JP2006266097A - Engine controller - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To suppress that a traveling device is stolen in an idling state without requiring a troublesome setting operation by enabling the setting of a theft prevention mode in the idling state even after an engine is started. <P>SOLUTION: When the engine 2 is started in a normal mode and the requirements for setting the theft prevention mode (during idling and at neutral) after the starting are established, an operation mode can be shifted to the theft prevention mode in the idling state by inputting a proper authentication code. When theft prevention mode is set and the idling state is continued, unless the theft prevention mode is released, alarm sound is emitted when engine operations such as shift operation and throttle operation are detected and the engine 2 is stopped. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an engine control device that controls an engine mounted on a traveling device such as an outboard motor, water bike, snow vehicle, two-wheel, four-wheel or the like.

  Conventionally, warm-up operations are generally performed in various traveling apparatuses equipped with engines such as outboard motors, water bikes, snow vehicles, two wheels, four wheels, and the like. On the other hand, the traveling device may be stolen and may be stolen in a warm-up state. In particular, in a traveling device such as a small boat with the driver's seat open, if the traveling device is left in a warm-up state, there is a high risk of theft. It is difficult for a person to stay resident on a ship for monitoring. In addition, it is troublesome at the time of a busy departure to prevent the traveling device from being stolen by a mechanical mechanism such as locking a handle.

By the way, in the control device of Patent Document 1 below, when the engine is started in the anti-theft mode, the engine speed is controlled to be lower than the minimum speed that can be traveled. In this state, the anti-theft mode is set while driving at a low rotational speed. Further, in this control device, when the first switch is turned on in the normal mode and the engine is stopped, the control mode at the next start becomes the anti-theft mode.
Japanese Patent No. 3536906

  However, in the control device of Patent Document 1, in order to set the anti-theft mode, it is necessary to take a procedure of stopping and restarting the engine after turning on the first switch in the normal mode. . Therefore, in order to shift to a state where the engine is warmed up in the anti-theft mode after the engine is started in the normal mode, a predetermined operation (the first switch is turned on) for setting the anti-theft mode is performed once. There was a problem that it was troublesome to stop and restart.

  In addition, the minimum travelable rotational speed means a connection rotational speed of an automatic centrifugal clutch or the like, and in a traveling device that can travel by shifting in even at an idling rotational speed, such as an outboard motor. When warmed up in the anti-theft mode, there was a problem that a sufficient anti-theft effect could not be expected.

  Incidentally, in the control device disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example, a traveling device in which the engine is stopped in the normal mode is set to be in the anti-theft mode at the next start and stored in the engine stopped state. If this is desired, it is necessary to start the engine once and stop the engine after performing the predetermined operation for setting the anti-theft mode.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and its purpose is to enable setting of the anti-theft mode while the engine is idling even after the engine is started, and requires troublesome setting operations. It is another object of the present invention to provide an engine control device that can prevent a traveling device from being stolen in an idling state.

  In order to achieve the above object, an engine control device according to claim 1 of the present invention is an engine control device that controls an engine (2) mounted on a traveling device (10), and sets and releases an anti-theft mode. Mode setting canceling means (11) for performing, and prohibiting start of the engine when the anti-theft mode is set and the engine is stopped, and when the engine is stopped when the anti-theft mode is cancelled and the engine is stopped Control means (11) for permitting start, and operation detection means (32, 33) for detecting a predetermined engine operation when the engine is in an idling state, wherein the control means includes: After being started in the anti-theft mode release state, the idling state is maintained on condition that the idling state is maintained. The anti-theft mode can be set by the mode setting canceling means, and the anti-theft mode setting state and the engine idling state continue after the anti-theft mode is set in the engine idling state. When the predetermined engine operation is detected by the operation detection means when the operation is being performed, the engine is stopped.

  In addition, the code | symbol in the said parenthesis is an illustration.

  According to the present invention, the anti-theft mode can be set in the idling state even after the engine is started, and the traveling device is prevented from being stolen in the idling state without requiring a troublesome setting operation. Can do.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of a traveling device to which an engine control device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. In the present embodiment, the outboard motor 10 is illustrated as an example of the traveling device.

  The outboard motor 10 is mounted on the stern of the hull 1. The outboard motor 10 includes an engine 2, an ECU (engine control unit) 11, a starter motor 15, and the like. In the engine 2, an injector 13 and a spark plug 14 corresponding to each cylinder (for example, four cylinders) are provided. The starter motor 15 starts the engine 2. The ECU 11 controls the outboard motor 10 as a whole, and controls, for example, fuel injection by the injector 13 and ignition of the spark plug 14. In the ECU 11, a storage unit 12 is provided in addition to a CPU (not shown). The storage unit 12 includes a nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory. In addition to the control program executed by the CPU, the storage unit 12 stores various data such as an “authentication code” described later, flags, various variables, and the like.

  A battery 16 is connected to the outboard motor 10 via a battery switch 41 via a battery cable 17, and electric power is supplied from the battery 16 to electrical components of the outboard motor 10. The remote control box 20 is connected to the outboard motor 10 by a remote control cable 18 and a throttle / shift cable 27. The remote control box 20 is provided with a throttle / shift lever 21, and the throttle / shift lever 21 is provided with a PTT switch 22. By operating the throttle / shift lever 21, throttle control and shift control of the outboard motor 10 can be performed, and by operating the PTT switch 22, tilt / trim operation of the outboard motor 10 can be performed.

