JP2007277924A - Key device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a key device capable of improving a security level. <P>SOLUTION: When installing a normal mechanical key 80 in a key body 50, an end surface 76a of a key receiving part 76 of a slider 70 is flush with one end surface 60a of a case 60. Thus, in this case, communication is allowed between a transmission-reception antenna 37 and a transponder 27 by inserting a portable apparatus 2 into a key slot 39. While, when the normal mechanical key 80 is not installed in the key body 50, the end surface 76a of the key receiving part 76 projected from the one end surface 60a of the case 60. Thus, in this case, even if the portable apparatus 2 is inserted into the key slot 39, since a distance between the transmission-reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is extended, communication between both is checked. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a key device in which a mechanical key is attached to a key body.

  In recent years, there has been proposed an electronic key system that permits an operation of a controlled object by an operation control device when a corresponding communication terminal (electronic key) is used. In Patent Document 1, when the holder of the corresponding electronic key (portable device) enters a predetermined area outside the vehicle, the operation control device (transmission / reception device on the vehicle side) automatically permits the unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door. An electronic key system (vehicle remote control device) is disclosed. Further, in Patent Document 2, when a corresponding electronic key (a portable device carried by the driver) is brought into the vehicle, the on-board engine is started by an operation control device (a transmission / reception device disposed in the vehicle). An electronic key system that automatically permits (a smart ignition device that is an example of a vehicle remote control device) is disclosed.

  In this type of electronic key system, in order to monitor the approach of the corresponding electronic key holder to the vehicle, a request signal is transmitted from the operation control device to a predetermined area outside the vehicle while the in-vehicle door is locked. When the request signal is received by the electronic key, a signal (ID code signal) including an ID code individually set for each electronic key is transmitted from the electronic key. When the ID code signal is received by the operation control device, the operation control device determines whether or not the ID code included in the ID code signal matches the reference ID code. When the two ID codes match, the operation control device recognizes that the corresponding electronic key has been used and permits the unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door. Then, when the door outside handle is touched in such a state that unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door is permitted, the vehicle-mounted door is unlocked.

  And, it is possible to get on by opening and closing the unlocked on-board door in this way, but here, when the on-board door is opened and closed to monitor the ride by the owner of the corresponding electronic key, A request signal is transmitted from the operation control device to a predetermined area in the vehicle. Then, when the request signal is received by the electronic key, an ID code signal similar to the above is transmitted from the electronic key. When the ID code signal is received by the operation control device, the operation control device determines whether or not the ID code included in the ID code signal matches the reference ID code. When the two ID codes match, the operation control device recognizes that the corresponding electronic key has been used and permits the start of the in-vehicle engine. When the engine switch is operated in such a state that the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted, the in-vehicle engine is started.

  An electronic key provided for such an electronic key system includes a battery as a power source for transmitting an ID code signal in response to a request signal transmitted from the operation control device. For this reason, when the battery of the electronic key has run out, unlocking the in-vehicle door is not permitted even if the electronic key is held close to the vehicle, and such an electronic key is brought into the vehicle. However, starting the on-board engine is not permitted.

  Therefore, this type of electronic key is used together with a mechanical key suitable for the door cylinder, and when the battery runs out as described above, the mechanical key can be used to unlock the vehicle-mounted door. ing.

  In addition, such an electronic key is supplied with power from the radio wave for starting the transponder transmitted from the operation control device without supplying power from the battery, and is set individually for each transponder (for each electronic key). A transponder that transmits a signal including a transponder code (transponder code signal) is provided. When the transponder code signal is received by the operation control device, the operation control device determines whether or not the transponder code included in the transponder code signal matches the reference transponder code. When the two transponder codes match, the operation control device recognizes that the corresponding electronic key has been used and permits the start of the on-vehicle engine. That is, when the battery runs out, the in-vehicle engine can be started by providing a transponder.

In general, a single key device in which a key body contains three members, that is, an electronic key, a mechanical key, and a transponder, is carried by the user. Therefore, this type of key device is portable. It is called a machine.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-029385 (paragraph numbers 0002 to 0007) JP 2001-31333 A (paragraph numbers 0002 to 0005)

  By the way, when you have to give the key device to a third party against the will of the user, at least give the key device with the mechanical key removed to prevent the person from opening the glove box. Things like that are done. However, even in this case, if the battery has not run out, if the person brings the key device into the vehicle, the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted, and the transponder is provided even if the battery has run out. As a result, the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted. In other words, not only the user himself but also a third party can start the vehicle-mounted engine semipermanently, and there is room for improvement in security.

  The present invention has been made paying attention to such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a key device capable of improving the security level.

  To achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 is a key device comprising an internal communication means capable of communicating with an external communication means and having a mechanical key attached to a key body. When a mechanical key that fits the key body is attached to the key body, the mechanical key that fits the key body is displaced to a communication allowable position that allows communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means. The gist of the invention is that it includes a moving member that is displaced to a communication blocking position for blocking communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means when not attached to the key body.

  According to the same configuration, when a regular mechanical key that fits the key body is mounted on the key body, the moving member is displaced to the communication allowable position, thereby communicating between the external communication means and the internal communication means. Is acceptable. On the other hand, when the regular mechanical key is not attached to the key body, the moving member is displaced to the communication blocking position, thereby preventing communication between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit.

  For this reason, for example, when it is necessary to give the key device to a third party against the will of the user, if the key device with the mechanical key removed is passed, the external communication means and the internal communication means It is possible not to establish communication between the two. If it does so, it will become possible to invalidate the function (for example, function which permits engine starting) which works effectively on the condition that such communication is established. That is, in this case, the third party cannot handle the vehicle at the same level as the user himself / herself, which is convenient for the user himself / herself. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the key device according to the first aspect, when the moving member is displaced to the communication allowable position, the distance between the external communication means and the internal communication means is the same as the external communication means and the internal communication. When the moving member is displaced to the communication blocking position, the distance between the external communication means and the internal communication means is set to be the first distance that can establish communication with the means. The gist of the present invention is to set the second distance at which communication with the internal communication means cannot be established.

  According to the same configuration, the distance between the external communication means and the internal communication means is set differently when the moving member is displaced to the communication allowable position and when the moving member is displaced to the communication blocking position. Has been. That is, the moving member is displaced to a different position between when the regular mechanical key is attached and when it is not, and there is a difference in the distance between the external communication means and the internal communication means. Is held. Therefore, it is possible to realize control of whether communication is possible for communication (for example, wireless communication using radio waves) in which it is determined whether or not communication is established depending on the distance between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit. .

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the key device in which the internal communication means capable of communicating with the external communication means is provided and the mechanical key is attached to the key body, the key body is adapted to the key body. When the mechanical key is mounted on the key body, the external communication means and the internal communication means are established in communication with the outer shape that allows insertion into the external key slot. When a suitable mechanical key is not attached to the key body, it has an outer shape that allows insertion into the external key slot in a mode in which communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means is not established. This is the gist.

  According to this configuration, the outer shape of the key body is different between when the regular mechanical key that fits the key body is attached to the key body and when it is not. In the former case, communication between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit is established. In the latter case, communication between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit is not established.

