Vehicle locking / unlocking control device

Abstract

Even when the occupants leave the vehicle while generating power and supplying power to external devices, the vehicle can be locked, improving security and convenience. [Solution] When a first locking operation is received while generating power and supplying power to an external device 400, it is determined whether predetermined conditions for locking the vehicle 10 are met based on the acquired in-vehicle information. If the predetermined conditions are met, a first notification to that effect is sent. If a first locking operation is received again after the first notification has been sent, the vehicle 10 is locked.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle locking / unlocking control device. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Conventionally, vehicles equipped with a battery that can supply power to external devices have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In the vehicle disclosed in Patent Document 1, when an occupant of the vehicle supplies power via an outlet, the occupant connects a plug to the outlet; when the plug is detected, the driving battery and the outlet are connected via a DC-AC inverter, and power supply from the outlet is performed. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0003] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2019-213407 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0004] However, in the vehicles as described above, it is premised that an occupant is inside or in the vicinity of the vehicle while power is supplied to an external device, so the vehicle cannot be locked when the occupant leaves the vehicle while power is supplied to the external device. In this case, if the occupant leaves the vehicle while supplying power to an external device that requires power for a certain period of time, such as a refrigerator or a water heater, there is a risk of suffering damage such as car break-in or theft. Therefore, in order to lock the vehicle when the occupant leaves the vehicle, it is necessary to temporarily stop power supply to the external device before locking the vehicle, which impairs usability. Furthermore, since power supply to external devices uses electric power stored in the battery, there is a demand to supply power to external devices while preventing battery drain by operating the engine to generate electric power during power supply.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a vehicle locking / unlocking control device that can lock the vehicle even when the occupants leave the vehicle while power is being supplied to external equipment while generating electricity, thereby considering security and improving convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned objectives, one embodiment of the present invention provides a vehicle locking / unlocking control device comprising a rechargeable battery, a generator for generating electricity, an engine for driving the generator, and a drive motor for driving the vehicle with electricity, the device comprising: a power generation control unit for driving the generator to generate electricity by operating the engine; a power supply control unit for supplying the electricity stored in the battery to an external device; an operation reception unit for receiving a first locking operation from outside the vehicle; a vehicle information acquisition unit for acquiring in-vehicle information, which is information inside the vehicle; an external condition acquisition unit for acquiring external conditions, which is the condition outside the vehicle; a determination unit for determining whether predetermined conditions for locking the vehicle are met based on the in-vehicle information and the external conditions; a notification unit for notifying a first notification that the predetermined conditions are met when the first locking operation is received while generating electricity and supplying power to the external device, and the predetermined conditions are met; and a locking / unlocking control unit for locking the vehicle after the notification of the first notification.

[0007] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the operation receiving unit receives the first locking operation again after notifying the first notification, and the locking / unlocking control unit locks the vehicle when it receives the first locking operation again.

[0008] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, when the notification unit receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if the predetermined conditions are not met, it notifies a second notification indicating that the predetermined conditions are not met; the operation reception unit receives the second locking operation after notifying the second notification; the power generation control unit stops the engine operation and stops power generation when it receives the second locking operation; the power supply control unit stops supplying power to the external device when it receives the second locking operation; and the lock / unlock control unit puts the vehicle into the locked state when it receives the second locking operation.

[0009] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the predetermined condition includes the condition that there are no occupants inside the vehicle, and the locking / unlocking control unit, when it receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, locks the vehicle if there are no occupants inside the vehicle.

[0010] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle information acquisition unit has an image information acquisition unit that acquires image information of the interior of the vehicle, which is the in-vehicle information, and the determination unit determines whether or not there are occupants inside the vehicle based on the image information.

[0011] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the image information acquisition unit acquires pre-exit image information, which is the image information when the ignition switch is turned off, and post-exit image information, which is the image information when the locking operation is received, and the determination unit determines whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle by comparing the pre-exit image information and the post-exit image information.

[0012] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the predetermined condition further includes the condition that the area around the vehicle is not obstructed, and the locking / unlocking control unit, when it receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, locks the vehicle if there is no occupant inside the vehicle and the area around the vehicle is not obstructed.

[0013] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the external condition acquisition unit acquires information on obstructions around the vehicle, which is the external condition, using an advanced driver assistance system installed in the vehicle, and the determination unit determines whether or not the area around the vehicle is obstructed based on the obstruction information.

[0014] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the predetermined condition further includes that the fuel level of the vehicle is above a predetermined value, the vehicle information acquisition unit further includes a fuel state acquisition unit that acquires a fuel value indicating the remaining amount of fuel, which is in-vehicle information, the determination unit further determines whether the fuel level of the vehicle is above the predetermined value based on the fuel value, and the locking / unlocking control unit, when it receives the first locking operation while supplying power to the external device while generating electricity, locks the vehicle if there are no occupants inside the vehicle, the area around the vehicle is not blocked off, and the fuel level is above the predetermined value.

[0015] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the predetermined condition further includes the condition that a portable terminal carried by an occupant is not inside the vehicle, the vehicle information acquisition unit further includes a terminal information acquisition unit that acquires location information of the portable terminal, which is the in-vehicle information, the determination unit further determines whether or not the portable terminal is inside the vehicle based on the location information, and the locking / unlocking control unit, when it receives the locking operation while supplying power to the external device while generating power, locks the vehicle if there is no occupant inside the vehicle, the area around the vehicle is not blocked off, the fuel is above the predetermined value, and the portable terminal is not inside the vehicle.

[0016] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention is characterized by further comprising a communication unit that transmits a warning to the mobile terminal indicating that the fuel level is low when the fuel level is below a predetermined value.

[0017] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the locking / unlocking control unit, after locking the vehicle, unlocks the vehicle from the locked state to the unlocked state when the fuel level falls below a predetermined value, and the communication unit transmits a notification to the mobile terminal that the vehicle has been unlocked from the locked state.

[0018] Furthermore, one embodiment of the present invention further includes a fuel state prediction unit that predicts the time when the fuel will fall below a predetermined value based on the current fuel value and the fuel consumed, and the communication unit transmits the predicted time when the fuel will fall below the predetermined value to the mobile terminal a predetermined time before the predicted time.

[0019] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle information acquisition unit further comprises a temperature information acquisition unit that acquires temperature information inside the vehicle, the determination unit further determines, after locking the vehicle, whether the temperature inside the vehicle remains above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time based on the temperature information, the locking / unlocking control unit unlocks the vehicle from the locked state to the unlocked state if the temperature inside the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for a predetermined time, the power generation control unit stops the engine operation and stops power generation if the temperature inside the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for a predetermined time, and the power supply control unit stops supplying power to the external equipment if the temperature inside the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for a predetermined time.

