WO2019029782A1

WO2019029782A1 - A method for controlling operation of a plurality of vehicle entrances

Info

Publication number: WO2019029782A1
Application number: PCT/EP2017/069880
Authority: WO
Inventors: WeeChong GAN; ChiaLiang TAN; KongWoei ONG; Yong Jimmy LIM
Original assignee: Continental Automotive Gmbh; Continental Automotive Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Priority date: 2017-08-07
Filing date: 2017-08-07
Publication date: 2019-02-14

Abstract

A method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances is disclosed, the said method comprising the steps of: supplying a mobile signal generator in communication with a control unit within the vehicle; sending a first signal from the mobile signal generator to the control unit; and sending a second signal from the control unit to the mobile signal generator, for locating a position of the mobile signal generator with respect to the vehicle, wherein upon locating the position of the mobile signal generator within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle, and receiving an input sequence of contacting and holding for a length of time an input control on the mobile signal generator, the control unit commands an instruction for locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances in response to the input sequence. Alternatively, the input control may be activated using a human machine interface to lock and unlock vehicle entrances.

Description

A Method for Controlling Operation of A Plurality of Vehicle

Entrances

FIELD OF INVENTION

A method for controlling a condition of vehicle entrances, in particular locking and unlocking of vehicle entrances based on localisation of a mobile signal generator and signal strength generated from the mobile signal generator, and an input sequence of contacting and holding an input control button on the mobile signal generator. Alternatively, the input sequence may be activated using a human machine interface.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

There are many existing technologies that use remote controller or transmitter for locking and unlocking vehicle doors .

By way of example, DE 19170476 Al with a date of filing of 17 September 1998 discloses a method for global and selective opening of motor vehicles using radio control or infrared control transmitter button. Using different frames for selection, coded telegrams are transmitted to unlock different doors of a vehicle selectively. The disadvantage of the teachings of DE 19170476 Al is that the user is required to operate on two independent frames, one for selective operation and a second frame for global operation .

In another example, DE 1056638 Al with a date of filing of 4 September 2003 discloses an apparatus for global and selective opening of motor vehicles using predetermined programs to selectively unlock different doors of a vehicle. This is predetermined based on time window of how long a user presses and holds the transmitter button. A disadvantage of the method disclosed in DE 1056638 Al requires a user or operator to press and hold the transmitter button until the doors unlock. There is no feature which suggests a determination of where the user or operator is located, with respect to the vehicle, to determine which vehicle door the user or operator intends to open.

None of the above prior art documents discuss a method which allows a user to control or activate locking and unlocking operations of vehicle doors using a single input control, with capabilities of locking or unlocking vehicle doors in nearest proximity to a user, based upon a pre-designed input sequence.

There is therefore a need for a new or improved method of locking and unlocking vehicle entrances or vehicle doors, in particular, activating operation of locking and unlocking of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors based upon a position of the user and more in particular, a signal strength received, to determine which vehicle doors is to be activated for locking or unlocking operation, to address the above needs.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It is therefore an object to provide a method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors to address the above discussed problems.

It is an objective is to provide a method that allows a user or operator to lock and unlock vehicle doors using a single input control. It is a further objective to provide a method that allows the user or operator to lock and unlock all vehicle doors using a single input control. Such function may be useful for security reasons, for eg. prevention of unauthorised access to vehicle from a vehicle entrance or vehicle door on an opposite side of where the user is standing. A further advantage is that, since the method as disclosed will only require a single input control to activate locking and unlocking operations, this method is user-friendly, thus will provide increase in comfort for users, at the same time reduce material costs and/or provide an appealing design of mobile signal generator or human machine interface input control. Yet another advantage of aspects of this this invention is that because the signal transmission uses short-range frequency, it will be apparent to the person skilled in the art to make design modification ( s ) to suit the system implementation desired.

To accomplish the objectives as discussed above, in a first aspect of an embodiment, there is provided a method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors of a vehicle, the said method comprising the steps of (1) supplying a mobile signal generator in communication with a control unit within the vehicle; (2) sending a first signal from the mobile signal generator to the control unit; and (3) sending a second signal from the control unit to the mobile signal generator, for locating a position of the mobile signal generator with respect to the vehicle, wherein upon locating the position of the mobile signal generator within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle, and receiving an input sequence of contacting and holding for a length of time an input control on the mobile signal generator, the control unit commands an instruction for locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances in response to the input sequence.

The length of time may be pre-designed, for instance, requiring the user to contact and hold the input control button for a first length of time, in order to initiate a first command to lock or unlock at least two of the plurality of vehicle entrances. For example, the control unit may command a first instruction for locking or unlocking one or two adjacent vehicle entrances upon receiving a first input sequence from the mobile signal generator of contacting and holding for a first length of time the input control.

