle.

The processor may be configured to receive the key generation information from the server when the electronic device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server. The key generation information may comprise instructions for retrieving a virtual key from a remote computing means. The processor may be configured to retrieve the virtual key from the remote computing means.

The electronic device may be installed within the vehicle. The electronic device may be configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal. The key generation information may comprise information for enabling the wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. The processor may be configured to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device. The instruction signal may comprise a Bluetooth® signal or a cellular signal or any other type of instruction signal.

The processor may be configured to receive the key generation information when the wireless communication device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle. The location of the vehicle may be known to the server.

The RKE receiver of the vehicle may be configured to receive a second electromagnetic signal to lock the vehicle. The key generation information may be for enabling the electronic device to generate a second electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle to lock the vehicle. The second electromagnetic signal may comprise a radio frequency signal.

The processor may be configured to, using the key generation information, cause the second electromagnetic signal to be generated to lock the vehicle.

Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a delivery network;

Figure 2 is a block diagram of a server;

Figure 3 is a flowchart of a method for provision of a delivery service requiring access to a user’s vehicle;

Figure 4 is a flowchart of a method for providing key generation information to a delivery service provider requiring access to a vehicle associated with a user of the service;

Figure 5 is a block diagram of an electronic device;

Figure 6a illustrates one way of unlocking a vehicle;

Figure 6b illustrates another way of unlocking a vehicle;

Figure 6c illustrates another way of unlocking a vehicle; and

Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for unlocking a vehicle.

Throughout the description and the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The inventors have recognised that a way to improve a delivery system is to deliver an item to a vehicle, such as a car, associated with the intended recipient. Often while a person works or partakes in some other activity, a vehicle belonging to that person sits stationary, either outside of their home or office, or at some other location. If a delivery service provider were able to deliver one or more items to the intended recipient’s vehicle, or in particular to a compartment such as the boot or trunk of the intended recipient’s vehicle, then the number of missed deliveries would be greatly reduced. Additionally, if a delivery were made direct to the vehicle associated with the intended recipient then the intended recipient would not need to exert effort to load the delivered item into the vehicle for transport.

In order to gain access to an intended recipient’s vehicle, a number of technical challenges must be solved, as will become apparent to the skilled reader from the discussion below. The inventors have recognised that a universal system must be implemented which, under the right security conditions, can be used to allow the delivery service provider to gain access to a vehicle, regardless of the make or model of the vehicle, without compromising the long-term security of the vehicle.

Many vehicles have a remote keyless entry “RKE” system, also known as a remote keyless system or a remote central locking system. Such terms refer to a lock that uses an electronic remote control as a key and which is activated by a handheld device or automatically by proximity. When within a proximity of an automobile, pressing a button on the remote control can generate an electromagnetic signal, often a radio frequency signal, which can be used to lock or unlock one or more of the doors of the automobile. For many vehicles the remote control can be used in order to lock or unlock a single compartment such as the boot or trunk of the vehicle while leaving the locking status of the other doors of the vehicle unchanged. The remote control carried by the vehicle owner or user often comprises a small transmitter which, when activated, sends a code to a receiver inside the vehicle. The receiver is tuned to the frequency that the transmitter uses (often this is around 300 or 400MHz, but other suitable frequencies may be envisaged by the skilled person).

The remote control often uses a hopping code or a rolling code to provide security. Often the transmitter and the receiver use the same pseudo-random number generator to ensure that the code expected by the receiver is synchronised with the next code to be generated by the radio transmitter. Known methods are used to correct for errors if the transmitter and receiver get out of synchronisation.

In the following, systems and methods for enabling the generation of an electromagnetic signal, such as a radio frequency signal, to mimic the electromagnetic signal required by an RKE system of a vehicle are provided.

The present invention seeks to provide improved methods, systems and devices for provision of a delivery service. In particular, the present application describes various nonlimiting methods, systems and devices which may be used to enable a delivery service provider (for example) to gain access to a vehicle associated with the ultimate recipient or service user.

