Vehicle

Abstract

A vehicle having a communication unit includes a control unit that is capable of measuring a distance between the communication unit and a communication unit of a portable communication device registered with the communication unit, based on a strength of a radio wave in wireless communication between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device. The control unit sets a security mode for preventing theft of the portable communication device after the vehicle is stopped. In the security mode, the control unit determines whether the communication unit of the portable communication device is present within a predetermined distance based on a result of the distance measurement, and the control unit sounds an alarm by controlling an output unit of the vehicle in a case where it is determined that the communication unit of the portable communication device is not present within the predetermined distance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a vehicle equipped with a communication unit. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 describes the following technology: wirelessly connecting the vehicle-mounted device and the helmet device to provide the driver with traffic information obtained from the navigation system, music and other entertainment content.

[0003] Patent documents

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-280982 Summary of the Invention

[0005] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0006] However, due to the convenience and widespread adoption of portable communication devices such as wireless headsets integrated inside helmets, their high cost has increased the need for theft prevention. Patent Document 1 lacks a disclosure from a preventative perspective; dedicated anti-theft mechanisms that mechanically lock the helmet to a vehicle hook are expensive and require more effort from the driver, resulting in poor usability. Furthermore, in structures where the anti-theft mode is set via an electric switch, there is a possibility that the anti-theft mode may not function if the switch is forgotten.

[0007] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a vehicle that can issue an alarm when it is determined by measuring the intensity of radio waves in wireless communication that a portable communication device is not present within a predetermined distance.

[0008] Methods for solving problems

[0009] One aspect of the present invention relates to a vehicle equipped with a communication unit.

[0010] The vehicle has a control unit that can determine the distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device registered with the communication unit through the radio wave intensity in the wireless communication between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device.

[0011] After the vehicle stops, the control unit sets a protection mode to prevent the portable communication device from being stolen.

[0012] In the prevention mode, the control unit determines whether the communication unit of the portable communication device exists within a predetermined distance based on the distance measurement result. If the control unit determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device does not exist within the predetermined distance, it controls the output unit of the vehicle to sound an alarm.

[0013] Invention Effects

[0014] According to the present invention, a vehicle is provided that can issue an alarm when it is determined by measuring the intensity of radio waves in wireless communication that a portable communication device is not present within a predetermined distance. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the appearance of the front side of a vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the appearance of the left-side switch assembly of a vehicle according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a functional block diagram of a collaborative system implemented in part.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the vehicle implementation.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the menu display screen of one of the implementation methods for the collaborative function.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a display screen illustrating the communication function of one of the implementation methods.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the path guidance function of one of the implementation methods.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the display screen of a music playback function in one of the implementation methods.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the message sending and receiving function of one of the implementation methods.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the vehicle implementation.

[0025] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a mobile device according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a mobile device according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a mobile device according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a vehicle in one of the implementation methods.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of a vehicle in one of the implementation methods.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the vehicle implementation.

[0031] Figure 17 It is a diagram illustrating the processing flow of the control unit.

[0032] Figure 18 This is a timing diagram of the processing in the control unit.

[0033] Figure 19 This is a diagram schematically showing the positional relationship of the helmet relative to the vehicle's communication unit.

[0034] Figure 20 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the helmet and the vehicle's communication unit, and the positional relationship between the electronic key and the communication unit.

[0035] Figure 21 It is a diagram illustrating the processing flow of the control unit.

[0036] Figure 22 It is a diagram that schematically illustrates the process after the drive unit is started. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the invention, and the complete combination of features described in the embodiments is not limited to the combinations necessary for the invention. Two or more features from the plurality of features described in the embodiments may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, the same or identical structures are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0038] Reference Figure 1 The appearance of the vehicle 100 involved in one embodiment will be described. The vehicle 100 is a straddle-type motorcycle. Alternatively, the invention can also be applied to other vehicles, such as four-wheeled vehicles or three-wheeled vehicles. Figure 1 This is a rear view of the front of vehicle 100.

[0039] The vehicle 100 has a display device 101 at the center in the width direction. The display device 101 displays information to the driver (hereinafter referred to as the driver) facing the vehicle 100. The display device 101 may be a dot matrix display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, or it may be a collection of indicators that provide notification by turning off or on (or flashing) pre-defined markers.

[0040] The vehicle 100 has a left-side handlebar switch 102 on the inside of the left-side handlebar in the width direction. (See reference) Figure 2 The appearance of the left handlebar switch 102 will be described below. The left handlebar switch 102 includes multiple switches. At least some of these switches can be operated by the left thumb when the driver is holding the left handlebar with their left hand. Hereinafter, the switches used for the cooperative function of the vehicle 100 and the moving device (described later) will be described. Other switches in the left handlebar switch 102 (i.e., switches used for functions of the vehicle 100 other than the cooperative function) may have the same structure as before, so their description is omitted.

[0041] The left handlebar switch 102 includes an upper switch 200U, a lower switch 200D, and left / right switches 200H. The left / right switches 200H are located approximately in the center of the left handlebar switch 102. The left / right switches 200H are tilt-type switches that can be tilted to the left and right respectively. The driver can input a left direction instruction by tilting the left / right switches 200H to the left, and a right direction instruction by tilting them to the right. The upper switch 200U is located above the left / right switches 200H. The upper switch 200U is a push-button switch. The driver can input an up direction instruction by pressing the upper switch 200U. The lower switch 200D is located below the left / right switches 200H. The lower switch 200D is a push-button switch. The driver can input a down direction instruction by pressing the lower switch 200D. The upper switch 200U, lower switch 200D, and left / right switches 200H are collectively referred to as the direction switch 200. The direction switch 200 is not limited to... Figure 2 The structure can have any structure that can input indicators in four directions.

[0042] Reference Figure 3 The functional structure of the collaborative system 350, which provides collaborative functions according to a portion of the embodiments of the present invention, will be described below. The collaborative system 350 includes the vehicle 100, mobile device 310, portable communication device 320 (headset), and electronic key 340 described above. Here, the portable communication device 320 is configured to be fitted inside the driver's helmet 330. Furthermore, the portable communication device 320 is configured to be detachable from the helmet 330 and carried.

[0043] (Structure of vehicle 100)

[0044] The vehicle 100 includes a control unit 301, a display unit 304, a direction input unit 305, a communication unit 306, an output unit 307, and a drive unit 308. The control unit 301 controls the entire vehicle 100. The control unit 301 may consist of, for example, a processor 302 and a memory 303. In this case, the operation of the control unit 301 is implemented by the processor 302 executing a program stored in the memory 303. Part or all of the operation of the control unit 301 may also be implemented using dedicated circuits such as ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0045] Display unit 304 displays information for the driver. Display unit 304 is implemented, for example, via display device 101. Direction input unit 305 receives four-way instructions from the driver. Direction input unit 305 is implemented, for example, via an up switch 200U, a down switch 200D, and left / right switches 200H. Communication unit 306 provides functionality for communication between vehicle 100 and the outside world. Communication unit 306 may also support short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). Furthermore, communication unit 306 may also support cellular communication, inter-vehicle communication, etc.

[0046] The direction input unit 305 can also accept two-stage inputs for each direction using the direction switch 200. For example, the direction input unit 305 can also accept short press inputs (e.g., inputs lasting less than 1 second) and long press inputs (e.g., inputs lasting more than 1 second). Alternatively, the direction input unit 305 can also accept single-click inputs (e.g., inputs with an interval of more than 1 second before the next input) and double-click inputs (e.g., two consecutive inputs with an interval of less than 1 second).

[0047] The output unit 307 has a built-in speaker that emits an alarm under the control of the control unit 301. The drive unit 308 is a device that generates driving force to move the vehicle 100, and can be composed of an engine, motor, battery, transmission, etc. The output of the drive unit 308 is controlled by the control unit 301.

[0048] The control unit 301 measures the distance and direction between the vehicle 100's communication unit 306 and the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 (headset), which is registered with the communication unit 306 via short-range wireless communication pairing. After the vehicle 100 stops, the control unit 301 sets a security mode to prevent the theft of the portable communication device 320 (headset).

[0049] Figure 18This is a timing diagram of the processing in the control unit 301. Based on the receipt of the signal that the ignition switch is turned off (IGN_OFF signal), the control unit 301 sets the prevention mode and begins processing.

[0050] In this protection mode, the control unit 301 determines, based on a determination using measurements of radio wave strength in wireless communication, whether the portable communication device 320 (headset) exists, for example, in a wireless communication environment. Figure 19 Within the predetermined distance DS shown, if it is determined that the portable communication device 320 is not present within the predetermined distance, the output unit 307 of the control vehicle 100 sounds an alarm. Figure 18 (Processing 1802). As an example of a determination process in the case of sounding an alarm, after a predetermined time has elapsed, the control unit 301 can control whether to sound an alarm based on the change in the state of the presence of the portable communication device 320 within a predetermined distance. For example, the control unit 301 may also determine that the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 is within a predetermined distance after a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle 100 stopped, and then control the output unit 307 to sound an alarm if the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 changes to a state where it is no longer within the predetermined distance.

