Charger, portable device, system, control method, and information providing method

Abstract

To provide a charger, a portable device, a system, a control method, and an information providing method capable of preventing electricity theft without restricting a vehicle to be charged, while suppressing the complexity of operations when charging an on-vehicle storage battery.SOLUTION: A charger charges an on-vehicle storage battery of an electric vehicle, and includes an operation unit that accepts operations on the charger, a radio wave reception unit that receives a radio wave radiated from an electronic key, and a control unit that performs authentication processing of the electronic key based on the radio wave received by the radio wave reception unit, in which the control unit performs rejection processing for rejecting an instruction based on the operation of the operation unit, according to the result of the authentication processing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a charger, a portable device, a system, a control method, and an information providing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Chargers for charging the onboard storage batteries of electric vehicles are being installed in urban areas (charging stations, commercial facilities, etc.) so that the onboard storage batteries of electric vehicles can be charged on the go. The installation of chargers in homes that own electric vehicles is also progressing. As a result, there are concerns about electricity theft (hereinafter referred to as electricity theft) where chargers are used without permission to charge electric vehicles.

[0003] The following Patent Document 1 discloses the use of an ID card to prevent electricity theft at charging stations for electric vehicles. Specifically, the charger is connected to the vehicle battery by a detachable cable, reads an ID card key for starting charging the vehicle battery, monitors the current value flowing to the vehicle battery, and stops charging the vehicle battery when the monitored current value becomes zero. This makes it possible to prevent electricity theft caused by disconnecting and reconnecting the cable while charging at a charging station or the like.

[0004] The following Patent Document 2 discloses that a power conversion device main body that charges a storage battery of an electric vehicle via a charging cable includes a camera unit and an image recognition unit. The image recognition unit processes an image including the electric vehicle captured by the camera unit, and the power conversion device main body determines whether or not to permit charging and discharging of the electric vehicle based on the processing result by the image recognition unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-254643 A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2017 / 072895 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, the technology described in Patent Document 1 requires the user to insert the ID card into a reader or bring it close to a reader before charging can begin. This makes charging complicated. In addition, the number of items that must be carried when driving a vehicle increases, and there is also the problem that charging is not possible if the ID card is lost.

[0007] The technology described in Patent Document 2 requires a high-precision camera to use images captured by a camera. In addition, there is a problem that it is not easy to charge the on-board storage batteries of vehicles other than registered vehicles (for example, visitors' vehicles).

[0008] Therefore, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a charger, a portable device, a system, a control method, and an information provision method that can reduce the complexity of operations when charging an on-board storage battery and prevent electricity theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] A charger according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a charger for charging an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, and includes an operation unit that accepts operations on the charger, a radio wave receiving unit that receives radio waves transmitted from an electronic key, and a control unit that performs authentication processing of the electronic key based on the radio waves received by the radio wave receiving unit, and the control unit executes a rejection process that rejects instructions based on the operation on the operation unit depending on the result of the authentication processing. Effect of the Invention

[0010] The present disclosure makes it possible to provide a charger, a portable device, a system, a control method, and an information providing method that can reduce the complexity of operations when charging an on-board storage battery and prevent power theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the configuration of a charger according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which a portable device is detached from the charger main body shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the charger shown in FIG. 1 that accommodates a portable device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a four-sided view showing the portable device of the charger shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the charger shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the process of authenticating an electronic key by a charger. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a key information setting device installed in a dealer. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the key information setting device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of a charger according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a server computer. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server computer. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the charger shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] [Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure] The contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described below. At least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any combination.

[0013] (1) A charger according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a charger for charging an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, and includes an operation unit that accepts operations on the charger, a radio wave receiving unit that receives radio waves transmitted from an electronic key, and a control unit that authenticates the electronic key based on the radio waves received by the radio wave receiving unit, and the control unit executes a rejection process that rejects an instruction based on the operation on the operation unit depending on the result of the authentication process. This makes it possible to prevent the operation from becoming complicated when charging the on-board storage battery and to prevent electricity theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged.

[0014] (2) In the above (1), the charger may further include a storage unit that stores key information assigned to the electronic key, the electronic key may transmit the key information by radio waves, and the control unit may perform authentication processing of the electronic key based on whether or not information included in the radio waves received by the radio wave receiving unit matches the key information stored in the storage unit. This allows the authentication processing to be performed efficiently.

[0015] (3) In the above (2), the charger may further include a portable device that is detachable from the charger body, and the portable device may include a storage unit. This allows the portable device to be detached from the charger body and allows the key information to be set in the portable device in a secure information management environment.

[0016] (4) In the above (2), the charger may include a receiving unit that receives key information from outside the charger via a communication network, and the storage unit may store the key information received via the receiving unit. This allows the key information to be set efficiently in the charger.

[0017] (5) In the above (4), the operation unit may further receive input of specific information for identifying the key information, the charger may further include a transmission unit that transmits the specific information input via the operation unit, owner information for identifying the owner of the electronic key, and charger information for identifying the charger to a server computer that manages the key information, the reception unit may receive the key information transmitted from the server computer, and each of the owner information and the charger information may be input via the operation unit or stored in the storage unit. This makes it possible to determine whether the charger to which the key information is to be set is appropriate, and the key information can be set in the charger safely in terms of information security.

[0018] (6) In any one of (1) to (5) above, the electronic key may be an electronic key used for purposes other than authentication by the control unit. This allows an electronic key already used for purposes other than authentication by the control unit to be used as an electronic key for the charger, thereby preventing the user from having to carry more items. In addition, there is no need to prepare a new electronic key for the charger, which helps prevent increases in costs.

[0019] (7) In the above (6), the electronic key may be an electronic key used to lock and unlock doors. This allows the user to use an automobile electronic key or a home front door electronic key that the user is likely to carry without being aware of it as an electronic key for the charger, improving user convenience.

[0020] (8) In any one of (1) to (7) above, the charger may further include a setting unit that sets the control unit to permit or prohibit execution of the authentication process and the rejection process. This allows the electronic key authentication program to be forcibly stopped even if the user does not have the electronic key, making it possible to charge using the charger in an emergency. In addition, even if an electronic key for another person's vehicle is registered to the charger, the on-board storage battery of the user's vehicle can be charged.

[0021] (9) A portable device according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is a portable device included in a charger that charges an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, and includes a storage unit that stores key information assigned to an electronic key, and the key information stored in the storage unit is used for authentication processing of the electronic key by the charger. This makes it possible to prevent the operation of charging the on-board storage battery from becoming complicated and to prevent electricity theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged.

