Electronic key storage case and electronic key operation apparatus

Abstract

To provide an electronic key storage case and an electronic key operation apparatus compatible with various types of electronic keys while securing reliability of press-down motion.SOLUTION: An electronic key storage case capable of storing an electronic key with a push button includes: a storage unit which stores the electronic key; and a first guide which comes into contact with a surface opposite an operation surface on which the push button stored in the storage unit is arranged, to regulate movement of the electronic key toward a direction in which the push button is pressed. The first guide comes into contact with a position corresponding to the push button arranged, on a surface opposite the operation surface of the electronic key.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4c

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic key storage case and an electronic key operating device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, one way of using automobiles is for multiple people to share one or more vehicles. Car sharing and rental cars are examples of this. From here on, these types of usage will be collectively referred to as "sharing."

[0003] In vehicle sharing, handling of the keys required to use the vehicle being shared is important. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an electronic key storage case for unmanned vehicle key handover in vehicle sharing. In the invention of Patent Document 1, a smartphone or other device is used from outside the vehicle to communicate with the storage case in the vehicle that contains the electronic key. Then, by operating the button on the electronic key inside the vehicle from outside the vehicle, the vehicle door lock can be unlocked and the electronic key can be retrieved. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2021 / 054404 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The electronic key storage case described in Patent Document 1 requires that the placement of the button pressing portion or the shape of the storage space for the electronic key be changed depending on the button and outer shape of the electronic key. Therefore, storage cases must be designed and manufactured to accommodate the various electronic key shapes available on the market. However, designing a storage case for each vehicle model requires the manufacture of an injection molding die for each vehicle model and the individual molding using a 3D printer, which increases manufacturing costs and time.

[0006] On the other hand, it is possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key shapes by embedding the electronic key in a support part made of a flexible material so that the thickness varies depending on the external shape of the electronic key. However, in this case, for example, the support part may be deformed when a strong force is applied when the button is pressed, or the support part may become too flexible at high temperatures, causing the support part to deform, resulting in fluctuation or misalignment of the electronic key and making it difficult to ensure reliable pressing operations over a long period of time.

[0007] Therefore, one object of the present invention is to accommodate a variety of electronic key configurations while ensuring the reliability of the pressing action. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is an electronic key storage case capable of storing an electronic key having a push button, comprising: a storage section for storing the electronic key; and a first guide that contacts the surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite to the operation surface on which the push button is located, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in the direction in which the push button is pressed, wherein the first guide contacts the surface of the electronic key opposite to the operation surface at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push button.

[0009] According to the above aspects of the present invention, it is possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key configurations while ensuring the reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is an electronic key operating device for pressing a push button on a stored electronic key, the electronic key operating device comprising: an electronic key storage case for storing the electronic key; and a pressing member for pressing the push button on the electronic key stored in the electronic key storage case. The electronic key storage case comprises a storage section for storing the electronic key; and a first guide that contacts the surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite to the operation surface on which the push button is located, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in the direction in which the push button is pressed. The first guide contacts the surface of the electronic key opposite to the operation surface at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push button.

[0011] According to the above aspects of the present invention, it is possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key configurations while ensuring the reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention is an electronic key operating device for pressing a push button of a stored electronic key, comprising: a storage section for storing the electronic key; a pressing member for pressing the push button of the electronic key stored in the storage section; and a first guide that contacts the surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite the operation surface on which the push button is located, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in the direction in which the push button is pressed. The first guide contacts the surface of the electronic key opposite the operation surface at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push button.

[0013] According to the above aspects of the present invention, it is possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key configurations while ensuring the reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the system configuration of a sharing system using an electronic key storage case 300 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 conceptually illustrates an example of the operation of the electronic key operation device 100 according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3a] 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3b] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the assembled state with the lid 50 open. [Figure 3c] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an assembled state with the lid 50 closed. [Figure 4a] 1 is a schematic plan view showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300 according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4b] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic key 200 taken along the longitudinal direction thereof. FIG. [Figure 4c] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic key 200 taken along the width direction thereof. FIG. [Figure 5a] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300A according to a second embodiment. [Figure 5b] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic key 200 taken along the longitudinal direction thereof. FIG. [Figure 5c] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic key 200 taken along the width direction thereof. FIG. [Figure 6a] FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300B according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6b] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic key 200 taken along the longitudinal direction thereof. FIG. [Figure 6c] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electronic key 200 taken along the width direction thereof. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] (First embodiment) Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions will be omitted where appropriate. In cross-sectional views, the cross section of each member is represented by various diagonal lines to facilitate identification from other members. However, differences in these diagonal lines do not represent differences in the material, shape, etc., of the member. Also, in perspective views, each member is represented by color or dots to facilitate identification from other members. However, these differences do not represent differences in the material, shape, etc., of the member. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example system configuration of a sharing system 3 using an electronic key storage case 300 according to a first embodiment.

[0016] The sharing system 3 includes a vehicle 5 to be shared, an electronic key case 300 that houses a genuine electronic key 200 that comes with the vehicle 5, an electronic key operation device 100 that is an in-vehicle device to which the electronic key case 300 is attached, a server system 1100 that communicates with the electronic key operation device 100 via a network 9, and a user terminal 1500 used by the user of the vehicle to be shared and that communicates with the electronic key operation device 100 via the network 9. The vehicle 5 is equipped with at least one electronic key operation device 100. When the sharing system 3 is actually operated, one or more sets of vehicles 5 and electronic key operation devices 100 are prepared, and one or more user terminals 1500 corresponding to the one or more prepared sets are used.

