Authentication system, control device, mobile device, and computer program

Abstract

To increase the convenience of an authentication system using a mobile device.SOLUTION: A mobile device 11 is capable of being carried by a user 20. A first communication unit 121 forms a first radio communication area A1 at least outside a cabin 31 that is opened / closed by a door 32. A control unit 13 is configured so as to perform a series of first authentication processing to authenticate the mobile device 11 positioned in the first radio communication area A1, and when the first authentication processing is established, to transmit a locking / unlocking signal to the mobile device 11. The control unit 13 controls the operation of the locking / unlocking device 41 to lock / unlock the door 32 based on the locking / unlocking signal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an authentication system using a mobile device that can be carried by a user. The present invention also relates to a control device that can be included in the authentication system. The present invention also relates to a mobile device that can be included in the authentication system. The present invention also relates to a computer program executable by a processing unit of the control device. The present invention also relates to a computer program executable by a processing unit of the mobile device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an authentication system mounted on a vehicle, which is an example of a mobile object. In this system, authentication is performed through radio wave communication between a control device that controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device for the vehicle's doors and a mobile device carried by the user. When authentication is established with the user touching a touch sensor provided on the door handle, the control device is permitted to control the operation of the locking / unlocking device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-211334 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present invention is to improve the convenience of authentication systems that use mobile devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present invention to achieve the above object is an authentication system, comprising: a mobile device that can be carried by a user; a first communication device that forms a first wireless communication area at least outside a living room that is opened and closed by an opening and closing body; a control device that performs a first authentication process to authenticate the mobile device located in the first wireless communication area, causes the mobile device to transmit a locking / unlocking signal when the first authentication process is successful, and controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks the opening / closing body based on the locking / unlocking signal; It is equipped with:

[0006] One aspect of the present invention to achieve the above object is a control device for controlling the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks an opening / closing body that opens and closes a living room, a processing unit that causes the communication device to form a wireless communication area at least outside the living room; a reception unit that receives a lock / unlock signal wirelessly transmitted from a mobile device that can be carried by a user; It is equipped with The processing unit performing an authentication process for authenticating the mobile device located in the wireless communication area; If the authentication process is successful, the mobile device transmits the lock / unlock signal; Controlling the operation of the locking / unlocking device based on the locking / unlocking signal. It is structured as follows.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention to achieve the above object is a mobile device that can be carried by a user, comprising: a transmitter capable of transmitting an authentication signal including information necessary for authentication processing to authenticate the mobile device to a communication device that forms a wireless communication area at least outside the living room that is opened and closed by the opening and closing body; a receiving unit capable of receiving a request signal that requests transmission of a locking / unlocking signal that permits control of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks the opening / closing body, the request signal being transmitted from the communication device as a result of the authentication process being successful; a processing unit that causes the transmitting unit to transmit the lock / unlock signal to the communication device when the receiving unit receives the request signal; It is equipped with:

[0008] One aspect for achieving the above object is a computer program executable by a processing unit of a control device that controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks an opening / closing body that opens and closes a living room, When the program is executed, the control device causing a communication device to form a wireless communication area at least outside the living room; performing an authentication process for authenticating a mobile device that is located in the wireless communication area and that can be carried by a user; If the authentication process is successful, the mobile device transmits a lock / unlock signal; The operation of the locking / unlocking device is controlled based on the locking / unlocking signal.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention to achieve the above object is a computer program executable by a processing unit of a mobile device that can be carried by a user, the computer program comprising: By executing the above, the processing unit transmitting an authentication signal including information necessary for authentication processing to authenticate the mobile device to a communication device that forms a wireless communication area at least outside the living room that is opened and closed by the opening and closing body; If the authentication process is successful, a determination is made as to whether a request signal for requesting transmission of a locking / unlocking signal for permitting control of a locking / unlocking device for locking / unlocking the opening / closing body, which is transmitted from the communication device, has been received; If it is determined that the request signal has been received, the lock / unlock signal is transmitted to the communication device.

