Vehicle and method of controlling the same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vehicle and a control method thereof. According to an embodiment, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle comprising one or more processors and a memory configured to store one or more programs for execution by the one or more processors, wherein the processors comprise a first processing unit configured to determine a first position of a fob key at a first time point upon receiving a control instruction of the fob key, and to determine a second position of the fob key after a third time point that elapses a preset time from a second time point that ends the receiving of the control instruction when the first position is located in a reference area, and a second processing unit configured to control the vehicle to operate in a welcome mode when the second position is located in the reference area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The implementation plan involves a vehicle and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] The smart key system is in use when the driver holds the smart key in the vehicle and takes necessary actions. This system detects the driver's actions through the vehicle's built-in system to control the vehicle's operation. Here, the smart key is often referred to as the "FOB key," or simply the FOB key.

[0003] The smart key system includes a remote keyless entry (RKE) system and a passive keyless entry (PKE) system. The remote keyless entry system allows the doors to be opened and closed wirelessly without a key. The passive keyless entry system allows the driver or owner to wirelessly open (unlock) the doors, close (lock) the doors, and start the engine when near the vehicle.

[0004] The smart key system for vehicles consists of multiple low-frequency (LF) antennas, radio-frequency (RF) antennas, and an electronic control unit (ECU). The multiple low-frequency antennas are used to cover the interior area of ​​the vehicle and the exterior area near the vehicle as a communication available area, and the radio-frequency antennas are used to receive RF signals from the FOB key.

[0005] On the other hand, recent vehicle smart key systems offer drivers a welcome light function and a smart tailgate function. Here, the welcome light function and smart tailgate function are functions that automatically open the door handles (LEDs) and open the tailgate when a driver with the vehicle's registered FOB key approaches the vehicle's doors or tailgate (luggage).

[0006] A welcome function is required when the smart key approaches the vehicle. However, if an error occurs during the determination of the smart key's location or if there is a system malfunction, the welcome function may be activated regardless of the driver's intention. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This invention aims to provide a vehicle and its control method that can prevent the vehicle's welcome function from malfunctioning.

[0008] Furthermore, this invention aims to provide a vehicle and its control method that can prevent the welcome function from being operated unexpectedly by the driver.

[0009] According to an implementation scheme, a vehicle is provided, the vehicle including one or more processors and a memory, the memory being configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, wherein the processor includes a first processing unit and a second processing unit, the first processing unit being configured to determine a first position of the FOB key at a first point in time upon receiving a control command from the FOB key, and to determine the position of the FOB key within a preset time period from the end of receiving the control command; the second processing unit is configured to restrict the operation of the welcome mode when both the first position of the FOB key and the position of the FOB key determined within the preset time period are within a reference area relative to the vehicle.

[0010] When the first position is in the reference area, the first processing unit determines the second position of the FOB key after a preset time elapsed from the second time point after the end of the reception of the control command. The second processing unit is configured to control the vehicle to operate in welcome mode when the second position is in the reference area.

[0011] The first processing unit can periodically determine the second position of the FOB key using the received radio frequency (RF) response signal after the third time point.

[0012] When the second position moves from outside the reference area to inside the reference area, the second processing unit can control the vehicle to operate in a welcoming mode.

[0013] When the first position is outside the reference area, the first processing unit can determine the third position of the FOB key.

[0014] When the third position is located in the reference area, the second processing unit can control the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

[0015] The first time point can be the time point at which the FOB key control command begins to be received when the vehicle doors are locked.

[0016] It can continuously receive control commands within a predetermined time period.

[0017] Control commands may include commands to close the vehicle's windows.

[0018] When an RF response signal is received from the FOB key within a preset critical time starting from the second time point, the second processing unit can control the vehicle to not operate in welcome mode.

[0019] The vehicle can provide at least one of the following functions in welcome mode: automatic rearview mirror control, automatic door handle lighting control, automatic welcome light control, automatic interior lighting control, automatic vehicle seat position control, automatic mirror position control, and automatic air conditioning control.

[0020] According to an implementation scheme, a method executed by a computing device is provided, the computing device including one or more processors and a memory configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, the method comprising: determining a first position of the FOB key by the processor at a first point in time upon receiving a control command for the FOB key; determining a position of the FOB key by the processor within a preset time period from the end of receiving the control command; and restricting the operation of a welcome mode by the processor when both the first position of the FOB key determined upon receiving the control command and the position of the FOB key determined within the preset time period are within a reference area relative to the vehicle.

[0021] The method further includes: when the first position is in the reference area, the processor determines the second position of the FOB key after a preset time elapsed from the second time point from the time point of receiving the end control command; when the second position is in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

[0022] Determining the second position of the FOB key may include: after a third time point, the processor periodically determines the second position of the FOB key using a radio frequency (RF) response signal.

[0023] Controlling the vehicle to operate in welcome mode may include: the processor determining whether the second position is outside the reference area, the processor determining whether the second position has entered the interior of the reference area from outside the reference area, and the processor controlling the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

[0024] The method may further include: after determining the first position, when the first position is outside the reference area, the processor periodically determines the third position of the FOB key starting from the second time point.

[0025] Controlling the vehicle to operate in welcome mode may further include: when the third position is located in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

[0026] The first time point can be the time point at which the FOB key control command begins to be received when the vehicle doors are locked.

