WO2016189523A1

WO2016189523A1 - Tamper resistant case

Info

Publication number: WO2016189523A1
Application number: PCT/IL2016/050032
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel Cohen; Vladimir TONKICH
Original assignee: Daniel Cohen; Tonkich Vladimir
Priority date: 2015-05-28
Filing date: 2016-01-12
Publication date: 2016-12-01

Abstract

A tamper resistant casing capable of encasing an electronic control unit (ECU), the casing comprising a top portion, having a plurality of top holes extending through the entire length of the top portion, and a bottom portion engageable with the top portion, the bottom portion having a plurality of bottom holes, wherein the top holes and the bottom holes are also engageable, and wherein the top portion and the bottom portion are configured to encase the ECU.

Description

TAMPER RESISTANT CASE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to tamper resistant cases. More particularly, the present invention relates to tamper resistant cases for electronic control units.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Current security systems in vehicles consist of an electronic security device (e.g. an immobilizer), that prevents the engine from running unless a correct key (or code) is present. In recent years, it has become common (all over the world) to require such security systems in all new vehicles as means of preventing theft, with each manufacturer producing a unique system for specific vehicles.

Such systems typically have two correlating parts, being the vehicle's ignition key and the vehicle's computer, or alternatively the electronic control unit (ECU). A microcircuit (with a unique code) embedded into the vehicle's key is activated by a small electromagnetic field that induces current to flow inside the key's body, which in turn broadcasts a unique binary code read by the vehicle's ECU. If the ECU determines that the coded key is both current and valid, the ECU activates the fuel-injection sequence, thereby starting the vehicle.

In order to bypass this security system (for instance when attempting to steal the vehicle), a thief can simply physically disconnect the original ECU and replace it with a tampered ECU that responds to a different key. Thus the fuel-injection sequence can be activated without the original key of the vehicle's owner, and the vehicle can be stolen.

Some commercially available ECU casings provide partial anti-theft features, however these casings have several weak points. Modern thieves have learned these weak points, and are able to break through a commercially available ECU casing in less than a minute.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a tamper resistant case for vehicle ECUs. Further objects and advantages of this invention will appear as the description proceeds.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a tamper resistant compact casing capable of encasing an electronic control unit (ECU) is provided, the casing comprising: a top portion, having a plurality of top holes extending through the entire length of the top portion; and

a bottom portion engageable with the top portion, the bottom portion having a plurality of bottom holes,

wherein the top holes and the bottom holes are also engageable, and wherein the top portion and the bottom portion are configured to encase the ECU.

In some embodiments, at least one of the top portion and bottom portion comprises a single material.

In some embodiments, at least one of the top holes and bottom holes are internally threaded and configured to receive bolts.

In some embodiments, the top portion further comprises a top opening and the bottom portion further comprises a bottom opening, and wherein the top and bottom openings form a single opening for access to the ECU.

In some embodiments, the top portion further comprises at least one window for access to the ECU.

In some embodiments, the top portion further comprises at least one protruding segment and the bottom portion further comprises at least one indenting segment, and wherein the at least one protruding segment is compatible with the at least one indenting segment.

In some embodiments, the top portion further comprises at least one indenting segment and the bottom portion further comprises at least one protruding segment, and wherein the at least one protruding segment is compatible with the at least one indenting segment.

In some embodiments, the top portion further comprises at least one projection configured to allow limitation of the movement of the ECU inside the casing.

In some embodiments, the received bolts comprise slanted ridges configured to allow clinging onto the walls of the top holes.

In some embodiments, the received bolts comprise a non-threaded section configured to be accommodated inside the top holes.

In some embodiments, the received bolts are elastic and comprise an inner cavity housing a non-elastic pin.

In some embodiments, the received bolts comprise:

a first element having a first thread; and an internally threaded second element having external second thread,

wherein the first thread corresponds to the internal threading of the second element, and wherein the second thread corresponds to the internal threading of the holes.

