Vehicle digital key control method and system and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention provides a vehicle digital key control method and system and a computer readable storage medium, at least one kind of state information related to power consumption of a key terminal is monitored, and the state information comprises a vehicle state and a key state; and dynamically generating a control instruction for controlling the working mode of the key terminal based on the judgment of at least one piece of state information, thereby dynamically controlling the starting and stopping of the broadcasting behavior and the corresponding positioning behavior of the key terminal, reducing the power consumption waste of the key in an invalid or unnecessary scene, and effectively prolonging the service life of the key.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of vehicle technology, and in particular to a vehicle digital key control method, system, and computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of automotive intelligence, the form of car keys is also gradually evolving, from the initial mechanical keys to radio frequency physical keys, and now to Bluetooth keys and UWB (Ultra Wide-Band) keys. Car keys are continuously developing towards a more intelligent, convenient and secure direction.

[0003] UWB keys, building upon Bluetooth keys, have been upgraded to utilize UWB technology for ranging and positioning. UWB keys determine location based on the signal's time-of-flight, effectively resisting relay attacks and offering centimeter-level positioning accuracy. Therefore, UWB technology, due to its high security and precision, is an ideal choice for smart car keys. Meanwhile, physical keys, as a brand symbol and physical carrier, remain favored by many users.

[0004] However, UWB's precise ranging requires high power consumption, and UWB physical keys typically rely on button batteries for power. This high power consumption leads to a sharp decline in battery life, causing frequent users to experience their UWB physical keys running out of power in less than a year, severely impacting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To overcome the problems existing in related technologies, this specification provides a method, system and computer-readable storage medium for controlling vehicle digital keys.

[0006] Firstly, a method for controlling a vehicle digital key is provided, the method comprising:

[0007] Monitor at least one state information related to the power consumption of the key terminal, the state information including at least one of vehicle state and key state;

[0008] Based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information, a control command is dynamically generated to control the working mode of the key terminal. The control command is used to control the activation or deactivation of at least one of the wireless communication function and the positioning function of the key terminal.

[0009] The control command is sent to the key terminal so that the key terminal switches its working mode and enters a low-power state according to the control command.

[0010] According to a vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the vehicle state includes the connection state between the digital key master module and the key terminal, and the key state includes the movement state of the key terminal.

[0011] The step of dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information includes:

[0012] If the motion state indicates that the key terminal is in a stationary state, and the connection state indicates that the connection change frequency between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds a first connection threshold, then a control command to stop the wireless communication function of the key terminal is generated.

[0013] According to the vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the method further includes:

[0014] After the wireless communication function of the key terminal is stopped, if the movement state of the key terminal is detected to indicate that the key terminal is in motion, a control command to start the wireless communication function of the key terminal is generated, and the working state of the key terminal is switched.

[0015] According to the vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the method further includes:

[0016] When the motion state indicates that the key terminal is in motion, record the duration of the connection state indicating that the frequency of connection changes between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds a second connection threshold.

[0017] Determine whether the duration exceeds the set positioning duration threshold. If so, generate a control command to stop the positioning function of the key terminal.

[0018] According to a vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the method further includes dynamically generating control commands for controlling the working mode of the key terminal, and the method also includes:

[0019] In response to receiving a trigger signal indicating that the key terminal has entered transport mode, a control command is generated to stop the wireless communication function of the key terminal.

[0020] According to the vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the method further includes:

[0021] After the wireless communication function of the key terminal is stopped, a timer is started;

[0022] When the timer expires, in response to the user operation, a control command is generated to activate the wireless communication function of the key terminal.

[0023] According to the vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the control command is used to control the activation of the wireless communication function of the key terminal; after dynamically generating the control command for controlling the working mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the vehicle states and key states, the method further includes:

[0024] In response to a connection request broadcast by the wireless communication function of the key terminal, a connection is established with the key terminal;

[0025] When the contactless function setting of the key terminal is turned off, if a user triggers a door switch event, a control command is generated to activate the positioning function of the key terminal.

[0026] After sending the control command to the key terminal, the system receives the location information returned in response to the control command, responds to the door opening / closing event, and controls the door opening / closing.

[0027] According to the vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the key state includes a location state, and the vehicle state includes the vehicle's door and window states.

[0028] The method further includes:

[0029] In response to the positioning function of the key terminal, the location of the key terminal is determined;

[0030] If the key terminal is located inside the vehicle and the door and window status indicates that the vehicle is in a closed state, a control command is generated to stop the positioning function of the key terminal.

[0031] According to a vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, if the key terminal is located inside the vehicle, the status flag of the key terminal is marked.

[0032] After generating the control command for stopping the positioning function of the key terminal, the method further includes:

[0033] Receives a user's command to start the vehicle, obtains the location information of the key terminal, and the location information is determined according to the status flag;

[0034] Based on the information that the key terminal is located inside the vehicle, it responds to the user's operation to start the vehicle.