  For this reason, for example, when it is necessary to give the key device to a third party against the will of the user, if the key device with the mechanical key removed is passed, the external communication means and the internal communication means It is possible not to establish communication between the two. If it does so, it will become possible to invalidate the function (for example, function which permits engine starting) which works effectively on the condition that such communication is established. That is, in this case, the third party cannot handle the vehicle at the same level as the user himself / herself, which is convenient for the user himself / herself. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the key device according to the third aspect, the key body is formed of a case having an internal communication means and a slider that is slidably supported with respect to the case. When a mechanical key conforming to is not attached to the key body, the end face on the insertion side of the slider with respect to the external key slot protrudes from the end face on the insertion side with respect to the external key slot of the case, and the amount of the protrusion is external. The distance between the communication means and the internal communication means is longer than when a mechanical key that fits the key body is attached to the key body, and the distance is communicated between the external communication means and the internal communication means. The gist is that communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means is not established by exceeding the possible distance.

  According to the same configuration, when a regular mechanical key is not attached, the internal communication means is moved away from the external communication means by the amount that the end face of the slider protrudes from the end face of the case, and thereby the external communication means and the internal communication are communicated. Communication with the means is not established. Therefore, it is possible to realize control of whether communication is possible for communication (for example, wireless communication using radio waves) in which it is determined whether or not communication is established depending on the distance between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit. .

Since this invention is comprised as mentioned above, there exist the following effects.
According to the present invention, the security level can be improved.

Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the present invention is embodied in a key device for use in an automobile will be described.
As shown in FIG. 1, an electronic key system 1 is applied to the automobile of this embodiment. The electronic key system 1 includes a portable device 2 possessed by a vehicle owner and a security device 3 provided on the vehicle side, and bidirectional communication between the portable device 2 and the security device 3 is possible. is there.

  The portable device 2 has a reception function by wireless communication and a transmission function by wireless communication, and includes a reception antenna 21, a reception circuit 22, a microcomputer 23, a transmission circuit 24, a transmission antenna 25, a battery 26, and a transponder 27. The receiving antenna 21 is a medium for receiving a request signal transmitted from the security device 3. The reception circuit 22 demodulates the request signal received by the reception antenna 21 to generate a reception signal and outputs the reception signal to the microcomputer 23.

  The microcomputer 23 includes a nonvolatile memory 23a. In the memory 23a, an ID code (ID code of the portable device 2) set individually for each portable device 2 is stored. When the reception signal is input from the reception circuit 22, the microcomputer 23 generates a signal (ID code signal) including the ID code of the portable device 2 and responds to the request signal, and transmits the ID code signal to the transmission circuit 24. Output to. The transmission circuit 24 modulates the ID code signal input from the microcomputer 23 into a radio wave having a predetermined frequency (300 MHz in this embodiment). The transmission antenna 25 is a medium for transmitting the ID code signal modulated by the transmission circuit 24.

The battery 26 includes a button type battery (primary battery) that functions as a power source for transmitting an ID code signal in response to a request signal.
The transponder 27 stores a transponder code (transponder code of the portable device 2) set individually for each transponder 27, that is, for each portable device 2. The transponder 27 covers power from the transponder activation radio wave transmitted from the security device 3, and thereby modulates a signal including the transponder code (transponder code signal) into a radio wave having a predetermined frequency (134 KHz in this embodiment). Send it.

  The security device 3 has a transmission function by wireless communication and a reception function by wireless communication, and also includes a transmission circuit 31, a transmission antenna 32, a reception antenna 33, a reception circuit 34, a power feeding circuit 35, a transmission / reception circuit 36, a transmission / reception antenna 37, and collation control. A device 38 is provided. The transmission circuit 31 modulates the request signal input from the verification control device 38 into a radio wave having a predetermined frequency (134 KHz in this embodiment). The transmission antenna 32 is a medium for transmitting the request signal modulated by the transmission circuit 31, and includes an out-of-vehicle transmission antenna 32a and an in-vehicle transmission antenna 32b.

  Here, as indicated by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 2, the request signal from the outside transmission antenna 32a is within the range of a region (predetermined region A32 outside the vehicle) that reaches a point about 1 m away from the door outside handle outside the vehicle. Sent. In addition, as shown by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 3, the request signal from the in-vehicle transmission antenna 32b is transmitted within a range of a region (predetermined region B32 in the vehicle) that extends over substantially the entire interior of the vehicle and hardly extends outside the vehicle. The

  As a result, bidirectional communication between the portable device 2 and the security device 3 is possible within the range of the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle or the predetermined area B32 inside the vehicle. That is, the request signal is a trigger signal for establishing bidirectional communication between the portable device 2 and the security device 3. Accordingly, when the portable device 2 is brought into the range of the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle or the predetermined area B32 inside the vehicle and the request signal is transmitted, the request signal is received by the portable device 2. Thus, an ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2.

  The receiving antenna 33 is a medium for receiving the ID code signal transmitted from the portable device 2 in response to the request signal. The receiving circuit 34 demodulates the ID code signal received by the receiving antenna 33 to generate a received signal, and outputs the received signal to the collation control device 38.

  When a power supply command signal is input from the verification control device 38, the power supply circuit 35 supplies power necessary for generating a transponder activation radio wave to the transmission / reception circuit 36. When the transponder activation signal is input from the verification control device 38, the transmission / reception circuit 36 generates a transponder activation radio wave having a predetermined frequency (134 KHz in this embodiment) based on the power supplied from the power supply circuit 35. The transmission / reception antenna 37 is a medium for transmitting the transponder activation radio wave generated by the transmission / reception circuit 36.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the transmission / reception antenna 37 is a coil antenna built in a key slot 39 provided in front of the driver's seat. As shown in an exaggerated manner by a two-dot chain line in FIG. 3, the transponder activation radio wave from the transmission / reception antenna 37 is an extremely narrow area in the vehicle, in this embodiment, an area that can be reached while sitting in the driver's seat, Specifically, the signal is transmitted within a range of a region (predetermined region B37 in the vehicle) reaching a point about 20 mm away from the transmission / reception antenna 37.

  As a result, bidirectional communication between the portable device 2 and the security device 3 is possible within a predetermined area B37 in the vehicle. Accordingly, when the portable device 2 is used in a state in which the transponder activation radio wave is transmitted within the range of the predetermined area B37 in the vehicle and the transponder 27 exists within the range, the transponder 27 is converted from the transponder activation radio wave. Covers the power and the transponder code signal is transmitted from the transponder 27.

  The transmitting / receiving antenna 37 is a medium for receiving the transponder code signal transmitted from the transponder 27 in this way. The transmission / reception circuit 36 demodulates the transponder code signal received by the transmission / reception antenna 37 to generate a reception signal, and outputs the reception signal to the collation control device 38.

  The collation control device 38 includes a nonvolatile memory 38a. The memory 38a stores the same ID code (reference ID code) as the ID code of the corresponding portable device 2, and the same transponder code (reference transponder code) as the corresponding transponder code of the corresponding portable device 2. ing. The collation control device 38 outputs a request signal to the transmission circuit 31 in a state where the vehicle-mounted door is locked in order to monitor the approach of the vehicle by the owner of the corresponding portable device 2 (approach to the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle). To do. In other words, in this case, the collation control device 38 executes vehicle exterior communication control. As a result, a request signal is transmitted from the outside transmission antenna 32a.

