In-vehicle communication system, straddle-type vehicle, and storage medium

Abstract

The vehicle-mounted communication system of the embodiment comprises: an antenna, which is mounted on the vehicle and performs short-range communication with a user terminal device present in a communication area around the vehicle; and a control unit, which is mounted on the vehicle and performs a prescribed authentication process when the radio wave strength of the signal received from the user terminal device via the antenna or the signal received by the user terminal device from the antenna is above a threshold, wherein the control unit uses a notification unit to notify the user of information related to the target communication position where the user terminal device should be located when the threshold is registered.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle-mounted communication system, a straddle-type vehicle, and a storage medium.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-187309 filed on November 10, 2020, and incorporates the contents thereof herein. Background Art

[0003] In the field of wireless door locks, a technology is known in which a communication area between an onboard device and a wireless key is pre-set around the vehicle, and the lock is unlocked based on the communication result with the wireless key within the pre-set communication area. This communication area is changed by changing the set level of the wireless key's radio waves (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-41823 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the present invention

[0008] However, if the user arbitrarily changes the setting level of the radio wave of the wireless key, the communication area may become inappropriate.

[0009] An object of aspects of the present invention is to provide an in-vehicle communication system, a straddle-type vehicle, and a program that can prevent an in-vehicle device from having an inappropriate communication area.

[0010] Solutions to Problems

[0011] The vehicle-mounted communication system of the first embodiment of the present invention comprises: an antenna, which is mounted on a vehicle and performs short-range communication with a user terminal device present in a communication area around the vehicle; and a control unit, which is mounted on the vehicle and performs a prescribed authentication process when the radio wave strength of the signal received from the user terminal device via the antenna or the signal received by the user terminal device from the antenna is above a threshold, wherein the control unit uses a notification unit to notify the user of information related to the target communication position where the user terminal device should be located when the threshold is registered.

[0012] According to a second aspect, in the vehicle-mounted communication system of the first aspect, the notification unit may notify the information on the target communication position as information on a relative position with respect to the vehicle.

[0013] According to a third aspect, in the vehicle-mounted communication system of the first or second aspect, the target communication position may be a position on the opposite side of the antenna via a shielding portion that shields radio waves, which is a component of the vehicle.

[0014] A straddle-type vehicle according to a fourth aspect of the present invention includes the in-vehicle communication system according to the third aspect.

[0015] According to a fifth aspect, in the straddle-type vehicle according to the fourth aspect, the shield portion may be a steering shaft.

[0016] The sixth option, based on the straddle-type vehicle of the above-mentioned fifth option, may also be that, when the antenna is arranged at a position forward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis, the target communication position is a position rearward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis; and when the antenna is arranged at a position rearward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis, the target communication position is a position forward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis.

[0017] A seventh aspect is the in-vehicle communication system according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the control unit causes the user terminal device or a display unit mounted on the vehicle to display the target communication position.

[0018] The program of the eighth scheme of the present invention causes the on-board computer to perform the following processing: use the antenna mounted on the vehicle to perform short-range communication with a user terminal device present in the communication area around the vehicle; perform a prescribed authentication process when the radio wave strength of the signal received from the user terminal device via the antenna or the signal received by the user terminal device from the antenna is above a threshold; and use the notification unit to notify the user of information related to the target communication position where the user terminal device should be located when the threshold is registered.

[0019] Effects of the Invention

[0020] According to the first to eighth aspects, it is possible to prevent the communication area of the vehicle-mounted device from becoming inappropriate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a motorcycle as an example of the vehicle according to the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 2 This is an illustration of a main switch knob for a motorcycle.

[0023] Figure 3 This is an illustration of a remote control key for a motorcycle.

[0024] Figure 4This is an explanatory diagram of the area surrounding a starter switch of a motorcycle.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a functional block diagram of the in-vehicle communication system in the embodiment.

[0026] Figure 6 It is a functional block diagram of the intelligent control unit.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a functional block diagram of a user terminal device.

[0028] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing a display example of target communication position information.

[0029] Figure 9 It is a diagram showing a display example of setting a threshold value.

[0030] Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the flow of processing based on preliminary processing performed by the authentication unit.

[0031] Figure 11 This is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the RSSI registration mode performed by the Bluetooth communication control unit.

[0032] Figure 12 This is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the RSSI registration mode performed by the Bluetooth communication control unit.

[0033] Figure 13 This is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the application execution unit.

[0034] Figure 14 This is an example of a target communication position when there is an intelligent control unit behind the vehicle.

[0035] Figure 15 This is an example of a target communication position when there is an intelligent control unit in front of the vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a two-wheeled motor vehicle 11 as an example of a vehicle according to the embodiment. Figure 1 As shown, the motorcycle 11 is, for example, a unit swing type scooter type motorcycle.

[0037] <Overall Vehicle>

[0038] like Figure 1As shown, a motorcycle 11 includes a front wheel 13 serving as a steering wheel and a rear wheel 14 serving as a driving wheel. The front wheel 13 is supported by a front fork 16 and can be steered by a handlebar 12. The rear wheel 14 is supported by a swing unit 20 and can be driven by a reciprocating engine (internal combustion engine, hereinafter referred to as the engine) 21, which will be described later. The swing unit 20 integrally includes the engine 21 and, for example, a V-belt continuously variable transmission (not shown).

