EP3420540A1

EP3420540A1 - Module unit comprising an interface for a communication device

Info

Publication number: EP3420540A1
Application number: EP17707496.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Jan BREER; Marc Feldsieper; Matthias Ihln; Stefan Neuhoff; Mirko Schindler; Thomas Skaletz; Boris Ziller
Original assignee: Huf Huelsbeck and Fuerst GmbH and Co KG
Current assignee: Huf Huelsbeck and Fuerst GmbH and Co KG
Priority date: 2016-02-26
Filing date: 2017-02-16
Publication date: 2019-01-02
Also published as: CN108701381A; DE102017103222A1; WO2017144348A1; US20190066422A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a module unit (10) for adapting a mobile, portable communication device (20) to a security system (1) in a vehicle (2), in particular for the keyless activation of an access system for the vehicle (2), comprising an interface (10.1) for exchanging data (30) with the communication device (20), and at least one communication unit (10.2) for communicating with the security system (1), the module unit (10) being designed in such a way that the communication can be performed using a broadband communication process.

Description

Module unit with interface for a communication device

The present invention relates to a modular unit for adapting a mobile, portable communication device to a security system, in particular for keyless activation of an access system of a vehicle according to claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a modular system, a security system and a method for adapting a mobile, portable communication device to a security system according to the respective preambles of the independent claims.

Mobile identification transmitters (ID transmitters) are used as electronic keys in order to enable the unlocking of a safety system of a vehicle as an alternative to the mechanical key. ID encoders can also be used for numerous other vehicle applications to increase operator comfort and safety. Usually, for communication between the ID transmitter and the vehicle (or vehicle). Safety system of the vehicle) infrared systems or radio systems used in the low frequency range. As a result, authentication data can be transmitted contactlessly (wirelessly) and thus, for example, check the access data in order to enable unlocking with positive authentication. The authentication can be initiated, for example, by the user by pressing a button. By this active actuation of the identification transmitter by the user, the signal with the authentication information, eg. B. with access data such as a code sent to an on-board electronics of the security system. Such systems are also referred to as active keyless entry systems (when, for example, a button has to be actively pressed). In addition to the active keyless entry systems, security systems with the so-called passive keyless entry or keyless go functionality are also increasingly being used. In contrast to the conventional remote control, the passive keyless entry functionality does not require any active operation of the ID transmitter (meaning without pressing a button) by the user. For example. when approaching the user or when operating a door handle, a wake-up signal from the vehicle via a radio link, in particular via a LF (low frequency / low frequency) - radio link, are transmitted to the identification transmitter. Then the ID transmitter is awakened and sends a radio signal with the code for authentication to the vehicle security system.

It has proven to be a disadvantage that only ID transmitter or only those devices can be used for authentication, which receive signals via the radio link of the security system and then can send a response signal. The device which is to serve as an ID transmitter must therefore support the corresponding communication technologies of the safety system of the vehicle. Often a user of the vehicle already carries mobile, portable communication devices such as a cell phone or laptop, which would in principle be suitable for generating codes for authentication. However, these often do not have appropriate means of communication (such as an LF receiver), for example, to receive the wake-up signal via the radio link. A user must therefore carry an ID transmitter in addition to his mobile, portable communication device in order to perform an authentication process on the security system of the vehicle. The ID transmitter also requires additional space, has expensive, expensive electronics with Communication interfaces contain and, in the event of loss, impair security through possible unauthorized use.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome the disadvantages described above. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to enable a cost-effective, secure and / or reliable adaptation of mobile, portable communication devices to security systems, in particular for the keyless activation of an access system for vehicles. Thus, in particular, can be dispensed with a separate I D encoder, cost savings and security can be increased.

The above object is achieved by a modular unit having the features of claim 1, a modular system having the features of claim 9, a security system with a modular system according to the invention and a method having the features of claim 16. Further features and details of the invention will become apparent from the respective subclaims, the description and the drawings. In this case, features and details that are described in connection with the modular unit according to the invention apply, of course, in connection with the module system according to the invention, the security system according to the invention and the method according to the invention and in each case vice versa, so that with respect to the disclosure of the individual invention aspects always reciprocal reference or can be.

The object is in particular achieved by a module unit for adapting a mobile, portable communication device to a security system of a vehicle, in particular for keyless activation of an access system of the vehicle, with an interface for data exchange with the communication device, and at least one communication unit for (in particular ultra-wideband) communication with the security system, wherein the module unit and / or the communication unit is designed such that the communication by a broadband communication method, preferably as a radio link, is feasible. The vehicle is, for example, a motor vehicle and / or a passenger vehicle and / or a truck and / or an electric vehicle and / or a hybrid vehicle, wherein the safety system can be controlled, for example, via the radio link by an ID transmitter. The security system is preferably designed for security-relevant data, in particular for authentication and / or Distance determination to transmit and / or receive over a broadband communication method, in particular ultra-wideband. If necessary, the transmission of this data to an ID transmitter, which supports a corresponding communication technology of the security system. The module unit according to the invention offers the advantage that an adaptation of a communication device for transmitting and / or receiving the data of the security system is possible, even if the communication device, the communication technology of the security system, eg. B. a broadband communication method, not supported natively. The lack of support of the communication technology can be due, for example, to the fact that the communication device has no communication interface for the relevant frequency range or communication is not released by the communication technology of the security system.

The security-relevant data of the security system include z. B. a wake-up signal. In this context, wake-up signals in particular designate signals with information which is suitable for triggering an authentication process with the security system and / or a distance determination and / or a communication process with the security system. The wake-up signal is z. B. over the broadband communication method, such as UWB, and / or another communication method, such as LF or HF transmitted. The signals or information received by the module unit can, for. B. be provided via the interface to the communication device. Even if the communication device is not directly the communication technology of the security system, so z. As a broadband communication method and / or LF or HF, so it is possible via the module unit nevertheless a preferably indirect communication with the security system. The module unit or the communication unit thus establishes the connection between the security system and the communication device. The advantage is that so reliable, flexible and inexpensive mobile, portable communication devices of various types can be adapted to a security system of any vehicle and in this way the use of mobile, portable communication devices as an ID transmitter is enabled. A separate ID transmitter is thus no longer necessary, which reduces the space and cost for the user. It is preferably provided that a radio link for communication between the module unit and the vehicle with the broadband communication method, z. B. ultra-broadband, is used. The transferable via the wireless connection radio signals, in particular a wake-up signal, in this case z. B. a UWB signal. Communication using ultra-wideband technology (UWB) is based on the technical consideration that the channel capacity increases linearly with the bandwidth of the transmission signal and logarithmically with its performance. For example. For communication technologies such as Bluetooth, the available bandwidth is narrow and constant. In contrast, UWB uses a very wide frequency range to enable a high channel capacity at reduced transmission power. This has the advantage that a data transmission can be carried out at very low power consumption by the (UWB) transmitter. The maximum output power of a UWB transmitter (such as the communication unit) is z. 1 mW. In particular, in the context of the invention under Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy understood.

In particular, a multiplex method, preferably a frequency division multiplexing method such as an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) method and / or a code division multiplexing method such as a Code Division Multiple Access method, in particular Direct Sequence Code Division Multiple Access (DS), is used for the communication, in particular for data transmission. CDMA). Preferably, wirelessly pulse-shaped signals are transmitted for data transmission. This z. B. also a shift of the pulses by means of (pseudo) random values, in which case (UWB-) transmitter and receiver take into account the same values for the displacement. Preferably, a time synchronization of (UWB) transmitter and receiver takes place before or at the beginning of the data transmission. To evaluate the received signal, the (UWB) transmitter and / or the receiver, in particular the communication unit, for. B. Electronic components such as comparators for comparing received pulses and / or correlation receiver and / or integrated circuits and / or microprocessors and / or electronic components for performing a fast Fourier transformation. The communication of the module unit with the vehicle and / or with the security system of the vehicle, in particular the data transmission of security-relevant data, in particular by means of UWB, is preferably encrypted. For this purpose, preferably cryptographic security mechanisms such as RSA are used, which z. As connection keys and / or authentication mechanisms and / or the use of secret (private) and public keys and / or a symmetric and / or asymmetric cryptosystem and / or a hybrid encryption include. There is thus achieved the advantage that a secure and reliable transmission is possible. The communication via the broadband communication method, preferably via UWB, preferably takes place over at least one large frequency range, preferably with a (total) bandwidth of (at least) 500 MHz to 900 MHz and / or (at least) 3.5 GHz to 10 GHz and / or at least 5 GHz and / or at least 2 GHz and / or at least 1 GHz and / or at least 500 MHz and / or at least 40% and / or at least 30% and / or at least 20% and / or at least 10% of the arithmetic mean of lower and upper limit frequency of the used frequency band. For example. For example, the frequency range in the range of 0 to 40 GHz, in particular 500 MHz to 900 MHz, preferably 3.5 GHz to 10 GHz, preferably 3.5 GHz to 6.8 GHz, preferably 20 MHz to 1 1 GHz, particularly preferably 30 MHz to 10.6 GHz and / or 22.0 GHz to 26.7 GHz and / or 1 MHz to 12.4 GHz and / or substantially 700 MHz. It can further be provided that for the (UWB) communication, the maximum mean value of the spectral power density is in the range between -90.0 dBm / MHz and -20.0 dBm / MHz, preferably a maximum of -41.3 dBm / MHz. The data transmission rate for data transmission is preferably at least 1 Mbit / s or at least 4 Mbit / s or at least 6 Mbit / s, in particular at most 6.8 Mbit / s or 10 Mbit / s. Thus, a fast and trouble-free transmission is possible.

