In-vehicle device

Abstract

To provide a technology for enabling an ECU to confirm that a sensor is normally connected to the ECU.SOLUTION: The in-vehicle device 13 includes a ECU20 to which the sensor 12 is connected, and the communication device 30 including the switch circuit 34. When the switch circuit 34 is in the first state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the ECU20 to the reception unit 31, and a signal transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41 is blocked. When the switch circuit 34 is in the second state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41. ECU20 transmits the collation information to the first signal line 41. The control unit 32 controls the switch circuit 34 to be in the first state and receives the collation information from the reception unit 31. After the reception of the verification information is completed, the controller 32 switches the switch circuit 34 to the second state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an in-vehicle device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an in-vehicle electronic system that is installed in a vehicle, and describes connecting a connection target such as a switch to an ECU directly via a wire. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-154558 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a configuration such as that of Patent Document 1, when the connection target is a sensor, there is no means for responding to a notification from the ECU, making it difficult for the ECU to confirm whether the sensor is connected normally.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to provide a technique that enables an ECU to confirm that a sensor is normally connected to the ECU. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The in-vehicle device of the present disclosure is an ECU to which the sensor is connected; a connector for connecting the sensor to the ECU; a first signal line extending from the connector; a second signal line connected to the sensor; a communication device having a switch circuit provided between the first signal line and the second signal line, The communication device a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the ECU via the first signal line; a control unit that controls the switch circuit; a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with the ECU, the switch circuit switches between a first state and a second state; When the switch circuit is in the first state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the ECU to the receiver via the first signal line, and a signal is blocked from being transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line; When the switch circuit is in the second state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line; The ECU transmits the verification information to the first signal line, the control unit controls the switch circuit to the first state to receive the verification information from the receiving unit, and performs a reply process of transmitting the received verification information as reply information to the ECU by wireless communication using the wireless communication unit; the ECU performs a verification process to determine whether the reply information received from the communication device matches the verification information transmitted on the first signal line; After the reception of the verification information is completed, the control unit switches the switch circuit to the second state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The technology according to the present disclosure allows the ECU to confirm that the sensor is normally connected to the ECU. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an in-vehicle system including an in-vehicle device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram of the in-vehicle device of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which verification information is transmitted from an ECU to a communication device in the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which a signal is transmitted from a sensor to an ECU in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an in-vehicle system including an in-vehicle device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an in-vehicle system including an in-vehicle device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which verification information is transmitted from the ECU to the receiving unit of the communication device, and a signal is transmitted from the sensor to the storage circuit of the communication device in the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which the detection results stored in the storage circuit of the communication device are released to the ECU in the third embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing a state in which a signal is transmitted from a sensor to an ECU in the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of the in-vehicle device of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [Description of the embodiments of the present disclosure] First, embodiments of the present disclosure will be listed and described.

[0010] [1] An ECU to which the sensor is connected; a connector for connecting the sensor to the ECU; a first signal line extending from the connector; a second signal line connected to the sensor; a communication device having a switch circuit provided between the first signal line and the second signal line, The communication device a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the ECU via the first signal line; a control unit that controls the switch circuit; a wireless communication unit that performs wireless communication with the ECU, the switch circuit switches between a first state and a second state; When the switch circuit is in the first state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the ECU to the receiver via the first signal line, and a signal is blocked from being transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line; When the switch circuit is in the second state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line; The ECU transmits the verification information to the first signal line, the control unit controls the switch circuit to the first state to receive the verification information from the receiving unit, and performs a reply process of transmitting the received verification information as reply information to the ECU by wireless communication using the wireless communication unit; the ECU performs a verification process to determine whether the reply information received from the communication device matches the verification information transmitted on the first signal line; The control unit switches the switch circuit to the second state after the reception of the verification information is completed. In-vehicle device.