[0027] The method may further include: when an RF response signal is received from the FOB key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point, the processor controls the vehicle not to operate in welcome mode.

[0028] Controlling the vehicle to operate in welcome mode may include: the processor controlling the vehicle to provide at least one of the following functions: automatic rearview mirror control, automatic door handle lighting control, automatic welcome light control, automatic interior lighting control, automatic vehicle seat position control, automatic mirror position control, and automatic air conditioning control. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0030] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the vehicle according to the implementation plan;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the vehicle according to the implementation scheme;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a user terminal according to the implementation scheme;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the FOB key according to the implementation scheme;

[0034] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the operation of the vehicle according to the implementation plan;

[0035] Figure 6 and Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the operation of the processor according to the implementation scheme; and

[0036] Figure 8 and Figure 9 It is a flowchart of the vehicle control method according to the implementation plan. Detailed Implementation

[0037] In the following, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] However, the technical spirit of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but can be implemented in various different forms, and one or more components in the embodiments can be used by selective coupling or substitution without departing from the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0039] Furthermore, unless explicitly defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having meanings that would be commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains, and the meanings of commonly used terms (such as terms defined in dictionaries) may be interpreted based on the contextual meaning of the relevant art.

[0040] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of the present invention is for describing the embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0041] In the specification, unless otherwise stated in the phrase, the singular form may include the plural form, and when described as “at least one (or one or more) of A, B and C”, it may include one or more of all possible combinations of A, B and C.

[0042] Furthermore, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) can be used to describe components of embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and the nature, order, sequence, etc. of the corresponding components are not limited by these terms.

[0044] Furthermore, when the first component is described as "connected", "joined", or "attached" to the second component, it can include not only cases where the first component is directly connected, joined, or attached to the second component, but also cases where the first component is "connected", "joined", or "attached" to the second component through other components existing between the first component and the second component.

[0045] Furthermore, when the first component is described as being formed or disposed "above" or "below" the second component, "above" or "below" can include not only the case where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also the case where one or more third components are formed or disposed between the two components. Additionally, when described as "above" or "below," it can include not only the meaning based on being above a component, but also the meaning based on being below a component.

[0046] In the following description, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or corresponding components will be indicated by the same reference numerals regardless of the reference numerals used, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0047] For the purposes of this application and claims, the exemplary phrases “at least one of A; B; or C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” are used, which means “at least one A, or at least one B, or at least one C, or any combination of at least one A, at least one B, and at least one C.” Furthermore, exemplary phrases such as “A, B, and C,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” etc., as used herein, may refer to each of the enumerated items or all possible combinations of the enumerated items. For example, “at least one of A or B” may mean (1) at least one A; (2) at least one B; or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0048] Throughout this invention, references to components, units, or modules generally refer to items that can be logically combined to perform a function or a set of related functions. The same reference numerals are generally intended to refer to the same or similar components. Components, units, and modules can be implemented in software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The components, units, modules, and / or functions described above can be implemented and / or performed by one or more processors. For example, components, units, and / or modules may include processors, microprocessors, graphics processing units, logic circuits, application-specific circuits (ASICs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable array logic, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, and / or other suitable hardware. Components, units, and / or modules may also include, for example, software control modules implemented using processors or logic circuits. Components, units, and / or modules may include memory or otherwise accessible memory, such as one or more non-volatile computer-readable storage media, such as random access memory, read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, flash memory / other memory devices, data registers, databases, and / or other suitable hardware. One or more storage media may include any or all tangible memory or associated modules (such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, etc.) of a computer, processor, etc., capable of providing non-volatile memory for software programming at any time.

[0049] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram used to describe the vehicle according to the implementation plan. Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the vehicle according to the implementation scheme. (Reference) Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to the implementation scheme, vehicle 1 may include: an audio video navigation and telematics (AVNT) 100, a processor 200, a communication device 300, and a memory 400.

[0050] Vehicle 1 may include AVNT 100, which is located on the central panel and controls audio devices, air conditioning, Bluetooth devices, seat heaters, etc.

[0051] An input device for receiving user input may be provided on the central panel or AVNT 100, and a display device for displaying operation information of at least one function performed in vehicle 1 may also be provided on the central panel or AVNT 100.

[0052] Input devices may include hardware devices such as various buttons or switches, pedals, keyboards, mice, trackballs, various joysticks, handles or sticks.

[0053] In addition, the input device may include a graphical user interface (GUI), i.e., a software device such as a touchpad. The touchpad may be implemented as a touch screen panel (TSP) that forms a layered structure with the display panel of the display device.

[0054] The display device can be used as a user interface. The processor enables the display device to show the vehicle's operating status, control status, route / traffic information, remaining energy information, driver requests, etc. Furthermore, the display device can be configured as a touchscreen that can detect driver input to receive requests from the driver instructing the processor.

[0055] The vehicle's interior may include a key slot into which a FOB or card-type remote control can be inserted. This key slot can be located on the dashboard or center panel, and positioned adjacent to the driver's seat.

[0056] When the remote control is inserted into the key slot or when the vehicle completes authentication with the remote control or terminal via a wireless communication network, vehicle 1 can send and receive information with the remote control or terminal.

