GB2496847A - Vehicle access system using a wired data connection between the key and vehicle - Google Patents

Vehicle access system using a wired data connection between the key and vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2496847A
GB2496847A GB1119791.0A GB201119791A GB2496847A GB 2496847 A GB2496847 A GB 2496847A GB 201119791 A GB201119791 A GB 201119791A GB 2496847 A GB2496847 A GB 2496847A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
vehicle
text
electronic key
access system
key
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB1119791.0A
Other versions
GB201119791D0 (en
Inventor
Mohammed Khan
Howard Siswick
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Jaguar Land Rover Ltd
Original Assignee
Jaguar Cars Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jaguar Cars Ltd filed Critical Jaguar Cars Ltd
Priority to GB1119791.0A priority Critical patent/GB2496847A/en
Publication of GB201119791D0 publication Critical patent/GB201119791D0/en
Priority to GB1220631.4A priority patent/GB2496754A/en
Publication of GB2496847A publication Critical patent/GB2496847A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/01—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/20—Means to switch the anti-theft system on or off
    • B60R25/24—Means to switch the anti-theft system on or off using electronic identifiers containing a code not memorised by the user
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/01—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens
    • B60R25/04—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens operating on the propulsion system, e.g. engine or drive motor
    • B60R25/045—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens operating on the propulsion system, e.g. engine or drive motor by limiting or cutting the electrical supply to the propulsion unit
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00309—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00896—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys specially adapted for particular uses
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00944—Details of construction or manufacture
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00309—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
    • G07C2009/00388—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks code verification carried out according to the challenge/response method
    • G07C2009/00396—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks code verification carried out according to the challenge/response method starting with prompting the keyless data carrier
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00309—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
    • G07C2009/00507—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks keyless data carrier having more than one function
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C9/00309—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks
    • G07C2009/00507—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks keyless data carrier having more than one function
    • G07C2009/00547—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated with bidirectional data transmission between data carrier and locks keyless data carrier having more than one function starting ignition
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C2009/00579—Power supply for the keyless data carrier
    • G07C2009/00587—Power supply for the keyless data carrier by battery
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C2009/00579—Power supply for the keyless data carrier
    • G07C2009/00603—Power supply for the keyless data carrier by power transmission from lock
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C2009/00634—Power supply for the lock
    • G07C2009/00642—Power supply for the lock by battery
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C2009/00753—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys
    • G07C2009/00761—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys operated by active electrical keys with data transmission performed by connected means, e.g. mechanical contacts, plugs, connectors
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
    • G07C9/00—Individual registration on entry or exit
    • G07C9/00174—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys
    • G07C2009/00968—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys shape of the data carrier
    • G07C2009/00984—Electronically operated locks; Circuits therefor; Nonmechanical keys therefor, e.g. passive or active electrical keys or other data carriers without mechanical keys shape of the data carrier fob

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
  • Selective Calling Equipment (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electronic key (23) for controlling a remote access system, (5) in a vehicle (3), such as a PEPS, PASE or RKE system. The electronic key has an electronic controller (29), a first receiver (25) for receiving an authentication signal, and a first transmitter (25) for transmitting a signal. The electronic key further comprises a data connector (31) for establishing a wired connection with a data port (33, 43) on the vehicle. Power may also be transferred between the electronic key and the remote access system when the key is docked in the data port. A challenge-response authentication procedure may be conducted when the electronic key is inserted into the data port. Data ports may be provided on the exterior of the vehicle, for granting entry to the vehicle, and interior of the vehicle, for controlling engine start after an authentication process. The vehicle has a controller, transmitter and receiver, for exchanging authentication signals with the electronic key and controlling access to the vehicle, in addition to the data ports. The direct wired connection between the key and the vehicle remote access system provides a back-up when wireless communication is not possible.

Description

ELECTRONIC ACCESS SYSTEM AND KEY
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to an electronic key for controlling a remote access system in a vehicle. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to an electronic key which provides a back-up means for controlling the remote access system. Aspects of the invention related to a key, to a system, to a method and to a vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION :i0
It is well known to utilise a portable electronic key to control access to a vehicle. The electronic key typically comprises a transceiver for wireless communication with a base station in the vehicle. Once activated, the base station transmits a challenge signal to the electronic key. A response signal is transmitted by the electronic key and this is validated by the base unit. Only when the key has been authenticated is the vehicle unlocked. The electronic key can also be used to control operation of the vehicle.