[0035] According to the vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, the key status also includes the battery status of the key terminal;

[0036] The step of dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information includes:

[0037] If the power status indicates that the key is in a low voltage state, a control command is generated to stop the positioning function of the key terminal;

[0038] After the positioning function of the key terminal is stopped, the vehicle is unlocked or locked in response to the user pressing the physical button on the key terminal and based on the connection signal strength between the digital key master module and the key terminal.

[0039] According to a vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, after the battery status indicates that the key is in a low voltage state, the method further includes:

[0040] When the vehicle is in driving mode, the low voltage status of the key terminal is reported to the vehicle's infotainment module to prompt the user to replace the battery; or,

[0041] Establish a connection with the user terminal;

[0042] The low voltage status of the key terminal is transmitted to the user terminal to prompt the user to replace the battery.

[0043] According to a vehicle digital key control method provided in this application, after generating a control command to stop the positioning function of the key terminal, the method further includes:

[0044] Monitor the connection signal strength between the digital key master module and the key terminal;

[0045] If the connection signal strength is greater than the strength threshold, a control command is generated to activate the positioning function of the key terminal, and the working state of the key terminal is switched.

[0046] The intensity threshold indicates that the distance between the key terminal and the digital key master module is within the pairing range.

[0047] Secondly, a vehicle digital key control system is provided, the system comprising:

[0048] The digital key main module is used to implement the vehicle digital key control method as described in any of the first aspects above.

[0049] The key terminal is used to switch the working mode and enter a low-power state according to the control command sent by the digital key master module.

[0050] Thirdly, a digital key master module is provided, which is used to implement any of the vehicle digital key control methods described above.

[0051] Fourthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a vehicle digital key control program is stored, wherein the vehicle digital key control program, when executed, implements the steps of any of the vehicle digital key control methods described above.

[0052] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the vehicle digital key control method as described in any of the above.

[0053] This application provides a vehicle digital key control method, system, and computer-readable storage medium, which has the following advantages compared with the high power consumption and short lifespan of current UWB digital keys:

[0054] The system monitors at least one state information related to the power consumption of the key terminal, including vehicle state and key state. Based on the judgment of at least one of the state information, it dynamically generates control commands for controlling the working mode of the key terminal, thereby dynamically controlling the start and stop of the broadcast behavior and UWB-based positioning behavior of the UWB key terminal, reducing power consumption waste of the key in invalid or unnecessary scenarios, and effectively improving the service life of the key.

[0055] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this specification. Attached Figure Description

[0056] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this specification and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this specification.

[0057] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a vehicle digital key control method according to an exemplary embodiment of this specification;

[0058] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a vehicle digital key control method according to an exemplary embodiment of this specification;

[0059] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another embodiment of the vehicle digital key control method according to an exemplary embodiment of this specification;

[0060] Figure 4 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a vehicle digital key control device according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0061] The technical solutions in the embodiments (or "implementations") of this application will be clearly and completely described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements.

[0062] If the embodiments of this application contain terms relating to directional indications or positional relationships (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, inside, outside, top, bottom, center, vertical, horizontal, longitudinal, transverse, length, width, counterclockwise, clockwise, axial, radial, circumferential, etc.), such terms are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movements between components in a specific posture (as shown in the attached figures); if the specific posture changes, the directional indications or positional relationships will also change accordingly. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" used in the embodiments of this application are only for descriptive convenience and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0063] This application provides a vehicle digital key control method, system, and computer-readable storage medium. The application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The features described in the embodiments and implementations can be combined with each other.

[0064] Mechanical keys have now been almost completely replaced, serving more as an emergency backup unlocking mechanism. Meanwhile, radio frequency physical keys and Bluetooth / UWB-based digital vehicle keys currently coexist.

[0065] Radio frequency (RF) physical keys interact with vehicles via low-frequency trigger signals and high-frequency communication signals. Their working principle is as follows: a low-frequency antenna on the vehicle actively searches for the key; upon receiving the signal, the key is activated and returns an encrypted identity code via a high-frequency signal. The vehicle's ECU verifies the code and unlocks the doors. RF keys have very low power consumption and positioning accuracy at the decimeter level, but their security is relatively poor, making them vulnerable to relay attacks.

[0066] Compared to RFID keys, Bluetooth keys can integrate with the mobile phone ecosystem because mobile phones natively support Bluetooth technology, further enabling functions such as key sharing, identity binding, and personalized settings. Bluetooth keys have relatively low power consumption, but their positioning accuracy is poor, at the meter level. Furthermore, currently, Bluetooth keys widely rely on RSSI field strength monitoring for ranging and positioning, which also cannot prevent relay attacks.