  The outboard motor 10 is also provided with a rotation speed sensor 32 such as a crank angle signal detector for detecting the rotation speed of the engine 2, and a detection signal indicating the engine rotation speed is supplied to the ECU 11. Further, the remote control box 20 is provided with a neutral switch 33, and an on / off signal indicating that the neutral is on is supplied to the ECU 11. A separate personal computer 40 can be connected to the outboard motor 10.

  The remote control box 20 is also provided with a key SW (switch) 23 that is an engine start switch and an emergency SW (switch) 24 that is an emergency engine stop switch. An insertable / removable engine key 23a is inserted into the key SW23. A meter panel 19 is connected to the ECU 11 by a remote control cable 18, and various information regarding the outboard motor 10 is displayed on the meter panel 19 under the control of the ECU 11.

  The emergency switch 24 is turned off (OFF) when the lock plate 26 (or the spare lock plate 26a) is interposed in the lock plate mounting portion 25, while it is turned on (ON) when the lock plate 26 is removed from the lock plate mounting portion 25. ) And the engine 2 is stopped. When the driver connects the lock plate 26 to his / her body (for example, wrist) via the connecting string 31 and operates the outboard motor 10, the driver attaches the lock plate 26 to the lock plate mounting portion 25. The emergency SW 24 is turned off. If the driver drops water, the lock plate 26 is removed from the lock plate mounting portion 25 together with the driver, the emergency switch 24 is turned on, and the engine 2 is automatically stopped urgently.

  FIG. 2A is a front view of a tachometer 28 that forms a part of the meter panel 19. FIG. 4B is a front view of the key SW23.

  As shown in FIG. 2 (a), the tachometer 28 includes a rotary needle 29, and a numerical value indicating the engine speed is written on the dial as 0 to 7 (corresponding to 0 to 7000 rpm), for example. Yes. In the tachometer 28, four LEDs 30 (30 (1) to 30 (4)) are provided. LEDs 30 (1), 30 (2), 30 (3), and 30 (4) are respectively an engine check (check engine), an engine temperature (temp), an engine oil (oil), and an upper limit (rev limit) of the engine speed. ).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, the key SW23 is turned on when the inserted engine key 23a is rotated clockwise by one step from the OFF position, and is turned on when rotated two steps. In a normal engine start procedure, power is supplied from the battery 16 to the ECU 11 when the key is turned on, and the starter motor 15 is driven when the cranking is turned on to start the engine 2. Further, the key SW 23 is configured such that the engine key 23a can be pressed at the key ON position, and the diagnosis buzzer stops when the engine key 23a is pressed under normal conditions (when the emergency switch 24 is off). It is supposed to be.

  By the way, the outboard motor 10, the meter panel 19 (including the tachometer 28), the remote control box 20 (including the key SW 23 and the emergency SW 24), and the battery 16 are all known general configurations. The conventional outboard motor or ship is an existing one. In the present embodiment, as will be described later, a third party cannot steal the outboard motor 10 without changing the hardware configuration by improving the control program executed by the ECU 11 (internal CPU). I am doing so.

  Although details will be described later, in the present embodiment, as a control mode of the ECU 11, “normal mode” in which the engine 2 is started by the normal engine start procedure and start of the engine 2 by the normal engine start procedure are prohibited. There is a “theft prevention mode”, and either of these modes is set exclusively. The control mode is set by the processing shown in FIGS.

  In order to change the setting of the control mode, it is necessary to input an “authentication code”. For example, this authentication code is a three-digit numerical value (for example, “2, 1, 7” in order from the first digit). In general, an arbitrary numerical value is input every time the mode is shifted from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode, and the numerical value is held in the storage unit 12 until the next key ON. In the “simple setting mode” to be described later, an authentication code is not required to be input, and an authentication code (hereinafter, specifically referred to as “registered authentication code”) input in the storage unit 12 is used. When shifting from the theft prevention mode to the normal mode, the same authentication code as the registration authentication code held in the storage unit 12 is input. Note that a fixed authentication code may be stored in the storage unit 12 in advance and the same numerical value as that of the fixed authentication code may be input when the normal mode is shifted to the anti-theft mode.

  In this embodiment, as an authentication code input means, the key SW23 is used as an example, and the number of times the engine key 23a is set to the key ON position is digitized for each digit so that a three-digit authentication code is input. Yes.

  First, an example of the setting of the anti-theft mode by inputting the authentication code and the setting of the normal mode (that is, releasing the anti-theft mode) will be described. FIGS. 3A to 3E are transition diagrams of the display mode of the tachometer 28 when setting the anti-theft mode. 4A to 4E are transition diagrams of the display mode of the tachometer 28 when the normal mode is set. 3A to 3E correspond to the setting input process of FIG. 9 described later, and FIGS. 4A to 4E correspond to the release input process of FIG. 10 described later.

  First, when the emergency switch 24 is turned on and the key SW23 is turned on, the anti-theft mode or the normal mode can be set (control mode switching). When switching from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode, as shown in FIG. 3A, all of the LEDs 30 (1) to 30 (4) are turned off as the initial state display, and the needle 29 of the tachometer 28 is moved to the tachometer 28. It points to “0” on the dial. The user starts pressing the engine key 23a with the key SW23 within a predetermined time TB (for example, 15 seconds), and inputs an arbitrary three-digit authentication code.