[0011] When the connector is properly connected to the ECU, the receiving unit of the communication device can receive the verification information transmitted from the ECU via the first signal line. The control unit of the communication device controls the switch circuit to the first state to receive the verification information from the receiving unit. Controlling the switch circuit to the first state blocks the signal transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line. This prevents the verification information received by the receiving unit from being mixed with the signal transmitted from the sensor, resulting in interference. The control unit performs a return process to transmit the received verification information to the ECU via wireless communication using the wireless communication unit. The ECU performs a return process to determine whether the return information received from the communication device matches the verification information transmitted on the first signal line. This allows the ECU to confirm that the connector is properly connected and to determine that the sensor is properly connected to the ECU. Furthermore, after completing reception of the verification information, the control unit switches the switch circuit to the second state to allow a signal to be transmitted from the sensor to the ECU.

[0012] [2] The first signal line is configured to electrically connect the connector and the receiving unit without passing through a switch, the switch circuit includes a switch unit provided between the first signal line and the second signal line, the switch unit is switched between an OFF state in which a signal transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line is blocked, and an ON state in which a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line, The switch circuit is in the first state when the switch section is in an off state, and is in the second state when the switch section is in an on state. The in-vehicle device described in [1].

[0013] According to the above-described in-vehicle device, a configuration in which the switch circuit switches between the first state and the second state can be realized simply by providing a switch section between the second signal line and the first signal line, thereby simplifying the configuration of the switch circuit.

[0014] [3] A third signal line connected to the receiving unit is provided, the switch circuit includes a three-contact switch; the three-contact switch is switched between a first connection state in which the first signal line is connected to the third signal line of the second signal line and the third signal line, and a second connection state in which the first signal line is connected to the second signal line of the second signal line and the third signal line, The switch circuit is in the first state when the three-contact switch is in the first connection state, and is in the second state when the three-contact switch is in the second connection state. The in-vehicle device described in [1].

[0015] According to the above-described in-vehicle device, the connection destination of the first signal line can be selectively switched to one of the second signal line and the third signal line by the three-contact switch, thereby more reliably preventing interference.

[0016] [4] The communication device has a memory circuit that performs a storage process of detecting a rising edge or a falling edge of a signal transmitted from the sensor and storing the detection result, and a release process of releasing the detection result stored by the storage process to the first signal line, The control unit controls the switch circuit to the first state to cause the memory circuit to perform the storage process while receiving the matching information from the receiving unit, and after completing reception of the matching information, causes the memory circuit to perform the release process while maintaining the switch circuit in the first state, and then switches the switch circuit to the second state. An in-vehicle device according to any one of [1] to [3].

[0017] The above-described in-vehicle device can notify the ECU of the detection result of the rising or falling edge of the signal transmitted by the sensor while the receiver is receiving the verification information.

[0018] [Details of the embodiments of the present disclosure] 1. First embodiment 1-1.Configuration of in-vehicle system 1 1 is a system mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle system 1 includes a power supply unit 11, a sensor 12, and an on-vehicle device 13.

[0019] The power supply unit 11 functions as a power supply source that supplies power to the sensor 12 and the in-vehicle device 13. The power supply unit 11 is, for example, a battery.

[0020] The sensor 12 is a device that is directly connected to the ECU 20 of the in-vehicle device 13 by a so-called direct wire. The sensor 12 is not connected to a communication bus that constitutes an in-vehicle network. The sensor 12 is mounted, for example, on a vehicle for a specific purpose (e.g., an ambulance, a refrigerated vehicle, etc.) and is used to expand the functionality of a general vehicle. The sensor 12 does not have a means for responding by communication.

[0021] The in-vehicle device 13 includes an ECU 20, a communication device 30, a connector 40, a first signal line 41, a second signal line 42, and a power line 50.

[0022] The ECU 20 is an electronic control unit (ECU) and includes a microcomputer 21, a power supply circuit 22, a transmitter / receiver 23, an ECU-side wireless communication unit 24, and an ECU-side connector 25.

