Remote controller for on-vehicle apparatus and system

Abstract

To eliminate troublesomeness of taking out and operating a remote controller during remotely controlling an on-vehicle machine.SOLUTION: A system includes: an on-vehicle apparatus 1 installed on a vehicle; a remote controller 2 for performing radio communication with the on-vehicle apparatus to control the operation of the on-vehicle apparatus; and a portable device 3 such as a smartphone communicable with the remote controller. Information is transmitted and received by a communication method (specific power-saving wireless) of a first system between the on-vehicle apparatus and the remote controller. Information is transmitted and received by a communication method (BLE) of a second system different from the communication method of the first system between the remote controller and the portable device. The remote controller includes a function for directly controlling the on-vehicle apparatus on the basis of an operation to an operation part 2d belonging to itself, and a function for controlling the on-vehicle apparatus on the basis of an instruction from the portable device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a remote controller and system for an in-vehicle device. [Background technology]

[0002] Systems that remotely control in-vehicle devices mounted on a vehicle from a location away from the vehicle using wireless communication include engine starters and car security systems. In this type of technology, for example, in response to the operation of buttons on a remote controller, the remote controller sends various operation commands to the in-vehicle devices using wireless communication. When the in-vehicle devices receive such operation commands, they execute predetermined processing in accordance with the contents of the operation commands. Such predetermined processing may, for example, start / stop the engine or set the security system to arm / disarm (see Patent Document 1, etc.). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-163702 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Conventional engine starters and car security systems require users to take out a remote controller and operate buttons when using the system. However, the remote controller is typically kept in a designated location within the home, and is not always readily accessible to the user. This makes it cumbersome to have to go and retrieve the remote controller and operate it each time remote control is required. In particular, when multiple users use a vehicle, it is not desirable for each user to carry the remote controller with them, and they may leave it in a designated location such as the entrance or living room, making the above-mentioned problem more pronounced.

[0005] Furthermore, for example, if a vehicle driver has the remote controller all to himself, the user can carry the remote controller. However, since such a remote controller is not operated frequently, it is not carried in the user's hand, but is often kept in a bag or pocket, for example. This causes inconvenience by having to take it out every time the remote controller is operated. In particular, car security remote controllers need to be carried or kept close at hand at all times after returning home in order to check and operate vehicle alarms. However, since alarms do not actually occur frequently, carrying the remote controller indoors is inconvenient. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to the present invention comprises (1) a first communication means for wireless communication using a first system of communication method, and a second communication means for wireless communication using a second system of communication method different from the first system of communication method, and is provided with a function of receiving instructions from its own operation unit via the first system of wireless communication and directly controlling the operation of the in-vehicle device, and a function of receiving instructions received from a mobile device via the second system of wireless communication and controlling the operation of the in-vehicle device via the first system of wireless communication, wherein the second system of communication method has a shorter communication distance than the first system of communication method.

[0007] In this embodiment, the first communication means corresponds to the first-system wireless communication circuit 2b, and the second communication means corresponds to the second-system wireless communication circuit 2c. The communication distance of the first-system communication method is a distance that covers the location where the user can remotely control the in-vehicle device from a parked vehicle. For example, the communication distance may be set so that the vehicle is within the communication range when the user parks the vehicle on the premises of their home or in a parking lot nearby their home and operates the in-vehicle device from the indoors. Furthermore, the user's location is not limited to their home; if necessary, the remote controller and the in-vehicle device may need to communicate outdoors at an appropriate distance from the vehicle. Therefore, a communication method that provides a necessary and sufficient communication distance depending on the functions of the in-vehicle device, or at least ensures such a necessary and sufficient communication distance, is preferably adopted. The portable device may be a portable device with communication capabilities that the user normally carries, is within reach, or can be easily removed. For example, a portable device with communication capabilities, such as a mobile communication terminal, or a wearable device, is preferable because it allows the user to carry it without feeling uncomfortable. Furthermore, even if the device is stored in a bag or pocket, it can be easily taken out and operated with the hand.

[0008] According to the present invention, the remote controller has a function of directly controlling the in-vehicle device based on operations on its own operation unit, and a function of controlling the in-vehicle device based on instructions from a portable device. Therefore, the user does not necessarily need to take out the remote controller and operate it, but can use the two types of functions depending on the situation and control the operation of the in-vehicle device using an appropriate operation method. In particular, it is preferable that the portable device is easy for the user to carry, pick up, and operate, so that the in-vehicle device can be controlled even when the remote controller is placed in a remote location or stored in a bag or pocket.

[0009] (2) The portable device may be a portable communication terminal or a wearable device. Examples of portable communication terminals include smartphones, mobile phones, and tablet PCs. For example, smartphones and the like are usually carried by users or kept close by, and are relatively often held in the hand for operation, so there is no discomfort in carrying them. The same applies to wearable devices. Therefore, there is no need to take out a remote controller when performing various operations, which is convenient.

[0010] (3) It is preferable to provide a function for transmitting communication content from the in-vehicle device via the first wireless communication system to the portable device via the second wireless communication system. In this way, for example, by sending communication content between the remote controller and the in-vehicle device to the portable device and displaying it on the portable device, the remote controller does not need to have a display function, and even if it does have a display function, a small one is sufficient. This allows for the remote controller to be made smaller and less expensive. Furthermore, even if the remote controller is immediately put away in a bag or pocket after operating the remote controller, subsequent information from the in-vehicle device, such as an answerback, can be checked on the portable device, and the next operation can be performed on the portable device, which is advantageous.

[0011] (4) It is preferable that the device has at least one of the following functions: a memory means for temporarily storing the content received from the in-vehicle device in the memory means and transmitting information based on the temporarily stored content to the mobile device; and a function for temporarily storing the content received from the mobile device in the memory means and transmitting information based on the temporarily stored content to the in-vehicle device.

[0012] According to this invention, real-time processing is not required, and for example, circuits and components with slow processing speeds but low power consumption can be used. Also, for example, if the current consumption of the communication method of the first system is high, for example, the first communication means of the first system can be normally turned off or driven intermittently, and when the second communication means of the second system receives data from the portable device, the first communication means of the first system can be started up and transmitted, which is advantageous because it allows power saving, extends battery life, and enables miniaturization by using a small-capacity battery.

[0013] (5) It is preferable that the mobile device has a function of transmitting, to the mobile device via the second system, the content received from the in-vehicle device in response to an operation of the remote controller, when the operation command is transmitted to the in-vehicle device via the first system of wireless communication based on an operation of the operation unit. In this way, it is possible to confirm the content received from the in-vehicle device in response to an operation of the remote controller on the mobile device side, and to perform the next operation from the mobile device.

[0014] (6) The system of the present invention includes a remote controller for an in-vehicle device according to any one of (1) to (5) and an in-vehicle device that communicates with the remote controller for the in-vehicle device using the first communication system.

[0015] (7) It is preferable to change the functions of the in-vehicle devices depending on whether the vehicle is in a state where it cannot be driven. The state where the vehicle cannot be driven can be easily determined by, for example, the ON / OFF state of a switch for the vehicle's power source, such as an engine key. This makes it possible to make the in-vehicle devices function appropriately when the driver is in the vehicle as well as when the driver is out of the vehicle.

[0016] (8) The in-vehicle device may have a function for acquiring information about the vehicle and a function for transmitting the acquired information to the remote controller or the mobile device, and the remote controller or the mobile device may have at least one of a function for storing the information about the vehicle transmitted from the in-vehicle device and a function for displaying the information. In an embodiment, the information about the vehicle may include vehicle information and vehicle driving information. This is advantageous because it allows the information about the vehicle to be acquired, checked while driving, or analyzed later. In particular, if the information about the vehicle is stored in the remote controller or the mobile device, the remote controller or the mobile device may be taken outside when the driver leaves the vehicle, and the stored information about the vehicle may also be taken with him.

[0017] (9) When the vehicle is ready to drive, the communication circuit for communicating using the first communication method of the in-vehicle device may be configured to stop operation. The communication circuit may be temporarily or intermittently stopped, but preferably completely stopped. Whether the vehicle is ready to drive or not may be determined, for example, by turning the engine key on / off. In this way, when the vehicle is ready to drive, the communication circuit for the first communication method is shut off. Therefore, even if an erroneous operation is performed on the remote controller, the in-vehicle device will not accept it, thereby preventing adverse effects on the vehicle and radio interference. Furthermore, shutting off the first wireless communication circuit, which consumes a lot of power, is also preferable because it saves energy.

[0018] (10) The in-vehicle device may be either an engine starter or a car security device. (11) Based on any of the systems (6) to (10), the system may include the mobile device that communicates with the in-vehicle device remote controller using the second communication system.

