Vehicle control device, control method of vehicle control device, and recording medium

Abstract

Provided are a vehicle control device, a control method for the vehicle control device, and a recording medium, which can reduce the possibility of a third person entering a vehicle (1) and can automatically lock doors (11). The vehicle control device (22) includes: a reception unit (201) that receives a lock instruction for the doors (11); and a lock function execution unit (205) that executes a lock function that locks all of the doors (11) in a closed state when the lock instruction is received while any of the doors (11) is in an open state and any of the doors (11) is in a closed state, executes the lock function when the lock instruction is received from a portable key (2) or when the lock instruction is received from an operation device (12) provided in the vehicle (1) while the portable key (2) is present at a position within a predetermined distance from the vehicle (1), and does not execute the lock function when the lock instruction is received from a portable device (3) other than the portable key (2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a vehicle control device, a control method of a vehicle control device, and a recording medium. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, efforts to provide access to a sustainable transport system that also takes into account vulnerable groups among traffic participants are actively being made. In order to achieve this goal, research and development to further improve the convenience of vehicles through research and development related to preventive safety technology is being pursued. And, as a technology to improve the convenience of vehicles, a technology to automatically lock a door provided to a vehicle has been known (for example, Patent Literature 1). Patent Literature 1 discloses that by the operation of a switch provided to a vehicle, the operation of a portable device such as an electronic key or a smartphone, or the like, setting of a scheduled lock to automatically lock a door provided to a vehicle is performed.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-025394 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] However, in Patent Literature 1, there is a problem that it can be possible for a third person to intrude into the vehicle at the time of performing the scheduled lock due to the distance between the portable device that sets the scheduled lock and the vehicle.

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present application is to be able to reduce the possibility of a third person entering the vehicle, and to be able to automatically lock a door of the vehicle.

[0009] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0010] One embodiment of the present application is a vehicle control device that controls a vehicle, in which the vehicle control device includes: a reception unit that receives a lock instruction to lock a door of the vehicle; and a lock function execution unit that executes a reservation lock function when the lock instruction is received by the reception unit in a case where any door of the vehicle is in an open state and any door of the vehicle is in a closed state, the reservation lock function being a function of bringing the door of the vehicle that is in the open state to the closed state, and locking all doors of the vehicle in a case where all doors of the vehicle are brought to the closed state, the lock function execution unit executing the reservation lock function in a case where the lock instruction is received by the reception unit from a portable key used by a user of the vehicle, or in a case where the lock instruction is received by the reception unit from an operation device provided to the vehicle when the portable key is present at a position within a predetermined distance from the vehicle, the lock function execution unit not executing the reservation lock function in a case where the lock instruction is received by the reception unit from a portable device other than the portable key.

[0011] Effects of Invention

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present application, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a third person enters the vehicle, and it is possible to automatically lock the doors of the vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is a view that shows the structure of a vehicle.

[0014] Figure 2 is a view that shows the structure of a vehicle control device.

[0015] Figure 3 is a transition diagram of the action state of a safety control unit.

[0016] Figure 4 is a flowchart that shows the action of a vehicle control device.

[0017] Figure 5 is a timing chart for explaining the transition of the action state of a safety control unit.

[0018] Figure 6 is a view that shows the structure of a vehicle control device.

[0019] Figure 7 is a timing chart for explaining the transition of the action state of a safety control unit.

[0020] Figure 8 is a timing chart for explaining the transition of the action state of a safety control unit.

[0021] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0022] 1 vehicle, 2 portable key, 3 portable device, 11 door, 11A right electric hinged door, 11B left electric hinged door, 11C right electric sliding door, 11D left electric sliding door, 11E electric tailgate, 11F electric sliding door, 12 lock switch (operation device), 15 lock mechanism, 22 vehicle control device, 171 LF / RF antenna, 200 processor, 201 reception unit, 202 door control unit, 203 lock control unit, 204 lock detection unit, 205 lock function execution unit, 206 security control unit, 210 memory, 211 control program (program), 2011 first reception unit, 2012 second reception unit, 2013 third reception unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] [1. First Embodiment]

[0024] [1-1. Structure of Vehicle]

[0025] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the structure of the vehicle 1.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1 , the vehicle 1 is a passenger car for 6 passengers, and has a driver's seat 10A, a front passenger's seat 10B, a second-row right seat 10C, a second-row left seat 10D, a third-row right seat 10E, and a third-row left seat 10F.

[0027] The vehicle 1 has a right electric hinged door 11A, a left electric hinged door 11B, a right electric sliding door 11C, a left electric sliding door 11D, and an electric tailgate 11E. In the following description, the right electric hinged door 11A, the left electric hinged door 11B, the right electric sliding door 11C, and the left electric sliding door 11D are referred to as "doors" and are denoted by the reference numeral "11" without distinction. A lock switch 12 is provided on the outer handle of the right electric hinged door, and a user U who holds the portable key 2 of the vehicle 1 can lock the doors 11 of the vehicle 1 by operating the lock switch 12. The portable key 2 is a so-called FOB (Frequency Operated Button) key.

[0028] Further, in the following description, the right electric sliding door 11C and the left electric sliding door 11D are referred to as "electric sliding doors" and are denoted by the reference numeral "11F" without distinction.

[0029] The lock switch 12 corresponds to the "operation device" of the present disclosure.

[0030] The right electric-hinged door 11A is provided with a right PHD (Power Hinge Door) drive section 13A that drives opening and closing of the right electric-hinged door 11A by means of an electric actuator that is not shown. The left electric-hinged door 11B is provided with a left PHD drive section 13B that drives opening and closing of the left electric-hinged door 11B by means of an electric actuator. The right electric-sliding door 11C is provided with a right PSD (Power Slide Door) drive section 13C that drives opening and closing of the right electric-sliding door 11C by means of an electric actuator. The left electric-sliding door 11D is provided with a left PSD drive section 13D that drives opening and closing of the left electric-sliding door 11D by means of an electric actuator. The electric tailgate 11E is provided with a PTG (Power Tail Gate) drive section 13E that drives opening and closing of the electric tailgate 11E by means of an electric actuator.

