Electronic key system

Abstract

Electronic key system (1), comprising: a transmission part (22) which is designed to wirelessly transmit a query signal at specified time intervals to a specified transmission area outside a vehicle interior; a detection element (23) configured to detect an electronic key (10, 10s) by receiving a response signal transmitted by the electronic key (10, 10s) located in the transmission area in response to the query signal; and an execution part (24) which is configured to cause the execution of a predetermined function of a vehicle device when the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23), wherein the transmission part (22) is designed to transmit the query signal into an enlarged transmission range that is larger than the specified transmission range when a state in which the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) and a state in which the electronic key (10, 10s) is not detected by the detection part (23) are repeated a specified number of times or more within a specified time period, the execution part (24) is designed in such a way as not to cause the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range, the transmission part (22) is designed to transmit the query signal into a reduced transmission area, which is reduced in size with respect to the specified transmission area, after the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission area, and the execution part (24) is designed to initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) in the reduced transmission range, characterized in that the electronic key (10, 10s) is either an electronic key (10) or another electronic key (10s), and the execution part (24) is designed to initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when one electronic key (10) is detected by the detection part (23) in the reduced transmission range, after one electronic key (10) has been detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range, or when the other electronic key (10s) is detected in the specified transmission range, wherein the transmission part (22) is designed to transmit query signals separately to one electronic key (10) and to the other electronic key (10s); to wirelessly transmit the query signal for one electronic key (10) and the query signal for the other electronic key (10s) with an intervening time interval to the reduced transmission range and the specified transmission range, respectively, after one electronic key (10) has been detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range; and to transmit the query signal for the other electronic key (10s) preferentially compared to the query signal for one electronic key (10).

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic key system. 2. Description of the state of the art

[0002] A technology is known from the prior art in which, in a vehicle with a so-called "smart entry system," a transmission interval and / or a transmission range is / are changed depending on the situation in order to reduce the power consumption of a query signal that is transmitted periodically (see, for example, JP 2012 - 26 141 A). Further prior art can be found in DE 10 2004 047 187 A1, US 2011 / 0 316 680 A1, US 6 211 776 B1, US 2008 / 0 143 500 A1, and US 2010 / 0 304 690 A1. In addition, DE 10 2008 008 089 A1 discloses an arrangement and a method for detecting a transponder of a keyless entry system for a vehicle. Finally, from DE 10 2007 023 261 A1 a remote control system is known, comprising a vehicle-side device that is installed in a vehicle and a mobile device that is carried by a user for communication with the vehicle-side device.The vehicle-mounted device comprises multiple transmitters, a receiver, and a control unit. The transmitters are positioned at multiple locations within the vehicle and send transmit request signals, defining different detection zones outside the vehicle doors. Upon entering these detection zones, the mobile device sends a response signal in response to the transmit request signal. The receiver receives this response signal. The control unit performs a matching procedure with respect to the mobile device's response signal to determine that the mobile device is an authorized device. If a match is confirmed, the control unit then controls the operating state of an in-vehicle device based on this determination.Based on the response signal from the mobile device and the transmission request signals from the transmitters, the control unit determines a detection area in which the mobile device exists and designates a door corresponding to this detection area as a control door. The control unit has a memory that stores a reporting operation for each control door. The control unit executes the reporting operation for the designated control door based on the contents of its memory. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Starting from the prior art, the object of the invention is to further improve an electronic key system in order to reduce the power consumption of such systems. This object is achieved with the subject matter of claim 1. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0004] According to one aspect of the invention, an electronic key system comprises: a transmission part configured to wirelessly transmit a query signal at predetermined time intervals to a predetermined transmission area outside a vehicle interior; a detection part configured to detect an electronic key by receiving a response signal transmitted by the electronic key located in the transmission area in response to the query signal; and an execution part configured to initiate the execution of a predetermined function of a vehicle device when the electronic key is detected by the detection part.The transmission part is designed to transmit the query signal into an enlarged transmission range, which is larger than the specified transmission range, when a state in which the electronic key is detected by the detection part and a state in which the electronic key is not detected by the detection part are repeated a specified number of times or more within a specified time period, and the execution part is designed to prevent the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic key is detected by the detection part in the enlarged transmission range.The transmission part is further designed to transmit the query signal into a reduced transmission range, which is smaller with respect to the specified transmission range, after the electronic key is detected by the detection part in the enlarged transmission range, and the execution part is designed to initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic key is detected by the detection part in the reduced transmission range.The electronic key is either an electronic key or another electronic key, and the execution part is designed to cause the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when one electronic key is detected by the detection part in the reduced transmission range, after one electronic key has been detected by the detection part in the enlarged transmission range, or when the other electronic key is detected in the specified transmission range.The transmission unit is designed to transmit query signals separately to one electronic key and to the other electronic key; to wirelessly transmit the query signal for one electronic key and the query signal for the other electronic key with an intervening time interval, respectively, to the reduced transmission range and the specified transmission range, after one electronic key has been detected by the detection unit in the enlarged transmission range; and to transmit the query signal for the other electronic key preferentially compared to the query signal for one electronic key.

[0005] Other tasks, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when read together with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING Fig. Figure 1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary structure of an electronic key system; Fig. Figure 2 shows a flowchart of an example of a “Smart Entry Control Process” executed by the electronic key system (the Smart Entry ECU); Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B shows an example in which a state in which the electronic key is detected by the electronic key system (the Smart Entry ECU) (a detection state) and a state in which the electronic key is not detected by the electronic key system (the Smart Entry ECU) (a non-detection state) are alternately repeated; Fig. Figure 4 shows an example of a characteristic process of the electronic key system (the smart entry ECU) (i.e., a process for the case where a state after which the electronic key is detected (the detection state) and a state after which the electronic key is not detected (the non-detection state) are alternately repeated); Fig. Figure 5 shows a flowchart of an example of a characteristic process of the electronic key system (the smart entry ECU) (i.e., a process for the case where a state after which the electronic key is captured (the capture state) and a state after which the electronic key is not captured (the non-capture state) are alternately repeated); Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of a process for the electronic key system (the smart entry ECU) to detect the electronic key and an electronic spare key during a power-saving control phase with respect to the electronic key; and Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of an example of a process for detecting the electronic key and the electronic spare key by the electronic key system (the smart entry ECU) during a power-saving control with respect to the electronic key. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION FORM

[0006] The embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawing.

