JP5077046B2 - Key containment prevention device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a key confinement prevention device for preventing a key confinement state in which a door is locked while a key is left in a vehicle interior by forming a key detection region by radio waves transmitted from an antenna.

  In recent years, two-way communication is performed between a transmission / reception device mounted on a vehicle and a key by weak radio waves, and an approach of a legitimate user to the vehicle is detected by confirming an ID code of the key. A smart key system that releases the door lock of the vehicle simultaneously with detection of an operation has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1. In this smart key system, communication is performed even when the user sits on the driver's seat after the door is opened and closed. After confirming the valid ID code of the key, the immobilizer function is released and the steering lock is released, and then the user manually operates the dial switch or the like without inserting the key into the ignition cylinder. You can turn on the ignition switch and start the engine. In the stem, communication is performed even when the user turns off the ignition switch and leaves the vehicle after opening and closing the door, and detects the separation of a key having a valid ID code, thereby bringing the various devices described above into a locked state. As described above, in the smart key system, if the user has the key, various operations using the key are unnecessary, and convenience is achieved.

In such a smart key system, a vehicle interior antenna that forms a detection region in the vehicle interior is set in order to prevent a key confinement state in which the door is locked while leaving the key in the vehicle interior. Then, when a locking operation for locking the door is detected, the door is locked on condition that the key is not present in the vehicle interior by the vehicle interior antenna.
JP 2004-359057 A

  However, it is difficult to set the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna so as to cover the entire interior of the vehicle interior. This is because if the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna extends to the outside of the vehicle interior, the door cannot be locked because the key is detected by the vehicle interior antenna even though the key is taken out of the vehicle interior. is there. For this reason, the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna is kept in the main area of the vehicle interior. In this case, if the key is placed in a location other than the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna, the key is placed in the vehicle interior. There is a possibility that a key confinement state in which the door is locked while leaving the key left will occur.

  On the other hand, a vehicle exterior antenna that forms a detection area in the vehicle interior is set, and door lock is permitted only when a key is not detected by the vehicle interior antenna and a key is detected by the vehicle exterior antenna. Configuration is conceivable. According to such a configuration, even if the key is placed at a location in the vehicle compartment other than the detection region of the vehicle interior antenna, the key is not confined if the key is not detected by the antenna outside the vehicle interior. However, even with such a configuration, when a leak of radio waves from the antenna outside the vehicle interior to the vehicle interior occurs due to a radio wave reflector in the vicinity of the vehicle interior, the vehicle interior key is detected by the vehicle exterior antenna. Will result in key confinement.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a key confinement prevention device that can effectively prevent key confinement by appropriately changing the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna.

In order to achieve the above object, a first invention is a key confinement prevention device which forms a key detection region by radio waves transmitted from an antenna and prevents a key confinement state in which the door is locked while leaving the key in the vehicle interior. Because
The antenna includes a vehicle interior antenna that forms a detection region in the vehicle interior, and a vehicle exterior antenna that forms a detection region outside the vehicle interior,
The key transmits a first signal in response to reception of radio waves from the vehicle interior antenna, and transmits a second signal different from the first signal in response to reception of radio waves from the vehicle interior antenna. Composed of
When a predetermined operation is detected, a radio wave is transmitted from the antenna while expanding the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna , and after the transmission, the first signal from the key is not received and the second signal from the key is received. Is received, the door lock state is maintained .

A second invention is the key confinement prevention device according to the first invention,
The detection area of the vehicle interior antenna can be expanded by increasing the output of the transmission radio wave of the vehicle interior antenna.

A third invention is the key confinement prevention device according to the first invention,
The vehicle interior antenna comprises a plurality of vehicle interior antennas,
The enlargement of the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna is realized by increasing the number of vehicle interior antennas to be used.

4th invention is the key confinement prevention apparatus which concerns on 1st invention,
The predetermined operation is related to a door operation and is detected using a sensor.

A fifth invention is the key confinement prevention device according to the fourth invention,
The sensor is a sensor that detects a door lock release request operation in a key confinement state.