[0017] The electronic key 200 has an unlock button and a lock button that are pressable to lock / unlock the locking mechanism of the vehicle 5 to be shared. The electronic key 200 transmits a predetermined unlock signal when the unlock button is pressed, and transmits a predetermined lock signal when the lock button is pressed. The network 9 refers to a communication path that enables data communication. The communication method may be wired or wireless. The electronic key storage case 300 accommodates the electronic key 200 therein and is attached to the electronic key operating device 100 to hold the electronic key 200 so that the unlock button or lock button can be pressed by operating the electronic key operating device 100.

[0018] The server system 1100 performs user registration for the sharing system 3, reservation management, and provision of reservation information to the user terminal 1500 and the electronic key operation device 100. Specifically, the server system 1100 stores and executes a management program 501 to implement (1) a user registration function for registering users who will use the sharing system 3, (2) a reservation setting function for making reservations for users who will use the vehicle 5, (3) a function for generating reservation information 700 (including, for example, a unique reservation ID, a reserved vehicle ID, a reservation period, and a password), (4) a function for providing user copy reservation information 700t, which includes the reservation information, to the user terminal 1500, and (5) a function for providing authentication reservation information 700c, which includes the reservation information 700, to the electronic key operation device 100. The user copy reservation information 700t includes first key information for encrypting the reservation information 700, and the authentication reservation information 700c includes second key information for decrypting the reservation information 700 encrypted with the first key information. As a result, the encryption process of the reservation information 700 by the user terminal 1500 and the decryption process of the reservation information 700 by the electronic key operation device 100 are performed using different key information. This allows for more secure authentication between the user terminal 1500 and the electronic key operation device 100. However, as long as appropriate authentication is performed between the user terminal 1500 and the electronic key operation device 100, the functions (4) and (5) are not limited to these. For example, the user copy reservation information 700t and the authentication reservation information 700c may contain the same key information (such as a password).

[0019] The user terminal 1500 is a computer system connectable to the network 9 used by a user, and is realized by, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a wearable computer, or the like.

[0020] The user terminal 1500 can store and execute application programs. The application program stored therein is a terminal program 502. The terminal program 502 realizes the following functions: (1) a function for accessing the server system 1100; (2) a function for connecting to the electronic key operation device 100 in response to a user's unlocking operation, issuing a predetermined unlock request, and providing the user's copy reservation information 700t to cause the electronic key operation device 100 to unlock; and (3) a function for connecting to the electronic key operation device 100 in response to a user's locking operation, issuing a predetermined lock request, and providing the user's copy reservation information 700t to cause the electronic key operation device 100 to lock.

[0021] In FIG. 1 , an arrow indicating the first direction X, the second direction Y, or the third direction Z indicates that the direction from the base end of the arrow to the tip of the arrow is the positive direction of the arrow, and the direction from the tip of the arrow to the base end is the negative direction of the arrow. The first direction X is parallel to the insertion / removal direction of the electronic key storage case 300 relative to the electronic key operation device 100. The positive direction of the first direction X is the insertion direction of the electronic key storage case 300. The negative direction of the first direction X is the removal direction of the electronic key storage case 300. The first direction X corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the storage unit 10 (described later). The second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X and parallel to the thickness direction of the electronic key operation device 100. The second direction Y corresponds to the width direction of the storage unit 10 (described later). The third direction Z is perpendicular to both the first direction X and the second direction Y. The third direction Z is parallel to the depth direction of the electronic key operation device 100. The positive direction of the third direction Z is the direction from the electronic key storage case 300 toward the electronic key operation device 100. The negative direction of the third direction Z is the direction from the electronic key operation device 100 toward the electronic key storage case 300. The third direction Z corresponds to the height direction of the storage unit 10, which will be described later.

[0022] FIG. 2 conceptually illustrates an example of the operation of the electronic key operation device 100 according to the first embodiment. The electronic key operation device 100 includes an actuator 400 and a pressing member 60. The electronic key 200 is housed in an electronic key storage case 300, which is attached to the electronic key operation device 100 via an attachment unit (not shown). The electronic key 200 is positioned and held within the electronic key storage case 300 so that the push buttons 210 and 220 face the electronic key operation device 100. The surface of the electronic key 200 on which the push buttons 210 and 220 are located is referred to as the operation surface, and the surface opposite the operation surface is referred to as the back surface or bottom surface. The surface of the electronic key 200 that intersects with the operation surface and the back surface (bottom surface) and faces the positive and negative directions of the X axis or the Y axis when the electronic key 200 is housed in the electronic key storage case 300 is referred to as the peripheral surface. In other words, the peripheral surface is a surface that is different from the operating surface of the electronic key and the surface opposite to the operating surface.

[0023] The actuator 400 is controlled by a control unit (not shown) and functions as a drive unit that directly or indirectly applies power to the pressing member 60. The actuator 400 may be, for example, an electromagnetic solenoid, specifically a push-type linear solenoid, and can push the rod-shaped pressing member 60 in the negative direction of the Z-axis by electromagnetic force when a drive current is applied. When an instruction to unlock or lock the electronic key 200 is given to the electronic key operation device 100 via the network 9, the actuator 400 pushes the pressing member 60 in accordance with the control instruction, and the tip of the pressing member 60 presses the press button 210 or 220 of the electronic key 200. After the pressing member 60 presses the press button 210 or 220 of the electronic key 200 and the power of the actuator 400 is stopped, the pressing member 60 can be returned to its original position (moved in the positive direction of the Z-axis) by a return mechanism (not shown).