[0023] The power supply circuit unit 22 is connected to the power supply unit 11, the microcomputer 21, and the ECU-side connector 25. A connector 40 is detachably connected to the ECU-side connector 25. The connector 40 is a connector for connecting the sensor 12 to the ECU 20. A power line 50 extends from the connector 40. The power line 50 is connected to the sensor 12 and the communication device 30. When the connector 40 is connected to the ECU-side connector 25, the power supply circuit unit 22 is connected to the sensor 12 and the communication device 30 via the power line 50. The power supply circuit unit 22 is controlled by the microcomputer 21, and switches between a state in which power from the power supply unit 11 is supplied to the power line 50 and a state in which power from the power supply unit 11 is not supplied to the power line 50. As a result, the ECU 20 switches between a power supply state in which power is supplied to the power line 50 and a power cut-off state in which power is not supplied to the power line 50.

[0024] The transmitter / receiver 23 is connected to the ECU-side connector 25. A first signal line 41 extends from a connector 40 connected to the ECU-side connector 25. When the connector 40 is connected to the ECU-side connector 25, the transmitter / receiver 23 is connected to the first signal line 41. The transmitter / receiver 23 is a transmitter / receiver interface that transmits and receives signals between the microcomputer 21 and the first signal line 41.

[0025] The ECU-side wireless communication unit 24 is connected to the microcomputer 21. The ECU-side wireless communication unit 24 is a wireless communication interface that performs wireless communication with the communication device 30. The wireless communication is, for example, short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0026] The microcomputer 21 encrypts the verification information and transmits it from the transmitter / receiver 23 to the first signal line 41. In this embodiment, the microcomputer 21 transmits the verification information to the first signal line 41 when the power supply circuit unit 22 starts supplying power to the power line 50. The microcomputer 21 causes the power supply circuit unit 22 to start supplying power to the power line 50 when a predetermined supply start condition is met. The supply start condition is, for example, when the ECU 20 switches to the ON state, when the ECU 20 transitions from a sleep state to an active state, or when an activation condition for the sensor 12 is met. The timing at which the ECU 20 switches to the ON state or when the ECU 20 transitions to the active state is, for example, when a start switch of the vehicle switches to the ON state. The start switch is, for example, an ignition switch or a power switch.

[0027] The communication device 30 includes a receiving unit 31, a control unit 32, a wireless communication unit 33, and a switch circuit .

[0028] The receiving unit 31 receives a signal transmitted from the ECU 20 via a first signal line 41. The first signal line 41 electrically connects the connector 40 and the receiving unit 31 without a switch. The receiving unit 31 is an interface that receives a signal. The receiving unit 31 receives encrypted verification information from the ECU 20 via the first signal line 41.

[0029] The control unit 32 is configured by, for example, a microcomputer. The control unit 32 stores a decryption key in advance. The control unit 32 acquires the encrypted verification information from the receiving unit 31 and decrypts it using the key.

[0030] The wireless communication unit 33 is a wireless communication interface that performs wireless communication with the ECU-side wireless communication unit 24 of the ECU 20. The verification information that has been compounded by the control unit 32 is transmitted to the ECU 20 as reply information by wireless communication through the wireless communication unit 33.

[0031] In this way, the communication device 30 receives the verification information from the ECU 20 and performs a reply process of transmitting the received verification information as reply information to the ECU 20 by wireless communication. In addition, in the reply process, the communication device 30 receives the encrypted verification information from the ECU 20, decrypts it, and transmits the decrypted verification information to the ECU 20 as reply information.

[0032] Furthermore, the communication device 30 is connected to a power line 50. The communication device 30 is maintained in an off state when no power is supplied to the power line 50, and switches to an on state and performs a reply process when power is supplied to the power line 50.

[0033] The ECU 20 performs a matching process to determine whether the reply information received from the communication device 30 matches the matching information transmitted over the first signal line 41. If the ECU 20 determines that the reply information matches as a result of the matching process, it permits the transmitter / receiver 23 to transmit and receive signals to and from the sensor 12 over the first signal line 41. If the ECU 20 determines that the reply information does not match, it prohibits the transmitter / receiver 23 from transmitting and receiving signals to and from the sensor 12 over the first signal line 41.

