Vehicle access control system

Abstract

Aspects of the present invention relate to a control system (105) for controlling an access system (100) of a vehicle 600), the control system (105) comprising one or more processors collectively configured to: receive (200) a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, output (210) a first control signal to set a state of the access system 100) to a first access state; receive (220) a second signal indicative of second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determine (230) whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy an access criteria; in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, output (240) a second control signal to set the state of the access system (100) to a second access state.

Description

[0001] VEHICLE ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a vehicle access control system. Aspects of the invention relate to a control system, to a method, to computer readable instructions, and to a vehicle.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] It is known to provide multiple access states to control entry to a vehicle. A single locked state may mean that opening of doors of the vehicle by means of exterior handles is inhibited. A double locked state may mean that opening of doors of the vehicle by means of exterior or interior handles is inhibited, in order to present an additional deterrent for unauthorised access to a vehicle by breaking a window, or similar. Some car key fobs make use of buttons on the key fob to secure the vehicle into a particular access state, but alternative means of securing (locking / unlocking) the vehicle may not provide means for entering a particular access state.

[0006] It is an aim of the present invention to address one or more of the disadvantages associated with the prior art.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Aspects and embodiments of the invention provide a control system for a vehicle access system, a method for controlling a vehicle access system, and a vehicle as claimed in the appended claims.

[0009] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for controlling an access system of a vehicle, the control system configured to: receive signals indicative of first and second access actions, determine whether at least one of the first and second access actions satisfy an access criteria, and based on determining that at least one of the first and second access actions satisfy the access criteria, set a state of the access system to one of a first access state and a second access state. By using both a first access action and a second access action to enter a second access state as opposed to a first access state, the second access state is entered in response to a deliberate change of intent from the default (first access) state.

[0010] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for controlling an access system of a vehicle, the control system comprising one or more processors collectively configured to: receive a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, output a first control signal to set a state of the access system to a first access state; receive a second signal indicative of second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determine whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy an access criteria; and in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, output a second control signal to set the state of the access system to a second access state. By using both a first access action and a second access action to enter a second access state as opposed to using one state, the second access state is entered in response to a deliberate change of intent from the default (first access) state. According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a control system for controlling an access system of a vehicle. The control system comprises one or more controllers collectively comprising at least one electronic processor having an electrical input for receiving an input signal; and at least one memory device electrically coupled to the at least one electronic processor and having instructions stored therein; and wherein the at least one electronic processor is configured to access the at least one memory device and execute the instructions thereon so as to: receive a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, output a first control signal to set a state of the access system to a first access state; receive a second signal indicative of a second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determine whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy and access criteria; in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, output a second control signal to set the state of the access system to a second access state. By entering the second access state in dependence on the first and / or second access actions satisfying an access criteria, entering of the second access state is achieved through a change of intent from a default (first) access state. Accordingly, entering the second access state is through the performance of a deliberate action or combination of actions, and not by a single action of which it is easy to perform unintentionally.

[0011] According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising a control system as described above.

[0012] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for controlling an access system of a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, outputting a first control signal to set a state of the access system to a first access state; receiving a second signal indicative of a second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determining whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy an access criteria; in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, outputting a second control signal to set the state of the access system to a second access state.

[0013] According to a further aspect of the invention, there are provided computer readable instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform a method comprising: receiving a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, outputting a first control signal to set a state of the access system to a first access state; receiving a second signal indicative of a second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determining whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy an access criteria; in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, outputting a second control signal to set the state of the access system to a second access state.

[0014] Optionally, determining whether an access criteria has been satisfied may comprise determining whether a time elapsed since reception of the first signal indicative of the first access action is less than a predetermined threshold time. By determining that less than a predetermined threshold time has elapsed since the first action, it is determined that the first access action and second access action have been performed within a time period less than the predetermined threshold time. Accordingly, it is less likely that the access criteria can be satisfied unintentionally.