[0024] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300 according to a first embodiment, with Fig. 3A being an exploded perspective view, Fig. 3B being a perspective view showing an assembled state with the lid 50 open, and Fig. 3C being a perspective view showing an assembled state with the lid 50 closed. As shown in Fig. 3A, the electronic key storage case 300 of this embodiment includes a storage section 10, a third guide 20, a first guide 21, a second guide 30, a retainer plate 40, and the lid 50.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 3(a) to 3(c), the electronic key storage case 300 is attached to the storage unit 10 with the third guide 20 and the first guide 21 positioned within the storage unit 10. The second guide 30 and the retainer plate 40 are then placed on the third guide 20 and the first guide 21, in that order, and the lid 50 is closed to assemble the electronic key storage case 300. Although not shown in FIG. 3, the electronic key 200 is housed inside the electronic key storage case 300 by fitting the electronic key 200 into the second guide 30. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the retainer plate 40 and the lid 50 are used to cover the top surface, but the retainer plate 40 and the lid 50 may be omitted and the top surface of the electronic key storage case 300 may be covered by a member such as a cover or partition wall disposed on the electronic key operating device 100.

[0026] The storage unit 10 is configured as a separate housing from the electronic key operating device 100. The storage unit 10 forms the exterior of the electronic key storage case 300 and accommodates the third guide 20, the first guide 21, the second guide 30, and the electronic key 200. The storage unit 10 may be made of any material, including conventionally known resin or metal materials. For moldability and lightweight design, a resin material is preferred. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the storage unit 10 has a bottom 11, corners 12, side surfaces 13, and a positioning portion 14, and is formed into a box shape with an open top. The partial restriction portions 20a and 20b that constitute the third guide 20 are positioned and attached to the bottom 11 of the storage unit 10.

[0027] The bottom surface 11 is a surface that forms the bottom of the storage section 10, with side surfaces 13 standing on the outer periphery, and corners 12 being formed where the bottom surface 11 and the side surfaces 13 intersect. A plurality of positioning portions 14 are formed on the front surface side of the bottom surface 11. The bottom surface 11 corresponds to the first bottom surface in the present invention. The corners 12 are corner portions where the bottom surface 11 and the side surfaces 13 intersect. While FIG. 3 shows an example in which the cross section of the corners 12 is formed as an arc-shaped curved surface, the corners 12 may also be formed such that the bottom surface 11 and the side surfaces 13 intersect at approximately a right angle. The side surfaces 13 are wall-like portions that are formed by standing upward from the outer periphery of the bottom surface 11.

[0028] The positioning portion 14 is formed on the bottom surface 11 of the storage portion 10 and is a portion with which the third guide 20 engages. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the positioning portion 14 has a rack gear shape with multiple projections and recesses arranged in a line, and these projections and recesses are arranged in two parallel straight lines along the longitudinal direction of the electronic key 200. The multiple projections and recesses that make up the positioning portion 14 have a uniform height and pitch, and correspond to the shape of the engagement portion formed on the back surface of the third guide 20. By placing the third guide 20 at any position on the positioning portion 14, the positioning portion 14 and the engagement portion engage, restricting sliding in the longitudinal direction and positioning the third guide 20. In the example shown in FIG. 3, two positioning portions 14 are formed along the longitudinal direction, but three or more positioning portions may be formed, or one may be formed in the center.

[0029] The third guide 20 is a member attached to the storage unit 10 to position the electronic key 200 within the electronic key storage case 300 and restrict movement of the positioned electronic key 200. In the example shown in Fig. 3(a), the third guide 20 is composed of two partial restriction portions 20a and 20b. The partial restriction portions 20a and 20b are attached to the storage unit 10 by being positioned at one of a plurality of positioning portions 14 formed on the surface (bottom surface 11) inside the storage unit 10 that faces the inner surface of the cover portion 51 when the lid 50 is closed.

[0030] The partial restriction portions 20a, 20b constituting the third guide 20 are each independently attached to one of the plurality of positioning portions 14. As a result, when the positions for arranging the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b are set and the engaging portion is engaged with the positioning portion 14, the longitudinal positions of the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b and the distance between them are determined. At this time, if a temporary fixing member such as adhesive tape is attached to the back side of the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b, it is possible to prevent the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b from falling off and becoming misaligned during the assembly process.

[0031] The positioning portions 14 determine the positions of the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b relative to the storage unit 10. That is, a worker assembling the electronic key storage case 300 (hereinafter simply referred to as "the worker") positions each of the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b on one of the positioning portions 14 according to the size of the electronic key 200 to be stored in the electronic key storage case 300, and attaches the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b to the storage unit 10. The electronic key 200 stored in the electronic key storage case 300 is positioned within the storage unit 10 by a portion of each of the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b abutting against it, and is held within the storage unit 10 by restricting movement of the electronic key 200 in the height direction and the lateral direction intersecting the height direction. That is, the third guide 20 restricts movement of the electronic key 200 in the direction in which the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200 are pressed (the negative direction of the Z axis) and in a direction intersecting the direction in which the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200 are pressed (within the XY plane). Note that in this embodiment, the term "multiple positioning portions 14" includes a collection or continuous structure of many positioning portions 14. In this case, the worker can attach the third guide 20 to any position of the positioning portion 14. In this case, a fixing means for fixing the third guide 20 to the positioning portion 14 may be provided.

