Method for operating a central locking device, central locking device and motor vehicle

Abstract

Method for operating a central locking device (12) of a motor vehicle (10) which has been locked by a central locking mechanism (18) of the central locking device (12) due to a journey exceeding a minimum speed and has subsequently slowed down below the minimum speed, wherein the following steps are provided for the subsequent unlocking of the central locking mechanism: - Receiving an identification signal (KS) from a portable mobile device (20) which sends the identification signal (KS) from outside the motor vehicle (10) by a detection unit (14) of the central locking device (12), wherein the identification signal (KS) includes an identifier (K) of the portable mobile device (20); - Comparing the identifier (K) by means of a control unit (16) of the central locking device (12) with at least one identifier (K1, K2...Kn) stored in the control unit (16) in an evaluation phase and - Unlocking the central locking system (18) of the motor vehicle (10) by means of the control unit (16) when the received identifier (K) matches at least one identifier (K1, K2...Kn), characterized in that - during the evaluation phase, the control unit (18) additionally records the signal strength of the identification signal (KS) over a predetermined period of time, whereby within the predetermined period, an increasing value of the signal strength indicates that the portable mobile device (20) is approaching the vehicle (10) and the central locking system (18) is only unlocked when an approach is detected.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a central locking device. The invention also includes a central locking device that can be operated according to the method according to the invention. Finally, the invention also includes a motor vehicle with the central locking device according to the invention.

[0002] Central locking systems are known from the general state of the art that automatically activate the central locking system while driving at speeds above, for example, 30 km / h, thus locking the vehicle from the inside. This means that a driver or passenger can exit the vehicle, but access from the outside is not possible. This system prevents unauthorized opening of the vehicle doors from the outside while driving, for example, when stopped at traffic lights. To unlock the central locking system, the driver or passenger can, for example, operate a control element, such as an unlock button, inside the vehicle. If a person wishes to enter the vehicle, the driver must first unlock the central locking system by operating the control element.

[0003] Further technical designs for unlocking the central locking system are known from the state of the art.

[0004] For example, German patent DE 10 2013 206 197 A1 describes a method for controlling a central locking system in a motor vehicle with multiple doors. The central locking system comprises door locking actuators and a control unit that communicates with the locking actuators for selective locking or unlocking. The control unit is configured to detect vehicle operating parameters and, depending on these parameters, to implement individual locking behavior for each door.

[0005] German patent application DE 10 2010 061 111 A1 describes a method for operating a motor vehicle locking system using a mobile communication device. In this method, following user input indicating a wish to trigger a function of the locking system, the communication device emits a wake-up signal. This wake-up signal is received by a nearby vehicle identification sensor (VIS) and triggers a wake-up routine within the VIS. Communication then takes place between the communication device and the VIS, during which the communication device transmits the wish to trigger the locking system function to the VIS.The ID transmitter initiates and executes communication with a vehicle control unit, transmitting identification codes and signals to trigger the locking system's function. The control unit then executes the locking system's function.

[0006] German patent application DE 10 2009 005 525 A1 describes a security system with an interior door handle of a vehicle door. The door can be moved into a locked and unlocked state by a locking mechanism of the security system. Furthermore, the security system includes an actuating element which, when activated, triggers an action to open a lock within the locking system. The security system also includes a control unit configured to receive a release signal from the vehicle and, upon receiving the release signal and activating the actuating element, to move the locking system from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0007] German patent DE 10 2007 055 115 A1 describes a central locking system for the doors and / or windows of a motor vehicle. An electromechanical door lock mechanism and / or an electromechanical window regulator mechanism of the central locking system is moved into a locking position when the motor vehicle reaches or exceeds a certain speed threshold.

[0008] German patent application DE 10 2013 105 022 A1 describes a method for setting at least one customizable parameter of a motor vehicle. In this method, a short-range radio connection is first established between a key fob for the motor vehicle and a mobile phone. Subsequently, at least one customizable parameter is transmitted from the mobile phone to the motor vehicle. Finally, the transmitted customizable parameter is authorized for its creation on the vehicle by the key fob.

[0009] Such central locking arrangements or locking systems are particularly complex in design.

[0010] Instead of actively unlocking the central locking system, for example via a control element, to allow passengers to board, it may also be possible to unlock the central locking system while driving for safety reasons. For this purpose, DE 103 34 711 A1, for example, describes a safety system for operating at least one electrically operated locking device of a motor vehicle. The electrical opening blockage of the safety system depends on driving situation-related sensor values ​​that indicate an impending impact.

