Relay System

Abstract

To enable common use of a mobile relay device or vehicle relay device for, e.g., different vehicle types.SOLUTION: A relay system comprises a vehicle relay device 2 capable of communicating with a vehicle controller 1, and a mobile relay device 3 capable of communicating with a mobile device 4. In parameter storage sections 2d, 3f of the mobile relay device and the vehicle relay device, a plurality of parameters on communication that are different dependent on vehicle types are stored in association with the vehicle types. The mobile relay device is provided with a configuration switch 3g. The configuration switch is operated to configure a parameter of communication corresponding to the vehicle type used, and communication between the mobile relay device and the vehicle relay device is performed according to the parameter.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a relay system that relays wireless communication between a vehicle control device and a portable device in a system that controls a vehicle, with one of the conditions being that authentication information stored in the vehicle control device matches authentication information stored in a portable device that can wirelessly communicate with the vehicle control device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, in an immobilizer function, a vehicle control device that starts an engine performs authentication with an authorized portable device before actually starting the engine, and starts the engine only if authentication is successful. The communication distance between this portable device and the vehicle control device is short, at only a few tens of centimeters. Therefore, when starting the engine remotely from outside the vehicle, a system that relays wireless communication between the vehicle control device and the portable device is required, as shown in Patent Document 1, for example. By using the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, even in a vehicle equipped with an immobilizer function, it is possible to take the portable device outside the vehicle and start the engine remotely. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-49770 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the use of the above-described conventional system poses the following problems. For example, the bit configuration of 1 / 0 bits that constitute the signals transmitted and received between the vehicle control device and the portable device varies depending on the vehicle model. Therefore, for example, the bit rate, which is one of the communication parameters, is transmitted at a high-frequency bit rate by shortening the sampling period for all bit configurations corresponding to each vehicle model. The bit rate is related to the upper limit of the communication distance, and increasing the bit rate frequency shortens the upper limit of the communication distance. When used in an environment with a long communication distance under such a condition, the wireless communication quality deteriorates due to the influence of external disturbances. As a result, there is a problem that it is not possible to operate the system from a position sufficiently far from the vehicle. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the relay system of the present invention is (1) a system for relaying wireless communication between a vehicle control device and a portable device in a system for controlling a vehicle, with one condition being that authentication information stored in the vehicle control device matches authentication information stored in a portable device that can wirelessly communicate with the vehicle control device, and the system includes a vehicle repeater that can communicate with the vehicle control device and a portable repeater that can communicate with the portable device. At least one of the portable repeater and the vehicle repeater stores multiple setting information related to communication that varies depending on the vehicle model, associated with the vehicle model, and at least one of the portable repeater and the vehicle repeater is provided with a setting switch, and when the setting switch is operated, setting information related to communication corresponding to the vehicle model to be used is set, and communication is performed between the portable repeater and the vehicle repeater.

[0006] Various setting information required for wireless communication between a vehicle control device and a portable device to verify authentication information, etc., differs depending on the vehicle model. Such setting information, which differs depending on the vehicle model, may affect wireless transmission for relaying between the vehicle repeater and the portable repeater. Therefore, in the present invention, setting information that differs for each vehicle model is stored and maintained in the portable repeater or vehicle repeater, associated with the vehicle model. Once the vehicle model in which the relay system of the present invention is implemented is determined, the vehicle model is identified using a setting switch. Accordingly, the setting information stored and associated with the vehicle model is acquired, and wireless communication is performed according to the acquired setting information. Regardless of the vehicle model, wireless communication can be performed under conditions appropriate for that vehicle model. Therefore, communication conditions are stable, making long-distance transmission easy. This is advantageous because the portable repeater or vehicle repeater can be used in common for different vehicle models. Furthermore, the vehicle model can be switched using the setting switch, making it easy to adjust the system to suit the vehicle model being used.

[0007] The setting switch and the storage of setting information can be installed on both the portable repeater and the vehicle repeater, or on just one. If installed on both, there is no need to send setting information or information on the vehicle model specified by the setting switch to the other party, so it is sufficient to set them individually. If installed on just one, it is necessary to communicate and notify the other party, but since the switch and storage means are installed on only one side, the configuration is simpler.

[0008] (2) The setting information is a parameter that determines the sampling interval of the wirelessly transmitted data, and the sampling interval may be widened within a range in which the data can be recognized. In the embodiment, the parameter corresponds to, for example, a bit rate or a carrier frequency. For example, narrowing the sampling interval and capturing data more precisely allows for accurate recognition and relay of data transmitted from a vehicle control device or a portable device. Furthermore, capturing data more precisely makes it possible to recognize data at a common sampling interval, even when the bit configuration of one bit of the setting information differs depending on the vehicle model, which is the problem solved by the invention (1). However, shortening the sampling interval shortens the wireless communication distance, making it impossible to solve the problem of extending the communication distance by relaying, and thus making it impractical. Therefore, in the present invention, the sampling interval is widened within a range in which the wirelessly transmitted data can be recognized, thereby extending the relay communication distance.

[0009] (3) The parameters for wireless communication from the vehicle repeater to the portable repeater and for wireless transmission from the portable repeater to the vehicle repeater should be the same. This simplifies processing, as it is possible to perform transmission and reception processes at each repeater using the same setting information, which is preferable.

[0010] (4) The parameter may be determined based on the greatest common divisor of the high pulse width and the low pulse width of the bit configuration, thereby optimizing the conditions for extending the communication distance while accurately recognizing data.

[0011] (5) It is advisable to control relaying based on the High / Low state when a set time has elapsed since the High / Low change of the received data. If the bit structure of the data being communicated is known, it is possible to determine, from the time elapsed since the High / Low change and the High / Low state at that time, whether the received data is 0 or 1, whether there are any abnormalities in the data being received, and other such conditions. Therefore, by performing various controls based on such conditions, it is possible to extend the communication distance and improve the quality of wireless communication, thereby ensuring stable relaying.

[0012] (6) The control for the relay is to determine whether the data being received is 1 or 0, and it is preferable to have a function to create a relay waveform that continues for a set period of time with a low or high state assigned to 1 and 0, respectively, based on the determination result. Since the relay waveform is converted to "1 cycle high / 1 cycle low" depending on whether it is 0 or 1, the apparent bit rate is lowered, which is advantageous because it enables long-distance transmission.

[0013] (7) The control for the relay is a determination of whether the data being received is 1 or 0, and a correction function is preferably provided to output normal waveform data even if an abnormal pulse occurs after the determination result. (8) A correction function is preferably provided to output normal waveform data even if an abnormal pulse that is impossible is generated based on the elapsed time from the High / Low switch of the received data. For example, when wireless communication is actually performed within the communication range, bit abnormalities may occur due to the communication environment, etc., and an abnormal pulse may be generated. If an abnormal pulse occurs, correct data cannot be sent or received, authentication is not possible, and vehicle control cannot be performed. Therefore, the present invention forcibly generates and outputs a normal waveform, which is preferable because it extends the communication distance.

[0014] (9) If multiple abnormal pulses occur between a High / Low transition in the received data and the next normal High / Low transition, the correction function should not be used. The corrections (7) and (8) described above are strong corrections that force a normal waveform to be sent even if an abnormality exists. Therefore, if multiple abnormal pulses occur, the reliability of the original data will also be reduced, so corrections are not used.

[0015] (10) A relay system corresponding to a system in which there are multiple portable devices with different authentication information, the vehicle control device stores and holds the authentication information for each of the multiple portable devices, the vehicle control device transmits a response request signal including one of the authentication information stored and held, the portable device transmits response data if the authentication information included in the received response request signal matches its own authentication information, and the vehicle control device determines that the authentication information matches when it receives the response data.The portable repeater, after completing relay of the response request signal, switches to a communication state in which it relays the response data, performs carrier sensing when the response data arrives, and if a carrier does not arrive, switches to a communication state in which it relays the response request signal.

[0016] In the present invention, carrier sensing is always performed when a response is present. Therefore, if carrier sensing is not performed, it becomes clear that there is no portable device with the authentication information specified in the previously transmitted response request signal, and no response data will be transmitted. If no response data is received within a certain period of time, the vehicle control device transmits a response request signal based on the next authentication information. Therefore, if the repeater remains in response data reception mode and there is a delay in switching to response request signal reception mode, the next response request signal may not be received, and relaying to the authorized portable device may not be possible. If relaying is not possible in this way, vehicle control may be impossible even if an authorized portable device is present.

[0017] According to the present invention, the absence of response data can be recognized early and the communication state can be switched, so that the next response request signal can be reliably received and relayed.

[0018] (11) After completing the relaying of the response request signal, the vehicle repeater switches to a communication state in which it relays the response data, performs carrier sensing when the response data arrives, and if the carrier does not arrive, switches to a communication state in which it relays the response request signal. As in (10) above, this allows the vehicle repeater to quickly determine whether or not there is response data, switch the communication state, and reliably relay the next response request signal.

[0019] (12) It is preferable to perform carrier sensing when the response data arrives, and if a carrier arrives, to continue the communication state in which the response data is relayed. In this way, since the received carrier is likely to be response data, it is possible to relay the response data by continuing communication as is.

[0020] (13) The carrier sense may be performed multiple times. To speed up processing, it is preferable to perform it once, but checking multiple times is preferable because it ensures accuracy. Compared to actually checking data, performing carrier sense multiple times can ensure time leeway, so the present invention is preferable because it prioritizes accuracy over the time disadvantage of performing carrier sense multiple times.

[0021] (14) The vehicle repeater or the portable repeater may have a function to transmit an ACK while receiving a WAKE signal from the vehicle control device. Since the ACK signal is common to each portable device, the vehicle repeater or portable repeater can transmit the ACK signal itself, rather than waiting for it to be sent from the portable device and then relaying it, thereby reducing processing time. Furthermore, since the ACK signal is returned while receiving a WAKE signal, this is preferable because it further reduces processing time.

[0022] In particular, when RFICs are prepared for transmission and reception, as in the invention of (15) described below, if this is applied to a system in which a portable device transmits an ACK or response while it is in the middle of receiving a WAKE or response request signal, the repeater will relay the WAKE and return an ACK without waiting for an ACK from the portable device, which is advantageous as it increases the processing speed of the entire system.

[0023] (15) The transceiver units that perform relaying in the vehicle repeater and the portable repeater may be configured with a transmission-only RFIC and a reception-only RFIC. The transmission-only RFIC and the reception-only RFIC do not necessarily need to be dedicated to transmission or reception as hardware; an RFIC capable of transmission and reception may be used exclusively for transmission or reception. This eliminates the need for switching between transmission and reception, shortening processing time and simplifying communication control. Furthermore, by using dedicated RFICs for transmission and reception, reception and transmission processing can be performed simultaneously, further shortening processing time. As a result, it is possible to accommodate a shorter allowable time between transmitting a response request signal and receiving response data. Because the RFICs are dedicated to reception and transmission, the design does not require consideration of switching time, allowing for a design using frequencies that increase the reliability of wireless communication.

[0024] (16) The portable repeater is equipped with a large-capacity battery, and the case of the portable repeater has a storage section for storing the portable device. When the portable device is stored in the storage section, the portable device and the portable repeater are positioned relative to each other so that they can communicate. Providing two RFICs for dual operation increases power consumption. Therefore, a large-capacity battery is used as the built-in battery to improve battery life. A large-capacity battery has a larger capacity than general-purpose dry batteries or button batteries, and examples of such batteries include those installed in mobile devices such as smartphones. Since the portable repeater is portable, even if a large-capacity battery is used, its weight and dimensions are determined taking portability into consideration. On the other hand, large-capacity batteries are larger in size and shape than button batteries, and the case constituting the portable repeater is also larger. Therefore, by providing a storage section in the larger portable repeater to store the portable device and storing the portable device in the storage section, the portable device and the portable repeater can be positioned close to each other within the desired distance, ensuring reliable communication.

[0025] (17) The case of the portable repeater may be provided with a storage section for storing the portable device, and when the portable device is stored in the storage section, the portable device and the portable repeater may be placed in a relative position that allows communication. According to this invention, a space for storing the portable device is provided as the storage section, and when the portable device is stored in the storage section, the portable device and the portable repeater can be positioned close to each other within a desired distance, thereby ensuring reliable communication.