It may also be provided that, in accordance with the UWB communication, the distance determination also takes place by means of a distance measurement such as a transit time analysis of a (UWB) radio signal. In particular, a frequency range of 22.0 GHz to 26.6 GHz can be used here. Furthermore, it may be possible within the scope of the invention that the module unit according to the invention receives a signal from the vehicle (eg from the vehicle-mounted safety system) via a radio link, and is preferably connected and / or connectable to the communication device in such a way that the data transmission via the radio link signal received by the module unit, in particular a wake-up signal, can be evaluated by the communication device. It is conceivable that the radio connection is a first radio connection (such as a UWB radio connection) of a first communication unit and / or a second radio connection (such as an LF and / or RF radio connection) of a second communication unit. In particular, the module unit and / or the communication device can be awoken due to the reception of the signal. Awakening refers in particular to the activation of functions and / or components of the module unit or of the communication device or else the transfer from an idle state to a waking state, eg. B. with higher energy consumption. It may be provided that the (wake-up) signal from the module unit via the particular wireless data connection of the communication device is evaluated. The (wake-up) signal can in particular trigger a communication of the communication device and / or the module unit with the security system. In this case, the vehicle-side safety system can have an access system (eg central locking for the vehicle doors) which has active keyless entry, passive keyless entry or keyless go functionality. The security system is used z. As the keyless activation of an access system for vehicles, especially motor vehicles. For this purpose, in particular a by the (wake-up) signal initiated or the reception of the (wake-up) signal subsequent authentication process and / or a distance determination (with a positive result) for activation is necessary. The positive result concerns z. As a successful code verification and / or code match in the authentication and / or determined by the distance determination distance of the module unit to the vehicle, which must be less than a maximum distance. Through the authentication process, functions of the security system can be activated by the vehicle, such as: B. opening or closing a closing device of the vehicle, for. As well as doors or flaps in the rear and / or side region of the vehicle, starting the engine or activating or deactivating the immobilizer. The (wake-up) signal is z. B. sent by at least one vehicle-side communication module of the security system. These antennas may be provided in different areas of the vehicle, for. B. outside the vehicle, in the interior, on the doors, especially the door handles, on the roof, in the rear and / or side area of the vehicle or in the trunk. When the (wake-up) signal is sent via a UWB and / or LF radio frequency, the range is severely limited and is also greatly attenuated and / or (completely) shielded by the vehicle body. This allows z. B. also a distance determination. As a result, it is also possible for a device (eg an ID transmitter or the module unit) receiving the (wake-up) signal to be located inside or outside the vehicle, and preferably the location within the vehicle from the location outside of the vehicle can be distinguished. For example, a further method for determining the distance, such as an evaluation of the signal strength or signal propagation time ("time-of-flight"), can be used as support: After locating and / or receiving the signal and / or determining the distance (at positive result), for example, an authentication process is initiated, which comprises, in particular, the transmission of a response signal to the security system, wherein the response signal may contain, for example, a code (access code) for identification verification It is preferably provided in the module unit, in particular in a communication device of the module unit and / or the (first and / or second) communication unit, a UWB and / or LF antenna, the (wake-up) It may be an antenna of the module unit, for example, a UWB and / or he LF antenna, to receive and a separate or the same antenna to send signals can be provided.

The modular unit according to the invention serves, in particular, for adapting the communication device to the vehicle-side safety system so that the communication device can receive the wake-up signal and / or further signals of the radio link indirectly (by the module unit). The module unit can, for. B. be configured such that an electronic unit or exchange unit is provided, and that the (first and / or second and / or further) communication unit via the electronic unit or exchange unit with the interface so electrically, in particular electronically connected, that one via radio received (wake-up) signal adapted for the communication device and forwarded to the interface. The electronics unit can z. Example, a microprocessor having a program flow, which adjusts the (wake-up) signal for the communication device (eg., A conversion to a data format) and forwards. In this way, the electronic unit can thus in particular initiate a data exchange for the transmission of the alarm information with the communication device. It is particularly conceivable that the (wake-up) signal can be received exclusively via the radio link and is transmitted exclusively by the vehicle-side communication module by radio. For communication between the module unit and the vehicle-side safety system and / or with the vehicle, it is also conceivable that a first radio connection of a first frequency band, in particular a UWB frequency band is used, and for communication between the communication unit and the communication device, a second or further Radio connection of a second or further frequency band is provided, wherein the first frequency band and the second (or further) frequency band differ from each other. Preferably, the first frequency band is greater than the second (or further) frequency band, and particularly preferably at least twice or three times or four times the width of the second (or further) frequency band. This has the advantage that two different frequency bands with different characteristics (eg a shorter range for the wake-up signal) can be used.

Furthermore, it can be provided in the context of the invention that the communication unit is designed as a first communication unit for communication by the broadband communication method, and is preferably designed as an ultra-wideband communication unit, and preferably at least one second communication unit is provided, which is preferably used as an LF and / or HF communication unit is formed. It is further conceivable that a communication device of the module unit is provided, which z. B. has the first and / or a second and / or at least one further communication unit. The communication units can each support different communication technologies (eg the security system). Thus, the first communication unit as a UWB communication unit, for example, a communication via UWB and the second communication unit as an LF and / or HF communication unit allow communication via LF and / or RF. Further Communication technologies can, for. As well as Bluetooth, in particular Bluetooth low energy, which are supported by the first and / or second and / or further communication unit. The communication units can each have corresponding antennas for this purpose. Thus, a versatile use of the module unit is possible.

Advantageously, it may be provided in the invention that a wake-up signal of the vehicle, preferably a Bluetooth (that is also Bluetooth low energy) and / or ultra-broadband and / or LF and / or HF wake-up signal, in particular a wake-up signal emitted on the vehicle, from the module unit and / or a communication device, in particular the first or second communication unit, is receivable. In this case, the communication unit can have at least one antenna, in particular a UWB and / or HF and / or LF antenna, in order to receive the wake-up signal via the radio link. It may preferably be possible for UWB signals and / or HF (high frequency, ie shortwave signals and / or UHF (ultra high frequency) signals to be transmitted via the radio link at least one UWB, Bluetooth, LF, UHF and / or HF antenna The antenna includes, for example, an antenna coil with or without ferrite core, a powder core or other ferromagnetic substances (printed circuit board antenna), a patch antenna or a Planar Inverted F-Shaped (PIF) antenna, which in particular can be integrated directly on the circuit board, and, for example, a wound antenna or a 3D antenna for position-independent In this case, the communication unit can have several or exactly one antenna, thereby achieving a space-saving arrangement of the antenna, and regardless of the orientation of the Mo duleinheit ensures adequate reception. By using UWB and / or LF signals, the range, eg. As the reception of the wake-up signal can be reduced to prevent unauthorized listening to the signal.

Another advantage of the modular unit according to the invention can be configured such that upon receipt of a wake-up signal (and / or further signal via the radio link), the module unit changes from an idle state to a wake state (in particular by an exchange unit), and preferably at and / or after this transition or change from the idle state to the awake state a data exchange of the interface with the communication device is triggered. The data exchange is triggered, for example, by an electronic unit or the exchange unit. In this case, the idle state z. B. by a lower energy consumption than in the awake state, since in the resting state z. B. individual components such as the first communication unit of the module unit and / or the communication device can be in stand-by mode and / or are turned off. For example. In idle state, operation of the interface for data exchange is not absolutely necessary. Since, if necessary, a data exchange and / or a distance determination must take place after the reception of the wake-up signal, components of the module unit and / or of the communication device can be activated in the awake state and therefore a higher energy consumption may be necessary.

In this case, it may optionally be provided that upon receipt of the wake-up signal from the module unit, a data exchange to the communication device for the transmission of information about the wake-up signal is triggered. It may also be possible for the data exchange to serve the control of functions of the communication device and / or the communication of the module unit with the security system via the communication device. Preferably, the data exchange can also be used to send signals from the communication device to the security system via the module unit or the communication unit. The advantage is that communication technologies supported by the module unit can also be used by the communication device and vice versa. It can be of further advantage if the data exchange is carried out bidirectionally or unidirectionally. This allows data to be sent from the communication device to the module unit and vice versa. The radio link can also be bidirectional or unidirectional, so the communication unit z. B. have an exclusive receiving or even a transmitting and receiving unit. For the evaluation of the wake-up signal by the communication device can also be provided that the communication device queries only registers or data in at least one memory of the module unit. This query can be z. B. cyclically performed to detect the receipt of the wake-up signal. Also, in the sense of an interrupt Control be triggered by the reception of the wake-up signal an evaluation by the communication device. Thus, information about the wake-up signal can be reliably transmitted from the vehicle-side safety system via the module unit to the communication device.