[0057] The vehicle's interior may further include a start button that receives on / off commands. Therefore, after authentication with the remote control or terminal is complete, the vehicle starts when the user presses the start button.

[0058] The vehicle 1 may further include a communication device for sending and receiving information with at least one electronic device and user terminal 20 disposed in the vehicle.

[0059] The communication device 300 may include one or more components that enable communication between vehicle components, and may include, for example, at least one of a short-range communication module, a wired communication module, and a wireless communication module.

[0060] In addition, the communication device 300 may include at least one wired communication module and one wireless communication module for communicating with the user terminal 20 and the server 30.

[0061] For example, a short-range communication module may include various short-range communication modules for sending and receiving signals over short distances using wireless communication networks, such as Bluetooth modules, infrared communication modules, radio frequency (RF) identification communication modules, wireless local area network (WLAN) communication modules, near-field communication (NFC) communication modules, or Zigbee communication modules.

[0062] For example, wired communication modules can include not only various wired communication modules, but also various cable communication modules. Wired communication modules include Controller Area Network (CAN) communication modules, Local Area Network (LAN) modules, Wide Area Network (WAN) modules, and Value Added Network (VAN) modules. Cable communication modules include Universal Serial Bus (USB), High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), Digital Visual Interface (DVI), Recommended Standard 232 (RS-232), Power Line Communication, and Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS).

[0063] For example, Controller Area Network (CAN) can include communication protocols designed for real-time data exchange between microcontrollers and devices within vehicle and industrial systems. CAN enables multiple electronic control units to communicate with each other without a host, making it suitable for applications where reliable and high-speed communication is critical.

[0064] For example, a Value Added Network (VAN) can include a dedicated network that provides businesses with a secure and reliable communication channel for exchanging data and documents. VANs can provide services (e.g., data encryption, format conversion, message routing, or tracking) to ensure that business documents (e.g., invoices, purchase orders, or shipping notices) can be transmitted efficiently and / or securely between trading partners.

[0065] The wired communication module may further include a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) communication module. For example, the LIN may include a low-cost serial communication protocol that can be used in vehicle systems to connect electronic components (e.g., sensors, actuators, or control units). For example, for simplicity and / or cost-effectiveness, LIN can manage functions that do not require high-speed data transmission (e.g., window control, seat adjustment, lighting, or climate control). LIN can operate in a single-master multiple-slave architecture, where one master node can coordinate communication with multiple slave nodes.

[0066] In addition to Wi-Fi and Wireless Broadband (WiBro) modules, wireless communication modules may also include wireless communication modules that support various wireless communication methods, such as Global System for Mobile communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), and Long Term Evolution (LTE).

[0067] User terminal 20 communicates with vehicle 1. User terminal 20 receives at least one of the following commands as user input: door lock and unlock command, tailgate lock and unlock command, headlight illumination command, and start command. User terminal 20 also sends information corresponding to the received commands to vehicle. User terminal 20 can also send information corresponding to the received commands as communication signals to vehicle.

[0068] User terminal 20 can be implemented as a computer or portable terminal that can be connected to the vehicle via network communication.

[0069] Here, for example, a computer may include a laptop, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet PC, board PC, etc. equipped with a web browser, and a portable terminal is a wireless communication device that ensures portability and mobility, and may include, for example, any type of handheld-based wireless communication device (such as a Personal Communication System (PCS), GSM, Personal Digital Cellular (PDC), Personal Handyphone System (PHS), Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), International Mobile Telecommunication (IMT)-2000, CDMA-2000, WCDMA, and Wireless Broadband Internet (WiBro) terminal) and smartphone, as well as wearable devices (such as watches, rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, glasses, contact lenses, or head-mounted devices (HMD)).

[0070] In the implementation scheme, user terminal 20 can communicate with the vehicle via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication. User terminal 20 can perform communication based on the Bluetooth beacon standard (iBeacon).

[0071] AVNT 100 refers to an in-vehicle information and entertainment system, and can be a system integrating navigation, audio, video, and communication functions. AVNT 100 can output messages generated by processor 200 in a visual, auditory, or at least a combination thereof manner.

[0072] The AVNT 100, processor 200, and communication device 300 can be implemented as a single module, but in this implementation, they will be described separately for ease of description.

[0073] The AVNT 100 can be a component used to provide a hardware interface for integration into a vehicle system. The AVNT 100 can perform system control over screens, buttons, and various integrated information and entertainment functions.

[0074] The AVNT 100 can be installed in the center of the vehicle's dashboard or on the console to provide a vehicle information and entertainment interface. The information and entertainment system can include an AM / FM radio, satellite radio, DVD / CD, cassette tape, USB MP3 player, dashcam, GPS navigation, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc., and also provides status information for the vehicle systems. Furthermore, the AVNT 100 can perform functions such as voice control and motion recognition.

[0075] Processor 200 can control the vehicle body, such as the vehicle itself, doors, and windows, or a key (digital key, smartphone key, and FOB). The processor can execute body control functions (e.g., Body Control Module (BCM)), Smart Key (SMK) entry / start functions, tire pressure monitoring functions (e.g., Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)), immobilizer (IMMO) functions, digital key authentication (e.g., Identity Authentication Unit (IAU)), and automatic parking-related control functions (e.g., Parking Distance Warning (PDW)). For example, processor 200 can be a Body Domain Controller (BDC), but is not limited to this, and processor 200 can be used to include a platform controller that provides electronic convenience functions to the body domain area.