[0026] (18) The portable repeater may store and retain a response request signal including the authentication information transmitted by the vehicle control device as a normal response request signal, and the portable repeater may have a distance determination function that outputs the normal response request signal and issues a notification based on the determination result of whether or not the corresponding response data from the portable device has been received. The notification of the determination result may be either when communication is successful or when communication is not successful, but it is preferable to report both cases, as this allows the notification result to be recognized reliably.

[0027] According to this invention, it is possible to know from the notification result whether the portable repeater and the portable device are within an appropriate range for communication. Therefore, for example, if an attempt is made to remotely control a vehicle's equipment by operating the portable repeater but control is not actually possible, it is possible to easily determine whether communication between the portable repeater and the portable device is not possible at all, or whether there is a malfunction in the communication system, etc. Furthermore, this invention is advantageous in that it can be confirmed without starting the engine.

[0028] (19) The portable repeater may relay a response request signal including the authentication information transmitted by the vehicle control device, and upon receiving response data in response to the response request signal from the portable device, may store and retain the relayed response request signal as the normal response request signal. This is advantageous because it allows for easy acquisition and storage of a normal response request signal.

[0029] (20) When the portable repeater relays multiple types of response request signals including the authentication information transmitted by the vehicle control device, it is preferable that the portable repeater also stores and retains the response request signals for which no response data was received as the normal response request signal. When multiple authorized portable devices are present, the user may not necessarily be carrying the portable device corresponding to the response request signal transmitted the first time, and response data may be transmitted by transmitting multiple response request signals. Even in such a case, the response request signal for which no response data was transmitted still contains the authentication information of the authorized portable device. Therefore, in the present invention, by storing and retaining the authentication information of such authorized portable device as the normal response request signal, it is possible to perform separation determination even if the user carries a different portable device at a later date, etc.

[0030] (21) When the portable repeater relays multiple types of response request signals containing the authentication information transmitted by the vehicle control device, it is preferable that the portable repeater stores and holds all of the relayed response request signals as the normal response request signals. For example, even if there is no response data for all transmitted response request signals, since they were sent from the vehicle control device, there is a high possibility that all of the response request signals correspond to legitimate portable devices. Therefore, by storing and holding all of them as normal response request signals, it is possible to perform distance determination for any portable device carried thereafter.

[0031] For example, if a user operates a portable repeater without holding a portable device and causes it to send a response request signal to a vehicle control device, no response data is sent, and response request signals for all portable devices stored in the vehicle control device can be obtained. [Effects of the Invention]

[0032] According to the present invention, the portable repeater and the vehicle repeater can be used in common for different vehicle types, etc. Furthermore, since the setting information is switched depending on the vehicle type, the setting information can be made appropriate for the vehicle control device and the portable device for each vehicle type, thereby improving the quality of wireless communication. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0033] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a vehicle remote control system including a relay system according to the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the communication timing of each data signal. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a bit configuration of data to be wirelessly communicated. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of communication when a plurality of portable devices are present. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a fifth embodiment. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a seventh embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an eighth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an eighth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a ninth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a ninth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a tenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0034] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. These drawings are used to explain technical features that may be adopted by the present invention. The configurations and shapes of the devices described are merely illustrative examples, and the present invention should not be construed as being limited thereto. Various changes, modifications, and improvements may be made based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0035] [Basic Configuration] (First embodiment: Common to different vehicle models, etc.) Figure 1 shows an example of a vehicle remote control system using the relay system of the present invention. Based on this Figure 1, the basic configuration that is the premise of this system will be explained while explaining the operation of the communication processing. This system includes a vehicle control device 1 installed in a vehicle, a vehicle repeater 2, a portable repeater 3, and a portable device 4.

[0036] The vehicle control device 1 is a device for controlling predetermined devices of a vehicle. The control of the predetermined devices is, for example, for starting the vehicle so that it can run in response to a user operation such as pressing a push start button, and may involve, for example, turning on a starter motor (engine start) in an automobile powered by an internal combustion engine, or turning on the power to an electric motor in an electric automobile powered by an electric motor. The following describes an example of "engine start."

[0037] The vehicle control device 1 of this embodiment performs control of the engine start, etc., with one of the conditions being that the authentication information stored in the portable device 4 matches the authentication information stored in the vehicle control device 1, before controlling the equipment of the vehicle to be controlled.

[0038] To perform this processing, the vehicle control device 1 and the portable device 4 are configured to be able to communicate wirelessly with each other. To perform this processing, the vehicle control device 1 includes a control unit 1a, a transceiver unit 1b, and an authentication information storage unit 1c. Although not shown, the vehicle control device 1 is connected to the vehicle's battery and receives power from the battery. The vehicle control device 1 communicates with the devices of the vehicle to be controlled, for example, via wired communication, and controls the specified devices. The authentication information storage unit 1c is a non-volatile storage means and stores authentication information of the authorized portable device 4. The authentication information may be, for example, an ID code. If there are multiple authorized portable devices 4, the authentication information of each of the multiple portable devices 4 is stored.

[0039] The control unit 1a is configured by, for example, an MPU, etc. The control unit 1a has a function of outputting a control signal for controlling the equipment of the vehicle to be controlled, and a function of outputting command data and the like when communicating with other devices, such as a response request signal (LF data) for confirming the presence of the authorized portable device 4, based on the authentication information stored in the authentication information storage unit 1c.

[0040] The transceiver 1b performs wireless communication with the transceivers mounted on the portable device 4 and the vehicle repeater 2. The transceiver 1b is configured, for example, by an in-vehicle RFIC for transceiver use. The transceiver 1b has functions such as wirelessly transmitting LF data, such as various command data, output from the control unit 1a at a first frequency, receiving RF data, such as command data, wirelessly transmitted from another device at a second frequency, and passing the RF data to the control unit 1a. The second frequency is higher than the first frequency, and the communication distance for RF data using the second frequency is also longer. For example, the first frequency is 134 kHz, and the second frequency is 314 MHz.

[0041] The portable device 4 is what is called, for example, a smart key or a genuine key. The portable device 4 includes a control unit 4a, a transmission / reception unit 4b, and an authentication information storage unit 4c. The portable device 4 is powered by a built-in primary battery. The primary battery may be a commercially available dry cell battery or button cell battery, which are easily available, easy to install, and easy to handle. In particular, a button cell battery is preferable because it allows the portable device 4 to be made smaller.

[0042] The authentication information storage unit 4c stores a unique ID code as authentication information for the immobilizer function. The control unit 4a is configured, for example, by an MPU or the like. When the control unit 1a receives a response request signal addressed to itself from its paired vehicle control device 1, it outputs a response signal (RF data: response data). The transceiver unit 4b performs wireless communication with the transceiver units implemented in the vehicle control device 1 and the portable repeater 3. For example, it is configured by an in-vehicle transceiver RFIC. This transceiver unit 4b has functions such as receiving LF data such as command data wirelessly transmitted at a first frequency and passing it to the control unit 4a, and wirelessly transmitting RF data such as various command data such as response signals output from the control unit 4a at a second frequency.

[0043] When a transmission timing such as reception of a predetermined signal is met, the control unit 1a of the vehicle control device 1 accesses the authentication information storage unit 1c, acquires an ID code as stored authentication information, and outputs a response request signal (LF data) including the ID code. An example of the predetermined signal is a foot brake signal output when the foot brake pedal of the vehicle is depressed. When the portable device 4 is within a communication distance of the response request signal and receives the response request signal, the portable device 4 wirelessly transmits a response signal including its own authentication information. As described above, the control unit 1a of the vehicle control device 1 performs engine start processing, with one of the conditions being that the response signal including valid authentication information is received within a certain time after outputting the response request signal.

[0044] The communication distance between the vehicle control device 1 and the portable device 4 is relatively short, since it is sufficient for communication to occur when, for example, a driver carrying the portable device 4 is sitting in the driver's seat and performing an engine start operation. This relatively short distance is approximately 1 to 2 meters when the first frequency for transmitting LF data is 134 kHz. In this embodiment, a vehicle repeater 2 and a portable repeater 3 are provided, and the repeaters relay wireless communication between the vehicle control device 1 and the portable device 4, thereby extending the communication distance. By extending the communication distance in this manner, the system allows, for example, a user carrying the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 to perform authentication using authentication information between the vehicle control device 1 and the portable device 4 even when the user is located relatively far from the vehicle, and can start the engine from that remote location.

[0045] The vehicle repeater 2 is placed at a predetermined position within the vehicle. The vehicle repeater 2 comprises a control unit 2a that controls the vehicle repeater 2, a first vehicle-side transceiver 2b for wireless communication with the vehicle control device 1, and a second vehicle-side transceiver 2c for wireless communication with the portable repeater 3. Although not shown, the vehicle repeater 2 is connected to the vehicle's battery and receives power from the battery. The control unit 2a is composed of, for example, an MPU. Furthermore, the first vehicle-side transceiver 2b and the second vehicle-side transceiver 2c are each composed of an on-board transceiver RFIC.

[0046] The first vehicle-side transceiver 2b transmits and receives data to and from the transceiver 1b of the vehicle control device 1, receives radio waves transmitted wirelessly in the transmission frequency band (first frequency) of the transceiver 1b, and transmits the data wirelessly in the second frequency. Since the communication distance is short, it uses weak radio waves used in a low-power radio station, which is a type of radio station. The second vehicle-side transceiver 2c uses radio waves in a frequency band used by specified low-power radio stations. By using this specified low-power radio communication, the communication distance is, for example, about 1 to 2 km in terms of line of sight, and even if there are obstacles, it is only about several hundred meters. Therefore, even if you live in a detached house or an apartment building and park your vehicle in a parking lot on the premises, you can communicate with the vehicle control device 1.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the vehicle repeater 2 and the vehicle control device 1 are connected by a communication cable for wired communication. The control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2 uses this wired communication to transmit a foot brake signal and an engine start request signal. The foot brake signal is a signal corresponding to the signal output when the foot brake pedal of the vehicle is depressed. The engine start request signal is a signal corresponding to the signal output when, for example, the push start button of the vehicle is pressed.

[0048] The mobile repeater 3 includes a control unit 3a that controls the mobile repeater 3, a first mobile side transceiver 3b for communicating with the mobile device 4, and a second mobile side transceiver 3c for communicating with the vehicle repeater 2. Furthermore, the mobile repeater 3 includes an operation unit 3d and an alarm unit 3e.

[0049] The operation unit 3d is, for example, a push button switch that corresponds to operation instructions such as a start switch or a stop switch. A user located away from the vehicle can press the operation unit 3d to operate the vehicle control device 1 installed in the vehicle and start or stop the engine, thereby remotely controlling the vehicle. To perform this processing, when the control unit 3a detects an operation on the operation unit 3d, it transmits an instruction command corresponding to the operation from the second mobile side transceiver unit 3c. The power source for the portable repeater 3 is a built-in primary battery. The primary battery is preferably a commercially available dry cell battery or button battery, as it is easy to obtain, install, and handle. In particular, using a button battery is preferable because it allows the portable repeater 3 to be made smaller.

[0050] The notification unit 3e notifies the operating status, etc., for example, by notifying the execution results such as engine start success or error sent from the vehicle control device 1 and vehicle repeater 2. The notification unit 3e notifies visually or audibly. In the case of a visual notification, the notification unit 3e may, for example, use a display panel to display the execution results using characters, figures, etc., or may use a light-emitting means such as an LED to notify by the lighting state (blinking / off / on) or the emitted color. In the case of an auditory notification, the notification unit 3e may, for example, use a speaker to notify by voice or buzzer. These may be realized by one or a combination of two or more of them.

[0051] The control unit 3a is configured, for example, by an MPU. The first mobile transceiver 3b and the second mobile transceiver 3c are each configured by an in-vehicle RFIC for transceiver use. The first mobile transceiver 3b transmits wirelessly at the reception frequency band (first frequency) of the transceiver 4b of the portable device 4, and receives wirelessly at the transmission frequency (second frequency) of the transceiver 4b. Because the communication distance is short, weak radio waves used in a low-power radio station, which is a type of radio station, are used. The second mobile transceiver 3c uses radio waves in the frequency band used by specified low-power radio stations.

[0052] In this embodiment, the relay function enables remote engine starting through the communication transition shown in Figures 1 and 2. (1) The control unit 3a of the portable repeater 3 outputs a start signal when the operation unit 3d is pressed. The second portable transceiver 3c wirelessly transmits this start signal to the vehicle repeater 2.

