Communication device, smart key device, smart key system, and communication method

Abstract

To provide a communication device, a smart key device, a smart key system, and a communication method which are capable of suppressing unnecessary communication processing.SOLUTION: A communication device according to one embodiment has a controller. The controller enables execution of communication processing with a communication target device when a vibration in the communication device is detected.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication device, a smart key device, a smart key system, and a communication method. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, various technologies have been proposed that enable the vehicle to be locked, unlocked, started, etc. by communicating with a communication device, such as a smart key carried by the vehicle user, (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-172578 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In communication devices such as smart keys according to conventional technology, communication processing for transmitting radio waves for communication is constantly (including intermittently and continuously) executed. However, if the communication processing is configured to be constantly executed in this manner, the communication processing is executed even when communication is not required, for example, in other words, when communication is not required, and there is room for improvement.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and aims to provide a communication device, a smart key device, a smart key system, and a communication method that can suppress unnecessary communication processing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object, the present invention provides a communication device having a controller, which enables communication processing with a communication target device when vibration is detected in the communication device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent unnecessary communication processing from being performed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overview of a communication method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a smart key. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a communication control device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a vehicle. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure executed by the smart key. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a smart key according to the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a smart key according to the third embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a smart key according to the fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of a communication device, a smart key device, a smart key system, and a communication method disclosed herein will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0010] (First embodiment) <Outline of communication method by communication device> First, an outline of a communication method by a communication device according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an outline of a communication method according to the first embodiment.

[0011] The following description will be given taking as an example a case where the communication system 1 according to the first embodiment is applied to a communication system of a vehicle C. The communication system of the vehicle C in this embodiment is a smart key system that enables the user U of the vehicle C to lock and unlock the vehicle C, open and close the doors, start the vehicle C, and the like, without inserting an engine key into the key cylinder of the vehicle C, by wirelessly communicating between a communication device 10 (so-called smart key) carried by the user U of the vehicle C and a vehicle control device 100 mounted on the vehicle C.

[0012] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 1 according to the first embodiment includes a communication device 10 and a vehicle control device 100.

[0013] The communication device 10 is a device that communicates with the vehicle control device 100 and the like, and is specifically a portable smart key device that is possessed (carried) by a user U of the vehicle C. Note that, hereinafter, the communication device 10 may be referred to as a "smart key 10." The smart key 10 is also called a remote key or a wireless key, and transmits an operation instruction signal to the vehicle C wirelessly.

[0014] The smart key 10 includes an operation unit 20. The operation unit 20 accepts user operations that instruct the vehicle control device 100 to execute communication processes. As described above, examples of the content of communication processes instructed to the operation unit 20 include processes such as locking and unlocking the vehicle C, opening and closing the doors, and transmitting instruction signals to start the vehicle C, but these are merely examples and are not limited thereto. The detailed configuration of the smart key 10 will be described later with reference to FIG. 2 etc.

[0015] The vehicle control device 100 is mounted on the vehicle C. The vehicle control device 100 controls, for example, the doors and drive sources (engine and electric motor) of the vehicle C. The vehicle control device 100 communicates with the smart key 10 and performs processing in response to instruction signals from the smart key 10 (for example, locking processing), and also performs processing to send information indicating the vehicle status (for example, door lock status, etc.) to the smart key 10.

[0016] In some smart key systems (communication systems 1), when an operation switch installed in the vehicle C is operated, the in-vehicle device (vehicle control device 100) transmits a signal corresponding to the operation to the smart key 10 via short-range wireless communication. The smart key 10 then receives the signal and transmits an identification signal or the like of the smart key 10 to the in-vehicle device. If the identification signals match, that is, if it is determined that the operation was performed by a legitimate user U (a user holding a legitimate smart key 10 and present near the vehicle), the system performs an operation corresponding to the operated operation switch (hereinafter, this smart key system will be referred to as a "vehicle switch-linked smart key system"). For example, in such a vehicle switch-linked smart key system, when the smart key 10 is present near the vehicle, operating an engine start switch (such as a keyless push button) starts the engine, and holding the door handle unlocks the door. The detailed configuration of the vehicle control device 100 will be described later with reference to FIG. 4, etc.

[0017] In the smart key according to the conventional technology, the communication process of transmitting radio waves for communication is always executed. Therefore, for example, when the user U is not driving the vehicle C and the smart key is located in a place away from the vehicle C (such as at home), that is, even when communication with the vehicle control device 100 is not required, the smart key continues to execute the communication process.

[0018] The smart key according to the prior art is equipped with a battery and performs communication processing using power supplied from the battery. Therefore, if the communication processing is constantly performed as described above, depending on the usage conditions, the battery's stored power may be used up, causing the communication processing to suddenly stop, making it impossible to lock or unlock the vehicle C.

[0019] Recently, a technique known as a relay attack has emerged in which a smart key, which has continuous communication processing, is misused to steal a vehicle C. A relay attack involves relaying communication between a smart key at home and the vehicle control device of a vehicle parked in a garage using a repeater, making it appear as if the smart key is near the vehicle (the same as if the legitimate vehicle owner is near the vehicle). This allows the attacker to fraudulently perform the unlocking operation of the smart key system (unlocking the door when the smart key approaches within communication range between the smart key and the vehicle control device) and the engine start operation (starting the engine when the engine start switch (push button, etc.) is operated while the smart key is within communication range between the smart key and the vehicle control device). This is a theft technique that takes advantage of the fact that communication processing is always running in the smart key, and countermeasures have been desired.

[0020] Therefore, in the smart key 10 according to this embodiment, communication processing is performed only when necessary, thereby suppressing unnecessary communication processing, reducing power consumption, and preventing theft of the vehicle C.

[0021] Specifically, the smart key 10 detects vibrations in the smart key (communication device) 10 (step S1). The smart key 10 is equipped with (built-in) a vibration power generator, and the smart key 10 detects vibrations of the smart key 10 based on the power generation state of the vibration power generator.

[0022] In more detail, for example, when a user U carrying the smart key 10 moves the hand holding the smart key 10, such as waving, the vibration generated by the movement causes the vibration power generator to generate electricity. When the smart key 10 is in a power generation state where the vibration power generator is generating electricity, the smart key 10 detects the vibration of the smart key 10.

