DE102005059061A1 - Motor vehicle e.g. car, opening and locking method, involves keeping serial key in box controlled by activator that is disposed for unlocking vehicle by auxiliary transmitter to transmit signal and activate switch of central locking system - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves closing a motor vehicle (1) by a lockable and unlockable door lock that is remote-controlled by an opening signal (3) that is controlled by a serial key (2). The opening signal is wirelessly transmitted to the vehicle by the key or a signal that is transmitted by the vehicle is converted into the opening signal. The key is kept in a key box (4) that is controlled by an activation unit, which is disposed for unlocking the vehicle by an auxiliary transmitter (5) to transmit the opening signal and to activate a switch of a central locking system in the box. An independent claim is also included for a motor vehicle having a key.

Description

The The invention relates to a method for opening a vehicle, which has a lockable and unlockable door lock lockable is, by means of, over a standard key of the vehicle controlled opening signal is remotely controlled, with the serial key wirelessly the opening signal sends to the vehicle or a signal sent by the vehicle in the opening signal transforms.

method and device for opening a vehicle of this type are well known. In the known Devices and methods for opening a Vehicle, is becoming common today operated by radio signal the central locking. Standard is a commercial one Vehicle delivered with two or three such keys, taking over the Radio signal transmitted a code which is the key encoding a usual one Castle corresponds. Furthermore, additional information can be found in the Radio signal to be coded. For example, in the case of one electric seat adjustment with memory function possible over the key to retrieve an individual storage position immediately.

The However, known devices and methods have the disadvantage that the vehicle owner must hand over a key to the respective user and that the number of available standing keys usually is limited. While in the private sector this may be is sufficient, if the vehicle is of a large number users should use the limited number of available keys to the detriment. For example, a car rental company must hand out a key to each customer so that this open the vehicle and put into operation. To the later returned vehicle again to be able to rent new then the key has to be returned again so that he can later User handed out can be. This requires a logistical effort for the handling of the key.

One Another problem is related to vehicle fleets of larger companies, at different employees want to use the vehicle. Also here the respective user must have a central vehicle administration a key pick up so he can use the vehicle. He would like to return the vehicle later hand back, he must first the key return before another user is able to use the vehicle. For example, this has the disadvantage that the user, before he return to his job can, first the key again at the central key management must give up. Hereby are additional Pathways connected and the next Vehicle users must wait until the key is available again.

At The problem described above also changes in principle the possibility nothing to open the vehicle with a transponder. Even with such wireless key systems in each case a passive transponder must be handed out together with the key, since in most states meanwhile the existence of an immobilizer required by the insurance companies, which are usually integrated in the ignition key is.

task The invention therefore is to provide a method for opening a vehicle, with the vehicle as possible secure against unauthorized use by a large number of users open can be.

A Another object of the invention is the method of opening and Locking the vehicle to control such that a user only for the duration a predetermined usage authorization access to a vehicle Has. A third object of the invention is a method for opening a Vehicle to provide, in which the means for Endriegeln the vehicle inexpensive on a simple basis reproducible is to suffer without loss of security.

These The first object is achieved according to the invention in that with the vehicle locked, the standard key in one, via activator controllable key box is stored and unlocked the vehicle via a outside of the vehicle auxiliary transmitter causes the activation means be, the opening signal send out.

By the invention it is now possible that the serial key of a Motor vehicle remains in the vehicle. This is for the user who to legally gain access to the motor vehicle, the authorization, the vehicle to use. He can do the usual Immobilizer over the commercial Deactivate ignition key. For this he must have access to the key kept in the key box, this means, the vehicle has to be opened so that he can enter at all to the vehicle receives.

Provided via the auxiliary transmitter, it can cause the activation means of the key box to effect the opening of the vehicle via the inserted ignition key in the key box in which it depresses the associated key of the key, for example with a plunger. The key box thus assumes the task that otherwise assumes the driver or passenger outside the vehicle. This feature is remote controlled via the auxiliary transmitter.