According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for encasing an electronic control unit (ECU) in a tamper resistant compact casing is provided, the method comprising: providing a top portion, having a plurality of top holes extending through the entire length of the top portion;

providing a bottom portion engageable with the top portion, the bottom portion having a plurality of bottom holes;

providing at least one bolt;

engaging the top portion with the ECU;

engaging the bottom portion with the ECU, such that the ECU is encased between the top portion and the bottom portion, wherein the top holes are coupled with the bottom holes; inserting the at least one bolt into at least top hole, until the at least one bolt engages the at least one bottom hole; and

inserting the at least one bolt inside the at least one top hole into at least one bottom hole.

In some embodiments, at least one of the top holes and bottom holes are internally threaded, and wherein the at least one bolt has a thread corresponding to the internally threaded holes.

In some embodiments, the at least one bolt has a head, and wherein the method further comprises inserting the head into the at least one top hole.

In some embodiments, the at least one bolt further comprises slanted ridges configured to allow clinging onto the walls of the top holes.

In some embodiments, the at least one bolt further comprises a non-threaded section configured to be accommodated inside the top holes.

In some embodiments, the at least one bolt is elastic and further comprises an inner cavity housing a non-elastic pin.

In some embodiments, the at least one bolt further comprises:

a first element having a first thread; and

an internally threaded second element having external second thread,

wherein the first thread corresponds to the internal threading of the second element, and wherein the second thread corresponds to the internal threading of the holes. In some embodiments, the second element further comprises a stopper having a diameter larger than the diameter of the holes, and wherein the method further comprises: inserting the second element into at least one bottom hole;

inserting the first element into at least one top hole; and

engaging the first thread with the internal threading of the second element, wherein the stopper engages the surface of the top portion once the first thread is fully threaded into the internal threading of the second element.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a two part screw compatible with an internally threaded cavity is provided, comprising:

a first element having a first thread; and

an internally threaded second element having external second thread,

wherein the first thread corresponds to the internal threading of the second element, and wherein the second thread corresponds to the internal threading of the cavity.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first element and second element comprises a shear end.

In some embodiments, the diameter of the second thread corresponds to the diameter of the cavity.

In some embodiments, the second element further comprises a stopper having a diameter larger than the diameter of the cavity, and wherein the stopper is configured to engage the surface of the cavity once the second thread is fully threaded into the cavity.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the embodiments. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how several forms may be embodied in practice. In the drawings:

- Fig. 1A schematically illustrates a perspective frontal view of a commercially available ECU casing.

- Fig. IB schematically illustrates a perspective back view of the commercially available ECU casing.

- Fig. 2A schematically illustrates a perspective view of a top portion of a double window tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 2B schematically illustrates a perspective view of a top portion of the double window tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 3A schematically illustrates a perspective view of a top portion of a single window tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 3B schematically illustrates a perspective view of a top portion of the single window tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective exploded view of the top portion over the bottom portion of the single window tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 4B schematically illustrates a perspective exploded bottom view of the top portion over the bottom portion of the single window tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the top and bottom portions that are assembled to form the tamper resistant ECU casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 6A schematically illustrates a threaded clip bolt, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 6B schematically illustrates a non-threaded clip bolt, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 7A schematically illustrates a stem bolt, according to an exemplary embodiment. - Fig. 7B schematically illustrates the stem bolt going through the internal threading of the casing, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 8A schematically illustrates an exploded view of an elastic bolt, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 8B schematically illustrates an assembled view of the elastic bolt, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 9A illustrates an exploded view of the elements of a two-part screw, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 9B illustrates a side view of a first element, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 9C illustrates a side view of a second element, according to an exemplary embodiment.

- Fig. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a threaded seal, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. In discussion of the various figures described herein below, like numbers refer to like parts. The drawings are generally not to scale.

For clarity, non-essential elements were omitted from some of the drawings.

Referring now to Figs. 1A-1B, these figures refer to a commercially available electronic control unit (ECU) casing. Fig. 1A schematically illustrates a perspective frontal view of a commercially available ECU casing 10, and Fig. IB schematically illustrates a perspective back view of the same.