[0020] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle information acquisition unit further comprises a vibration information acquisition unit that acquires vibration information indicating the vibration of the vehicle, the determination unit further determines whether the vibration of the vehicle is less than a predetermined value based on the vibration information after the vehicle has been locked, the locking / unlocking control unit unlocks the vehicle from the locked state to the unlocked state if the vibration of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined value, the power generation control unit stops the operation of the engine and stops power generation if the vibration of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined value, and the power supply control unit stops supplying power to the external device if the vibration of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined value. [Effects of the Invention]

[0021] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when a first locking operation is received while power is being supplied to an external device while generating electricity, it is determined whether predetermined conditions for locking the vehicle are met based on the acquired in-vehicle information. If the predetermined conditions are met, a first notification to that effect is issued, and after the first notification is issued, the vehicle is locked. Therefore, even if the occupants leave the vehicle while power is being supplied to an external device while generating electricity, the vehicle can be locked if the predetermined conditions are met, which is advantageous in terms of security and convenience.

[0022] Furthermore, if the system is configured to lock the vehicle after the first notification is given and the first locking operation is received again, the vehicle will be locked in two stages, allowing the occupant to be sure to understand the vehicle's status before locking it.

[0023] Furthermore, if the system is configured to receive a first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to external devices, and if the predetermined conditions are not met, a second notification to that effect is issued. After the second notification is issued, power generation and power supply are stopped, and the vehicle is locked. This configuration allows the vehicle to be locked even when it is difficult for the occupants to leave the vehicle while generating power and supplying power to external devices, which is advantageous in terms of security and convenience.

[0024] Further, the predetermined condition includes that there is no occupant inside the vehicle. If the configuration is such that the vehicle is locked when the first locking operation is received during power supply to an external device while generating power, and there is no occupant inside the vehicle, this is advantageous in preventing the vehicle from being locked when an occupant is left stranded inside the vehicle.

[0025] Further, with a configuration in which image information inside the vehicle is acquired as in-vehicle information, and whether there is an occupant inside the vehicle is determined based on the image information, this is advantageous for determining whether there is an occupant inside the vehicle with a simple configuration. Furthermore, with a configuration in which whether there is an occupant inside the vehicle is determined by comparing pre-alighting image information obtained before alighting when the ignition switch is off with post-alighting image information obtained when the locking operation is received, this is advantageous for more accurately determining whether there is an occupant inside the vehicle.

[0026] Further, the predetermined condition further includes that the surroundings of the vehicle are not shielded. If the configuration is such that the vehicle is locked when the first locking operation is received during power supply to an external device while generating power, there is no occupant inside the vehicle, and the surroundings of the vehicle are not shielded, this is advantageous in suppressing an increase in the concentration of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide around the vehicle.

[0027] Further, with a configuration in which an advanced driving assistance system mounted on the vehicle is used to acquire shielding object information around the vehicle as an outside-vehicle condition, and whether the surroundings of the vehicle are shielded is determined based on the shielding object information, it is possible to more accurately determine whether the surroundings of the vehicle are shielded, and the conventionally mounted advanced driving assistance system (ADAS) can be diverted. Therefore, there is no need to mount new sensors or the like, which is advantageous in reducing costs.

[0028] Further, the predetermined condition further includes that the fuel amount of the vehicle is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. With a configuration in which a fuel value indicating the remaining fuel amount is acquired as in-vehicle information, and the vehicle is locked when it is determined based on the fuel value that the fuel amount of the vehicle is equal to or greater than the predetermined value, this is advantageous in preventing all fuel from being consumed while the occupant is away from the vehicle.

[0029] Furthermore, if the predetermined conditions include the absence of a mobile device carried by the occupant inside the vehicle, and the system acquires the location information of the mobile device as in-vehicle information, and if it is determined that there is no mobile device inside the vehicle based on the location information, the system will lock the vehicle, thereby allowing confirmation of whether an occupant is inside the vehicle through the presence or absence of a mobile device. In addition, if the system is configured to send a warning to the mobile device when the fuel level falls below a predetermined value, the system can notify the occupant of the low fuel level even when they are away from the vehicle, which is advantageous in avoiding problems during power generation and power supply.

[0030] Furthermore, if the vehicle is locked and then the fuel level falls below a predetermined level, the system will automatically unlock the vehicle and send a notification to the mobile device indicating that the vehicle has been unlocked. This configuration would allow users to quickly retrieve valuables and external devices from the vehicle in the event of a fuel shortage, thus improving convenience.

[0031] Furthermore, if the system is configured to predict the time when the fuel level will fall below a predetermined value and to transmit this predicted time to a mobile device a predetermined time before the predicted time, it will be possible to monitor the fuel level even when away from the vehicle. This will be advantageous for generating electricity while securing the fuel necessary for subsequent operation and supplying power to external devices.

[0032] Furthermore, if the system acquires temperature information inside the vehicle and, after locking the vehicle, determines based on the temperature information that the internal temperature of the vehicle has remained above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time, it would be advantageous to unlock the vehicle, stop power generation, and stop power supply to external devices, thereby eliminating the need to unlock the vehicle, stop power generation, and stop power supply to external devices, as well as avoiding problems that may arise from the internal temperature of the vehicle remaining above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time.

[0033] Furthermore, if vibration information indicating vehicle vibration is acquired, and after the vehicle is locked, the system determines that the vehicle's vibration is above a predetermined value based on the vibration information, the system will unlock the vehicle, stop power generation, and stop power supply to external devices. This configuration eliminates the need to unlock the vehicle, stop power generation, and stop power supply to external devices, and is advantageous in avoiding problems that may arise due to vehicle vibration exceeding a predetermined value. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0034] [Figure 1] This is an overall configuration diagram showing the schematic configuration of the vehicle according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of the locking / unlocking control device according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This flowchart shows the flow of the vehicle locking process using the locking / unlocking control device of this embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart (continued) showing the flow of the vehicle locking process using the locking / unlocking control device of this embodiment. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows the flow of the unlocking process based on the vehicle's fuel value using the locking / unlocking control device of this embodiment. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows the flow of the unlocking process based on the temperature rise inside the vehicle by the locking / unlocking control device of this embodiment. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the flow of the unlocking process based on vehicle vibration by the locking / unlocking control device of this embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Figure 1, the vehicle 10 of this embodiment has a drive motor 101, a battery 102, a generator 103, and an engine 104, and further comprises a vehicle ECU (Electronic Control Unit) 200, an MCU (Motor Control Unit) 201, a BCU (Battery Control Unit) 202, a GCU (Generator Control Unit) 203, and an engine (ENG) ECU 204 as their control system. In Figure 1, solid lines indicate power lines and dashed lines indicate communication lines, and a circuit consisting of an inverter and a DC-DC converter is configured between the battery 102, the drive motor 101, and the generator 103, but it is omitted here. The vehicle 10 of this embodiment may also be a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) equipped with external charging for external power charging and external power supply for external power supply.