The inventive method is also for such vehicles are applicable over unlock a transponder, in particular according to RFID technology or lockable. In such vehicles is usually the central locking system is open, when the legitimate user enters the radio range of the vehicle occurs. Contributes to this the user usually carries the passive transponder with him during the active transponder is arranged in the vehicle. After independent contact between active and passive transponder will be the central locking open, so that the user can get into the vehicle.

at such vehicles can the immobilizer as in the case of other Vehicles in the key be integrated so that the RFID technology only to open the Vehicle is used, but it is also possible that the immobilizer is integrated in the transponder system itself. In this context It should be emphasized that the invention does not affect the function of the immobilizer limited is, it is more generally on the opening and the readiness to start of a vehicle.

Around a transponder-controlled opening now consistent with the invention, for example the passive transponder are placed in the key box, the keybox being like that is designed to be the contact between active transponder and passive transponder prevents or prevents the function of contact. First option could for example, in an isolation of the passive transponder, which picked up by the auxiliary transmitter and activating agents can be. This can be done by simply popping up the key box done or by lifting the electric lock.

A However, particularly preferred application of the invention is in the Using a classic key that has a push button to the activators of the central locking has. Here is the key box designed so that the activating agent on this push button to press able, if the key box or the vehicle receives the signal of the auxiliary transmitter. This Signal can any, contactless transferable Be signal, in particular a radio signal or an infrared signal. Also a Bluetooth connection, for example with the organizer or mobile phone of the future driver is possible. It is also possible the driver has the key box over one Mobile phone connection can contact, what about the particular Vehicle electrics as indirect contact is possible.

Important is just the fact that the reception of the signal in the pressure on the key in the key box is converted. It is basically irrelevant whether the receiver for the Auxiliary transmitter is arranged in the vehicle and the key box over a electrical line the signal to activate the central locking receives or if the key box receives the signal immediately and transforms.

The Invention has the particular advantage that the technique of opening the Vehicle over easy to retrofit the auxiliary transmitter is. Thus, an existing fleet can easily by installing the key box, The approximately in a DIN-Einbauschacht a dashboard or in a storage compartment, such as a drawer under the driver's seat, can be retrofitted.

The key box can be locked be designed so that the function of the immobilizer is not is invalidated by the key lying in the vehicle. In order to not the advantage of the invention by a necessary key to open the key box is canceled, the key box for example about a combination lock be secured or preferably with a lock be provided that by receiving the signal of the auxiliary transmitter automatically unlocked.

Of the key is returned when leaving the vehicle in the key box. To the vehicle too lock the driver can previously press the corresponding key of the key and then the locked door strike. Alternatively, this adds an extra Safety, the vehicle or the key box should be designed that over after a while the vehicle electronics or over the key box even a lock can be made. In the former case can the vehicle electrics after closing all doors with the engine switched off cause the central locking system to lock all locks. In the second Case can be the key box in reverse to opening after waiting time or by activation via the auxiliary transmitter the corresponding Button of the key Press down and lock the vehicle. Of course, the temporal lock and the over the Auxiliary transmitter activatable latch can also be combined.

Of course you can the keybox too be designed so that they have the additional closing function for windows and sunroof, which have many vehicles can also activate. So is on many vehicles at prolonged pressure on the lock button this extra closing function activated. The key box can also exercise this permanent pressure here.

In order to the key box fulfill the above function can, of course, she has to be designed so that they have the required pressure on the right one Place the key head exercise can. This should be the key in a clear position in the key box lie that means Preferably, the key box a key holder in which the key can be inserted in a clear orientation. That's how the inner life can be the key box with a negative form of the key be provided. Of course you can Alternatively, another position fixation may be provided.

is the key inserted in a predetermined position, can in the key box a push-button press the printhead of the key. The key box can as a closed box be formed, in which the key on the flat or broadside lying can be inserted. Alternatively, of course, the key box also be designed so that it has a slot, in the key like a conventional one Lock is pluggable. To realize the actuation function to be able to should in the latter case, the key head also in the widening key slot above be inserted, in which case, then laterally by an electric Power source driven, movable pressure elements on the button of the key head to press can. A path or force limit can be the key from destruction through Protect incorrect operation.