  For example, in order to input “2” as the first digit, the user presses the engine key 23 a twice, and when a predetermined time t (for example, 5 seconds) passes, the numerical value “2” is determined. That is, if the engine key 23a is depressed a desired number of times and then waits for a predetermined time t, the number of times is determined as the numerical value of the digit. Instead of determining the numerical value after the elapse of the predetermined time t, the numerical value is determined by a predetermined operation of another operator (for example, the PTT switch 22, the throttle / shift lever 21, etc.) after the engine key 23a is pressed a desired number of times. You may make it do.

  When the numerical value “2” in the first digit is determined, the hand 29 points to “2” on the dial face and the LED 30 (1) of the tachometer 28 is turned on (see FIG. 3B). Thereby, the numerical value input / decided this time is recognized by the user. Similarly, in order to input “1” as the second digit, when the engine key 23a is pressed once and the predetermined time t has passed, the numerical value “1” is determined and the hand 29 is moved to the character. The LED 30 (2) is turned on while pointing to “1” on the board (see FIG. 3C). Similarly, when “7” is input as the third digit, the hand 29 points to “7” on the dial face and the LED 30 (3) is turned on (see FIG. 3D).

  Then, the entered and determined three-digit authentication code is confirmed as a registration authentication code, and the registration authentication code is displayed. The confirmed registration authentication code is displayed, for example, in the tachometer 28 by the needle 29 indicating the three values again sequentially. Then, the control mode is switched from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode, it is displayed that the anti-theft mode has been set (described later), and the LED 30 (as a completion notification indicating that the control mode switching has ended normally) 1) to 30 (4) are all turned on (see FIG. 3 (e)).

  On the other hand, when canceling the anti-theft mode, as shown in FIG. 4A, as the initial state display, the LEDs 30 (1) to 30 (3) are turned on, the LED 30 (4) is turned off, and the needle 29 is moved. It points to “0”.

  The user starts pressing the engine key 23a within a predetermined time TB and inputs a three-digit authentication code so as to be the same as the registration authentication code. The input method is basically the same as when the anti-theft mode is set.

  First, in order to input “2” that is the same as the first digit of the registration authentication code, the user presses the engine key 23a twice, and when the predetermined time t has passed, the numerical value “2” is determined. . When the numerical value “2” in the first digit is determined, the hand 29 points to “2” on the dial face, and this matches the numerical value in the first digit of the registration authentication code. The LED 30 (3) is turned off (see FIG. 4B). This allows the user to recognize that the numerical value input / decided this time is appropriate.

  Next, when “1” as the second digit and “7” as the third digit are input in the same operation, the hand 29 sequentially indicates “1” and “7” on the dial face, The LEDs 30 (2) and 30 (1) that have been turned on are sequentially turned off (see FIGS. 4C and 4D). Then, the control mode is switched from the anti-theft mode to the normal mode, and it is displayed that the normal mode has been set (described later), and the authentication code matching the registered authentication code is normally input, and the control mode is switched. LED 30 (1) to 30 (4) are all turned on as a completion notification indicating that the operation is normally completed (see FIG. 4E).

  The above process will be described with reference to a flowchart. By the way, whether the current control mode is the anti-theft mode or the normal mode is defined by a mode flag. This mode flag is stored in the storage unit 12 and is retained even when the engine 2 is stopped. The The mode flag can be updated in the main process described later. In addition, a flag that defines whether or not a “simple setting mode” to be described later is executable is also stored in the storage unit 12. About this simple setting mode, whether or not it can be executed can be determined by the user as a separate process (not shown).

  5 to 8 are flowcharts of the main process in the present embodiment. This process is executed by the CPU of the ECU 11 and is started when the key SW23 is turned on. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the setting input process executed in step S514 in FIG. 6 and step S528 in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the release input process executed in step S505 of FIG. 5 and step S535 of FIG.

  First, in step S501 in FIG. 5, memory reading, that is, various flag information and the like are read from the storage unit 12. At this time, initialization of various variables is also executed. Next, it is determined whether or not the emergency switch 24 is in an on state (step S502). If the emergency switch 24 is in an on state, it is determined whether or not the current control mode is a normal mode (step S503). As a result of the determination, if the current control mode is the normal mode, the process proceeds to step S512 in FIG. 6 to display that the current control mode is the normal mode. Here, the mode display in step S512 is performed using the meter panel 19, for example. Specifically, the normal mode is displayed by blinking two LEDs 30 (1) and 30 (2) of the tachometer 28 shown in FIG.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the cranking SW, that is, the cranking ON state by the operation of the key SW23 has continued for a predetermined time TA (for example, 5 seconds) (step S513). As a result of the determination, if the cranking ON state does not continue for the predetermined time TA, the setting input process of FIG. 9 is executed (step S514).