[0053] (2) The second vehicle-side transceiver 2c of the vehicle repeater 2 receives the start signal transmitted from the portable repeater 3. When the control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2 receives the start signal, it transmits a foot brake signal to the vehicle control device 1 using the wired communication function. As shown in Figure 2, the vehicle repeater 2 maintains the foot brake signal ON during the relay and transmission process of each data signal shown below.

[0054] (3) When the control unit 1a of the vehicle control device 1 receives the foot brake signal, it accesses the authentication information storage unit 1c, acquires the ID code as the stored authentication information, and outputs a response request signal (LF data) including the ID code. The transceiver unit 1b transmits the LF data using the wireless transmission function.

[0055] (4) The first vehicle-side transceiver 2b of the vehicle repeater 2 receives the LF data. The vehicle repeater 2 wirelessly transmits wireless LF data based on the received LF data to the portable repeater 3 using the transmission function of the second vehicle-side transceiver 2c. The wireless LF data is reversible data compared to the LF data.

[0056] (5) The second mobile-side transceiver 3c of the mobile repeater 3 receives the wireless LF data. The mobile repeater 3 generates original LF data from the received wireless LF data and transmits the generated LF data to the mobile device 4 at the first frequency using the transmission function of the first mobile-side transceiver 3b.

[0057] (6) The LF data transmitted by the portable repeater 3 is transmitted at the first frequency and is equivalent to the LF data transmitted by the transceiver unit 1b of the vehicle control device 1, so the transceiver unit 4b of the portable device 4 receives the LF data. The control unit 4a determines whether the received LF data is addressed to itself. Specifically, it determines whether the ID code included in the LF data matches its own ID code stored in the authentication information storage unit 4c. If the ID codes match, the control unit 4a transmits RF data (response data), which is a response signal, using the transmission function of the transceiver unit 4b. Note that if the ID codes do not match, the control unit 4a does not transmit anything.

[0058] (7) The first mobile-side transceiver 3b of the mobile repeater 3 receives the RF data. The mobile repeater 3 transmits wireless RF data based on the received RF data using the transmission function of the second mobile-side transceiver 3c. The wireless RF data is reversible with the LF data.

[0059] (8), (9) The second vehicle-side transceiver 2c of the vehicle repeater 2 receives the wireless RF data. The vehicle repeater 2 generates original RF data from the received wireless RF data and transmits the generated RF data at a second frequency using the transmission function of the first vehicle-side transceiver 2b. In addition, the control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2 transmits an engine start request signal to the vehicle control device 1 using the wired communication function prior to transmitting the RF data from the first vehicle-side transceiver 2b. The vehicle repeater 2 wirelessly transmits the above RF data while keeping the engine start request signal ON.

[0060] The transceiver 1b of the vehicle control device 1 receives the RF data sent from the vehicle repeater 2. The control unit 1a authenticates whether the received RF data is RF data (response data) from the authorized portable device 4. If the authentication result indicates that the RF data is from the authorized portable device 4 and both the engine start request signal and the foot brake signal are ON, the control unit 1a controls to start the engine. After a certain time has passed since the engine started, the control unit 1a controls to stop the engine. By continuing to operate the engine, the engine can be warmed up or the temperature inside the vehicle can be adjusted to an appropriate temperature using the air conditioner installed in the vehicle.

[0061] Furthermore, when stopping the engine during warm-up, the user operates the operation unit 3d of the portable repeater 3. When the portable repeater 3 receives an operation stop command associated with the operation of the operation unit 3d, it transmits the operation stop command. The transmitted operation stop command reaches the vehicle control device 1 via the vehicle repeater 2. When the control unit 1a receives the operation stop command, it controls the engine to stop while it is in operation. Furthermore, the control unit 1a relays and transmits the execution result of the received operation command in the same manner as LF data, and notifies the portable repeater 3 of the result when it reaches the portable repeater 3.

[0062] [Features of the first embodiment] Figure 3 shows an example of the bit configuration of LF data and RF data. As shown in the figure, for example, in LF data, "bit 0" is high for 200 μs and low for 150 μs (see Figure 3(a)), while "bit 1" is high for 500 μs and low for 200 μs (see Figure 3(b)). In this way, both bit configurations start high and drop to low. On the other hand, for RF data, "bit 0" is "high for 800 μs and low for 800 μs" (see Figure 3(c)), and its inverse, "low for 800 μs and high for 800 μs" (see Figure 3(d)). Furthermore, "bit 1" maintains the same state (H / L) for one cycle, 1600 μs (see Figures 3(e) and (f)). The bit configuration adopted depends on the state of the previous bit. For example, if a "0" is represented as in Figure 3(c), it ends with a High, so the next data will have a bit configuration that starts with a High ("0": Figure 3(c), "1": Figure 3(e)). Therefore, if "0"s continue, the same bit configuration will be used, and if "1"s continue, Figure 3(e) and Figure 3(f) will be used alternately.

[0063] When transmitting such data via wireless communication, it is transmitted at a predetermined bit rate. At this time, since the pulse widths of LF data and RF data differ greatly, a bit rate is set that does not impair the pulse width. Furthermore, the bit configuration shown in the figure is only an example and differs depending on the automobile manufacturer and model. And, as such bit configurations differ, the bit rates appropriate for those different bit configurations also differ.

[0064] Therefore, in this embodiment, the portable repeater 3 is provided with a parameter memory unit 3f that stores communication-related parameters corresponding to bit configurations that differ depending on the automobile manufacturer and vehicle model, and a setting switch 3g that sets one of the multiple parameters stored in the parameter memory unit 3f. The communication-related parameter is, for example, the bit rate used for sampling. Furthermore, the carrier frequency of LF data varies depending on the vehicle. Therefore, in this embodiment, the parameter is stored as a combination of bit rate and carrier frequency. Information about the bit configuration may also be stored. The parameter memory unit 3f stores, for example, communication-related parameters and information such as vehicle model as a table in association with each other.

[0065] The setting switch 3g may be, for example, a dial type or a DIP switch. Using a DIP switch is advantageous because it reduces the installation space, allows for the miniaturization of the portable repeater 3, and minimizes the risk of accidentally changing the DIP switch settings during use.

[0066] The vehicle repeater 2 also includes a parameter memory 2d that stores communication parameters corresponding to bit configurations that vary depending on the automobile manufacturer and model. The information stored in the parameter memory 2d is the same as the information stored in the parameter memory 3f of the mobile repeater 3.

[0067] The parameters associated with the vehicle type, etc. are set as follows: First, in the mobile repeater 3, for example, according to the setting of the setting switch 3g, the control unit 3a accesses the parameter memory unit 3f, acquires parameters such as bit rate associated with the set vehicle type, etc., and sets them in the second mobile side transceiver 3c. The control unit 3a also uses the second mobile side transceiver 3c to send the acquired setting information of the setting switch 3g to the vehicle repeater 2 via packet communication, not the relay shown in Figure 1. The control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2 accesses the parameter memory unit 2d based on the setting information received by the second vehicle side transceiver 2c, acquires parameters associated with the set vehicle type, etc., and sets them in the second vehicle side transceiver 2c. In this way, communication from the mobile repeater 3 to the vehicle repeater 2 can be easily performed by simply sending the state of the setting switch 3g, for example, the 1 / 0 information of the DIP switch if it is a DIP switch.

[0068] During actual relaying, sampling when transmitting and receiving wireless LF data and wireless RF data is performed in the second mobile-side transceiver 3c and the second vehicle-side transceiver 2c according to parameters such as the set bit rate.

[0069] According to this embodiment, it is preferable that the portable repeater 3 and the vehicle repeater 2 can be used in common for different vehicle types, etc. Furthermore, it is preferable that the vehicle type can be switched using the setting switch 3g, which makes it easy to adjust to the vehicle type being used, etc.

[0070] [Modification of the first embodiment] In this embodiment, both the vehicle repeater 2 and the portable repeater 3 store information associating vehicle type, etc. with communication-related parameters, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, such information may be provided only on the portable repeater 3 side, and communication-related parameters corresponding to the vehicle type, etc. used, uniquely identified by the setting of the setting switch 3g, may be sent to the vehicle repeater 2. The vehicle repeater 2 may store and retain the sent parameters and set parameters such as the bit rate of the second vehicle side transceiver 2c based on those parameters. In this way, there is no need to store information associating vehicle type, etc. with communication-related parameters on both the vehicle repeater 2 and the portable repeater 3, thereby simplifying the configuration. Furthermore, the portable repeater 3 is preferable because it can be held and operated by the user, making the setup process easy.

[0071] Furthermore, if information relating the vehicle type and communication parameters is stored in only one location, it may be provided on the vehicle repeater 2 side, as opposed to the above. In this case, it is a good idea to provide the setting switch on the vehicle repeater 2 as well. Normally, the setting switch only needs to be operated once at the beginning when installing it in the vehicle. Therefore, setting can be easily performed by operating the setting switch on the vehicle repeater 2 in a free state before installing it in the designated location inside the vehicle. After setting the setting switch, there is normally no need to operate the switch, so there is no problem even if the setting switch is located in a location where it is difficult to switch the setting switch once the vehicle repeater 2 is installed inside the vehicle.

[0072] Furthermore, when the setting switch 3g is installed in the portable repeater 3, it is preferable that the setting switch 3g can be covered with a blocking member such as a cover or lid. By covering the setting switch 3g with a blocking member such as a cover or lid, it is possible to prevent the setting from being changed by accidentally touching the setting switch 3g while carrying the portable repeater 3 or operating the operation unit 3d.

[0073] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, wireless communication is used for communication to transmit LF data between the vehicle control device 1 and the vehicle repeater 2, but the present invention is not limited to this, and wired communication is particularly preferable. The transceiver unit 1b of the vehicle control device 1 is equipped with an antenna for LF data and wiring connected to the antenna. When wired communication is used, for example, a communication cable is connected to the wiring and linked to the first vehicle side transceiver unit 2b of the vehicle repeater 2. The connection to the wiring can be branched without cutting the wiring, for example, using an electrotap or the like. Since LF has a low frequency, the antenna is external, which is advantageous because it makes it easy to connect the communication cable for wired communication.

[0074] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, wireless communication is used for transmitting RF data and the like between the vehicle control device 1 and the vehicle repeater 2. However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be performed via wired communication. A high-frequency RF antenna is likely to be installed as a built-in antenna inside the unit. In the case of a built-in antenna, wired communication requires disassembling the unit or cutting the wiring pattern inside the unit to connect a wired cable, which is a complicated process. Since cutting the wiring pattern makes it impossible to restore it, for example, if there is poor contact, the vehicle's immobilizer function may not function properly, and the engine may not be able to start in response to a user's normal operation, such as pressing the push start button. Therefore, it is particularly preferable to perform RF data communication via wireless communication, as in the embodiment.

[0075] In the above-described embodiment, the engine start request signal and the foot brake signal are sent from the vehicle repeater 2 to the vehicle control device 1 using wired communication, but the present invention is not limited to this and wireless communication may also be used. However, using wired communication signals is preferable because it is easier to maintain the ON state.

[0076] [Optimization] (Second embodiment) In this embodiment, the bit rate, which is one of the communication parameters in the first embodiment described above, is appropriately set. That is, as shown in FIG. 3, when the pulse widths of LF data and RF data differ significantly, the sampling period is set as small as possible and transmission is performed at a high-frequency bit rate so as not to impair the normal pulse width. This allows reliable transmission of LF data. However, the bit rate is related to the upper limit of the communicable distance, and increasing the bit rate frequency shortens the upper limit of the communicable distance. Therefore, when used in an environment with a long communication distance under such a condition, the communication quality may be degraded due to the influence of external disturbances, etc.

[0077] Therefore, in this embodiment, attention is paid to the bit structure of LF data and the pulse width of the bit structure of RF data, which are set for each vehicle type, etc., and the bit rate is increased within the range that keeps the wireless quality within the allowable range, thereby increasing the communication distance. The longest bit rate within the allowable range is set based on the greatest common divisor of the pulse widths of each bit structure.