[0051] On the other hand, to prevent misjudgment during the determination process, the control unit 301 can perform determination processing to distinguish between a driver leaving the vehicle 100 while carrying a portable communication device 320 (headset) installed inside the helmet 330, and a third party other than the driver stealing the helmet 330 (portable communication device 320 (headset)) held in the vehicle 100 and leaving the vehicle 100. The determination processing to prevent misjudgment corresponds to... Figure 18 In processing 1801 and processing 1803, if the driver carries a portable communication device 320 installed inside the helmet 330 and moves away from the vehicle 100 to a predetermined distance, the alarm will not be sounded and the defense mode will be terminated.

[0052] like Figure 18 As shown, suppose that after the vehicle 100 stops and the prevention mode is set, before a predetermined time has elapsed, for example, the driver leaves the vehicle 100 wearing a helmet 330 (portable communication device 320 (headset)). In such a case, to prevent false alarms, the control unit 301 does not generate an alarm. That is, the control unit 301 determines, before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle 100 stops (after the prevention mode is set), that the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 is not within a predetermined distance DS. Figure 19 In the absence of an alarm sounding from output unit 307, Figure 18 The processing of 1801).

[0053] In addition, in order to suppress the power consumption of the battery caused by short-range wireless communication in the protection mode, the control unit 301 determines that the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 is not within the predetermined distance before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle 100 stops (after the protection mode is set), and then ends the protection mode.

[0054] Furthermore, the control unit 301 measures the distance and direction of the electronic key 340, which will be described later. If the distance and direction of the electronic key 340 are approximately the same as the distance (change in distance) and direction (change in direction) of the helmet 330, the control unit 301 will not generate an alarm. Figure 18 (Processing 1803). This refers to the state where the driver leaves the vehicle 100 while wearing a helmet 330 and an electronic key 340. In this case, the control unit 301 does not generate an alarm and terminates the security mode. For specific processing of the control unit 301 as described above, please refer to... Figures 17-22 The third embodiment will be described.

[0055] (Structure of the mobile device 310)

[0056] The mobile device 310 includes a control unit 311, a display unit 314, an input unit 315, a communication unit 316, and an output unit 317. The mobile device 310 may also be a mobile phone device, such as a smartphone. The user of the mobile device 310 is the same as the driver. The following describes the scenario where the driver uses the mobile device 310. The mobile device 310 may be held by the driver or housed in the vehicle 100. The control unit 311 performs overall control of the mobile device 310. The control unit 311 may consist of, for example, a processor 312 and a memory 313. In this case, the operation of the control unit 311 is implemented by the processor 312 executing a program stored in the memory 313. The program may also include an operating system and applications. Part or all of the operation of the control unit 311 may also be implemented using dedicated circuitry such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0057] Display unit 314 displays information for the driver. Display unit 314 is implemented using a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL display. Input unit 315 receives input from the driver. Input unit 315 is implemented using an input device such as a touch panel or buttons. Communication unit 316 provides functionality for communication between the mobile device 310 and external devices. Communication unit 316 may also support short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth. Furthermore, communication unit 306 may also support cellular communication, WiFi communication, etc.

[0058] The communication unit 316 of the mobile device 310 can communicate with the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100. In the defense mode, if the control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device is not within a predetermined distance, it outputs a notification message indicating the result of the determination to the mobile device 310, which is registered with the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100.

[0059] When the control unit 311 of the mobile device 310 receives notification information from the vehicle 100, it displays the determination result on the display unit 314.

[0060] In addition, the output unit 317 has a speaker inside, and when the control unit 311 of the mobile device 310 receives a notification message indicating the result of the judgment from the vehicle 100, it notifies the result of the judgment by sounding from the output unit 317.

[0061] (Structure of Portable Communication Device 320 (Headphone))

[0062] The portable communication device 320 (headset) is configured to be fitted inside the driver's helmet 330 and includes a microphone 321, a speaker 322, and a communication unit 323. The portable communication device 320 is fitted onto the driver's head. The microphone 321 receives voice input from the driver. The speaker 322 outputs voice signals to the driver. The communication unit 323 can also support short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 323 can communicate wirelessly with the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100.

[0063] (Structure of electronic key 340)

[0064] The electronic key 340 has a communication unit 341 and a storage unit 342. The communication unit 341 can also support short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 341 can communicate wirelessly with the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100. The authentication information of the electronic key 340 is stored in the storage unit 342, and the electronic key 340 can be carried by the driver of the vehicle 100.

[0065] In order to start the drive unit 308 of the vehicle 100, firstly, wireless communication is conducted between the communication unit 341 of the electronic key 340 and the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100. If the authentication information of the electronic key 340 stored in the storage unit 342 matches the authentication information pre-registered in the memory 303 (storage unit) of the vehicle 100, the control unit 301 releases the lock of the drive unit 308 and turns on the ignition switch, thereby starting the drive unit 308 of the vehicle 100.

[0066] It should be noted that authentication based on the electronic key 340 can also be performed via the mobile device 310. For example, authentication information can be stored in the memory 313 of the mobile device 310 and sent wirelessly from the mobile device 310 to the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100. The control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 determines whether the authentication information matches the authentication information pre-registered in the memory 303 (storage unit). If they match, the authentication is successful; otherwise, the authentication is unsuccessful. Furthermore, when authentication is successful between the mobile device 310 and the vehicle 100, the control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 can also unlock the drive unit 308 and turn on the ignition switch, thereby starting the drive unit 308 of the vehicle 100.

[0067] The control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 can measure the distance and direction between the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100 and the communication unit 341 of the electronic key 340, which is registered in the communication unit 306 of the communication unit 306 by means of pairing via short-range wireless communication, through the radio wave intensity in the wireless communication.

[0068] In some embodiments of the present invention, the vehicle 100 and the mobile device 310 cooperate with each other. Specifically, a communication link based on short-range wireless communication is established between the vehicle 100 and the mobile device 310, for example. The vehicle 100 and the mobile device 310 exchange data via this communication link. Additionally, a communication link based on short-range wireless communication is established between the mobile device 310 and the portable communication device 320, for example. The mobile device 310 and the portable communication device 320 exchange data via this communication link.

[0069] At least some of the multiple functions provided by the mobile device 310 can cooperate with the vehicle 100. Hereinafter, the functions provided by the mobile device 310 that can cooperate with the vehicle 100 will be referred to as cooperative functions. The driver inputs direction to the mobile device 310 via the direction input unit 305 of the vehicle 100. This direction input is sent from the vehicle 100 to the mobile device 310. The mobile device 310 performs the cooperative function operation based on the direction input from the driver and generates an image representing the operation status. The mobile device 310 sends the generated image to the vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 displays the received image on the display unit 304.

[0070] Additionally, the mobile device 310 sends voice output to the driver to the portable communication device 320. The portable communication device 320 outputs the received voice output from the speaker 322. The portable communication device 320 sends voice input from the driver, acquired by the microphone 321, to the mobile device 310. The mobile device 310 performs actions corresponding to the voice input from the driver.

[0071] (First Implementation)

[0072] The first embodiment of the display device 101 being a dot matrix type will be described. Figure 4 An example of the display on the display unit 304 during the cooperative operation of the vehicle 100 and the mobile device 310 will be described. Screen 400 is an example of a screen displayed on the display device 101. The driving speed is displayed in the center of screen 400, and the remaining fuel level is displayed below it. A tachometer is displayed on the left side of screen 400.

[0073] The area 401 located on the right side of screen 400 is used to display images provided by mobile device 310 to vehicle 100 when cooperating with mobile device 310. Hereinafter, such images will be referred to as cooperative images. During periods when cooperative images are not provided by mobile device 310 (i.e., when vehicle 100 is not cooperating with mobile device 310), vehicle 100 may also display other images in area 401, such as images not associated with the cooperative function. For example, vehicle 100 may also display optional images in area 401, such as riding mode parameters (e.g., information set in vehicle 100 regarding the operation of ABS (anti-lock braking system)), level adjustments, etc. Low-importance images that are not associated with the cooperative function (e.g., images related to the driving of vehicle 100) may also be displayed in area 401. By sharing area 401 with cooperative images and low-importance images without associating it with the cooperative function, the space of screen 400 can be effectively utilized.

[0074] The area 402 located at the lower side of the screen 400 is used to display images provided from the mobile device 310 when the vehicle 100 is not cooperating with the mobile device 310. Hereinafter, such images will be referred to as interrupted images. During the period when interrupted images are not provided from the mobile device 310, the vehicle 100 may also display other images in the area 402, such as images not associated with the cooperation function.

[0075] Reference Figures 5-9 The following describes specific examples of the collaborative functions. Mobile device 310 provides multiple collaborative functions. These multiple collaborative functions may include two or more of the following: weather information provision, call function, message sending and receiving function, music playback function, and route guidance function. The following describes all five collaborative functions provided by mobile device 310. The weather information provision function refers to the function of providing weather information for a specific location. Weather may include at least one of weather and temperature. The call function refers to the function of making a call with another person. The message sending and receiving function refers to the function of exchanging text / messages with another person. The music playback function refers to the function of playing music. The route guidance function refers to the function of guiding a path to a specified destination.

[0076] Mobile device 310 receives two types of input from vehicle 100 in four directions (up, down, left, and right). In the following example, the two types of input are handled as short presses and long presses. Figures 5-9 In the text, a blacked-out triangle indicates a short press, and a blacked-out triangle marked with "^" indicates a long press. Figures 5-9 In this context, all images other than image 500 are collaborative images, meaning images sent by the mobile device 310 to the vehicle 100 and displayed on the display device 101 of the vehicle 100 during the execution of collaborative functions. Therefore, in the following... Figures 5-9 The description only covers up to the sending of the collaborative image, omitting any information about the display of subsequent collaborative images.