  In FIG. 9, first, the counter value N is set to “1”, and an initial state display (see FIG. 3A) when setting the anti-theft mode is displayed on the tachometer 28 (step S901). Here, the counter value N is stored in the storage unit 12. Next, it is determined whether or not the counter value N is greater than “3” (step S902). If N> 3 is not satisfied, whether or not there has been an input by pressing the engine key 23a at the key SW23 within the predetermined time TB described above. In step S903, if there is an input, the numerical value of the Nth digit (initially “first digit”) is determined and the numerical value is displayed (step S904). . As described above, the numerical value of the Nth digit is determined when a predetermined time t elapses after the engine key 23a is pressed a desired number of times. The numerical value is displayed by moving the needle 29 of the tachometer 28, and the determined numerical value is recognized. In the above example, since “2” is input and determined at first corresponding to N = 1, the needle 29 of the tachometer 28 indicates “2” (see FIG. 3B).

  Next, the LED 30 corresponding to N is turned on (step S905). At first, since N = 1, the LED 30 (1) corresponding to N = 1 is turned on (see FIG. 3B). Next, N is incremented by “1” (step S906), and the process returns to step S902. Therefore, by repeating the processing of steps S902 to S906 three times, the numerical values of the second digit and the third digit are also determined, and the needle 29 sequentially “1” and “7” corresponding to N = 2 and 3, respectively. The LEDs 30 (2) and (3) are turned on sequentially (see FIGS. 3C and 3D).

  On the other hand, if the counter value N exceeds “3” as a result of the determination in step S902, the input and determined three-digit authentication code is confirmed as the registration authentication code (step S907), and the registration authentication code is determined. It is displayed (step S908). Then, normality determination is performed to determine normality, information indicating this is stored in the storage unit 12 (step S909), and this process is terminated. As a result of the determination in step S903, if there is no input by pressing the key SW23 within the predetermined time TB, the process proceeds to step S910, where an abnormality determination is made to determine that there is an abnormality, and information indicating that is stored in the storage unit 12 and the process is terminated.

  Returning to FIG. 6, after the process of step S514, it is determined from the stored information indicating normality determination or abnormality determination whether the setting input is normal (step S515). The control mode is switched from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode (step S519). At this time, the storage unit 12 rewrites the mode flag to a flag indicating the anti-theft mode.

  Next, it is displayed that the current control mode is the anti-theft mode (step S520). Here, this mode display is made using the meter panel 19, for example. Specifically, the anti-theft mode is displayed by blinking two LEDs 30 (3) and 30 (4) of the tachometer 28 shown in FIG. Then, a completion notification is made (step S521). That is, as described above, in the tachometer 28, all of the LEDs 30 (1) to 30 (4) are turned on (see FIG. 3 (e)). Thereafter, this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the setting input is not normal as a result of the determination in step S515, the current control mode is maintained in the normal mode (step S516), and the normal mode is displayed as in step S512 ( Step S517), the process is terminated.

  As a result of the determination in step S513, if the cranking ON state continues for a predetermined time TA, whether or not the simple setting mode is registered, that is, whether or not the simple setting mode can be executed is stored in the storage unit. 12 is discriminated based on the flag stored in 12 (step S518). As a result of the determination, if the simple setting mode is registered, the process proceeds to step S519. Therefore, in this case, the control mode is switched from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode without inputting the authentication code. This eliminates the troublesome input of the authentication code.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S518 is that there is no simple setting mode registered, the process proceeds to step S516. As a result, even if the cranking ON state continues for a predetermined time TA, the anti-theft mode can be set only when the simple setting mode is registered. It is possible to avoid the mode being set.

  As a result of the determination in step S503 in FIG. 5, when the current control mode is not the normal mode, the mode is the anti-theft mode, so that the current control mode is the anti-theft mode as in step S520. (Step S504), the release input process of FIG. 10 is executed (Step S505).

  In FIG. 10, first, the counter value N is set to “1”, and an initial state display (see FIG. 4A) when canceling the anti-theft mode is displayed on the tachometer 28 (step S1001). Next, in steps S1002 to S1004, processing similar to that in steps S902 to S904 in FIG. 9 is executed.

  After the process of step S1004, it is determined whether or not the Nth digit value determined this time matches the Nth digit value in the registration authentication code (in the above example, “2” when N = 1). (Step S1005). As a result of the determination, if the currently determined N digit value matches the N digit value in the registration authentication code, the LED 30 corresponding to N is turned off (step S1006). Initially, since N = 1, the LED 30 (3) corresponding to N = 1 is turned off (see FIG. 4B).

  Next, N is incremented by “1” (step S1007), and the process returns to step S1002. Therefore, by repeating the processing of steps S1002 to S1007 three times, the numerical values of the second digit and the third digit are also determined, and the needle 29 sequentially “1” and “7” corresponding to N = 2 and 3, respectively. LED 30 (2) and (1) are turned off sequentially (refer to FIGS. 4C and 4D).

  On the other hand, as a result of the determination in step S1005, if the Nth digit value determined this time does not match the Nth digit value in the registration authentication code, the process proceeds to step S1009. For example, it is determined whether or not it is within the second time (step S1009), and if within the predetermined number of times, the process returns to step S1002 to permit re-input. On the other hand, if it is the predetermined number of times, an error display is performed (step S1011). Here, this error display is made, for example, by blinking all of the LEDs 30 (1) to 30 (4) in the tachometer 28 shown in FIG.