[0036] The drive motor 101 operates using electricity to rotate the drive wheels of the vehicle 10 and drive the vehicle 10, and also performs regenerative power generation when the vehicle 10 is decelerating, generating regenerative braking force. The battery 102 stores the electricity to operate the drive motor 101 and is rechargeable and dischargeable. The electricity stored in the battery 102 can be, for example, electricity generated by the generator 103 described later, electricity generated by regenerative power generation of the drive motor 101, or electricity supplied by an external power source connected by a charging mechanism (not shown).

[0037] The generator 103 is driven by the engine 104 and generates electricity for use with the drive motor 101 and other components. Any surplus electricity generated by the generator 103 that is not used by the drive motor 101 and other components is stored in the battery 102. The generator 103 also generates electricity for storage in the battery 102 when the state of charge (SOC) of the battery 102 becomes low. The engine 104 is an internal combustion engine that operates by burning fuel and is connected to the rotating shaft of the generator 103 to drive the generator 103.

[0038] The vehicle ECU200 is connected to the MCU201, BCU202, GCU203, and engine ECU204, and controls the entire vehicle as the control unit for vehicle 10. In addition, various sensors are connected to the vehicle ECU200, such as an accelerator pedal sensor that detects the amount of accelerator pedal operation, a brake pedal sensor that detects the amount of brake pedal operation, and a vehicle speed sensor that detects the driving speed of vehicle 10.

[0039] The MCU201 controls the drive motor 101, the BCU202 controls the battery 102, the GCU203 controls the generator 103, and the engine ECU204 controls the engine 104. The BCU202 outputs the charge status (SOC) of the battery 102 to the vehicle ECU200.

[0040] The vehicle ECU 200 is composed of a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read-only memory) that stores control programs executed by the processor, a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a working area for the control program, and an interface section for peripheral circuits, etc. In this embodiment, the vehicle ECU 200 functions as a lock / unlock control device 300 by executing a program on the processor.

[0041] Next, the locking / unlocking control device 300 according to this embodiment will be described in detail. The locking / unlocking control device 300 of this embodiment will lock the vehicle 10 even if the occupants leave the vehicle 10 while power is being supplied to the external equipment 400 while generating power, provided that predetermined conditions described later are met.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2, the lock / unlock control device 300 is connected to an imaging camera 302, a temperature sensor 304, and a vibration sensor 306, and includes a battery 102, a generator 103, an engine 104, a drive motor 101, a power generation control unit 308, a power supply control unit 310, an operation reception unit 312, a notification unit 314, a communication unit 316, a vehicle information acquisition unit 318, an external condition acquisition unit 320, a determination unit 322, a lock / unlock control unit 324, and a fuel state prediction unit 326. The vehicle information acquisition unit 318 further includes an image information acquisition unit 350, a fuel state acquisition unit 352, a terminal information acquisition unit 354, a temperature information acquisition unit 356, and a vibration information acquisition unit 358.

[0043] The imaging camera 302 is installed inside the vehicle 10 and captures images of the inside of the vehicle 10 to generate image information. Conventional imaging cameras such as CCD cameras can be used. In addition, there may be one imaging camera 302 or multiple cameras.

[0044] The temperature sensor 304 is installed inside the vehicle 10 and detects the temperature (air temperature) inside the vehicle 10 to generate temperature information. Conventional temperature sensors such as thermistors and infrared sensors can be used.

[0045] The vibration sensor 306 is installed in the vehicle 10 and detects vibrations of the vehicle 10 to generate vibration information. Conventional known vibration sensors such as piezoelectric vibration sensors, gyro sensors, and acceleration sensors can be used.

[0046] As described above, the battery 102 stores power and is connected to an outlet 102A that can supply power to external devices 400. The outlet 102A is not specified for installation within the vehicle 10, and in this embodiment, for example, it is provided on the instrument panel (not shown) of the vehicle 10.

[0047] The power generation control unit 308 controls the engine 104 to drive the generator 103 and generate electricity. When the power generation control unit 308 receives a power generation operation to start power generation, it starts the engine 104 and starts power generation, and when it receives a power generation stop operation to stop power generation, it stops the engine 104 and stops power generation. In this embodiment, the power generation control unit 308 may also start the engine 104 and start power generation when power supply to the external device 400 is started, and stop the engine 104 and stop power generation when power supply to the external device 400 is stopped.

[0048] If the power generation control unit 308 receives a second locking operation from the operation reception unit 312 (described later) while generating power and supplying power to the external equipment 400, it stops the operation of the engine 104 and stops power generation. In addition, if the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 remains above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time, or if the vibration of the vehicle 10 exceeds a predetermined value, the power generation control unit 308 stops the operation of the engine 104 and stops power generation even if it has not received a power generation stop operation.

[0049] The power supply control unit 310 controls the supply of power stored in the battery 102 to external devices 400 connected to the outlet 102A. In this embodiment, when the plug of the external device 400 is connected to the outlet 102A, the power supply control unit 310 starts supplying power to the external device 400 using the power stored in the battery 102, and stops supplying power to the external device 400 when the connection is disconnected.

[0050] Furthermore, if the power supply control unit 310 receives a second locking operation from the operation reception unit 312 (described later) while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, it will stop supplying power to the external device 400. Also, if the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 remains above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, or if the vibration of the vehicle 10 exceeds a predetermined value, the power supply control unit 310 will stop supplying power to the external device 400 even if the connection has not been disconnected.

[0051] The operation reception unit 312 receives various operations on the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the operation reception unit 312 receives door locking and unlocking operations from outside the vehicle 10, as well as power generation and power generation stop operations. For example, when an occupant carrying a smart key (not shown) presses a lock / unlock button (not shown) provided on the door handle of the vehicle 10, the operation reception unit 312 receives the locking and unlocking operation.