[0034] The switch circuit 34 is provided between a second signal line 42 connected to the sensor 12 and the first signal line 41. The switch circuit 34 switches between a first state and a second state. When the switch circuit 34 is in the first state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the ECU 20 to the receiver 31 via the first signal line 41, and a signal is blocked from being transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41 via the second signal line 42. When the switch circuit 34 is in the second state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41 via the second signal line 42.

[0035] The switch circuit 34 includes a switch unit 34A provided between the first signal line 41 and the second signal line 42. The switch unit 34A may be configured as a mechanical switch having contacts, or may be configured as a semiconductor switch such as a MOSFET. The switch unit 34A switches between an OFF state in which the switch unit 34A blocks a signal transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41 via the second signal line 42, and an ON state in which the switch unit 34A allows a signal to be transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41 via the second signal line 42. The switch circuit 34 is in a first state when the switch unit 34A is in an OFF state, and in a second state when the switch unit 34A is in an ON state.

[0036] The control unit 32 controls the switch circuit 34 to the first state to receive the verification information from the receiving unit 31 and perform the above-mentioned return process. After the control unit 32 has completed receiving the verification information, it switches the switch circuit 34 to the second state.

[0037] 1-2. Operation example of the in-vehicle device 13 When the above-described supply start condition is satisfied, the in-vehicle device 13 starts, for example, the process shown in FIG. 2 . The ECU 20 of the in-vehicle device 13 generates verification information (step S11). The verification information is, for example, a random number. The ECU 20 stores the verification information generated in step S11 (step S12) and encrypts it (step S13). The ECU 20 causes the power supply circuit unit 22 to start supplying power to the power line 50 (step S14), and then transmits the verification information encrypted in step S13 to the first signal line 41 (step S15). The ECU 20 transmits the verification information to the first signal line 41 by serial communication. The ECU 20 transmits the verification information after a predetermined time has elapsed since the power supply circuit unit 22 started supplying power to the power line 50. The predetermined time is set to be equal to or longer than the time required for the communication device 30 to receive power supply from the power line 50, switch to the ON state, and control the switch unit 34A to the OFF state.

[0038] The communication device 30 receives power supply from the power line 50 and switches to the ON state (step S21). Then, the control unit 32 of the communication device 30 controls the switch unit 34A to the OFF state (step S22). This prevents the signal from the sensor 12 from interfering with the verification information. As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 32 controls the switch unit 34A to the OFF state, and then receives the encrypted verification information from the ECU 20 (step S23). The control unit 32 decrypts the received verification information (step S24) and transmits the decrypted verification information to the ECU 20 as reply information (step S25). After transmitting the reply information, the control unit 32 switches the switch unit 34A to the ON state (step S26). As a result, the signal from the sensor 12 is transmitted to the ECU 20 via the first signal line 41, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0039] The ECU 20 receives the reply information transmitted from the communication device 30 (step S31) and performs a matching process based on the received reply information (step S32). As a result of the matching process, the ECU 20 determines whether the reply information received from the communication device 30 matches the stored matching information (step S33). If the ECU 20 determines that they match (Yes in step S33), it permits transmission and reception of signals to and from the sensor 12 via the first signal line 41 (step S34). If the ECU 20 determines that they do not match (No in step S33), it prohibits transmission and reception of signals to and from the sensor 12 via the first signal line 41 (step S35).

[0040] 1-3. Effects of in-vehicle devices 13 When the connector 40 is properly connected to the ECU 20, the receiver 31 of the communication device 30 can receive the verification information transmitted from the ECU 20 via the first signal line 41. The control unit 32 of the communication device 30 controls the switch circuit 34 to a first state to receive the verification information from the receiver 31. Controlling the switch circuit 34 to the first state blocks the signal transmitted from the sensor 12 to the first signal line 41 via the second signal line 42. This prevents the verification information received by the receiver 31 from being mixed with the signal transmitted from the sensor 12, resulting in interference. The control unit 32 performs a return process to transmit the received verification information to the ECU 20 via wireless communication using the wireless communication unit 33. The ECU 20 performs a return process to determine whether the return information received from the communication device 30 matches the verification information transmitted via the first signal line 41. This allows the ECU 20 to confirm that the connector 40 is properly connected and determine that the sensor 12 is properly connected to the ECU 20. Furthermore, after the reception of the verification information is completed, the control unit 32 can allow a signal to be transmitted from the sensor 12 to the ECU 20 by switching the switch circuit 34 to the second state.

