METHOD FOR CALIBRINGING A VEHICLE PEPS SYSTEM USING A MOBILE DEVICE

Abstract

Method for operating a passive access passive start (PEPS) system of a vehicle (12) in relation to a mobile wireless device (57), the method comprising the following steps: (a) Authenticating the mobile wireless device (57); (b) Detecting the presence of the mobile wireless device (57) at a specific location in an interior space of the vehicle (12); and (c) Calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on the radio frequency (RF) performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device (57), wherein the RF performance characteristics include transmit power, receiver sensitivity and antenna gain, and wherein the calibration further includes comparing the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device (57) with the standard RF performance characteristics of a sample mobile wireless device stored in the PEPS system and calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on the comparison.

Description

INTRODUCTION

[0001] The present invention relates to passive access passive start (PEPS) systems used in vehicles, and in particular to the calibration of the PEPS system with respect to individual mobile wireless devices used to control vehicle access as part of a PEPS system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Modern vehicles use wireless key fobs that restrict both access to the vehicle's interior and the ability to operate it. Authorized vehicle users can carry a wireless key fob, and as they approach the vehicle, the PEPS system can determine whether the unique wireless signal transmitted by the key fob is authorized for access and / or operation of the vehicle. If so, the vehicle user can enter and subsequently start the vehicle. Specifically, the PEPS system defines a variety of virtual zones around the vehicle and monitors them for the presence of the key fob. Each zone is generally associated with a different level of vehicle access and functionality.In some cases, the presence of the key fob in a specific zone can automatically trigger one or more vehicle functions.

[0003] Initially, PEPS systems and key fobs communicated via wireless signals operating at the lower end of the frequency spectrum (e.g., ~30-400 kHz). However, with the continuous advancement of technology, vehicles are increasingly equipped to facilitate communication with other wireless devices via various wireless protocols such as Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) or Wi-Fi. Consequently, PEPS systems previously used for low-frequency signal transmission are being replaced by PEPS systems configured to communicate using Bluetooth LE and / or Wi-Fi communication technology. Furthermore, with these advanced wireless communication capabilities, PEPS systems are being configured to use mobile wireless devices to control vehicle access and functionality, either instead of or in addition to key fobs.

[0004] When using a mobile wireless device for passive vehicle access, the PEPS system determines the location of the mobile device using data obtained from the wireless signals transmitted between the vehicle and the mobile device. In one implementation, the location of the mobile device is determined using power variables associated with the wireless signals, such as signal strength and / or signal direction. For example, location determination might involve a calculation that compares a variety of known distance / signal strength values ​​stored on the vehicle with power values ​​measured at various nodes on the vehicle. That is, the signal strength values ​​for each distance to the vehicle can be stored and used in calculating the location of the mobile device. The radio frequency (RF) power characteristics (e.g.,Transmit power, receiver sensitivity, and antenna gain vary depending on the specific mobile device design, which can affect the performance and accuracy of the PEPS system in locating the mobile devices. In other words, if the RF performance characteristics of the mobile device differ from the stored power variables used for location tracking, the PEPS system may inaccurately identify the mobile device's location and, consequently, its presence within a given zone. As a result, the mobile device may be unable to gain vehicle access and / or functionality that would otherwise be associated with its location.

[0005] To ensure consistent performance and accuracy, it may be desirable to calibrate a vehicle PEPS system with respect to the RF performance characteristics associated with each individual mobile wireless device used by authorized users of the same vehicle.

[0006] DE 10 2012 204 673 A1 discloses a method for detecting a wireless device. In this method, a control unit and antennas are arranged on a vehicle to implement PEPS operation. The vehicle also includes checkpoints for determining the position of the wireless device using signal strength values. The checkpoints are predefined, for example, by a user. In a calibration mode, signal strength values ​​are assigned to the checkpoints. For this purpose, the wireless device is positioned at a checkpoint and receives an RF signal transmitted by an antenna. The wireless device determines the signal strength of the RF signal and transmits it to the control unit. The control unit stores the signal strength for the checkpoint with respect to the antenna. Further prior art is known from US 2016 / 0 320 469 A1. SUMMARY

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide an improved method for operating a passive access passive start (PEPS) system of a vehicle with respect to a mobile wireless device.