[0019] (12) The in-vehicle device may be equipped with a communication circuit for communicating using a second communication system, and may have a function for controlling the operation of the in-vehicle device by directly communicating with the portable device using the second communication system. When the in-vehicle device and the portable device are within the communication range of the second system, which has a short communication distance, the portable device directly controls the in-vehicle device using the second communication system. Therefore, there are two modes: one in which the portable device is operated to control the in-vehicle device via a remote controller, and one in which the in-vehicle device is directly controlled. By providing various modes like these, the in-vehicle device 1 can be controlled using the appropriate mode depending on the situation.

[0020] (13) If the on-board device is an engine starter, when the engine is started using the engine starter, the on-board device may detect that the user is approaching the vehicle and perform processing to stop the engine. For example, there is a smart system that uses a genuine key, which allows door locks and unlocks, engine start and stop, etc., without inserting a mechanical key. In this smart system, when a user carrying the genuine key approaches the vehicle or touches the vehicle door handle, a weak radio wave is transmitted from the vehicle, and the genuine key automatically transmits a response signal upon receiving the signal. The device on the vehicle that receives the response signal then performs door lock and unlock operations. This type of smart system may have a safety function that, for example, does not accept a response signal from the genuine key and does not perform door lock and unlock operations when the vehicle is idling. For example, if a user outside a vehicle equipped with a smart system with such a safety function starts the engine using an engine starter while the doors are locked and then attempts to enter the vehicle, the safety function will be activated and the door cannot be unlocked using the smart system with the original key because the vehicle is idling. Therefore, the user must first operate the engine starter's remote controller to stop the engine, then use the smart system with the original key to unlock the doors and enter the vehicle, which is cumbersome. In contrast, according to the present invention, when a user carrying a mobile device approaches the vehicle, the engine is automatically stopped, and the user can then unlock the doors using the smart system with the original key, thereby simplifying the operation. Approaching the vehicle may be, for example, when the user intends to enter the vehicle. Furthermore, approaching the vehicle may be detected based on, for example, the reception strength of radio waves. Assuming a constant communication environment, the closer the distance between the in-vehicle device and the mobile device, the stronger the reception strength. Therefore, using such a determination based on reception strength allows for easy determination.

[0021] (14) A setting screen of the in-vehicle device may be displayed on the display unit of the portable device, and the in-vehicle device may be configured using the setting screen. The display screen of the portable device can be easily made larger than that of the remote controller. The display screen of the remote controller may be smaller than that of the portable device. In this way, input of setting contents, etc., may be facilitated. Information input using the setting screen is then sent to the remote controller using, for example, a second communication system, and the remote controller receives the information and configures the in-vehicle device based on the information. (15) The second communication system may be a standard feature of the portable device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to control an in-vehicle device by taking out and operating a portable device, thereby eliminating the hassle of taking out and operating a remote controller. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a first embodiment, etc. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a third embodiment, etc. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a fourth embodiment, etc. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a sixth embodiment, etc. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. These drawings are used to explain technical features that may be adopted by the present invention. The configurations and shapes of the devices described are merely illustrative examples, and the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto. Various changes, modifications, and improvements may be made based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0025] [Basic Configuration] (First Embodiment) 1 shows an example of a system using a remote control for an in-vehicle device according to the present invention. This system includes an in-vehicle device 1 installed in a vehicle, a remote controller 2 that wirelessly communicates with the in-vehicle device 1 to control its operation, and a portable device 3 that can communicate with the remote controller 2. The in-vehicle device 1, the remote controller 2, and the portable device 3 each include control units 1a, 2a, and 3a that perform predetermined processing. Furthermore, each of these units includes a communication circuit for communicating with other devices, as will be described later.

[0026] Information is transmitted and received between the in-vehicle device 1 and the remote controller 2 via wireless communication using a first communication system. Specifically, the in-vehicle device 1 is provided with a first-system wireless communication circuit 1b, and the remote controller 2 is provided with a first-system wireless communication circuit 2b. Information is transmitted and received between the remote controller 2 and the portable device 3 via wireless communication using a second communication system different from the first communication system. Specifically, the remote controller 2 is provided with a second-system wireless communication circuit 2c, and the portable device 3 is provided with a second-system wireless communication circuit 3b. The in-vehicle device 1 may be powered by a battery, but it is preferable to receive power from the vehicle battery. The remote controller 2 is powered by a built-in primary battery. Commercially available dry cells or button batteries are preferable as the primary battery because they are easily available, easy to install, and easy to handle. In particular, a button battery is preferable because it allows the remote controller 2 to be compact. The portable device 3 is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery.

[0027] The first communication method has a longer communication distance than the second communication method. Furthermore, since the remote controller 2 is sold and used by general users, it can be used as a license-free radio station. The weak radio waves used in a low-power radio station, which is one type of license-free radio station, have a short communication distance and are undesirable because the in-vehicle device 1 and the remote controller 2 may be located outside the communication range under normal usage conditions and environments. Therefore, the first communication method uses radio waves used in specified low-power radio stations. By using this specified low-power radio communication, the communication distance becomes, for example, about 1 to 2 km in line of sight, and even if there are obstacles, it becomes, for example, about several hundred meters. Therefore, for example, if you live in a detached house or an apartment building and park your vehicle in a parking lot on your property, you can communicate with the in-vehicle device 1 while leaving the remote controller 2 inside the building, such as in the living room.

[0028] The second communication system has a shorter communication distance than the first communication system. Furthermore, the second communication system may have a lower power consumption than the first communication system. In this way, for example, communication using the first communication system may be normally stopped and activated when transmitting and receiving information, and communication using the second communication system may be performed, for example, constantly at a predetermined interval, thereby maintaining a long battery life.

[0029] Furthermore, it is preferable that the second communication system be compatible with a communication circuit that is standardly implemented in the portable device 3. This is preferable because it allows the use of a commercially available portable device 3 and eliminates the need to add a new communication circuit or the like. In this embodiment, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is used as the second communication system. BLE is versatile and is adopted in many portable devices with communication functions, so the portable device itself can be used as the communication system. Furthermore, when communicating using Bluetooth (registered trademark), the devices to communicate with each other must be paired and connected. For this reason, in this embodiment, the remote controller 2 periodically (e.g., every one second) transmits signals to establish a BLE connection. Even with this periodic transmission, power consumption is low due to the low power consumption of BLE, thereby extending the battery life of the remote controller 2. For example, as described above, a button battery can be used to miniaturize the device and enable it to operate for a long period of time, such as one season.

[0030] The in-vehicle device 1 is, for example, an engine starter that starts an engine. The engine starter receives an operation command from a remote controller 2 and executes a process to start or stop the engine. This process is executed by a control unit 1a. Specifically, for example, when the control unit 1a receives an engine start command in response to operation of the authorized remote controller 2 by a user located away from the vehicle, it starts the engine, continues operating the engine for a certain period of time, and then stops the engine. By continuing the engine operation, the engine can be warmed up or the temperature inside the vehicle can be adjusted appropriately using an air conditioner installed in the vehicle. Furthermore, when the control unit 1a receives an operation stop command, it stops the engine that is currently operating. Furthermore, the control unit 1a transmits the execution result of the received operation command to the remote controller 2 using the first system wireless communication circuit 1b. The basic functions of this engine starter are similar to those of a conventionally known engine starter.

[0031] The remote controller 2 also includes an operation unit 2d. As described above, if the in-vehicle device 1 is an engine starter, the operation unit 2d is, for example, a push-button switch corresponding to an operation command such as a start switch or a stop switch. A user located away from the vehicle remotely controls the in-vehicle device 1 by pressing the operation unit 2d to start or stop the engine. To perform this process, when the control unit 2a detects an operation on the operation unit 2d, it transmits an instruction command corresponding to the operation from the first system wireless communication circuit 2b. The in-vehicle device 1 then receives the instruction command transmitted from the first system wireless communication circuit 2b via the first system wireless communication circuit 1b, and the control unit 1a executes processing in accordance with the instruction command. In this way, the remote controller 2 has a function to directly remotely control the in-vehicle device 1. This function is the same as that of a conventional engine starter.

[0032] Furthermore, the remote controller 2 includes a notification unit 2e. The notification unit 2e notifies the operation status and the like, for example, notifying the execution result sent from the in-vehicle device 1. The notification unit 2e notifies visually or audibly. In the case of a visual notification unit, the notification unit 2e may, for example, use a display panel to display the execution result using characters, figures, etc., or may use a light-emitting means such as an LED to notify by a lighting state (blinking / off / on) or by a light-emitting color. In the case of an auditory notification unit, the notification unit 2e may, for example, use a speaker to notify by voice or a buzzer. These may be realized by one or a combination of two or more of them.