  Next, the abnormality determination which determines that it is abnormal is performed (step S1010), the information which shows it is memorize | stored in the memory | storage part 12, and this process is complete | finished. By providing the processing of step S1009, it is possible to avoid permission to redo the authentication code input without limitation, and to prevent a third party who does not know the authentication code from releasing the anti-theft mode setting by trial and error. it can.

  As a result of the determination in step S1002, if the counter value N exceeds “3”, the process proceeds to step S1008, the normality determination similar to that in step S909 is performed, and the present process is terminated. If it is determined in step S1003 that there is no input by pressing the engine key 23a within a predetermined time TB, the process proceeds to step S1010.

  Returning to FIG. 5, after the processing of step S505, it is determined from the information indicating normality determination or abnormality determination stored in steps S1008 and S1010 whether the release input is normal (step S506). If it is, the control mode is switched from the anti-theft mode to the normal mode (step S509). At this time, the mode flag is rewritten in the storage unit 12 to a flag indicating the normal mode.

  Next, as in step S512, it is displayed that the current control mode is the normal mode (step S510), and a completion notification is given (step S511). That is, as described above, in the tachometer 28, all of the LEDs 30 (1) to 30 (4) are turned on (see FIG. 4 (e)). Thereafter, this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S506 is that the release input is not normal, the current control mode is maintained in the anti-theft mode (step S507), and the current control mode is the anti-theft as in step S520. The mode is displayed (step S508), and this process is terminated.

  If the emergency switch 24 is not in the on state in step S502 in FIG. 5, the process proceeds to step S522, and it is determined from the read mode flag whether the current control mode is the normal mode. As a result of the determination, if the current control mode is the normal mode, it is displayed that the current control mode is the normal mode as in step S512 (step S525). In this case, the engine 2 is allowed to start, that is, the ECU 11 can control cranking, fuel injection by the injector 13 and ignition of the spark plug 14. Accordingly, in this state, if the key SW 23 is turned to the cranking ON position, the engine 2 is actually started. Thereby, when the engine 2 is stopped in the state in which the normal mode is set, the user performs a normal engine start procedure (turns the key SW 23 in two stages with the lock plate 26 interposed in the lock plate mounting portion 25). Thus, the engine 2 can be started.

  On the other hand, if the result of determination in step S522 is that the current control mode is not the normal mode, it is displayed that the current control mode is the anti-theft mode (step S523), as in step S520. Starting is prohibited (step S524), and this process is terminated.

  Here, if the start of the engine 2 is prohibited, the cranking, the fuel injection by the injector 13 and the ignition plug ignition 14 cannot be controlled, and even if the key SW23 is turned to the cranking ON position, the engine 2 is not started. As a result, when the engine 2 is stopped in the state where the anti-theft mode is set, the engine cannot be started even if the normal engine starting procedure is performed thereafter. Theft is avoided.

  After the process of step S525, whether or not the engine 2 has been started is determined based on the detection signal of the rotational speed sensor 32 (see FIG. 1), and the rotational speed of the engine 2 is a predetermined value neL (for example, idling rotational speed). It is determined whether it is equal to or greater than the lower limit of the width (step S526). If the engine 2 has been started as a result of the determination, it is determined whether or not the anti-theft mode setting condition after the start is satisfied (OK) (step S527). The setting condition is, for example, idling and neutral. That is, an ON signal indicating that the rotational speed of the engine 2 is equal to or lower than a predetermined value neH higher than the predetermined value neL (for example, an upper limit value of the idling rotational speed width) and is neutral is supplied from the neutral switch 33. The above setting condition is satisfied.

  As a result of the determination, if the setting condition of the anti-theft mode after starting is satisfied, the setting input process of FIG. 9 is executed (step S528), and then the setting input is normal as in step S515. Whether or not (step S529). If it is normal, the switching from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode, the display indicating the anti-theft mode, and the completion notification process are executed in the same manner as in steps S519 to S521 (steps S530 and S531). .

  As a result, in the idling state and neutral state after the engine is started, the authentication code is limited to a predetermined time defined by the predetermined time TB (step S903) and the predetermined time t (step S904) in the setting input process of step S528. The control mode can be shifted to the anti-theft mode by appropriate input of.

  On the other hand, in step S526, S527, or S529, if the engine 2 is not started, the anti-theft mode setting condition after starting is not satisfied, or the setting input is not normal, the process ends.

  After the processing of step S531, the process proceeds to step S532, and it is determined whether or not “engine operation (predetermined engine operation)” has been performed. Here, the engine operation is, for example, an operation intended to increase the engine speed or start the traveling of the outboard motor 10 in the idling state and the traveling stopped state, such as a throttle operation and a shifting operation. When the engine speed is equal to or greater than the predetermined value neH, or when an OFF signal is supplied from the neutral switch 33, it is determined that “engine operation is present”. Accordingly, the engine operation includes those that can be recognized by the ECU 11 by various inputs such as signals from various sensors, and includes unauthorized switch operations.

  As a result of the determination, if there is no engine operation, the release input process of FIG. 10 and the determination of whether the release input is normal or not are executed as in steps S505 and S506 (steps S535 and S536). If the release input is normal as a result of the determination in step S536, the switching to the normal mode, the display of the normal mode, and the completion notification process are executed as in steps S509 to S511 ( Steps S539, S540, S541) and the process returns to Step S527. On the other hand, if the release input is not normal as a result of the determination in step S536, the process of displaying the anti-theft mode and displaying the anti-theft mode is executed as in steps S507 and S508 (step S507). S537, S538), the process returns to step S532.