[0039] The steering system components, including the handlebars 12, front fork 16, and front wheel 13, are steerably supported at the front end of the vehicle frame (not shown). A swing unit 20 and rear wheel 14 are supported at the lower rear portion of the vehicle frame so that they can swing vertically. A side stand 17 is stowably mounted on the left side of the lower portion of the vehicle frame. This side stand 17 supports the vehicle body in an upright position tilted to the left. The frame is surrounded by a vehicle body cover 15.

[0040] The handlebar 12 is fixed to the upper portion of the front fork 16 via a top bridge 35 and a steering shaft 36. The top bridge 35 rotates together with the steering shaft 36.

[0041] The two-wheeled motor vehicle 11 includes a pair of left and right steps 19 for a driver seated on a seat 18 to place his feet, a center tunnel CT extending in the vehicle front-rear direction between the left and right steps 19, a front body FB connected to the front of the center tunnel CT and the left and right steps 19, and a rear body RB connected to the rear of the center tunnel CT and the left and right steps 19.

[0042] A headlamp 22a and front turn signal lamps 22b are located on the front upper portion of the front vehicle body FB. A rear combination lamp 23, which includes a taillight, brake lamp, and rear turn signal lamps, is located on the rear portion of the rear vehicle body RB. The rear vehicle body RB supports a seat 18 for the occupants. A fuel cap 24 is provided on the upper surface of the center tunnel CT to open and close the space where the fuel filler port is located.

[0043] The seat 18 is rotated up and down about a hinge shaft arranged at the front end, for example, to open and close the upper part of the rear vehicle body RB. An article storage portion (not shown) is arranged below the seat 18.

[0044] In the closed state where the seat 18 blocks the upper portion of the rear vehicle body RB, the passenger can sit on the seat 18. In the open state where the seat 18 opens the upper portion of the rear vehicle body RB, the passenger can access the storage portion below the seat 18.

[0045] A display panel 26 is disposed above the front vehicle body FB. The display panel 26 includes, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device. The display panel 26 displays smart indicators including a speedometer, messages to the user, and graphics.

[0046] The handle lock module 27 is accommodated inside the front vehicle body FB. The handle lock module 27 integrally includes a handle lock mechanism 28 as a main body, an intelligent control unit 300 described later, and a main switch 30 as a main power switch of the motorcycle 11.

[0047] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram of the main switch knob of a motorcycle. The main switch knob 31 has an OFF position P1 that turns the main switch 30 off; an ON position P2 that turns the main switch 30 on; a seat / fuel lock release position P3 located between the OFF and ON positions P2, allowing the seat 18 and fuel lid 24 to be opened; and a locked position P4, in which the vehicle's various components, including the handlebar lock, are locked by rotating the knob from the OFF position P1 toward the opposite side of the ON position P2 while being depressed. When the main switch 30 is not activated, the main switch knob 31 is in the OFF position P1.

[0048] When the main switch knob 31 is in the seat / fuel lock release position P3, the seat / fuel lock release switch 32 adjacent to the main switch knob 31 becomes operable or effective. The seat / fuel lock release switch 32 is a toggle switch. One of the seat / fuel lock release switches 32 selects unlocking the seat 18. The other selects unlocking the fuel cap 24.

[0049] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram of a dedicated remote control key 4 for a motorcycle 11. The dedicated remote control key 4 is, for example, a FOB key or an electronic key, and has one or more operation buttons 4a. The dedicated remote control key 4 is an example of a key for the motorcycle 11, and the user terminal device 100 described later can also be used as a key for the motorcycle 11.

[0050] The main switch 30 includes a main switch knob 31 as an operating portion on the inner panel 25 on the floor step 19 side (rear surface side) of the front vehicle body FB. Rotation of the main switch knob 31 becomes possible or effective when the authenticity of the dedicated remote control key 4 or the user terminal device 100 has been confirmed through authentication processing (e.g., when ID authentication has been performed).

[0051] By rotating the main switch knob 31 (e.g., pushing the main switch knob 31 in), the main switch 30 is activated. When the main switch 30 is activated, for example, a lighting device provided on the main switch 30 is illuminated, and the main switch knob 31 becomes enabled or effective (unlocked). The main switch 30 is activated by operating the main switch knob 31 to the on position P2.

[0052] It should be noted that by activating the main switch 30, power is supplied to the control device 40, described later, to start the engine 21 and unlock the electromagnetic lock (an electric locking device operated by a solenoid) 70 for opening and closing members such as the seat 18 and the fuel cap 24. The main switch knob 31 also serves as an operating element for locking and unlocking the handlebar lock mechanism 28.

[0053] That is, the main switch 30 confirms the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 through the authentication process (startup state), and enables or validates the turning-on operation of the main switch knob 31 (unlocked state).

[0054] On the other hand, when the main switch knob 31 is in the unlocked state, communication between the user terminal device 100 and the motorcycle 11 is lost due to factors such as the user terminal device 100 being removed and placed in a closed space, and thus operation of the main switch knob 31 becomes impossible or invalid (locked state). Examples of devices that unlock by activation of the main switch 30 and lock by disconnection of communication with the user terminal device 100 include the handlebar lock mechanism 28, the seat 18 lock, and the fuel cap 24 lock.