It is also conceivable that the module unit, for example. Via a second communication unit, first receives a Bluetooth and / or LF and / or RF signal (from the vehicle or security system), and in response to the receipt of the Bluetooth and / or LF and / or RF signal, a UWB signal is sent via a first communication unit via a UWB radio link to the security system and / or the vehicle. Subsequently, the security system and / or the vehicle may preferably send a (UWB) response signal via the UWB radio link to the module unit. In particular, an evaluation of the time duration between the transmission of the UWB signal to the vehicle and the receipt of the response signal by the module unit can then be carried out for determining the distance, in order to determine the transit time and thus the distance between the vehicle and the module unit. This corresponds, for example, to a distance determination for determining a distance information about the distance, wherein the distance information can be evaluated by the module unit and / or by the security system and / or by the vehicle and / or by the communication device. Depending on this evaluation, an authentication process, for example, can then be triggered, for example, preferably by the module unit, in particular only if the specific distance is less than a predefined maximum distance. This has the advantage that a reliable determination of the distance (for example by the module unit) can be carried out in order, for. B. to allow secure authentication. Before the activation of the first communication unit and / or the transmission of the wake-up signal and / or based on the wake-up signal z. For example, a pre-authentication of the module unit by the security system to check the authorization of the module unit. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the waiting time is limited to the receipt of the response signal by the module unit, and therefore z. B. after a predefined period of time, the first communication unit is disabled without an evaluation of the response signal or the time duration has occurred. Thus, additional energy can be saved. The predefined time duration is, for example, depending on the Maximum distance and / or the propagation speed of the signal over the radio link.

In the context of the invention, it may further be provided that the module unit according to the invention comprises an exchange unit and / or electronic unit for evaluating received signals, preferably radio signals, in particular from the vehicle, which communicate with the interface and / or the (first and / or second) communication unit and / or the electronic unit is connected such that the exchange unit and / or electronic unit performs a transition from a sleep state to a wake state upon receipt of a radio and / or alarm signal. This is z. B. thereby, that the exchange unit and / or electronic unit, the interface and / or the (first and / or second) communication unit on a board electronically connected to each other directly via interconnects and / or indirectly. The exchange unit and / or electronic unit can, for. B. at least one microprocessor, in particular with memories and registers have. It is conceivable that the memory contains a program sequence for carrying out the method according to the invention, and / or the memory for the microprocessor is readable. Also, a control of the antenna by the communication unit may be possible. The module unit may also include other electronic components, such. As LEDs, displays or other display elements, which are controlled by the microprocessor and z. B. signal a reception of a wake-up signal, the operating state and / or a connection with the communication device to the user. These display elements thus support easy operation of the module unit for a user. The wake-up signal can be, for example, a UWB and / or LF and / or HF and / or Bluetooth signal, which is received by a first or second communication unit. In the context of the invention, Bluetooth also means Bluetooth Low Energy (Bluetooth Low Power).

Advantageously, it may be provided that the module unit is designed such that during or after receiving a first and / or second and / or further communication unit, in particular a wake-up signal, a data exchange of the interface with the communication device is initiated. Thus, the communication device can be awakened and / or the wake-up signal can be made available to the communication device. It should be mentioned at this point that the module unit only for exclusive reception of the vehicle-side wake-up signal can be configured so that after receiving the vehicle-side wake-up signal, which then the communication device is awakened, the further communication (eg for authentication) takes place exclusively between the communication device and the vehicle, in particular the security system ,

According to an advantageous development of the invention, the module unit according to the invention can be configured such that data can be transmitted to the communication device by means of data exchange of the interface with information about a state of the module unit, and in particular the data is generated by an electronic unit, with first data in idle state and / or second data is generated while awake. Thus, first data may contain information about hibernation and second data may contain information about wakefulness. By the particular wireless data exchange, the communication device can thus be informed about whether a change to a state (resting or waking state) is done and the communication device z. B. must be ready to send and receive. At the same time, it is conceivable that first and / or second data contain additional information about the wake-up signal or about the state of charge of an energy store. It may also be possible for the first and / or second data to include vehicle parameters, information for operating the module unit and / or the communication device (such as the maximum range of the wake-up signal or the operating mode), for example. A user could be so with the communication device z. B. query information about the vehicle and / or the security system and control functions of the vehicle and / or the security system.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that an electronic unit can trigger an authentication process and / or a change unit from a wake state to a rest state according to a specific scheme, in particular after a predefined time and / or absence of a (UWB) signal and / or wake-up signal, preferably at a distance determination (eg via UWB). This can z. B. a timer unit or counter unit may be provided, which transmits time and / or event information to the electronic unit and / or exchange unit. The scheme may, for. B. be preset immutable or set by the user be, for. B. by a software of the communication device. The authentication process and / or the change can automatically and / or manually z. B. by a keystroke of the user. It can also be provided that in the absence of the UWB signal and / or wake-up signal is switched to the idle state, since in this case an authentication is no longer necessary. So z. B. energy in the module unit and / or the communication device can be saved.

It is also conceivable that the interface emits a signal for awakening the communication device and / or for triggering an authentication process in a first transition from a sleep state to a wakeful state, and in particular a second transition from the awake state to the idle state, a signal to change in the Sleep mode and / or to end the authentication process. It can also be provided that the module unit has an energy store for the power supply of the module unit and / or the interface and / or the communication device, wherein in the idle state, the power supply of the module unit and / or the interface is reduced, and is substantially completely produced in the awake state. By using the wake-up signal to switch from hibernate to waking state, energy saving in energy-saving mode can extend the life of the energy storage device.

Furthermore, it may be possible within the scope of the invention for the module unit to be free of energy storage, and in particular to be supplied with energy for supplying power to the module unit through the interface or through the communication device. Energy storage refers in particular to a designed as a primary cell, battery and / or accumulator energy storage. However, it may still be provided that the module unit a short-term memory, z. B. has a capacitor to absorb energy in the short term and to ensure a short-term power supply. Also, it may be possible according to the invention that energy z. B. from a power transmission unit (eg., The vehicle-side communication module) of the vehicle or security system is transmitted to the module unit. The transmitted energy can in particular by the communication device and / or Receive communication unit and / or a coil of the module unit and / or the interface of the module unit and serve for power supply and / or charging of an energy storage of the module unit and / or the communication device. So z. B. via the LF or other wireless connection or inductively transmitted energy from the vehicle to charge the communication device are used, if z. B. the battery of the communication device is discharged. It is the transmitted to the module unit energy over z. B. transmit the interface to the communication device. In addition, an energy transponder may be provided in the module unit according to the invention, in order to supply these and possibly the communication device with energy.

Furthermore, it can be provided that in a rest state of the module unit, a (first) communication unit, in particular a UWB communication unit, is deactivated for UWB or broadband communication (eg in an energy-saving mode), and / or at or after one Transition of the module unit from the idle state to a wake state, the (first) communication unit is activated and / or activated. This has the consequence that a UWB communication (or a communication according to a broadband communication method) of the module unit is energy-saving feasible only in the waking state. A second communication unit, in particular an LF and / or HF communication unit, is preferably activated both in the resting and in the waking state. In this way, the LF and / or HF and / or Bluetooth communication of the second communication unit can serve to initiate the UWB communication or broadband communication. As a result, an additional energy savings in the operation of the module unit is possible. It is conceivable within the scope of the invention that the interface of the module unit for data exchange and / or the communication device support a first communication technology, which differs from a second communication technology of the communication unit for receiving the wake-up signal. In particular, communication technologies designate Bluetooth connections according to IEEE 802.15.1 in the frequency range of substantially 2.4 GHz, NFC connections (Near Field Communication) in the frequency range of z. B. essentially 13.56 MHz, infrared connections, GSM (Global System for mobile communication) connections in the frequency range of z. Essentially 900 MHz, LTE connections (Long Term Evolution) in the frequency range of substantially 800 to 2600 MHz, UMTS connections (Universal Mobile Telecommunication System) in the frequency range of substantially 0.8 to 2.2 GHz or other mobile radio technology. As a communication technology also more radio communications, such. B. RF, UHF, or LF radio connections or WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) in the frequency range of substantially 2.4 to 5.8 GHz be provided. Also a wired communication technology, such. B. USB (Universal Serial Bus) and / or other data interfaces are z. B. for data exchange between the module unit and the communication device conceivable. Thus, it is possible to flexibly use the communication technology supported by the communication device and to dispense with a separate ID transmitter.

