JP2021022934A - Remote controller for on-vehicle apparatus and system - Google Patents

Abstract

To eliminate troublesomeness of taking out and operating a remote controller during remotely controlling an on-vehicle machine.SOLUTION: A system includes: an on-vehicle apparatus 1 installed on a vehicle; a remote controller 2 for performing radio communication with the on-vehicle apparatus to control the operation of the on-vehicle apparatus; and a portable device 3 such as a smartphone communicable with the remote controller. Information is transmitted and received by a communication method (specific power-saving wireless) of a first system between the on-vehicle apparatus and the remote controller. Information is transmitted and received by a communication method (BLE) of a second system different from the communication method of the first system between the remote controller and the portable device. The remote controller includes a function for directly controlling the on-vehicle apparatus on the basis of an operation to an operation part 2d belonging to itself, and a function for controlling the on-vehicle apparatus on the basis of an instruction from the portable device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a remote controller and a system for an in-vehicle device.

Engine starters and car security are systems that remotely control in-vehicle devices mounted on vehicles from a position away from the vehicle using wireless communication. In this type of technology, for example, in response to the operation of a button provided on the remote controller, the remote controller sends various operation commands to an in-vehicle device using wireless communication. Upon receiving the operation command, the in-vehicle device executes a predetermined process according to the content of the operation command. The predetermined process is, for example, starting / stopping the engine or setting a security arm / disarm (see Patent Document 1 and the like).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2005-163702

In conventional engine starters and car security, it is necessary to take out the remote controller when using it and operate buttons. However, the remote controller is, for example, in a predetermined position in the home, and is not always in a place that the user can immediately obtain. Therefore, when performing remote control, it is necessary to go to the remote controller and operate it, which is complicated. In particular, when the vehicle is used by a plurality of users, it is not preferable for one user to carry the remote controller, and it may be placed in a predetermined place such as an entrance or a living room, so that the above problem becomes remarkable.

Further, for example, when the driver of the vehicle can occupy the remote controller such as one person, the user can carry the remote controller. However, since the remote controller is not operated frequently, it is not carried by hand and is often stored in a bag or a pocket, for example. Then, there is an inconvenience that it must be taken out one by one at the time of operation. In particular, the remote controller for car security needs to be always carried or kept close to home after returning home in order to confirm and operate the report when a vehicle abnormality alarm occurs, but in reality, abnormality alarms are frequently issued. There is a problem that it is inconvenient to carry it indoors.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to the present invention has (1) a first communication means for wireless communication by the first system communication method and a first communication method different from the first system communication method. A function that includes a second communication means for wireless communication using two communication methods, and directly controls the operation of the in-vehicle device by receiving an instruction from an operation unit owned by the user by the wireless communication of the first system. The second system communication method includes a function of controlling the operation of the in-vehicle device by the first system wireless communication in response to an instruction received from the mobile device by the second system wireless communication. The communication distance is shorter than that of the first system communication method.

The first communication means corresponds to the first system wireless communication circuit 2b in the embodiment, and the second communication means corresponds to the second system wireless communication circuit 2c in the embodiment. The communication distance of the communication method of the first system is a distance that covers a place where the user is away from the parked vehicle and controls the in-vehicle device from a remote place. For example, it is preferable that the vehicle is parked on the premises of the home or in a parking lot near the home, and the user who is indoors is within the communication range when operating from the indoor. In addition, the user's location is not limited to his / her home, and it is necessary for the remote controller and the in-vehicle device to communicate with each other at a position appropriately away from the vehicle outdoors as needed, and necessary and sufficient communication according to the function of the in-vehicle device. It is advisable to adopt a communication method that has a distance and can secure at least the necessary and sufficient communication distance. The mobile device is a mobile device having a communication function, and it is preferable that the mobile device is such that the user can usually carry it, or it is within reach or can be easily taken out. For example, a device that is portable and has a communication function, such as a mobile communication terminal, or a wearable device is preferable because the user can carry it without discomfort. Further, even if it is stored in a back or a pocket, it can be taken out immediately and can be picked up and operated, which is preferable.

According to the present invention, the remote controller has a function of directly controlling an in-vehicle device based on an operation on an operation unit owned by the remote controller and a function of controlling an in-vehicle device based on an instruction from a mobile device. Therefore, the user does not necessarily have to take out the remote controller and operate it, and can use two types of functions properly according to the situation and control the operation of the in-vehicle device by an appropriate operation method. In particular, it is recommended that the user carry the mobile device, pick it up, and operate it easily. In this way, the remote controller can be used as an in-vehicle device even when it is in a remote position or in a bag or pocket. It is good because you can control.

(2) The portable device may be a mobile communication terminal or a wearable device. Examples of mobile communication terminals include smartphones, mobile phones, tablet PCs, and the like. For example, a smartphone or the like is not uncomfortable to carry because the user always carries it or keeps it close to him or her and operates it by holding it in his or her hand relatively frequently. The same applies to wearable devices. Therefore, it is not necessary to take out the remote controller when performing various operations, which is convenient.

(3) When the communication from the in-vehicle device is received by the wireless communication of the first system, the content may be transmitted to the mobile device by the wireless communication of the second system. By doing so, for example, the communication content between the remote controller and the in-vehicle device is sent to the mobile device and displayed on the mobile device, so that the remote controller does not have to have a display function and is provided with a display function. Even if it is small, a small one is enough. Therefore, the remote controller can be miniaturized and the cost can be reduced. Even if the remote controller is immediately put in a bag or pocket after being operated by the remote controller, the information from the in-vehicle device such as the answerback can be confirmed on the mobile device or the next operation can be performed on the mobile device.

(4) A function of providing a storage means, temporarily storing the contents received from the in-vehicle device in the storage means, and transmitting information based on the temporarily stored contents to the portable device, and the contents received from the portable device. It is preferable that the storage means has at least one of a functions of temporarily storing the information and transmitting information based on the temporarily stored contents to the in-vehicle device.

According to the present invention, it is not necessary to perform real-time processing, for example, a circuit or component having a low processing speed but low power consumption can be used. In addition, for example, when the current consumption of the communication method of the first system is large, for example, the first communication means of the first system is always turned off or intermittently driven, and the second communication means of the second system is used as a portable device. If the first communication means of the first system is started up and transmitted after receiving from, power saving can be achieved, battery life can be extended, and miniaturization can be realized by using a small capacity battery.

(5) When an operation command is transmitted to the in-vehicle device using the wireless communication of the first system based on the operation on the operation unit, the received content from the corresponding in-vehicle device is carried by the second system in the second system. It is good to have a function to send to the device. By doing so, the contents received from the in-vehicle device corresponding to the operation of the remote controller are transmitted by the in-vehicle device and the contents received by the remote controller can be confirmed, and the next operation can be performed from the mobile device. It is good because you will be able to do it.

(6) The system of the present invention comprises the remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to any one of (1) to (5) and the in-vehicle device that communicates with the remote controller for the in-vehicle device using the communication method of the first system. I tried to prepare.

(7) It is preferable to change the function of operating the in-vehicle device depending on whether or not the vehicle cannot travel. The situation in which the vehicle cannot travel may be easily determined by, for example, turning on / off a switch for the power source of the vehicle such as an engine key. By doing so, it is sufficient that the in-vehicle device can function in appropriate situations not only when the vehicle is getting off but also when the vehicle is getting on.

(8) The in-vehicle device has a function of acquiring information about the vehicle and a function of transmitting the acquired information to the remote controller or the mobile device, and the remote controller or the portable device is sent from the in-vehicle device. It is preferable to have at least one function of storing information about the vehicle and a function of displaying the information. In the embodiment, the information about the vehicle includes vehicle information and traveling information of the vehicle. By doing so, it is possible to acquire information about the vehicle, check the contents during traveling, and analyze the contents later. In particular, if the information about the vehicle is stored in the remote controller or the portable device, the remote controller or the portable device is taken out when getting off, so that the stored information about the vehicle can also be taken out.

(9) When the vehicle can travel, the operation of the communication circuit for communicating using the communication method of the first system of the in-vehicle device may be stopped. The operation of the communication circuit may be stopped temporarily or intermittently, but it may be stopped completely. Whether or not the vehicle can run may be determined by using, for example, ON / OFF of the engine key. In this way, when the vehicle is ready to run, the communication circuit of the communication method of the first system is cut off, so even if an erroneous operation is performed by the remote controller, the vehicle will not accept it and the vehicle will not accept it. It is good because it can prevent adverse effects on radio waves and radio wave interference. Further, it is preferable to cut off the wireless communication circuit for the first system, which consumes a large amount of power, to save energy.