[0055] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram of the area surrounding the starter switch 29 of the motorcycle 11. The engine 21 is started by gripping the brake lever 29a on the right side of the handlebar 12 and pressing the starter switch 29 while the main switch 30 is on. Pressing the starter switch 29 causes the engine start control unit 42 of the control device 40, described later, to drive the starter motor 21a attached to the engine 21 and control ignition and fuel injection, thereby starting the engine 21.

[0056] <In-vehicle communication system 1>

[0057] Figure 5 1 is a functional block diagram of the vehicle-mounted communication system 1 in the embodiment. The vehicle-mounted communication system 1 includes a smart control unit 300 and a control device 40. The smart control unit 300 is a component of the smart key system 2 described later.

[0058] Connected to the smart control unit 300 are the starter switch 29, the main switch 30, the electromagnetic lock 70 (including the locking devices for various parts of the vehicle), the display panel 26, the control device 40, and a notification driver (not shown) that activates various notification mechanisms based on the operation of the smart key system 2. When the smart key system 2 locks or unlocks the locking devices for various parts of the vehicle, the notification driver performs at least one of the following (response): visual notifications such as flashing the hazard lights or auditory notifications such as sounding an electronic sound. This allows the user to be informed that the locking devices for various parts of the vehicle have been locked or unlocked.

[0059] The control device 40 is, for example, an integrated ECU (Electric Control Unit) that functions as a control unit for the entire in-vehicle communication system 1. It should be noted that the control device 40 may also be a Fi-ECU (Fuel Injection-Engine Control Unit). Hereinafter, the control device 40 will be referred to as ECU 40. An on signal from the main switch 30 and an engine start signal from the start switch 29 are input to the ECU 40 via the intelligent control unit 300. Furthermore, the ECU 40 receives inputs such as a parking stand use detection signal from the side parking stand switch 17a that detects the upright state of the side parking stand 17, and various detection signals that detect the operating state of the engine 21.

[0060] The ECU 40 includes an engine control unit 41 that controls driving of the engine 21 and the like, and an engine start control unit 42 that performs start control of the engine 21 .

[0061] The engine control unit 41 and the engine start control unit 42 are implemented by executing a program (software) on a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Furthermore, some or all of the aforementioned components may be implemented using hardware (including circuitry) such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or through a combination of software and hardware. The program may be pre-stored in the storage unit of the ECU 40 or stored on a removable storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and installed in the storage unit by attaching the storage medium to the drive unit.

[0062] The smart key system 2 utilizes a communication device with a near-field communication function as a key for a motorcycle 11. The smart key system 2 can lock and unlock various parts of the motorcycle 11. In this embodiment, the user terminal device 100 and the dedicated remote control key 4 can be used as the smart key for the motorcycle 11.

[0063] For example, the smart key system 2 includes a user terminal device 100 held by a user such as a driver, and a smart control unit 300 as an in-vehicle device. The smart control unit 300 performs authentication processing on the user terminal device 100 through bidirectional communication with the user terminal device 100. Once the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the smart key system 2 enables starting the engine 21 and unlocking various parts of the vehicle.

[0064] The smart key system 2 may also include a dedicated remote control key 4 held by a user such as a driver, and a smart control unit 300 mounted on the body of the motorcycle 11. The smart control unit 300 performs bidirectional communication with the dedicated remote control key 4 to authenticate the dedicated remote control key 4. Once the authenticity of the dedicated remote control key 4 is confirmed through the authentication process, the smart key system 2 enables starting the engine 21 and unlocking various vehicle components.

[0065] Intelligent control unit

[0066] Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of the intelligent control unit 300. The intelligent control unit 300 includes, for example, a power supply circuit 301, a main switch input detection circuit 302, a start switch input detection circuit 303, an electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304, a knob switch input detection circuit 305, a Bluetooth communication circuit 306, a USB power drive circuit 307, a display panel drive circuit 308, an ECU communication circuit 309, an intelligent CPU 310, a Bluetooth antenna 320, and a storage unit 350. Here, an example of the intelligent control unit 300 using Bluetooth as a communication means is described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the intelligent control unit 300 can also use short-range communication such as wireless LAN (wi-fi) and infrared communication. It should be noted that Bluetooth is a registered trademark. In the following, all records that Bluetooth is a registered trademark are omitted.

[0067] The power supply circuit 301 receives power required for processing by the intelligent control unit 300 from a power supply on the motorcycle 11 side and supplies the power to various locations.

[0068] The main switch input detection circuit 302 is connected to the main switch 30 and receives an on signal or an off signal from the main switch 30. The main switch input detection circuit 302 detects whether the main switch 30 is on or off based on the input signal and outputs the detection result to the intelligent CPU 310. For example, the main switch input detection circuit 302 detects an on signal when the main switch knob 31 is pressed, and then detects an off signal when the main switch knob 31 is pressed again.

[0069] The start switch input detection circuit 303 is connected to the start switch 29 and receives an engine start signal or an engine stop signal from the start switch 29. The start switch input detection circuit 303 detects engine start or engine stop based on the input signal and outputs the detection result to the intelligent CPU 310. For example, when the main switch 30 is on and the brake lever 29a on the right side of the handlebar 12 is gripped while the start switch 29 is pressed, the start switch 29 is detected as an instruction to start the engine.