[0023] When the user U performs a desired operation such as locking or unlocking the vehicle C, the user U holds the smart key 10 and performs an operation such as pressing the operation unit (operation button) 20, so the smart key 10 naturally vibrates in response to the user U's action of picking up the key or performing an operation. As a result, the smart key 10 can detect a state in which communication is required using the above method.

[0024] Next, when vibration is detected, the smart key 10 enables communication with the vehicle control device 100 (step S2). For example, the smart key 10 is provided with a communication control device (see FIG. 2) that executes communication with the vehicle control device 100, and controls the communication to be executed when vibration is detected. Alternatively, the smart key 10 may be configured to execute communication using power generated by a vibration power generator installed in the smart key 10 (power supplied to the communication control device is power generated by the vibration power generator of the smart key 10), thereby enabling communication when vibration is detected.

[0025] Next, the smart key 10 executes communication processing with the vehicle control device 100 (step S3). For example, the smart key 10 executes communication processing according to the content received by the operation unit 20. As an example, when the smart key 10 receives a user operation instructing the operation unit 20 to lock the vehicle C, the smart key 10 transmits an instruction signal to the vehicle control device 100 via wireless communication instructing the vehicle C to be locked. In addition, the smart key 10 transmits various pieces of information to the vehicle control device 100 for communication to notify the presence of the smart key 10 or for authentication as needed or in response to a request signal from the vehicle control device 100.

[0026] Then, the vehicle control device 100 of the vehicle C operates based on the instruction signal received through communication with the smart key 10 (step S4). As an example, when the vehicle control device 100 receives a signal instructing to lock the vehicle C through communication with the smart key 10, it controls the door lock unit (see FIG. 4) of the vehicle C to lock the doors. As another example, the vehicle control device 100 controls the locking and unlocking of the door lock unit (see FIG. 4) of the vehicle C and the starting of the engine, in accordance with a communication or authentication signal indicating the presence from the smart key 10 and the operation state of an operation switch (see FIG. 4) installed in the vehicle by a user U or the like.

[0027] In this way, in the smart key 10 according to this embodiment, when vibration is detected in the smart key 10, that is, when the user U picks up the smart key 10 to perform communication (such as various smart key operations) or when vibration detects that the operation unit (operation buttons) 20 has been operated, communication processing with the communication target device, the vehicle control device 100, is possible. Note that when the smart key 10 is not being held by the user U, for example, when it is placed on a table, the smart key 10 does not vibrate and communication processing with the vehicle control device 100 is not performed.

[0028] This allows communication processing to be performed only when necessary, thereby preventing unnecessary communication processing. Therefore, the smart key 10 according to this embodiment can reduce power consumption and prevent the vehicle C from being unable to be locked or unlocked due to insufficient battery power.

[0029] Furthermore, this embodiment can effectively prevent theft of the vehicle C using techniques such as the relay attack described above. In other words, the smart key 10 cannot perform communication processing unless an authorized user picks up the smart key 10 to use it or operates the operation unit (operation button) 20 or the like to cause the smart key 10 to vibrate. Therefore, unless a thief or the like obtains the smart key 10 itself and vibrates it, the smart key 10 will not transmit a release signal or the like to the vehicle C, thereby effectively preventing theft of the vehicle C using techniques such as the relay attack described above.

[0030] <Overall configuration of communication system> Fig. 1 is also a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a communication system 1 according to this embodiment. Note that in the block diagrams such as Fig. 1, only components necessary for explaining the features of the embodiment are shown, and descriptions of general components are omitted.

[0031] In other words, each component shown in a block diagram such as Figure 1 is a functional concept and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown. For example, the specific form of distribution and integration of each block is not limited to that shown, and all or part of it can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0032] In addition, in the explanation of each drawing, the explanation of components that have already been explained may be simplified or omitted.

[0033] 1, a communication system 1 according to the embodiment includes a smart key 10 and a vehicle control device 100 mounted on a vehicle C. The smart key 10 and the vehicle control device 100 can be connected to each other by short-range wireless communication, for example, within a distance range where various functions of the smart key can operate appropriately (for example, a distance (for example, about 10 m) where an authorized user can check the status of the vehicle C).

[0034] <Smart key configuration> First, the configuration of the smart key 10, which is a communication device, will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the smart key 10. As shown in Fig. 2, the smart key 10 includes the above-mentioned operation unit 20, a communication control device 30, a vibration power generator 50, a capacitor 51, a power supply circuit 52, and a power receiving circuit 53.

[0035] The operation unit 20 receives user operations that instruct the execution of communication processing, and is configured with a plurality of operation buttons (push buttons) corresponding to the contents of the instructions. The operation unit 20 includes a first operation unit 20a, a second operation unit 20b, and a third operation unit 20c. In this example, the first operation unit 20a is used to perform an operation to lock the doors of the vehicle C, the second operation unit 20b is used to perform an operation to unlock the doors of the vehicle C, and the third operation unit 20c is used to perform an operation to open and close the doors of the vehicle C.

[0036] In addition to or instead of the above operations, the operation unit 20 may include operation units corresponding to other operations, such as an operation to start the drive source (engine, etc.) of the vehicle C, and the number of such operation units can be set arbitrarily depending on the number of functions to be operated, etc. In the following, when the operation units 20a to 20c are described without any particular distinction, they will be referred to as "operation unit 20."

[0037] The communication control device 30 executes communication processing and the like related to communication with the vehicle control device 100 (see FIG. 1) of the vehicle C. The configuration of the communication control device 30 will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0038] A switch 60 is connected to the communication control device 30. The switch 60 turns on and off in response to a user operation on the operation unit 20. The switch 60 is in an on state when the user U is operating the operation unit 20 (for example, pressing a push button), and is in an off state when the user U is not operating the operation unit 20.