[0008] To solve the problem, a method with the features of claim 1 is provided. Advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the dependent claims, the description, and the drawings.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for operating a Passive Access Passive Start (PEPS) system of a vehicle with respect to a mobile wireless device.The method includes authenticating the mobile wireless device; detecting the presence of the mobile wireless device at a specific location within the vehicle's interior; and calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on radio frequency (RF) performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device, wherein the RF performance characteristics include transmit power, receiver sensitivity, and antenna gain, and wherein the calibration further includes comparing the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device with the standard RF performance characteristics of a sample mobile wireless device stored in the PEPS system and calibrating the one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on the comparison.Wireless communication between the vehicle and the wireless mobile device is carried out using a short-range wireless communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol or both, and includes at least one of a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) protocol, an IEEE 802.11 protocol or both.

[0010] In one example, the authentication step involves an exchange of virtual keys that authorize the mobile wireless device to access the vehicle, operate the vehicle, or both.

[0011] In one implementation, the procedure further includes requesting a user to authorize the calibration of the wireless mobile device and to place the wireless mobile phone at the specified location, where the specified location is a communication station connected to the PEPS system.

[0012] In one example, determining the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device according to the disclosed method involves sampling wireless communication signals between the vehicle and the wireless mobile device to determine a power variable associated with the wireless communication signals, wherein the power variable includes a received signal strength indicator (RSSI).

[0013] In one implementation, the one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system include distance / signal strength values ​​used to determine the position of the mobile wireless device relative to the vehicle and one or more virtual zone boundaries.

[0014] In one example, the calibration step involves transmitting a multitude of signals to the mobile wireless device at the specified location in the vehicle and receiving a multitude of response signals from the mobile wireless device, wherein the multitude of response signals includes a received signal strength, which is detected at the mobile wireless device in response to the multitude of transmitted signals, or calibration information relating to one or more operating parameters, which is calculated at the mobile wireless device in response to the multitude of transmitted signals.

[0015] A method for operating a vehicle's PEPS system with respect to a mobile wireless device includes authenticating the mobile wireless device, which authorizes the mobile wireless device to access the vehicle, operate the vehicle, or both; initiating a calibration procedure and prompting a user to place the mobile wireless device at a specific location within the vehicle's interior; determining the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device based on one or more calibration signals exchanged between the mobile wireless device and the vehicle using at least one Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) protocol, an IEEE 802.11 protocol or both, and calibration of one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system used to determine the location of the mobile wireless device based on the determined RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device.

[0016] A PEPS system for a vehicle includes a vehicle system module configured to determine the location of a mobile wireless device relative to the vehicle. The vehicle system module is configured to authenticate the mobile wireless device, authorizing it to access, operate, or both the vehicle; initiate a calibration procedure and prompt a user to place the mobile wireless device in a specific location within the vehicle's interior; and determine the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device based on one or more calibration signals exchanged between the mobile wireless device and the vehicle using at least one Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) protocol, an IEEE 802.11 standard, or a similar protocol.11 protocol or both; and calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system used to determine the location of the mobile wireless device based on the determined RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] One or more embodiments of the invention are described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein identical designations denote identical elements, and wherein the following applies: Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a vehicle capable of using the method described herein; Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method for operating a vehicle passive access passive start (PEPS) system with respect to a mobile wireless device; and Fig. 3 a projection view of an embodiment of a vehicle capable of using the method disclosed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATION FORM(S)

[0018] The system and procedure described below is designed to operate a vehicle's Passive Access Passive Start (PEPS) system in relation to a mobile wireless device and, in particular, to calibrate the PEPS system according to the RF performance characteristics associated with each mobile wireless device authorized for use with the vehicle's PEPS system. Communication system -

[0019] With reference to Fig. Figure 1 depicts an operating environment comprising a mobile vehicle communication system 10 with which the method disclosed herein can be implemented. The communication system 10 generally includes a vehicle 12, one or more mobile network operator systems 14, a fixed network 16, a computer 18, and a remote facility 20. It is understood that the disclosed method can be used with any number of different systems and is not specifically limited to the operating environment shown herein. The architecture, construction, configuration, and operation of the system 10 and its individual components are also generally known in the art. Thus, the following paragraphs merely provide a brief overview of such a communication system 10; however, other systems not shown herein could also employ the disclosed methods.

[0020] The vehicle 12 is shown in the illustrated embodiment as a passenger car; however, it should be noted that any other vehicle, including motorcycles, trucks, all-terrain vehicles (SUVs), recreational vehicles (RVs), watercraft, aircraft, bicycles, electric bicycles, etc., can also be used. Part of the vehicle electronics 28 is generally located in Fig. Figure 1 shows and includes a telematics unit 30, a PEPS module 43, a microphone 32, one or more buttons or other control inputs 34, an audio system 36, an optical display 38, a GPS module 40, and a number of vehicle system modules (VSMs) 42. Some of these devices can be directly connected to the telematics unit, such as the microphone 32 and the button(s) 34, while others are connected indirectly using one or more network connections, such as a communication bus 44 or an entertainment bus 46. Examples of suitable network connections include a controller area network (CAN), a media-oriented system transfer (MOST), a local area network (LIN), a local area network (LAN), and other suitable connections, such as Ethernet or others, which conform to, among others, the well-known ISO, SAE, and IEEE standards and specifications.

