Access system

Abstract

Access system (10) for a vehicle having access system (10): a core module (12) with an internal power supply (14), a first wireless interface (16) set up for communication with the vehicle, a first control unit (18) set up for controlling the first wireless interface (16) and a first optical interface (20); an additional module (22) with a second wireless interface (24), a second control unit (26) configured to control the second wireless interface (24) and a second optical interface (28) configured to communicate with the first optical interface (20) of the core module (12); and a housing (30) wherein the core module (12) and / or the additional module (22) are detachably connected to the housing (30), characterized in that the first control unit (18) is designed to control the first wireless interface (16) for the transmission of energy via the second wireless interface (24) to the second control unit (26).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an access system for a vehicle.

[0002] Access systems for motor vehicles, especially car keys, are known in numerous designs from the prior art. Preferably, vehicles are remotely operated from a distance of several meters using a radio key. In this way, doors, tailgates, sunroofs, and the like can be locked after leaving the vehicle or opened before entering. In addition, such radio keys are generally designed to start the vehicle's engine. Foldable radio keys are known in which a classic, mechanical key can be folded away from the radio key housing. The mechanical key can be inserted into the ignition lock to start the vehicle's engine.

[0003] Wireless keys are also used to open garage doors, for example. The aforementioned access systems typically operate on a frequency allocated for general radio communication.

[0004] The basic functionality lies in radio communication with the vehicle, whereby a receiver in the vehicle dictates the radio technology of the corresponding transmitter in the key fob. Buttons arranged on the key fob define a possible control panel. Functional extensions of the aforementioned access systems are known from the prior art.

[0005] US patent 2007 / 0197261 A1, for example, shows a multi-function key that incorporates additional functionalities beyond its remote key function. The key can be designed like a modern smartphone, utilizing Wi-Fi or other wireless technologies and featuring a fingerprint sensor. It is intended that the multi-function key will not only authorize the vehicle but also open garage doors or other locking systems.

[0006] One disadvantage of the aforementioned access systems is that the standard key fobs cannot be adapted to the requirements of different vehicles. A decision must be made beforehand as to whether a multi-functional access system is needed or whether a version with basic functions, for example, is sufficient.

[0007] Similarly, users cannot personalize the access system, especially the key fob. Customer preferences are only offered in a fixed, predefined form and function; no user-configurable options are available.

[0008] The invention is based on the objective of providing an access system for a vehicle that is flexibly adaptable and offers both the user and the manufacturer a wide variety of options.

[0009] This problem is initially solved in the present invention by the features of claim 1 in that the access system comprises a core module with an internal power supply, a first wireless interface configured for communication with the vehicle, a first control unit configured for controlling the first wireless interface, and a first optical interface. In addition, an auxiliary module is provided with a second wireless interface, a second control unit configured for controlling the second wireless interface, and a second optical interface configured for communication with the first optical interface of the core module. Furthermore, the access system comprises a housing, wherein the core module and / or the auxiliary module are detachably connected to the housing. The core module, the auxiliary module, and the housing are therefore separate components that together form the access system.Designing the modules as separate components offers the advantage that the core module can be configured as the basic module with the necessary fundamental functions, while the add-on module introduces optional additional functions to the access system. Because the core module and the add-on module can communicate with each other via the first and second optical interfaces of the first and second control units, programming the core module and / or the add-on module can be implemented relatively easily, even if the respective modules are replaced. The detachable connection to the housing simplifies the replacement of the add-on module and / or the core module.

[0010] The core module covers the essential functions of the access system. The core module handles communication with the vehicle via the first wireless interface, which is controlled by the first control unit. The core module's internal power supply is preferably a battery, and more preferably a coin cell battery. However, battery-based power supplies are also conceivable to enable recharging of the core module. If a battery is used, the core module can also include a device that allows it to be charged wirelessly.

[0011] The add-on module is designed to provide additional functions for the access system. The add-on module can communicate with the core module via optical interfaces and send additional functions requiring transmission to the vehicle via the core module.

[0012] The add-on module can have various additional wireless interfaces, allowing it to connect to other devices. This enables users to program the access system. For example, the add-on module could connect to a smartphone or computer via an additional wireless interface. Using a graphical user interface, such as an app, users can intuitively configure the access system settings. These settings and / or commands can then be transmitted to the core module via the add-on module and its optical interfaces. The core module can then transmit these settings and / or commands to the vehicle. It is also possible to use multiple add-on modules that can communicate with each other and / or with the core module.

