Control system, vehicle entry system, and method

Abstract

According to an aspect of the present invention, a control system for a vehicle, installed in the vehicle, is provided. The control system has a passive-entry function for controlling access to interior of the vehicle, by exchanging wireless communication signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices. The control system receives, from a remote user interface device, a control signal including one or more passive-entry function settings over a wireless communication channel, and controls accessibility of the vehicle through the passive-entry function, on the basis of the one or more passive-entry function settings in the received control signal.

Description

Control system, vehicle entry system and method

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle entry control system. Aspects of the present invention relate to a control system, a vehicle entry system, and a method of controlling a vehicle. This application claims priority to United Kingdom patent application number 2307250.7 filed on May 16, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application for designated states where incorporation by reference is permitted.

[0002] Vehicle entry systems are known that include passive entry features for controlling access to a vehicle without physical interaction with a key fob. Passive entry features typically involve a user activating an access request switch on a vehicle door to trigger a challenge signal, which is transmitted over a wireless communication channel, e.g., as a radio signal, to a nearby key fob within range of the vehicle. The key fob processes the challenge signal and, in return, provides a response signal with an identifier to authorize access to the vehicle. If the response signal is accepted, access to the vehicle can be granted, e.g., by unlocking the vehicle door.

[0003] However, vehicles with passive entry capabilities may be vulnerable to theft via a relay attack. During a relay attack, a thief may trigger an access request and use a signal booster to relay a challenge signal from the vehicle and / or a response signal from the key fob over a longer distance. In this way, the thief can gain access to the vehicle without the owner's knowledge or permission.

[0004] Relay attacks typically occur at night, and therefore it is known to mitigate the risk of relay attacks by using so-called "sleeping keys" that also include an integrated accelerometer for detecting movement of the key fob. Thus, if the key fob remains apparently stationary and no movement is detected, the key fob's control deactivates the communication system after a threshold period has elapsed, thereby preventing the possibility of a relay attack while the key fob remains stationary. Upon detecting movement, the key fob is subsequently reactivated, restoring passive entry capabilities.

[0005] However, a "sleeping key" requires additional hardware in the key fob, increasing its cost and complexity, while offering limited protection against relay attacks. For example, users typically carry their key fobs in their pockets while indoors and moving around the house, resulting in the "sleeping key" remaining unintentionally active and leaving the system vulnerable to relay attacks.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to address one or more of the shortcomings associated with the prior art.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an on-board control system for a vehicle, i.e., a control system for incorporation into a vehicle, the control system having a passive entry function for controlling access to the interior of the vehicle by exchanging wireless communication signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices, the control system receiving control signals from a remote user interface device over a wireless communication channel, the control signals including one or more passive entry function settings, and controlling vehicle accessibility via the passive entry function based on the one or more passive entry function settings in the received control signals.

[0008] In this manner, a user can operate a remote user interface device, which may be, for example, a smartphone, and send control signals to a control system with a passive entry function setting for controlling an individual's ability to passively access a vehicle, i.e., without the user having to interact with the portable vehicle entry device to command vehicle entry. Thus, a user can remotely control the passive entry function through a wireless communication channel and conveniently deactivate the passive entry function overnight, for example, to eliminate the risk of an overnight relay attack. As a result, a conventional portable vehicle entry device, or key fob, can be used to minimize costs, while the control system provides enhanced security and flexibility regarding vehicle access.

[0009] It will be understood that a remote user interface device is distinct from a key fob or portable vehicle entry device and provides an interface, e.g., on a downloadable client application or web browser application, with one or more controls for adjusting passive entry feature settings. The remote user interface device may be associated with an on-board control system and authenticated, e.g., connected to the control system or by reference to a stored register of associated user interface devices or identifiers.

[0010] In one example, the passive entry function may comprise outputting a challenge signal to one or more vehicle entry devices, receiving a response signal from one of the one or more vehicle entry devices to authorize access to the vehicle, and determining a command signal for controlling access to the vehicle in response to the received response signal.

[0011] Optionally, the one or more passive entry function settings include a respective authorization status setting for each of the one or more vehicle entry devices. The passive entry function of the control system may be configured to control access to the vehicle in response to the authorization status setting of each vehicle entry device with which it exchanges wireless communication signals. In this way, a user may advantageously control the accessibility of the vehicle via each vehicle entry device, providing improved security, for example, in the event that one of the vehicle entry devices is missing or lost.

[0012] In one example, the control system may be configured to determine the command signal in response to the received response signal by checking the authorization status setting of the vehicle entry device from which the response signal was received. In this way, the control system may control vehicle access differently for each portable vehicle entry device, such as ignoring an access request from a first vehicle entry device while listening for a response from a second vehicle entry device.

[0013] Optionally, the one or more passive entry feature settings may include a setting for enabling or disabling the passive entry feature. The control system may be configured to enable or disable the passive entry feature based on a control signal. In this manner, the passive entry feature may be fully enabled / disabled by user control, for example, to completely shut down the passive entry feature.

