Access Control Systems for Vehicles

Abstract

A walking-away locking (WAL) system (53) for a vehicle (10) includes an access system (51) that operates in one of a plurality of user-selected lock modes. Upon receiving a first signal (34) from an associated user device (12), where the first signal (34) indicates that the user device (12) has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle (10), the system (53) generates a control signal to activate a lock state corresponding to the user-selected lock mode. According to one lock mode, the lock state then changes to a first lock state. According to another lock mode, the lock state does not change and the vehicle remains locked.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to access control systems for vehicles, and particularly, but not exclusively, to keyless access / entry systems for vehicles such as motor vehicles. Certain aspects of the present invention relate to: access control systems for vehicles, methods of operating access control systems for vehicles, and the vehicles themselves. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known to provide access control systems, including passive entry and passive starting (PEPS) systems for motor vehicles, in which a vehicle user typically carries a key fob that can communicate with a control unit within the vehicle through a receiver.

[0003] Upon receiving an initiation trigger (e.g., when operating the vehicle's door handle), the control unit sends a signal to the transmitter, which emits a powerful low-frequency (LF) electromagnetic field and uses charge pump technology to activate the key fob. Once activated, the key fob can then transmit signals over a radio-frequency (RF) communication channel to control various vehicle functions, such as locking or unlocking various functions of the vehicle's locks. The control unit then activates the door locks according to the received signal. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Existing systems may be capable of implementing a feature that allows a vehicle user to automatically lock the vehicle when the user exits the vehicle and leaves its vicinity. Such systems are sometimes referred to as walking-away locking (WAL) systems. The benefit of such systems is that the vehicle always automatically locks when the user leaves the vehicle, and they allow for situations in which the user forgets to lock the vehicle or makes activating the key fob to lock it inconvenient (e.g., when carrying luggage). However, such existing systems present some inconveniences to the vehicle user, such as the inability to repeatedly return to the vehicle without the vehicle automatically locking when locking is undesirable. Another limitation of these systems means that such features are not always ideal in all situations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] It is against this background that the present invention has been made.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an access control system for a vehicle comprising at least one access system associated with a closure means of the vehicle, the access system being capable of being activated to a plurality of lock states, the access control system comprising one or more controllers and configured to perform the following operations: receiving a first signal from an associated user device, where the first signal indicates that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle; receiving a second signal indicative of a user request to change a lock mode of the access control system, and selecting a lock mode to operate in from the plurality of lock modes dependent on receiving the second signal; and Depending on the lock mode selected, do one of the following: generating a control signal for activating at least one access system to a different lock state in response to a first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance; or maintaining the at least one access system in its currently locked state in response to a first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance;

[0008] In this manner, the system provided allows a user to change the lock mode of the access control system, allowing the user to select / change the system's response to a user device exceeding a threshold distance from the vehicle.

[0009] In some cases, the multiple locking modes that can be selected may include, for example, one or more walking away locking enabled modes and / or walking away locking disabled modes, which are described in more detail below.

[0010] In some cases, the one or more controllers may collectively include: at least one electronic processor, the electronic processor having an electronic input for receiving: a first signal indicating that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle, and a second signal indicating a user request to change the lock mode of the access control system; and at least one memory device, wherein the memory device is electronically coupled to the at least one electronic processor and stores instructions within the memory; wherein the at least one electronic processor is configured to perform the following operations: accessing at least one memory device; and Executing instructions on the memory device to do any of the following: generating a control signal for activating at least one access system to a different lock state in response to a first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance and in dependence on receiving a second signal; or maintaining at least one access system in its current locked state in response to a first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded a threshold distance and in dependence on receiving a second signal;

[0011] Optionally, the access control system may be configured to: if the second signal is not received, generate a control signal to operate the access control system in a first lock mode, wherein in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance, the controller generates a control signal to activate at least one access system into the first lock state.

[0012] The first locking mode may include, for example, a single locking mode, and the first locking state may include, for example, a single locking state, as described below.

[0013] Optionally, the first locked state may be the following: activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle is prevented, while activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle is permitted.

[0014] Optionally, the at least one locking mode selectable upon receipt of the second signal may be a double locking mode, where the control signal may activate the at least one access system into a second locking state. Such second locking state may thus include a double locking state, in which activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle and activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle may be inhibited.

[0015] Optionally, the double lock mode may be selected from the plurality of lock modes in response to a second instance receiving the second signal within a double lock time period of a first instance receiving the second signal.

[0016] Optionally, at least one lock mode selectable upon receipt of the second signal may be a disabled lock mode, wherein in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance, the at least one access system is maintained in an unlocked state, thereby allowing activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle and allowing activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle.

[0017] Optionally, the access control system may be configured to receive a third signal indicating that a user is preparing or intending to exit the vehicle, and wherein depending on the first, second, and third signals, the access control system may operate in a lock mode selected from a plurality of lock modes. Preparing to exit the vehicle may include one or more of the following: opening a door, turning off the engine, ending a drive event, removing the key from the ignition, undoing the driver's seat belt, applying the handbrake, etc.

[0018] Optionally, the third signal may be generated in response to a door of a vehicle associated with the vehicle user being opened or in response to a handle on a door of a vehicle associated with the vehicle user being moved.

[0019] Optionally, the access control system may be configured as follows: a third signal must be received before the second signal for the access control system to select a lock mode from a plurality of lock modes.

[0020] Optionally, the access control system may be configured as follows: the second signal must be received by the access control system within a selection time period of the third signal in order for the access control system to select a lock mode from a plurality of lock modes.