[0076] The communication device 300 can use Bluetooth signals to perform pairing between the user terminal 20 and the vehicle 1.

[0077] The communication device 300 may include a transceiver and perform short-range communication with the user terminal 20. The transceiver is used to send and receive information using an antenna, communication circuitry, a communication processor, etc. According to embodiments, the communication device 300 may perform Bluetooth communication, NFC communication, or UWB communication. The communication device 300 may be positioned near the door handle of the vehicle 1 to request authentication information when it is determined that the user terminal is approaching within a predetermined distance.

[0078] In the Bluetooth standard, Bluetooth 1.0 specifies a data transmission rate of 1 Mbps and a transmission distance range of 10m to 100m. Because Bluetooth 1.0 utilizes a high radio frequency of 2.4 GHz, it can communicate even in the presence of obstacles.

[0079] When a user terminal, including a FOB key or a digital key, approaches the exterior of vehicle 1, the communication device 300 according to the implementation scheme can measure the position of the user terminal under the control of the processor 200, unlock the door based on the positioning result, and control the remote start of vehicle 1 to be performed.

[0080] The communication device 300 may include multiple positioning modules 310 to 340. Positioning modules 310 to 340 may be short-range wireless communication modules, and each wireless communication module can measure the strength of a wireless signal received from a user terminal. One of the multiple wireless communication modules installed on vehicle 1 may be designated as the master module. The master module can collect the strength of the wireless signal measured by another wireless communication module and send that strength to a processor.

[0081] For example, positioning modules 310 to 340 can be composed of Bluetooth modules, Bluetooth Low Energy modules, Wi-Fi modules, etc. Positioning modules 310 to 340 may include an FRT antenna, an RR antenna, an LH antenna, and an RH antenna. The FRT antenna is located at the front of the vehicle and mounted on the AVNT, the RR antenna is located at the rear of the vehicle and mounted on the shark fin antenna, the LH antenna is mounted on the left rearview mirror, and the RH antenna is mounted on the right rearview mirror. The wireless signal strength of the user terminal 20 can be independently measured and transmitted to the main module.

[0082] In addition, the communication device may include multiple LF antennas 350 to 370. Each LF antenna 350 to 370 is positioned within a frequently accessed area of ​​the vehicle interior (e.g., driver's seat, passenger door, and trunk) and transmits a low-frequency signal to detect the FOB key. The LF signal can communicate with the FOB key within a range of approximately 1 to 2 meters to detect the FOB key located within this range. The LF antennas can utilize a low-frequency band of 125 kHz or 134.2 kHz to detect the FOB key.

[0083] The FOB key that receives a low-frequency signal from the LF antenna at 350 to 370 can send an RF signal to the processor in response to the low-frequency signal.

[0084] Processor 200 can perform overall control of vehicle 1. Processor 200 can be configured to execute applications and instructions stored in memory 400.

[0085] In the implementation scheme, the communication system 200 may include a first processing unit 210 and a second processing unit 220.

[0086] The processor 200 may be the main CPU for the overall control of the vehicle 1. In one embodiment, the processor 200 may perform pairing operations by running a Bluetooth application to facilitate communication between the Bluetooth application and the communication device.

[0087] The processor 200 can determine the relative position of the user terminal 20 with respect to the vehicle 1. In an embodiment, the relative position may include the distance between the vehicle 1 and the user terminal 20, as well as the orientation of the user terminal 20 or the FOB key 30 relative to the vehicle 1.

[0088] For example, the processor 200 can use at least one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Bluetooth Low Energy methods to determine the relative position.

[0089] The processor 200 can compare the positioning results and positioning modes, and determine the relative position of the user terminal 20.

[0090] For example, processor 200 can use the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) method (which measures the strength of the Wi-Fi signal to estimate the distance) to determine the relative position between the vehicle and the user terminal.

[0091] Alternatively, the processor 200 can use the RSSI method, which measures the strength of the Bluetooth signal to estimate the distance, to determine the relative position between the vehicle and the user terminal.

[0092] Alternatively, the processor 200 can measure the strength of the RF signal in order to determine the relative position between the vehicle and the FOB key using the triangulation method.

[0093] The memory 400 can store applications and various data used to control the vehicle 1, and can load applications or read or write data according to the request of the processor 200.

[0094] The memory 400 may store at least one algorithm that performs calculations or implementations of various instructions for operating the processor 200 according to the embodiment. The memory 400 may include at least one storage medium such as flash memory, hard disk, memory card, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), programmable ROM (PROM), magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk.

[0095] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a user terminal according to the implementation scheme.

[0096] refer to Figure 3The user terminal 20 may include a communication unit 21, an output unit 22, a storage unit 23, and a control unit 24.

[0097] User terminal 20 may include a user-portable smartphone, smart tablet, laptop, etc. User terminal 20 may store a digital key that generates authentication information for controlling functions such as locking and unlocking vehicle doors, remote start, emergency alarms, and trunk opening.