[0021] The telematics unit 30 can be an OEM-installed (embedded) or aftermarket device installed in the vehicle, enabling wireless voice and / or data communication via a wireless carrier system and wireless networking. This allows the vehicle to communicate with call centers, other telematics-enabled vehicles, or other entities or devices. The telematics unit preferably uses radio transmissions to establish a communication channel (a voice channel and / or a data channel) with a wireless carrier system, enabling voice and / or data transmissions to be sent and received over the channel. By providing both voice and data communication, the telematics unit 30 enables the vehicle to offer a number of different services, including those related to navigation, telephony, emergency assistance, diagnostics, infotainment, and more.Data can be transmitted either via a data connection, such as packet data transmission over a data channel, or via a voice channel, using techniques known in the field. For combined services that include both voice communication (e.g., with a live advisor or a speech output unit in the call center) and data communication (e.g., to provide GPS location data or vehicle diagnostic data to the call center), the system can use a single call over a voice channel and switch between voice and data transmission over the voice channel as needed, using techniques known to those skilled in the art.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the telematics unit 30 uses cellular communication according to either the GSM, CDMA, or LTE standards and therefore includes a cellular standard chipset 50 for voice communication, such as hands-free calling, a wireless modem for data transmission, an electronic processing device 52, one or more digital storage devices 54, and a dual antenna 56. It is understood that the modem can either be implemented by software stored in the telematics unit and executed by the processor 52, or it can be a separate hardware component located inside or outside the telematics unit 30. The modem can operate using any number of different standards or protocols, such as LTE, EVDO, CDMA, GPRS, and EDGE. Wireless networking between the vehicle and other networked devices can also be achieved using the telematics unit 30.For this purpose, the Telematics Unit 30 can be configured to communicate wirelessly using one or more short-range wireless protocols, including short-range wireless communication (SRWC), such as any of the IEEE 802.11 protocols, WiMAX, ZigBee™, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth LE, or near-field communication (NFC). When the Telematics Unit is used for packet-switched data communication, such as TCP / IP, it can be configured with a static IP address or set up to automatically obtain an assigned IP address from another device on the network, such as a router or network address server.

[0023] One of the networked devices that can communicate with the vehicle 12, specifically with the telematics unit 30, the VSMs 42, and / or the PEPS module 43, is a wireless mobile device 57 capable of wireless communication. For example, the device 57 could be a vehicle operator's or user's mobile phone, or another personal mobile device, and could include hardware, software, and / or firmware enabling cellular telecommunication and / or short-range wireless communication (SRWC), as well as other wireless device functions and applications. The hardware of the mobile device 57 includes a processor and memory for storing the software, firmware, etc.This memory can include volatile random-access memory or other temporary storage, as well as non-volatile, computer-readable media that stores some or all of the software for performing the various external device functions described herein. The wireless device's processor and the software stored in memory enable various software applications, which may be installed or pre-installed by the user (or manufacturer) (e.g., with a software application or a graphical user interface (GUI)), and which can be used to perform all or part of the method disclosed herein. The application can be configured to enable a vehicle user to communicate with the vehicle 12 via various communication protocols and to enable the vehicle user to control various aspects or functions of the vehicle—e.g.,This includes, among other things, remote locking / unlocking of vehicle doors, turning the vehicle ignition on and off, checking tire pressure, fuel level, oil life, etc. The application can also be used to enable the user of Device 57 to view information regarding the vehicle (e.g., the vehicle's current location, whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked) and / or regarding an account assigned to the user or the vehicle. Furthermore, the application can also allow the user to contact the remote Facility 20 or telephone advisors at any time, if necessary.

[0024] The mobile device 57 may further include a transmitter-receiver capable of communicating via a short-range wireless protocol (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), as well as a visual display 59. In some implementations, the visual display 59 also includes a graphical touchscreen user interface and / or a GPS module for receiving GPS satellite signals and generating GPS coordinates based on those signals. The mobile device 57 is presented as a smartphone with mobile phone capabilities, but may also, without limitation, include a tablet, a laptop computer, or any other suitable device.