[0077] During the period when vehicle 100 is not cooperating with mobile device 310 (i.e., during the period when mobile device 310 is not performing any cooperative function), an image 500 other than the cooperative function is displayed in area 401 of screen 400. When mobile device 310 is not cooperating with vehicle 100, it begins to cooperate with vehicle 100 after receiving a left long press input from the driver via vehicle 100's direction input unit 305. In the following description, the direction input is also received from the driver via vehicle 100's direction input unit 305, so only the input direction (up, down, left, right) and input method (short press / long press) will be described below.

[0078] Multiple collaboration functions each have a homepage image. A homepage image refers to the image sent by the mobile device 310 to the vehicle 100 for a selected collaboration function. Image 501 is the homepage image for the weather information provision function. Image 501 displays an image showing the weather and temperature of the current location of the vehicle 100. If a destination is set in the vehicle 100, image 501 can also display an image showing the weather and temperature of the destination. Image 502 is the homepage image for the call function. Image 502 contains an image representing the call function. Image 503 is the homepage image for the route guidance function. Image 503 contains an image representing the route guidance function. Image 504 is the homepage image for the music playback function. Image 504 contains an image representing the music playback function. Image 505 is the homepage image for the messaging function. Image 505 contains an image representing the messaging function.

[0079] When collaboration begins, mobile device 310 selects one of several collaboration functions and sends the homepage image of the selected collaboration function. The selected collaboration function can also be a pre-set collaboration function as the initial function. Such a collaboration function is called the initial collaboration function. In the following description, the call function is set as the initial collaboration function. Therefore, mobile device 310 sends image 502 immediately after collaboration begins. The driver can also set other collaboration functions as the initial collaboration function. Mobile device 310 can also notify the user of the start of collaboration via voice.

[0080] When mobile device 310 receives a right long-press input while displaying the homepage image (image 502 in this example) showing the initial collaboration function, it ends the collaboration with vehicle 100. In this case, mobile device 310 sends a notification to vehicle 100 to end the collaboration. Based on this notification, vehicle 100 ends the collaboration action and displays image 500 (excluding the collaboration function) in area 401. Mobile device 310 can also notify the user of the end of the collaboration via voice.

[0081] As described above, the collaborative image is displayed in region 401 on the right side of screen 400. Therefore, if the collaborative image is displayed in region 401 at the start of collaboration, the driver perceives the collaborative image entering region 401 from outside the right edge of screen 400. The input direction (leftward) for initiating the collaborative action is consistent with the hypothetical direction of movement of this collaborative image, thus allowing the driver to intuitively begin the collaborative function. To further enhance this effect, vehicle 100 can also display an animation of the collaborative image entering region 401 from the right. Furthermore, if the collaborative image in region 401 is deleted at the end of collaboration, the driver perceives the collaborative image moving outward from the right edge of screen 400. The input direction (rightward) for ending the collaborative action is consistent with the hypothetical direction of movement of this collaborative image, thus allowing the driver to intuitively end the collaborative function. To further enhance this effect, vehicle 100 can also display an animation of the collaborative image moving outward from region 401 to the right. Furthermore, in the display of other collaborative images, the vehicle 100 can also correspond the input direction to the movement direction of the image. That is, the vehicle 100 can also display the image received in response to sending instructions for the up, down, left, and right directions to the mobile device 310 through an animation of moving in the indicated direction.

[0082] Next, the switching of multiple collaboration functions will be explained. When the mobile device 310 receives an up-short press input while displaying any of the homepage images (any one of images 501-505) of multiple collaboration functions, it switches the selected collaboration function to another collaboration function and sends the homepage image of the switched collaboration function. For example, when the mobile device 310 receives a down-short press input while displaying the homepage image of the selected collaboration function, it switches the selected collaboration function in the order of weather information provision, call function, route guidance function, music playback function, and message sending / receiving function, and sends the homepage image (any one of images 501-505) corresponding to the switched collaboration function. Alternatively, when the mobile device 310 receives an up-short press input while displaying the homepage image of the selected collaboration function, it switches the selected collaboration functions in reverse order and sends the homepage image (any one of images 501-505) corresponding to the switched collaboration function. Although not shown, it is also possible to directly switch from the weather information provision function to the message sending / receiving function, and vice versa. The mobile device 310 can also notify the user of the switched collaboration function via voice while switching collaboration functions.

[0083] Mobile device 310 even on display Figures 5-9 During any of the collaborative images shown, if a left long press input is received, it is also possible to switch to sending the homepage image of the initial collaborative function (image 502 in this example). The mobile device 310 displays... Figures 5-9 During any of the cooperative image shown, when a long press input is received, the volume of the voice output to the driver is set to zero (i.e., muted). Conversely, if the mobile device 310 receives a long press input while in a muted state, it demutes the voice and restores the volume to its pre-mute state. The mobile device 310 can display... Figures 5-9 During any of the collaborative images shown, the collaborative action ends upon receiving a right long press input. Alternatively, the mobile device 310 may accept the end instruction for the collaborative action only when the homepage image with the initial collaborative function (image 502 in this example) is displayed, or it may accept the end instruction for the collaborative action only when the homepage image with any collaborative function is displayed.

[0084] Reference Figure 6The following describes specific examples of the call function's actions. When the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while displaying image 502, it proceeds to sending image 602. Image 602 is used to request the driver to specify the call recipient. The mobile device 310 can also request the driver to specify the call recipient via voice while sending image 602. When the mobile device 310 receives a down short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while displaying image 602, it proceeds to sending image 603, image 604, and image 502, respectively.

[0085] Image 603 is an image containing the name of a pre-set call recipient. When transferring to the transmission of image 603, mobile device 310 reads the pre-set name as the call recipient from memory 313 and includes it in image 603. Mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the read-out name of the call recipient via voice while transmitting image 603. When mobile device 310 receives an up short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while image 603 is displayed, it transfers to the transmission of image 602, image 606, and image 502, respectively.

[0086] Image 604 represents a standby state for voice search. Image 604 may also include an image representing the input direction for ending the voice search. Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice while sending image 603 that a voice search is pending. After sending image 604, mobile device 310 waits for voice input via portable communication device 320. Upon receiving voice input, mobile device 310 searches for a call recipient from the contact list in memory 313 based on that voice input. If the call recipient can be identified, mobile device 310 proceeds to sending image 605; otherwise, it does not send a new image (i.e., vehicle 100 continues displaying image 604). Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice if the call recipient cannot be identified. If a short left press input is received while image 604 is displayed, mobile device 310 proceeds to sending image 602.

[0087] Image 605 is an image containing the name of the call recipient determined through voice search. Mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the determined call recipient's name via voice while sending image 605. If a right short press input and a left short press input are received while image 605 is displayed, mobile device 310 will proceed to sending image 606 and image 602 respectively.

[0088] Image 606 is an image representing the execution status of the call function. Image 606 may also include the call recipient and the call status (calling or in progress (in this case, call duration)). Image 606 may also include an image representing the input direction for ending the call. While sending image 606, mobile device 310 begins calling the call recipient and updates image 606 according to the call status. Voice input during the call is exchanged between mobile device 310 and the driver via portable communication device 320. If mobile device 310 receives a left short press input while image 606 is displayed, the call ends, and the process moves to sending image 502. If mobile device 310 receives an up short press or down short press input while image 606 is displayed, the volume output from portable communication device 320 increases or decreases. If mobile device 310 receives a left long press input while image 606 is displayed, the process moves to sending image 601 if the call continues.

[0089] Image 601 is the home screen image for a call function in progress. Image 502, on the other hand, is the home screen image for a call function other than a call function. A call function in progress can also mean calling a recipient or talking to a recipient. Image 601 can also include the recipient and call status (calling, in-call (in this case, call duration)). Since image 601 is the home screen image, if the mobile device 310 receives an up short press or down short press input while image 601 is displayed, it switches the call function to another collaborative function. The mobile device 310 can also maintain the call state while the call function is switched to another collaborative function during the execution of a call function. If the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while image 601 is displayed, it transitions to sending image 606 while continuing the call. If the mobile device 310 ends the call (the recipient ends the call) while image 601 is displayed, it transitions to sending image 502. The mobile device 310 can also refuse to accept call end instructions from the driver while image 601 is displayed.

[0090] Reference Figure 7 The specific actions of the route guidance function will be explained below. When the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while displaying image 503, it proceeds to sending image 702. Image 702 is used to request a destination designation from the driver. The mobile device 310 can also request a destination designation from the driver via voice while sending image 702. When the mobile device 310 receives a down short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while displaying image 702, it proceeds to sending image 703, image 704, and image 503, respectively.

[0091] Image 703 is an image containing a pre-set destination. When transferring the transmission to image 703, mobile device 310 reads the pre-set location as the destination from memory 313 and includes it in image 703. Mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the read-out destination via voice while transmitting image 703. When mobile device 310 receives an up short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while image 703 is displayed, it transfers to transmitting image 702, image 706, and image 503, respectively.