[0007] With regard to the technology known from the aforementioned prior art, the power consumption of such a smart-entry system is not limited to the query signal. Therefore, a situation may arise in which it becomes impossible to effectively reduce power consumption by changing a transmission interval and / or a transmission range of the query signal, as described above.

[0008] For example, if a user is standing by the vehicle talking or resting, the user may have an electronic key near the edge of a detection range outside the vehicle interior, defined by a query signal. If this is the case, the connection between the electronic key and the vehicle may be established and disconnected repeatedly due to the intensity of the query signal, a change in the electronic key's reception sensitivity, and / or similar factors. In such a case, each time the connection is established, a function that is normally performed when the electronic key connects to the vehicle (e.g., switching on the interior lights, unlocking the vehicle (activating a "smart lock sensor"), or similar) is initiated. Consequently, power consumption may be increased due to this function.

[0009] The embodiment of the present invention was made taking this point into consideration, and it is an object of the embodiment to create an electronic key system with which it is possible to reduce the power consumption in a case in which an electronic key is continuously located near the boundary of a detection area outside the vehicle interior, which is designed for communication between the electronic key and the vehicle.

[0010] The embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] The embodiment relates to an electronic key system in which a query signal is wirelessly transmitted to a predetermined transmission area outside a vehicle interior (i.e., a detection area located outside the vehicle interior), the authentication (detection) of an electronic key is performed in response to a reply signal transmitted by the electronic key receiving the query signal, and a predetermined function is executed.

[0012] Fig. Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an exemplary structure of an electronic key system 1 according to the present invention. The electronic key system 1 comprises an electronic key 10 and a vehicle-side control device 20, which is installed in a vehicle 2.

[0013] The electronic key system 1 can perform a so-called smart entry control, meaning that, based on an authentication result (i.e., the result of a comparison of ID codes or the like) for the electronic key 10, the electronic key system can initiate a predefined function of a vehicle device through bidirectional communication between the electronic key 10 and the vehicle-side control device 20. For example, if the electronic key 10 is authenticated (detected) in a state where the vehicle 2 is in an ignition-off (IG-OFF) state and all doors of the vehicle 2 are locked, the vehicle interior lighting and / or an entry light installed at the base of a side mirror outside the vehicle interior will be switched on.Alternatively – or additionally – when vehicle 2 is in the IG-AUS state, depending on the authentication result for the electronic key 10, a smart lock system (not shown) is put into a standby state. This system allows vehicle 2 to be locked / unlocked by a predefined user action. Specifically, a smart lock sensor (not shown) can be activated, and vehicle 2 can be placed in a state where it can be unlocked by user input at the smart lock sensor. Further details will be described later.

[0014] The electronic key 10 is a portable authentication device with a wireless communication function. The electronic key 10 transmits its unique ID code, which is stored in the vehicle-side control unit 20 (i.e., a receiver 23 described later). A smart entry ECU 24, also described later, then performs a comparison of the ID codes. After successful authentication based on the ID code comparison, it is determined that the thus authenticated electronic key 10 has been captured, and the smart entry ECU 24 executes a smart entry control corresponding to this electronic key 10.

[0015] The electronic key 10 is designed to receive a query signal transmitted by the smart entry ECU 24 via a transmitter 22 (22a or 22b) located inside the vehicle and installed in each of the doors (3a and 3b) of the vehicle 2. Furthermore, the electronic key 10 transmits a response signal, corresponding to the query signal, to the receiver 23. It should be noted that the response signal includes information regarding the unique ID code stored in the electronic key 10.

[0016] It should be noted that, accordingly Fig. 1. The doors 3 are arranged at only two locations on the two sides of the vehicle 2. However, doors 3a and 3b represent the doors installed on the vehicle 2, and the number and configuration of the doors installed on the vehicle 2 can be any number and any configuration. Furthermore, doors other than doors 3a and 3b that can be installed on the vehicle 2 can also have interior-facing transmitters 22 that are connected to the smart-entry ECU 24. The following description is based on the assumption that the interior-facing transmitters 22 are installed only for doors 3a and 3b.

[0017] The vehicle-side control device 20 comprises, as communication devices for communication with the electronic key 10, antennas 21 (21a and 21b) directed from the vehicle interior, the transmitter 22 (22a and 22b) directed from the vehicle interior, the receiver 23, and so on. Furthermore, the vehicle-side control device 20 comprises, as control devices, the smart entry ECU 24, a main ECU 25, a lighting device 26, a door locking device 27, and so on.

[0018] The antennas 21a and 21b, directed from the vehicle interior and corresponding to the transmitters 22a and 22b respectively, are installed on the door handles of doors 3a and 3b or similar locations and transmit the query signals and the like, which are transmitted by the Smart-Entry-ECU 24, as electrical waves (electrical query waves). The antennas 21a and 21b directed from the vehicle interior are therefore transmission devices for electrical waves.

[0019] Transmitters 22a and 22b, directed from the vehicle interior, are installed corresponding to doors 3a and 3b and transmit the query signals and the like, which are transmitted by the Smart-Entry ECU 24, via antennas 21a and 21b, also directed from the vehicle interior, as electrical waves. The range of the query signal transmitted by the respective transmitters 22a and 22b, directed from the vehicle interior, is normally on the order of about 1 m. The area within which the transmitted query signal extends constitutes a detection range for the electronic key 10, that is, a detection range 100 (100a or 100b) located outside the vehicle interior for comparing the ID codes by means of bidirectional communication between the electronic key 10 and the vehicle control unit 20.The transmitters 22a and 22b, which are directed outwards from the vehicle interior, can be connected to the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 via a vehicle network such as a Local Interconnect Network (LIN) so that they can communicate with each other.