In the following, mention is made of unlocking or locking a vehicle. The skilled person would readily understand that unlocking a vehicle can be understood to mean unlocking one or more compartments of a vehicle, such as the boot or trunk of the vehicle, or may be understood to mean unlocking the entire vehicle. Likewise, the skilled person would understand that locking a vehicle may be understood to mean locking one or more compartments of a vehicle or may be understood to mean locking the entire vehicle.

Figure 1 illustrates a delivery network 100 according to an example. A service user 110, operating a computing device, provides service user information, for example a name and address of the service user, to a remote computing means, such as a server 130 via a network 120, such as the Internet. The service user 110 may for example visit online a website hosted by the server 130 and input the service user information into the website for processing and storage by the server 130.

Additionally, in this example, the service user 110 also provides vehicle information concerning a vehicle 160 associated with the service user 110 to the server 130, the vehicle information comprising information suitable for identifying the vehicle, such as a make of the vehicle, a model of the vehicle, or a registration number of the vehicle. Optionally, the location of the vehicle may also be provided as part of the vehicle information or separately from the vehicle information. The skilled person would appreciate that the server 130 may receive the service user information and the vehicle information from separate sources. For example, the server 130 may receive the service user information from the service user 110 and the vehicle information from a government vehicle registration network which already stores the services user’s details with the details of an associated vehicle.

The vehicle 160 includes a remote keyless entry, “RKE”, system 170 comprising an RKE receiver 172, a processor 174 coupled to the receiver 172, a memory 176 coupled to the processor 174, and a locking mechanism 178 coupled to the processor. The RKE receiver 172 is configured to receive an electromagnetic signal, which in this example is a radio frequency signal. The processor 174 is configured to analyse the radio frequency signal, optionally with reference to the memory 176 and any coding schemes stored therein. The processor 174 is configured to, upon determination that the received radio frequency signal is a valid signal for unlocking the vehicle, operate the locking mechanism 178 to unlock the vehicle (which, as the skilled person would understand, may comprise unlocking one or more compartments of the vehicle). The processor 174 is configured to, upon determination that the received radio frequency signal is a valid signal for locking the vehicle, operate the locking mechanism 178 to lock the vehicle. If the received radio frequency signal does not comprise a valid unlocking signal or a valid locking signal, the processor does not operate the locking mechanism 178.

The server 130 receives key generation information. The key generation information is suitable for enabling an electronic device (not shown) to generate an electromagnetic signal, which in the present example comprises a radio frequency signal. The radio frequency signal is compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle 160. The key generation information may comprise computer-readable instructions for causing a wireless communication device to generate a suitable radio frequency signal. As an alternative, the key generation information may comprise computer-readable instructions for causing a wireless communication device to send an instruction signal to an electronic device installed within the vehicle 160, which in turn generates the radio frequency signal for unlocking or locking the vehicle 160. As another alternative, the key generation information may comprise encryption I decryption keys and instructions for causing a wireless communication device to retrieve information (such as virtual key information) from a third party server (not shown). The skilled person would appreciate that the key generation information may comprise any suitable information suitable for ultimately causing an electronic device to generate a suitable electromagnetic signal for locking or unlocking the vehicle 160.

The server 130 may receive the key generation information by, for example, receiving the key generation information from a third party. The server 130 may receive the key generation information through local data entry. The key generation information may be received as a result of reverse engineering a service user’s own personal remote key I remote control for accessing the vehicle 160. The server 130 is configured to store the service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information. Accordingly, in response to a subsequent request, the server is able to retrieve and enable subsequent provision of the key generation information.

The service user 110, thus registered with the server 130, is able to initiate processes to have items delivered to the vehicle 160.

The service user 110 may communicate with a computing means, such as server 140 of an item sender (hereafter referred to as the item sender) via network 120. For example, the item sender 140 may represent an online retail provider and the communication may correspond to placement of an order for one or more items from the item sender 140 by the service user 110.

At this stage a delivery is thus pending. That is, one or more items are intended for or scheduled for delivery to the vehicle 160.