The commercially available ECU casing 10 is essentially a cuboid structure 2 with open frontal and back sides, having typical dimensions of 120*50* 150mm (with some flexibility adapted for each manufacturer). The cuboid structure 2 has an additional connector opening 5, at the side of the cuboid 2, whereby the opening acts as a passage for a connector cable (not shown) that connects power and control cables to the ECU. The connector cable is locked to the ECU once connected, and the ECU cannot be removed while connected to the connector cable. It should be noted that the connector cable cannot be maliciously cut in order to replace the ECU (e.g. by thieves), since all connection of the cable will also have to be restored after cutting.

Once the ECU of a vehicle is encased in the cuboid 2, two inserts are fitted to the frontal and back open sides and attached to the cuboid 2 with a plurality of bolts 8 (at the top and bottom sides of the cuboid 2). A frontal insert 4 is fitted to the frontal opening, and a back insert 6 is fitted to the back opening. The frontal insert 4 further has a panel opening 3, capable of allowing access to the control panel of the ECU if required, without removing the ECU from the casing 10.

However, such a system is not tamper proof as thieves can simply push a household screwdriver into a small gap formed between the sides of the cuboid 2 and the inserts 4, 6 in order to break the commercially available casing 10. Even with the bolts 8, a thief can push a screwdriver into the gap and bend the top side of the cuboid (with moderate force) until the bolts 8 no longer connect the cuboid 2 to the insert 4, 6. This operation can be carried out very quickly, and the thief may then replace the ECU with a tampered ECU in order to steal the vehicle. There is therefore a need for a system without weak points at the connections.

Some of the commercially available systems use shear bolts in order to further secure the ECU casing. A shear bolt is designed to shear in the case of a mechanical overload, so that when the bolt is screwed with overload, the head of the bolt snaps off and only the body of the bolt remains inside. However, a thief can create slots at the remaining body of the bolt by fluting, and then simply remove these bolts with a typical tool (e.g. a screwdriver).

Referring now to Figs. 2A-2B, these figures refer to a top portion and a bottom portion of a double window tamper resistant ECU casing, that when assembled may encase an ECU in a tamper resistant compact casing. Specifically, Fig. 2A schematically illustrates a perspective view of a top portion 20, and Fig. 2B schematically illustrates a perspective view of a compatible bottom portion 22 of the double window tamper resistant ECU casing.

The top portion 20 of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing is made of a single material (e.g. preferably made of aluminum and manufactured for instance by extrusion), and comprises a top depression 21a adapted to cover the top portion of the ECU (not shown in Figs. 2A-2B), whereby the top depression 21a is surrounded by a top partial wall 24a. The top portion 20 further comprises a top panel opening 23 a, and a plurality of top internally threaded holes 27a ordered on the edges of the depression. The holes extend through the entire tamper resistant ECU casing (i.e. through the top 20 and bottom 22 portions), and are configured to receive bolts (not shown) in order to attach the two portions 20, 22 of the tamper resistant ECU casing, further described hereinafter. Optionally, the top portion 20 further has at least two windows 29, configured to allow passage of a connector cable (not shown) through each window 29 into the inner space of the ECU compact casing.

Similarly to the top portion 20, the bottom portion 22 is made of a single material (e.g. preferably made of aluminum and manufactured for instance by extrusion), and has a bottom depression 21b adapted to cover the bottom portion of the ECU. Preferably, both the top portion 20 and the bottom portion 22 are made of the same single material. The bottom portion 22 further comprises a bottom panel opening 23b, and a plurality of bottom internally threaded holes 27b.

In some embodiments, the top 20 and bottom 22 portions are not made of a single material. Instead, the commercially available inserts (as shown in Figs.lA-lB) are welded to the top 20 and bottom 22 portions in order to achieve a suitable shape.