[0021] In some cases, the access control system may be configured to receive a first signal from a primary lock / unlock input device associated with the vehicle. The primary lock / unlock input device may include, for example, a vehicle key fob or a mobile communication device. In some cases, the primary lock / unlock device may be the same as the user device.

[0022] Optionally, the access control system may be configured to receive a second signal from a secondary lock / unlock input device associated with the vehicle. The secondary lock / unlock input device may be a lock mode request module. Optionally, the secondary lock / unlock input device may be mounted on the vehicle.

[0023] Optionally, if the second lock mode is selected, the access control system may be configured to generate an alert signal, which may include one or more of the following: an audible, visual, or haptic alert signal.

[0024] Optionally, the access control system comprises at least one access system associated with a closure means of the vehicle.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a vehicle comprising an access control system as described herein.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of controlling an access control system for a vehicle comprising at least one access system associated with a closure means of the vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a first signal from an associated user device, where the first signal indicates that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle; receiving a second signal indicative of a user request to change a lock mode of the access control system, and selecting a lock mode to operate in from the plurality of lock modes dependent on receiving the second signal; and Depending on the lock mode selected, do one of the following: generating a control signal for activating at least one access system to a locked state in response to a first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance; or maintaining the at least one access system in its currently locked state in response to a first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds a threshold distance;

[0027] According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method as described herein relating to a method for controlling an access control system.

[0028] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a non-transitory computer readable medium is provided, having stored thereon a computer program product according to the above-described aspect.

[0029] It is expressly intended within the scope of this application that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or the following description and drawings, and in particular their individual features, may be employed independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment may be combined in any manner and / or in any combination, unless those features are incompatible. Accordingly, applicants reserve the right to modify any originally filed claims or to file any new claims, including the right to amend any originally filed claims to depend on and / or incorporate any features of any other claims, even if they may not have been originally claimed in that manner. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] One or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Figure 1] 1 shows a diagram of vehicles and users for proximity in vehicles. [Figure 2] 2 shows a conceptual plan view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 equipped with an access control system of the present invention; [Figure 3] To illustrate the threshold distance around the vehicle, a conceptual plan view of the vehicle in Figures 1 and 2 is shown. [Figure 4] 1, 2 and 3 show the vehicle closing means together with the lock mode request module. [Figure 5] 1 shows a control diagram illustrating various signals input to and output from a vehicle access control system. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling an access control system for a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] 1 and 2 illustrate a vehicle 10 equipped with an access control system (not identified in FIG. 1). As shown in FIG. 1, a vehicle user 11 carries a user device in the form of a key fob 12, which may be used to interact with the vehicle's 10 access control system (e.g., a passive entry / passive start system) to gain access to the vehicle 10 and potentially to deploy certain vehicle systems (e.g., pulling back a door handle or illuminating vehicle lights to facilitate vehicle access) and to control certain vehicle systems when the vehicle user 11 exits and leaves the vehicle 10. The key fob 12 may be considered a primary lock / unlock input device and may communicate driver requests to the vehicle's 10 access control system to lock or unlock the vehicle's 10 closures.

[0032] Referring to Figure 2, a vehicle 10 is shown comprising: a first low frequency (LF) transmitter 14 located, for example, in the engine compartment of the vehicle 10; and a second LF transmitter 16 located in a closure means 19 of the vehicle 10. The closure means 19 may be a door or tailgate of the vehicle 10, and in Figure 2 forms a side door of the vehicle.

[0033] In Figure 2, the second LF transmitter 16 is located in a handle assembly 18 (e.g., a door handle assembly) of the vehicle 10, which handle assembly 18 forms part of a vehicle closure means 19. It should be noted that for clarity, only two transmitters 14, 16 are shown in Figure 2. It should also be noted that although only one handle assembly 18 is shown in Figure 2, the vehicle 10 may include multiple handle assemblies 18, one handle assembly associated with each vehicle closure means 19, and in certain arrangements, each handle assembly 18, or even each closure means 19, of the vehicle 10 may include a transmitter 16. In other arrangements, the engine compartment-located transmitter 14 may not be present, and the passive entry system may rely, for example, on a steering wheel-based transmitter 16 for operation, although other locations in or on the vehicle 10 are also contemplated. Additionally, the vehicle includes a radio frequency (RF) receiver 20.

[0034] The first and second LF transmitters 14, 16 may be selectively controlled to repeatedly transmit LF signals. These LF signals decrease in strength with increasing distance from the transmitters 14, 16 and are received by the key fob 12. In response, the key fob 12 transmits an RF signal to the receiver 20 that indicates the strength of the LF signals received from the transmitters 14, 16, and thus the distance of the key fob from the transmitters 14, 16. Thus, an imaginary boundary P may be defined around the perimeter of the vehicle 10 as a threshold distance from the vehicle 10 beyond which the strength of the LF signals transmitted from the transmitters 14, 16 falls below a predetermined value. Such a boundary P is conceptually illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0035] The LF transmitters 14, 16 may be configured to output radio signals at a frequency of approximately 125 kHz. The key fob 12 may be configured to receive signals at 125 kHz and transmit RF signals at a frequency of approximately 433 MHz. The RF receiver 20 may be configured to receive signals at a frequency of approximately 433 MHz.

[0036] It should be noted that the above frequency values ​​are provided for illustrative purposes only and may vary between different vehicle markets. The low frequency (LF) range is, for example, commonly taken to encompass a range of 30 kHz to 300 kHz. The high frequency (RF) range is, for example, commonly taken to encompass a range of 3 kHz to 300 GHz. The RF frequency described herein is 433 MHz, however, the inventors recognize other systems that operate at, for example, 315 MHz.