[0098] The communication unit 21 may include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving information using an antenna, communication circuitry, a communication processor, etc., and the communication unit 21 can perform short-range communication with the vehicle. According to the embodiment, the communication unit 21 can perform NFC communication or UWB communication.

[0099] The output unit 22 can output information stored in the user terminal 20 in a visual, auditory, or a combination thereof manner. According to embodiments, the output unit 22 can be implemented as a display device employing a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) panel, a plasma display panel (PDP), or the like. The LCD may include a thin-film transistor LCD (TFT-LCD). The output unit 22 can be integrally formed with a touch screen panel (TSP) and an input unit (not shown).

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the storage unit 23 may store at least one algorithm that performs calculations or implementations of various instructions for operating the user terminal 20. The storage unit 23 may include at least one storage medium such as flash memory, hard disk, memory card, ROM, RAM, EEPROM, PROM, magnetic storage, magnetic disk, and optical disk. The storage unit 23 may store driver information for multiple vehicles.

[0101] According to the implementation scheme, the control unit 24 can be implemented by various processing devices (such as a microprocessor, which has a semiconductor chip capable of executing various instructions embedded therein) and can control the operation of the user terminal 20. The control unit 24 can be electrically connected to the communication unit 21, the output unit 22, and the storage unit 23 via wired cables or various circuits to send electrical signals including control commands, and can send and receive electrical signals including control commands via various wireless communication networks such as CAN.

[0102] In the implementation scheme, user terminal 20 can operate as a digital key. In the following text, digital key and user terminal can be used as terms referring to the same components.

[0103] The digital key 20 can, as needed, open and close the doors of the vehicle 1, start or stop the vehicle 1, and perform various functions included in the vehicle 1. The digital key 20 can be one or more devices capable of utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication and NFC.

[0104] A digital key 20 can be operated by being connected to a specific vehicle 1, and multiple digital keys 20 can be connected to a vehicle 1, or a digital key 20 can be connected to multiple vehicles 1, as needed. Furthermore, multiple digital keys 20 can be connected to multiple vehicles 1.

[0105] Furthermore, the digital key 20 can be installed and operated in a device such as a smartphone, and there may be multiple digital keys 20 installed in one smartphone. Although the embodiments describe an example of installing and operating the digital key 20 in a smartphone, the invention is not limited thereto, and the digital key 20 can also be installed in devices other than smartphones as needed.

[0106] The digital key 20 can control the vehicle 1, and for this purpose, the digital key 20 can communicate with the vehicle 1 via Bluetooth Low Energy communication, UWB communication, wireless Internet network communication or mobile communication network communication.

[0107] The digital key 20 can be operated by the user to perform various functions for controlling the vehicle 1, and the digital key 20 can be operated to set one or more wireless anchor points.

[0108] Digital key 20 can search for nearby wireless anchors and register the found wireless anchors. That is, digital key 20 can use various communication methods to search for wireless anchors that can be connected wirelessly. For example, when two wireless anchors are near digital key 20, and one wireless anchor can communicate via Bluetooth Low Energy while the other wireless anchor can communicate via a wireless internet network, digital key 20 can communicatively connect to one of the two wireless anchors or communicatively connect to both wireless anchors.

[0109] In the implementation scheme, the wireless anchor point can be the same component as the positioning module.

[0110] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the FOB key according to the implementation scheme. (Reference) Figure 4The FOB key 30 may include a housing 31 made of plastic material, and a printed circuit board (PCB) 32 may be disposed within the housing. Various buttons for controlling the doors may be disposed outside the housing 31. For example, the door open button 37a, door lock button 37b, trunk open button 37c, and hold button 37d may be disposed outside the housing 31. Each button may be electrically connected to the PCB 32 within the housing.

[0111] Furthermore, the light source 33 for outputting visual signals can be disposed outside the housing 31. The light source 33 can be electrically connected to the PCB 32 inside the housing 31. The housing area surrounding the light source 33 can be made of a transparent material, so that the light signals output from the light source 33 can be identified from the outside.

[0112] PCB 32 may include a signal processing module 34 for converting signals input from buttons into electrical signals and a communication module 35 for transmitting the converted electrical signals to the vehicle. The communication module 35 may include an LF module and an RF module.

[0113] In addition, the speaker 36 for outputting auditory signals can be built into the housing 31 and electrically connected to the PCB 32.

[0114] The light source 33 and the speaker 36 can operate under the control of the signal processing module 34.

[0115] In this implementation, the FOB key 30 can operate as a smart key. The processor 200 can utilize multiple electrically connected LF antennas to transmit multiple LF signals. For example, the processor 200 can transmit multiple LF signals through the multiple LF antennas in each specified cycle to detect the FOB key 30.

[0116] In the implementation scheme, the LF signal utilizes a frequency of 125 kHz, and the radio transmission range can be within approximately 5 meters.

[0117] In the implementation, the RF signal utilizes a frequency of 315MHz or 433MHz, and the radio transmission range can be within approximately 30m.

[0118] Therefore, since the LF signal only reaches a short distance, the LF signal can be used to detect whether the fob key 30 is located in a specific area of ​​the vehicle 1.

