Straddle-type vehicle and storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a straddle-type vehicle and a storage medium. An in-vehicle communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with: an antenna that is mounted in a vehicle and that communicates with a user terminal device existing in a communication area in the vicinity of the vehicle; a processing unit that executes authentication processing when an authentication execution condition is satisfied in which the radio wave intensity of a signal communicating with the user terminal device via the antenna is equal to or greater than a threshold value; and an acquisition unit that acquires information indicating a state of the user terminal device with respect to the vehicle, in which the processing unit executes the authentication processing regardless of whether or not the authentication execution condition is satisfied when it is determined that a change condition is satisfied on the basis of the information acquired by the acquisition unit.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of application number 202180084011.0, filed on November 8, 2021, entitled "Vehicle-mounted communication system, straddle-type vehicle and program". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a motorcycle-type vehicle and a storage medium.

[0003] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-208272, filed on December 16, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0004] In the field of wireless door locks, there are technologies that pre-define a communication zone between the vehicle-mounted device and the wireless key around the vehicle, perform authentication based on the communication results with the wireless key present within the defined communication zone, and unlock the door upon confirmation of authenticity. There are also technologies that utilize a portable device as such a wireless key, estimate the distance between the vehicle-mounted device and the portable device based on the signal strength from the vehicle-mounted device, and perform authentication upon determining the presence of the portable device near the vehicle.

[0005] For example, in order to detect the location of portable devices with high accuracy and detect portable devices approaching vehicles early, it is known that portable devices have a high signal strength of the response signal in areas where the receiving sensitivity of signals from vehicle-mounted devices is reduced (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-071157 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0010] However, if the receiving sensitivity is significantly reduced due to, for example, a portable device being housed in a storage compartment of the vehicle, the portable device is determined not to be near the vehicle and no authentication process based on the vehicle device is performed. There may be situations where a user with legitimate permissions is near the vehicle but cannot unlock the device.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is to provide a straddle-type vehicle and storage medium with an in-vehicle communication system that prevents malfunctions such as failure to perform authentication processing based on in-vehicle devices.

[0012] Solution for solving the problem

[0013] The first aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle-mounted communication system comprising: an antenna mounted on a vehicle for communicating with a user terminal device located within a communication area surrounding the vehicle; a processing unit that performs authentication processing when an authentication execution condition is met, such that the radio wave strength of the signal communicating with the user terminal device via the antenna is at or above a threshold; and an acquisition unit that acquires information indicating the state of the user terminal device relative to the vehicle, wherein the processing unit performs the authentication processing regardless of whether the authentication execution condition is met if it determines, based on the information acquired by the acquisition unit, that a change condition is met.

[0014] The second solution, based on the vehicle communication system of the first solution, may also involve the acquisition unit acquiring information indicating the connection status between the charger mounted on the vehicle and the user terminal device, wherein the change condition is that the user terminal device and the charger are connected via wired or wireless means.

[0015] The third option, based on the vehicle communication system of the second option mentioned above, can also be that the space connecting the user terminal device and the charger is a space capable of accommodating the user terminal device.

[0016] The fourth option, based on the vehicle communication system of the third option mentioned above, can also be that the space connecting the user terminal device and the charger is an openable space.

[0017] The fifth embodiment of the present invention provides a straddle-type vehicle equipped with an on-board communication system of any one of the first to fourth embodiments described above.

[0018] The sixth embodiment, based on the straddle-type vehicle of the fifth embodiment, may also include at least one of a seat under-seat storage section that can be opened and closed via the seat, and a front storage section located at a position in front of the vehicle than the seat. The acquisition unit acquires information indicating that the user terminal device is housed in the seat under-seat storage section or the front storage section, and the change condition is that the user terminal device is housed in the seat under-seat storage section or the front storage section.

[0019] The seventh option, based on the straddle-type vehicle of the sixth option, may also involve the following modification: the user terminal device is connected to the wired or wireless connection terminal located in the under-seat storage section or the front storage section.

[0020] The eighth option, based on the straddle-type vehicle of the sixth or seventh option above, may also involve the processing unit performing the authentication process when the user of the user terminal device selects to perform the authentication process regardless of whether the authentication execution conditions are met, provided that the change conditions are met.

[0021] The ninth aspect of the present invention provides a procedure that causes a control device of a vehicle equipped with an antenna to perform the following processes: communicating with a user terminal device located within a communication area surrounding the vehicle; performing authentication processing if an authentication execution condition is met, such that the radio wave strength of the signal communicating with the user terminal device is above a threshold; acquiring information indicating the state of the user terminal device relative to the vehicle; and performing the authentication processing regardless of whether the authentication execution condition is met, if a change condition is determined based on the acquired information.

[0022] Invention Effects

[0023] Based on the first to ninth schemes mentioned above, it is possible to prevent adverse situations such as failure to perform authentication processing based on vehicle-mounted devices. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a motorized two-wheeled vehicle, which is one example of a vehicle used in the implementation of the method.

[0025] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram of the main switch knob of a motorized two-wheeled vehicle.

[0026] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram of the area surrounding the starter switch of a motorized two-wheeled vehicle.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a functional block diagram of the vehicle communication system in the implementation method.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a functional block diagram of the intelligent control unit.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of the user terminal device.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a diagram used to illustrate usage scenario 1.

[0031] Figure 8 This is a diagram used to illustrate usage scenario 2.

[0032] Figure 9 It is a flowchart representing the processing flow (before engine start) based on the intelligent control unit.

[0033] Figure 10This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow when the main switch is in the ON state.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow when the main switch is not in the ON state.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating part of the processing flow when the main switch is in a waiting state for more than A seconds.

[0036] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow based on the intelligent control unit (after the main switch is turned off).

[0037] Figure 14 It means in Figure 13 The flowchart shows the process for handling cases where a negative determination is made in step S217.

[0038] Figure 15 This is a flowchart representing one of the processing flows used to perform authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode.

[0039] Figure 16 This is a flowchart representing the second part of the processing flow for performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode.

[0040] Figure 17 This is a flowchart representing the processing flow (Part 3) for performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode.

[0041] Symbol explanation:

[0042] 1. Vehicle-mounted communication system

[0043] 2. Smart Key System

[0044] 11 Motorized two-wheeled vehicles

[0045] 21 Engine

[0046] 30 Main switch

[0047] 31 Main switch knob

[0048] 40ECU

[0049] 300 Intelligent Control Unit

[0050] 310 Intelligent CPU

[0051] 311 Switch Control Unit

[0052] 312 Operation Instruction Section

[0053] 313 Electromagnetic Lock Control Unit

[0054] 314 Bluetooth Communication Control Unit

[0055] 315 Certification Department

[0056] 316 Display Control Unit

[0057] 400 USB charger Detailed Implementation

[0058] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, which is an example of a vehicle used in the implementation of this method. Figure 1 As shown, the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 is, for example, a small motorized two-wheeled vehicle of the unit swing type.

[0059] <Vehicle as a whole>

[0060] like Figure 1 As shown, the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 has a front wheel 13 as a steering wheel and a rear wheel 14 as a drive wheel. The front wheel 13 is supported by a front fork 16 and can be steered via a handlebar 12. The rear wheel 14 is supported by a swing unit 20 and can be driven by a reciprocating engine (internal combustion engine, hereinafter referred to as the engine) 21, which will be described later. The swing unit 20 integrally includes the engine 21 and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) such as a V-belt (not shown).

[0061] The steering system components, including the handlebars 12, front fork 16, and front wheel 13, are steerably supported at the front end of a frame (not shown). The swing unit 20 and rear wheel 14 are steerably supported at the lower rear of the frame. A retractable side rack 17 is provided on the lower left side of the frame, supporting the vehicle in an upright position tilted to the left. The frame is covered by a body cover 15.

[0062] The motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 has a pair of left and right footrests 19 for the driver to place his feet on the seat 18, a central passage CT extending in the front-rear direction between the left and right footrests 19, a front body FB connected to the front of the central passage CT and the left and right footrests 19, and a rear body RB connected to the rear of the central passage CT and the left and right footrests 19.