[0037] In the example shown, the handle assembly 18 includes both an exterior door handle 18a and an interior door handle 18b to allow opening of each door 19 of the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 also includes a plurality of latching mechanisms 21, one associated with each vehicle closure 19. Each latching mechanism 21 is configured to cooperate with the exterior handle 18a and interior handle 18b of a respective door in use.

[0038] The access system 51 (FIG. 5) includes a handle assembly 18 and a latching mechanism 21. The access system 51 may be activated into various locking states, which are described below.

[0039] The exterior and interior handles 18a, 18b can be either connected to or disconnected from their respective latching mechanisms 21. In some cases, only the exterior handle 18a can be disconnected from the latching mechanism 21, thereby allowing the interior handle 18b to be used to activate the latching mechanism 21 while preventing the exterior handle 18a from being used to activate the latching mechanism 21. Thus, the interior handle 18b can be used to open the vehicle 10 door 19 from inside the vehicle 10, but the exterior handle 18a cannot be used to open the vehicle 10 from outside the vehicle 10. In such cases, the access system 51 is considered to be in a "single locking" or "central locking" state, which can be considered a first locking state.

[0040] It should be understood that, in this description, the term "connected to" is used in connection with handles 18a, 18b and latching mechanisms 21a, 21b to refer to activation of each latching mechanism 21a, 21b by each handle 18a, 18b being enabled, and the term "disconnected from" is used to refer to activation of each latching mechanism 21a, 21b by each handle 18a, 18b being inhibited. In this embodiment, connection or disconnection is achieved through a direct mechanical connection between each handle 18a, 18b and latching mechanism 21a. However, it should be understood that other systems may use means other than a direct mechanical connection and may enable or disable activation of the latching mechanism 21 by the outer and inner handles 18a, 18b. For example, an electronic or electrical connection (wired or wireless) may be used to enable or inhibit the latching mechanism 21 by the handles 18a, 18b. Thus, the terms "connected to" and "disconnected from" are intended to refer to any means of connection, including electronic or electrical, even if the handles 18a, 18b are not mechanically connected to the latching mechanism 21.

[0041] If both the outside handle 18a and the inside handle 18b are disconnected from the latching mechanism 21, then neither handle 18a, 18b can be used to activate the respective latching mechanism 21, and the handles 18a, 18b cannot be used to open the door 19 from either the inside or outside of the vehicle 10. In such a case, the access system 51 can be considered to be in a "double locking" state, which can be considered a second locking state.

[0042] When the outside handle 18a and the inside handle 18b are connected to the latching mechanism 21, both handles 18a and 18b can be used to actuate the latching mechanism 21. Thus, the handles 18a and 18b can be used to open the door 19 of the vehicle 10 from both the inside and outside of the vehicle 10. In such a case, the access system 51 can be considered to be in an unlocked state, or simply "unlocked."

[0043] The vehicle 10 further comprises an access control system 53, shown in conceptual detail in Figure 5. The access control system 53 comprises a controller 22 and an access system 51 as defined above.

[0044] The access control system (53) can operate in various modes of operation, which can affect the lock state in which the access system (51) is activated.

[0045] In a conventional unlock mode of operation, a vehicle user 11 carrying a key fob 12 approaches the vehicle 10 and pulls the exterior handle 18a. A sensor (not shown) on the handle assembly 18 sends a signal to the access control system 53, which causes the transmitters 14, 16 to transmit an LF signal that is received by the key fob 12.

[0046] In response to receiving the LF signal from the vehicle 10, the key fob 12 is configured to transmit an unlock request to the vehicle 10 at the frequency of the RF signal. The RF signal is received by the receiver 20, which transmits the received signal to the access control system 53, which then transmits a door unlock signal to the door 19. Upon receiving the door unlock signal, both the inside and outside handles 18b, 18a are connected to the latching mechanism 21, and the access system 51 is activated to the unlocked state.

[0047] After or in parallel with the communication between the fob (12) and the receiver (20) in the vehicle (10), the key fob (12) further communicates with the vehicle (10) through an ultra-wideband radio signal transmitted from an ultra-wideband radio antenna (40).

[0048] The above-described passive access control system 53 communicates passive entry features that allow a vehicle user 11 to gain entry to their vehicle 10 without requiring physical interaction with the key fob 12. The key fob 12 remains in an ultra-low power dormant state until the vehicle user 11 performs an action related to their vehicle 10. However, to achieve the goal of communicating enhanced features such as approach unlocking, welcome lighting, and walk-away locking, the vehicle 10 must be able to better detect and respond to an approaching key fob 12 before user intervention is expected, and the vehicle 10 must also be able to track the vehicle user's exit from the vehicle 10.

[0049] With particular reference to Figure 3, it should be noted in this context that the LF field generated by the vehicle 10 can only extend approximately 2 m from the vehicle 10. Therefore, in this context, the boundary P defining the threshold distance from the vehicle extends to approximately 2 m from the vehicle 10. Thus, the threshold distance for activation of the enhanced feature is approximately 2 m from the vehicle 10. It should be understood that other suitable values ​​for the threshold distance can be set, and the value of 2 m is merely exemplary.

[0050] The access control system 53 is configured to operate in multiple locking modes. One such locking mode is a single-lock walk-away locking (WAL) mode in which the access system 51 is activated to a single locking state when the vehicle user 11 and key fob 12 cross the boundary line P as a result of operation of the access control system 53. When the current driving event of the vehicle 10 ends, the vehicle user 11 exits the vehicle 10 while still in possession of the key fob 12. Possible driving events include the following process: the vehicle user 11 drives off in the vehicle 10, uses the vehicle 10 for some purpose (e.g., completing a journey), and stops the vehicle 10. While it is understood that movement is typical during a driving event, the vehicle 10 is not required to move during a driving event.