[0025] The processor 52 can be any type of device capable of processing electronic instructions, including microprocessors, microcontrollers, host processors, controllers, vehicle communication processors, and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). It can be a dedicated processor used only by the telematics unit 30, or it can be shared with other vehicle systems. The processor 52 executes various types of digitally stored instructions, such as software or firmware programs stored in memory 54, which enable the telematics unit to provide a wide variety of services. For example, the processor 52 can execute programs or process data to perform at least part of the procedure described herein.

[0026] The telematics unit 30 can be used to provide a diverse range of vehicle services involving wireless communication to and / or from the vehicle. Such services include: directions and other navigation-related services provided in conjunction with the GPS-based vehicle navigation module 40; airbag deployment notification and other emergency call or breakdown service-related services provided in conjunction with one or more crash sensor interface modules, such as a vehicle control module (not shown); diagnostic messages using one or more diagnostic modules; and infotainment-related services, whereby music, web pages, movies, television programs, video games, and / or other information are downloaded and stored for present or later playback by an infotainment module (not shown).The services listed above are by no means a complete list of all the capabilities of the telematics unit 30, but are simply an enumeration of some of the services that the telematics unit can offer. Furthermore, it should be understood that at least some of the aforementioned modules could be implemented in the form of software commands stored inside or outside the telematics unit 30, they could be hardware components located inside or outside the telematics unit 30, or they could be integrated and / or shared with each other or with other systems located in the vehicle, to name just a few possibilities. In the event that the modules are implemented as VSM 42 located outside the telematics unit 30, they could use the vehicle bus 44 to exchange data and commands with the telematics unit.

[0027] The GPS module 40 receives radio signals from a constellation of GPS satellites. From these signals, the module 40 can determine the vehicle's position, which is used to provide navigation and other location-related services to the driver. Navigation services can be provided using an associated vehicle navigation module (which may be part of the GPS module 40), or some or all navigation services can be provided via the telematics unit 30, in which case the position information is sent to a remote location for the purpose of equipping the vehicle with navigation maps, map annotations (points of interest, restaurants, etc.), route calculations, and the like. The position information can also be provided to the call center 20 or another remote computer system, such as computer 18, for other purposes, such as fleet management.In addition, new or updated map data for the GPS module 40 can be downloaded from the call center via the telematics unit 30.

[0028] Apart from the audio system 36 and the GPS module 40, the vehicle may include 12 other vehicle system modules (VSMs) 42 in the form of electronic hardware components located in the vehicle. These VSMs typically receive input from one or more sensors and use the acquired input to perform diagnostics, monitoring, control, reporting, and / or other functions. Each VSM 42 is preferably connected to the other VSMs and the telematics unit 30 via the communication bus 44 and may be programmed to perform vehicle system and subsystem diagnostic tests. Non-limiting examples of a VSM 42 include an engine control module (ECM) that controls various aspects of engine operation, such as fuel injection and ignition timing, and another VSM 42 that may be a powertrain control module that controls the operation of one or more components of the vehicle's powertrain.Another VSM 42 can be a body control module (BCM) that controls various electrical components in the vehicle, such as the central locking system, engine ignition, and headlights. According to one embodiment, the engine control unit is equipped with integrated on-board diagnostic (OBD) functions that provide a wealth of real-time data, such as data obtained from various sensors, including vehicle emission sensors, and deliver a standardized set of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that allow a technician to quickly identify and rectify malfunctions within the vehicle. Experts in the field will recognize that the aforementioned VSMs are only examples of some of the modules that can be used in the vehicle 12; numerous other modules are also possible.

[0029] A Passive Access Passive Start (PEPS) module 43 is another type of VSM that can be connected to the vehicle bus 44 and enables passive detection of the absence or presence of a passive physical key or a virtual vehicle key. The PEPS module 43 can use its own antenna or receive signals via the antenna 56. In some embodiments, the mobile device 57 can act as a passive access key and receive a key or other information that authorizes the device to access the vehicle. When the passive physical key or the mobile device 57 with the virtual vehicle key approaches, the PEPS module 43 can determine whether the passive physical key belongs to the vehicle 12 and / or (in some embodiments) determine whether the virtual vehicle key is authorized / authentic.If the virtual vehicle key is authentic, the PEPS module 43 can send a command to the BCM, which enables access to the vehicle 12. In other implementations, the BCM or another VSM 42 can perform the functionality assigned to the PEPS module 43.