[0039] The number of switches 60 corresponds to the number of operation units 20, and more specifically includes a first switch 60a, a second switch 60b, and a third switch 60c. The first switch 60a is linked to an operation on the first operation unit 20a and is turned on when the user U is operating the first operation unit 20a. The second switch 60b is linked to an operation on the second operation unit 20b and is turned on when the user U is operating the second operation unit 20b. The third switch 60c is linked to an operation on the third operation unit 20c and is turned on when the user U is operating the third operation unit 20c. When a switch 60 (60a, 60b, 60c) is turned on, the communication control device 30 detects that the corresponding operation unit 20 (20a, 20b, 20c) has been operated by the user U.

[0040] The vibration generator 50 is a generator that generates electricity from vibrations applied to the vibration generator 50, i.e., vibrations in the smart key 10 in which the vibration generator 50 is mounted, and supplies power to the smart key 10. In other words, the vibration generator 50 supplies power to the smart key 10 using the vibrations of the smart key 10 as a power source.

[0041] A generator using various vibration-to-electricity conversion methods can be used as the vibration power generator 50. For example, the vibration power generator 50 can be an electromagnetic induction type generator in which a magnet in a coil is moved by vibration to generate electricity, or a magnetostrictive type generator in which a magnetostrictive material in a coil is bent by vibration to generate electricity, or the like.

[0042] The capacitor 51 stores the power generated by the vibration power generator 50. As will be described later, power is supplied from the capacitor 51 to the smart key 10. The capacitor 51 is an example of a power storage device. The vibration power generator 50 is also provided with a rectifier circuit, a voltage adjustment circuit (constant voltage circuit), and the like, which are necessary for storing power in the capacitor 51.

[0043] An interlocking switch 70 is interposed between the vibration power generator 50 and the capacitor 51. The interlocking switch 70 is a switch (interlocking switch) that cooperates with the switch 60. More specifically, the interlocking switch 70 is turned on in response to the operation of the multiple operation units 20, and connects the vibration power generator 50 and the capacitor 51 to put the capacitor 51 into a charged state.

[0044] More specifically, the linked switch 70 is turned on (the capacitor 51 is put into a charged state) when the switch 60 is on (when any one of the first, second, and third switches 60a, 60b, and 60c is on), in other words, when the operation unit 20 is operated by the user U (when any one of the first, second, and third operation units 20a, 20b, and 20c is operated). On the other hand, the linked switch 70 is turned off when the switch 60 is turned off (when all of the first, second, and third switches 60a, 60b, and 60c are off), in other words, when the operation unit 20 is not operated by the user U (when none of the first, second, and third operation units 20a, 20b, and 20c are operated).

[0045] The power supply circuit 52 is a circuit that supplies input power as a power source for the communication control device 30 and the like, and has necessary circuits such as a switch circuit that selects (connects / disconnects) a power supply line, a voltage conversion circuit that converts the power supply voltage into a voltage suitable for each power supply destination, etc. For example, the power supply circuit 52 converts the power input from the capacitor 51 into a voltage suitable for use in the communication control device 30 and supplies it to the communication control device 30. The power supply circuit 52 also supplies power input from a power receiving circuit 53 (described later) (power received from vehicle C) as a power source for the communication control device 30 and the like.

[0046] Here, we will explain the capacitance of the capacitor 51 that supplies power to the communication control device 30. The capacitance of the capacitor 51 can be set to any value by selecting the type of capacitor component, but in this embodiment, the capacitance is set to a value that will hold enough power to execute communication processing (with a necessary margin) to perform a series of processes (those consuming the most power) for each operation function set in the communication control device 30 once after the smart key 10 is no longer vibrated by the user U and power from the vibration power generator 50 is stopped.

[0047] This allows the communication control device 30 to be supplied with a stable amount of power required for communication processing (the power generated by the vibration power generator 50 varies depending on the vibration state and is unstable), allowing the communication control device 30 to perform stable communication processing.

[0048] In addition, the power supply circuit 52 is provided with a discharge circuit (composed of a switching circuit or the like that installs the capacitor) that discharges the remaining power in the capacitor 54 when a series of communication processes by the communication control device 30 is completed (this point can be estimated as a predetermined time after the power supply).

[0049] As a result, the remaining power is discarded after the communication process performed by the user U, and subsequent communication processes for suspicious operations, methods, etc. (in other words, operations, methods, etc. that may lead to theft of the vehicle C) can be prevented.

[0050] Furthermore, the power supply circuit 52 or the capacitor 51 is provided with a discharge circuit that discharges the residual power of the capacitor 51 in a predetermined time (more than the time from the end of power generation by the vibration power generator 50 (i.e., the time when the user U releases the smart key 10) until the time when it is expected that the user U will perform an operation, and less than the time when it is expected that fraudulent use will begin (the time elapsed since the user U releases the smart key 10)).

[0051] This allows the remaining power in capacitor 51 to be discarded in an appropriate time, thereby preventing subsequent communication processing for suspicious operations, tricks, etc.

[0052] That is, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the vibration power generator 50 finished generating power (i.e., the time when the user U released the smart key 10), power is no longer supplied from the capacitor 51 to the communication control device 30, and therefore communication processing is not performed in the communication control device 30. Therefore, for example, in the case of a smart key 10 that is stored at home (left on a table, etc.), the smart key 10 is not vibrated (is in a stationary state) except when the user U uses it, and therefore no radio waves for communication are emitted, which makes it possible to more effectively prevent theft of the vehicle C using techniques such as the relay attack described above.

[0053] In this way, since a discharge circuit with a predetermined time constant is connected to the capacitor 51 in this embodiment, the residual power of the capacitor 51 is appropriately disposed of (discharged), thereby more effectively preventing theft of the vehicle C.

[0054] Regarding operation by authorized users, electricity is generated by the vibrations caused by holding and operating the smart key 10 and stored in the capacitor 51, so this can be handled without any problems by appropriately setting the power generation capacity and the response time setting of the operation unit 20 (setting the hold time of the operation unit 20 to the time required for power generation), etc.

[0055] 2, the power receiving circuit 53 is a circuit that receives power supplied from the vehicle C and supplies it to the power supply circuit. The power receiving circuit 53 is an example of a power receiving unit.