Advantageously, in the module unit according to the invention, the interface may have a first transmitting and receiving unit which is designed such that by means of a radio and / or cable connection, in particular a UWB, Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, GSM, LTE , UMTS, mobile, HF, UHF, LF, WLAN and / or USB connection, a data exchange with the communication device is feasible. The interface can z. B. have a first transmitting and receiving unit and an antenna which is suitable for data exchange by means of the respective communication technology. It may also be provided that the first transmitting and receiving unit has an, in particular exclusive, UWB, Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, GSM, LTE, UMTS, mobile radio, HF, UHF, LF, Wi-Fi and / or USB interface is. The use of WLAN, Bluetooth and / or mobile technology has the advantage that these technologies are supported by most communication devices.

Another advantage is achievable within the scope of the invention if the modular unit is designed as a backpack for the communication device, preferably as a battery compartment cover, memory card, SD card, mobile phone case, mobile phone shell, plug-in part, plug and / or battery, and in particular a plug connection and / or has a radio connection for the data exchange with the communication device. Due to the design as a backpack, the modular unit according to the invention can be particularly easily connected to the communication device and / or integrated and thus assumes the role of an ID transmitter for a security system in a vehicle. It can original parts of the communication device, such. B. battery cover, mobile phone shell or batteries or the like are replaced by the communication device by the inventively designed module unit. For a particularly simple adaptation or even integration with the communication device is possible. The backpack is understood to mean, in particular, a design of the module unit, which allows attachment of the module unit to the communication device such that the communication device can be handled and / or portable together with the module unit.

It is also conceivable that a particularly purely mechanical coupling means is provided for the mechanical connection of the modular unit to the communication device, and the coupling means in particular has an exclusive mechanical holding function. The coupling means may be for, in particular form-fitting, connection with the communication device z. B. clips, screws, glue, hooks, or other mechanical fasteners (in combination) have. In order to ensure easy handling and mobility of the module unit and / or the module system according to the invention, in particular the module unit of the outer shape of the communication device should be adapted so that a simple and familiar handling of the communication device is still possible. In particular, it may be provided that the module unit is detachably fastened to the communication device by the user in such a way that transport and / or attachment of the modular unit to the communication device are possible without further aids. If the module unit z. B. used for adapting a portable, mobile communication device, which the user usually carries with him, z. As a smartphone, it can be dispensed with an additional carrying a separate ID transmitter for the security system. Thus, on the one hand the comfort and on the other hand the security can be increased, since a loss of a separate ID transmitter is prevented. In addition, thus, the functionality of the normal ID transmitter can be significantly improved, for example, because a display can be used by the communication device to vehicle-side information, such. B. tank contents, tire pressure, maintenance interval and the like to get displayed directly and even outside the vehicle, since the information data from the vehicle to the communication device through the intended data connections are transferable. Furthermore, it can advantageously be provided in the invention that the module unit has at least one energy store to supply the communication device via a radio and / or cable connection with energy of the energy storage, and / or that the module unit by the radio and / or cable connection the communication device is powered. If the communication device, for. As a smartphone, powered by the wireless and / or cable connection through the module unit with energy, it may be a Notenergieversorgung, z. B. another note energy storage of the module unit, act. It is thereby ensured that activation of the safety system is still possible even when the energy store is emptied by the communication device and / or the module unit. Conversely, z. B. the module unit are powered by the communication device with energy to z. B. to allow a simple construction of the module unit without its own power source.

Advantageously, it can be provided in the invention that the module unit has a monitoring unit to monitor the power supply of the communication device and / or the module unit, and the monitoring unit hinzuschaltet an energy store for energy supply in particular with insufficient energy. The monitoring unit thus serves to maintain a reliable function of the module unit and / or the communication device in order to always enable activation of the vehicle-side safety system. The determination of the state of charge can, for. B. by measuring the clamping voltage of the energy storage, z. B. by a measuring unit of the monitoring unit done. A low energy state can, for. B. be under 10%, less than 5% or less than 1% of the maximum state of charge. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the monitoring unit deactivates the first and / or second and / or further communication unit of the communication device of the module unit in the case of insufficient energy supply.

Furthermore, it can be provided according to the invention that the module unit has at least one data memory in order in particular to exchange data via a radio and / or cable connection with the communication device and / or to store it. The data store can, for. B. include the program sequence for carrying out the method according to the invention. Also, a program sequence (that is to say a software and / or an app (application) for in particular a smartphone) can be contained in the data memory, which program is suitable is to be executed by the communication device. Also, the program flow, in particular the steps for performing the authentication process and / or the codes for authentication z. B. encrypted included. The program flow is z. B. executed by the communication device, and thus enables the use of the communication device as an ID transmitter in conjunction with the module unit. This has the advantage that the software and / or the codes need not be provided via an external data memory for the adaptation and the functional extension of the communication device, but are available directly when the module unit is connected to the communication device. Since it may be possible that the codes are stored exclusively in the module unit, and z. B. only be retrieved individually from the communication device, this particular safety can be significantly improved.

Advantageously, it can be provided in the context of the invention that the module unit has a housing, wherein the interface, the communication unit, a (UWB) antenna, the exchange unit, the monitoring unit, the transponder and / or the electronics unit are arranged within the housing, wherein in particular, the antenna is arranged in the edge region of the housing. It is also conceivable that a communication device and / or a first transmitting and receiving unit and / or an energy store and / or a data memory and / or a monitoring unit and / or in particular all electronic components of the module unit are arranged within the housing. The described electronic components, such as. B. the antenna, z. B. be secured by a potting compound, by gluing, by pressing, encapsulation, by screws or by soldering in the housing. It can be realized as a space-saving design of the module unit.

The invention also relates to a modular system with a mobile, portable communication device and a modular unit for adapting the communication device to a security system of a vehicle, in particular for keyless activation of an access system of the vehicle, with an interface for data exchange with the communication device, and at least one communication unit for communication with the security system, wherein the module unit is designed such that the communication by a broadband communication method, in particular UWB, is feasible. Thus, the module system according to the invention brings about the same advantages as have been explained in detail with reference to a modular unit according to the invention. In this case, the modular unit according to the invention can be provided and used in the module system according to the invention. In addition, the module system may be suitable for carrying out the method according to the invention.

It is also conceivable that the module unit and the communication device are structurally separated from each other and / or are detachable from each other during operation. This has the advantage that the module unit can be used with different communication devices, in particular from different manufacturers, in order to adapt them to the vehicle-side safety system.

Advantageously, it may be provided within the scope of the invention that the module system is configured such that an authentication initiation process involves a direct first communication of the module unit with the security system, in particular for receiving the wake-up signal, and an immediate second communication of the communication device with the security system, in particular an authentication process for transmitting a code and / or response signal. Thus, the security can be greatly increased because only the communication device together with the module unit can trigger an authentication process. If one of the two devices is lost, no unauthorized authentication is possible. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the module system is designed such that the initiation process comprises a direct first or further communication of the module unit with the security system for distance determination, wherein only if a positive result of the distance determination an authentication process is performed. The authentication process is carried out in particular by a second communication unit and / or by the communication device.

Furthermore, it can be provided within the scope of the invention that the module unit is designed such that a wake-up signal received by the radio connection, in particular information about the wake-up signal or alarm information, can be evaluated by the communication device. The evaluation can z. B. be realized by an evaluation unit (eg., A processor) of the communication device, wherein a memory of the communication device may be provided with a program flow to perform the evaluation. The program sequence can be formed, for example, as a software or smartphone app. If the communication device itself does not directly have the communication technology to communicate with the security system (eg, via a UWB and / or LF radio link), then a wake-up signal from the security system may be received via the module unit. In this case, the module unit has the (first and / or second) communication unit, which is compatible with the communication technology of the vehicle-side safety system. Advantageously, it can be provided in the context of the invention that, in the case of a transition from a rest state to a wake state of the modular unit, a distance determination and / or an authentication process of the module unit and / or the mobile, portable communication device with the vehicle-side safety system (ie a communication with the safety system for Authentication) is triggered. For the authentication process, in a first step, a response signal from the communication device and / or the module unit to the security system via a communication technology, such. For example, a UWB, HF, UHF, or LF radio link, Bluetooth, GSM, LTE, UMTS, cellular, WLAN, N FC connection can be sent. It may be a unidirectional and / or bidirectional transmission of coded messages. The advantage is thus that the communication device with the module unit thus has the functionality of an ID transmitter for the vehicle-mounted safety system.