The item sender 140 may communicate with the server 130. The server 130 may, for example, receive an indication of a pending delivery from the item sender 140. The indication may indicate that an order for a delivery has been received, the indication comprising a service user identifier for identifying the user of the service and, in particular, the ultimate intended recipient of the item for delivery. The server 130 is configured to associate the service user identifier (and optionally, directly or indirectly, the vehicle information) with a delivery identifier for the pending delivery. The delivery identifier may comprise, for example, a unique identifying number. The delivery identifier may be received from a remote server, such as the item sender 140, or may be generated by the server 130. The server 130 is configured to retrieve, using the service user identifier, vehicle information identifying a vehicle associated with the service user identified by the service user identifier. The server 130 may cause the retrieved vehicle information identifying the vehicle 160 to be sent to the delivery service provider 150. For example, the server may send the vehicle information via a network 120 to the item sender 140 for communication to the delivery service provider 150. Additionally or alternatively, the server 130 may communicate the vehicle information via the network 120 to the delivery service provider 150.

The item sender 140 may communicate with the delivery service provider 150 to coordinate the delivery of the requested item to the vehicle 160 of the service user 110.

The server 130 is configured to receive a request for key generation information for enabling the delivery service provider to gain access to the vehicle 160. The request may come from any authorised source. For example, the server 130 may receive the request from the item sender 140. Alternatively the request may be received from the delivery service provider 150. In response to authenticating the request, the server 130 is configured to retrieve the key generation information (using the service user identifier) and cause the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider. For example, the server 130 may send the key generation information to the item sender 140 for communication to the delivery service provider. Additionally or alternatively the key generation information may be sent directly to the delivery service provider 150.

Using the key generation information, the delivery service provider 150 may be able to cause the generation of a radio frequency signal compatible with the RKE receiver 172 of the vehicle 160 for gaining access to the vehicle 160 in order to deliver the one or more items to the vehicle 160. The delivery service provider 150 may subsequently use the key generation information to cause the generation of a second radio frequency signal for locking the vehicle 160.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of a computing device or server 200, which may correspond to server 130, in accordance with an example. Other architectures to that shown in Figure 2 may be used as will be appreciated by the skilled person.

Referring to the Figure, the server 200 includes a number of user interfaces including visualising means such as a visual display 210 and a virtual or dedicated user input device 212. The server 200 includes a processor 214, a memory 216 and a power system 218. The server 200 comprises a communications module 220 for sending and receiving communications between processor 214 and remote systems. For example, communications module 220 may be used to send and receive communications from the service user 110, the item sender 140 and/or the delivery service provider 150 via network 120. The computing device 200 comprises a port 222 for receiving, for example, a non18 transitory computer-readable medium containing instructions to be processed by the processor 214.

The processor 214 is configured to receive data, access the memory 216, and to act upon instructions received either from said memory 216, from communications module 220 or from user input device 212. The processor 214 is configured to receive service user information from the user input device 212, the communications module 220 or the port 222. The processor 214 is configured to receive vehicle information from the user input device 212, the communications module 220 or the port 222. The processor 214 is configured to receive key generation information from the user input device 212, the communications module 220 or the port 222. The processor 214 is configured to cause the service user information, the vehicle information, and the key generation information to be stored in the memory 216. Processor 214 is configured to process received requests and to retrieve information such as the service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information from memory 216.

The server 200 is able to associate a service user identifier with a delivery identifier, the delivery identifier either received via communications module 220, user input device 212 or port 222, or generated by the processor 214. The processor 214 is configured to cause information to be sent via the communications module to third parties, such as an item sender 140 or a delivery service provider 150.

Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method that may be performed by a computing device such as servers 200 or 130. The method shown in Figure 3 may be used, for example, to register a service user with a delivery service. At step 310, service user information is received. The service user information comprises a service user identifier for identifying a user of the service. The service user identifier may comprise, for example, a unique identifying number for the user, or the name or address of the user. The service user information may be received from the service user or from any other source, such as from a trusted third party to which the service user has provided their details.

At step 320, vehicle information is received, the vehicle information for identifying a vehicle associated with the user of the service. The vehicle information may be received from the service user. The vehicle information may alternatively be received from another source, such as a third party server.

