JPH10184120A - Information transmission method for vehicle, ignition key, and key holder - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To eliminate any necessity of a storage place for a memory medium by incorporating a memory device possible to read out and rewrite in a holding part of an ignition key and transmitting data with an electronic device aboard a vehicle via the memory device. SOLUTION: An EEPROM 4 as a memory device is incorporated in a holding part 3. Connecting terminals 5 constituted of data signal terminals, power supply terminals, and control signal terminals are arranged on both sides of a key plate 2 so as to be electrically connected to the EEPROM 4. That is to say, the each connecting terminal 5 constitutes a data signal external input and external output terminal, a power supply external terminal, and a control signal external terminal. The EEPROM 4 thus receives feeding of a drive power supply from an external device and inputs the control signal and the data signal via the connecting terminal 5. It outputs the data recorded in the EEPROM 4 to the external device. This constitution can exchange information between the electronic device aboard a vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle so as to eliminate any necessity of a storage place for a medium.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method for transmitting information to a vehicle and an ignition key, and more particularly to a method for transmitting information between an information device provided on a vehicle and an information device provided outside the vehicle. The present invention relates to an information transmission method and an ignition key used for the method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, vehicles have been equipped with fuel injection (EFI).
In order to perform control, auto air conditioner control, power window control, immobilizer system control, etc., an electronic control unit (Electronic Control
ol Unit (hereinafter referred to as ECU). In recent years, electronic devices such as a car navigation system and a car telephone system have been mounted on automobiles.

In car navigation systems, CD-
It has become possible to access map data supplied from a ROM and record route data and travel data to a destination. In the automobile telephone system, registration and management of telephone numbers have become possible.

On the other hand, electronic devices such as personal computers have begun to spread in homes and workplaces, and are handling various types of information. Then, using this personal computer at home or workplace, create route data to the destination required for the car navigation system and import the data into the car navigation system,
Conversely, there is a demand for driving data stored in a car navigation system to be taken into a personal computer to store and edit the driving record. Also, in a car telephone system, a personal computer is used to create a list of telephone numbers to be registered in a car telephone and incorporate the list into the car telephone system, or conversely, to store a list of telephone numbers registered in the car telephone system in a personal computer. Is required.

Therefore, it is desired that information can be transmitted between electronic devices such as personal computers and various information systems mounted on automobiles. In addition, each EC
In order to analyze control record data and the like by U and use the data for vehicle diagnosis, there is also a demand that the record data and the like be imported to a personal computer at home or work.

[0006]

When information is transmitted between these electronic devices, a recording medium such as a memory card, a floppy disk or an MO disk is used as an information transmission medium.

However, when these recording media are used, it is necessary to newly install a reading and writing device (recording medium driving device) for reading data recorded on the recording medium or writing data on the automobile. There is a problem. In addition, there is a problem that a storage place for temporarily storing these recording media in the vehicle must be secured.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has as its object to install a recording medium drive for reading and recording data and to store a recording medium. It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle information transmitting method, an ignition key, and a key chain which can easily transmit information to each other without securing the information.

[0009]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle for performing data transfer between electronic equipment mounted on a vehicle and electronic equipment outside the vehicle. In the information transmission method described above, the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the outside of the vehicle through a readable and rewritable storage element built in a grip portion of the ignition key or a holder member integrated with the key by a connecting member are provided. It is designed to transfer data to and from an electronic device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the ignition key for starting the engine, a read / write rewritable storage element is incorporated in a grip portion of the key, and the storage element and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle are provided. A connection terminal is provided for electrically connecting a device or an electronic device outside the vehicle.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the ignition key for starting the engine, a readable and rewritable storage element is incorporated in a grip portion of the key, and the storage element and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle are provided. A transmission / reception unit is provided to perform data transfer between the device and an electronic device outside the vehicle by cordless communication.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in a key holder used for an ignition key for starting an engine, a readable and rewritable storage element is incorporated in a holder member attached to a key ring, and A connection terminal for electrically connecting the storage element to an electronic device mounted on the vehicle or an electronic device outside the vehicle is provided.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in a key holder used for an ignition key for starting an engine, a read / write rewritable storage element is incorporated in a holder member attached to a key ring. Transmission / reception means is provided for performing data transfer between the storage element and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle or an electronic device outside the vehicle by cordless communication.