[0092] Image 704 represents a standby state for voice search. Image 704 may also include an image representing the input direction for ending the voice search. Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice while sending image 704 that it is waiting for a voice search. After sending image 704, mobile device 310 waits for voice input via portable communication device 320. After receiving voice input, mobile device 310 determines the destination based on that voice input, for example, according to map information. If the destination can be determined, mobile device 310 proceeds to sending image 705; if the destination cannot be determined, no new image is sent (i.e., vehicle 100 continues displaying image 704). Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice if the destination cannot be determined. If a short left press input is received while image 704 is displayed, mobile device 310 proceeds to sending image 702.

[0093] Image 705 is an image containing the destination determined through voice search. Mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the determined destination via voice while sending image 705. If a right short press input and a left short press input are received while image 705 is displayed, mobile device 310 will proceed to send image 706 and image 702 respectively.

[0094] Image 706 is an image showing the execution status of the path guidance function. Image 706 may also include the distance to the point where a turn should be made and the turning direction. Image 706 may also include an image showing the input direction for ending path guidance. The mobile device 310 starts path guidance while sending image 706 and updates image 706 according to the guidance status. The voice of the path guidance is output from the mobile device 310 to the driver via the portable communication device 320. If the mobile device 310 receives a left short press input while image 706 is displayed, it switches to sending image 707. If the mobile device 310 receives an up short press input or a down short press input while image 706 is displayed, it increases or decreases the volume output from the portable communication device 320.

[0095] Image 707 is used to confirm whether path guidance has ended. Image 707 may include an image requesting confirmation and an image indicating the input direction for responding to the confirmation. If the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while image 707 is displayed, it ends path guidance and proceeds to sending image 503. If the mobile device 310 receives a left short press input while path guidance continues, it proceeds to sending image 706 while image 707 is displayed.

[0096] Image 701 is the homepage image for the path guidance function during which the path guidance function is being executed. On the other hand, image 503 is the homepage image for a path guidance function other than the path guidance function. Executing the path guidance function can also mean guiding the driver towards a path. Image 701 may also include the distance to the point where a turn should be made and the direction of the turn. As described above, when the mobile device 310 receives a left long press input while the path guidance function is selected (i.e., when images 503 and any one of images 701 to 707 are displayed), it proceeds to sending the homepage image for the initial collaboration function. If the path guidance function is selected again later, and if path guidance was being executed during the previous selection, the mobile device 310 sends image 701 as the homepage image for the path guidance function.

[0097] Since image 701 is the homepage image, when mobile device 310 receives an up short press or down short press input while image 701 is displayed, it switches the path guidance function to other collaborative functions. When mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while image 701 is displayed, it transitions to sending image 706 while continuing path guidance. When mobile device 310 ends path guidance (reaches destination) while image 701 is displayed, it transitions to sending image 503. Mobile device 310 may also ignore path guidance end instructions while image 701 is displayed.

[0098] Reference Figure 8 The following describes specific actions of the music playback function. When the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while displaying image 504, it proceeds to sending image 802. Image 802 is used to search for music to play. Simultaneously with sending image 802, the mobile device 310 selects a song from the playlist in memory 313 and includes it in image 802. The mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the selected song's name via voice while sending image 802. When the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input and a left short press input while displaying image 802, it proceeds to sending image 803 and image 504 respectively. When the mobile device 310 receives an up short press input while displaying image 802, it selects the previous song in the playlist and updates image 802 accordingly. When the mobile device 310 receives a down short press input while displaying image 802, it selects the next song in the playlist and updates image 802 accordingly.

[0099] Image 803 is an image representing the execution status of the music playback function. Image 803 may also include the name of the song being played and its playback status (playback time). Image 803 may include images representing the input direction for ending playback and the input direction for skipping the currently playing song. The mobile device 310 updates image 803 based on the song's playback status while sending image 803. The playing song is output from the mobile device 310 to the driver via the portable communication device 320. If the mobile device 310 receives a left short press input while image 803 is displayed, playback ends, and the transmission of image 802 is initiated. If the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while image 803 is displayed, the next song in the playlist is selected, and image 803 is updated accordingly. If the mobile device 310 receives an up or down short press input while image 803 is displayed, the volume output from the portable communication device 320 is increased or decreased. When the mobile device 310 receives a left long press input while displaying image 803, it transfers to the sending of the home page image (image 504 in this example) of the initial collaboration function while continuing playback.

[0100] Image 801 is the homepage image for the music playback function during which music playback is being performed. On the other hand, image 504 is the homepage image for a music playback function other than music playback. The music playback function may also be playing music to the driver. Image 801 may also include the name of the song being played and its playback status (playback time). As described above, when the mobile device 310 receives a left long-press input while the music playback function is selected (i.e., when images 504 and any one of images 801 to 803 are displayed), it transitions to sending the homepage image for the initial collaboration function. If the music playback function is selected again later, and music playback was being performed during the previous selection, the mobile device 310 sends image 801 as the homepage image for the music playback function.

[0101] Since image 801 is the homepage image, when mobile device 310 receives an up short press or down short press input while image 801 is displayed, it switches the music playback function to other collaborative functions. When mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while image 801 is displayed, it transitions to sending image 803 while continuing music playback. When mobile device 310 ends music playback (playlist complete) while image 801 is displayed, it transitions to sending image 504. Mobile device 310 can also refuse to accept the music playback end instruction while image 801 is displayed.

[0102] Reference Figure 9 The following describes specific examples of message sending and receiving functions. When the mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while displaying image 505, it proceeds to sending image 901. Image 901 is used to request recipient designation from the driver. The mobile device 310 can also request recipient designation from the driver via voice while sending image 901. When the mobile device 310 receives a down short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while displaying image 901, it proceeds to sending image 902, image 903, and image 505, respectively.

[0103] Image 902 is an image containing the name of a pre-set recipient. When transferring to the transmission of image 902, mobile device 310 reads the pre-set name as the recipient from memory 313 and includes it in image 902. Mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the read-out recipient's name via voice while transmitting image 902. When mobile device 310 receives an up short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while image 902 is displayed, it transfers to the transmission of image 901, image 905, and image 505, respectively.

[0104] Image 903 represents a standby state for voice search. Image 903 may also include an image representing the input direction for ending the voice search. Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice while sending image 902 that a voice search is pending. After sending image 903, mobile device 310 waits for voice input via portable communication device 320. Upon receiving voice input, mobile device 310 searches for a recipient from the contact list in memory 313 based on that voice input. If the recipient can be identified, mobile device 310 proceeds to sending image 904; if the recipient cannot be identified, no new image is sent (i.e., vehicle 100 continues displaying image 903). Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice if the recipient cannot be identified. If a short left press input is received while image 903 is displayed, mobile device 310 proceeds to sending image 901.

[0105] Image 904 is an image containing the name of the recipient determined through voice search. Mobile device 310 can also notify the driver of the determined recipient's name via voice while sending image 904. If a right short press input and a left short press input are received while image 904 is displayed, mobile device 310 will proceed to send image 905 and image 901 respectively.

[0106] Image 905 represents a standby state for voice input. Image 905 may also include images representing the input direction for ending voice input and the input direction for starting transmission. The mobile device 310 may also notify the driver via voice while sending image 905 that it is waiting for voice input. After sending image 905, the mobile device 310 waits for voice input via the portable communication device 320. The mobile device 310 receives a message indicating that the input voice is intended for transmission. If, while image 905 is displayed, the mobile device 310 receives a left short press input, a right short press input, and a down short press input, it proceeds to send image 904, image 907, and image 906, respectively.

[0107] Image 906 is an image containing a pre-set message with a fixed statement. When transferring to the transmission of image 906, mobile device 310 reads the pre-set message with a fixed statement from memory 313 and includes it in image 906. Image 906 may also include images indicating the input direction for canceling transmission and the input direction for starting transmission. Mobile device 310 may also notify the driver of the read fixed statement via voice while transmitting image 906. When mobile device 310 receives an up short press input, a right short press input, and a left short press input while image 906 is displayed, it transfers to the transmission of image 905, image 907, and image 904, respectively.

[0108] Image 907 is an image showing the execution status of the message sending and receiving function. Image 907 may also include an image showing that a message is being sent. The mobile device 310 starts sending a message to the recipient while sending image 907, and transfers to sending image 505 after the sending is completed.

[0109] like Figures 6-9 As shown, the images sent through various collaboration functions (i.e., collaboration images) are categorized into three levels: menu level, object selection level, and activity level. The menu level contains the homepage image of the selected collaboration function. The object selection level contains the image of the object to be executed for selecting the chosen collaboration function. The activity level contains images indicating the execution status of the selected collaboration function.

[0110] In each collaborative function with an object selection level, the transition from the menu level to the object selection level is based on a right short press input. Similarly, in each collaborative function with an active level, the transition from the object selection level to the active level is based on a right short press input. Thus, transitions to any level are based on a right short press input, allowing the driver to intuitively navigate between levels. Furthermore, no switches other than directional switches, such as decision switches, are needed. Moreover, transitions from the active level to the object selection level and from the object selection level to the menu level are based on a left short press input, which is in the opposite direction to the right short press input. Therefore, the driver can intuitively return to the correct level. Additionally, the mobile device 310 does not perform image-based confirmation of the driver during transitions from the menu level to the object selection level and from the object selection level to the active level. This reduces the amount of operation required until processing is completed.

[0111] Within each level, short up and short down presses are used for transferring processing within the same level. As described above, the left and right switches 200H are tilt switches, while the up switch 200U and down switch 200D are independent push-button switches. Therefore, compared to the up and down direction, the amount of finger movement for the driver in the left and right direction is less. In the above embodiment, by using left and right inputs for transfer between levels, the amount of finger movement for the driver can be reduced.