6th invention is the key confinement prevention apparatus which concerns on 5th invention,
The predetermined operation is a continuous operation of a predetermined number of times or more of the release request operation. The predetermined number of times may be one, but preferably, in order to accurately detect a door lock release request from the user in the key confinement state, as in the sixth invention, two or more times so as to be a continuous operation. Set to

A seventh invention is the key confinement prevention device according to any one of the first to third inventions,
When a predetermined operation is detected within a predetermined time after the door is locked, the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna is enlarged.

The eighth invention is the key confinement prevention device according to the first invention,
A radio wave is transmitted from the antenna when the predetermined operation is detected, and the door lock state is released when the first signal from the key is received after the transmission.

  According to the present invention, the present invention provides a key confinement prevention device that can effectively prevent key confinement by appropriately varying the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram illustrating a main part of a key confinement prevention device 1 according to a first embodiment together with related configurations.

  The key confinement prevention device 1 is configured around a smart ECU 10 that controls a smart key system. The smart ECU 10 is configured as a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like that are connected to each other via a bus (not shown). Various programs executed by the CPU are stored in the ROM.

  The smart ECU 10 is connected to a vehicle exterior key detection transmitter 12 that forms a detection region for detecting the key 40 outside the vehicle interior. The vehicle key detection transmitter 12 includes a vehicle key detection antenna 12a, and forms a detection region for detecting the key 40 by transmitting a request signal via the vehicle key detection antenna 12a. . Here, the range in which the request signal transmitted from the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a can be normally received by the key 40 is the vehicle exterior key detection transmitter 12 (the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a). Corresponds to the detection area. A plurality of vehicle exterior key detection transmitters 12 and vehicle exterior key detection antennas 12a may be set. For example, the right and left side door exterior spaces and the front passenger side door exterior spaces of the vehicle One each may be built in the door outside handle.

  The smart ECU 10 is connected to a vehicle interior key detection transmitter 14 that forms a detection region for detecting the key 40 in the vehicle interior. The vehicle interior key detection transmitter 14 includes a vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a, and forms a detection region for detecting the key 40 by transmitting a request signal via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. . Here, the range in which the request signal transmitted from the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a can be normally received by the key 40 is the vehicle interior key detection transmitter 14 (vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a). Corresponds to the detection area. A plurality of vehicle interior key detection transmitters 14 and vehicle interior key detection antennas 14a may be set, for example, a total of three corresponding to the front seat space, rear seat space, and luggage space of the vehicle. May be.

  The smart ECU 10 is connected to a receiver 18 that receives a response signal (transmitted radio wave) from the key 40. The receiver 18 is disposed at a position that can receive a response signal transmitted from the key 40 in the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 12a and the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. May be arranged. The receiver 18 may be additionally arranged in the luggage space, and the number and arrangement position thereof are arbitrary. When receiving the response signal from the key 40, the receiver 18 performs predetermined processing such as amplification and demodulation on the response signal received from the key 40, and then supplies the demodulated response signal to the smart ECU 10. The smart ECU 10 compares the encryption code included in the received response signal with the encryption code stored in a predetermined memory (not shown), and if they match, the smart ECU 10 is the regular key 40. Authentication result (authentication result to the effect that key authentication has been obtained) is output.

  The key 40 includes a transmitter / receiver (transponder) that performs bidirectional communication with a vehicle-side transmitter / receiver (elements 12, 14, 18, etc.) using weak radio waves, and a transmission / reception antenna. A memory for storing a valid encryption code (ID code) is incorporated. The key 40 may be a key with a built-in mechanical key including a mechanical key that can lock and unlock the door of the vehicle by a user operation. Alternatively, the key 40 may be a key independent of the mechanical key.