[0056] The power receiving circuit 53 can be electrically connected to the vehicle C via the connection unit 80. More specifically, a power feeding unit 107 (see FIG. 4) is provided on the vehicle C side, and the power feeding unit 107 and the power receiving circuit 53 are electrically connected by a connector or the like, so that the power receiving circuit 53 receives power from the vehicle C.

[0057] Power may be supplied from the vehicle C to the power receiving circuit 53 of the smart key 10 via a wired power supply using a power cable or the like as described above, or via other methods such as wireless power supply (e.g., wireless power supply using an electromagnetic induction method, a magnetic field resonance method, an electric field coupling method, or the like).

[0058] The power received from the vehicle C by the power receiving circuit 53 is not stored in the capacitor 51 or the like but is input to the power supply circuit 52 and used as a power source for the communication control device 30. The power from the vehicle C is used for communication processing (e.g., authentication processing) that is performed periodically or irregularly between the communication control device 30 of the smart key 10 and the vehicle C while the vehicle is traveling, which will be described later.

[0059] Here, the configuration of the above-mentioned communication control device 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the communication control device 30. As shown in Fig. 3, the communication control device 30 includes a communication unit 31, a control unit 40, and a storage unit 41.

[0060] The communication unit 31 is a communication interface that connects to the vehicle control device 100 of the vehicle C so as to be able to communicate via wireless communication, and transmits and receives various signals, data, and the like to and from the vehicle control device 100 using a predetermined short-range communication method.

[0061] The storage unit 41 is a storage unit configured with a storage device such as a non-volatile memory or a data flash. Various data and programs are stored in the storage unit 41. In this embodiment, instruction data to be transmitted to the vehicle C when each of the operation units 20a, 20b, and 20c is operated is stored in the storage unit 41.

[0062] The control unit 40 is a so-called controller and includes a detection unit 40a and a communication processing unit 40b, and includes, for example, a computer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), input / output ports, etc., and various circuits.

[0063] The CPU of the computer, for example, reads and executes a program stored in the ROM, thereby functioning as the detection unit 40a and communication processing unit 40b of the control unit 40. In addition, at least a part or all of the detection unit 40a and communication processing unit 40b of the control unit 40 can also be configured with hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0064] Next, a description will be given of the flow of operations performed by the components shown in Figures 2 and 3 when transmitting an instruction signal to the vehicle C. For ease of understanding, the following description will exemplify the operations performed when the user U operates the first operating unit 20a.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 2, in the smart key 10, when a user operation is received on the first operation unit 20a, the first switch 60a is turned on, and in cooperation with this, the cooperation switch 70 is also turned on.

[0066] When the user U picks up the smart key 10, the vibration power generator 50 vibrates along with the vibration of the smart key 10, and the vibration power generator 50 starts generating power. At this point, the link switch 70 is in the OFF state, and the power generated by the vibration power generator 50 is not charged into the capacitor 51.

[0067] Next, when the user U operates (presses, etc.) any of the operation units 20, the corresponding switch 60 is turned on, the linked switch 70 is also turned on, and the power generated by the vibration power generator 50 is charged into the capacitor 51. Note that the operation of the operation unit 20 by the user U also applies vibration to the vibration power generator 50, causing the vibration power generator 50 to generate power.

[0068] When the user U operates the operation unit 20, the communication control device 30 (detection unit 40a) determines which operation unit 20 has been operated. Note that a voltage is applied from the power supply circuit 52 to the terminal of each switch 60 on the opposite side to the communication control device 30, and when a switch 60 is turned on, the terminal of the switch 60 on the corresponding communication control device 30 side becomes high voltage (when off, low voltage), so by monitoring this voltage change, the detection unit 40a can determine which operation unit 20 has been operated.

[0069] The switch 60 is designed to maintain its state for a predetermined time after the operation of the operating unit 20 (using an elastic body, a latch mechanism, etc.), and when the communication control device 30 (detection unit 40a) determines that the operating unit 20 has been operated, the power supply circuit 52 and the communication control device 30 are supplied with power stored in the capacitor 51 by the power generation of the vibration generator 50.

[0070] Then, the communication control device 30 (communication processing unit 40b) reads out from the storage unit 41 the transmission instruction data corresponding to the operated operation unit 20, and causes the communication unit 31 to transmit the transmission instruction data to the vehicle C. In other words, the communication control device 30 transmits an operation instruction signal to the vehicle C using the power generated by the vibration power generator 50.

[0071] In this way, the communication control device 30 communicates using power supplied from the power supply circuit 52. In detail, the detection unit 40a of the communication control device 30 detects vibrations based on the presence or absence of power generation by the vibration-based power generator 50, and transmits the detection result to the communication processing unit 40b. The communication processing unit 40b then determines whether transmission is possible based on the vibration detection result, and if transmission is possible, reads out instruction data corresponding to the operated switch 60 from the storage unit 41 and causes the communication unit 31 to transmit the instruction data to the vehicle C. In other words, the presence or absence of vibrations is determined based on the power generation state of the vibration-based power generator 50, and the vibration-based power generator 50 also functions as a vibration sensor.

[0072] Furthermore, when the user U stops operating the operation unit 20, the link switch 70 turns off, and the power generated by the vibration power generator 50 no longer charges the capacitor 51. Then, the power stored in the capacitor 51 is discharged again by the discharge circuit in response to the communication control device 30 sending an instruction signal to the vehicle C, and the power stored in the capacitor 51 disappears.

[0073] Furthermore, if the vehicle C is parked in a parking lot at home and the smart key 10 is left on a table or the like (stationary state), the vibration generator 50 is in a non-generating state, the link switch 70 is in an off state, the capacitor 51 has no stored power, and there is no power supply from the power receiving circuit 53 (no external power supply), and radio waves will no longer be transmitted from the smart key 10.

[0074] That is, the operating principle is that the communication control device 30 detects vibrations when the vibration power generator 50 is generating power, and transmits transmission instruction data to the vehicle C when vibrations are detected.

[0075] While vehicle C is running (engine is running), power from vehicle C is supplied to power receiving circuit 53 from connection unit 80, and the power is then supplied to communication control device 30 via power supply circuit 52, and information (smart key authentication information, etc.) necessary for starting (maintaining engine startup) is exchanged between communication control device 30 and vehicle C. That is, communication control device 30 uses the power received by power receiving circuit 53 to transmit instruction signals that are continuously transmitted to continue driving vehicle C.