[0030] In one scenario, the virtual key can be implemented in conjunction with a car-sharing service where a remote facility coordinates rental cars or ride-sharing arrangements, such as remote facility 20. The remote facility can generate and issue a virtual key (e.g., a string or an array of bits) for mobile device 57 and vehicle 12. Mobile device 57 can then securely transmit the virtual key to the vehicle (e.g., via an existing SRWC connection), and the vehicle can subsequently determine whether the virtual key is authorized to access the vehicle and / or what level of access the virtual key has or is associated with (e.g., full vehicle functionality, or only unlock / lock functions). The application can enable such virtual key management and functionality.Regardless of the scenario or specific implementation, after authentication and / or authorization of the virtual key (or mobile device or mobile device user), the vehicle may automatically execute one or more vehicle functions or receive one or more commands from the mobile device, wherein the one or more commands instruct the vehicle to execute one or more vehicle functions or a set of functions, as further explained below.

[0031] The vehicle electronics 28 also includes a number of vehicle user interfaces that provide vehicle occupants with a means of providing and / or receiving information, including microphone 32, button(s) 34, audio system 36, and optical display 38. As used herein, the term “vehicle user interface” broadly encompasses any suitable form of electronic device that includes both the hardware and software components located in the vehicle and enables a vehicle user to communicate with or through a component of the vehicle. The microphone 32 provides audio input to the telematics unit to enable the driver or other occupants to provide voice controls and to operate hands-free communication via the wireless carrier system 14.For this purpose, it can be connected to an integrated automatic speech processing unit, which uses human-machine interface (HMI) technology well-known among experts in the field. The button(s) 34 enable manual user input into the telematics unit 30 to initiate wireless telephone calls and provide other data, responses, or control input. Separate buttons can be used to initiate emergency calls as opposed to regular service support calls to the call center 20. The audio system 36 provides audio output to a vehicle occupant and can be an associated standalone system or part of the primary vehicle audio system. According to the specific embodiment shown herein, the audio system 36 is operationally coupled to both the vehicle bus 44 and the entertainment bus 46 and can provide AM, FM, and satellite radio, CD, DVD, and other multimedia functionality.This functionality can be provided in conjunction with the infotainment module described above or independently. The optical display 38 is preferably a graphic display, such as a touchscreen on the instrument panel or a warning display reflected from the windshield, and can be used to provide a variety of input and output functions. Various other vehicle user interfaces can also be used, as the interfaces of . Fig. The numbers 1 serve only as an example of a specific implementation.

[0032] The mobile network operator system 14 is preferably a smartphone system comprising multiple mobile masts 70 (only one shown), one or more mobile switching centers (MSCs) 72, and any other network components required to connect the mobile network operator system 14 to the fixed network 16. Each mobile mast 70 includes transmit and receive antennas and a base station, with the base stations of different mobile masts being connected to the MSC 72 either directly or via intermediate devices, such as a base station control unit. The cellular system 14 can implement any suitable communication technology, including, for example, analog technologies such as AMPS or digital technologies such as CDMA (e.g., CDMA2000) and GSM / GPRS, as well as 4G LTE or 5G LTE.A person skilled in the art will recognize that various cell tower / base station / MSC arrangements are possible and could be used with the wireless system 14. For example, the base station and cell towers could be located in the same place or at a distance from each other, each base station could be responsible for a single cell tower, or a single base station could serve several cell towers, and several base stations could be coupled to a single MSC, to name just a few of the possible arrangements.

[0033] Apart from using the wireless carrier system 14, a different wireless carrier system in the form of satellite communication can be used to provide unidirectional or bidirectional communication with the vehicle. This can be done using one or more telecommunications satellites 62 and an up-facing transmitting station 64. Unidirectional communication could, for example, involve satellite radio services, in which programmed content data (news, music, etc.) is received from the transmitting station 64, packaged for uploading, and then sent to satellite 62, which broadcasts the programming to the subscribers. Bidirectional communication could, for example, involve satellite telephony services using the satellites 62 to relay telephone communications between the vehicle 12 and station 64.When in use, this satellite telephone can be used either in addition to or instead of the wireless carrier system 14.

[0034] The fixed network 16 can be a conventional land-based telecommunications network connected to one or more landline telephones and linking the mobile network operator system 14 to the remote facility 20. For example, the fixed network 16 can be a public switched telephone network (PSTN) such as that used to provide landline telephony, packet-switched data communications, and internet infrastructure. One or more segments of the fixed network 16 could be implemented using a standard wired network, a fiber optic or other optical network, a cable network, power lines, other wireless networks such as wireless local area networks (WLANs) or networks providing wireless broadband access (BWA), or any combination thereof.Furthermore, the remote facility 20 does not need to be connected via the fixed network 16, but could include radio telephony equipment so that it can communicate directly with a wireless network, such as the mobile network operator system 14.