[0011] The object of the present invention is therefore to simplify a method for operating a central locking system, a central locking system and a motor vehicle with a central locking system, and at the same time to increase the safety and comfort of the vehicle occupants during a journey with the motor vehicle.

[0012] The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are disclosed by the features of the dependent patent claims, the following description, and the figure.

[0013] According to the invention, this problem is solved by a method for operating a central locking system of a motor vehicle, which has been locked by the central locking system after exceeding a minimum speed and has subsequently slowed down below the minimum speed. To unlock the central locking system, an identification signal is first received from a portable mobile device by means of a detection unit of the central locking system. The portable mobile device transmits the identification signal from outside the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the identification signal includes an identifier of the portable mobile device. In a further process step, the identifier is compared by means of a control unit of the central locking system with at least one identifier stored in the control unit during an evaluation phase.Finally, the central locking system of the vehicle is unlocked by the control unit when the received identifier matches at least one of the identifiers. In other words, unlocking the central locking system may require fulfilling an unlocking criterion, namely the matching of the identifiers.

[0014] By matching the identifiers, it is ensured that the central locking system is only unlocked by an authorized portable mobile device within the vicinity of the vehicle. This matching of identifiers for unlocking the central locking system further ensures the safety of the driver and / or passenger while driving, particularly against unauthorized opening or access from the outside. At the same time, it increases convenience for the driver and / or passenger by automatically unlocking the vehicle without requiring manual intervention.

[0015] A central locking system is preferably a device that allows all vehicle doors to be locked simultaneously. "Locking" here specifically means that the vehicle doors are closed and cannot be opened. Particularly preferably, when the central locking system is engaged, the vehicle doors are locked from the inside. This means that a driver or passenger can open the vehicle doors from the inside, i.e., from within the vehicle's interior; the vehicle doors cannot be opened from the outside.

[0016] In the present invention, the central locking system is locked or activated when, after the vehicle has started moving, it reaches a minimum speed or accelerates above this minimum speed. The minimum speed is a value representing the vehicle's travel speed. For example, the minimum speed can be a value between 5 km / h and 40 km / h, and in particular a value of 30 km / h. If the vehicle's central locking system is locked, it remains locked until a receiver unit of the central locking device receives the identification signal from the portable mobile device and the identifier of the portable mobile device matches the identifier stored in the control unit. During the evaluation phase, the control unit compares the received identifier with the identifier stored in the control unit.The evaluation phase can begin, for example, as soon as the detection unit receives the identification signal. The portable mobile device is preferably located outside the vehicle, i.e., in the vicinity of the vehicle. The identifier stored in the control unit can, for example, be stored in the control unit's memory. Multiple identifiers can also be stored in the control unit.

[0017] To store the identifier(s) of the control unit, a user, driver, or passenger of the vehicle can specify or enter one or more identifiers. The central locking system may include a central computer for this purpose. Using an input device on the central computer, the user can enter the identifier(s) of one or more portable mobile devices. Alternatively, a learning process can be used to store the identifiers. In this process, the detection unit can identify one or more portable mobile devices and query their identifier(s). The identifier(s) of the detected portable mobile devices can then be displayed to the user on a screen of the input device, which is located, for example, on a center console in the vehicle's interior.Upon user confirmation, the captured identifier(s) can be stored in the control unit. User confirmation can be effected through a confirmation action, such as pressing a control element on the input device.

[0018] If the detected identifier, which is transmitted by the identifier signal from the portable mobile device, does not match the identifier stored in the control unit, the central locking system will preferably not be unlocked.

[0019] By comparing the identifiers—the received identifier and the identifier stored in the control unit—authentication or identification of the portable mobile device is preferably performed. "Identifier comparison" here specifically means that a key of the portable mobile device is verified against a key stored in the control unit. The acquisition unit can be configured to transmit an acquisition signal and receive an identifier signal from the portable mobile device. The portable mobile device can be configured to output the identifier signal upon receiving the acquisition signal. By transmitting the acquisition signal, the acquisition unit can query the identifier, in particular a digital identifier or key, of the portable mobile device.

[0020] Once the central locking system is unlocked, a person outside the vehicle carrying a portable mobile device can open a vehicle door and enter the vehicle. The vehicle can then be brought to a stop to allow the person to enter.