[0052] Furthermore, the operation reception unit 312 of this embodiment receives a first locking operation or a second locking operation as a locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400. In this embodiment, for example, the first locking operation is the operation of pressing the lock / unlock button provided on the doorknob once, and the second locking operation is the operation of pressing the lock / unlock button twice in a row or pressing and holding it, thus distinguishing them by using different operating methods for the same operating member.

[0053] The notification unit 314 notifies the occupants of important information by outputting sound through a speaker (not shown) installed in the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, when the first locking operation is received while power is being supplied to the external device 400 while generating electricity, if the predetermined conditions described later are met, a first notification indicating that the predetermined conditions have been met is issued. The first notification is issued, for example, by outputting a fixed beep sound once or by outputting a machine voice saying "Do you want to lock it?". Furthermore, when the first locking operation is received while power is being supplied to the external device 400 while generating electricity, if the predetermined conditions are not met, the notification unit 314 issues a second notification indicating that the predetermined conditions have not been met. The second notification is issued, for example, by outputting a fixed beep sound twice or by outputting a machine voice saying "You need to stop the engine operation".

[0054] The communication unit 316 communicates with various external terminals, such as the mobile terminal 500. In this embodiment, if the fuel level is below a predetermined value, the communication unit 316 sends a warning to the mobile terminal 500 indicating that the fuel level is low. Furthermore, even if the operation reception unit 312 receives a locking operation request, if the vehicle 10 cannot be locked due to not meeting predetermined conditions described later, the communication unit 316 sends a notification to the mobile terminal 500 indicating that the vehicle 10 cannot be locked.

[0055] Furthermore, if the communication unit 316 changes the vehicle 10 from a locked state to an unlocked state regardless of the occupant's will, it sends a notification to the mobile terminal 500 that the vehicle 10 has been changed from a locked state to an unlocked state. Also, if the communication unit 316 stops supplying power to the external device 400 regardless of the occupant's will, it sends a notification to the mobile terminal 500 that the power supply has been stopped.

[0056] Furthermore, if the fuel state prediction unit 326, described later, predicts the time when the fuel level will fall below a predetermined value, the communication unit 316 transmits the predicted time to the mobile terminal 500 a predetermined time before the predicted time (for example, 20 minutes before). In this embodiment, the warnings, notifications, and predicted times transmitted to the mobile terminal 500 are displayed on the display unit 510 of the mobile terminal 500 to inform the occupants, but the system may also be configured to inform the occupants by voice, vibration, or other means.

[0057] The vehicle information acquisition unit 318 acquires information about the interior of the vehicle 10, such as in-vehicle information. In this embodiment, the vehicle information acquisition unit 318 acquires in-vehicle information when it receives a locking operation from outside the vehicle 10 via the operation reception unit 312 while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400. The vehicle information acquisition unit 318 is further configured to include an image information acquisition unit 350, a fuel status acquisition unit 352, a terminal information acquisition unit 354, a temperature information acquisition unit 356, and a vibration information acquisition unit 358.

[0058] The image information acquisition unit 350 acquires image information of the interior of the vehicle 10 captured by the imaging camera 302 as the in-vehicle information mentioned above. The image information acquisition unit 350 also acquires pre-exit image information, which is image information when the ignition switch is turned off, and post-exit image information, which is image information when the locking operation is accepted.

[0059] The fuel status acquisition unit 352 acquires the fuel value as the in-vehicle information described above. The fuel value indicates the remaining amount of fuel and may be expressed as a percentage, for example, with a full tank being 100%, or as a unit such as 30L.

[0060] The terminal information acquisition unit 354 acquires location information of the mobile terminal 500 as the in-vehicle information mentioned above. For example, the terminal information acquisition unit 354 acquires location information by receiving signals transmitted from the mobile terminal 500 or by determining the position of the mobile terminal 500 based on positioning signals received from positioning satellites.

[0061] Furthermore, the temperature information acquisition unit 356 acquires internal temperature information of the vehicle 10 generated by the temperature sensor 304. The vibration information acquisition unit 358 acquires vibration information indicating the vibration of the vehicle 10 generated by the vibration sensor 306.

[0062] The external conditions acquisition unit 320 acquires external conditions, which are the conditions outside the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, when the external conditions acquisition unit 320 receives a locking operation from outside the vehicle 10 via the operation reception unit 312 while generating power and supplying power to the external equipment 400, it uses the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) installed in the vehicle 10 to acquire information on obstacles around the vehicle 10 as external conditions. Specifically, for example, the ADAS radar is used to emit radio waves towards the vehicle 10 and the reflected waves are measured to acquire information on obstacles, which is calculated to determine the distance and direction to obstacles around the vehicle 10.

[0063] The determination unit 322 performs various determinations when locking or unlocking the vehicle 10. In this embodiment, the determination unit 322 determines whether predetermined conditions for locking the vehicle 10 are met, based on the in-vehicle information acquired by the vehicle information acquisition unit 318 and the external conditions acquired by the external conditions acquisition unit 320. The predetermined conditions are those that allow power supply to continue even if the occupants leave the vehicle 10 while power is being supplied to the external equipment 400 while generating power.

[0064] In this embodiment, the following four predetermined conditions are provided. Condition 1: There are no occupants inside vehicle 10. Condition 2: The area around the vehicle 10 is not obstructed. Condition 3: The fuel level of vehicle 10 is above a specified value. Condition 4: The personal terminal 500 carried by the crew is not inside the vehicle 10.

[0065] For predetermined condition 1, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not there are occupants inside the vehicle 10 based on the image information of the vehicle's interior acquired by the image information acquisition unit 350. For example, if multiple imaging cameras 302 are installed inside the vehicle 10 so as not to create blind spots, and the operation reception unit 312 receives a locking operation from outside the vehicle 10, the camera will capture images of the vehicle's interior and generate multiple image data. The determination unit 322 performs image analysis of the acquired multiple image data to determine whether or not there are occupants inside the vehicle 10 by judging whether there are moving objects in the images, whether there are objects with a similar shape to a person, etc.

[0066] Alternatively, the determination unit 322 may determine whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 by comparing the pre-exit image information and post-exit image information acquired by the image information acquisition unit 350. For example, similarly to the above, multiple imaging cameras 302 are installed, and when the operation reception unit 312 receives an occupant's ignition switch off operation and when the vehicle 10 receives a locking operation from outside the vehicle 10, the interior of the vehicle 10 is imaged to generate multiple pre-exit image information and multiple post-exit image information. The determination unit 322 then performs image analysis of the acquired multiple pre-exit image information and multiple post-exit image information to detect differences in the corresponding image information, and determines whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 by determining, based on the detected differences, whether or not an occupant who was captured in the pre-exit image information is no longer present in the post-exit image information.