[0022] (10) In the above (9), the electronic key may be an electronic key for an automobile, the portable device may be communicably connected to a predetermined device installed in an automobile manufacturer or an automobile dealer, and the key information may be transmitted from the predetermined device to the portable device while the portable device is connected to the predetermined device. This makes it possible to prevent leakage of key information that has not been disclosed to the user due to security concerns. When a user brings the portable device to an automobile dealer, the automobile dealer can obtain business opportunities such as vehicle inspections, vehicle maintenance, and new car sales to the user.

[0023] (11) A system according to a third aspect of the present disclosure includes the charger described in (4) or (5) above and a server computer, the server computer includes a communication unit that receives, from an external device, identification information for identifying key information, owner information for identifying an owner of the electronic key, and charger information for identifying the charger, and the communication unit transmits the key information identified by the identification information to the charger based on the suitability of the owner information and the charger information. This makes it possible to prevent the operation of charging an on-board storage battery from becoming complicated and to prevent power theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged.

[0024] (12) A control method according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for a charger that charges an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, the control method including an operation step of accepting an operation on the charger, a radio wave receiving step of receiving radio waves transmitted from an electronic key, and a control step of performing authentication processing of the electronic key, the control step including a step of executing a rejection process of rejecting an instruction based on the operation in the operation step depending on a result of the authentication processing. This makes it possible to suppress the complexity of operations when charging the on-board storage battery, and to prevent electricity theft without restricting the vehicles to be charged.

[0025] (13) An information providing method according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure includes the steps of: connecting the portable device described in (9) or (10) above to a predetermined device installed in an automobile manufacturer or an automobile dealership so as to be capable of communicating with the portable device; and providing key information from the predetermined device to the portable device in a state in which the predetermined device and the portable device are connected so as to be capable of communicating with each other. In this way, when a user brings the portable device to an automobile dealership, the automobile dealership can obtain business opportunities such as vehicle inspections, vehicle maintenance, and new car sales to the user.

[0026] [Details of the embodiment of the present disclosure] In the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their names and functions are also the same, so detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0027] (First embodiment) Referring to FIG. 1, a charger 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a charger main body 102, a charging connector 104, a cable 106 that connects the charging connector 104 to the charger main body 102, and a portable device 108. The charger main body 102 is connected to a commercial power system, and generates and outputs DC power from AC commercial power for charging an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle such as an electric vehicle. The charging connector 104 can be connected to, for example, a charging port (also called a charging port or an inlet) of the electric vehicle. In a state in which the charging connector 104 is connected to the charging port of the electric vehicle, the DC power generated by the charger main body 102 is output from the charging connector 104 via the cable 106 and supplied to the on-board storage battery. The on-board storage battery is charged by the supplied DC power. The portable device 108 is for instructing the charger main body 102 to perform an operation. A user can cause the charger main body 102 to perform an operation such as charging the on-board storage battery of the electric vehicle by operating the portable device 108.

[0028] 2, the portable device 108 is configured to be detachable from the charger main body 102. When the portable device 108 is attached to the charger main body 102, it is accommodated in a recess 110 formed on the front surface of the charger main body 102. Referring to FIG. 3, the charger main body 102 includes an input / output unit 112 in the recess 110 that enables electrical connection with the portable device 108. The input / output unit 112 is connected to an input / output unit provided on the rear surface of the portable device 108 as described below.

[0029] With reference to FIG. 4, a display unit 120 and a plurality of operation buttons 122 are arranged on the front surface of the portable device 108. A plurality of mounting members 124 each having a claw portion 126 are arranged on the top surface of the portable device 108. The mounting members 124 are inserted into slits or recesses (not shown) formed in the wall surface forming the recess 110 of the charger main body 102, and are stably fixed to the charger main body 102 by the claw portions 126. The portable device 108 may be fixed to the charger main body 102 by a screw. The portable device 108 is more stably fixed to the charger main body 102 by the screw.

[0030] A recess 130 is formed on the rear surface of the portable device 108, and the input / output unit 128 is provided in the recess 130. The input / output unit 128 is, for example, a multi-pin connector (for example, a plug) and includes an IC (Integrated Circuit) corresponding to the specifications of the input / output interface. The input / output unit 112 shown in FIG. 3 is a multi-pin connector (for example, a socket) that can be mated with the input / output unit 128 and includes an IC corresponding to the same input / output interface specifications as the input / output unit 128. When the portable device 108 is attached to the recess 110 of the charger main body 102, the input / output unit 128 and the input / output unit 112 are mated, and corresponding pins of the input / output unit 128 and the input / output unit 112 are connected to each other. As a result, the portable device 108 is electrically connected to the charger main body 102, and a control signal corresponding to an operation on the operation button 122 is transmitted from the portable device 108 to the charger main body 102. In addition, the power required for the portable device 108 to operate may be supplied from the charger main body 102 to the portable device 108 via the input / output unit 112 and the input / output unit 128 .

[0031] Referring to FIG. 5, the charger main body 102 includes a power supply unit 200 and a power supply controller 202. An electric vehicle 902 shown as an example of an electric vehicle is a vehicle such as an EV (Electric Vehicle) or a PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle). The on-board storage battery of the electric vehicle 902 is a rechargeable storage battery such as a lithium-ion secondary battery. When the charger main body 102 functions as a quick charger, the power supply unit 200 converts AC power (e.g., AC 200V or AC 100V) supplied from a commercial power system (hereinafter simply referred to as system) 900 into DC power and outputs it to the charging connector 104. The on-board storage battery is charged by the DC power supplied from the charging connector 104 to the electric vehicle 902. When the charger main body 102 functions as a normal charger, the power supply unit 200 controls on and off of a line (including the charging connector 104 and the cable 106) that outputs the AC power supplied from the system 900. AC power is supplied to electric vehicle 902 from charging connector 104, and the AC power is converted to DC power inside electric vehicle 902. The on-board storage battery is charged by this DC power.

[0032] The power supply controller 202 controls the power supply unit 200 and the charging connector 104. For example, the power supply controller 202 supplies a control signal required for the operation of an AC / DC converter included in the power supply unit 200, and controls the operation of the power supply unit 200 by adjusting the control signal. The power supply controller 202 also controls a locking mechanism of the charging connector 104. For example, while the electric vehicle is being charged, the power supply controller 202 activates the locking mechanism so that the charging connector 104 connected to the charging port of the electric vehicle does not become detached. The power supply controller 202 unlocks the charging connector 104 after charging is completed.