[0070] The electromagnetic lock driving circuit 304 is connected to the electromagnetic lock 70 and is controlled by the intelligent CPU 310. The electromagnetic lock driving circuit 304 sets the seat 18, the fuel lid 24, etc. to a locked state or an unlocked state by energizing or de-energizing the electromagnetic lock 70.

[0071] The rotary switch input detection circuit 305 is connected to the main switch knob 31 and receives input signals indicating rotational operations from the main switch knob 31. Based on the input signals, the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 detects an off operation (rotation to the off position P1), an on operation (rotation to the on position P2), an unlocking operation (rotation to the seat / fuel lock release position P3) enabling opening of the seat 18 and fuel cap 24, and a locking operation (rotation to the locked position P4) that locks various vehicle components, including the handlebar lock, and outputs the detection results to the intelligent CPU 310.

[0072] The Bluetooth communication circuit 306 communicates with communication devices within a communication area using the Bluetooth antenna 320. The communication area is an area within a predetermined distance from the Bluetooth antenna 320. For example, the Bluetooth communication circuit 306 emits a beacon signal to detect communication devices within the communication area and establishes Bluetooth communication with the detected communication devices.

[0073] The USB power drive circuit 307 is connected to the USB charger 400 to drive the power circuit 301 of the USB charger 400. The USB charger 400 includes, for example, the power circuit 401, a charger output control circuit 402, and a USB port 403. The power circuit 401 supplies power from the power supply on the motorcycle 11 side to a terminal device connected via the USB port 403.

[0074] The display panel driving circuit 308 is connected to the display panel 26 to drive the display panel 26 .

[0075] The ECU communication circuit 309 is connected to the ECU 40 and communicates with the ECU 40 in a wired manner. The ECU communication circuit 309 transmits information output from the smart CPU 310 to the ECU 40 .

[0076] The storage unit 350 stores, for example, target communication location information 351 , a set threshold value 352 , and a registrant ID 353 .

[0077] The target communication position information 351 includes information related to the target communication position where the user terminal device 100 should be located when registering the set threshold value of the received radio wave strength (hereinafter referred to as RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication)). "Registration of the set threshold value" includes the case of registering the initial value and the case of changing the value that has already been registered. The target communication position is represented by information related to the relative position relative to the motor two-wheeled vehicle 11. For example, the target communication position is represented by the four directions of front, back, left and right with a specified position of the motor two-wheeled vehicle 11 (for example, the main switch 30) as the center. Without being limited to this, the target communication position can also be represented by a direction with a specified position of the motor two-wheeled vehicle 11 (for example, the main switch 30) as the center. The target communication position is the position where the RSSI value becomes the lowest based on the RSSI characteristics measured in advance.

[0078] It should be noted that the target communication position may also include information indicating the orientation of the user when standing at the target communication position. For example, if a person is between the intelligent control unit 300 and the user terminal device 100, the RSSI may be affected by the person's position. Therefore, the target communication position may also include information indicating that the user terminal device 100 should be held with the intelligent control unit 300 facing backwards when transmitting a signal.

[0079] The set threshold 352 is the RSSI threshold registered by the registration process. From a security perspective, the set threshold is a reference value used to define an area (hereinafter referred to as the authentication area) in which authentication targets present around the motorcycle 11 can be detected. The set threshold is set to a value such that authentication processing is not performed for authentication targets that have left the motorcycle 11. For example, the set threshold is the RSSI value detected from the user terminal device 100 via the Bluetooth antenna 320 in an area (e.g., a predetermined area including the target communication location) where the RSSI value is lowest based on RSSI characteristics.

[0080] The registrant ID 353 is information indicating the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 and is identification information assigned to the registrant for the purpose of ID authentication. It should be noted that the information indicating the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is not limited to pre-registered ID information. For example, it can also be a random number issued for a limited period of use.

[0081] The intelligent CPU 310 includes, for example, a switch control unit 311, an operation instruction unit 312, an electromagnetic lock control unit 313, a Bluetooth communication control unit 314, an authentication unit 315, and a display control unit 316. The switch control unit 311, the operation instruction unit 312, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314, the authentication unit 315, and the display control unit 316 are implemented by executing a program (software) through a processor such as a CPU or a GPU. In addition, some or all of the above-mentioned components can also be implemented by hardware (including circuitry) such as an LSI, an ASIC, or an FPGA, or can be implemented through the collaboration of software and hardware. The program can be pre-stored in the storage unit 350, or it can be stored in a removable storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and installed in the storage unit by assembling the storage medium in a drive device.

[0082] The switch control unit 311 controls the rotation of the main switch knob 31 based on the authentication result obtained by the authentication unit 315. For example, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the switch control unit 311 enables or validates the rotation of the main switch knob 31. This is not limiting; if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the switch control unit 311 may also enable or validate the operation of the start switch 29, the seat / fuel lock release switch 32, or other switches.