[0014] In one example, the control system may be configured to not output a challenge signal and / or not scan for a response signal when the passive entry feature is disabled.

[0015] Optionally, the control signal includes a schedule for implementing one or more passive entry feature settings. The control system may be configured to implement the passive entry feature settings according to the schedule. In this manner, a user may operate the user interface device to schedule each passive entry feature setting to fit a daily / weekly pattern, for example, with an optimal balance between security and convenience. This may include a schedule of each passive entry feature setting for each vehicle entry device.

[0016] In one example, the one or more vehicle entry devices may include a plurality of vehicle entry devices for authorizing user access to the vehicle via a passive entry function of the control system, which may be configured to control access to the vehicle by, for example, exchanging wireless communication signals with one of the plurality of portable vehicle entry devices.

[0017] Optionally, the control system comprises a first wireless communication module for exchanging wireless communication signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices and a second wireless communication module for receiving control signals from the user interface device.

[0018] The second wireless communication module may be configured to receive control signals, for example, over a cellular network. For example, the user interface device may transmit control signals to a conventional wireless communication module installed in a vehicle that may provide, for example, emergency call services.

[0019] Optionally, the control system controls access to the vehicle by generating control signals to a body control module of the vehicle.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle entry system comprising an on-board control system as described in the previous aspect of the present invention, one or more portable vehicle entry devices, and a user interface device, wherein the user interface device is operably connected to the on-board control system.

[0021] The user interface device may take the form of, for example, a mobile phone device, a smart watch, or a computer.

[0022] In one example, the user interface device may be operable to access a downloadable client application or web browser application that hosts a control panel for adjusting passive entry feature settings and generating corresponding control signals for transmission to an onboard control system.

[0023] The one or more portable vehicle entry devices may include, for example, a key fob.

[0024] The key fob may be operable by a user to generate a remote keyless entry command signal for transmission to an onboard control system, for example. Optionally, the onboard control system may further include a remote keyless entry feature that grants access to the vehicle in response to receiving the remote keyless entry command signal from the key fob. In this manner, even if the passive entry feature is disabled, vehicle access may still be achieved by operating the key fob to generate a remote keyless entry command signal.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of controlling access to a vehicle using an on-board control system, the control system having a passive entry feature for controlling access to the interior of the vehicle by exchanging wireless communication signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices, the method including receiving a control signal at the control system over a wireless communication channel from a remote user interface device, the control signal including one or more passive entry feature settings, and controlling vehicle accessibility via the passive entry feature based on the one or more passive entry feature settings in the received control signal.

[0026] The passive entry function may include, for example, outputting a challenge signal from the control system to one or more vehicle entry devices, receiving a response signal in the control system from one of the one or more vehicle entry devices to authorize access to the vehicle, and determining a command signal in the control system to control access to the vehicle in response to the received response signal.

[0027] Optionally, the one or more passive entry feature settings include a respective authorization status setting for each of the one or more vehicle entry devices. Controlling vehicle accessibility based on the one or more passive entry feature settings may include, for example, controlling vehicle accessibility via the passive entry feature in response to authorization status settings of each vehicle entry device that exchanges wireless communication signals.

[0028] In one example, controlling the accessibility of the vehicle based on one or more passive entry feature settings may include determining the command signal as a function of an authorization status setting of a vehicle entry device that receives the response signal.

[0029] Optionally, the one or more passive entry feature settings include a setting for enabling or disabling the passive entry feature. Controlling the accessibility of the vehicle based on the one or more passive entry feature settings may include, for example, enabling or disabling the passive entry feature based on a control signal.

[0030] Optionally, the control system does not output a challenge signal and / or scan for a response signal if the passive entry feature is disabled.

[0031] The control signal may include, for example, a schedule for implementing one or more passive entry feature settings, and the control system may implement the one or more passive entry feature settings according to the schedule to control vehicle accessibility via the passive entry feature.

[0032] Optionally, the method further includes transmitting a control signal from the user interface device to adjust one or more passive entry feature settings in response to one or more user-operable switches of a control panel being operated on the user interface device.

[0033] Optionally, the user interface device is operable to access a downloadable client application or a web browser application on which the control panel is hosted. It will be appreciated that preferred and / or optional features of each aspect of the present invention may be incorporated, either alone or in any suitable combination, in other aspects of the present invention.

[0034] In accordance with the present invention, conventional portable vehicle entry devices, or key fobs, can be used to minimize costs, while the control system provides enhanced security and flexibility regarding vehicle access.

[0035] One or more embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] 1 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary vehicle entry control system wirelessly connected to a user interface device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first exemplary control panel of a user interface device for controlling vehicle accessibility via a passive entry feature; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a third exemplary control panel of a user interface device for controlling vehicle accessibility via a passive entry feature; and FIG. 5 is an exemplary method of operating the vehicle entry control system shown in FIG. 2 to control access to the vehicle shown in FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to a vehicle entry system and method for controlling access to a vehicle.