[0076] In this way, the power receiving circuit 53 is installed so that stable and sufficient power is supplied to the power supply circuit 52 in a state where sufficient power generation by the vibration power generator 50 is not expected (a state where the vehicle C is moving and the user U is holding the smart key 10 and is not expected to apply sufficient vibrations to the smart key 10). This ensures stable exchange of information necessary for engine start-up between the communication control device 30 and the vehicle C while the vehicle is moving (while the engine is running).

[0077] Next, for ease of understanding, an operation when the user U operates the first operation unit 20a (that is, when the user U locks the doors of the vehicle C with the smart key 10) will be described.

[0078] When a user operation on the first operating unit 20a (a door locking operation of the vehicle C by the user U using the smart key 10) is received, the first switch 60a is turned on, and the linked switch 70 is also turned on in conjunction with this. The on states of the first switch 60a and the linked switch 70 are maintained for a predetermined time by a time-limit holding mechanism, a hold circuit, or the like.

[0079] When the smart key 10 is held by the user U and the first operating unit 20a is operated, vibrations are applied to the smart key 10, causing the vibration power generator 50 to generate electricity. The power generated by the vibration power generator 50 is supplied to and stored in the capacitor 51 via the link switch 70. The power stored in the capacitor 51 is supplied to the power supply circuit 52, where it is subjected to appropriate power supply processing such as conversion to a rated voltage, and then supplied to the communication control device 30. The communication control device 30, which has received power, then begins operating.

[0080] Furthermore, voltage is applied from the power supply circuit 52 to the terminal of each switch 60 opposite the communication control device 30, but because only the first switch 60a is on, the voltage of the terminal of each switch 60 on the communication control device 30 side is high for the first switch 60a and low for the second switch 60b and the third switch 60c. The communication control device 30 detects from the input voltages of these terminals that the first switch 60a (corresponding to the operation to lock the doors of vehicle C) has been operated, reads data instructing the locking of the doors of vehicle C from the memory unit 41, and causes the communication unit 31 to transmit the instruction data to vehicle C.

[0081] Furthermore, when the user finishes operating the first operation unit 20a, the first switch 60a and the linked switch 70 turn off after a predetermined hold time, and charging of the capacitor 51 is cut off. Then, the stored power of the capacitor 51 is discharged by the discharge circuit and becomes empty, the operation of the communication control device 30 stops, and no further communication is performed.

[0082] As a result, in this embodiment, communication processing can be executed only when necessary, and therefore unnecessary communication processing can be prevented from being executed.

[0083] In the vehicle switch-linked smart key system, the communication control device 30 is configured to communicate to indicate the presence of the smart key 10 (its presence in the vicinity of the vehicle-side communication device) and to communicate a response signal and an identification / authentication signal in response to communication from the vehicle-side communication device, as described above, even without operation by the operation unit 20. The linkage switch 70 is also configured to be controlled to be in the on state when vibration is detected, just as when the operation unit 20 is operated. With this configuration, in the vehicle switch-linked smart key system, when the smart key 10 is vibrating, i.e., when the authorized user U is holding the smart key 10, communication to indicate the presence of the smart key 10 (its presence in the vicinity of the vehicle-side communication device) and to communicate a response signal and an identification / authentication signal in response to communication from the vehicle-side communication device is performed. Therefore, with the above configuration, necessary and authorized communication is performed in the vehicle switch-linked smart key system.

[0084] <Configuration of a vehicle equipped with a vehicle control device> Next, the configuration of a vehicle C equipped with a vehicle control device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the vehicle C. As shown in Fig. 4, the vehicle C includes the above-mentioned vehicle control device 100, an operation switch 101, a communication unit 102, a door lock unit 103, a door opening / closing unit 104, a drive source 105, a battery 106, and a power supply unit 107. The vehicle control device 100 is an example of a communication target device, and is also an example of an in-vehicle device installed in the vehicle C.

[0085] The operation switch 101 is installed in the vehicle C and accepts user operations. In FIG. 4, for the sake of simplicity, the operation switch 101 is shown as a single block, but the operation switch 101 also includes an engine start switch that accepts the engine start operation described above, a lock / unlock switch that accepts the lock / unlock operation of the door lock unit 103, and the like. The operation switch 101 outputs a signal corresponding to the accepted operation to the vehicle control device 100. The operation switch 101 is an example of a vehicle-side operation unit.

[0086] The communication unit 102 is a communication interface that is connected to the communication control device 30 of the smart key 10 so as to be able to communicate via wireless communication, and transmits and receives various signals, data, and the like to and from the communication control device 30 (communication unit 31).

[0087] The door lock unit 103 is a lock mechanism that locks or unlocks the doors of the vehicle C. The door opening / closing unit 104 is an opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the doors of the vehicle C. The drive source 105 is a mechanism that outputs a drive force to drive the vehicle C, and is, for example, an engine or an electric motor.

[0088] The battery 106 supplies power to various devices and circuits mounted on the vehicle C. The power supply unit 107 is connected to the battery 106. When the power supply unit 107 is electrically connected to the smart key 10, it supplies the power of the battery 106 to the smart key 10 (more precisely, the power receiving circuit 53 (see FIG. 2)) in an appropriate form (such as by converting it to the rated voltage of the smart key 10).

[0089] The vehicle control device 100 includes an operation detection unit 110, a vehicle control unit 120, and a storage unit 130. The storage unit 130 is configured with a storage device such as a non-volatile memory or a data flash, for example. The storage unit 130 stores various data, various programs, and the like.

[0090] Vehicle control unit 120 is a so-called vehicle device control controller (vehicle controller) and includes door lock control unit 120a, door opening / closing control unit 120b, drive source control unit 120c, and power supply control unit 120d. Operation detection unit 110 and vehicle control unit 120 include, for example, a computer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, input / output ports, and various other circuits.