According to a further advantage within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that upon receipt of a wake-up signal by the communication unit from a first transmitting and receiving unit, a signal is transmitted to a second transmitting and receiving unit of the communication device, and thereby in particular an authentication process with the security system can be triggered by the communication device. Usually supports a mobile, portable communication device, such. As a smartphone or a laptop, not the LF radio link to receive the wake-up signal or the communication technology for sending the response signal to the security system. In order to still be able to use the communication device as an ID transmitter for the security system, it is necessary that the module unit supports the communication technology of the communication device. By the corresponding transmitting and receiving unit of the module unit for data exchange with the communication device, the communication device at least communicate with the security system and possibly with other vehicle-side systems. According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a communication of the communication device with the vehicle-side security system, in particular for performing an authentication process, and possibly with other vehicle-side systems with GSM, LTE, UMTS, mobile, NFC, HF, UHF , LF, UWB, WLAN and / or Bluetooth signals, and in particular be provided for communication, a third transmitting and receiving unit of the communication device, wherein the third transmitting and receiving unit a GSM, LTE, UMTS, mobile , NFC, HF, UHF, LF, UWB, WLAN and / or Bluetooth antenna may have. It can be provided in particular that the communication device is characterized in that it is z. B. has a (third) transmitting and receiving unit and / or an antenna which is suitable, via a mobile phone technology such. As GSM, LTE, UMTS and / or another communication technology, such. As NFC, RF, UHF, UWB, LF, WLAN and / or Bluetooth to communicate. A combination may also be possible because the communication device z. B. has a multi-band or multi-frequency transmitting and receiving unit. It may be possible for each communication technology of the communication device to be different from the communication technology of the security system, in particular for the transmission of the wake-up signal. However, if the authentication process can at least partially take place via one of the communication technologies of the communication device, this has the advantage that no further components are necessary for transmitting the response signal to the security system. The response signal can then z. B. be sent via a mobile connection, since the security system, in particular a vehicle-side communication module, supports this transmission standard. For a user to control and / or monitor the authentication process, it may be provided that the communication device has a memory with a program sequence, such. For example, a software or a smartphone app. The program sequence, z. B. with a method according to the invention, may be suitable to evaluate the received wake-up signal and / or received information of the module unit and send to a display element of the communication device and thus to display the user. For this purpose, it may be provided that the communication device has a display and / or a touchscreen as a display element. About a controller of the smartphone, such. B. via the touch screen or a keyboard, the authentication process can be started and z. B. information about the vehicle or the safety system can be accessed or displayed. It is also conceivable that the controller is suitable for the administration and / or generation of codes for authentication, for. By the generation of random values by the user input. So it can be made available to the user a variety of new control and monitoring options. It is further conceivable that an exchange unit is provided, wherein in a transition from a hibernation state to a waking state by the exchange unit an authentication process of the mobile, portable communication device and / or the module unit with the security system and / or the vehicle is triggered, preferably the authentication process takes place at least partially via the broadband communication method, preferably via an ultra-wideband communication. Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that an evaluation unit of the communication device is provided so that a signal received by a radio connection and / or by the communication through the broadband communication method, preferably wake-up signal, particularly preferably information about the wake-up signal, can be evaluated by the evaluation unit , The information about the wake-up signal comprises, for example, information that a wake-up signal has been received, and / or further information, such as information for pre-authentication. The evaluation unit can be used, for example, for the pre-authentication and / or the actual authentication process and / or for distance determination. Thus, it may be provided that the evaluation unit does not perform an authentication process until a positive result has been determined during the distance determination. Thus, the security in the authentication can be further improved.

It may also be possible for the communication device to be a smartphone, a laptop, a radiotelephone, an ID transmitter, e.g. B. for a foreign access system, an electronic key, a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a media device such. As a music player, a mobile phone, a PC and / or smartphone-like communication device, a clock, bracelet and / or glasses with electronic components and / or any other electronic device. In this case, the communication device can be characterized in that it offers the user communication technologies, such as mobile radio or an Internet connection or IP telephony, and at least partially available, and at least one suitable (eg third) transmitting and receiving unit has. Through the use of the module unit, a wake-up signal can be received, transmitted to the communication device and the response signal transmitted via the communication technology of the communication device to the security system. Also, z. B. a hybrid solution is conceivable in which the communication technology of the transmitting and receiving unit of the communication device of the communication technology of the security system (ie at least one vehicle-side communication module) differs. It can be z. B. the response signal from the communication device via an Internet connection and are received by the security system via a mobile (eg., GSM) connection. Also bidirectional data can be exchanged via the transmitting and receiving unit to z. B. on the communication device information about the state of the security system or the vehicle to receive and display. This has the advantage that the communication device in addition to its usual functionality offers the user a variety of other, new uses.

Another advantage may be that in the context of the invention, a communication between the security system of the vehicle and the communication device via the broadband communication method by the modular unit feasible. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that communication of the module unit with the security system is possible by the communication device and / or that data can be sent from the communication device to the security system by the module unit. It may also be possible for the communication unit to communicate with the security system through the modular unit, in particular for the transmission of a code, wherein, in particular, the communication takes place in a frequency range which differs from the frequency range of the radio connection for transmitting the wake-up signal. Thus, a frequency range for transmitting the wake-up signal can be selected independently of the radio link to transmit the response signal to z. B. increase the security of the transmission. In addition, a security system, in particular for the keyless activation of an access system for vehicles, the subject of the invention. It is provided that the security system has a mobile, portable communication device and, in particular according to the invention, module unit for adapting the communication device to the security system. Also, an inventive modular system can be provided. The module unit preferably has an interface for data exchange with the communication device and a communication unit for communication and / or radio connection to the security system. The module unit is in particular designed such that a communication according to a broadband communication method between the communication unit and the security system or the vehicle can be realized. Thus, the security system according to the invention brings with it the same advantages as have been explained in detail with reference to a modular unit according to the invention as well as a modular system according to the invention. Advantageously, it may be provided in the invention that at least one first communication module is provided in the vehicle interior and at least one second communication module is provided on the vehicle outside, so that the position of the module unit and / or the communication device can be detected inside and / or outside of the vehicle. This function is of particular interest if the module system according to the invention also serves as quasi "ignition key" and / or immobilizer key for the vehicle and cooperates with corresponding systems in the vehicle At least one antenna (in particular UWB and / or LF antenna) is arranged inside the vehicle and a further antenna is arranged outside the vehicle Thus, a reliable location of the communication device can take place The (first and / or second) communication module can preferably be used for communication UWB be suitable.

According to a further advantage of the invention, it may be provided that the security system has a (eg UWB and / or LF and / or HF) communication module, in particular for emitting a wake-up signal, wherein in particular the communication module is configured in such a way that that security queries for position detection (of the communication device and / or the module unit) and / or a Distance determination for determining a distance information about a distance between the vehicle and the module unit are possible. It can also be provided that a first and / or second communication module for transmitting the wake-up signal via the radio link and a third communication module for receiving the response signal of the communication device are present on the vehicle side, wherein the frequency range of the first and / or second communication module of the frequency range of third communication module distinguishes (and thus does not overlap). The position detection can, for. B. be done by the radio link, z. B. has a UWB and / or LF radio link, only a certain range. The fact that the signal is strongly shielded by the vehicle body, it is also possible to detect whether the communication device is inside or outside the vehicle. This makes it possible that z. B. starting the engine is not possible when the communication device is outside the vehicle. It can also be provided that the communication module has at least one UWB, LF, HF, UHF, GSM, LTE, NFC, Bluetooth antenna or at least one UWB, LF, HF, UHF, GSM, LTE, NFC, Bluetooth transmitting and receiving module has. Also via these communication technologies, it is conceivable that a location of the communication device takes place. In addition, according to the invention, the range of communication between the communication module and the module unit, in particular the first or second communication unit, and / or the communication device to a maximum of 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, 50 cm, 1 m, 1, 5 m, 2 m or 5 m limited. Thus, unauthorized activation of the locking device and interception of the data exchange can be prevented.

Likewise provided by the invention is a method for adapting a mobile, portable communication device to a security system of a vehicle, in particular for keyless activation of an access system of the vehicle, comprising a module unit, wherein the module unit has an interface for data exchange with the communication device, and the module unit further at least a communication unit for communication with the security system, wherein the communication of the communication unit with the security system (ie in particular with the vehicle) by a broadband communication method, preferably via a Radio connection is performed. About the radio connection z. B. a distance information and / or authentication information and / or a wake-up signal to initiate the authentication process to be transmitted. The module unit is designed such that a communication between the communication unit and the security system can be realized. Thus, the method according to the invention brings about the same advantages as have been explained in detail with reference to a module unit according to the invention, a module system according to the invention and a safety system according to the invention. The module unit according to the invention and / or the communication device can also have electronic components for carrying out the method according to the invention and / or a memory which contains a program sequence for carrying out the method according to the invention, in particular for evaluating the wake-up signal.