  If the result of determination in step S532 is that there is an engine operation, an alarm sound is sounded by a sounding device (not shown) (step S533). Along with the sounding of the alarm sound, a warning display may be performed using the meter panel 19 or the like. Next, the fuel injection by the injector 13 and the ignition of the spark plug 14 are stopped, and the engine 2 is forcibly stopped (step S534). Thereafter, this process is terminated. Thereby, theft by a third party is suppressed. In other words, unless an appropriate authentication code is entered, the warm-up state in which the anti-theft mode is set is continued, and the engine is stopped if there is engine operation in that state. Warm-up can be continued.

  In addition, when this process is completed through step S534, the anti-theft mode is still set. Therefore, as described above, even if a malicious third party tries to restart the engine after turning off the engine and turns the key SW23 to the cranking ON position, the engine 2 is not started (steps S501 → S502 → S522 → S523 → S524), the anti-theft effect continues even after the engine is stopped.

  By the way, the service tool 40a is prepared in case the user forgets the registration authentication code when switching the control mode. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the service tool 40a is installed as software in a personal computer 40 or the like, and can also be used as software for maintenance at a dealer. When setting the anti-theft mode, the service tool 40a is operated by connecting the personal computer 40. In this case, the service tool 40a allows the user to know the registration authentication code or to steal the ECU 11. The prevention mode can be canceled. In the case where the authentication code is configured to be used, if the authentication code is stored in the personal computer 40, it is not necessary to connect the personal computer 40 every time the antitheft mode is set.

  According to the present embodiment, after the engine is started, the control mode can be shifted to the anti-theft mode for a certain time in the idling and neutral state in the normal mode, and the anti-theft mode setting state and idling can be performed. If the state continues, the engine 2 stops when an engine operation is detected, unless an operation for canceling the anti-theft mode is performed. Therefore, after starting the engine in the normal mode, when it is desired to shift to the warm-up state in the anti-theft mode, it is not necessary to go through the procedure of stopping and restarting the engine 2 once. Setting is possible. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the outboard motor 10 from being stolen in the idling state without requiring a troublesome setting operation.

  In particular, even in a traveling device in which the driver's seat or the control unit is opened, such as the outboard motor 10, the anti-theft state can be ensured even if the driver leaves in the idling state.

  In particular, even in a traveling device that can travel by shifting in even at an idling rotational speed, such as the outboard motor 10, the engine is stopped if there is a shift operation, so a reliable anti-theft effect can be expected. .

  Further, for example, when the outboard motor 10 is in the normal mode and the engine is stopped, the outboard motor 10 is set to be in the anti-theft mode at the next start and stored in the engine stopped state. Even when desired, the anti-theft mode can be set without starting the engine once by the processing of steps S503 → S512 to S521, and there is no trouble.

  Further, since the authentication code is input using the key SW 23 which is an existing switch provided in a general outboard motor, no special switch is required for setting and canceling the anti-theft mode. Furthermore, since the mode display and error display are performed using the tachometer 28 which is an existing display device, a special display device is unnecessary. Therefore, in order to provide the anti-theft function as described above, only the ECU needs to be modified, the range of applicable travel devices is wide, and the burden on the user can be reduced.

  Further, the control mode switching process (steps S503 to S521) when the engine is stopped is possible only when the key SW23 is turned on in a state different from the normal engine starting procedure, that is, the emergency SW24 is turned on. At this time, the key SW 23 and the tachometer 28 do not perform their original functions, but exclusively perform the functions related to the switching of the control mode, so that the original operation of the outboard motor 10 such as the engine start during normal operation is hindered. Smooth switching processing is possible without giving.

  Incidentally, the control mode switching process (steps S528 to S541) after the engine is started is also performed using the key SW23. In general, in an engine equipped with a starter motor, the engine is rotating to prevent damage to the ring gear. The cranking SW is disabled. Therefore, it is possible to use the crank ON operation by the key SW23 for inputting the authentication code without hindering the original functional operation of the key SW23.

  By the way, setting of the anti-theft mode by inputting an authentication code (steps S514 and S528) has an advantage that it is difficult to forget the authentication code because the code is input every time it is set. On the other hand, in the setting of the anti-theft mode by the simple setting mode provided separately from this method (steps S513 → S518 → S519 to S521), the troublesome input of the authentication code when setting the anti-theft mode can be eliminated. There is an advantage.

(Second Embodiment)
In the second embodiment of the present invention, part of the main processing in FIGS. 5 to 8 is different from the first embodiment, and the others are the same. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a part of the main process according to the second embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, after the process of step S531 in FIG. 7, as shown in FIG. 11, the process proceeds to step S1101, and the removal of the engine key 23a is permitted while maintaining the idling state. That is, the key SW23 allows the engine key 23a to be turned to the off position and removed from the key SW23, and the setting state of the anti-theft mode and idling of the engine 2 are maintained as they are.

  Next, the same processing as in step S532 is executed (step S1102). If there is an engine operation, the process proceeds to step S533. If there is no engine operation, the engine key 23a is reinserted into the key SW23. It is determined whether or not (step S1103). When the engine key 23a is reinserted, the process proceeds to step S535.