Therefore, according to the first aspect of the present invention,
A storage element for storing information that needs to be transmitted,
Since it is integrated with the ignition key necessary for starting the car engine, there is no need to secure a special storage place at home, at work or in the car,
Handling becomes very easy.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the connection terminal is provided on the grip portion, so that the storage element of the ignition key and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle or the electronic device outside the vehicle are electrically connected. Will be done. As a result, information can be transmitted between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle via the ignition key. Moreover,
For the purpose of exchanging information, it is necessary to secure a special storage place at home, at work, or in a car, because the medium interposed between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle is the ignition key. It is very easy to handle.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the data transfer between the storage element and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle or the electronic device outside the vehicle is performed by the cordless communication in the holding portion of the ignition key. Provision of the transmission / reception means enables information exchange between the storage element of the ignition key and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle or an electronic device outside the vehicle. In addition, since a medium interposed between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle is an ignition key for information exchange, a special storage place is secured at home, at work, or in a car. There is no necessity and handling becomes very easy.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the connection terminal is provided on the holder of the key holder used for the ignition key, the storage element of the holder and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle or the electronic device outside the vehicle are provided. The connection to the device is electrically established. As a result, information can be exchanged between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle via the holder. In addition, since the medium interposed between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle for information exchange is a key ring that is used integrally with the ignition key, the key chain is used at home, at work, or in a car. It is not necessary to secure a special storage place, and handling becomes easy.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the transmission / reception means for performing data transfer by cordless communication is provided in the holder portion of the key holder used for the ignition key, so that the storage element of the holder portion and the vehicle are provided. Information can be exchanged with an electronic device mounted on the vehicle or an electronic device outside the vehicle. In addition, since the medium interposed between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle for information exchange is a key ring that is used integrally with the ignition key, the key chain is used at home, at work, or in a car. It is not necessary to secure a special storage place, and handling becomes easy.

[0019]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

(First Embodiment) Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.
An embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 shows an ignition key for starting an engine, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of each control device and information devices as electronic devices mounted on an automobile. In FIG. 1, the ignition key 1 has a grip portion 3 formed at a base end of a key plate 2, and the grip portion 3 is formed by molding a resin. An EEPROM 4 as a storage element is built in the grip 3. A large number of connection terminals 5 are juxtaposed on both sides of the key plate 2 on the side of the grip 3 where the key plate 2 protrudes. The large number of connection terminals 5 include a data signal terminal, a power supply terminal, a control signal terminal, and the like.
It is electrically connected to an EEPROM 4 built in the grip portion 3.

That is, each connection terminal 5 is connected to the EEPROM 4
, An external input terminal and an external output terminal for data signals, an external terminal for power supply, and an external terminal for control signals. Accordingly, the EEPROM 4 is supplied with drive power from an external device via the connection terminal 5 constituting a power supply external terminal. The EEPROM 4 receives a control signal from an external device via a connection terminal 5 constituting a control signal external terminal, and transmits a data signal from the external device via the connection terminal 5 constituting a data signal external input terminal. input. Further, the EEPROM 4 inputs a control signal from an external device via a connection terminal 5 constituting an external terminal for control signal,
The data recorded in the EEPROM 4 is output to an external device via a connection terminal 5 constituting an external output terminal for data signals.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the electrical configuration of each electronic device provided inside the vehicle.
2, when the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 6 and rotated, an ignition switch provided in the cylinder 6 is turned on to start the engine. As shown in FIG. 3, the key cylinder 6 is provided with a pair of sockets 6a on its front surface. When the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 6, the connection terminals 5 protruding from the grip portion 3 of the ignition key 1 are inserted into the socket 6 a. Therefore, each connection terminal 5 is connected to the socket 6
a and is electrically connected to a connection terminal (not shown) provided inside.

When electrically connected, the connection terminals 5 constituting the power supply external terminals receive the drive power from the battery 8 mounted on the vehicle via the corresponding connection terminals of the socket 6a. The connection terminals 5 forming the control signal external terminal, the data signal external input terminal, and the data signal external output terminal are connected to a communication electronic control device (hereinafter, referred to as a vehicle) via a connection terminal corresponding to the socket 6a. , A communication ECU) 9. That is, the E
EPROM 4 and communication ECU 9 are electrically connected.