It is appreciated that the bottom portion 22 is compatible to the top portion 20 such that by engaging the top portion 20 with the bottom portion 22 the compatible elements of each portion are aligned. Specifically, the bottom panel opening 23b is compatible with the top panel opening 23a, such that when combined these openings form a single panel opening, further described hereinafter. The bottom internally threaded holes 27b correspond to the top internally threaded holes 27a in the top portion 20, and are configured to allow bolts (not shown in Figs. 2A-2B) that are inserted into the top internally threaded holes 27a to continue and screw into the bottom internally threaded holes 27a, thereby connecting the top portion 20 to the bottom portion 22 of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing.

In some embodiments, the top partial wall 24a comprises a first top protruding segment 26a, with a compatible first bottom indenting segment 26b. Similarly, the top partial wall 24a comprises a second top protruding segment 28a, with a compatible second bottom indenting segment 28b at the bottom partial wall 24b. Alternatively, the segments on the top portion 20 are indenting, whereas the segments on the bottom portion 22 are protruding. It is appreciated that coupling a protruding segment with an indenting segment may provide enhanced stability for the tamper resistant ECU compact casing since connection between the top and bottom portions is no longer in a single plane and therefore making it harder to separate between the two portions in a malicious tampering attempt.

It should be noted that different manufacturers use different ECUs, whereby each such ECU (for instance in a specific vehicle) may be provided to the user in a different outer shape while the operation may be similar. Therefore, it may be necessary to provide different configurations of the tamper resistant ECU casing that are compatible with a specific ECU. These different configurations preferably only vary in the outer shape (e.g. the walls of the casing) in order to correspond to the outer shape of the particular ECU, whereas the temper resistant features of all such configurations are maintained. Specifically, all configurations of the tamper resistant ECU casing have a top and bottom part that are to be joined with bolts passing through the body of the casing such that access to the ECU may be prevented.

Referring now to Figs. 3A-4B, these figures refer to a top portion and a bottom portion of an additional configuration for the tamper resistant ECU casing having a single window, that when assembled may encase an ECU in a tamper resistant casing. Specifically, Fig. 3A schematically illustrates a perspective view of a top portion 30, and Fig. 3B schematically illustrates a perspective view of a compatible bottom portion 32 of the single window tamper resistant ECU compact casing. It is appreciated that the single window tamper resistant ECU casing has similar features to the double window tamper resistant ECU casing (as shown in Figs. 2A-2B), whereby only the outer shape is different.

The top portion 30 of the single window tamper resistant ECU compact casing is made of a single material (e.g. preferably made of aluminum and manufactured for instance by extrusion), and comprises a top depression 31a adapted to cover the top portion of the ECU, whereby the top depression 31a is surrounded by a top partial wall 34a. The top portion 30 further comprises a top panel opening 33a, and a plurality of top internally threaded holes 37a ordered on the edges of the depression. The holes extend through the entire tamper resistant ECU casing (i.e. through the top 30 and bottom 32 portions), and are configured to receive bolts (not shown) in order to attach the two portions 30, 32 of the tamper resistant ECU casing, further described hereinafter. Optionally, the top partial wall 34a further has a top window 39a, configured to allow passage of a connector cable (not shown) into the inner space of the ECU casing. In some embodiments, the top portion 30 further has at least one projection 35 configured to limit the movement of the ECU inside the compact casing.

Similarly to the top portion 30, the bottom portion 32 is made of a single material (e.g. preferably made of aluminum and manufactured for instance by extrusion), and has a bottom depression 31b surrounded by a bottom partial wall 34b and adapted to cover the bottom portion of the ECU. Preferably, both the top portion 30 and the bottom portion 32 are made of the same single material. The bottom portion 32 further comprises a bottom panel opening 33b, and a plurality of bottom internally threaded holes 37b. Optionally, the bottom partial wall 34b further has a bottom window 39b, compatible with the top window 39a, whereby the top 39a and bottom 39b windows form a single window configured to allow passage of a connector cable (not shown) into the inner space of the ECU compact casing.

In some embodiments, the top 30 and bottom 32 portions are not made of a single material. Instead, the commercially available inserts (as shown in Figs.lA-lB) are welded to the top 30 and bottom 32 portions in order to achieve a suitable shape.