[0083] The operation instruction unit 312 transmits information input from the main switch input detection circuit 302, the start switch input detection circuit 303, or the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 to the ECU 40 using the ECU communication circuit 309. For example, when the engine start operation signal or the engine stop operation signal is input from the start switch input detection circuit 303, the operation instruction unit 312 transmits an engine start permission signal or an engine stop permission signal to the ECU 40 using the ECU communication circuit 309, conditional on the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 being confirmed through authentication. It should be noted that the engine stop permission signal may be replaced with the engine start permission signal.

[0084] The electromagnetic lock control unit 313 controls the electromagnetic lock 70 based on the authentication result obtained by the authentication unit 315. For example, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 outputs a command based on the information input from the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 to the electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304 to control the unlocking or locking of the electromagnetic lock 70. For example, if the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 inputs information indicating an unlocking operation, the electromagnetic lock 70 is controlled to enable the opening operation of the seat 18 and the fuel lid 24. On the other hand, if the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 inputs information indicating a locking operation, the electromagnetic lock 70 is controlled to disable the opening operation of the seat 18 and the fuel lid 24.

[0085] The Bluetooth communication control unit 314 controls the Bluetooth communication circuit 306 to communicate with the user terminal device 100 within the communication area using the Bluetooth antenna 320. For example, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 transmits a beacon signal from the Bluetooth antenna 320 to determine whether a user terminal device 100 has responded. If a user terminal device 100 has responded to the beacon signal, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 reads the target communication location information from the storage unit 350 and transmits it to the user terminal device 100. It should be noted that if the target device for communication with the intelligent control unit 300 is the dedicated remote control key 4, or if the user has set the target location not to be displayed on the user terminal device 100, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 displays information indicating the target communication location on the display panel 26 based on the target communication location information read from the storage unit 350.

[0086] The Bluetooth communication control unit 314 obtains an RSSI value based on the radio signal received from the user terminal device 100 via the Bluetooth antenna 320, and registers it as a set threshold in the set threshold 352 of the storage unit 350. Hereinafter, the process of registering the RSSI set threshold in this manner is referred to as RSSI registration mode.

[0087] Furthermore, when the user terminal device 100 requests transmission of the acquired RSSI value, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 transmits the acquired RSSI value to the user terminal device 100. Hereinafter, this process of transmitting the acquired RSSI value to the user terminal device 100 for user confirmation is referred to as a threshold confirmation mode. In the threshold confirmation mode, either the RSSI value before registration as the set threshold value or the RSSI value registered as the set threshold value may be used.

[0088] The authentication unit 315 performs predetermined preliminary processing and predetermined authentication processing based on the information received via the Bluetooth antenna 320. For example, the preliminary processing is a process for determining whether the RSSI value of the signal received via the Bluetooth antenna 320 is greater than or equal to the set threshold value registered in the storage unit 350. If the preliminary processing determines that the RSSI value of the signal received via the Bluetooth antenna 320 is greater than or equal to the set threshold value registered in the storage unit 350, the authentication unit 315 performs the authentication process.

[0089] As an authentication process, the authentication unit 315 verifies that the ID information received from the user terminal device 100 is correct if it matches the previously registered registrant ID. In other words, it confirms the authenticity of the user terminal device 100.

[0090] When the ID information received from the user terminal device 100 is authenticated by the authentication unit 315 , the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 executes the above-described unlocking process.

[0091] The display control unit 316 controls the display panel drive circuit 308 to display predetermined information on the display panel 26 .

[0092] Next, an example of authentication between the smart control unit 300 and the user terminal device 100 will be described. The authentication between the smart control unit 300 and the dedicated remote control key 4 is also similar. In this case, the user terminal device 100 will be referred to as the dedicated remote control key 4 in the following description.

[0093] When the user terminal device 100 enters a predetermined authentication area while powered on, the smart key system 2 initiates bidirectional communication between the user terminal device 100 and the smart control unit 300, triggered by, for example, the pressing of the main switch knob 31 or the start of operation of the user terminal device 100. Through this bidirectional communication, the smart control unit 300 obtains ID information from the user terminal device 100 and authenticates the user terminal device 100. Once authentication of the user terminal device 100 is complete, the main switch knob 31 becomes operational, the handlebar lock is released, and the locks on various vehicle components can be released.

[0094] When the user terminal device 100 enters a predetermined authentication area, for example, a determination is made in advance processing by the intelligent control unit 300, and a condition is satisfied when the RSSI value of the signal received from the user terminal device 100 is greater than a set threshold. The authentication area is, for example, a range within which the RSSI value of the set threshold is maintained, and is an area with a radius of several meters centered on a predetermined position of the motorcycle 11.

[0095] The smart key system 2 stops communication between the user terminal device 100 and the smart control unit 300 when the user terminal device 100 leaves the authentication area or when the user terminal device 100 is powered off. The smart key system 2 also stops communication between the user terminal device 100 and the smart control unit 300 when the main switch knob 31 is turned off (rotated to the off position P1).

[0096] In this embodiment, an example of authentication by monitoring the radio wave strength of a signal transmitted from the user terminal device 100 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, authentication may be performed by monitoring the radio wave strength of a signal transmitted from the motorcycle 11.