[0112] In the object selection level, the transition to voice search is based on a short right press. This allows for a consistent user experience by enabling the transition to voice search based on input in the same direction as the transition to deeper levels (a short right press).

[0113] Reference Figure 10 A specific example of interruption handling based on the cooperative function will be explained. Interruption handling refers to the process by which the mobile device 310 requests the vehicle 100 to start the cooperative function regardless of the driver's instructions. For example, the mobile device 310 requests the start of interruption handling when someone calls or receives a message from someone else.

[0114] When a call comes in to mobile device 310, mobile device 310 sends an image related to the interruption of the call function (i.e., an interruption image) to vehicle 100, and vehicle 100 displays the interruption image in area 402 of screen 400. The interruption image may also include the caller's name, an input direction indicating whether to respond to the call, and an input direction indicating whether to not respond to the call. If a collaboration function other than the call function is being selected at this time, an image of the selected collaboration function is displayed in area 401. On the other hand, if no collaboration function is being performed at this time, an image other than the collaboration function is displayed in area 401. If mobile device 310 receives a right short press input while the interruption image is displayed, it responds to the call and proceeds to sending image 606. At this time, a collaboration image (specifically image 606) is displayed in area 401. At this time, vehicle 100 may also delete the interruption image from area 402 and display an image based on a non-collaboration function. The same processing is performed when mobile device 310 receives a message.

[0115] Reference Figure 11 An example of the operation of the control method for the mobile device 310 will be described. This method can also begin when the mobile device 310 is started. The following steps are executed by the control unit 311 of the mobile device 310.

[0116] In step S1101, the control unit 311 establishes a communication link with both the vehicle 100 and the portable communication device 320. As described above, this communication link can also be a short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The control unit 311 can establish a communication link with either the vehicle 100 or the portable communication device 320 first, or simultaneously. Furthermore, the communication link with the portable communication device 320 can also be established at the moment of voice output to the portable communication device 320.

[0117] In step S1102, the control unit 311 determines whether an instruction to start collaboration has been received. If such an instruction has been received (yes in S1102), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1103; otherwise (no in S1102), the control unit 311 repeats step S1102. In the example above, the control unit 311 determines that an instruction to start collaboration has been received when it receives a left long press input from the vehicle 100.

[0118] In step S1103, the control unit 311 sends the homepage image of the initial collaboration function (image 502 in the above example) to the vehicle 100. At this time, the initial collaboration function (call function in the above example) is selected.

[0119] In step S1104, the control unit 311 determines whether an instruction to change the selected collaboration function has been received. If such an instruction has been received (yes in S1104), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1105; otherwise (no in S1104), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1106. In the example above, the control unit 311 determines that an instruction to change the collaboration function has been received when it receives an up short press input or a down short press input from the vehicle 100.

[0120] In step S1105, the control unit 311 changes the selected collaboration function and sends the homepage image of the changed collaboration function to the vehicle 100.

[0121] In step S1106, the control unit 311 determines whether an instruction associated with the selected collaborative function has been obtained. If the instruction has been obtained (yes in S1106), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1107; otherwise (no in S1106), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1108.

[0122] In step S1107, the control unit 311 processes the selected collaboration function according to the received instruction. Regarding the processing of the collaboration function, [further details are needed]. Figures 6-9 The details are explained in the text, so they will not be repeated here.

[0123] In step S1108, the control unit 311 determines whether an instruction to end collaboration has been received. If such an instruction has been received (yes in S1108), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1102; otherwise (no in S1108), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1104. In the example above, the control unit 311 determines that an instruction to end collaboration has been received when it receives a right long press input from the vehicle 100.

[0124] Reference Figure 12 An example of the operation for handling interruption when the call function of mobile device 310 receives an incoming call will be described. This method can begin when mobile device 310 is started. The following steps are executed by the control unit 311 of mobile device 310.

[0125] In step S1201, the control unit 311 determines whether an incoming call has been received. If an incoming call has been received (yes in S1201), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1202; otherwise (no in S1201), the control unit 311 repeats step S1201.

[0126] In step S1202, the control unit 311 generates an interruption image and sends it to the vehicle 100. The interruption image may also include the caller's name, an input direction indicating whether to respond to the call, and an input direction indicating whether to not respond to the call. The control unit 311 may also notify the vehicle 100 of the incoming call via voice while sending the interruption image. If a communication link with the vehicle 100 is not established at this time, the control unit 311 establishes a communication link with the vehicle 100.

[0127] In step S1203, the control unit 311 determines whether an instruction to respond to an incoming call has been received. If such an instruction has been received (yes in S1203), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1204; otherwise (no in S1203), the control unit 311 terminates the processing. For example, the control unit 311 may also consider a right short press input as an instruction to respond to an incoming call, and a left short press input as an instruction not to respond to an incoming call.

[0128] In step S1204, the control unit 311 sends an image of the active level of the call function (i.e., image 606) to the vehicle simultaneously with the start of the call. Alternatively, the control unit 311 may send image 601 instead of image 606. If a collaborative function other than the call function is being executed at this time, the control unit 311 may also terminate the function based on its priority. For example, if the priority of the music playback function is set lower than that of the call function, the control unit 311 terminates the currently executing music playback function.

[0129] In step S1205, the control unit 311 determines whether the call has ended. If the call has ended (yes in S1205), the control unit 311 terminates the process; otherwise (no in S1205), the control unit 311 repeats step S1205. After the call ends, the control unit 311 may maintain or terminate cooperation with the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the control unit 311 may restart the cooperation function if other cooperation functions were executed at the start of the interruption process.

[0130] Reference Figure 13 An example of interrupt handling when a message is received in the message sending and receiving function of the mobile device 310 will be described. This method can also be started when the mobile device 310 is powered on. The following steps are executed by the control unit 311 of the mobile device 310.

[0131] In step S1301, the control unit 311 determines whether a new message has been received. If a new message has been received (yes in S1301), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1302; otherwise (no in S1301), the control unit 311 repeats step S1301.

[0132] In step S1302, the control unit 311 determines whether the non-response setting is enabled. If the non-response setting is enabled (yes in S1302), the control unit 311 terminates the process; otherwise (no in S1302), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1303. The non-response setting refers to the setting regarding whether to send an interrupt image to the vehicle 100 upon receiving a new message. This setting can be enabled by default or enabled by the driver. The value of this setting can be stored in the memory 313.

[0133] In step S1303, the control unit 311 determines whether the automatic response setting is enabled. If the automatic response setting is enabled (yes in S1303), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1304; otherwise (no in S1303), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1305. The automatic response setting refers to the setting regarding whether the mobile device 310 will automatically respond upon receiving a new message. This setting can be enabled by default or enabled by the driver. The value of this setting can be stored in the memory 313.

[0134] In step S1304, the control unit 311 automatically responds to the received message. For example, the control unit 311 may also reply with a fixed message indicating that the vehicle is being driven.

[0135] In step S1305, the control unit 311 generates an interruption image and sends it to the vehicle 100. The interruption image may also include the sender's name, an input direction indicating whether to reply, and an input direction indicating whether to not reply. The control unit 311 may also notify the recipient of a received message via voice while sending the interruption image. If a communication link with the vehicle 100 is not established at this time, the control unit 311 establishes a communication link with the vehicle 100.

[0136] In step S1306, the control unit 311 determines whether the automatic reading setting is enabled. If the automatic reading setting is enabled (yes in S1306), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1307; otherwise (no in S1306), the control unit 311 transfers the process to step S1308. The automatic reading setting refers to the setting regarding whether the mobile device 310 automatically reads the message when a new message is received. This setting can be enabled by default or enabled by the driver. The value of this setting can be stored in the memory 313.

[0137] In step S1307, the control unit 311 sends a voice message reading aloud to the portable communication device 320, and the portable communication device 320 outputs the voice message to the driver. If a communication link with the portable communication device 320 is not established at this time, the control unit 311 establishes a communication link with the portable communication device 320. If a collaborative function other than message sending / receiving is being performed at this time, the control unit 311 can also terminate the function based on its priority. For example, if the priority of the music playback function is set lower than that of the message sending / receiving function, the control unit 311 terminates the currently performing music playback function.

[0138] In step S1308, the control unit 311 determines whether an instruction to reply to the message has been received. If an instruction to reply to the message has been received (yes in S1308), the control unit 311 transfers the processing to step S1309; otherwise (no in S1308), the control unit 311 terminates the processing. For example, the control unit 311 may also consider a right short press input as an instruction to reply to the message and a left short press input as an instruction not to reply to the message.

[0139] In step S1309, the control unit 311 transitions to sending the image 905 in order to generate a message, responding to the voice input message. After sending the message, the control unit 311 can maintain or terminate the cooperation with the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the control unit 311 can also restart the cooperation function if other cooperation functions were executed at the start of the interruption process.

[0140] Reference Figure 14 An example of the operation of the control method for vehicle 100 will be described. This method can also be started when vehicle 100 is started. The following steps are executed by the control unit 301 of vehicle 100.

[0141] In step S1401, the control unit 301 establishes a communication link with the mobile device 310. As described above, this communication link can also be a short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication link with the mobile device 310 can also be established at the moment an instruction is sent to the mobile device 310.