[0033] The portable device 108 includes a display unit 120 (see FIG. 4), a control unit 210, an operation unit 212, a radio wave transmission / reception unit 214, a communication unit 216, and a bus 218. The control unit 210 determines the operation of the charger 100 based on information input via the operation unit 212 and the radio wave transmission / reception unit 214, and instructs the power supply controller 202 on information required for the operation (such as charging power). Signal transmission between the power supply controller 202 and the control unit 210 is performed via the input / output unit 112 shown in FIG. 3 and the input / output unit 128 shown in FIG. 4. The control unit 210 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 220 and a memory 222. The CPU 220 controls each unit to realize the function of the portable device 108. The memory 222 is composed of a rewritable nonvolatile semiconductor memory. The memory 222 stores a program executed by the CPU 220, and the function of the portable device 108 is realized by the CPU 220 reading and executing the program. The memory 222 is also used as a video memory for storing images.

[0034] The display unit 120 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display, and displays the operating state of the charger 100, messages, and the like. The operation unit 212 includes, for example, a plurality of operation buttons 122 shown in FIG. 4, and accepts user operations. The operation unit 212 may be a touch panel or the like. The display unit 120 and the operation unit 212 may be integrally formed. The display unit 120 and the operation unit 212 may be, for example, a touch panel display in which the operation unit 212 is disposed on the display surface of the display unit 120.

[0035] The radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 transmits radio waves that the electronic key 904 can receive, and receives radio waves transmitted from the electronic key 904 in response to the radio waves. For example, the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 transmits radio waves of a first frequency, and receives radio waves of a second frequency different from the first frequency transmitted from the electronic key 904 that has received the radio waves. This allows authentication of the electronic key 904, as described below. For example, the electronic key 904 is an electronic key for the electric vehicle 902 to be charged, that is, an electronic key that permits locking and unlocking the doors of the electric vehicle 902 and turning on the power. Note that the electronic key 904 may be an electronic key for a vehicle other than the electric vehicle 902 (for example, an electric vehicle owned by the same person as the electric vehicle 902). The communication unit 216 is connected to a communication network such as the Internet by wired or wireless communication, and receives information from an external device such as a server computer (hereinafter simply referred to as a server). Data exchange between the various units constituting the portable device 108 is performed by a bus 218.

[0036] (Charger operation) The operation of the charger 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The process shown in Fig. 6 is realized by the CPU 220 of the control unit 210 of the portable device 108 reading and executing a program stored in the memory 222. The process shown in Fig. 6 is started, for example, when the power supply of the charger 100 is turned on. Note that the charger 100 is locked when it is started so that operations such as charging are not performed.

[0037] In step 300, the CPU 220 determines whether or not the operation unit 212 has been operated. If it is determined that the operation unit 212 has been operated, the control proceeds to step 302. If not, the control proceeds to step 324.

[0038] In step 302, the CPU 220 starts transmitting radio waves of the first frequency by the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214. The CPU 220 also sets a starting point for knowing the passage of time in order to wait for a predetermined time as described later. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 304. The first frequency is a frequency that can be received by an electronic key (e.g., an electronic key for an automobile) to be authenticated. The electronic key stores in its internal memory unique information (hereinafter referred to as key information) such as an ID for uniquely identifying the electronic key. The electronic key that receives the radio waves of the first frequency reads out the stored key information and transmits radio waves of the second frequency including the read out key information. Note that, if the portable device 108 has a timer inside, the CPU 220 may set the current time acquired from the timer when the portable device 108 starts transmitting radio waves as the starting point. Also, if the CPU 220 measures the elapsed time by counting an internal clock, the counter may be set to "0" when the portable device 108 starts transmitting radio waves as the starting point.

[0039] In step 304, the CPU 220 determines whether or not a radio wave transmitted from the electronic key has been received by the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214. If it is determined that a radio wave has been received, control proceeds to step 306. If not, control proceeds to step 310.

[0040] In step 306, the CPU 220 executes authentication processing using the information contained in the radio waves received in step 304, and determines whether or not the authentication is successful (i.e., authentication is passed). Specifically, the CPU 220 extracts information transmitted using the received radio waves as a carrier wave, and determines whether or not the information matches the key information stored in the memory 222. If it is determined that the information matches, the authentication is determined to be successful, and control proceeds to step 308. If not, control proceeds to step 310. Note that the key information of electronic keys that can be successfully authenticated is stored in advance in the memory 222 by a method described below.

[0041] In step 308, the CPU 220 unlocks the charger 100 and permits the user to operate the charger 100 (for example, to give an instruction to charge). The CPU 220 also stops the transmission of radio waves that was started in step 302. After that, the control proceeds to step 314.

[0042] If the determination result in step 306 is NO, in step 310, the CPU 220 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. The predetermined time is a standby time for waiting for a response from the electronic key to the radio waves that began to be transmitted in step 302, and a predetermined value is stored in advance in the memory 222. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the control proceeds to step 312. If not, the control returns to step 304.

[0043] In step 312, the CPU 220 rejects the instruction by the operation detected in step 300 and maintains the locked state of the charger 100. The CPU 220 also stops the transmission of radio waves started in step 302. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324. The CPU 220 may notify the user that the instruction has been rejected. For example, the CPU 220 causes the display unit 120 to display an image including, for example, a message that a valid electronic key could not be detected and the instruction is invalid.

[0044] In step 314, the CPU 220 determines whether or not the operation unit 212 has been operated. If it is determined that the operation unit 212 has been operated, the control proceeds to step 316. If not, the control proceeds to step 320.

[0045] In step 316, the CPU 220 determines whether or not the operation detected in step 314 is an instruction to lock the charger 100. If it is determined that the operation is an instruction to lock, control proceeds to step 322. If not, control proceeds to step 318.

[0046] In step 318, the CPU 220 executes a process corresponding to the operation detected in step 314. For example, the CPU 220 starts a program for executing the corresponding process. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 320. This allows the user to cause the charger 100 to execute an operation (for example, charging the on-board storage battery of the electric vehicle 902) that the user has instructed the charger 100 to perform.