[0097] While monitoring the radio wave strength of the signal transmitted from the motorcycle 11, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 obtains the RSSI value based on the radio wave signal received by the user terminal device 100 from the Bluetooth antenna 320. For example, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 obtains the RSSI value by receiving the RSSI value obtained by the user terminal device 100 based on the received radio wave signal from the user terminal device 100 via the Bluetooth antenna 320. The Bluetooth communication control unit 314 then registers the obtained RSSI value as a set threshold value in the set threshold value 352 of the storage unit 350. In the preliminary process, the user terminal device 100 transmits information on the radio wave strength received by the user terminal device 100 to the motorcycle 11, and the authentication unit 315 makes a determination based on the radio wave strength information received by the user terminal device 100. Specifically, the preliminary process determines whether the RSSI value of the radio wave signal received by the user terminal device 100 from the Bluetooth antenna 320 is above the set threshold value registered in the storage unit 350. This allows authentication to be performed based on the intensity of the radio waves emitted by the motorcycle 11 itself, and therefore authentication can be performed without depending on the performance of the user terminal device 100 .

[0098] <User terminal device>

[0099] Figure 7This is a functional block diagram of a user terminal device 100. The user terminal device 100 is a mobile terminal device such as a smartphone, a tablet, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), which has at least communication and display functions. The user terminal device 100 includes, for example, a communication unit 110, an input unit 120, a display unit 130, a storage unit 150, and an application execution unit 170.

[0100] The communication unit 110 is, for example, a wireless module for utilizing Bluetooth, and includes an antenna and a transmitter / receiver. The input unit 120 includes, for example, a touch panel TP integrally formed with the display unit 130, various keys, buttons, dip switches, a mouse, or some or all of the above. The display unit 130 is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display.

[0101] The storage unit 150 is implemented, for example, by RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, an SD card, a register, or the like. A smart key application 151 is stored in the storage unit 150. The smart key application 151 is a program that causes the display unit 130 to display an interface for using the user terminal device 100 as a smart key and causes the user terminal device 100 to execute processing based on information input via the interface.

[0102] The application execution unit 170 is implemented by, for example, a processor such as a CPU executing a smart key application (program) 151 stored in the storage unit 150. The smart key application 151 may be downloaded from another device via the network NW, or may be pre-installed in the user terminal device 100.

[0103] <About target communication location information>

[0104] Figure 8 This figure shows an example display of target communication location information. The target communication location information is determined, for example, based on RSSI characteristics obtained in prior testing. The image displaying the target communication location information includes, for example, an elliptical graphic representing the target communication location, superimposed on an image showing the RSSI characteristics. The RSSI characteristics are obtained by collecting 30 seconds of data at various angles with the main switch 30 as the center and calculating the average value.

[0105] The RSSI characteristics shown in the figure show that the RSSI characteristics are non-uniform, with the RSSI value decreasing in a local area behind the left side of the motorcycle 11. In the example shown in the figure, the intelligent control unit 300 is mounted in front of the steering shaft 36 of the motorcycle 11. Therefore, the RSSI value decreases in the area where the steering shaft 36 is located between the intelligent control unit 300 and the user terminal device 100, that is, behind the left side of the motorcycle 11.

[0106] <About setting thresholds>

[0107] Figure 9 This figure shows an example display of a set threshold. The set threshold is displayed, for example, superimposed on an image showing RSSI characteristics, similar to the target communication location information. In the example shown, the set threshold is -67 dBm. The area (authentication area) where pre-processing can be performed above the set threshold is defined as having a radius of 0.8 m, centered around main switch 30.

[0108] By setting the target communication location as the area with the lowest RSSI value in the RSSI characteristic and using the RSSI value obtained at the target communication location as the set threshold, unlocking can be performed from any angle. This also prevents problems such as unlocking only from specific locations and unexpected locking when locking with the IG-OFF function.

[0109] <Flowchart>

[0110] Figure 10 This is a flowchart showing the flow of preliminary processing performed by the authentication unit 315. In this example, the user utilizes the user terminal device 100. This is not limiting; the user may also utilize a dedicated remote control key 4. In this case, the user terminal device 100 will be referred to as the dedicated remote control key 4 in the following description.

[0111] First, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 transmits a beacon signal from the Bluetooth antenna 320 and, based on the response signal, determines whether the user terminal device 100, which is activating the smart key application, has entered the communication area (step S101). If the user terminal device 100 has entered the communication area, the intelligent CPU 310 determines whether a trigger operation for initiating two-way communication between the intelligent control unit 300 and the user terminal device 100 has been detected (step S103). Trigger operations include, for example, pressing the main switch knob 31, touching the start button displayed on the touch panel TP to activate the smart key application 151 of the user terminal device 100, or pressing the operation button 4a of the dedicated remote control key 4. Here, it is assumed that the start button displayed on the touch panel TP to activate the smart key application 151 of the user terminal device 100 has been touched.

[0112] When a trigger operation is detected, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 starts bidirectional communication with the user terminal device 100 present in the authentication area (step S105 ).

[0113] The authentication unit 315 then refers to the set threshold 352 in the storage unit 350 to determine whether the RSSI value of the signal received from the user terminal device 100 via the Bluetooth antenna 320 is greater than the set threshold (step S107). If the RSSI value of the signal received from the user terminal device 100 is greater than the set threshold (i.e., if it is determined that the user terminal device 100 has entered the authentication area), the authentication unit 315 obtains ID information from the user terminal device 100 (step S109) and performs authentication processing (step S111).