Furthermore, it can be provided in the method according to the invention that a communication module of the security system emits a wake-up signal, the wake-up signal is received by the (first and / or second) communication unit, and upon receipt of the wake-up signal by the (first and / or second) communication unit Communication device and / or the module unit triggers a distance determination and / or an initiation process and / or an authentication process. To trigger the authentication process, it is conceivable that the wake-up signal is converted or processed by the module unit, the exchange unit and / or an electronic unit such that an information of the wake-up signal from the communication device via the data connection can be evaluated. The security system can then z. B. an approximation of the module system by the transmission of the alarm signal when z. B. upon receipt of the wake-up signal, the module unit and / or the communication device returns a corresponding (response) signal to the security system. For this purpose, a corresponding transmitting and receiving unit of the module unit can be provided. It may also be possible for the approach of the module system to be recognized by an evaluation of the electromagnetic field or the electromagnetic coupling, by proximity sensors or by sensors, which a user action (such as, for example, the touch of a door handle). This has the advantage that the module system can be used reliably as an ID transmitter for the security system. It is conceivable that the broadband communication method is an ultra-wideband communication method for short-range radio communication, wherein preferably the bandwidth of the frequency ranges used for the communication is at least 500 MHz and / or at least 1000 MHz. In particular, in the broadband communication method, the communication range is limited to a certain (maximum) distance, so that preferably a distance determination can be carried out by this limitation. Because of this physical limitation, therefore, an authentication process is preferably only possible if the distance between the module unit and the vehicle is below the maximum distance. Other possibilities for distance determination are z. B. a runtime analysis of at least one radio signal of the broadband communication method and / or an evaluation of the signal strength. Thus, the advantage can be obtained that the security is further increased in the authentication at the security system. In particular, it is conceivable that the localization of the modular unit due to the distance determination to at least 5 cm and / or at least 8 cm and / or at least 10 cm is accurate.

Optionally, it can be provided that a wake-up signal is received by a first or second communication unit and, in particular, upon receipt of the wake-up signal, the communication device and / or the module unit triggers an authentication process. It may be provided that the authentication process is only triggered when a distance between the module unit and the vehicle is below a maximum distance. For this purpose, for example, a distance determination is carried out after the reception of the wake-up signal and / or before the triggering of the authentication process. The security of the authentication is thereby further increased.

It is also conceivable that the communication between the module unit and the vehicle, in particular between the communication unit and the security system of the vehicle, is carried out at least partially encrypted, wherein preferably an authentication information is transmitted encrypted in an authentication process and / or a distance information to the vehicle. For this purpose, an encryption device and / or a correlation receiver of the module unit is provided, for example, wherein the encryption alternatively or additionally also by the Communication device can be done. Thus, a manipulation of security-relevant data is reliably prevented.

According to a further advantage, it can be provided that upon receipt of an ultra-wideband and / or RF and / or LF signal, preferably a wake-up signal, a distance determination is initiated, whereby preferably distance information about a distance between the module unit and the vehicle is determined, wherein preferably the distance determination is performed at least partially by an electronic unit of the module unit and / or by an evaluation unit of the communication device. For distance determination can, for example, the communication, d. H. in particular a radio signal, are evaluated, and / or a further locating technology can be used. The further locating technology is, for example, a GPS technology of the communication device. Thus, a reliable location and / or localization of the module unit can be ensured. It is also conceivable that an authentication process is initiated depending on a determined distance between the module unit and the vehicle, preferably only if the determined distance is less than a maximum distance between the module unit and the vehicle, wherein preferably the authentication process via a data exchange includes LF and / or RF and / or UWB communication. Alternatively or additionally, it may be provided that, for determining a distance information about the distance and / or distance determination, a transit time analysis by the module unit, in particular at least partially by the communication unit, preferably by a first communication unit, via ultra-wide band, is performed. For this purpose, for example, an ultra-wideband radio signal received by the communication unit is evaluated. This allows a reliable and secure localization.

Furthermore, it can be provided within the scope of the invention that the distance information from the communication unit of the module unit is encrypted to a communication module of the security system and / or is transmitted tap-proof and / or tamper-proof. For this purpose, the communication unit comprises, for example, an encryption device and / or a correlation receiver. The transmission allows an evaluation of the distance by the vehicle, where subsequently For example, an authentication process can be initiated by the vehicle and / or by the security system. Since the distance information is therefore security-relevant information, manipulation of the authentication process can be prevented on the basis of the encryption.

Furthermore, in the detection of the position of the module system in the interior of the vehicle and / or in a positive identification check by the authentication process z. B. the immobilizer are released and / or the engine ignition when pressing a start-stop button be allowed, or user-specific presets, such. As the sitting position or lighting, loaded and implemented. For this purpose, a vehicle-mounted control electronics can be provided. In a recognition of the module system outside the vehicle, these functions are then possibly completely or partially locked, but z. B. opening the doors possible. Finally, the invention is also directed to a vehicle, in particular motor vehicle with the module system according to the invention and optionally the method according to the invention.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description in which, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of the invention are described in detail. The features mentioned in the claims and in the description may each be essential to the invention individually or in any desired combination. Show it:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a security system according to the invention with a module unit according to the invention and a

Communication device and a motor vehicle,

FIG. 2 shows a further schematic view of the module unit according to the invention and of the communication device,

Figure 3a is a schematic representation of a module unit according to the invention for

Visualization of communication via a radio link with a communication device, FIG. 3b shows a further schematic illustration of the module unit according to the invention for visualizing the communication via a cable connection with the communication device,

Figure 4a is a schematic representation of the visualization of an inventive

Modular unit at rest,

FIG. 4b shows a further illustration of the modular unit according to the invention

Visualization of the reception of the wake-up signal,

FIG. 4c shows a further schematic representation for visualizing the module unit according to the invention in the awake state,

FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a first embodiment variant of a modular system according to the invention,

FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a second embodiment variant of a modular system according to the invention,

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a third embodiment of a modular system according to the invention,

8 is a schematic representation of a motor vehicle, a first and a second vehicle-side communication module,

Figure 9 is a schematic representation of parts of an inventive

Module unit, and

FIG. 10 shows a schematic representation for the visualization of method steps of a method according to the invention. In the following figures, the identical reference numerals are used for the same technical features of different embodiments.

FIG. 1 schematically shows a security system 1 according to the invention and a module unit 10 according to the invention. The security system 1 has a communication module 1 .1 on a vehicle 2. The communication module 1 .1 can receive signals via a radio link 31, z. B. send a wake-up signal 32. The signals which are sent via the radio link 31 can be received by corresponding ID donors of the security system 1. For this purpose, such an ID transmitter usually supports the communication technology of the security system 1, which is used for sending the signals via the radio link 31. For example. the communication technology used for the wake-up signal 32 is a UWB and / or LF radio connection. However, this has the disadvantage that a user must always carry a separate ID transmitter, which also supports the communication technology. This is necessary even if a user already carries other communication devices 20, such as a smartphone, a tablet or a laptop. These devices usually do not support the communication technology for receiving the vehicle-side wake-up signal 32, since they z. B. have no UWB or LF antenna and no corresponding interface or communication electronics. However, a use of these communication devices 20 as an ID transmitter would provide additional convenience for the user, as can be dispensed with a separate ID transmitter and the extended functionality of the communication device 20 can be used, for. B. to get vehicle data displayed on a display of the communication device 20. In order to adapt such communication devices 20 to the security system 1, the module unit 10 shown in the figures is used according to the invention. The module unit 10 is adapted to receive the signals of the vehicle-side communication module 1 .1 via the radio link 31 and, if necessary, to provide the signals and / or their information to the communication device 20 via a data exchange 30. The radio link 31 may designate an LF radio link and / or a UWB radio link. The signals can z. B. information about the wake-up signal 32 and / or distance information about a distance between the vehicle 2 and the module unit 10 and / or state information about the state of the security system 1 included, which the user displayed on a display 20.3 of the communication device 20 can be. It is also conceivable that the display 20.3 is designed as a touch screen, and the control of the security system 1 allowed. Alternatively, the controller z. B. via a keyboard 20.5 of the communication device 20 may be possible. It can be seen that the module unit 10 with the housing 10.5 has a compact shape, and is substantially smaller than the communication device 20 is formed. So she can z. B. connected to the communication device 20 and / or separated from the communication device 20 z. B. transported in a bag by the user. Also an arrangement z. B. (fixed) on the vehicle 2 or separated from the communication device 20 is conceivable, the data exchange 30 is then configured as a wireless connection or can be.

FIG. 2 schematically shows further components of the module unit 10 according to the invention and of the communication device 20 in a partial sectional view. The signals or data, which are transmitted via the vehicle-side radio link 31, in particular a UWB radio link 31, can be received by a communication device 10.13 with at least one communication unit 10.2 of the module unit 10. In addition, the module unit 10 is connected via an interface 10.1 in data communication with the communication device 20. Dazu kann z. B. a first transmitting and receiving unit 10.8 be provided, which allows a data exchange 30 with a second transmitting and receiving unit 20.1 of the communication device 20. Will now z. B. receive a wake-up signal 32, so a distance determination and / or an authentication process z. B. the communication device 20 are triggered. In order to send signals for authentication to the security system 1, the communication device 20 z. B. have a third transmitting and receiving unit 20.2. This third transmitting and receiving unit 20.2 can z. B. have an RF antenna for RF radio communication with the security system 1, or for connection via a communication technology, such. As GSM, LTE, WLAN, UMTS, UWB, Bluetooth, NFC or other mobile radio connection, be suitable.