The communication ECU 9 includes a car navigation system 10 mounted on a vehicle and a car telephone system 1.
1. Immobili electronic control unit (hereinafter referred to as Immobili ECU)
12, a fuel injection electronic control device (hereinafter, referred to as EFIECU) 13, a power window electronic control device (hereinafter, referred to as power window ECU) 14, and an automatic air conditioner electronic control device (hereinafter, referred to as auto air conditioner ECU) 15
Are electrically connected to each other so that data communication is possible.

FIG. 3 shows the configuration of the communication ECU 9. The communication ECU 9 includes a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as a communication CPU) 9a, a ROM 9b, a RAM 9c, an external communication interface (hereinafter referred to as an external communication I / F) 9d, and an internal communication interface (hereinafter referred to as an internal communication I / F). / F) 9e.

The communication CPU 9a communicates with the EEPROM 4 via the external communication I / F 9d according to the control program stored in the ROM 9b and the internal communication I / F 9d.
Each system 10, 11 and ECU 12 through F9e
Teaching data between 15 and That is, the communication CP
U9a reads the data stored in the EEPROM 4 and determines which system 10, 11 or ECU 1
Identify 2 to 15 data and determine the system 1
The data is transferred to 0, 11 or the ECUs 12 to 15.
Further, the communication CPU 9a is connected to the system 10, 11 or the EC.
The data from U12 to U15 is input and the data is written to a predetermined address of the EEPROM 4. The RAM 9c
Is used to temporarily store, for example, a result of an arithmetic operation performed when the communication CPU 9a performs an arithmetic operation.

The communication CPU 9a is connected to the EEPROM 4
When it becomes possible to exchange data with the data, all the contents stored in the EEPROM 4 may be stored in the RAM 9c. The communication CPU 9a is connected to the RAM 9c.
May be used to exchange data with the systems 10, 11 or the ECUs 12 to 15 using the data stored in the. At this time, when it is necessary to rewrite the contents of the EEPROM 4, the RA
The data may be transferred to the EEPROM 4 and rewritten based on the contents of M9c.

The car navigation system 10 is shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 1, a CPU 10a for controlling the entire car navigation system, a ROM 10b in which a program for controlling the system is recorded, and an EEPROM 10 for storing a record of travel route data and destinations set in the past.
c, RAM 10 for temporarily storing the operation result of CPU 10a
d, EEP mounted on ignition key grip part 1
I / F 10 for exchanging information with ROM 4
e, a vehicle current position measuring device 10f for detecting an accurate position, a CD-ROM drive device 10g for reading data such as a map supplied on a CD-ROM medium, C
It comprises a display device 10h for displaying data such as a map read from the D-ROM medium, an input device 10i for inputting a destination and the like.

The CPU 10a displays a map showing a traveling route to a destination on the display device 10h based on an operation instruction input from the input device 10i according to a control program stored in the ROM 10b,
c to register a travel route. The vehicle current position measuring device 10f is based on a global positioning system (hereinafter, referred to as GPS) which is known per se, receives radio waves from a plurality of artificial satellites, measures the longitude and latitude of the vehicle current position, and CPU1
0a.

The CD-ROM drive device 10g is a player of a CD-ROM medium storing map screen information data. The CD-ROM drive device 10g receives an instruction from the CPU 10a based on the position data from the vehicle current position measuring device 10f and outputs the CD-RO.
The M medium is scanned and the required map screen information data is selected and supplied to the CPU 10a. The display device 10h
There is a two-dimensional screen display with a liquid crystal display,
It is located at a position that is easy to see in the front of the car interior.

The input device 10i is for instructing display of map screen information data including the current position of the vehicle, and for instructing search and display of map screen information data desired by a passenger. The CPU 10a responds to an operation instruction from the ROM 10b, the EEPROM 10c,
Various screens are displayed on the display device 10h using the M10d, the CD-ROM drive device 10g, and the like.