The advantage of the above embodiment enables a user to control locking and unlocking of at least one vehicle doors based on a position of the mobile signal generator, with respect to the vehicle, using a single input control, to provide a sleek design or multi-function communication device. Examples of mobile signal generator includes a key fob, fob device or the like. Other possible mobile signal generators may also include mobile or cell phone, or other devices capable of generating short-range wireless frequencies. Advantageously, the use of short-range wireless frequencies allows an access arrangement to be confined within a specific physical distance, which is ideal for localising a proximity or position of the mobile signal generator. Preferably, the control unit commands a first instruction for locking or unlocking one or two adjacent vehicle entrances upon receiving a first input sequence from the mobile signal generator of contacting and holding for a first length of time the input control. More preferably, the one or two adjacent vehicle entrances that are locked or unlocked are selected based on the position of the mobile signal generator relative to the one or two adjacent vehicle entrances. The objective of locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances is thereby realised by this feature of locating a position of the mobile signal with respect to the vehicle, or more particularly, the vehicle entrance.

In another example, the control unit may command a second instruction for locking or unlocking all of the plurality of vehicle entrances upon receiving a second input sequence from the mobile signal generator of contacting and holding for a second length of time the input control. For design purposes, second length of time is a shorter time interval compared to the first length of time, for instance, the user is only required to contact and almost immediately release the input control button once to initiate the second instruction for locking or unlocking all the plurality of vehicle entrances. The user may initiate the first instruction to selectively unlock some entrances and thereafter initiate the second instruction to collectively unlock all entrances. Alternatively, the user may initiate the second instruction to collectively unlock all entrances and thereafter initiate the first instruction to selectively lock some entrances . Since the control of locking and unlock operation of the plurality of vehicle entrances is based upon a length of time of contacting and releasing the input control, it shall be appreciated that for design consideration, it is ideal to design the mobile signal generator to comprise on only a single input control button or interface, which achieves the object of providing a sleek design or multi-function communication device assigned to the vehicle. It shall be understood that the activation of locking or unlocking operation based upon the first length of time or the second length of time is based upon a timing, of which as discussed above, may be determined during designing stage. Further, in this example, the user has flexibility of choice in locking or unlocking at least one or all of the vehicle entrances or doors in a desired sequence.

The objective of using a single input control to toggle between locking and unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances on one side of the vehicle or collectively all of the plurality of vehicle entrances is thereby achieved in light of the above method disclosed. It will be understood that the position of the mobile signal generator may be either within an interior of a vehicle such as a passenger car or outside the vehicle. One of the advantages of having a single input control for locking or unlocking is that it is user friendly, i.e. enhances user's comfort. Other advantages include reduction of material costs and appealing design of mobile signal generator.

Preferably, the first and second signal may be a short-range frequency signal. The use of short-range frequency signal is preferred in locating the position of the mobile signal generator since ideally, location of the mobile signal with respect to the vehicle is within a predetermined radius and coherently, an owner or user of the vehicle will attempt to access his or her own vehicle within a physical range of a few centimetres to several meters. The exchange of the first signal and the second signal between the vehicle and mobile signal generator may then be completed within a reasonable amount of waiting time, eg. a few seconds before the user is able to access the vehicle. The short-range frequency signal may be a low frequency signal, a radio frequency signal or a Bluetooth signal.

Herein, an access arrangement for a vehicle for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances of the vehicle according to the aforesaid method is provided, the access arrangement comprising a control unit on board a vehicle, the control unit comprising a signal strength indicator for regulating an exchange of a first signal and a second signal between the control unit and a mobile signal generator, wherein the control unit is configured to determine a location of the mobile signal generator within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle, and wherein the control unit, in response to signal strength of the signal strength indicator and an input sequence received from the mobile signal generator, is configured to initiate an instruction to lock or unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances according to a condition of the input sequence received from the mobile signal generator.

Preferably, the access arrangement includes a mobile signal generator specifically assigned to the vehicle. Advantageously, this allows the implementation of a remote keyless entry (RKE) system between the mobile signal generator and the assigned vehicle. The mobile signal generator is designed to be portable and may be located within or outside the vehicle.

The signal strength indicator determines the proximity of the mobile signal generator to the at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors . Thus, in the case of selective locking or unlocking, the signal strength indicator determines the entrances which will be locked or unlocked based on proximity. That is, the control unit comprising the signal strength indicator may send a signal to the entrance (s) or door(s) closest to the mobile signal generator to initiate locking or unlocking. Exemplary signals emitted by the signal strength indicator include infrared or proximity signals.