[0047] In step 320, the CPU 220 determines whether or not to end the program. If it is determined that the program is to end, the program ends. If not, control returns to step 314, and the above-described processing is repeated. This allows the user to repeatedly input instructions to the charger 100. The CPU 220 determines that the program is to end when, for example, an operation to turn off the power supply of the charger 100 is performed.

[0048] If the determination result in step 316 is YES, in step 322, the CPU 220 locks the charger 100. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324. This makes it impossible for the charger 100 to perform a charging operation or the like. For example, when the user has finished charging the on-board storage battery of the electric vehicle 902 with the charger 100, the user operates the operation unit 212 to lock the charger 100. This makes it possible to return the charger 100 to a state in which it cannot be operated by a third party who does not have an electronic key that can be authenticated.

[0049] In step 324, CPU 220 determines whether or not to end the program, similar to step 320. If it is determined that the program is to end, the program ends. If not, control returns to step 300, and the above-described processing is repeated.

[0050] As a result, when the charger 100 detects a specific electronic key that can be successfully authenticated (i.e., an electronic key corresponding to the key information stored in the memory 222) (YES in step 306), the charger 100 unlocks and executes the operation instructed via the operation unit 212 (see step 318). Therefore, a user who has a specific electronic key (for example, a user who has the charger 100 installed at home) can operate the operation unit 212 to cause the charger 100 to charge the on-board storage battery of the electric vehicle 902 that the user owns. If the operation unit 212 is operated but the specific electronic key cannot be detected, the charger 100 does not unlock and does not accept an instruction from the operation unit 212 (see step 312). Therefore, the charger 100 can prevent power theft by others via the charger 100 and tampering with the charger 100. If the user has the specific electronic key, the user can unlock the charger 100, so that the user can suppress the complicated operation of the operation unit 212 for unlocking, and power theft can be prevented without restricting the vehicles to be charged.

[0051] The charger 100 includes a memory 222 that stores key information assigned to the electronic key, and the control unit 210 (CPU 220) performs authentication processing of the electronic key based on whether or not information included in the radio waves received by the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 matches the key information stored in the memory 222. This allows the authentication processing to be performed efficiently.

[0052] By using an automobile electronic key already used by the user as the electronic key 904 to be authenticated, a new electronic key dedicated to the charger is not required, and the user's belongings can be prevented from increasing. Also, an increase in costs can be prevented. The automobile electronic key that the user is likely to carry without being particularly aware of can be used as the electronic key for the charger, improving user convenience.

[0053] (Setting key information) As described above, the key information of an authorized electronic key must be set in advance in the memory 222 of the portable device 108. The key information of an electronic key for an automobile is not disclosed to the user due to security concerns, and is safely managed by the automobile manufacturer. In order to set the key information of an authorized electronic key in the portable device 108, the user removes the portable device 108 from the charger main body 102 and transports (for example, brings) it to an automobile sales company (hereinafter also referred to as a dealer) affiliated with the automobile manufacturer.

[0054] (Configuration of key information setting device) Referring to FIG. 7, a key information setting device 240 is installed in a dealer. The key information setting device 240 includes a CPU 242, an operation unit 246, a memory 244, an IF (Interface) unit 248, and a bus 250. The CPU 242 controls each unit to realize the function of the key information setting device 240, that is, the function of setting key information in the portable device 108. The memory 244 is composed of a rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory. The memory 244 may include a large-capacity storage device such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The memory 244 stores a program to be executed by the CPU 242, and the function of the key information setting device 240 is realized by the CPU 242 reading and executing the program. The memory 244 also stores information about an electronic key for an electric vehicle. The memory 244 stores, for example, information for identifying an electronic key of a sold electric vehicle and the corresponding key information in association with each other. The information for identifying the electronic key is also information for identifying key information (hereinafter referred to as identification information). The specific information includes the car name (the car's unique name), the vehicle model, and the key number (for example, a number engraved on an aluminum plate given to the user together with the electronic key when the car is sold).

[0055] The operation unit 246 is for inputting instructions and the like to the key information setting device 240 (CPU 242), and is, for example, a computer keyboard and mouse. The IF unit 248 is for the key information setting device 240 to exchange data with the portable device 108. For example, the IF unit 248 is connected to the input / output unit 128 of the portable device 108. If the portable device 108 has a general-purpose terminal (for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port) other than the input / output unit 128, the IF unit 248 may be a corresponding terminal.

[0056] Data exchange between the components of the key information setting device 240 is carried out via a bus 250. The key information setting device 240 may be constituted by, for example, a computer.

[0057] (Operation of the key information setting device) The operation of key information setting device 240 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The process shown in Fig. 8 is realized by CPU 242 of key information setting device 240 reading and executing a program stored in memory 244. The process shown in Fig. 8 is started, for example, by operating operation unit 246 to start the corresponding program.

[0058] In step 330, the CPU 242 judges whether or not the specific information has been input by operating the operation unit 246. If it is judged that the specific information has been input, the control proceeds to step 332. If not, the control proceeds to step 340. For example, in a state in which the portable device 108 is connected to the key information setting device 240 via the IF unit 248, a dealer's employee operates the operation unit 246 to input the specific information notified by the user.

[0059] In step 332, the CPU 242 searches for key information stored in the memory 244. After that, the control proceeds to step 334. Specifically, the CPU 242 searches the memory 244 for the same specific information as the specific information input in step 330, and if the same specific information is found, it determines the corresponding key information as the search result. If the same specific information is not found in the memory 244, it determines that there is no search result.

[0060] In step 334, the CPU 242 determines whether or not the key information has been identified in step 332. If it is determined that the key information has been identified, control proceeds to step 336. If not, control proceeds to step 338.

[0061] In step 336, the CPU 242 transmits the key information identified in step 332 to the portable device 108 via the IF unit 248 and the input / output unit 128 connected to the IF unit 248. As a result, the control unit 210 (CPU 220) of the portable device 108 stores the key information in the memory 222. Thereafter, the control proceeds to step 340. The input / output unit 128 of the portable device 108 has a function of acquiring the key information in the charger 100.

[0062] In step 338, the CPU 242 presents an error. For example, the key information setting device 240 displays an image indicating that the key information was not found on a display device (not shown) such as a liquid crystal display. Then, the control proceeds to step 340.

[0063] In step 340, CPU 242 determines whether or not to terminate. If it is determined that the program is to be terminated, the program is terminated. If not, control returns to step 330, and the above-mentioned processing is repeated. For example, if operation unit 246 is operated to input an instruction to terminate the program, it is determined that the program is to be terminated. For example, if the specific information input via operation unit 246 is not appropriate, an error is displayed (see step 338). In that case, step 330 is executed again after step 340, and the specific information can be re-input.