[0020] Receiver 23 is a receiving device for electrical waves that receives the response signal or similar transmitted by the electronic key 10. Receiver 23 is connected to the smart entry ECU 24, for example via a vehicle network such as the LIN bus, so that they can communicate with each other, and transmits the received response signal or similar to the smart entry ECU 24.

[0021] The Smart Entry ECU 24 is a main control unit in the electronic key system 1. It performs authentication (comparing ID codes) of the electronic key 10 through bidirectional communication between the electronic key 10 and the vehicle-side control unit 20, and also performs smart entry control based on this authentication (comparison). Specifically, the Smart Entry ECU 24 generates query signals at predefined intervals (regular time intervals) when the vehicle 2 is in the IG-AUS state and transmits these signals wirelessly from the vehicle interior to the outside via transmitters 22a and 22b. The Smart Entry ECU 24 thereby establishes the detection areas 100a and 100b for the electronic key 10 located outside the vehicle interior.This means that the Smart Entry ECU 24 transmits the query signals to the detection areas 100a and 100b located outside the vehicle interior via the transmitters 22a and 22b, which are directed outwards from the vehicle interior. Furthermore, the Smart Entry ECU 24 performs the authentication (comparison of ID codes or the like) for the electronic key 10 based on the response signal transmitted by the electronic key 10 and received by receiver 23. The Smart Entry ECU 24 thus detects the electronic key 10 in the detection area located outside the vehicle interior by authenticating the electronic key 10 as a result of the comparison. This means that the Smart Entry ECU 24 detects the user who possesses the electronic key 10 in the detection area located outside the vehicle interior. When the electronic key 10 is authenticated in this way (i.e.,(The electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 100a or 100b located outside the vehicle interior), the Smart Entry ECU 24 causes the vehicle device, via the main ECU 25 or the like, to execute a predefined function. For example, the Smart Entry ECU 24 transmits a light request signal to the main ECU 25, which then executes a corresponding control of the lighting device 26. In response to this light request signal, the main ECU 25 causes the lighting device 26 to execute a predefined function (i.e., a function to switch on interior lighting, the entry lighting at the bottom of the door mirror, and / or the like (i.e., a welcome light function)). The Smart Entry ECU 24 also sends a start signal or start signals to a smart lock sensor or the like.Smart lock sensors, installed in the handle(s) or the like of a designated door(s) (for example, doors 3a and 3b), are deactivated to create a standby function (i.e., a smart unlock standby function) to unlock all doors (including doors 3a and 3b) in response to a predetermined action on the smart lock system (not shown). Subsequently, when a predetermined action (a touch or the like) by the user is detected by the smart lock sensor (not shown), the smart entry ECU 24 transmits an unlock signal to the main ECU 25. The main ECU 25 responds to this unlock signal by activating the door locking device 27 (a door locking motor or the like), which then unlocks all doors of the vehicle 2. The Smart-Entry-ECU 24 is equipped with the transmitters 22a and 22b directed from the vehicle interior, the receiver or...Receiver 23, the main ECU 25 and the like are connected, for example, via a vehicle network such as a Controller Area Network (CAN) or a LIN in such a way that the Smart-Entry ECU 24 can communicate with it.

[0022] It should be noted that the Smart Entry ECU 24 can transmit the query signals with unique identification codes from the vehicle interior transmitters 22a and 22b via the vehicle interior transmitters 22a and 22b. It is also possible for the electronic key 10 to transmit the response signal with the identification code corresponding to the query signal. Furthermore, the Smart Entry ECU 24 can transmit the query signals to the respective vehicle interior transmitters 22a and 22b in a sequence with a time interval between each transmission. This allows the Smart Entry ECU 24 to determine which of the vehicle interior transmitters 22a and 22b is transmitting the query signal to which the electronic key 10 responds and transmits the response signal.This means that the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 can determine which of the doors 3a and 3b the electronic key 10 (of the user) is located near.

[0023] An example of a smart entry control process by the smart entry ECU 24 is described below.

[0024] Fig. Figure 2 shows a flowchart illustrating an example of a smart entry process executed by the electronic key system 1 (the smart entry ECU 24). This process is executed every time the vehicle 2 is in the IG-OFF state and all doors of the vehicle 2 are locked.

[0025] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, in step S101 the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines whether it receives the response signal transmitted by the electronic key 10 in response to the request signal that forms the detection area 100a or 100b located outside the vehicle interior. If the Smart Entry ECU 24 receives the response signal ("YES"), it proceeds to step S102. If the Smart Entry ECU 24 does not receive the response signal ("NO"), it terminates the current process.

[0026] In step S102, the Smart Entry ECU 24 performs the authentication of the electronic key 10. Specifically, the Smart Entry ECU 24 may perform the authentication by determining whether the unique ID code of the electronic key 10, contained in the response signal, matches an ID code previously registered in the Smart Entry ECU 24 (i.e., comparing the ID codes).

[0027] In step S103, the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines whether electronic key 10 has been authenticated or not. If electronic key 10 has been authenticated ("YES," i.e., authentication was successful), it proceeds to step S104. If electronic key 10 has not been authenticated ("NO," i.e., authentication failed), the Smart Entry ECU 24 terminates the process.

[0028] In step S104, the Smart Entry ECU 24, responding to the authentication (detection) of the electronic key 10, initiates the execution of the Smart Unlock standby function and / or the welcome light function by the lighting device 26 and terminates the process. Specifically, as described above, the Smart Entry ECU 24 starts the Smart Lock sensor and / or controls the lighting device 26 via the main ECU 25.

[0029] It should be noted that it is possible for the Smart Entry ECU 24 to activate or stop the Smart Lock sensor by controlling a relay that connects the Smart Lock sensor and a battery (not shown).