  The collation control device 38 determines whether or not the ID code included in the received signal matches the reference ID code when the received signal is input from the receiving circuit 34 based on the external communication control. That is, in this case, the collation control device 38 executes ID code collation. And when both ID codes correspond by ID code collation, the collation control apparatus 38 recognizes that the corresponding portable device 2 was used, and outputs a door unlock permission signal to the door control apparatus 41 in this case. To do. As a result, when the door outside handle is touched in such a state where unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door is permitted, the door control device 41 unlocks the vehicle-mounted door.

  Further, the collation control device 38 outputs a request signal to the transmission circuit 31 when the vehicle-mounted door is opened and closed in order to monitor boarding by the holder of the corresponding portable device 2 (entrance to the predetermined area B32 in the vehicle). That is, in this case, the collation control device 38 executes in-vehicle communication control. As a result, a request signal is transmitted from the in-vehicle transmission antenna 32b.

  Based on the in-vehicle communication control, the collation control device 38 determines whether or not the ID code included in the received signal matches the reference ID code when the received signal is input from the receiving circuit 34. That is, in this case, the collation control device 38 executes ID code collation. Then, the collation control device 38 recognizes that the corresponding portable device 2 has been used when both ID codes match by ID code collation, and outputs an engine start permission signal to the engine control device 42 in this case. . As a result, when the engine switch is operated in a state where the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted in this way, the in-vehicle engine is started by the engine control device 42.

  Further, when the portable device 2 is inserted into the key slot 39, the verification control device 38 outputs a power supply command signal to the power supply circuit 35 and outputs a transponder activation signal to the transmission / reception circuit 36. That is, in this case, the collation control device 38 executes transponder communication control. As a result, a transponder activation radio wave is transmitted from the transmission / reception antenna 37.

  Based on the transponder communication control, the collation control device 38 determines whether or not the transponder code included in the received signal matches the reference transponder code when the received signal is input from the transmission / reception circuit 36. That is, in this case, the collation control device 38 performs transponder code collation. Then, the collation control device 38 recognizes that the corresponding portable device 2 has been used when both transponder codes match by transponder code collation, and outputs an engine start permission signal to the engine control device 42 in this case. . As a result, when the engine switch is operated in a state where the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted in this way, the in-vehicle engine is started by the engine control device 42.

  Thus, when using the automobile to which the electronic key system 1 is applied, the portable device 2 can be held by holding the portable device 2 in a situation where the battery 26 built in the portable device 2 is not exhausted. As a result of 2 being provided as an electronic key, unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door and starting of the vehicle-mounted engine are permitted. Further, when the battery 26 built in the portable device 2 is exhausted, the transponder 27 is provided in place of the electronic key by inserting the portable device 2 into the key slot 39. The engine is allowed to start. The portable device 2 is provided with a mechanical key so that the vehicle-mounted door can be unlocked when the battery 26 built in the portable device 2 is exhausted.

Hereinafter, characteristic points of the present embodiment related to the mechanical key will be described.
As shown in FIGS. 4 to 6, the key body 50 is formed in a square cylinder shape by a case 60 made of a synthetic resin and a slider 70 that is slidably supported with respect to the case 60. A hemispherical fitting protrusion 61 is provided on the side surface of the case 60 facing the slider 70, and a fitting recess 71 in which the fitting protrusion 61 is fitted is formed on the side surface of the slider 70 facing the case 60. Is provided. As shown in FIG. 4, the slider 70 has a first position where the fitting projection 61 is fitted in the fitting recess 71, and the fitting projection 61 is fitted as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. It can be slid between the second position not fitted in the mating recess 71.

  A substrate housing portion 62 is formed inside the case 60, and the substrate housing portion 62 is omitted in FIGS. 4 to 6, but the receiving antenna 21, the receiving circuit 22, the microcomputer 23, and the transmitting circuit are omitted. 24, a printed circuit board (not shown) on which a transmission antenna 25 and a battery 26 are mounted is accommodated. That is, the board storage unit 62 stores various electrical components necessary for using the portable device 2 as an electronic key. Further, a transponder 27 is provided at one end portion of the case 60 (the lower end portion of the case 60 with reference to FIG. 4) and at the center portion in the width direction (left-right direction in FIG. 4) of the key body 50. Further, the case 60 is provided with a plurality (three in the present embodiment) of pin tumblers 63 to 65 and three springs 66 to 68 that urge the pin tumblers 63 to 65 toward the slider 70 side. .

  A key accommodating portion 72 is formed inside the slider 70, and a key plate 81 of the mechanical key 80 is accommodated in the key accommodating portion 72. The slider 70 is provided with the same number (three in this case) of pin tumblers 73 to 75 as the pin tumblers 63 to 65 provided on the case 60. The key plate 81 is provided with engagement holes 83 to 85 with which the tip portions of the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are engaged.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are engaged with the engagement holes 83 to 85 of the key plate 81 when the slider 70 is in the first position, The end surface is in contact with the side surface of the case 60. At this time, the tip surfaces of the pin tumblers 63 to 65 are elastically brought into contact with the side surface of the slider 70 by the urging force of the springs 66 to 68. At this time, the end surface 76 a of the key receiving portion 76 of the slider 70 is flush with the one end surface 60 a of the case 60. In other words, when the slider 70 is in the first position, the key body 50 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape in cooperation with the key gripping portion 82 of the mechanical key 80.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5, the pin tumblers 73 to 75 have the slider 70 at the second position, and when the key plate 81 is accommodated in the key accommodation portion 72, the tip portions are engaged holes 83 to 83. The base end surface is in contact with the front end surfaces of the pin tumblers 63 to 65 in a manner that resists the urging force of the springs 66 to 68. At this time, the boundary surfaces between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 coincide with the boundary surface between the case 60 and the slider 70, thereby allowing the slider 70 to slide with respect to the case 60. .

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, the pin tumblers 73 to 75 have the base end surfaces of the springs 66 to 68 when the slider 70 exists in the second position and the key plate 81 is not accommodated in the key accommodation portion 72. While being pressed by the front end surfaces of the pin tumblers 63 to 65 by the urging force, the front end portion is advanced to a position where it faces the key accommodating portion 72. At this time, the boundary surface between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 does not coincide with the boundary surface between the case 60 and the slider 70, thereby preventing the slider 70 from sliding on the case 60. Yes. At this time, the end surface 76 a of the key receiving portion 76 is not flush with the one end surface 60 a of the case 60. In other words, when the slider 70 exists in the second position, the key body 50 is not a rectangular parallelepiped, and has an outer shape in which more than half of the key receiving portion 76 protrudes from the one end surface 60a of the case 60. .

  The slider 70 is provided with a magnet 77, and the magnet 77 comes close to the printed circuit board accommodated in the board accommodating portion 62 because the slider 70 exists in the first position as shown in FIG. A magnetic proximity switch 69 that is turned on when mounted is mounted. The magnetic proximity switch 69 is electrically connected to the microcomputer 23.

Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.
Now, in the state where the mechanical key 80 is removed from the key body 50, as shown in FIG. 6, the slider 70 exists at the second position. At this time, the tip portions of the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are advanced to a position where they face the key accommodating portion 72 by the urging force of the springs 66 to 68. When the mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 from the state shown in FIG. 6, the key plate 81 is inserted into the key housing portion 72.