[0091] The CPU of the computer reads and executes the programs stored in the ROM, thereby functioning as the operation detection unit 110, the door lock control unit 120a, the door opening / closing control unit 120b, the drive source control unit 120c, and the power supply control unit 120d of the vehicle control unit 120. In addition, at least some or all of the operation detection unit 110, the door lock control unit 120a, the door opening / closing control unit 120b, the drive source control unit 120c, and the power supply control unit 120d of the vehicle control unit 120 can be configured using hardware such as an ASIC or an FPGA.

[0092] The operation detection unit 110 detects the operation state of the operation switch 101. A signal corresponding to the operation received by the operation switch 101 is input to the operation detection unit 110, and information indicating the operation state of the operation switch 101 is output to the vehicle control unit 120 based on the signal. The operation state here is, for example, a state in which an engine start switch is operated or a state in which a lock / unlock switch is operated. The operation detection unit 110 is an example of a vehicle-side operation detection unit.

[0093] The door lock control unit 120a of the vehicle control unit 120 controls the door lock unit 103. For example, when the door lock control unit 120a receives a signal instructing to lock the vehicle C through communication with the communication control device 30 of the smart key 10, the door lock control unit 120a controls the door lock unit 103 to lock the doors. Also, when the door lock control unit 120a receives a signal instructing to unlock the vehicle C, the door lock control unit 120a controls the door lock unit 103 to unlock the doors.

[0094] The door opening / closing control unit 120b controls the door opening / closing unit 104. For example, when the door opening / closing control unit 120b receives a signal instructing the opening or closing of the door of the vehicle C through communication with the communication control device 30 of the smart key 10, the door opening / closing control unit 120b controls the door opening / closing unit 104 to open or close the door.

[0095] The driving source control unit 120c controls the driving source 105. For example, when the driving source control unit 120c receives a signal instructing the activation of the vehicle C through communication with the communication control device 30 of the smart key 10, the driving source control unit 120c controls the activation of the driving source 105 to activate the vehicle C.

[0096] In addition, in the vehicle switch-linked smart key system, the vehicle control unit 120 controls the vehicle C according to the status of data communication with the smart key 10 and the operation state of the operation switch 101 (in other words, the detection content by the operation detection unit 110).

[0097] Specifically, in the vehicle switch-linked smart key system, as described above, when the smart key 10 vibrates because the legitimate user U has the smart key 10 in his / her hand, communication indicating that the smart key 10 is near the vehicle control device 100 occurs between the smart key 10 and the vehicle control device 100, and communication of a response signal and an identification / authentication signal from the vehicle control device 100 to the smart key 10 takes place. When the vehicle control unit 120 is in a communication state in which such communication takes place and the operation switch 101 is operated, the vehicle control unit 120 controls the vehicle C in accordance with the operation (e.g., control of starting the engine, locking / unlocking, opening / closing the doors, etc.). Conversely, when the vehicle control unit 120 is in a communication state in which such communication does not take place, the vehicle control unit 120 does not control the vehicle C (e.g., control of starting the engine, etc.) even if the operation switch 101 is operated. Therefore, unless a thief or the like obtains the smart key 10 itself and causes it to vibrate, the vehicle C is not controlled. This effectively prevents theft of the vehicle C using techniques such as the relay attack described above.

[0098] The power supply control unit 120d controls the power supply unit 107. For example, when the power supply control unit 120d detects that the power supply unit 107 is electrically connected to the smart key 10, the power supply control unit 120d controls the power supply unit 107 to supply power from the battery 106 to the smart key 10 via the power supply unit 107.

[0099] <Smart key control process> Next, a specific processing procedure in the smart key 10, which is a communication device, will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure executed by the smart key 10. This processing is repeatedly executed while the smart key 10 is in an activated state.

[0100] 5, the control unit 40 of the smart key 10 determines whether vibration of the smart key 10 has been detected (step S10). Specifically, the control unit 40 determines whether vibration of the smart key 10 has been detected based on the power generation state of the vibration power generator 50 built into the smart key 10.

[0101] If the control unit 40 determines that vibration of the smart key 10 has not been detected (step S10, No), i.e., if the vibration power generator 50 is not in a power generating state, the control unit 40 ends the process. On the other hand, if the control unit 40 determines that vibration of the smart key 10 has been detected (step S10, Yes), i.e., if the vibration power generator 50 is in a power generating state, the control unit 40 enables communication processing with the vehicle control device 100 for a predetermined time period (step S11) and ends the process. Note that this predetermined time period is set to a time period obtained by adding an offset to the typical time period from when vibration of the smart key 10 is detected, i.e., from when the user U picks up the smart key 10 to operate it, to when the operation of the operation unit 20 is performed (i.e., the time period during which it can be determined that the operation is by a legitimate user), such as approximately 10 seconds.

[0102] When the control unit 40 detects an operation of the operation unit 20 by the user within the predetermined time, the control unit 40 executes a communication process corresponding to the operation content with the vehicle control device 100, such as transmitting a signal instructing to lock the vehicle C. Note that these communication processes are executed by an interrupt process triggered by the operation of the operation unit 20 by the user U, for example.

[0103] As described above, the smart key (communication device) 10 according to the first embodiment includes the control unit 40. When vibration is detected in the smart key 10, the control unit 40 enables communication processing with the vehicle control device (communication target device) 100. This makes it possible to prevent unnecessary communication processing from being performed.

[0104] (Second embodiment) <Configuration of smart key according to second embodiment> Next, the configuration of a smart key 10 according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a smart key 10 according to the second embodiment. Note that components common to the first embodiment are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 6, in the second embodiment, capacitors 51 and link switches 70 are provided corresponding to the plurality of operation units 20 (first, second, and third operation units 20a, 20b, and 20c), respectively.

[0106] Specifically, there are a plurality of capacitors 51 corresponding to the plurality of operation units 20, and each capacitor 51 stores the power required to execute the corresponding communication process. In this example, the capacitors 51 include a first capacitor 51a, a second capacitor 51b, and a third capacitor 51c.

[0107] The first capacitor 51a is a capacitor having a capacity capable of storing the power required to execute the communication process corresponding to the first operation unit 20a. The second capacitor 51b is a capacitor having a capacity capable of storing the power required to execute the communication process corresponding to the second operation unit 20b. The third capacitor 51c is a capacitor having a capacity capable of storing the power required to execute the communication process corresponding to the third operation unit 20c.