[0067] In this embodiment, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not there are occupants inside the vehicle 10 based on image information of the inside of the vehicle 10, but the determination may also be made using conventionally known methods other than cameras. For example, the system may be configured to determine whether or not there are occupants inside the vehicle 10 using radio waves or thermography.

[0068] For predetermined condition 2, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not the area around the vehicle 10 is obstructed based on the obstruction information acquired by the external condition acquisition unit 320. For example, as described above, the distance and direction to the obstruction around the vehicle 10 are calculated from the obstruction information acquired using the ADAS radar, and the determination is made as to whether or not the area around the vehicle 10 is obstructed.

[0069] For predetermined condition 3, the determination unit 322 determines whether the fuel is equal to or greater than a predetermined value based on the fuel value acquired by the fuel state acquisition unit 352. The predetermined value of the fuel is, for example, a value that determines the amount of fuel required to ensure the ability to start the engine, or, in the case of an EV (electric vehicle), a value that determines the amount of fuel required to ensure a certain amount of driving (for example, driving 60 km for 1 hour).

[0070] For predetermined condition 4, the determination unit 322 determines whether the mobile terminal 500 is inside the vehicle 10 based on the location information acquired by the terminal information acquisition unit 354. For example, the determination unit 322 calculates the distance to the mobile terminal 500 based on the signal (location information) transmitted from the mobile terminal 500 and determines whether the mobile terminal 500 is inside the vehicle 10. Alternatively, the determination unit 322 compares the position information (location information) based on the positioning of the mobile terminal 500 with the position information of the vehicle 10 to determine whether the mobile terminal 500 is inside the vehicle 10.

[0071] Furthermore, after locking the vehicle 10, the determination unit 322 determines, based on temperature information, whether the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 has remained above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time. The predetermined temperature and predetermined period are the temperature and time at which the external equipment 400 is assumed to be in a high-temperature state that could cause a fire. For example, the determination unit 322 determines whether the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 has remained above 30°C (predetermined temperature) for 30 minutes (predetermined period of time).

[0072] Furthermore, after locking the vehicle 10, the determination unit 322 determines, based on vibration information, whether the vibration of the vehicle 10 is above a predetermined value. The predetermined value is the vibration value of the vehicle 10 that would be considered a disaster such as a large earthquake or strong winds.

[0073] The locking / unlocking control unit 324 controls the vehicle 10 to either a locked or unlocked state. When the locking operation is received by the operation reception unit 312, the locking / unlocking control unit 324 locks the vehicle 10, and when the unlocking operation is received by the operation reception unit 312, it unlocks the vehicle 10.

[0074] In this embodiment, when the locking / unlocking control unit 324 receives a first locking operation from the operation reception unit 312 while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, if the predetermined conditions described above (no occupants inside the vehicle 10, the area around the vehicle 10 is not blocked off, the fuel level is above a predetermined value, and there is no portable terminal 500 inside the vehicle 10) are met, it issues a first notification indicating that fact, and if the first locking operation is received again thereafter, the vehicle 10 is locked. Alternatively, the system may be configured to issue a first notification indicating that the predetermined conditions described above (no occupants inside the vehicle 10, the area around the vehicle 10 is not blocked off, the fuel level is above a predetermined value, and there is no portable terminal 500 inside the vehicle 10) are met, and then immediately lock the vehicle 10.

[0075] Furthermore, when the locking / unlocking control unit 324 receives a first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, if the predetermined conditions are not met, it issues a second notification indicating that fact. If it then receives a second locking operation, it stops the operation of the engine 104, stops power generation and power supply, and locks the vehicle 10.

[0076] Furthermore, the locking / unlocking control unit 324 locks the vehicle 10 while supplying power to the external equipment 400 while generating electricity, and then unlocks the vehicle 10 if the fuel level falls below a predetermined value. Also, the locking / unlocking control unit 324 locks the vehicle 10 while supplying power to the external equipment 400 while generating electricity, and then unlocks the vehicle 10 if it does not accept an unlocking operation even when the predicted time (described later) for the fuel level to fall below a predetermined value has arrived.

[0077] Furthermore, the locking / unlocking control unit 324, after locking the vehicle 10 while supplying power to the external device 400 while generating electricity, will unlock the vehicle 10 if the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 remains above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time. Also, the locking / unlocking control unit 324, after locking the vehicle 10 while supplying power to the external device 400 while generating electricity, will unlock the vehicle 10 if the vibration of the vehicle 10 exceeds the predetermined value.

[0078] The fuel state prediction unit 326 locks the vehicle 10 while supplying power to the external equipment 400 while generating electricity, and then predicts the time (predicted time) when the fuel will fall below a predetermined value, based on the current fuel value acquired by the fuel state acquisition unit 352 and the current fuel consumption.

[0079] Next, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, the process of locking the vehicle 10 by the locking / unlocking control device 300 of this embodiment will be described. First, when the plug of the external device 400 is connected to the outlet 102A (step S10), the power supply control unit 310 starts supplying power to the external device 400 (step S12), and the power generation control unit 308 starts generating power (step S14).

[0080] Next, when the operation reception unit 312 receives the first locking operation from outside the vehicle 10 (step S16), the image information acquisition unit 350 acquires image information of the inside of the vehicle 10 (step S18). Based on the acquired image information of the inside of the vehicle 10, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 (step S20).

[0081] If there are no occupants inside the vehicle 10 (step S20: NO), the external condition acquisition unit 320 acquires information about obstacles around the vehicle 10 (step S22). Based on the acquired obstacle information, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not the area around the vehicle 10 is obstructed (step S24).

[0082] If the area around the vehicle 10 is not shielded (step S24: NO), the fuel state acquisition unit 352 acquires the fuel value (step S26). The determination unit 322 determines whether the fuel is above a predetermined value based on the acquired fuel value (step S28).

[0083] If the fuel level is above a predetermined value (step S28: YES), the terminal information acquisition unit 354 acquires location information of the mobile terminal 500 (step S30). Based on the acquired location information, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not the mobile terminal 500 is inside the vehicle 10 (step S32).

[0084] If the mobile terminal 500 is not inside the vehicle 10 (step S32: NO), the notification unit 314 issues a first notification indicating that the predetermined conditions have been met (step S34). Subsequently, if the operation reception unit 312 receives the first locking operation again (step S36: YES), the lock / unlock control unit 324 locks the vehicle 10 (step S38).