[0035] The computer 18 can be one of a number of computers accessible via a private or public network, such as the Internet. Each of these computers 18 can be used for one or more purposes, such as a web server, accessible from the vehicle via the telematics unit 30 and the wireless carrier system 14.Other accessible computers 18 mentioned may include, for example: a computer in a customer service center where diagnostic information and other vehicle data can be uploaded from the vehicle via the telematics unit 30; a client computer used by the vehicle owner or another participant for such purposes as accessing or receiving vehicle data, or setting or configuring participant preferences or controlling vehicle functions; or a third-party storage location to or from which vehicle data or other information is provided either by communicating with the vehicle 12 or the remote facility 20, or both.A computer 18 can also be used to provide internet connectivity, such as DNS services or as a network address server, using DHCP or another suitable protocol to assign an IP address to the vehicle 12.

[0036] The remote facility 20 is designed to provide the vehicle electronics 28 with a number of different system back-end functions and, according to the embodiment shown here, generally includes one or more switches 80, servers 82, databases 84, live advisors 86, and an automated speech-to-text system (VRS) 88, all of which are known in the field. These various call center components are preferably interconnected via a wired or wireless local area network 90. ​​The switch 80, which may be a private branch exchange (PBX) switch, forwards incoming signals so that voice transmissions are usually sent either to the live advisor 86 via the regular telephone or automatically to the speech-to-text system 88 using VoIP. The live advisor telephone may also use VoIP, as indicated by the dashed line in Fig. Figure 1 shows VoIP and other data communication through the switch 80 are implemented via a modem (not shown) connected between the switch 80 and network 90. ​​Data transmissions are passed through the modem to the server 82 and / or the database 84. The database 84 can store account information, such as subscriber authentication information, vehicle identifiers, profile records, behavioral patterns, and other relevant subscriber information. Data transmissions can also occur through wireless systems, such as 802.11x, GPRS, and the like. Although the illustrated embodiment has been described as being used in conjunction with a manned call center 20 employing the live advisor 86, it is evident that the call center could instead use VRS 88 as an automated advisor, or a combination of VRS 88 and the live advisor 86 could be used. Procedure -

[0037] Looking now at Fig. 2 describes an embodiment of a method 200 for operating a passive access passive start (PEPS) system of a vehicle with respect to a mobile wireless device according to the one described in Fig. The disclosed method is illustrated in Figure 1, System 10. The method is implemented by System 10 as described above, wherein the PEPS system 43 and the mobile device 57 are configured to communicate wirelessly according to short-range wireless communication protocols, cellular communication protocols, or both. The short-range wireless communication protocols include, without limitation, any IEEE 802.11 protocol, WiMAX, ZigBee™, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth LE, or Near Field Communication (NFC).The disclosed method can be triggered under various circumstances, including, but not limited to: when a suitable application is installed on the mobile device 57; when the mobile device 57 is initially coupled to the vehicle 12; when the mobile device 57 is detected in a holder or at another specific location inside the vehicle 12; or when a user initiates the calibration of the mobile device 57 via one of the vehicle's user interfaces. It should be noted that the operations of method 200 need not necessarily be presented in a specific order and that performing some or all of the operations in a different order is possible and intended.

[0038] Method 200 begins at step 210 with the authentication of the mobile wireless device 57. In one embodiment, the authentication takes place before the mobile device 57 is used with the vehicle 12 for the first time. In accordance with known techniques, the authentication may relate to the initial exchange of digital certificates or keys as described above, thereby authorizing the mobile device 57 to establish connections with the vehicle 12 and to access and / or operate the vehicle 12.

[0039] In step 212, a calibration process is initiated, and the user is prompted to position or place the mobile wireless device at a specific location inside the vehicle. The calibration can be initiated in response to authentication of the mobile device or, alternatively, in response to a user request via one of the vehicle's user interfaces. The specified location may refer to a bracket or other type of device mount or interface located at a fixed point inside the vehicle 12. In this way, each mobile device 57 connected to the PEPS system is calibrated from the same location. If the calibration is initiated automatically, the vehicle may prompt the user to authorize the calibration via one of its user interfaces.