[0142] In step S1402, the control unit 301 determines whether an instruction to start collaboration has been received. If such an instruction has been received (yes in S1402), the control unit 301 transfers the processing to step S1403; otherwise (no in S1402), the control unit 301 repeats step S1402. In the example above, the control unit 301 determines that an instruction to start collaboration has been received when a left long press input is received via the direction switch 200.

[0143] In step S1403, the control unit 301 sends an instruction to the mobile device 310 to start collaboration. The control unit 301 can directly send a left long press input, that is, it can also send any information that the mobile device 310 can recognize as the start of collaboration.

[0144] In step S1404, the control unit 301 determines whether a cooperative image has been received from the mobile device 310. If a cooperative image has been received (yes in S1404), the control unit 301 transfers the processing to step S1405; otherwise (no in S1404), the control unit 301 transfers the processing to step S1406.

[0145] In step S1405, the control unit 301 displays the received cooperative image in area 401 of the screen 400 of the display device 101.

[0146] In step S1406, the control unit 301 determines whether a direction indication has been acquired. If a direction indication has been acquired (yes in S1406), the control unit 301 transfers the process to step S1407; otherwise (no in S1406), the control unit 301 transfers the process to step S1408. The control unit 301 determines that a direction indication has been acquired if any one of the directions (up, down, left, or right) is received via the direction switch 200.

[0147] In step S1407, the control unit 301 sends the acquired direction command to the mobile device 310.

[0148] In step S1408, the control unit 301 determines whether an instruction to end collaboration has been received. If such an instruction has been received (yes in S1408), the control unit 301 transfers the process to step S1402; otherwise (no in S1408), the control unit 301 transfers the process to step S1404. In the example above, the control unit 301 determines that an instruction to end collaboration has been received when a right long press input is received via the direction switch 200.

[0149] Reference Figure 15 An example of interrupt handling in vehicle 100 will be described. This method can also begin when vehicle 100 is started. The following steps are executed by the control unit 301 of vehicle 100.

[0150] In step S1501, the control unit 301 determines whether an interruption image has been received from the mobile device 310. If an interruption image has been received (yes in S1501), the control unit 301 transfers the processing to step S1502; otherwise (no in S1501), the control unit 301 repeats step S1501.

[0151] In step S1502, the control unit 301 displays the received interrupted image in area 402 of the screen 400 of the display device 101.

[0152] In step S1503, the control unit 301 determines whether a direction indication has been acquired. If a direction indication has been acquired (yes in S1503), the control unit 301 transfers the processing to step S1504; otherwise (no in S1503), the control unit 301 terminates the processing. The control unit 301 determines that a direction indication has been acquired when any one of the directions (up, down, left, or right) is received via the direction switch 200.

[0153] In step S1504, the control unit 301 sends the acquired direction indication to the mobile device 310.

[0154] In step S1505, the control unit 301 determines whether a cooperative image has been received from the mobile device 310. If a cooperative image has been received (yes in S1505), the control unit 301 transfers the processing to step S1506; otherwise (no in S1505), the control unit 301 terminates the processing.

[0155] In step S1506, the control unit 301 begins cooperative operation with the mobile device 310. Alternatively, if cooperative operation began due to interruption processing, the control unit 301 may end the cooperative operation after the interruption processing is completed.

[0156] In the method described above, vehicle 100 displays the cooperative image and the interrupted image received from mobile device 310 on display device 101. Alternatively, vehicle 100 may also receive information required for the generation of cooperative and interrupted images from mobile device 310, use this information to create cooperative and interrupted images, and display them on display device 101.

[0157] (Second Implementation)

[0158] Next, a second embodiment in which the display device 101 is a set of indicators will be described. Figure 16 An example of the display unit 304 during the cooperative operation of the vehicle 100 and the mobile device 310 will be described. The display device 101 includes an indicator configuration area 1600. The indicator configuration area 1600 includes a region 1601 in which four indicators indicating the status of the cooperative function are configured. Indicators not associated with the cooperative function are configured in the portion of the indicator configuration area 1600 outside of region 1601. The indicators not associated with the cooperative function may also be existing indicators, so detailed description is omitted.

[0159] In the second embodiment, the mobile device 310 may also provide two or more of the following functions: call function, message sending and receiving function, music playback function, and route guidance function. The following describes all cases in which the mobile device 310 provides these four collaborative functions.

[0160] Regarding the transmission of directional instructions from vehicle 100 to mobile device 310, the second embodiment may be the same as the first embodiment. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, instead of transmitting cooperative and interrupted images to vehicle 100, mobile device 310 transmits an indication of the indicator's illumination status.

[0161] The operation of the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment. Figures 11-15 The actions described herein are the same. The differences are explained below. Before performing the cooperative action, all indicators within area 1601 of vehicle 100 are turned off.

[0162] Mobile device 310 replaces in Figure 11 In step S1103, the homepage image is sent, while information indicating the selected collaboration function is sent to vehicle 100. Vehicle 100 replaces... Figure 14 Step S1404 and Figure 15 In step S1505, it is determined whether a cooperative image has been received, and whether information indicating the selected cooperative function has been received. Vehicle 100 replaces... Figure 14 In step S1405, a collaboration image is displayed, and an indicator indicating the selected collaboration function is illuminated. For example, when the call function is selected, the upper left indicator in area 1601 of vehicle 100 is illuminated.

[0163] Mobile device 310 replaces Figure 12 Step S1202 and Figure 13 In step S1305, an interrupt image is sent, while information instructing the vehicle 100 to interrupt the cooperative function is sent instead. The vehicle 100 then... Figure 15 In step S1501, it is determined whether an interrupt image has been received, and whether information indicating a request for interruption of the cooperative function has been received. Vehicle 100 replaces... Figure 15 In step S1502, a collaborative image is displayed, and an indicator indicating a requested interruption of the collaborative function is illuminated. For example, in the case of a requested interruption of a call function, vehicle 100 illuminates the upper left indicator in area 1601. If other collaborative functions are active at that time, vehicle 100 maintains the illumination of the indicator indicating that collaborative function. Vehicle 100 may also choose not to illuminate but instead flash the indicator indicating a requested interruption of the collaborative function. If a low-priority collaborative function (e.g., music playback function interrupted for a call function) is terminated when an interruption occurs, vehicle 100 turns off the indicator indicating the terminated collaborative function.

[0164] In the second embodiment, instead of sending cooperative and interrupted images, the mobile device 310 sends information indicating the selected cooperative function and the cooperative function requesting interruption. Alternatively, the mobile device 310 can also send cooperative and interrupted images and determine which indicator the vehicle 100 illuminates based on the image. According to this method, the mobile device 310 can perform the same operation regardless of the type of display device 101 of the vehicle 100.

[0165] In the above embodiments, the up / down and left / right inputs can be interchanged. For example, the left input can be used instead of the up input, the right input can be used instead of the down input, the up input can be used instead of the left input, and the down input can be used instead of the right input. Correspondingly, the position of area 401 in screen 400 can also be changed. For example, when collaboration starts by long-pressing down and ends by long-pressing up, area 401 can be positioned at the top of the screen. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the left and right inputs can be interchanged. For example, the left input can be used instead of the right input, and the right input can be used instead of the left input. Correspondingly, the position of area 401 in screen 400 can also be changed. For example, when collaboration starts by long-pressing right and ends by long-pressing left, area 401 can be positioned on the left side of the screen.

[0166] (Third Implementation)

[0167] In the third embodiment, the specific processing of the control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 in the prevention mode will be described. Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the control unit 301. Figure 18 This is a timing diagram of the processing in the control unit 301.

[0168] First of all, Figure 17 In S1701, such as Figure 18 As shown, if the control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 receives a signal indicating that the ignition switch is off (IGN_OFF signal), the control unit 301 sets the protection mode and begins processing. The processor 302 of the control unit 301 begins measuring the elapsed time since the moment the protection mode was set via the internal clock.

[0169] In S1702, the control unit 301 measures the distance between the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100 and the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 (headset) registered in the communication unit 306 via the wireless communication strength between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320, which is registered in the communication unit 306 by means of pairing of short-range wireless communication.

[0170] Here, Figure 19 This diagram schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the helmet 330 (portable communication device 320) and the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100. The control unit 301 determines, based on distance measurement results, whether the portable communication device 320 (headset) is present in the vehicle. Figure 19 Within the predetermined distance DS shown. If no portable communication device 320 (headset) is present within the predetermined distance DS (S1702 - No), the control unit 301 causes the process to proceed to S1709 and terminates the process. This process corresponds to Figure 18 In processing 1801, the control unit 301 determines, before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle 100 stopped (after the anti-prevention mode was set), that the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 is not within a predetermined distance DS. Figure 19 In the event that the alarm is not sounded from the output unit 307, the processing will end.

[0171] On the other hand, in the determination of S1702, if a portable communication device 320 (headphone) is present within the predetermined distance DS (S1702-Yes), the control unit 301 causes the processing to proceed to S1703.

[0172] In S1703, the control unit 301 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., 10 minutes) has elapsed based on the measurement result of the internal clock of the processor 302. If the measured time has not elapsed (S1703 - No), the control unit 301 returns the process to S1702 and repeats the same process.

[0173] On the other hand, in the determination in S1703, if the measurement time has elapsed for a predetermined time (S1703-Yes), the control unit 301 causes the processing to proceed to S1704.