[0033] As described above, the remote controller 2 is capable of communicating with the mobile device 3. When the remote controller 2 receives instruction information including an execution command issued from the mobile device 3 to the remote controller 2 as described below, the remote controller 2 executes a predetermined process according to the instruction information, thereby remotely controlling the in-vehicle device 1. For example, when the remote controller 2 receives an engine start command or an engine stop command from the mobile device 3, the remote controller 2 transmits the engine start command or the engine stop command to the in-vehicle device 1. The transmitted engine start command or the engine stop command may be the same as the command transmitted in response to an instruction from the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2. Furthermore, when the remote controller 2 completes the process associated with the received instruction information, it transmits an execution completion notification to the mobile device 3. As described above, the remote controller 2 of this embodiment has a function (function 1) of directly controlling the in-vehicle device 1 based on an operation on its own operation unit 2d, and a function (function 2) of controlling the in-vehicle device 1 based on an instruction from the mobile device 3.

[0034] The mobile device 3 may be, for example, a portable device with a communication function, such as a mobile communication terminal. Examples of such devices include smartphones, mobile phones, and tablet PCs. For example, smartphones and the like are convenient because they are always carried or kept close at hand, eliminating the need to take out the remote controller 2. Furthermore, since smartphones and tablet PCs allow users to easily download and install apps, the user can realize the present system by downloading and installing an app with functions corresponding to the present invention onto a general-purpose smartphone or the like that the user owns.

[0035] Furthermore, for example, in the case of smartphones, communication circuits capable of long-distance communication such as 3G and LTE, and communication circuits compatible with Bluetooth are adopted as standard communication functions.

[0036] Therefore, the second system wireless communication circuit 3b utilizes a communication circuit for Bluetooth that is installed as a standard function. By using a communication circuit that is installed as a standard function in this way, it is not necessary to add a new communication circuit as the second system wireless communication circuit 3b, which is preferable. Furthermore, when implementing the above-mentioned function 2, the user operates the operation unit 3d of the portable device 3. Therefore, it is preferable that the portable device 3 is one that the user can carry around and easily take out. In view of this point, a smartphone is preferable to be applied to the portable device 3.

[0037] Smartphones are equipped with communication methods such as 3G and LTE, which provide much longer communication distances than specific low-power wireless technologies. Using 3G or similar technologies as the first-system communication method allows the smartphone to directly communicate with the in-vehicle device 1 and control it. However, adopting 3G or similar technologies as the first-system communication method requires, for example, making the first-system wireless communication circuit 1b of the in-vehicle device 1 compatible with 3G or similar technologies, which increases costs and makes it impractical. Furthermore, when the in-vehicle device 1 is implemented as an engine starter, for example, a user indoors, such as at home, remotely starts the engine, warms it up, adjusts the cabin temperature, and so on. Therefore, considering such applications, even if the user's operating location is far from the vehicle, it is not many kilometers away, and the communication distance of 3G or similar technologies is not required; the communication distance of specific low-power wireless technologies is sufficient. Therefore, taking into account cost and the necessary and sufficient communication distance, specific low-power wireless technologies are adopted as the first-system communication method.

[0038] The mobile device 3 may also be a wearable device that can be carried around on the body. Wearable devices are often worn at all times, which is convenient as it eliminates the need to take out the remote controller 2. Wristwatch-type or bracelet-type devices are particularly preferred. These types of devices are advantageous because they are worn on the arm and can be easily operated using the hand that is not wearing the device.

[0039] The portable device 3 includes a display unit 3c and an operation unit 3d. The display unit 3c is configured with various types of liquid crystal displays, etc. The operation unit 3d is configured with mechanical push button switches, a touch panel, etc. In this embodiment, the operation unit 3d of the portable device 3 includes at least functions equivalent to those of the operation unit 2d for operating the remote controller 2 to control the in-vehicle device 1. Therefore, operations performed by operating the remote controller 2 can be performed by operating the portable device 3 without removing the remote controller 2. If the portable device 3 is a general-purpose portable device 3 such as a smartphone, it is preferable to use a standard function installed as is, as with the second system wireless communication circuit 3b.

[0040] Furthermore, a smartphone or the like becomes a device that can execute the functions of a predetermined app by downloading and installing the app. In this embodiment, an engine starter app is installed. In response to this installation, the control unit 3a displays an icon for the engine starter app on the display unit 3c. Then, when the control unit 3a detects that the icon has been touched by an operation on the operation unit 3d, it launches the engine starter app.

[0041] Upon this activation, the control unit 3a displays a menu screen on the display unit 3c, for example, and when it detects that any menu item displayed on the menu screen has been touched, it displays an operation screen corresponding to the touched menu item. This operation screen may be, for example, an instruction input screen on which an engine start button and an engine stop button are arranged in predetermined positions, or a setting screen for performing various settings. The engine start button and engine stop button are equivalent to the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2. Furthermore, upon activation of the app, the control unit 3a establishes a Bluetooth (BLE) connection with the remote controller 2 using the second system wireless communication circuit 3b.

[0042] For example, when the control unit 3a detects that the "start button" or "stop button" on the operation screen has been touched, it sends a corresponding execution command (for example, a start command, a stop command, etc.) to the remote controller 2 using Bluetooth (BLE).

[0043] When a connection stop condition is met, the control unit 3a disconnects the connection with the remote controller 2. The connection stop condition may be, for example, a set time that has elapsed since the execution command was sent. Disconnecting the connection is advantageous because it can reduce battery consumption of the portable device 3 even while an app is running.

[0044] *Usage An example of an actual usage of the above-described system is as follows. As shown in the above Function 2, in this embodiment, the mobile device 3 operates as if it were controlling the remote controller 2. When executing Function 2, the user does not need to operate the mobile device 3 or the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2. Therefore, the user takes out the mobile device 3, for example, at a location away from the parking lot where the vehicle is parked, for example, at a predetermined location inside a building, and operates the operation unit 3d to remotely control and set the in-vehicle device 1.

[0045] In this case, the user does not need to touch the remote controller 2, and can control the in-vehicle device 1 while the remote controller 2 is in a bag or pocket, or placed in an appropriate location indoors. Therefore, as long as the user can take out the portable device 3, the user does not need to take the remote controller 2 out of a bag or the like, and does not need to go to the location where the remote controller 2 is placed, which is convenient. In particular, when a device that is always carried or kept close by, such as a smartphone, is used as the portable device 3, the user naturally carries the portable device 3 and operates it while holding it in his or her hand, which is advantageous because it allows smooth operation using the portable device 3.

[0046] Furthermore, for example, if the user's usual place, such as a living room or other room in a building, has a poor communication and radio wave environment, such that the first-system radio waves are difficult to reach, the remote controller 2 is placed in a place with a good communication and radio wave environment for the first system. If the place where the remote controller 2 is placed is within a range where the second-system communication is possible from the user's location, the user can operate the mobile device 3 and control the in-vehicle device 1 even in a place with a poor communication and radio wave environment for the first system. Therefore, the user does not need to travel to a place with a good radio wave environment to control the in-vehicle device 1, which is preferable because the user can operate it from the user's usual room or the like.

[0047] On the other hand, in this embodiment, by executing Function 1, the user can operate the remote controller 2 and directly control the in-vehicle device 1. Therefore, even if the user happens to not have the mobile device 3 at hand, cannot find it, or it is inoperable, the user can take out the remote controller 2 and control the in-vehicle device 1 by operating the operation unit 2d. Furthermore, the remote controller 2 is advantageous because the operation unit 2d is easy to operate. For example, the operation unit 2d of the remote controller 2 is an exposed push button switch, and simply pressing the push button sends an engine start / stop command to the in-vehicle device 1. On the other hand, if the mobile device 3 is a smartphone, the user must launch an app, navigate through multiple levels of menu screens, and then touch the "start button" or "stop button" on the operation screen, which requires multiple operations before actually inputting a command, which is cumbersome. Therefore, the user should use the appropriate method depending on the situation.

[0048] [Supports two-way communication] (Second embodiment) In this embodiment, the following function is added to the first embodiment described above. The remote controller 2 has a function of receiving communication from the in-vehicle device 1 via the first system of communication and transmitting the content of the communication to the mobile device 3 via the second system of communication. To realize this function, for example, when the control unit 2a of the remote controller 2 receives information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 via the first system wireless communication circuit 2b, the control unit 2a transmits the information to the mobile device 3 using the second system wireless communication circuit 2c. The information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 includes, for example, the execution result of the operation command sent from the remote controller 2, an answerback, etc.