(10) The in-vehicle device may be either an engine starter or a car security. (11) Assuming the system according to any one of (6) to (10), it is preferable to include the portable device that communicates with the remote controller for the in-vehicle device by using the communication method of the second system.

(12) The in-vehicle device is equipped with a communication circuit for communicating using the communication method of the second system, and the in-vehicle device and the mobile device directly communicate with each other by using the communication of the second system. It is preferable to have a function of controlling the operation of the in-vehicle device. When an in-vehicle device and a mobile device exist within the communication range of the second system having a short communication distance, the mobile device directly controls the in-vehicle device by using the communication method of the second system. Therefore, there are a form in which the portable device is operated and the in-vehicle device is controlled via the remote controller, and a form in which the in-vehicle device is directly controlled. By having various forms in this way, it is possible to control the in-vehicle device 1 by using an appropriate form according to the situation.

(13) When the in-vehicle device is an engine starter and the engine is started by using the engine starter, it is preferable that the in-vehicle device detects that the user has approached the vehicle and stops the engine. For example, there is a smart system that uses a genuine key that can open and close the door lock and start / stop the engine without inserting a mechanical key. In this smart system, when a user carrying a genuine key approaches the vehicle or touches the door handle of the vehicle, a weak radio wave is transmitted from the vehicle side, and the genuine key that receives it automatically receives the radio wave of the response signal. To send. Then, the device on the vehicle side that receives the radio wave of the response signal opens and closes the door lock and the like. Some smart systems of this type have a safety function that does not accept a response signal from a genuine key and does not open or close the door lock when the vehicle is idling, for example. For a vehicle equipped with a smart system equipped with such a safety function, for example, when a user outside the vehicle with the door locked starts the engine using the engine starter and then tries to board the vehicle. Since the vehicle is in an idling state, the safety function works and the door lock cannot be unlocked by the genuine key smart system. Therefore, the user had to operate the remote controller of the engine starter to stop the engine once, and then unlock the door lock using the smart system of the genuine key to get into the vehicle, which was complicated. There is. On the other hand, according to the present invention, when the user carrying the mobile device approaches the vehicle, the engine is automatically stopped, and then the engine can be unlocked by using the smart system of the genuine key. , It is good because the operation becomes simple. The approach to the vehicle may be, for example, for the user to get into the vehicle. Further, the detection of approach to the vehicle may be performed based on, for example, the reception intensity of radio waves. Assuming that the communication environment is constant, the shorter the distance between the in-vehicle device and the mobile device, the stronger the reception strength. Therefore, the determination can be easily made by using the determination based on the reception intensity.

(14) It is preferable to display the setting screen of the in-vehicle device on the display unit of the portable device and set the in-vehicle device using the setting screen. The display screen of a mobile device can be easily made larger than that of a remote controller. The display screen of the remote controller should be smaller than the screen of the mobile device. In this way, the setting contents can be easily input. Then, the information input using the setting screen is sent to the remote controller using, for example, the communication method of the second system, and the remote controller receives the information and sets the in-vehicle device based on the information.
(15) The communication method of the second system may be standard equipment on the mobile device.

According to the present invention, it is possible to control an in-vehicle device by taking out and operating a portable device, and it is possible to eliminate the complexity of taking out and operating a remote controller.

It is a figure which shows the 1st Embodiment and the like. It is a figure which shows the 3rd Embodiment and the like. It is a figure which shows the 4th Embodiment and the like. It is a figure which shows the sixth embodiment and the like.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. These drawings are used to illustrate the technical features that can be adopted by the present invention. The configuration, shape, etc. of the device described are merely explanatory examples, and the present invention is not construed as being limited thereto, and is based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art as long as it does not deviate from the scope of the present invention. , Various changes, modifications and improvements can be made.

[Basic configuration] (first embodiment)
FIG. 1 shows an example of a system using the remote controller for an in-vehicle device of the present invention. This system includes an in-vehicle device 1 installed in a vehicle, a remote controller 2 that wirelessly communicates with the in-vehicle device 1 and controls the operation of the in-vehicle device 1, and a portable device 3 capable of communicating with the remote controller 2. .. The in-vehicle device 1, the remote controller 2, and the portable device 3 include control units 1a, 2a, and 3a that execute predetermined processes, respectively. Further, as will be described later, a communication circuit for communicating with other devices and the like is provided.

Information is transmitted and received between the in-vehicle device 1 and the remote controller 2 by wireless communication using the first system communication method. Specifically, the vehicle-mounted device 1 is provided with the first system wireless communication circuit 1b, and the remote controller 2 is provided with the first system wireless communication circuit 2b. In addition, information is transmitted and received between the remote controller 2 and the mobile device 3 by wireless communication using a second system communication method different from the first system communication method. Specifically, the remote controller 2 is provided with the second system wireless communication circuit 2c, and the portable device 3 is provided with the second system wireless communication circuit 3b. The power source of the in-vehicle device 1 may be equipped with a battery, but it is preferable to receive power supply from the battery of the vehicle. Further, the power source of the remote controller 2 uses the built-in primary battery. As the primary battery, a commercially available dry battery, button battery, or the like can be used because it can be easily obtained and mounted, and is easy to handle. In particular, a button battery is preferable because the remote controller 2 can be miniaturized. The power source of the mobile device 3 uses a built-in rechargeable battery.

The communication method of the first system shall have a longer communicable distance than the communication method of the second system. Further, since the remote controller 2 is sold and used by general users, it can be used as a radio station that does not require a license. The communication distance is short with the weak radio waves used in the weak radio station, which is one of the radio stations that do not require such a license, and the in-vehicle device 1 and the remote controller 2 are located outside the communication range under normal usage conditions and environments. It is not preferable because there is a risk. Therefore, as the communication method of the first system, the radio wave used for the specific power-saving radio station was used. By using this specific power-saving wireless communication, the communication distance becomes, for example, about 1 to 2 km in the view distance, and even if there is an obstacle, it becomes, for example, about several hundred meters. Therefore, for example, when the home is a detached house or an apartment and the vehicle is parked in a parking lot on the premises, the remote controller 2 can communicate with the in-vehicle device 1 while being placed in a building such as a living room.

The communication method of the second system has a shorter communication distance than the communication method of the first system. Further, it is preferable that the communication method of the second system consumes less power than the communication method of the first system. In this way, for example, the communication by the communication method of the first system is normally stopped and operated when sending and receiving information, and the communication by the communication method of the second system is, for example, always communicating at a predetermined cycle. Even if you do, it is good because the battery life is long.

Further, as the communication method of the second system, it is preferable to use one corresponding to the communication circuit mounted as standard on the mobile device 3. This is preferable because it is not necessary to use a commercially available mobile device 3 and add a new communication circuit or the like. Then, in this embodiment, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is used as the communication method of the second system. Since this BLE is general-purpose and is used in many mobile devices having a communication function, the mobile device can be used as it is for the communication method. Further, when performing communication using Bluetooth (registered trademark), it is necessary to pair and connect the devices to be communicated with each other. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the remote controller 2 periodically (for example, a 1-second cycle) performs transmission for connecting the BLE. Even if the transmission is performed periodically in this way, the power consumption of the BLE is small, so that the power consumption is small and the battery of the remote controller 2 lasts a long time. For example, as described above, the button battery can be used to reduce the size of the device while driving the device for a long period of time such as one season.

The in-vehicle device 1 is, for example, an engine starter for starting an engine. The engine starter receives an operation command from the remote controller 2 and executes a process of starting or stopping the engine. The control unit 1a executes such a process. Specifically, for example, when the control unit 1a receives an engine start command accompanying the operation of the legitimate remote controller 2 of the user at a position away from the vehicle, the control unit 1a starts the engine and operates the engine for a certain period of time. Controls to continue and then stop. By continuing the operation of the engine, warm-up operation is performed, and the temperature inside the vehicle is adjusted to an appropriate temperature by the air conditioner installed in the vehicle. Further, when the control unit 1a receives the operation stop command, the control unit 1a controls to stop the engine during the driving operation. Further, the control unit 1a transmits the execution result for the received operation command to the remote controller 2 by using the first system wireless communication circuit 1b. The basic function of the engine starter is the same as that conventionally known.