[0063] A headlight 22a and a forward turn signal 22b are provided on the upper front part of the front body FB. A rear combination light 23, including taillights, brake lights, and a rear turn signal, is provided on the rear part of the rear body RB. A seat 18 for occupants is supported on the rear body RB. A fuel cap 24 for opening and closing the fuel inlet space is provided on the upper surface of the central tunnel CT.

[0064] The seat 18 can rotate up and down around a hinge axis located at the front end to open and close the upper part of the rear body RB. A seat under-seat storage section 50 is provided below the seat 18.

[0065] The under-seat storage section 50 is an example of a storage section that has an enclosed space that can be opened and closed and needs to be unlocked by the seat 18, which acts as a cover.

[0066] With the seat 18 closed, obstructing the upper part of the rear body RB, the occupant can sit in the seat 18. With the seat 18 open, obstructing the upper part of the rear body RB, the under-seat storage compartment 50 can be operated.

[0067] A display panel 26 is located on the upper part of the front body FB. The display panel 26 may be equipped with an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device. The display panel 26 displays intelligent indicators including the speedometer, messages provided to the user, diagrams, etc.

[0068] The handlebar locking module 27 is housed inside the front body FB. The handlebar locking module 27 integrates the handlebar locking mechanism 28 as the main body, the intelligent control unit 300 (described later), and the main switch 30 as the main power switch of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11.

[0069] One or more front storage compartments 60 are provided on the inside of the front body FB. The front storage compartment 60 has an opening without a cover at the top, and is an example of a storage compartment that has space that does not need to be unlocked.

[0070] The under-seat storage section 50 and the front storage section 60 each have a space (accommodation space), and a portion of each accommodation space has a connection terminal 50A and a connection terminal 60A for connecting one end of a cable. The connection terminals 50A and 60A are, for example, USB-shaped terminals, and connect to the USB port of a USB charger described later. The connection terminals 50A and 60A connect a device via a USB cable, thereby connecting the device to the USB charger described later.

[0071] It should be noted that wireless chargers 50B and 60B, respectively, can be installed in the under-seat storage section 50 and the front storage section 60 to wirelessly connect to the device housed in the storage space and perform wireless power transmission to the device. These wireless chargers 50B and 60B wirelessly connect to the device housed in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60 to charge the device.

[0072] That is, the under-seat storage section 50 and the front storage section 60 are spaces for connecting devices to chargers via wired or wireless means to form charging spaces, and are enclosed spaces that can be opened and closed.

[0073] Figure 2 This is an explanatory diagram of the main switch knob of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle. The main switch knob 31 includes: a disconnected position P1, which sets the main switch 30 to the off state; an on position P2, which sets the main switch 30 to the on state; a seat / fuel lock release position P3, which is located between the disconnected position P1 and the on position P2 and allows for opening the seat 18 and fuel cap 24; and a lock position P4, which, when turned down from the disconnected position P1 to the opposite side of the on position P2, locks all parts of the vehicle, including the handlebar lock. When the main switch 30 is not activated, the main switch knob 31 is in the disconnected position P1.

[0074] When the main switch knob 31 is in the seat / fuel lock off position P3, the operation of the seat / fuel lock off switch 32 adjacent to the main switch knob 31 becomes possible or effective. The seat / fuel lock off switch 32 is an interchangeable switch. One of the seat / fuel lock off switches 32 is for unlocking the seat 18. The other of the seat / fuel lock off switches 32 is for unlocking the fuel cap 24.

[0075] The main switch 30 has a main switch knob 31 as an operating part on the inner plate 25 on the side of the bottom step 19 (rear surface side) of the front body FB. When the authenticity is confirmed by the authentication process of the authentication object (e.g., user terminal device 100) used as the remote key of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, the rotation operation of the main switch knob 31 becomes possible or effective (hereinafter referred to as the main switch unlock state).

[0076] After the authentication process confirms the authenticity, or after the authentication process confirms the authenticity, a prescribed operation is performed on the main switch knob 31 (e.g., pressing the main switch knob 31 in), thereby activating the main switch 30. When the main switch 30 is in the activated state, for example, a lighting device installed on the main switch 30 is turned on, and operation of the main switch knob 31 becomes possible or effective.

[0077] For example, by performing the operation of placing the main switch knob 31 in the ON position P2, the main switch 30 becomes ON. It should be noted that, hereinafter, the state in which the main switch 30 is not ON after the authentication process has confirmed its authenticity or after the main switch 30 has been started will be referred to as the main switch ON waiting state.

[0078] Furthermore, by activating the main switch 30, power can be supplied to the control device 40 (described later) to start the engine 21, and the electromagnetic locks (electrically operated locking devices via solenoids) 70 of the seat 18, fuel cap 24, and other opening and closing devices can be unlocked. That is, by moving the main switch knob 31 to the seat / fuel lock release position P3 while the main switch 30 is activated and operating the seat / fuel lock release switch 32, the locking of the seat 18 or the fuel cap 24 can be unlocked.

[0079] On the other hand, by cutting off communication between the user terminal device 100 and the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 in the unlocked state of the main switch, or after a predetermined time, the operation of the main switch knob 31 becomes impossible or invalid (hereinafter referred to as the main switch locked state). Communication between the user terminal device 100 and the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 is cut off, for example, when the user terminal device 100 is moved away and kept in a closed space. It should be noted that by entering the main switch locked state, equipment such as the seat 18 also becomes locked.

[0080] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram of the area surrounding the start switch 29 of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. The engine 21 is started by holding the brake lever 29a on the right side of the handlebars 12 while the main switch 30 is in the "on" position and pressing the start switch 29. Pressing the start switch 29 activates the engine start control unit 42 of the control device 40 (described later), which drives the starter motor 21a attached to the engine 21 and controls ignition and fuel injection, thereby starting the engine 21.

[0081] <Vehicle Communication System 1>

[0082] Figure 4 This is a functional block diagram of the vehicle communication system 1 in the embodiment. The vehicle communication system 1 includes an intelligent control unit 300 and a control device 40. The intelligent control unit 300 is a component of the smart key system 2 described later.

[0083] The intelligent control unit 300 is connected to components such as a start switch 29, a main switch 30, an electromagnetic lock 70 (including locking devices for various parts of the vehicle), a display panel 26, a control device 40, and a notification drive device (not shown) that activates various notification mechanisms according to the operation of the intelligent key system 2. When the intelligent key system 2 locks or unlocks the locking devices for various parts of the vehicle, the notification drive device performs at least one of the following (response): a visual signal such as flashing hazard warning lights, and an auditory signal such as sounding an electronic alarm. Thus, the user is aware of the locking and unlocking status of the locking devices for various parts of the vehicle.

[0084] The control device 40 is, for example, an integrated ECU (Electric Control Unit), which functions as the control unit of the vehicle communication system 1. It should be noted that the control device 40 can also be a Fi-ECU (Fuel Injection-Engine Control Unit). Hereinafter, the control device 40 will be referred to as ECU40. The intelligent control unit 300 inputs an on signal from the main switch 30 and an engine start operation signal from the start switch 29 to the ECU40. Additionally, the ECU40 inputs parking rack usage detection signals from the side parking rack switch 17a (detecting the upright state of the side parking rack 17) and various detection signals (detecting the operating status of the engine 21).

[0085] The ECU40 includes an engine control unit 41 that controls the drive of the engine 21 and an engine start control unit 42 that performs start control of the engine 21.

[0086] The engine control unit 41 and the engine start control unit 42 are implemented by executing programs (software) using processors such as CPUs (Central Processing Units) and GPUs (Graphics Processing Units). Alternatively, some or all of the aforementioned components can be implemented using hardware (including the circuitry) such as LSIs (Large Scale Integration), ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), and FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays), or through a combination of software and hardware. The program can be pre-stored in the ECU 40's storage unit or stored on a removable storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and installed in the storage unit by assembling the storage medium into the drive unit.

[0087] The smart key system 2 is, for example, a system that uses a communication device with short-range communication capabilities as a key for the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. The smart key system 2 can lock and unlock various parts of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. It should be noted that the communication function of the smart key system 2 is not limited to short-range communication.

[0088] For example, the smart key system 2 includes a user terminal device 100 held by a driver or other user and a smart control unit 300 as an in-vehicle device. The smart control unit 300 performs, for example, ID authentication of the user terminal device 100 through bidirectional communication with it. After the user terminal device 100's ID is authenticated, the smart key system 2 unlocks the locking of equipment such as the seat 18, and enables the starting of the engine 21 and the unlocking of various parts of the vehicle.