  Then, along with the insertion, the key plate 81 interferes with the tip portions of the pin tumblers 73 to 75. However, the force when inserting the key plate 81 overcomes the urging force of the springs 66 to 68. The pin tumblers 73 to 75 are retracted according to the surface shape of the key plate 81 against the urging force of the springs 66 to 68. The slider 70 is slid with respect to the case 60 as the key plate 81 is inserted. However, the pin tumblers 63 to 65 interfere with the wall portion of the case 60 to prevent it.

  Then, when the insertion of the key plate 81 proceeds and eventually the tip portion of the key plate 81 reaches the innermost portion of the key accommodating portion 72, the pin tumblers are inserted into the engagement holes 83 to 85 as shown in FIG. The front-end | tip part of 73-75 comes to be engaged. At this time, the boundary surfaces of the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are made to coincide with the boundary surfaces of the case 60 and the slider 70, thereby allowing the slider 70 to slide with respect to the case 60. Therefore, after that, when the mechanical key 80 is pushed in the same direction as the insertion of the key plate 81, the mechanical key 80 and the slider 70 are slid integrally with respect to the case 60.

  Here, both the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 and the engagement holes 83 to 85 are provided in a pattern set individually for each mechanical key. In the present embodiment, the depth pattern of the engagement holes 83 to 85 is individually set for each mechanical key, and the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are set according to the depths of the engagement holes 83 to 85. The position of the boundary surface is determined. Only when a regular mechanical key 80 that fits the key body 50 is attached, the boundary surface between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 is the boundary surface between the case 60 and the slider 70 as described above. It is supposed to match. In short, when the regular mechanical key 80 is mounted, the mounting is allowed, and when another mechanical key is mounted, the mounting is blocked.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when the boundary surface between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 coincides with the boundary surface between the case 60 and the slider 70, the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and 73 to 75 are It can be said that it exists in the mounting | wearing permissible position which permits mounting | wearing of the mechanical key 80 with respect to the key main body 50. FIG. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, when the boundary surfaces between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 do not coincide with the boundary surfaces between the case 60 and the slider 70, the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and 73 to 75 are It can be said that it exists in the mounting | wearing prevention position which prevents mounting | wearing of the mechanical key with respect to the key main body 50. FIG. That is, in the present embodiment, the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and 73 to 75 correspond to engagement members that can be displaced over the mounting allowable position and the mounting blocking position.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the engagement holes 83 to 85 correspond to engaged portions that displace the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and 73 to 75 from the attachment blocking position to the attachment allowable position by engaging the pin tumblers 73 to 75. To do. In the present embodiment, the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 and the engagement holes 83 to 85 specify whether or not the mechanical key attached to the key body 50 is compatible with the key body 50. An index means serving as an index is configured. In other words, the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 and the engagement holes 83 to 85 constitute a collation mechanism for mechanically collating the mechanical key with the key body 50.

  Returning to this point, when the mechanical key 80 is pushed in as described above, the end surface of the slider 70 eventually interferes with the fitting protrusion 61. However, when the mechanical key 80 is further pushed, The mechanical key 80 is allowed to be pushed by bending the peripheral portion of the fitting protrusion 61 and the tip portion of the slider 70 by such pushing force. When the mechanical key 80 is further pushed in, the slider 70 is present at the first position as shown in FIG. 4. At this time, the fitting protrusion 61 is fitted into the fitting recess 71, Along with this, the bending of the case 60 and the slider 70 is released.

  As a result, the attachment of the mechanical key 80 to the key body 50 is completed in this way. The case 60 and the slider 70 are either when the case 60 or the slider 70 is bent during the attachment or not. The sliding resistance generated between the two is different. Accordingly, such a difference in sliding resistance appears as a feeling received by the operator, and as a result, when the mounting of the mechanical key 80 is completed, a feeling of moderation is given to the operator.

  FIG. 5 shows a state in which the slider 70 is present at the second position. This second position is located on the slider 70 and the sliding with respect to the case 60 is started, so that the slider 70 is in the second position. It is nothing but the slide start position where the installation of the mechanical key starts. On the other hand, FIG. 4 shows a state in which the slider 70 is present at the first position. This first position is located on the slider 70, and the slide with respect to the case 60 is finished, so It is nothing but the slide end position where the mechanical key is completely attached. That is, the slider 70 can slide over the slide start position (second position) shown in FIG. 5 and the slide end position (first position) shown in FIG.

  In the present embodiment, the fitting protrusion 61 and the fitting recess 71 constitute a moderation imparting unit that imparts a moderation feeling when the slider 70 is slid from the slide start position to the slide end position. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, when the slider 70 is slid in the direction opposite to the mounting direction from the state in which the fitting protrusion 61 is fitted in the fitting recess 71, naturally, An operating force deserving to release the fitting state is required. That is, unless such an operating force is applied, the slider 70 is not slid freely in the opposite direction. In other words, in the present embodiment, it can be said that the fitting protrusion 61 and the fitting recess 71 constitute holding means for holding the slider 70 existing at the slide end position at the slide end position.

  Incidentally, as shown in FIG. 4, when the slider 70 exists at the slide end position, the pin tumblers 63 to 65 elastically contact the side surfaces of the slider 70 with the urging forces of the springs 66 to 68. Has been. For this reason, when trying to slide the slider 70 in the direction opposite to the mounting direction from such a state, a sliding resistance corresponding to the contact force is generated. Therefore, this also prevents the slider 70 from being slid in the opposite direction. That is, in this embodiment, it can be said that the holding means is also configured by the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the springs 66 to 68.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are engaged with the engagement holes 83 to 85 in the state where the mechanical key 80 is completely attached to the key body 50. The base end surface is in contact with the side surface of the case 60. Accordingly, this prevents the mechanical key 80 from falling off the slider 70. That is, in the present embodiment, the pin tumblers 73 to 75 correspond to drop-off prevention means for preventing the mechanical key 80 that has been attached to the key body 50 from dropping off the slider 70.

  When the mounting of the mechanical key 80 is completed in this way, the magnet 77 is brought close to the magnetic proximity switch 69 which has been switched off until then, and the magnetic proximity switch 69 is turned on. Accordingly, the microcomputer 23 recognizes that the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50.

  Then, in a state where the request signal is transmitted to the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle, the owner of the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is attached approaches the automobile and enters the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle. The request signal is received by the machine 2. Then, an ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2 in response to the request signal. In this embodiment, a regular key wearing state code indicating that the regular mechanical key 80 is worn is added at this time. The ID code signal is generated by the microcomputer 23, and such an ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2.

  When this ID code signal is received by the security device 3, the verification control device 38 executes ID code verification. When the received signal input from the receiving circuit 34 includes an ID code that matches the reference ID code and includes a normal key wearing state code, the verification control device 38 receives a normal mechanical key. It recognizes that the portable device 2 to which 80 is attached is used. Therefore, in this case, unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door is permitted, and the vehicle can be boarded by operating the door outside handle to open and close the vehicle-mounted door.