Further, the remote controller 2 includes an operation unit 2d. As described above, assuming that the vehicle-mounted device 1 is an engine starter, the operation unit 2d is a push button switch corresponding to an operation instruction of, for example, a start switch, a stop switch, and the like. A user who is at a position away from the vehicle operates the in-vehicle device 1 mounted on the vehicle by pressing the operation unit 2d, and starts or stops the engine for remote control. When the control unit 2a detects an operation on the operation unit 2d, the control unit 2a transmits an instruction command corresponding to the operation from the first system wireless communication circuit 2b. Then, the in-vehicle device 1 receives the instruction command transmitted from the first system wireless communication circuit 2b in the first system wireless communication circuit 1b, and the control unit 1a executes the process according to the instruction command. .. As described above, the remote controller 2 has a function of directly controlling the in-vehicle device 1. Such a function is the same as the function of the existing existing engine starter.

Further, the remote controller 2 includes a notification unit 2e. The notification unit 2e notifies the operation status and the like, and for example, notifies the execution result sent from the in-vehicle device 1. The notification unit 2e notifies by using visual or auditory senses. In the case of using vision, the notification unit 2e uses, for example, a display panel to display the execution result in characters, figures, etc., or uses a light emitting means such as an LED to check the lighting state (blinking / extinguishing / lighting). , Notify by light emission color. Further, in the case of using hearing, the notification unit 2e notifies by voice or a buzzer using, for example, a speaker. These are realized by one or a combination of a plurality.

Further, as described above, the remote controller 2 can communicate with the mobile device 3. When the remote controller 2 receives instruction information including an execution command issued from the mobile device 3 to the remote controller 2 as described later, the remote controller 2 executes a predetermined process according to the instruction information and is mounted on the vehicle. Remote control of device 1. In the predetermined process, for example, when an engine start command or an engine stop command is received from the mobile device 3, the engine start command or the engine stop command is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1. The engine start command and engine stop command to be transmitted may be, for example, equivalent to those transmitted in response to an instruction from the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2. Further, when the processing associated with the received instruction information is completed, the remote controller 2 transmits an execution completion notification to the mobile device 3. As described above, the remote controller 2 of the present embodiment has a function (function 1) of directly controlling the in-vehicle device 1 based on the operation of the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2 and controls the in-vehicle device 1 based on an instruction from the mobile device 3. It has a function (function 2) to perform.

The mobile device 3 may be a device that is portable and has a communication function, such as a mobile communication terminal. Examples of these devices include smartphones, mobile phones, tablet PCs, and the like. For example, a smartphone or the like is convenient because it is not necessary to take out the remote controller 2 because it is always carried or placed in a familiar place. In addition, since smartphones and tablet PCs can easily download and install apps, users can download and install apps with functions corresponding to the present invention on their general-purpose smartphones, etc. It is good because it can realize.

Further, in the case of a smartphone or the like, for example, a communication circuit capable of long-distance communication such as 3G or LTE and a communication circuit corresponding to Bluetooth are adopted as standard functions as communication functions.

Therefore, the second system wireless communication circuit 3b uses the Bluetooth communication circuit installed as the standard function. By using the communication circuit installed as a standard function in this way, it is not necessary to add a new communication circuit as the second system wireless communication circuit 3b, which is preferable. Further, when the above function 2 is performed, the user operates the operation unit 3d of the mobile device 3. Therefore, the portable device 3 is preferably one that the user can easily carry around and take out. The smartphone is preferable to be applied to the mobile device 3 in view of the above points.

The smartphone is equipped with a communication method in which the communication distance is much longer than that of a specific power-saving radio such as 3G or LTE. If the related 3G or the like is used as the communication method of the first system, for example, the smartphone can directly communicate with the in-vehicle device 1 and control the in-vehicle device 1. However, if 3G or the like is adopted as the communication method of the first system, it is necessary to make the wireless communication circuit 1b for the first system of the in-vehicle device 1 compatible with 3G or the like, which increases the cost and cannot be put into practical use. When the in-vehicle device 1 is mounted as an engine starter, for example, a user who is indoors such as at home remotely starts the engine to perform warm-up operation, adjust the temperature inside the vehicle, and the like. Therefore, in view of such applications, even if the point operated by the user is far from the vehicle, it is not many kilometers away, and the communication distance of 3G or the like is not required, and the communication distance of the specific power-saving radio is not required. But it will be enough. Therefore, in consideration of cost and necessary and sufficient communication distance, a specific power-saving radio was adopted as the communication method of the first system.

Further, as the portable device 3, a wearable device that can be worn and carried around may be used. Since the wearable device is often worn at all times, it is convenient because it is not necessary to take out the remote controller 2. In particular, a wristwatch type or a bracelet type is preferable. Since each of these types is worn on the arm, it can be easily operated by using the hand on the non-wearing side.

The portable device 3 includes a display unit 3c and an operation unit 3d. The display unit 3c is composed of various liquid crystal displays and the like. The operation unit 3d is composed of a mechanical push button switch, a touch panel, or the like. In the present embodiment, the operation unit 3d of the mobile device 3 has at least the same function as the operation unit 2d for operating the remote controller 2 to control the in-vehicle device 1. Therefore, the operation and execution of the remote controller 2 can be executed by the operation of the mobile device 3 without taking out the remote controller 2. When the mobile device 3 is a general-purpose mobile device 3 such as a smartphone, it is preferable to use the one installed as a standard function as it is, similarly to the second system wireless communication circuit 3b.

In addition, a smartphone or the like becomes a device capable of executing a function by the predetermined application by downloading and installing the predetermined application. In this embodiment, the engine starter application is installed. With this installation, the control unit 3a displays the icon of the engine starter application on the display unit 3c. Then, when the control unit 3a detects that the icon is touched by the operation on the operation unit 3d, the control unit 3a activates the engine starter application.

With this activation, the control unit 3a displays a menu screen on the display unit 3c, for example, and when it detects that any of the menu items displayed on the menu screen is touched, it corresponds to the touched menu item. Display the operation screen. The operation screen includes, for example, an instruction input screen in which an engine start button and an engine stop button are arranged at predetermined positions, and a setting screen for performing various settings. The engine start button and the engine stop button are equivalent to the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2. Further, the control unit 3a connects the Bluetooth (BLE) to the remote controller 2 by using the second system wireless communication circuit 3b when the application is started.

When the control unit 3a detects that, for example, the "start button" or "stop button" on the operation screen is touched, the control unit 3a uses Bluetooth (BLE) to perform a corresponding execution command (for example, a start command) toward the remote controller 2. , Stop command, etc.) is sent.

When the connection stop condition is satisfied, the control unit 3a disconnects from the remote controller 2. The connection stop condition may be, for example, after the time set after the execution command is transmitted has elapsed. Even while the application is running, the battery consumption of the mobile device 3 can be suppressed by disconnecting the connection.

* Usage mode An example of the actual usage mode of the system described above is as follows. As shown in the above function 2, in the present embodiment, the mobile device 3 operates as if it controls the remote controller 2. When executing the function 2, the user does not have to operate the mobile device 3 or the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2. Therefore, for example, the user takes out the portable device 3 at a place away from the parking lot where the vehicle is parked, for example, at a predetermined position in the building, operates the operation unit 3d, and remotely controls and sets the in-vehicle device 1.

At this time, since the user does not need to touch the remote controller 2, the in-vehicle device 1 is controlled while the remote controller 2 is kept in a bag or pocket or placed at an appropriate position indoors. Therefore, if the mobile device 3 can be taken out, the user does not need to take out the remote controller 2 from the bag or the like, and does not need to go to the place where the remote controller 2 is placed, which is convenient. In particular, when the mobile device 3 is a device such as a smartphone that is always carried or kept close to the user, the user naturally carries the mobile device 3 and operates it by holding it in his / her hand. It is good because the operation using 3 can be performed smoothly.

In addition, for example, when the communication environment / radio wave environment is poor, such as in a living room or other living room in a building where the user is often used, the radio wave of the first system is difficult to reach, the remote controller 2 is used in the communication environment of the first system. Place in a place with a good radio wave environment. Then, if the place where the remote controller 2 is placed is within the range where the communication of the second system is possible from the place where the user exists, the user is a place where the communication environment / radio wave environment by the first system is bad. Even when you are at home, you can operate the portable device 3 and control the in-vehicle device 1. Therefore, in order to control the in-vehicle device 1, the user does not need to move to a place where the radio wave environment is good, and can operate the device while staying in a good living room or the like, which is preferable.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, by executing the function 1, the remote controller 2 can be operated and the in-vehicle device 1 can be directly controlled. Therefore, even if the mobile device 3 happens to be missing, not found, or inoperable, the user can control the in-vehicle device 1 by taking out the remote controller 2 and operating the operation unit 2d. can do. Further, the remote controller 2 is good because the operation unit 2d is easy to operate. For example, the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2 is exposed to the outside by a push button switch, and a command to start / stop the engine is sent to the in-vehicle device 1 simply by pressing the push button. On the other hand, if the mobile device 3 is a smartphone, it is necessary to start the application and touch the "start button" and "stop button" on the operation screen from the menu screen through multiple layers, and it is necessary to touch the "start button" and "stop button" on the operation screen. There is complexity that requires operation. Therefore, the user should use it properly according to the situation.