[0013] The add-on module can, for example, include its own web interface, which can be accessed when a device is connected to the add-on module. By transferring data from, for example, a smartphone to the add-on module and from the add-on module to the core module, two-factor authentication is possible, allowing settings and programming to be made securely. With an additional connection to the vehicle, even three-factor authentication is possible.

[0014] The additional module can also include further functions that are not directly related to the vehicle. For example, other locking systems can be opened via the second wireless interface. Possible future applications include opening compartments in parcel lockers and / or contactless payment.

[0015] The additional module can also include optical functions. For example, the additional module could include a lighting element, preferably at least one LED-based element, to illuminate the area around the access system. Alternatively, the lighting element could contribute to the distinctive design of the access system. The lighting element could, for instance, be designed in the form of a distinguishing feature, such as the manufacturer's logo.

[0016] Such a logo can also be integrated into the housing. For example, the housing can include a cutout containing the manufacturer's logo. The logo can be a recessed area, or it's conceivable that the recess is covered with a partially transparent material. This partially transparent material can be of different colors, with the lighting element illuminating the cutout and thus the logo.

[0017] The housing can be a classic, state-of-the-art design for a key fob. Common shapes for these housings include cuboid designs with rounded edges. However, the housing can also be designed in any other geometric shape. The housing can be customized or even replaced according to customer specifications. In this way, the housing of the access system can be adapted to the customer's wishes as a design element without compromising the functionality of the access system and without requiring complicated reprogramming. Vehicle manufacturers can also design the housing as a unique selling point, perhaps with a special design and various markings.

[0018] The housing can be made of various materials. It is conceivable that the housing could be made of a soft material, preferably silicone. However, other materials such as plastics and / or metals are also possible. Advantageously, the housing can be encapsulated, making it waterproof and / or dustproof. Accordingly, the housing can have a locking element through which an insertion port can be closed, allowing the core module and / or the additional module to be inserted into the housing.

[0019] It is also conceivable that the housing has additional mechanical functions. For example, the housing could include a mechanical key that can be used to start the vehicle. The mechanical key could, for instance, be foldable from the housing, so that the key only changes the housing's form factor when needed.

[0020] The casing can also be integrated into existing accessories that a user might already be carrying. This reduces the number of items a user needs on a daily basis. For example, the casing could be an integral part of an ID holder or smartphone case, or designed as a grip element for a smartphone case, such as a PopSocket. The casing could also be designed as a bracelet or as part of a wallet.

[0021] Further preferred embodiments of the invention result from the other features mentioned in the dependent claims.

[0022] In a first embodiment of the access system according to the invention, the core module has a first housing, and the add-on module has a second housing and / or is arranged within the housing. Additional housings increase the flexibility of the access system and simplify the replacement of the add-on module and / or the core module, as each can be removed from or detached from its housing as an independent unit. If the core module and the add-on module each have a separate housing, it is conceivable that the respective housings could also be designed differently. Analogous to the housing of the access system, the first housing and / or the second housing can be made of different materials. A waterproof and / or dustproof design of the first and / or the second housing is also conceivable.

[0023] The separate first and second housings allow for further configurations of the access system housing. The first and / or second housing can be attached to the main housing and does not necessarily have to be located inside the access system housing. For example, the housing can be designed in the shape of a credit card, with the first and / or second housing attached to the credit card or secured in a recess or notch in the credit card, preferably by positive locking or friction locking.

[0024] According to the invention, the first control unit is configured to control the first wireless interface for the transfer of energy via the second wireless interface to the second control unit. By transferring energy from the first wireless interface via the second wireless interface to the second control unit, the second control unit is supplied with energy, thereby supplying the entire add-on module with energy. In this way, the add-on module can be supplied with energy without requiring its own dedicated power supply. The energy can be transferred by means of energy harvesting, for example, using a nanogenerator designed to supply the add-on module with energy from the core module.