A problem with electronic keys is that the internal battery may become depleted over time. If there is insufficient charge in the battery, the electronic key will become inoperable. To provide a back-up means to access the vehicle, the electronic key is typically provided with a mechanical key-blade for operating a door lock mechanism. The key-blade is typically accommodated inside the electronic key requiring a separate compartment. Also, appropriate lock barrels and the related operating links must be provided in the vehicle's door. It will be appreciated that providing a mechanical key-blade increases the complexity and cost of both the electronic key and the vehicle door.
It is an aim of the present invention to address or ameliorate some of the shortcomings associated with known electronic keys.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an electronic key for controlling a remote access system in a vehicle, the electronic key comprising an electronic controller, a first receiver for receiving an authentication signal from the vehicle and a first transmitter for transmitting a signal, wherein the electronic key further comprises a data connector for establishing a wired connection with a data port on the vehicle.
The data connector allows a hardware connection to be established between the electronic key and the vehicle. The data connector can thereby provide a back-up means for accessing the vehicle, for example in the event that a battery in the electronic key becomes depleted.
The electronic key can be provided without a mechanical key key-blade. In other words, the electronic key can be key-bladeless.
The electronic controller can be configured to output an authentication signal via the data connector when a wired connection is established. The electronic controller can output a signal via the data connector, for example a response to an authentication signal transmitted by the vehicle. In use, a challenge/response sequence can be performed via the wired connection. The electronic controller could output an activation signal when the electronic key is initially connected to the data port on the vehicle.
The electronic controller can be configured to communicate via the wired connection when it detects that the data connecter is connected to the data port. The first transmitter and/or receiver could be disabled when the data connecter is connected to the data port.
The data connector can comprise a power connector for powering the electronic key. The data connector can, for example, comprise at least one pin for providing power. The power connector can supply power to the remote access system, for example if the battery on the vehicle is depleted.
The electronic key can comprise a replaceable battery or a rechargeable battery. The electronic controller can generate a low power signal when the battery power falls below a threshold level. The low power signal could be transmitted by the first transmitter, for example to prompt a notification on the vehicle instrument cluster. The electronic key can comprise a coil to enable inductive charging of the rechargeable battery.
According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a remote access system for installation in a vehicle to control access to the vehicle, the remote access system comprising an electronic control unit for controlling the locking and/or unlocking of at least one vehicle door, at least a second transmitter for transmitting an authentication signal and at least a second receiver for receiving a signal from an electronic key, wherein the remote access system further comprises at least a first data port for establishing a wired connection with the electronic key.
At least the first data port enables a wired connection to be established to authenticate the electronic key. At least the first data port thereby provides a back-up means for operating the remote access system.
The electronic control unit can be configured to communicate via the wired connection when it detects that the data connecter is connected to at least the first data port. The electronic control unit can be configured to output an authentication signal to the electronic key via at least the first data port when a wired connection is established.
The electronic control unit can be configured to output an authentication signal to the electronic key via at least the first data port. The electronic control unit can be configured to receive a signal from the electronic key via at least the first data port. The signal received from the electronic key can be a response to a challenge signal transmitted by the remote access system. The electronic control unit can validate the response received via at least the first data port to authenticate the electronic key. The electronic control unit can be configured to generate a door unlock signal upon authentication of the electronic key.
The remote access system can have a dedicated battery. At least the first data port can provide a power connection for an electronic key.
According to a still further aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle having a remote access system of the type described herein installed, wherein the data port is accessible from an exterior of the vehicle. An electronic key can thereby be connected to at least the first data port when the vehicle is locked. The vehicle does not require a lock barrel operable by a mechanical key-blade to open a door.
A cover can provided over at least the first data port to provide protection. The cover can be waterproof.
At least a second data port can be provided in an interior of the vehicle for establishing a wired connection with the electronic key. The vehicle can further comprise a dock on an interior of the vehicle for connecting the electronic key. The second data port can be provided in the dock.
A challenge/response sequence can be performed via the second data port. The electronic control unit can output an engine start request upon authentication of the electronic key.
According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle access system comprising an electronic key as described herein in combination with a remote access system as described herein and/or a vehicle as described herein.
According to yet another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of operating a remote access system for a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: establishing a wired connection between the remote access system and an electronic key; transmitting a challenge sgnaI to the electronic key via the wired connection; transmitting a response signal to the remote access system via the wired connection; and validating the response signal to authenticate the electronic key.