[0114] Figure 11 、 Figure 12 This is a flowchart showing the RSSI registration mode processing flow performed by the Bluetooth communication control unit 314. First, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether a request to execute the RSSI registration mode has been received (step S201). If no request to execute the RSSI registration mode has been received, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether a request to end the RSSI registration mode has been received (step S203). If a request to end the RSSI registration mode has been received, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 terminates the processing. If no request to end the RSSI registration mode has been received, the process returns to step S201 and repeats the process.

[0115] On the other hand, in the process of step S201, if a request to execute the RSSI registration mode is received, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 reads the target communication location information from the storage unit 350 and transmits the target communication location information (step S205). Next, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether a request to obtain RSSI value data has been received (step S207). The RSSI value data is the RSSI value of the signal from the communication device side, which is used by the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 to measure RSSI.

[0116] If no RSSI value data acquisition request is received in step S207, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether a request to end the RSSI registration mode has been received (step S209). If so, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 ends the process. If not, the process returns to step S205 and repeats the process.

[0117] On the other hand, if the RSSI value data acquisition request is received in step S207, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 executes RSSI value data acquisition processing (step S211). For example, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 acquires the RSSI value of the radio signal including the RSSI value data acquisition request.

[0118] Next, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether the RSSI value data acquisition process is normal (step S213). For example, if the acquired RSSI is within the normal range, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines that the RSSI value data acquisition process is normal.

[0119] If the RSSI value data acquisition process is abnormal, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 transmits information indicating that the RSSI value data acquisition process has been determined to be abnormal and has been completed (step S215), and returns to step S205. On the other hand, if the RSSI value data acquisition process is normal in step S213, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 transmits information indicating that the RSSI value data acquisition process has been determined to be normal and has been completed (step S217).

[0120] Move to Figure 12 The Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether a registration request for setting a threshold value has been received (step S219). If a registration request for setting a threshold value has been received, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 registers the RSSI value acquired in the RSSI value data acquisition process of step S211 as the set threshold value in the storage unit 350 (step S221).

[0121] On the other hand, if the request to register the set threshold value has not been received in step S219, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 determines whether a request to execute the threshold confirmation mode has been received (step S223). If a request to obtain RSSI value data has been received, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 executes the threshold confirmation mode (step S225) and returns to step S219. For example, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 transmits information to the user terminal device 100 to confirm with the user whether to register the obtained RSSI value as the set threshold value.

[0122] On the other hand, if the threshold value confirmation mode execution request is not received in step S223, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 again determines whether an RSSI value data acquisition request is received (step S227). If an RSSI value data acquisition request is received, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 proceeds to step S211.

[0123] Figure 13 1 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing by the application execution unit 170. When the user terminal device 100 executes the smart key application 151, the application execution unit 170 causes the touch panel TP to display a screen instructing execution of the RSSI registration mode.

[0124] When the user instructs to execute the RSSI registration mode via the touch panel TP (Yes in step S301), the application execution unit 170 sends a request to execute the RSSI registration mode (step S303). As a result, the target communication location information is sent from the intelligent control unit 300, and the application execution unit 170 displays the received target communication location information on the touch panel TP (step S305). An example of the screen displayed at this time is Figure 8 This screen may also include an operation icon for requesting acquisition of RSSI value data.

[0125] Next, if the user indicates a request to obtain RSSI value data (yes in step S307), the application execution unit 170 sends a request to obtain RSSI value data (step S309). As a result, the RSSI value is obtained, and the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the obtained RSSI value is normal. If the RSSI value is normal (yes in step S311), the application execution unit 170 receives information indicating that the RSSI value is normal and displays this information on the touch panel TP (step S313). On the other hand, if the RSSI value is abnormal (no in step S311), the application execution unit 170 receives information indicating that the RSSI value is abnormal, displays this information on the touch panel TP (step S315), and moves to step S305.

[0126] Next, if the user has requested to register a set threshold value (Yes in step S317), application execution unit 170 transmits a request to register the set threshold value (step S319) and terminates the process. On the other hand, if the user has not requested to register a set threshold value (No in step S317), application execution unit 170 transmits a request to execute threshold value confirmation mode (step S321), receives the RSSI that has reached the set threshold value, and displays it on touch panel TP (step S323).

[0127] Note that, in step S301 or step S307 , when the user instructs to end the RSSI registration mode, the application execution unit 170 transmits a request to end the RSSI registration mode (step S325 ) and ends the process.

[0128] The target communication position is a position on the opposite side of the Bluetooth antenna 320 across a shielding portion that shields radio waves, which is a component of the motorcycle 11. The shielding portion is, for example, the steering shaft 36 or the handlebar 12.

[0129] Figure 14 is an example of a target communication position when the intelligent control unit 300 is located behind the vehicle. Figure 14 The image shown is sent to the user terminal device 10 as the target communication position information. In the example shown in the figure, the area surrounded by the dotted line is the target communication position. When the intelligent control unit 300 equipped with the Bluetooth antenna 320 is arranged at a position behind the motorcycle 11 relative to the steering axis 36, the target communication position is a position in front of the motorcycle 11 relative to the steering axis 36, for example, near the front wheel. It should be noted that the user's direction is also shown in the area surrounded by the dotted line. In this example, a diagram is shown showing a situation where the user is holding the user terminal device 100 with their back facing the intelligent control unit 300.