  According to the present embodiment, not only the same effects as in the first embodiment can be obtained, but also the engine key 23a can be extracted while the anti-theft mode is set and in the idling state. Accordingly, even if the third party who does not have the engine key 23a cannot perform the engine start operation or the authentication code input operation even if he / she leaves the place in the warm-up state in which the deterrent effect is ensured, the anti-theft mode key SW23 can be used Operation becomes impossible and the anti-theft effect increases.

  In addition, when the configuration of the present embodiment is applied not to an outboard motor but to a traveling device having a door such as a four-wheel vehicle, a deterrent effect is ensured even if only one engine key is possessed. You can leave the place by locking the door with only one engine key in the warm-up state. In this case, for example, the anti-theft mode is canceled on the condition that the door lock has been normally released using a key (if the illegal door is opened for the purpose of theft, the anti-theft mode will not be released. ), There is no need to bother inputting the authentication code.

(Third embodiment)
In the third embodiment of the present invention, a part of the main process in FIGS. 5 to 8 and the configuration of the engine key are different from the first embodiment, and the others are the same. The engine key 23a in the present embodiment has an authentication function based on a combination of an immobilizer and a transponder. For example, the ECU 11 stores data for authenticating the engine key 23a, monitors a confirmation signal generated by the engine key 23a, receives the confirmation signal within a predetermined time, and the content of the confirmation signal is If it matches with the stored data, the authentication result is OK.

  FIGS. 12A and 12B are flowcharts showing a part of the main process according to the third embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, after the process of step S531 in FIG. 7, as shown in FIG. 12A, the process proceeds to step S1201, and the engine key 23a is removed while maintaining the idling state as in step S1101. to approve.

  Next, the same processing as in step S532 is executed (step S1202). If there is an engine operation, the process proceeds to step S533. If there is no engine operation, the engine key 23a is reinserted into the key SW23. It is determined whether or not (step S1203). If the engine key 23a is reinserted, the process proceeds to step S1204, where the confirmation signal is monitored and the engine key 23a is authenticated. Next, it is determined whether or not the authentication result of the engine key 23a is OK by collating the confirmation signal (step S1205). If the authentication result is not OK, the process proceeds to step S535. That is, an opportunity to cancel the anti-theft mode by the release input process is given. On the other hand, if the authentication result is OK, the process proceeds to step S539. That is, the normal mode is immediately switched without performing the release input process.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 12B, after the processing in step S504 in FIG. 5, the engine key 23a currently inserted in the key SW23 is authenticated in the same manner as in step S1204 (step S1206). Next, as in step S1205, it is determined whether or not the authentication result of the engine key 23a is OK (step S1207). If the authentication result is not OK, the process proceeds to step S505. That is, an opportunity to cancel the anti-theft mode by the release input process is given. On the other hand, if the authentication result is OK, the process proceeds to step S509. That is, the normal mode is immediately switched without performing the release input process.

  According to the present embodiment, not only has the same effect as the first embodiment, but also the anti-theft mode is canceled simply by re-inserting the engine key with the authentication function. No need to enter a code.

(Fourth embodiment)
In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, a part of the main processing in FIGS. 5 to 8 is different from the first embodiment, and the others are the same. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a part of the main processing according to the fourth embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, after the engine 2 is stopped in step S534 of FIG. 8, as shown in FIG. 13, the process proceeds to step S1301, and engine start is permitted. Next, it is determined whether or not the engine 2 has been restarted within a predetermined time TC (for example, 30 seconds) (step S1302). If yes, the process returns to step S531.

  According to the present embodiment, not only the same effects as those of the first embodiment are obtained, but also when the engine 2 is stopped based on the engine operation, the key SW23 is only used for a predetermined time TC. The engine 2 can be restarted. Therefore, even if the engine is stopped due to an erroneous engine operation after the anti-theft mode is set in the idling state, the anti-theft mode is not temporarily canceled and the It is possible to quickly return to the machine state and there is no hassle of mode release.

  In the present embodiment, when the engine 2 is stopped based on the engine operation, the restart is permitted only for the predetermined time TC. However, the condition for permitting the restart is not limited thereto. For example, it may be a condition that another switch is operated in parallel with the start operation by the key SW23.

  In each of the above embodiments, the numerical value of the authentication code is determined by the number of times the engine key 23a is pressed. However, this is only an example. For example, the pressing duration time of the engine key 23a may be converted into a numerical value. . Alternatively, numerical values may be input using an operator (preferably an existing one) other than the engine key 23a. Although the input numerical value is displayed using the tachometer 28 of the meter panel 19, the present invention is not limited to this, and a numerical value display (preferably an existing one) that can be displayed on a speedometer or LCD is also used. Good.

  In addition, although the numerical value of 3 digits was illustrated as an authentication code, it is not restricted to this, You may make it increase the number of digits and may include characters, such as an alphabet.

  In step S502 of FIG. 5, the condition for proceeding to step S503 is not limited to the emergency SW 24 on state as a condition to be distinguished from the normal engine start procedure, and may be a predetermined state in which engine start by the normal procedure is impossible. That's fine. For example, when the throttle / shift lever 21 is in the shift-in state (neutral switch 33 is in the off state), the process may proceed to step S503.