[0078] Taking the example shown in Figure 3, the pulse widths of LF data are 200 μs, 150 μs, and 500 μs, and the pulse widths of RF data are 800 μs and 1600 μs. In this case, the greatest common denominator is 50 μs. Therefore, for a vehicle model with the bit configuration shown in Figure 3, if the sampling period is 50 μs, the sampled waveform data with the 50 μs pulse width and each data will be in phase, and sampling can be performed at the rising / falling timing of both the LF data and RF data, regardless of whether the value is "0" or "1." Therefore, by sampling each data with the bit configuration shown in the figure at 20 kbps, the balance between bit rate and wireless quality can be optimized.

[0079] Normally, a common bit rate is set that is acceptable for all vehicle types, but satisfying such conditions would result in too many fine details. As a result, as described above, the upper limit of the communication distance becomes shorter, resulting in the problem of radio waves not being able to travel. In contrast, in this embodiment, the greatest common denominator is used, for example, to set optimal communication parameters for each vehicle type, thereby resolving such a problem.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a common bit rate parameter is used for the LF data and the RF data, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is preferable to vary the bit rate during LF data communication and RF data communication, respectively, to further improve wireless quality.

[0081] [Relay Waveform Modulation] Third Embodiment In this embodiment, a 0 / 1 determination is made on the LF data, and if it is a "bit 0", one cycle is converted to Low, and if it is a "bit 1", one cycle is converted to High, and modulation is performed using this data. In the second embodiment described above, the waveform is optimized to reduce the bit rate and increase the communicable distance. In this embodiment, the Low and High states continue for a relatively long time, making it possible to reduce the apparent bit rate and improve quality.

[0082] The 0 / 1 determination is made by looking at the High / Low state of the LF data at the time of the determination, rather than the entire LF data. That is, as described above, the data structure of LF data is determined for "bit 0" and "bit 1." In the example shown in Figures 3(a) and (b), both "bit 0" and "bit 1" start high, and for bit 0, it goes low after 200 μs. Therefore, with a certain margin at 200 μs, the 0 / 1 determination is made based on the state of the LF data at 200 μs + α. Because the determination is made based on the state of the LF data at a certain point in time, the determination can be made quickly and easily before the entire data comprising "bit 1" and "bit 0" is acquired, which is advantageous for application to communication methods in which data received moment by moment is continuously transferred and relayed.

[0083] The point at which the 0 / 1 decision is made is set based on the point at which each bit changes to Low in the bit configuration, but rather than looking at it once at a specific point, it is better to look at it multiple times, either continuously or at appropriate intervals. This will allow for more accurate decisions.

[0084] As an example, if the LF data is "0110" as shown in Figure 4, the waveform data received by the vehicle repeater 2 will be as shown in Figure 4(a). Then, the signal goes low 200 μs + α after the start of reception of the "bit 0" data, so the data being received is "bit 0". Accordingly, the wireless LF data transmitted by the vehicle repeater 2 goes low. This low state lasts for 350 μs, which is one cycle of "bit 0".

[0085] When 350 μs has elapsed since this Low state was reached, 200 μs + α has elapsed since the start of the data for the bit next to "bit 0," and since the LF data state at this point is High, the data being received is "bit 1." Accordingly, the wireless LF data transmitted by vehicle repeater 2 is set to a High state. This High state continues for 700 μs, which is one cycle of "bit 1."

[0086] When 700 μs has elapsed since this High state was reached, 200 μs+α has elapsed since the start of the data for the bit following "bit 1," and since the LF data state at this point is High, the data being received is "bit 1." Accordingly, the wireless LF data transmitted by the vehicle repeater 2 remains in the High state. By repeating the same process thereafter, wireless LF data such as that shown in FIG. 4(b) is generated, and it is modulated and transmitted based on that data.

[0087] When the mobile repeater 3 receives and demodulates the wireless LF data at the second mobile side transceiver 3c, data such as that shown in Figure 4(c) is obtained. If the demodulated data is low, it generates waveform data with a bit configuration corresponding to "bit 0," and if it is high, it generates waveform data with a bit configuration corresponding to "bit 1." Since the mobile repeater 3 knows the pulse width corresponding to each bit, even if the high state continues for a long time, as shown in Figure 4(c), it generates waveform data corresponding to "bit 1" from the first 700 μs, and then generates waveform data corresponding to "bit 1" again from the next 700 μs. Thus, it regenerates the LF data shown in Figure 4(d). The mobile repeater 3 then transmits the regenerated LF data to the mobile device 4 at the first mobile side transceiver 3b.

[0088] The above-mentioned determination processes and the generation and reproduction of data associated with the determinations are performed by the control units 2a and 3a, respectively.

[0089] [Variations] As explained in the first and second embodiments, the bit configuration of each bit differs depending on the vehicle model, etc. Therefore, because the High / Low pulse width of the LF data differs, the timing of the 0 / 1 determination, the duration of the Low state and the High state after the determination, etc. also differ. Therefore, it is preferable to store and retain these various conditions in association with the vehicle model, etc., and set one of the conditions when using the device. Since the determination conditions can be associated with communication-related parameters, it is preferable to set the conditions together with the communication-related parameters. Furthermore, the conditions associated with the vehicle model, etc., may be stored separately from the communication-related parameters, but it is also preferable to associate them with the parameters and store them in the parameter storage unit 3f. In this way, addition and modification of parameters, determination conditions, etc. can be performed collectively, facilitating management. Furthermore, since they can be performed collectively by operating the setting switch 3g, processing is simple and the consistency of the parameters and conditions set in each repeater, etc. can be maintained.

[0090] [Transmission / reception switching control of the transmitter / receiver unit of the portable repeater] Fourth embodiment When there are multiple authorized portable devices 4, the ID codes of the multiple portable devices 4 are stored in the authentication information storage unit 1c of the vehicle control device 1. To confirm the presence of an authorized portable device 4, the vehicle control device 1 transmits LF data, which is a response request signal, to each of the portable devices 4 in turn to confirm its presence, and when authentication is successful with any of the registered authorized portable devices 4, the vehicle control device 1 performs the actual engine start process.

[0091] Figure 5 shows the timing of communication of LF data and RF data when two portable devices are registered. First, the vehicle control device 1 transmits a WAKE signal, and the portable device 4 that receives the WAKE signal returns an ACK signal. The control unit 1a of the vehicle control device 1 selects one of the multiple ID codes stored in the authentication information storage unit 1c, and transmits LF data that is a response request signal to the portable device 4 of the selected ID code. In Figure 5, ID1 is selected, and LF data of "response request signal = ID1 designation + challenge data" is transmitted.

[0092] This portable device 4 (ID1) receives the LF data of "ID1 designation + challenge data." Portable device 4 (ID1) recognizes that the LF data is addressed to itself based on the ID code in the LF data, and transmits response data. On the other hand, even though portable device 4 (ID2) receives "ID1 + challenge data," it does not transmit response data because the ID code does not match its own.

[0093] If the vehicle control device 1 does not receive response data from the portable device (ID1) after a certain time t has elapsed after transmitting the LF data of "ID1 designation + challenge data," it transmits LF data of "ID2 designation + challenge data" as a response request signal to a portable device with a different ID code (ID2 in this case). When this portable device 4 (ID2) receives the LF data of "ID2 designation + challenge data," it recognizes that it is addressed to itself based on the ID code in the LF data and transmits response data.

[0094] In the above example, two authorized portable devices 4 are registered, but when three or more portable devices 4 are registered, the vehicle control device 1 transmits LF data specifying the ID one by one in the same manner. Then, when the vehicle control device 1 receives the response data, it does not transmit any more LF data specifying the ID thereafter.

[0095] The transmitter / receiver is configured using one RFIC for transmission and reception, and operates by switching between reception and transmission states as appropriate. Therefore, after receiving the LF data for the ID setting described above, the transmitter switches to transmission mode and transmits response data, but the switching time T between transmission and reception takes several msec.

[0096] The vehicle repeater 2 uses a transmitting / receiving RFIC as the second vehicle-side transmitting / receiving unit 2c. The second vehicle-side transmitting / receiving unit 2c is first set to a transmitting state to relay and transmit the ID-specified wireless LF data, and then switches to a receiving state to wait for reception of the response data wireless RF data transmitted from the portable repeater 3. On the other hand, if there is no portable device corresponding to the relayed ID-specified wireless LF data, the next ID-specified wireless LF data will be transmitted at an appropriate timing, and the second vehicle-side transmitting / receiving unit 2c is switched to a transmitting state to relay the ID-specified wireless LF data.

[0097] The portable repeater 3 uses a transmitting / receiving RFIC as the second portable side transmitting / receiving unit 3c. Therefore, the second portable side transmitting / receiving unit 3c is in a receiving state, and after completing reception of the wireless LF data from the vehicle repeater 2, it switches to a transmitting state and relays the RF data of the response data sent from the portable device 4 to the vehicle repeater 2. In other words, the portable repeater 3 checks whether the portable device 4 is transmitting RF data, and if so, the portable repeater 3 continues to transmit the RF data to the vehicle repeater 2 until the RF data is finished. If not, the second portable side transmitting / receiving unit 3c immediately switches from a state of transmitting RF data to the vehicle repeater 2 to a state of receiving LF data.

[0098] In this embodiment, the following configuration is used to more quickly control the switching between transmission and reception. For example, after the second mobile transceiver 3c in the receiving state has completed reception of the ID-specified wireless LF data, the mobile repeater 3 switches the second mobile transceiver 3c to the transmitting state in preparation for a response. Then, whenever response data is present, it performs a single reception carrier sense. If there is no carrier sense, it switches transmission and reception to the receiving state, and if there is a carrier sense, it continues the transmitting state.

[0099] In addition, the transmission / reception state of the first mobile-side transceiver 3b is also switched accordingly. That is, it is initially set to the transmission state, and LF data based on the wireless LF data received by the second mobile-side transceiver 3c is transmitted to the mobile device 4 and relayed. After the transmission of the LF data is complete, it switches to the reception state and waits for response data transmitted from the mobile device 4. If there is no carrier sense, it switches to the transmission / reception state, and if there is a carrier sense, it continues to be in the reception state.

[0100] When a response is always present, for example, as shown in Fig. 5, the response data is sent after at least the transmission / reception switching time T has elapsed after the completion of transmission of the ID-specified wireless LF data. Therefore, it is preferable to set the timing to be the time T (for example, several msec) after the completion of transmission, or to set the timing to be T with a predetermined margin added. In this way, the presence or absence of response data can be determined at a relatively early timing.

[0101] In this embodiment, carrier sensing is always performed when a response is present. If carrier sensing is not performed, it becomes clear that no portable device with the ID specified in the previously transmitted LF data exists, and no response data will be transmitted. Therefore, the second portable-side transceiver 3c is switched to a reception state, and the next ID-specified LF data transmitted from the vehicle control device 1 can be reliably received. Furthermore, since the presence or absence of response data can be determined relatively quickly after reception of the ID-specified wireless LF data is complete, if no response data is transmitted, transmission / reception can be switched with ample time to prepare for reception of the next ID-specified wireless LF data.

[0102] On the other hand, if there is carrier sense, the first mobile-side transceiver 3b continues to receive the response data sent from the mobile device 4, while the second mobile-side transceiver 3c transmits it. Even if the carrier sense reception determination is made at a slightly delayed timing rather than at the beginning of the response data, the first mobile-side transceiver 3b is in a receiving state and can therefore reliably receive the response data, and the second mobile-side transceiver 3c is in a transmitting state and can therefore reliably transmit and relay the response data.

[0103] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, an example was described in which the portable repeater 3 side is provided with transmission / reception switching based on the carrier sense reception determination, but a similar function may also be implemented on the vehicle repeater 2 side.

[0104] The problem to be solved in this embodiment is as follows. For example, after the vehicle control device 1 transmits LF data, it determines whether or not response data is received within a certain time t. Conventional methods for detecting the presence or absence of response data involve actually receiving several bits of data and determining whether the data is the first data of the response data or whether the data constitutes a bit component of the response data. For example, assuming the bit configuration shown in FIG. 3, one bit takes 1.6 ms, so for four bits, it takes 6.4 ms. As described above, considering the switching time T (e.g., 2 to 3 ms), a simple sum total of 8.4 to 9.4 ms is required. Furthermore, since the certain time t until the vehicle control device 1 transmits the next LF data is, for example, about 10 ms, when the mobile repeater 3 detects the presence or absence of response data and then switches between transmission and reception, there are cases in which the switching is not completed within the certain time t, given that switching from the transmission state to the reception state takes several hundred microns or more. Even if three bits were checked to allow for more time, if the data were difficult to determine due to external disturbances, for example, it would take time to switch. If LF data retransmission had already begun, the relay would not be performed properly, the portable device would not recognize the LF data, and the RF response data would not be transmitted, potentially preventing the engine from starting. Furthermore, if the number of bits checked is small, it would be difficult to accurately determine whether or not response data was received. The bit structure is not limited to that shown in Figure 3, and the duration of one cycle varies, making the above problem more pronounced. As such, the conventional method for detecting the presence or absence of response data has the problem that, because the fixed time t is short, it is not possible to check multiple bits to reliably detect the presence or absence.