[0064] As described above, the user can set the key information of the electronic key for the vehicle in the portable device 108 by transporting the portable device 108 to the dealer where the user purchased the vehicle. The user then takes home the portable device 108 with the key information set therein, and attaches it to the charger main body 102. As a result, as described above, the charger 100 can permit operation of the operation unit 212 if a specific electronic key is detected, and can refuse operation of the operation unit 212 if the specific electronic key is not detected. This makes it possible to prevent the operations involved in charging the vehicle-mounted storage battery from becoming complicated, and can prevent electricity theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged.

[0065] As described above, the portable device 108 of the charger 100 includes the memory 222 that stores key information uniquely assigned to the electronic key. The CPU 220 performs authentication processing of the electronic key based on whether or not the information included in the radio waves received by the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 matches the key information stored in the memory 222. This makes it possible to further reduce the complexity of operations when charging the in-vehicle storage battery.

[0066] In the above, the case where the key information setting device 240 is installed in a dealer has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the key information setting device 240 may be installed in an automobile manufacturer. In this case, the portable device 108 transported by the user to the dealer is transported from the dealer to the automobile manufacturer, and key information is set in the portable device 108 by the key information setting device 240 installed in the automobile manufacturer.

[0067] As described above, the charger 100 includes the portable device 108 that is detachable from the charger main body 102, and the portable device 108 includes the memory 222. This allows the portable device 108 to be removed from the charger main body 102 of the charger 100, and key information can be set in the portable device 108 in a secure information management environment (such as an automobile manufacturer or a dealer).

[0068] As described above, the portable device 108 is included in the charger 100 that charges the on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, and includes the memory 222 that stores key information assigned to the electronic key. The key information stored in the memory 222 is used for authentication processing of the electronic key by the charger 100. This makes it possible to suppress the complexity of operations when charging the on-board storage battery, and to prevent electricity theft without restricting the vehicles that can be charged.

[0069] As described above, the portable device 108 can be communicatively connected to the key information setting device 240 installed in an automobile manufacturer or a dealer (automobile sales company). The key information is transmitted from the key information setting device 240 to the portable device 108 in a state in which the portable device 108 is connected to the key information setting device 240. This makes it possible to prevent leakage of key information that has not been disclosed to the user due to security concerns. Setting the key information in the portable device 108 at the automobile manufacturer can further prevent leakage of the key information. When a user brings the portable device 108 to a dealer, the dealer can obtain business opportunities such as vehicle inspection, vehicle maintenance, and new car sales to the user.

[0070] In the above, the case where the entire portable device 108 is detachable from the charger main body 102 and the key information is set in the memory 222 of the portable device 108 has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, only the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 shown in FIG. 4 may be configured to be detachable from the charger 100. In that case, the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 may include a memory for storing the key information. The radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 removed from the charger 100 is transported to a dealer and connected to the IF unit 248 of the key information setting device 240. The key information is transmitted from the key information setting device 240 via the IF unit 248, and the key information is stored in the memory of the IF unit 248. Also, only the control unit 210 shown in FIG. 4 may be configured to be detachable from the charger 100. The control unit 210 removed from the charger 100 is transported to a dealer and connected to the IF unit 248 of the key information setting device 240. The key information is transmitted from the key information setting device 240 via the IF unit 248 , and the key information is stored in the memory 222 of the control unit 210 .

[0071] The key information setting device 240 may also include a radio wave transmitting / receiving unit, like the portable device 108 shown in Fig. 5. If the key information setting device 240 includes a radio wave transmitting / receiving unit, the key information setting device 240 can receive radio waves transmitted from the electronic key and acquire key information if the user brings along an electronic key. The key information setting device 240 can output the key information acquired from the radio waves transmitted from the electronic key to the portable device 108 via the IF unit 248 and store the key information in the memory 222 of the portable device 108.

[0072] In the above, the charger 100 transmits radio waves of the first frequency in response to an operation of the operation unit 212, but this is not limiting. The charger 100 may always transmit radio waves of the first frequency regardless of whether the operation unit 212 is operated. In this case, step 300 may be eliminated from the flowchart shown in Fig. 6. This allows the electronic key authentication process to be performed before the operation unit 212 is operated.

[0073] In the above, the charger 100 transmits radio waves to the electronic key 904 and receives radio waves transmitted from the electronic key 904 in response to the transmission. This is effective in suppressing consumption of the battery in the electronic key 904, but is not limited to this. The electronic key 904 may constantly transmit radio waves including key information. Also, the electronic key 904 may be provided with an operation unit (such as a button) that instructs transmission of radio waves. The electronic key 904 transmits radio waves including key information when the operation unit is operated. In these cases, the charger 100 can receive radio waves transmitted from the electronic key 904 to obtain the key information and authenticate the electronic key 904 without transmitting radio waves to the electronic key 904. In other words, the charger 100 only needs to have a function for receiving radio waves transmitted from the electronic key 904, and does not need to have a function for transmitting radio waves.

[0074] In the above, the electronic key 904 is described as an electronic key for an automobile, but is not limited thereto. The electronic key 904 may be an electronic key already owned by the user who owns the charger 100. The electronic key 904 may be an electronic key used for locking and unlocking a door. For example, the electronic key 904 may be an electronic key for locking and unlocking the front door of a house. This allows an electronic key that is already used for a purpose other than the use for the charger 100 (i.e., authentication by the control unit 210) to be used as the electronic key for the charger 100. This prevents the user from carrying more items. There is no need to prepare a new electronic key for the charger 100, and an increase in costs can be prevented. In addition, an electronic key for an automobile or an electronic key for the front door of a house, which is likely to be carried by the user without being particularly aware of it, can be used as the electronic key for the charger 100, improving the convenience of the user.

[0075] Second embodiment In the first embodiment, the charger includes a detachable portable device, and key information used to authenticate the electronic key is set by an external device in the portable device removed from the charger. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the charger obtains the key information via a communication network. Therefore, the charger according to the second embodiment does not need to include a portable device.