At step 330, key generation information is received. The key generation is suitable for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, in this example a radio frequency signal. The radio frequency signal is compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. As will become apparent below, the key generation information may take any suitable form. For example, the electronic device may be installed in the vehicle and the key generation information may contain information to be used by a mobile or wireless communication device of the delivery service provider to communicate with the electronic device in order to generate the radio frequency signal. Alternatively, the electronic device may be the mobile or wireless communication device of the delivery service provider. The key generation information may comprise a virtual key or may comprise instructions for generating a virtual key. The key generation information may be received from any suitable source.

At step 340, the service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information are stored in association with one another. For example, the service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information may be stored in a database whereby one may use the service user information to find one or more of the associated vehicle information and the associated key generation information, one may use the vehicle information to find one or more of the associated service user information and the key generation information, or one may use the key generation information to find one or more of the service user information or the vehicle information. Accordingly, following an authenticated request, such as a request comprising a password or other identifier for authentication such as a delivery identifier or number, key generation information may be provided to the delivery service provider.

The person skilled in the art would appreciate that the steps of Figure 3 may be reordered or combined. For example, the service user information and the vehicle information may be received at the same time. The vehicle information may be received prior to receiving the service user information. The key generation information may also be received at the same time or prior to receiving the service user information and/or the vehicle information. The service user information, the vehicle information and the key generation information may be stored at the same time or at different times so long as they are stored such that they are associated with one another.

The person skilled in the art would appreciate that the method illustrated in Figure 3 is illustrative only and that more steps or fewer steps may be involved. For example, the server may receive location information identifying a location of the vehicle. The location information may comprise geographic coordinates at which the vehicle can be located, or may comprise, for example, geolocation and time information from a global positioning system interface installed within the vehicle, which may then be processed by the server. Accordingly, the location information may be any information suitable for determining a location of a vehicle to some degree. The server may store the information and may periodically, aperiodically, or continuously receive updated location information. The location information may be received as part of the vehicle information or otherwise.

The method described above in relation to Figure 3 thus can be used to register a user with the service. The user of the service may subsequently initiate actions which require that a service delivery provider gains access to a registered vehicle of the service user. For example, the service user may choose to order an item from a retailer, such as item sender 140. On choosing a delivery method for the item on a website of the retailer, the service user may select an option for having the purchased item delivered to the service user’s vehicle. The service user may enter a proxy address for delivery, and may themselves contact the server 130 in order to initiate the delivery to the vehicle.

Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for providing key generation information to a delivery service provider requiring access to a vehicle associated with a user of the service, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle. In this example, the electromagnetic signal comprises a radio frequency signal. The method may be performed by, for example, a server such as server 200 or server 130. The method may be used in circumstances such as that described above, wherein a service user purchases an item from a retailer and requests that delivery of the item be made to the vehicle of the service user.

At step 410, an indication of a pending delivery is received. The indication may be received from any suitable source. For example, if a service user purchases an item from an online retailer and selects an option to have the item delivered to their vehicle, then the indication of the pending delivery may be received from the online retailer or may be received from the service user. The indication of the pending delivery comprises a service user identifier for identifying the user of the service.

At step 420, the service user identifier is associated with a delivery identifier for the pending delivery. The delivery identifier may be generated at the server. Alternatively, the indication of a pending delivery may comprise a delivery identifier and so the delivery identifier may be received as at least a part of the indication of a pending delivery. The delivery identifier provides an indication that a delivery of one or more items is to go ahead and can be used to authenticate requests for key generation information.

At step 430, the service user identifier is used to retrieve the vehicle information identifying the vehicle associated with the service user to which the one or more items are to be delivered. For example, the processor of the server may access the memory of the server in order to retrieve the vehicle information. At step 440, the vehicle information is caused to be sent to the delivery service provider in order for the delivery service provider to find out or confirm the destination vehicle for the delivery. For example, the vehicle information may be sent directly to the delivery service provider. Alternatively, the vehicle information may be sent to the online retailer or item sender for communication to the delivery service provider.

At step 450, a request for the key generation information associated with the vehicle is received from the delivery service provider. The key generation information is for enabling an electronic device to generate a radio frequency signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The delivery request in this example comprises a delivery identifier. The delivery identifier received in the request can be used to verify that a delivery service provider has the authority to unlock the vehicle, for example, by cross-referencing the delivery identifier with that associated with the service user information in step 420.