[0031] A door switch 14A that detects opening and closing of the right electric-hinged door 11A is provided on the right electric-hinged door 11A. A door switch 14B that detects opening and closing of the left electric-hinged door 11B is provided on the left electric-hinged door 11B. A door switch 14C that detects opening and closing of the right electric-sliding door 11C is provided on the right electric-sliding door 11C. A door switch 14D that detects opening and closing of the left electric-sliding door 11D is provided on the left electric-sliding door 11D. A door switch 14E that detects opening and closing of the electric tailgate 11E is provided on the electric tailgate 11E.

[0032] Hereinafter, without distinguishing between the door switches 14A to 14E, they are denoted by the reference numeral "14" and referred to as the door switch 14.

[0033] The vehicle 1 is provided with a lock mechanism 15A that locks and unlocks the right electric-hinged door 11A. The lock mechanism 15A switches its own state to a lock state in which the right electric-hinged door 11A is locked or to an unlock state in which the right electric-hinged door 11A is unlocked. On the passenger compartment side of the right electric-hinged door 11A, a sill control switch 16A for locking and unlocking the right electric-hinged door 11A is provided. The sill control switch 16A becomes the lock state in which the right electric-hinged door 11A is locked when the lock mechanism 15A is in the lock state, and becomes the unlock state in which the right electric-hinged door 11A is unlocked when the lock mechanism 15A is in the unlock state.

[0034] The vehicle 1 is provided with a locking mechanism 15B that locks the left electric-hinged door 11B. The locking mechanism 15B switches its own state between a locked state in which the left electric-hinged door 11B is locked and an unlocked state in which the left electric-hinged door 11B is unlocked. On the passenger compartment side of the left electric-hinged door 11B, an in-vehicle door lock switch 16B for locking and unlocking the left electric-hinged door 11B is provided. The in-vehicle door lock switch 16B becomes the locked state in which the left electric-hinged door 11B is locked when the locking mechanism 15B is in the locked state, and becomes the unlocked state in which the left electric-hinged door 11B is unlocked when the locking mechanism 15B is in the unlocked state.

[0035] The vehicle 1 is provided with a locking mechanism 15C that locks the right electric-sliding door 11C. The locking mechanism 15C switches its own state between a locked state in which the right electric-sliding door 11C is locked and an unlocked state in which the right electric-sliding door 11C is unlocked. On the passenger compartment side of the right electric-sliding door 11C, an in-vehicle door lock switch 16C for locking and unlocking the right electric-sliding door 11C is provided. The in-vehicle door lock switch 16C becomes the locked state in which the right electric-sliding door 11C is locked when the locking mechanism 15C is in the locked state, and becomes the unlocked state in which the right electric-sliding door 11C is unlocked when the locking mechanism 15C is in the unlocked state.

[0036] The vehicle 1 is provided with a locking mechanism 15D that locks the left electric-sliding door 11D. The locking mechanism 15D switches its own state between a locked state in which the left electric-sliding door 11D is locked and an unlocked state in which the left electric-sliding door 11D is unlocked. On the left electric-sliding door 11D, an in-vehicle door lock switch 16D for locking and unlocking the left electric-sliding door 11D is provided. The in-vehicle door lock switch 16D becomes the locked state in which the left electric-sliding door 11D is locked when the locking mechanism 15D is in the locked state, and becomes the unlocked state in which the left electric-sliding door 11D is unlocked when the locking mechanism 15D is in the unlocked state.

[0037] The vehicle 1 is provided with a locking mechanism 15E that locks the electric tailgate 11E. The locking mechanism 15E switches its own state between a locked state in which the electric tailgate 11E is locked and an unlocked state in which the electric tailgate 11E is unlocked.

[0038] In the following description, the locking mechanisms 15A to 15E are denoted by the reference numeral "15" and referred to as the locking mechanism 15 without distinction. Also, in the following description, the in-vehicle door lock switches 16A to 16D are denoted by the reference numeral "16" and referred to as the in-vehicle door lock switch 16 without distinction.

[0039] The vehicle 1 is provided with a first communication device 17 capable of communicating with the portable key 2, a second communication device 18 capable of communicating with the portable device 3 used by the user U, a lamp unit 19, a sound output unit 20, an anti-theft device 21, and a vehicle control device 22.

[0040] The first communication device 17 is provided with an LF (Low Frequency) / RF (Radio Frequency) antenna 171, a wireless communication circuit, and the like, and communicates with the portable key 2 in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22.

[0041] The second communication device 18 is provided with an antenna, a wireless communication circuit, and the like, and communicates with the portable device 3 in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22. The second communication device 18 can also communicate with the portable device 3 in compliance with a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The second communication device 18 can also be constituted by a TCU (Telematics Control Unit). An electronic key application program is installed in the portable device 3, and the function of the electronic key application program functions as an electronic key of the vehicle 1.

[0042] The lamp unit 19 includes various lamps such as a head lamp, a position lamp, and a direction indicator. The sound output unit 20 includes a speaker and outputs sound to the outside of the vehicle. The anti-theft device 21 is a device that executes an anti-theft function. The vehicle control device 22 is a device that controls the vehicle 1.

[0043] [1-2. Structure of vehicle control device]

[0044] Reference Signs Figure 2 The vehicle control device 22 will be described in detail.

[0045] Figure 2 is a view showing the structure of the vehicle control device 22.

[0046] The vehicle control device 22 is provided with a processor 200 such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a memory 210, and an interface circuit connected to other devices or sensors.

[0047] The memory 210 is a storage device that non-volatile stores programs and data executed by the processor 200. The memory 210 is constituted by a magnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage element such as a flash ROM (Read Only Memory), or other kinds of non-volatile storage devices. Further, the memory 210 can also include a RAM (Random Access Memory) that constitutes a work area of the processor 200. Further, the memory 210 can also include a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The memory 210 stores data processed by the processor 200 and a control program 211 executed by the processor 200.