[0085] In other words, the lock / unlock control unit 324 receives a first lock operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, and if various predetermined conditions are met, it issues a first notification indicating that the predetermined conditions have been met. Subsequently, if it receives another first lock operation, it locks the vehicle 10.

[0086] On the other hand, if the operation reception unit 312 does not accept the first locking operation again after the first notification is sent (step S36: NO), the process is terminated without locking the vehicle 10.

[0087] If, in step S20, there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 (step S20: YES), if, in step S24, the area around the vehicle 10 is shielded (step S24: YES), and if, in step S32, the mobile terminal 500 is inside the vehicle 10 (step S32: YES), the notification unit 314 notifies a second notification that the predetermined conditions are not met (step S42).

[0088] Subsequently, if the operation reception unit 312 receives a second locking operation (step S44: YES), the power generation control unit 308 stops power generation (step S46), and the power supply control unit 310 stops supplying power to the external equipment 400 (step S48). Then, the locking / unlocking control unit 324 locks the vehicle 10 (step S50).

[0089] In other words, the lock / unlock control unit 324 receives a first lock operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400. If various predetermined conditions are not met, it issues a second notification indicating that the predetermined conditions are not met. Subsequently, if a second lock operation is received, it stops power generation and power supply, and locks the vehicle 10.

[0090] On the other hand, if the operation reception unit 312 does not accept the second locking operation after the second notification is sent (step S44: NO), the process ends without locking the vehicle 10.

[0091] Furthermore, in step S28, if the fuel level is below a predetermined value (step S28: NO), the communication unit 316 sends a warning to the mobile terminal 500 that the fuel level is low (step S40). Then, the process proceeds to step S42, where the same processing as described above is performed.

[0092] Next, referring to Figure 5, the flow of the unlocking process based on the fuel value of the vehicle 10 by the lock / unlock control device 300 of this embodiment will be described. After locking the vehicle 10 while supplying power to the external equipment 400 while generating electricity, the fuel state acquisition unit 352 acquires the fuel value (step S60). The determination unit 322 determines whether the fuel is above a predetermined value based on the acquired fuel value (step S62).

[0093] If the fuel level is above a predetermined value (step S62: YES), the fuel state prediction unit 326 predicts the time when the fuel level will fall below the predetermined value based on the current fuel level and the current fuel consumption (step S64). The communication unit 316 transmits the predicted time to the mobile terminal 500 a predetermined time before the predicted time (step S66).

[0094] Then, if the predicted time has not yet arrived (step S68: NO), the lock / unlock control unit 324 determines whether or not an unlocking operation has been received by the operation reception unit 312 (step S70). If an unlocking operation has been received (step S70: YES), the vehicle 10 is set to the unlocked state (step S72). On the other hand, if an unlocking operation has not been received (step S70: NO), the process returns to step S68 and is repeated.

[0095] Furthermore, in step S62, if the fuel level is below a predetermined value (step S62: NO), or in step S68, if the predicted time has arrived before the unlocking operation is accepted (step S68: YES), the lock / unlock control unit 324 unlocks the vehicle 10 (step S74), and the communication unit 316 sends a notification to the mobile terminal 500 that the vehicle 10 has been changed from the locked state to the unlocked state (step S76).

[0096] In step S74, the vehicle 10 may be unlocked from the locked state and at the same time the power generation and power supply to the external equipment 400 may be stopped. This prevents the fuel from being completely consumed while the occupants are away from the vehicle 10. If the power generation and power supply to the external equipment 400 are stopped, in step S76, the communication unit 316 may send a notification to the mobile terminal 500 that the vehicle has been unlocked from the locked state, along with a notification that the power generation and power supply to the external equipment 400 have been stopped.

[0097] Next, referring to Figure 6, the flow of the unlocking process based on the temperature rise inside the vehicle 10 by the locking / unlocking control device 300 of this embodiment will be described. The temperature rise inside the vehicle 10 can be caused, for example, by parking the vehicle 10 in a place exposed to direct sunlight or in the scorching heat of midsummer, or by the release of heat from external equipment 400 that has been powered for a long time.

[0098] After locking the vehicle 10 while power is being supplied to the external equipment 400 while generating electricity, the temperature information acquisition unit 356 acquires the internal temperature information of the vehicle 10 generated by the temperature sensor 304 (step S80). Based on the temperature information, the determination unit 322 determines whether the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 has remained above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined time (steps S82, 84).

[0099] If the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 is above a predetermined temperature (step S82: YES) and this continues for a predetermined time (step S84: YES), the locking / unlocking control unit 324 unlocks the vehicle 10 from the locked state (step S86), the power generation control unit 308 stops power generation (step S88), and the power supply control unit 310 stops supplying power to the external device 400 (step S90). Then, the communication unit 316 sends a notification to the mobile terminal 500 that the vehicle 10 has been unlocked from the locked state and that power generation and power supply to the external device 400 have been stopped (step S92).

[0100] On the other hand, in steps S82 and S84, if the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 is below a predetermined temperature (step S82: NO), or if the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 is above the predetermined temperature but does not continue for a predetermined time (step S84: NO), the process returns to step S80 and is repeated.

[0101] In Figure 5, the vehicle 10 was locked while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, and then the predicted time when the fuel level would fall below a predetermined value was transmitted to the mobile terminal 500. However, even if the vehicle 10 is not locked and occupants are inside or near the vehicle 10 while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, the predicted time when the fuel level would fall below a predetermined value may also be transmitted to the mobile terminal 500.

[0102] Next, with reference to Figure 7, the flow of the unlocking process based on vibrations of the vehicle 10 by the locking / unlocking control device 300 of this embodiment will be described. Vibrations of the vehicle 10 can be caused by, for example, an earthquake or strong winds such as a typhoon.

[0103] After locking the vehicle 10 while power is being supplied to the external equipment 400 while generating electricity, the vibration information acquisition unit 358 acquires vibration information indicating the vibration of the vehicle 10 generated by the vibration sensor 306 (step S100). Based on the vibration information, the determination unit 322 determines whether or not the vibration of the vehicle 10 is above a predetermined value (step S102).

[0104] If the vibration of the vehicle 10 exceeds a predetermined value (step S102: YES), the locking / unlocking control unit 324 unlocks the vehicle 10 from the locked state (step S104), the power generation control unit 308 stops power generation (step S106), and the power supply control unit 310 stops supplying power to the external device 400 (step S108). Then, the communication unit 316 sends a notification to the mobile terminal 500 that the vehicle 10 has been unlocked from the locked state and that power generation and power supply to the external device 400 have been stopped (step S110).