At step 460 a determination is made as to whether the delivery identifier of the received request for key generation information matches the delivery identifier associated with the service user and vehicle information. If it is determined that the identifiers do not match, then no action is taken (step 470). If, however, it is determined that the received delivery identifier matches the delivery identifier associated with the service user and vehicle information then the method proceeds to step 480. In this way the delivery identifier is used to authenticate the received request for key generation information.

At step 480, in response to authenticating the received request, the key generation information is retrieved, for example from the memory of the server. The key generation information may be retrieved using the service user identifier, the vehicle information or the delivery identifier.

At step 490, at least a part of the key generation information is caused to be sent to the delivery service provider. For example, the key generation information may be sent directly to the delivery service provider, or may be sent to the online retailer for communicating to the delivery service provider. The key generation information sent to the delivery service provider may be all or part of the key generation information retrieved. For example, the key generation information stored at the server may comprise a pseudo-random number generator synchronised with that of the vehicle. The pseudo-random number generator may be used to determine the radio frequency code expected by the RKE receiver of the vehicle, and the key generation information sent to the delivery service provider may comprise this code but not the pseudo-random number generator, thereby assuring that only one attempt can be made to unlock the vehicle. Any suitable method may be used to ensure that only one-time access to the vehicle is allowed, for example, by encrypting the key generation information provided to the delivery service provider after a single use, or by providing key generation information which is valid for only a predetermined period of time.

The skilled person would appreciate that the method of Figure 4 may comprise more or fewer steps and that some of the steps may be combined or performed in a different order.

The at least a part of the key generation information that is provided to the delivery service provider may be used to cause an electronic device to generate a radio frequency signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. Figure 5 is a block diagram of an example of such an electronic device.

Electronic device 500 comprises a receiver 510 for receiving an instruction to generate an electromagnetic signal for locking or unlocking a vehicle. As will be discussed below, the electronic device 500 may be a wireless communication device, such as a mobile phone, or a portable computer. Accordingly, the receiver may receive, for example, a communication directly from a server such as server 130 via network 120, or may receive a communication from, for example, an online retailer or a third party server. The communication may comprise the key generation information and the key generation information may comprise instructions for processing by a processor 520 of the electronic device 500 to generate the electromagnetic signal. Alternatively, the received key generation information may comprise instructions and one or more security keys for retrieving a virtual key from elsewhere, such as from a third party server.

As will be discussed below, the electronic device 500 may be installed in the vehicle. For example, the electronic device may be installed behind the dashboard of the vehicle, and may be powered by a connection to a power supply of the vehicle, for example via the vehicle’s On Board Diagnostics (OBD) port. In such circumstances, the receiver 510 may be configured to receive an instruction signal, such as a Bluetooth® signal or a GSM signal, from a separate wireless communication device of the delivery service provider, the instruction signal comprising an instruction to generate the electromagnetic signal for locking or unlocking the vehicle.

Processor 520 is configured to analyse a signal received by receiver 520 and to verify, by access to memory 530, whether or not the signal is a valid instruction for locking or unlocking the vehicle. If the electronic device is a wireless communication device, then in some embodiments, the processor 520 may, in response to receiving an instruction signal by receiver 510, transmit a request from a transmitter (not shown) of the electronic device to a third party server requesting virtual key information, and said virtual key information may be received via the receiver 510.

On verifying that the received information is valid, processor 520 is configured to operate the transmitter 540 to generate an electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The skilled person would appreciate that the electronic device may have a transceiver in place of a separate receiver and transmitter.

In some embodiments, the electronic device may be configured to generate and provide location information for identifying the location of the vehicle using appropriate circuitry (not shown). The location information may be, for example, geolocation and time information for determining the GPS coordinates of the vehicle. The location information may comprise latitude and longitude information.