[0032] The first guide 21 is disposed between the bottom surface 11 and the second guide 30 and contacts the back surface of the electronic key 200 opposite the operation surface having the push buttons 210 and 220, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key 200 in the height direction (Z-axis direction). More specifically, the first guide 21 restricts movement of the electronic key 200 in the direction in which the push buttons 210 and 220 are pressed (negative Z-axis direction). As shown in FIG. 3( a), the first guide 21 is disposed at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the electronic key 200, across the width direction (Y-axis direction) of the electronic key 200 that intersects with the longitudinal direction. The surface of the first guide 21 that contacts the back surface of the electronic key 200 (contact surface 21 a) has a shape corresponding to the area of the back surface of the electronic key 200 that it contacts. The abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21 contacts and holds the underside of the electronic key 200, thereby holding the press buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200 at a height suitable for pressing by the pressing members 61, 62. In addition, it is preferable that a portion of the upper surface 21b of the first guide 21 is at a height that contacts the underside of the second guide 30.

[0033] The material for the first guide 21 is not limited, but it need only be strong enough to restrict vertical movement of the electronic key 200. To reduce weight, a porous resin material or a hard sponge-like material can be used. It is also preferable to use the same material for the first guide 21 as for the second guide 30. Using a hard sponge-like material for the first guide 21 allows for easy formation of the contact surface 21a by die-cutting using a known method such as Thomson machining.

[0034] The second guide 30 is disposed above the third guide 20 and the first guide 21 within the housing 10 and serves as a member for fitting the electronic key 200. As shown in FIG. 3( a), the second guide 30 includes a frame portion 31, a key fitting portion 32, and a fixing portion 33. While the material for the second guide 30 is not limited, a resin material is preferably used to easily form the key fitting portion 32 that matches the external shape of the electronic key 200. The second guide 30 also restricts movement of the electronic key 200 in the lateral direction, i.e., in a direction intersecting the direction in which the push buttons 210 and 220 of the electronic key 200 are pressed. Note that the second guide 30 only needs to be strong enough to additionally restrict movement of the electronic key 200 in the aforementioned direction. For weight reduction, the second guide 30 may be made of a porous or hard sponge-like resin material.

[0035] The frame 31 is a generally plate-shaped member formed to conform to the inner periphery of the storage unit 10, with the key fitting portion 32 punched out. The frame 31 has fixing portions 33 formed at its four corners, which fix the frame 31 to the storage unit 10. While FIG. 3 illustrates the frame 31 as a plate-shaped member with a uniform thickness, the shape is not limited thereto and the frame 31 may have a curved surface or a region with varying thickness. The key fitting portion 32 is a region punched out from the front side to the back side of the frame 31 and is formed in a shape corresponding to the outer shape of the electronic key 200 to be stored. The key fitting portion 32 is positioned appropriately so that the pressing members 61 and 62 (described later) can properly press the pressing buttons 210 and 220 of the electronic key 200. The fixing portions 33 are through-holes formed at the four corners of the frame 31, into which fixing members 44 (described later) are inserted and fastened to the storage unit 10. Although FIG. 3 shows an example in which the fixing portions 33 are formed at the four corners, the number and positions thereof are not limited.

[0036] The retainer plate 40 is a member that is disposed on the second guide 30 within the housing portion 10 and sandwiches the third guide 20, the first guide 21, and the second guide 30 between them to prevent them from falling off. As shown in FIG. 3( a), the retainer plate 40 includes a retaining frame 41, a shaft fixing portion 42, an opening 43, a fixing member 44, and a fixing portion 45. The material that constitutes the retainer plate 40 is not limited, and any known resin material or metal material may be used as long as it has sufficient rigidity to prevent the third guide 20 and the second guide 30 from falling off or shifting in position.

[0037] The retaining frame 41 is a frame-shaped member formed along the inner periphery of the storage section 10. As shown in FIG. 3(a), fixing portions 45, which are through-holes, are formed at the four corners of the retaining frame 41, and a shaft fixing portion 42 is formed on one side. The shaft fixing portion 42 is a portion that rotatably supports a rotation shaft 52 of the lid 50, which will be described later. In the example shown in FIG. 3(a), the shaft fixing portion 42 is an arc-shaped notch formed on the surface of the retaining frame 41 facing the second guide 30, and is structured to support the rotation shaft 52 by sandwiching it between the second guide 30. The opening 43 is an opening formed in the center of the retaining frame 41 and is formed in an area larger than the key fitting portion 32 of the second guide 30, so that the retaining frame 41 does not interfere with the electronic key 200. Fixing member 44 is a screw member that is inserted into fixing portion 45 and fixing portion 33, and is fastened to a screw hole formed in accommodating portion 10 to fix second guide 30 and retainer plate 40 to accommodating portion 10. Although a screw member is exemplified as fixing member 44 here, the structure is not limited as long as it can fix second guide 30 and retainer plate 40 to accommodating portion 10.

[0038] The lid 50 is a component that covers the top of the storage unit 10 and abuts against the top surface (operation surface) of the stored electronic key 200 to prevent it from falling off. As shown in FIG. 3(a), the lid 50 includes a cover portion 51, a rotation axis 52, a locking portion 53, and an opening 54. There are no restrictions on the material that can be used to form the lid 50, as long as it has enough rigidity to prevent the electronic key 200 from falling off or shifting position, and known resin or metal materials can be used.

[0039] The lid 51 is a generally plate-shaped portion that covers the top surface of the storage unit 10 and restricts upward movement of the electronic key 200. A rotation axis 52 is formed on one side of the lid 51, and a locking portion 53 is formed on the other side. The lid 51 also has an opening 54, so that the press buttons 210 and 220 of the stored electronic key 200 are exposed on the top surface even when the lid 51 is closed, allowing the press members 61 and 62, described below, to press the press buttons 210 and 220. While FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which the lid 51 is stored inside the storage unit 10, the lid 51 may be large enough to cover the entire storage unit 10. While FIG. 3 illustrates a lattice-shaped honeycomb structure for the lid 51 to ensure light weight and rigidity, the structure is not limited as long as it prevents the electronic key 200 from falling out or becoming misaligned.