The method can comprise the additional step of generating a door unlock signal if the electronic key is authenticated.
The first transmitter and the first receiver can be combined as a first transceiver. The first transceiver can have a first antenna. Likewise, at least the second transmitter and at least the second receiver can be combined as at least a second transceiver. Each second transceiver can each have a second antenna.
The transmitters/receivers described herein can operate over a suitable radio frequency to establish wireless communication between the electronic key and the vehicle access system.
In a particular embodiment, the transmitters/receivers can provide ultra-wideband (UWB) communication.
The method described herein can be implemented on a computational device comprising one or more processors, such as an electronic microprocessor. The processor(s) can be configured to perform computational instructions stored in memory or in a storage device.
The electronic control unit and the electronic controller described herein can each comprise one or more processors configured to perform computational instructions.
Within the scope of this application it is envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
An embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle access system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows the installation of the base station and transceivers of the vehicle access system in a motor vehicle; Figures 3A, 3B and 30 illustrate the procedure for connecting the key fob to a first data port provided on the vehicle; and Figures 4A and 4B illustrate the docking of the key fob inside the vehicle.
is DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT
An access system 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 1. The vehicle access system 1 is configured to provide enhanced Passive Entry and Passive Start (ePEPS) of a vehicle 3. In particular, the vehicle access system 1 supports keyless access and, optionally, remote engine start.
The vehicle access system 1 will be described with reference to the vehicle 3 which has a front right door Dl, a rear right door D2, a front left door D3 and a rear left door D4. The vehicle 3 also has a boot lid D5 (also known as a deck lid) which can be locked/unlocked by the vehicle access system 1 but this is not described herein for the sake of brevity. The doors D1-D4 each have a lock mechanism L and an external handle H1-H4; and the front doors Dl, D3 each have a folding door mirror. The lock mechanisms L each comprise a central lock motor, a double lock motor and a door lock switch to provide a locking signal to indicate the status of the respective lock mechanism.
The vehicle access system 1 comprises a base station 5 to be installed in the vehicle 3 to provide a Remote Function Actuator (RFA) for the vehicle 3. The base station 5 comprises an electronic control unit 7 and a first rechargeable battery 9. The first rechargeable battery 9 provides a dedicated power supply for the base station 5 to enable independent operation.
A main vehicle battery (not shown) typically provides power to actuate the door lock mechanisms. In the event that the main vehicle battery is depleted, the first rechargeable battery 9 can provide power to operate at least one of the door lock mechanisms.
The main vehicle battery and the first rechargeable battery 9 are charged during normal vehicle operation. An external charge port 10 is provided for charging the first battery 9 if it is depleted. In the exceptional circumstance that both the main vehicle battery and the first rechargeable battery 9 are depleted, the first rechargeable battery 9 can be re-charged via the external charge port 10 to enable at least one door lock mechanism to be operated.
The base station 5 further comprises first, second and third ultra-wideband transceivers 11, 13, 15. The first transceiver 11 is provided proximal the electronic control unit 7. The second and third transceivers 13, 15 are positioned in the vehicle 3 remote from the electronic control unit 7 and connected via a dedicated local interconnect network ([IN) 17.
Other types of private serial communication bus can be employed in place of the [IN 17.
The transceivers 11, 13, 15 each have an integrated antenna.
The base station 5 is connected to the vehicle systems (denoted generally by the reference numeral 19) via a CAN bus 21. The base station Scan thereby receive the locking signals from the door lock switches; and control operation of the door lock mechanisms. The CAN bus 21 can also be employed to convey instructions from the electronic control unit 7 to the engine control unit to enable/disable passive engine starts.
The vehicle access system 1 further comprises a key fob 23 having a remote ultra-wideband transceiver 25 and a second rechargeable battery 27. The key fob 23 is portable and is typically carried by the user. As described herein, in normal use, the key fob 23 communicates with the base station 5 to enable passive entry to the vehicle. The key fob 23 does not have a mechanical key-blade to mechanically operate a door look mechanism.
The installation of the vehicle access system 1 is illustrated in Figure 2. The base station 5 and the first transceiver 11 are located at the rear of the vehicle 3 and the second and third transceivers 13, 15 are located in the upper part of the vehicle (typically in the roof) on the right and left sides respectively of the vehicle 3.