[0105] On the other hand, if the vibration of the vehicle 10 is less than a predetermined value in step S102 (step S102: NO), the process returns to step S100 and is repeated.

[0106] Thus, according to this embodiment, when a first locking operation is received while power is being supplied to an external device 400 while generating electricity, it is determined whether predetermined conditions for locking the vehicle 10 are met based on the acquired in-vehicle information, and if the predetermined conditions are met, a first notification to that effect is issued, and after the first notification is issued, the vehicle 10 is locked. Therefore, even if the occupants leave the vehicle 10 while power is being supplied to an external device 400 while generating electricity, the vehicle 10 can be locked if the predetermined conditions are met, which is advantageous in terms of security and improving convenience.

[0107] Furthermore, if the system is configured to lock the vehicle 10 when the first locking operation is received again after the first notification, the vehicle 10 will be locked in two stages, allowing the occupant to be sure to understand the status of the vehicle 10 before locking it.

[0108] Furthermore, if the first locking operation is received while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, and the predetermined conditions are not met, a second notification to that effect is issued. After the second notification is issued, power generation and power supply are stopped, and the vehicle 10 is locked. This configuration allows the vehicle 10 to be locked even when it is difficult for the occupants to leave the vehicle 10 while generating power and supplying power to the external device 400, thus providing security and convenience.

[0109] Furthermore, the predetermined conditions include the absence of occupants inside the vehicle 10. When the first locking operation is received while generating power and supplying power to the external equipment 400, if there are no occupants inside the vehicle 10, the vehicle 10 is locked. This configuration is advantageous in avoiding the vehicle 10 being locked while occupants are left inside. For example, if the vehicle 10 is locked when the powering external equipment 400 malfunctions and a fire occurs, occupants left inside the vehicle 10 will have difficulty evacuating. Therefore, to prevent damage caused by the malfunction of the external equipment 400, the vehicle 10 is locked on the premise that there are no occupants inside the vehicle 10.

[0110] Furthermore, since the system acquires image information of the interior of the vehicle 10 as in-vehicle information and determines whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 based on the image information, it is advantageous for determining whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 with a simple configuration. In addition, since the system determines whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 by comparing the image information before exiting the vehicle when the ignition switch is turned off with the image information after exiting the vehicle when the locking operation is accepted, it is advantageous for determining whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 more accurately.

[0111] Furthermore, the predetermined conditions further include the fact that the area around the vehicle 10 is not shielded. When the first locking operation is received while power is being supplied to the external equipment 400 while generating power, if there are no occupants inside the vehicle 10 and the area around the vehicle 10 is not shielded, the vehicle 10 is locked. This configuration is advantageous in suppressing an increase in the concentration of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide around the vehicle 10.

[0112] Furthermore, by using the advanced driver assistance system installed in the vehicle 10 to acquire information on obstacles around the vehicle 10 as external conditions, and determining whether or not the area around the vehicle 10 is obstructed based on the obstacle information, it is possible to determine more accurately whether or not the area around the vehicle 10 is obstructed. Moreover, since the existing advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) can be repurposed, there is no need to install new sensors, which is advantageous in terms of cost reduction.

[0113] Furthermore, the predetermined conditions also include the fact that the fuel level of vehicle 10 is above a predetermined value. The system acquires a fuel value indicating the remaining fuel level as in-vehicle information, and if it is determined that the fuel level of vehicle 10 is above a predetermined value based on the fuel value, the system locks vehicle 10. This is advantageous in preventing the occupants from consuming all of their fuel while they are away from vehicle 10. For example, if the occupants leave the vehicle when the fuel level is low, the power supply to the external device 400 will be suddenly cut off due to fuel consumption, which could overload the internal electronic components of the external device 400 and cause it to malfunction. Therefore, to avoid the malfunction of the external device 400, vehicle 10 is not locked if the fuel level is below a predetermined value.

[0114] Furthermore, the predetermined conditions include the absence of a personal handheld device 500 inside the vehicle 10. The system acquires location information of the personal handheld device 500 as in-vehicle information, and if it is determined that the personal handheld device 500 is not inside the vehicle 10 based on the location information, the vehicle 10 is locked. This allows the system to confirm whether there is an occupant inside the vehicle 10 through the presence or absence of the personal handheld device 500. In addition, if the fuel level falls below a predetermined value, a warning is sent to the personal handheld device 500 indicating that the fuel level is low. This allows the system to notify the occupant of the low fuel level even when they are away from the vehicle 10, which is advantageous in avoiding problems during power generation and power supply.

[0115] Furthermore, if the fuel level falls below a predetermined value after the vehicle 10 has been locked, the vehicle 10 is unlocked, and a notification that the vehicle 10 has been unlocked is sent to the mobile terminal 500. This configuration allows for the immediate retrieval of valuables and external devices from the vehicle 10 in the event of problems caused by low fuel levels, thus improving convenience.

[0116] Furthermore, the system is configured to predict the time when the fuel level will fall below a predetermined value and to transmit the predicted time when the fuel level will fall below the predetermined value to the mobile terminal 500 a predetermined time before the predicted time. This allows the fuel level to be monitored even when away from the vehicle 10, which is advantageous for generating power while securing the fuel necessary for subsequent operation and supplying power to external equipment 400.

[0117] Furthermore, the system acquires internal temperature information of the vehicle 10, and after locking the vehicle 10, if it is determined based on the temperature information that the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 has remained above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time, the system unlocks the vehicle 10, stops power generation, and stops power supply to the external equipment 400. This eliminates the need to unlock the vehicle 10, stop power generation, and stop power supply to the external equipment 400, and is advantageous in avoiding problems that may arise from the internal temperature of the vehicle 10 remaining above a predetermined temperature for a predetermined period of time.