[0051] When the key fob 12 exits the perimeter P, the key fob 12 transmits an RF signal to the receiver 20 indicating that the key fob 12 has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle 10. The RF signal transmitted by the key fob 12 may be the user device distance signal 34. The controller 22 of the access control system 53 then transmits a control signal to the access system 51, activating the access system 51 to a single-locking state, which inhibits activation of the latching mechanism for the outer handle 18a, thereby securing the vehicle 10. It should be noted that in this single-lock WAL mode, only the outer handle 18a, but not the inner handle 18b, is disconnected from each latching mechanism 21 when the key fob 12 exits the perimeter P.

[0052] The single lock WAL mode allows the vehicle user 11 to secure the vehicle 10 without having to subsequently take the action of, for example, pressing a lock button on the key fob 12 to lock the vehicle 10 after the user has exited. This not only provides convenience to the user, but also protects against forgetfulness on the part of the vehicle user 11, who may become distracted while away from the vehicle 10 and therefore forget to secure the vehicle 10.

[0053] However, the single-lock WAL mode of the access system 51 may not provide all possible benefits to the vehicle user 11 in common scenarios encountered during day-to-day use of the vehicle 10. If repeated trips back to the vehicle 10 are required after a driving event is completed, such as to unload multiple items from the vehicle 10, or if the vehicle user 11 leaves the perimeter P with the key fob 12 and a passenger returns to the vehicle 10 to unload an item, once the single-lock WAL mode is activated, the vehicle user 11 and passenger will be unable to enter the vehicle 10. An example of when this may be the case for the vehicle user 11 is if the vehicle user 11 leaves the key fob 12 and returns to the vehicle 10 without the key fob 12.

[0054] Another scenario in which single locking WAL mode may be less convenient is when single locking is employed as opposed to double locking. With the access system 51 activated to the single locking state, the vehicle 10 may be vulnerable to theft from a person who can gain access to the inner handle 18b (perhaps by breaking a window) while the outer handle 18a is disconnected from the latching mechanism 21. In some embodiments of the present invention, if the access system 51 is activated after the user leaves the vehicle to the double locking state, where both the outer and inner handles 18a, 18b are disconnected from the latching mechanism 21, this protects against this situation. Regulations in various territories prevent double locking from becoming the standard locking mode for securing vehicles 10, due to the possibility that emergency services may be unable to access injured passengers inside a double-locked vehicle 10. Alternatively, a deliberate action must be taken by the vehicle user (11) to activate the access system (51) to the double-locked state.

[0055] The present invention addresses these issues by using state-of-the-art technology (particularly in relation to the WAL feature) to give the vehicle user (11) greater control than the locking modes employed by the access control system (53).

[0056] In some embodiments of the present invention, the vehicle 10 incorporates an access control system 53 of the type described above, but with additional functionality provided by the access control system 53, which receives signals from a lock mode request module 50, shown in Figure 4, that allows the access control system 53 to select and operate in different lock modes. The lock mode request module may be considered a secondary lock / unlock input device.

[0057] The lock mode request module 50 may be incorporated into the vehicle 10 or may form part of a user device (e.g., the key fob 12) associated with the vehicle 10. In FIG. 4, the lock mode request module 50 forms part of the vehicle closure means 19 and includes a first request button 52 and a second request button 54 configured to generate different requests, as described below. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the first request button 52 may be an unlock request button and the second request button 54 may be a lock request button.

[0058] The first request button 52 can typically be used in the vehicle 10 to unlock the vehicle closure means 19 when the vehicle user 11 is inside the vehicle 10, and the second request button 54 can typically be used in the vehicle 10 to lock the vehicle closure means 19 when the vehicle user 11 is inside the vehicle 10. In other words, actuating the first request button 52 sends a signal to the controller 22, which interprets the signal as an unlock request signal and sends a control signal to the access system 51 to activate the system to an unlocked state. Similarly, actuating the second request button 54 sends a signal to the controller 22, which interprets the signal as a lock request signal and sends a control signal to the access system 51 to activate the system to a single locking state.

[0059] However, the controller may also receive a user exit signal 32, which indicates that the vehicle user 11 is preparing to or attempting to exit the vehicle 10, and a user device distance signal 34, which indicates to the controller 22 the distance of the vehicle user 11 (and more specifically, the key fob 12) from the vehicle 10. When the controller 22 receives the user exit signal 32, the signals from the first and second request buttons 52, 54 are not interpreted as unlock or lock request signals, but instead as lock mode request signals 30, which indicate a user request to change the lock mode of the access control system 53 and allow selection of different lock modes for the access control system 53 to operate.

[0060] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in alternative embodiments of the present invention, the functionality described below may be achieved through a lock mode request module 50 that includes only a first request button 52, or that includes three or more request buttons. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the lock mode request module 50 may include a request button that is dedicated to providing the lock mode request signal 30 and that has no other function within the vehicle 10. In such cases, the controller 22 will always interpret the signal from the lock mode request module 50 as a lock mode request signal 30.

[0061] Furthermore, the lock mode request module 50 need not form part of the vehicle door, but may be located either inside or outside the vehicle 10. For example, the lock mode request module may be located on a steering wheel or on a touchscreen of the infotainment system of the vehicle 10. However, locating the lock mode request module 50 in or on the vehicle closure means 19 provides a particularly convenient location because the vehicle user 11 must use the closure means 19 to exit the vehicle, thus creating a synergy between the user exit signal 32 and actuating either the first or second request buttons 52, 54.