None of the above prior art documents achieves the objective of allowing a user to control or activate locking and unlocking operations of vehicle doors based upon an input sequence measured according to a length of time and determination of which vehicle door to activate locking and unlocking operation in accordance to a position of a mobile signal generator with respect to the vehicle . An alternative second aspect provides a method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances of a vehicle as provided according the steps above, wherein the mobile signal generator is a human machine interface. Preferably, the human machine interface may be positioned anywhere in the vehicle. There may be one or more than one human machine interfaces in the vehicle. In an example, one human machine interface positioned on a front dashboard may display input controls to activate all entrances or doors. In another example, a human machine interface positioned on a front dashboard may display input controls to activate only the two front entrances or doors, while another human machine interface positioned in the rear passenger compartment may display input controls to activate only the two rear entrances or doors. In yet another example, a human machine interface positioned on a front dashboard may display input controls to activate all entrances or doors, while another human machine interface positioned in the rear passenger compartment may display input controls to activate only the two rear entrances or doors for the rear passengers' easy access. Advantageously, the disclosed method provides design flexibility as the human machine interface may be positioned anywhere within the vehicle to control any, some or all of the vehicle entrances or vehicle doors. The advantage of the aforesaid embodiment allows for using a human machine interface operable within a short-range distance to lock and unlock vehicle access .

Alternatively, the human machine interface may be outside the vehicle. The human machine interface may also be a mobile communication device such as a mobile phone having capabilities to send and receive short-range frequency signals.

In both aspects, the suitable types of signals maybe short-range frequency signals. Ideally, the short-range frequency signals are wireless signals. Common characteristics of short range wireless communication includes signal covering a physical range between a few centimetres to several meters. This allows flexible design configuration based on range of frequency signals. Suitable forms of short-range frequency signals include a low frequency (LF) signal, radio frequency (RF) signal or Bluetooth signal .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Other objects and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompany drawings in which:

Fig. la and Fig. lb illustrates a preferred embodiment of this invention using a mobile signal generator to lock and unlock two vehicle doors based on localisation of a mobile signal generator, by using a first input sequence of contacting and holding an input control of the mobile signal generator.

Fig. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of this invention using a mobile signal generator to lock and unlock all of the plurality of vehicle doors by using a second input sequence of contacting and releasing the input control.

Fig. 3 illustrates an alternative preferred embodiment of this invention using a human machine interface within a vehicle.

Fig. 4 illustrates a method of locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle doors according to a first aspect of a preferred embodiment of this invention. Fig. 5 illustrates a method of locking or unlocking all of the plurality of vehicle doors according to a second aspect of the preferred embodiment of this invention. DESCRIPTION OF PREFFERED EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, the term "vehicle" as used herein is inclusive of motor vehicles in general such as passenger automobiles including sports utility vehicles (SUV), trucks, various commercial vehicles and the like, and includes hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, combustion, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g. fuels derived from resources other than petroleum) .

The terms "vehicle entrance", "vehicle door" and variations thereof in plural forms shall be construed to include entrances of a vehicle, including vehicle doors and/or entrances for passenger compartment, including car boot or trunk, and the terms are interchangeable for purposes of this patent document.

The term "mobile signal generator" used herein, shall be construed to be inclusive of a portable communication device capable of generating identification signal, which generates repeating or non-repeating electronic signals either in analogue or digital domain. Examples of mobile signal generator may include key fob, fob, mobile or cell phones, personal digital assistant (PDA) or the like.

The term "selective" or "selectively" shall be construed to relate to or involve the selection of or making a decision on which vehicle door ( s ) to lock or unlock, e . g . by proximity, for purposes of this patent document.

The terms "first" and "second" used herein serve to distinguish one input sequence from another input sequence. The terms do not necessarily mean that the "first" follows the "second" se- quentially, although the "first" following the "second" sequentially is within the scope of the present disclosure.