[0119] When the FOB key 30 receives the LF signal from vehicle 1, the FOB key 30 can send an RF signal in response to the LF signal. The RF signal may include the unique ID of the FOB key 30 and other authentication information. The FOB key 30 may include information measuring the strength of the received LF signal in the RF signal.

[0120] Vehicle 1 can receive RF signals from the fob key 30 via RF receiving antennas installed at multiple locations. Processor 200 can analyze the received RF signal strength (RSSI) to determine the location of the fob key 30. For example, processor 200 can compare the strengths of RF signals received from multiple RF receiving antennas and perform triangulation to determine the location of the fob key 30. Processor 200 can combine the RF signal strength and the range of the LF signal to calculate the location of the fob key 30. For example, when a strong LF signal is received near a specific door handle, processor 200 can determine that the fob key 30 is near the corresponding door.

[0121] Vehicle 1 can perform any operation based on the location of the FOB key 30. For example, when the FOB key 30 is near the driver's seat door, the door can be unlocked, and when the FOB key 30 is near the trunk, the trunk can be opened. Inside the vehicle, the engine start button can be activated by checking whether the FOB key 30 is located in the driver's seat.

[0122] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the vehicle according to the implementation scheme. Please refer to it as well. Figure 5 Vehicle 1 can send an LF signal to the FOB key 30 approaching the detection area, receive an RF response signal in response to the LF signal, and determine the position of the FOB key 30. When the FOB key 30 enters the welcoming area, vehicle 1 can operate in welcoming mode to provide various functions.

[0123] For example, vehicle 1 may provide at least one of the following functions in welcome mode: automatic rearview mirror control, automatic door handle lighting control, automatic welcome light control, automatic interior lighting control, automatic vehicle seat position control, automatic mirror position control, and automatic air conditioning control.

[0124] In the implementation scheme, the welcome function can be any function that identifies the location of the FOB key 30 approaching the vehicle 1 to increase driver convenience and enable the driver to approach the vehicle 1 more easily.

[0125] For example, when the FOB key 30 approaches vehicle 1, vehicle 1 can automatically unfold the rearview mirrors. Furthermore, convenient functions can be provided to turn on the lights near the door handles, making it easier for the driver to approach vehicle 1 even in dark environments. Additionally, the headlights and taillights can be automatically activated. Furthermore, the interior lights of vehicle 1 can be automatically activated.

[0126] Figure 6 and Figure 7This is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the processor according to the implementation scheme. See also: Figure 6 The first processing unit 210 can determine the first position of the FOB key 30 at the first point in time upon receiving the control command from the FOB key 30. In this embodiment, the control command may include various commands output from the FOB key 30. For example, the control command may include a door opening command, a door closing command, a trunk opening command, a window closing command, etc. Furthermore, the control command may be a command received continuously within a predetermined time period. For example, the control command may be a command sent to the vehicle within a predetermined time period by pressing a button on the FOB key 30 within that predetermined time period, such as a window closing command. In the following embodiment, the case where the control command is a window closing command of the vehicle will be described as an example.

[0127] The first point in time can be the time when the vehicle's window closing command is first received via the communication device.

[0128] When a vehicle window closing command is received, the first processing unit 210 can determine the first position of the fob key 30 using the RF signal received from the fob key 30 at the first receiving time point or the time point closest to the first receiving time point.

[0129] When the first position is within the reference area, the first processing unit 210 can determine the second position of the FOB key 30 after a preset time has elapsed from the second time point from the receipt of the end control command. In an embodiment, the reference area may be a defined range providing the vehicle welcome function, and is set to a radius of approximately 2m from the center of the vehicle.

[0130] The second time point could be the time when the reception of the window closing command ends.

[0131] Please refer to the above. Figure 7 When using the FOB key 30 to close the car window, the driver needs to hold the door closing button on the FOB key 30 pressed for a predetermined time. For example, if the driver wants to close the car window completely when it is fully open, the driver needs to press the door closing button on the FOB key 30 for about 9 seconds or longer.

[0132] In this way, between the first and second time points when the door closing button of the fob key 30 is pressed, the control command of the fob key 30 is sent as an RF signal to the vehicle communication device. Furthermore, when the control command is output from the fob key 30, an RF response signal to the LF signal of the LF antenna cannot be output. Therefore, between the first and second time points, it is impossible to determine the relative position of the fob key 30 using the RF response signal to the LF signal.

[0133] Therefore, the first processing unit 210 can determine the time point at which the same control command output from the fob key 30 ends (i.e., the time point at which the reception of the window closing command ends) as the second time point.

[0134] The first processing unit 210 can receive the RF response signal of the fob key 30 after the second time point when the reception of the control command of the fob key 30 ends, and determine the position of the fob key 30.

[0135] In the implementation scheme, when the first position is located in the reference area, the first processing unit 210 can determine the second position of the FOB key 30 after a preset time interval from the second time point after the end of receiving the control command. That is, when the position of the FOB key 30 determined at the time point when the control command of the FOB key 30 is first received is located in the reference area, the first processing unit 210 can receive RF response signals at predetermined time intervals starting from the third time point after the end of receiving the control command, and periodically determine the position of the FOB key 30. In the implementation scheme, considering the time taken for the FOB key 30 to return to the welcoming area after leaving the welcoming area, the third time point can be a critical time when the welcoming function can be resumed to the driver. For example, the third time point can be a time point after a few seconds or tens of seconds from the second time point.