[0174] In S1704, the control unit 301 determines, based on the distance measurement results, whether the portable communication device 320 (headphone) exists in the... Figure 19 Within the predetermined distance DS shown. If there is no portable communication device 320 (headset) within the predetermined distance DS (S1704 - No), the control unit 301 causes the processing to enter S1709 and ends the processing.

[0175] For example, assuming that after the prevention mode is set, even after a predetermined time has elapsed, for example, if the driver leaves the vehicle 100 wearing a helmet 330 (portable communication device 320 (headset)), then in such a case, the control unit 301 will not generate an alarm in order to prevent misjudgment.

[0176] On the other hand, in the determination in S1704, if a portable communication device 320 (headphone) is present within the predetermined distance DS (S1704-Yes), the control unit 301 causes the processing to proceed to S1705.

[0177] In S1705, the control unit 301, based on the measurement result of the internal clock of the processor 302, causes the processing to proceed to S1706 after a sampling time (ΔT: for example, 0.5 seconds).

[0178] In S1706, the control unit 301 determines, based on the distance measurement results, whether the portable communication device 320 (headphone) exists in the... Figure 19 Within the predetermined distance DS shown. If a portable communication device 320 (headset) is present within the predetermined distance DS (S1706-Yes), the control unit 301 returns the processing to S1705 and repeats the same processing.

[0179] On the other hand, in the determination in S1706, if there is no portable communication device 320 (headphone) within the predetermined distance DS (S1706-No), the control unit 301 causes the process to proceed to S1707. In this case, the control unit 301 determines that the presence state of the portable communication device 320 within the predetermined distance has changed from presence to absence, and causes the process to proceed to S1707.

[0180] In S1707, regarding the distance and direction relative to the electronic key 340, the control unit 301 measures the distance (first distance) and direction (first direction) between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 341 of the electronic key 340, which is registered to the communication unit 306 via short-range wireless communication pairing, through the radio wave intensity in the wireless communication between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 341 of the electronic key 340. Furthermore, regarding the distance and direction relative to the portable communication device 320, the control unit 301 measures the distance (second distance) and direction (second direction) between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320, which is registered to the communication unit 306 via short-range wireless communication pairing, through the radio wave intensity in the wireless communication between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320.

[0181] Here, Figure 20 This diagram schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the helmet 330 (portable communication device 320) and the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100, and the positional relationship between the electronic key 340 (communication unit 341) and the communication unit 306.

[0182] like Figure 20As shown, regarding the helmet 330 (portable communication device 320) and the electronic key 340 (communication unit 341), the control unit 301 compares the measured distances (first distance, second distance) and then compares the measured directions (first direction, second direction). In the distance comparison, if the difference (absolute value) between the first distance and the second distance is within a threshold distance, the control unit 301 determines that the first distance and the second distance are approximately equal. Similarly, in the direction (angle) comparison, if the difference (absolute value) between the first direction and the second direction is within a threshold angle used as a reference, the control unit 301 determines that the first direction and the second direction are approximately equal.

[0183] In the prevention mode, the control unit 301 determines that the first distance between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 341 of the electronic key 340 and the second distance between the communication unit 306 and the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 are approximately equal (S1707-Yes). Furthermore, if the control unit 301 determines that the first direction for the communication unit 341 of the electronic key 340 and the second direction for the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 are approximately equal (S1707-Yes), the process proceeds to S1709, ending the prevention mode. In this case, the driver is wearing the helmet 330 (portable communication device 320) and the electronic key 340 (communication unit 341), and the control unit 301 does not issue an alarm and ends the process.

[0184] On the other hand, in the determination of S1707, if the control unit 301 determines that the measured distances (first distance, second distance) do not exist at approximately the same distance (S1707-No), or if the control unit 301 determines that the measured directions (first distance, second distance) do not exist in approximately the same direction (S1707-No), the process proceeds to S1708.

[0185] In S1708, the control unit 301 controls the output unit 307 of the vehicle 100 to sound an alarm (issue an alarm), and the process ends (S1709).

[0186] It should be noted that, regarding the process for determining whether the driver is wearing a helmet 330 and an electronic key 340, in the case of S1707 determination process becoming S1707-Yes, it can also be as follows: Figure 21 Based on the attenuation (change) of radio wave intensity in wireless communication, as in S2101, the changes in the measured distance (first distance, second distance) and the changes in the measured direction (first direction, second direction) are compared respectively.

[0187] For example, in Figure 21In S2101, the control unit 301 can also compare the changes in distance (first distance, second distance) and direction (first direction, second direction) based on the attenuation (change) of radio wave intensity in a predetermined sampling time interval (ΔT1-ΔT2).

[0188] In comparing distance changes, if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first distance and the change in the second distance, obtained based on the attenuation (change) of radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval (ΔT1-ΔT2), is within a distance change threshold used as a reference, the control unit 301 determines that the change in the first distance and the change in the second distance are approximately equal. Similarly, in comparing direction changes, if the absolute value of the difference between the change in the first direction and the change in the second direction, obtained based on the attenuation (change) of radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval (ΔT1-ΔT2), is within an angle change threshold used as a reference, the control unit 301 determines that the change in the first direction and the change in the second direction are approximately equal.

[0189] That is, if the control unit 301 determines that the change in the first distance of the electronic key 340 and the change in the second distance of the portable communication device 320 are approximately equal based on the attenuation (change) of the radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval (ΔT1-ΔT2) (S2101-Yes), then if the control unit 301 further determines that the change in the first direction of the electronic key 340 and the change in the second direction of the portable communication device 320 are approximately equal based on the attenuation (change) of the radio wave intensity during the predetermined sampling time interval (S2101-Yes), the processing proceeds to S1709, ending the prevention mode. In this case, the control unit 301 ends the processing without issuing an alarm.

[0190] By combining the determination process based on the attenuation (change) of radio wave intensity (S2101) and Figure 17 The S1707's determination process can more accurately determine whether the driver is wearing a helmet 330 (portable communication device 320) and an electronic key 340.

[0191] On the other hand, in the determination in S2101, if the control unit 301 determines that the changes in the measured distance (changes in the first distance and changes in the second distance) are not approximately the same (S2101-No), or if the control unit 301 determines that the changes in the measured direction (changes in the first direction and changes in the second direction) are not approximately the same (S2101-No), the process proceeds to S1708. Then, in S1708, the control unit 301 controls the output unit 307 of the vehicle 100 to sound an alarm (alarm occurs), and the process ends (S1709).

[0192] (Handling after starting drive unit 308)

[0193] Figure 22 This diagram schematically illustrates the process after the drive unit 308 is started, and schematically shows the positional relationship between the helmet 330 and the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100, and the positional relationship between the portable communication device 320 and the communication unit 306. When starting to drive, the driver turns on the ignition switch, thereby starting the drive unit 308 of the vehicle 100. Figure 22 The positional relationship shown represents a state where the driver is equipped with a helmet 330, the helmet 330 is present near the vehicle 100, but the portable communication device 320 is either not present within a predetermined distance DS (non-existent state) or cannot be detected (non-detected state).

[0194] In cases where the portable communication device 320 is not present after the drive unit 308 of the vehicle 100 is started, such as when the driver has forgotten the portable communication device 320 at home and it is not attached to the helmet 330, and in cases where the portable communication device 320 is not detected after the drive unit 308 is started, such as when the power supply to the portable communication device 320 is not turned on and it cannot be detected within a predetermined distance DS, the control unit 301 determines whether the portable communication device 320 exists within the predetermined distance DS (whether it can be detected) within a predetermined determination time (e.g., 1 minute after start-up) after the drive unit 308 is started. Furthermore, if the control unit 301 determines that the portable communication device 320 is absent or not detected within a predetermined determination time, the control unit 301 generates a notification message indicating the absence or non-detection status of the portable communication device 320, and the communication unit 306 outputs the generated notification message to the mobile device 310. That is, if the control unit 301 determines within a predetermined determination time after the drive unit 308 of the vehicle 100 starts that the communication unit 323 of the portable communication device 320 is not within a predetermined distance DS, it outputs a notification message indicating the determination result to the mobile device 310 registered with the communication unit 306.

[0195] When a mobile device 310 receives a notification message, it displays the notification message on its display unit 314. When the communication unit 316 of the mobile device 310 receives a notification message output from the communication unit 306 of the vehicle 100, the control unit 311 of the mobile device 310 displays the notification message on the display unit 314, for example, by illuminating an indicator or displaying an icon.

[0196] Furthermore, when the mobile device 310 receives a notification message, it notifies the driver of the receipt of the notification message by emitting a sound from the output unit 317 of the mobile device 310. When the control unit 311 of the mobile device 310 receives a notification message from the vehicle 100, it notifies the driver of the receipt of the notification message by emitting a sound (e.g., a buzzer tone) from the output unit 317.

[0197] The control unit 301 of the vehicle 100 generates notification information to inform the driver that the portable communication device 320 was forgotten to be installed or that the power is not connected. By preventing such incidents by informing the driver of the forgotten portable communication device 320 and the power being not connected, the processing of the control unit 301 in the prevention mode can be effectively utilized.

[0198] <Summary of Implementation Methods>

[0199] Project 1

[0200] The vehicles in Project 1 are vehicles (100) equipped with a communications department (306).

[0201] The vehicle (100) has a control unit (301) that can determine the distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device (323) registered in the communication unit through the radio wave intensity in the wireless communication between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device (320).