[0048] The vehicle control device 22 is connected with the right PHD drive section 13A, the right PSD drive section 13C, the left PHD drive section 13B, the left PSD drive section 13D, the PTG drive section 13E, the door switches 14A to 14E, the lock mechanisms 15A to 15E, the lock switches 12, the in-vehicle door lock switches 16A to 16D, the first communication device 17, the second communication device 18, the lamp unit 19, the sound emission unit 20, and the theft prevention device 21.

[0049] The right PHD drive section 13A, the right PSD drive section 13C, the left PHD drive section 13B, the left PSD drive section 13D, and the PTG drive section 13E receive control signals from the vehicle control device 22 and are driven in accordance with the received control signals.

[0050] The door switches 14A to 14E output signals indicating detection results to the vehicle control device 22.

[0051] The lock mechanisms 15A to 15E receive control signals from the vehicle control device 22 and switch their own states to an unlocked state or a locked state in accordance with the received control signals.

[0052] The in-vehicle door lock switches 16A to 16D output signals indicating their own states to the vehicle control device 22. In the present embodiment, a communication line for outputting a signal indicating the state of the in-vehicle door lock switch 16 to the vehicle control device 22 is provided on each in-vehicle door lock switch 16.

[0053] The first communication device 17 communicates with the portable key 2 that is within a range capable of communicating with the first communication device 17 in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22.

[0054] The second communication device 18 communicates with the portable device 3 in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22.

[0055] The lamp unit 19 is turned on and off in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22.

[0056] The sound emitting unit 20 outputs sound in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22.

[0057] The theft prevention device 21 sets the theft prevention function to be active or inactive in accordance with the control of the vehicle control device 22.

[0058] The processor 200 functions as the reception section 201, the door control section 202, the lock control section 203, the lock detection section 204, the lock function execution section 205, and the security control section 206 by reading out and executing the control program 211.

[0059] The reception section 201 receives a lock instruction that instructs the locking of the door 11 from the user U. The reception section 201 functions as a first reception section 2011, a second reception section 2012, and a third reception section 2013.

[0060] The first reception section 2011 receives a lock instruction from the lock switch 12. When the user U operates the lock switch 12, the lock switch 12 outputs a lock instruction signal that indicates the lock instruction to the vehicle control device 22. The first reception section 2011 receives the lock instruction from the lock switch 12 by receiving the lock instruction signal from the lock switch 12.

[0061] The second reception section 2012 receives a lock instruction from the portable key 2. The portable key 2 has a button that receives a lock instruction from the user U. In the case of communicating with the first communication device 17, when the button is operated, the portable key 2 outputs a lock instruction signal to the vehicle 1. The second reception section 2012 receives the lock instruction signal from the portable key 2 via the first communication device 17, and thereby receives the lock instruction from the portable key 2.

[0062] The third reception section 2013 receives a lock instruction from the portable device 3. The portable device 3 outputs a lock instruction signal to the vehicle 1 based on the operation of the user U by the function of the electronic key application. The third reception section 2013 receives the lock instruction signal from the portable device 3 via the second communication device 18, and thereby receives the lock instruction from the portable device 3.

[0063] The door control unit 202 controls the right PHD drive unit 13A by outputting a control signal to the right PHD drive unit 13A, causing the right electric hinge door 11A to change from a closed state to an open state, or from an open state to a closed state. The door control unit 202 also controls the left PHD drive unit 13B by outputting a control signal to the left PHD drive unit 13B, causing the left electric hinge door 11B to change from a closed state to an open state, or from an open state to a closed state. Finally, the door control unit 202 controls the right PSD drive unit 13C by outputting a control signal to the right PSD drive unit 13C, causing the right electric sliding door 11C to change from a closed state to an open state, or from an open state to a closed state. The door control unit 202 controls the left PSD drive unit 13D by outputting a control signal to the left PSD drive unit 13D, causing the left electric sliding door 11D to change from a closed state to an open state, or from an open state to a closed state. The door control unit 202 also controls the PTG drive unit 13E by outputting a control signal to the PTG drive unit 13E, causing the electric tailgate 11E to change from a closed state to an open state, or from an open state to a closed state.

[0064] The locking control unit 203 outputs control signals to the locking mechanisms 15A to 15E respectively, switching the state of each of the locking mechanisms 15A to 15E to either an unlocked state or a locked state. Additionally, the interior door lock switch 16 changes to a state corresponding to the state of the locking mechanism 15. That is, the interior door lock switch 16 becomes unlocked when the corresponding locking mechanism 15 is unlocked, and locked when the corresponding locking mechanism 15 is locked.

[0065] The lock detection unit 204 detects whether the door 11 is locked. As described above, in this embodiment, each interior door lock switch 16 is provided with a communication line that outputs a signal indicating the state of the interior door lock switch 16. The lock detection unit 204 receives the signal from the interior door lock switch 16 via this line and detects whether the interior door lock switch 16 is in a locked state based on the received signal. The lock detection unit 204 detects whether the interior door lock switch 16 is in a locked state for each door 11.

[0066] The locking function execution unit 205 performs the reservation locking function.

[0067] The reservation locking function is as follows: it automatically closes the electric sliding door 11F that is in the open state, and automatically locks all the doors 11 of vehicle 1 after all the doors 11 of vehicle 1 have been closed.

[0068] The pre-locking function can be initiated when door 11 is in the following state: The pre-locking function can be initiated when the right electric hinge door 11A and the left electric hinge door 11B are closed, and at least one of the right electric sliding door 11C and the left electric sliding door 11D is open. Hereinafter, this state of door 11 will be referred to as the "startable state". The locking function execution unit 205 determines whether the state of door 11 is the startable state based on the signals output to the vehicle control device 22 by the door switches 14A-14E.

[0069] When the door 11 is in the startable state, when the lock switch 12 is operated while the portable key 2 is located within a specified distance (e.g., within 1m to 3m) from the vehicle 1, or when a lock instruction is received from the portable key 2, the reservation lock function is initiated.