[0040] The rotation shaft 52 is a generally cylindrical portion formed on one side of the lid portion 51 and rotatably supported by the shaft fixing portion 42 of the retainer plate 40. While FIG. 3( a) illustrates an example in which the rotation shaft 52 is integrally formed with the lid portion 51 using the same material, the rotation shaft 52 may be formed as a separate member, such as a metal, to ensure strength. The locking portion 53 is formed on the other side of the lid portion 51 opposite the rotation shaft 52 and is configured in a position and shape corresponding to the locking structure formed on the storage portion 10. While FIG. 3( a) illustrates an example in which the locking portion 53 is integrally formed with the same material as the lid portion 51, the locking portion 53 may be configured as a separate member, such as a metal. The opening 54 is formed in the lid portion 51 at a position corresponding to the push buttons 210 and 220 of the electronic key 200.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 3(b), in the assembled state, the third guide 20 and the first guide 21 are positioned and attached within the storage section 10, the second guide 30 and the retainer plate 40 are placed on the third guide 20 and the first guide 21, and the second guide 30 and the retainer plate 40 are fixed to the storage section 10 by the fixing member 44. At this time, the rotation shaft 52 of the lid 50 is sandwiched between the frame section 31 and the shaft fixing section 42 and rotatably supported. As a result, the lid 50 rotates about the rotation shaft 52, and can be changed between the assembled state in which the lid 50 is open shown in FIG. 3(b) and the assembled state in which the lid 50 is closed shown in FIG. 3(c).

[0042] In the assembled state with the lid 50 open as shown in FIG. 3(b), the key fitting portion 32 of the second guide 30 is exposed upward, allowing the electronic key 200 to be fitted and removed. In the assembled state with the lid 50 closed as shown in FIG. 3(c), the locking portion 53 of the lid 50 engages with the locking structure of the storage portion 10, and the cover portion 51 abuts against the top surface of the stored electronic key 200. This sandwiches the electronic key 200 between the cover portion 51 and the first guide 20, restricting movement of the electronic key 200. Furthermore, with the lid 50 closed, the press buttons 210 and 220 of the electronic key 200 are exposed from an opening 54 formed in the cover portion 51, allowing them to be pressed down from the outside by pressing members 61 and 62.

[0043] 4A and 4B are schematic diagrams showing an outline of the electronic key storage case 300 according to the first embodiment, omitting the retainer plate 40 and the lid 50, where FIG. 4A is a schematic plan view, FIG. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view along the longitudinal direction of the electronic key 200, and FIG. 4C is a schematic cross-sectional view along the width direction of the electronic key 200.

[0044] 4, the electronic key 200 is fitted into a key fitting portion 32 formed in a frame portion 31 of the second guide 30, and movement of the electronic key 200 in a direction (within the XY plane) intersecting the direction in which the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200 are pressed is restricted. The partial restriction portions 20a, 20b of the third guide 20 and the contact surface 21a of the first guide 21 abut against the underside of the electronic key 200. The first guide 21 is disposed on the bottom surface 11 of the storage portion 10 at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the storage portion 10.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 4 , the first guide 21 extends in the width direction along the bottom surface 11 of the storage unit 10, and has a lower surface shape that conforms to the corners 12 and side surfaces 13 of the storage unit 10. The upper surface 21b of the first guide 21 is formed at a height that allows it to abut against the second guide 30, and the upper surface 21b of the first guide 21 contacts the lower surface of the second guide 30, thereby restricting movement of the first guide 21 in the height direction. The first guide 21 may be attached to the bottom surface 11 using adhesive or adhesive tape, or may be attached using a fixing member such as a screw. Alternatively, the first guide 21 may be made of a material such as hard sponge, and may be formed to be slightly larger in size in the width direction (Y-axis direction) than the inner circumference of the storage unit 10, and may be press-fitted between the side surfaces 13 on both sides to be fixed.

[0046] The first guide 21 is preferably disposed at a position corresponding to the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the push buttons 210, 220 are arranged in the X-axis direction of the electronic key 200, and the first guide 21 is disposed at a position midway between the push buttons 210, 220. If the push buttons 220, 220 are arranged in the Y-axis direction of the electronic key 200, the first guide 21 may be disposed along the center of the push buttons 210, 220. FIG. 4 shows an example in which the width of the first guide 21 in the X-axis direction overlaps with part of the push buttons 210, 220, but the first guide 21 may be formed wide enough to overlap the entire push buttons 210, 220.

[0047] Although not shown in FIG. 4 , when the cover portion 51 of the lid 50 abuts against the top surface of the electronic key 200, the electronic key 200 is sandwiched between the third guide 20, the first guide 21, and the lid 50, restricting movement in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). The height at which the cover portion 51 of the lid 50 abuts against the electronic key 200 is determined by the thickness of the cover portion 51. However, by changing the position of the third guide 20 in the positioning portion 14 and the height of the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21, the position at which the abutment surfaces 21a of the third guide 20 and the first guide 21 abut against the electronic key 200 can be changed. This allows the movement of the electronic key 200 within the storage unit 10 to be appropriately restricted by determining the position of the third guide 20 (partial restriction portions 20a, 20b) relative to the storage unit 10 and the height and shape of the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21 according to various shapes of the electronic key 200.