[0038] A vehicle entry system includes a control system mounted on a vehicle having passive entry capabilities for controlling access to the vehicle via one or more portable vehicle entry devices or key fobs, each of which includes a wireless communication system for communicating with the onboard control system and enabling authorization of one or more vehicle operations, such as unlocking / locking the vehicle doors.

[0039] Thus, as part of the passive entry function, the on-board control system is configured to exchange signals with one or more nearby portable vehicle entry devices to authorize access to the vehicle. In this manner, the passive entry function may be triggered, for example, by a user operating an access request switch on the vehicle door handle.

[0040] However, advantageously, to mitigate the risk of a relay attack, the in-vehicle control system of the present invention is further configured to exchange signals with an associated remote user interface device, such as a smartphone or tablet computing device, and to control the accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry function based on control signals comprising one or more passive entry function settings received from the user interface device.

[0041] In particular, the user interface device is operable to control whether a user can passively access the vehicle via the passive entry feature, i.e., using a portable vehicle entry device. In an embodiment, the on-board control system may be configured to selectively enable or disable the entire passive entry feature based on settings / control signals received from the user interface device, or the on-board control system may be configured to adjust individual authorization status settings associated with each vehicle entry device based on such control signals.

[0042] In this manner, a user can remotely control their ability to access the vehicle through the exchange of passive signals between the control system and a portable vehicle entry device based on passive entry feature settings provided by a connected user interface device, such as a mobile phone. This provides a convenient remote interface to the on-board control system. Thus, a user can operate the user interface device from inside their home to disable the passive entry feature overnight, thereby denying vehicle access via the passive entry feature and eliminating the risk of an overnight relay attack, and then re-enable the passive entry feature via the user interface device in the morning to resume normal operation.

[0043] Thus, the vehicle entry system is expected to provide increased vehicle security and mitigation of theft, while providing flexible access to the vehicle, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0044] Embodiments of vehicle entry systems will now be considered in more detail with reference to FIGS.

[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary vehicle 1 featuring a vehicle entry system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1 , the vehicle entry system 10 includes a vehicle control system 12 mounted on the vehicle, one or more associated portable vehicle entry devices 14, and a user interface device 15 operably connected to the control system 12.

[0047] An on-board control system 12 is configured to control user access to the vehicle 1, for example, through one or more vehicle doors (not shown). To this end, the control system 12 includes a passive entry function whereby the control system 12 exchanges signals with any nearby vehicle entry devices 14 to (i) request the identity of the vehicle entry device 14 and (ii) authorize access to the vehicle 1 if an appropriate response signal is provided.

[0048] Accordingly, control system 12 includes a first set of antennas 18 for communicating with vehicle entry devices 14 over one or more wireless communication channels. For example, first set of antennas 18 may be configured to communicate with vehicle entry devices 14 using short-range signals, including Bluetooth® Low Energy (Bluetooth® LE) signals or low frequency (LF) radio signals, and / or via long-range signals, where different signal frequencies may be desirable for long-range and shorter-range transmissions.

[0049] Accordingly, the first antenna set 18 may include one or more transmitters, one or more receivers, and / or one or more transceivers for this purpose. By way of example, the first antenna set 18 may include a set of Bluetooth® LE or LF radio antennas arranged around the vehicle 1, as shown in FIG. 1 , configured to exchange signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices 14 as they move closer to the vehicle 1. In some circumstances, the range of such signal exchange may correspond to a threshold distance for physical interaction with the vehicle, e.g., limited to a range of approximately 2 meters. This may ensure that a user can perform passive entry functions while in the vehicle. However, this example is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, and in other examples, the operating range may be significantly longer, e.g., up to 10 meters, to enable signal exchange as the user approaches the vehicle 1.

[0050] The vehicle entry device 14 may take the form of, for example, a key fob equipped with wireless communication means for exchanging signals with the onboard control system 12 and thereby authorizing entry into the vehicle passively, i.e., without user interaction with the vehicle entry device 14.

[0051] To this end, each vehicle entry device 14 may include, among other components, a control unit 16 and one or more corresponding antennas 19 (i.e., one or more corresponding transmitters, receivers, and / or transceivers) for exchanging signals with a first set of antennas 18 mounted on the vehicle 1.

[0052] The controller 16 is configured to process signals received from the onboard control system 12 and generate a corresponding response signal for transmission to the vehicle 1. In particular, the controller 16 may be configured to receive an authentication challenge signal from the onboard control system 12 as part of a passive entry function and to generate a corresponding authorization signal in response. For example, the response signal may include a key code or other suitable identifier of the vehicle entry device 14 that can be verified by the onboard control system 12 to verify authorization of that vehicle entry device 14. Once verified, the onboard control system 12 can perform one or more control actions, such as granting access to the vehicle 1.