[0010] According to the configurations of the above aspects, when a mobile device carried by a user enters a first wireless communication area formed at least outside the living room, a first authentication process is initiated, and when the first authentication process is successful, a locking / unlocking signal is transmitted from the mobile device. In other words, the user does not need to input an operation into the mobile device to cause a control device to control the operation of the locking / unlocking device, nor does the user need to perform a touch operation on a door handle, etc. The user can operate the locking / unlocking device outside the living room with minimal operations, and there is no need to provide equipment such as a touch sensor on the opening / closing body, thereby improving the convenience of the authentication system that uses a mobile device that can be carried by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an example of the configuration of an authentication system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates an example of a functional configuration of an authentication system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 3 shows an example of a flow of processing executed by the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 shows an example of a flow of processing executed by the mobile device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 shows another example of the flow of processing executed by the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 shows another example of the flow of processing executed by the control device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 illustrates an example of a functional configuration of an authentication system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 shows an example of a flow of processing executed by a mobile device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 shows an example of a flow of processing executed by a control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 shows another example of the flow of processing executed by the control device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11]10 shows another example of the flow of processing executed by the control device according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An example of an embodiment will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 illustrates the configuration of an authentication system 10 according to a first embodiment.

[0013] The authentication system 10 includes a mobile device 11. The mobile device 11 is a device that can be carried by a user 20. The authentication system 10 can be used, for example, to authenticate the mobile device 11 and thereby allow the user 20 carrying the mobile device 11 to use a vehicle 30. The vehicle 30 is an example of a moving object.

[0014] The authentication system 10 includes a first communication device 121. The first communication device 121 has a configuration including an antenna capable of forming a first wireless communication area A1 at least outside the vehicle interior 31. The first wireless communication area A1 is an area where short-range wireless communication with the mobile device 11 is possible.

[0015] The term "short-range wireless communication" used in this specification refers to contactless communication using radio waves while complying with the IEEE802.15 or IEEE802.11 standard. Technologies capable of short-range wireless communication include Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark), Ultra Wide Band (UWB), ZigBee (registered trademark), and Wi-Fi (registered trademark). In this specification, "short-range wireless communication" is distinguished from "near-field wireless communication," which is contactless communication that transmits information through electromagnetic induction coupling. Technologies capable of short-range wireless communication include NFC (Near Field Communication), RF-ID, and the like.

[0016] The expression "transmitting a signal by radio waves" used in this specification means wirelessly transmitting a signal by radio waves at a frequency or frequency band defined by the above short-range wireless communication standard.

[0017] Specifically, the antenna characteristics and arrangement of the first communication device 121 are determined so as to transmit a first trigger signal TR1 (described later with reference to FIG. 2) by radio wave at least to the outside of the vehicle interior 31. In this example, the first communication device 121 is arranged in the door 32. The first communication device 121 may also be arranged in a door handle, a pillar, a door mirror, or the like.

[0018] The authentication system 10 includes a control device 13. In this example, the control device 13 is mounted on a vehicle 30. The control device 13 is configured to control the operation of a locking / unlocking device 41 mounted on the vehicle 30 based on a first authentication process that authenticates the mobile device 11 that has received a first trigger signal TR1. The locking / unlocking device 41 is a device that locks and unlocks a door 32 that opens and closes a passenger compartment 31 of the vehicle 30. The passenger compartment 31 is an example of a passenger compartment. The door 32 is an example of an opening / closing body.

[0019] 2, the control device 13 includes an output unit 131. The output unit 131 is configured as an interface capable of outputting various signals. The various signals may be analog signals or digital signals. When an analog signal is output, the output unit 131 includes an appropriate conversion circuit including a D / A converter.

[0020] The control device 13 includes a processing unit 132. The processing unit 132 is configured to output a first transmission control signal TC1 from an output unit 131. The first communication device 121 is configured to transmit a first trigger signal TR1 by radio wave based on the first transmission control signal TC1. The first trigger signal TR1 may be transmitted continuously or intermittently at predetermined time intervals.

[0021] On the other hand, the mobile device 11 includes a receiving unit 111. The receiving unit 111 includes an antenna capable of receiving various signals transmitted from the first communication device 121 through the above-described short-range wireless communication.

[0022] The mobile device 11 includes a transmitting unit 112. The transmitting unit 112 includes an antenna capable of transmitting various signals to the first communication device 121 through the above-mentioned short-range wireless communication.

[0023] The mobile device 11 includes a processing unit 113. The processing unit 113 is configured to acquire the radio wave intensity of the first trigger signal TR1 received by the receiving unit 111. The processing unit 113 is configured to transmit a response signal RS by radio wave from the transmitting unit 112 when the receiving unit 111 receives the first trigger signal TR1 having a radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0024] The response signal RS is configured to include authentication information required for authenticating the mobile device 11. The authentication information is information stored in a storage unit (not shown) that can identify at least one of the mobile device 11 and the user 20. The response signal RS is an example of an authentication signal.

[0025] The control device 13 includes a reception unit 133. The reception unit 133 is configured as an interface that receives various signals received by the first communication device 121 through short-range wireless communication.