FIGS. 3a and 3b schematically show the construction of a module unit 10 according to the invention in a schematic sectional view. A dashed line visualizes the functional and / or electronic connection between the components. The electronic connection can z. B. done directly or indirectly via tracks. It is also conceivable that not individual, discrete components are necessary, but the same function z. B. of microprocessors or other electronic components. In this case, the module unit 10 has a communication device 10.13 with a communication unit 10.2, z. B. a first communication unit 10.2a, in particular a UWB communication unit, and / or a second communication unit 10.2b, which in each case an antenna 10.3, z. As a UWB and / or LF antenna may include. The communication device 10.13 can receive signals which are sent via the radio link 31. These signals can then be forwarded to an electronic unit 10.4 and / or an exchange unit 10.12. The electronic unit 10.4 and / or the exchange unit 10.12 is able to evaluate these signals and / or the information of these signals and to transmit in the same or modified form to other components of the module unit 10. For this purpose, the electronic unit 10.4 and / or the exchange unit 10.12 is electronically or functionally connected to the interface 10.1. The interface 10.1 has z. B. a first transmitting and receiving unit 10.8 to communicate with the communication device 20. In addition, it is conceivable that a data memory 10.10, a monitoring unit 10.1 1 and an energy storage 10.9 are provided, which are electronically or functionally connected to the electronic unit 10.4 and / or exchange unit 10.12. The data memory 10.10 may, for example, contain a program sequence which the communication device 20 z. B. via the data exchange 30 is provided. The program sequence can then z. B. stored in a non-illustrated memory of an evaluation 20.6 and executed by the evaluation 20.6. In this case, the program sequence can remain stored permanently in the memory of the evaluation unit 20.6 or of the communication device 20 after the transmission from the module unit 10. It is then z. B. a non-volatile memory, for. B. an SD card. The energy storage 10.9 can be used to supply power to the module unit 10, or else to the power supply of the communication device 20. The energy exchange between the communication device 20 and the module unit 10 can take place, for example, through the connection between the first transmitting and receiving unit 10.8 and the second transmitting and receiving unit 20.1 of the communication device 20. It may also be possible that the energy store 10.9 is charged with energy of the communication device 20 via this connection. For this purpose, the monitoring unit 10.1 1 monitor the state of charge of the energy storage 10.9 or else the power supply of the Monitor module unit 10 and possibly the energy storage 10.9, which may be a Notenergiespeicher turn on.

Via the radio link 31, a wake-up signal 32 of the security system 1 of the communication device 10.13, z. B. the first communication unit 10.2a and / or second communication unit 10.2b, are received. This wake-up signal 32 is used to trigger (initiate) an authentication process and / or activation of the first communication unit 10.2a and / or a distance determination. It may thus be useful for the module unit 10 to assume different states I, since an authentication process only has to be initiated upon receipt of the wake-up signal 32. Thus, it can be provided that in an idle state la of the module unit 10, the interface 10.1 is in energy-saving mode and upon receipt of the wake-up signal 32, the module unit 10 changes into a wake state Ib. In awake state Ib can z. B. by the electronic unit 10.4 and / or the exchange unit 10.12 a data exchange 30 are triggered with the communication device 20, wherein an increased energy demand of the interface 10.1 is necessary.

In Figure 3a is shown that the data exchange 30 z. B. via a radio link, in which case the first transmitting and receiving unit 10.8 and the second transmitting and receiving unit 20.1 z. B. antennas and a communication technology such. B. UWB or Bluetooth support. It can also be provided according to FIG. 3b that the data exchange 30 between the first transmitting and receiving unit 10.8 and the second transmitting and receiving unit 20.1 is wired. In Figure 3b therefore a cable 10.7 is shown schematically.

4a, 4b and 4c, the communication between the vehicle-side communication module 1.1, the module unit 10 and the communication device 20 is shown schematically. In this case, the module unit 10 and / or the communication device 20 in FIG. 4a is in an idle state 1a. The communication module 1 .1, in particular an HF, and / or LF and / or UWB communication module 1 .1, is located, for example, on the outside of the vehicle 2, in particular in an outside door handle, but does not emit a signal. It is also possible that the illustrated communication module 1 .1 Although a Radio signal emits, but this either has no wake-up signal 32 or the module unit 10 is out of range of the radio link 31.

Once the radio signal or the wake-up signal 32 can be received via the radio link 31 through the module unit 10, as shown in Figure 4b, z. B. via the data exchange 30 corresponding information to the communication device 20 are sent. The transmission of the radio signal or the wake-up signal 32 via the radio link 31 may, for. B. by a detected approach of an operator to the vehicle 2 by means of a proximity sensor, which is arranged in particular in the outside door handle, be detected.

Then, as shown in Figure 4c, the authentication process and / or the distance determination initiated. The wake-up signal 32 (or the corresponding information), which was previously received via the radio link 31 from the module unit 10, as shown in FIG. 4 b, can be forwarded to the communication device 20 via the data exchange 30, for example. Preferably, after an evaluation of the wake-up signal 32, the communication device 20 begins to send a response signal via the communication link 33 to the security system 1 of the vehicle 2. The communication connection 33 is, for example, a radio connection, in particular via mobile radio, Bluetooth or NFC or UWB. The response signal may, for. B. contain a code which for identification verification of the security system 1, z. As a vehicle-mounted electronics, is evaluated. When obtaining the correct authentication code and in particular prior determination of distance, whereby the distance determined thereby may not exceed a maximum distance between module unit 10 and vehicle 2, the security system 1 can, for example, open a locking device, in particular a central locking, so that access to the vehicle 2 is possible is.

FIG. 5 shows a module system 3 according to the invention, which comprises the module unit 10 according to the invention and the communication device 20. In order for a user to be able to use the communication device 20 as an ID transmitter for the security system 1, that is to say for an adaptation of the communication device 20 to the security system 1, a data connection of the communication device 20 to the module unit 10 is necessary. Nevertheless, to a comfortable and convenient transport of the communication device 20 to allow, a first embodiment is shown in Figure 5. In this case, the module unit 10 may be configured such that it adapts to the communication device 20 in terms of its shape and size. In addition, it can be reversibly detachably connected by a plug connection 10.6 with a plug connection 20.4 of the communication device 20. This connection to the data exchange 30 may, for example, be a USB connection or a connection technology predetermined by the communication device 20.

FIG. 6 schematically shows a second embodiment variant for connecting a module unit 10 according to the invention to the communication device 20 (possibly wirelessly). In this case, the modular unit 10 is designed as a mobile phone shell or receptacle for the communication device 20, in particular as a backpack. Since many users for communication devices 20, such. As cell phones or smartphones, use a corresponding case or storage, the corresponding configuration of the module unit 10 is particularly convenient and multifunctional for the user. Is the communication device 20 in the module unit 10, z. B. by a recess, not shown, of the module unit 10 still be an operation of the display 20.3 possible. By the use of transparent materials for the module unit 10, the viewing or operation of the display 20.3 is furthermore possible. However, such provisions for operating the communication device 20 are not necessarily necessary. Since no active operation of the ID transmitter has to be carried out by the user in the case of a passive keyless entry system, the authentication process on receipt of the wake-up signal 32 is automatically initiated by the module unit 10 or by the communication device 20. The user can thus leave the communication device 20 within the module unit 10, and still z. B. cause an opening of the doors of the vehicle 2 when approaching the security system 1. The module unit 10 may, for. B. be connected via a radio link such as Bluetooth or NFC with the communication device 20 for data exchange 30 to ensure easy handling.

A third embodiment of the modular unit 10 according to the invention is shown in FIG. It schematically shows a rear view of the module system 3 and the communication device 20 according to the invention. In this case, the module unit 10, for example, designed as a battery or energy storage for the communication device 20. It can therefore be provided that the energy store 10.9 of the module unit 10 accordingly a power supply of the communication device 20 causes. The design of the module unit 10 as an energy store for the communication device 20 has the advantage that an arrangement of the module unit 10 can be very space-saving, without affecting the appearance of the communication device 20. It is also conceivable that the module unit 10 is designed as a battery cover, SD card or the like for the communication device 20. In the embodiment variant of the modular unit 10 according to the invention in FIG. 7, this is designed as a backpack for the communication device 20. Thus, the module unit 10 is integrated in or on the communication device 20. In this case, in particular, the already mentioned coupling means can serve for the mechanical fastening of the modular unit to the communication device.

FIG. 8 schematically shows a motor vehicle 2 which has at least two communication modules 1 .1. A first communication module 1.1 a is in the vehicle interior and a second communication module 1 .1 b is arranged on the vehicle outside. As a result, a first communication module 1.1a can radiate radio signals to the outside of the vehicle 2 and an at least second communication module 1.1b into the interior of the vehicle 2. Since the radio signals are greatly attenuated in the interior of the vehicle 2 by the vehicle body, this z. B. a location of the ID transmitter or the module unit 10 and the communication device 20 possible. This function is of particular interest when the module system 3 according to the invention also serves as quasi "ignition key" and / or key for the immobilizer for the vehicle 2. Both the first communication module 1 .1 a and the second communication module 1 .1 b can thereby preferably support UWB communication technology.