[0053] Advantageously, to mitigate the risk of a relay attack, the on-board control system 12 is further configured to exchange signals with a remote user interface device 15, such as a smartphone or personal computing device, and to control the accessibility of the vehicle via a passive entry function of the control system 12 based on one or more setting / control signals received from the remote user interface device 15.

[0054] In this manner, a user can remotely control their ability to access the vehicle 1 through the exchange of passive signals between the control system 12 and the portable vehicle entry device 14 using settings received from a separate user interface device 15, such as a mobile phone.

[0055] Thus, user interface device 15 provides a convenient control panel for remotely adjusting settings of control system 12, such as passive entry feature settings. For example, user interface device 15 may be operated by a user to selectively enable or disable the passive entry feature of control system 12, or user interface device 15 may be operated to adjust individual authorization status settings associated with each vehicle entry device 14 in the passive entry feature.

[0056] To this end, control system 12 may include a second antenna set 20 of one or more antennas for wirelessly communicating with associated user interface devices 15. In an embodiment, second antenna set 20 may be the same as first antenna set 18 or may form a further antenna set and may therefore include one or more transmitters, receivers, and / or transceivers configured to exchange signals with user interface devices 15 over one or more wireless communication channels. In an embodiment, the communication channels may include channels using telematics communication protocols typically used to connect vehicles 1 to cloud services over cellular networks. Such signals may therefore be exchanged via a centralized server 24, as will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2 .

[0057] User interface device 15 may take a variety of suitable forms for controlling passive entry feature settings, and may therefore include any suitable computer hardware or processing device, such as a mobile phone, computer, or media player, configured to exchange communication signals with control system 12 over one or more wireless communication channels.

[0058] In either case, the user interface device 15 may provide a means, such as a graphical user interface, for accessing the application or platform on which the control panel is hosted to adjust the passive entry feature settings and generate corresponding command signals. In one example, the graphical user interface may be provided in a downloadable client application or a web browser application that provides, through one or more interactions with the application data and instructions necessary to access the control panel and control the vehicle's accessibility through the passive entry feature, as will be described in more detail. In this manner, the client application may be downloaded to any suitable user interface device 15, associate the user interface device 15 with the vehicle 1, and use it to control the passive entry feature settings, for example, over a cellular network.

[0059] Vehicle entry system 10 will now be considered in more detail with further reference to FIG.

[0060] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an exemplary vehicle entry system 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 2, the on-board control system 12 includes one or more controllers or on-board modules for performing respective functions related to vehicle entry control.

[0062] In this example, the control system 12 is shown to include a vehicle entry control module 22, an access request switch 26, a first wireless communication module 30, a second wireless communication module 32, and a body control module 34 that controls one or more vehicle functions within the body of the vehicle 1.

[0063] That is, in the illustrated embodiment, five functional elements, units, or modules are shown. Each of these units or modules may be provided, at least in part, by suitable software running on any suitable computing board using conventional or custom processors and memory. Some or all of the units or modules may use a common computing board (e.g., they may run on the same server) or separate boards, or different combinations of modules may be distributed among multiple computing devices. However, it should be understood that the exemplary architecture of control system 12 is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, and that in other embodiments, the architecture may take other suitable forms.

[0064] The vehicle entry control module 22 and associated on-board modules are operably connected to different systems within the vehicle 1. For example, the first antenna set 18 is incorporated into or otherwise operably connected to a first wireless communication module 30, and the second antenna set 20 is incorporated into or otherwise operably connected to a second wireless communication module 32, enabling the transmission and reception of signals between the on-board control system 12, the portable vehicle entry device 14, and the user interface device 15, respectively.

[0065] The access request switch 26 is operable by a user to trigger an access request to the vehicle 1, thereby initiating the passive entry function. In particular, the access request switch 26 is connected to the vehicle entry control module 22 and is configured to output an access request signal to the vehicle entry control module 22 once operated. To this end, the access request switch may take one or more forms known in the art, including, for example, a door-mounted access request switch that provides a user-operable switch or button on the door handle, or another form of switch, such as a capacitance switch. Such access request switches are known in the art and will not be described in detail herein to avoid obscuring the present invention.

[0066] The vehicle entry control module 22 acts as a central control for the control system 12 and performs passive entry functions by interacting with further modules in the control system 12. In particular, in response to receiving an access request signal from the access request switch 26, the vehicle entry control module 22 is configured to operate the first wireless communication module 30 to transmit a challenge signal to any nearby vehicle entry devices 14 and to listen or scan for respective response signals. Any response signals received by the first antenna set 18 are then relayed to and processed by the vehicle entry control module 22 to determine whether to grant access to the vehicle 1. For example, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to process the response signals and perform one or more checks to grant access to the vehicle. Such verification may include, for example, verifying the received signal strength indication (RSSI) of the response signal, verifying the identifier of the response signal (e.g., against a list of authorized vehicle entry devices 14), and / or verifying the authorization status setting of the identified vehicle entry device 14. Thus, upon receiving an appropriate response signal, the vehicle entry control module 22 may generate a command signal to the body control module 34 to grant the user access to the vehicle 1.