  As a condition for shifting to the processing of the simple setting mode (steps S518 to S521 in FIG. 6), the cranking ON state continues for a predetermined time TA (step S513). According to this, since the key ON operation and the cranking ON operation are both performed by the key SW 23, the operations are easier than those performed by separate operators. This is a preferred example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the operation of another operator may be a condition for shifting to step S518 and subsequent steps. For example, the PTT switch 22 may be turned on and the throttle / shift lever 21 may be shifted in.

  The main processing in FIGS. 5 to 8 is started when the key SW23 is turned on. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the ECU 11 receives a power supply from the battery 16 in a predetermined state. It may be started sometimes.

  In each of the above embodiments, the ECU 11 is supplied with electric power via the battery switch 41, but the ECU 11 may be supplied with electric power from the battery 16 without passing through the battery switch 41. In this case, even when the battery switch 41 is OFF, since the ECU 11 is supplied with power from the battery 16, for example, the LED on the meter panel 19 can be blinked and the outboard motor 10 is prevented from being stolen. It can inform the outside that it is in a state.

  The present invention is not limited to an outboard motor equipped with an ECU, but can be applied to an outboard motor having a control unit that performs at least ignition control by receiving power supply from a battery. For example, the present invention can also be applied to an outboard motor that adopts a CDI ignition system with a carburetor specification that does not have a battery.

  In this case, since power cannot be supplied to the CDI control unit before the engine is started, for example, the following may be performed. That is, the engine start is once permitted. In this state, the existing switches are controlled by the control unit so that they do not perform their normal functions. The anti-theft mode is canceled by inputting the authentication code when the engine is idling and the shift is in the neutral state. As a result, the switches are switched to normal functions, shift-in and increase in engine speed are possible, and normal operation is possible. If the correct authentication code is not input, even if the shift-in is performed and the throttle is opened, the ignition is cut and the engine is stopped, so that the operation can be substantially prohibited. Switching from the normal mode to the anti-theft mode is performed by inputting an authentication code during idling and stopping the engine.

  The engine control device of the present invention is applicable not only to outboard motors but also to various traveling devices equipped with engines such as water bikes, snow vehicles, two wheels, ATV (All Terrain Vehicle), four wheels, and the like.

1 is a configuration diagram of a traveling device to which an engine control device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied. It is the front view (figure (a)) of the tachometer which comprises a part of meter panel, and the front view (figure (b)) of key SW. It is a transition diagram of the display mode of the tachometer when setting the anti-theft mode. It is a transition diagram of the display mode of the tachometer when setting the normal mode. It is a flowchart of the main process in this Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart continued from FIG. 5 of the main processing in the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart continued from FIG. 5 of the main processing in the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart continued from FIG. 7 of the main process in the present embodiment. It is a flowchart of the setting input process performed by step S514 of FIG. 6, and step S528 of FIG. It is a flowchart of the cancellation | release input process performed by step S505 of FIG. 5, and step S535 of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a part of main process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a part of main process which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a part of main process which concerns on 4th Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

2 Engine 10 Outboard motor (travel device)
11 ECU (mode setting release means, control means)
19 Meter panel (existing display device)
23 Key SW (existing switch, key switch)
23a Engine key 32 Rotational speed sensor (Operation detection means)
33 Neutral switch (operation detection means)

Claims (6)

An engine control device that controls an engine mounted on a traveling device,
Mode setting release means for setting and releasing the anti-theft mode;
Control means for prohibiting start of the engine in the set state of the anti-theft mode and in the engine stopped state, and permitting start of the engine in the released state of the anti-theft mode and in the engine stopped state;
Operation detecting means for detecting predetermined engine operation when the engine is in an idling state;
The control means sets the anti-theft mode by the mode setting release means while maintaining the idling condition on the condition that the engine is in the idling condition after the engine is started in the anti-theft mode cancellation condition. In addition, after the anti-theft mode is set in the engine idling state, the operation detection means performs the predetermined operation when the anti-theft mode setting state and the engine idling state continue. An engine control device that stops the engine when an engine operation is detected.   The travel device has an existing switch having a function related to the travel device, the existing switch also has a function of inputting an authentication code, and the mode setting canceling unit is configured to add an authentication code input by the existing switch. 2. The engine control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the anti-theft mode is set and canceled based on the anti-theft mode.   A key switch for starting the engine using an engine key, and the control means is configured such that the key switch is turned off when the anti-theft mode is set and the engine is idling. 3. The engine control device according to claim 1, wherein the anti-theft mode setting state and the engine idling state are maintained.   The control means, when the anti-theft mode is set in the idling state of the engine, and after stopping the engine in response to detection of the predetermined engine operation by the operation detection means, a predetermined condition The engine control device according to claim 1, wherein restart of the engine is permitted below.   The engine key is configured to have an authentication function and is detachable, and the mode setting release means is configured so that the engine key is removed when the anti-theft mode is set and the engine is idling. 4. The engine control device according to claim 3, wherein when the engine key is reinserted, the antitheft mode is canceled when the reinserted engine key can be authenticated.   It has an existing display device that is provided in the travel device and displays information related to the travel device, and the existing display device also has a function of displaying information indicating that when the anti-theft mode is set. The engine control apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein

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