[0026] The processing unit 132 of the control device 13 is configured to compare the authentication information included in the response signal RS received by the receiving unit 133 with the authentication information of the mobile device 11 stored in advance in a storage unit (not shown). If the degree of match between the two pieces of information exceeds a threshold, the processing unit 132 determines that the first authentication process is successful.

[0027] When it is determined that the first authentication process is successful, the processing unit 132 is configured to output, from the output unit 131, a second transmission control signal TC2 that causes the first communication device 121 to transmit a request signal RQ by radio wave. The request signal RQ is configured to include information that requests the mobile device 11 to transmit a locking / unlocking signal LK. The locking / unlocking signal LK is configured to include information that permits the control device 12 to control the locking / unlocking operation of the locking / unlocking device 41.

[0028] The processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 is configured so that when the receiving unit 111 receives the request signal RQ through short-distance wireless communication, the transmitting unit 112 automatically transmits the locking / unlocking signal LK by radio wave. The expression "automatically" used here means that the locking / unlocking signal LK is transmitted without requiring any operation input by the user 20 to the mobile device 11.

[0029] The processing unit 132 of the control device 13 is configured to output a first operation control signal OC1 that causes the locking / unlocking device 41 to perform a locking / unlocking operation from the output unit 131 when the first communication device 121 receives the locking / unlocking signal LK through short-range wireless communication. The locking / unlocking device 41 is configured to lock or unlock the door 32 based on the first operation control signal OC1.

[0030] The flow of processing performed in the authentication system 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows an example of the flow of processing performed by the processing unit 132 of the control device 13. Figure 4 shows an example of the flow of processing performed by the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11.

[0031] First, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 outputs the first transmission control signal TC1 from the output unit 131, and starts transmitting the first trigger signal TR1 by radio wave from the first communication device 121 (STEP 11 in FIG. 3).

[0032] Next, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines whether the first communication device 121 has received a response signal RS from the mobile device 11 (STEP 12 in FIG. 3). The processing continues until it is determined that the response signal RS has been received (NO in STEP 12).

[0033] On the other hand, the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 determines whether the first trigger signal TR1 has been received by the receiving unit 111 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (STEP 21 in FIG. 4). The processing continues until it is determined that the first trigger signal TR1 has been received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than the predetermined value (NO in STEP 21).

[0034] When the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 determines that the first trigger signal TR1 has been received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in STEP 21), the transmitting unit 112 transmits a response signal RS by radio wave (STEP 22).

[0035] When the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines that the response signal RS has been received by the first communication device 121 (YES in STEP 12 of FIG. 3), it compares the authentication information included in the response signal RS with authentication information pre-stored in a storage unit (not shown) and determines whether the first authentication process has been successful (STEP 13). When it determines that the first authentication process has not been successful due to a mismatch in the authentication information or other reasons (NO in STEP 13), the process returns to STEP 12 and waits again for reception of the response signal RS.

[0036] If it is determined that the first authentication process is successful (YES in STEP 13), the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 outputs a second transmission control signal TC2 from the output unit 131, and transmits a request signal RQ by radio wave from the first communication device 121 (STEP 14).

[0037] Next, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines whether the lock / unlock signal LK has been received by the first communication device 121 from the mobile device 11 (STEP 15). If it is determined that the lock / unlock signal LK has not been received (NO in STEP 15), the processing returns to STEP 14, and the transmission of the request signal RQ is repeated.

[0038] The processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 determines whether the receiving unit 111 has received a request signal RQ from the first communication device 121 (STEP 23 in FIG. 4). If it is determined that the request signal RQ has not been received (NO in STEP 23), the processing unit 113 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the response signal RS was transmitted (STEP 24). If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in STEP 24), the processing returns to STEP 23. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in STEP 24), the first authentication processing is considered to have failed, and the processing ends. Alternatively, the processing may return to STEP 21 to retry the first authentication processing.

[0039] When the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 determines that the request signal RQ has been received by the receiving unit 111 (YES in STEP 23), the processing unit 113 automatically transmits the lock / unlock signal LK by radio wave from the transmitting unit 112 (STEP 25). After that, the processing may be ended, or the processing may be returned to STEP 23 and enter a standby state for the request signal RQ.

[0040] When the first communication device 121 determines that the locking / unlocking signal LK has been received from the mobile device 11 (YES in STEP 15 of Figure 3), the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 outputs a first operation control signal OC1 from the output unit 131 to control the operation of the locking / unlocking device 41 (STEP 16).