The term "contacting" or "contact" used herein, shall be defined to include physically touching, for example executing an input via a touch panel, touch pad, touch button. It may further be construed to include the act of pressing, by applying adequate force to execute an input via a conventional button. In order to achieve the objectives of the preferred embodiment, there is provided a method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 of a vehicle 102, the said method comprising the steps of: (1) supplying a mobile signal generator 104 in communication with a control unit 114 within the vehicle 102; (2) sending a first signal from the mobile signal generator 104 to the control unit 114; and (3) sending a second signal from the control unit 114 to the mobile signal generator 104, for locating a position of the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle 102, wherein upon locating the position of the mobile signal generator 104 within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle 102, and receiving an input sequence of contacting and holding for a length of time an input control 106 on the mobile signal generator 104, the control unit commands an instruction for locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 in response to the input sequence. The length of time may be pre-designed, for instance, requiring the user to contact and hold the input control button for variable lengths of time, in order to initiate a command to selectively lock or unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle doors or to collectively lock or unlock all vehicle doors. The advantage of the above embodiment enables a user to control locking and unlocking of at least one vehicle door nearest to the mobile signal generator 104, using a single input control 106. The control unit 104 is electrically connected to the vehicle 102 by way of data bus network, for example CAN bus, LIN bus or other suitable types of data bus. Fig. la and Fig. lb illustrates locking or unlocking of a plurality of vehicle doors 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 in a preferred embodiment, using a mobile signal generator 104. Locked doors are indicated by black squares whereas unlocked doors are indicated by white squares in Figures la and lb. By way of an example, a mobile signal generator 104 sends a first signal to the control unit of vehicle 102. This first signal may be a short-range frequency such as a radio frequency (RF) signal or a Bluetooth signal. A radio frequency (RF) refers to electromagnetic wave frequencies in the range of 3 kHz to 300 GHz, typically used for radio, broadcasting, cell phones and satellite transmissions, i.e. wireless communications. Measurement of a RF signal strength can be accomplished using an antenna. A Bluetooth signal has a frequency range between 2.4 to 2.485 GHz and is typically used in telecommunications, networks (eg. personal area networks) and consumer electronics such as mobile devices. A common characteristic between RF signal and Bluetooth signal is that both forms of signals are suitable for wireless communication applications and suitable for short range wireless communication, where the physical range can be between a few centimetres to several meters. Thus, the predetermined radius within which the mobile signal generator 104 and the control unit 114 can communicate is governed by this range of communication. Advantageously, the use of short-range frequencies allows the locking and unlocking operation to occur when the user or the mobile signal generator is relatively close to the vehicle. It shall be understood by a person skilled in the art that the above configuration is necessary to implement a Remote Keyless Entry Systems (RKE) . Further, both radio frequency and Bluetooth technology are well-known to persons skilled in the art and detailed description on such technology are therefore omitted for brevity .

The instructions for activating selectively locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrance 108, 108' , 110, 110', 112 may be based upon a condition of an input sequence of contacting and holding the input control button 106 on the mobile signal generator 104, or activating locking or unlocking of all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 based upon a separate input sequence of contacting and releasing the input control button 106 of the mobile signal generator 104.

In an example, the control unit 114 commands a first instruction for locking or unlocking one or two adjacent of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108 , 108', 110, 110', 112 upon receiving a first input sequence from the mobile signal generator 104 of contacting and holding for a first length of time the input control button 106 on the mobile signal generator. The at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108' , 110, 110', 112 that is activated for locking or unlocking operation is selected based on the position of the mobile signal generator 104 relative to the at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrance 108, 108', 110, 110', 112. The exchange of the first and second signal is achieved when localisation of the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle 102 is determined. For purposes of completing the process of exchanges of signals to localise the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle 102, the second signal, eg. a short-range frequency signal or a low frequency (LF) signal, is communicated to the mobile signal generator 104 by the control unit of the vehicle 102. A low frequency (LF) signal according to an ITU designation, refers to radio frequency band, in the frequency range of 30 kHz - 300 kHz. It shall be understood by a person skilled in the art, the above arrangement is necessary for localisation of mobile signal generators 104 for vehicle access. This feature of localising the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle achieves the object of locking or unlocking the plurality of vehicle entrances on one side of the vehicle, for example, the driver's entrance 110, the rear passenger compartment entrance 110' and the trunk 112 of the vehicle may be activated for locking or unlocking. In one method of implementing the signal strength indicator (not shown) , the vehicle entrance (s) that locks or unlocks is/are the entrance (s) where the signal strength received by the signal strength indicator is the highest. This arrangement allows a signal strength indicator such as a suitable sensor or antenna embedded within the vehicle 102, to further recognise which of the at least one of the plurality of vehicle 108, 108' , 110, 110' , 112 to activate locking or unlocking operation based upon

The term "signal strength indicator" may be construed to include any form of electronic means that enables measurement or exchanges of signal strength value, or even a means for evaluating gains and loss of signal strength, such as a received signal strength indication (RSSI) value. One example of a signal strength indicator may be an antenna, or a sensor.

The signal strength indicator may be comprised in the control unit 114 by way of electrical connection to the control unit 114. Alternatively, the signal strength indicator may be an isolated electronic component or unit.

Upon locating the position of the mobile signal generator 104 being between two adjacent vehicle entrances (e.g. 108 and 108' in Fig. la or 110 and 110' in Fig. lb) , the first instruction locks or unlocks the two adjacent vehicle entrances 108 and 108', or 110 and 110' . The advantage of this feature of locating the position of the mobile signal generator 104 is to allow locking or unlocking of the vehicle entrances based upon a proximity or position of the mobile signal generator 104, with respect to the vehicle entrance 108, 108', 110, 110' and/or 112.