[0089] <Intelligent Control Unit>

[0090] Figure 5 This is a functional block diagram of the intelligent control unit 300. The intelligent control unit 300 includes, for example, a power supply circuit 301, a main switch input detection circuit 302, a start switch input detection circuit 303, an electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304, a rotary switch input detection circuit 305, a Bluetooth communication circuit 306, a USB power drive circuit 307, a display panel drive circuit 308, an ECU communication circuit 309, an intelligent CPU 310, a Bluetooth antenna 320, and a storage unit 350. Here, an example of the intelligent control unit 300 using Bluetooth as a communication means is described, but it is not limited to this. For example, the intelligent control unit 300 may also use short-range communication such as wireless LAN (Wi-Fi) or infrared communication. It should be noted that Bluetooth is a registered trademark. Hereafter, all instances of Bluetooth being a registered trademark are omitted. Not limited to this, the intelligent control unit 300 may also perform authentication processing not only based on the Bluetooth communication described below, but also based on the communication results of communication with the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 via a wide area network NW.

[0091] The power supply circuit 301 receives the power required for processing by the intelligent control unit 300 from the power supply on the side of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 and supplies it to various locations.

[0092] The main switch input detection circuit 302 is connected to the main switch 30 and detects the operation when the main switch knob 31 is pressed. It should be noted that the operation of pressing the main switch knob 31 can mean various operations depending on the state of the intelligent control unit 300, such as the operation of unlocking the main switch 30, or the operation of indicating to immediately end the disconnection process of the main switch 30.

[0093] The starter switch input detection circuit 303 is connected to the starter switch 29, detects operations that indicate engine start or engine stop, and outputs the detection results to the intelligent CPU 310.

[0094] The electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304 is connected to the electromagnetic lock 70 and is controlled by the intelligent CPU 310. The electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304 sets the seat 18, fuel cap 24, handlebar locking mechanism 28, main switch knob 31, etc. to locked or unlocked states by energizing or de-energizing the electromagnetic lock 70.

[0095] The rotary switch input detection circuit 305 is connected to the main switch knob 31 and receives a signal indicating the operating scale of the main switch knob 31. Based on the input signal, the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 detects the disconnection operation (disconnection position P1), the connection operation (connection position P2), setting the opening operation of the seat 18 and fuel cap 24 as a possible unlocking operation (seat / fuel lock release position P3), and the locking operation of various parts of the vehicle, including the handlebar lock, as locked (locked position P4), and outputs the detection results to the intelligent CPU 310.

[0096] Bluetooth communication circuit 306 uses Bluetooth antenna 320 to communicate with communication devices present within the communication area. The communication area is a region within a specified distance centered on Bluetooth antenna 320. For example, Bluetooth communication circuit 306 emits beacon signals to detect communication devices present within the communication area and establishes Bluetooth communication with the detected communication devices.

[0097] The USB power driver circuit 307 is connected to the USB charger 400 to drive the power circuit 301 of the USB charger 400. The USB charger 400 charges terminal devices connected via wired or wireless means. The following describes an example of the USB charger 400 charging a terminal device connected via a cable to connection terminal 50A or connection terminal 60 via a cable; the description of charging a terminal device connected wirelessly is omitted. Regarding the latter, the description of charging via a cable will be replaced with "charging the terminal device by performing wireless power transmission."

[0098] The USB charger 400 includes, for example, a power supply circuit 401, a charger output control circuit 402, a first USB port 403, and a second USB port 404. The first USB port 403 is wired to a connection terminal 50A of the under-seat receiving portion 50. The second USB port 404 is wired to a connection terminal 60A of the front receiving portion 60. The power supply circuit 401 supplies power from the power source on the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 to a terminal device connected to the first USB port 403 or the second USB port 404 via a USB cable.

[0099] The display panel driver circuit 308 is connected to the display panel 26 to drive the display panel 26.

[0100] The ECU communication circuit 309 is connected to the ECU 40 and communicates with it via a wired connection. The ECU communication circuit 309 sends information output from the intelligent CPU 310 to the ECU 40.

[0101] The storage unit 350 stores, for example, authentication mode setting information 351, setting threshold 352, and registrant ID 353.

[0102] The authentication mode setting information 351 indicates the currently set authentication mode. Authentication modes include, for example, a normal authentication mode and a simplified authentication mode. The normal authentication mode uses the existence of the authentication object in the authentication area as a condition for authentication execution (the condition used to perform authentication processing), and executes authentication processing if the authentication execution condition is met. The simplified authentication mode executes authentication processing even if the authentication execution condition is not met. It should be noted that the authentication mode setting information 351 may also include information indicating the result obtained through authentication processing (authentication successful, authentication failed).

[0103] The threshold 352 is a threshold value for the received radio wave strength (hereinafter referred to as RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication)) registered through a prescribed registration process. From a security point of view, the threshold is a reference value used to define the area (hereinafter referred to as the authentication area) where authentication objects present in the vicinity of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 can be detected. The threshold is set to a value such that no authentication process is performed on authentication objects leaving the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11.

[0104] Registrant ID 353 is information indicating the authenticity of the user terminal device 100, and is identification information assigned to the registrant for ID authentication. It should be noted that the information indicating the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is not limited to pre-registered ID information. For example, it could also be a random number generated to limit the usage period.

[0105] The intelligent CPU 310 includes, for example, a switch control unit 311, an operation instruction unit 312, an electromagnetic lock control unit 313, a Bluetooth communication control unit 314, an authentication unit 315, a display control unit 316, an acquisition unit 317, and a mode change unit 318. The aforementioned switch control unit 311, operation instruction unit 312, electromagnetic lock control unit 313, Bluetooth communication control unit 314, authentication unit 315, display control unit 316, acquisition unit 317, and mode change unit 318 are implemented, for example, by executing a program (software) using a processor such as a CPU or GPU. Furthermore, some or all of the aforementioned components can also be implemented using hardware (including the circuitry) such as an LSI, ASIC, or FPGA, or through a combination of software and hardware. The program can be pre-stored in the storage unit 350 or stored on a removable storage medium such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and installed in the storage unit by assembling the storage medium onto a drive device.

[0106] The switch control unit 311 controls the rotation of the main switch knob 31 based on the authentication result certified by the authentication unit 315. For example, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the switch control unit 311 enables or enables the rotation of the main switch knob 31 (i.e., sets it to the main switch unlocked state). Not limited to this, the switch control unit 311 may also enable or enable the operation of the start switch 29, the seat / fuel lock release switch 32, and other switches if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process.

[0107] On the other hand, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is not confirmed through the authentication process or if the communication between the user terminal device 100 and the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 is cut off, the switch control unit 311 sets the rotation operation of the main switch knob 31 to be impossible or invalid (i.e., sets it to the main switch locked state).

[0108] The operation instruction unit 312 acquires the input operation content based on information input from the main switch input detection circuit 302, the start switch input detection circuit 303, or the rotary switch input detection circuit 305, and determines the control content corresponding to the acquired operation content. Based on the determined control content, the operation instruction unit 312 outputs a command corresponding to the determined control content to the controlled object (or the control unit that controls the controlled object).

[0109] For example, if the start switch input detection circuit 303 detects that the start switch 29 was pressed while the main switch 30 is on and the brake lever 29a on the right side of the handlebar 12 is being held, the operation instruction unit 312 detects the operation indicating engine start. Upon detecting an operation indicating engine start, the operation instruction unit 312 sends an engine start permission signal to the ECU 40 via the ECU communication circuit 309, provided that the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 has been confirmed through authentication processing.

[0110] In addition, if the operation of pressing the main switch knob 31 is detected in the initial state, the operation instruction unit 312 obtains the indication of the unlocking request of the main switch 30 and controls the electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304 to unlock the main switch 30.

[0111] In addition, when the rotary switch input detection circuit 305 detects an operation (the operation of setting the main switch knob 31 to the on position P2) while the main switch is in the on standby state, the operation instruction unit 312 executes the processing flow for the main switch 30 being in the on state.