[Bidirectional communication support] (second embodiment)
In this embodiment, the following functions are added based on the first embodiment described above. The remote controller 2 has a function of receiving a communication from the in-vehicle device 1 by the communication of the first system and transmitting the content thereof to the mobile device 3 by the communication of the second system. In order to realize such a function, for example, when the control unit 2a of the remote controller 2 receives the information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 via the wireless communication circuit 2b for the first system, the information is used for the second system. Transmission is performed to the portable device 3 using the wireless communication circuit 2c. The information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 includes, for example, an execution result for an operation command transmitted from the remote controller 2, an answerback, and the like.

When the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 receives the execution result (success / failure, etc.) or answerback sent from the remote controller 2 via the second system wireless communication circuit 3b, the control unit 3a displays the received contents. Output to unit 3c. Such display may be performed by, for example, characters, marks, or the like. It is preferable that the user can easily understand the contents by looking at the display. Further, in particular, the remote controller 2 is requested to be miniaturized, and the notification unit 2e provided in the remote controller 2 is a simple one in which the display unit cannot be installed and the LED is lit. Therefore, the display unit is tentatively provided. Even so, the display area is small because the overall dimensions of the remote controller 2 are small and the operation unit 2d and the like are also mounted. Therefore, the information from the in-vehicle device 1 cannot be quickly and sufficiently understood by the notification using the remote controller 2. On the other hand, when the portable device 3 is a smartphone, for example, the display area of the display unit 3c is larger than that of the notification unit 2e provided in the remote controller 2, and the resolution is high, so that the notification content is easy to see.

In the first embodiment described above, the mobile device 3 transmits an execution command to the remote controller 2, but after transmission, communication is performed between the remote controller 2 and the vehicle-mounted device 1, and the vehicle-mounted device 1 answers. When there is a notification of the back or the execution result, the notification output is performed using the notification unit 2e of the remote controller 2, but the content is unknown on the portable device 3 side. Therefore, when the user confirms the content of the notification from the in-vehicle device 1, it is necessary to take out the remote controller 2, which causes a problem that it is complicated. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, it is convenient because the information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 can be confirmed by the portable device 3.

Further, when the control unit 3a receives the execution completion notification (for example, the execution result is successful) corresponding to the transmitted execution command, the control unit 3a disconnects from the remote controller 2. By doing so, it is possible to suppress the consumption of the battery of the portable device 3. Since other configurations, actions and effects, etc. are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[Temporary storage with remote controller] (Third embodiment)
As shown in FIG. 2, in the present embodiment, the remote controller 2 includes a storage unit 2f. When the control unit 2a receives instruction information such as an execution command from the mobile device 3 by communication by the second system, the control unit 2a temporarily stores the instruction information in the storage unit 2f. Then, the control unit 2a simultaneously starts up the communication circuit of the first system, and transmits the temporarily stored instruction content to the in-vehicle device 1 by communication by the first system. Further, when the answerback is received from the in-vehicle device 1, the answerback contents are temporarily stored in the same manner, the temporarily stored contents are answered back to the mobile device 3 by the communication of the second system, and the communication from the in-vehicle device 1 in the first system. Is received, the contents are temporarily stored, and the temporarily stored contents are transmitted to the mobile device 3 by the second system. Then, after receiving the instruction information from the mobile device 3, it is preferable to disconnect the communication circuit of the first system after performing a series of communications such as transmitting the instruction information to the in-vehicle device 1 and receiving the answerback. ..

In this way, the remote controller 2 temporarily stores the content received from the mobile device 3 or the in-vehicle device 1 in the storage unit 2f, and transmits the contents. As a result, real-time processing is not required, and circuits and components with low processing speed but low power consumption can be used. In addition, the circuit that consumes a lot of current is the first system, and the communication circuit of the first system is always turned off, and when the instruction information from the mobile device is received by the communication circuit of the second system, the communication circuit of the first system Power can be saved by starting up and transmitting, the battery life can be extended, and miniaturization can be realized by using a small capacity battery.

Although the above embodiment has been described on the premise of the two-way communication of the second embodiment, it may be applied to the first embodiment. In this case, since the content received from the in-vehicle device 1 is not transmitted to the mobile device 3, the process of temporarily storing the content in the storage unit 2f for such transmission and the accompanying transmission process to the mobile device 3 are eliminated. Since other configurations, actions and effects, etc. are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[Mobile device directly controls the in-vehicle device] (fourth embodiment)
As shown in FIG. 3, in the present embodiment, on the premise of the configuration of each of the above-described embodiments, the in-vehicle device 1 is equipped with the second system wireless communication circuit 1c. Then, a function is provided in which the in-vehicle device 1 and the mobile device 3 directly communicate with each other by using the communication of the second system.

The control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 detects an operation on the operation unit 3d, and when it is an operation on the "start button" or the "stop button", the in-vehicle device 1 uses the wireless communication circuit 3b for the second system. And try to connect. When the mobile device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are within a range where they can directly communicate with each other through the communication of the second system, the connection is made, and a predetermined operation command (start / stop, etc.) is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1.

When the in-vehicle device 1 receives an operation instruction via the second system wireless communication circuit 1c, the in-vehicle device 1 executes a process corresponding to the received operation instruction. Further, the control unit 1a transmits information such as an execution result (success / failure, etc.) and an answerback from the second system wireless communication circuit 1c to the mobile device 3 using the communication of the second system.

When the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 receives the information from the in-vehicle device 1, it outputs the contents corresponding to the received information to, for example, the display unit 3c. The output to the display unit 3c may be, for example, the same as in the second embodiment described above.

On the other hand, the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 attempts to connect to the remote controller 2 when the in-vehicle device 1 cannot be connected by the communication of the second system. When the connection is made, a predetermined process such as sending a corresponding execution command (for example, a start command, a stop command, etc.) to the remote controller 2 is executed as in each of the above-described embodiments. As a result, when the mobile device 3 and the vehicle-mounted device 1 are not within the range where they can directly communicate with each other by the communication of the second system, the mobile device 3 controls the remote controller 2 and controls the vehicle-mounted device 1 via the remote controller 2.

The control for the in-vehicle device 1 of the present embodiment is performed by using the communication of the first system from the remote controller 2 and the communication of the second system from the mobile device 3 when viewed with reference to the in-vehicle device 1. It has a form to be performed. Further, when the mobile device 3 is used as a reference, there are a form in which the remote controller 2 is controlled and the in-vehicle device 1 is controlled via the remote controller 2 as in each of the above-described embodiments, and a form in which the in-vehicle device 1 is directly controlled. is there. Further, when viewed with reference to the remote controller 2, there is a form of controlling the in-vehicle device 1 according to an instruction from its own operation unit 2d, and a function of controlling the in-vehicle device 1 in response to receiving an execution command from the mobile device 3. .. As described above, by having various forms, it is possible to control the in-vehicle device 1 by using an appropriate form according to the situation.

Then, when the mobile device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are within a range where they can directly communicate with each other by the communication of the second system, the communication circuit of the first system is not activated, and the in-vehicle device 1 and the in-vehicle device 3 directly communicate with each other. It is preferable not to control by the remote controller 2. This is preferable because the battery consumption of the remote controller 2 can be reduced, unnecessary radio waves are not emitted, and the communication speed and response speed can be increased. Since other configurations, actions and effects, etc. are the same as those of the above-described embodiments, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[Notify the operation content to the portable device] (Fifth embodiment)
When the control unit 2a of the remote controller 2 transmits an operation command to the in-vehicle device 1 using the first system wireless communication circuit 2b based on the button operation on the operation unit 2d, the transmission content and the corresponding in-vehicle device The received contents such as the answerback from 1 are transmitted to the mobile device 3 by the second system. As a result, the contents can be confirmed on the mobile device 3 side, and the next operation can be performed from the mobile device 3 as well.

In the present embodiment, the communication content between the remote controller 2 and the in-vehicle device 1 is also sent to the mobile device 3 and displayed on the display unit 3c of the mobile device 3, so that the remote controller 2 does not have a display function. Even if it is provided, it is simpler and smaller, and the remote controller 2 can be made smaller and less costly. Further, even if the remote controller 2 is immediately put in a bag or pocket after being operated by the remote controller 2, the information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 such as the answerback after that can be confirmed by the mobile device 3. It is good because the subsequent operation can be performed by the portable device 3.

