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Smart and interactive hands-free card
In addition to providing remote locking/unlocking and keyless starting, the identifier memorizes and activates customized settings (driver's seat, mirrors…) and its LCD or OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode Display) display provides extensive information, including fuel level, tire pressure and cabin/outside temperatures, allowing the driver to take the wheel with complete confidence.
The smart car key from Valeo brings new functionality to access remote controls.
Valeo’s prototype smart car key is capable of sending data from the vehicle to the driver and remotely activating vehicle controls.
After Valeo’s well-known passive entry function, the smart key can exchange data with the vehicle. The key can transfer navigation addresses pre-loaded from a PC or pre-ventilate the vehicle’s interior. Confirmation of each command is returned to the key’s screen or buzzer. On the key’s screen, drivers can view information on the current status of the vehicle: are the doors locked or unlocked, is the alarm switched on, how much fuel is left and what about safety factors, such as the tire pressure? The key sends an alert if a command cannot be executed. A future version of the key will also be capable of locating parked vehicles.
With a modular design, the key can be adapted to offer varying levels of functionality.
The innovation consists in controlling the vehicle’s functions with a key that communicates over a long-distance radio link.
In Europe, Valeo has selected the frequency of 868 MHz in both directions for the prototype and the key is powerful enough to communicate with the vehicle over distances of at least 200 meters. Different types of screen can be used. The prototype’s design allows
the use of OLED technology color screens (organic LEDs) or black and white LCD screens. Both screen types are large (27x20 mm, i.e., 128x100 pixels) but can be resized according to car manufacturer requirements. The user interface is fitted with a beeper to inform users of alert messages when the key is in a bag or a pocket. Communications are not restricted to the vehicle, since the key is also capable of exchanging data with other keys so that they can be synchronized.
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