[0041] According to the configuration described above, the first authentication process is initiated when the mobile device 11 carried by the user 20 enters the first wireless communication area A1 formed at least outside the vehicle interior 31, and when the first authentication process is successful, the mobile device 11 transmits a locking / unlocking signal LK. That is, the user 20 does not need to perform an operation input to the mobile device 11 or perform a touch operation on a door handle or the like to cause the control device 13 to control the operation of the locking / unlocking device 41. The user 20 can operate the locking / unlocking device 41 with the minimum necessary operations outside the vehicle interior 31, and there is no need to provide equipment such as a touch sensor on the door 32 of the vehicle 30. This improves the convenience of the authentication system 10 that uses the mobile device 11 that can be carried by the user 20.

[0042] 4, the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 is configured to transmit a response signal RS when the received radio wave intensity of the first trigger signal TR1 transmitted from the first communication device 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. If the response signal RS is not transmitted, the first authentication process is not established, and therefore the locking / unlocking signal LK is not transmitted from the mobile device 11. In other words, one condition for allowing transmission of the locking / unlocking signal LK is that the radio wave intensity of the first trigger signal TR1 transmitted from the first communication device 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0043] 1, by appropriately setting the transmission characteristics of the antenna provided in the first communication device 121, a range A1' within the first wireless communication area A1 where transmission of the locking / unlocking signal LK is permitted can be determined. For example, by setting the range A1' to approximately several tens of centimeters from the first communication device 121, the locking / unlocking device 41 can be operated by holding the mobile device 11 over the location where the first communication device 121 is located. In other words, the user 20 can be provided with an operation feeling similar to that of close proximity wireless communication without providing additional equipment for realizing close proximity wireless communication.

[0044] Figure 5 shows another example of the flow of processing executed by the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11. Processing elements that are substantially the same as those in the processing illustrated in Figure 4 are given the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations will be omitted.

[0045] In this example, the processing unit 113 determines whether the receiving unit 111 has received the first trigger signal TR1 from the first communication device 121 (STEP 31). The processing continues until it is determined that the first trigger signal TR1 has been received (NO in STEP 31).

[0046] The processing unit 113 , th When it is determined that the first trigger signal TR1 has been received (YES in STEP 31), the transmitter 112 transmits a response signal RS by radio wave (STEP 22). That is, the first authentication process is started regardless of the received radio wave intensity of the first trigger signal TR1 at the receiver 111.

[0047] In this example, when it is determined that the receiving unit 111 has received the request signal RQ from the first communication device 121 (YES in STEP 23), the processing unit 113 determines whether the receiving unit 111 has received the first trigger signal TR1 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (STEP 32).When it is determined that the first trigger signal TR1 has not been received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than the predetermined value (NO in STEP 32), the processing proceeds to STEP 24.

[0048] If it is determined that the first trigger signal TR1 is received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in STEP 32), the processing unit 113 automatically transmits the locking / unlocking signal LK by radio wave from the transmitting unit 112 (STEP 25).

[0049] In STEP 32, it may be determined whether the request signal RQ is received by the receiver 111 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value. That is, in this example, one condition for allowing transmission of the locking / unlocking signal LK is that the radio wave intensity of the signal related to the first authentication process transmitted from the first communication device 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. In this case, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

[0050] 1 and 2, the authentication system 10 may include a second communication device 122. The second communication device 122 has a configuration including an antenna capable of forming a second wireless communication area A2 at least inside the passenger compartment 31 of the vehicle 30. The second wireless communication area A2 is an area in which short-range wireless communication with the mobile device 11 is possible.

[0051] Specifically, the antenna characteristics and arrangement of the second communication device 122 are determined so that the second communication device 122 transmits the second trigger signal TR2 by radio wave at least to the inside of the vehicle compartment 31. In this example, the second communication device 122 is arranged at an appropriate location within the vehicle compartment 31.

[0052] The control device 13 is configured to control the operation of a starting device 42 mounted on the vehicle 30 based on a second authentication process that authenticates the mobile device 11 that has received the second trigger signal TR2. The starting device 42 is a device that starts the drive source of the vehicle 30. The drive source may be an internal combustion engine or an electric motor. The starting device 42 may be configured to stop until the start of the drive source is permitted. In this case, when the start is permitted, for example, when the user 20 touches the ignition switch, the drive source is started. The starting device 42 is an example of a controlled device that is different from a locking / unlocking device.

[0053] The processing unit 132 of the control device 13 is configured to output a third transmission control signal TC3 from the output unit 131. The second communication device 122 is configured to transmit a second trigger signal TR2 by radio wave based on the third transmission control signal TC3. The second trigger signal TR2 may be transmitted continuously or intermittently at predetermined time intervals.