For example, as described above, the remote controller 2 can more easily perform the user's operation for sending the operation command to the in-vehicle device 1. On the other hand, in the case of an engine starter, for example, it takes time from the transmission of the operation command to the actual start of the engine (for example, about several tens of seconds). Therefore, for example, when starting the engine remotely before going out, such as in the morning time, because we want to give instructions easily, for example, if we have the remote controller 2 at hand, we will operate it, but then remote for a certain period of time. It is troublesome to carry the controller 2 and keep waiting. Therefore, as in the present embodiment, after the operation instruction is input by the remote controller 2, the mobile device 3 can be carried around and the execution result or the like can be confirmed by the mobile device 3. Since it is common practice to carry the mobile device 3 on a daily basis, it is not uncomfortable for the user and is not bothersome. Further, since the display area of the display unit 3c is large and easy to see, it is easy to check, for example, the content of the operation command issued by the remote controller 2 or the content sent from the in-vehicle device 1. It is good because it can be done. Further, for example, in the case of an unexpected operation as a result of checking the contents of the operation command, the mobile device 3 can be operated as it is to execute a predetermined process such as cancellation of the operation command without taking out the remote controller 2. It's good because you can do it.

[Function switching] (sixth embodiment)
In the present embodiment, the functions of the remote controller 2 and the system are switched according to the state / situation of the vehicle. The state / situation of the vehicle is, for example, whether or not the vehicle is in a state / situation in which the original function of traveling cannot be executed. The state / situation in which the original function can be executed is when the vehicle is actually running and when the vehicle is temporarily stopped at a running speed of 0 km / h, it can be operated by operating the accelerator, braking, switching the shift position, or the like. It may be in a state where it can run. Further, it can be said that the state / situation of the vehicle is in the state / situation in which the in-vehicle device 1 is executed as the original function as in the engine starter function shown in each of the above-described embodiments. As an example, when the vehicle is parked, the original function of the vehicle running cannot be executed.

The above-mentioned determination of the state / situation of the vehicle may be performed by turning on / off the engine key of the vehicle. When the engine key of the vehicle is OFF, as shown in the above-described embodiment, the remote controller 2 controls the in-vehicle device 1 by using communication including only the first system or the second system. As a result, the function of the engine starter operates to start and stop the engine.

On the other hand, when the engine key is ON, the vehicle information and the running information of the vehicle are transmitted to the mobile device 3 and the remote controller 2 by the communication of the second system, and the mobile device 3 and the remote controller 2 are sent from the in-vehicle device 1. Display and memorize information. When the engine key is ON, for example, ACC or IG (ignition) is ON.

When transmitting the vehicle information and the traveling information of the vehicle, it is preferable to use the communication of the second system. For example, the specified low power radio used as the first system has restrictions on the content and amount of information that can be transmitted, the communication speed is slow, and the power consumption is large, so it is not suitable for sequentially transmitting vehicle information etc. .. Therefore, BLE used for the communication of the second system is preferable because the communication speed is high, a large amount of information can be transmitted, and the power consumption is small. The device for executing such processing is as follows.

In the present embodiment, for example, when the engine key is OFF, the in-vehicle device 1 operates as a basic function like an engine starter, and the remote controller 2 and the portable device 3 control it. Since it operates in the same manner as each of the above-described embodiments, detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Then, as in the case where the engine key is ON, for example, the in-vehicle device 1 and the like do not operate as the basic function, and the configuration for operating as the second function is also provided in the in-vehicle device 1 as shown in FIG. 4, for example. It is based on a device equipped with a two-system wireless communication circuit 1c. Then, it is possible to communicate with at least one of the remote controller 2 and the portable device 3 by the communication of the second system via the wireless communication circuit 1c for the second system.

Further, the in-vehicle device 1 has a function of acquiring vehicle information and the like. The vehicle information is, for example, historical data during traveling such as engine speed information, fuel consumption information, and vehicle driving operation information. The traveling information is, for example, historical data of information such as running image and sound information (recording, recording), traveling locus information, traveling speed information, impact, vibration, and acceleration.

The in-vehicle device 1 that recognizes that the engine key is ON or the like acquires the vehicle information or the like at an appropriate timing by the function of acquiring the vehicle information or the like. The control unit 1a transmits the acquired vehicle information and the like to, for example, the remote controller 2 using the communication of the second system.

The remote controller 2 includes a storage unit 2f. The storage unit 2f stores vehicle information and the like sent from the in-vehicle device 1 in relation to the present embodiment. The control unit 2a stores the vehicle information and the like received via the second system wireless communication circuit 2c in the storage unit 2f. For example, some drive recorders and other in-vehicle devices have a function of acquiring and storing vehicle information and the like. When the stored vehicle information, etc. is taken out of the vehicle and checked / analyzed by an external personal computer, etc., the in-vehicle device is equipped with a removable recording medium such as a memory card, and the vehicle information, etc. is stored in the memory. Record on the card. Then, when getting off the vehicle, the user needs to remove the memory card or the like from the in-vehicle device, carry the memory card, and take it out of the vehicle. However, the work of removing the memory card at the time of getting off is complicated and easy to forget, it is troublesome to carry a small memory card, and there is a risk of loss and it is difficult to find it if it is misplaced.

On the other hand, the remote controller 2 is almost certainly taken out of the vehicle when getting off. Therefore, in the present embodiment, since the vehicle information or the like acquired by the in-vehicle device 1 is stored in the remote controller 2, it is not necessary to remove the memory card or the like from the in-vehicle device and take it out when getting off, and it is special for taking it out. Since no work is required, the remote controller 2 can be surely taken out without forgetting to take it out, and since the remote controller 2 has an appropriate size, there is no risk of it being lost.

The storage unit 2f may be an internal memory or a memory card. Since the memory card is removable, for example, it is preferable to bring the remote controller 2 to a personal computer or the like, remove the memory card there, set it in the personal computer or the like, and read the stored information. Further, in the case of the internal memory, the stored information may be transmitted to a personal computer or the like by BLE using, for example, the second system wireless communication circuit 2c.

Further, instead of storing in the remote controller 2 as described above, the portable device 3 may be provided with a storage unit 3e, and the vehicle information or the like may be stored in the storage unit 3e. When the mobile device 3 is a smartphone or the like, it is good because it is equipped with an internal memory as standard equipment and also has a removable storage means such as a memory card, so that it can be used.

In this case, when the remote controller 2 receives the vehicle information or the like sent from the in-vehicle device 1 as in the second embodiment, the received vehicle information or the like is transmitted to the mobile device 3 by the communication of the second system. And send. Then, when the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 receives the vehicle information or the like sent from the remote controller 2, it stores it in the storage unit 3e. Further, the received vehicle information or the like may be output to the display unit 3c. In this case, the remote controller 2 does not necessarily have to include the storage unit 2f. That is, when the real-time transfer is performed on the spot as in the second embodiment, the storage unit 2f may be eliminated. Further, when the function of temporarily storing and transferring is provided as in the third embodiment, the control unit 2a temporarily stores the received vehicle information and the like in the storage unit 2f, and the information temporarily stored at an appropriate timing is stored in the portable device 3. You may send it to.

Further, the vehicle information and the like may be transmitted directly from the in-vehicle device 1 to the mobile device 3 by setting the transmission partner of the vehicle information and the like of the in-vehicle device 1 as the mobile device 3. In this way, the process of relaying by the remote controller 2 becomes unnecessary, power saving can be achieved, and the remote controller 2 does not have to store and retain the vehicle information and the like. Therefore, the storage unit 2f is provided in relation to the present embodiment. It is good because the memory capacity can be reduced even if the configuration is not provided or even if it is provided. Further, since the information generated by the in-vehicle device 1 is directly transmitted to the portable device 3 without passing through the remote controller 2, the communication load is reduced, which is preferable.

Since the user usually takes the mobile device 3 with him / her when getting off, it is not necessary to remove the memory card or the like from the in-vehicle device at the time of getting off as in the case of the remote controller 2, and no special work is required to take it out. Therefore, it has the same effect that it can be surely taken out without forgetting to take it out. The information stored in the storage unit 3e of the mobile device 3 can be taken out in the same manner as the remote controller 2 described above, for example.

According to this embodiment, the vehicle functions as an engine starter or car security when the vehicle is parked, and when the vehicle is running, the mobile device 3 acquires and displays vehicle information, vehicle driving information, etc., or stores the vehicle after getting off. It can be used by checking and analyzing information and vehicle driving information on a personal computer or the like.