[0025] In a further configuration of the access system, the first and / or second wireless interface is designed to include an NFC coil for transmitting power. An NFC coil also enables the establishment of a wireless connection using NFC technology. By utilizing the NFC coil, the add-on module can be expanded with additional functions. For example, the NFC technology in the add-on module can be used to allow emergency access to the vehicle if the vehicle is capable of receiving NFC signals.

[0026] To simplify the operation of the access system, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the additional module has a pressure-sensitive element and / or a capacitive element for detecting user input. The pressure-sensitive element could, for example, be a button, which, when pressed, allows the user to send commands from the additional module to the vehicle via the core module. Similarly, a capacitive element could be a touch sensor, which allows commands to be transmitted to the vehicle by touching the sensor.

[0027] The capacitive element could, for example, be a touch panel. This touch panel could be designed to recognize gestures, allowing different commands to be transmitted to the vehicle using just one capacitive element. Gestures could include, for instance, the detection of one or more fingers touching the panel. Swiping movements in various directions with one or more fingers are also conceivable. In this way, functionality can be maximized while maintaining a small form factor.

[0028] The second control unit is designed to transmit a signal corresponding to user input to the first control unit via its optical interfaces. By transmitting this signal from the second control unit to the first, user inputs made via the add-on module can be transferred to the core module, which can then establish communication with the vehicle. For example, if the add-on module has buttons, touch sensors, etc., inputs made via these elements can be transmitted to the core module and thus indirectly to the vehicle.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the access system according to the invention can be equipped with various wireless standards. It is provided that the first control unit and the first wireless interface are configured for data transmission via UWB, BTLE, 434 MHz connection and / or Zigbee. In this way, the core module can be adapted to various applications.

[0030] In a further advantageous embodiment of the access system according to the invention, the core module also includes a motion sensor. The motion sensor can, for example, also be an accelerometer. The motion sensor can be connected to the first control unit in such a way that different gestures can be programmed, through which user input can be registered and transmitted to the vehicle via the core module. These gestures can be various hand movements that are registered by the motion sensor when a user holds the access system in their hand. Gestures that can be registered when the access system is in a user's pocket are also conceivable, for example, deliberately placing a foot on the ground.

[0031] Additionally or alternatively, a further embodiment of the access system according to the invention provides that the add-on module has at least one display. The display can show the user various pieces of information. For example, it could show vehicle data or the location where the vehicle was parked. If the add-on module is used, for instance, to locate the vehicle using wireless technology, the display can show the way to the vehicle by means of a map.

[0032] In a further advantageous embodiment of the access system according to the invention, the core module comprises a first data storage device for storing authentication information, and the additional module comprises a second data storage device for storing application information. The second data storage device can, for example, also contain information such as a logbook or passwords. It is also conceivable to store an emergency ID card of the user, containing information about the user's blood type, specific illnesses, and / or emergency contacts.

[0033] Unless otherwise stated in individual cases, the various embodiments of the invention mentioned in this application can be advantageously combined with one another.

[0034] The invention is explained below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an embodiment of an access system according to the invention, Fig. 2 a further schematic representation of another embodiment of an access system according to the invention, Fig. 3 a first design of a housing for an access system, Fig. 4 exemplary designs of an add-on module for an access system, Fig. 5. An design of an access system with a housing in the form of a smartphone case, Fig. 6. A design of an access system with a minimalist protective housing, Fig. 7. An embodiment of an access system with an encapsulated housing, Fig. 8. An design of an access system with a housing in the form of a key ring and Fig. 9. An embodiment of an access system with a casing in the form of a wallet.

[0035] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic configuration of an access system 10 for a vehicle. The access system 10 is primarily a vehicle key that can establish a wireless connection with the vehicle. The access system comprises a core module 12. The core module 12 includes an internal power supply 14 in the form of a battery. The core module 12 also includes a first wireless interface 16. In this embodiment, the wireless interface 16 is based on UWB technology. Additionally, the core module includes a first control unit 18 in the form of a microcontroller, which is configured to enable a wireless connection with the vehicle via the first wireless interface 16. Furthermore, the core module 12 has a first optical interface 22.

[0036] The access system 10 also includes an add-on module 22. Similar to the core module 12, the add-on module 22 comprises a second wireless interface 24 and a second control unit 26. The add-on module 22 can communicate with the core module 12 via a second optical interface 28. Commands and / or queries transmitted by the add-on module 22 can be forwarded from the add-on module 22 to the vehicle via the core module 12. The first control unit 18 is therefore also designed to enable communication with the add-on module via the first optical interface 20. Accordingly, the second control unit 26 is designed to enable communication with the core module 12 via the second optical interface 28, as well as to manage and provide communication with other terminal devices via the second wireless interface 24.