Figure 6A illustrates one way of unlocking a vehicle according to an example. In the example shown in Figure 6A, the electronic device 500 is a wireless communication device of the delivery service provider. When attempting delivery of one or more items to a vehicle associated with a service user, the delivery service provider uses the wireless communication device to request key generation information from server 130 via a network (not shown in Figure 6A) which may correspond to network 120. The request submitted to the server 130 comprises a delivery identifier corresponding to the pending delivery being attempted. The request may comprise information, such as photographic evidence of a number plate of the vehicle to verify that the wireless communication device is located in proximity to the vehicle, or other security information. The delivery identifier may comprise a unique number corresponding to the pending delivery, or may comprise a unique number corresponding to one or more of the items for delivery, or may comprise barcode sequences of the one or more items for delivery.

On authenticating the request, the server 130 causes the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider. In Figure 6A, the causing of the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider comprises sending the key generation information directly to the wireless communication device (see arrow 610), although the skilled person would understand that the key generation information may be sent to the delivery service provider in another manner. In the example shown, the key generation information provides computer-implementable instructions which, when processed by a processor of the wireless communication device 500, enable the wireless communication device 500 to generate the coded radio frequency signal 620 required to unlock the vehicle 160 when received by the RKE receiver of the RKE system 170.

Figure 6B illustrates another method for unlocking a vehicle according to another example. In Figure 6B, the electronic device 500 is also a wireless communication device of the delivery service provider. When attempting delivery of one or more items to the vehicle 160 associated with the service user, the delivery service provider uses the wireless communication device to request key generation information from server 130 via a network (not shown in Figure 6B) which may correspond to network 120. The request submitted to the server 130 comprises a delivery identifier corresponding to the pending delivery being attempted. The request may comprise information, such as photographic evidence of a number plate of the vehicle to verify that the wireless communication device is located in proximity to the vehicle, or other security information. The delivery identifier may comprise a unique number corresponding to the pending delivery, or may comprise a unique number corresponding to one or more of the items for delivery, or may comprise barcode sequences of the one or more items for delivery.

On authenticating the request, the server 130 causes the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider. In Figure 6B, the causing of the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider comprises sending the key generation information directly to the wireless communication device (see arrow 610), although the skilled person would understand that the key generation information may be sent to the delivery service provider in another manner. In the example shown, the key generation information provides computer-implementable instructions and security information which, when processed by a processor of the wireless communication device 500, enable the wireless communication device 500 to request a virtual key from a third party server 630 (see arrow 612). The third party server 630 is configured to analyse the request 612 and to provide a response 614. The response 614 is received by the wireless communication device 500 and is processed by the wireless communication device 500 to generate the radio signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the RKE system 170 of the vehicle 160 required to unlock the vehicle 160.

Figure 6C illustrates another way of unlocking a vehicle according to another example. In figure 6C, the electronic device 500 that is configured to generate a radio signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the RKE system 170 of the vehicle 160 is installed within the vehicle 160. The electronic device 500 is configured to generate the radio frequency signal required to unlock the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal. When attempting delivery of one or more items to the vehicle 160 associated with the service user, the delivery service provider uses a wireless communication device 650 to request key generation information from server 130 via a network (not shown in Figure 6C) which may correspond to network 120. The request submitted to the server 130 comprises a delivery identifier corresponding to the pending delivery being attempted. The request may comprise information, such as photographic evidence of a number plate of the vehicle to verify that the wireless communication device is located in proximity to the vehicle, or other security information.

On authenticating the request, the server 130 is configured to send key generation information 610 to the wireless communication device 650. The key generation information 610 comprises computer-readable instructions for the wireless communication device 650 to generate an instruction signal 652, such as a Bluetooth signal or a GSM signal, which is compatible with the electronic device 500 installed within the vehicle. On receiving the instruction signal 652, the electronic device generates the required radio frequency signal. The RKE system 170 of the vehicle 160 is configured to then unlock the vehicle.

The examples illustrated in figures 6A to 6C and described above can be explained with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for unlocking a vehicle according to an example. The method may be performed by a wireless communication device, which may or may not be the electronic device that is configured to generate the radio signal for unlocking or locking the vehicle.

At step 710, a request is sent to a server for key generation information, the key generation for enabling an electronic device, which may or may not be the wireless communication device, to generate a radio frequency signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. The request comprises an identifier for authentication. The identifier may be a delivery identifier corresponding to a pending delivery already registered at the server. The delivery identifier may comprise a unique number of other reference information.