Further, as described above, when the mobile device 3 receives the vehicle information or the like, the control unit 3a may store the vehicle information in the storage unit 3e, change the function to the function, or store the function in the display unit 3c in addition to the function. It may have a function to output. By displaying the information on the display unit 3c, it is possible to check the vehicle information and the like in real time while driving.

In the present embodiment, the wireless circuit of the second system is used in a basic function of controlling the in-vehicle device 1 that is performed when the vehicle is not running, such as when the engine key is OFF, and when the vehicle is running, such as when the engine key is ON. Since it can be diverted to the above-mentioned transmission function to be performed, there is also a cost merit.

The function of acquiring vehicle information and the like possessed by the in-vehicle device may be configured to be connected to, for example, a vehicle failure diagnostic device connection terminal (OBDII terminal) and acquire information from the in-vehicle LAN. By connecting the in-vehicle device 1 to the OBDII, since the OBDII is connected to the in-vehicle LAN, it is possible to acquire various vehicle information flowing in the in-vehicle LAN. For example, with an engine starter, useful information can be obtained as an engine starter, such as the temperature inside the vehicle, the temperature outside the vehicle, the cooling water temperature, the engine speed, and the fuel consumption during idling, although it depends on the vehicle type. In addition to displaying this information on a portable device, it is preferable to have a function of adjusting the idling time and the engine speed during idling according to, for example, the temperature inside the vehicle, the temperature outside the vehicle, and the temperature of the cooling water. While driving, running speed, engine speed, fuel consumption information, fuel consumption, and many other information can be obtained, and by displaying or storing and analyzing this information while driving, eco-driving and safe driving Can be useful for.

The running information of the vehicle is, for example, image information of the surroundings of the running vehicle by the in-vehicle camera, voice information by the microphone, running locus information by the positioning system, running log information of the vehicle such as running speed and acceleration, running state of the impact sensor and the angular velocity sensor. There is detection sensor information and so on. The in-vehicle device 1 is provided with means for acquiring these various types of information, or the in-vehicle device 1 cooperates to acquire the information.

Then, by storing these driving information in the mobile device 3 or the remote controller 2 and displaying and analyzing the driving information on the mobile device 3 or a PC or the like, the cause of the accident can be confirmed and analyzed by looking at the record at the time of the accident, or driving. By analyzing the state, it can be useful for driver's safe driving education and acquisition.

[Control of the communication circuit of the first system] (7th embodiment)
In each of the above-described embodiments, it is preferable to have a function of shutting off the communication circuit of the first system when the engine key of the vehicle is turned on. For example, when the control unit 1a of the vehicle-mounted device 1 detects that the engine key is turned on, the control unit 1a shuts off the wireless communication circuit 1b for the first system. As a result, even if an erroneous operation is performed by the remote controller 2, the in-vehicle device 1 does not accept it, and it is possible to prevent adverse effects on the vehicle and radio wave interference. Further, by shutting off the wireless communication circuit 1b for the first system, which consumes a large amount of power, it is possible to prevent the battery from being consumed when the battery is driven. Then, when the engine key of the vehicle is turned on, the communication of the first system is unnecessary, so there is no problem even if it is disconnected.

Further, when the in-vehicle device 1 is also provided with the second system wireless communication circuit 1c, for example, it is preferable that the second system wireless communication circuit 1c is not interrupted and communication is possible by establishing a link with another device. Since the power consumption of the second system wireless communication circuit 1c is small, the influence on the battery consumption is small, and for example, the function of starting this embodiment when the engine key is ON as in the sixth embodiment is provided. This is to execute the function when applied to the provided device.

Further, for example, when the mobile device 3 is applied to an embodiment having a function of directly controlling the in-vehicle device 1 by using the communication of the second system as in the fourth embodiment, the wireless communication circuit for the second system is applied. It is good to block 1c so that it cannot be linked with other devices. In this way, even if an erroneous operation of the mobile device 3 is performed, it is not accepted by the in-vehicle device 1 side, and it is possible to prevent adverse effects on the vehicle and radio wave interference.

[Various setting functions using a mobile device] (8th embodiment)
In each of the above-described embodiments, the operation instruction given by operating the mobile device 3 is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller, and the in-vehicle device 1 operates according to the operation instruction. In the present embodiment, the mobile device 3 can be used to make various settings and change the settings of the in-vehicle device 1 by using such a function. That is, in each embodiment, the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 displays a predetermined setting screen (not shown) according to the operation on the operation unit 3d. Then, the control unit 3a sends the setting information input via the setting screen to the remote controller 2 by using the communication of the second system. The control unit 2a of the remote controller 2 sends the received setting information to the in-vehicle device 1 by using the communication of the first system. The control unit 1a of the in-vehicle device 1 makes various settings based on the setting information received by using the communication of the first system.

Since the remote controller 2 is required to be miniaturized, a large display is not provided. Therefore, when the remote controller 2 sets or changes the setting of the in-vehicle device 1, for example, the button for setting is small and difficult to press. In addition, since the number of the buttons is small and multiple functions are assigned to one button, it is necessary to operate hierarchically, but it is difficult to operate because it does not have a large display, and complicated settings and types are used. There is a problem that many settings are difficult. As a result, the user has a problem that the user can use the initial state set by the manufacturer at the time of shipment, and the setting is not always appropriate for the actual usage environment, and the function of the in-vehicle device 1 cannot be fully exhibited. There is. In particular, the above problem becomes remarkable when it is preferable to make frequent changes or make detailed settings according to the situation. On the other hand, smartphones and the like used in the mobile device 3 have good operability such as a large display and a touch panel, so that complicated settings and many kinds of settings can be easily performed, which is preferable because the above problems can be solved.

It is difficult to make such settings with a small remote controller, such as adjusting the idling time in the engine starter according to the room temperature of the vehicle or the temperature of the cooling water, or adjusting the engine speed during idling. Therefore, in the existing system, it is necessary for the installation specialist to separately perform the setting for the in-vehicle device 1 by using a special personal computer or the like, and the user cannot easily set / change the setting, which causes a problem that the setting is not practical. According to this embodiment, the setting can be easily performed using the portable device 3 such as a smartphone or a tablet PC. Further, since the setting can be made by operating the mobile device 3, the setting information is sent to the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller 2 and set, so that the in-vehicle device 1 can be set even in a place away from the vehicle such as in a house. You can change the settings.

Further, for example, in car security, the sensitivity of each sensor and whether or not it is used may be finely set according to the vehicle and parking environment. For example, when parking in the garage at home, set the sensitivity to high and set the number and types of operating sensors to be large, and it is difficult to assume that a third party will approach the parked vehicle, and the vehicle will be mischievous or stolen. If there is a risk of such a situation, it is better to detect it reliably and early and issue an alarm so that the third party can be threatened or the user can be notified. On the other hand, when parking in a parking lot in the city, the driver of another vehicle to be parked adjacently may approach the user's vehicle in order to get into the other vehicle, and the general public may approach the parking lot. Since you may drive on the road near the road, it is better to set the sensitivity and function so that false detections and false alarms do not occur.

Further, many mobile devices 3 such as smartphones have a function of detecting the current position of a GPS receiver or the like. In this case, for example, the position of the home is registered, it is determined whether or not the current position recognized by the GPS receiver or the like is the home or its surroundings, and in the case of the home or the like, high sensitivity and high functionality are achieved. If you are not at home, you should set the number and types of sensors that operate with low sensitivity according to the city. If the sensitivity and the like are set and changed to appropriate contents based on the current position in this way, the user can easily make appropriate settings without any special knowledge. For example, when the car security arm is changed based on the operation of the mobile device 3, the setting information based on the current position may be transmitted at an appropriate timing. By doing so, the user can change an appropriate setting suitable for the location only by operating the arm using the mobile device 3. Further, instead of interlocking with the arm operation in this way, it is preferable to perform the setting based on the current position by touching the button for the setting based on the current position prepared on the display unit 3c.

[Operation control of in-vehicle device] (9th embodiment)
In each of the above-described embodiments and the like, the operation instruction given by operating the mobile device 3 is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller so that the in-vehicle device 1 operates according to the operation instruction. In the present embodiment, the operation of the in-vehicle device 1 is pre-booked and the reservation is changed by the mobile device 3 by using the function.

When the in-vehicle device 1 is an engine starter, it has a function of reserving a time for outputting an engine start command from the mobile device 3, and further, the reservation can be changed according to the day of the week or the like. For example, a timer reservation function such as "start the engine at 7 am every day" or "start the engine at 7 am every Monday to Friday but not start the engine on Saturday and Sunday". To have. When setting the reservation, if the operation is performed on the large display screen or the touch panel of the mobile device 3, it is possible to easily set the start presence / absence and the start time for each day of the week. Furthermore, a calendar can be displayed and set at different times every day, and settings for each date such as setting of days to operate and days to not operate can be easily performed. Furthermore, various additional functions such as sounding an alarm before a predetermined time of the set time and displaying the remaining time until the set time can be added. In addition, the set time once set can be easily changed.