[0041] According to the in-vehicle device 13, the configuration of the switch circuit 34 can be simplified because it is possible to realize a configuration in which the switch circuit 34 switches between the first state and the second state simply by providing the switch section 34A between the second signal line 42 and the first signal line 41.

[0042] According to the in-vehicle device 13, the communication device 30 is required to have a compound function, so that it is possible to prevent the use of an unauthorized communication device.

[0043] In the in-vehicle device 13, when power supply to the power line 50 starts, the verification information is transmitted to the first signal line 41. As power is supplied to the power line 50, the communication device 30 is switched to the ON state. The communication device 30 receives the verification information transmitted to the first signal line 41 and transmits the received verification information to the ECU 20 as reply information. That is, according to the in-vehicle device 13, power supply to the sensor 12 and power supply to the communication device 30 can be performed via the common power line 50. Moreover, according to the in-vehicle device 13, the communication device 30 performs reply processing when the communication device 30 is switched to the ON state, making it easy to predict the timing at which the ECU 20 should transmit the verification information and the timing at which the ECU 20 will receive the reply information. This allows the ECU 20 to smoothly check whether the sensor 12 is normally connected.

[0044] If the ECU 20 determines that they match, it determines that the sensor 12 is connected normally, and it can permit transmission and reception of signals with the sensor 12. On the other hand, if the ECU 20 determines that they do not match, it determines that the sensor 12 is not connected normally, and it can prohibit transmission and reception of signals with the sensor 12.

[0045] 2. Second embodiment In the second embodiment, an example will be described in which the configuration of the switch circuit is different from that in the first embodiment. Note that in the second embodiment, the same components as in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0046] 5 includes a power supply unit 11, a sensor 12, and an in-vehicle device 213. The in-vehicle device 213 includes a first signal line 241 and a third signal line 243 instead of the first signal line 41 of the first embodiment. The in-vehicle device 213 also includes a communication device 230 instead of the communication device 30 of the first embodiment. The in-vehicle system 201 is otherwise the same as the in-vehicle system 1 of the first embodiment.

[0047] The first signal line 241 extends from the connector 40. The third signal line 243 is connected to the receiving unit 31.

[0048] The communication device 230 has a receiving unit 31, a control unit 32, a wireless communication unit 33, and a switch circuit 234. The switch circuit 234 includes a three-contact switch 234A. The three-contact switch 234A is provided between a first signal line 241, a second signal line 42, and a third signal line 243. The three-contact switch 234A switches between a first connection state in which the first signal line 241 is connected to the third signal line 243 of the second signal line 42 and the third signal line 243, and a second connection state in which the first signal line 241 is connected to the second signal line 42 of the second signal line 42 and the third signal line 243. The switch circuit 234 is in the first state when the three-contact switch 234A is in the first connection state, and is in the second state when the three-contact switch 234A is in the second connection state.

[0049] The control unit 32 controls the switch circuit 234 to the first state to receive the matching information from the receiving unit 31, and performs a reply process of transmitting the received matching information as reply information to the ECU 20 via wireless communication by the wireless communication unit 33. The ECU 20 performs a reply process of determining whether the reply information received from the communication device 230 matches the matching information transmitted on the first signal line 241. After completing reception of the matching information, the control unit 32 switches the switch circuit 234 to the second state.

[0050] According to the in-vehicle device 213 of the second embodiment, the three-contact switch 234A can selectively switch the connection destination of the first signal line 241 to one of the second signal line 42 and the third signal line 243. This more reliably prevents interference.