[0105] In contrast to this, in this embodiment, as described above, there were strict time constraints on detecting the presence or absence of response data within a certain period of time t and switching the transmission / reception function, but in this embodiment, the determination is made based on the presence or absence of carrier sense, so the determination can be made in a short time.

[0106] [Variations] In the above-described embodiment, the presence or absence of received carrier sense is determined once whenever response data is present, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, to improve the accuracy of the determination result, carrier sense may be performed several times in succession or multiple times at regular intervals. However, performing it once as in the embodiment is preferable because it allows for a quick determination.

[0107] [Bit Anomaly Correction] (Fifth Embodiment) In each of the above-described embodiments and variations, when LF data, wireless LF data, RF data, or wireless RF data relayed by the vehicle repeater 2 or the portable repeater 3 is received via wireless communication, a problem occurs in which the bit configuration of the received data changes depending on the wireless communication state. Because both LF data and RF data are transmitted wirelessly, they are inevitably subject to disturbances. In particular, bit anomalies are more likely to occur when the communication distance becomes long and approaches the limit of the allowable communication range.

[0108] Each repeater samples the received data at a preset sampling period and transfers and transmits the acquired data sequentially and continuously. Therefore, consider a case where the bit configuration of a normal "bit 1" is, for example, as shown in Figure 6(a), high for 500 μs followed by low for 200 μs. However, consider a case where an abnormality occurs, such as dropping to low before 500 μs has elapsed and then returning to high, as shown in Figure 6(b). In this case, the relayed wireless RF data has a data structure that includes the phenomenon of dropping to low, as shown in Figure 6(b). Since the vehicle control device 1 receives the received data as response data, the vehicle control device 1 cannot recognize it as a "1" or as a normal waveform. This prevents the engine from starting. Furthermore, although specific illustrations are omitted, if there is an error in the transmission and relay of LF data, the portable device 4 cannot receive the normal LF data, resulting in an inability to transmit the response and prevent the engine from starting.

[0109] In contrast, in the present invention, since the normal waveform length and pattern are known, even if there is a bit abnormality, if the pattern is correct, the waveform is output as a normal waveform. Specifically, even if there is a High / Low switch that is impossible given the pattern configuration, the original state is maintained without switching. For example, in the bit configuration shown in Figure 3, for data that starts high, the High state continues until 200 μs for both 0 and 1. Therefore, control is performed so that the High state is maintained even if the Low state falls before 200 μs has elapsed. Also, for LF data, as shown in Figure 6(b), if the High state continues beyond 200 μs, the waveform represents a "1 bit," so the High state is maintained even if the Low state falls before 500 μs has elapsed. This High state is maintained until the next Low pulse is input.

[0110] As a result, even if the wireless LF data received by the mobile repeater 3 generates a single low pulse due to noise 300 μs after the start of a high state, as shown in Figure 6(b), the mobile repeater 3 maintains the high state until the next low pulse is input. In the example of Figure 6(b), the next low pulse occurs at 500 μs, which is the normal reversal point, so the LF data transmitted from the mobile repeater 3 has the normal waveform shown in Figure 6(a). Therefore, the mobile device 4 can recognize the LF data and can return a response if it is addressed to itself.

[0111] In the above explanation, we have described the case where a low pulse is generated from a high state, but the low state can also be maintained if a high pulse occurs at a timing when it would not normally occur during a low state. Also, in the illustrated example, we have described "bit 1" of the LF data, but the same processing is also applied to "bit 0" and RF data.

[0112] Therefore, even if a pulse is inverted at an unexpected point due to noise or the like, the waveform that is relayed and transmitted will be the same as the normal waveform, which prevents the portable device 4 and the vehicle control device 1 from determining that there is an abnormality.

[0113] The determination of whether the received data is "bit 0" or "bit 1" can be made at the timing when the normal waveform changes from H to L, but it is better to provide a predetermined margin (α). For example, the determination of whether it is "bit 1" shown in Figure 6 should not be made immediately after 200 μs has passed, but should be made with a predetermined margin (α) such as "200 μs + α". Depending on the communication environment or other factors, the waveform of bit 0 may not drop to low at 200 μs, but may become low after a slight time lag. In such cases, providing a predetermined margin (α) is effective because it allows the waveform of "bit 0" to be relayed correctly.

[0114] In this embodiment, the above correction process is performed by the party that receives the long-distance transmitted signal. Specifically, it is performed by the portable repeater 3 that receives the wireless LF data sent from the vehicle repeater 2, and by the vehicle repeater 2 that receives the wireless RF data sent from the portable repeater 3. This is because communication between the vehicle repeater 2 and the portable repeater 3 is a long-distance transmission, and the user carrying the portable repeater 3 may be away from the vehicle and the communication distance may be long, increasing the possibility of the above-mentioned abnormality occurring. Therefore, the engine can be started even if such an abnormality occurs.

[0115] On the other hand, the vehicle control device 1 and the vehicle repeater 2 are both installed in a predetermined position on the vehicle, are relatively close to each other, and are usually positioned with the communication distance taken into consideration when installing, so the above-mentioned phenomenon is unlikely to occur. Also, the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 are both carried by the user and are therefore located relatively close to each other, so the above-mentioned phenomenon is unlikely to occur. Furthermore, if the distance between them is far enough that the relevant phenomenon occurs, it can be dealt with by moving the two closer together.

[0116] Furthermore, since the correction in this embodiment is a relatively strong correction that forcibly maintains a high or low state after a certain period of time has elapsed, it is performed on long-distance communications between a vehicle repeater 2 and a portable repeater 3, where the possibility of the event occurring is relatively high.

[0117] Furthermore, in this embodiment, even if a pulse that is inverted once is input, the original state is maintained without inversion. Therefore, for example, if a pulse that is inverted multiple times (for example, twice) occurs in the same state (for example, a High state) (see FIG. 6(c)), the state is inverted (from High to Low in the illustrated example) at the time of the second inversion pulse. Therefore, in such a case, waveform data that falls to Low before 500 μs has elapsed is transmitted. In such a case where an abnormality occurs multiple times, a normal waveform is not output. Because this is a relatively strong correction, by limiting the correction target to a single abnormal pulse, it is possible to prevent an abnormal signal from being transmitted as a normal waveform.

[0118] The above-mentioned noise removal process is preferably performed by the control units 2a and 3a, which are configured by MPUs, since this allows the process to be performed appropriately.

[0119] [Variations] In the above-described embodiment, correction is limited to a single occurrence of an abnormal pulse, but it may be possible to accommodate multiple occurrences. This is advantageous because it makes it possible to start the engine from a long distance away. Even if forced correction is performed and LF data or RF data that differs from the original data is relayed, this is ultimately rejected on the vehicle side, which is advantageous.

[0120] It is also preferable that the number of times can be changed by user settings, so that correction can be performed under appropriate conditions depending on the user's usage environment, situation, etc.

[0121] In the above-described embodiment, correction is performed on waveforms transmitted in long-distance communications. However, the present invention is not limited to this and may be applied to other communications. In such cases, it may be applied to, for example, communications between a portable device 4 and a portable repeater 3. Both the portable device 4 and the portable repeater 3 are held by the user, and the distance between them can be managed and appropriately adjusted by the user. However, for example, the communication distance may be shortened due to depletion of the internal batteries, or if both devices are stored in a pocket or bag worn by the user, the two devices may move relative to each other within the bag, causing them to become separated by more than the desired distance. Even in such cases, the correction described in the above-described embodiment may be performed, which is preferable because it may enable the engine to be started.

[0122] In the above-described embodiment, the correction is performed by the control unit, but a dedicated circuit or the like may be provided. By providing a dedicated circuit, processing can be performed more quickly. As explained in the fourth embodiment, there are time constraints on the transmission and reception of LF data and RF data, and there is a challenge in shortening the time required for relaying as much as possible. Therefore, by providing a dedicated circuit, correction can be performed in a short time, and a response can be returned within a certain time t with ample time to spare.

[0123] As explained in the first and second embodiments, the bit configuration of each bit differs depending on the vehicle model, etc. Therefore, because the high / low pulse widths differ, the correction conditions (e.g., maintain for XX μs from the start, maintain for △△ μs after XX μs, etc.) also differ. Therefore, it is advisable to store correction conditions according to the vehicle model, etc., in association with the vehicle model, etc., and set one of the conditions when using the vehicle. Since the correction conditions can be associated with communication-related parameters, it is advisable to set the conditions together with the communication-related parameters. Furthermore, the correction conditions associated with the vehicle model, etc., may be stored separately from the communication-related parameters, but it is also advisable to associate them with the parameters and store them in the parameter storage unit 3f. In this way, parameter and correction conditions can be added and changed in a single operation, facilitating management. Furthermore, since they can be performed in a single operation by operating the setting switch 3g, processing is simple and the consistency of the parameters and correction conditions set in each repeater, etc., is maintained.

[0124] [RFIC Dualization] (Sixth embodiment) In each of the above-described embodiments and variations, the transmitter / receiver unit is configured with a single RFIC for transmission and reception, and the transmission and reception states are switched appropriately to perform relaying. In this embodiment, each transmitter / receiver unit implemented in the vehicle repeater 2 and the portable repeater 3 is configured with a transmission-only RFIC and a reception-only RFIC, respectively, and each IC is dedicated to performing transmission / reception.

[0125] For example, as explained in the fourth embodiment, when transmitting and receiving LF data, wireless LF data, RF data, or wireless RF data, each transmitting and receiving unit must perform a transmission / reception switching operation. Furthermore, since the time from when the vehicle control device 1 transmits LF data to when it receives response data from the corresponding portable device 4 must be within a certain time t, the transmission / reception switching operation must be fast. And, as the certain time becomes even shorter, this requirement becomes even more stringent. As a result, compatible RFICs may no longer be available, or even if they are available, the number of types may be limited, limiting the options. Furthermore, even if the switching operation time meets the requirements, the desired radio frequency band may not be supported, making it impossible to configure a system that meets the specifications.

[0126] Therefore, in this embodiment, by implementing dedicated RFICs for transmission and reception, switching between transmission and reception is unnecessary, simplifying communication control. Furthermore, by using dedicated RFICs for transmission and reception, reception and transmission processing can be performed simultaneously. Therefore, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, normally, after receiving a WAKE from the vehicle control device 1, the first vehicle-side transceiver 2b is switched to a transmission state and an ACK is returned. However, in this embodiment, the ACK is returned during reception of the WAKE. This shortens the time from when the vehicle control device 1 transmits the WAKE to when the ACK is received. Then, upon receiving the ACK, the vehicle control device 1 transmits LF data with a specified ID, and this transmission starts more quickly than in the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications. Furthermore, since the waiting time for switching between transmission and reception, which was required when performing each relay, is eliminated, time is saved in this respect as well. Furthermore, the ACK is transmitted by the vehicle repeater 2 itself, rather than relaying it from the portable device 4. This further reduces the time required. Furthermore, because the RFIC is dedicated to reception and transmission, it can be designed without taking switching time into consideration, making it possible to design at frequencies that increase the reliability of wireless communication.

[0127] In addition, each repeater transmits and receives signals at different frequencies, and the transmit and receive channels are not adjacent to each other to prevent mutual interference.

[0128] In the above-described embodiments and modifications, LF data is communicated using a high frequency (short bit length), such as 900 MHz, and RF data is communicated using a low frequency, such as 400 MHz. This is because a higher frequency results in a higher bit rate, which speeds up switching from transmission to reception and also speeds up recapture. Therefore, to meet time constraints, 900 MHz is used when using a switching system. By using two RFICs in a dual configuration, as in this embodiment, LF data may be communicated at 400 MHz, for example. 400 MHz is preferable because it has a narrow bandwidth and allows stable communication without interference with other signals.