The key fob 23 further comprises an electronic controller 29 for controlling the remote transceiver 25 and a hardware data connector 31 for connecting the key fob 23 to a first data port 33 on the vehicle 3. A first data line 34 provides a wired connection between the first data port 33 and the electronic control unit 7. A wired data connection is established between the controller 29 and the electronic control unit 7 when the data connector 31 is connected to the first data port 33. The first data port 33 also has a power connector 36 for supplying power to the controller 29 via the data connector 31. The wired connection allows the key fob 23 to be used to access the vehicle 3 when wireless communication is not available, for example when the second battery 27 is depleted. The data connector 31 thereby serves as a replacement to a mechanical key-blade typically provided as back-up for an electronic key.
As shown in Figures 3A-30, the first data port 33 is positioned adjacent to a first door handle Hi on the front right door Dl. The first data port 33 has a protective cover 35 profiled to match the first door handle Hi. The cover 35 is slidably mounted and can be displaced along a longitudinal axis to expose the first data port 33, as shown in Figure 3B. The key fob 23 can then be physically connected to the data port 33 via the data connector 31, as shown in Figure 3C. One or more additional data ports can be provided on the vehicle 3. For example, a second data port (not shown) can be provided adjacent a third door handle H3 on the front left door 03.
As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the base station 5 further comprises an internal connector dock 37 for receiving the key fob 23. The connector dock 37 is mounted on the interior of a compartment 39 provided in a central console 41 of the vehicle 3. The connector dock 37 has a second data port 43 to enable wired communication between the base station 5 and the key fob 23. A second data line 44 provides a wired connection between the second data port 43 and the electronic control unit 7.
A charging connection 45 is also provided in the connector dock 37 to charge the second rechargeable battery 27 when the key fob 23 is docked. A bi-colour light emitting diode 47 is provided in the connector dock 37 to indicate the status of the key fob 23 (for example to indicate that the second rechargeable battery 27 is charging or is fully charged). When the key fob 23 is not docked, the light emitting diode 47 may flash periodically to indicate the position of the connector dock 37. The charging connection 45 is connected to a power supply unit (PSU) provided in the base station 5.
As illustrated by dashed lines in Figure 2, in use, the transceivers 11, 13, 15 communicate with the key fob 23. The remote transceiver 25 transmits a polling signal which, when received by the first transceiver ii, initiates communication between the base station 5 and the key fob 23. Upon receipt of the polling signal, the first transceiver 11 responds by transmitting a challenge signal. The challenge signal is received by the key fob 23 and prompts the transmission of a response signal. The electronic control unit 7 validates the response signal.
lithe response signal is authenticated, the electronic control unit 7 continues to communicate with the key fob 23 and tracks its position in relation to the vehicle 3. Moreover, provided the challenge/response sequence is completed successfully, the electronic control unit 7 will provide access to the vehicle 3 subject to operating criteria being satisfied. If the response signal is not authenticated, the electronic control unit 7 will not unlock the vehicle 3.
The base station 5 and the key fob 23 can communicate with each other over a range of at least 20 metres and an authorization zone having a radius of 2 metres is defined around the vehicle 3. When the electronic control unit 7 determines that the key fob 23 is inside the authorization zone it automatically unlocks one or more of the vehicle's doors 01-04.
Conversely, when the electronic control unit 7 determines that the key fob 23 is outside the authorization zone, it automatically locks the vehicle's doors Dl -04.
When the second battery 27 is discharged, it is not be possible to establish wireless communication between the base station 5 and the key fob 23. Rather, a wired connection must be established and this will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures.
The user slides the cover 35 forward to expose the first data port 33, as illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B. The data connector 31 is then connected to the first data port 33, as shown in Figure 3C, to establish a wired connection between the controller 29 and the electronic control unit 7. The first data port 33 also provides power to the key fob 23 to enable the controller 29 to operate.
Once the wired connection has been established, a challenge/response sequence is initiated via the wired connection. The electronic control unit 7 transmits a challenge signal which prompts the controller 29 to issue a response signal. The electronic control unit 7 validates the response signal and, if authenticated, outputs a door unlock signal to initiate unlocking the front right door Di. The user may then operate the first door handle Hi to open the door Dl. If the response signal is not authenticated, the electronic control unit 7 does not output a door unlock signal and the door Dl remains locked.