  When the key 40 receives the request signal transmitted via the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a as described above, the key 40 transmits a response signal corresponding to the request signal. In this response signal, a code indicating that the response is a response to the outside key detection antenna 12a is incorporated together with the encryption code. Further, when the key 40 receives a request signal transmitted via the vehicle interior key detecting antenna 14a as described above, the key 40 transmits a response signal corresponding to the request signal. In this response signal, a code representing a response to the vehicle interior key detecting antenna 14a is incorporated together with the encryption code. Thus, the key 40 receives the request signal transmitted via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 12a and the request signal transmitted via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a as described above. It is configured to transmit different response signals depending on the time. Thereby, smart ECU10 can grasp | ascertain whether the key 40 exists in a vehicle interior or a vehicle interior by decoding the response signal from the key 40. FIG.

  Connected to the smart ECU 10 are a lock switch 22 that is turned on / off in response to a lock operation for locking the door, and a touch sensor 24 for detecting a touch operation on the door outside handle. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the lock switch 22 and the touch sensor 24 are provided in the vicinity of the door outside handle, and the touch sensor 24 may be arranged to detect a touch operation on the back side of the door outside handle. .

  A body ECU 32 is connected to the smart ECU 10 via a bidirectional multiplex communication line 30. A door lock actuator 34 that drives a door lock mechanism is connected to the body ECU 32. The door lock actuator 34 switches the door lock mechanism between a door locked state and a door unlocked state in accordance with a control signal from the body ECU 32.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a basic part of processing at the time of a lock operation that is executed in cooperation with the smart ECU 10 and the body ECU 32.

  In step 300, the smart ECU 10 determines whether or not the lock switch 22 has been operated. If the lock switch 22 has been operated, the process proceeds to step 310.

  In step 310, the smart ECU 10 sets the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna. Details of this processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 (and FIGS. 7 and 8).

  In step 320, the smart ECU 10 transmits a request signal via the vehicle interior key detection transmitter and the vehicle interior key detection antenna so that the detection region set in step 310 is formed.

  In step 322, the smart ECU 10 determines whether the key 40 is present in the passenger compartment. If the key 40 is present in the passenger compartment, the key 40 transmits a response signal in response to the request signal transmitted in step 320, and this response signal is received by the receiver 18. Therefore, when the response signal is received by the receiver 18 and the key authentication is obtained (the encryption codes match), it is determined that the key 40 is present in the passenger compartment, and the process proceeds to step 324. In this case, the smart ECU 10 supplies the body ECU 32 with information indicating that the key 40 has been locked in a state where the key 40 is present in the passenger compartment on the condition that the key authentication has been achieved. On the other hand, if the response signal is not received by the receiver 18, the process proceeds to step 328.

  In step 324, in response to the information supplied in step 322, the body ECU 32 determines whether or not the door lock mechanism is currently in the door lock state. If the door lock mechanism is currently in the door lock state, the process proceeds to step 326. On the other hand, when the door lock mechanism is currently in the door unlocked state, the process is terminated without performing the door lock in order to prevent key confinement. As a result, when the key 40 is detected in the passenger compartment when the lock switch 22 is operated, the door unlock state of the door lock mechanism is maintained, and key confinement is prevented.

  In step 326, the body ECU 32 generates a control signal for releasing the door lock in order to prevent key confinement, and the control signal is supplied to the door lock actuator 34. As a result, when the key 40 is detected in the passenger compartment when the lock switch 22 is operated, the door lock mechanism enters the door unlocked state, and key confinement is prevented.

  In step 328, the smart ECU 10 transmits a request signal via the vehicle exterior key detection transmitter 12 and the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a so that a predetermined detection area is formed outside the vehicle interior.

  In step 330, the smart ECU 10 determines whether or not the key 40 exists outside the passenger compartment. If the key 40 exists outside the passenger compartment, the key 40 transmits a response signal in response to the request signal transmitted in step 328, and the response signal is received by the receiver 18. Therefore, when the response signal is received by the receiver 18 and the key authentication is obtained (the encryption codes match), it is determined that the key 40 exists outside the passenger compartment, and the process proceeds to step 332. In this case, on the condition that the key authentication has been obtained, information indicating that the key 40 has been locked in a state of being outside the vehicle compartment is supplied to the body ECU 32. On the other hand, when the response signal is not received by the receiver 18, the processing ends as it is.