[0070] After determining that the door 11 is in an open state, the locking function execution unit 205 initiates the reservation locking function if the portable key 2 is located within a predetermined distance from the vehicle 1 and the receiving unit 201 receives a locking instruction from the locking switch 12. Furthermore, the locking function execution unit 205 determines whether the portable key 2 is located within a predetermined distance from the vehicle 1 by communicating with the portable key 2 via the first communication device 17.

[0071] After determining that the door 11 is in an enableable state, the locking function execution unit 205 also starts the reservation locking function when the receiving unit 201 receives the locking instruction from the portable key 2.

[0072] During the execution of the reservation lock function, the lock function execution unit 205 first causes the sound output unit 20 to output a notification that the reservation lock function has started.

[0073] Next, during the execution of the reservation locking function, when the outer handle of the open electric sliding door 11F is pulled, the locking function execution unit 205 outputs an instruction to the door control unit 202 to close the open electric sliding door 11F. As a result, the door control unit 202 closes the open electric sliding door 11F.

[0074] Next, during the execution of the reservation locking function, when the electric sliding door 11F, which was in the open state, becomes closed, the locking function execution unit 205 outputs an instruction to the locking control unit 203 to lock the door 11. As a result, the locking control unit 203 locks all the doors 11.

[0075] Next, during the execution of the scheduled locking function, after locking the door 11, the locking function execution unit 205 causes the sound output unit 20 to output an audio notification that the door 11 has been locked. Additionally, the locking function execution unit 205 causes the light unit 19 to output a light notification that the door 11 has been locked.

[0076] The safety control unit 206 controls the safety functions of vehicle 1. The safety control unit 206 adjusts its own operating state according to... Figure 3 The transfer is performed according to the transfer diagram shown.

[0077] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the transition of the operating status of the safety control unit 206.

[0078] The safety control unit 206 has the following operating states: deactivation state J1, setting state J2, standby state J3, and standby transfer waiting state J4.

[0079] The deactivation state J1 disables the safety functions of vehicle 1. When the safety control unit 206 is in the deactivation state J1, it disables the anti-theft function of the anti-theft device 21.

[0080] Setting state J2 enables the safety functions of vehicle 1. When the safety control unit 206 is in setting state J2, it enables the anti-theft function of the anti-theft device 21.

[0081] Standby state J3 is a state waiting to transition to setting state J2. When in standby state J3, the security control unit 206 disables the anti-theft function of the anti-theft device 21.

[0082] Standby transfer waiting state J4 is a state waiting to transfer to standby state J3. When the security control unit 206 is in standby transfer waiting state J4, it disables the anti-theft function of the anti-theft device 21.

[0083] The method of transitioning the operating state of the safety control unit 206 varies depending on whether the vehicle control device 22 can detect the state of the interior door lock switch 16. In this embodiment, the operating state of the safety control unit 206 does not transition to the standby transition waiting state J4.

[0084] In this embodiment, the condition for transitioning from the deactivated state J1 to the standby state J3 is that all doors 11 are closed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the condition for transitioning from the standby state J3 to the set state J2 is that all doors 11 are closed and all interior door lock switches 16 are locked.

[0085] [1-3. Operation of vehicle control devices]

[0086] Next, the operation of the vehicle control device 22 will be explained.

[0087] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the vehicle control device 22.

[0088] Figure 4 The actions shown are related to the execution of the reservation locking function.

[0089] The locking function execution unit 205 determines whether the state of the door 11 is an openable state (step SA1). If the locking function execution unit 205 determines that the state of the door 11 is not an openable state (step SA1: "No"), the determination of step SA1 is performed again.

[0090] On the other hand, when the locking function execution unit 205 determines that the state of the door 11 is an open state (step SA1: "Yes"), it determines whether the receiving unit 201 has received the locking instruction (step SA2).

[0091] If the locking function execution unit 205 determines that the receiving unit 201 has not received the locking instruction (step SA2: "No"), the processing returns to step SA1.

[0092] When the locking function execution unit 205 determines that the receiving unit 201 has received the locking instruction (step SA2: "Yes"), it determines whether the locking instruction was received from the locking switch 12, the portable key 2, or the portable device 3 (step SA3).

[0093] The determination in step SA3 is performed as follows.

[0094] When the first receiving unit 2011 receives a lock instruction, the lock function execution unit 205 determines that the lock instruction was received from the lock switch 12. When the second receiving unit 2012 receives a lock instruction, the lock function execution unit 205 determines that the lock instruction was received from the portable key 2. When the third receiving unit 2013 receives a lock instruction, the lock function execution unit 205 determines that the lock instruction was received from the portable device 3.

[0095] When the locking function execution unit 205 determines that a locking instruction has been received from the portable key 2 (step SA3: portable key), it executes the reservation locking function (step SA5).

[0096] When the locking function execution unit 205 determines that a locking instruction has been received from the locking switch 12 (step SA3: locking switch), it determines whether the portable key 2 exists at a position within a specified distance from the vehicle 1 (step SA4).

[0097] When the locking function execution unit 205 determines that the portable key 2 is located within a specified distance from the vehicle 1 (step SA4: "Yes"), it executes the reservation locking function (step SA5).

[0098] If the locking function execution unit 205 determines that the portable key 2 is not located within a specified distance from the vehicle 1 (step SA4: "No"), it will not execute the reservation locking function (step SA6).

[0099] When the locking function execution unit 205 determines that a locking instruction has been received from the portable device 3 (step SA3: portable device), it does not execute the reservation locking function (step SA6).

[0100] Next, refer to Figure 5 The transition of the operating state of the security control unit 206 when the reservation locking function is activated will be explained.

[0101] Figure 5 This is a timing diagram used to illustrate the transition of the operating state of the safety control unit 206.