[0030] The welcome light function, which activates the vehicle's interior lighting and / or entry lighting, is triggered by the detection of the electronic key 10, which the user possesses. Thus, when the user approaches the vehicle at night, an area around their feet or the vehicle interior is illuminated, providing a user-friendly feature. Furthermore, the smart unlock standby function is also activated upon detection of the electronic key 10, allowing the doors to be easily unlocked.

[0031] Referring again to Fig. 1. The main ECU 25 is a control device that drives and controls the lighting device 26 and the door locking device 27 (for locking / unlocking the doors of vehicle 2, etc.). In particular, the main ECU 25 controls a relay located between the lighting device 26 and the battery (not shown), or the like, and switches various lights contained in the lighting device 26 on or off. Furthermore, the main ECU 25 controls a door locking actuator (the door locking motor, etc.) and controls the locking and unlocking of the doors, including doors 3a and 3b, of vehicle 2.

[0032] It should be noted that the Smart Entry ECU 24 and the Main ECU 25 are possible to be implemented by a microcomputer (or multiple microcomputers) and to execute various control processes described above by running a program (or programs) stored in a ROM within a CPU. It is also possible that the functions of the Smart Entry ECU 24 and the Main ECU 25 are implemented by a different type of hardware, software, or firmware, or by combinations thereof. Furthermore, it is possible that some or all of the functions of the Smart Entry ECU 24 and the Main ECU 25 are implemented by other ECUs. It is also possible that the Smart Entry ECU 24 and the Main ECU 25 take over some or all of the functions of other ECUs. For example, it is possible that some or all of the functions of the Main ECU 25 are implemented by the Smart Entry ECU 24.It is also possible that some or all of the functions of the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 are implemented by the main ECU 25.

[0033] The lighting device 26 comprises various lighting devices, such as the vehicle interior lighting, the entry lighting installed at the bases of the door mirrors outside the vehicle interior of the vehicle 2, and the like. It is possible that the lighting devices included in the lighting device 26 are each connected to the battery via relays, and that switching them on and off is carried out as a result of the main ECU 25 controlling the relays.

[0034] The door locking device 27 is a door locking / unlocking device with a locking mechanism for locking and unlocking the doors, including doors 3a and 3b, of the vehicle 2. It is possible that the door locking device 27 includes the door locking motor in each of the doors of the vehicle 2.

[0035] The electronic key system 1 also includes, in addition to the electronic key 10, an electronic backup key 10s as an authentication device for which authentication (recognition) by the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 is possible. The electronic backup key 10s, like the electronic key 10, is a portable authentication device with wireless communication capability. Since the electronic backup key 10s has the same functions as the electronic key 10, a detailed description is omitted. Nevertheless, the electronic key 10 and the electronic backup key 10s are authenticated (recognition) by the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 as different authentication devices. For example, the electronic key 10 and the electronic backup key 10s have different ID codes.The Smart-Entry-ECU 24 is therefore able to determine whether the electronic key 10 or the electronic replacement key 10s, for which authentication is possible, is detected in the detection area 100a or 100b located outside the vehicle interior.

[0036] It should be noted that the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 can transmit the query signal for the electronic key 10 and the query signal for the electronic spare key 10s separately, with a time interval between them, via the transmitters 22a and 22b, which are directed outwards from the vehicle interior. This means that the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 can generate the query signal for each authentication device to be detected, provide a time interval between them, and detect a specific authentication device by using the detection area 100 (100a or 100b) located outside the vehicle interior, which is configured for each authentication device.For example, if the authentication device used at a previous point in time during the operation of vehicle 2 (an earlier point in time with IG-AN) is the electronic spare key 10s, it is possible that the Smart Entry ECU 24 preferentially transmits the query signal for the electronic spare key 10s (earlier) to the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior. It is therefore possible that the Smart Entry ECU 24 stores the authentication device used at the time of the operation of vehicle 2 (at the IG-AN point in time) and, based on the stored entries, preferentially transmits the query signal for the frequently used authentication device to the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior.It is therefore possible to immediately detect the authentication device in the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior according to the usage status of the authentication device (the electronic key 10 and the electronic replacement key 10s) in the past.

[0037] The following describes a characteristic process of the electronic key system 1 (the Smart-Entry-ECU 24), that is, a process that is executed when a state in which the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 detects the electronic key 10 (a detection state) and a state in which the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 does not detect the electronic key 10 (a non-detection state) are alternately repeated.

[0038] First, a situation is described in which a state in which the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 detects the electronic key 10 (a detection state) and a state in which the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 does not detect the electronic key 10 (a non-detection state) are alternately repeated.

[0039] The Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B shows an example in which a state where an electronic key is detected by the electronic key system 1 (the Smart Entry ECU 24) (a detection state) and a state where the electronic key is not detected by the electronic key system 1 (the Smart Entry ECU 24) (a non-detection state) are alternately repeated. Each of the Fig. 3A and Fig. Figure 3B shows a case where the electronic key 10 is located near the boundary of the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior. Fig. Figure 3A shows a state in which, depending on changes in the output intensities of the transmitters 22a and 22b directed outwards from the vehicle interior, the reception sensitivity of the electronic key 10 and / or the like, detection areas 100H (100Ha and 100Hb) outside the vehicle interior are formed as upper limits of the detection areas 100a and 100b outside the vehicle interior. Fig. Figure 3B shows a state in which, depending on changes in the output intensities of the transmitters 22a and 22b directed outwards from the vehicle interior, the receiver sensitivity of the electronic key 10, and / or the like, detection areas 100L (100La and 100Lb) located outside the vehicle interior are formed as lower limits of the detection areas 100a and 100b located outside the vehicle interior. This means that the detection areas 100H located outside the vehicle interior represent the maximum range of the detection areas 100 located outside the vehicle interior, depending on fluctuations in the output intensity of the transmitters 22a and 22b directed outwards from the vehicle interior, the receiver sensitivity of the electronic key 10, and / or the like.The detection areas 100L located outside the vehicle interior represent the minimum range of the detection areas 100 formed outside the vehicle interior, depending on fluctuations in the output intensity of the transmitters 22a and 22b directed outwards from the vehicle interior, the receiver sensitivity of the electronic key 10, and / or the like. It should be noted that vehicle 2 is in the IG-AUS state and all doors (including doors 3a and 3b) of vehicle 2 are locked.