The car telephone system 11 includes a CPU 1
1a, ROM 11b, EEPROM 11c, RAM 11
d, I / F 11e, transmission / reception device 11f, display device 11 used for displaying input telephone numbers, confirming settings, and the like.
g, an input device 11h for inputting a telephone number and the like. The CPU 11a makes a call to the telephone number input from the input device 11h according to a control program stored in the ROM 11b, controls a transmission / reception function during a call, and executes processing such as registering a telephone number in the EEPROM 11c. I do. RAM11d is CPU11
The calculation result of a is temporarily stored.

The immobilizer ECU 12 has a CPU 12a,
It comprises a ROM 12b, an EEPROM 12c, a RAM 12d, an input / output interface 12e, and the like. CPU
Numeral 12a executes an arithmetic process such as an immobilized code determination process in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 12b. The EEPROM 12c stores an immobilization code as a registration code registered in advance. RAM12d is C
The calculation result is temporarily stored in the PU 12a. The CPU 12a controls the EE of the ignition key 1 via the communication ECU 9.
The immobilizer code stored in the PROM 4 is input, and it is determined whether the input immobilizer code matches the previously stored immobilizer code. When the two codes match, the CPU 12a sends the engine drive permission signal to the E
When the two codes do not match, the CPU 12a outputs an engine drive permission signal to the EFIEC13.
No output is made to U13.

The EFIECU 13 includes a CPU 13a,
It comprises a ROM 13b, an EEPROM 13c, a RAM 13d, an input / output interface 13e, and the like. CPU
Reference numeral 13a executes various arithmetic processes for controlling start-up of an engine (not shown) and supplying the engine to the engine based on fuel injection data stored in advance in the EEPROM 13c in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 13b. R
The AM 13d temporarily stores the calculation result of the CPU 13a.

The CPU 13a is connected to the immobilizer ECU 1
2, when the engine drive permission signal is input from the ignition key switch (not shown), in response to an ON signal from an ignition key switch, various calculations for fuel injection to be supplied to the engine, injection timing, etc., and various operations for controlling the drive of the engine Do the processing. On the other hand, the CPU 13a
When an engine drive permission signal is not input from the CU 12, even if an ON signal is input from the ignition key switch, various calculations for engine drive control are not executed.

The power window ECU 14 has a CP
U14a, ROM14b, EEPROM14c, RAM
14d, an input / output interface 14e, and the like. The CPU 14a executes an arithmetic process for controlling a power window closing motor (not shown) based on a driving current value stored in the EEPROM 14c in advance according to a control program stored in the ROM 14b. RA
M14d temporarily stores the calculation result of the CPU 14a.

The auto air conditioner ECU 15 has a CPU
15a, ROM 15b, EEPROM 15c, RAM1
5d, an input / output interface 15e, and the like. The CPU 15a executes an arithmetic process for performing air-conditioning control using setting data (air outlet, air outlet temperature, air volume, etc.) for each control mode stored in the EEPROM 15c in advance according to a control program stored in the ROM 15b. The RAM 15d temporarily stores the calculation result of the CPU 15a.

Each of such systems 10 to 11 and each EC
The setting data, registration data, temporary storage data, and the like recorded in each EEPROM in U12 to U15 are stored in the EEPROM mounted on the ignition key 1 via the communication ECU 9.
4 is read. Conversely, each data is changed by writing new data from the EEPROM 4.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a personal computer as an electronic device at home or work. The computer 20 includes a CPU 20a, a ROM 20
b, a RAM 20c, and a hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as an HDD) 20d as a mass storage device;
It comprises a display device 20e, an input device 20f and the like.

The CPU 20a is mainly composed of a microprocessor. ROM 20b, RAM 20c and H
The DD 20d stores a program that defines an operation procedure for the CPU 20a and data to be processed by the CPU 20a.

The display device 20e is a two-dimensional screen display device using a CRT display in this example, and displays the results of the processing performed by the CPU 20a and the input device 20f.
Or to display the data input from. The input device 20f gives an operation instruction for performing various processes to the CPU 20a. CPU2
0a corresponds to the ROM 20b, RA
The display device 20e displays various screens using the M20c, the HDD 20d, and the like.