[0062] In a first embodiment, the access control system 53 is configured to allow the vehicle user 11 to select a locked mode, in which the automatic single-lock WAL mode described above is disabled if a user-escape signal 32 is generated and the first request button 52 is subsequently actuated. If the first request button 52 is actuated without the controller 22 receiving a user-escape signal 32 generated when the vehicle user 11 is preparing to or attempting to exit the vehicle 10, the access system 51 is activated to the unlocked state as described above. However, when the controller 22 receives the user-escape signal 32, the functionality triggered by actuating the first request button 52 changes.

[0063] More specifically, once the controller 22 receives the user exit signal 32, actuation of the first request button 52 causes the lock mode request module 50 to send a signal to the controller 22, which is interpreted as the lock mode request signal 30. The lock mode request signal 30 generated by actuation of the first request button 52 acts as a request to the access control system 53 to select a disable WAL mode for operation. In the disable WAL mode, the access system 51 is automatically activated to a single locking state when the vehicle user 11 with the key fob 12 leaves the boundary line P; this disable WAL mode disables this, so that the access system 51 remains unlocked even when the vehicle user 11 with the key fob 12 leaves the boundary line P. In other words, the automatic single-lock WAL mode is disabled, and the controller 22 does not send a control signal to the access system 51 to inhibit activation of the latching mechanism 21 by the outside handle 18a when the vehicle user 11 with the key fob 12 leaves the boundary line P, so that the vehicle 10 remains in an unlocked state at that time. It should be understood that even if the automatic single-lock WAL mode is disabled in the disabled WAL lock mode, it is still possible for the access system 51 to be activated to the single-locking state by other means (e.g., by use of the key fob 12).

[0064] Activation of the first request button (52), and subsequent operation of the disabled WAL mode as described above, allows multiple returns to the vehicle (10) without the access system (51) automatically activating to single locking.

[0065] While the access control system 53 is operating in the disabled WAL mode, actuation of the second request button 54 causes the lock mode request module 50 to send a signal to the controller 22, which is interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30. In this situation, the lock mode request signal 30 acts as a request that the access control system 53 reselect and operate in the single lock WAL mode. Thus, when the vehicle user 11 carrying the key fob 12 leaves the boundary P, the controller 22 of the access control system 53 sends a control signal to the access system 51 to activate the system to the single locking state, in which activation of the latching mechanism 21 by the outer handle 18a is inhibited. Therefore, if the vehicle user (11) realizes that he or she has accidentally activated the first request button (52) and has selected an invalid WAL mode, the vehicle user (11) can activate the second request button (54) to reset the access control system (53) to operate in the single lock WAL mode.

[0066] In an alternative embodiment, once the controller 22 receives the user escape signal 32, receiving two instances of the signal from the second request button 54 within a predetermined time period (referred to herein as the double lock time period) is interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30. The lock mode request signal 30 resulting from double actuation of the second request button 54 within the double lock time period acts as a request for the access control system 53 to select and operate in double lock WAL mode. In double lock WAL mode, when the vehicle user 11 with the key fob 12 leaves the boundary line P, the access system 51 is activated to a double locking state. In other words, two instances of the signal from the second request button 54 received by the controller 22 within the double lock time period, along with the user escape signal 32, are interpreted as an indication that double lock WAL mode should be selected by the access control system 53. Typically, the duration of the double lock time for receiving the first and second instances of the signal from the second request button (54) may be 2-3 seconds.

[0067] In double lock WAL mode, when the vehicle user 11 with the key fob 12 leaves the perimeter P, the controller 22 sends a control signal to the access system 51 to disconnect both the outer and inner handles 18a, 18b from the latching mechanism 21. Thus, in combination with the user exit signal 32, a first instance of actuation of the second request button 54 followed by a second instance of actuation of the second request button 54 within the double lock time period causes the access control system 53 to select the double lock WAL mode of operation, thereby replacing the standard operation of the single lock WAL mode with the access control system 53 instead selecting the double lock WAL mode as an intentional request of the vehicle user.

[0068] In this way, the access control system (53) can activate the access system (51) into a double locking state to improve vehicle safety, while still remaining subject to the requirement that such a system be implemented only intentionally.

[0069] While the access control system 53 is operating in double-lock WAL mode, further actuation of the second request button 54 causes the lock mode request module 50 to send a signal to the controller 22, which is interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30. In this situation, the lock mode request signal 30 acts as a request for the access control system 53 to reselect and operate in single-lock WAL mode. Thus, when the vehicle user 11 carrying the key fob 12 leaves the boundary P, the controller 22 of the access control system 53 sends a control signal to the access system 51, activating it to the single-locking state, where activation of the latching mechanism 21 by the outer handle 18a is inhibited. The advantage of this feature is that if the vehicle user (11) realizes that they have accidentally activated the second request button (54) twice and have selected double-lock WAL mode, the vehicle user (11) can activate the second request button (54) and reset the access control system (53) to operate in single-lock WAL mode.

[0070] As described above, the controller 22 is configured to receive a user-escape signal 32, which indicates that the vehicle user 11 is preparing to or intending to exit the vehicle 10. If the user-escape signal 32 is received, actuation of either the first or second request buttons 52, 54, either simultaneously with the user-escape signal 32 or within a predetermined time period (referred to herein as the selection time period) of the user-escape signal 32, causes signals from the first and second request buttons 52, 54 to be transmitted to the controller, which signals are interpreted as lock mode request signals, and such actuation initiates selection of a lock mode from among a plurality of available lock modes in which the access control system 53 will operate. Thus, actuation of the first and second request buttons 52, 54 in these circumstances triggers different functionality than when the user-escape signal 32 is not received.