  When the vehicle-mounted door is opened and closed in this way, a request signal is transmitted to a predetermined area B32 in the vehicle. In such a state, when the owner of the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is attached gets into the vehicle and enters the predetermined area B32 in the vehicle, the request signal is received by the portable device 2. Then, the ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2 in response to the request signal. In this embodiment, the ID code signal to which the normal key wearing state code is added is transmitted from the portable device 2 in the same manner as before. Sent.

  When this ID code signal is received by the security device 3, the verification control device 38 executes ID code verification. When the received signal input from the receiving circuit 34 includes an ID code that matches the reference ID code and includes a normal key wearing state code, the verification control device 38 receives a normal mechanical key. It recognizes that the portable device 2 to which 80 is attached is used. Therefore, in this case, the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted, and the engine can be started by operating the engine switch. Then, when using the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is mounted in this way, the user can use the automobile without any restriction after the engine is started. Yes.

Next, an operation when another mechanical key different from the regular mechanical key 80 (a mechanical key that does not match the key body 50) is attached to the key body 50 will be described.
In this case, until the stage where the key plate is inserted into the key housing portion 72 and the tip portion reaches the innermost portion of the key housing portion 72, the same as when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50. Transition to. In this case, however, the engagement hole depth pattern is different from that of the regular mechanical key 80 even though the key plate is provided with the same engagement holes as the engagement holes 83 to 85. Therefore, in this case, the boundary surface between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 coincides with the boundary surface between the case 60 and the slider 70, even if the tip portions of the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are engaged with the engagement holes. Never do. In short, in this case, the attachment of the mechanical key is prevented.

  Then, since the magnet 77 is not brought close to the magnetic proximity switch 69, the magnetic proximity switch 69 remains in the OFF state, and accordingly, the microcomputer indicates that the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50. 23.

  Then, in a state where the request signal is transmitted to the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle, the owner of the portable device 2 that is not equipped with the regular mechanical key 80 approaches the automobile and enters the predetermined area A32 outside the vehicle. The request signal is received by the machine 2. Then, an ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2 in response to the request signal. In this embodiment, a normal key non-attached state code indicating that the normal mechanical key 80 is not attached is added. The ID code signal thus generated is generated by the microcomputer 23, and such an ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2.

  When this ID code signal is received by the security device 3, the verification control device 38 executes ID code verification. When the received signal input from the receiving circuit 34 includes an ID code that matches the reference ID code and includes a normal key non-installation state code, the verification control device 38 receives a normal mechanical code. It is recognized that the portable device 2 to which the key 80 is not attached is used. Therefore, in this case, unlocking of the vehicle-mounted door is permitted, and the vehicle can be boarded by operating the door outside handle to open and close the vehicle-mounted door.

  For example, this is the case where another person is asked to park the portable device 2. That is, in such a case, in order to prevent others from opening the glove box that can be opened and closed by using the regular mechanical key 80, it is common to leave the portable device 2 with the regular mechanical key 80 removed. Done. Even in such a case, since various electrical components necessary for using the portable device 2 as an electronic key are housed in the case 60, other people can get on by holding such a portable device 2. It is like that.

  When the vehicle-mounted door is opened and closed in this way, a request signal is transmitted to a predetermined area B32 in the vehicle. In such a state, when the owner of the portable device 2 not wearing the regular mechanical key 80 gets into the vehicle and enters the predetermined area B32 in the vehicle, the request signal is received by the portable device 2. Then, the ID code signal is transmitted from the portable device 2 in response to the request signal. In this embodiment, the ID code signal to which the normal key non-attached state code is added is transmitted to the portable device 2 in the same manner as before. Sent from

  When this ID code signal is received by the security device 3, the verification control device 38 executes ID code verification. When the received signal input from the receiving circuit 34 includes an ID code that matches the reference ID code and includes a normal key non-installation state code, the verification control device 38 receives a normal mechanical code. It is recognized that the portable device 2 to which the key 80 is not attached is used. Therefore, in this case, the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted, and the engine can be started by operating the engine switch. That is, in the above example, another person who has received a request for parking from the user himself / herself can start the engine prior to parking.

  However, when using the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached as described above, the user (in this case, another person) is a portable person to which the regular mechanical key 80 is attached after the engine is started. The vehicle can be used in a manner that is restricted by the case where the machine 2 is used. In this embodiment, in such a case, the engine is stopped when 5 minutes have elapsed since the engine was started.

  When the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, the magnetic proximity switch 69 is turned on. In other words, the magnetic proximity switch 69 has the regular mechanical key 80 as the key. A normal key mounting state signal indicating that the main body 50 is mounted is output to the microcomputer 23. On the other hand, when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50, the magnetic proximity switch 69 is turned off. In other words, the magnetic proximity switch 69 is in such a case that the regular mechanical key 80 is the key. A normal key non-attachment state signal indicating that the main body 50 is not attached is output to the microcomputer 23.

  That is, in the present embodiment, the magnetic proximity switch 69 is in a different state between when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 and when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50. This corresponds to a state identification switch that outputs a signal.

  In relation to this, when the regular mechanical key 80 is mounted on the key body 50, the user can use the automobile without any restrictions by possessing such a portable device 2. On the other hand, when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50, the user can use the vehicle in a manner that is restricted by the travelable period when the portable device 2 is held. . Such a difference is caused by a difference between whether the microcomputer 23 generates an ID code signal including a normal key mounting state code or an ID code signal including a normal key non-mounting state code.

  That is, in this embodiment, the microcomputer 23 corresponds to a function setting unit that sets individual functions for the portable device 2 for each state signal input from the magnetic proximity switch 69. In this embodiment, the microcomputer 23 restricts the function to be set when the normal key non-installation state signal is input from the magnetic proximity switch 69 and when the normal key mounting state signal is input from the magnetic proximity switch 69. The set function is set for the portable device 2.

  When the magnetic proximity switch 69 is ON, an ID code signal including a normal key wearing state code is transmitted from the transmission antenna 25. On the other hand, when the magnetic proximity switch 69 is OFF, an ID code signal including a normal key non-installation state code is transmitted from the transmission antenna 25. That is, in this embodiment, the transmission circuit 24 and the transmission antenna 25 constitute a transmission unit that transmits such an ID code signal.

Next, an operation when the portable device 2 is inserted into the key slot 39 will be described.
When the battery 26 of the portable device 2 is depleted, the portable device 2 cannot be used as an electronic key. Therefore, the portable device 2 is inserted into the key slot 39 when the engine is started. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, when the portable device 2 in which the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 is inserted into the key insertion port 39 a of the key slot 39, the portable device 2 is generally a rectangular parallelepiped. Therefore, the insertion can be performed in such a manner that the one end surface 60a of the case 60 and the end surface 76a of the slider 70 reach the innermost part of the key insertion port 39a. When a key detection switch (not shown) is turned on after such insertion, a transponder activation radio wave is transmitted from the transmission / reception antenna 37.

  In this case, the distance D1 between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is about 15 mm. Therefore, in this case, the transponder 27 supplies power from the transponder activation radio wave, and a transponder code signal is transmitted from the transponder 27.