It is appreciated that the bottom portion 32 is compatible to the top portion 30 such that by engaging the top portion 30 with the bottom portion 32 the compatible elements of each portion are aligned. Specifically, the bottom panel opening 33b is compatible with the top panel opening 33a, such that when combined these openings form a single panel opening, further described hereinafter. The bottom internally threaded holes 37b correspond to the top internally threaded holes 37a in the top portion 30, and are configured to allow bolts (not shown) that are inserted into the top internally threaded holes 37a to continue and screw into the bottom internally threaded holes 37a, thereby connecting the top portion 30 to the bottom portion 32 of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing.

In some embodiments, the top partial wall 34a comprises a first top protruding segment 36a, with a compatible first bottom indenting segment 36b. Similarly, the top partial wall 34a comprises a second top protruding segment 38a, with a compatible second bottom indenting segment 38b at the bottom partial wall 34b. Alternatively, the segments on the top portion 30 are indenting, whereas the segments on the bottom portion 32 are protruding. It is appreciated that coupling a protruding segment with an indenting segment may provide enhanced stability for the tamper resistant ECU casing since connection between the top and bottom portions is no longer in a single plane and therefore making it harder to separate between the two portions in a malicious tampering attempt.

Fig. 4A schematically illustrates a perspective exploded view of the top portion 30 over the bottom portion 32 of the single window tamper resistant ECU casing 40. Fig. 4B schematically illustrates a perspective exploded bottom view of the top portion 30 over the bottom portion 32 of the single window tamper resistant ECU casing 40.

By connecting the top portion 30 and the bottom portion 32 of the casing 40 (preferably with bolts inserted into the top internally threaded holes 37a), the top depression and the bottom depression may create an inner space configured to allow accommodation of the ECU, whereby joining the top 33a and bottom 33b panel openings forms a single panel opening 43 configured to allow access to the control panel of the ECU if required. Additionally, joining the top and bottom windows forms a single window 49 configured to allow accommodation of a connector cable. It should be noted that the panel 49 and window 43 of the assembled ECU casing 40 addresses similar requirements as the commercially available casings while providing enhanced resistance to tampering due to the structure of the internally threaded holes in the top 30 and bottom 32 portions.

It is appreciated that the tamper resistant ECU casing is combined of only two corresponding parts (the top portion the bottom portion), while commercially available casings are typically combined of three different parts. Optionally, the tamper resistant ECU casing may be manufactured of different materials, for instance aluminum, iron etc. The assembled tamper resistant ECU casing therefore allows encasing and locking the ECU so that replacement of the ECU with a tampered one is no longer possible. Thus, protecting of the original security system is achieved, and unauthorized ignition is prevented.

Referring now to Fig. 5, this figure schematically illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the top 30 and bottom 32 portions that are assembled to form the tamper resistant ECU casing 40. It is appreciated that by connecting the top 30 and bottom 32 portions, the top internally threaded holes 37a and the corresponding bottom internally threaded holes 37b (for instance as shown in Figs. 4A-4B) form elongated internally threaded holes 57 that pass through the body of the tamper resistant ECU casing 40.

By inserting bolts 50 into the internally threaded holes 57, initially starting at the top portion 30 and then through the bottom portion 32, the casing 40 may provide actual tamper resistant protection of the ECU. Such protection may be achieved as there are no weak points at the connection between the top 30 and bottom 32 portions that can be separated, and also since the bolts 50 are fully concealed inside the casing such that access to the bolts 50 is prevented. In this method of encasing the ECU, the connecting line (indicated with dashed arrows) between the top 30 and the bottom 32 portions no longer constitutes a "weak point" since the (preferably long) bolts 50 firmly grip the top 30 and bottom 32 portions together, and even in case of insertion of a tool (e.g. a screwdriver) into this connection line cannot tamper the casing 40.