[0112] The electromagnetic lock control unit 313 controls the electromagnetic lock 70 based on the authentication result certified by the authentication unit 315. For example, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 controls the electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304 to enter the main switch unlock state. In this state, for example, if information indicating an unlocking operation of the seat 18 is input from the rotary switch input detection circuit 305, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 controls the electromagnetic lock 70 to enable the opening operation of the seat 18. On the other hand, if information indicating a locking operation of the seat 18 is input from the rotary switch input detection circuit 305, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 controls the electromagnetic lock 70 to disable the opening operation of the seat 18 and the fuel cap 24. If the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 detects that communication with the user terminal device 100 has been cut off, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 controls the electromagnetic lock drive circuit 304 to lock the main switch 30 and the seat 18.

[0113] The Bluetooth communication control unit 314 controls the Bluetooth communication circuit 306 to communicate with the user terminal device 100 located within the communication area using the Bluetooth antenna 320. For example, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 sends a beacon signal from the Bluetooth antenna 320 and determines whether a responding user terminal device 100 exists. If a responding user terminal device 100 exists, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 continues communication with the user terminal device 100. On the other hand, if no response to the beacon signal exists, the Bluetooth communication control unit 314 disconnects communication with the user terminal device 100.

[0114] When performing authentication processing based on the normal authentication mode, the authentication unit 315 performs prescribed pre-processing and prescribed authentication processing based on information received via the Bluetooth antenna 320. Pre-processing, for example, involves determining whether the RSSI value of the signal received via the Bluetooth antenna 320 is above a preset threshold registered in the storage unit 350. If the authentication unit 315 determines through pre-processing that the RSSI value of the signal received via the Bluetooth antenna 320 is above the preset threshold registered in the storage unit 350, it performs authentication processing.

[0115] As part of the authentication process, the authentication unit 315 authenticates the information as legitimate from a pre-registered registrant if, for example, the ID information received from the user terminal device 100 matches the pre-registered registrant ID. That is, it confirms the authenticity of the user terminal device 100.

[0116] When the ID information received from the user terminal device 100 is authenticated by the authentication unit 315, the electromagnetic lock control unit 313 performs the above-described unlocking process.

[0117] It should be noted that by using an RSSI value above a set threshold as the authentication condition, authentication can be performed if the user is near the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, based on the estimated distance between the user terminal device 100 and the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. This improves theft prevention.

[0118] Furthermore, when performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode, the authentication unit 315 performs authentication processing regardless of whether the authentication execution conditions are met. For example, the authentication unit 315 does not perform the determination process of whether the RSSI value is above a set threshold, but performs authentication processing based on ID information. That is, the authentication unit 315 performs authentication processing without prior processing.

[0119] The display control unit 316 controls the display panel drive circuit 308 to make the display panel 26 display the specified information.

[0120] The acquisition unit 317 acquires information indicating the state of the user terminal device 100 relative to the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. For example, the acquisition unit 317 acquires information indicating the connection state between the USB charger 400 and the user terminal device 100 from the USB charger 400 and the user terminal device 100. Specifically, the acquisition unit 317 receives the identification information of the user terminal device 100 together with information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is charging. In addition, the acquisition unit 317 acquires information from the USB charger 400 indicating that a device is connected to the connection terminal 50A or the connection terminal 60A via a cable, and identification information of the device connected to the connection terminal 50A or the connection terminal 60A via a cable.

[0121] Not limited to this, it is also possible that, under the condition that the specified confirmation screen display conditions are met, the user terminal device 100 is preset to display the confirmation screen, thereby the acquisition unit 317 acquires information indicating the status of the user terminal device 100 relative to the motorized two-wheeler 11. For example, the display conditions of the confirmation screen include: (A) the user terminal device 100 and the motorized two-wheeler 11 are connected via a cable connected to the connection terminal 50A or the connection terminal 60A; (B) power is being supplied to the USB charger 400; (C) the user terminal device 100 is charging. In this way, when the acquisition unit 317 receives information from the user terminal device 100 indicating that either "yes" or "no" has been touched on the confirmation screen, it can acquire information indicating that the user terminal device 100 and the motorized two-wheeler 11 are connected via a cable connected to the connection terminal 50A or the connection terminal 60A.

[0122] Additionally, the acquisition unit 317 acquires information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is housed in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60. For example, suppose the following operation is performed: the user uses the user terminal device 100 to notify the intelligent control unit 300 that the user terminal device 100 is housed in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60. In this case, the acquisition unit 317 acquires information from the user terminal device 100 indicating that the user terminal device 100 is housed in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60. It should be noted that a mounting space for the user terminal device 100 and a sensor are pre-installed in a portion of the under-seat storage section 50 and the front storage section 60, and the sensor detects what is placed in that mounting space. In this case, the acquisition unit 317 acquires information from the sensor indicating that the user terminal device 100 is housed in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60.

[0123] The mode change unit 318 determines, for example, whether the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met based on the information obtained by the acquisition unit 317. If the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met, the mode change unit 318 changes the set authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode. Specifically, the mode change unit 318 stores the information indicating that "the simplified authentication mode has been set" as authentication mode setting information 351 in the storage unit 350.

[0124] The mode change unit 318 may change to a simplified authentication mode, for example, by taking the user's consent as a condition. When the mode change unit 318 determines that the conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met, it displays a confirmation screen on the user terminal device 100 each time to obtain the user's consent (whether a change has been made). Alternatively, the mode change unit 318 may obtain the user's consent in advance and register it in the storage unit 350. By using the user's consent as a condition for change, it is possible to suppress any reduction in theft prevention.

[0125] The change conditions include, for example, (1) the case where the user terminal device 100 and the USB charger 400 are connected via a cable. In this case, it is presumed that the user terminal device 100 is present near the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, based on the case where the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 and the user terminal device 100 are connected. Therefore, in the authentication process based on the simplified authentication mode, security issues can be resolved even if the strength of the RSSI value is ignored.

[0126] Furthermore, the modification conditions may also include (2) the case where the connection terminal connecting the user terminal device 100 to the USB charger 400 is located within an openable and closable enclosed space. An openable and closable enclosed space could be, for example, the storage space within the under-seat storage section 50. The combination of modification conditions (1) and (2) includes the case where the user terminal device 100 is positively connected to the connection terminal 50A located in the under-seat storage section 50. In this way, even if the electromagnetic wave intensity is attenuated due to the user terminal device 100 being located within an enclosed space, authentication processing can still be performed. Since the user terminal device 100 is not exposed to the outside, it can be protected while driving.

[0127] Furthermore, the change conditions may also include (3) the case where the enclosed space that can be opened and closed is an enclosed space that is unlocked after its authenticity has been confirmed through the authentication process and locked in the state of the main switch being locked.

[0128] In addition to (1), the modification condition may also include (4) the presence of a connection terminal for connecting the user terminal device 100 to a USB charger in a storage compartment provided in the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, which has a space for signal strength attenuation received from the intelligent control unit 300 (hereinafter referred to as the signal attenuation storage compartment). This signal attenuation storage compartment is, for example, the under-seat storage compartment 50 or the front storage compartment 60. The combination of modification condition (1) and modification condition (4) includes the case where the user terminal device 100 is positively connected to the connection terminal 50A provided in the under-seat storage compartment 50 or the case where the user terminal device 100 is positively connected to the connection terminal 60A provided in the front storage compartment 60.

[0129] Additionally, the modification conditions may also include (5) the case where the user terminal device 100 is housed in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60. This modification condition (5) may be combined with at least one of the modification conditions (1), (2), (3), and (4).

[0130] In addition to (5), the modification conditions may also include (6) the case where a user terminal device 100 is connected to a wired connection terminal 50A or connection terminal 60A provided in the under-seat storage section 50 or the front storage section 60. This allows for more reliable authentication processing, especially in storage sections where signal strength is easily attenuated.

[0131] Not limited to this, the front storage section 60 can also be a closed space with a cover that can be unlocked through authentication, like the seat 18. In this case, the front storage section 60 is also included in the openable and closable closed space in the modified condition (2), and the combination of modified condition (1) and modified condition (2) includes the case where the user terminal device 100 is positively connected to the connection terminal 60A provided in the front storage section 60.

[0132] It should be noted that the Mode Change Unit 318 can also change the established authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode under the specified change time and when the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met. Details regarding the specified change time will be described later.

[0133] In this way, if the conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met, the next authentication process will be changed to the simplified authentication mode, and the authentication process will be performed regardless of whether the RSSI value is above the set threshold, thereby enabling more reliable authentication processing.