[0118] Furthermore, if vibration information indicating the vibration of the vehicle 10 is acquired, and after the vehicle 10 is locked, it is determined based on the vibration information that the vibration of the vehicle 10 is above a predetermined value, the vehicle 10 is unlocked, power generation is stopped, and power supply to the external equipment 400 is stopped. This configuration eliminates the need to unlock the vehicle 10, stop power generation, and stop power supply to the external equipment 400, and is advantageous in avoiding problems that may arise due to the vibration of the vehicle 10 being above a predetermined value. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 10 vehicles 101 Drive motor 102 batteries 102A outlet 103 Generator 104 Engine 200 Vehicle ECUs 201 MCU 202 BCU 203 GCU 204 ENG ECU 300 Locking / unlocking control device 302 Imaging Camera 304 Temperature Sensor 306 Vibration Sensor 308 Power Generation Control Unit 310 Power supply control unit 312 Operation Reception Unit 314 Hochi Department 316 Communications Department 318 Vehicle Information Acquisition Unit 320 External Condition Acquisition Unit 322 Judgment section 324 Locking / Unlocking Control Unit 326 Fuel State Prediction Unit 350 Image Information Acquisition Unit 352 Fuel status acquisition unit 354 Terminal Information Acquisition Unit 356 Temperature information acquisition section 358 Vibration Information Acquisition Unit 400 External equipment 500 mobile devices 510 Display section

Claims

1. A vehicle locking / unlocking control device comprising a rechargeable battery, a generator for generating electricity, an engine for driving the generator, and a drive motor for driving the vehicle using electric power, A power generation control unit that drives the generator to generate electricity by operating the engine, A power supply control unit that supplies power stored in the battery to an external device, An operation receiving unit that receives a first locking operation from outside the vehicle, A vehicle information acquisition unit that acquires in-vehicle information, which is information about the inside of the vehicle, An external conditions acquisition unit acquires external conditions, which are the conditions outside the vehicle. A determination unit that determines whether predetermined conditions for locking the vehicle are met based on the in-vehicle information and the external conditions, When the first locking operation is received while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if the predetermined conditions are met, a notification unit notifies a first notification indicating that the predetermined conditions are met, After the notification of the first notification, a locking / unlocking control unit is provided to lock the vehicle, A vehicle locking / unlocking control device characterized by comprising the following:

2. The operation reception unit, after notifying the first notification, accepts the first locking operation again. When the locking / unlocking control unit receives the first locking operation again, it locks the vehicle. A vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 1.

3. When the notification unit receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if the predetermined conditions are not met, it notifies a second notification indicating that the predetermined conditions are not met. The operation reception unit, after notifying the second notification, accepts the second locking operation. When the power generation control unit receives the second locking operation, it stops the engine and stops power generation. When the power supply control unit receives the second locking operation, it stops supplying power to the external device. When the locking / unlocking control unit receives the second locking operation, it puts the vehicle into the locked state. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned predetermined conditions include the fact that there are no occupants inside the vehicle, When the locking / unlocking control unit receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if there is no occupant inside the vehicle, it locks the vehicle. A vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 1.

5. The vehicle information acquisition unit includes an image information acquisition unit that acquires image information of the interior of the vehicle, which is the in-vehicle information. The determination unit determines, based on the image information, whether or not there are occupants inside the vehicle. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to feature 4.

6. The image information acquisition unit acquires the image information before disembarking, which is the image information when the ignition switch is turned off, and the image information after disembarking, which is the image information when the locking operation is received. The determination unit determines whether or not there is an occupant inside the vehicle by comparing the pre-disembarkation image information and the post-disembarkation image information. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 5.

7. The aforementioned predetermined condition further includes that the area around the vehicle is not obstructed, When the locking / unlocking control unit receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if there are no occupants inside the vehicle and the area around the vehicle is not blocked off, the unit will lock the vehicle. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to feature 4.

8. The external condition acquisition unit acquires information about obstacles around the vehicle, which is the external condition, using the advanced driver assistance system installed in the vehicle. The determination unit determines, based on the obstruction information, whether or not the area around the vehicle is obstructed. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 7.

9. The aforementioned predetermined condition further includes that the fuel level of the vehicle is above a predetermined value, The vehicle information acquisition unit further includes a fuel state acquisition unit that acquires a fuel value indicating the remaining amount of fuel, which is in-vehicle information. The determination unit further determines, based on the fuel value, whether the fuel in the vehicle is equal to or greater than the predetermined value. When the locking / unlocking control unit receives the first locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if there are no occupants inside the vehicle, the area around the vehicle is not isolated, and the fuel level is above the predetermined value, the unit will lock the vehicle. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 7.

10. The aforementioned predetermined condition further includes that the occupant's personal device is not located inside the vehicle. The vehicle information acquisition unit further includes a terminal information acquisition unit that acquires location information of the mobile terminal, which is in-vehicle information. The determination unit further determines, based on the location information, whether or not the mobile terminal is inside the vehicle. When the locking control unit receives the locking operation while generating power and supplying power to the external device, if there is no occupant inside the vehicle, the area around the vehicle is not isolated, the fuel level is above the predetermined value, and the portable terminal is not inside the vehicle, the vehicle is locked. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 9.

11. The system further includes a communication unit that transmits a warning to the mobile terminal indicating that the fuel level is low when the fuel level is below a predetermined value. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 10.

12. The locking / unlocking control unit, after locking the vehicle, if the fuel falls below the predetermined value, will unlock the vehicle from the locked state. The communication unit transmits a notification to the mobile terminal indicating that the vehicle has been changed from the locked state to the unlocked state. The vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 10.

13. The system further includes a fuel state prediction unit that predicts the time when the fuel will fall below a predetermined value based on the current fuel value and fuel consumption. The communication unit transmits to the mobile terminal the predicted time when the fuel level will fall below the predetermined value, a predetermined time before the predicted time. A vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that it is a vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 11 or 12.

14. The vehicle information acquisition unit further includes a temperature information acquisition unit that acquires temperature information inside the vehicle. After locking the vehicle, the determination unit further determines, based on the temperature information, whether the internal temperature of the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for the predetermined time. The locking / unlocking control unit, if the internal temperature of the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for the predetermined time, will move the vehicle from the locked state to the unlocked state. The power generation control unit stops the engine and stops power generation if the temperature inside the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for the predetermined time. The power supply control unit stops supplying power to the external equipment if the internal temperature of the vehicle remains above the predetermined temperature for the predetermined period of time. A vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 1.

15. The vehicle information acquisition unit further includes a vibration information acquisition unit that acquires vibration information indicating the vibration of the vehicle, After the vehicle is locked, the determination unit further determines, based on the vibration information, whether the vibration of the vehicle is less than the predetermined value. The locking / unlocking control unit, when the vibration of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined value, moves the vehicle from the locked state to the unlocked state. The power generation control unit stops the engine and stops power generation when the vibration of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined value. The power supply control unit stops supplying power to the external equipment when the vibration of the vehicle exceeds the predetermined value. A vehicle locking / unlocking control device according to claim 1.

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