[0054] On the other hand, the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 is configured to transmit a response signal RS by radio waves from the transmitting unit 112 when the receiving unit 111 receives the second trigger signal TR2. The processing unit 113 may be configured to transmit the response signal RS by radio waves from the transmitting unit 112 when the receiving unit 111 receives the second trigger signal TR2 having a radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0055] The receiving unit 133 of the control device 13 is configured to receive the response signal RS received by the second communication device 122 through short-range wireless communication.

[0056] The processing unit 132 of the control device 13 is configured to compare the authentication information included in the response signal RS received by the receiving unit 133 via the second communication device 122 with the authentication information of the mobile device 11 stored in advance in a storage unit (not shown). If the degree of match between the two pieces of information exceeds a threshold, the processing unit 132 determines that the second authentication process is successful.

[0057] When it is determined that the second authentication process is successful, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 is configured to output a second operation control signal OC2, which causes the starting device 42 to start the driving source, from the output unit 131. The starting device 42 is configured to start the driving source based on the second operation control signal OC2.

[0058] FIG. 6 shows an example of processing executed by the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 configured as above.

[0059] First, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 outputs the third transmission control signal TC3 from the output unit 131, and starts transmitting the second trigger signal TR2 by radio wave from the second communication device 122 (STEP 41).

[0060] Next, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines whether the response signal RS has been received by the second communication device 122 from the mobile device 11 (STEP 42). This processing continues until it is determined that the response signal RS has been received (NO in STEP 42).

[0061] The mobile device 11 performs the process illustrated in STEP 21 of FIG. 4 or STEP 31 of FIG. 5 and transmits a response signal RS by radio waves (STEP 22).

[0062] When the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines that the response signal RS has been received by the second communication device 122 (YES in STEP 42 in FIG. 6), it compares the authentication information included in the response signal RS with authentication information pre-stored in a storage unit (not shown) and determines whether the second authentication process has been successful (STEP 43). When it determines that the second authentication process has not been successful due to a mismatch in the authentication information or other reasons (NO in STEP 43), the process returns to STEP 42 and waits again for reception of the response signal RS.

[0063] If it is determined that the second authentication process is successful (YES in STEP 43), processing unit 132 of control device 13 outputs second operation control signal OC2 from output unit 131 to control the operation of starting device 42 (STEP 44).

[0064] According to this configuration, when the mobile device 11 carried by the user 20 enters the second wireless communication area A2 formed at least inside the vehicle interior 31, the second authentication process is initiated, and if the second authentication process is successful, the control device 13 controls the starting device 42. In other words, the user 20 can operate controlled devices other than the locking / unlocking device 41 inside the vehicle interior 31 with the minimum necessary operations.

[0065] 7 illustrates an example of the functional configuration of an authentication system 10 according to the second embodiment. Elements that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations will be omitted.

[0066] In this embodiment, a trigger signal TR0 for starting authentication processing is transmitted by radio waves from the mobile device 11. The trigger signal may include authentication information required for authenticating the mobile device 11. In other words, the trigger signal TR0 is also an example of an authentication signal.

[0067] Fig. 8 shows an example of the flow of processing executed by the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 according to this embodiment. Fig. 9 shows an example of the flow of processing executed by the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 according to this embodiment.

[0068] First, the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 starts transmitting the trigger signal TR0 by radio waves from the transmission unit 112 (STEP 51 in FIG. 8).

[0069] On the other hand, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines whether the trigger signal TR0 has been received by the first communication device 121 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (STEP 61 in FIG. 9). The processing continues until it is determined that the trigger signal TR0 has been received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than the predetermined value (NO in STEP 61).

[0070] When the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines that the trigger signal TR0 has been received by the first communication device 121 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in STEP 61), it compares the authentication information included in the trigger signal TR0 with authentication information pre-stored in a storage unit (not shown) and determines whether the first authentication process has been successful (STEP 62). When it determines that the first authentication process has not been successful due to a mismatch in the authentication information or other reasons (NO in STEP 62), the process returns to STEP 61 and waits again for reception of the trigger signal TR0.

[0071] If it is determined that the first authentication process is successful (YES in STEP 62), the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 outputs a second transmission control signal TC2 from the output unit 131, and transmits a request signal RQ by radio wave from the first communication device 121 (STEP 63).

[0072] Next, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 determines whether the lock / unlock signal LK has been received by the first communication device 121 from the mobile device 11 (STEP 64). If it is determined that the lock / unlock signal LK has not been received (NO in STEP 64), the processing returns to STEP 63, and the transmission of the request signal RQ is repeated.