In the embodiment of Fig.2, the control unit 114 commands a second instruction for locking or unlocking all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 upon receiving a second input sequence from the mobile signal generator 104 of contacting and holding for a second length of time the input control 106. In an embodiment, the second length of time is preferably very short such that the second input sequence comprises contacting and releasing the input control 106 almost immediately.

Herein, an access arrangement for a vehicle for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 of the vehicle 102 is also supplied, to fulfil the method of selectively at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108' , 110, 110' , 112, or all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108' , 110, 110' , 112, the access arrangement comprising: a control unit 114 on board a vehicle 102, the control unit 114 comprising a signal strength indicator for regulating an exchange of a first signal and a second signal between the control unit 114 and mobile signal generator 104, wherein the control unit 114 is configured to determine a location of the mobile signal generator 104 within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle 102 and wherein the control unit 114, in response to signal strength of the signal strength indicator and an input sequence received from the mobile signal generator 102, is configured to initiate an instruction to lock or unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 according to a condition of an input sequence received from the mobile signal generator 104. In the aforesaid arrangement, the mobile signal generator 104 is designed to be specifically assigned to the vehicle 102. Therefore, the disclosed access arrangement further comprises the mobile signal generator 104 assigned to the vehicle 102. It shall be appreciated that the mobile signal generator 104 is operable within the vehicle 102 or outside the vehicle 102.

The mobile signal generator 104 may comprise a single input control 106 which toggles between lock and unlock operations. That is, when the one or the plurality of vehicle entrances are locked, the instruction corresponding to the input sequence sent by the mobile signal generator 104 commands an unlocking operation. On the other hand, when the one or the plurality of vehicle entrances are unlocked, the instruction corresponding to the input sequence sent by the mobile signal generator 104 commands a locking operation.

Alternatively, the mobile signal generator 104 may comprise a first input control for locking operation and a second input control for unlocking operation. To command a locking operation on one or some vehicle entrances, the first input control for locking operation is contacted and held for a first length of time, i.e. a first input sequence, to lock the one or some vehicle entrances. To command a locking operation on all vehicle entrances, the first input control for locking operation is contacted and held for a second length of time, i . e . a second input sequence, to lock all the vehicle entrances. To command an unlocking operation on one or some vehicle entrances, the second input control for unlocking operation is contacted and held for a first length of time, i.e. a first input sequence, to unlock the one or some vehicle entrances. To command an unlocking operation on all vehicle entrances, the second input control for unlocking operation is contacted and held for a second length of time, i.e. a second input sequence, to unlock all the vehicle entrances .

The first and second signal exchanged between the control unit 114 and the mobile signal generator 104 is a short-range frequency signal, for example a low frequency signal, radio frequency signal or Bluetooth signal.

By way of an example to illustrate the operation of the above described preferred embodiment, assuming a random user, e.g User Adam, is in possession of a mobile signal generator 104 in communication with the vehicle 102 configured with the above described preferred embodiment and is standing on the right side of a vehicle 102 as shown in the Figures la, lb and 2. In order to lock or unlock at least one vehicle entrance, three requirements have to be met, the order of which is not limited. A first signal is sent from the mobile signal generator 104 to the control unit 114. The first signal may be sent continuously or at intervals . This first signal may be e . g . a radio frequency (RF) signal or a Bluetooth signal from the mobile signal generator 104 to the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102. Once the mobile signal generator 104 is within a radius where the range of the first signal can reach the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102, in response to this first signal, a second signal, for e.g a low frequency (LF) signal is sent from the control unit 114 to the mobile signal generator 104, for locating a position of the mobile signal generator 104 within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle 102. This exchange of signal initiates the first requirement needed to lock or unlock the vehicle entrances on either left side, i.e. 108, 108, 112 or right side, i.e. 110, 110', 112 of the vehicle 102, depending on the location of the mobile signal generator. This allows the control unit 114 to determine that the a position of the mobile signal generator with respect to the vehicle 102, thereby allowing the control unit 114 to recognise which of the plurality of vehicle entrances needs to be locked or unlocked.

Now, User Adam contacts and holds an input control 106 on the mobile signal generator 104 to access the vehicle 102. The action of contacting and holding the input control 106 on the mobile signal generator 104 initiates a first input sequence for a first length of time and is the second requirement needed to selectively lock or unlock the vehicle entrances on either sides of the vehicle 102. The control unit 114 commands a first instruction for locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle 108, 108' , 110, 110' , 112 entrances in response to the first input sequence. This allows the control unit 114 to recognise or determine the location of the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle 102, thus unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrance 108 , 108', 110, 110', 112 in closest or nearest physical proximity to the mobile signal generator 104. In this scenario, upon receiving a first instruction from the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102 to unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 108, 108' when localisation of the mobile signal generator 104 is confirmed, the control unit 114 sends a signal to the at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 108, 108', 112, i.e. vehicle entrances or vehicle doors on right side of the vehicle 102 will be unlocked, as shown in Fig. la. In the same scenario where upon locating the proximity or position of the mobile signal generator 104 is approximately of the same physical distance between at least two adjacent vehicle entrances, the first instruction locks or unlocks the at least two adjacent vehicle doors. Localisation of the mobile signal generator 104 is therefore the third and last requirement needed to lock or unlock the vehicle entrances . To be capable of locating the position of the mobile signal generator 104, the control unit 114 may comprise a signal strength indicator (not shown) which determines which vehicle entrance the mobile signal generator 104 is closest to.