[0102] Timing diagram C1 shows the timing when all doors 11 change from the open state to the closed state. Timing diagram C2 shows the timing when the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 have become closed. Timing diagram C3 shows the timing when the safety control unit 206 detects that all doors 11 have become closed. Timing diagram C4 shows the timing when all interior door lock switches 16 change from the unlocked state to the locked state. Timing diagram C5 shows the timing when the safety control unit 206 detects that all interior door lock switches 16 have become locked. Timing diagram C6 shows the timing when the locking function execution unit 205 outputs a locking request to the locking control unit 203. Timing diagram C7 shows the timing when the locking control unit 203 outputs a control signal instructing locking (hereinafter referred to as the "locking control signal") to the locking mechanism 15. Timing diagram C8 shows the timing of the operational state transition of the safety control unit 206.

[0103] In addition, Figure 5 At the start time of the timing diagram shown, the locking function execution unit 205 executes the scheduled locking function. Furthermore, in Figure 5 At the start time of the timing diagram shown, the safety control unit 206 is in the deactivated state J1.

[0104] As shown in timing diagram C1, during the execution of the reservation locking function, all doors 11 are closed at time T1. When all doors 11 are closed, as shown in timing diagram C2, the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 are closed at time T2. The timing difference between time T1 and time T2 is due to the detection cycle of the locking function execution unit 205. For example, this cycle is set to 40ms. When the door 11 is detected to be closed, as shown in timing diagram C6, the locking function execution unit 205 outputs a locking request to the locking control unit 203 at time T2. Consequently, as shown in timing diagram C7, the locking control unit 203 outputs a locking control signal to the locking mechanism 15 at time T2. When the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 are closed at time T2, the condition for transitioning to standby state J3 is met at time T2. Therefore, as shown in the timing diagram C8, the safety control unit 206 switches the operation state from the deactivated state J1 to the standby state J3 at timing T2.

[0105] As shown in timing diagram C4, during the execution of the pre-lock function, all interior door lock switches 16 are locked at time T3. Then, as shown in timing diagram C3, the safety control unit 206 detects that all doors 11 are closed at time T4. The timing difference between time T1 and time T4 is due to the detection cycle of the safety control unit 206. For example, this cycle is set to 500ms. Furthermore, setting the detection cycle of the safety control unit 206 to be longer than the detection cycle of the locking function execution unit 205 ensures that the safety function is activated after the doors 11 have been reliably closed and locked.

[0106] As shown in timing diagram C5, during the execution of the reservation locking function, the safety control unit 206 detects that all interior door lock switches 16 are locked at time T5. When all interior door lock switches 16 are detected to be locked at time T5, it is determined that all doors 11 are closed and all interior door lock switches 16 are locked. Therefore, at time T5, the condition for transitioning to the setting state J2 is met, and as shown in timing diagram C8, the safety control unit 206 transitions the operation state from standby state J3 to setting state J2 at time T5.

[0107] However, a phenomenon known as flutter may occur in the door switches 14A-14E. When flutter occurs, the signals output from the door switches 14A-14E repeatedly switch between closed and open states for a short period, resulting in a period where it is impossible to determine whether all doors 11 are closed. However, in this embodiment, the condition for transitioning from standby state J3 to setting state J2 is that all doors 11 are closed and all interior door lock switches 16 are locked. Therefore, even if flutter occurs, the safety control unit 206 can transition the operation state to setting state J2 based on the condition that the transition occurs after the flutter is eliminated. That is, in this embodiment, even if flutter occurs in the door switches 14A-14E, the safety function of the vehicle 1 can be enabled after the pre-lock function is executed.

[0108] [2. Second Implementation]

[0109] Next, the second embodiment will be described.

[0110] Regarding the structure of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for structures identical to those in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0111] Compared to the vehicle 1 of the first embodiment, the vehicle 1 of the second embodiment does not have a communication line for outputting a signal indicating the state of the interior door lock switch 16A, except for the interior door lock switch 16A.

[0112] [2-1. Structure of Vehicle Control Device]

[0113] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the structure of the vehicle control device 22 according to the second embodiment.

[0114] The lock detection unit 204 in the second embodiment detects whether the interior door lock switch 16A is in a locked state.

[0115] In order to enable door locking and safety functions by detecting the open / closed state of door 11, after receiving a locking indication, when the safety control unit 206 of the second embodiment determines within a specified period (e.g., 500-600 ms) that all doors 11 are closed and the interior door lock switch A is locked, the safety functions are enabled. As described in the first embodiment, this is because when detecting that door 11 is in the closed state, a time corresponding to the detection cycle of the locking function execution unit 205 (e.g., 40 ms) and the detection cycle of the safety control unit (e.g., 500 ms) is required.

[0116] The locking function execution unit 205 of the second embodiment is similar to the locking function execution unit 205 of the first embodiment. When there is a locking instruction from the locking switch 12 or the portable key 2, the reserved locking function is executed. When there is a locking instruction from the portable device 3, the reserved locking function is not executed.

[0117] When a lock indication is received from the lock switch 12 or the portable key 2, the safety control unit 206 of the second embodiment activates the safety function if all doors 11 are closed and the interior door lock switch 16A is locked within a predetermined period from the date of the lock indication. More specifically, the safety control unit 206 of the second embodiment activates the safety function if, after the lock control unit 203 outputs a lock control signal to the lock mechanism 15 along with the lock indication, all doors 11 are closed and the interior door lock switch 16A is locked within a predetermined period. However, when the pre-lock function is executed, the safety control unit 206 of the second embodiment activates the safety function if all doors 11 are closed and the interior door lock switch 16A is locked. Furthermore, upon receiving a lock instruction from the portable device 3, the safety control unit 206 of the second embodiment sets the safety function to active if it is determined that all doors 11 are closed and the interior door lock switch 16A is locked within a specified period from the date of receiving the lock instruction.

[0118] In this embodiment, the vehicle control device 22 is configured such that it cannot detect the state of any of the interior door lock switches 16 other than the interior door lock switch 16A. Therefore, the operation state of the safety control unit 206 will transition to the standby transition waiting state J4. In this embodiment, the operation state of the safety control unit 206 does not directly transition from the deactivated state J1 to the standby state J3.