  In step 332, in response to the information supplied in step 330, the body ECU 32 determines whether or not the door lock mechanism is currently in the door lock state. If the door lock mechanism is currently in the door lock state, the process ends. On the other hand, if the door lock mechanism is currently in the door unlock state, the process proceeds to step 334.

  In step 334, the body ECU 32 generates a control signal for locking the door, and the control signal is supplied to the door lock actuator 34. As a result, when the key 40 is not detected in the vehicle interior but detected outside the vehicle interior when the lock switch 22 is operated, the door lock mechanism enters the door lock state, and the key confinement is prevented.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a specific example of the detection area setting process in step 310 of FIG.

  In step 312, whether or not the specified time ΔT or more has elapsed after the most recent door lock by the lock operation (operation of the lock switch 22) detected this time or the most recent door lock by the auto-lock function in the smart ECU 10. Is determined. The auto-lock function refers to the case where the unlocking operation (for example, the operation of the touch sensor 24) is performed with the key 40 being authenticated and the door lock is released, but there is no operation such as opening the door within a predetermined time thereafter. In addition, it refers to a function of automatically performing door lock through the door lock actuator 34. The specified time ΔT is a time for determining a period during which the door lock can be released exceptionally as will be described later, and is determined in view of security. The prescribed time ΔT is typically determined from the viewpoint of ergonomics, but may be a fixed value such as 5 minutes or a variable value selected by the user. In addition, the specified time ΔT is set to a time longer than the car wash time (average time) in the car wash machine in consideration of the fact that a rare key confinement environment is easily formed during car wash in the car wash machine as described later. Also good. If the elapsed time after the various door locks have exceeded the specified time ΔT, the process proceeds to step 318; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 314.

  In step 314, the smart ECU 10 determines whether or not the number of lock operations after the most recent door lock by the lock operation detected this time or after the most recent door lock by the auto-lock function has exceeded the specified number. The The specified number of times may be an arbitrary number of 2 or more, but is preferably larger than 3, for example 5, so as not to be affected by noise or unintentional continuous operation. If the number of lock operations after the various door locks has exceeded the specified number of times, the process proceeds to step 316; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 318.

  In step 316, in the smart ECU 10, in order to expand the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a, the output (gain) of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is larger than a normal value (default value) by a predetermined increase. Set to a value. The predetermined increase value is a value such that the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a covers the entire interior of the vehicle interior, and may be, for example, the maximum output value permitted by the domestic radio law. Thereby, in the key detection process in the subsequent step 320 (see FIG. 3), the request signal is transmitted with the increased output (transmission power) via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a, so that the request signal can be propagated. This increases the distance and increases the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a.

  In step 316, in the smart ECU 10, the output (gain) of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is set to a normal value (default value). Thereby, in the key detection process in the subsequent step 320 (see FIG. 3), the request signal is transmitted with the normal output (transmission power) via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. A detection area of the key detection antenna 14a is formed.