[0067] The body control module 34 is configured to control access to the vehicle 1 and may be operably connected to one or more additional systems within the vehicle 1, including, for example, a door control system 36, as shown in FIG. 2. The door control system 36 may further include one or more subsystems (not shown), such as a door lock motor system, for controlling access to the vehicle 1 through the vehicle doors. Thus, the body control module 34 may be configured to perform one or more control actions to lock or unlock the vehicle doors in response to command signals from the vehicle entry control module.

[0068] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle entry control module 22 is advantageously further operably connected to the remote user interface device 15 and configured to exchange signals with the remote user interface device 15 via the second wireless communication module 32 and control the accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry function.

[0069] The signal exchange may take place via one or more centralized servers 24 to facilitate connection to and / or authentication of the user interface devices 15 (e.g., in addition to association with the vehicle 1). The centralized server 24 may, for example, be operated by the vehicle manufacturer or by another party, such as an authorized third party. To this end, the centralized server 24 may, for example, store a register of identifiers of the associated user interface devices and the respective vehicle identifiers.

[0070] In an embodiment, the centralized server 24 may alternatively or additionally be implemented as a cloud-based computing environment, where the functions of the server are performed in a distributed manner. Such systems providing cloud-based resources may be used exclusively by their owners, or they may be accessible to external users who deploy applications within the computing infrastructure to take advantage of large-scale computational or storage resources.

[0071] Accordingly, the second wireless communication module 32 is configured to operate the second set of antennas 20 to exchange signals with the user interface device 15 , for example, via an intermediate cloud-based or centralized server 24 .

[0072] In an embodiment, the second wireless communication module 32 may be configured to exchange signals with the user interface device 15 over a cellular network (e.g., GSM, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Wi-Fi, WiMax, LTE, or 5G). For example, the second wireless communication module 32 may take the form of a telematics control unit or a hands-free module of the vehicle 1. A telematics control unit typically includes a mobile communication unit and an external interface for mobile communications to facilitate emergency call services; therefore, the present invention may utilize the same telematics communication channel to provide control of the passive entry function via the user interface device 15. Such on-board emergency call equipment is mandatory for new vehicles in certain regions / areas, such as the European region, and therefore, such telematics control units are provided as standard in many modern vehicles.

[0073] Thus, the user interface device 15 is operable to control the accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry feature. To this end, the user interface device 15 may access one or more downloadable client applications, web browser applications, or platforms that provide one or more control panels for controlling the configuration of the passive entry feature. The applications or platforms provide the application data and instructions necessary to access the control panels and therewith control the accessibility of the vehicle via one or more interactions, as will be described in more detail with reference to the examples shown in FIGS. 3-5 below.

[0074] According to the first client application or platform, the user interface device is operable to enable or disable the entire passive entry functionality of the vehicle entry control module 22 .

[0075] To this end, the first client application / platform may provide a user interface with a simple control panel including a first user-operable switch 40a for enabling or disabling the passive entry feature, as illustrated as a non-limiting example in FIG. 3.

[0076] When the first user-operable switch 40a is operated to disable the passive entry function, the user interface device 15 may generate a corresponding control signal for transmission to the vehicle 1, for example, via the centralized server 24.

[0077] The control signal may be received by the second wireless communication module 32 and passed to the vehicle entry control module 22. In response, the vehicle entry control module 22 may process the control signal and disable the passive entry function to prevent access to the vehicle 1 via the passive entry function. For example, in response to the control signal, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to ignore access request signals from the access request switch 26 while the passive entry function is disabled.

[0078] For example, while the passive entry feature is disabled, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured not to generate or transmit challenge signals via the first wireless communication module 30. Alternatively or additionally, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to operate the first wireless communication module 30 not to listen or scan for response signals. In other examples, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to continue transmitting challenge signals and listen / scan for response signals while the passive entry feature is disabled, but simply reject all response signals received from the vehicle entry device 14.

[0079] Thus, in response to control signals received from the user interface device 15, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to selectively enable or disable the passive entry feature in its entirety.

[0080] In this way, a user may operate user interface device 15 to disable the passive entry function upon entering the home, thereby eliminating the risk of a relay attack while still carrying vehicle entry device 14 on their person. The user may then operate user interface device 15, for example, in the morning, to re-enable the passive entry function for convenient access to vehicle 1 during the day.

[0081] In another example, a user may leave vehicle entry device 14 within vehicle 1 within appropriate range for the exchange of passive signals, but disable the passive entry function via user interface device 15 to lock vehicle 1 and prevent access to vehicle 1 until the passive entry function is re-enabled. In this manner, vehicle entry device 14 may be safely stored inside vehicle 1, for example, while the user is away from vehicle 1 (e.g., a vehicle with limited pocket space), and the passive entry function may thereafter be re-enabled to unlock vehicle 1 via the passive entry function.