[0119] In this embodiment, the condition for transitioning from the unlocked state J1 to the standby transition waiting state J4 is that any door 11 is in the open state, there is a lock indication from the lock switch 12 or the portable key 2, and the lock control unit 203 outputs a lock signal to the lock mechanism 15. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the lock indication is from the lock switch 12 or the portable key 2, the condition for transitioning from the standby transition waiting state J4 to the standby state J3 is that all doors 11 are determined to be in the closed state. On the other hand, when the lock indication is from the portable device 3, the condition for transitioning from the standby transition waiting state J4 to the standby state J3 is that all doors 11 are determined to be in the closed state within a specified period. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the condition for transitioning from the standby state J3 to the setting state J2 is that all doors 11 are in the closed state and the interior door lock switch 16A is in the locked state. Alternatively, the condition for transitioning from the standby state J3 to the setting state J2 can also be that all doors 11 are in the closed state.

[0120] [2-2. Operation of Vehicle Control Devices]

[0121] Regarding the actions related to the start of the reservation locking function, the vehicle control device 22 of the second embodiment performs the same actions as the vehicle control device 22 of the first embodiment.

[0122] Next, the timing of the transition of the state of vehicle 1, which is related to safety, after the reservation locking function is activated will be explained.

[0123] Figure 7 This is a timing diagram used to illustrate the transition of the operating state of the safety control unit 206.

[0124] Timing diagram C9 shows the timing when the safety control unit 206 detects that the interior door lock switch 16A has become locked. Timing diagram C10 shows the timing when all doors 11 change from the open state to the closed state. Timing diagram C11 shows the timing when the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 have become closed. Timing diagram C12 shows the timing when the safety control unit 206 detects that all doors 11 have become closed. Timing diagram C13 shows the timing when the locking function execution unit 205 outputs a locking request to the locking control unit 203. Timing diagram C14 shows the timing when the locking control unit 203 outputs a locking control signal to the locking mechanism 15. Timing diagram C15 shows the timing of the operational state transition of the safety control unit 206.

[0125] In addition, Figure 7 At the start time of the timing diagram shown, the locking function execution unit 205 executes the scheduled locking function. Furthermore, in Figure 7 At the start time of the timing diagram shown, the safety control unit 206 is in the deactivated state J1.

[0126] As shown in timing diagram C10, during the execution of the reservation locking function, all doors 11 are closed at timing TA. When all doors 11 are closed, as shown in timing diagram C11, the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 are closed at timing TB. The timing difference between timing TA and timing TB is due to the detection cycle of the locking function execution unit 205. For example, this cycle is set to 40ms. When all doors 11 are detected to be closed, as shown in timing diagram C13, the locking function execution unit 205 outputs a locking request to the locking control unit 203 at timing TB. Consequently, as shown in timing diagram C14, the locking control unit 203 outputs a locking control signal to the locking mechanism 15 at timing TB. When the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 are closed, at timing TB, the condition for transitioning to the standby transfer waiting state J4 is met. Therefore, as shown in the timing diagram C15, the safety control unit 206 causes the action state to transition from the deactivation state J1 to the standby transfer waiting state J4 at timing TB.

[0127] As shown in timing diagram C12, during the execution of the reservation locking function, the safety control unit 206 detects that all doors 11 are closed at timing TC. The timing difference between timing TA and timing TC is due to the detection cycle of the safety control unit 206. For example, this difference is set to 500ms. When the safety control unit 206 detects that all doors 11 are closed at timing TC, it determines that all doors 11 are closed at timing TC. Therefore, at timing TC, the condition for transitioning to standby state J3 is met. Therefore, as shown in timing diagram C15, the safety control unit 206 transitions the operation state from standby waiting state J4 to standby state J3 at timing TC. As shown in timing diagram C9, at timing TD, the safety control unit 206 detects that the interior door lock switch 16A is locked. Thus, at timing TD, the condition for transitioning from standby state J3 to setting state J2 is met. Therefore, the safety control unit 206 transitions the operation state from standby state J3 to setting state J2 at timing TD.

[0128] As described in the first embodiment, a phenomenon called flutter may occur in the door switches 14A to 14E. Here, if we assume that the conditions for transitioning from standby transfer waiting state J4 to standby state J3 are the same as the conditions for receiving a lock instruction from the portable device 3, then due to the flutter, the security control unit 206 may be unable to transition the operating state from standby transfer waiting state J4 to standby state J3. (See also...) Figure 8 This needs to be explained.

[0129] Figure 8 This is a timing diagram used to illustrate the transition of the operating state of the safety control unit 206.

[0130] Timing diagram C16 shows the timing when all doors 11 are in the open and closed states. Timing diagram C17 shows the timing when the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 are in the closed state. Timing diagram C18 shows the timing when the security control unit 206 detects that all doors 11 are in the closed state. Timing diagram C19 shows the timing when the locking function execution unit 205 outputs a locking request to the locking control unit 203. Timing diagram C20 shows the timing when the locking control unit 203 outputs a locking control signal to the locking mechanism 15. Timing diagram C21 shows the elapsed period of the predetermined period as a transition condition to the standby state J3. Timing diagram C22 shows the timing of the operational state transition of the security control unit 206.

[0131] In addition, Figure 8 At the start time of the timing diagram shown, the locking function execution unit 205 executes the scheduled locking function. Furthermore, in Figure 8 At the start time of the timing diagram shown, the safety control unit 206 is in the deactivated state J1.

[0132] As shown in timing diagram C16, during the execution of the reservation locking function, all doors 11 are closed at timing TE. When all doors 11 are closed, as shown in timing diagram C17, the locking function execution unit 205 detects that all doors 11 are closed at timing TF. When all doors 11 are detected to be closed, as shown in timing diagram C19, the locking function execution unit 205 outputs a locking request to the locking control unit 203 at timing TF. Consequently, as shown in timing diagram C20, the locking control unit 203 outputs a locking control signal to the locking mechanism 15 at timing TF. When the locking signal is output to the locking mechanism 15, as shown in timing diagram C22, the security control unit 206 transitions the operation state from the release state J1 to the standby transfer waiting state J4 at timing TF. Furthermore, as shown in timing diagram C21, the security control unit 206 begins counting for a predetermined period during which a transition to the standby state J3 is possible at timing TF. Figure 8 In the example, 500ms is given as the specified period.