  FIG. 5 is a top view of the vehicle showing an example of an enlarged aspect of the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. In FIG. 5, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a in the normal state is indicated by the reference symbol Y1, and the detection area of the enlarged vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is indicated by the reference symbol Y2.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the detection area Y1 of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a in a normal state is kept in a main area of the vehicle interior and does not cover the entire vehicle interior. This is because it is practically difficult to cover the entire vehicle interior while preventing leakage outside the vehicle interior as described above. Therefore, in the normal state, the key 40 is positioned at the position of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a in the normal state, such as the position A1 shown in FIG. If placed outside the detection area Y1, the key 40 cannot respond to the request signal from the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a, so it is determined that the key does not exist in the vehicle interior (step of FIG. 3). Negative determination is made at 322). On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 3, the door lock is executed only when the key 40 is detected outside the vehicle compartment by the key detection processing by the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a by the processing of steps 328 to 334. The structure which performs is considered. According to such a configuration, even if the key 40 is placed at a location in the vehicle interior other than the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a, the key 40 is not detected by the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a. There is no confinement. However, even with such a configuration, when leakage of radio waves from the vehicle exterior antenna into the vehicle interior occurs due to a radio wave reflector or the like in the vicinity of the vehicle exterior, the vehicle interior key detection antenna 12a causes the vehicle interior. Key 40 is detected, and key confinement occurs. That is, the detection area of the vehicle exterior key detection antenna 12a is normally set to an area as indicated by X2 in FIG. 5, but due to disturbances such as radio wave reflectors, the vehicle exterior key detection is performed. The radio wave from the antenna 12a for the vehicle greatly leaks into the vehicle interior, and the detection region of the vehicle key detection antenna 12a may change to the region indicated by X1 in FIG. In such a detection area X1, the key 40 at the position A1 that is not detected in the detection area X2 is detected by the vehicle interior key detection antenna 12a, so that key confinement occurs.

  More specifically, for example, when the user puts the key 40 at the position A1 shown in FIG. 5 and performs car washing in the car wash machine without locking the door, the outside of the passenger compartment is affected by the influence of the metal member of the car wash machine. The detection area of the key detection antenna 12a may change to an area indicated by X1 in FIG. At this time, if the operation (erroneous reaction) of the lock switch 22 is detected by the water jet or the car wash brush coming out of the car wash machine, the key 40 is used for detecting the vehicle interior key in the key detection process corresponding to the lock operation. Since it is not detected by the antenna 14a but detected by the outside key detection antenna 12a, the door is locked and the key is confined. Such a case may occur in an environment other than a car wash environment in a car wash machine, although it is rare.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, as described above, when a predetermined condition (the conditions of step 312 and step 314 in FIG. 4) is satisfied, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is expanded. The For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is expanded from the normal area Y1 to the area Y2. The area Y2 at the time of expansion is exceptionally temporarily formed unlike the area Y1 at the normal time. Therefore, priority is given to covering the entire vehicle interior and it is allowed to include an area outside the vehicle. The

  Therefore, according to the present embodiment, even when the above-described key confinement occurs, the key 40 is detected by the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a whose detection area is expanded when the user establishes a predetermined condition. In this way, key confinement can be prevented. That is, according to the process shown in FIG. 3, since the user performs the lock operation continuously more than the specified number of times within the specified time after the key confinement occurs, the door lock state is released. The trapped key 40 can be retrieved. In addition, it is well known to the user by the user use manual (instruction manual) that the key confinement prevention function by expanding the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a can be activated by continuous operation of the lock switch 22 within a specified time. It is desirable.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, since the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is expanded by continuous operation (continuous hitting) of the lock switch 22, a normal key confinement logic (software configuration) Can be realized without significant changes. That is, when the key 40 is detected by the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a according to the operation of the lock switch 22, the lock switch 22 is continuously operated for the normal key confinement prevention function that releases the door lock state. When detected, it is only necessary to add logic for enlarging the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a (logic for increasing the output of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a when the lock switch 22 is continuously operated).

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is expanded by continuous operation (continuous hitting) of the lock switch 22, so that the key by the continuous operation of the lock switch 22 is configured. It may be possible to save a user who does not know the containment prevention function. That is, during normal key confinement, by operating the lock switch 22, the key 40 is detected by the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a and the door lock state is released. Many users who do not know the prevention function know only that the lock switch 22 needs to be operated when key confinement occurs. Such a user tends to operate the lock switch 22 many times if the door lock state is not released even if the lock switch 22 is operated. Due to such a tendency, even a user who does not know the key confinement prevention function by continuously operating the lock switch 22 can activate the key confinement prevention function by expanding the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a.

  FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram illustrating a main part of the key confinement prevention device 2 according to the second embodiment together with related configurations. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is increased by increasing the number of vehicle interior key detection antennas to be used. In the following, a configuration peculiar to the second embodiment will be described with emphasis, and a configuration that may be the same as that of the first embodiment described above is denoted by the same reference numeral and description thereof is omitted.

  The key confinement prevention device 2 includes a vehicle interior key detection transmitter 16 and an antenna 16a that are used when the detection area is expanded, in addition to the vehicle interior key detection transmitter 14 and the antenna 14a that are normally used. The vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a is configured to have a detection region that is at least partially different from the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. Specifically, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is limited to the main area in the vehicle interior so as not to include the area outside the vehicle interior, whereas the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a. Is set so as to include a region in the vehicle interior that is not covered by the detection region of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a, and covers the entire region of the vehicle interior in cooperation with the detection region of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a. Is set as follows. The vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a is preferably activated only when the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna for preventing key confinement, which will be described later, is expanded, and is normally deactivated.

  The key 40 responds to the request signal transmitted via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a in the same manner as when responding to the request signal transmitted via the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. A response signal corresponding to the request signal is transmitted. In this response signal, a code indicating a response to the vehicle interior key detection antenna (14a or 16a) is incorporated together with the encryption code.

  In the second embodiment, in the processing of FIG. 3 described above, the processing other than the detection area setting processing in step 310 may be the same as in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of the detection area setting process in step 310 of FIG. 3 according to the second embodiment.

  In step 312, whether or not the specified time ΔT or more has elapsed after the most recent door lock by the lock operation (operation of the lock switch 22) detected this time or the most recent door lock by the auto-lock function in the smart ECU 10. Is determined. If the elapsed time since the various door locks have been performed exceeds the specified time ΔT, the process proceeds to step 318 ′. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step 314.

  In step 314, the smart ECU 10 determines whether or not the number of lock operations after the most recent door lock by the lock operation detected this time or after the most recent door lock by the auto-lock function has exceeded the specified number. The If the number of lock operations after the various door locks has exceeded the specified number of times, the process proceeds to step 316 '; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 318'.

  In step 316 ', the smart ECU 10 sets the vehicle interior key detection antennas 14a and 16a as the vehicle interior key detection antenna to be used in order to expand the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. As a result, in the key detection process in the subsequent step 320 (see FIG. 3), the request signal is transmitted through both the vehicle interior key detection antennas 14a and 16a, so that only the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is used. The detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is expanded as compared with the normal time of use (see step 318 ′).

  In step 318 ', only the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is set as the vehicle interior key detection antenna to be used in the smart ECU 10. Thereby, in the key detection process in the subsequent step 320 (see FIG. 3), the request signal is transmitted only through the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. Is formed.

  FIG. 8 is a top view of the vehicle showing an example of an enlarged aspect of the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. In FIG. 8, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a in the normal state is indicated by the reference symbol Y1, and the detection area of the enlarged vehicle interior key detection antenna (the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is indicated by the reference symbol Y2. And a detection area when 16a is used).

  According to the present embodiment, as described above, when a predetermined condition (the conditions of step 312 and step 314 in FIG. 4) is satisfied, the detection region of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is the vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a. Enlarged by the detection area. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is changed from a normal area Y1 (detection area when only the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a is used) to an area Y2 (vehicle interior key detection antenna). 14a and 16a when used). The area Y2 at the time of expansion differs from the area Y1 at the normal time, and is exceptionally temporarily formed only when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Therefore, priority is given to covering the entire vehicle interior, and the area outside the vehicle. It is allowed to contain.

  Therefore, according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, even when the above-described key confinement occurs, the vehicle interior key detection antennas 14a and 16a allow the user to establish a predetermined condition. The key 40 is detected by the enlarged detection area, so that the key confinement can be prevented. That is, according to the process shown in FIG. 3, since the user performs the lock operation continuously more than the specified number of times within the specified time after the key confinement occurs, the door lock state is released. The trapped key 40 can be retrieved.