  When this transponder code signal is received by the transmission / reception antenna 37, the verification control device 38 executes transponder code verification. When the received signal input from the transmission / reception circuit 36 includes a transponder code that matches the reference transponder code, the verification control device 38 recognizes that the corresponding portable device 2 has been used. Therefore, in this case, the start of the in-vehicle engine is permitted, and the engine can be started by operating the engine switch.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8, when the portable device 2 in which the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50 is inserted into the key insertion port 39a of the key slot 39, the portable device 2 Only the end surface 76a of the slider 70 can be inserted in such a manner as to reach the innermost portion of the key insertion port 39a. When it is assumed that a key detection switch (not shown) is turned on through such insertion, a transponder activation radio wave is transmitted from the transmission / reception antenna 37.

  In this case, the distance D2 between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is about 35 mm. Therefore, in this case, the transponder 27 cannot cover the power from the transponder activation radio wave, and the transponder code signal is not transmitted from the transponder 27. As a result, in this case, the start of the in-vehicle engine is not permitted.

  In this embodiment, the transmission / reception antenna 37 corresponds to external communication means, and the transponder 27 corresponds to internal communication means capable of communication with the transmission / reception antenna 37. The slider 70 is displaced to the first position shown in FIGS. 4 and 7 when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50. The first position is the same as that of the transmission / reception antenna 37. This corresponds to a communication allowable position that allows communication with the transponder 27. The slider 70 is displaced to the second position shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50. The second position is the same as that of the transmission / reception antenna 37. This corresponds to a communication blocking position for blocking communication with the transponder 27. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the slider 70 corresponds to the moving member displaced in this way.

  When the slider 70 is displaced to the communication allowable position, the distance D1 between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is set to about 15 mm. This distance D1 is between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27. This corresponds to the first distance at which the communication can be established. Here, the key body 50 is allowed to be inserted into the key slot 39 in such a manner that communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is established when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50. It can be said that the outer shape is made.

  When the slider 70 is displaced to the communication blocking position, the distance D2 between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is set to about 35 mm. This distance D2 is between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27. This is equivalent to the second distance in which communication cannot be established. Here, when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50, the key body 50 is allowed to be inserted into the key slot 39 in such a manner that communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is not established. It can be said that the outer shape is formed.

  More specifically, when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50, the end face 76a on the insertion side with respect to the key slot 39 of the slider 70 is the end face (one end face 60a) on the insertion side with respect to the key slot 39 of the case 60. Protruding from. Then, the distance between the transmitting / receiving antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is longer than that when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, and the distance between the transmitting / receiving antenna 37 and the transponder 27 increases. The communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is not established because the communication distance between the transmission and reception antennas 37 exceeds the possible distance.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following operations and effects can be obtained.
(1) When the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, the slider 70 is displaced to the communication allowable position, whereby communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is permitted. On the other hand, when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50, the slider 70 is displaced to the communication blocking position, so that communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is blocked.

  For this reason, when the portable device 2 must be handed over to a third party against the will of the user, if the portable device 2 with the mechanical key 80 removed is handed over, the transmitting / receiving antenna 37 and the transponder 27 It is possible not to establish communication between the two. If it does so, it will become possible to invalidate the function (for example, function which permits engine starting) which works effectively on the condition that such communication is established. That is, in this case, the third party cannot handle the car at the same level as the user himself / herself, which is convenient for the user himself / herself. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  (2) The distance between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is set to be different between when the slider 70 is displaced to the communication allowable position and when the slider 70 is displaced to the communication blocking position. . That is, the slider 70 is displaced to a position different from the case where the regular mechanical key 80 is attached and the case where the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached. As a result, the distance between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is different. Is held. Accordingly, it is possible to realize control of whether communication is possible for communication (for example, wireless communication using radio waves) in which it is determined whether or not communication is established depending on the distance between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27.

  (3) The outer shape of the key body 50 differs between when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 and when it is not. In the former case, communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is established, but in the latter case, communication between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27 is not established.

  For this reason, when the portable device 2 must be handed over to a third party against the will of the user, if the portable device 2 with the mechanical key 80 removed is handed over, the transmitting / receiving antenna 37 and the transponder 27 It is possible not to establish communication between the two. If it does so, it will become possible to invalidate the function (for example, function which permits engine starting) which works effectively on the condition that such communication is established. That is, in this case, the third party cannot handle the car at the same level as the user himself / herself, which is convenient for the user himself / herself. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  (4) When the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached, the transponder 27 is moved away from the transmission / reception antenna 37 by the amount by which the end surface 76a of the slider 70 protrudes from the one end surface 60a of the case 60. And the transponder 27 are not established. Accordingly, it is possible to realize control of whether communication is possible for communication (for example, wireless communication using radio waves) in which it is determined whether or not communication is established depending on the distance between the transmission / reception antenna 37 and the transponder 27.

  (5) By providing the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 and the engagement holes 83 to 85, when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, another mechanical key is attached to the key body 50. Can be distinguished from the case of For this reason, even if the regular mechanical key 80 is removed from the portable device 2 and another mechanical key is attached, this can be immediately noticed. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  (6) When the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, the attachment is permitted by the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 and the engagement holes 83 to 85, and another mechanical key is attached to the key body 50. When mounted on the pin, the mounting is blocked by the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 and the engagement holes 83 to 85. That is, only the regular mechanical key 80 is the only key that can be attached to the key body 50. Therefore, it is possible to easily specify whether or not the mechanical key attached to the key body 50 is compatible with the key body 50 by simply glanced at whether or not the mechanical key is attached to the key body 50. it can.

  (7) When the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are engaged with the engagement holes 83 to 85 of the mechanical key 80, whereby all the pin tumblers 63 to 65, 73 to 75 is displaced from the mounting prevention position to the mounting allowable position. As a result, the mechanical key (in this case, the regular mechanical key 80) can be attached to the key body 50. On the other hand, when another mechanical key is attached to the key body 50, there is a pin tumbler (any one of 63 to 65, 73 to 75) that is not displaced to the attachment allowable position. This prevents the mechanical key (in this case, another mechanical key) from being attached to the key body 50. Therefore, it is possible to easily specify whether or not the mechanical key attached to the key body 50 is compatible with the key body 50 by simply glanced at whether or not the mechanical key is attached to the key body 50. it can.

  (8) The mechanical key 80 is housed in the slider 70, and the slider 70 is slid with respect to the case 60 from the slide start position to the slide end position, whereby the mounting of the mechanical key 80 on the key body 50 is completed. Here, when the mechanical key 80 is mounted on the key body 50 as described above, the slider 70 having a size that can accommodate the mechanical key 80 is operated, and thus the operation is easy. Therefore, the operability when the mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 can be improved.

  (9) When the slider 70 is slid from the slide start position to the slide end position, a sense of moderation is given. Thereby, it is notified that the mounting of the mechanical key 80 on the key body 50 is completed. Therefore, the mechanical key 80 can be securely attached to the key body 50.

  (10) When the fitting protrusion 61 is fitted in the fitting recess 71 and the tip surfaces of the pin tumblers 63 to 65 are elastically contacted with the side surfaces of the slider 70, the slider 70 is in the slide end position. Held in. Therefore, the mounting state of the mechanical key 80 with respect to the key body 50 can be suitably maintained.

  (11) The mechanical key 80 is prevented from dropping after the mechanical key 80 is mounted. Therefore, the mounting state of the mechanical key 80 with respect to the key body 50 can be suitably maintained.