At step 720, the key generation information is received from the server. The key generation information may be received directly or indirectly from the server.

At step 730, the method comprises using the key generation information to cause the radio frequency signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle.

Variations of the described embodiments are envisaged; for example, the features of all the disclosed embodiments may be combined in any way, except where incompatible.

For example, a vehicle as described herein may be any vehicle having a remote keyless entry system. For example, the vehicle may be a car, a truck, a boat, a plane, or any other suitable vehicle.

The methods and systems described herein may be used in connection with any item sender. For example, the item sender may be a retailer or any other business, or may be an individual person, or a group or society.

As described above, the electronic device configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle may be installed within the vehicle or may be an external device in the possession of the delivery service provider. If the electronic device is a wireless communication device in the possession of the delivery service provider, then the receiver of the electronic device may be configured to receive any suitable signal and the transmitter is configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle. In this scenario, the wireless communication device may comprise, for example, a mobile phone, a laptop computer, a tablet, or any other device and all of the associated components.

If the electronic device is separate from the wireless communication device then the wireless communication device may, for example, be configured to receive the key generation information in one format, for example via a cellular transmission, and transmit an instruction signal to the electronic device via another format, for example, via Bluetooth®. That is, the wireless communication device may receive the key generation information in any format and may send an instruction signal by the same or a different means.

The computing means or server, such as server 130, may receive pieces of information, for example specific information relating to a particular delivery in addition to a delivery identifier.

As described above, the computing means or server may receive location information identifying a location of the vehicle. The server may use this location information in order to authenticate a request for key generation information. For example, an electronic device or wireless communication device in the possession of the delivery service provider may be required to communicate a location of the electronic device or wireless communication device to the server. In the case where the electronic device for generating the electromagnetic signal is the wireless communication device, the server may authenticate the request based upon a determination that the location of the wireless communication device is within a predetermined proximity of the vehicle. In the case where the electronic device is instead installed within the vehicle and is therefore separate from the wireless communication device of the delivery service provider, the server may authenticate the request based on a determination that the location of the wireless communication device is within a predetermined distance of the vehicle or the electronic device within the vehicle. The server may receive the vehicle location information from the electronic device within the vehicle.

The server may authenticate any requests for key generation information in any suitable manner. For example, the server may only retrieve the key generation information when a determination is made that an indication of a pending delivery has been received. That is, the server may verify that a service user is expecting a delivery to a vehicle before causing the key generation information to be sent to the delivery service provider.

Additional security measures may be employed. For example, when causing at least a part of the key generation information to be provided to the delivery service provider, additional cryptographic protocols may be employed. For example, the key generation information, on being passed to the delivery service provider, may be adapted such that the key generation may only be used once or for a limited number of times in relation to a particular delivery, or may only be used for a limited period of time when it is known to the server that a delivery is pending.

The above embodiments have been described by way of example only, and the described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations of the described embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A method for unlocking a vehicle, the vehicle having a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver configured to receive an electromagnetic signal to unlock the vehicle, the method comprising:

sending a request for key generation information to a server, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle, the request comprising an identifier for authentication;

receiving the key generation information from the server; and using the key generation information, causing the radio frequency signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the electromagnetic signal is operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle.

3. A method according to claim 2, wherein the electromagnetic signal is operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and maintain one or more compartments of the vehicle in a locked state.

4. A method according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the electromagnetic signal comprises a radio frequency signal.

5. A method according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein causing the electromagnetic signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle comprises generating the electromagnetic signal.

6. A method according to claim 5, wherein the key generation information comprises a virtual key for enabling the wireless communication device to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle.

7. A method according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein receiving the key generation information from the server comprises receiving the key generation from the server when the electronic device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server.

8. A method according to claim 7, wherein the key generation information comprises instructions for retrieving a virtual key from a remote computing means; and wherein the method comprises retrieving the virtual key from the remote computing means.

9. A method according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electronic device is installed within the vehicle.

10. A method according to claim 9, wherein sending a request for key generation information to a server comprises sending the request from a wireless communication device.