[0129] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the RFIC is dualized, which increases power consumption. Therefore, the battery built into the portable repeater 3 must also have a large capacity. Therefore, the case that houses the portable repeater 3 must also be large.

[0130] Therefore, it is preferable to provide a space in the case that can store the portable device 4, so that the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 can be carried together as a single unit. By integrating them, the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 can be placed close to each other, which is advantageous because communication can be performed reliably.

[0131] Furthermore, since the battery built into the portable repeater 3 is of a large capacity, it may be possible to provide a connection part for connecting to a mobile device and use it as a mobile battery. The connection part may be, for example, a terminal part to which a cable can be connected. When used as a mobile battery, it is preferable that the battery be a secondary battery.

[0132] [Distance determination function] (seventh embodiment) As described in the above-mentioned embodiments and variations, the portable repeater 3 relays and transmits the LF data, and after receiving the LF data, the portable device 4 transmits RF data (response data) if the ID code included in the LF data matches its own.

[0133] Then, the RF data (response data) is relayed from the portable repeater 3 through the vehicle repeater 2 and sent to the vehicle control device 1. When the vehicle control device 1 receives the response from the authorized portable device 4, it starts the engine.

[0134] LF data is transmitted at a first frequency, and RF data is transmitted at a second frequency different from the first frequency. The second frequency is higher than the first frequency, and the communication distance for RF data using the second frequency is also longer. For example, the first frequency is 134 kHz, and the second frequency is 314 MHz. In this case, the communication distance for LF data is short, at 1 to 2 m, and if the distance is too great, there is a possibility that portable device 4 will not be able to receive the LF data transmitted from portable repeater 3.

[0135] One of the reasons for engine start failure is that the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 are separated, making it impossible to receive the LF data transmitted from the portable repeater 3. However, the communication distance for LF data varies depending on, for example, how the user holds the portable repeater 3 and the surrounding environment, so when engine start failure occurs, it is difficult for the user to determine whether the failure is due to the portable device 4 and the portable repeater 3 being separated and unable to communicate, or to some other malfunction.

[0136] Another method is to increase the radio wave strength to ensure reliable communication even over a certain distance. However, increasing the radio wave strength is undesirable because it can cause the signal to travel too far and lead to malfunctions. For example, if a spare portable device is placed in a room and someone without portable device 4 accidentally operates portable repeater 3, it could start the engine, which is undesirable. Furthermore, increasing the radio wave strength increases battery consumption, so there is a demand for reducing this. This shortens the communication distance, making the above-mentioned issues more pronounced.

[0137] Figure 7 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is intended to solve the above problem and includes an isolation determination mode in which the user determines whether the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 are separated. In this isolation determination mode, a normal LF data information storage unit 3h is provided in the portable repeater 3. The control unit 3a stores the LF data obtained when the engine start is successful as normal LF data in the normal LF data information storage unit 3h.

[0138] When the distance determination mode is selected, the control unit 3a transmits the normal LF data stored in the normal LF data information storage unit 3h via the first mobile-side transceiver 3b. When the mobile device 4 receives the normal LF data, it transmits RF data (response data) because the normal LF data is the same as the ID-specified LF data sent from the vehicle control device 1. The control unit 3a of the mobile repeater 3 then waits for reception of the RF data (response data). When the control unit 3a has completed reception of the RF data (response data), it issues a notification from the notification unit 3e that the mobile device is within a communication range. On the other hand, when the control unit 3a is unable to receive the RF data (response data), it issues a notification from the notification unit 3e that communication is not possible.

[0139] The user can know from the notification result of the notification unit 3e whether the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 are within an appropriate range for communication. Therefore, for example, if the user tries to start the engine remotely by operating the portable repeater 3 and the engine does not actually start, the user can easily understand whether communication between the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 is not possible in the first place, or whether there is a malfunction in the communication system, etc. In this embodiment, this can be confirmed without starting the engine.

[0140] [Variations] If there are multiple authorized portable devices 4, the vehicle control device 1 sequentially transmits LF data specifying the authentication information (ID code) of each of the registered portable devices 4. Therefore, if the ID code included in the initially transmitted LF data does not match its own ID code, the portable device 4 will not transmit RF data (response data), and the portable repeater 3 will relay LF data containing a different ID code. When RF data (response data) is finally transmitted from the portable device 4 and the engine start is successful, the LF data at that time of success can be stored in the normal LF data information storage unit 3h. Storing LF data for the ID codes of portable devices 4 that the user frequently uses is advantageous because it allows for immediate distance determination.

[0141] Furthermore, when a plurality of LF data have been relayed, all of the LF data relayed up to that point are LF data including the normal ID code stored in the vehicle control device 1, so it is preferable to store all of the LF data in the normal LF data information storage unit 3h. In this way, when the portable device 4 used by the user is not fixed, it is possible to perform distance determination using any portable device 4, which is advantageous.

[0142] Furthermore, the normal LF data stored in the normal LF data information storage unit 3h may be only the LF data when the response data is received, but it is also preferable to store all the LF data that have been sent up to that point. This is advantageous because isolation determination can be made even if the user changes the portable device.

[0143] Furthermore, if all LF data is stored, for example, without carrying a portable device, the operation unit 3d of the portable repeater 3 can be operated to acquire and store the LF data for all authentication information stored in the vehicle control device 1. This is advantageous because it allows distance determination to be performed for any portable device carried thereafter.

[0144] In addition, the portable repeater 3 may have a function of notifying the number of registered normal LF data stored in the normal LF data information storage unit 3h. In this way, by collecting the LF data corresponding to all the authentication information registered in the vehicle control device 1, it is possible to know how many legitimate portable devices are registered in the vehicle control device 1, which is an interesting feature.

[0145] When the operation unit 3d is operated and the portable repeater 3 receives response data, it is preferable that the notification unit 3e notify the user of this. In this way, the user can see that communication between the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 is established, and if the engine cannot be started in this state, it is clear that a malfunction has occurred. In this case, it is preferable to make the notification sound, such as a beep, so that the user can understand the notification without looking at the notification unit 3e.

[0146] In the above-described embodiment and modified example, the LF data when the engine is started is stored to determine the distance between the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4, but the RF data (response data) when the engine is started may be stored and the RF data may be checked in the same way. The presence or absence of RF data may be determined by RF data carrier sense, determination of the first bit, etc.

[0147] [Integrated structure of portable device and portable repeater] (eighth embodiment) Figures 8 and 9 show an eighth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the portable device 4 and the portable repeater 3 are integrated. The portable repeater 3 includes a display unit 11, operation buttons 12, and a lid unit 13 on the top surface 10a of the case body 10. As shown in Figure 9, the lid unit 13 covers a storage recess 10b provided so as to open to the top surface 10a of the case body 10. In this embodiment, the lid unit 13 slides along the top surface 10a of the case body 10 to be attached and detached. Although not shown, various circuits and devices, such as a control unit 3a, a first portable side transceiver unit 3b, a second portable side transceiver unit 3c, and a parameter memory unit 3f, are mounted inside the case body 10. The display unit 11 constitutes, for example, the notification unit 3e in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. The operation buttons 12 are, for example, an engine operation switch and a vehicle door operation switch, and constitute, for example, the setting switch 3g in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. Furthermore, an auxiliary switch 13a is provided on the lid unit 13. The auxiliary switch 13a is a push button type switch operating section.

[0148] In this embodiment, the portable device 4 is stored in the storage recess 10b of the portable repeater 3, but the entire portable device 4 is not installed as is; instead, the internal board assembly 21 of the portable device 4 is stored. The internal board assembly 21 has a push-button switch 21a on its surface. When the internal board assembly 21 is stored in the storage recess 10b and the cover 13 is closed, the switch 21a of the internal board assembly 21 and the auxiliary switch 13a of the cover 13 are arranged so as to overlap one above the other, as shown in FIG. 8(b). As a result, when the auxiliary switch 13a is pressed, the auxiliary switch 13a presses the switch 21a of the internal board assembly 21. Therefore, the user can perform a predetermined switch operation on the portable device 4 by operating the auxiliary switch 13a.

[0149] 8(c), some portable devices 4 store a vehicle's mechanical key 22. This mechanical key 22 is used to start / stop the engine by inserting it into an ignition key cylinder and rotating it when the engine cannot be started using the portable device 4, for example, due to a dead battery or malfunction of the portable device 4. Therefore, in this embodiment, a hole for inserting the mechanical key 22 is provided in the case main body 10, and the mechanical key 22 can be set in the hole. This allows the user to carry the mechanical key 22 along with the portable repeater 3.

[0150] When installing such an internal board assembly 21, for example, as shown in FIG. 9(a), the user disassembles the portable device 4 and removes the internal board assembly 21. Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 9(b), the user removes the cover 13 of the portable repeater 3 to open the storage recess 10b. Next, as shown in FIG. 9(c), the user inserts the internal board assembly 21 into the storage recess 10b with the auxiliary switch 13a facing up. Thereafter, the user attaches the cover 13 to the case body 10 to form the portable repeater 3 integrated with the internal board assembly 21 shown in FIG. 8(a).

[0151] In this embodiment, the portable device 4 and the portable repeater 3 are integrated, making them compact and not bulky when placed in a pocket, etc. In particular, because the internal board assembly 21 is removed from the portable device 4 and attached, the internal space of the storage recess 10b can be reduced, which is advantageous in that it prevents the overall shape of the portable repeater 3 integrated with the portable device 4 from becoming larger. Furthermore, the portable device 4 and the portable repeater 3 are positioned close to each other, ensuring reliable communication. In this regard, since there is no case for the portable device 4, the distance between the portable repeater 3 and the portable device 4 can be reduced, which is advantageous.

[0152] In this embodiment, the internal board assembly 21 is equipped with a switch 21a, and the switch 21a can be pressed using the auxiliary switch 13a on the lid portion 13. However, in cases where, for example, the switch 21a is not exposed on the top surface due to structural reasons and cannot be pressed using the auxiliary switch 13a, or the switch 21a is a sliding type and cannot be pressed using the auxiliary switch 13a on the lid portion 13, it is preferable to expose the switch 21a to the outside from an opening in the case body 10 so that the switch 21a can be operated directly.

[0153] [Relay waveform variation 1] In the above-described embodiment, relaying between the vehicle repeater 2 and the portable repeater 3 is performed by transmitting wireless LF data converted based on the LF data. Specifically, in the third embodiment, for example, one cycle is converted to Low if it is "bit 0," and one cycle is converted to High if it is "bit 1," and modulation is performed using that data. In this way, the method of converting wireless LF data into a pulse waveform different from the pulse width, etc. of the LF data is not limited to the above-described method, and various methods are possible. An example is as follows.

[0154] For example, an edge signal is generated at the rising and falling edges of the LF data. The wireless LF data is data that generates this edge signal at an appropriate timing from a low state. The edge signal is, for example, a single pulse of a predetermined width. To explain this using a specific example, if the LF data is "0110", the waveform data received by the vehicle repeater 2 will be as shown in Figure 10(a). Then, the rising edge of "bit 0" is detected and an edge signal of a predetermined width (for example, 50 μs) is inserted, and the low state is then maintained. When this low state continues for 350 μs, a falling edge occurs in "bit 0" that changes from high to low, and the falling edge is used as a trigger to insert an edge signal, after which the low state is maintained.

[0155] When this low state continues for 100 μs, the LF data switches to the high state of the next "bit 1." An edge signal is inserted with the rising edge at this time. By repeating this process, wireless LF data such as that shown in Figure 10(b) is generated, and the data is modulated and transmitted based on this. With this method, two edge signals are output per bit of data, resulting in wireless LF data with a long low state.

[0156] When the mobile repeater 3 receives the wireless LF data shown in Figure 10(b), it changes its signal to High in response to the first edge signal and maintains it at High until the next edge signal arrives. When it detects the next edge signal, it changes its signal to Low and maintains it at Low until the next edge signal arrives. By alternately switching between High and Low in this way each time an edge signal is detected, the original LF data can be reproduced as shown in Figure 10(c).

[0157] [Relay waveform variation 2] In the above-described first modification, an edge signal is inserted at both the rising and falling edges of the LF data, but it is also possible not to insert an edge signal at the falling edge. In the case of "bit 1," which has a long high pulse width, a single pulse is inserted while the high state is maintained. For "bit 0," the high state falls to low after 200 μs has elapsed, and for "bit 1," the high state continues for 500 μs, so the timing for inserting the single pulse is, for example, 200 μs after the rising edge.