Further, as an example of use in car security, for example, the security is not armed when parking, but is armed from a predetermined time to a predetermined time. Alternatively, after arming when parking, the alert mode is changed from a predetermined time to a predetermined time. For example, if you park in a place where many people and cars come and go until the specified time, do not arm until the specified time, or set it to the arm in the weak alert mode and switch to the arm only at midnight or switch to the strong alert mode. Set to. Alternatively, since it may be a nuisance to the neighborhood during the midnight hours, the alarm device of the vehicle may not be activated and only the remote controller 2 may be notified. The control unit 3a transmits an operation command for the arm or the disarm at a predetermined time based on the setting.

It is difficult and impractical to make the various settings described above with a remote controller with a small screen, but it can be easily done with a three-screen portable device such as a smartphone. Further, since the setting can be made by operating the mobile device 3, the setting information is sent to the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller 2 and set, so that the in-vehicle device 1 can be set even in a place away from the vehicle such as in a house. You can change the settings.

[Modified example of in-vehicle device function]
In the various embodiments described above, an example in which the in-vehicle device 1 is used as an engine starter has been mainly described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and various usage modes can be used. For example, an in-vehicle device 1 mounted on a vehicle that operates based on a drive source other than an engine, such as being driven by a motor such as an electric vehicle, is used with respect to a vehicle drive source such as a device that controls ON / OFF of energization of the motor. It is preferable to control the start / stop of operation.

Further, the control for the drive source is not limited to the one that mainly functions when the vehicle gets on the vehicle and before the vehicle gets on the vehicle, but the one that functions mainly when the vehicle gets off the vehicle, while the vehicle is parked, and the like. As an in-vehicle device that functions when getting off or parking, for example, there is car security.

For example, since a mobile device 3 such as a smartphone is often carried in a state where it can be taken out immediately, the remote controller 2 is in-vehicle with an arm / disarm instruction by operating the mobile device 3 while it is stored in a bag or pocket. It is preferable because it can be performed on the device 1. When getting on and off, the user carries the remote controller 2, but it is often stored in a bag or pocket. The remote controller 2 tends to have a smaller size and shape due to a demand for miniaturization, and there is a problem that it is difficult to find and take out the remote controller 2 when it is stored in a bag. Further, when the mobile device 3 is a smartphone or the like, the mobile device 3 is in a state of being relatively easy to take out even if it is held in a hand or is stored in a bag or the like. Further, in a situation where there is a high tendency to walk while holding the mobile device 3 in the hand, it is complicated to take out the remote controller 2 while holding the mobile device 3 in the hand and operate the remote controller 2. There are also challenges. Therefore, it is convenient to solve the above-mentioned problems by enabling the portable device 3 to input instructions as in the present embodiment.

On the other hand, if the car security is used as an arm in conjunction with the door lock, it is possible to eliminate the need for a special operation using the mobile device 3 or the like when getting off. However, when the car security sensor detects an abnormality in the arm and issues an alarm or notifies the remote controller 2, it is necessary for the remote controller 2 to stop the alarm or confirm the alarm. Therefore, in the conventional car security system, it is necessary to keep the remote controller 2 close to us at all times, which still causes an inconvenient problem. On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, for example, the remote controller 2 is a portable device 3 such as a smartphone or a wearable device that is always close to the user and can be easily taken out while being kept in a bag or pocket. It is convenient because you can operate and check with.

[Improvement of display function of mobile devices]
In the second embodiment, the information from the in-vehicle device 1 is displayed on the portable device 3 via the remote controller 2. This is because the remote controller 2 cannot be provided with a large display because it is required to be miniaturized. Therefore, it is difficult for the remote controller 2 to easily display a large amount of information from the in-vehicle device 1. On the other hand, since the mobile device 3 such as a smartphone is equipped with a large display, it is preferable that a large amount of information can be displayed in an easy-to-read manner.

For example, when the in-vehicle device 1 is applied to a system that functions as an engine starter, the portable device 3 not only notifies the execution result sent from the in-vehicle device 1, for example, the state information of "successful engine start". For example, it is preferable to display the remaining time when the engine is operating. For example, when the engine is started by the engine starter, the in-vehicle device 1 stops the engine when a set time has elapsed from the start. In such a case, when the in-vehicle device 1 is stopped, the in-vehicle device 1 notifies the execution result (stopped due to the passage of time), and by adding a function of notifying the remote controller 2 or the mobile device 3, the user can be notified that the stop is caused by the notification. I can know. However, if the set time is as long as, for example, about 30 minutes, how much time has passed since the user operated the remote controller 2 or the mobile device 3 to start the engine, and how long is the engine remaining? It becomes difficult to easily grasp whether or not is continuing to operate. Therefore, the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 stores the time set in the in-vehicle device 1, and when it receives the notification of engine start, starts timing from there and obtains the remaining time until the engine stops. It is good to have a function to notify it. For example, the remaining time may be indicated by a numerical value, or the notification may be displayed in a form that is easy to understand by a figure / animation such as a figure imitating a clock / timer or an indicator. In addition, the shorter the remaining time, the easier it is to display the state. The easy-to-understand display mode may be, for example, changing the display color, blinking, or changing the display dimensions of figures, icons, and the like. When changing the dimensions, it is good to intuitively understand that the remaining time will be exhausted by changing the figure / icon so that all or part of it becomes smaller.

Also, for example, in car security, when a sensor mounted on a vehicle detects an abnormality, a warning sound is conventionally sounded, and if there is a display, an icon or character is displayed, but the size of the display is small. Therefore, the displayed contents are small and difficult to see and understand. Therefore, when the alarm is notified, the user needs to check the situation only after going to the vehicle, which is complicated, cannot be dealt with immediately, and is wasted in case of malfunction. was there. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, it is preferable not only to give an alarm or a notification but also to display the type and degree of the sensor detected on the display of the mobile device 3 in more detail and in an easy-to-see manner. By doing so, it is easy to confirm whether the alarm or the like is malfunctioning, what kind of damage / abnormality it is, and how much damage it is, and it is possible to take measures according to the situation. Further, the in-vehicle device 1 is also made to send more detailed and more information, and the user who sees the displayed contents on the mobile device 3 can immediately grasp the situation more appropriately.

Further, the battery capacity of the battery mounted on the remote controller 2 is reduced due to miniaturization, and the display time on the display is shortened due to the limitation of current consumption. Therefore, even if the vehicle sensor or the like detects an abnormality and the in-vehicle device 1 reports to the remote controller 2, the time for displaying what kind of abnormality or the like is short (for example, about several seconds). Therefore, there is a problem that the display has already disappeared by the time the remote controller 2 is taken out of the pocket or bag and the contents cannot be confirmed. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, if the alarm notification is output to the display of the mobile device 3, the notification output can be continued for a relatively long time, and the user can surely confirm the displayed content. Can solve the problem.

Further, usually, the mobile device 3 can be taken out relatively easily by the user and the displayed contents can be quickly viewed as compared with the remote controller 2. Therefore, it is preferable to output the contents of the alarm or the like sent from the in-vehicle device 1 to the display of the remote controller 2.

[Usage mode for car security of the third embodiment]
In the third embodiment, the first system is turned off at an appropriate timing, but for example, when the in-vehicle device 1 is used for car security or the like, the abnormality detection report is always sent so that the abnormality detection report may be sent. When operating the receiving circuit of one system, it is preferable to operate the wireless communication circuit 2b for the first system in the power saving mode such as intermittent operation after the series of communication is completed. As a result, the current consumption of the remote controller 2 can be reduced and the battery life can be extended.

[Support for genuine key smart system]
In the idling state where the engine is started using the engine starter, there is a problem that the vehicle cannot be unlocked by using the smart system of the genuine key and cannot get into the vehicle as it is. Then, in order to unlock using the genuine key smart system, an operation stop command from the remote controller 2 that constitutes the engine starter system is once transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1, and in response to the operation stop command, the in-vehicle device 1 is received. Performs the process of stopping the engine. After that, it was necessary to unlock the vehicle with a genuine key smart system and board the vehicle, which was a problem that the operation was troublesome. In order to solve the problem, the present embodiment is configured as follows.