[0071] A user exit signal 32 may be generated in response to the following actions: operating the handle assembly 18 on a door associated with the vehicle user 11, operating the inside handle 18b on that door, or opening the closure means 19. However, such a signal 32 may also be generated by a variety of other stimuli, such as pressing an engine start / stop button to shut off the vehicle 10 engine from a running state, the end of a current drive event, removing the key from the vehicle ignition, releasing the vehicle user 11's seat belt, or applying the vehicle's handbrake.

[0072] The signal transmitted by the lock mode request module 50, after activation of the first or second request button 52, 54, must be received by the controller 22 within the selected time period of the received user exit signal 32 in order to be interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30 and to change the selected lock mode. That is, the controller 22 must first receive the user exit signal 32, and then, within the selected time period, the controller 22 must also receive the signal transmitted by the lock mode request module 50 and interpret that signal as a lock mode request signal 30. If the signal transmitted by the lock mode request module 50 is not received within the selected time period, the signal transmitted by the first or second request button 52, 54 will not be interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30, but will instead be interpreted as either an unlock request signal or a lock request signal, depending on which request button was activated. In such a case, no action is taken regarding the selection of different locking modes for the closure means (19) of the access control system (53) to be activated.

[0073] The above-described functionality can be utilized to reduce the likelihood of an erroneous user request to change the lock mode of the access control system 53, since without receipt of a user exit signal 32 by the controller 22, the signals transmitted from the first and second request buttons 52, 54 will not be interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30.

[0074] As discussed above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the functionality of the lock mode request module 50 does not need to be added to existing vehicle hardware, but rather can be accomplished by incorporating dedicated request buttons into the electronic architecture of the vehicle 10. Additionally, the first and second request buttons 52, 54 may be integrated into the key fob 12, added to existing button functionality on the key fob 12, or provided as dedicated request buttons.

[0075] In cases where a dedicated request button is present such that the signal sent from it is always interpreted as a lock mode request signal (30), it may still be useful to implement a time period check on the selection time period occurring after the controller (22) receives the user exit signal (32), as this helps minimize accidental selection of a different lock mode by the access control system (53).

[0076] The controller 22 may also send a signal (not shown) to the vehicle 10 system to generate an alert notifying the vehicle user 11 that a different lock mode has been selected by the access control system 53. Such an alert may be in the form of an audible alert (e.g., a tone), a visual alert (e.g., a display on the center console of the vehicle 10), a haptic alert, or any combination of these types of alerts. In one embodiment, a visual alert presentation on the side of the lock mode request module 50 may be particularly useful so that when either the first request button 52 or the second request button 54 is actuated to select an invalid WAL mode or a double lock WAL mode, the vehicle user 11 has an immediate and clear visual indication that a different lock mode has been selected. Typically, the visual alert may be presented by lighting up the periphery (56) of the first request button (52) or the second request button (54), as shown in FIG.

[0077] A method for controlling an access control system (53) according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated by the flowchart shown in Figure 6. The steps of the method for controlling an access control system (53) are described in more detail below with reference to the flowchart.

[0078] In one embodiment of the present invention, shown in Figure 6, a user exit signal 32 indicating that a vehicle user 11 is preparing to or attempting to exit the vehicle 10 is generated in response to an attempt to open a closure means 19 associated with the vehicle user 11. At step 100, a user exit signal 32 indicating that the closure means 19 has been opened is received, and the method moves to step 102, where a selected period of time is initiated during which the signal received from the lock mode request module 50 is interpreted as a lock mode request signal 30.

[0079] In step 104, either the first request button 52 is actuated by the vehicle user 11, the second request button 54 is actuated by the vehicle user 11, or neither button is actuated by the vehicle user 11. As explained with reference to the previous figures, in the embodiment depicted in the flowchart of Figure 6, it is assumed that the first request button 52 is an unlock request button and the second lock request button is a lock request button.

[0080] If the request button actuated by the vehicle user 11 in step 104 is the lock request button 54, the method proceeds to step 106, where the access control system 53 waits to see if the lock request button 54 has been actuated for the number of seconds within the double lock time period. If the lock request button 54 has been actuated for the number of seconds within the double lock time period, the method proceeds to step 108, where the double lock WAL mode of operation is selected. If the lock request button 54 has not been actuated for the number of seconds within the double lock time period, the method instead proceeds to step 120, which will be described below.

[0081] After the double lock WAL mode is selected in step 108, the method proceeds to step 110, where an alert is generated to inform the vehicle user 11 that the double lock WAL mode has been selected. In step 112, the access control system 53 waits to see if the vehicle user 11 has activated an alternate request button. If the vehicle user 11 has selected an alternate request button, the method returns to step 104; if no button has been selected, the method proceeds to step 114, where the door associated with the vehicle user 11 is closed.

[0082] At step 116, the key fob 12 exceeds the threshold distance from the vehicle 10, which causes the method to proceed to step 118, where the access system 51 is activated to a double locking state, where both the inner and outer handles 18b, 18a are disconnected from the latching mechanism 21.

[0083] Alternatively, if the request button actuated in step 104 is the unlock request button 52, the method proceeds to step 130, where an invalid WAL mode is selected, and from there to step 132, where an alert is generated to inform the vehicle user 11 that an invalid WAL mode was selected. In step 134, the access control system 53 waits to see if the vehicle user 11 has actuated an alternative request button. If the vehicle user 11 has selected an alternative request button, the method returns to step 104; if no button was selected, the method proceeds to step 136, where the closing means 19 associated with the vehicle user 11 is closed.