11. A method according to claim 10, wherein the electronic device is configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal, and wherein the key generation information comprises information for enabling the wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device.

12. A method according to claim 11, wherein causing the electromagnetic signal to be generated comprises transmitting the instruction signal to the electronic device.

13. A method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the instruction signal comprises a Bluetooth® signal.

14. A method according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the instruction signal comprises a cellular signal.

15. A method according to any of claims 10 to 14, wherein the method comprises receiving the key generation information from the server at the wireless communication device.

16. A method according to claim 15, wherein receiving the key generation information from the server comprises receiving the key generation information when the wireless communication device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server.

17. A method according to any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the key generation information is for enabling the electronic device to generate the electromagnetic signal such that it is only compatible with the RKE system of the vehicle for a limited period of time and/or a predetermined number of uses.

18. A method according to any of claims 1 to 17, wherein the RKE receiver of the vehicle is configured to receive a second electromagnetic signal to lock the vehicle, and wherein the key generation information is for enabling the electronic device to generate a second electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle to lock the vehicle.

19. A method according to claim 18, wherein the electromagnetic signal comprises a radio frequency signal.

20. A method according to claim 18 or claim 19, comprising:

using the key generation information, causing the second electromagnetic signal to be generated to lock the vehicle.

21. A computer readable medium having instructions stored thereon, the instructions configured to, when read by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of any of claims 1 to 20.

22. A wireless communication device comprising:

a transmitter; a receiver;

a processor configured to:

send a request for key generation information to a server, the key generation information for enabling an electronic device to generate an electromagnetic signal, the electromagnetic signal compatible with a remote keyless entry “RKE” receiver of a vehicle, the request comprising an identifier for authentication;

receive the key generation information from the server; and using the key generation information, cause the electromagnetic signal to be generated to unlock the vehicle.

23. A wireless communication device according to claim 22, wherein the generated electromagnetic signal is operable with the RKE receiver to unlock a compartment of the vehicle.

24. A wireless communication device according to claim 23, wherein the generated electromagnetic signal is operable with the RKE receiver to unlock the compartment of the vehicle and maintain one or more compartments of the vehicle in a locked state.

25. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 24, wherein the electromagnetic signal comprises a radio frequency signal.

26. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 25, wherein the processor is configured to generate the electromagnetic signal.

27. A wireless communication device according to claim 26, wherein the key generation information comprises a virtual key for enabling the processor to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle.

28. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 27, wherein the processor is configured to receive the key generation information from the server when the electronic device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server.

29. A wireless communication device according to claim 28, wherein the key generation information comprises instructions for retrieving a virtual key from a remote computing means; and wherein the processor is configured to retrieve the virtual key from the remote computing means.

30. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 26, wherein the electronic device is installed within the vehicle.

31. A wireless communication device according to claim 30, wherein the electronic device is configured to generate the electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle in response to receiving an instruction signal, and wherein the key generation information comprises information for enabling the wireless communication device to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device.

32. A wireless communication device according to claim 31, wherein the processor is configured to transmit the instruction signal to the electronic device.

33. A wireless communication device according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the instruction signal comprises a Bluetooth® signal or a cellular signal.

34. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 33, wherein the processor is configured to receive the key generation information when the wireless communication device is within a threshold distance from a location of the vehicle, and wherein the location of the vehicle is known to the server.

35. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 34, wherein the key generation information is for enabling the electronic device to generate the electromagnetic signal such that it is only compatible with the RKE system of the vehicle for a limited period of time and/or a predetermined number of uses.

36. A wireless communication device according to any of claims 22 to 35, wherein the RKE receiver of the vehicle is configured to receive a second electromagnetic signal to lock the vehicle, and wherein the key generation information is for enabling the electronic device to generate a second electromagnetic signal, the second electromagnetic signal compatible with the RKE receiver of the vehicle to lock the vehicle.

37. A wireless communication device according to claim 36, wherein the electromagnetic signal comprises a radio frequency signal.

38. A wireless communication device according to claim 36 or claim 37, wherein the processor is configured to, using the key generation information, cause the second electromagnetic signal to be generated to lock the vehicle.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB 1700334.4 Examiner: Andrew Hole