[0049] When the control unit 3a of the portable device 3 receives the execution result (e.g., success / failure) or answerback from the remote controller 2 via the second-system wireless communication circuit 3b, it outputs the received content to the display unit 3c. Such display may be, for example, text, a mark, or the like. This display is preferable because the user can easily understand the content by looking at it. In particular, there is a demand for compactness in the remote controller 2, and the notification unit 2e provided on the remote controller 2 is a simple LED light without a display unit. Even if a display unit were provided, the overall dimensions of the remote controller 2 are small and the operation unit 2d and other components are also mounted, resulting in a small display area. Therefore, notification using the remote controller 2 does not allow the user to quickly and fully understand the information from the in-vehicle device 1. In contrast, if the portable device 3 is, for example, a smartphone, the display unit 3c has a larger display area and higher resolution than the notification unit 2e provided on the remote controller 2, making the notification content easier to see.

[0050] In the first embodiment described above, the mobile device 3 transmits an execution command to the remote controller 2. After the transmission, communication is performed between the remote controller 2 and the in-vehicle device 1. When an answerback or a notification of the execution result is received from the in-vehicle device 1, a notification is output using the notification unit 2e of the remote controller 2, but the content of the notification is unknown on the mobile device 3 side. Therefore, when the user checks the content of the notification from the in-vehicle device 1, the user needs to take out the remote controller 2, which is cumbersome. In contrast, in the present embodiment, the information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 can be checked on the mobile device 3, which is convenient.

[0051] Furthermore, when the control unit 3a receives an execution completion notification (for example, that the execution result is successful) corresponding to the transmitted execution command, it disconnects the connection with the remote controller 2. This is advantageous because it can reduce battery consumption in the portable device 3. Note that other configurations, functions, and effects are the same as those of the above-described embodiment, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0052] [Temporary storage with remote controller] (third embodiment) As shown in FIG. 2, in this embodiment, the remote controller 2 includes a storage unit 2f. When the control unit 2a receives instruction information such as an execution command from the mobile device 3 through communication via the second system, the control unit 2a temporarily stores the instruction information in the storage unit 2f. At the same time, the control unit 2a activates the communication circuit of the first system and transmits the temporarily stored instruction content to the in-vehicle device 1 through communication via the first system. When an answerback is received from the in-vehicle device 1, the control unit 2a also temporarily stores the answerback content and transmits the temporarily stored content to the mobile device 3 through communication via the second system. When communication from the in-vehicle device 1 is received through the first system, the control unit 2a temporarily stores the content and transmits the temporarily stored content to the mobile device 3 through the second system. After receiving instruction information from the mobile device 3 and performing a series of communications such as transmitting instruction information to the in-vehicle device 1 and receiving answerback, the control unit 2a preferably turns off the communication circuit of the first system.

[0053] In this way, the remote controller 2 temporarily stores the content received from the portable device 3 or the in-vehicle device 1 in the memory unit 2f and then transmits it. This eliminates the need for real-time processing, allowing the use of circuits and components that have slower processing speeds but lower power consumption. Also, the first system is the circuit that consumes the most current, and the communication circuit of the first system is normally turned off. When instruction information from the portable device is received via the communication circuit of the second system, the communication circuit of the first system is turned on and transmitted, thereby saving power, extending battery life, and enabling the use of smaller capacity batteries to achieve compactness.

[0054] Although the above embodiment has been described assuming the two-way communication of the second embodiment, it may also be applied to the first embodiment. In this case, the content received from the in-vehicle device 1 is not transmitted to the mobile device 3, so the process of temporarily storing the content in the storage unit 2f for such transmission and the accompanying process of transmitting the content to the mobile device 3 are eliminated. The other configurations and effects are the same as those of the above embodiment, so detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0055] [Mobile device directly controls in-vehicle device] (fourth embodiment) 3, this embodiment is based on the configurations of the above-described embodiments and is equipped with a second-system wireless communication circuit 1c in the in-vehicle device 1. Then, a function is provided in which the in-vehicle device 1 and the mobile device 3 communicate directly with each other using the second-system communication.

[0056] The control unit 3a of the portable device 3 detects an operation on the operation unit 3d, and if the operation is on the "start button" or "stop button," it attempts to connect to the in-vehicle device 1 using the second-system wireless communication circuit 3b. If the portable device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are within a range where they can directly communicate via second-system communication, the connection is established and a predetermined operation command (start / stop, etc.) is sent to the in-vehicle device 1.

[0057] When the in-vehicle device 1 receives an operation command via the second-system wireless communication circuit 1c, it executes a process corresponding to the received operation command. The control unit 1a also transmits information such as the execution result (success / failure, etc.) and an answerback from the second-system wireless communication circuit 1c to the mobile device 3 using the second-system communication.

[0058] When the control unit 3a of the portable device 3 receives information from the in-vehicle device 1, the control unit 3a outputs content corresponding to the received information to, for example, the display unit 3c. The output to the display unit 3c may be, for example, similar to the second embodiment described above.

[0059] On the other hand, if a connection cannot be established between the mobile device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 via the second-system communication, the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 attempts to connect with the remote controller 2. If a connection is established, the control unit 3a executes predetermined processing, such as transmitting a corresponding execution command (e.g., a start command, a stop command, etc.) to the remote controller 2, as in the above-described embodiments. As a result, if the mobile device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are not within a range where they can directly communicate via the second-system communication, the mobile device 3 controls the remote controller 2 and controls the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller 2.

[0060] In this embodiment, when viewed from the perspective of the in-vehicle device 1, the control of the in-vehicle device 1 has two modes: one is performed from the remote controller 2 using a first system of communication, and the other is performed from the portable device 3 using a second system of communication. When viewed from the perspective of the portable device 3, there are two modes: one is to control the remote controller 2 as in the above-described embodiments and then control the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller 2, and the other is to directly control the in-vehicle device 1. When viewed from the perspective of the remote controller 2, there are two modes: one is to control the in-vehicle device 1 according to an instruction from its own operation unit 2d, and the other is to control the in-vehicle device 1 upon receiving an execution command from the portable device 3. Thus, by having various modes, the in-vehicle device 1 can be controlled using an appropriate mode depending on the situation.

[0061] When the portable device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are within a range where they can communicate directly via the second system, the communication circuit of the first system is not activated, and the in-vehicle device 1 and the portable device 3 communicate directly, eliminating control by the remote controller 2. This is preferable because it reduces battery consumption in the remote controller 2, does not emit unnecessary radio waves, and increases communication speed and response speed. Note that other configurations, functions, and effects are the same as those of the above-mentioned embodiments, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0062] [Notifying the portable device of the operation content] (Fifth embodiment) When the control unit 2a of the remote controller 2 transmits an operation command to the in-vehicle device 1 using the wireless communication circuit 2b for the first system based on a button operation on the operation unit 2d, the control unit 2a transmits the transmitted content and the corresponding received content such as an answerback from the in-vehicle device 1 to the mobile device 3 via the second system. This allows the mobile device 3 to check the content and perform the next operation from the mobile device 3.

[0063] In this embodiment, the contents of communication between the remote controller 2 and the in-vehicle device 1 are also sent to the portable device 3 and displayed on the display unit 3c of the portable device 3, so that the remote controller 2 does not have a display function, or if it does have one, a simpler and smaller one can be used, thereby enabling a smaller and less expensive remote controller 2. Furthermore, even if the remote controller 2 is immediately put away in a bag or pocket after operating the remote controller 2, subsequent information sent from the in-vehicle device 1, such as an answerback, can be checked on the portable device 3, and subsequent operations can be performed on the portable device 3, which is advantageous.

[0064] For example, as described above, the user can more easily operate the remote controller 2 to send an operation command to the in-vehicle device 1. On the other hand, in the case of an engine starter, for example, it takes time (e.g., several tens of seconds) from the time the operation command is sent until the engine actually starts. Therefore, when starting the engine remotely, for example, in the morning before leaving the house, if the remote controller 2 is nearby, the user wants to give a simple command, so they operate it using that. However, it is cumbersome to carry the remote controller 2 and wait for a certain period of time afterwards. Therefore, as in the present embodiment, after inputting an operation command using the remote controller 2, the user can carry the portable device 3 and check the execution results, etc., on the portable device 3. Since carrying the portable device 3 is a common daily occurrence, it is convenient for the user to carry the portable device 3 and is not cumbersome. Furthermore, the display area of ​​the display unit 3c is large and easy to see, so it is easy to check, for example, the contents of the operation command issued using the remote controller 2 or the contents sent from the in-vehicle device 1. Furthermore, for example, if the result of checking the contents of an operation command is an unexpected operation, it is possible to operate the portable device 3 without taking out the remote controller 2, and perform a predetermined process such as canceling the operation command, which is advantageous.