  Further, according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, both the vehicle interior key detection antennas 14a and 16a are used by continuous operation (continuous hitting) of the lock switch 22. The normal key confinement logic (software configuration) can be implemented without significant changes. That is, when the key 40 is detected by the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a according to the operation of the lock switch 22, the lock switch 22 is continuously operated for the normal key confinement prevention function that releases the door lock state. When detected, it is only necessary to add logic for using the vehicle interior key detection antenna 16a together with the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a.

  Further, according to the second embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is expanded by the continuous operation (continuous hitting) of the lock switch 22. Even a user who does not know the key confinement prevention function by continuously operating the lock switch 22 may be able to work the key confinement prevention function.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and substitutions can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Can be added.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, as a preferred embodiment, in consideration of security, within a specified time after the most recent door lock by the lock operation detected this time or after the most recent door lock by the auto-lock function. In this case, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is expanded according to the continuous operation of the lock switch 22, but such a time restriction may be eliminated. In this case, in order to ensure security, for example, authentication by an authentication device (for example, a verification device for biometric information such as fingerprints and veins, or an authentication device for inputting a personal identification number) set for the door outside handle is taken. Only when this is done, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna may be expanded according to the continuous operation of the lock switch 22. Also, an operation pattern of a combination of the lock switch 22 and the touch sensor 24 (for example, a pattern in which the lock switch 22 is operated twice after the touch switch 24 is operated after the lock switch 22 is operated twice) is registered. Only when the registered operation pattern is detected, the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna corresponding to the continuous operation of the lock switch 22 may be expanded.

  In the above-described embodiment, as a preferred embodiment, when a predetermined operation of the lock switch 22 is detected (see step 314 in FIGS. 4 and 7), the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is expanded. However, instead of the predetermined operation of the lock switch 22, a request for releasing the door lock when the user locks the key (that is, a request for releasing the door lock necessary for taking out the locked key) is directly made. Any other predetermined operation may be used as long as it is a predetermined operation that is expressed manually or indirectly. The predetermined operation does not necessarily need to be known to the user in advance as an operation to be performed when the key is locked, and may be an operation that is likely to be performed when the user wants to open the door. For example, in step 314 of FIG. 4 or FIG. 7, instead of the operation of the lock switch 22, the operation of the touch sensor 24, the operation of the unlock switch (not shown), or the operation of hitting the door is performed. Door exterior handle operation (door outside handle or link connected to it), such as an operation that gives an impact (detected by an acceleration sensor) or an operation that moves the door outside handle in the same manner as when the door is opened Or the operation of various switches provided on the key 40 may be used. Alternatively, an instruction by a user's gesture using an in-vehicle image sensor (camera) or an instruction by a user's voice using a voice recognition device may be used as the predetermined operation. These predetermined operations are not only used for determining whether or not the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna needs to be enlarged, but also triggering the key detection process (see step 320 in FIG. 3) (the lock switch 22 It may be used as a trigger instead of an operation).

  In the above-described embodiment, as shown in step 300 of FIG. 3, the operation of the lock switch 22 is used as a trigger to perform the processing after step 310 of FIG. 3, but other operations and inputs are used as a trigger. May be. For example, the processing after step 310 in FIG. 3 may be executed with the operation of the touch sensor for the lock operation or the operation of the lock switch provided on the key 40 as a trigger.

  In the embodiment described above, as a preferred embodiment, the specified number of times in step 320 of FIG. 3 is two or more times so that a continuous operation is detected, but may be one time.

  Moreover, although Example 1 and Example 2 mentioned above are disclosed as another Example each formed independently, it is also possible to combine. That is, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the detection of the vehicle interior key detection antenna is increased by increasing the output of the vehicle interior key detection antenna and increasing the vehicle interior key detection antenna used for key detection. It is good also as expanding an area | region.