[0040] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3A, the electronic key 10 is located in the detection area 100Ha outside the vehicle interior, which is designed as the upper limit of the variations or fluctuations. It is therefore authenticated (detected; the detection state) by bidirectional communication with the vehicle's control device 20 (the Smart-Entry ECU 24).

[0041] In contrast, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, the electronic key 10 is not within the detection range 100La located outside the vehicle interior, which is designed as the lower limit of the fluctuations. It is therefore not authenticated by bidirectional communication with the vehicle's control device 20 (not detected; the non-detection state).

[0042] Depending on the fluctuations in the output intensities of the transmitters 22a and 22b directed outwards from the vehicle interior, the reception sensitivity of the electronic key 10 and / or the like, the widths of the detection areas 100 located outside the vehicle interior, which are formed by the electrical query waves transmitted by the transmitters 22a and 22b directed outwards from the vehicle interior, change (i.e. the query signal ranges change).If, as in this example, the electronic key 10 is located near the boundary of the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior, a state in which the electronic key 10 is detected by the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 and a state in which the electronic key 10 is not detected by the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 can be repeated alternately, depending on such changes (of the range) of the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior.

[0043] In the following, a characteristic process of the electronic key system (i.e., a process in which a capture state and a non-capture state of the electronic key are alternately repeated) is described in particular using Fig. 4 described.

[0044] Fig. Figure 4 shows an example of a characteristic process by the electronic key system 1 (the smart entry ECU 24) (i.e., a process in which a state where the electronic key is detected and a state where the electronic key is not detected are alternately repeated). It should be noted that in the same way as in the Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, the electronic key 10 is located near the boundary of the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior.

[0045] If the electronic key 10 is alternately detected or undetected by the Smart Entry ECU 24 within the detection range 100a located outside the vehicle interior, the Smart Entry ECU 24 uses the transmitter 22a, which is directed outwards from the vehicle interior, to establish a detection range 200 (200a) located outside the vehicle interior. This detection range 200a extends beyond the detection range 100a located outside the vehicle interior. The Smart Entry ECU 24 then determines whether it is possible to detect the electronic key 10 within this extended detection range 200a located outside the vehicle interior.This means that the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 receives the response signal transmitted by the electronic key 10 in response to the query signal from the sensor 22a directed outwards from the vehicle interior, which forms the enlarged detection area 200a outside the vehicle interior, and determines whether it is possible to authenticate (detect) the electronic key 10.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, if the user carrying the electronic key 10 is continuously near the boundary of the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior, the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 can detect the electronic key 10 using the enlarged detection area 200a located outside the vehicle interior.This means it is possible to determine whether there is a high probability that the electronic key 10 will continuously remain near the boundary of the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior by determining whether the electronic key 10 can be detected in the detection area 200 (200a or 200b) located outside the vehicle interior, which is enlarged in terms of its width beyond the detection area 100 (100a or 100b) located outside the vehicle interior, when the detection state and the non-detection state of the electronic key 10 have been alternately repeated.

[0047] It should be noted that the extent of the range expansion for the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior is set to a greater extent than the fluctuation magnitude of the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior (i.e., the difference between the detection ranges 100Ha and 100La outside the vehicle interior). For example, if the fluctuation of the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior is less than 1 dB system sensitivity, the detection range 200a outside the vehicle interior can be expanded to a system sensitivity 3 dB higher than that of the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior.

[0048] When the Smart Entry ECU 24 receives the electronic key 10 within the extended detection range 200a outside the vehicle interior, the Smart Entry ECU 24 does not initiate the execution of the aforementioned predefined function of the vehicle device (the welcome light function and / or the Smart Unlock standby function) with respect to the electronic key 10. The predefined function of the vehicle device is therefore not executed in a situation where the user does not require the predefined function, for example, a situation where the electronic key 10 remains near the boundary of the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior, or the like. As a result, it is possible to prevent the power consumption that would otherwise be caused by initiating the execution of the predefined function.Subsequently, such a control system to prevent the specified function from being initiated, even if the electronic key 10 is detected, is referred to as a "power saving control system".

[0049] It should be noted that this example describes the case where the electronic key 10 remains continuously near the boundary of the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior. However, the same process can also be carried out if the electronic key 10 remains continuously near the boundary of the detection area 100b located outside the vehicle interior. This means that if a detection state and a non-detection state of the electronic key 10 are alternately repeated in the detection area 100b located outside the vehicle interior, the smart entry ECU 24 determines whether the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 200b located outside the vehicle interior, which is larger than the detection area 100b located outside the vehicle interior.If the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 200b outside the vehicle interior, which is larger in size than the detection area 100b outside the vehicle interior, the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 does not cause the specified function of the vehicle device to be executed.

[0050] Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a characteristic process of the electronic key system 1 (the smart entry ECU 24) (i.e., a process in which a state where the electronic key 10 is detected (a detection state) and a state where the electronic key 10 is not detected (non-detection state) are alternately repeated). This flowchart is executed when the detection state and the non-detection state of the electronic key 10 are alternately repeated for a predetermined number of times (e.g., three times, i.e., a total of three detection states and three non-detection states) or more frequently within a predetermined time period (e.g., 5 minutes), when the vehicle 2 is in the IG-OFF state and all doors of the vehicle 2 (including doors 3a and 3b) are locked.

[0051] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, in step S201 the Smart Entry ECU 24 enlarges the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle (the detection area 100a or 100b located outside the vehicle, in which the detection state and the non-detection state of the electronic key 10 were repeatedly detected alternately). This means that the Smart Entry ECU 24 forms the detection area 200 located outside the vehicle interior (one of the detection areas 200a and 200b located outside the vehicle interior) via the sensor 22 (one of the transmitters 22a and 22b) facing outwards from the vehicle interior, which forms the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior when the detection state and the non-detection state of the electronic key 10 were repeatedly detected alternately.