[0136] Alternatively, when the first position is outside the reference area, the first processing unit 210 can determine the third position of the FOB key 30 at the second time point at which the reception of the control command ends. When the position of the FOB key 30 determined at the time point when the control command of the FOB key 30 is first received is outside the reference area, the first processing unit 210 can receive RF response signals at predetermined time intervals from the time point at which the reception of the control command ends, and periodically determine the position of the FOB key 30. That is, when the FOB key 30 is located outside the reference area where the welcome function can be provided at the time point when the control command of the FOB key 30 is first received, the first processing unit 210 can determine the position of the FOB key 30 from the time point at which the control command ends to determine whether to provide the welcome function.

[0137] When the second position is within the reference area, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle to operate in welcome mode. When it is determined that the FOB key 30 is within the reference area after a preset time has elapsed since the control command was received, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle to provide the welcome function. That is, the driver using the FOB key 30 to control the vehicle in the welcome area waits for a predetermined time. Within this predetermined time, the driver can leave the welcome area after completing the control operation and then determine whether to return to welcome mode, thereby preventing unintended operation of the welcome function.

[0138] Alternatively, when the second position moves from outside the reference area to inside the reference area, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle to operate in a welcome mode. As described above, the first processing unit 210 can periodically determine the position of the FOB key 30 after the third time point and send the position determination result to the second processing unit 220. When the position of the FOB key 30 leaves the reference area and then re-enters the reference area after the third time point, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle to provide the welcome function. That is, by operating the welcome function only when the driver uses the FOB key 30 to complete the control operation, leaves the welcome area, and then re-enters the welcome area, unintended operation of the welcome function can be prevented.

[0139] Alternatively, when an RF response signal is received from the FOB key 30 within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle not to operate in welcome mode. In an embodiment, the critical time can be set to be the same as the preset time for determining the third time point, but is not necessarily limited to this; the critical time can be set in various ways according to the vehicle's operating environment and the driver's personal preferences. That is, when an RF response signal to the LF signal is received within a predetermined time period starting from the time point when the control command is received from the FOB key 30 ends, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle not to operate in welcome mode. In this case, when it is determined that the vehicle driver controls the vehicle via the FOB key 30 in the reference area, the welcome function provided when there is an intention to get in the vehicle is controlled to not operate.

[0140] Alternatively, when the third position is within the reference area, the second processing unit 220 can control the vehicle to operate in a welcome mode. When the position of the fob key 30, determined at the time of first receiving the control command for the fob key 30, is outside the reference area, the second processing unit 220 controls the vehicle to provide welcome functionality immediately from the time the control command ends when the fob key 30 is within the welcome area.

[0141] Therefore, the vehicle according to the implementation plan can prevent the driver waiting during the vehicle control process using the fob key 30 from being unexpectedly provided with the welcome function again, and prevent discomfort caused by the unexpected operation of the welcome function.

[0142] For convenience, one or more figures are described by way of examples of steps performed by processor circuitry. One, some, or all of the steps, or parts thereof, of the example method in the figures may be performed by one or more other circuits. One or some steps of the example method in the figures may be omitted, performed in a different order, and / or changed in another way, and / or one or more additional steps may be added.

[0143] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling vehicles according to an implementation plan.

[0144] First, the processor checks the closed status of the doors or the closed status of the vehicle (S801).

[0145] Next, the vehicle's communication device receives control commands from the FOB key (S802).

[0146] Next, the processor determines the first position of the FOB key at the first moment when it receives the control command for the FOB key for the first time (S803).

[0147] Next, the processor determines whether the first position is located within the reference region (S804).

[0148] Next, the processor determines whether the reception of control instructions has ended (S805).

[0149] When the first position of the FOB key is located in the reference area, the processor periodically determines the second position of the FOB key starting from the second time point after a preset time elapsed from the second time point of receiving the end control instruction (S806).

[0150] At this point, the processor determines whether an RF response signal has been received from the fob key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point (S807).

[0151] When an RF response signal is received from the FOB key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point, the processor controls the vehicle not to operate in welcome mode (S808).

[0152] Next, the processor determines whether the second position is located in the reference region (S809).

[0153] When the second position is in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode (S810).

[0154] Alternatively, if the first position of the FOB key is outside the reference region, the processor periodically determines the third position of the FOB key from the second time point after the end of receiving the control instruction (S811).

[0155] Next, when the third position is in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode (S812).

[0156] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vehicle according to another implementation scheme.

[0157] First, the processor checks the closed status of the doors or the closed status of the vehicle (S901).

[0158] Next, the vehicle's communication device receives control commands from the FOB key (S902).

[0159] Next, the processor determines the first position of the FOB key at the first moment when it receives the control command for the FOB key for the first time (S903).

[0160] Next, the processor determines whether the first position is located in the reference region (S904).

[0161] Next, the processor determines whether the reception of control instructions has ended (S905).

[0162] When the first position of the FOB key is located in the reference area, the processor periodically determines the second position of the FOB key starting from the second time point after a preset time elapsed from the second time point of receiving the end control instruction (S906).

[0163] At this point, the processor determines whether an RF response signal has been received from the fob key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point (S907).