It has a function to detect that the user is approaching the vehicle and execute a process of stopping the engine. Such an approach may be for the user to board the vehicle. For example, if you start the engine at home using an engine starter and then go outdoors to pick up newspapers, or if you happen to be moving indoors, in a room adjacent to a parking lot, in a corridor, etc. The distance to the vehicle may be reduced by passing through the vehicle, but in such a case, it is not the case that the vehicle is boarded, so it is better not to stop the engine as a trigger. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the engine is stopped when the user approaches the vehicle as the risk of getting into the vehicle increases. Specifically, the determination of such approach was made as follows.

For example, as in the fourth embodiment, the second system wireless communication circuit 1c is also mounted on the in-vehicle device 1, and the second system wireless communication circuit 1c and the second system wireless communication circuit 3b of the mobile device 3 are combined. It has a function of establishing a link between them and communicating directly between the in-vehicle device 1 and the portable device 3. Since this direct communication function uses the communication of the second system having a short communication distance, when the user having the mobile device 3 is relatively far from the vehicle, the mobile device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are out of the communication range. Therefore, the engine is not stopped.

In addition, since the communication distance of the communication method of the second system is about 10 m, it is not enough that the user having the mobile device 3 enters the communication range with the in-vehicle device 1 and the communication of the second system becomes possible. However, it cannot be said that there is a risk of getting into a vehicle because it may be within the relevant range even if it is indoors. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the communication of the second system between the in-vehicle device 1 and the mobile device 3 is used to determine the approach, and when the risk of getting into the vehicle approaches to a certain extent, the engine is stopped. This approach determination may be performed based on, for example, the reception intensity of radio waves. Then, for example, the RSSI level is used, and when the level exceeds the set threshold value, the engine is stopped. The threshold value may be set to a value corresponding to, for example, when the user holding the mobile device 3 reaches the vicinity of the door, for example, when the distance between the two is close to about 1 m.

The determination based on the RSSI level may be performed on the in-vehicle device 1 side or on the portable device 3 side. In particular, when it is incorporated in the in-vehicle device 1, the engine can be stopped immediately after the determination is made in the in-vehicle device 1, so that the user can touch the door of the vehicle even more than planned due to the surrounding radio wave condition, for example. Even if the threshold is exceeded when approaching, the engine can be stopped and unlocked immediately, which is good. When the RSSI level is determined on the mobile device 3 side, the engine stop command is transmitted when the threshold value is exceeded. In this case, since the in-vehicle device 1 performs the process of stopping the engine in response to the stop command, there is an advantage that the same algorithm as the process based on the operation of the operation unit of the normal mobile device 3 or the remote controller 2 may be used.

It is the same as the fourth embodiment in that the wireless communication circuit 1c for the second system is mounted on the in-vehicle device 1, but this embodiment does not necessarily presuppose the fourth embodiment, and various embodiments. In such a configuration, this function may be incorporated.

[Combination of mobile device and remote controller other than one-to-one]
In each of the above-described embodiments, one remote controller 2 is assigned to the in-vehicle device 1, and one mobile device 3 is also assigned to the remote controller 2. However, the present invention describes the number of the remote controllers 2. The combination is arbitrary, and various combinations can be taken. For example, it is preferable to allocate a plurality of mobile devices 3 to one remote controller 2. The plurality of mobile devices 3 and the remote controller 2 are connected by a multi-link. For example, the remote controller 2 is placed at an appropriate position such as a living room or a front door, and the plurality of portable devices 3 are owned by, for example, a family member. In this way, each family member having the mobile device 3 can send an operation command, which is good. Further, in recent years, one user may own a plurality of smartphones and the like, and may carry different types of smartphones and tablet PCs and wearable devices. By associating any of the plurality of mobile devices 3 to be carried with the remote controller 2, the user may be able to operate the mobile device 3 which is easy to take out and operate according to the situation.

In this case, for example, as in the second embodiment, when the remote controller 2 that receives the information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 sends the information to the mobile device 3, it is preferable to send the information to a plurality of mobile devices 3. In this way, each person carrying each mobile device 3 can share information, which is good. Further, when the execution result based on the operation of the mobile device 3 is sent to the mobile device 3, it may be sent only to the mobile device 3 that has performed the operation, but it may be sent to a plurality of mobile devices 3. By doing so, even a person who is not operating can understand that someone in the family has sent a predetermined operation command or the like to the in-vehicle device 1, so that the same process can be performed again or the predetermined operation command can be used. This is good because it is possible to prevent sending an instruction that conflicts with the accompanying processing.

Further, when the function of transmitting the operation content of the remote controller 2 to the mobile device 3 is provided as in the fifth embodiment, it is preferable to send the operation contents to the plurality of mobile devices 3. By doing so, even a person who did not operate the remote controller 2 can understand that someone in the family has sent a predetermined operation command or the like to the in-vehicle device 1, so that the same process can be performed again or the predetermined operation can be performed. This is good because it is possible to prevent sending an instruction that contradicts the processing associated with the instruction.

Further, a plurality of remote controllers 2 are associated with one mobile device 3, and one mobile device 3 is operated to control the in-vehicle device 1 associated with the remote controller 2, or is sent from each of the plurality of in-vehicle devices 1. The incoming information may be received by one mobile device 3. When a plurality of vehicles are owned, it is good because one portable device 3 can collectively manage them.

[Modification example of in-vehicle device]
As the in-vehicle device, the device or the like for realizing the various functions described above may be mounted in one housing, or may be appropriately divided and mounted in a plurality of housings. When dividing into a plurality of housings, for example, the communication circuit system including the antenna and other devices may be configured separately. For example, the housing on which the communication circuit system including the antenna is mounted is placed on the dashboard, near the windshield, the back of the rearview mirror (front of the vehicle), etc., where it is easy to communicate with the outside, and the control unit 1a and others. The housing on which the device / circuit is mounted should be placed in a place that is difficult to see from the outside, such as under the dashboard, or in the vicinity of the OBDII outlet when using the OBDII. When they are separated in this way, the two are connected by a wired cable or wireless communication.

[Modification example of power supply of each device]
In the above-described embodiments and modifications, the primary battery is used as the power source for the remote controller 2, but a secondary battery may be used. In particular, when storing vehicle information or the like in the remote controller 2, a secondary battery may be used. When using a secondary battery, it is preferable to link the remote controller 2 to the power supply system of the vehicle so that the secondary battery can be charged from the power supply of the vehicle while the vehicle is running.

The present invention may appropriately combine the above-described embodiments and modifications, or incorporate some or all of the functions of each embodiment into other embodiments.

Although various aspects of the present invention have been described above with reference to embodiments and modifications, these embodiments and descriptions have not been made for the purpose of limiting the scope of the present invention, and are intended for understanding the present invention. It should be added that it was provided to contribute. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the configurations and manufacturing methods explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of various aspects of the present invention disclosed in the present specification. Of the present invention, the configuration for which a patent is sought is specified in the appended claims, but even if the configuration is not currently specified in the claims, it is disclosed in the present specification. I would like to mention that there is a possibility of claiming a patent for this configuration in the future.

1 In-vehicle device 1a Control unit 1b Wireless communication circuit for the first system 1c Wireless communication circuit for the second system 2 Remote controller 2a Control unit 2b Wireless communication circuit for the first system 2c Wireless communication circuit for the second system 2d Operation unit 2e Notification unit 2f Storage unit 3 Portable device 3a Control unit 3b Wireless communication circuit for second system 3c Display unit 3d Operation unit 3e Storage unit

Claims (5)

The first communication means for wireless communication using the first system communication method,
In the communication method of the second system, which has a shorter communication distance than the communication method of the first system and wirelessly communicates with the communication partner when a preset communication partner exists within a predetermined distance range from the own device. , A second means of wireless communication,
Operation unit and
With
A function of controlling an in-vehicle device by wireless communication of the first system based on an instruction from the operation unit, and
After setting the mobile device as the communication partner, when the wireless communication of the second system can be performed with the mobile device, the first system is based on the instruction received by the wireless communication of the second system. The function to control the in-vehicle device by wireless communication and
A remote controller for in-vehicle devices. The remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to claim 1, wherein the second system communication method is based on Bluetooth (registered trademark). The remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to claim 1 or 2, which has a function of communicating with a plurality of the portable devices by wireless communication of the second system and receiving an instruction to the in-vehicle device from each. The remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.
A system including the in-vehicle device that wirelessly communicates with the in-vehicle device remote controller using the first system communication method. The in-vehicle device can perform wireless communication by the communication method of the first system and the communication method of the second system.
When transmitting predetermined information, the in-vehicle device transmits the predetermined information by the communication method of the first system when the vehicle cannot travel, and by the communication method of the second system when the vehicle can travel. The system according to claim 4, which has a function of transmitting.

Images