[0133] exist Figure 8 The diagram illustrates a scenario where flutter occurs during the period from timing TG to timing TH. When flutter occurs, the safety control unit 206 cannot determine whether all doors 11 are closed during the flutter period. The safety control unit 206 detects whether all doors 11 are closed at a predetermined detection period (e.g., 500 ms). Therefore, if the detection period overlaps with the period during which flutter occurred, the timing of detecting that all doors 11 are closed will be delayed. Figure 8In this case, due to the delay, before the security control unit 206 detects that door 11 is in the closed state, the count for the predetermined period during which the system can transition to the standby state J3 ends at timing TI. Therefore, as shown in timing diagram C22, the predetermined period has elapsed without confirming that door 11 is in the closed state, and thus the security control unit 206 transitions the operation state from the standby transition waiting state J4 to the deactivated state J1. In the second embodiment, in order to transition from the deactivated state J1 to the activated state J2, it is necessary to transition to the standby state J3 via the standby transition waiting state J4. Therefore, even if all doors 11 are detected to be in the closed state after the count for the predetermined period during which the system can transition to the standby state J3 ends, the security control unit 206 cannot transition the operation state to the activated state J2.

[0134] As mentioned above Figure 8 As explained, if the conditions for transitioning from standby transfer waiting state J4 to standby state J3 are the same as the conditions for receiving a lock instruction from portable device 3, the safety control unit 206 may be unable to transition the operation state from standby transfer waiting state J4 to standby state J3 due to flutter. However, in this embodiment, when the reservation lock function is executed, the predetermined period for transitioning to standby state J3 is not considered. Therefore, even if a period occurs due to flutter during which it is impossible to determine that all doors are closed, the safety control unit 206 can detect that all doors 11 of the vehicle are closed after this period has elapsed. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, this embodiment can enable the safety function of vehicle 1 after the reservation lock function is executed.

[0135] [3. Other Implementation Methods]

[0136] The above implementation is merely one method and can be arbitrarily modified and applied.

[0137] In the above embodiment, an anti-theft function is exemplified as a safety feature of vehicle 1. However, the safety features of vehicle 1 are not limited to the anti-theft function.

[0138] In the above embodiment, a locking switch 12 is exemplified as an "operating device". However, the "operating device" of this disclosure is not limited to a switch, but can be any device that detects the operation of the user U, such as a touch sensor.

[0139] In the above embodiment, an electric sliding door 11F is exemplified as the door 11 that changes from an open state to a closed state during the execution of the reservation locking function. However, the door 11 that changes from an open state to a closed state during the execution of the reservation locking function is not limited to the electric sliding door 11F, and may also be a right electric hinge door 11A or a left electric hinge door 11B.

[0140] The processor 200 can be composed of multiple processors or a single processor. The processor 200 can also be hardware programmed to implement the functions described above. In this case, the processor 200 may be, for example, composed of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0141] also, Figure 1 The various parts of vehicle 1 shown are just one example, and the specific installation method is not particularly limited. That is, it is not necessarily necessary to install hardware corresponding to each part, and it is also possible to configure the vehicle to implement the functions of each part by executing a program through a processor. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, a part of the function implemented by software can be implemented by hardware, or a part of the function implemented by hardware can be implemented by software. In addition, the specific details of the structure of other parts of vehicle 1 can be arbitrarily changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0142] also, Figure 4 The steps shown are divided according to the main processing content, and this invention is not limited by the method or name of the processing unit division. It is also possible to divide the process into more step units based on the processing content. Furthermore, it is also possible to divide the process into units containing more processes within a single step unit. Additionally, the order of these steps can be appropriately changed without affecting the spirit of this invention.

[0143] The control program 211 can also be implemented while being recorded on a portable information recording medium. Examples of information recording media include magnetic recording media such as hard disks, optical recording media such as CDs, USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, SSD (Solid State Drive) and other semiconductor storage devices.

[0144] [4. Structure supported by the above embodiments]

[0145] The above implementation supports the following structures.

[0146] (Structure 1)

[0147] A vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle, comprising: a receiving unit that receives a locking instruction to lock the doors of the vehicle; and a locking function execution unit that, when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction while any door of the vehicle is open and any door of the vehicle is closed, executes a pre-locking function, the pre-locking function having the following functions: closing the open doors of the vehicle; locking all doors of the vehicle when all doors of the vehicle are closed; executing the pre-locking function when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from a portable key used by the user of the vehicle, or when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from an operating device installed in the vehicle while the portable key is located at a predetermined distance from the vehicle; and not executing the pre-locking function when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from a portable device other than the portable key.

[0148] According to the vehicle control device of Structure 1, when the lock instruction comes from a portable key or operating device, the reservation locking function is executed; when the lock instruction comes from a portable device other than a portable key, the reservation locking function is not executed. Therefore, the execution of the reservation locking function can be controlled based on the distance between the user who made the lock instruction and the vehicle. Thus, the vehicle control device can reduce the possibility of a third party entering the vehicle and can automatically lock the vehicle doors.

[0149] (Structure 2)

[0150] The vehicle control device of structure 1, wherein the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the portable key via a first communication device that communicates using a low-frequency / radio frequency antenna, and the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the portable device via a second communication device that has a longer communication distance than the first communication device.

[0151] According to the vehicle control device of structure 2, the execution of the reservation locking function can be controlled according to the mutual communication distance between the communication devices communicating with external devices, which can appropriately reduce the possibility of a third party entering the vehicle and can automatically lock the vehicle doors.

[0152] (Structure 3)

[0153] A vehicle control device of structure 1 or structure 2, wherein the vehicle control device includes: a lock detection unit that detects whether the doors of the vehicle are locked; and a safety control unit that enables the safety function of the vehicle when the lock detection unit detects that all the doors of the vehicle are locked.