The I / O device 21 is connected to the CPU 20a, and is connected to the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1.
The data recorded in the EEPROM 4 or
To write data from the computer 20 to the computer.
The I / O device 21 is provided with a pair of sockets 21 a having the same configuration as the socket 6 a provided on the key cylinder 6. And the key plate 2 of the ignition key 1
Is inserted into the I / O device 21, the socket 21a
Each of the connection terminals 5 protruding from the grip portion 3 is inserted. Therefore, each connection terminal 5 is electrically connected to a connection terminal (not shown) provided in the socket 21a.

When electrically connected, the connection terminal 5 constituting the power supply external terminal receives drive power from the computer 20 via the corresponding connection terminal of the socket 21a. The connection terminals 5 constituting the control signal external terminal, the data signal external input terminal, and the data signal external output terminal are connected to the computer 20 via the corresponding connection terminals of the socket 21a. as a result,
The data recorded in the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1 is taken into the computer 20 via the I / O device 21. Also, the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1
Is written from the computer 20 via the I / O device 21.

Next, the operation of the vehicle information transmission system configured as described above will be described. When the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 6, the EEPROM 4 built in the key 1 is connected to the communication ECU 9. That is,
The EEPROM 4 reads or writes data based on the communication CPU 9 a of the communication ECU 9. The communication ECU 9 is connected to the other systems 10, 1
1 and the respective ECUs 12 to 15, the respective systems 10, 11 and the respective ECUs 12 to 15 can read data for themselves or write data to the EEPROM 4 via the communication ECU 9. .

For example, in the car navigation system 10, when the input device 10i of the system 10 is operated to give an instruction to input the data of the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1 to the system 10,
The data in the PROM 4 is processed by the communication CPU 9a, and the data to the system 10 is selected and written into the EEPROM 10c of the system 10. Also, CD-RO
When the input device 10i is instructed to write any of the data in the M, the EEPROM 10c, and the RAM 10d to the EEPROM 4 of the key 1, the designated data is written to the EEPROM 4 via the communication ECU 9.

Next, when the ignition key 1 is inserted into the I / O device 21, an EEPROM built in the key 1 is inserted.
4 is connected to a home computer 20. That is, EE
In the PROM 4, data is read or data is written based on the computer 20.

For example, when it is desired to exchange data between the car navigation system 10 and the computer 20, the input device 20f of the computer 20
Is operated to input the data of the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1 to the computer 20, the data of the EEPROM 4 is processed by the CPU 20a and written to the RAM 20c of the computer 20.
When the input device 20f is instructed to write any data in the ROM 20b, the RAM 20c, or the HDD 20d to the EEPROM 4 of the key 1, the EEPROM 20
4 is written with the designated data.

Next, the features of the vehicle information transmission system configured as described above will be described below. (1) In the present embodiment, data is exchanged between the personal computer 20 at home or work and the systems 10, 11 and the ECUs 12 to 15 in the vehicle via the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1. . Therefore, it is not necessary to newly provide a device for reading data or writing data in the vehicle, and data can be easily exchanged. Moreover, in the present embodiment, the recording medium used for data transmission / reception is constituted by the EEPROM 4 of the ignition key 1, so that there is no need to provide a storage place for the recording medium for recording data in the vehicle. (2) In the present embodiment, the connection terminal 5 is provided on the side of the grip portion 3 from which the key plate 2 protrudes. As a result, simply by inserting the key 1 into the key cylinder 6, the connection terminal 5 is inserted into the socket 6a formed in the key cylinder 6. The EEPROM 4 and the personal computer 20
The connection terminal 5 is also connected to the I / O
It is inserted into the socket 21a of the device 21. Therefore, the operation for data transfer can be greatly simplified. (3) In the present embodiment, the connection terminal 5 is formed on the side of the grip portion 3 of the ignition key 1 on the side where the key plate 2 protrudes, and the socket 6a provided corresponding to the connection terminal 5 is a key cylinder 6 Formed. Accordingly, since the connection terminal 5 is inserted into the socket 6a and the EEPROM 4 and the communication ECU 9 are connected only by inserting the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 6, a complicated and cumbersome operation for data transfer is very easily performed. Become. (4) Carrying the data written in the EEPROM 4 means that the ignition key 1 is carried. Therefore, the data can be carried very easily and without forgetting.

(Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 shows a wireless I / F 30 incorporated in the grip unit 31 for transmitting information to a non-contact (cordless communication) information device mounted on a vehicle as an electronic device or to a home or office information device. An EEPROM 32 as a storage element for storing information that needs to be exchanged between devices and a battery 34
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an ignition key 35 having the following.

The wireless I / F 30 includes a CPU 30a, a ROM
30b, RAM 30c, input device 30d, display device 30
e, a transmission / reception device 30f and the like as transmission / reception means.

The CPU 30a controls the transmission / reception device for exchanging information required for transmission between the EEPROM 32 and the information device in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 30b in accordance with an instruction from the input device 30d.
The input device 30d is composed of a plurality of push-button switches that can specify selection of information equipment, selection of writing or reading, and the like.

The display device 30e indicates the result of whether or not the contents of the instruction from the input device 30d have been normally executed, and is composed of elements such as light emitting diodes. The RAM 30c temporarily stores the calculation processing result of the CPU 30a.

In this case, the configuration of the information device in the automobile is as follows:
External communication I / F 9d in communication ECU 9 shown in FIG.
Is replaced by a wireless I / F configured so that information can be exchanged with the wireless I / F 30. Also,
As information devices at home or work, I / O shown in FIG.
The O device 21 is replaced by a wireless I / F configured to exchange information with the wireless I / F 30.

Next, the operation of the ignition key 35 configured as described above will be described. Input device 30d
When an instruction to specify an information device and a write or read operation is input from the CPU 30a, the CPU 30a starts exchanging information between the EEPROM 32 and the specified information device in accordance with a program stored in the ROM 30b. And
As a result of executing the processing, when the processing ends normally, the fact is displayed on the display device 30e. If an error occurs during the processing and the processing ends abnormally, the display device 30e informs the user of the error.
To be displayed.

At this time, since the processing is performed via the wireless I / F 30, the input device 30d is within the range where the radio wave can reach.
Is not limited to a specific location, and there is no need to insert the ignition key 35 into the ignition cylinder. When used as a normal ignition key 35 for starting an automobile engine, it is inserted into an ignition cylinder.

Therefore, when the communication with the information equipment is not performed, since the ignition key 35 is inserted into the ignition cylinder, the storage location of the EEPROM 32 as a storage element for storing information specially is set in the vehicle. It is not necessary to secure it and handling becomes very easy. When carrying, the ignition key 35
, The EEPROM 32 as a storage element is also carried, so there is no need to worry about forgetting to carry it.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but can be embodied with the following modifications. (1) As shown in FIG. 7, a configuration may be adopted in which a connection terminal 44 is provided on the side surface of the grip portion 41 of the ignition key 45.

In this configuration, an EEPROM 42 as a storage element is mounted on the grip portion 41 of the ignition key 45, and a connection terminal 44 is provided in a recess formed on the side surface of the grip portion. Then, by connecting a connector 46 from an information device (not shown) to the connection terminal 44, the EEPROM 42 is electrically connected to the information device,
It becomes possible to exchange information.

With such a configuration, the electrical connection means on the information device side in the vehicle is not limited to the ignition cylinder portion, and can be provided at any position in the vehicle.

(2) As shown in FIG. 8, the EEPROM and the connection terminals may be provided in a key holder 51 attached to the ignition key 56. In this configuration, the key holder 51 attached to the ignition key 56 via a key ring 55 as a connecting member is EE
A PROM 52 is mounted, and a connection terminal 54 is provided in a concave portion formed on a side surface of the key holder 51. A connector 5 from an information device (not shown) is connected to the connection terminal 54.
3, the EEPROM 52 is electrically connected to the information device, and can exchange information. With such a configuration, the electrical connection means on the information device side in the vehicle is not limited to the ignition cylinder portion, and therefore can be provided at any position in the vehicle.

(3) In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a plurality of connection terminals 44 and 54 may be provided. With this configuration, it is possible to easily exchange necessary information by associating each information device in the automobile with each connector.