[0130] Figure 15 is an example of a target communication position when the intelligent control unit 300 is present in front of the vehicle. Figure 15 The image shown is sent to the user terminal device 10 as target communication position information. In the example shown in the figure, the area surrounded by the dotted line is the target communication position. When the intelligent control unit 300 equipped with the Bluetooth antenna 320 is located in front of the motorcycle 11 relative to the steering axis 36, the target communication position is a position behind the motorcycle 11 relative to the steering axis 36, for example, near the rear wheel. It should be noted that the user's direction is also shown in the area surrounded by the dotted line. In this example, a diagram is shown showing a situation in which the user is holding the user terminal device 100 with their back facing the intelligent control unit 300.

[0131] like Figure 14 、 15 As shown, by placing the antenna and the target communication position on opposite sides via the steering shaft 36 as a shield member, the shielding effect of the shield member having a large shielding effect can be taken into consideration when registering the RSSI setting threshold.

[0132] According to the above-mentioned embodiment, it comprises: an antenna, which is mounted on a vehicle and performs short-range communication with a user terminal device present in a communication area around the vehicle; and a control unit, which is mounted on the vehicle and performs a prescribed authentication process when the radio wave strength of the signal received from the user terminal device via the antenna is above a threshold value, wherein the control unit uses a notification unit to notify the user of information related to the target communication position where the user terminal device should be located when registering the threshold value, thereby preventing the communication area of the vehicle-mounted equipment from becoming inappropriate.

[0133] As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was demonstrated using drawings, this invention is not limited to such embodiment at all, Various deformation|transformation and substitution can be added in the range which does not deviate from the summary of this invention.

[0134] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, the system is not limited to being applicable to motorized two-wheeled vehicles, but can be widely applicable to straddle-type vehicles. The straddle-type vehicles include all vehicles in which the driver straddles the vehicle body, including not only motorized two-wheeled vehicles (including bicycles and small motorcycle-type vehicles with prime movers), but also three-wheeled (in addition to vehicles with one front wheel and two rear wheels, vehicles with two front wheels and one rear wheel) or four-wheeled vehicles. In addition, vehicles whose prime movers include electric motors are also included. In addition, it can also be applied to motor vehicles with a cabin. In addition, in addition to vehicles, it can also be applied to various devices that require communication. For example, it can be applied to devices such as storage boxes and handbags that have communication functions.

[0135] Explanation of symbols:

[0136] 1. Vehicle Communication System

[0137] 2 Smart Key System

[0138] 4 dedicated remote control keys

[0139] 11 Motorized two-wheeled vehicles

[0140] 21 Engine

[0141] 30 Main switch

[0142] 31 Main switch knob

[0143] 40ECU

[0144] 300 intelligent control unit

[0145] 310 intelligent CPU

[0146] 311 Switch Control Unit

[0147] 312 Operation Instruction Department

[0148] 313 Electromagnetic lock control unit

[0149] 314 Bluetooth communication control unit

[0150] 315 Certification Department

[0151] 316 Display Control Unit

Claims

1. A vehicle communication system, wherein: The vehicle-mounted communication system comprises: an antenna mounted on a vehicle and configured to perform short-range communication with a user terminal device within a communication area surrounding the vehicle; and a control unit mounted on the vehicle and configured to execute a predetermined authentication process when the signal received from the user terminal device via the antenna or the radio wave strength of the signal received by the user terminal device from the antenna is greater than a threshold value; The control unit uses the notification unit to notify the user of information related to a target communication position where the user terminal device should be located when registering the threshold value.

2. The in-vehicle communication system according to claim 1, wherein: The notification unit is caused to notify information related to the target communication position as information related to a relative position with respect to the vehicle.

3. The vehicle-mounted communication system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The target communication position is a position on the opposite side of the antenna across a shield portion that shields radio waves, which is a component of the vehicle.

4. The vehicle-mounted communication system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control unit causes the user terminal device or a display unit mounted on the vehicle to display the target communication position.

5. The in-vehicle communication system according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit causes the user terminal device or a display unit mounted on the vehicle to display the target communication position.

6. A straddle-type vehicle, wherein: The straddle-type vehicle includes the in-vehicle communication system according to claim 3 .

7. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 6, wherein: The shielding portion is a steering shaft.

8. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 7, wherein: When the antenna is provided at a position forward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis, the target communication position is a position rearward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis. When the antenna is provided at a position rearward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis, the target communication position is a position forward of the vehicle relative to the steering axis.

9. A storage medium storing a program, wherein: The program causes the onboard computer to perform the following processing: Using an antenna mounted on a vehicle, performing short-range communication with a user terminal device present in a communication area around the vehicle; executing a predetermined authentication process when the radio wave strength of a signal received from the user terminal device via the antenna or a signal received by the user terminal device from the antenna is greater than or equal to a threshold; as well as The notification unit is used to notify the user of information related to the target communication position where the user terminal device should be located when the threshold value is registered.

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