[0067] However, the high power consumption leading to a shortened lifespan is a technical challenge for the development of UWB keys.

[0068] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this specification provides a method for controlling a vehicle digital key.

[0069] The aim is to minimize power consumption and extend the battery life of physical keys while retaining all the functions and experience of UWB keys. This includes dynamically controlling the broadcasting behavior of the UWB key terminal and UWB ranging activation based on multi-dimensional status information of the key and the vehicle. This means that continuous UWB broadcasting / location is transformed into on-demand broadcasting / location, achieving a fundamental breakthrough in power consumption and extending the battery life of UWB keys.

[0070] Furthermore, the UWB key has been upgraded from the Bluetooth key to use UWB technology for ranging and positioning. The UWB key uses the time it takes for a signal to travel through the air for ranging and positioning, which can effectively resist relay attacks and has a high positioning accuracy of up to the centimeter level.

[0071] The UWB key mentioned in this article refers to a key terminal for a digital key based on ultra-wideband technology. The key terminal may be, but is not limited to, a smartphone, a smart wearable device (such as a smartwatch), or a terminal with the form of a traditional key.

[0072] This application provides an embodiment of a vehicle digital key control method, referring to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a vehicle digital key control method provided in an embodiment of this specification. It should be noted that the vehicle digital key control method described in this application is applied to a digital key main module in a vehicle. The digital key main module is adapted to the key terminal and is based on ultra-bandwidth technology to enable the vehicle to obtain the precise area or location of the key terminal in real time.

[0073] Specifically, this includes the following steps 101 to 103:

[0074] In step 101, at least one state information related to the power consumption of the key terminal is monitored, the state information including at least one of vehicle state and key state.

[0075] Since the key terminal is in a very low-power sleep state, it will wake up when it detects any movement through its built-in motion sensor or recognizes that any button on the key terminal has been triggered.

[0076] Once the key terminal is activated, its internal microcontroller immediately turns on its Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) module and begins periodically transmitting BLE broadcast signals. These signals contain a unique device identifier used by the vehicle to recognize the key terminal. Typically, the broadcast lasts for a preset time window (e.g., 30 seconds). If no connection to the vehicle is established within this window, the key terminal's BLE module automatically shuts down to conserve power and re-enters deep sleep mode.

[0077] The vehicle-side BLE module is always in listening mode (or is periodically woken up by the body domain controller), continuously scanning for surrounding BLE broadcast signals. Among numerous broadcasts, the vehicle-side BLE module identifies the broadcast signal from the target key terminal by comparing device identifiers.

[0078] Upon detecting a target key terminal, the vehicle's BLE module proactively initiates a Bluetooth connection request, establishing a stable bidirectional BLE communication connection with the UWB key terminal's BLE module. After connection establishment, authentication is performed. Once authentication is successful, the vehicle's digital key master module initiates a UWB ranging request to the key terminal via the established BLE link. Upon receiving the request, the key terminal immediately activates its UWB ranging module to perform bidirectional UWB ranging.

[0079] The vehicle-side digital key master module triggers contactless functions based on UWB ranging results, such as automatic unlocking upon approach, welcome greeting, and automatic locking upon departure. After the function is executed, the vehicle-side master module can send a stop UWB ranging command via BLE. The key terminal's UWB ranging module immediately shuts down, and the BLE module, after completing communication, will also enter sleep mode after the broadcast window ends if no further commands are received. The entire system returns to a low-power standby state, awaiting the next trigger.

[0080] Therefore, the high-power functions involved in each stage of the above-described process are the wireless communication function of the key terminal and the UWB-based positioning function. This application continuously monitors the state changes of the key terminal and the vehicle, and intelligently switches between normal state, frozen state, and low-power state, forming a dynamic and adaptive power management system to reduce the excessive power consumption of the UWB key terminal caused by the continuous or frequent operation of its wireless communication module and positioning module. This involves the key terminal's broadcast stage (i.e., the wireless communication stage), UWB ranging stage, and low-power stage.

[0081] First, at least one state information related to the power consumption of the key terminal is monitored, including vehicle state and key state. As an example, vehicle state includes, but is not limited to, the open / closed status of the vehicle's doors and windows, the position of the key terminal relative to the vehicle, and the connection status between the vehicle-side digital key master module and the key terminal. Key state includes, but is not limited to, movement status, key battery voltage status, and the user-set key contactless function switch status.

[0082] The aforementioned status information is used for subsequent decisions on whether to activate the wireless communication function and UWB-based positioning function of the key terminal.

[0083] In step 102, based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information, a control command for controlling the working mode of the key terminal is dynamically generated. The control command is used to control the activation or deactivation of at least one of the wireless communication function and the positioning function of the key terminal.