  (12) Different functions are set in the portable device 2 when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 and when the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50. For this reason, when the user uses the portable device 2 with the regular mechanical key 80 attached as in the case where the user himself / herself uses the vehicle, the mechanical key is used as in the case where the user uses the vehicle. The function that works effectively with respect to the automobile can be made different between the case where the portable device 2 from which 80 is removed is used and the automobile is used. Here, since the function is set so that the user himself / herself is superior to others, the other person cannot handle the car at the same level as the user himself / herself, which is convenient for the user himself / herself. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  (13) When the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached to the key body 50, the function is restricted as compared to the case where the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50. For this reason, if the portable device 2 from which the regular mechanical key 80 is removed is handed over in a situation where another person uses the automobile, the other person cannot handle the automobile at the same level as the user himself / herself, so convenient. Therefore, the security level can be improved.

  (14) When the magnetic proximity switch 69 is ON, an ID code signal including a normal key wearing state code is transmitted from the portable device 2. On the other hand, when the magnetic proximity switch 69 is OFF, an ID code signal including a normal key non-installation state code is transmitted from the key device. Here, when such an ID code signal is received by the security device 3, the security device 3 recognizes whether the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50 or not. It becomes possible. Therefore, by transmitting the ID code signal indicating the state of the portable device 2 from the transmission antenna 25, the security device 3 that receives the ID code signal can execute appropriate control according to the state on the portable device 2 side.

In addition, the said embodiment can also be changed and actualized as follows.
The internal communication means provided in the portable device 2 may be any of transmission means, reception means, and transmission / reception means serving as both transmission means and reception means. When the transmission unit is selected as the internal communication unit, the reception unit or the transmission / reception unit is selected as the external communication unit. In addition, when the reception unit is selected as the internal communication unit, the transmission unit or the transmission / reception unit is selected as the external communication unit. Furthermore, when the transmission / reception unit is selected as the internal communication unit, the transmission unit, the reception unit, or the transmission / reception unit is selected as the external communication unit. In short, all combinations that enable communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means are included.

  The transponder 27 is preferably provided at the end on the insertion side with respect to the key slot 39 in the portable device 2. In this way, a low-intensity transponder activation radio wave transmitted from the transmission / reception antenna 37 can be used. If a strong wave can be used as the transponder activation radio wave, the transponder 27 is located at the end of the portable device 2 opposite to the side from which the key receiving portion 76 protrudes (upper side in FIG. 4). It may be provided.

  A configuration in which the transponder 27 is provided on the central axis of the transmission / reception antenna 37 (coil antenna) is preferable. In this way, since the communication efficiency is the highest, the transponder 27 can reliably cover the power from the transponder activation radio wave transmitted from the transmission / reception antenna 37. In order to realize this, the position of the transmitting / receiving antenna 37 with respect to the key slot 39, the position of the key insertion port 39a with respect to the key slot 39, and the position of the transponder 27 with respect to the case 60 may be set.

  Of course, the external shape of the portable device 2 is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped. However, when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached to the key body 50, the shape of the insertion portion with respect to the key slot 39 and the shape of the key insertion port 39a out of the outer shape of the portable device 2 are aligned with each other. Need to be.

  ・ Instead of or in addition to the configuration in which the depth pattern of the engagement holes 83 to 85 is individually set for each mechanical key, the pattern of the size of the diameter of the engagement holes 83 to 85 is individually set for each mechanical key. You may employ | adopt the structure to do. In this case, the diameter (thickness) of the pin tumblers 73 to 75 engaged with the engagement holes 83 to 85 may be set to be equal to the diameter of the engagement holes 83 to 85.

  Then, when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached, the diameters of the engagement holes 83 to 85 coincide with the diameters of the pin tumblers 73 to 75, so that the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are matched. Is coincident with the boundary surface between the case 60 and the slider 70. As a result, the mechanical key 80 is allowed to be attached to the key body 50. On the other hand, when another mechanical key is mounted, the diameter of the engagement hole and the diameter of the pin tumblers 73 to 75 do not coincide with each other, so that the boundary surface between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 is the case. As a result, the mechanical key is prevented from being attached to the key body 50.

  In addition, while adopting a configuration in which the pattern of the depth of the engagement holes 83 to 85 is individually set for each mechanical key, the pattern of the diameter of the engagement holes 83 to 85 is individually set for each mechanical key. May be. In this case, many patterns are produced even if the number of engagement holes and pin tumblers is small. For example, even if the pin tumbler has a thickness corresponding to the diameter of the engagement hole, the boundary surface between the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the pin tumblers 73 to 75 is the case where the pin tumbler is engaged with the engagement hole. 60 does not necessarily coincide with the boundary surface between the slider 70 and the slider 70. In other words, the mechanical key that is prevented from being attached by this is a different mechanical key from the regular mechanical key 80. Therefore, in order to improve the security level, it is sufficient to reduce the number of parts of such index means (collation mechanism), which can contribute to reducing the size and weight of the portable device 2.

  The formation mode of the engagement holes 83 to 85 with respect to the key plate 81 may be any as long as it is individually set for each mechanical key. For example, the number of engagement holes provided in the key plate 81 may be either one or a plurality.

  If a single engagement hole is provided, at least one of the depth and the diameter may be individually set for each mechanical key as described above, or alternatively or in addition. You may set the position which provides a hole separately for every mechanical key.

  If a plurality of engagement holes are provided, the number of holes may be set individually for each mechanical key. Alternatively, if the same number of engagement holes are provided, at least one of the depth and the diameter may be individually set for each mechanical key as described above, or alternatively or in addition. You may set the position which provides a hole separately for every mechanical key.

  In short, when the regular mechanical key 80 is mounted, the mounting is allowed, and when another mechanical key is mounted, the engagement hole and the pin tumbler cooperate to prevent the mounting. All the configurations are included in the present invention.

  -A plate tumbler or a ball may be used as the engaging member instead of the pin tumbler. Of course, you may use combining multiple types of engaging members, such as a pin tumbler, a plate tumbler, and a ball | bowl.

  Either a configuration in which the mechanical key 80 is accommodated in the slider 70 in a vertically placed state, a configuration in which the mechanical key 80 is accommodated in the slider 70 in a horizontally placed state, or a configuration in which the mechanical key 80 is accommodated in the slider 70 in an obliquely placed state are employed. May be. However, it is needless to say that the pin tumblers 73 to 75 need to be engaged with the engagement holes 83 to 85 by making the formation positions of the engagement holes 83 to 85 different for each placement method. .

  -Key piles exist in the mechanical key so as to fit the door cylinder for opening and closing the door, the key cylinder for starting the engine, and the cylinder of the glove box. Moreover, this key pile is set individually for each mechanical key. Therefore, a configuration in which the pin tumblers 73 to 75 are engaged with the grooves existing between the key ridges may be adopted. That is, the existing groove between the key ridges may be used as the engaged portion. Then, it is not necessary to provide an engagement hole for the existing mechanical key.

  In the embodiment, the case 60 is provided with the fitting protrusion 61 and the slider 70 is provided with the fitting recess 71. However, the slider 70 is provided with the fitting protrusion and the case 60 is provided with the fitting recess. Also good.