[0021] According to the invention, during the evaluation phase, the control unit additionally detects the signal strength of the identification signal over a predetermined period. "Predetermined period" preferably refers to a duration or time interval. For example, the predetermined period can be between 5 and 50 seconds. Within the predetermined period, the control unit can detect the signal strength of the identification signal. The signal strength can be an average value, an RMS value, a peak value, or a combination of these methods for measuring the electric field strength. This offers the advantage of increasing the reliability of the central locking system.

[0022] According to the invention, within a predetermined time period, the control unit detects an approach of the portable mobile device to the vehicle as the signal strength increases, and the central locking system is only unlocked upon such detection. "Approach" preferably refers to a decrease in the distance between the portable mobile device and the vehicle. For example, a user carrying the portable mobile device may move towards the vehicle. At least two conditions are preferably met for the central locking system to unlock. First, the received identifier must match the identifier stored in the control unit. Second, the signal strength must increase or become greater within the predetermined time period. If either condition is not met, the central locking system will not unlock.For example, if the signal strength of the identification signal remains constant or decreases, the central locking system will not unlock. The signal strength or its value can decrease, for instance, if the portable mobile device moves away from the vehicle.

[0023] One embodiment of the invention provides that the central locking system is only unlocked if the vehicle's ignition is switched on and / or a remote key is detected inside the vehicle. This means that, in addition to a match between the received identifier of the portable mobile device, at least one further condition is required to unlock the central locking system. In other words, the unlocking criterion can include an additional condition. If the received identifier matches the identifier stored in the control unit, the control unit can additionally detect or verify whether the vehicle's ignition is switched on or activated and / or whether the vehicle's remote key is located inside the vehicle. If the vehicle's ignition is switched on and / or the remote key is detected and the identifiers match, the central locking system is unlocked.The vehicle must preferably be running and / or the remote key must be inside the vehicle to unlock the central locking system. The central locking system can include a detection device to recognize or identify the remote key. For example, the remote key can be detected when it is inserted into the vehicle's ignition. This offers the advantage of further increasing the safety of the vehicle's occupants, as the control unit checks at least two conditions for unlocking the central locking system.

[0024] Another embodiment of the invention provides that the signal strength is compared to a threshold value during a predetermined time period, and the central locking system is only unlocked if the signal strength exceeds the predetermined threshold value within the predetermined time interval. A signal strength value can be stored as the threshold value. This threshold value can, for example, be stored in a memory of the central locking device or the control unit. Here, too, at least two conditions must be met to unlock the central locking system. The first condition is that the received identifier must match the identifier stored in the control unit, and the second condition is that the signal strength must be greater than a threshold value. The receiving unit can receive the identifier signal from the portable mobile device.The control unit, which is coupled to the receiver, can detect the signal strength or the value of the signal strength of the identification signal during the evaluation phase within the predetermined time interval. If the value of the identification signal increases, for example, when the portable mobile device approaches the vehicle, the central locking system can only be unlocked when the signal strength of the received identification signal exceeds the predetermined threshold.

[0025] Advantageously, when the central locking system is deactivated, one or more vehicle doors are unlocked, with the unlocking depending on whether a seat is occupied inside the vehicle and / or whether a portable mobile device is approaching a vehicle door from the outside. The central locking system may include an additional detection device for detecting seat occupancy and / or proximity. For example, the additional detection device for seat occupancy detection may include a camera directed at the vehicle interior and / or a seat occupancy sensor. For proximity detection, the additional detection device may, for example, include a camera directed at the vehicle's surroundings.By detecting seat occupancy and / or approach, only the vehicle doors next to which a seat is unoccupied or to which a person is approaching are opened.

[0026] To carry out the method according to the invention, the invention also provides a central locking device for a motor vehicle. The central locking device includes a detection unit configured to receive an identification signal from a portable mobile device transmitting the signal from outside the motor vehicle. To receive the identification signal, the detection unit can preferably be configured as a roof antenna of the motor vehicle. The identification signal comprises an identifier of the portable mobile device. Furthermore, the central locking device includes a control unit configured to compare the identifier with at least one identifier stored in the control unit during an evaluation phase.Furthermore, the control unit is configured to unlock the vehicle's central locking system if the received identifier matches at least one of the identifiers. During the evaluation phase, the control unit is also configured to detect the signal strength of the identifier signal over a predetermined period. Additionally, within this predetermined period, the control unit is configured to recognize an approach of the portable mobile device to the vehicle as the signal strength increases, and to unlock the central locking system only upon such a detected approach.