[0134] Next, an example of authentication between the intelligent control unit 300 and the user terminal device 100 will be described. When the user terminal device 100 enters the designated authentication area (described later) while the smart key system 2 is powered on, bidirectional communication between the user terminal device 100 and the intelligent control unit 300 is initiated, for example, by pressing the main switch knob 31 or by receiving a start operation from the user terminal device 100. Through this bidirectional communication, the intelligent control unit 300 obtains ID information from the user terminal device 100 to authenticate the user terminal device 100. When the authentication of the user terminal device 100 is completed, the operation of turning on the main switch knob 31 becomes possible, the handlebar lock is released, and the locking of various parts of the vehicle becomes possible.

[0135] If the user terminal device 100 enters the designated authentication area, for example, a determination is made during preprocessing based on the intelligent control unit 300, and the condition is met if the RSSI value of the signal received from the user terminal device 100 is above a set threshold. The authentication area is, for example, the range of RSSI values ​​that ensures the set threshold, and is a range of about a few meters in radius centered on the designated position of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11.

[0136] The smart key system 2 stops communication between the user terminal device 100 and the smart control unit 300 when the user terminal device 100 leaves the authentication area or when the power supply to the user terminal device 100 is turned off. The smart key system 2 also stops communication between the user terminal device 100 and the smart control unit 300 based on the off operation of the main switch knob 31 (rotation operation to the off position P1).

[0137] <User terminal device>

[0138] Figure 6 This is a functional block diagram of a user terminal device 100. The user terminal device 100 is, for example, a mobile terminal device with at least communication and display functions, such as a smartphone, a portable telephone, a tablet computer, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). The user terminal device 100 includes, for example, a communication unit 110, an input unit 120, a display unit 130, a storage unit 150, and an application execution unit 170.

[0139] The communication unit 110 is, for example, a wireless module for using Bluetooth, and includes an antenna and transmitting / receiving devices. The input unit 120 includes, for example, some or all of a touch panel TP integrally formed with the display unit 130, various buttons, switches, mice, etc. The display unit 130 is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display device.

[0140] The storage unit 150 is implemented, for example, using RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), flash memory, SD card, registers, etc. The storage unit 150 stores a smart key application 151. The smart key application 151 is a program that causes the display unit 130 to display an interface for using the user terminal device 100 as a smart key, and causes the user terminal device 100 to perform processing based on information input via the interface.

[0141] The application execution unit 170 executes, for example, the smart key application (program) 151 stored in the storage unit 150 via a processor such as a CPU. The smart key application 151 can also be downloaded from other devices via a network NW, or it can be pre-installed on the user terminal device 100.

[0142] <Usage Situation 1>

[0143] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates usage scenario 1. Usage scenario 1 is as follows: After the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed and the main switch is in the unlocked state, the main switch 30 remains in the non-connected state for a specified time, and the seat 18 and other equipment are automatically locked.

[0144] (Process A1) First, the user operates their user terminal device 100 to activate the smart key application 151 near the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. The user terminal device 100 executes the smart key application 151 to establish Bluetooth communication with the smart control unit 300 of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. The authentication process performed here is based on the normal authentication mode. When the user terminal device 100 enters the authentication area, the smart control unit 300 performs the authentication process because the RSSI value is above a set threshold.

[0145] When the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through the authentication process, the intelligent control unit 300 enters the main switch unlocked state and begins supplying power to the USB charger 400, entering the main switch on standby state. That is, the main switch knob 31 can be rotated, enabling charging of external devices connected to the USB charger 400 via a cable.

[0146] (Process A2) Next, the user turns the main switch knob 31 to the seat / fuel lock unlock position P3 and presses the switch on the seat / fuel lock unlock switch 32 that selects the unlocking of seat 18. This releases the lock on seat 18.

[0147] (Process A3) Then, the user opens the seat 18 and connects the connection terminal 50A of the under-seat storage section 50 to the user terminal device 100 via a USB cable. This begins charging the user terminal device 100. Then, the user closes the seat 18.

[0148] (Process A4) If the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state exceeds A seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the change conditions are met. In this example, the user terminal device 100 is connected to the USB charger 400 before the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state exceeds A seconds. At this point, the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met, therefore the intelligent control unit 300 instructs the user terminal device 100 to request the user to select whether to allow the change to the simplified authentication mode. It should be noted that, alternatively, the determination of whether the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met can be performed by the user terminal device 100 itself. If the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are determined to be met, the user can be requested to select whether to allow the change to the simplified authentication mode.

[0149] The user terminal device 100 displays a confirmation screen as shown in the illustration. The confirmation screen displays "Yes" for selecting to change to the simplified confirmation mode and "No" for not selecting to change to the simplified confirmation mode. If the user selects to change to the simplified authentication mode on the confirmation screen (i.e., touches "Yes"), the user terminal device 100 sends information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode to the intelligent control unit 300. Then, the intelligent control unit 300 changes the set authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode.

[0150] It should be noted that in this scenario 1, since the user terminal device 100 is connected to the USB charger 400, even if the elapsed time of the main switch being turned on exceeds A seconds, the main switch is in the unlocked state, and the main switch knob 31 is in a state where it can be rotated.

[0151] Then, after the main switch is turned on and the waiting time exceeds B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 locks the seat 18 and other equipment, restricting the output of the engine start permission signal.

[0152] (Process A5) Next, the user presses the main switch knob 31 to initiate the start of the engine 21. The intelligent control unit 300 then performs an authentication process based on a simplified authentication mode. Once the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed through this authentication process, the user turns the main switch knob 31 to the ON position P2 and presses the start switch 29 by gripping the brake lever 29a on the right side of the handlebar 12. The intelligent control unit 300 then outputs an engine start permission signal, causing the engine 21 to start.

[0153] In this way, even if re-authentication is required due to the elapsed time of the main switch being turned on exceeding B seconds, the authentication process based on the ID information can be performed without performing the determination process of whether the RSSI value is above a set threshold because the authentication process based on the simplified authentication mode is executed. Therefore, even when the user terminal device 100 is housed in the under-seat storage section 50, that is, even though the user terminal device 100 is in the vicinity of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 (within the authentication area) but the RSSI value is small, the undesirable situation of not performing authentication processing can be prevented.

[0154] If the authentication process based on the normal authentication mode is performed in process A5 as before, the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 cannot be verified, and therefore the seat 18 cannot be unlocked. Consequently, the user terminal device 100 cannot be removed. Furthermore, if the user terminal device 100 cannot be removed, the authentication process cannot be performed again, and therefore the engine 21 cannot be started. This problem can be solved by pre-changing to the simplified authentication mode.

[0155] <Usage Situation 2>

[0156] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates usage scenario 2. Usage scenario 2 is an example where the user terminal device 100 is connected to the USB charger 400 after the intelligent control unit 300 has entered sleep mode.

[0157] (Process B1) and (Process B2) are the same as (Process A1) and (Process A2) mentioned above.

[0158] (Process B3) If the user terminal device 100 is not connected to the USB charger 400 and the elapsed time in the main switch-on waiting state exceeds A seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 transitions to a sleep state. Upon transitioning to a sleep state, equipment such as the seat 18 is locked, and the output of the engine start permission signal is restricted.

[0159] (Process B4) Next, when the user connects the connection terminal 60A of the front storage section 60 to the user terminal device 100 via a cable, charging of the user terminal device 100 begins.

[0160] (Process B5) Thus, after the user terminal device 100 has transitioned to sleep mode and is connected to the USB charger 400, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the change conditions are met. In this example, the user terminal device 100 is connected to the USB charger 400 before the elapsed time of the main switch on wait state has elapsed by B seconds. At this point, the change conditions for changing to simplified authentication mode are met, therefore, the user terminal device 100 displays a confirmation screen prompting the user to select whether to allow the change to simplified authentication mode. If the user selects to change to simplified authentication mode on the confirmation screen (i.e., touches "Yes"), the user terminal device 100 sends information indicating that the user has selected to change to simplified authentication mode to the intelligent control unit 300. Then, the intelligent control unit 300 sets the authentication mode from normal authentication mode to simplified authentication mode.