[0040] In step 214, the radio frequency (RF) performance characteristics of the mobile device are determined by sampling wireless communication signals between the vehicle 12 and the wireless mobile device 57. In one implementation, sampling the wireless signals involves transmitting one or more signals to the mobile wireless device 57, which is positioned at the known specified location in the vehicle 12. The transmitted signals are calibration signals used to determine the RF characteristics of the mobile device 57, which include transmit power, receiver sensitivity, and antenna gain. The mobile wireless device 57 is configured via an installed application to receive the calibration signals and determine one or more performance variables, which may include signal strength and / or signal direction.In one implementation, the performance variables are determined by measuring a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the calibration signals.

[0041] In step 216, the vehicle 12 is configured to receive one or more response signals from the mobile wireless device 57, which may include performance variables such as the received signal strength (RSSI) detected by the mobile wireless device 57 in response to the transmitted calibration signals. In a further implementation, the mobile wireless device 57 is configured via the installed application to calculate calibration information for one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system from the transmitted calibration signals. Thus, the response signals sent by the mobile wireless device 57 to the vehicle 12 can include calibration information regarding the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device 57.

[0042] In step 218, the vehicle 12, and in particular the PEPS module 43, is configured to compare the power variables present in the received signals with known basic or benchmark RF performance characteristics associated with a predefined “pattern” of a mobile wireless device. The basic RF performance characteristics relating to the mobile device pattern are used by the PEPS system as a standard to determine the position of the mobile device 57 and to define a set of virtual standard zone boundaries.

[0043] As described above, the virtual zones surrounding the vehicle 12 are defined and monitored for the presence of the wireless mobile device 57 in each of these zones. A projection view of the vehicle 10 is shown in Fig. Figure 3 illustrates an implementation of a variety of short-range wireless communication nodes (SRWC), such as Bluetooth LE node 47, Wi-Fi node 48, and a variety of virtual zones. The PEPS module 43 receives information from Bluetooth LE node 47 and / or Wi-Fi node 48 to detect the presence of the mobile device 57 within a zone. In one implementation, the vehicle 12 can be surrounded by three virtual zones: a connection or approach zone 302, a passive access zone 304, and a vehicle interior zone 306.

[0044] These zones can each be assigned to different vehicle functions. The PEPS system is configured to determine vehicle access based on the position of an authenticated device. In connection / proximity zone 302, vehicle 12 can first detect the presence of mobile device 57 using the SRWC signal it transmits. While in connection / proximity zone 302, vehicle 12 can authenticate mobile device 57 but cannot take any further action unless mobile device 57 approaches vehicle 12. By authenticating mobile device 57, but without activating any other vehicle function, vehicle 12 can be ready for a vehicle occupant and still remain in energy-saving mode if vehicle 12 is parked near mobile device 57 without a user intending to operate vehicle 12.This may be the case if the mobile device 57 is located near the vehicle 12 in the owner's pocket or if the mobile device 57 remains in the vicinity of the vehicle 12.

[0045] As the mobile device 57 is moved closer to the vehicle 12, it can enter a passive access zone 304, where the vehicle 12 can trigger a series of vehicle functions in anticipation that the user will soon use the vehicle 12. The vehicle 12 can also receive the SRWC signal from the mobile device 57 at more than one node 47, 48 and, using the power data from signal measurements collected at each of the nodes 47, 48, accurately determine the distance of the mobile device 57 from the vehicle 12. For example, the body control module VSM 42 can unlock the doors, turn on the exterior lights, and / or move the driver's seat to one of several previously stored positions. In another example, when the authenticated mobile device 57 is in the passive access zone 304, the PEPS system allows the door to be unlocked by pressing the door handle.When the authenticated mobile device 57 is located in the vehicle interior zone 306, the PEPS system allows the vehicle to be started, for example, when the "Start" button is pressed. The passive access zone 304 can be defined by the area between the exterior surfaces of the vehicle 12 up to the boundary of the connection / approach zone 302 nearest to the vehicle 12. Nodes 47 and 48 are shown spaced apart in the vehicle doors, trunk area, dashboard, center console, and rear seat of the vehicle 12. However, it should be noted that nodes 47 and 48 can be combined into a single unit, which may share a common housing in locations other than those shown. Fig. 3 implementations shown.

[0046] The baseline RF performance characteristics are used to determine a variety of known standard distance-to-signal-strength values ​​stored at vehicle 12. That is, the signal-strength values ​​for each distance to vehicle 12 can be stored and used in calculating the location of mobile device 57. In one example, a lookup table might contain a distance corresponding to a variety of signal-strength values, the number of which could correspond to the number of nodes 47, 48 used. The signal-strength values ​​acquired by the nodes can be matched with the signal-strength values ​​in the lookup table. If a match is found, the distance to mobile device 57 can be determined. The distance-to-signal-strength values ​​can be further refined by specifying the angle at which the signal is received.