[0065] [Function switching] (sixth embodiment) In this embodiment, the functions of the remote controller 2 and the system are switched depending on the state and situation of the vehicle. The state and situation of the vehicle refers to, for example, whether or not the vehicle is in a state or situation in which it cannot perform its original function of driving. The state and situation in which it can perform its original function includes a state in which the vehicle is actually driving, and a state in which it can drive by operating the accelerator, brake, or shift position, even if the driving speed is 0 km / h and it is stopped, for example. The state and situation of the vehicle can also be said to be whether or not the vehicle is in a state or situation in which it can perform its original function of the in-vehicle device 1, such as the engine starter function described in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, when the vehicle is parked, it is in a state or situation in which it cannot perform its original function of driving.

[0066] The above-mentioned vehicle state and situation can be determined by checking whether the vehicle's engine key is on or off. When the vehicle's engine key is off, as shown in the above-mentioned embodiment, the remote controller 2 controls the in-vehicle device 1 using communication via only the first system or via the second system. This activates the engine starter function to start or stop the engine.

[0067] On the other hand, when the engine key is ON, vehicle information and vehicle driving information are transmitted to the mobile device 3 and the remote controller 2 through the second system of communication, and the mobile device 3 and the remote controller 2 display or store the information sent from the in-vehicle device 1. Note that the engine key being ON means that, for example, the ACC or IG (ignition) is ON.

[0068] When transmitting this vehicle information and vehicle driving information, it is advisable to use the second system of communication. For example, the specified low-power radio used as the first system has limitations on the content and amount of information that can be transmitted, has a slow communication speed, and consumes a lot of power, making it unsuitable for transmitting sequential vehicle information, etc. Therefore, BLE used as the second system of communication is preferable because it has a fast communication speed, can transmit large amounts of information, and consumes little power. The device for executing this process is as follows.

[0069] In this embodiment, when the in-vehicle device 1 operates as a basic function such as an engine starter, and the remote controller 2 and the mobile device 3 control it, for example, when the engine key is OFF, the device operates in the same manner as in the above-mentioned embodiments, and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0070] For example, when the engine key is ON, the in-vehicle device 1 does not operate as the basic function but operates as the second function, and the configuration is based on a device in which a second-system wireless communication circuit 1c is also mounted in the in-vehicle device 1, as shown in Fig. 4. Then, via the second-system wireless communication circuit 1c, communication with at least one of the remote controller 2 and the mobile device 3 is possible by second-system communication.

[0071] The in-vehicle device 1 also has a function of acquiring vehicle information, etc. The vehicle information is historical data during driving, such as engine RPM information, fuel efficiency information, vehicle driving and operation information, etc. The driving information is historical data, such as image and sound information (video and audio recordings) during driving, driving trajectory information, driving speed information, shocks, vibrations, acceleration, etc.

[0072] The in-vehicle device 1, which has recognized that the engine key is ON, etc., acquires vehicle information, etc. at an appropriate timing using a function for acquiring vehicle information, etc. The control unit 1a transmits the acquired vehicle information, etc. to, for example, the remote controller 2, using the second system of communication.

[0073] The remote controller 2 includes a storage unit 2f. In relation to this embodiment, the storage unit 2f stores vehicle information and the like transmitted from the in-vehicle device 1. The control unit 2a stores the vehicle information and the like received via the second-system wireless communication circuit 2c in the storage unit 2f. For example, some in-vehicle devices, such as drive recorders, have a function for acquiring and storing vehicle information and the like. When the stored vehicle information and the like in such an in-vehicle device is taken outside the vehicle and checked or analyzed on an external computer or the like, a removable recording medium such as a memory card is inserted into the in-vehicle device, and the vehicle information and the like are recorded on the memory card. When the user exits the vehicle, the user must remove the memory card and the like from the in-vehicle device and take the memory card with them outside the vehicle. However, removing the memory card when exiting the vehicle is cumbersome and easy to forget. Carrying a small memory card is cumbersome, and there is a risk of losing it, making it difficult to find if it is left behind.

[0074] On the other hand, the remote controller 2 is almost certainly taken out of the vehicle when the driver gets off the vehicle. Therefore, in this embodiment, the vehicle information acquired by the in-vehicle device 1 is stored in the remote controller 2, so there is no need to remove a memory card or the like from the in-vehicle device and take it out when the driver gets off the vehicle, and no special work is required to take it out. Therefore, there is no risk of forgetting to take it out, and it can be taken out reliably, and since the remote controller 2 has a moderate size, there is no risk of it being lost.

[0075] The storage unit 2f may be an internal memory or a memory card. Since the memory card is removable, for example, it is possible to take the remote controller 2 close to a personal computer or the like, remove the memory card there, and insert it into the personal computer or the like to read out the stored information. In the case of an internal memory, the stored information may be transmitted to the personal computer or the like via BLE, for example, using the second system wireless communication circuit 2c.

[0076] Furthermore, instead of storing the information in the remote controller 2 as described above, the portable device 3 may be provided with a storage unit 3e, and the vehicle information and the like may be stored in this storage unit 3e. If the portable device 3 is a smartphone or the like, it is provided with an internal memory as standard equipment, and some devices are provided with removable storage means such as a memory card, so this can be used.

[0077] In this case, as in the second embodiment, for example, when the remote controller 2 receives vehicle information, etc. sent from the in-vehicle device 1, it transmits the received vehicle information, etc. to the mobile device 3 using the second communication system. Then, when the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 receives the vehicle information, etc. sent from the remote controller 2, it stores the information in the memory unit 3e. The received vehicle information, etc. may also be output to the display unit 3c. In this case, the remote controller 2 does not necessarily have to include the memory unit 2f. That is, if the information is transferred in real time on the spot as in the second embodiment, the memory unit 2f may be omitted. Furthermore, if the remote controller 2 has a function of temporarily storing and transferring information as in the third embodiment, the control unit 2a may temporarily store the received vehicle information, etc. in the memory unit 2f and send the temporarily stored information to the mobile device 3 at an appropriate timing.

[0078] Furthermore, the vehicle information and the like of the in-vehicle device 1 may be transmitted to the mobile device 3 directly from the in-vehicle device 1 to the mobile device 3. In this way, relay processing by the remote controller 2 is not required, power saving is achieved, and the remote controller 2 does not need to store and hold the vehicle information and the like, so that a configuration without a storage unit 2f in relation to this embodiment can be adopted, or even if a storage unit 2f is provided, the memory capacity can be reduced, which is preferable. Furthermore, since the information issued by the in-vehicle device 1 is transmitted directly to the mobile device 3 without passing through the remote controller 2, the communication load is reduced, which is also preferable.

[0079] Since the user usually takes the portable device 3 with him when getting off the vehicle, there is no need to remove a memory card or the like from the in-vehicle device and take it with him when getting off the vehicle, as in the case of the remote controller 2, and no special work is required to take it outside, so there is no risk of forgetting to take it outside and it can be taken outside with confidence, etc. The information stored in the memory unit 3e of the portable device 3 can be retrieved in the same way as, for example, the remote controller 2 described above.

[0080] According to this embodiment, when the vehicle is parked, it functions as an engine starter and car security, and when the vehicle is driving, the portable device 3 acquires and displays vehicle information and vehicle driving information, and stores the information so that after getting out of the vehicle, the vehicle information and vehicle driving information can be checked and analyzed on a computer or the like.

[0081] Furthermore, as described above, when the portable device 3 receives vehicle information and the like, the control unit 3a may store the information in the storage unit 3e, or may have a function to output the information to the display unit 3c instead of or in addition to the function. Displaying the information on the display unit 3c is advantageous because it allows the vehicle information and the like to be checked in real time while the vehicle is traveling, etc.

[0082] In this embodiment, the second system radio circuit can be used for the basic function of controlling the in-vehicle device 1 when the vehicle is not running, such as when the engine key is OFF, and the above-mentioned transmission function when the vehicle is running, such as when the engine key is ON, which also has cost benefits.

[0083] The function of acquiring vehicle information, etc., possessed by the in-vehicle device may be configured, for example, to connect to the vehicle's fault diagnostic equipment connection terminal (OBDII terminal) and acquire information from the in-vehicle LAN. By connecting the in-vehicle device 1 to the OBDII, the OBDII is connected to the in-vehicle LAN, allowing acquisition of various vehicle information transmitted over the in-vehicle LAN. For example, in the case of an engine starter, depending on the vehicle model, useful information for the engine starter may be acquired, such as the vehicle interior temperature, exterior temperature, coolant temperature, engine RPM, and fuel consumption during idling. In addition to displaying this information on the mobile device, it may also be equipped with a function that utilizes this information to adjust the idling time or engine RPM during idling, for example, based on the vehicle interior temperature, exterior temperature, and coolant temperature. While driving, information such as driving speed, engine RPM, fuel economy, and fuel consumption can be acquired. Displaying or storing and analyzing this information during driving can be useful for eco-driving and safe driving.