[0082] According to the second client application or platform, the user interface device 15 is operable to control the respective authorization status settings associated with each vehicle entry device 14 in the passive entry function.

[0083] To this end, the second client application / platform may provide a user interface with a second control panel including a plurality of user-operable switches 40b-e for selecting the authorization status setting of each vehicle entry device 14, as illustrated by way of non-limiting example in FIG.

[0084] Thus, when one of the user-operable switches 40b-e is operated to change the authorization status setting of the respective vehicle entry device 14, the user interface device 15 may generate a corresponding control signal for transmission to the vehicle 1, for example, via the centralized server 24.

[0085] Thus, vehicle entry control module 22 may receive a corresponding control signal and modify the authorization status setting of the respective vehicle entry device 14 to either accept or reject the response signal from that vehicle entry device 14. Thus, in response to receiving the control signal, vehicle entry control module 22 may modify the authorization status setting associated with the identifier of that vehicle entry device 14 in the passive entry function.

[0086] Thus, the passive entry function remains enabled, and in response to an access request signal from the access request switch 26, the vehicle entry control module 22 is configured to operate the first wireless communication module 30 to transmit a challenge signal and listen / scan for a response signal. However, upon receiving a response signal, the vehicle entry control module 22 processes the response signal to determine the identity of the vehicle entry device 14, reviews the authorization status setting of the identified vehicle entry device 14, and determines whether to generate a command signal to grant access to the vehicle 1.

[0087] In this scenario, it is understood that the authorization status setting may be applicable to individual vehicle entry devices 14 or groups of vehicle entry devices 14, and thus the vehicle entry control module 22 continues to operate the passive entry function, granting passive access to the vehicle 1 to authorized vehicle entry devices 14, while denying vehicle access to unauthorized vehicle entry devices 14.

[0088] According to the third client application or platform, the user interface device 15 is operable to schedule respective periods during which the vehicle 1 is accessible via the passive entry feature. In particular, the user interface device 15 is operable to schedule respective periods for implementing the passive entry feature settings. For example, the user interface device 15 is operable to schedule respective periods during which the passive entry feature is either enabled or disabled (in its entirety), or to schedule the authorization status setting of each vehicle entry device 14 for respective periods substantially as described above.

[0089] To this end, the third client application / platform may provide a control panel on the user interface device 15 that includes any one or more of the user-operable switches 40a-e described above, in addition to one or more control options 42 for scheduling such settings, as shown in the non-limiting example of Figure 5. For example, the control panel may include one or more options 42 for setting the duration of each setting, such as a start time, an end time, a frequency, and / or a date or date range, as shown. It should be understood that the scheduling options 42 are not limited to the options shown in Figure 5, but may include any time, date, frequency, or condition-based requirements for implementing each passive entry feature setting.

[0090] Accordingly, the configuration details are communicated in one or more control signals transmitted from the user interface device 15 to the vehicle entry control module 22. The vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to receive the control signals and schedule implementation of such passive entry feature configurations, substantially as described above.

[0091] For example, during the scheduled time period for disabling the passive entry feature, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to operate the first wireless communication module 30 not to generate or transmit a challenge signal or not to listen / scan for a response signal via the first wireless communication module 30. Alternatively or additionally, if the authorization status setting of the first vehicle entry device 14 is changed to deny access for the scheduled time period, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to continue transmitting challenge signals and listening / scanning for a response signal following an access request, but upon receiving a response signal from that vehicle entry device 14, the vehicle entry control module 22 will not generate a command signal to grant access to the vehicle 1.

[0092] In this way, the user may operate the user interface device 15 to schedule periods during which the passive entry function is disabled, thereby eliminating the risk of relay attacks overnight, while the passive entry function may be re-enabled during the day for convenient operation without further control input.

[0093] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary method 100 of operating the vehicle entry system 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] In an exemplary scenario, a user may carry vehicle entry device 14, for example, in a pocket, and approach vehicle 1. The user may then operate access request switch 26 on the vehicle door to request access to vehicle 1 via the passive entry feature.

[0095] Thus, in step 102 , the vehicle entry control module 22 receives an access request signal from the access request switch 26 .

[0096] Upon receiving the access request signal, in step 104, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to determine whether the passive entry feature is enabled.

[0097] As previously mentioned, the passive entry feature may be disabled in response to a control signal received from user interface device 15. For example, a user may interact with a client application on user interface device 15 to selectively enable or disable the passive entry feature or schedule respective periods during which the passive entry feature is enabled or disabled. In one example, a user may disable or enable the passive entry feature by operating a first user-operable switch 40a on the control panel shown in FIG. 3 .

[0098] Thus, if the passive entry feature is disabled when an access request signal is received, the vehicle entry control module 22 is configured to deny vehicle access in step 112. For example, the vehicle entry control module 22 may refuse to perform one or more of the subsequent steps of the method 100, as will be discussed in more detail, such that access to the vehicle may be denied, for example, by the door control system 36 maintaining the vehicle doors locked or otherwise closed.