Around not for every vehicle and every key type a special key box to have to manufacture can various adjustments are made. The easiest way is a plastic insert that is key-shaped is, so the key always above or below the push button is arranged that Pressure element thus hits the right place.

alternative can also be adjustable, so the position of the pressure element Pushbutton adjustable depending on key be. An adapter can also be used.

The key box may also have a drawer in which the key is inserted becomes. When closed, the key is then not visible, what desires avoids potential thieves. Similar to the case of a CD drive, the key retracted after inserting into the drawer and can then via the auxiliary transmitter be controlled and released again. Especially advantageous Of course, this technique is if no key is needed to start the vehicle, but this via a Start push button is done. Here then the key can always be in the drawer remain. Furthermore, can in the drawer if necessary also other parts are kept, about the key a fuel cap, a rim lock or the vehicle registration.

• • Ein Benutzer ist zeitlich zur Nutzung eines Wagens berechtigt. Hierzu enthält das Signal seines Hilfssenders zusätzlich eine Information zur Identifikation des Benutzers. Nach einem Datenbankabgleich und der Feststellung, dass dieser spezielle Nutzer berechtigt ist, werden die Aktivierungsmittel aktiviert.
• • Ein Benutzer ist regelmäßig zu bestimmten Zeiten berechtigt, ein Fahrzeug zu nutzen. In diesem Fall kann ein Zeitplan in der Fahrzeugelektronik oder der Schlüsselbox fest abgespeichert sein, so dass nach Übermittlung der Nutzidentität eine Aktivierung innerhalb des Zeitfensters erfolgt oder außerhalb dieses Zeitfensters verweigert wird.
• • Ein Benutzer ist nur temporär zur Nutzung berechtigt, die Zeiten sind jedoch in dem Signal des Hilfssenders kodiert. Hierzu muss möglicherweise eine Dekodierungstabelle von der Datenverarbeitung heruntergeladen werden, damit das Signal dekodiert wird. Durch Abgleich der Zeit im Fahrzeug kann dann von der Fahrzeugelektrik oder der Schlüsselbox jeweils entschieden werden, ob die Aktivierungsmittel zum Öffnen des Fahrzeugs veranlasst werden oder nicht.

A particularly preferred development of the invention is used in conjunction with the temporal use authorization. For this purpose, the vehicle is temporarily or continuously connected to an external data processing in which the usage permit for a specific user can be stored. Upon receipt of the auxiliary transmitter signal, the vehicle may first "check" whether the sending user is authorized to use it at all.

• • A user has time to use a car. For this purpose, the signal of its auxiliary transmitter additionally contains information for identifying the user. After a database synchronization and the determination that this particular user is authorized, the activation means are activated.
• • A user is regularly authorized to use a vehicle at certain times. In this case, a schedule in the vehicle electronics or the key box can be stored permanently, so that after transmission of the payload an activation within the time window takes place or is denied outside this time window.
• • A user is only allowed to use it temporarily, but the times are coded in the signal of the auxiliary transmitter. This may require downloading a decoding table from the data processor to decode the signal. By adjusting the time in the vehicle can then be decided in each case by the vehicle electrics or the key box, whether the activation means are made to open the vehicle or not.

Prefers is stored in the external data processing, which user when the vehicle is allowed to use and the immobilizer of the vehicle is over the key and additionally about the of communication can be deactivated with external data processing. Only when both Shares are present, the user can set the engine in motion. So can not be unauthorized even if the vehicle is broken Commissioning, since the release via external data processing is missing.