[0084] The start / stop described herein includes the control of starting or stopping at least one of the wireless communication function and the positioning function of the key terminal, such as starting the wireless communication function and / or the positioning function, or stopping the wireless communication function and / or the positioning function.

[0085] In step 103, the control command is sent to the key terminal so that the key terminal switches its working mode and enters a low-power state according to the control command.

[0086] In some embodiments, the vehicle status includes the connection status between the digital key master module and the key terminal, and the key status includes the movement status of the key terminal;

[0087] The step of dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information includes:

[0088] If the motion state indicates that the key terminal is in a stationary state, and the connection state indicates that the connection change frequency between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds a first connection threshold, then a control command to stop the wireless communication function of the key terminal is generated.

[0089] In real-world applications, if the key terminal is in a critical Bluetooth connection zone, repeated connection and disconnection will occur, leading to power waste due to frequent start-stop of the UWB positioning function. The vehicle digital key control scheme of this application enables the key to have state awareness capabilities, automatically entering a low-power anti-tampering mode when it is determined to be in a meaningless critical jitter state.

[0090] Specifically, the system reads data from the key terminal's built-in motion sensor in real time. This data reflects whether the key terminal is stationary or in motion. When no movement is detected in the key terminal for more than a preset threshold, it is determined that the key terminal has reached a stable, stationary state.

[0091] When the Bluetooth connection between the digital key master module and the key terminal is lost, an interrupt callback function is triggered. This function first checks whether the key terminal is stationary.

[0092] If the device is stationary, the connection counter between the digital key master module and the key terminal is incremented by 1. This is because a disconnection in a stationary state is likely due to invalid connections caused by signal jitter in the critical section. If movement of the key terminal is detected, the counter is not operated.

[0093] When the digital key master module successfully connects to the key terminal via Bluetooth, the interrupt callback function is triggered, and the counter is immediately reset to 0. This is because a successful connection means that the key is likely to be used normally, and the previous disconnection count should be cleared.

[0094] Based on the monitored information, the broadcasting behavior of the key terminal is controlled and judged. Specifically, in a static state, the counter for monitoring the frequency of connection changes between the digital key master module and the key terminal is incremented. If the cumulative count of connection changes reaches or exceeds the first connection threshold, the anti-tampering mode flag is set to true. Broadcasting stops after the last Bluetooth connection disconnection, and the key terminal enters a low-power sleep state, retaining only the motion sensor to listen for wake-up signals.

[0095] In some embodiments, the method further includes: after stopping the wireless communication function of the key terminal, if the motion state of the key terminal is detected to indicate that the key terminal is in motion, then generating a control command to start the wireless communication function of the key terminal and switching the working state of the key terminal.

[0096] Upon detecting movement in the key terminal, the connection counter between the digital key master module and the key terminal is reset to 0, the anti-tampering state of the key terminal is dispelled, and normal broadcasting resumes. This ensures that in any state, once movement is detected, the entire logic is immediately reset, ensuring that the user can use the key terminal immediately upon picking it up, thus guaranteeing a superior user experience.

[0097] Through the above embodiments, motion sensing, event counting, and state machine management intelligently distinguish between normal use and abnormal jitter scenarios. Without user intervention, it effectively avoids power waste caused by ineffective broadcasting in critical signal areas, significantly improving the battery life of the UWB key terminal.

[0098] In some embodiments, the method further includes: when the motion state indicates that the key terminal is in motion, recording the duration of the connection state indicating that the frequency of connection changes between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds a second connection threshold;

[0099] Determine whether the duration exceeds the set positioning duration threshold. If so, generate a control command to stop the UWB positioning function of the key terminal.

[0100] The second connection threshold can be the same as or different from the first connection threshold, depending on actual needs. The connection status indicates that the frequency of connection changes between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds the second connection threshold, meaning that the digital key master module and the key terminal are in a state of repeated connection and disconnection, that is, the key terminal is in an unstable motion environment, which will also cause a lot of power consumption.

[0101] Therefore, the motion sensor of the key terminal is continuously monitored. When motion is detected, the total number of Bluetooth connection disconnection events is counted within a fixed time window. If the total number exceeds a second connection threshold and the duration of this state exceeds a set positioning duration threshold, the key terminal is forced to enter a low-power mode, stopping the UWB positioning function. That is, a control command is generated to stop the key terminal's UWB positioning function.

[0102] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0103] Monitor the connection signal strength between the digital key master module and the key terminal;

[0104] If the connection signal strength is greater than the strength threshold, a control command is generated to activate the positioning function of the key terminal, and the working state of the key terminal is switched.

[0105] The intensity threshold indicates that the distance between the key terminal and the digital key master module is within the pairing range.