[0154] According to the vehicle control device of Structure 3, the vehicle's safety functions are enabled when all doors of the vehicle are locked. Therefore, even if there is a period during which it cannot be determined whether all doors are closed due to flutter or other reasons, it is possible to detect that all doors of the vehicle are locked after this period has elapsed. Thus, the vehicle's safety functions can be reliably enabled after the pre-locking function is executed.

[0155] (Structure 4)

[0156] A vehicle control device of structure 1 or structure 2, wherein the vehicle control device comprises: a locking control unit that outputs a control signal instructing locking to a locking mechanism for locking the doors of the vehicle; and a safety control unit that, after the locking control unit outputs the control signal, activates the vehicle's safety function as a condition that all doors of the vehicle are closed within a predetermined period, wherein during the execution of the scheduled locking function, the safety control unit activates the vehicle's safety function as a condition that all doors of the vehicle are closed.

[0157] In a structure that activates a vehicle's safety function based on the condition that all doors are confirmed to be closed within a specified period, there is a possibility that, due to factors such as flutter, there may be a period during which it cannot be determined that all doors are closed within that specified period. However, according to the vehicle control device in Structure 4, during the execution of the reservation locking function, the condition that all doors are closed is used to activate the vehicle's safety function. Therefore, even if a period occurs during which it cannot be determined that all doors are closed due to factors such as flutter, it is possible to detect that all vehicle doors are closed after that period has elapsed when the reservation locking function is activated. Thus, the vehicle's safety function can be reliably activated after the reservation locking function is executed.

[0158] (Structure 5)

[0159] A control method for a vehicle control device that controls a vehicle, wherein when a locking instruction to lock the doors of the vehicle is received from a portable key used by a user of the vehicle, a reservation locking function is executed if the locking instruction is received when any door of the vehicle is open and any door of the vehicle is closed. The reservation locking function has the following functions: closing any open door of the vehicle; locking all doors of the vehicle when all doors of the vehicle are closed; executing the reservation locking function when the locking instruction is received from an operating device located on the vehicle while the portable key is within a predetermined distance from the vehicle; and not executing the reservation locking function when the locking instruction is received from a portable device other than the portable key.

[0160] The control method of the vehicle control device according to structure 5 achieves the same effect as the vehicle control device of structure 1.

[0161] (Structure 6)

[0162] A recording medium recording a program that enables a processor of a vehicle control device controlling a vehicle to function as a receiving unit and a locking function execution unit. The receiving unit receives a locking instruction to lock the doors of the vehicle; and when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction while any door of the vehicle is open and any door of the vehicle is closed, the locking function execution unit executes a pre-locking function that: closes the open doors of the vehicle; locks all doors of the vehicle when all doors are closed; executes the pre-locking function when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from a user's portable key, or when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from an operating device located on the vehicle while the portable key is within a predetermined distance from the vehicle; and does not execute the pre-locking function when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from a portable device other than the portable key.

[0163] The recording medium of structure 6 has the same effect as the vehicle control device of structure 1.

Claims

1. A vehicle control device for controlling a vehicle, wherein, The vehicle control device includes: The receiving department accepts locking instructions to lock the doors of the vehicle; and When the receiving unit receives the locking instruction and at least one door of the vehicle is open while all other doors are closed, the locking function execution unit performs a scheduled locking function. This scheduled locking function closes the open doors of the vehicle and locks all doors of the vehicle when all doors are closed. When the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the portable key used by the user of the vehicle, or when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the operating device installed in the vehicle while the portable key is located within a specified distance from the vehicle, the locking function execution unit executes the scheduled locking function. When the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from a portable device other than the portable key that functions as an electronic key for the vehicle, the locking function execution unit does not execute the reservation locking function.

2. The vehicle control device according to claim 1, wherein, The receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the portable key via a first communication device that communicates using a low-frequency / radio frequency antenna. The receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the portable device via a second communication device with a communication distance longer than that of the first communication device.

3. The vehicle control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The vehicle control device includes: A lock detection unit detects whether the doors of the vehicle are locked; and The safety control unit activates the vehicle's safety functions based on the condition that the locking detection unit detects that all the doors of the vehicle are locked.

4. The vehicle control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The vehicle control device includes: The locking control unit outputs a control signal instructing the locking mechanism that locks the doors of the vehicle to lock. as well as The safety control unit, after the locking control unit outputs the control signal, activates the vehicle's safety functions based on the condition that all doors of the vehicle are closed within a specified period. During the execution of the reservation locking function, the security control unit determines that all the doors of the vehicle are closed as a condition, and then enables the vehicle's security function.

5. A control method for a vehicle control device, wherein the vehicle control device controls a vehicle, wherein... When a locking instruction to lock the doors of a vehicle is received from the user's portable key, and if the locking instruction is received when at least one door of the vehicle is open and all other doors are closed, a pre-locking function is executed. This pre-locking function closes any open doors of the vehicle and locks all doors of the vehicle when all doors are closed. When the portable key is located within a specified distance from the vehicle, and the locking instruction is received from the operating device installed in the vehicle, the scheduled locking function is executed. If the locking instruction is received from a portable device other than the portable key that functions as an electronic key for the vehicle, the reservation locking function will not be executed.

6. A recording medium having a program recorded thereon, wherein, The program enables the processor of the vehicle control device that controls the vehicle to function as both a receiving unit and a locking function execution unit. The receiving unit accepts a locking instruction to lock the doors of the vehicle; and When the receiving unit receives the locking instruction while at least one door of the vehicle is open and all other doors are closed, the locking function execution unit executes a pre-locking function. This pre-locking function closes the open doors of the vehicle and locks all doors of the vehicle when all doors are closed. When the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the portable key used by the user of the vehicle, or when the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from the operating device installed in the vehicle while the portable key is located within a specified distance from the vehicle, the locking function execution unit executes the scheduled locking function. When the receiving unit receives the locking instruction from a portable device other than the portable key that functions as an electronic key for the vehicle, the locking function execution unit does not execute the reservation locking function.

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