The connection with the external data processing can also provide an additional opening function. For example, the center can remotely open the vehicle by activating the key box if the user himself has no authorization. This may be the case if the user has forgotten something in the vehicle at the end of its useful life. Then he can tell the headquarters via a telephone line that he at short notice in the vehicle again. This can then remotely control the activation means and operate the key. In the same way then later the vehicle can be closed again, unless this is taken over by the user.

The Remote control can include several functions or even the complete release allow. If the vehicle is being serviced, it may be useful the system over the remote control completely switch off and permanently unlock the start readiness, until the maintenance is finished. So can the mechanic with the normal Key that Operate the vehicle without being a legitimate user must register.

Will about the key box the vehicle is opened, but the readiness to start due to lack of release by the external data processing not possible the vehicle may be equipped with an emergency driving possibility. For this purpose, for example, a corresponding switch is provided be a willingness to drive at low speed, possibly under Use of an alarm siren or pressing the horn enabled. For example, the vehicle can also be used without a license be moved out of a danger area. A limit the maximum distance traveled in this mode can be provided.

The Data on the authorization of vehicle use can be accessed online, if over the Hilfssender a request for opening of the vehicle is received. Another embodiment of the invention however, call this data for single or multiple drivers at specific times from the external Data processing and stores them in the vehicle. In this way can be avoided by lack of contact with the external Data processing, about because the vehicle is not in an underground car park is reachable, the opening is blocked.

One Another advantage of the invention is that the external data processing Manage the use of the vehicle easily. So can at one with Satellite control vehicle provided by a particular Users traveled Be tracked off and the costs thus incurred a special Cost center attributed. Also it is possible to drive the driver User in this way to check what For example, a car rental company is required by law in many countries. To do this appropriate data stored in the external data processing, which are taken into account when requested by the vehicle.

The Vehicle electrics can be designed so that additional Alarm functions possible are. Thus, in the case of unauthorized attempt to use an alarm about of communication triggered be over the external data processing can be processed. Is the vehicle equipped with a satellite navigation system, can be an imaginary pursuit of the vehicle automatically respectively. Alternatively or in addition can Also optical or acoustic signals are triggered on the vehicle. This can be done as part of an alarm function or as a mere reminder, for example, if the driver forgot to close the vehicle.

at In a further embodiment of the invention, the driver identification takes place no over the auxiliary transmitter but over a plug-in card that the user places in a corresponding device in the vehicle can insert. Here, of course, must the opening of the vehicle over the auxiliary transmitter independently from the identification of the sender, but then can the further deactivation of the immobilizer or the activation the general start readiness of the vehicle user-dependent done.

So can either the key box the key only after identification of the user, possibly with additional Synchronization of the temporal use authorization, release or over the further deactivation of the immobilizer an identification check occur. Thus, a temporally un legitimate user though possibly to open the vehicle, but not put into operation. This allows him, for example, forgotten Items still to be able to get out of the vehicle, but does not allow extensive vehicle use.

Further Features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments based on the drawings.

In the drawings shows:

1 a diagram of the functions of the process,

2 a side view of a key box according to the invention and

3 the keybox 2 in a front view.

In 1 is the procedure for opening the vehicle 1 shown. The key 2 is located in the enlarged key box 4 here's a drawer 6 has, so the key 2 is removable.

In the key box 4 is the key 2 in a recording so that he is in a predetermined Position is arranged and can not be inserted incorrectly. For this purpose, the recording in the key box 4 a corresponding shape, in particular the negative shape of the key 2 on. To all keys 2 In the case of a symmetry of the key layout, an additional attachment to the key can make it possible to have a clear position 2 , in particular be attached to the head. This can be, for example, a one-sided protruding plate attached to the key 2 is glued. This prevents the key 2 is inserted with the push buttons down.

The vehicle user sends via an auxiliary transmitter 5 a signal to the vehicle 1 , This can now optionally be either via activating agents, which here are made of printing elements 8th are formed, press the printhead to actuate the central locking and so open the vehicle or first contact with external data processing 7 in which more data may be stored, in particular whether the user who has sent the request signal is entitled to use the vehicle at all. After this adjustment and the positive outcome of the verification of legitimacy then the pressure element 8th actuated.