[0099] Alternatively, in step 106, if the passive entry feature is enabled when the access request signal is received, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to generate a challenge signal for transmission to nearby vehicle entry devices 14. For example, the first wireless communication module 30 may be controlled to transmit the challenge signal to any nearby vehicle entry devices 14 within communication range of the first antenna set 18.

[0100] Thus, the vehicle entry device 14 carried by the user receives the challenge signal and generates a response signal to identify the vehicle entry device 14 that is sent back to the first wireless communication module 30 .

[0101] Accordingly, in step 108, the vehicle entry control module 22 is configured to receive and process the response signal from the vehicle entry device 14. As previously described, the vehicle entry control module 22 may process the response signal to identify the vehicle entry device 14 and verify the authorization status setting of that vehicle entry device 14.

[0102] Thus, in step 110, the vehicle entry control module 22 is configured to verify whether the identified vehicle entry device 14 is approved for passive entry functionality.

[0103] As previously mentioned, the authorization status setting of the identified vehicle entry devices 14 may be changed in response to control signals received from the user interface device 15. For example, a user may interact with a client application on the user interface device 15 to selectively toggle the authorization status setting of each vehicle entry device 14 between an authorized state and an unauthorized state, or to schedule periods during which the vehicle entry device 14 is authorized or unauthorized for vehicle access via the passive entry function. In one example, a user may adjust the authorization status setting of each vehicle entry device 14 by operating one of a plurality of user-operable switches 40b-e on the downloadable control panel shown in FIG. 4 .

[0104] Therefore, if upon receiving the response signal, vehicle entry via the passive entry function is not authorized for the vehicle entry device 14, the vehicle entry control module 22 is configured to deny vehicle access in step 112. For example, the door control system 36 may be operated to keep the vehicle doors locked or otherwise closed.

[0105] Alternatively, if vehicle entry via the passive entry function is authorized for the vehicle entry device 14 when the response signal is received, the vehicle entry control module 22 may be configured to generate a command signal to the body control module 34 to grant access to the vehicle 1 in step 114. For example, the vehicle entry control module 22 may instruct the door control system 36 to perform one or more control actions, such as unlocking and / or opening the vehicle doors, to grant access to the vehicle 1.

[0106] Thus, it is understood that control system 12 may perform each of steps 102-114 in response to a passive access request, and that at any time a user may operate user interface device 15 to change the passive entry function settings and thereby control the accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry function.

[0107] In this manner, the present invention provides improved control of the passive entry functions of the vehicle 1, provides enhanced security and defense against relay attacks, and provides increased operational flexibility.

[0108] It will be understood that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the application.

[0109] In some embodiments, the vehicle entry device 14 may be further configured to function as a remote keyless entry device and be operable to transmit one or more command signals to the vehicle entry control module 22 to control access to the vehicle via active commands from a user, e.g., as an alternative to the exchange of passive signals. In some embodiments, an additional remote keyless entry function allows a user to control access to the vehicle by operating one or more controls of the vehicle entry device 14 when vehicle access via the passive entry function of the control system 12 is prevented. It is understood that the remote keyless entry function may be performed by signal transmission over radio frequencies, and the passive entry function may be performed by signal exchange over lower frequency communication channels, such as LF radio or Bluetooth LE. To this end, the on-board control system 12 may include one or more additional antennas (not shown) connected to the vehicle entry control module 22, i.e., for receiving the remote command signals. Remote keyless entry functions are well known in the art and will not be described in detail herein to avoid obscuring the present invention. Thus, it is understood that the remote keyless entry function may be operated independently of the passive entry function.

[0110] In other examples, the on-board control system 12 and the vehicle entry device 14 may be configured to provide one or more additional passive control operations based on the passive signal exchange. For example, the on-board control system 12 and the vehicle entry device 14 may be configured to provide a Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) function, such that the on-board control system 12, in addition to granting vehicle access, may be further configured to generate control signals to one or more additional systems, such as an engine control unit (not shown) of the vehicle 1, to perform engine start operations.

Claims

1. A vehicle control system mounted on a vehicle, the control system has a passive entry function for controlling access to the interior of the vehicle by exchanging wireless communication signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices; one or more of the vehicle entry devices are operable by a user to generate remote keyless entry command signals for transmission to the control system; The control system includes: receiving a control signal including one or more passive entry feature settings over a wireless communication channel from a remote user interface device; controlling accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry feature based on one or more of the passive entry feature settings of the received control signal; and a control system that permits access to the vehicle in response to receiving the remote keyless entry command signal from one or more of the vehicle entry devices, even when the passive entry feature is disabled.

2. The passive entry function outputting a challenge signal to one or more of said vehicle entry devices; receiving a response signal from one of the one or more vehicle entry devices to authorize access to the vehicle; 2. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control system determines a command signal for controlling access to the vehicle in response to the received response signal.