[0073] The processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 determines whether the receiving unit 111 has received a request signal RQ from the first communication device 121 (STEP 52 in FIG. 8). If it is determined that the request signal RQ has not been received (NO in STEP 52), the processing unit 113 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the trigger signal TR0 was transmitted (STEP 53). If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in STEP 53), the processing returns to STEP 52. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in STEP 53), the first authentication processing is considered to have failed, and the processing ends. Alternatively, the processing may return to STEP 51 to retry the first authentication processing.

[0074] When the processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11 determines that the request signal RQ has been received by the receiving unit 111 (YES in STEP 52), the processing unit 113 automatically transmits a lock / unlock signal LK by radio wave from the transmitting unit 112 (STEP 54). After that, the processing may be terminated, or the processing may be returned to STEP 52 and enter a standby state for the request signal RQ.

[0075] When the first communication device 121 determines that the locking / unlocking signal LK has been received from the mobile device 11 (YES in STEP 64 of Figure 9), the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 outputs a first operation control signal OC1 from the output unit 131 and controls the operation of the locking / unlocking device 41 (STEP 65).

[0076] In the configuration according to this embodiment, the first authentication process is initiated when the mobile device 11 carried by the user 20 enters the first wireless communication area A1 formed at least outside the vehicle interior 31, and when the first authentication process is successful, the mobile device 11 transmits a locking / unlocking signal LK. That is, the user 20 does not need to input an operation to the mobile device 11 or perform a touch operation on a door handle or the like to cause the control device 13 to control the operation of the locking / unlocking device 41. The user 20 can operate the locking / unlocking device 41 with the minimum necessary operations outside the vehicle interior 31, and there is no need to provide equipment such as a touch sensor on the door 32 of the vehicle 30. This improves the convenience of the authentication system 10 that uses the mobile device 11 that can be carried by the user 20.

[0077] 9, the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 is configured to start the first authentication process when the received radio wave intensity of the trigger signal TR0 received by the first communication device 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. If the first authentication process is not started, the request signal RQ is not transmitted, and therefore the locking / unlocking signal LK is not transmitted from the mobile device 11. In other words, one condition for allowing transmission of the locking / unlocking signal LK is that the radio wave intensity of the trigger signal TR0 received by the first communication device 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value.

[0078] 1, by appropriately setting the reception characteristics of the antenna provided in the first communication device 121, a range A1' within the first wireless communication area A1 where transmission of the locking / unlocking signal LK is permitted can be determined. For example, by setting the range A1' to approximately several tens of centimeters from the first communication device 121, the locking / unlocking device 41 can be operated by holding the mobile device 11 over the location where the first communication device 121 is located. In other words, the user 20 can be provided with an operational feel similar to that of close proximity wireless communication without providing additional equipment for realizing close proximity wireless communication.

[0079] Fig. 10 shows another example of the flow of processing executed by the processing unit 132 of the control device 13. Processing elements that are substantially the same as those in the processing illustrated in Fig. 9 are given the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations will be omitted.

[0080] In this example, the processing unit 132 determines whether the trigger signal TR0 has been received by the first communication device 121 (STEP 71). The processing continues until it is determined that the trigger signal TR0 has been received (NO in STEP 71).

[0081] If the processing unit 132 determines that the trigger signal TR0 has been received with a radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in STEP 71), it compares the authentication information included in the trigger signal TR0 with authentication information previously stored in a storage unit (not shown) to determine whether the first authentication process has been successful (STEP 62). If it determines that the first authentication process has not been successful due to a mismatch in the authentication information or other reasons (NO in STEP 62), the process returns to STEP 71 and waits again for reception of the trigger signal TR0. That is, the first authentication process is started regardless of the radio wave intensity of the received first trigger signal TR1 in the first communication device 121.

[0082] In this example, when it is determined that the first authentication process is successful (YES in STEP 62), the processing unit 132 determines whether the trigger signal TR0 is received by the first communication device 121 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (STEP 72). This process is repeated until it is determined that the trigger signal TR0 is received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than the predetermined value (NO in STEP 72).

[0083] If it is determined that the trigger signal TR0 is received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in STEP 72), the processing unit 132 outputs a second transmission control signal TC2 from the output unit 131 and transmits a request signal RQ by radio wave from the first communication device 121 (STEP 63).

[0084] That is, in this example, one condition for allowing transmission of the locking / unlocking signal LK from the mobile device 11 is that the radio wave intensity of the trigger signal TR0 received by the first communication device 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. Therefore, the above-mentioned effect can be similarly obtained.

[0085] FIG. 11 shows an example of processing executed by the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 with respect to the second communication device 122 according to this embodiment.