[0084] The vehicle driving information includes, for example, image information of the vehicle's surroundings while driving taken by an in-vehicle camera, audio information from a microphone, driving trajectory information from a positioning system, vehicle driving log information such as driving speed and acceleration, driving condition detection sensor information such as impact sensors and angular velocity sensors, etc. The in-vehicle device 1 is equipped with means for acquiring these various types of information, or the in-vehicle device 1 acquires the information in cooperation with the in-vehicle device 1.

[0085] This driving information can then be stored in the portable device 3 or the remote controller 2, and displayed and analyzed on the portable device 3, a PC, etc., so that the accident record can be viewed to confirm and analyze the cause of the accident, and the analysis of the driving conditions can be used to help educate and train drivers on safe driving.

[0086] [Control of the first communication circuit] (seventh embodiment) In each of the above-described embodiments, it is preferable to provide a function for cutting off the first system communication circuit when the engine key of the vehicle is turned on. For example, when the control unit 1a of the in-vehicle device 1 detects that the engine key is turned on, it cuts off the first system wireless communication circuit 1b. As a result, even if an erroneous operation is performed on the remote controller 2, the in-vehicle device 1 will not accept it, preventing adverse effects on the vehicle and radio interference. Furthermore, by cutting off the first system wireless communication circuit 1b, which consumes a lot of power, it is possible to prevent battery consumption in battery-powered vehicles. Furthermore, since first system communication is no longer necessary when the engine key of the vehicle is turned on, there is no problem in cutting it off.

[0087] Furthermore, if the in-vehicle device 1 also has a second system wireless communication circuit 1c, it is preferable to enable communication by linking with other devices without interrupting the second system wireless communication circuit 1c, for example. This is because the second system wireless communication circuit 1c consumes little power and therefore has little effect on battery consumption, and also because, for example, when this embodiment is applied to a device that has a function to be activated when the engine key is turned on, as in the sixth embodiment, the function can be executed.

[0088] Furthermore, for example, when the fourth embodiment is applied to an embodiment in which the portable device 3 has a function of directly controlling the in-vehicle device 1 using the second system of communication, it is preferable to cut off the second system wireless communication circuit 1c so that it cannot establish a link with other devices. In this way, even if the portable device 3 is operated erroneously, the erroneous operation is not accepted by the in-vehicle device 1, and it is possible to prevent adverse effects on the vehicle and radio wave interference.

[0089] [Various setting functions using a mobile device] (Eighth embodiment) In the above-described embodiments, an operation instruction given by operating the portable device 3 is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller, and the in-vehicle device 1 operates in accordance with the operation instruction. In the present embodiment, this function is used to enable various settings and setting changes of the in-vehicle device 1 by the portable device 3. That is, in each embodiment, the control unit 3a of the portable device 3 displays a predetermined setting screen (not shown) in accordance with an operation on the operation unit 3d. Then, the control unit 3a sends setting information input via the setting screen to the remote controller 2 using the second system of communication. The control unit 2a of the remote controller 2 sends the received setting information to the in-vehicle device 1 using the first system of communication. The control unit 1a of the in-vehicle device 1 performs various settings based on the setting information received using the first system of communication.

[0090] Due to the need for miniaturization, the remote controller 2 does not have a large display. Therefore, when using the remote controller 2 to set or change the settings of the in-vehicle device 1, for example, the setting buttons are small and difficult to press. Furthermore, since the number of buttons is small and multiple functions are assigned to each button, hierarchical operation is required. However, the lack of a large display makes operation difficult, and complex settings with many different types are difficult to perform. As a result, users tend to use the in-vehicle device 1 in the default settings set by the manufacturer at the time of shipment, which may not necessarily be appropriate for the actual usage environment, preventing the in-vehicle device 1 from fully utilizing its functions. This problem is particularly pronounced when frequent changes or detailed settings are desired depending on the situation. On the other hand, smartphones and other devices used as the portable device 3 are easy to operate, such as with large displays and touch panels, making complex settings with many different types easy to perform, thereby solving the above problem and being preferable.

[0091] Such settings, such as adjusting the idling time of an engine starter based on the vehicle interior temperature or coolant temperature, or adjusting the engine speed during idling, are difficult to perform using a small remote control. Therefore, in existing systems, a specialized installation technician must use a separate, special computer or the like to perform these settings on the in-vehicle device 1, which creates the problem that users cannot easily set or change the settings, making such settings impractical. Using this embodiment, settings can be easily performed using a mobile device 3 such as a smartphone or tablet PC. Furthermore, since settings can be performed by operating the mobile device 3, the setting information is sent to the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller 2 and set, so the in-vehicle device 1 can be set or changed even from a location away from the vehicle, such as inside the home.

[0092] For example, in car security systems, the sensitivity and use of each sensor can be finely adjusted to suit the vehicle and parking environment. For example, when parking in a home garage, it is best to set the sensitivity high and the number and type of sensors in operation so that it is unlikely that a third party will approach the parked vehicle and any potential theft or vandalism can be detected reliably and quickly, and an alarm can be sounded to intimidate the third party and alert the user. On the other hand, when parking in a city parking lot, it is best to set the sensitivity low and the functionality low to avoid false detections and false alarms, since the driver of another vehicle parked adjacent to the vehicle may approach the user's vehicle to get into theirs, and since ordinary people may pass by on roads near the parking lot.

[0093] Furthermore, many mobile devices 3, such as smartphones, are equipped with a function for detecting the current location of a GPS receiver or the like. In this case, for example, the location of the user's home can be registered, and the GPS receiver can determine whether the current location is the user's home or its vicinity. If the current location is the user's home, high sensitivity and high functionality can be set, while if the current location is not the user's home, low sensitivity settings with fewer sensors and fewer types can be set, suitable for urban areas. By appropriately adjusting the sensitivity and other settings based on the current location in this way, users can easily adjust the appropriate settings without any special knowledge. For example, when arming a car security system based on the operation of the mobile device 3, setting information based on the current location can be transmitted at an appropriate time. This allows the user to change the appropriate settings for the location simply by operating the mobile device 3. Alternatively, instead of linking the setting with the arming operation, the setting based on the current location can be triggered by touching a button for setting the current location provided on the display unit 3c.

[0094] [Operation control of in-vehicle devices] (ninth embodiment) In the above-described embodiments, an operation instruction given by operating the mobile device 3 is transmitted to the in-vehicle device 1 via a remote controller, and the in-vehicle device 1 operates in accordance with the operation instruction. In the present embodiment, this function is utilized to provide a function for advance reservation and reservation change of the operation of the in-vehicle device 1 by the mobile device 3.

[0095] If the in-vehicle device 1 is an engine starter, the mobile device 3 can be equipped with a timer to schedule the time at which the engine start command is output, and the schedule can be changed according to the day of the week, etc. For example, a timer scheduler can be provided, such as setting the engine to start at 7:00 AM every day, or setting the engine to start at 7:00 AM every Monday through Friday, but not on Saturday and Sunday. When setting such a schedule, the large display screen or touch panel of the mobile device 3 can be used to easily set whether or not to start the engine for each day of the week, and the start time. Furthermore, a calendar can be displayed, allowing for easy setting of different times each day, and setting of days on which the engine will or will not start, etc. Various additional functions can also be added, such as sounding an alarm a specified time before the set time or displaying the remaining time until the set time. Furthermore, once set, the set time can be easily changed.

[0096] As an example of use in car security, for example, the security system is not armed when the vehicle is parked, but is armed from a predetermined time until a predetermined time. Alternatively, after arming when the vehicle is parked, the security mode is changed from a predetermined time until a predetermined time. For example, if the vehicle is parked in a location with a lot of people and cars coming and going until a predetermined time, the system may not be armed until the predetermined time, or may be armed in a weak security mode, and only armed or switched to a strong security mode during late-night hours. Alternatively, since the vehicle alarm may be disturbing to neighbors during late-night hours, the system may not activate and only send a notification to the remote controller 2. The control unit 3a transmits an arm or disarm operation command when a predetermined time arrives based on the setting.