The pressure element 8th can be operated by simple linear motors or electromagnetically. After the pressure element 8th is now being extended, as is the case of the usual keys 2 is known, the opening signal 3 sent. The key box 4 can be inside and outside the vehicle 1 be arranged to prevent theft from the vehicle 1 however, it is preferred within the vehicle 1 be arranged. If required, both a key box can be used 4 inside and one or more key boxes 4 outside the vehicle 1 be arranged, the key then alternatively in one of the key boxes 4 can be inserted.

In the 2 and 3 is the key box 4 out 1 shown in an enlarged view. The illustrated key box 4 has two printing elements 8th on, one to open the vehicle 1 and one for locking. Thus, the method can also be a closure, either by the departed driver or by the external data processing 7 remotely controlled.

The drawer 6 is held laterally in guides and can be driven out manually or driven by an electric motor to remove the key can.

This For example, it is necessary if the key to start the engine needed becomes.

1

vehicle

2

key

3

opening signal

4

key box

5

auxiliary transmitter

6

drawer

7

external data processing

8th

pressure element

Claims (25)

Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ), which can be closed by a lockable and unlockable door lock, which can be locked by means of a standard key ( 2 ) of the vehicle ( 1 ) controlled opening signal ( 3 ) is remotely controlled, with the serial key ( 2 ) wirelessly the opening signal ( 3 ) to the vehicle ( 1 ) or from the vehicle ( 1 ) transmitted signal in the opening signal ( 3 ), characterized in that when the vehicle is locked ( 1 ) the serial key ( 2 ) in a key box controllable via activating agents ( 4 ) and to unlock the vehicle ( 1 ) via an auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) the activation means are caused to open the opening signal ( 3 ). Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) outside the vehicle ( 1 ) is arranged and interacts via a wireless connection directly or indirectly via other elements of the on-board electronics with the activating means. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the vehicle ( 1 ) has an active transponder and the key ( 2 ) is formed by a passive transponder, the key box ( 4 ) is designed to hold the key ( 2 ) completely interrupts the contact of the passive transponder with the active transponder and interrupts the key box ( 4 ) can be opened so as to establish the contact between the passive transponder and the active transponder for generating the opening signal by modifying the signal transmitted by the active transponder. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that as a key ( 3 ) a conventional ignition key is used, which has a switch for generating the opening signal ( 3 ), the key ( 3 ) with locked vehicle in the key box ( 4 ) and the activation means of the key box ( 4 ) upon receipt of the auxiliary signal transmitter and then the key ( 3 ) the opening signal ( 3 ). Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the switch is in the head of the key ( 3 ) and the key box ( 4 ) a printing element ( 8th ), which during or after receiving the signal of the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) on the push-button of the inserted key ( 3 ) presses. Method for opening a vehicle according to claim 4 or 5 with an additional closing function, characterized in that after switching off the vehicle ( 1 ) after the expiry of a predefined waiting time an automatic locking of the vehicle ( 1 ) he follows. Method for opening a vehicle according to claim 4 or 5 with an additional, over the key ( 2 ) operable locking function, characterized in that when the vehicle is open ( 1 ) via the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) the vehicle ( 1 ), whereby the key ( 3 ) in the key box ( 4 ) and after locking the key box ( 4 ) and leaving the vehicle ( 1 ) via the activating means an actuation of the closing function of the key ( 3 ) via the key box ( 4 ) he follows. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle ( 1 ) has an immobilizer, characterized in that the immobilizer in addition to the other function only during or after receiving the signal of the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) will be annulled. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) with an at least temporarily existing communication option for external data processing ( 7 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vehicle ( 1 ) via the communication option a release message is sent and only after receipt of the release notice a function of the activation means is possible. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 8 and 9, wherein the immobilizer via a data transmission from the key ( 3 ) is activated or deactivated to the vehicle electrical system, characterized in that in addition to the activation or deactivation of the immobilizer via the key ( 3 ) the immobilizer via the communication option with the external data processing ( 7 ) is activated or deactivated and only after deactivation of the immobilizer via both the key ( 3 ) as well as the possibility of communication the vehicle ( 1 ) is ready to start. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that that of the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) transmitted signal information for identification of a user and / or the vehicle ( 1 ). Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle ( 1 ) at least temporarily a communication option to an external data processing ( 7 ), characterized in that the activating means only via the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) are responsive when external data processing ( 7 ) a release message to the vehicle ( 1 ) sent. A method for opening a vehicle according to claim 11 and claim 12, characterized in that the user first of all the use of the vehicle ( 1 ) at a certain time during external data processing ( 7 ) and only after identification of the registered user via the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) and a comparison, whether this user is authorized to use at the time of the opening request, the activation means can be activated and / or the immobilizer can be deactivated. Method for opening a vehicle according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle ( 1 ) at least temporarily a communication option to an external data processing ( 7 ), characterized in that upon removal of the key ( 3 ) without prior receipt of a signal from the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) an alert about unauthorized use of the vehicle ( 1 ) via external data processing ( 7 ) he follows. Method for opening a vehicle according to the preceding claim, characterized in that upon alerting at least one visual or audible signaling device, in particular hazard warning light or horn, of the vehicle ( 1 ) is pressed. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) a wireless transmitter, in particular a radio or infrared transmitter is used. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) a mobile telephone is used, via which a telephone connection with the activation means directly or indirectly about other components of the vehicle ( 1 ) can be produced. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the vehicle ( 1 ) has a system for user identification and verification of the user authorization, and wherein the staring willingness is established only when the user authorization is established, characterized in that the connection of the mobile phone to the activating means via the system for user identification takes place, this is either selectable on the vehicle side or on the external data processing ( 7 ), which via the communication possibility, the signal of the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) to the vehicle ( 1 ) transmitted. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) Part of a transponder system, wherein the user carries a passive or active transponder with him and the vehicle side, the associated active or passive transponder is provided. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of claims 4 to 17, characterized in that the key box ( 4 ) a drawer ( 6 ), into which the key can be inserted accurately and after opening the vehicle as a result of receiving the opening signal ( 3 ) and / or adjustment of the user authorization can be opened or automatically opens to remove the key. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the vehicle ( 1 ) accessible from the outside, with the key box ( 4 ) associated opening switch is provided, wherein the operation of the activating means can be actuated by actuation of the opening switch. Method for opening a vehicle ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the key ( 2 ) an accumulator for supplying the transmitter of the opening signal ( 3 ), characterized in that the key box has a charging possibility for the accumulator with inserted key. Motor vehicle ( 1 ) with a key ( 2 ) having a pressure-actuable switch for actuating a central locking, characterized in that it has a key box ( 4 ) into which the key ( 2 ) is accurately positioned and has the activation means, which are formed by at least one pressure element and at least one actuating element driving the pressure element, wherein the activation means with a receiver for the auxiliary transmitter ( 5 ) cooperate and are designed such that, upon receipt of a signal legitimizing the user, they are able to effect a temporary pressure of the pressure element on the switch. Motor vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 23 with a device for releasing the start readiness, wherein the motor vehicle ( 1 ) is equipped with a system for identifying the driver, which has a connection to the external data processing, wherein in the external data processing ( 7 ) Data regarding the user authorization of the individual driver and his creditworthiness are stored and the motor vehicle is only ready to start when the user authorization and / or the credit rating of the driver is determined, characterized in that the key box ( 4 ) is designed such that they determine the authorization and / or credit rating via the system for identifying the driver and only after a positive check the opening signal ( 3 ) can send out. Motor vehicle ( 1 ) according to claim 24, characterized in that the key box ( 4 ) and the system for identifying the driver is formed by a common component which is connected via a data connection with the external data processing ( 7 ) and has a wireless or wired interface for inputting the user data.