  Or the structure by which a some fitting protrusion and a some fitting recessed part are provided may be sufficient. In this case, all the fitting protrusions are provided on one of the case 60 and the slider 70 (for example, the case 60), and all the fitting recesses are provided on the other of the case 60 and the slider 70 (in this case, the slider 70). It is not limited to. For example, in a configuration in which two fitting protrusions and two fitting recesses are provided, one fitting protrusion is provided in the case 60, and a fitting recess in which the fitting protrusion is fitted is provided in the slider 70. A configuration in which another fitting protrusion is provided on the slider 70 and a fitting recess in which the slider 70 is fitted may be provided on the slider 70.

  The fitting protrusion 61 and the fitting recess 71 that function as holding means are not always necessary, and can be omitted. This is because the slider 70 existing at the slide end position can be held at the slide end position by the holding means constituted by the pin tumblers 63 to 65 and the springs 66 to 68. However, in the configuration in which two types of holding means are provided as in the above-described embodiment, it is preferable that the mounting state of the mechanical key 80 with respect to the key body 50 is reliably performed.

  In the above embodiment, the slider 70 is provided with the magnet 77 and the case 60 is provided with the magnetic proximity switch 69. However, the case 60 may be provided with a magnet and the slider 70 may be provided with a magnetic proximity switch.

  The state identification switch is not limited to a non-contact type switch such as the magnetic proximity switch 69 of the above embodiment. That is, a contact type switch may be employed as the state identification switch. In this case, for example, a micro switch is provided in the case 60. When the slider 70 is present at the slide end position as shown in FIG. 4, the micro switch is turned on when the slider 70 presses the movable contact of the micro switch, and the slider 70 is shown in FIG. In this way, when the slide is present at the slide start position, the pressing may be released and the micro switch may be turned off.

A non-contact type switch other than the magnetic proximity switch 69 may be used, and a contact type switch other than the micro switch may be used.
In the above-described embodiment, when the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached is used, restrictions are imposed on the case where the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is attached is used. However, this restriction is not limited to the restriction on the travelable period. That is, in the former case, restrictions may be imposed on the travelable distance compared to the latter case. For example, in the latter case, the travelable distance is not restricted, and in the former case, the travelable distance may be 1 km.

  Or in the former case, you may make it give a restriction | limiting about the engine startable frequency | count with respect to the latter case. For example, in the latter case, the engine startable number of times is not restricted, and in the former case, the engine startable number of times may be limited to one time.

  Or in the former case, you may make it give restrictions about the maximum speed with respect to the latter case. For example, in the latter case, the maximum speed is not restricted, and in the former case, the maximum speed may be 10 km / h.

  Alternatively, in the former case, a restriction may be imposed on a plurality of things (for example, at least two of a travelable period, a travelable distance, a possible number of engine starts, and a maximum speed) with respect to the latter case.

Although it is an extremely rare example, the former case may be superior to the latter case.
In a key device used for automobile use like the portable device 2, several operation switches are provided in order to improve convenience. For example, an unlock switch, a lock switch, a trunk open switch, a panic switch, and the like.

  Incidentally, the unlock switch is operated when it is desired to unlock the vehicle-mounted door by remote control from a point away from the automobile (for example, a point at a distance of about 5 m at the longest from the automobile). On the other hand, the lock switch is operated when it is desired to lock the vehicle-mounted door by remote control from a point away from the automobile. On the other hand, the trunk opening switch is operated when it is desired to open the vehicle-mounted trunk by remote control from a point away from the automobile. Finally, the panic switch is operated when it is desired to ring the in-vehicle horn by remote control from a point away from the automobile. In other words, the panic switch is operated when it is desired to issue a warning to a third party, such as when a vehicle is being used by a third party.

  When the regular mechanical key 80 is attached, the operation of these operation switches is validated. When the regular mechanical key 80 is not attached, the operation of these operation switches is invalidated. May be.

  In the case where the regular mechanical key 80 is attached, when the operation switch is operated according to a predetermined order, an ID code signal including the regular key attachment state code is transmitted from the portable device 2. Also good. In addition, when the regular mechanical key 80 is attached, when the operation switch is operated according to another predetermined order (for example, the reverse order of the previous order), the ID code including the regular key non-attached state code A signal may be transmitted from the portable device 2.

  Here, when the portable device 2 to which the regular mechanical key 80 is attached is used by another person against the intention of the user, the user himself operates the operation switches in the latter order prior to that. Then, other people who do not know that the use of the car will be restricted only after operating the operation switches in the former order will be able to use the car only in a restricted manner, which is convenient for the user himself / herself. Good. In other words, only the user himself / herself can operate the car at will, thereby improving the security level.

The block diagram which shows the structure of the motor vehicle of this embodiment to which the electronic key system is applied. Explanatory drawing which shows the predetermined area | region outside a vehicle. Explanatory drawing which shows two types of predetermined area | regions in a vehicle. Sectional drawing of the portable machine which shows the state by which mounting | wearing of the mechanical key with respect to a key main body is completed. Sectional drawing of the portable machine which shows the state in the middle in case a mechanical key is mounted | worn with respect to a key main body. Sectional drawing of the portable machine which shows the state from which the mechanical key is removed from the key main body. Sectional drawing which shows the state in which the portable machine with which the regular mechanical key is mounted | worn is mounted | worn with the key slot. Sectional drawing which shows the state with which the portable machine by which the regular mechanical key is not mounted | worn is mounted | worn with the key slot.

Explanation of symbols

  2 ... portable device (key device), 27 ... transponder (internal communication means), 37 ... transmission / reception antenna (external communication means), 39 ... key slot (external key slot), 50 ... key body, 60 ... case, 60a ... one End face (end face of the case), 70... Slider (moving member), 76 a... End face of the slider, 80.

Claims (4)

In the key device having the internal communication means capable of communicating with the external communication means and having the mechanical key attached to the key body,
When a mechanical key that fits the key body is attached to the key body, the mechanical key that fits the key body is displaced to a communication allowable position that allows communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means. A key device comprising a moving member that is displaced to a communication blocking position for blocking communication between an external communication unit and an internal communication unit when not attached to the key body. The key device according to claim 1,
When the moving member is displaced to the communication allowable position, the distance between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit is set to a first distance that can establish communication between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit. In addition, when the moving member is displaced to the communication blocking position, the distance between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit is the second distance at which communication between the external communication unit and the internal communication unit cannot be established. A key device characterized by being set. In the key device having the internal communication means capable of communicating with the external communication means and having the mechanical key attached to the key body,
The key body is allowed to be inserted into the external key slot in such a manner that communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means is established when a mechanical key suitable for the key body is mounted on the key body. When the mechanical key that fits the key body is not attached to the key body, insertion into the external key slot is allowed in such a manner that communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means is not established. A key device characterized by having an outer shape. The key device according to claim 3, wherein
The key body is formed by a case having an internal communication means and a slider that is slidably supported with respect to the case.
When a mechanical key that matches the key body is not attached to the key body, the end surface on the insertion side of the slider with respect to the external key slot protrudes from the end surface on the insertion side of the case with respect to the external key slot. Only the distance between the external communication means and the internal communication means is longer than when a mechanical key that fits the key body is attached to the key body, and the distance between the external communication means and the internal communication means A key device characterized in that communication between the external communication means and the internal communication means is not established when the communication distance is exceeded.

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