[0048] More specifically, the positions of the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b on the positioning portion 14 are determined for each piece of information specifying the type of electronic key 200, such as the vehicle model and model number. Furthermore, the positions of the first guides 21 having the abutment surfaces 21a with the corresponding height and shape are determined for each piece of information specifying the type of electronic key 200, such as the vehicle model and model number. This allows the worker assembling the electronic key storage case 300 to accurately set the in-plane position and height of the electronic key 200 within the storage portion 10 simply by checking the type of electronic key 200 and the corresponding placement locations, and then placing the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b and the first guides 21 on the positioning portion 14.

[0049] When a signal instructing a button operation is sent to the electronic key operating device 100, the actuator 400 or the like drives the pressing members 61, 62, which press down the press buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200 from outside the electronic key storage case 300. Because the partial restriction portions 20a, 20b constituting the third guide 20 and the first guide 21 are made of a material and structure with a predetermined hardness, vertical or lateral movement of the electronic key 200 is suppressed during the pressing operation, ensuring that the press buttons 210, 220 can be pressed reliably.

[0050] Furthermore, by locating the first guide 21 at a position corresponding to the press buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200, even if a force is applied in the Z-axis direction of the electronic key 200 when the press members 61, 62 press down the press buttons 210, 220, the first guide 21 can adequately support the back surface of the electronic key 200. Furthermore, because the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21 has a shape corresponding to the area of the back surface of the electronic key 200 that it contacts, it can support the electronic key 200 over its entire width (Y-axis). As a result, even if the shape of the electronic key 200 is asymmetric in the width direction and the support position of the electronic key 200 on the third guide 20 and the press position of the press members 61, 62 differ in the width direction, rocking of the electronic key 200 can be suppressed, allowing for a satisfactory pressing action.

[0051] As described above, in the electronic key storage case 300 and electronic key operation device 100 of this embodiment, the first guide 21 is arranged across the width of the electronic key 200 at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction of the electronic key 200. This allows the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21 to contact the back surface of the electronic key 200 opposite the operating surface having the push buttons 210, 220, and support the electronic key 200 between the bottom surface 11. This ensures reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key 200 while allowing for compatibility with a variety of electronic key 200 shapes.

[0052] (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Description of content that overlaps with the first embodiment will be omitted. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300A according to the second embodiment, with the retainer plate 40 and lid 50 omitted. Fig. 5(a) is a schematic plan view, Fig. 5(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the longitudinal direction of the electronic key 200, and Fig. 5(c) is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along the width direction of the electronic key 200.

[0053] 5, an electronic key storage case 300A according to the second embodiment includes a storage unit 10A that further includes an opening 18A formed in a portion of the bottom surface 11, a bottom surface 15, a side surface 16, and a retaining portion 17. Partial restriction portions 20a and 20b are disposed between the bottom surface 11 and a second guide 30. A first guide 21A is disposed within the opening 18A and between the bottom surface 15 and the second guide 30.

[0054] The opening 18A only needs to have a shape at least the same as or larger than the XY cross section of the first guide 21A on the bottom surface 11. The bottom surface 15 is formed at a position deeper than the bottom surface 11 (the distance from the lid 50 in the Z-axis direction is greater) and is the surface that constitutes the bottom of the storage section 10A, with a side surface 16 erected on the outer periphery. A holding section 17 is formed at a position where the first guide 21A is to be disposed. The bottom surface 15 corresponds to the second bottom surface in the present invention. The side surface 16 is a wall-like portion that is erected upward from the outer periphery of the bottom surface 15. The holding section 17 is a protrusion formed at a predetermined position on the bottom surface 15 and the side surface 16 and is a portion that holds the first guide 21A.

[0055] The retaining portion 17 has a shape that contacts at least a portion of the circumferential surface of the first guide 21A. More specifically, the retaining portion 17 retains at least a portion of the circumferential surface of the first guide 21A that extends below the opening 18A, i.e., below the bottom surface 11. The circumferential surface of the first guide 21A is the surface that faces the positive / negative direction of the X axis or the positive / negative direction of the Y axis when the first guide 21A is housed in the electronic key storage case 300A.

[0056] In the example shown in FIG. 5 , bottom surface 15 is narrower in the Y-axis direction than bottom surface 11, and side surface 16 is formed to slope upward from the end of bottom surface 15. First guide 21A is shaped so that abutment surface 21a and top surface 21b are formed on the surface facing second guide 30, and also extends downward below bottom surface 11. Abutment surface 21a of first guide 21A is shaped to correspond to the area of the back surface of electronic key 200 that it comes into contact with. Furthermore, it is preferable that a portion of top surface 21b of first guide 21A is at a height that allows it to contact the lower surface of second guide 30. The portion of first guide 21A that extends downward below bottom surface 11 has substantially the same shape as the cross section of the lower space defined by bottom surface 15 and side surface 16. The first guide 21A is held by a holding portion 17 formed on the bottom surface 15 and the side surface 16, and is positioned between the bottom surface 15 and the second guide 30, with the abutment surface 21a contacting the back surface opposite the operating surface having the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key 200 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0057] In this embodiment, the opening 18A has the same shape as the XY cross section of the first guide 21A on the bottom surface 11, and the end of the holder 17 on the bottom surface 11 side is formed to contact the periphery of the opening 18A, but the shape of the holder 17 is not limited to this. The shape of the holder 17 may be any shape as long as it allows the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21A to abut against the back surface of the electronic key 200 and can hold the electronic key 200 in a manner that restricts movement in the height direction (Z-axis direction).

[0058] Here, an example has been shown in which holding portion 17 is formed and first guide 21A is positioned and held by holding portion 17, but holding portion 17 may be omitted if first guide 21A is fixed to bottom surface 15 using a fixing member such as adhesive, adhesive tape, or screws. Also, first guide 21 may be made of a material such as hard sponge, and formed to be slightly larger in size in the width direction (Y-axis direction) than the inner peripheries of bottom surface 15 and side surface 16, and then pressed into between both side surfaces 16 to be fixed.