Furthermore, using the internally threaded holes 57 (from the top 30 and bottom 32 portions) the head of the bolts 50 may be accommodated at a special cavity that is embedded in the casing 40, such that the head of the bolt 50 is flush with the surface of the casing 40. Unlike the commercially available casings, with the temper resistant casing 40 long bolts may be used so that the cavity for the bolt 50 is not limited to the edge of the casing 40. Thus, in case that shear bolts are used, then the head of the bolt 50 is removed while the body of the bolt 50 is still inside the full length of the internally threaded holes 57 without easy access to the body of the bolts 50. In this way, slots cannot be created at the remaining body of the bolt (for instance by fluting), and bolts 50 remain secure.

It is appreciated that with this structure it may be possible to use bolts having substantially thick heads that are sunk into the body of the compact casing, whereby a corresponding cavity may be provided in the end of holes in order to accommodate such heads. Using thick heads (for instance as shown in Figs. 9A-9C) may provide multiple advantages, particularly it is harder to drill or cut a thick head and especially a sunken head. Additionally, a sunken head prevents easy access to the bolt and thereby eliminates the current situation of thieves able to cut commercially available cases in a short time (e.g. several minutes), whereas a thieve forced to spend a long period of time (e.g. above an hour) in order to cut the thick head provides a significant advantage in the protection of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing.

Referring now to Figs. 6A-7B, these figures illustrate other options for bolts while other bolts may also be used. Fig. 6A schematically illustrates a threaded clip bolt 62, having a head 61, a threaded body 63 and a bottom section with slanted ridges 67. Once the threaded clip bolt 62 is fully inserted into the tamper resistant casing, the bottom section with slanted ridges 67 may prevent the threaded clip bolt 62 from being removed with the slanted ridges 67 acting as a "clip" and clinging onto the internal thread of the holes.

In a further embodiment, Fig. 6B schematically illustrates a non-threaded clip bolt 64, having a head 61, a non-threaded body 69 and also a bottom section with slanted ridges 67. This bolt may operate similarly to the threaded clip bolt 62, while internal threading is no longer required in the tamper resistant casing so that the slanted ridges 67 may cling onto the walls of the holes of the casing.

In some embodiments (as shown in Figs. 7A-7B) only part of the holes in the casings are threaded. Fig. 7A schematically illustrates a stem bolt 70, having a non-threaded stem 71 and also a threaded section 73. Once the threaded section 73 goes through the internal threading of the top hole 37a (for instance as shown in Fig. 7B), only the non-threaded stem 71 remains in the internally threaded section so that this bolt 70 may not be removed from the casing since pulling the bolt cannot unscrew it due to incompatibility between the threaded section 73 and the internal threading while trying to pull the stem bolt 70 away from the casing that requires perfectly aligning the threaded section 73 with the internal threading. Referring now to Figs. 8A-8B, these figures show additional options for the bolts wherein the tamper resistant ECU casing is manufactured of an elastic material, for instance aluminum. Fig. 8A schematically illustrates an exploded view of an elastic bolt 80, having a shear head 81, outer threading 83, and an inner cavity 85. The outer threading 83 may also be made of an elastic material, for instance aluminum.

A non-elastic pin 82 may be inserted into the inner cavity 85 (as shown in an assembled view in Fig. 8B), prior to engaging the elastic bolt 80 with the ECU casing. It is appreciated that the elastic bolt 80 may not be removed from the ECU casing due to presence of the non-elastic pin 82, even in a tampering attempt where the bolts are drilled at their center (in contrast to fully elastic bolts that may be vulnerable to such drilling), whereby the non-elastic pin 82 prevents drilling through the entire bolt.

Referring now to Figs. 9A-9C, these figures illustrate a two-part screw for the tamper resistant ECU casing. Fig. 9A illustrates an exploded view of the elements of the two-part screw 90. A first element 91 (preferably a strong metal) having a thread 93, and also a second element 92 (preferably a strong metal) with internal threading 94 corresponding to the threading of the thread 93.