[0106] The key terminal stops UWB positioning when in motion, effectively reducing power consumption. Meanwhile, to ensure normal user operation even when the key terminal is in motion, the vehicle interior area is calibrated based on the single-node RSSI value of the vehicle's Bluetooth module. Bluetooth signal strength indicates whether the user is near the vehicle, automatically and seamlessly activating high-precision UWB positioning to provide decision-making basis for functions such as automatic unlocking and welcome light activation.

[0107] Specifically, the vehicle-side digital key master module continuously reads the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) value of the BLE connection between the vehicle and the key terminal in the background. The RSSI value is usually negative (e.g., -80dBm). The smaller the absolute value, the stronger the signal and the closer the distance (e.g., -50dBm means a closer distance than -80dBm).

[0108] The vehicle compares the RSSI value read in real time with a preset strength threshold. The strength threshold is set according to the effective range of the non-contact function, and the RSSI value that represents the key entering the pairing range is used as the threshold.

[0109] Once the RSSI value is detected to be greater than the preset threshold, the vehicle-side digital key master module immediately and dynamically generates a control command to activate the UWB positioning function. This command is sent to the key terminal through the established BLE connection. After receiving the command, the BLE chip on the key terminal wakes up the UWB chip, which then begins to work, conducting precise distance measurement communication with multiple UWB anchor points on the vehicle to trigger corresponding functions such as automatic unlocking and welcome.

[0110] Through the above embodiments, even when the key is in motion, if it continuously and frequently experiences connection jitter, it should be considered an abnormal scenario and the UWB positioning function should be stopped to enter power-saving mode. Using BLE RSSI as a trigger condition, the UWB positioning function is instantly activated when the user approaches the vehicle, achieving effective on-demand positioning. While retaining all the functions and experience of the UWB key, its power consumption is minimized, extending the battery life of the physical key.

[0111] When vehicles roll off the production line, they are typically equipped with a physical key placed inside the vehicle. During transportation to 4S stores across the country, the physical key repeatedly activates its radio and establishes a Bluetooth connection with the vehicle due to bumps and vibrations, initiating UWB positioning after successful authentication. This process results in significant power consumption waste. Therefore, a special low-power mode is introduced. In this mode, the key's wireless communication functions (including BLE and UWB) are forcibly disabled, and motion sensor wake-up events are ignored, retaining only the ability to detect specific button presses. This addresses the power consumption waste at its source.

[0112] In some embodiments, the method for dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal further includes:

[0113] In response to receiving a trigger signal indicating that the key terminal has entered transport mode, a control command is generated to stop the wireless communication function of the key terminal.

[0114] The trigger signal for the key terminal to enter transportation mode as described in this application typically originates from the key terminal itself. When a user performs a long press operation on a combination button on the key, the key terminal sends a specific request signal to the vehicle via the established BLE connection, requesting to enter transportation mode. Upon receiving the request, the vehicle's digital key master module dynamically generates a control command to stop all wireless communication functions of the key terminal and sends it to the key terminal for execution, causing it to enter a deep sleep state.

[0115] Upon detecting a user's long press of a preset key combination, the key terminal immediately ceases all current broadcasts and connections. In some cases, if the key terminal is already connected, it may be necessary to simultaneously enable Bluetooth and cease all current broadcasts and connections.

[0116] In some examples, the method further includes: starting a timer after stopping the wireless communication function of the key terminal;

[0117] When the timer expires, in response to the user operation, a control command is generated to activate the wireless communication function of the key terminal.

[0118] Reference Figure 2 A time window is set for the key terminal to stop all current broadcasts and connections during transportation. During this period, if the user presses any button, the key's MCU will be activated and detect the button event. However, it will not execute the button's original function (such as unlocking or finding the vehicle) nor exit transportation mode. This means that the vehicle will not react after the user presses the button, thus allowing the user to confirm that the key has successfully entered transportation mode. Once the set time window is reached, the mode will stabilize. At this time, the key will still maintain a state where wireless functionality is disabled and motion sensors are disabled.

[0119] At the end of the set time window, the user presses any key, the key MCU is awakened, exiting transport mode and re-enabling the motion sensor's wake-up function. BLE broadcasting begins, preparing to connect to the vehicle.

[0120] Through the above embodiments, a confirmation period is set within a certain time window to prevent accidental touches, and the positioning function is automatically restored after the time window, thus minimizing power consumption during transportation.

[0121] In some embodiments, the control command is used to control the activation of the wireless communication function of the key terminal; after dynamically generating the control command for controlling the working mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the vehicle states and key states, the method further includes:

[0122] In response to a connection request broadcast by the wireless communication function of the key terminal, a connection is established with the key terminal;

[0123] When the contactless function setting of the key terminal is off, if a user triggers a door switch event, a control command is generated to activate the UWB positioning function of the key terminal.