[0059] In the electronic key storage case 300A and electronic key operation device 100 of this embodiment, the first guide 21 is also arranged across the width of the electronic key 200 at a predetermined position in the longitudinal direction of the electronic key 200. This allows the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21A to contact the back surface of the electronic key 200 opposite the operating surface having the push buttons 210, 220, and support the electronic key 200 between the bottom surface 15. This ensures reliability of the pressing operation on the electronic key 200 while making it possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key 200 shapes.

[0060] (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 6. Description of content that overlaps with the second embodiment will be omitted. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of an electronic key storage case 300B according to the third embodiment, omitting the retainer plate 40 and the lid 50. FIG. 6(a) is a schematic plan view, FIG. 6(b) is a schematic cross-sectional view along the longitudinal direction of the electronic key 200, and FIG. 6(c) is a schematic cross-sectional view along the width direction of the electronic key 200. This embodiment differs from the second embodiment in that it does not include the third guide 20 and the holding portion 17, and in that it includes multiple first guides 21A.

[0061] As shown in Fig. 6, the electronic key storage case 300B of this embodiment includes an opening 18B formed in a portion of the bottom surface 11, a storage section 10B having a bottom surface 15 and a side surface 16. The opening 18B is larger than the opening 18A. Each first guide 21A is disposed within the opening 18B and between the bottom surface 15 and the second guide 30. The first guides 21A are disposed in positions corresponding to the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200 in the longitudinal direction (X-axis direction) of the storage section 10.

[0062] In the electronic key storage case 300B and electronic key operation device 100 of this embodiment, two first guides 21A are arranged across the width at the positions of the push buttons 210, 220 of the electronic key 200. This allows the abutment surface 21a of the first guide 21A to contact the back surface of the electronic key 200 opposite the operating surface having the push buttons 210, 220, and support the electronic key 200 between the bottom surface 15. This ensures reliability of the pressing operation on the electronic key 200 while making it possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key 200 shapes.

[0063] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0064] Although the electronic key operation device 100 according to the first to third embodiments has been described with an example in which any one of the electronic key storage cases 300, 300A, and 300B configured separately from the electronic key operation device 100 is attached to the electronic key operation device 100, the configuration of the electronic key operation device 100 is not limited to this. For example, the electronic key operation device 100 may have a storage unit for storing the electronic key 200 that is configured integrally with the main body of the electronic key operation device 100. In this case, the storage unit may have a configuration equivalent to any one of the electronic key storage cases 300, 300A, and 300B, as long as the storage unit is configured appropriately to store the electronic key 200 in the storage unit.

[0065] According to the present specification, the following aspects are provided. (Aspect 1) In aspect 1, the electronic key storage case is capable of storing an electronic key provided with a push button, and includes a storage section for storing the electronic key, and a first guide that contacts the surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite the operation surface on which the push button is located, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in the direction in which the push button is pressed, wherein the first guide contacts the surface of the electronic key opposite the operation surface at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push button.

[0066] According to the above-described embodiment, the first guide 21 can support the electronic key 200 by contacting the surface opposite the operating surface of the electronic key 200 at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push buttons 210, 220, thereby making it possible to accommodate a variety of shapes of electronic keys 200 while ensuring reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key 200.

[0067] (Aspect 2) In a second aspect, the first guide has a shape corresponding to the shape of the electronic key.

[0068] According to the above-described embodiment, since the first guide 21 has a shape corresponding to the shape of the electronic key 200, even if the shape of the electronic key 200 is asymmetrical in the width direction, the electronic key 200 can be more reliably supported between the first guide 21 and the bottom surface 11.

[0069] (Aspect 3) In aspect 3, the electronic key further includes a second guide that contacts a surface different from the operation surface of the electronic key and the surface opposite the operation surface, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in a direction intersecting the direction in which the push button is pressed.

[0070] According to the above-described embodiment, the second guide 30 restricts movement of the electronic key 200 in a direction intersecting the direction in which the press buttons 210, 220 are pressed, thereby more reliably suppressing swinging of the electronic key 200.

[0071] (Aspect 4) In a fourth aspect, the first guide is disposed in contact with the second guide.

[0072] According to the above-described embodiment, the second guide 30 restricts the movement of the first guide 21 in the height direction, and the swinging of the electronic key 200 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0073] (Aspect 5) In a fifth aspect, the first guide is made of the same material as the second guide.

[0074] According to the above-described embodiment, by forming the first guide 21 and the second guide 30 from the same material, it becomes possible to form the first guide 21 and the second guide 30 simultaneously.

[0075] (Aspect 6) In aspect 6, the storage section has a first bottom surface formed at a predetermined position in the depth direction of the storage section, in the direction in which the push button is pressed, and the first guide is positioned on the first bottom surface between the first guide and the second guide.

[0076] According to the above-described embodiment, the first guide 21 is held between the bottom surface 11 and the second guide 30, and the swinging of the electronic key 200 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0077] (Aspect 7) In a seventh aspect, a third guide is provided to regulate the longitudinal position of the electronic key within the storage portion, and the third guide is disposed between the second guide and the first bottom surface.

[0078] According to the above-described embodiment, the third guide 20 restricts the movement of the electronic key 200 in the lateral direction (within the XY plane) and the vertical direction (in the Z-axis direction), thereby ensuring the reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key 200 while making it possible to accommodate a variety of electronic key 200 shapes.