[0052] It should be noted that the enlargement of the detection range 100 (100a or 100b) outside the vehicle interior can be achieved by changing (increasing) the output or transmission power of the transmitter 22 (22a or 22b) directed outwards from the vehicle interior or by changing (increasing) the query signal reception sensitivity of the electronic key 10.

[0053] In step S202, the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines whether it receives the response signal generated by the electronic key 10 in response to the query signal, which forms the enlarged external detection area 200 (200a or 200b) corresponding to the external detection area 100, when the detected and undetected states of the electronic key 10 have been alternately repeated. If the Smart Entry ECU 24 receives the response signal ("YES"), it proceeds to step S203. If the Smart Entry ECU 24 does not receive the response signal ("NO"), it terminates the process.

[0054] In step S203, the Smart Entry ECU 24 performs the authentication of the electronic key 10. Specifically, the Smart Entry ECU 24 may perform the authentication of the electronic key by determining whether the unique ID code of the electronic key 10 in the received response signal matches the ID code previously registered in the Smart Entry ECU 24 (comparing the ID codes).

[0055] In step S204, the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines whether the electronic key 10 has been authenticated. If the electronic key 10 has been authenticated ("YES," i.e., authentication was successful), the Smart Entry ECU 24 proceeds to step S205. If the electronic key 10 has not been authenticated ("NO," i.e., authentication failed), the Smart Entry ECU 24 terminates the current process.

[0056] In step S205, the Smart Entry ECU 24, responding to the authentication (detection) of the electronic key 10, initiates the power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10 and terminates the current process. This means that even if the electronic key 10 is detected, the Smart Entry ECU 24 does not initiate the execution of the Smart Unlock Standby function and / or the welcome light function by the lighting unit 26.

[0057] It should be noted that, since the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 does not initiate the execution of the above-described predefined function of the vehicle device in response to the detection of the electronic key 10, the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 does not output any information to the vehicle network (the CAN bus or the like) indicating the authentication (detection) of the electronic key 10.

[0058] If a detection state and a non-detection state of the electronic key 10 are thus repeated alternately within the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior, the Smart Entry ECU 24 creates the detection area 200 located outside the vehicle interior, which is larger than the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior, and determines whether the electronic key 10 is detected within the detection area 200 located outside the vehicle interior. This allows the Smart Entry ECU 24 to determine whether there is a high probability that the electronic key 10 is continuously near (remains near) the boundary of the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior.This means that the Smart Entry ECU 24 can determine that there is a high probability that the electronic key 10 is continuously near the boundary of the detection area 100 outside the vehicle interior if the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 200 outside the vehicle interior.

[0059] Furthermore, if the electronic key 10 is detected within the detection range 200 located outside the vehicle interior, the Smart Entry ECU 24 initiates power-saving control for the electronic key 10. Specifically, even if the Smart Entry ECU 24 detects the electronic key 10, it does not initiate the execution of the predefined function of the vehicle device (the welcome light function, the Smart Unlock standby function, and / or the like). This prevents the power consumption that would otherwise be caused by initiating the execution of the predefined function of the vehicle device. In this case, the electronic key 10 remains continuously near the boundary of the detection range 100 located outside the vehicle interior, and the predefined function of the vehicle device is therefore not required (i.e., it does not activate the vehicle device).It is assumed that the user with the electronic key 10 remains continuously in the vicinity of the vehicle 2 and does not intend to drive the vehicle 2. Therefore, if the intended function of the vehicle device is not performed, this is not a problem. This means that the electronic key system 1 according to the present embodiment can reduce power consumption if the electronic key 10 is continuously located near the boundary of the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior, which is configured for communication between the electronic key 10 and the vehicle 2.

[0060] It should be noted that, as described above, even if the electronic key 10 is detected, the Smart Entry ECU 24 does not output any information regarding the detection (authentication) of the electronic key 10 to the vehicle network (the CAN bus or similar). Therefore, it is not necessary to "wake up" the vehicle network (the CAN bus or similar), which is in its stop state, when the vehicle 2 is in its off state. This also avoids the power consumption required for waking up the network.

[0061] The following describes a process for the electronic key system 1 to detect the electronic key 10 and the electronic spare key 10s during the power saving control with respect to the electronic key 10.

[0062] Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of a process for the electronic key system 1 (the smart entry ECU 24) to detect the electronic key 10 and the electronic spare key 10s during power saving control with respect to the electronic key 10. In particular, it shows Fig. 6 a state in which the electronic key 10 is near the boundary of the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior, and the electronic spare key 10s (i.e. a user carrying it) enters the detection area 100b outside the vehicle interior.

[0063] Even during power-saving control with regard to the electronic key 10, the detection areas 100 (100a and 100b) located outside the vehicle interior are fundamentally configured for the purpose of detecting the electronic key 10 or the electronic spare key 10s. Using these, the Smart Entry ECU 24 executes an operation to detect the electronic key 10 and the electronic spare key 10s.

[0064] In this case, when the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 detects the electronic key 10 in the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior during power saving control with regard to the electronic key 10, it does not initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device (the welcome light function, the Smart-Unlock standby function and / or the like).

[0065] Furthermore, the Smart Entry ECU 24 uses the transmitter 22a, which is directed outwards from the vehicle interior, to establish a detection area 300 (300a) outside the vehicle interior. This detection area is smaller than the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior. The Smart Entry ECU 24 then determines whether the electronic key 10 is detected within detection area 300a located outside the vehicle interior.

[0066] If the electronic key 10 is not detected within the detection area 300a located outside the vehicle interior, it is possible to determine that the electronic key 10 is still near the boundary of the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior. Conversely, if the electronic key 10 is detected within the detection area 300a located outside the vehicle interior, it is possible to determine that the electronic key 10 (or the user carrying it), who was near the boundary of the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior, is approaching door 3a.