[0124] After sending the control command to the key terminal, the system receives the location information returned in response to the control command, responds to the door opening / closing event, and controls the door opening / closing.

[0125] Users can set the contactless function of the physical key on the vehicle's large screen, including functions such as proximity unlocking, distance locking, and proximity welcome. For power consumption considerations or personal usage habits, users can turn off the contactless function of the key, retaining only the button remote control and PE unlocking / locking functions.

[0126] When the system detects that the user has touched the door switch and then pulls the physical key using UWB positioning, it triggers the PE (Passive Entry) unlocking / locking function.

[0127] The key terminal is discovered by the vehicle via BLE broadcast, and both parties successfully establish a BLE connection and complete identity authentication. At this point, the vehicle-side digital key main module determines that the key terminal's contactless function switch is set to off. Therefore, after the physical key and vehicle complete Bluetooth connection and business authentication, it will not actively activate UWB positioning. Simultaneously, it will not automatically activate the UWB positioning function when the user approaches the vehicle.

[0128] The system continuously monitors door opening and closing events, which can be triggered by, but are not limited to, sensing a hand touching the door handle or a user pressing a microswitch. In this case, the vehicle's digital key master module dynamically generates a command to activate the UWB positioning function, enabling on-demand allocation.

[0129] The vehicle sends a command to activate the UWB positioning function to the key terminal via the BLE channel. Upon receiving the command, the key terminal immediately wakes up the UWB module, performs precise distance measurement with the vehicle's UWB anchor point, and returns high-precision distance / position information to the vehicle.

[0130] After receiving the UWB positioning information, the vehicle-side digital key master module performs a final security check (e.g., whether the key terminal is indeed within the pairing range outside the car door). Upon successful verification, the vehicle-side digital key master module sends an unlock command to the door lock controller via the vehicle network (such as the CAN bus), ultimately executing the unlocking action, allowing the user to open the car door.

[0131] Through the above embodiments, by combining the user's seamless function settings with differentiated positioning activation timing, unnecessary power consumption of the UWB module due to vehicle proximity is avoided when the user does not require automatic functions. At the same time, the original functions and usage of the digital key are guaranteed. When the user actually uses the vehicle, the system will seamlessly and imperceptibly activate the most secure UWB authentication method, with a security level completely consistent with the full-function mode.

[0132] In some embodiments, the key state includes a location state, and the vehicle state includes the vehicle's door and window states; the method further includes:

[0133] In response to the positioning function of the key terminal, the location of the key terminal is determined;

[0134] If the key terminal is located inside the vehicle and the door and window status indicates that the vehicle is in a closed state, a control command is generated to stop the positioning function of the key terminal.

[0135] In some scenarios, the key terminal remains inside the vehicle for extended periods. Even when the vehicle is parked, the key inside will continue to be detected and precisely located using UWB. This continuous high-precision positioning can drain the key's battery over several days or even hours, rendering the vehicle unusable when the owner returns.

[0136] Based on this, when it is certain that the key terminal is inside the vehicle and the vehicle is stationary, the UWB positioning operation of the key terminal is actively stopped, thereby greatly saving power consumption.

[0137] Specifically, the vehicle continuously performs high-precision positioning of the key via UWB anchor points. The vehicle's digital key master module judges two conditions in real time:

[0138] Condition 1: The key terminal is located inside the vehicle for a continuous period of time.

[0139] Condition 2: Obtain the status signals of all doors, trunk, and windows through the Body Control Controller (BCM) to confirm that they are all closed and locked.

[0140] When the above two conditions are met, the digital key master module dynamically generates a control command to stop the key terminal's UWB positioning function, setting the key status to an in-vehicle frozen state. Upon receiving the command, the key terminal immediately shuts down its UWB radio frequency circuit and enters a deep sleep state that maintains only basic listening functions, reducing power consumption to extremely low levels.

[0141] In some cases, if the key terminal is located inside the vehicle, a status flag for the key terminal is marked;

[0142] After generating the control command for stopping the positioning function of the key terminal, the method further includes:

[0143] Receives a user's command to start the vehicle, obtains the location information of the key terminal, and the location information is determined according to the status flag;

[0144] Based on the information that the key terminal is located inside the vehicle, it responds to the user's operation to start the vehicle.

[0145] The vehicle's digital key master module marks the key's status as frozen locally, which means that the key terminal is inside the vehicle and is legal and secure.

[0146] When a user attempts to start the vehicle, the system needs to verify the presence of the key terminal. Based on the status flag, the vehicle does not need to perform UWB positioning again; it directly returns the result that the key is inside the vehicle based on the locally recorded status, allowing the vehicle to start. This further saves power consumption and time.

[0147] Furthermore, when any car door is opened, the vehicle's digital key master module immediately deactivates the key's frozen state and immediately issues a command to initiate UWB positioning via BLE, restoring the system to full functionality to handle scenarios where the key may be removed from the vehicle.