[0079] (Aspect 8) In aspect 8, the storage section has a first bottom surface formed at a predetermined position in the depth direction of the storage section, in the direction in which the push button is pressed, and a second bottom surface formed at a position deeper than the first bottom surface, and the first guide is positioned between the second guide on the second bottom surface.

[0080] According to the above-described embodiment, the first guide 21 is held between the bottom surface 15 and the second guide 30, and the swinging of the electronic key 200 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0081] (Aspect 9) In aspect 9, an electronic key operating device is provided for pressing a push button of a stored electronic key, the electronic key operating device comprising: an electronic key storage case for storing the electronic key; and a pressing member for pressing the push button of the electronic key stored in the electronic key storage case, wherein the electronic key storage case comprises a storage section for storing the electronic key; and a first guide that contacts the surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite the operation surface on which the push button is located, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in the direction in which the push button is pressed, and the first guide contacts the surface of the electronic key opposite the operation surface at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push button.

[0082] According to the above-described embodiment, the first guide 21 can support the electronic key 200 by contacting the surface opposite the operating surface of the electronic key 200 at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push buttons 210, 220, thereby making it possible to accommodate a variety of shapes of electronic keys 200 while ensuring reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key 200.

[0083] (Aspect 10) In aspect 10, an electronic key operating device is provided for pressing a push button of a stored electronic key, the electronic key operating device comprising: a storage section for storing the electronic key; a pressing member for pressing the push button of the electronic key stored in the storage section; and a first guide that contacts the surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite the operation surface on which the push button is located, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in the direction in which the push button is pressed, wherein the first guide contacts the surface of the electronic key opposite the operation surface at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push button.

[0084] According to the above-described embodiment, the first guide 21 can support the electronic key 200 by contacting the surface opposite the operating surface of the electronic key 200 at a position corresponding to the arrangement of the push buttons 210, 220, thereby making it possible to accommodate a variety of shapes of electronic keys 200 while ensuring reliability of the pressing action on the electronic key 200. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 3. Sharing system 5...Vehicle 9. Network 1100...Server system 1500...User terminal 501...Management Program 502...Terminal program 100...Electronic key operation device 200...Electronic key 300, 300A, 300B...Electronic key storage case 400...Actuator 700, 700c, 700t...Reservation information 10, 10A, 10B...Housing 11,15...Bottom 12...Corner 13,16...Side 14... Positioning part 17...Holding part 18A, 18B…Opening 20...Third Guide 20a, 20b…Partial regulation section 21, 21A...First guide 210, 220...Push button 21a...Abutment surface 21b…Top surface 30...Second Guide 31...Frame 32...Key fitting part 33,45…Fixed part 40...Retainer plate 41...Retainer slot 42...Shaft fixing part 43,54...Opening 44...Fixing member 50...Lid 51...Lid part 52...Rotation axis 53...Latching part 60, 61, 62...Pressing members

Claims

1. An electronic key storage case capable of storing an electronic key provided with a push button, a storage unit for storing the electronic key; a first guide that contacts a surface of the electronic key accommodated in the accommodating portion opposite to an operation surface on which the push button is arranged, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in a direction in which the push button is pressed; the first guide contacts a surface of the electronic key opposite to the operation surface at a position corresponding to the position of the push button; Electronic key storage case.

2. 2. The electronic key storage case according to claim 1, The first guide has a shape corresponding to the shape of the electronic key.

3. The electronic key storage case according to claim 1, The electronic key storage case further includes a second guide that contacts a peripheral surface different from the operating surface of the electronic key and the surface opposite the operating surface, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in a direction intersecting the direction in which the push button is pressed.

4. The electronic key storage case according to the third aspect of the present invention is The first guide is disposed in contact with the second guide.

5. The electronic key storage case according to claim 3, The first guide is made of the same material as the second guide.

6. The electronic key storage case according to claim 3, the housing portion has a first bottom surface formed at a predetermined position in a depth direction of the housing portion, in a direction in which the push button is pressed; An electronic key storage case, wherein the first guide is positioned between the second guide and the first bottom surface.

7. 7. The electronic key storage case according to claim 6, a third guide that regulates the position of the electronic key in the storage portion in the longitudinal direction; The third guide is disposed between the first bottom surface and the second guide.

8. The electronic key storage case according to claim 3, the storage section has a first bottom surface formed at a predetermined position in a depth direction of the storage section, which is a direction in which the push button is pressed, and a second bottom surface formed at a position deeper than the first bottom surface, An electronic key storage case, wherein the first guide is positioned between the second guide and the second guide on the second bottom surface.

9. An electronic key operation device that operates the push button of a housed electronic key by pressing the button, an electronic key storage case that stores the electronic key; a pressing member that presses the press button of the electronic key accommodated in the electronic key storage case; Equipped with the electronic key storage case includes a storage section that stores the electronic key; and a first guide that contacts a surface of the electronic key stored in the storage section opposite to an operation surface on which the push button is arranged, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in a direction in which the push button is pressed; the first guide contacts a surface of the electronic key opposite to the operation surface at a position corresponding to the position of the push button; Electronic key operation device.

10. An electronic key operating device for pressing a push button of a stored electronic key, comprising: a storage unit for storing the electronic key; a pressing member that presses the press button of the electronic key accommodated in the accommodating portion; a first guide that contacts a surface of the electronic key accommodated in the accommodating portion opposite to an operation surface on which the push button is arranged, thereby restricting movement of the electronic key in a direction in which the push button is pressed. the first guide contacts a surface of the electronic key opposite to the operation surface at a position corresponding to the position of the push button; Electronic key operation device.

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