[0084] At step 138, the key fob 12 exceeds the threshold distance from the vehicle 10, which causes the method to proceed to step 140, where the access system 51 remains unlocked and both the inside and outside handles 18b, 18a are connected to the latching mechanism 21.

[0085] Alternatively, if no request button is actuated in step 104, the method proceeds to step 120, where the single-lock WAL mode is selected. From there, the method proceeds to step 122, where the access control system waits to see if the vehicle user 11 has actuated an alternate request button. If the vehicle user 11 has selected an alternate request button, the method returns to step 104; if no button was selected, the method proceeds to step 124, where the door associated with the vehicle user 11 is closed.

[0086] At step 126, the key fob 12 exceeds the threshold distance from the vehicle 10, which causes the method to proceed to step 128, where the access system 51 is activated to a single locking state, where the inner handle 18b is connected to the latching mechanism 21 and the outer handle 18a is disconnected from the latching mechanism 21.

[0087] After any of steps 118, 128, or 140, the method proceeds to step 150, where the method is complete.

[0088] As used herein, the term "controller" or "control module" should be understood to include both a single control module or controller and multiple control modules or controllers that collectively operate to provide a desired control function. A set of instructions may be provided that, when executed, causes the above-described control module(s) to perform the control techniques (including the above-described method(s)) described herein. The set of instructions may be embedded in one or more electronic CPUs or processors.

[0089] Alternatively, the set of instructions may be provided as software, which may be executed by one or more electronic processor(s). For example, a first control module may be implemented in software running on one or more electronic processors, and one or more other control modules may also be implemented in software running on one or more electronic processors, optionally also running on the same processor(s) as the first control module. However, it should be understood that other arrangements are useful, and thus the present invention is not intended to be limited to any particular arrangement.

[0090] In any event, the set of instructions described above may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory storage medium), which may include any mechanism for storing information in a form readable by a mechanical or electronic processor / computer device, including, but not limited to: magnetic storage media (e.g., floppy disks); optical storage media (e.g., CD-ROMs); magneto-optical storage media; read-only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); erasable and programmable memory (e.g., EPROM and EEPROM); flash memory; or electrical or other type of medium for storing such information / instructions.

[0091] In the time sequence of the system described above, the controller 22 of the access control system 53 receives the user exit signal 32, then the signal interpreted as the lock mode request signal 30, and then the user device distance signal 34; however, it should be understood that these signals are to be considered in any time sequence and may be referred to as a first signal, a second signal, or a third signal.

[0092] Many variations on the examples described above are possible without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims. In one aspect, the present disclosure includes the following inventions. (Invention 1) 1. An access control system for a vehicle comprising at least one access system associated with a closure means of the vehicle, said access system being capable of being activated to a plurality of lock states, wherein said access control system comprises one or more controllers and is configured to perform the following operations: receiving a first signal from an associated user device, wherein the first signal indicates that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle; receiving a second signal indicative of a user request to change a lock mode of the access control system, and selecting a lock mode to operate in from a plurality of lock modes dependent on receiving the second signal; and Depending on the lock mode selected, do one of the following: (a) generating a control signal for activating the at least one access system to a different lock state in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance; or (b) maintaining the at least one access system in its current locked state in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance; (Invention 2) An access control system as described in invention 1, configured to: generate a control signal to operate the access control system in a first lock mode when a second signal is not received, wherein in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance, the controller generates the control signal to activate the at least one access system into a first lock state. (Invention 3) An access control system as described in invention 2, wherein the first locking state is a system in which activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle is prevented, while activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle is allowed. (Invention 4) The access control system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one lock mode selectable upon receiving the second signal is a double lock mode, and the control signal activates the at least one access system into a second lock state; However, the double lock mode may be selected from the plurality of lock modes in response to a second instance receiving the second signal within a double lock time period of a first instance receiving the second signal. (Invention 5) An access control system according to Invention 3 or Invention 4 dependent on Invention 3, wherein at least one lock mode selectable upon receipt of the second signal is an inactive lock mode, and wherein in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds the threshold distance, the at least one access system is maintained in an unlocked state, thereby allowing activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle and allowing activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle. (Invention 6) 6. The access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the access control system is configured to receive a third signal, the third signal indicating that the user is preparing to exit the vehicle or is about to exit the vehicle, and wherein, depending on the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal, the access control system operates in a lock mode selected from the plurality of lock modes; However, the third signal may be generated in response to a door of the vehicle associated with a vehicle user being opened or in response to a handle being moved on a door of the vehicle associated with the vehicle user, the system. (Invention 7) An access control system according to invention 6, wherein the access control system is configured as follows: the access control system needs to receive the third signal before the second signal to select a lock mode from the plurality of lock modes. (Invention 8) An access control system according to invention 6 or invention 7, wherein the access control system is configured as follows: the second signal needs to be received by the access control system within a selection time period of the third signal in order for the access control system to select a lock mode from the plurality of lock modes. (Invention 9) 9. The access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the access control system is configured to receive the first signal from a primary lock / unlock input device associated with the vehicle. (Invention 10) 10. The access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the access control system is configured to receive the second signal from a secondary lock / unlock input device associated with the vehicle; However, the secondary lock / unlock input device may be installed in the vehicle. (Invention 11) 11. The access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the access control system is configured to generate an alert signal when a second lock mode is selected. (Invention 12) 12. An access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising said at least one access system associated with said closing means of said vehicle. (Invention 13) A vehicle equipped with the access control system according to any one of the first to twelfth inventions. (Invention 14) 1. A method of controlling an access control system for a vehicle comprising at least one access system associated with a closure means of the vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a first signal from an associated user device, wherein the first signal indicates that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle; receiving a second signal indicating a user request to change a lock mode of the access control system, and selecting a lock mode to operate in from a plurality of lock modes dependent on receiving the second signal; and Depending on the lock mode selected, do one of the following: (a) generating a control signal for activating the at least one access system to a different lock state in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance; or (b) maintaining the at least one access system in its current locked state in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance; (Invention 15) 16. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of invention 14.