[0047] As a result of the comparison performed in step 218, the PEPS module 43 compensates in step 220 for a difference between the RF performance characteristics of the mobile device 57 and the known baseline RF performance characteristics. In one implementation, the compensation involves calibrating one or more parameters of the PEPS system, which includes the known standard distance-to-signal-strength values ​​for the sample mobile device stored on the vehicle 12. Calibrating the standard distance-to-signal-strength values ​​also calibrates the virtual zone boundaries. Consequently, the distance-to-signal-strength values ​​and the virtual zone boundaries are calibrated for the specific RF performance characteristics of all mobile devices used on the same vehicle.

[0048] With regard to Method 200, the mobile devices 57 and the vehicle 12 are described as using signals transmitted via SRWC protocols. However, it should be understood that other configurations of this method can implement PEPS system calibration using cellular protocols. Furthermore, several methods for implementing calibration communication between the vehicle 12 and the mobile wireless device 57, located inside the vehicle, are considered. For example, the mobile device 57 can be configured to receive signals from the vehicle; read and store RSSI values ​​with respect to the signals; and then transmit the RSSI values ​​to the vehicle 12, which uses the RSSI values ​​to determine any deviation from the stored benchmark.In another implementation, the mobile device 57 is configured to receive signals from the vehicle 12; read and store RSSI values ​​relating to the signals; calculate a deviation from the benchmark; and then transmit the calculated deviation to the vehicle 12. In yet another implementation, the vehicle 12 is configured to receive signals from the mobile device 57; read and store RSSI values; and then use the RSSI values ​​to determine a deviation from the benchmark. In a still further implementation, the vehicle 12 is configured to receive signals from the mobile device 57; read and store RSSI values ​​relating to the signals; and then transmit the RSSI values ​​to the mobile device 57, which is configured to calculate a deviation from the benchmark and then transmit the deviation to the vehicle 12.In each of the above implementations, the deviation is used to calibrate one or more parameters of the PEPS system, as previously described in relation to step 220.

[0049] It is understood that the foregoing is a description of one or more embodiments of the invention. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed herein, but is defined exclusively by the following claims. Furthermore, the statements made in the foregoing description refer to specific embodiments and are not to be understood as limitations on the scope of the invention or the definition of the terms used in the claims, except where a term or expression has been expressly defined above. Various other embodiments and various changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiment(s) are obvious to those skilled in the art. All such other embodiments, changes, and modifications should be understood to fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0050] As used in this description and the claims, the terms "for example," "such as," "as," and "equal," and the verbs "comprise," "exhibit," "include," and their other verb forms, when used in conjunction with a listing of one or more components or other items, are each to be interpreted as open-ended, meaning that the listing is not considered in such a way as to exclude other, additional components or elements. Other terms are to be interpreted in their broadest reasonable sense unless used in a context that requires a different interpretation.

Claims

[1] Method for operating a passive access passive start (PEPS) system of a vehicle (12) in relation to a mobile wireless device (57), the method comprising the following steps: (a) Authenticating the mobile wireless device (57); (b) Detecting the presence of the mobile wireless device (57) at a specific location in an interior space of the vehicle (12); and (c) Calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on the radio frequency (RF) performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device (57), wherein the RF performance characteristics include transmit power, receiver sensitivity and antenna gain, and wherein the calibration further includes comparing the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device (57) with the standard RF performance characteristics of a sample mobile wireless device stored in the PEPS system and calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on the comparison. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein step (c) further comprises determining the RF performance characteristics of the mobile wireless device (57) by sampling wireless communication signals between the vehicle (12) and the wireless mobile device (57). [3] Method according to claim 2, wherein the wireless communication between the vehicle (12) and the wireless mobile device (57) is carried out using a short-range wireless communication protocol, a cellular communication protocol or both. [4] Method according to claim 3, wherein the short-range wireless communication protocol comprises at least one of a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) protocol, an IEEE 802.11 protocol or both. [5] Method according to claim 1, further comprising comparing a power variable with a standard RF power variable and calibrating one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system based on the comparison. [6] Method according to claim 5, wherein the power variable is a received signal strength indicator (RSSI). [7] Method according to claim 1, wherein one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system include distance-to-signal strength values ​​used to determine a position of the mobile wireless device (57) in relation to the vehicle (12). [8] Method according to claim 1, wherein one or more operating parameters of the PEPS system comprise one or more virtual zone boundaries.

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