(4) In the first and second embodiments, the exchange of information via the connection terminals 5 and 44 is performed by an instruction operation from each input device in each system, but the engine is operated by an ignition key. E by starting
Automation may be performed so that transmission from the EPROM 4 or the EEPROM 42 is started, and transmission to the EEPROM 4 or the EEPROM 42 is started when the engine is stopped.

(5) In the second embodiment, the wireless I
Instead of providing a dedicated communication ECU with / F30, an immobilizer ECU or a radio key ECU and a communication ECU
The wireless I / F 30 mounted on the ignition key may be configured so that the ECU can perform the exchange.

(6) In the second embodiment, the communication was performed by radio waves, but the communication ECU 9 having an infrared communication I / F capable of infrared communication may be used as the transmission / reception means. In this case, the configuration of the information device in the vehicle is such that the external communication I / F 9d in the communication ECU 9 is replaced with an infrared communication I / F configured to exchange information with the wireless I / F 30. Become. Further, as an information device at home or work, the I / O device 21 shown in FIG. 5 is replaced with an infrared communication I / F configured to exchange information with the infrared communication I / F. .

The wireless I / F 30 embedded inside the ignition key 1 includes a CPU 30a, a ROM 30
b, RAM 30c, input device 30d, display device 30e,
The configuration of the transmission / reception device 30f or the like as the transmission / reception means is the same as that of the second embodiment.
However, the transmitting / receiving device 30f as the transmitting / receiving means is configured to include the following light emitting and light receiving elements 50.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the above embodiment and showing the internal structure of the ignition key 1 in a see-through manner.
In the figure, reference numeral 50 denotes a light emitting and light receiving element, which is provided on the side of the key plate 2 of the ignition key gripping part 3, and the light emitting part and the light receiving part of the element are exposed on the side of the key plate. The light-receiving and light-emitting elements emit infrared light and receive infrared light. Light receiving and light emitting element 50
May be one in which light-receiving and light-emitting functions are provided in one element, or an element having a light-receiving function and an element having a light-emitting function may be separately provided. Reference numeral 80 denotes a power receiving coil embedded in the ignition key grip 3. Reference numeral 70 denotes a capacitor provided in the EEPROM 4. In FIG. 9, the infrared communication I / F is omitted.

In this embodiment, when the ignition key 1 is inserted into an ignition cylinder or a holder for data transfer (both not shown) and a switch (not shown) provided for starting data transfer is turned on, the vehicle is turned on. Transmitted long-wave power from the ignition key 1
On the side, the long wave is received by the power receiving coil 80 to store power in the capacitor 70. When the capacitor 70 is charged to a certain extent, the CPU 30a operates with the power stored in the capacitor 70. Then, the input device 30
The transmission / reception device 3 as transmission / reception means by the operation input of d
Data transmission / reception is performed using the light emitting and receiving element 50 of the infrared ray of 0f. The transmission and reception of data from the ignition key is performed via a light emitting and light receiving element (not shown) included in an infrared communication I / F provided on the vehicle side.

The method of transmitting and receiving data is not limited to the above-described embodiment, but may be a method of using radio waves having a frequency different from that of power transmission or a method of superimposing a signal on radio waves of power transmission. next,
Technical ideas other than the inventions described in the claims that can be grasped from the above embodiments will be described together with their effects. (1) In an ignition key for starting an engine, a storage element 4 readable and rewritable is incorporated in a grip portion 3 of the key 1 and the grip portion 3
A connection terminal 5 for electrically connecting the storage element 4 to an electronic device mounted on a vehicle or an electronic device outside the vehicle on a side surface from which the key plate 2 protrudes.

In this case, the connection terminal 5 is connected to the socket 6 a provided on the cylinder 6 simply by inserting the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 6. Therefore, the operation for data transfer can be greatly simplified.

[0070]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, information can be exchanged between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle, and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the external device can be exchanged for information exchange. There is no need to secure a special storage place for the media interposed between the electronic devices, and the handling becomes very easy.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, information can be exchanged between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle, and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle for information exchange. Since the medium interposed between the apparatus and the ignition key is an ignition key, there is no need to secure a special storage place, and the handling becomes very easy.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a transmission / reception means for performing data transfer between the storage element and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle or the electronic device outside the vehicle in the grip portion of the ignition key by cordless communication. Is provided, information can be exchanged between the storage element of the ignition key and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle or the electronic device outside the vehicle. In addition, since a medium interposed between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle is an ignition key for information exchange, a special storage place is secured at home, at work, or in a car. There is no necessity and handling becomes very easy.