Claims

1. 1. An access control system comprising:

1. An access control system for a vehicle comprising at least one access system associated with a closing means of the vehicle, a controller, a first receiver, a second receiver and a third receiver, said access system being capable of being activated to a plurality of lock states, wherein: the first receiver is configured to receive a first signal from an associated user device, wherein the first signal indicates that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle; the second receiver is configured to receive a second signal indicative of a user request to change a lock mode of the access control system, and is configured to select a lock mode to operate in from a plurality of lock modes in dependence on receiving the second signal; the third receiver is configured to receive a third signal, the signal indicating that a user of the user device is preparing to or attempting to exit the vehicle, and wherein the access control system operates in a lock mode selected from the plurality of lock modes in dependence on the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal, the third signal being generated in response to a door of the vehicle associated with the vehicle user being opened or a handle on a door of the vehicle associated with the vehicle user being operated; and The controller is configured to do one of the following depending on the lock mode selected: (a) when a second signal is received, generating a first control signal for activating the at least one access system into a different lock state in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance, wherein the different lock state is a double lock state or a disabled lock state, wherein the double lock state is activated by operating the access control system in a double lock mode, and the disabled lock state is activated by operating the access control system in a disabled lock mode, wherein the double lock state is a state in which activation of a door latching mechanism by an outside handle is inhibited and activation of a door latching mechanism by an inside handle is inhibited, and the disabled lock state is a state in which activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle is permitted and activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle is permitted; or (b) if no second signal is received, in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance, activating the at least one access system to its single lock state, wherein the single lock state is activated by causing the access control system to remain in a single lock mode, wherein activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle is prevented while activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle is permitted; 1. An access control system comprising: wherein the access control system is configured such that the third signal must be received before the second signal for the access control system to select a lock mode from the plurality of lock modes. Access control system.

2. 2. The access control system of claim 1, configured to: generate a second control signal to operate the access control system in the single lock mode if a second signal is not received; wherein in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance, the controller generates the second control signal to activate the at least one access system to the single lock state.

3. 3. The access control system of claim 2, wherein at least one lock mode selectable upon receipt of the second signal is a double lock mode, and wherein the first control signal activates the at least one access system into the double lock state.

4. 4. The access control system of claim 3, wherein at least one lock mode selectable upon receipt of the second signal is an inactive lock mode, and wherein, in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle exceeds the threshold distance, the at least one access system remains in an unlocked state, thereby allowing activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle and allowing activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle.

5. 2. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the access control system is configured as follows: the second signal must be received by the access control system within a selection time period of the third signal in order for the access control system to select a lock mode from the plurality of lock modes.

6. 6. An access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the access control system is configured to receive the first signal from a primary lock / unlock input device associated with the vehicle.

7. 7. An access control system according to any preceding claim, wherein the access control system is configured to receive the second signal from a secondary lock / unlock input device associated with the vehicle.

8. 8. The access control system of claim 1, wherein the access control system is configured to generate an alert signal when a double lock mode is selected.

9. A vehicle equipped with an access control system according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. 1. A method comprising:

1. A method of controlling an access control system for a vehicle comprising at least one access system associated with a closure means of the vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a first signal from an associated user device, wherein the first signal indicates that the user device has exceeded a threshold distance from the vehicle; receiving a second signal indicating a user request to change a lock mode of the access control system, and selecting a lock mode to operate in from a plurality of lock modes dependent on receiving the second signal; receiving a third signal, the signal indicating that a user of the user device is preparing to or attempting to exit the vehicle, and wherein the access control system operates in a lock mode selected from the plurality of lock modes in dependence on the first signal, the second signal, and the third signal, the third signal being generated in response to a door of the vehicle associated with the vehicle user being opened or in response to a handle on a door of the vehicle associated with the vehicle user being operated; and Depending on the lock mode selected, do one of the following: (a) when a second signal is received, generating a first control signal for activating the at least one access system into a different lock state in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance, wherein the different lock state is a double lock state or a disabled lock state, wherein the double lock state is activated by operating the access control system in a double lock mode, and the disabled lock state is activated by operating the access control system in a disabled lock mode, wherein the double lock state is a state in which activation of a door latching mechanism by an outside handle is inhibited and activation of a door latching mechanism by an inside handle is inhibited, and the disabled lock state is a state in which activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle is permitted and activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle is permitted; or (b) if no second signal is received, in response to the first signal indicating that the proximity of the user device to the vehicle has exceeded the threshold distance, activating the at least one access system to its single lock state, wherein the single lock state is activated by causing the access control system to remain in a single lock mode, wherein activation of the door latching mechanism by the outside handle is prevented while activation of the door latching mechanism by the inside handle is permitted; a method comprising: wherein the access control system is configured such that the third signal must be received before the second signal for the access control system to select a lock mode from the plurality of lock modes. method.

11. 11. A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of claim 10.

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