  In the above-described embodiment, the current door lock state is detected and a control signal is supplied from the body ECU 32 to the door lock actuator 34 as shown in Step 324 and Step 332 of FIG. The control signal may be unilaterally supplied to the door lock actuator 34 without detecting the door lock state. For example, when an affirmative determination is made at step 322 in FIG. 3, a control signal for releasing the door lock is supplied to the door lock actuator 34, and when an affirmative determination is made at step 330 in FIG. A control signal to be locked may be supplied to the door lock actuator 34.

  In the above-described embodiment, the response signal from the key 40 in response to the request signal from the vehicle key detection antenna 12a and the response signal from the key 40 in response to the request signal from the vehicle key detection antenna 14a are provided. Are received by the common receiver 18, but the response signal from the key 40 in response to the request signal from the vehicle interior key detection antenna 12a and the key in response to the request signal from the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a. The response signal from 40 may be received by a separate receiver. In this case, the presence position of the key 40 may be grasped in consideration of which receiver has received the response signal.

  5 and 8 do not show the key detection area in the luggage space, but the key detection area in the luggage space is considered to be included in the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna. Alternatively, it may be considered separately from the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna.

  In the above-described embodiment, part or all of the functions of the smart ECU 10 may be realized by the body ECU 32 or another ECU.

It is a block diagram which shows the principal part of the key confinement prevention apparatus 1 by Example 1 with the related structure. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the lock switch 22 and the touch sensor 24. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the basic part of the door lock process performed in cooperation with smart ECU10 and body ECU32. 4 is a flowchart showing a specific example of detection area setting processing in step 310 of FIG. 3 according to the first embodiment. It is a vehicle top view which shows an example of the expansion aspect of the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna 14a by Example 1. FIG. FIG. 6 is a configuration diagram illustrating a main part of the key confinement prevention device 2 according to the second embodiment together with related configurations. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of detection area setting processing in step 310 of FIG. 3 according to the second embodiment. It is a vehicle top view which shows an example of the expansion aspect of the detection area of the vehicle interior key detection antenna by Example 2. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1, 2 Key lock prevention device 10 Smart ECU
12 Car key detection transmitter 12a Car key detection antenna 14 Car key detection transmitter 14a Car key detection antenna 16 Car key detection transmitter 16a Car key detection antenna 18 Receiver 22 Lock Switch 24 Touch sensor 30 Bidirectional multiple communication line 32 Body ECU
34 Door lock actuator 40 key

Claims (8)

A key confinement prevention device that forms a key detection region by radio waves transmitted from an antenna and prevents a key confinement state in which the door is locked while leaving the key in the vehicle interior,
The antenna includes a vehicle interior antenna that forms a detection region in the vehicle interior, and a vehicle exterior antenna that forms a detection region outside the vehicle interior,
The key transmits a first signal in response to reception of radio waves from the vehicle interior antenna, and transmits a second signal different from the first signal in response to reception of radio waves from the vehicle interior antenna. Composed of
When a predetermined operation is detected, a radio wave is transmitted from the antenna while expanding the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna , and after the transmission, the first signal from the key is not received and the second signal from the key is received. When receiving the key, the key lock prevention device is characterized in that the door lock state is maintained .   The key confinement prevention device according to claim 1, wherein the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna is enlarged by increasing the output of the transmission radio wave of the vehicle interior antenna. The vehicle interior antenna comprises a plurality of vehicle interior antennas,
The key confinement prevention device according to claim 1, wherein the detection area of the vehicle interior antenna is enlarged by increasing the number of vehicle interior antennas to be used.   The key confinement prevention device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined operation relates to an operation of a door and is detected using a sensor.   The key confinement prevention device according to claim 4, wherein the sensor is a sensor that detects a door lock release request operation in a key confinement state.   The key confinement prevention device according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined operation is a continuous operation of a predetermined number of times or more of the release request operation. When the predetermined operation is detected within a predetermined time after the door is locked, to enlarge the detection area of the passenger compartment antenna, key confinement prevention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 . When the predetermined operation is detected, transmit a radio wave from the antenna, after the transmission, when receiving the first signal from the key to release the door lock state, confinement key according to claim 1 Prevention device.

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