[0108] Furthermore, first to third linked switches 70a to 70c are respectively interposed between the vibration power generator 50 and each of the capacitors 51a to 51c. The first linked switch 70a is a switch that links with the first switch 60a described above. Similarly, the second linked switch 70b is a switch that links with the second switch 60b, and the third linked switch 70c is a switch that links with the third switch 60c.

[0109] The coordinated operation between each of these first to third switches 60a to 60c (first to third operating units 20a to 20c) and each of the first to third linked switches 70a to 70c is the same as the coordinated operation between each of the first to third switches 60a to 60c (first to third operating units 20a to 20c) and the linked switch 70 in the first embodiment shown in Figure 2.

[0110] With the smart key 10 according to the second embodiment configured as described above, the capacitor 51 corresponding to the operated operation unit 20 supplies the communication control device 30 with enough power to execute the communication process corresponding to that operation. Furthermore, because the capacity of each capacitor 51 is not excessively large compared to the amount of power required for the corresponding communication process (each capacitor can be individually set to an appropriate capacity), charging time is not unnecessarily long, and delays in power supply to the communication control device 30 can be suppressed. Therefore, the smart key 10 according to the second embodiment can reliably execute communication processes.

[0111] To give a specific example of operation, when the first operation unit 20a accepts a user operation, the first switch 60a is turned on, and in conjunction with this, the first linked switch 70a is turned on, and the power generated by the vibration power generator 50 is stored in the first capacitor 51a. At this time, since the user U is holding the smart key 10 and operating (pressing, etc.) the first operation unit 20a, the smart key 10 (vibration power generator 50) is vibrating, and the vibration power generator 50 is in a power generating state.

[0112] The power supply circuit 52 supplies power to the communication control device 30 using the power stored in the first capacitor 51a, and also applies voltage to the terminals of the first to third switches 60a to 60c opposite the communication control device 30. At this time, since only the first switch 60a is on (the second and third switches 60b and 60c are off), only the first switch 60a has a high voltage (the voltage applied by the power supply circuit 52) ​​at the terminal of the switch 60 on the communication control device 30 side.

[0113] Then, the communication control device 30, which has been supplied with power from the power source, begins operation, checks the voltage of each input to which the switch 60 is connected, detects user operation of the first operating unit 20a, and controls the communication unit 31 to transmit to vehicle C an operation instruction signal corresponding to the first operating unit 20a, which is an instruction signal to lock the doors of vehicle C.

[0114] Therefore, when the first operating unit 20a is operated, the smart key 10 uses power from the first capacitor 51a, which has a capacity (set to an appropriate capacity) appropriate for the amount of power required for the communication process corresponding to the first operating unit 20a. As a result, a sufficient amount of power for the communication process corresponding to the first operating unit 20a is provided to the communication control device 30 with minimal delay, allowing the communication control device 30 to reliably and stably execute the communication process.

[0115] (Third embodiment) <Configuration of smart key according to third embodiment> Next, the configuration of a smart key 10 according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a smart key 10 according to the third embodiment. Note that components common to the first embodiment are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 7, the third embodiment includes a plurality of latch circuits 90 corresponding to the plurality of operation units 20. Each of the plurality of latch circuits 90 maintains a corresponding output (high voltage in this embodiment) for a predetermined time after the switch 60 is turned on. The output of each latch circuit 90 controls the state of the linked switch 70 (when the latch circuit 90 is at a high voltage, the linked switch 70 is on). The latch circuit 90 can be realized by a time constant (charge / discharge) circuit or a timer, and the linked switch 70 can be realized by a relay or a switching circuit.

[0117] That is, when the first operation unit 20a is operated, the first latch circuit 90a turns on the linkage switch 70 for the time set in the first latch circuit 90a (corresponding to the time required to store the power required to execute the communication process corresponding to the first operation unit 20a) in response to the transition of the first switch 60a to the on state. As a result, the capacitor 51 is charged with generated power from the vibration power generator 50 via the linkage switch 70 for the time set in the first latch circuit 90a.

[0118] The second latch circuit 90b and the third latch circuit 90c operate in the same manner as above, and the capacitor 51 stores the power required to execute the communication processes corresponding to the second operation unit 20b and the third operation unit 20c.

[0119] The power supply circuit 52 supplies power to the communication control device 30 using the power stored in the capacitor 51, and also applies a voltage to the terminal of each of the first to third switches 60a to 60c opposite the communication control device 30. At this time, only the operated switch 60 is on, so the terminal of the switch 60 on the communication control device 30 side of only the operated switch 60 is at a high voltage (the voltage applied by the power supply circuit 52).

[0120] Then, the communication control device 30, which has been supplied with power from the power source, begins operation, checks the voltage of each input to which the switch 60 is connected, detects the operation unit 20 operated by the user U, and controls the communication unit 31 to transmit an operation instruction signal corresponding to the operation unit 20, for example, an instruction signal to lock the doors of vehicle C, to vehicle C.

[0121] In the smart key 10 according to the third embodiment, the amount of power charged to the capacitor 51 is set according to the operation of the operating unit 20, that is, according to the content of the communication processing performed by the communication control device 30, so that an appropriate amount of power is charged in the capacitor 51 and provided to the communication control device 30. Therefore, the communication control device 30 can stably and reliably execute the communication processing.

[0122] To give a specific example of operation, when the first operation unit 20a accepts a user operation, the first switch 60a is turned on, and in conjunction with this, the first latch circuit 90a turns on the linked switch 70 for the time period set in the first latch circuit 90a, and the power generated by the vibration power generator 50 is stored in the capacitor 51. At this time, since the user U is holding the smart key 10 and operating (pressing, etc.) the first operation unit 20a, the smart key 10 (vibration power generator 50) is vibrating, and the vibration power generator 50 is in a power generating state.