[0164] When an RF response signal is received from the FOB key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point, the processor controls the vehicle not to operate in welcome mode (S908).

[0165] Next, the processor determines whether the second position of the FOB key is outside the reference area (S909).

[0166] When the second position of the FOB key is outside the reference area, the processor continuously determines the second position of the FOB key (S910).

[0167] Next, the processor determines whether the second position of the FOB key has re-entered the reference area (S911).

[0168] When it is determined that the second position of the FOB key has re-entered the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode (S912).

[0169] Alternatively, if the first position of the FOB key is outside the reference region, the processor periodically determines the third position of the FOB key from the second time point after the end of receiving the control instruction (S913).

[0170] Next, when the third position is in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode (S914).

[0171] As used in this embodiment, the term "~cell" refers to a software or hardware component such as a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or ASIC, and the "~cell" serves a specific function. However, a "cell" is not limited to software or hardware. A "cell" can be configured to be located in an addressable storage medium and configured to be reproduced by one or more processors. Thus, by way of example, a "cell" is a component (such as a software component, an object-oriented software component, a class component, and a task component), a process, a function, an attribute, a program, a subroutine, a program code segment, a driver, firmware, microcode, a circuit, data, a database, a data structure, a graph, an array, and a variable. The functionality provided in a component and a "~cell" can be combined into fewer components and "cells" or additional components and "cells" can be separated. Furthermore, components and "~cells" can be implemented to reproduce one or more CPUs in a device or a secure multimedia card.

[0172] According to the implementation plan, the vehicle and its control method can prevent the vehicle's welcome function from being operated unexpectedly.

[0173] In addition, it can prevent discomfort caused by unexpected operation of the greeting function.

[0174] Although the invention has been described above with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: One or more processors; as well as Memory configured to store one or more programs executed by one or more processors. The processor includes: The first processing unit is configured to: determine the first position of the FOB key at the first time point upon receiving the control command for the FOB key, and determine the position of the FOB key within a preset time period from the end of receiving the control command; and The second processing unit is configured to restrict the operation of the welcome mode when both the first position of the FOB key and the position of the FOB key determined within a preset time are within a reference area relative to the vehicle.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein, When the first processing unit is in the reference area at the first position, it determines the second position of the FOB key after a preset time has elapsed from the second time point after the end of receiving the control command; and The second processing unit is configured to control the vehicle to operate in a welcoming mode when the second position is in the reference area.

3. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The first processing unit uses the received radio frequency response signal to periodically determine the second position of the FOB key after the third time point.

4. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein, When the second position moves from outside the reference area to inside the reference area, the second processing unit controls the vehicle to operate in a welcoming mode.

5. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, When the first position is outside the reference area, the first processing unit determines the third position of the FOB key.

6. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, When the third position is located in the reference area, the second processing unit controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

7. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, The first time point is the time point at which the control command of the FOB key begins to be received when the vehicle doors are locked.

8. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, Continuously receive control commands within a predetermined time period.

9. The vehicle according to claim 8, wherein, The control commands include commands to close the vehicle's windows.

10. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, When an RF response signal is received from the FOB key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point, the second processing unit controls the vehicle not to operate in welcome mode.

11. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein, In welcome mode, the vehicle provides at least one of the following functions: automatic rearview mirror control, automatic door handle lighting control, automatic welcome light control, automatic interior lighting control, automatic vehicle seat position control, automatic mirror position control, and automatic air conditioning control.

12. A method performed by a computing device, the computing device comprising one or more processors and a memory, the memory configured to store one or more programs executed by the one or more processors, the method comprising: The processor determines the first position of the FOB key at the first moment it receives the control command for the FOB key. The processor determines the location of the FOB key within a preset time period from the end of receiving the control command; When the first position of the FOB key determined upon receiving a control command and the position of the FOB key determined within a preset time are both within a reference area relative to the vehicle, the processor restricts the operation of the welcome mode.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: When the first position is in the reference area, the processor determines the second position of the FOB key after a preset time elapsed from the second time point after the end of the reception of the control command; When the second position is in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, Determining the second position of the FOB key involves the processor periodically determining the second position of the FOB key using radio frequency response signals after a third time point.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, Controlling the vehicle in welcome mode includes: The processor determines whether the second position is outside the reference region; The processor determines whether the second position has moved from outside the reference region to inside the reference region; and The processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

16. The method of claim 12, further comprising: After determining the first position, when the first position is outside the reference area, the processor periodically determines the third position of the FOB key starting from the second time point.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, Controlling the vehicle to operate in welcome mode further includes: when the third position is located in the reference area, the processor controls the vehicle to operate in welcome mode.

18. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The first time point is the time point at which the control command of the FOB key begins to be received when the vehicle doors are locked.

19. The method of claim 13, further comprising: When an RF response signal is received from the FOB key within a preset critical time period starting from the second time point, the processor controls the vehicle to not operate in welcome mode.

20. The method according to claim 13, wherein, Controlling the vehicle to operate in welcome mode includes: the processor controlling the vehicle to provide at least one of the following functions: automatic rearview mirror control, automatic door handle lighting control, automatic welcome light control, automatic interior lighting control, automatic vehicle seat position control, automatic mirror position control, and automatic air conditioning control.

Images