[0161] If the simplified authentication mode is switched to, authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode will be performed. After confirming the authenticity of the user terminal device 100, the intelligent control unit 300 will lock and unlock equipment such as the seat 18. Additionally, the restriction on the engine start permit signal will be lifted.

[0162] (Process B6) Next, in order to instruct the user to start the engine 21, the user presses the main switch knob 31 to put it in the starting state, thereby enabling the intelligent control unit 300 to unlock equipment such as the seat 18. Then, the user turns the main switch knob 31 to the on position P2 and holds the brake lever 29a on the right side of the handlebar 12 to press the start switch 29, thereby enabling the intelligent control unit 300 to output an engine start permission signal, causing the engine 21 to start.

[0163] In this way, even when the user terminal device 100 is housed in the front storage section 60 after transitioning to a sleep state, i.e., even though the user terminal device 100 is in the vicinity of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 (within the authentication area) but the RSSI value is small, it is possible to prevent adverse situations such as failure to perform authentication processing.

[0164] When authentication processing based on the normal authentication mode is performed under conditions B5 and B6 as before, the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 cannot be verified because the RSSI value is lower than the set threshold. Therefore, the engine 21 cannot be started, and the user terminal device 100 cannot be removed because the seat 18 is locked. By enabling authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode, this problem can be solved.

[0165] <Flowchart>

[0166] Figure 9This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow (before engine start) performed by the intelligent control unit 300. Here, it is assumed that the user terminal device 100 establishes Bluetooth communication with the intelligent control unit 300 of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 by starting the vehicle using the smart key application 151.

[0167] The intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it has received an unlocking request from the connected user terminal device 100 (step S101). For example, if the user terminal device 100 displays a screen on the touch panel TP indicating whether the user has selected to unlock the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, and the user has selected to unlock, it sends information indicating that the user has selected to unlock to the intelligent control unit 300.

[0168] If no unlocking request is received, the process is repeated. If an unlocking request is received, the intelligent control unit 300 performs authentication processing based on the normal authentication mode (step S103). That is, if the RSSI value is above a threshold, the intelligent control unit 300 performs authentication processing based on the ID information received from the user terminal device 100.

[0169] If the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 cannot be confirmed in step S105 (authentication failure), the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether a predetermined time (N seconds) has elapsed since the start of the authentication process based on the normal authentication mode (step S107). If N seconds have elapsed, the system returns to step S103 and repeatedly performs the authentication process based on the normal authentication mode.

[0170] On the other hand, after N seconds, return to step S101.

[0171] On the other hand, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 can be confirmed in step S105 (authentication successful), the intelligent control unit 300 sets the main switch knob 31 to enable or valid operation, thus achieving the main switch unlocked state (step S109). Next, the intelligent control unit 300 begins supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S111). The intelligent control unit 300 may also send information indicating the start of power supply to the USB charger 400 to the user terminal device 100.

[0172] Then, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the main switch 30 is in the ON state (step S113). For example, when the main switch knob 31 is turned to the ON position P2, the main switch 30 is in the ON state, and the reference... Figure 10 The processing flow has changed as described. On the other hand, if the main switch knob 31 is not moved from the off position P1, the main switch 30 is in the off state, and the reference... Figure 11 The process flow has changed as described.

[0173] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow when the main switch 30 is in the ON state. The intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state based on information indicating the charging state received from the user terminal device 100 and information indicating the charging state output from the USB charger 400 (step S115). For example, information indicating whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is periodically sent to the intelligent control unit 300. The USB charger 400 outputs information indicating that charging has started via cable connection and that charging has ended to the intelligent control unit 300. When the intelligent control unit 300 receives, for example, information indicating that charging has started via cable connection, it determines that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state.

[0174] Not limited to this, the process of "determining whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state" in step S115 can be replaced with a process of determining whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state via the USB charger 400 (in a connected state). For example, if the intelligent control unit 300 receives information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is charging and also receives information indicating that the USB charger 400 is charging, it can determine that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state via the USB charger 400. Here, the intelligent control unit 300 can also compare the identification information of the user terminal device 100 received from the user terminal device 100 with the identification information of the device that the USB charger 400 is charging, and if they match, determine that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state via the USB charger 400. Not limited to this, the intelligent control unit 300 can also determine that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state via the USB charger 400 if the deviation between the charging start time received from the user terminal device 100 and the charging start time output from the USB charger 400 is within a predetermined time difference. It should be noted that the process of "determining whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state" in the following description can also be handled in the same way.

[0175] If, in step S115, information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received, the intelligent control unit 300 determines, based on the information received from the user terminal device 100, whether there is a response from the user regarding changing to the simplified authentication mode (step S117). For example, if no information indicating that "yes" or "no" was touched on the confirmation screen is received, the intelligent control unit 300 determines that there is no response from the user regarding changing to the simplified authentication mode.

[0176] For example, a situation where the user has not responded within the specified time in the confirmation screen is equivalent to this.

[0177] If no response from the user is received regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether an operation instructing the engine 21 to start has been received (step S119). If an operation instructing the engine 21 to start is received, the intelligent control unit 300 performs a notification process to the user (step S121). For example, the intelligent control unit 300 sends a message indicating that an engine start permission signal cannot be output because no response from the user regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode has been received, and displays this message on the user terminal device 100. In this notification process, a message urging the user to respond regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode may also be displayed on the user terminal device 100. Afterwards, the intelligent control unit 300 returns to step S115 and repeats the process.

[0178] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S117 that there is a response from the user regarding changing to the simplified authentication mode, it is determined whether the response is "selecting to change to the simplified authentication mode" (step S123). If the response is "selecting to change to the simplified authentication mode", the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it has received an operation instructing the engine 21 to start (step S125). If it has received an operation instructing the engine 21 to start, the intelligent control unit 300 performs authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode (step S127). It should be noted that while performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 also sets the authentication mode to change from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode.

[0179] If the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed in step S129 (authentication successful), the intelligent control unit 300 outputs an engine start permission signal to the ECU 40 to start the engine 21 (step S131). On the other hand, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is not confirmed in step S129 (authentication failed), or if no instruction to start the engine is received, the intelligent control unit 300 returns to step S115 and repeats the process.

[0180] Returning to step S115, if no information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received, or if the response in step S117 is not "select to change to simplified authentication mode", the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it has received an operation instructing the engine 21 to start (step S133). If an operation instructing the engine 21 to start is received, the intelligent control unit 300 performs authentication processing based on the normal authentication mode (step S135).

[0181] If the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed in step S137 (authentication successful), the intelligent control unit 300 outputs an engine start permission signal to the ECU 40 to start the engine 21 (step S131). On the other hand, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is not confirmed in step S137 (authentication failed), the intelligent control unit 300 returns to step S115 and repeats the process.

[0182] Thus, when the wired user terminal device 100 is being charged by the USB charger 400, it is presumed that the user is near the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. Therefore, when the engine 21 is instructed to start, the authentication process based on the normal authentication mode is not performed; instead, the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is verified by the authentication process based on the simplified authentication mode, thereby outputting an engine start permission signal. On the other hand, when the user terminal device 100 is not being charged, or when a device other than the user terminal device 100 (e.g., a portable battery) is wired and being charged by the USB charger 400, it is presumed that the user has left the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. Therefore, when the engine 21 is instructed to start, the authentication process is performed again, and then an engine start permission signal is output. In this way, by performing the authentication process again when the user terminal device 100 is not connected to the USB charger 400, it is possible to prevent someone other than the legitimate user from starting the engine 21.

[0183] In addition, when the user terminal device 100 is charging but not being charged by the USB charger 400, when the engine 21 is instructed to start, a notification process is also performed, but the engine start permission signal is not output.

[0184] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow when the main switch 30 is not in the ON state. The intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the waiting period for the main switch to be ON has reached A seconds (step S141). The starting point of the waiting period for the main switch to be ON is, for example, the moment when authentication is successful. If the waiting period for the main switch to be ON has not reached A seconds, the process returns to step S113 and repeats.

[0185] If the main switch is in the on-wait state for a period of A seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state based on the charging status information received from the user terminal device 100 (step S143). If information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether there is a response from the user regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode based on the information received from the user terminal device 100 (step S145).