[0076] 9, the charger 150 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a charger main body 152, a charging connector 104, and a cable (not shown in FIG. 9) that connects the charging connector 104 to the charger main body 102. The charger main body 152 includes a power supply unit 200, a power supply controller 202, a control unit 210, a display unit 120, an operation unit 212, a radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214, a communication unit 216, and a bus 218. The charger 150 is configured similarly to the charger 100 shown in FIG. 5. The appearance of the charger 150 is similar to that of the charger 100 shown in FIG. 1. However, unlike the charger 100, in the charger 150, the configuration corresponding to the portable device 108 is fixed in the charger main body 152. That is, in the charger 100, the control unit 210, the display unit 120, the operation unit 212, the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214, the communication unit 216, and the bus 218 are configured to be detachable from the charger main body 102 as the portable device 108. In contrast, in charger 150, control unit 210, display unit 120, operation unit 212, radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214, communication unit 216, and bus 218 are integrally configured with power supply unit 200 and power supply controller 202. In Fig. 9, elements with the same reference numerals as in Fig. 5 have the same functions as in Fig. 5. Therefore, overlapping descriptions will not be repeated, and differences will mainly be described.

[0077] The charger 150 is connected to a communication network 906 via a communication unit 216 having a wired or wireless communication function. A server 160 connected to the communication network 906 is, for example, a web server of an automobile manufacturer. The server 160 stores and manages information related to electronic keys for electric vehicles. The control unit 210 of the charger 150 communicates with the server 160 via the communication unit 216 and the communication network 906, and obtains key information of the electronic key to be authenticated from the server 160.

[0078] (Server configuration) 10, the server 160 includes a CPU 260, a memory 262, a communication unit 264, an operation unit 266, and a bus 268. The CPU 260 controls each unit to realize the function of the server 160, that is, the function of receiving a request from the charger 150 and transmitting key information to the charger 150. The memory 262 is composed of a rewritable nonvolatile semiconductor memory. The memory 262 may include a large-capacity storage device such as a HDD. The memory 262 stores a program to be executed by the CPU 260, and the function of the server 160 is realized by the CPU 260 reading and executing the program. The memory 262 stores specific information for identifying an electronic key of an automobile manufactured by an automobile manufacturer in association with the corresponding key information.

[0079] The communication unit 264 is connected to the communication network 906 wirelessly or by wire, and communicates with devices (e.g., the charger 150) connected to the communication network 906. The operation unit 266 is for inputting instructions to the server 160 (CPU 260), and is, for example, a keyboard and mouse for a computer. Data exchange between the components constituting the server 160 is performed via a bus 268.

[0080] (Server operation) The operation of server 160 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. The process shown in Fig. 11 is realized by CPU 260 of server 160 reading and executing a program stored in memory 262. The process shown in Fig. 11 is started, for example, when server 160 is powered on.

[0081] In step 400, the CPU 260 determines whether or not a request for key information has been made. Specifically, the CPU 260 determines whether or not a request for a predetermined web page has been received by the communication unit 264 via the communication network 906. The predetermined web page is a page (hereinafter referred to as an input page) for the user to input information required for requesting key information for an electronic key from an automobile company. If it is determined that a request has been made, control proceeds to step 402. If not, control proceeds to step 404. The request for the input page is transmitted to the server 160 by the user operating the operation unit 212 of the charger 150. For example, if a web page of an automobile manufacturer includes a link to the input page, the user causes the display unit 120 to display the web page of the automobile manufacturer, and selects the link, thereby transmitting the request for the input page to the server 160.

[0082] In step 402, the CPU 260 transmits the data of the input page to the device (i.e., the charger 150) that transmitted the request for the input page received in step 400. The address of the device that transmitted the request for the input page is transmitted together with the request for the input page. The CPU 220 causes the communication unit 264 to transmit packet data including the data of the input page, with the address of the charger 150 as the destination address. Thereafter, the control proceeds to step 404. As a result, the input page is displayed on the display unit 120 of the charger 150. As the input page, for example, a screen is displayed for inputting owner information (e.g., name, telephone number, and address) for identifying the owner of the automobile, specific information for the electric key for the electric automobile, and charger information (e.g., serial number) for identifying the charger. The user of the charger 150 operates the operation unit 212 to input the information. If the user selects an image (e.g., a send button) that indicates transmission displayed on the screen, the input information is transmitted to the server 160. The address of the sender (i.e., the charger 150) is added to the packet data including the information to be transmitted.

[0083] In step 404, CPU 260 determines whether or not input information has been received. If it is determined that input information has been received, control proceeds to step 406. If not, control proceeds to step 412. The input information is information entered for the input page transmitted in step 402, as described above.

[0084] In step 406, CPU 260 determines whether the information received in step 404 is appropriate. Specifically, CPU 260 determines whether the specific information received in step 404 is stored in memory 262. If the received specific information is stored in memory 262, CPU 260 reads out the corresponding key information and determines it to be appropriate. If the received specific information is not stored in memory 262, CPU 260 determines it to be inappropriate. If it is determined to be appropriate, control proceeds to step 408. If not (inappropriate), control proceeds to step 410.

[0085] Incidentally, memory 262 stores information about the owner of the electric vehicle (name and address) and the serial number of the charger provided by the sales company of the charger, and it is determined whether or not that information matches the information received in step 404. This determination may be performed by CPU 260 or a person (e.g., an employee of the automobile manufacturing company). For example, if all the information matches, it is determined to be compatible. When a person makes the determination, operation unit 266 may be operated to instruct CPU 260 of compatibility or non-compatibility.

[0086] In step 408, CPU 260 transmits the key information identified in step 406 to charger 150 that transmitted the information received in step 404. The source address included in the packet data received in step 404 is used as the destination address. Then, control proceeds to step 412.

[0087] If the determination result in step 406 is NO (non-conforming), in step 410, CPU 260 transmits data of an error image (a page including an error message) to charger 150 that transmitted the information received in step 404. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 412. Charger 150 that has received the data of the error image displays the error image on display unit 120. This allows the user to know that the information he or she entered was incorrect, and, if necessary, can request server 160 to transmit the input page again.

[0088] In step 412, CPU 260 judges whether or not to end the program. If it is judged that the program should be ended, the program ends. If not, control returns to step 400, and the above-mentioned processing is repeated. For example, if operation unit 266 is operated to input an instruction to end the program, the program is judged to be ended.

[0089] (Charger operation) The operation of charger 150 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. The process shown in Fig. 12 is realized by CPU 220 of control unit 210 of charger main body 152 reading and executing a program stored in memory 222. The process shown in Fig. 12 is started, for example, when charger 150 is powered on. Note that charger 150 is not locked before the process shown in Fig. 12 is executed, and is in a state in which it can perform operations such as charging when operation unit 212 is operated.