[0158] As a result, the wireless LF data for "bit 0" has a pulse waveform in which a single pulse of a predetermined width is inserted with the rising edge of the LF data, and the data remains low until 350 μs has elapsed since the rising edge. Also, the wireless LF data for "bit 1" has a pulse waveform in which a single pulse of a predetermined width is inserted with the rising edge of the LF data, the data remains low thereafter, and a pulse of a predetermined width is inserted 200 μs after the rising edge, and the data remains low thereafter.

[0159] Therefore, when the portable repeater 3 receives the wireless LF data, if it detects a single pulse and no next pulse occurs within 200 μs, it determines that the data is "bit 0," and if the next pulse occurs after 200 μs, it determines that the data is "bit 1," and is therefore able to reproduce the original LF data.

[0160] The control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2, which performs the process of generating the wireless LF data, has a function of executing the transmission data conversion flow shown in Fig. 11(a), for example. That is, the control unit 2a monitors the L / H state of the LF data and determines whether or not there is a rising edge (ST1). When the control unit 2a detects a rising edge (ST1 is Yes), it outputs a 40 μs pulse (ST2).

[0161] Next, the control unit 2a makes a logical decision as to whether the current data is "bit 0" (or "bit 1") (ST3). If the logical decision is "bit 0", the control unit 2a returns to ST1 and detects the next rising edge. As a result, if the LF data is "bit 0", only a 40 μs pulse is output at the rising edge. On the other hand, if the logical decision is "bit 1", the control unit 2a outputs a 40 μs pulse (ST4). Thereafter, the control unit 2a returns to ST1 and detects the next rising edge. As a result, if the LF data is "bit 1", two 40 μs pulses are output, one at the rising edge and one in the middle. The logical decision in ST3 is made 350 μs after the rising edge to determine whether it is High or Low, and if it is Low, it is determined to be "bit 0".

[0162] On the other hand, the control unit 3a of the portable repeater 3, which performs the process of regenerating LF data from the received wireless LF data, has a function of executing the transmission data conversion flow shown in Fig. 11(b), for example. That is, the control unit 3a monitors the L / H state of the wireless LF data and determines whether or not there is a rising edge (ST11). When the control unit 3a detects a rising edge (ST11: Yes), it sets the signal to High (ST12).

[0163] Next, the control unit 3a determines whether the current data is "bit 1" (or "bit 0") based on the presence or absence of a rising edge (ST13). If the determination result is "bit 0" (ST13 is No), the control unit 3a changes the output to Low (ST14), then returns to ST1, and detects the next rising edge. On the other hand, if the determination result is "bit 1" (ST13 is No), the control unit 3a maintains the High state for a certain period of time (ST15). After the certain period of time has elapsed, the control unit 3a changes the output to Low (ST16), returns to ST11, and detects the next rising edge. The determination in ST13 is made by determining whether there is a rising edge 350 μs after the rise of ST11, and if there is, it is determined to be "bit 1." It is also possible to look at whether the state is High or Low rather than a rising edge.

[0164] The above-mentioned processing function will be explained using a specific example. For example, if the LF data is "0110", the waveform data received by the vehicle repeater 2 will be as shown in Figure 12(a). The control unit 2a detects the rising edge of "bit 0" of the LF data, inserts a pulse of a predetermined width (for example, 40 μs), and then maintains the Low state. Then, since the LF data is Low 350 μs after the detection of the rising edge, the branch decision of ST3 is Yes, and it continues to be Low while waiting for the next rising edge.

[0165] Then, with the rising edge of the next "bit 1" in the LF data, a 40 μs pulse is inserted, and then the low state is maintained. Then, because the LF data is high 350 μs after the detection of the rising edge, the branch decision of ST3 is No, and a 40 μs pulse is inserted, and then the low state is maintained. This low state continues until the next rising edge of "bit 1". Thereafter, when the LF data of "0110" is received in the same manner, wireless LF data such as that shown in Figure 12(b) is generated. Then, this pulse-based wireless LF data shown in Figure 12(b) is transmitted from vehicle repeater 2 and received by mobile repeater 3.

[0166] The mobile repeater 3 reproduces the LF data shown in FIG. 12(c) by executing the processing flow of FIG. 11(b) on the received wireless LF data. That is, the control unit 3a detects the rising edge of the wireless LF data and sets it to High. This High state continues until the next branch judgment process (ST13) is performed. Then, 200 μs after the rising edge, there is no rising edge and it remains Low, so the branch judgment of ST13 is No and the output is set to Low. This Low state continues until there is the next rising edge. As a result, the LF data of "bit 0" is reproduced.

[0167] Furthermore, upon detecting the rising edge, the control unit 3a outputs High. Then, since the wireless LF data has a rising edge 200 μs after the rising edge, the branch decision of ST13 becomes Yes, and the output is maintained at High for a certain period of time before changing to Low. This Low state continues until the next rising edge occurs. As a result, the LF data of "bit 1" is reproduced. By repeating this process thereafter, the LF data of "0110" is reproduced, as shown in FIG. 12(c).

[0168] [Relay waveform variation 3] In the above-mentioned variants 1 and 2, an edge signal is output at the rising edge of the LF data, etc., but in this variant, wireless LF data of a relay waveform is generated based on the duration of the high state of the LF data. As described above, an example of the bit configuration of LF data is that "bit 0" is high for 200 μs and low for 150 μs (see FIG. 3(a)), and "bit 1" is high for 500 μs and low for 200 μs (see FIG. 3(b)). In this way, the bit configurations constituting "bit 0" and "bit 1" respectively have predetermined high and low pulse widths. For example, if the high state of the LF data sent from the vehicle control device 1 continues for longer than 200 μs, it becomes "bit 1." In this variant, the vehicle repeater 2 generates wireless LF data of a bit configuration with pulse widths different from the high and low pulse widths of "bit 0" and "bit 1" of the received LF data, and wirelessly transmits it to the mobile repeater 3. The bit configuration with different pulse widths may be such that, for example, the High pulse width of "bit 1" of the wireless LF data is the same as the High pulse width of "bit 0" of the LF data, and the High pulse width of "bit 0" of the wireless LF data is longer than the High pulse width of "bit 1" of the wireless LF data. The Low pulse width of the wireless LF data is set to a value that makes the length of one cycle, the combined High and Low, the same for both the LF data and the wireless LF data.

[0169] By doing this, the portable repeater 3 that receives the wireless LF data can distinguish between "bit 0" and "bit 1" from the length of the High, and the rise from Low to High is the same as the original LF data without any time delay.

[0170] As an example of the bit configuration of wireless LF data, "bit 0" has a High of 200 μs + α and a Low of 150 μs - α, where α is a value smaller than (500 - 200) μs, for example, 100 μs. "bit 1" has a High of 200 μs and a Low of ((500 + 200) - 200) μs.

[0171] Furthermore, the WAKE signal and STOP signal transmitted from the vehicle control device 1 also have fixed pulse widths. For example, the WAKE signal has a high level that lasts for 2 ms followed by a low level that lasts for 180 μs. The STOP signal is a single pulse with a high level of 180 μs. In order to distinguish between these WAKE and STOP signals and "bit 0" and "bit 1" of the LF data, when the vehicle repeater 2 receives WAKE, it converts it to a signal with a high level of 200 μs + α + β and a low level of 2 ms + 180 μs - (200 μs + α + β) and transmits it wirelessly to the mobile repeater 3. When the vehicle repeater 2 receives a STOP signal, it converts it to a signal with a high level of 180 μs + γ and transmits it wirelessly to the mobile repeater 3. Here, γ is less than 20 μs.

[0172] The High of each signal after the above conversion is WAKE signal (200 μs + α + β) > bit 0 (200 μs + α) > bit 1 (200 μs) > STOP signal (180 μs + γ: γ < 20 μs). This allows the mobile repeater 3 to identify the WAKE signal, bit 0, bit 1, and STOP signal from the length of the High. Furthermore, the total value of each signal consisting of a combination of High and Low is equal to the total value of the signal before conversion. To perform the above processing, the control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2 executes the processing flow shown in Fig. 13, and the control unit 3a of the portable repeater 3 executes the processing flow shown in Fig. 14. As shown in Fig. 13, the control unit 2a waits for the input signal sent from the vehicle control device 1 to rise from Low to High (ST21).

[0173] When it rises to High (Y in ST21), the control unit 2a outputs a signal that remains High for 200 μs+α+β and Low for 2 ms+180 μs-(200 μs+α+β) (ST22). The second vehicle-side transceiver 2c wirelessly transmits this signal to the portable repeater 3. The output signals output from the control unit 2a shown below are also wirelessly transmitted by the second vehicle-side transceiver 2c to the portable repeater 3.

[0174] The control unit 2a waits for the input signal to next rise from low to high (ST23). When the input signal rises to high (Y in ST23), the control unit 2a sets the output signal to high (ST24). The control unit 2a determines whether the input signal remains high for 180 μs before falling to low (ST25). If the branch determination in ST25 is Y, the control unit 2a drops the signal to low after a set time of less than γ μs has elapsed. As a result, the control unit 2a outputs a STOP signal that falls to low 180 μs + γ after it was set to high in ST24.

[0175] If the branch decision in ST25 is Y, the control unit 2a determines whether the duration of the input signal at High exceeds 200 μs (ST27). If the duration exceeds 200 μs, it is a bit 1 signal, and if it falls to Low before exceeding 200 μs, it is a bit 0 signal. Therefore, if the branch decision in ST27 is Y, the control unit 2a sets the output signal to Low and maintains it at Low for (500 + 200) - 200 μs (ST28). If the branch decision in ST27 is N, the control unit 2a maintains the High state for α, then sets the output signal to Low and maintains it at Low for 150 μs - α (ST28).

[0176] As shown in Figure 14, the control unit 3a of the mobile repeater 3 waits for the input signal sent from the vehicle repeater 2 to rise from low to high (ST31). When the signal rises to high (Y in ST31), the control unit 3a outputs a signal that remains high for 2.0 ms and low for 180 μs (ST32). The first mobile side transceiver 3b wirelessly transmits this signal to the mobile device 4. The output signal output from the control unit 2a shown below is also wirelessly transmitted to the mobile device 4 by the first mobile side transceiver 3b in the same way.

[0177] The control unit 3a then waits for the input signal to rise from low to high (ST33). When the input signal rises to high (Y in ST33), the control unit 3a sets the output signal to high (ST34). The control unit 3a determines the duration of the high state of the input signal (ST35). If the determination in ST35 is that it exceeds 200 μs, the control unit 3a sets the output signal to low (ST36). If the determination in ST35 is 200 μs, the control unit 3a maintains the output signal in a high state for (500-200) μs, and then sets the output signal to low (ST37). If the determination in ST35 is 180 μs+γ, the control unit 3a sets the output signal to low (ST38). By executing the process in ST38, the duration of the high state of the STOP signal becomes 180 μs+γ, which is longer by γ than the duration of the high state of the STOP signal output from the original vehicle control device 1 before conversion. The STOP signal is a single high pulse followed by a continuous low, so the precision required for the duration is lower than for signals such as 1-bit or 0-bit signals, and even if it is somewhat longer it will still be recognized as a STOP signal. γ is the time required for it to be recognized as a STOP signal.

[0178] 14 (except ST38), the timing of switching the output signal between Low and High based on the signal received by the portable repeater 3 may be delayed by γ, and the processing of ST38 may be controlled to keep the output signal Low without delaying γ. In this case, γ is set to a time within the delay time allowed for the vehicle control device 1 to complete relay communication within the time from when it transmits LF data to when it receives RF data.

[0179] Furthermore, in the process of ST28 shown in FIG. 13, instead of maintaining a low level, the signal may be changed and data may be transmitted. In the above-described modified example, the portable repeater 3 generates an output signal based on the duration of the high level of the received input signal, and outputs a low level for a certain period during the low level reception period regardless of the low / high level status of the input signal. Therefore, in the process of ST28, instead of maintaining a low level, appropriate data is transmitted during the low level period, thereby enabling transmission of other data along with the transfer of the LF data transmitted from the vehicle control device 1. Since this low level period is 500 μs, for example, if a signal is configured with bit 1 (high 20 μs, low 10 μs) and bit 0 (high 10 μs, low 20 μs), it is possible to transmit, for example, 8 bits of data. Since LF data usually always contains at least one bit 0, data is transmitted using the bit 0 period. This 8-bit data may be meaningful in a single transmission or meaningful over multiple transmissions. That is, if the data is long, it is divided into several parts and transmitted.