FIG. 9 shows a communication device 10.13 of a module unit 10 according to the invention, wherein two different communication units 10.2 are shown. A first communication unit 10.2a has an UWB interface for ultra-wideband communication, wherein a second communication unit 10.2b comprises an RF or LF interface for RF or LF communication. Furthermore, a first (UWB) antenna 10.3a of the first communication unit 10.2a and a second (HF or LF) antenna 10.3b of the second communication unit 10.2b are provided, which are at least partially inside the module unit 10 are arranged. Furthermore, further communication units (not shown) 10.2 can be provided. All communication units 10.2 can be electrically connected to an electronic unit 10.4 for evaluating the signals received by the communication.

FIG. 10 schematically shows the method steps of a method according to the invention. In a first method step 101, the wake-up signal 32 is emitted by the security system 1. This is followed by a second method step 102, wherein the wake-up signal 32 is received by the communication unit 10.2. In the third method step 103, an authentication process and / or a determination of the distance is then triggered upon receipt of the wake-up signal 32.

The above explanation of the embodiments describes the present invention solely by way of example. Of course, individual features of the embodiments, if technically feasible, can be combined freely with one another, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

S e c tio n s ia s

1 security system

communication module

First communication module

Second communication module

2 vehicle

3 module system

10 module unit

10.1 interface

10.2 Communication unit

10.2a first communication unit, UWB communication unit

10.2b second communication unit, LF communication unit

10.3 Antenna

10.3a first antenna

10.3b second antenna

10.4 Electronic unit

10.5 housing

10.6 plug connection

10.7 cables

10.8 First transmitting and receiving unit

10.9 Energy storage

10.10 Data memory

10.11 Monitoring unit

10.12 Exchange unit

10.13 Communication device 20 communication device

20.1 Second transmitting and receiving unit

20.2 Third transmitting and receiving unit

20.3 Display

20.4 plug connection

20.5 Keyboard

20.6 Evaluation unit

30 data exchange

31 radio connection

32 alarm signal

33 communication connection

101 Method step: transmission of the wake-up signal by the security system 102 Method step: receiving the wake-up signal from the communication unit

103 Process step: Triggering an authentication process

I state of the module unit

la idle state of the module unit

Ib wake state of the module unit

Claims

P a n t a n s p r e c h e

1 . Module unit (10) for adapting a mobile, portable communication device (20) to a security system (1) of a vehicle (2), in particular for keyless activation of an access system of the vehicle (2)

an interface (10.1) for data exchange (30) with the communication device (20), and at least one communication unit (10.2) for communication with the security system (1), wherein

the module unit (10) is designed such that the communication can be carried out by a broadband communication method.

2. modular unit (10) according to claim 1,

characterized,

in that the communication unit (10.2) is designed as an ultra-wideband communication unit (10.2) for communication by the broadband communication method, wherein the ultra-wideband communication unit (10.2) is preferably designed as a first communication unit (10.2a), and at least one second communication unit (10.2 b) is provided, which is particularly preferably designed as an LF and / or RF communication unit (10.2b).

3. modular unit (10) according to claim 1 or 2,

characterized,

a wake-up signal (32) of the vehicle (2), preferably an ultra-wideband and / or LF and / or HF wake-up signal (32), from the module unit (10), preferably from the first and / or second communication unit (10.2a , 10.2b), by an antenna (10.3), preferably an ultra-wideband and / or LF and / or RF antenna, is receivable.

Module unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that the module unit (10) has an electronic unit (10.4) for evaluating received radio signals, in particular the wake-up signal (32), which is connected to an exchange unit (10.12) and / or the interface (10.1) and / or the communication unit (10.2) is that by the exchange unit (10.12), in particular upon receipt of the wake-up signal (32), a transition from a rest state (la) in a wake state (Ib) is feasible.

Module unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

the module unit (10) is designed in such a way that, during or after a transition of the module unit (10) from a rest state (la) to a wake state (1b), the communication unit (10.2), preferably the first communication unit (10.2a) for ultra-wideband Communication, can be activated, wherein preferably a second communication unit (10.2b) for LF and / or RF communication in both the idle state (la) and in the awake state (Ib) can be activated.

Module unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that the module unit (10) is designed in such a way that, upon receipt of a signal by a first or second communication unit (10.2a, 10.2b), preferably by a wake-up signal (32), a data exchange (30) of the interface (10.1) with the Communication device (20) can be initiated and / or a first communication unit (10.2a) is activated, wherein particularly preferably an electronic unit (10.4) of the module unit (10) is provided to the data exchange (30) and / or the activation of the first communication unit ( 10.2a).

- 2 - Module unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

the interface (10.1) has a first transmitting and receiving unit (10.8), wherein the first transmitting and receiving unit (10.8) preferably has a Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, GSM, LTE, UMTS, mobile, HF, UHF, LF, WLAN and / or USB interface, so that in particular a data exchange (30) with the communication device (20) can be realized.

Module unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that the modular unit (10) is designed as a backpack for the communication device (20), preferably as a battery compartment cover and / or memory card and / or SD card and / or mobile phone case and / or mobile phone shell and / or attachment part and / or plug and / or battery is, and in particular a plug connection (10.6) and / or a radio link for the data exchange (30) with the communication device (20).

Modular system (3) with a mobile, portable communication device (20) and

a module unit (10) for adapting the communication device (20) to a security system (1) of a vehicle (2), in particular for keyless activation of an access system of the vehicle (2)

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10. module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that an evaluation unit (20.6) of the communication device (20) is provided so that a signal received via a radio link (31) and / or through the communication by the broadband communication method, preferably wake-up signal (32), particularly preferably contains information about the wake-up signal (32 ), by the evaluation unit (20.6) is evaluable.

1 1. Module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

an exchange unit (10.12) is provided, wherein an authentication process of the mobile, portable communication device (20) with the security system (1) can be triggered by a transition from a rest state (la) to a awake state (1b) by the exchange unit (10.12), wherein the authentication process preferably takes place at least partially via the broadband communication method, preferably via an ultra-wideband communication.

12. module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

that the communication (33) of the communication device (20) with the security system (1), in particular for carrying out the authentication process, with ultra-wideband, GSM, LTE, UMTS, mobile, NFC-HF, UHF, LF , WLAN and / or Bluetooth signals, and in particular for communication (33) a third transmitting and receiving unit (20.2) of the communication device (20) is provided, wherein the third transmitting and receiving unit (20.2) in particular an ultra-wideband , GSM, LTE, UMTS, mobile, NFC, HF, UHF, LF, WLAN, and / or Bluetooth antenna.

13. Module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

the communication device (20) is a smartphone, a laptop and / or a mobile telephone, in particular with at least one display.

14. Module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

a communication between the security system (1) of the vehicle (2) and the communication device (20) can be carried out by the modular unit (10) via the broadband communication method.

15. Module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that the modular unit (10) is designed according to one of the preceding claims.

16. A method for adapting a mobile, portable communication device to a security system of a vehicle, in particular for keyless activation of an access system of the vehicle, with a module unit having an interface. for data exchange (30) with the communication device (20),

and at least one communication unit (10.2) for communication with the security system (1), wherein

the communication of the communication unit (10.2) with the security system (1) is performed by a broadband communication method.

17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that the broadband communication method is an ultra-wideband communication method for short-range radio communication, wherein the bandwidth of the frequency ranges used for the communication is preferably at least 500 MHz and / or at least 1000 MHz.

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18. The method according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that a wake-up signal (32) is received by a first or second communication unit (10.2a, 10.2b) and, upon receipt of the wake-up signal (32), the communication device (20) and / or the module unit (10)

Authentication process triggers.

19. The method according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

that the communication is carried out at least partially encrypted, wherein in particular an authentication information in an authentication process and / or a distance information to the vehicle (2) is transmitted in encrypted form.

20. The method according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that a distance determination is initiated upon reception of an ultra-wideband and / or RF and / or LF signal, in particular a wake-up signal (32), whereby preferably distance information about a distance between the module unit (10) and the vehicle (2) is determined, wherein preferably the distance determination is performed at least partially by an electronic unit (10.4) of the module unit (10) and / or by an evaluation unit (20.6) of the communication device (20).

21. Method according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

an authentication process is initiated as a function of a determined distance between the module unit (10) and the vehicle (2), in particular only if the determined distance is less than a maximum distance between the module unit (10) and the vehicle (2), wherein preferably the authentication process comprises a data exchange via an LF and / or HF and / or UWB communication.

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22. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

in that for determining the distance and / or for determining a distance information, a runtime analysis by the module unit (10), in particular at least partially by the communication unit (10.2), preferably by a first communication unit

(10.2a), in particular an ultra-wideband signal.

23. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims,

characterized,

that a distance information from the communication unit (10.2) of the module unit (10) to a communication module (1 .1) of the security system (1) is encrypted and / or transmitted tap-proof and / or tamper-proof.

24. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a module unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims and / or with a module system (3) according to one of the preceding claims.

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