[0027] The identification signal can be received from a portable mobile device, such as a mobile phone, an electric watch (especially a smartwatch), or a tablet computer.

[0028] Advantageously, the identification signal is designed according to a WLAN or Bluetooth standard intended for establishing a communication network. The WLAN standard used, for example, is IEEE 802.11. IEEE 802.11 is an IEEE standard for communication in wireless networks. The detection unit can be configured to receive a WLAN or Bluetooth signal as an identification signal. This offers the advantage of establishing a communication network in a particularly simple and reliable manner.

[0029] In particular, the invention provides that the central locking device is implemented in a motor vehicle. Accordingly, the invention also provides for a motor vehicle with an embodiment of the operating device according to the invention. The motor vehicle according to the invention is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car.

[0030] The advantages and preferred embodiments described for the method according to the invention also apply to the motor vehicle and the central locking device according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0031] An embodiment of the invention is described below. The single figure (Fig.) shows a schematic representation of a motor vehicle 10 with a central locking device 12.

[0032] The embodiment described below is a preferred embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the described components each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another. Each of these features further develops the invention independently and can therefore be considered part of the invention individually or in a combination other than that shown. Furthermore, the described embodiment can also be supplemented by other features of the invention already described.

[0033] The central locking device 12 comprises a detection unit 14, a control unit 16 and a central locking mechanism 18.

[0034] The central locking system 18 is designed to lock the vehicle doors of the motor vehicle 10, particularly from the inside. For example, when the motor vehicle 10 starts driving, it may accelerate above a minimum speed. As soon as the vehicle 10's speed exceeds this minimum speed, for example, 30 km / h, the control unit 16 may be configured to activate the central locking system 18, which then locks the vehicle doors. The minimum speed, or a value representing the minimum speed, may be stored in a memory (not shown in the figure) of the control unit 16. Once the central locking system 18 is locked or activated, it can only be unlocked or deactivated again by an unlocking criterion.

[0035] As shown in the figure, the detection unit 14 is designed as a roof antenna. The detection unit 14 is configured to receive an identification signal KS. The identification signal KS is emitted or transmitted by a portable mobile device 20 in the vicinity of the motor vehicle 10. The portable mobile device 20 can be, for example, a mobile phone, an electronic watch, in particular a smartwatch, or a tablet computer. For example, the portable mobile device 20 can be carried by a person 22 who wants to board the motor vehicle 10.

[0036] The acquisition unit 14 is further configured to output an acquisition signal ES. The portable mobile device 20 is configured to receive the acquisition signal ES and, upon receiving the acquisition signal ES, to output the identification signal KS. The acquisition signal ES is used to query an identifier K of the portable mobile device 20. The identification signal KS output by the portable mobile device 20 includes the identifier K queried by the acquisition unit 14. The identification signal KS is preferably configured according to a WLAN or Bluetooth standard intended for establishing a communication network. The acquisition unit 14 can therefore also be configured to receive a WLAN or Bluetooth signal as the identification signal KS.

[0037] The detection unit 14 is coupled to the control unit 16, particularly via signaling. Upon receiving the identification signal KS, the detection unit 14 is configured to transmit the identifier K to the control unit 16.

[0038] The control unit 16 is then configured to compare the received identifier K with an identifier stored in the control unit 16 during an evaluation phase. The evaluation phase can begin, for example, as soon as the control unit 16 receives the identifier of the portable mobile device 20. The control unit 16 can also have more than one identifier K1, K2...Kn stored in its memory. For example, the identifiers K1, K2...Kn can also be stored in the memory of the control unit 16.

[0039] The storage of one or more identifiers K1, K2...Kn can be performed by a user, driver, or owner of the motor vehicle 10. For this purpose, the central locking system 12 can include a central computer. Using an input device on the central computer, the user can enter the identifier or identifiers K1, K2...Kn of one or more portable mobile devices 20. Alternatively, a learning process can be performed. In this process, the detection unit 14 can detect one or more portable mobile devices and query their identifiers. The identifiers K1, K2...Kn can then be displayed to the user on a screen, which is located, for example, on a center console in the interior of the motor vehicle 10. Upon confirmation by the user, the queried identifiers can be stored in the control unit 16.