[0067] It should be noted that the extent of the range reduction for the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior is set greater for the detection area 300a outside the vehicle interior than the amplitude of the amplitude of the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior (i.e., the difference between the detection areas 100Ha and 100La outside the vehicle interior). For example, if the amplitude of the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior is less than 1 dB system sensitivity, the detection area 300a outside the vehicle interior can be set to have a system sensitivity 3 dB lower than that of the detection area 100a outside the vehicle interior.

[0068] When the electronic key 10 (or the user carrying it) approaches door 3a, it is assumed that there is a high probability that the user intends to drive vehicle 2. Therefore, when the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection range 300a outside the vehicle interior, the Smart Entry ECU 24 switches from power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10 to normal control and initiates the execution of the predefined function of the vehicle device (the welcome light function, the smart unlock standby function, and / or the like) in response to the detection of the electronic key 10.It is therefore possible to positively execute the specified function of the vehicle device in the situation where the specified function of the vehicle device is actually required, with only a slight delay occurring due to the detection of the electronic key 10 in the reduced detection area 300a located outside the vehicle interior. This means that it is possible to reduce the impact of the power-saving control for reducing power consumption on the well-being of the user who uses the electronic key 10.

[0069] It should be noted that if the detection area 300a located outside the vehicle interior is set 3 dB lower in system sensitivity than the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior, the delay resulting from the detection of the electronic key 10 in the detection area 300a located outside the vehicle interior, compared to its detection in the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior, is on the order of 10 ms.

[0070] When the electronic replacement key 10s is detected in the detection area 100b located outside the vehicle interior, the Smart Entry ECU 24 initiates the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device (the welcome light function, the Smart Unlock standby function and / or the like) according to the flowchart shown. Fig. 2, as described above. Thus, the user carrying the key (i.e., the electronic spare key 10s) that differs from the electronic key 10 with respect to which the power-saving control is executed, and who wishes to drive the vehicle 2, is not affected by the power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10. This means that it is possible to enable both the reduction of power consumption when the electronic key 10 is near the edge of the detection range 100 located outside the vehicle interior, and the comfort of the user using the electronic spare key 10s.

[0071] It should be noted that this example describes the case where the electronic key 10 is continuously near the boundary of the detection area 100a located outside the vehicle interior. However, the same processes are also carried out if the electronic key 10 is continuously near the boundary of the detection area 100b located outside the vehicle interior. This means that the smart entry ECU 24 establishes a reduced detection area 300 (300b) located outside the vehicle interior, relative to the detection area 100b, and determines whether the electronic key 10 is located within this reduced detection area 300b.When the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 300b located outside the vehicle interior, the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 switches from power saving control with respect to the electronic key 10 to normal control and initiates the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device.

[0072] Fig. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process for the electronic key system 1 (the smart entry ECU 24) to detect the electronic key 10 and the electronic spare key 10s during the power-saving control phase for the electronic key 10. This process is executed each time the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 100 (either 100a or 100b) outside the vehicle interior during the power-saving control phase for the electronic key 10.

[0073] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, in step S301 the Smart Entry ECU 24 reduces the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior. This means that the Smart Entry ECU 24, via the transmitters 22 (transmitters 22a and / or 22b) facing outwards from the vehicle interior, which form the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior, creates the detection area 300 located outside the vehicle interior (the detection areas 300a and / or 300b located outside the vehicle interior) when the electronic key 10 has been detected.

[0074] In step S302, the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines whether it has received the response signal sent by the electronic key 10 in response to the query signal forming the reduced detection area 300 (300a or 300b) outside the vehicle interior. If the Smart Entry ECU 24 receives the response signal ("YES"), it proceeds to step S303. If the Smart Entry ECU 24 does not receive the response signal ("NO"), it terminates the process.

[0075] In step S303, the Smart Entry ECU 24 performs the authentication of the electronic key 10. Specifically, the Smart Entry ECU 24 may perform the authentication of the electronic key 10 by determining whether the unique ID code of the electronic key 10, contained in the response signal, matches the ID code that was previously stored in the Smart Entry ECU 24 (ID code comparison).

[0076] In step S304, the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines whether electronic key 10 has been authenticated. If electronic key 10 has been authenticated ("YES," i.e., authentication was successful), the Smart Entry ECU 24 proceeds to step S305. If electronic key 10 has not been authenticated ("NO," i.e., authentication failed), the Smart Entry ECU 24 terminates the process.

[0077] In step S305, the Smart Entry ECU 24, in response to the authentication (detection) of the electronic key 10, switches from power-saving control to normal control and terminates the process. This means that, in response to the detection of the electronic key 10, the Smart Entry ECU 24 initiates the execution of the Smart Unlock Standby function and / or the welcome light function by the lighting device 26.

[0078] In contrast, during power saving control, a process for detecting the electronic replacement key 10s is initiated by the same Smart Entry ECU 24 with regard to the electronic key 10, according to the one described in Fig. The flowchart shown above, as described in section 2, was executed.

[0079] Thus, during power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10, the Smart Entry ECU 24 initiates the execution of the predefined function of the vehicle device when the electronic key 10 is detected within the detection range 300 outside the vehicle interior, which is reduced in range compared to the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior. This makes it possible to reduce the impact of the power-saving control on the comfort of the user carrying the electronic key 10. In other words, it is possible to reduce power consumption when the electronic key 10 is near the edge of the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior, while largely maintaining the user's comfort.

[0080] During power-saving control with regard to the electronic key 10, the Smart Entry ECU 24, however, executes the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic spare key 10s is detected within the normal detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior. This makes it possible to ensure both power consumption when the electronic key 10 is near the edge of the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior and the satisfaction of the user who uses the electronic spare key 10s.

[0081] During power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10, the smart entry ECU 24 also performs operations to detect the electronic key 10 and the electronic spare key 10s within the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior. When the electronic key 10 is detected, the smart entry ECU 24 determines whether the electronic key 10 is within the reduced detection range 300 outside the vehicle interior. This makes it possible to preferentially detect the electronic spare key 10s, which is carried by a user and is likely to move from a different location than the electronic key 10, which remains near the boundary of the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior.