[0097] It is difficult and impractical to perform the various settings described above using a remote control with a small screen, but it can be easily performed using the screen of a mobile device such as a smartphone 3. Furthermore, since the settings can be made by operating the mobile device 3, the relevant setting information is sent to and set in the in-vehicle device 1 via the remote controller 2, so that the in-vehicle device 1 can be set or changed even in a location away from the vehicle, such as inside the home.

[0098] [Variations of the functions of the in-vehicle devices] In the various embodiments described above, the in-vehicle device 1 has been mainly used as an engine starter, but the present invention is not limited to this and various other application modes are possible. For example, the in-vehicle device 1 mounted on a vehicle that operates based on a drive source other than an engine, such as an electric vehicle that is driven by a motor, may be a device that controls the start / stop of the vehicle's drive source, such as a device that controls the ON / OFF of power supply to the motor.

[0099] Furthermore, like the control of the drive source, the control is not limited to functions that function mainly when and before getting into the vehicle, but may also function when getting off the vehicle, while the vehicle is parked, etc. An example of such in-vehicle equipment that functions when getting off the vehicle or while the vehicle is parked is a car security system.

[0100] For example, since a portable device 3 such as a smartphone is often carried in a state where it can be easily taken out, it is preferable that the remote controller 2 be left in a bag or pocket and an arm / disarm command can be given to the in-vehicle device 1 by operating the portable device 3. When getting in and out of a vehicle, the user carries the remote controller 2 with them, but often keeps it in a bag or pocket. Due to demands for miniaturization, the remote controller 2 tends to be small in size, which poses a problem of making it difficult to find and take out if it is put in a bag. Furthermore, if the portable device 3 is a smartphone or the like, the portable device 3 is relatively easy to take out even when held in the hand or put in a bag or the like. Furthermore, in situations where a user is likely to walk while holding the portable device 3 in the hand, there is also a problem that it is cumbersome to take out the remote controller 2 while holding the portable device 3 and operate the remote controller 2. Therefore, by enabling commands to be input using the portable device 3 as in the present embodiment, the above problem can be solved and is convenient.

[0101] On the other hand, arming the car security system can be achieved by linking it to the door lock, eliminating the need for special operations using the mobile device 3 or the like when exiting the vehicle. However, if the car security system's sensor detects an abnormality and issues an alarm or a report to the remote controller 2 while the system is armed, it is necessary to stop the alarm or confirm the report using the remote controller 2. Therefore, with conventional car security systems, the remote controller 2 must always be kept close at hand, which still poses an inconvenient problem. In contrast, according to this embodiment, the remote controller 2 can be left in a bag or pocket, for example, and can be operated or checked using a mobile device 3 such as a smartphone or wearable device that is always close at hand and easily accessible, providing greater convenience.

[0102] [Improved display function for mobile devices] In the second embodiment, information from the in-vehicle device 1 is displayed on the mobile device 3 via the remote controller 2. This is because the remote controller 2 is required to be compact and cannot have a large display. Therefore, it is difficult to display a large amount of information from the in-vehicle device 1 on the remote controller 2 in an easily viewable manner. On the other hand, the mobile device 3 such as a smartphone is equipped with a large display, which is advantageous in that it can display a large amount of information in an easily viewable manner.

[0103] For example, if the in-vehicle device 1 is applied to a system in which the in-vehicle device 1 functions as an engine starter, the mobile device 3 may not only notify the execution result sent from the in-vehicle device 1, such as status information indicating "engine start was successful," but also, for example, display the remaining time the engine is running. For example, when the engine is started by the engine starter, the in-vehicle device 1 stops the engine after a set time has elapsed since the engine was started. In such a case, the in-vehicle device 1 may notify the execution result (stopped due to the elapsed time) when the engine has stopped, and a notification function may be added to the remote controller 2 or the mobile device 3, so that the user can know that the engine has stopped through the notification. However, if the set time is long, such as about 30 minutes, it may be difficult for the user to easily grasp how much time has elapsed since the user started the engine using the remote controller 2 or the mobile device 3, and how much time the engine will continue to run. Therefore, the control unit 3a of the mobile device 3 may be provided with a function to store the time set in the in-vehicle device 1, and upon receiving a notification of engine start, start timing from that time, calculate the remaining time until the engine stops, and notify the user of the time. Such notifications may, for example, show the remaining time numerically, or may be displayed in an easily understandable form using a clock or timer-like diagram, or graphics or animations like an indicator. Furthermore, the shorter the remaining time, the more clearly the state should be displayed. Examples of easily understandable display modes include changing the display color, blinking, or changing the display size of the diagram or icon. When changing the size, it is good to make the entire diagram or icon or part of it smaller so that it is intuitively clear that the remaining time is running out.

[0104] For example, in car security systems, when a sensor installed in a vehicle detects an abnormality, a conventional system sounds an alarm and, if available, displays an icon or text. However, the display is small, making the displayed content difficult to see and understand. Therefore, upon receiving an alarm notification, the user must first go to the vehicle to check the situation, which is cumbersome, prevents immediate response, and, in the case of a malfunction, results in a wasted trip. In contrast, this embodiment not only issues an alarm or notification, but also displays the type and severity of the sensor detection in more detail and easily visible on the display of the mobile device 3. This makes it easier to determine whether the alarm is a malfunction, what type of damage or abnormality is occurring, and the extent of the damage, allowing for appropriate response according to the situation. Furthermore, the in-vehicle device 1 also sends more detailed information, allowing the user to immediately understand the situation by viewing the display on the mobile device 3.

[0105] Furthermore, the battery capacity of the battery mounted on the remote controller 2 is small due to miniaturization, and the display time on the display is short due to limitations on current consumption. Therefore, even if a vehicle sensor or the like detects an abnormality and the in-vehicle device 1 reports it to the remote controller 2, the time for displaying the type of abnormality, etc. is short (for example, about a few seconds). Therefore, by the time the user takes the remote controller 2 out of their pocket or bag to look at it, the display has already disappeared, and there is a risk that the content will not be visible. In contrast, in this embodiment, by outputting an alarm notification on the display of the portable device 3, the notification output can be continued for a relatively long time, allowing the user to reliably check the displayed content, thereby solving the problem.

[0106] Furthermore, a user can usually take out the portable device 3 relatively easily and quickly view the display contents compared to the remote controller 2. For this reason, it is preferable to output the contents of an alarm or the like sent from the in-vehicle device 1 to the display of the remote controller 2.

[0107] [Application of the third embodiment to car security] In the third embodiment, the first system is turned off at an appropriate timing, but for example, if the in-vehicle device 1 is used for car security or the like and the receiving circuit of the first system is kept operating at all times so that an abnormality detection report may be sent at any time, it is advisable to operate the first system wireless communication circuit 2b in a power saving mode such as intermittent operation after the series of communications described above is completed, thereby reducing the current consumption of the remote controller 2 and extending the battery life.

[0108] [Compatible with genuine key smart systems] When the engine is started using the engine starter and the vehicle is idling, there is a problem that the vehicle cannot be unlocked using the smart system of the genuine key, and it is not possible to get into the vehicle as is. To unlock the vehicle using the smart system of the genuine key, a stop operation command must be sent from the remote controller 2 constituting the engine starter system to the in-vehicle device 1, and the in-vehicle device 1 then performs processing to stop the engine in response to the command. Then, it is necessary to unlock the vehicle using the smart system of the genuine key and get into the vehicle, which is a cumbersome operation. To solve this problem, this embodiment is configured as follows.

[0109] The system has a function of detecting a user approaching the vehicle and executing a process to stop the engine. Such approach may be intended to be when the user is getting into the vehicle. For example, if the user starts the engine using an engine starter at home and then goes outside to get the newspaper, or if the user happens to pass through a room or hallway adjacent to a parking lot while moving indoors, the user may come close to the vehicle. However, since this does not mean the user is getting into the vehicle, it is better not to use this as an opportunity to stop the engine. Therefore, in this embodiment, the system is configured to stop the engine when the user approaches close enough to indicate that the user is likely to get into the vehicle. The determination of such approach is specifically as follows.

[0110] For example, as in the fourth embodiment, the in-vehicle device 1 is also equipped with a second system wireless communication circuit 1c, and a link is established between the second system wireless communication circuit 1c and the second system wireless communication circuit 3b of the portable device 3, providing a function for direct communication between the in-vehicle device 1 and the portable device 3. This direct communication function uses second system communication, which has a short communication distance, so when the user of the portable device 3 is relatively far from the vehicle, the portable device 3 and the in-vehicle device 1 are out of communication range, and the engine does not stop.