[0148] Through the above embodiments, combined with user habits and usage scenarios, and by utilizing the vehicle's environmental perception capabilities, the UWB ranging time is reduced as much as possible without affecting the user experience, thereby minimizing the maximum power consumption when the vehicle is parked for a long time.

[0149] The UWB positioning function consumes a lot of power. If the key battery voltage is too low and the UWB module is forcibly started, the power supply voltage of the entire key will be pulled down instantly, causing the BLE chip to reset or crash. The reset will make all key functions unusable.

[0150] Based on this, in some embodiments, the key status also includes the battery status of the key terminal;

[0151] The step of dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information includes:

[0152] If the power status indicates that the key is in a low voltage state, a control command is generated to stop the positioning function of the key terminal;

[0153] After the positioning function of the key terminal is stopped, the vehicle is unlocked or locked in response to the user pressing the physical button on the key terminal and based on the connection signal strength between the digital key master module and the key terminal.

[0154] The key's MCU continuously or periodically monitors the battery voltage through the ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) channel to determine the voltage status of the key terminal.

[0155] As an example, the low-voltage state of the key terminal is determined by comparing the measured battery voltage with a preset low-voltage threshold. If the current battery voltage is less than the low-voltage threshold, it is determined to be in a low-voltage state. The low-voltage threshold can be estimated from the battery discharge curve.

[0156] When the key terminal is determined to be in a low voltage state, the low voltage state Flag is set to 1. After the key terminal establishes a Bluetooth connection with the vehicle and the authentication is successful each time, the low voltage state Flag will be synchronized to the vehicle's digital key main module.

[0157] Reference Figure 3The vehicle-side digital key master module receives the status information synchronized from the key and recognizes that Flag=1. To ensure that the vehicle can still be locked and unlocked when the physical key enters a low-voltage state, and to give the user a buffer time to replace the battery, a control command is generated to stop the key terminal's UWB positioning function, thereby controlling the key terminal to stop UWB positioning, reducing power consumption, and preventing the key terminal from crashing.

[0158] At this point, the user uses the physical button on the key to unlock / lock. The authentication method is downgraded to the traditional radio frequency (RF) method, which has extremely low power consumption and is supported by the voltage of the key terminal.

[0159] When it is necessary to determine whether the key is inside the vehicle to allow starting, the area inside the vehicle is calibrated based on the single-node RSSI value of the vehicle-side Bluetooth module to enable vehicle starting.

[0160] In some embodiments, after the power status indicates that the key is in a low voltage state, the method further includes:

[0161] When the vehicle is in driving mode, the low voltage status of the key terminal is reported to the vehicle's infotainment module to prompt the user to replace the battery; or,

[0162] Establish a connection with the user terminal;

[0163] The low voltage status of the key terminal is transmitted to the user terminal to prompt the user to replace the battery.

[0164] In one scenario, when the vehicle is in driving mode, the vehicle-mounted digital key master module reports the low voltage status of the key terminal to the vehicle's infotainment module via vehicle signals, reminding the user to replace the key's battery in a timely manner. As an example, the infotainment system displays a clear, unobtrusive icon and text prompt on the instrument panel or central control screen.

[0165] In another scenario, the user is reminded via their terminal to replace the key's battery in a timely manner.

[0166] Through the above embodiments, this solution uses predictive detection to report low voltage status to the vehicle in advance. When a low voltage crisis occurs, some advanced functions (such as seamless entry / start) are disabled to preserve the most core and basic functions (button unlock, button start). Users can still unlock and start the vehicle in the most reliable way, providing users with valuable buffer time.

[0167] This application provides a vehicle digital key control method, system, and computer-readable storage medium, which has the following advantages compared with the high power consumption and short lifespan of current UWB digital keys:

[0168] The system monitors at least one state information related to the power consumption of the key terminal, including vehicle state and key state. Based on the judgment of at least one of the state information, it dynamically generates control commands for controlling the working mode of the key terminal, thereby dynamically controlling the start and stop of the broadcast behavior and UWB positioning behavior of the UWB key terminal, reducing power consumption waste of the key in invalid or unnecessary scenarios, and effectively improving the service life of the key.

[0169] Based on the same application concept as the above method, this application also proposes a vehicle digital key control system.

[0170] The vehicle digital key control system includes a digital key main module and a key terminal connected to it via Bluetooth.

[0171] The digital key main module is used to implement the vehicle digital key control method as described in any of the above embodiments;

[0172] The key terminal is used to switch the working mode and enter a low-power state according to the control command sent by the digital key master module.

[0173] The specific implementation process of the functions and roles of each module in the above device can be found in the implementation process of the corresponding steps in the above method, which can achieve the same technical effect, and will not be repeated here.