In the above scenario, in the event where an intruder attempts to open the vehicle entrance from the opposite side of the vehicle 102, i.e. left side of the vehicle 102 in this scenario during an unlocking operation, it will be impossible for the intruder to do so since the at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 110, 110' on the other side of the vehicle 102 further away from User Adam are locked.

In the alternative, if User Adam is to stand on a left side of the vehicle 102 as shown in the Figures la, lb and 2 with a mobile signal generator 104 assigned to vehicle 102 as illustrated on Fig. lb, a first signal, i.e. a radio frequency (RF) signal or Bluetooth signal from the mobile is sent from the mobile signal generator 104 to the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102. In response to this first signal, a second signal, i.e. a low frequency (LF) signal is sent from the control unit 114 to the mobile signal generator 104, for locating a proximity or a position of the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle 102, thereby allowing the control unit 114 to recognise which of the plurality of vehicle entrances needs to be locked or unlocked. Having determined a proximity or position of the mobile signal generator 104 and upon a first input sequence of contacting and holding for a first length of time an input control 106 on the mobile signal generator 104 to unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 110, 110', 112, on left side of vehicle 102, at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 110, 110', 112 will be unlocked, as shown in Fig. lb. On a similar note, where upon locating the proximity or position of the mobile signal generator 104 is approximately of the same physical distance between at least two adjacent vehicle entrances, the first instruction locks or unlocks the at least two adjacent vehicle doors.

Assuming now User Adam is getting some documents from passenger compartment of the vehicle 102 assuming to be a right side handle vehicle. User Adam stands on left side of the vehicle 102, with the mobile signal generator 104 assigned to vehicle 102 in his possession. The exchange of first signal from mobile signal generator 104 and control unit 114 of the vehicle 102 is repeated and in response to receiving the first signal from the mobile signal generator 104 by control unit 114 of the vehicle 102, the second signal is sent from control unit 114 of vehicle 102 to the mobile signal generator 104 to determine a proximity or position of the mobile signal generator 104. Subsequently when User Adam initiates the first input sequence of contacting and holding the input control 106 on the mobile signal generator 104, a first signal is being sent from the mobile signal generator 104 to the control unit of the vehicle 102 to initiate a process of localisation of the mobile signal generator 104. The first in- struction from the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102 to unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 110, 110' when localisation of the mobile signal generator 104 is completed. Upon collecting the documents from the passenger compartment, as User Adam walks away from the vehicle 102, User Adam contacts and holds the input control 106 on the mobile signal generator 104. The process of localisation of mobile signal generator 104, i.e. the signal communication between the mobile signal generator and the control unit of the vehicle 102 is repeated to determine location of the mobile signal generator 104, before the control unit commands the instruction to activate locking operation of the at least one of the vehicle entrances 110, 110' after User Adam collects the documents . In an embodiment with reference to Fig. 2, assuming now User Adam is driving a group of passengers for an event. As User Adam and his passengers approach the vehicle 102, User Adam initiates a second input sequence, i.e. contacting the input control 106 once. The process of localisation of mobile signal generator 104 begins and the control unit 114 commands a second instruction to activate unlocking operation of all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 108, 108' , 110, 110' , 112 to allow passengers to board the vehicle 102 from different sides of the vehicle. The terms "first" and "second" used herein serve to distinguish one input sequence from another input sequence. The terms do not necessarily mean that the "first" follows the "second" sequentially, although the "first" following the "second" sequentially is within the scope of the present disclosure . Referring back to Fig . 2, the term "second input sequence" refers to one input sequence of contacting the input control 106 once to unlock all of the vehicle entrances 108, 108', 110, 110', 112. That is, only one input sequence is needed. When User Adam and his passengers reach a destination and alight from passenger compartment of the vehicle 102, User Adam initiates the second input sequence by contacting the input control 106 once to activate locking operation of all of the plurality of the vehicle entrances or vehicle doors 108, 108', 110, 110', 112 before walking away from the vehicle 102.