[0186] If a user responds to a request to switch to the simplified authentication mode, it is determined whether the response is "selecting to switch to the simplified authentication mode" (step S147). If the response is not "selecting to switch to the simplified authentication mode," the intelligent control unit 300 stops supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S149), performs locking processing (step S151), restricts the output of the engine start permission signal (step S153), and terminates the process. The unlocking process controls the electromagnetic lock 70 to enable unlocking operations for equipment such as the handlebar locking mechanism 28, seat 18, fuel cap 24, and main switch knob 31.

[0187] In this way, even if the user terminal device 100 is charging but not being charged via a wired connection from the USB charger 400, it is presumed that the user has left the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11. Therefore, the locking process is performed based on the condition that the main switch has been on and waiting for A seconds. This ensures theft prevention.

[0188] If, in step S143, no information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received, or in step S145, no response from the user regarding a change to simplified authentication mode is received, the intelligent control unit 300 refers to... Figure 12 The explanation of the processing change.

[0189] On the other hand, if the response is determined to be "select to change to simplified authentication mode" in step S147, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the main switch on-wait state period has reached B seconds (step S155). If the main switch on-wait state period has reached B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 proceeds to step S149. On the other hand, if the main switch on-wait state period has not reached B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 returns to step S113.

[0190] Figure 12This is a flowchart of a process for handling situations where the main switch is in a waiting state for more than A seconds. If no information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received in step S143, or if no response from the user regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode is received in step S145, the intelligent control unit 300 performs a locking process (step S161), restricting the output of the engine start permission signal (step S163). It should be noted that in the locking process of step S161, the main switch knob 31 is locked, maintaining the main switch in an unlocked state.

[0191] Next, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the duration of the main switch on-wait state has reached B seconds (step S165). If the duration of the main switch on-wait state has reached B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 enters the main switch locked state, stops supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S167), and ends the process.

[0192] If, in step S165, it is determined that the waiting period for the main switch to be on has not reached B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state based on the charging status information received from the user terminal device 100 (step S169). If information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether there is a response from the user regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode based on the information received from the user terminal device 100 (step S171).

[0193] If a user responds to a request to switch to simplified authentication mode, the system determines whether the response is "selecting to switch to simplified authentication mode" (step S173). If the response is not "selecting to switch to simplified authentication mode", the intelligent control unit 300 moves to step S167, enters the main switch locked state, stops supplying power to the USB charger 400, and ends the process.

[0194] On the other hand, if the response is determined to be "select to change to simplified authentication mode" in step S173, the intelligent control unit 300 performs authentication processing based on simplified authentication mode (step S175). It should be noted that while performing authentication processing based on simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 changes the authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode. If the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is confirmed in step S177 (authentication successful), the intelligent control unit 300 sets the main switch knob 31 to an unlocked state (step S179) and proceeds to step S113. On the other hand, if the authenticity of the user terminal device 100 is not confirmed in step S129 (authentication failed), the intelligent control unit 300 does not enter the unlocked state and proceeds to step S113.

[0195] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow performed by the intelligent control unit 300 (after the main switch is turned off). Here, the user terminal device 100 establishes Bluetooth communication with the intelligent control unit 300 of the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11 by starting the smart key application 151. Furthermore, the state at the start of the processing can be either that the intelligent control unit 300 is in a main switch-on waiting state or that the engine is being started.

[0196] The intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the main switch 30 is in the off state (step S201). When the main switch 30 is in the off state, the intelligent control unit 300 outputs an engine stop permission signal (step S203), and determines whether the user terminal device 100 is in the charging state based on the charging status information received from the user terminal device 100 (step S205).

[0197] When the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether there is a response from the user regarding the change to the simplified authentication mode based on the information received from the user terminal device 100 (step S207).

[0198] In the absence of a response from the user regarding a change to the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the main switch on-wait state period has reached B seconds (step S209). The main switch on-wait state period here includes, in addition to the period described above, a period starting from the moment when the main switch 30 is turned off by an operation that instructs the engine 21 to stop after starting the engine 21 (e.g., an operation that places the main switch knob 31 in the off position P1).

[0199] If, in step S209, it is determined that the elapsed period of the main switch on-wait state has not reached B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 returns to step S205 to process the determination of the charging state of the user terminal device 100.

[0200] On the other hand, if the elapsed period of the main switch on waiting state reaches B seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 stops supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S211) and performs a locking process (step S213).

[0201] Returning to step S207, if there is a response from the user regarding changing to the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the response is "selecting to change to the simplified authentication mode" (step S215). If the response is "selecting to change to the simplified authentication mode", the intelligent control unit 300 moves to step S209 and determines whether the elapsed period of the main switch on waiting state has reached B seconds.

[0202] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S215 that the response is not "selecting to change to simplified authentication mode", the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the main switch on-wait state period has reached A seconds (step S217). The main switch on-wait state period here also includes the period starting from the moment when the main switch 30 is turned off by an operation that instructs the engine 21 to stop after starting the engine 21 (e.g., an operation that moves the main switch knob 31 to the off position P1). It should be noted that if no information indicating that the user terminal device 100 is in a charging state is received in step S205, the process also proceeds to step S217.

[0203] In step S217, if the elapsed period of the main switch on-wait state reaches A seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 stops supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S211), performs a locking process (step S213), and ends the process. On the other hand, if the elapsed period of the main switch on-wait state does not reach A seconds, the intelligent control unit 300 sends a signal to the reference... Figure 14 The explanation of the processing change.

[0204] Figure 14 It means in Figure 13 The flowchart shows the processing flow for the case where a negative determination is made in step S217. The intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the main switch knob 31 has been short-pressed (step S219). A short-press operation of the main switch knob 31 refers to an operation that does not involve pressing for several seconds like a long press, but rather an operation that pushes the main switch knob 31 in for a short time, indicating that the disconnection process of the main switch 30 should be ended immediately.

[0205] When the main switch knob 31 is briefly pressed, the intelligent control unit 300 stops supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S221), performs a locking process (step S223), and ends the process.

[0206] In step S219, if the main switch knob 31 is not briefly pressed, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether to continue Bluetooth communication with the user terminal device 100 (step S225). If Bluetooth communication with the user terminal device 100 is not continued, it is presumed that the user holding the user terminal device 100 has left the motorized two-wheeled vehicle 11, and therefore the intelligent control unit 300 moves to the processing of step S221.

[0207] On the other hand, in the determination of step S225, while continuing Bluetooth communication with the user terminal device 100, the intelligent control unit 300 performs a lock confirmation process (step S227). The lock confirmation process refers to the process of confirming with the user whether to immediately lock equipment such as the seat 18 (including the handlebar locking mechanism 28, fuel cap 24, etc.). In this case, the user can register in advance whether to lock the aforementioned equipment, or the user terminal device 100 can display a confirmation screen for the user to choose at this time.

[0208] Then, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether to immediately lock the equipment such as the seat 18 (step S229). If the equipment such as the seat 18 is locked immediately, the intelligent control unit 300 moves to the processing of step S221. On the other hand, if the equipment such as the seat 18 is not locked immediately, the intelligent control unit 300 returns to the processing of step S205.

[0209] Figure 15 This is a flowchart of one of the processing flows for performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode. In this processing flow, the intelligent control unit 300 determines when to display the confirmation screen for the change to the simplified authentication mode.

[0210] First, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met under the specified change timing (step S301). The change timing refers to the scenario in which the change to the simplified authentication mode is required, such as: (1) when the user terminal device 100 is in the main switch on waiting state and is wired connected to the USB charger 400 and is charging before the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state reaches A seconds; (2) when the user terminal device 100 is in the main switch on waiting state and is wired connected to the USB charger 400 and is charging after the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state reaches A seconds and before the elapsed time reaches B seconds; (3) after the main switch 30 becomes on and then becomes off, the user terminal device 100 is wired connected to the USB charger 400 and is charging before the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state reaches B seconds.

[0211] If the conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met, the intelligent control unit 300 instructs the user terminal device 100 to ask the user to select whether to allow the change to the simplified authentication mode (step S303).

[0212] Next, the user terminal device 100, following the instructions from the intelligent control unit 300, displays the aforementioned confirmation screen on the touch panel TP (step S305) and determines which selection the user made (step S307). If the user selected to change to the simplified authentication mode on the confirmation screen (i.e., touched "Yes"), the user terminal device 100 sends information indicating that the user selected to change to the simplified authentication mode to the intelligent control unit 300 (step S309).