In the event that the main vehicle battery is depleted, the base station 5 and the first rechargeable battery 9 can operate at least one of the door lock mechanisms substantially independently of the vehicle's conventional locking system. The first rechargeable battery 9 providing sufficient power to operate at least one door lock L. In order to start the vehicle 3, the key fob 23 is inserted into the connector dock 37 to re-establish the wired connection between the electronic control unit 7 and the controller 29.
The challenge/response sequence is repeated via the wired connection to validate the key fob 23. Once the key fob 23 has been authenticated, the electronic control unit 7 will output an engine start authorisation signal to allow the engine to be started when a starter button is pressed. If the key fob 23 is not authenticated, the electronic control unit 7 will not output the required authorisation signal.
The user can leave the key fob 23 in the connector dock 37 to be recharged automatically.
The second battery 27 will be fully recharged in approximately 30 minutes.
It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the device described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the external charge port 10 could be integrated with the first data port 31 to enable charging of the first battery 9.
In place of, or in addition to, the charging connection 45, inductive charging coils can be provided inside the vehicle and the key fob 23 respectively to enable inductive charging of the second rechargeable battery 27. An inductive coil can be positioned in the vehicle for powering the key fob 23 when it is outside the vehicle. By positioning the key fob 23 in proximity to the energised coil on the vehicle, a contact-less dialogue could be performed between the discharged key fob 23 and the base station 5. Thus, the key fob 23 could be operated when the second rechargeable battery 27 is depleted to communicate with the base station 5 to unlock the vehicle.

Claims (1)

  1. <claim-text>CLAIMS: 1. An electronic key for controlling a remote access system in a vehicle, the electronic key comprising: an electronic controller; a first receiver for receiving an authentication signal from the vehicle; and a first transmitter for transmitting a signal; wherein the electronic key further comprises a data connector for establishing a wired connection with a data port on the vehicle.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. An electronic key as claimed in claim 1, wherein the electronic key does not have a mechanical key key-blade.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. An electronic key as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, when a wired connection is established between the data connector and the data port, the electronic controller is configured to communicate with the remote access system via the data connector.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. An electronic key as claimed in any one of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the electronic controller is configured to receive an authentication signal via the data connector; and/or to output a signal via the data connector.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. An electronic key as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data connector comprises a power connector for powering the electronic key.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. An electronic key as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic key comprises a rechargeable battery.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. A remote access system for installation in a vehicle to control access to the vehicle, the remote access system comprising: an electronic control unit for controlling the locking and/or unlocking of at least one vehicle door; at least a second transmitter for transmitting an authentication signal; and at least a second receiver for receiving a signal from an electronic key; wherein the remote access system further comprises at least a first data port for establishing a wired connection with the electronic key.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. A remote access system as claimed in claim 7, wherein, when an electronic key is connected to at least the first data port, the electronic control unit is configured: to output an authentication signal to the electronic key via the data port; and/or to receive a signal from the electronic key via the data port; and/or to generate a door unlock signal upon authentication of the electronic key.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. A vehicle having a remote access system as claimed in claim 7 or claim 8 installed therein, wherein at least the first data port is accessible from an exterior of the vehicle and, optionally, a cover is provided over each first data port.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. A vehicle as claimed in claim 9, wherein the vehicle does not have a lock barrel for receiving a mechanical key-blade to open a door.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. A vehicle as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, wherein at least a second data port is provided in an interior of the vehicle for establishing a wired connection with an electronic key.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. A vehicle as claimed in claim 11, wherein the electronic control unit is configured to output an engine start authorisation signal when an electronic key connected to at least the second data port is authenticated.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. A vehicle access system comprising an electronic key as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 in combination with a remote access system as claimed in any one of claims 7, 8 or 9 and/or a vehicle as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 12.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. A method of operating a remote access system for a vehicle, the method comprising: establishing a wired connection between the remote access system and an electronic key; transmitting a challenge signal to the electronic key via the wired connection; transmitting a response signal to the remote access system via the wired connection; and validating the response signal to authenticate the electronic key.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. A method as claimed in claim 14 further comprising the step of generating a door unlock signal if the electronic key is authenticated.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. An electronic key, a vehicle access system, and/or a vehicle substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying figures.</claim-text>
GB1119791.0A 2011-11-16 2011-11-16 Vehicle access system using a wired data connection between the key and vehicle Withdrawn GB2496847A (en)

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GB201220631D0 (en) 2013-01-02
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