3. the one or more passive entry feature settings include a respective authorization status setting for each of the one or more vehicle entry devices; 3. The control system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the passive entry function of the control system controls access to the vehicle in response to the authorization status setting of each of the vehicle entry devices with which the wireless communication signals are exchanged.

4. 4. The control system of claim 2, wherein the control system determines the command signal in response to the received response signal by checking the authorization status setting of the vehicle entry device from which the response signal was received.

5. the one or more passive entry function settings include a setting for enabling or disabling the passive entry function; The control system of claim 1 , wherein the control system enables or disables the passive entry function based on the control signal.

6. A control system as described in claim 5 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the control system does not output the challenge signal and / or does not scan for the response signal when the passive entry function is disabled.

7. the control signal includes a schedule for implementing one or more of the passive entry function settings; The control system according to claim 1 , wherein the control system implements the passive entry function setting according to the schedule.

8. the one or more vehicle entry devices include a plurality of vehicle entry devices for authorizing user access to the vehicle via the passive entry function of the control system; 8. The control system of claim 1, wherein the control system controls access to the vehicle by exchanging the wireless communication signals with one of a plurality of the vehicle entry devices.

9. 9. The control system of claim 1, comprising: a first wireless communication module for exchanging the wireless communication signals with one or more of the vehicle entry devices; and a second wireless communication module for receiving the control signals from the user interface device.

10. The control system of claim 9 , wherein the second wireless communication module receives the control signal over a cellular network.

11. 11. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control system controls access to the vehicle by generating the control signal to a body control module of the vehicle.

12. A control system according to any one of claims 1 to 11; one or more portable vehicle entry devices; a user interface device, A vehicle entry system wherein the user interface device is operably connected to the control system.

13. 13. The vehicle entry system of claim 12, wherein the user interface device takes the form of a mobile phone device, a smart watch, or a computer.

14. 14. The vehicle entry system of claim 13, wherein the user interface device is operable to access a downloadable client application or a web browser application, the client application or the web browser application hosting a control panel for adjusting the passive entry feature settings and generating the corresponding control signals for transmission to the control system.

15. 15. The vehicle entry system of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein one or more of the vehicle entry devices includes a key fob.

16. the key fob is operable by a user to generate a remote keyless entry command signal for transmission to the control system; 16. The vehicle entry system of claim 15, wherein the control system further includes a remote keyless entry function that allows access to the vehicle in response to receiving the remote keyless entry command signal from the key fob.

17. 1. A method of controlling access to a vehicle using a control system mounted on the vehicle, comprising: the control system has a passive entry function for controlling access to the interior of the vehicle by exchanging wireless communication signals with one or more portable vehicle entry devices; one or more of the vehicle entry devices are operable by a user to generate remote keyless entry command signals for transmission to the control system; The method comprises: receiving, at the control system over a wireless communication channel from a remote user interface device, a control signal including one or more passive entry feature settings; controlling accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry feature based on one or more of the passive entry feature settings of the received control signal; and permitting access to the vehicle in response to receiving the remote keyless entry command signal from one or more of the vehicle entry devices even if the passive entry feature is disabled.

18. The passive entry function outputting a challenge signal from the control system to one or more of the vehicle entry devices; receiving, at the control system, a response signal from one of the one or more vehicle entry devices to authorize access to the vehicle; 18. The method of claim 17, including determining, in the control system, a command signal for controlling access to the vehicle in response to the received response signal.

19. the one or more passive entry feature settings include a respective authorization status setting for each of the one or more vehicle entry devices; 19. The method of claim 17 or 18, wherein controlling the accessibility of the vehicle based on one or more of the passive entry feature settings includes controlling the accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry feature in response to the authorization status settings of each of the vehicle entry devices with which the wireless communication signals are exchanged.

20. 20. The method of claims 18 and 19, wherein controlling the accessibility of the vehicle based on one or more of the passive entry feature settings includes determining the command signal as a function of the authorization status setting of the vehicle entry device from which the response signal was received.

21. the one or more passive entry function settings include a setting for enabling or disabling the passive entry function; 21. The method of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein controlling the accessibility of the vehicle based on one or more of the passive entry feature settings comprises enabling or disabling the passive entry feature based on the control signal.

22. 22. A method according to claim 21 when dependent on claim 18, wherein the control system does not output the challenge signal and / or does not scan for the response signal if the passive entry feature is disabled.

23. the control signal includes a schedule for implementing one or more of the passive entry function settings; 23. The method of any one of claims 17 to 22, wherein one or more of the passive entry feature settings are implemented according to the schedule to control the accessibility of the vehicle via the passive entry feature.

24. 24. The method of any one of claims 17 to 23, further comprising transmitting the control signal from the user interface device to adjust one or more of the passive entry feature settings in response to one or more user-operable switches of a control panel being operated on the user interface device.

25. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the user interface device is operable to access a downloadable client application or a web browser application in which the control panel is hosted.