[0040] If the received identifier K of the portable mobile device 20 matches the identifier K1, K2...Kn stored in the control unit 16, the unlocking criterion is met. The control unit 16 can then control the central locking system 18. For example, the control unit 16 can output or send an unlocking signal to the central locking system 18. This unlocks the central locking system 18. When the central locking system 18 is unlocked, the vehicle doors of the motor vehicle 10 are opened.

[0041] Once the central locking system is unlocked, person 22, who is outside the vehicle 10 and is carrying the portable mobile device, can open a vehicle door of the vehicle 10 and enter the vehicle 10.

[0042] Overall, the invention describes an automatic central locking deactivator using a portable mobile device.

[0043] The vehicle owner or driver can authorize any person to deactivate the central locking system remotely while the vehicle is in motion. To do this, the authorized person must pair a portable mobile device or consumer device, such as a smartphone, with the vehicle's wireless network. This pairing process takes place inside the vehicle via the vehicle's infotainment system. When the vehicle detects the portable mobile device via its digital roof antenna, the central locking system is automatically deactivated.

Claims

[1] Method for operating a central locking device (12) of a motor vehicle (10) which has been locked by a central locking system (18) of the central locking device (12) due to travel above a minimum speed and has subsequently been slowed down below the minimum speed, the following steps being provided for subsequently unlocking the central locking system: - receiving an identification signal (KS) from a portable mobile terminal (20), which sends the identification signal (KS) from outside the motor vehicle (10), by a detection unit (14) of the central locking device (12), wherein the identification signal (KS) comprises an identifier (K) of the portable mobile terminal (20); - comparing the identifier (K) by means of a control unit (16) of the central locking device (12) with at least one identifier (K1, K2...Kn) stored in the control unit (16) in an evaluation phase and - unlocking the central locking system (18) of the motor vehicle (10) by means of the control unit (16) if the received identifier (K) matches the at least one identifier (K1, K2...Kn), characterized by , that - in the evaluation phase, a signal strength of the identification signal (KS) is additionally detected by the control unit (18) over a predetermined period of time, wherein, within the predetermined period of time, with an increasing value of the signal strength, an approach of the portable mobile terminal (20) to the motor vehicle (10) is detected by the control unit (16) and the central locking system (18) is only unlocked when an approach is detected. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by that the central locking system (18) is only unlocked if the ignition of the motor vehicle (10) is switched on and / or a radio key is detected in the vehicle interior. [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the signal strength is compared with a threshold value during the predetermined time period and the central locking system (18) is only unlocked when the signal strength is above the predetermined threshold value within the predetermined time interval. [4] Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that when the central locking system (18) is deactivated, one or more vehicle doors of the motor vehicle (10) are unlocked, wherein the vehicle doors are unlocked depending on a seat occupancy in an interior of the motor vehicle (10) and / or an approach of the portable mobile terminal (20) from the outside to a vehicle door. [5] Central locking device (12) for a motor vehicle (10), comprising: - a detection unit (14) which is configured to receive an identification signal (KS) from a portable mobile terminal (20) which transmits the identification signal from outside the motor vehicle (10), wherein the identification signal (KS) comprises an identifier (K) of the portable mobile terminal (20), and - a control unit (16) which is designed to compare the identifier (K) with at least one identifier (K1, K2...Kn) stored in the control unit (16) in an evaluation phase, wherein - the control unit (16) is further configured to unlock a central locking system (18) of the motor vehicle (10) if the received identifier (K) matches the at least one identifier (K1, K2...Kn), characterized by , that - the control unit (16) is designed to additionally detect a signal strength of the identification signal (KS) over a predetermined period of time in the evaluation phase, wherein - the control unit (16) is further configured to detect an approach of the portable mobile terminal (20) to the motor vehicle (10) within the predetermined time period when the signal strength increases, and to unlock the central locking system (18) only when an approach is detected. [6] Central locking device (12) according to claim 5, characterized by that the identification signal (KS) is designed according to a WLAN standard or Bluetooth standard which is intended for establishing a communication network. [7] Central locking device (12) according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterized by that the detection unit (14) is designed as a roof antenna and / or the detection unit (14) is configured to receive a WLAN signal or a Bluetooth signal as an identification signal (KS). [8] Motor vehicle (10) with a central locking device (12) according to one of claims 5 to 7.

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