[0051] 3. Third embodiment In the third embodiment, a configuration will be described in which a signal transmitted from a sensor is temporarily stored when the signal transmitted from the sensor to the ECU is blocked. Note that in the third embodiment, the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0052] 3-1. Configuration of the in-vehicle system 301 6 includes a power supply unit 11, a sensor 12, and an in-vehicle device 313. The in-vehicle device 313 includes a communication device 330 instead of the communication device 30 of the first embodiment. In other respects, the in-vehicle system 301 is the same as the in-vehicle system 1 of the first embodiment.

[0053] The communication device 330 includes a receiving unit 31 , a control unit 32 , a wireless communication unit 33 , a switch circuit 34 , and a memory circuit 335 .

[0054] The memory circuit 335 performs a storage process of detecting the rising or falling edge of a signal transmitted from the sensor 12 and storing the detection result. The memory circuit 335 performs a release process of releasing the stored detection result to the first signal line 41. The memory circuit 335 includes an input-side switch section 335A, an edge detection circuit 335B, a buffer circuit 335C, and an output-side switch section 335D.

[0055] The input-side switch section 335A is provided between the second signal line 42 and the edge detection circuit 335B. The input-side switch section 335A is provided on the input-side signal line 344 that connects the second signal line 42 and the edge detection circuit 335B. The input-side switch section 335A switches between an OFF state in which a signal is blocked from being transmitted from the sensor 12 to the edge detection circuit 335B via the second signal line 42, and an ON state in which a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor 12 to the edge detection circuit 335B via the second signal line 42. The input-side switch section 335A may be configured as a mechanical switch having contacts, or may be configured as a semiconductor switch such as a MOSFET.

[0056] The edge detection circuit 335B detects the rising or falling edge of the signal transmitted from the sensor 12 and outputs a signal indicating the detection result to the buffer circuit 335C. The buffer circuit 335C stores the detection result indicated by the signal output from the buffer circuit 335C. The buffer circuit 335C releases the stored detection result in accordance with a release instruction from the control unit 32.

[0057] The output-side switch unit 335D is provided between the buffer circuit 335C and the first signal line 41. The output-side switch unit 335D is provided on an output-side signal line 345 that connects the buffer circuit 335C and the first signal line 41. The output-side switch unit 335D switches between an OFF state in which a signal transmitted from the buffer circuit 335C to the ECU 20 via the first signal line 41 is blocked, and an ON state in which a signal is transmitted from the buffer circuit 335C to the ECU 20 via the first signal line 41. The output-side switch unit 335D may be configured as a mechanical switch having contacts, or may be configured as a semiconductor switch such as a MOSFET. The switch unit 34A, the input-side switch unit 335A, and the output-side switch unit 335D may be configured as a single component.

[0058] The buffer circuit 335C outputs the stored detection results to the ECU 20 in accordance with an instruction to output the detection results from the control unit 32. The buffer circuit 335C is configured with, for example, a shift register. The buffer circuit 335C outputs the stored detection results in, for example, a first-in first-out (FIFO) format.

[0059] 7, the control unit 32 controls the switch circuit 34 to a first state and causes the memory circuit 335 to perform a storage process while receiving the matching information from the receiving unit 31. Specifically, the control unit 32 controls the switch circuit 34A to an off state, the input-side switch unit 335A to an on state, and the output-side switch unit 335D to an off state, and receives the matching information from the receiving unit 31. In this state, the control unit 32 causes the memory circuit 335 to perform a storage process. As a result, the edge detection circuit 335B detects the rising or falling edge of the signal transmitted from the sensor 12 and outputs a signal indicating the detection result to the buffer circuit 335C. The buffer circuit 335C stores the detection result indicated by the signal output from the buffer circuit 335C.

[0060] After completing reception of the verification information, the control unit 32 causes the storage circuit 335 to release the detection results to the first signal line 41. Specifically, after completing reception of the verification information, the control unit 32 keeps the switch unit 34A in the OFF state, switches the input-side switch unit 335A to the OFF state, switches the output-side switch unit 335D to the ON state, and issues a release instruction to the buffer circuit 335C. Upon receiving the release instruction, the buffer circuit 335C sequentially releases the stored detection results to the ECU 20. As a result, the detection results stored in the buffer circuit 335C are transmitted to the ECU 20, as shown in FIG. 8.