[0086] The processing unit 132 determines whether the trigger signal TR0 has been received by the second communication device 122 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (STEP 81). The processing continues until it is determined that the trigger signal TR0 has been received with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than the predetermined value (NO in STEP 81).

[0087] When the processing unit 132 determines that the trigger signal TR0 has been received by the second communication device 122 with radio wave intensity equal to or greater than a predetermined value (YES in STEP 81), it compares the authentication information included in the trigger signal TR0 with authentication information pre-stored in a storage unit (not shown) and determines whether the second authentication process has been successful (STEP 82). When it determines that the first authentication process has not been successful due to a mismatch in the authentication information or other reasons (NO in STEP 82), the process returns to STEP 81 and waits again for reception of the trigger signal TR0.

[0088] If it is determined that the second authentication process is successful (YES in STEP 82), processing unit 132 of control device 13 outputs second operation control signal OC2 from output unit 131 to control the operation of starting device 42 (STEP 83).

[0089] The processing unit 132 of the control device 13, which has each of the functions described above, may be realized by a general-purpose microprocessor operating in cooperation with general-purpose memory. Examples of the general-purpose microprocessor include a CPU, an MPU, and a GPU. Examples of the general-purpose memory include a ROM and a RAM. In this case, a computer program for executing the above-described processing may be stored in the ROM. The ROM is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing a computer program. The general-purpose microprocessor specifies at least a portion of the computer program stored in the ROM, expands it on the RAM, and executes the above-described processing in cooperation with the RAM. The computer program may be pre-installed in the general-purpose memory, or may be downloaded from an external server device 60 via the wireless communication network 50 illustrated in FIG. 1 and then installed in the general-purpose memory. In this case, the external server device 60 is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing a computer program.

[0090] The processing unit 132 may be realized by a dedicated integrated circuit capable of executing the computer program, such as a microcontroller, ACIC, or FPGA. In this case, the computer program is pre-installed in a memory element included in the dedicated integrated circuit. The memory element is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores a computer program. Each processor may also be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0091] The processing unit 113 of the mobile device 11, which has the functions described above, may be realized by a general-purpose microprocessor operating in cooperation with general-purpose memory. Examples of the general-purpose microprocessor include a CPU, an MPU, and a GPU. Examples of the general-purpose memory include a ROM and a RAM. In this case, a computer program for executing the above-described processes may be stored in the ROM. The ROM is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing a computer program. The general-purpose microprocessor specifies at least a portion of the computer program stored in the ROM, expands it on the RAM, and executes the above-described processes in cooperation with the RAM. The computer program may be pre-installed in the general-purpose memory, or may be downloaded from an external server device 60 via the wireless communication network 50 illustrated in FIG. 1 and then installed in the general-purpose memory. In this case, the external server device 60 is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium for storing a computer program.

[0092] The processing unit 113 may be realized by a dedicated integrated circuit capable of executing the computer program, such as a microcontroller, ACIC, or FPGA. In this case, the computer program is pre-installed in a memory element included in the dedicated integrated circuit. The memory element is an example of a non-transitory computer-readable medium that stores a computer program. Each processor may also be realized by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a dedicated integrated circuit.

[0093] The above-described embodiments are merely examples for facilitating understanding of the present invention, and the configurations according to the above-described embodiments may be appropriately modified or improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0094] In each of the above-described embodiments, the control device 13 is mounted on the vehicle 30. With such a configuration, communication delays that may occur in short-distance wireless communication with the mobile device 11 can be easily suppressed.

[0095] However, at least a part of the authentication process performed by the processing unit 132 of the control device 13 can be performed in the external server device 60.

[0096] The controlled device controlled by the control device 13 as a result of the second authentication process of the mobile device 11 performed through the second communication device 122 that forms the second wireless communication area A2 in the vehicle interior 31 is not limited to the starting device 42. Examples of controlled devices other than the locking / unlocking device 41 include an air conditioning device, audiovisual equipment, lighting equipment, and position adjustment mechanisms for seats and steering wheels mounted on the vehicle 30.

[0097] The authentication system 10 can also be applied to moving bodies other than the vehicle 30. Examples of other moving bodies include trains, airplanes, ships, etc. The moving bodies may not require a driver.