[0174] This application also provides a digital key master module, which is used to implement the vehicle digital key control method described above.

[0175] Figure 4 An example is a schematic diagram of the physical structure of a vehicle digital key control device, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the vehicle digital key control device may include: a processor 810, a communication interface 820, a memory 830, and a communication bus 840. The processor 810, communication interface 820, and memory 830 communicate with each other via the communication bus 840. The processor 810 can call logical instructions from the memory 830 to execute the vehicle digital key control method.

[0176] Furthermore, the logical instructions in the aforementioned memory 830 can be implemented as software functional units and, when sold or used as independent products, can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0177] On the other hand, this application also provides a computer program product, which includes a computer program that can be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. When the computer program is executed by a processor, the computer is able to execute the vehicle digital key control method provided by the above methods.

[0178] In another aspect, this application also provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, is implemented to perform the vehicle digital key control method provided by the above methods.

[0179] It should be noted that the technical solutions or features described in the above embodiments can be combined or supplemented with each other without conflict. The scope of protection of this application is not limited to the precise structures described in the above embodiments and shown in the accompanying drawings; all modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A method for controlling a vehicle with a digital key, characterized in that, The method includes: Monitor at least one state information related to the power consumption of the key terminal, the state information including at least one of vehicle state and key state; Based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information, a control command is dynamically generated to control the working mode of the key terminal. The control command is used to control the activation or deactivation of at least one of the wireless communication function and the positioning function of the key terminal. The control command is sent to the key terminal so that the key terminal switches its working mode and enters a low-power state according to the control command.

2. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The vehicle status includes the connection status between the digital key master module and the key terminal, and the key status includes the movement status of the key terminal; The step of dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information includes: If the motion state indicates that the key terminal is in a stationary state, and the connection state indicates that the connection change frequency between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds a first connection threshold, then a control command to stop the wireless communication function of the key terminal is generated.

3. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: After stopping the wireless communication function of the key terminal, if the movement state of the key terminal is detected to indicate that the key terminal is in motion, a control command to start the wireless communication function of the key terminal is generated, and the working state of the key terminal is switched. and / or When the motion state indicates that the key terminal is in motion, record the duration of the connection state indicating that the frequency of connection changes between the digital key master module and the key terminal exceeds a second connection threshold; determine whether the duration exceeds a set positioning duration threshold, and if so, generate a control command to stop the positioning function of the key terminal.

4. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method for dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal further includes: In response to receiving a trigger signal indicating that the key terminal has entered transport mode, a control command is generated to stop the wireless communication function of the key terminal.

5. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: After the wireless communication function of the key terminal is stopped, a timer is started; When the timer expires, in response to the user operation, a control command is generated to activate the wireless communication function of the key terminal.

6. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control command is used to control the activation of the wireless communication function of the key terminal; after dynamically generating the control command for controlling the working mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the vehicle status and key status, the method further includes: In response to a connection request broadcast by the wireless communication function of the key terminal, a connection is established with the key terminal; When the contactless function setting of the key terminal is turned off, if a user triggers a door switch event, a control command is generated to activate the positioning function of the key terminal. After sending the control command to the key terminal, the system receives the location information returned in response to the control command, responds to the door opening / closing event, and controls the door opening / closing.

7. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The key status includes the location status, and the vehicle status includes the vehicle's door and window status. The method further includes: In response to the positioning function of the key terminal, the location of the key terminal is determined; If the key terminal is located inside the vehicle and the door and window status indicates that the vehicle is in a closed state, a control command is generated to stop the positioning function of the key terminal.

8. The vehicle digital key control method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The key status also includes the battery status of the key terminal; The step of dynamically generating control commands for controlling the operating mode of the key terminal based on the determination of at least one of the aforementioned state information includes: If the power status indicates that the key is in a low voltage state, a control command is generated to stop the positioning function of the key terminal; After the positioning function of the key terminal is stopped, the vehicle is unlocked or locked in response to the user pressing the physical button on the key terminal and based on the connection signal strength between the digital key master module and the key terminal.

9. The vehicle digital key control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, After generating the control command to stop the positioning function of the key terminal, the method further includes: Monitor the connection signal strength between the digital key master module and the key terminal; If the connection signal strength is greater than the strength threshold, a control command is generated to activate the positioning function of the key terminal, and the working state of the key terminal is switched. The intensity threshold indicates that the distance between the key terminal and the digital key master module is within the pairing range.

10. A vehicle digital key control system, characterized in that, The system includes: A digital key main module is used to implement the vehicle digital key control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9 above; The key terminal is used to switch the working mode and enter a low-power state according to the control command sent by the digital key master module.

11. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a vehicle digital key control program, which, when executed, implements the steps of the vehicle digital key control method as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

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