In an alternative embodiment as shown in Fig.3a, a method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances 214, 216, 218, 220 is provided. The said method comprising the steps of supplying a mobile signal generator on board a vehicle, such as a human machine interface 204 in communication with a control unit 222 within the vehicle 202. In the alternative, the human machine interface 204 may be a mobile communication device, such as a mobile phone, which can be located either within the vehicle 202, or outside the vehicle 202 when in operation.

A signal strength determines the at least one of the vehicle entrance for activating locking or unlocking operation. The signal strength indicator may be an antenna or a sensor, such as an infrared sensor or proximity sensor, for receiving a RSSI value. It shall be understood other types of sensors for sending signal strength may also be applicable. The

The control unit 222 is configured to command a second instruction to lock or unlock all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 214, 216, 218, 220 upon receiving a second signal from the human machine interface 204 by initiating a second input sequence of contacting at least one of the plurality of input controls 206, 208, 210, 212 once.

In a different scenario to explain the above discussed alternative embodiment, assuming User Adam is in the driver' s seat, with his family, all sitting in a passenger compartment of vehicle 202. A passenger is sitting in a front passenger seat beside the driver's seat, with children sitting at rear passenger seats. Upon reaching a desired destination, User Adam wishes to allow the passenger sitting in the front passenger seat to alight. Using a human machine interface 204 having an input control 206 within the passenger compartment of vehicle 202 that is in communication with the control unit 222 of the vehicle 202, User Adam selects contact and hold the input control 206 on the human machine interface 204 for a length of time to activate locking or unlocking operation of a plurality of vehicle entrances 214, 216, 218, 220. By initiating a first input sequence of contacting and holding the input control 206 for a first length of time, a first instruction is communicated to the control unit 222 of the vehicle 202 to activate selectively unlocking operation of one or two adjacent vehicle entrances based upon a signal strength indication, upon receiving the first input sequence.

In this scenario, the advantage of this alternative embodiment achieves safety of the children sitting at the rear passenger seats until an adult is able to attend and assist the children to alight the vehicle.

In another aspect of the above embodiment, the control unit 222 may command a second instruction for locking or unlocking all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 214, 214', 216, 216' upon receiving a second input sequence from the mobile signal generator 204 of contacting and holding for a second length of time the input control 206. It shall be further understood, the second command may be triggered by contacting and holding for a second length of time, i.e. contacting and almost immediately releasing the input control 206 on the human machine interface 204, to activate locking or unlocking all the plurality of vehicle entrances. It shall be appreciated the condition of the input sequence of contacting and holding for may be based upon a condition of an input sequence of contacting and holding the input control button 206 on the mobile signal generator 204, or activating locking or unlocking of all of the plurality of vehicle entrances 214, 214', 216, 216' based upon a separate input sequence of contacting and releasing the input control button 206 of the mobile signal generator 204.

The detection of signals from human machine interface 204 in this alternative embodiment may include a signal strength indicator or a plurality of signal strength indicators for eg. sensors, such as infrared sensors or proximity sensors, or even antennas embedded in the vehicle body, eg. underbody metal of the vehicle 202. Alternatively, it shall be understood the signal strength indicator may be designed to be embedded near each of the vehicle entrances to detect signal strength received when designing a system for implementing the above discussed embodiments . It shall be further understood by a person skilled in the art, it is possible to embed the signal strength indicators on different positions near the vehicle entrances, as desired. The use of sensors or antennas serves to detect a signal strength value or RSSI value, to determine the vehicle door receiving the highest signal strength.

Fig. 4 illustrates a method 300 of locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle doors according to a first aspect of a preferred embodiment of this invention. In step 302, a mobile signal generator 104, 204 in communication with a control unit 114 within a vehicle 102, 202 is supplied. The mobile signal generator 104 is configured for exchanging short range frequencies between the mobile signal generator 104, 204 and the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102, 202. In a first aspect of the preferred embodiment, the exchange of a first signal may be generated by the mobile signal generator 104, for eg. a short-range wireless communication signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) signal or a Bluetooth signal, being transmitted from a wireless radio signal transmitter embedded in the mobile signal generator 104. This step is as illustrated in step 304. In step 306, the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102 reply or response with a second signal, from the control unit 114 to the mobile signal generator 104. This step is required to determine a position of the mobile signal generator 104, with respect to the vehicle 102. When an input sequence of contacting and holding the input button 106 on the mobile signal generator, a time modulated radio signal is being transmitted to the control unit 114 of vehicle 102 at step 308. This triggers the control unit 114 to initiate an instruction for locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances, in nearest physical distance to the mobile signal generator, with respect to the vehicle .