[0061] After issuing the release instruction, the control unit 32 switches the switch circuit 34 to the second state. Specifically, the control unit 32 switches the switch unit 34A to the ON state, maintains the input-side switch unit 335A in the OFF state, switches the output-side switch unit 335D to the OFF state, and causes the buffer circuit 335C to stop releasing the detection result. As a result, the signal from the sensor 12 is transmitted to the ECU 20 via the second signal line 42 and the first signal line 41, as shown in FIG. 9 .

[0062] After issuing the release instruction, the control unit 32 may determine whether all of the detection results have been released, and if it determines that all of the detection results have been released, switch the switch circuit 34 to the second state. When all of the detection results have been released, the buffer circuit 335C may send a release completion signal indicating that the release is complete to the control unit 32. In this case, the control unit 32 can determine that all of the detection results have been released by receiving the release completion signal. Alternatively, the control unit 32 may determine that all of the detection results have been released when the elapsed time since issuing the release instruction exceeds a predetermined completion time. The completion time is preferably a time sufficient for all of the detection results to be released.

[0063] 3-2. Operation example of the in-vehicle device 313 When the above-described start condition is met, the in-vehicle device 313 starts, for example, the process shown in Fig. 10. The ECU 20 of the in-vehicle device 313 performs the processes from step S11 to S15 in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0064] The communication device 330 receives power supply from the power line 50 and switches to the ON state (step S21). Then, the control unit 32 of the communication device 330 controls the switch unit 34A to the OFF state (step S22). This prevents the signal from the sensor 12 from interfering with the verification information. However, in this state, the ECU 20 cannot receive the signal from the sensor 12. Therefore, the control unit 32 causes the memory circuit 335 to perform a storage process (step S22-1). The control unit 32 controls the switch unit 34A to the OFF state and causes the memory circuit 335 to perform a storage process, while receiving the encrypted verification information from the ECU 20 (step S23). The control unit 32 decrypts the received verification information (step S24) and transmits the decrypted verification information to the ECU 20 as reply information (step S25).

[0065] The ECU 20 receives the reply information transmitted from the communication device 330 (step S31) and performs a matching process based on the received reply information (step S32). As a result of the matching process, the ECU 20 determines whether the reply information received from the communication device 330 matches the stored matching information (step S33). If the ECU 20 determines that the reply information matches (Yes in step S33), it permits transmission and reception of signals to and from the sensor 12 via the first signal line 41 (step S34). If the ECU 20 determines that the reply information matches (No in step S33), it prohibits transmission and reception of signals to and from the sensor 12 via the first signal line 41 (step S35). After permitting or prohibiting transmission and reception of signals to and from the sensor 12, the ECU 20 notifies the communication device 330 by wireless communication that the matching process has been completed (step S36).

[0066] When the control unit 32 receives a notification indicating that the matching process has been completed, it causes the storage circuit 335 to perform a release process (step S25-1). After determining that all detection results have been released, the control unit 32 switches the switch unit 34A to the ON state (step S26). As a result, a signal from the sensor 12 is transmitted to the ECU 20 via the second signal line 42 and the first signal line 41.

[0067] As described above, the in-vehicle device 313 of the third embodiment can notify the ECU 20 of the detection result of the rising or falling edge of the signal transmitted by the sensor 12 while the receiver 31 is receiving the verification information.

[0068] <Other embodiments> The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above and in the drawings. For example, any combination of features of the above-described or following embodiments is possible within a range that does not contradict. Furthermore, any feature of the above-described or following embodiments may be omitted unless explicitly stated as essential. Furthermore, the above-described embodiment may be modified as follows.