[0213] On the other hand, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it has received information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode (step S311). If it receives information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 changes the information indicating the set authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode (step S313). That is, the intelligent control unit 300 stores the information indicating "simplified authentication mode has been set" as authentication mode setting information 351 in the storage unit 350.

[0214] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the second part of the processing flow for performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode. In the second part of the processing flow, the user terminal device 100 determines when to display the confirmation screen for the change to the simplified authentication mode.

[0215] First, the intelligent control unit 300 periodically sends status information to the user terminal device 100 (step S331). The status information includes, for example, "the terminal connected to the USB charger 400 via the USB port is the user terminal device 100", being in the main switch on waiting state, the main switch 30 being on, the main switch 30 being off, and the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state.

[0216] User terminal device 100 determines whether it has received status information from intelligent control unit 300 (step S333). If status information is received, user terminal device 100 updates storage unit 150 based on the received status information (step S335). Next, user terminal device 100 determines whether communication with intelligent control unit 300 has been cut off (step S337).

[0217] If communication with the intelligent control unit 300 is cut off, the storage unit 150 is consulted to determine whether the change conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode under the prescribed change timing are met (step S339). The change timing includes, for example, (2) the user terminal device 100 being in a main switch on waiting state and being in a charging state where the elapsed time of the main switch on waiting state has elapsed for A seconds and before elapsed for B seconds. It is not limited to this, and may also include the change timings (1) and (3) mentioned above.

[0218] If the conditions for changing to the simplified authentication mode are met under the specified change timing, the user terminal device 100 displays the aforementioned confirmation screen on the touch panel TP (step S341) and determines which selection was made by the user (step S343). In the confirmation screen, if the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode (i.e., touched "Yes"), the user terminal device 100 begins communication with the intelligent control unit 300 (step S345) and sends information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode to the intelligent control unit 300 (step S347).

[0219] On the other hand, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it has received information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode (step S349). If it receives information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 changes the information indicating the set authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode (step S351). That is, the intelligent control unit 300 saves the information indicating "simplified authentication mode has been set" as authentication mode setting information 351 in the storage unit 350.

[0220] Figure 17This is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow (third) for performing authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode. This processing flow (third) is another example of the processing flow (e.g., second) in which the user terminal device 100 determines the timing of displaying the confirmation screen for the change to the simplified authentication mode.

[0221] First, the intelligent control unit 300 periodically sends status information to the user terminal device 100 (step S361). Based on the status information received from the intelligent control unit 300, the user terminal device 100 determines whether to start supplying power to the USB charger 400 (step S363). If power supply to the USB charger 400 is started, the user terminal device 100 determines whether to connect to the USB charger 400 (step S365). For example, the user terminal device 100 displays an input screen for the user to input whether to connect to the USB charger 400. If the user selects to connect to the USB charger 400 via the input screen, the user terminal device 100 determines that it is connected to the USB charger 400. If connected to the USB charger 400, the user terminal device 100 determines whether it is in a charging state (step S367).

[0222] When the user terminal device 100 is charging, it displays the aforementioned confirmation screen on the touch panel TP according to the instruction from the intelligent control unit 300 (step S369), and determines which selection the user has made (step S371). If the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode on the confirmation screen (i.e., touched "Yes"), the user terminal device 100 sends information indicating this intention to the intelligent control unit 300 (step S373).

[0223] Next, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it has received information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode (step S375). If it receives information indicating that the user has selected to change to the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 determines whether it is immediately proceeding with the processing of becoming an object of the simplified authentication mode (step S377). It should be noted that, from the perspective of anti-theft, the processing of becoming an object of the simplified authentication mode is predetermined.

[0224] In the event that the object is to be processed in the simplified authentication mode, the intelligent control unit 300 performs authentication processing based on the simplified authentication mode (step S379). It should be noted that in step S379, the intelligent control unit 300 may also change the information indicating the set authentication mode from the normal authentication mode to the simplified authentication mode.

[0225] According to the above embodiment, the system includes: an antenna mounted on a vehicle that communicates with a user terminal device located within a communication area surrounding the vehicle; a processing unit that performs authentication processing when an authentication execution condition is met, such that the radio wave strength of the signal communicating with the user terminal device via the antenna is above a threshold; and an acquisition unit that acquires information indicating the state of the user terminal device relative to the vehicle. The processing unit performs the authentication processing regardless of whether the authentication execution condition is met, if it determines that a change condition is met based on the information acquired by the acquisition unit. This prevents the undesirable situation where authentication processing based on the vehicle-mounted device is not performed.

[0226] The present invention has been described above using embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to such embodiments in any way, and various modifications and substitutions can be applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0227] It should be noted that this invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, this system is not limited to motorized two-wheeled vehicles, but can be widely applied to straddle-type vehicles. The straddle-type vehicles include all vehicles where the driver straddles the vehicle, including not only motorized two-wheeled vehicles (including bicycles and small motorcycles with a prime mover), but also three-wheeled (including vehicles with one front wheel and two rear wheels, as well as vehicles with two front wheels and one rear wheel) or four-wheeled vehicles. Furthermore, it also includes vehicles where the prime mover includes an electric motor. Additionally, it can be applied to motor vehicles with a passenger compartment. Furthermore, besides vehicles, it can also be applied to various devices requiring communication. For example, it can be applied to storage boxes, bags, and other devices with communication functions.

[0228] It should be noted that the intelligent control unit 300 can also change the authentication mode from simplified authentication mode to normal authentication mode when it detects that the connection between the user terminal device 100 and the USB charger 400 has been disconnected, when it detects that the charging of the user terminal device 100 has ended, or when the user terminal device 100 selects not to change to simplified authentication mode in the confirmation screen. It should also be noted that this is not a limitation; the change to simplified authentication mode can also be limited to one time. For example, after performing a change to simplified authentication mode, the mode change can be disregarded, and instead, the change conditions can be checked each time. If the change conditions are met again, simplified authentication mode can be executed.

Claims

1. A straddle-type vehicle equipped with an onboard communication system, said onboard communication system comprising: The antenna is mounted on the vehicle and communicates with user terminal devices located in the communication area surrounding the vehicle. The processing unit performs authentication processing when the authentication execution condition is met, such that the user terminal device exists in the authentication region when it has communicated with the user terminal device via the antenna; and The acquisition unit acquires information indicating the state of the user terminal device relative to the vehicle. If the processing unit determines that the change conditions are met based on the information obtained by the acquisition unit, it performs the authentication process regardless of whether the authentication execution conditions are met. The vehicle is equipped with an under-seat storage section that can be opened and closed via the seat. The acquisition unit acquires information indicating that the user terminal device is housed in the under-seat storage compartment. The change condition is when the user terminal device is housed in the storage compartment under the seat.

2. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The acquisition unit acquires information indicating the connection status between the charger mounted on the vehicle and the user terminal device. The change condition is when the user terminal device and the charger are connected in a wired or wireless manner.

3. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The space where the user terminal device is connected to the charger is a space capable of accommodating the user terminal device.

4. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 3, wherein, The space where the user terminal device is connected to the charger is an enclosed space that can be opened and closed.

5. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, The change condition is when the user terminal device is connected to the wired or wireless connection terminal located in the storage section under the seat.

6. The straddle-type vehicle according to claim 1 or 5, wherein, The processing unit executes the authentication process when the user of the user terminal device selects to execute the authentication process regardless of whether the authentication execution conditions are met, provided that the change conditions are met.

7. A storage medium storing a program that causes a control device of a vehicle equipped with an antenna to perform the following processing: Communicate with user terminal devices located within the communication area surrounding the vehicle; Authentication processing is performed if the authentication condition that the user terminal device exists in the authentication region when it has communicated with the user terminal device is met. Acquire information indicating the state of the user terminal device relative to the vehicle; as well as If, based on the obtained information, it is determined that the change conditions are met, the authentication process is executed regardless of whether the authentication execution conditions are actually met. The vehicle is equipped with an under-seat storage section that can be opened and closed via the seat. During the acquisition, information indicating that the user terminal device is housed in the under-seat storage compartment is acquired. The change condition is when the user terminal device is housed in the storage compartment under the seat.

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