[0082] It should be noted that in the example described above, during the power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10, the smart entry ECU 24 establishes a reduced detection range 300 outside the vehicle interior and determines again whether the electronic key 10 is detected within this range if it was previously detected in the detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior. However, it is also possible that, during the execution of the power-saving control with respect to the electronic key 10, the smart entry ECU 24 first determines whether the electronic key 10 can be detected in the reduced or smaller detection range 300 outside the vehicle interior.This means that the Smart Entry ECU 24 may transmit the query signal for the electronic key 10 and the query signal for the electronic spare key 10s with a time interval between them into the reduced detection range 300 outside the vehicle interior and the normal detection range 100 outside the vehicle interior. At this time, it is possible that the Smart Entry ECU 24 transmits the query signal for the electronic spare key 10s preferentially (i.e., prioritizes it) over the query signal for the electronic key 10 via the transmitters 22a and 22b facing outwards from the vehicle interior.This makes it possible to detect the electronic replacement key 10s, which is carried by a user and is likely to move from a different location than the electronic key 10, which remains near the boundary of the detection area 100 located outside the vehicle interior.

[0083] Furthermore, in the example described above, the Smart Entry ECU 24 determines during power saving control with respect to the electronic key 10, without exception, whether the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 300 located outside the vehicle interior, if the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection area 100 (100a and / or 100b) located outside the vehicle interior (see step S301 of Fig. 7) However, it is also possible that the Smart Entry ECU 24 only determines whether the electronic key 10 is detected in the detection range 300 outside the vehicle interior if the electronic key 10 was detected in the detection range 100 (100a and / or 100b) outside the vehicle interior, where it was determined that the electronic key 10 was near the limit at the time of switching to power saving control with respect to the electronic key 10 (see Fig. 5) This means that it is possible for the Smart-Entry-ECU 24 to initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device if the electronic key 10 is detected in an area other than the detection area 100 outside the vehicle interior, in which the electronic key 10 was at the boundary at the time of switching to power saving control.

[0084] Furthermore, the example described above describes a process for acquiring the electronic key 10 and the electronic backup key 10s during power-saving mode with respect to the electronic key 10. However, the same operations can also be performed in a process for acquiring the electronic key 10 and the electronic backup key 10s during power-saving mode with respect to the electronic backup key 10s.For example, if the electronic spare key 10s is near the boundary of the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior, the smart entry ECU 24 establishes the detection range 300a outside the vehicle interior, which is limited in size relative to the detection range 100a outside the vehicle interior, and determines whether the electronic spare key 10s is detected within detection range 300a outside the vehicle interior. If the electronic spare key 10s is then detected within detection range 300a outside the vehicle interior, the smart entry ECU 24 initiates the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device as described above.

[0085] The electronic key system has been described in detail with reference to the embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and variations, modifications, and / or substitutions can be made to the embodiment without deviating from the scope of the present invention.

[0086] For example, in the embodiment described above, the smart entry control (the predefined function of the vehicle device) is executed in response to the execution of authentication (capture) by the smart entry ECU 24 with two authentication devices, i.e., the electronic key 10 and the electronic backup key 10s. However, it is also possible for the smart entry control (the predefined function of the vehicle device) to be executed in response to the execution of authentication (capture) by the smart entry ECU 24 with three or more such authentication devices.

[0087] Accordingly, according to the above embodiment, it is possible to create an electronic key system with which it is possible to reduce power consumption when the electronic key is continuously located near the boundary of a detection area outside the vehicle interior, which is designed to carry out communication between the electronic key and the vehicle.

[0088] The present application is based on and claims priority from Japanese patent application No. JP 2014 - 70 432 A, which was filed on March 28, 2014.

Claims

[1] Electronic key system (1) comprising: a transmission part (22) which is designed to wirelessly transmit a query signal at specified time intervals to a specified transmission area outside a vehicle interior; a detection element (23) configured to detect an electronic key (10, 10s) by receiving a response signal transmitted by the electronic key (10, 10s) located in the transmission area in response to the query signal; and an execution part (24) which is configured to cause the execution of a predetermined function of a vehicle device when the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23), wherein the transmission part (22) is designed to transmit the query signal into an enlarged transmission range that is larger than the specified transmission range when a state in which the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) and a state in which the electronic key (10, 10s) is not detected by the detection part (23) are repeated a specified number of times or more within a specified time period, the execution part (24) is designed in such a way as not to cause the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range, the transmission part (22) is designed to transmit the query signal into a reduced transmission area, which is reduced in size with respect to the specified transmission area, after the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission area, and the execution part (24) is designed to initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when the electronic key (10, 10s) is detected by the detection part (23) in the reduced transmission range, characterized by , that the electronic key (10, 10s) is either an electronic key (10) or another electronic key (10s), and the execution part (24) is designed to initiate the execution of the specified function of the vehicle device when one electronic key (10) is detected by the detection part (23) in the reduced transmission range, after one electronic key (10) has been detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range, or when the other electronic key (10s) is detected in the specified transmission range, wherein the transmission part (22) is designed to transmit query signals separately to one electronic key (10) and to the other electronic key (10s); to wirelessly transmit the query signal for one electronic key (10) and the query signal for the other electronic key (10s) with an intervening time interval to the reduced transmission range and the specified transmission range, respectively, after one electronic key (10) has been detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range; and to transmit the query signal for the other electronic key (10s) preferentially compared to the query signal for one electronic key (10). [2] Electronic key system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the transmission part (22) is configured to transmit the query signal to the predetermined transmission range after the one electronic key (10) has been detected by the detection part (23) in the enlarged transmission range, and to transmit the query signal for the one electronic key (10) to the reduced transmission range when the one electronic key (10) is detected by the detection part (23) in the predetermined transmission range. [3] Electronic key system (1) according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the specified function at least comprises: a function for switching on a specific light of a vehicle and / or a function for assuming a state in which, in response to the execution of a specified actuation, a door of the vehicle can be unlocked.

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