[0069] In each of the above embodiments, the verification process is performed when the ECU starts supplying power to the sensor and the communication device. Alternatively, the verification process may be performed when a predetermined verification start condition is met while power is already being supplied. The verification start condition may be, for example, that a sensor activation condition is met. In this configuration, the ECU may determine whether the verification start condition is met and, if it is determined that the condition is met, notify the communication device accordingly. The notification method may be a method of notifying by communication via the first signal line or a method of notifying by wireless communication using the wireless communication unit. After notifying, the ECU transmits verification information via the first signal line. When the communication device receives the notification from the ECU, it can receive the verification information transmitted from the ECU by controlling the switch circuit to the first state.

[0070] The memory circuit of the third embodiment may be applied to the second embodiment.

[0071] In each of the above embodiments, the verification information is encrypted, but the verification information may not be encrypted.

[0072] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0073] 1. In-vehicle systems 11...Power supply section 12...Sensor 13…In-vehicle device 20…ECU 21...Microcomputer 22…Power circuit section 23...Transmitter / receiver 24...ECU side wireless communication unit 25...ECU side connector 30...Communication equipment 31...Receiver 32...Control unit 33...Radio communication section 34...Switch circuit 34A...Switch section 40...Connector 41...First signal line 42...Second signal line 50...Power lines 201...In-vehicle systems 213...In-vehicle device 230...Communication equipment 234...Switch circuit 234A...3-contact switch 241...First signal line 243...Third signal line 301...In-vehicle systems 313...In-vehicle device 330...Communication equipment 335...Memory circuit 335A...Input side switch section 335B...Edge detection circuit 335C...Buffer circuit 335D...Output side switch section 344...Input signal line 345...Output signal line

Claims

1. an ECU to which the sensor is connected; a connector for connecting the sensor to the ECU; a first signal line extending from the connector; a second signal line connected to the sensor; a communication device having a switch circuit provided between the first signal line and the second signal line, The communication device a receiving unit that receives a signal transmitted from the ECU via the first signal line; a control unit that controls the switch circuit; a wireless communication unit that communicates wirelessly with the ECU, the switch circuit switches between a first state and a second state, When the switch circuit is in the first state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the ECU to the receiver via the first signal line, and a signal is blocked from being transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line; When the switch circuit is in the second state, a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line; The ECU transmits the verification information to the first signal line, the control unit controls the switch circuit to the first state to receive the verification information from the receiving unit, and performs a reply process of transmitting the received verification information as reply information to the ECU by wireless communication using the wireless communication unit; the ECU performs a verification process to determine whether the reply information received from the communication device matches the verification information transmitted on the first signal line; The control unit switches the switch circuit to the second state after the reception of the verification information is completed. In-vehicle device.

2. the first signal line is configured to electrically connect the connector and the receiving unit without passing through a switch; the switch circuit includes a switch unit provided between the first signal line and the second signal line, the switch unit is switched between an OFF state in which a signal transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line is blocked, and an ON state in which a signal is allowed to be transmitted from the sensor to the first signal line via the second signal line, The switch circuit is in the first state when the switch section is in an off state, and is in the second state when the switch section is in an on state. The in-vehicle device according to claim 1 .

3. a third signal line connected to the receiving unit; the switch circuit includes a three-contact switch; the three-contact switch is switched between a first connection state in which the first signal line is connected to the third signal line of the second signal line and the third signal line, and a second connection state in which the first signal line is connected to the second signal line of the second signal line and the third signal line, The switch circuit is in the first state when the three-contact switch is in the first connection state, and is in the second state when the three-contact switch is in the second connection state. The in-vehicle device according to claim 1 .

4. the communication device has a memory circuit that performs a storage process of detecting a rising edge or a falling edge of a signal transmitted from the sensor and storing the detection result, and a release process of releasing the detection result stored by the storage process to the first signal line, The control unit controls the switch circuit to the first state to cause the memory circuit to perform the storage process while receiving the matching information from the receiving unit, and after completing reception of the matching information, causes the memory circuit to perform the release process while maintaining the switch circuit in the first state, and then switches the switch circuit to the second state. The in-vehicle device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images