Fig. 5 illustrates a method of locking or unlocking all of the plurality of vehicle doors according to a second aspect of the preferred embodiment of this invention. In a step 402, a mobile signal generator 104, 204 in communication with a control unit 114 within a vehicle 102, 202 is supplied. The mobile signal generator 104 is configured for exchanging short range fre- quencies between the mobile signal generator 104, 204 and the control unit 114 of the vehicle 102, 202. In a second aspect of the preferred embodiment, the exchange of a first signal may be generated by the mobile signal generator 104, i.e. a short-range wireless communication signal, such as a radio frequency (RF) signal or a Bluetooth signal, is being transmitted from a wireless radio signal transmitter embedded in the mobile signal generator 104. This step is as illustrated in step 404. In response to the mobile signal generator 104, at step 406, a second signal, i.e. a low frequency signal is transmitted from the control unit 114 to the mobile signal generator 104. This exchange of first and second signals between the mobile signal generator 104 and the control unit 114 is required to determine a position of the mobile signal generator 104 with respect to the vehicle 102. In step 408, an input sequence of contacting and releasing the input button 106 on the mobile signal generator 104, a time modulated radio signal is being transmitted to the control unit 114 of vehicle 102. The input sequence of contacting and releasing the input button 106 initiates a locking and unlocking of all the plurality of vehicle entrances of vehicle 102. A time modulated signal may be programmable to have time intervals at varying frequencies, thus achieving the desired results of activating locking or unlocking operation according to specific input sequence . While the preferred embodiment and alternative embodiment ( s ) of have been disclosed and described in detail herein, it may be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

Claims

Patent claims

1. A method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances (108, 108', 110, 110', 112) of a vehicle (102), the said method comprising the steps of:

Supplying a mobile signal generator (104) in communication with a control unit (114) within the vehicle (102);

Sending a first signal from the mobile signal generator (104) to the control unit (114); and

Sending a second signal from the control unit (114) to the mobile signal generator (104), for locating a position of the mobile signal generator (104) with respect to the vehicle (102 ) ,

wherein upon locating the position of the mobile signal generator (104) within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle (102) , and receiving an input sequence of contacting and holding for a length of time an input control (106) on the mobile signal generator (104), the control unit commands an instruction for locking or unlocking at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances (108, 108', 110, 110', 112) in response to the input sequence .

2. The method of Claim 1, wherein the control unit (114) commands a first instruction for locking or unlocking one or two adjacent vehicle entrances upon receiving a first input sequence from the mobile signal generator (104) of contacting and holding for a first length of time the input control (106) .

3. The method of Claim 2, wherein the one or two adjacent vehicle entrances that are locked or unlocked are selected based on the position of the mobile signal generator (104) relative to the one or two adjacent vehicle entrances.

4. The method of Claim 2 or 3, wherein upon locating the position of the mobile signal generator (104) being between two adjacent vehicle entrances, the first instruction locks or unlocks the two adjacent vehicle entrances.

5. The method of Claim 1, wherein the control unit (114) commands a second instruction for locking or unlocking all of the plurality of vehicle entrances (108, 108', 110, 110', 112) upon receiving a second input sequence from the mobile signal generator (104) of contacting and holding for a second length of time the input control (106) .

6. The method of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second signal is a short-range frequency signal.

7. The method of Claim 6, wherein the short-range frequency signal is a low frequency signal, radio frequency signal or Bluetooth signal.

8. An access arrangement for a vehicle for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances (108, 108', 110, 110', 112) of the vehicle (102) according to any of the preceding claims, the access arrangement comprising:

a control unit (114) on board a vehicle (102), the control unit (114) comprising a signal strength indicator for regulating an exchange of a first signal and a second signal between the control unit (114) and a mobile signal generator (104), wherein the control unit (114) is configured to determine a location of the mobile signal generator (104) within a predetermined radius with respect to the vehicle (102) and

wherein the control unit (114), in response to signal strength of the signal strength indicator and an input sequence received from the mobile signal generator (102), is configured to initiate an instruction to lock or unlock at least one of the plurality of vehicle entrances (108, 108', 110, 110', 112) according to a condition of the input sequence received from the mobile signal generator (104) .

9. The access arrangement of Claim 8, further comprising a mobile signal generator (104) assigned to the vehicle (102) .

10. The access arrangement of claim 8 or 9, wherein the first and second signal is a short-range frequency signal.

11. The access arrangement of Claim 10, wherein the short-range frequency signal is a low frequency signal, radio frequency signal or Bluetooth signal.

12. A method for controlling a plurality of vehicle entrances (214, 214' , 216, 216' ) of a vehicle (202) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the mobile signal generator is a human machine interface.

13. The method of Claim 12, wherein the human machine interface (204) is positioned within the vehicle.

14. The method of Claim 12, wherein the human machine interface (204) is a mobile phone.

15. The method of Claim 12, wherein the controlling of a plurality of vehicle entrances (214, 214', 216, 216') of the vehicle (202) is operable using a single input control (206) .