[0037] In this embodiment, the core module 12 and the additional module 22 can be arranged in a housing 30. The core module 12 has its own first housing 32. The additional module 22 comprises its own second housing 34. Separating the core module 12 and the additional module 22 allows the access system to be individually adapted to the needs of customers and manufacturers. The core module 12 includes the basic functions that enable communication with the vehicle. Additional functions can be provided by the additional module 22. Because the core module 12 and the additional module 22 are detachably connected to the housing 30, the access system 10 can also be subsequently adapted, i.e., after delivery with a specific configuration, for example, by replacing the additional module 22 with a different additional module 22.

[0038] In the present embodiment, the second wireless interface 24 is an NFC coil 36. This allows the add-on module 22 to establish a connection via NFC with, for example, a smartphone or a computer. Thus, the access system 10 can be conveniently programmed using a mobile device. Software adjustments to the access system 10 can be made using graphical user interfaces. Commands sent to the add-on module 22 via NFC can be transmitted by the add-on module 22 to the core module 12 via the optical interfaces 20, 28, and from the core module 12 to the vehicle. For example, it would be possible to lock and unlock the vehicle using a smartphone, with the access system 10 simultaneously implementing two-factor authentication.

[0039] The additional module 22 also features a pressure-sensitive element 38 in the form of a button. This allows user input to be mechanically applied via the button, which is then transmitted to the vehicle via the additional module 22 and the core module 12. The housing 30 incorporates a protrusion 40 made of an elastic material, which corresponds to the pressure-sensitive element 38. This allows the pressure-sensitive element 38 to be actuated even when the additional module 22 is installed in the housing.

[0040] Fig. 2 shows, analogous to Fig. 1, another embodiment of the access system 10. The core module 12 and the additional module 22 are already arranged in the housing 30. In contrast to Fig. In this embodiment, the additional module 22 has a capacitive element 42 instead of a pressure-sensitive one. The capacitive element 42 is designed as a touch-sensitive touch panel. The touch panel can recognize gestures, allowing different commands to be transmitted to the vehicle using only one capacitive element 42. Gestures can include, for example, the detection of one or more fingers touching the touch panel. Other gestures can include swiping movements in various directions with one or more fingers. In this way, functionality can be maximized while maintaining a small form factor. In this embodiment, the housing 30 has a recess (not shown) that exposes the capacitive element 42, allowing touches to be made even when the additional module 22 is located inside the housing 30.

[0041] In this embodiment, the core module 12 comprises a motion sensor 44. The motion sensor 44 is connected to the first control unit in such a way that different gestures can be programmed, through which user input can be registered and transmitted to the vehicle via the core module 12. These gestures can be various hand movements that are registered by the motion sensor 44 when a user holds the access system 10, including its housing 30, in their hand. Gestures that can be registered when the access system is in a user's pocket are also conceivable, for example, deliberately placing a foot on the ground.

[0042] In addition, the core module 12 includes a first data store 46 for storing authentication information. The additional module 22 has a second data store 28 for storing application information.

[0043] Fig. Figure 3 shows a possible embodiment of an access system 10. The core module 12 has a round, coin-shaped first housing 32. The additional module 22 has a correspondingly round, coin-shaped second housing 34. The first housing 32 and the second housing 34 are arranged on the housing 30 of the access system 10. In this embodiment, the housing 30 is designed in the shape of a credit card. For fastening the first housing 32 and the second housing 34, corresponding recesses 50 are formed in the housing 30. The first housing 32 and the second housing 34 can be clamped into these recesses 50. One application for this embodiment is, for example, delivery to the customer, who may prefer a customized housing 30. He can detach the core module 12 and the additional module 22 from the housing 30 and insert them into another housing.