[0202] After the vehicle stops, the control unit (301) sets a prevention mode to prevent the portable communication device from being stolen.

[0203] In the prevention mode, the control unit determines whether the communication unit of the portable communication device exists within a predetermined distance based on the distance measurement result. If it is determined that the communication unit of the portable communication device does not exist within the predetermined distance, the control unit controls the output unit (307) of the vehicle to sound an alarm.

[0204] According to the project, a vehicle can be provided that can issue an alarm when it is determined, by measuring the intensity of radio waves in wireless communication, that the portable communication device is not within a predetermined distance.

[0205] Furthermore, since the communication functions of the vehicle and portable communication devices are utilized, there is no need to install a dedicated anti-theft mechanism, enabling theft prevention with an inexpensive structure. Additionally, the elimination of anti-theft mechanisms, switches, and other manual operations reduces driver workload and time, and prevents the security system from malfunctioning due to forgetting to operate it.

[0206] Project 2

[0207] If the control unit (301) determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device is not within a predetermined distance before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped, it will not sound an alarm from the output unit.

[0208] According to this project, false alarms of theft can be prevented. For example, if the vehicle is stopped and the security mode is activated, and the driver leaves the vehicle wearing a helmet (portable communication device) before a predetermined time has elapsed, false alarms of theft can be prevented by not issuing an alarm in such a situation.

[0209] Project 3

[0210] If the control unit (301) determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device (320) is not within a predetermined distance before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped, the prevention mode is terminated.

[0211] According to this project, the protection mode setting can be automatically terminated when it is determined that the protection mode setting is unnecessary. When the protection mode setting continues, battery power is consumed due to the continuous energy consumption based on wireless communication. Therefore, by automatically terminating the protection mode setting when it is determined that the protection mode setting is unnecessary, battery power consumption can be suppressed.

[0212] Project 4

[0213] After the control unit (301) determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device (320) is within a predetermined distance after a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped, and then controls the output unit to sound an alarm when the state changes to that the communication unit of the portable communication device (320) is not within the predetermined distance.

[0214] According to this project, it is possible to determine whether something has been stolen using simple criteria. That is, after a predetermined time has elapsed, it is possible to determine whether something has been stolen based on whether there are any changes in the state of the portable communication device within a predetermined distance.

[0215] Project 5

[0216] The control unit (301) can determine the distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key (340) by measuring the radio wave intensity during communication between the communication unit (306) and the communication unit (341) of the electronic key registered in the communication unit.

[0217] In the prevention mode, if the difference between the first distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key and the second distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device is within a threshold distance, the control unit (301) determines that the first distance and the second distance are approximately equal and ends the prevention mode.

[0218] According to this project, by comparing the distance measurements related to the electronic key and the distance measurements related to the portable communication device, it is possible to determine whether the driver is wearing a helmet using simple criteria. If the driver is determined to be wearing a helmet, battery consumption can be suppressed by terminating the protective mode.

[0219] Project 6

[0220] The control unit (301) can determine the first direction of the communication unit of the portable communication device relative to the communication unit by means of the radio wave intensity between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device.

[0221] The control unit (301) can determine the second direction of the electronic key's communication unit relative to the communication unit by measuring the radio wave intensity between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key.

[0222] In the prevention mode, if the difference between the first direction and the second direction is within a threshold angle, the control unit (301) determines that the first direction and the second direction are approximately equal and ends the prevention mode.

[0223] According to this project, by further comparing the measurement results of the direction related to the electronic key and the direction related to the portable communication device, the accuracy of determining whether a driver is wearing a helmet can be improved, and false alarms can be prevented. Furthermore, when the system determines that the driver is wearing a helmet, disabling the protection mode can suppress battery consumption.

[0224] <Project 7>

[0225] In the protection mode, if the difference between the change in the first distance and the change in the second distance, obtained based on the change in the radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval, is within a threshold value, the control unit (301) determines that the change in the first distance of the electronic key is approximately equal to the change in the second distance of the portable communication device, and ends the protection mode.

[0226] According to this project, by further comparing the measurement results of distance changes related to electronic keys and distance changes related to portable communication devices, the accuracy of determining whether a driver is wearing a helmet can be improved, and false alarms can be prevented. Furthermore, when the system determines that the driver is wearing a helmet, disabling the protection mode can suppress battery consumption.

[0227] <Project 8>

[0228] In the protection mode, if the difference between the change in the first direction and the change in the second direction, obtained based on the change in the radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval, is within a threshold angle change, the control unit (301) determines that the change in the first direction of the electronic key is approximately equal to the change in the second direction of the portable communication device, and ends the protection mode.

[0229] According to this project, by further comparing the measurement results of directional changes related to electronic keys and directional changes related to portable communication devices, the accuracy of determining whether a driver is wearing a helmet can be improved, and false alarms can be prevented. Furthermore, when the system determines that the driver is wearing a helmet, disabling the protection mode can suppress battery consumption.

[0230] Project 9

[0231] The control unit (301) sets the prevention mode by receiving a signal that stops the drive source of the vehicle.

[0232] According to this project, the protection mode can be automatically set through signal reception. The automatic setting of the protection mode can prevent the protection mode from malfunctioning due to forgetting to set it.

[0233] <Project 10>

[0234] If the control unit (301) determines within a predetermined determination time after the vehicle's drive unit is started that the communication unit (323) of the portable communication device (320) is not within the predetermined distance, it outputs a notification message indicating the result of the determination to the mobile device (310) registered with the communication unit (306).

[0235] <Project 11>

[0236] When the mobile device (310) receives the notification information, it displays the notification information on the display unit (314) of the mobile device.

[0237] <Project 12>

[0238] When the mobile device (310) receives the notification information, it notifies the recipient of the notification information by emitting a sound from the output unit (317) of the mobile device.

[0239] According to items 10 to 12, based on notification information, the driver can be notified of the status of forgetting to install the portable communication device or the status of the power being off. By preventing such situations by notifying the driver of the status of forgetting to install the portable communication device or the status of the power being off, the processing of the control unit in the prevention mode can be effectively utilized.

[0240] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and alterations can be made within the scope of the invention's intent.

[0241] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-109388, filed on June 30, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0242] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0243] 100: Vehicle; 301: Control unit; 306: Communication unit; 307: Output unit; 308: Drive unit; 310: Mobile device; 311: Control unit; 316: Communication unit; 317: Output unit; 320: Portable communication device (headset); 323: Communication unit; 330: Helmet; 340: Electronic key; 341: Communication unit; 342: Storage unit.

Claims

1. A vehicle, the vehicle having a communication unit, characterized in that, The vehicle has a control unit that can determine the distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device registered with the communication unit through the radio wave intensity in the wireless communication between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device. The control unit can determine the distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key based on the radio wave intensity during communication between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key registered with the communication unit. After the vehicle stops, the control unit sets a protection mode to prevent the portable communication device from being stolen. In the aforementioned prevention mode, the control unit determines, based on the distance measurement results, whether the communication unit of the portable communication device exists within a predetermined distance. If the control unit determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device does not exist within the predetermined distance, it controls the vehicle's output unit to sound an alarm. In the protection mode, if the difference between the first distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key and the second distance between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device is within a threshold distance, the control unit determines that the first distance and the second distance are approximately equal and ends the protection mode.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the control unit determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device is not within a predetermined distance before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped, it will not sound an alarm from the output unit.

3. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, If the control unit determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device is not within a predetermined distance before a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped, the prevention mode is terminated.

4. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, After a predetermined time has elapsed since the vehicle stopped, the control unit determines that the communication unit of the portable communication device is within a predetermined distance. If the state changes to the point where the communication unit of the portable communication device is no longer within the predetermined distance, the control unit controls the output unit to sound an alarm.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control unit can determine the first direction of the communication unit of the portable communication device relative to the communication unit by measuring the radio wave strength between the communication unit and the communication unit of the portable communication device. The control unit can determine the second direction of the electronic key's communication unit relative to the communication unit by measuring the radio wave intensity between the communication unit and the communication unit of the electronic key. In the prevention mode, if the difference between the first direction and the second direction is within a threshold angle, the control unit determines that the first direction and the second direction are approximately equal and ends the prevention mode.

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the protection mode, if the difference between the change in the first distance and the change in the second distance, obtained based on the change in the radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval, is within a threshold distance change, the control unit determines that the change in the first distance of the electronic key is approximately equal to the change in the second distance of the portable communication device, and ends the protection mode.

7. The vehicle according to claim 5, characterized in that, In the protection mode, if the angle change obtained based on the change in the radio wave intensity during a predetermined sampling time interval, where the difference between the change in the first direction and the change in the second direction is within a threshold, the control unit determines that the change in the first direction of the electronic key is approximately equal to the change in the second direction of the portable communication device, and ends the protection mode.

8. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The control unit sets the prevention mode by receiving a signal that stops the vehicle's drive source.

9. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, If the control unit determines within a predetermined determination time after the vehicle's drive unit is started that the communication unit of the portable communication device is not within the predetermined distance, it outputs a notification message indicating the result of the determination to the mobile device registered with the communication unit.

10. The vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that, Upon receiving the notification information, the mobile device displays the notification information on its display screen.

11. The vehicle according to claim 9, characterized in that, Upon receiving the notification information, the mobile device notifies the recipient of the notification information by emitting sound from its output unit.

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