[0090] In step 500, CPU 220 determines whether data of an input page has been received. If it is determined that data has been received, control proceeds to step 502. If not, control proceeds to step 508. The data of the input page is transmitted from server 160 in step 402 shown in FIG.

[0091] In step 502, CPU 220 displays an input page on display unit 120. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 504. As a result, a screen for inputting, for example, owner information, specific information, and charger information is displayed on display unit 120, as described above. The user can input the information by operating operation unit 212.

[0092] The owner information for identifying the owner of the electric vehicle and the charger information for identifying the charger 150 may be stored in advance in the memory 222. In this case, the user only needs to input the identifying information from the input page, and the CPU 220 reads out the owner information and the charger information from the memory 222 and transmits them to the server 160 together with the input identifying information, as described below.

[0093] In step 504, CPU 220 determines whether or not a transmission instruction has been issued by operating operation unit 212. If it is determined that a transmission instruction has been issued, control proceeds to step 506. If not, the process of step 504 is repeated.

[0094] In step 506, CPU 220 transmits the information input via the input page to server 160. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 508. CPU 220 can obtain the address of server 160 from the source address included in the data (packet data) of the input page received in step 500. As described above, if the owner information and the electrical appliance information are stored in memory 222 in advance, CPU 220 reads out the owner information and the charger information from memory 222 and transmits them to server 160 together with the input specific information.

[0095] In step 508, CPU 220 determines whether or not the key information has been received. If it is determined that the key information has been received, control proceeds to step 510. If not, control proceeds to step 514. The key information is transmitted from server 160 in step 408 shown in Fig. 11 and received by communication unit 216 of charger 150. Communication unit 216 has a function of acquiring the key information in charger 150.

[0096] In step 510, CPU 220 stores the key information received in step 508 in memory 222, and locks charger 150. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 512. When charger 150 is locked, charger 150 rejects an instruction given by operating operation unit 212, and does not execute the instructed process (operation such as charging or discharging).

[0097] In step 512, the CPU 220 starts the electronic key authentication program. After that, this program ends. The electronic key authentication program is a program that executes the process shown in Fig. 6, for example. As described above, the electronic key authentication program unlocks the charger 150 if a specific electronic key (an electronic key corresponding to the key information stored in the charger 150) is located near the charger 150.

[0098] If the determination result in step 508 is NO, in step 514, CPU 220 determines whether or not an error image has been received. If it is determined that an error image has been received, control proceeds to step 516. Otherwise, control proceeds to step 518. The error image is transmitted from server 160 in step 410 shown in FIG.

[0099] In step 516, CPU 220 displays the error image received in step 514 on display unit 120. Control then proceeds to step 518. This allows the user to know that the information he or she entered was incorrect, and allows the user to request server 160 to send the input page again, if necessary.

[0100] In step 518, CPU 220 determines whether or not to terminate. If it is determined that the program is to terminate, the program is terminated. If not, control returns to step 500, and the above-mentioned processing is repeated. As a result, CPU 220 waits for the key information until the information entered on the input page is transmitted and the key information is received from server 160. If an error image is displayed and the user realizes that the input information was incorrect, he or she can request server 160 to transmit the input page again, if necessary. CPU 220 determines that the program is to terminate, for example, when an operation to turn off the power of charger 100 is performed.

[0101] As described above, the user can set the key information of the electronic key of the vehicle in the memory 222 of the charger 150 without transporting the portable device to a dealer or the like. After storing the key information, the CPU 220 locks the charger 150 and starts the electronic key authentication program. As a result, if a specific electronic key (an electronic key corresponding to the key information stored in the charger 150) is near the charger 150, the charger 150 is unlocked. A user who possesses the specific electronic key can cause the charger 150 to charge the on-board storage battery of the electric vehicle 902. Other people who do not possess the specific electronic key cannot cause the charger 150 to charge the on-board storage battery. Therefore, the charger 150 can prevent electricity theft by others via the charger 150 and tampering with the charger 150. If the user possesses the specific electronic key, the user can unlock the charger 150, so there is no need for complicated operations on the operation unit 212 to unlock the charger 150.

[0102] As described above, the charger 150 includes the communication unit 216 that acquires key information that is uniquely assigned to the electronic key and can be transmitted by radio waves, and the memory 222 that stores the key information acquired via the communication unit 216. The CPU 220 authenticates the electronic key by determining whether or not the information included in the radio waves received by the radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 214 matches the key information stored in the memory 222. This makes it possible to further reduce the complexity of operations when charging the in-vehicle storage battery.

[0103] As described above, the communication unit 216 acquires the key information from the outside of the charger 150 (the server 160) via the communication network 906. This allows the key information to be set in the charger 150 efficiently.

[0104] As described above, the operation unit 212 accepts input of identification information for identifying the key information. The communication unit 216 transmits the identification information input via the operation unit 212, owner information for identifying the owner of the electronic key, and charger information for identifying the charger 150 to the server 160 that manages the key information. The communication unit 216 receives the key information transmitted from the server computer. This makes it possible to determine whether the charger transmitting the key information is appropriate, and the key information can be set in the charger safely in terms of information security.

[0105] As described above, the system is made up of the charger 150 and the server 160. The server 160 includes a communication unit 264 that receives, from the outside, identification information for identifying the key information, owner information for identifying the owner of the electronic key, and charger information for identifying the charger 150, and a CPU 260 that determines whether the owner information is appropriate. When the CPU 260 determines that the owner information is appropriate, the communication unit 264 transmits the key information identified by the identification information to the charger 150 identified by the charger information. This makes it possible to prevent the operation from becoming complicated when charging the in-vehicle storage battery.

[0106] In the above, the case where the server 160 is installed in the automobile manufacturer has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The server 160 may be installed in a dealer. The server 160 may also be installed in a place other than the automobile manufacturer or the dealer. It is sufficient that the server 160 is installed in an environment where the information stored in the memory 244 of the server 160 (key information, identification information, owner information, and charger information) is appropriately maintained and managed, and the information is not leaked.

[0107] In the above, a case has been described in which key information is transmitted from server 160 to charger 150, but this is not limiting. Server 160 may transmit an access destination (e.g., a Uniform Resource Identifier (URI)) for downloading the key information in step 408. When the access destination is displayed on display unit 120 of charger 150, the user can operate operation unit 212 to download the key information from the access destination to memory 222 of charger 150.