Fig. 9B illustrates a side view of the first element 91, and Fig. 9C illustrates a side view of the second element 92. Both the first element 91 and the second element 92 have shear ends that may be removed. A first shear end 95a is connected with a first neck 95b to the first element 91, and similarly a second shear end 96a is connected with a second neck 96b to the second element 92. Once the first element 91 and/or the second element 92 are properly connected to the tamper resistant ECU casing, then these shear ends 95a, 96a may be removed such that access to the first element and/or the second element 92 is prevented. Similarly, a two-part screw 90 may be provided for each of the internally threaded holes.

It is appreciated that for the first element 91, the diameter of a first stopper 97 is configured to allow stopping the first element 91 at a predetermined length inside the internally threaded holes (for instance as shown in Fig. 5). Namely, the internally threaded holes have a structure capable of accommodating the first element to a predetermined length so that once the first shear end 95a is removed it may not be possible to move the first element inside the internally threaded hole. Similarly, for the second element 92, the diameter of a second stopper 98 is configured to allow stopping the second element 92 at a predetermined length inside the internally threaded holes. In addition to the internal threading 94 (as shown in Fig. 9A), the second element 92 further has external threading 99 corresponding to the internally threaded holes of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing. In a preferred embodiment, the internal threading 94 has an opposite direction than the external threading 99. Thus, if the second element 92 is rotated to couple with the first element 91, by engaging the thread 93 with the internal threading 94 (as shown in Fig. 9A), then the external threading 99 is further rotated in the opposite direction. It is therefore required to rotate the first element 91 in one direction in order to connect with the internal threading 94 of the second element 92, and then rotate the second element 92 in the opposite direction in order to connect the second element 92 to the internally threaded holes of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing. Therefore, when one element is rotated in one direction in a tampering attempt, the other element is only further tightened and thus a stronger connection is created.

It should be noted that once both the first element 91 and the second element 92 are inserted into the tamper resistant ECU casing, and then it is impossible to differentiate between them since they mostly differ in parts that are inserted into the internally threaded holes, and from the outside look identical. Therefore, in a tampering attempt it is impossible to know in which direction to rotate as both sides look identical. Once the first element 91 and the second element 92 are connected, they create a single reinforced unit (preferably of a strong metal) that cannot be broken inside the softer tamper resistant ECU compact casing (e.g. made of Aluminum).

In a preferred embodiment, the tamper resistant ECU casing is provided with the second element 92 embedded into one part of the casing (for instance the bottom part). Then the first element 91 may be inserted into an internally threaded hole at the other part of the casing and rotated in order to connect the thread 93 with the internal threading 94. Once the first element 91 and the second element 92 are connected their respective shear ends may be removed. In this state, both parts of the tamper resistant ECU compact casing are tightly connected and even in a tampering attempt, it is impossible to remove the two-part screw 90. Optionally, the tamper resistant ECU casing together with the first element 91 and the second element 92 are provided separately.

Referring now to Fig. 10, this figure illustrates a cross-sectional view of a threaded seal 100. The threaded seal 100 has a structure capable of fitting into an internally threaded cavity 107, with corresponding threading 102, after one of the abovementioned bolts is accommodated therein. The purpose of the threaded seal 100 is to seal the internally threaded cavity 107 accommodating a bolt, so as to prevent access to that bolt.

It should be noted that the internally threaded cavity 107 may have a first threaded section 101 while the rest of the hole is unthreaded. Thus, the threaded seal 100 may be rotated to engage the threading 102 with the internally threaded cavity 107, until the entire threading 102 passes through the threaded section 101 of the internally threaded cavity 107. Then it is impossible to remove the threaded seal 100 from the internally threaded cavity 107 since it requires perfectly aligning the thread of the threaded seal 110 with the thread of the internally threaded cavity 107 (similarly to the stem bolt, as shown in Figs. 7A-7B). In this manner, any bolt accommodated within the internally threaded cavity 107 is protected against tampering attempts due to the threaded seal 100.