[0180] Furthermore, when transmitting data using the Low period in this way, the mobile repeater 3 executes the process of ST36 in Fig. 14 and then executes the reception process of the data. The reception process is, for example, receiving the data and executing a predetermined process based on the received data.

[0181] The vehicle repeater 2 is connected to, for example, sensors and various devices and equipment installed in the vehicle, and is equipped with the function of acquiring information about the vehicle, etc., and wirelessly transmits the acquired information about the vehicle, etc., to the mobile repeater 3 using the above-mentioned low period. The mobile repeater 3 then performs a predetermined process based on the received data. The predetermined process may, for example, notify the user of the vehicle-related information, etc., based on the received data using the notification unit 3e of the mobile repeater 3, or change the settings of the mobile repeater 3. Since the vehicle repeater 2 receives power from the vehicle battery, it may be configured to, for example, detect the vehicle's battery voltage and capacity before the engine is started and transmit the detected information as part of the vehicle information. This allows the user to know the condition of the battery before the engine is started and to check its deterioration, etc., which is advantageous.

[0182] [Other variations of relay waveforms] The wireless LF data converted based on the LF data can be converted in various ways without being limited to the above-mentioned Modifications 1 and 2. A simple example is a waveform in which High / Low is inverted.

[0183] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned modified example, an example was described in which the relay waveform of LF data was changed, but the present invention is not limited to this, and it is preferable to have a function to similarly change and relay WAKE and STOP signals and reproduce them on the receiving side.

[0184] 15 and 16 show a ninth embodiment. In the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the LF data has been described on the assumption that "bit 0" and "bit 1" are formed by a combination of high and low levels with predetermined pulse widths, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and (b). The actual LF data output from the vehicle control device 1, as shown in FIG. 15(a), is a collection of high-level pulses with high-level switching at a predetermined frequency (e.g., 134 kHz), and the low-level pulses are low levels where such high-level switching pulses are not output. Although the explanation is out of order, the bit-structured data shown in FIG. 3 is generated by performing envelope detection on the high-level switching pulses and generating a pulse waveform that maintains high in the section where the high-level switching pulses are present. Therefore, in the above-described embodiment and modified examples, the envelope signal of the LF data is not transmitted as is, but the vehicle repeater 2 converts and generates a transmission signal based on the envelope signal and transmits it. Then, the portable repeater 3 reproduces the envelope signal of the LF data based on the received transmission signal, and performs relay processing for the portable device 4 and the like.

[0185] In this embodiment, data similar to LF data is transmitted as wireless LF data, rather than an envelope signal. Specifically, a signal divided by 2 (LF divided signal) is generated and transmitted. As an example, the LF data is "101..." as shown in Figure 15(a). As shown, the high part of each bit is a continuous output of 134 kHz pulses. When the vehicle repeater 2 receives the LH data, it generates an LF divided signal (wireless LF data) with a frequency halved to 67 kHz as shown in Figure 15(b), and transmits it to the portable repeater 3.

[0186] In this embodiment, for example, a 2.4 kHz low-pass filter is implemented in the RFIC constituting the second mobile side transceiver 3c of the mobile repeater 3. As a result, when the mobile repeater 3 receives the LF frequency-divided signal (wireless LF data) shown in FIG. 15(b), it reproduces LF data as shown in FIG. 15(c). This LF data shown in FIG. 15(c) is similar to the LF data reproduced based on the wireless LF data received by the mobile repeater 3 in each of the above-mentioned embodiments. In this embodiment, when the wireless LF data is received by the second mobile side transceiver 3c, it is output without analyzing the L / H state of the signal, which is preferable because it allows for simple and fast processing.

[0187] Figure 16 shows the main parts of the vehicle repeater 2 and portable repeater 3 for performing such processing. As shown in the figure, the vehicle repeater 2 is configured to provide the LF data (A) received by the first vehicle side transceiver 2b (not shown) to the second vehicle side transceiver 2c via the frequency divider circuit 2e. The frequency divider circuit 2e is a circuit that divides the frequency of the input signal by 1 / 2. As a result, the frequency divider circuit 2e outputs LF frequency-divided data (B) that has been divided to 67 kHz. This LF frequency-divided data (B) is provided to the second vehicle side transceiver 2c. The second vehicle side transceiver 2c then wirelessly transmits the LF frequency-divided data (B).

[0188] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an envelope detector 2f is provided, and the received LF data (A) shown in FIG. 15(a) is provided to the envelope detector 2f together with the frequency divider circuit 2e. The envelope detector 2f then generates an envelope signal that remains high during the interval in which a pulse that switches to a high speed (e.g., 134 kHz) exists. The output of the envelope detector 2f is provided to the control unit 2a. In this embodiment, the envelope signal is not transmitted, but is used to control the transmission of the LF frequency-divided data. Specifically, for example, the end of the LF data is detected and the end of transmission is controlled.

[0189] On the other hand, as described above, the mobile repeater 3 implements a 2.4 kHz low-pass filter in the RFIC constituting the second mobile transceiver 3c. As a result, the second mobile transceiver 3c, which receives the LF frequency-divided data (B), outputs LF data (C). Note that other configurations and effects are the same as those of the above-described embodiments and modifications, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0190] FIG. 17 shows another circuit configuration for generating and transmitting divided LF data (B) by dividing the frequency of the 134 kHz LF data (A) received by the vehicle repeater 2 described above by half. In this example, the 134 kHz LF data (A) received by the first vehicle-side transceiver 2b (not shown) is provided to an envelope detector 2f, and the output of the envelope detector 2f is provided to the control unit 2a and the LF divided data generator 2g. The LF divided data generator 2g includes a 67 kHz oscillator circuit and an AND circuit. The output of the envelope detector 2f and the output of the oscillator circuit are provided to the AND circuit. As a result, the LF divided data shown in FIG. 15(b) is output from the AND circuit. Note that other configurations are similar to those of the circuit shown in FIG. 16, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0191] Figure 18 shows a tenth embodiment. In this embodiment, the 134 kHz LF data (see Figure 18(b)) output from the vehicle control device 1 is transmitted as is. That is, the vehicle repeater 2 receives the 134 kHz LF data output from the vehicle control device 1 at a first vehicle-side transceiver 2b (not shown), and transmits it at a second vehicle-side transceiver 2c.

[0192] On the other hand, the RFIC constituting the first mobile side transceiver 3b of the mobile repeater 3 has a bit rate filter set to a low frequency. The low frequency can be any frequency that cannot receive 134 kHz. As a result, the first mobile side transceiver 3b of the mobile repeater 3 cannot directly receive the 134 kHz LF data transferred from the vehicle repeater 2, and outputs a waveform resembling an envelope waveform, as shown in Figure 18(c). In this way, by setting the bit rate filter to a low frequency so that the receiving RFIC does not receive 134 kHz, it is possible to ensure a communication distance equivalent to that when an envelope is transmitted without converting it to an envelope.

[0193] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the 134 kHz LF data output from the vehicle control device 1 is sent directly to the portable repeater 3 without being converted into an envelope, which eliminates the delay and discrepancy that occurs when converting an LF signal into an envelope, making it effective for systems with strict time constraints. Also, because the LF signal is sent directly, the relayed signal can be faithfully reproduced, which is advantageous.

[0194] Furthermore, in this embodiment, RF data is transmitted and received in a bit-asynchronous manner, which allows the bit rate filter (demodulation circuit) on the receiving side to be lowered, making it effective against noise.

[0195] [Other variations] As explained in the ninth embodiment, the LF data output from the vehicle control device 1 is a 134 kHz signal, and the LF data shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b) is an envelope waveform generated by an envelope detector from the received 134 kHz LF data. Instead of generating an envelope in the envelope detector, it is preferable to provide a detection circuit or the like with a function to detect the received signal received by the first vehicle transceiver 2b. Through detection, the 134 kHz LF data can have a waveform similar to that of the LF data shown in Figures 3(a) and 3(b).

[0196] In the above description of the basic configuration, when the control unit 2a of the vehicle repeater 2 receives a start signal transmitted from the portable repeater 3, it transmits a foot brake signal to the vehicle control device 1 using its wired communication function, and the vehicle control device 1, upon receiving the foot brake signal, outputs a response request signal (LF data). However, the present invention is not limited to this; for example, a push-to-start signal or a door-open signal may be used instead of the foot brake signal. However, the most preferable embodiment outputs a foot brake signal that is close to the output timing of the signal generated by the operation when the driver gets in the vehicle and actually starts the engine. Also, for example, there are vehicles in which an auto alarm sounds when a door-open signal is output, and a push-to-start signal may cause the vehicle to start erroneously. However, a foot brake signal is acceptable because there is no safety issue even if the signal is transmitted to various control devices.

[0197] Furthermore, in the above-described basic configuration, the foot brake signal is continuously output in the ON state, but the present invention is not limited to this. The foot brake signal may be output in the ON state and then turned OFF. In this case, the vehicle repeater 2, upon receiving the wireless RF data that is the response from the portable repeater 3, turns the engine start request signal and the foot brake signal ON. However, as described in the basic configuration, it is better to maintain the ON state of the foot brake signal. This is advantageous because it creates the same situation as when the driver gets in the car and actually starts the engine, by pressing the push start button while keeping the foot brake pedal depressed and continuing to depress the foot brake pedal until the engine starts. Furthermore, since the sequence for starting the engine differs depending on the vehicle model, it is preferable to output ON / OFF according to the sequence.

[0198] Furthermore, as mentioned above, in order to make the sending and receiving of signals similar to when a driver is in the vehicle and actually starts the engine, the function of outputting a foot brake signal from the vehicle repeater 2 that receives the start signal transmitted from the portable repeater 3, and the function of keeping the output foot brake signal ON, are not limited to those that apply to each of the above-mentioned embodiments and variant examples, but may also be applied to vehicle remote control systems that use other relay methods, such as Patent Document 1.

[0199] The above-described embodiments and modifications may be appropriately combined. When combining, some of the configurations may be extracted and combined with other embodiments. Furthermore, a separate invention may be constructed that requires some of the configurations shown in the embodiments and modifications. For example, although one of the configurations of the first embodiment stores and holds multiple communication-related parameters and switches them using the setting switch 3g, a configuration without such a function may also be employed.

[0200] Various aspects of the present invention have been described above using embodiments and modifications. However, it should be noted that these embodiments and descriptions are provided to aid in understanding the present invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited to the structures and manufacturing methods explicitly described in the specification, but also includes combinations of various aspects of the present invention disclosed herein. While the structures of the present invention that are sought to be patented are specified in the appended claims, it is hereby emphasized that structures not currently specified in the claims may be claimed in the future as disclosed herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0201] 1 Vehicle control device 1a Control section 1b Transmitter / Receiver 1c Authentication information storage section 2 Vehicle repeater 2a Control section 2b First vehicle side transmitter / receiver 2c Second vehicle side transmitter / receiver 2d parameter storage 2e Notification Department 3 Mobile repeater 3a Control section 3b First mobile phone side transceiver 3c Second mobile phone transceiver 3d control unit 3e Notification Department 3f Parameter storage section 3g setting switch 3h Normal LF data information storage section 4. Portable devices 4a Control section 4b Transmitter / Receiver 4c Authentication information storage section

Claims

1. A relay system for relaying wireless communication between a vehicle control device and a portable device in a system for controlling a vehicle, the vehicle control device outputting a response request signal and receiving a response signal including regular authentication information transmitted from the portable device in response to the response request signal as one of conditions, a vehicle repeater capable of communicating with the vehicle control device; a portable repeater capable of communicating with the portable device; the vehicle control device has a function of transmitting LF data which is a response request signal for confirming the presence of a legitimate portable device; the vehicle control device has a function of transmitting the LF data of the plurality of portable devices, The portable repeater has a function of storing the LF data when the control of the vehicle is successful as normal LF data, and a function of notifying the number of registered normal LF data. A relay system characterized by:

2. The normal LF data to be stored is set to store all the transmitted LF data.

2. The relay system according to claim 1, wherein:

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