[0111] Furthermore, since the communication distance of the second communication system is approximately 10 meters, even if the user carrying the portable device 3 enters the communication range of the in-vehicle device 1 and communication via the second system becomes possible, it is possible that the user may be in the communication range even while inside the vehicle, and it is not certain that the user is likely to enter the vehicle. Therefore, in this embodiment, the second communication system between the in-vehicle device 1 and the portable device 3 is used to determine whether the user is approaching the vehicle, and if the user is close enough to enter the vehicle, the engine is stopped. This approach determination may be performed, for example, based on the received radio wave strength. Then, for example, the RSSI level is used, and if the level exceeds a set threshold, the engine is stopped. The threshold may be set, for example, to a value corresponding to when the user carrying the portable device 3 approaches the door, for example, when the distance between the two devices is approximately 1 meter.

[0112] The determination based on the RSSI level may be performed on the in-vehicle device 1 side or on the mobile device 3 side. In particular, if the determination is performed on the in-vehicle device 1 side, the engine can be stopped immediately after the determination. This is advantageous because, for example, even if the user gets closer to the vehicle door than planned due to surrounding radio wave conditions or the like and exceeds the threshold, the engine can be stopped and unlocked immediately. Note that if the mobile device 3 determines the RSSI level, the engine can be stopped by transmitting an engine stop command when the threshold is exceeded. In this case, the in-vehicle device 1 performs the engine stop process upon receiving the stop command, which has the advantage of being able to use the same algorithm as that used for processing based on the operation of the operating unit of the regular mobile device 3 or remote controller 2.

[0113] This embodiment is similar to the fourth embodiment in that a wireless communication circuit 1c for the second system is implemented in the in-vehicle device 1, but this embodiment does not necessarily assume the fourth embodiment, and it is sufficient to incorporate this function in the configuration of various embodiments, etc.

[0114] [Combinations other than one mobile device and one remote controller] In the above-described embodiments, one remote controller 2 is assigned to one in-vehicle device 1, and one mobile device 3 is assigned to the remote controller 2. However, the present invention allows for any combination of numbers, and various combinations are possible. For example, multiple mobile devices 3 may be assigned to one remote controller 2. The multiple mobile devices 3 and the remote controller 2 are connected via a multilink. For example, the remote controller 2 may be placed in an appropriate location, such as a living room or entrance, and multiple mobile devices 3 may be held by, for example, family members. This allows each family member with a mobile device 3 to send an operation command. Furthermore, these days, a single user may own multiple smartphones or other devices, and may carry different types of devices, such as a smartphone, a tablet PC, or a wearable device. By associating each of the multiple mobile devices 3 with the remote controller 2, the user can operate the mobile device 3 that is easiest to take out and operate depending on the situation.

[0115] In this case, as in the second embodiment, for example, when the remote controller 2 receives information sent from the in-vehicle device 1 and sends the information to the mobile device 3, it is preferable to send the information to multiple mobile devices 3. This is advantageous because it allows each person carrying a mobile device 3 to share the information. Furthermore, when sending an execution result based on an operation of the mobile device 3 to the mobile device 3, it may be sent only to the mobile device 3 that performed the operation, but it is also preferable to send the result to multiple mobile devices 3. This is advantageous because it allows even a person who did not perform the operation to understand that someone in the family has sent a predetermined operation command to the in-vehicle device 1, and it is therefore possible to prevent the same process from being performed again or to prevent sending a command that contradicts the process associated with the predetermined operation command.

[0116] Furthermore, if the remote controller 2 has a function for transmitting the operation contents to the mobile device 3 as in the fifth embodiment, it is preferable to transmit the operation contents to a plurality of mobile devices 3. In this way, even a person who did not operate the remote controller 2 can understand that someone in the family has sent a predetermined operation command to the in-vehicle device 1, and this is advantageous because it can prevent the same process from being performed again or sending a command that contradicts the process associated with the predetermined operation command.

[0117] Furthermore, a plurality of remote controllers 2 may be associated with one portable device 3, and the one portable device 3 may be operated to control the in-vehicle devices 1 associated with the remote controller 2, or information sent from the plurality of in-vehicle devices 1 may be received by the one portable device 3. When a plurality of vehicles are owned, it is advantageous because they can be collectively managed by one portable device 3.

[0118] [Modification of in-vehicle equipment] The in-vehicle devices may be mounted in a single housing, or may be mounted separately in multiple housings. When the devices are mounted in multiple housings, it is preferable to configure the communication circuit system including the antenna and the other devices separately. For example, the housing mounting the communication circuit system including the antenna may be placed in a location that facilitates communication with the outside, such as on the dashboard, near the windshield, or behind the rearview mirror (at the front of the vehicle). The housing mounting the control unit 1a and other devices and circuits may be placed in a location that is difficult to see from the outside, such as under the dashboard, or, if an OBDII is used, near the OBDII outlet. When the devices are mounted separately, they are connected to each other via wired cables or wireless communication.

[0119] [Variations in power supply for each device] In the above-described embodiment and modified example, a primary battery is used as the power source for the remote controller 2, but a secondary battery may also be used. In particular, a secondary battery is preferable when vehicle information and the like is stored in the remote controller 2. Furthermore, when a secondary battery is used, it is preferable to link the remote controller 2 to the vehicle's power supply system so that the secondary battery can be charged from the vehicle's power source while the vehicle is running, for example.

[0120] The present invention may be implemented by appropriately combining the above-described embodiments and modifications, or by incorporating some or all of the functions of each embodiment into other embodiments.

[0121] Various aspects of the present invention have been described above using embodiments and modifications. However, it should be noted that these embodiments and descriptions are provided to aid in understanding the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the structures and manufacturing methods explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of various aspects of the present invention disclosed herein. While the structures of the present invention that are sought to be patented are specified in the appended claims, it is hereby emphasized that structures not currently specified in the claims may be claimed in the future as disclosed herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0122] 1 In-vehicle equipment 1a Control section 1b Wireless communication circuit for the first system 1c Wireless communication circuit for second system 2 Remote Controllers 2a Control section 2b Wireless communication circuit for the first system 2c Wireless communication circuit for second system 2d operation section 2e Notification Department 2f storage section 3. Mobile devices 3a Control section 3b Wireless communication circuit for second system 3c Display section 3d control unit 3e storage section

Claims

1. A remote controller for wireless communication with an in-vehicle device, a wireless communication circuit for a first system, a wireless communication circuit for a second system, and a control unit; The control unit normally keeps the wireless communication circuit for the first system in a stopped state, and when instruction information from the portable device is received by the wireless communication circuit for the second system, activates the wireless communication circuit for the first system to perform wireless communication with the in-vehicle device and transmits control information based on the instruction information to the in-vehicle device. A remote controller characterized by:

2. 2. The remote controller according to claim 1, further comprising a function of storing vehicle information or driving information acquired from an in-vehicle device in a storage unit.

3. 3. The remote controller according to claim 2, further comprising a function of transmitting the vehicle information or driving information stored in the storage unit to a portable device via the wireless communication circuit for the second system.

4. 4. The remote controller according to claim 3, wherein the transmission is performed in response to reception of instruction information from a portable device.

5. 5. A remote controller according to claim 1, wherein the wireless communication circuit for the first system performs wireless communication using a specified low-power radio, and the wireless communication circuit for the second system performs wireless communication using Bluetooth (BLE).

6. 6. The remote controller according to claim 1, wherein the content received from the in-vehicle device is not transmitted to the portable device, and the content is not temporarily stored for transmission.

7. 7. The remote controller according to claim 1, wherein said remote controller does not have a display function.

8. A system including an in-vehicle device, a mobile device, and a remote controller, The remote controller a wireless communication circuit for a first system, a wireless communication circuit for a second system, and a control unit; The control unit normally keeps the wireless communication circuit for the first system in a stopped state, and when instruction information from the portable device is received by the wireless communication circuit for the second system, activates the wireless communication circuit for the first system to perform wireless communication with the in-vehicle device and transmits control information based on the instruction information to the in-vehicle device. A system characterized by:

9. 9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the remote controller further has a function of storing vehicle information or driving information acquired from an in-vehicle device in a storage unit.

10. 10. The system according to claim 9, further comprising a function of transmitting the vehicle information or the driving information stored in the storage unit to the portable device via the wireless communication circuit for the second system.

11. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein said transmitting is in response to receiving instructional information from said portable device.

12. 12. A system according to claim 8, wherein the wireless communication circuit for the first system performs wireless communication using a specific low-power radio, and the wireless communication circuit for the second system performs wireless communication using Blue Tooth (BLE).

13. 13. The system according to claim 8, 9 or 12, wherein the content received from the in-vehicle device is not transmitted to the portable device and is not temporarily stored for transmission.

14. 14. The system according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the mobile device is a smartphone.

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