[0044] Fig. Figure 4 shows different configurations of the additional module 22 and the second housing 34 of the additional module. For example, the additional module 22 may not have any buttons, but may communicate solely via the second wireless interface 24 or the second optical interface 28. The middle second housing 34 represents such an additional module 22. The left second housing 34 has two buttons as pressure-sensitive elements 38, which can be used, for example, to open and close doors, garage doors, and / or sunroofs. The right second housing 34 has only one button as a pressure-sensitive element 38, which can be used, for example, to lock the vehicle.

[0045] Fig. Figure 5 shows an access system 10 in which the housing 30 is designed as a smartphone case. The core module 12 and the additional module 22 are arranged inside the smartphone case. Smartphones are so widespread that they are among the items a user typically carries with them at all times. By designing the housing 30 as a smartphone case, the user can reduce the number of items they need to carry. The smartphone then simultaneously houses the access system 10 without significantly increasing the form factor.

[0046] Fig. Figure 6 shows an access system 10 with a minimalist housing 30. The housing is egg-shaped and merely surrounds the add-on module 22 and the core module 12 (not shown). It is open on two sides, so that the core module 12 and the add-on module 22, or the first housing 32 and the second housing 34, are visible. This allows for easy replacement of the add-on module 22. In this embodiment, the first housing 32 and the second housing 34 are encapsulated, making them both waterproof and dustproof.

[0047] Fig. Figure 7 shows an access system 10 with a housing 30, the shape of which is reminiscent of a radio key known from the prior art. The housing 30 has a locking cap 52 by which the housing 30 can be opened and closed. The core module 12 is arranged inside the housing 30. The additional module 22 can be clipped into a recess 54 on the outside of the housing 30. In this way, the additional module can be easily replaced, thus making the range of functions of the access system 10 quick and easy to adapt.

[0048] Fig. Figure 8 shows an access system 10 with a housing 30 designed as a key ring. The first housing 32 and the second housing 34 each have an opening 54 through which the key ring can pass. The first housing 32 and the second housing 34 can then be attached to the key ring with several mechanical keys 56, similar to a dongle.

[0049] Fig. Figure 9 shows an access system 10 with a housing 30 in the form of a wallet. The core module 12 and the additional module 22 can be inserted into the wallet and secured. Analogous to the design as a smartphone case according to Fig. 4, or for use as a key ring according to Fig. 8, in this way the number of items a user needs to carry is minimized. Reference symbol list 10 Access system 12 Core Module 14 Power supply 16 First wireless interface 18 First control unit 20 First optical interface 22 Additional module 24 Second wireless interface 26 Second control unit 28 Second optical interface 30 cases 32 First case 34 Second case 36 NFC coil 38 Pressure-sensitive element 40 Survey 42 Capacitive element 44 motion sensor 46 First data storage 48 Second data storage 50 Exclusion 52 Cap 54 Opening 56 keys

Claims

[1] Access system (10) for a vehicle comprising the access system (10): a core module (12) with an internal power supply (14), a first wireless interface (16) set up for communication with the vehicle, a first control unit (18) set up for controlling the first wireless interface (16) and a first optical interface (20); an additional module (22) with a second wireless interface (24), a second control unit (26) configured to control the second wireless interface (24) and a second optical interface (28) configured to communicate with the first optical interface (20) of the core module (12); and a housing (30) wherein the core module (12) and / or the additional module (22) are detachably connected to the housing (30), characterized by, that the first control unit (18) is designed to control the first wireless interface (16) to transmit energy via the second wireless interface (24) to the second control unit (26). [2] Access system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the core module (12) has a first housing (32), wherein the additional module (22) has a second housing (34) and / or wherein the additional module (22) is arranged inside the housing (30). [3] Access system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the first wireless interface (16) and / or the second wireless interface (24) has an NFC coil (36) designed to transmit supply energy. [4] Access system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional module (22) has a pressure-sensitive element (38) and / or a capacitive element (42) for capturing user input. [5] Access system (10) according to claim 4, wherein the second control unit (26) is configured to transmit a signal corresponding to the user input to the first control unit (18) via the optical interfaces (20, 28). [6] Access system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first control unit (18) and the first wireless interface (16) are configured for data transmission via UWB, BTLE, 434 MHz connection and / or Zigbee. [7] Access system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the core module further comprises a motion sensor (44). [8] Access system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional module (22) has at least one display. [9] Access system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the core module (12) has a first data storage (46) for storing authentication information and the additional module (22) has a second data storage (48) for storing application information.

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