[0123] The power supply circuit 52 supplies power to the communication control device 30 using the power stored in the capacitor 51, and also applies a voltage to the terminal of each of the first to third switches 60a to 60c opposite the communication control device 30. At this time, since only the first switch 60a is on (the second and third switches 60b and 60c are off), only the first switch 60a has a high voltage (the voltage applied by the power supply circuit 52) ​​at the terminal of the switch 60 on the communication control device 30 side.

[0124] Then, the communication control device 30, which has been supplied with power from the power source, begins operation, checks the voltage of each input to which the switch 60 is connected, detects user operation of the first operating unit 20a, and controls the communication unit 31 to transmit to vehicle C an operation instruction signal corresponding to the first operating unit 20a, which is an instruction signal to lock the doors of vehicle C.

[0125] In this case, the capacitor 51 is charged for the time set in the first latch circuit 90a (corresponding to the time required to charge the amount of power required for the communication processing performed by the communication control device 30 in response to the first operation unit 20a). In other words, the amount of charge to the capacitor 51 is set according to the content of the communication processing performed by the communication control device 30, so that an appropriate amount of power is charged to the capacitor 51 and provided to the communication control device 30.

[0126] (Fourth embodiment) <Configuration of smart key according to the fourth embodiment> Next, the configuration of a smart key 10 according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the smart key 10 according to the fourth embodiment. Note that components common to the first embodiment are assigned the same reference numerals and will not be described again.

[0127] As shown in Fig. 8, the fourth embodiment is configured such that the vibration power generator 50 is directly connected to the capacitor 51 (the link switch 70 in Fig. 2 is removed). That is, when the smart key 10 vibrates (for example, when the user U picks up the smart key 10 and operates it), the communication control device 30 is operated with the power generated by the vibration power generator 50, and the communication control device 30 causes the communication unit 31 to transmit to the vehicle C an instruction signal corresponding to the operation of the operation unit 20 operated by the user U. In this configuration, the capacitance of the capacitor 51 and the charge / discharge time constant of the charge / discharge circuit of the capacitor 51 are adjusted to set the amount of electricity stored in the capacitor 51 and the retention time of the stored power to appropriate values ​​(these are set by conducting experiments or the like during design).

[0128] The operation is the same as that of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2 (the same as when the link switch 70 is always on), so a detailed description will be omitted.

[0129] In the above embodiments, the smart key 10 detects vibrations based on the power generation state of the vibration power generator, but this is not limited to this. For example, the smart key 10 may be configured to include a vibration sensor and detect vibrations based on the output from the vibration sensor.

[0130] Further advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1. Communication Systems 10 Smart Key 40 Control unit (controller) 50 Vibration Generator 51 Capacitor 100 Vehicle control device 120 Vehicle control unit (vehicle controller)

Claims

1. A communication device having a controller, a vibration power generator that generates power using vibrations in the communication device and supplies the power to the communication device; a plurality of operation units that accept user operations to instruct execution of communication processing with the communication target device; a capacitor that stores the electric power generated by the vibration power generator; a link switch that is turned on in response to an operation of the plurality of operation units, and that connects the vibration power generator and the capacitor to charge the capacitor; Equipped with power is supplied from the capacitor to the communication device; The controller detecting the vibration based on a power generation state of the vibration power generator; When the vibration is detected, the communication process is enabled. Communication equipment.

2. The capacitors and the link switches are provided corresponding to the plurality of operation units, respectively. The communication device according to claim 1 .

3. A discharge circuit having a predetermined time constant is connected to the capacitor.

3. The communication device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A communication device having a controller, a vibration power generator that generates power using vibrations in the communication device and supplies the power to the communication device; a capacitor that stores the power generated by the vibration power generator; Equipped with power is supplied from the capacitor to the communication device; a discharge circuit having a predetermined time constant is connected to the capacitor; The controller detecting the vibration based on a power generation state of the vibration power generator; When the vibration is detected, a communication process with the communication target device is enabled. Communication equipment.

5. A smart key device that wirelessly transmits an operation instruction signal to a vehicle. a vibration generator that supplies power using the vibration of the smart key device as a power source; a communication control device that transmits an operation instruction signal to a vehicle using power generated by the vibration power generator; a plurality of operation units that accept user operations to instruct execution of communication processing with an in-vehicle device installed in the vehicle; a capacitor that stores the electric power generated by the vibration power generator; a link switch that is turned on in response to an operation of the plurality of operation units, and that connects the vibration power generator and the capacitor to charge the capacitor; Equipped with Power is supplied from the capacitor to the smart key device, The communication control device detecting the vibration based on a power generation state of the vibration power generator; When the vibration is detected, the communication process is enabled. Smart key device.

6. A power receiving unit that receives power supplied from a vehicle Furthermore, The communication control device The instruction signal to be continuously transmitted in order to continue driving the vehicle is transmitted using the power received by the power receiving unit. The smart key device according to claim 5.

7. A smart key system including the smart key device according to claim 5 and an on-board device installed in a vehicle, the in-vehicle device has a vehicle controller; The vehicle controller Detecting the operation state of a vehicle-side operation unit installed in the vehicle, Controlling the vehicle according to the state of data communication with the smart key device and the operation state of the vehicle-side operation unit; The smart key device has a controller, The controller When vibration is detected in the smart key device, communication processing with the in-vehicle device is enabled. Smart key system.

8. A smart key system including the smart key device according to claim 5 and an on-board device installed in a vehicle, The in-vehicle device a vehicle-side operation detection unit that detects an operation state of a vehicle-side operation unit installed in the vehicle; a vehicle controller that controls the vehicle in accordance with the state of data communication with the smart key device and the contents detected by the vehicle-side operation detection unit; A smart key system equipped with

9. A communication method for a communication device, comprising: The communication device a vibration power generator that generates power using vibrations in the communication device and supplies the power to the communication device; a plurality of operation units that accept user operations to instruct execution of communication processing with the communication target device; a capacitor that stores the electric power generated by the vibration power generator; a link switch that is turned on in response to an operation of the plurality of operation units, and that connects the vibration power generator and the capacitor to charge the capacitor; Equipped with power is supplied from the capacitor to the communication device; detecting the vibration based on a power generation state of the vibration power generator; When the vibration is detected, the communication process is enabled. Communication method.

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