[0108] In the above, the case where the user transmits a request for an input page from the charger 150, inputs specific information such as a key number to the charger 150, and transmits the information to the server 160 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The user may transmit a request for an input page using a personal computer or a mobile terminal device (such as a smartphone), inputs specific information such as a key number to the personal computer or the mobile terminal device, and transmits the information to the server 160. In this case, in order to have the server 160 transmit the key information to the charger 150, the address of the charger 150 may be transmitted together with the specific information. Also, as described above, the server 160 may transmit an access destination for downloading the key information to the personal computer or the mobile terminal device that transmitted the specific information. The user can operate the operation unit 212 to download the key information from the access destination to the memory 222 of the charger 150.

[0109] The request for the key information may be sent to the email address of the automobile manufacturer. The request for the key information may also be sent in writing (for example, by mail) to the automobile manufacturer. If the email or written document contains the information to be entered on the above-mentioned input page, the recipient can determine whether or not the information is suitable, and if it is suitable, the server 160 can send the key information to the charger 150. For example, when the key information is requested by email, the reply email to the email may contain access information (such as a URI) to a page from which the key information is downloaded. In the case of a written document, if the written document contains the user's email address, access information to a page from which the key information is downloaded can be sent to that address. The user can operate the operation unit 212 of the charger 150 to access a download page for the key information and download the key information to the memory 222 of the charger 150.

[0110] In the above, the charger 150 acquires only the key information from the server 160, but this is not limiting. The charger 150 may acquire an electronic key authentication program in addition to the key information from the server 160. If the electronic key authentication program executed in the charger 150 has been provided to an automobile manufacturer or dealer by the manufacturer of the charger 150, for example, it can be transmitted from the server 160 to the charger 150.

[0111] The charger may include a setting unit (e.g., a mechanical switch) for manually permitting or prohibiting execution of the electronic key authentication program. This allows the electronic key authentication program to be forcibly stopped while the program is running, even if the user does not have the electronic key to be authenticated, enabling charging using the charger in an emergency. Also, if an electronic key for someone else's vehicle is registered to the charger, the vehicle's on-board battery can be charged.

[0112] Although the present disclosure has been described above by explaining the embodiments, the above-mentioned embodiments are merely examples, and the present disclosure is not limited to only the above-mentioned embodiments. The scope of the present disclosure is indicated by the claims in the claims, taking into consideration the description of the detailed description of the invention, and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the wording described therein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 100, 150 charger 102, 152 Charger body 104 Charging connector 106 Cable 108 Portable equipment 110, 130 Recess 112, 128 Input / output section 120 Display section 122 Operation Button 124 Mounting material 126 Claw 160 Servers 200 Power supply section 202 Power Controller 210 Control section 212, 246, 266 Operation section 214 Radio wave transmitting / receiving unit 216, 264 Communications Department 218, 250, 268 Bus 220, 242, 260 CPUs 222, 244, 262 Memory 240 Key information setting device 248 IF Section 300, 302, 304, 306, 308, 310, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 330, 332, 334, 336, 338, 340, 400, 402, 404, 406, 408, 410, 412, 500, 502, 504, 506, 508, 510, 512, 514, 516, 518 Step 900 lines 902 Electric Vehicle 904 Electronic Key 906 Communication Network

Claims

1. A charger for charging an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, an operation unit that receives an operation on the charger; a radio wave receiving unit for receiving radio waves transmitted from the electronic key; a control unit that performs authentication processing of the electronic key based on the radio waves received by the radio wave receiving unit, The control unit executes a rejection process to reject an instruction based on an operation on the operation unit depending on a result of the authentication process.

2. The electronic key further includes a storage unit that stores key information assigned to the electronic key. The electronic key transmits the key information by radio waves, 2. The charger according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs authentication processing of the electronic key based on whether or not information contained in the radio waves received by the radio wave receiving unit matches the key information stored in the memory unit.

3. The charger further includes a portable device that is detachable from the charger body; The charger of claim 2 , wherein the portable device includes the storage unit.

4. a receiving unit that receives the key information from outside the charger via a communication network; The charger according to claim 2 , wherein the storage unit stores the key information acquired via the receiving unit.

5. The operation unit further receives input of specific information for identifying the key information, a transmission unit that transmits the identification information input via the operation unit, owner information for identifying an owner of the electronic key, and charger information for identifying the charger to a server computer that manages the key information, The receiving unit receives the key information transmitted from the server computer, Each of the owner information and the charger information is Input via the operation unit, or The charger according to claim 4 , stored in the storage unit.

6. The charger according to claim 1 , wherein the electronic key is used for a purpose other than the authentication by the control unit.

7. 7. The charger according to claim 6, wherein the electronic key is an electronic key used for unlocking and locking a door.

8. The charger according to claim 1 , further comprising a setting unit that sets the control unit to permit or prohibit execution of the authentication process and the rejection process.

9. A portable device included in a charger that charges an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, A storage unit stores key information assigned to the electronic key, The portable device, wherein the key information stored in the memory unit is used for authentication processing of the electronic key by the charger.

10. The electronic key is an electronic key for an automobile, The portable device can be communicatively connected to a predetermined device installed in an automobile manufacturer or an automobile dealership, The portable device according to claim 9 , wherein the key information is transmitted from a predetermined device to the portable device in a state in which the portable device is connected to the predetermined device.

11. A system including the charger according to claim 4 or 5 and a server computer, the server computer includes a communication unit that receives, from an external device, identification information for identifying the key information, owner information for identifying an owner of the electronic key, and charger information for identifying the charger; The system further comprises: a communication unit that transmits key information identified by the identification information to the charger based on the suitability of the owner information and the charger information.

12. A method for controlling a charger that charges an on-board storage battery of an electric vehicle, comprising: an operation step of accepting an operation for the charger; a radio wave receiving step of receiving a radio wave transmitted from the electronic key; a control step of performing authentication processing of the electronic key, The control step includes a step of executing a rejection process for rejecting an instruction based on the operation in the operation step depending on a result of the authentication process.

13. a step of communicatively connecting the portable device according to claim 9 or 10 to a predetermined device installed in an automobile manufacturer or an automobile dealer; The information providing method includes a step of providing the key information from the specified device to the portable device in a state in which the specified device and the portable device are communicatively connected.

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