It is appreciated that the ECU is typically positioned in a tight space with limited access to users (e.g. adjacent to the engine of a vehicle). Therefore, the tamper resistant ECU casing of the abovementioned embodiments provides a truly compact solution as it can be easily assembled onto the existing ECU in a tight space with limited access.

Additionally, it should be noted that the abovementioned solutions provide a two-part casing that are assembled to encase the tamper resistant ECU compact casing. Such a solution provides an unexpected strength (and thereby tamper resistant features), especially using the abovementioned screws (e.g. sunken head screws) that prevent tampering attempts.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub combination.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims:

1. A tamper resistant compact casing capable of encasing an electronic control unit (ECU), the casing comprising:

a top portion, having a plurality of top holes extending through the entire length of the top portion; and

2. The casing according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the top portion and bottom portion comprises a single material.

3. The casing according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the top holes and bottom holes are internally threaded and configured to receive bolts.

4. The casing according to claim 1, wherein the top portion further comprises a top opening and the bottom portion further comprises a bottom opening, and wherein the top and bottom openings form a single opening for access to the ECU.

5. The casing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the top portion further comprises at least one window for access to the ECU.

6. The casing according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the top portion further comprises at least one protruding segment and the bottom portion further comprises at least one indenting segment, and wherein the at least one protruding segment is compatible with the at least one indenting segment.

7. The casing according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the top portion further comprises at least one indenting segment and the bottom portion further comprises at least one protruding segment, and wherein the at least one protruding segment is compatible with the at least one indenting segment.

8. The casing according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the top portion further comprises at least one projection configured to allow limitation of the movement of the ECU inside the casing.

9. The casing according to claim 3, wherein the received bolts comprise slanted ridges configured to allow clinging onto the walls of the top holes.

10. The casing according to claim 3, wherein the received bolts comprise a non- threaded section configured to be accommodated inside the top holes.

11. The casing according to claim 3, wherein the received bolts are elastic and comprise an inner cavity housing a non-elastic pin.

12. The casing according to claim 3, wherein the received bolts comprise:

a first element having a first thread; and

an internally threaded second element having external second thread, wherein the first thread corresponds to the internal threading of the second element, and wherein the second thread corresponds to the internal threading of the holes.

13. A method for encasing an electronic control unit (ECU) in a tamper resistant compact casing, the method comprising:

providing a top portion, having a plurality of top holes extending through the entire length of the top portion;

providing at least one bolt;

engaging the top portion with the ECU;

engaging the bottom portion with the ECU, such that the ECU is encased between the top portion and the bottom portion, wherein the top holes are coupled with the bottom holes;

inserting the at least one bolt into at least top hole, until the at least one bolt engages the at least one bottom hole; and inserting the at least one bolt inside the at least one top hole into at least one bottom hole.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein at least one of the top holes and bottom holes are internally threaded, and wherein the at least one bolt has a thread corresponding to the internally threaded holes.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the at least one bolt has a head, and wherein the method further comprises inserting the head into the at least one top hole.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the at least one bolt further comprises slanted ridges configured to allow clinging onto the walls of the top holes.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the at least one bolt further comprises a non-threaded section configured to be accommodated inside the top holes.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the at least one bolt is elastic and further comprises an inner cavity housing a non-elastic pin.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the at least one bolt further comprises:

a first element having a first thread; and

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the second element further comprises a stopper having a diameter larger than the diameter of the holes, and wherein the method further comprises:

inserting the second element into at least one bottom hole; inserting the first element into at least one top hole; and

21. A two part screw compatible with an internally threaded cavity, comprising:

a first element having a first thread; and

an internally threaded second element having external second thread, wherein the first thread corresponds to the internal threading of the second element, and wherein the second thread corresponds to the internal threading of the cavity.

22. The screw according to claim 21, wherein at least one of the first element and second element comprises a shear end.

23. The screw according to claim 21, wherein the diameter of the second thread corresponds to the diameter of the cavity.

24. The screw according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the second element further comprises a stopper having a diameter larger than the diameter of the cavity, and wherein the stopper is configured to engage the surface of the cavity once the second thread is fully threaded into the cavity.