According to the invention of claim 4, information can be exchanged between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle, and further, the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle for information exchange. Since the medium interposed between the device and the key ring is used, there is no need to secure a special storage place, and the handling becomes very easy. According to the invention of claim 5, the transmission / reception means for performing data transfer by cordless communication is provided in the holder of the key holder used for the ignition key, so that the storage element of the holder and the electronic device mounted on the vehicle are provided. Alternatively, information can be exchanged with an electronic device outside the vehicle. In addition, since the medium interposed between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle and the electronic device outside the vehicle for information exchange is a key ring that is used integrally with the ignition key, the key chain is used at home, at work, or in a car. It is not necessary to secure a special storage place, and handling becomes easy.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ignition key according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical connection of a system including a car navigation system, a car telephone system, an immobilizer ECU, an EFIECU, a power window ECU, and an auto air conditioner ECU in the car.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical connection of a communication ECU, an ignition cylinder, and an ignition key.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of each system and each ECU.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary block diagram showing electrical connections of a home computer system.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical connection of an ignition key according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an ignition key according to another embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a configuration of a key ring attached to an ignition key according to another embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a transparent perspective view of an ignition key according to another embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Ignition key, 2 ... Key plate, 3 ... Ignition key grip part, 4 ... EEPR as storage element
OM, 5 ... Connection terminal, 30f ... Transceiver as transmission / reception means, 31 ... Ignition key grip, 32 ... EEPROM as storage element, 35 ... Ignition key, 41 ... Ignition key grip, 42 ... EEPROM as storage element Reference numerals 44, connection terminal, 45, ignition key, 51, holder member, 52, EEPROM as storage element, 54, connection terminal, 55, key ring as connection member, 56, ignition key.

Claims (5)

[Claims] An information transmission method for a vehicle in which data is transferred between an electronic device mounted on a vehicle and an electronic device outside the vehicle, wherein a grip portion (3, 35) of an ignition key (1, 35, 45) is provided.
31, 41) or the key (56) to the connecting member (5).
Readable and rewritable storage elements (4, 32, 4) built in the holder member (51) integrated in 5)
2. A vehicle information transmission method, wherein data is transferred between an electronic device mounted on a vehicle and an electronic device outside the vehicle via (2, 52). 2. An ignition key for starting an engine, wherein a storage element (4, 32, 42, 42) which can be read and rewritten in a grip portion (3, 31, 41) of the key (1, 35, 45). 52), and connection terminals (5, 44, 54) for electrically connecting the storage element (4, 32, 42, 52) to electronic equipment mounted on the vehicle or electronic equipment outside the vehicle. An ignition key characterized by the following: 3. An ignition key for starting an engine, wherein a storage element (4, 32, 42, 42) which can be read and rewritten in a grip portion (3, 31, 41) of the key (1, 35, 45). 52) and a transmission / reception means (30f) for performing data transfer between the storage element (4, 32, 42, 52) and an electronic device mounted on the vehicle or an electronic device outside the vehicle by cordless communication. An ignition key characterized by having a. 4. A key holder for use in an ignition key for starting an engine, wherein a storage element (4, 32, 42, 42) which can be read and rewritten to a holder member (51) attached to a key ring (55). 5
2) and the storage element (4, 32, 4)
(2, 52) and connection terminals (5, 4) for electrically connecting electronic devices mounted on the vehicle or electronic devices outside the vehicle.
(4, 54). 5. A key holder used for an ignition key for starting an engine, wherein a storage element (4, 32, 42, 42) which can be read and rewritten in a holder member (51) attached to a key ring (55). 5
2) and the storage element (4, 32, 4)
2,52) A key chain provided with a transmitting / receiving means for performing data transfer between the electronic device mounted on the vehicle or the electronic device outside the vehicle by cordless communication.