[0098] The opening / closing body that is locked and unlocked by the locking / unlocking device is not limited to the door of the vehicle 30. Doors and windows in a house or facility can also be examples of the opening / closing body. [Explanation of symbols]

[0099] 10: authentication system, 11: mobile device, 111: receiving unit, 112: transmitting unit, 113: processing unit, 121: first communication device, 122: second communication device, 13: control device, 132: processing unit, 133: reception unit, 20: user, 30: vehicle, 31: passenger compartment, 32: door, 41: locking / unlocking device, 42: starting device, A1: first wireless communication area, A2: second wireless communication area, LK: locking / unlocking signal, RS: response signal, RQ: request signal, TR0: trigger signal, TR1: first trigger signal

Claims

1. a mobile device that can be carried by a user; a first communication device that forms a first wireless communication area at least outside a living room that is opened and closed by an opening and closing body; a control device that causes the first communication device to transmit a request signal to the mobile device when a first authentication process for authenticating the mobile device located in the first wireless communication area is successful; It is equipped with a trigger signal including information necessary for the first authentication process is transmitted by radio waves from the mobile device; When the received radio wave intensity of the trigger signal in the first communication device is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the first authentication process is started, The mobile device automatically transmits a lock / unlock signal upon receiving the request signal; The control device controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks the opening / closing body based on the locking / unlocking signal. Authentication system.

2. a second communication device that forms a second wireless communication area at least inside the living room; The control device performs a second authentication process to authenticate the mobile device located in the second wireless communication area, and when the second authentication process is successful, controls an operation of a controlled device different from the locking / unlocking device. The authentication system of claim 1 .

3. The locking / unlocking device is mounted on a moving body.

3. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The control device is mounted on the moving body. The authentication system according to claim 3 .

5. A mobile device that can be carried by a user, a transmitter capable of transmitting a trigger signal including information necessary for authentication processing to authenticate the mobile device to a communication device that forms a wireless communication area at least outside the living room that is opened and closed by the opening and closing body; a receiving unit capable of receiving a request signal transmitted from the communication device as a result of the authentication process being initiated when the received radio wave intensity of the trigger signal at the communication device is equal to or greater than a predetermined value; a processing unit that, when the receiving unit receives the request signal, automatically transmits a locking / unlocking signal from the transmitting unit to the communication device, the locking / unlocking signal permitting control of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks the opening / closing body; Equipped with Mobile devices.

6. A computer program executable by a processing unit of a mobile device that can be carried by a user, When executed, the mobile device: transmitting a trigger signal including information necessary for authentication processing to authenticate the mobile device to a communication device that forms a wireless communication area at least outside the living room that is opened and closed by the opening and closing body; When the communication device receives a request signal transmitted from the communication device as a result of the authentication process being initiated when the received radio wave intensity of the trigger signal at the communication device is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the communication device automatically transmits a lock / unlock signal to the communication device, the lock / unlock signal permitting control of a lock / unlock device that locks and unlocks the opening / closing body. Computer program.

7. a mobile device that can be carried by a user; a first communication device that forms a first wireless communication area at least outside a living room that is opened and closed by an opening and closing body; a control device that performs a first authentication process to authenticate the mobile device located in the first wireless communication area, causes the mobile device to transmit a locking / unlocking signal when the first authentication process is successful, and controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks the opening / closing body based on the locking / unlocking signal; It is equipped with a second communication device that forms a second wireless communication area at least inside the living room; The control device performs a second authentication process to authenticate the mobile device located in the second wireless communication area, and when the second authentication process is successful, controls an operation of a controlled device different from the locking / unlocking device. Authentication system.

8. A control device that controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks an opening / closing body that opens and closes a living room, a processing unit that causes a first communication device to form a first wireless communication area at least outside the living room and a second wireless communication area at least inside the living room; a reception unit that receives a lock / unlock signal wirelessly transmitted from a mobile device that can be carried by a user; It is equipped with The processing unit performing a first authentication process to authenticate the mobile device located in the first wireless communication region; If the first authentication process is successful, the mobile device transmits the lock / unlock signal; Controlling the operation of the locking / unlocking device based on the locking / unlocking signal; A second authentication process is performed to authenticate the mobile device located in the second wireless communication area, and when the second authentication process is successful, the operation of a controlled device different from the locking / unlocking device is controlled. Control device.

9. A computer program executable by a processing unit of a control device that controls the operation of a locking / unlocking device that locks and unlocks an opening / closing body that opens and closes a living room, By being executed, the control device causing a first communication device to form a first wireless communication area at least outside the living room; causing the second communication device to form a second wireless communication area at least inside the living room; performing a first authentication process for authenticating a mobile device that is located in the first wireless communication area and that can be carried by a user; If the first authentication process is successful, the mobile device transmits a lock / unlock signal; Controlling the operation of the locking / unlocking device based on the locking / unlocking signal; performing a second authentication process for authenticating the mobile device located in the second wireless communication area, and if the second authentication process is successful, controlling an operation of a controlled device different from the locking / unlocking device; Computer program.

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