[0015] Optionally, determining whether the access criteria has been satisfied may comprise determining whether the first access action is performed simultaneously with the second access action. By determining that the first and second access actions are performed simultaneously, it is less likely that the access criteria can be satisfied unintentionally.

[0016] Optionally, one of the first access action or the second access action may comprise presenting one of a nearfield communication (NFC) token or an ultra-wideband (UWB) token proximate an access sensor. Presentation of a wireless token such as an NFC token or a UWB token proximate an access sensor can be used to indicate the intent of a user to change an access state of the vehicle.

[0017] Optionally, one of the first access action or the second access action may comprise actuation of a switch. Actuating a switch, either by pressing, releasing, or holding, can be used to indicate the intent of a user to change an access state of the vehicle.

[0018] Optionally, the first access state may comprise a single locked state. A single locked state prevents entry from outside of the vehicle, whilst enabling a user inside of the vehicle to exit the vehicle.

[0019] Optionally, the single locked state may comprise disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle. Disabling operation of one or more doors by one or more external handles prevents entry to the vehicle from outside of the vehicle.

[0020] Optionally, the second access state may comprise a double locked state. A double locked state acts as a deterrent to parties wishing to enter the vehicle without authorisation.

[0021] Optionally, the double locked state may comprise disabling operation of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more internal handles of the vehicle. Disabling operation of one or more doors by one or more internal handles prevents an unauthorised party from gaining access to the vehicle even in the event that one or more windows of the vehicle are broken, forcibly opened, or unintentionally left in an open position.

[0022] Optionally, the one or more processors collectively may be further configured to: in response to determining that the access criteria has not been satisfied, output a control signal to set a state of the access system into a third access state. A third access state may be entered instead of an access state when the access criteria is not satisfied, in order to provide an alternative access state different from the second access state.

[0023] Optionally, the third access state may comprise an unlocked state. An unlocked state permits entry to the vehicle via one or more doors, with said doors operated by either an internal or external handle. Optionally, the access criteria may be dependent upon a time elapsed. By determining that less than a predetermined threshold time has elapsed since the first action, it is determined that the first access action and second access action have been performed within a time period less than the predetermined threshold time. Similarly, by determining that an action has been maintained for a time period greater than or equal to the threshold time, it can be determined that a ‘tap and hold’ or ‘press and hold’ process has been performed. Accordingly, it is less likely that the access criteria can be satisfied unintentionally.

[0024] Optionally, the single locked state may further comprise one or more of arming an alarm, retracting one or more external handles of the vehicle, and disabling operation of a tailgate of a vehicle. These further features of a single locked state serve to increase the security of the vehicle by enabling further access restrictions or deterrents.

[0025] Optionally, the second access state may comprise a globally closed state. The globally closed state permits the user to close the windows and / or doors of the vehicle from outside of the vehicle, and / or as part of a locking process of the vehicle.

[0026] Optionally, the second access state may comprise a tailgate access state. A tailgate access state may permit a user to gain access to a tailgate of the vehicle without compromising the security of one or more doors of the vehicle.

[0027] Optionally, the tailgate access state may comprise disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle, and enabling operation of a locking mechanism of a tailgate of the vehicle by an external tailgate handle of the vehicle.

[0028] Optionally, the second access state may comprise a guardian mode. A guardian mode provides a means by which a user or owner of a vehicle is provided with notifications as to a state of the vehicle even when distant from the vehicle.

[0029] Optionally, the guardian mode may comprise one or more of transmitting a notification signal to an external device in response to operation of one or more external handles of the vehicle, and disabling one or more wireless communication transceivers of the vehicle. Disabling of one or more transceivers restricts the means by which an access state of the vehicle may be changed.

[0030] Optionally, the first access action may comprise pressing of a switch, and the second access action may comprise releasing of the switch. By determining that a switch actuation has been maintained for a time period greater than or equal to a threshold time, it can be determined that a ‘press and hold’ process has been performed. Accordingly, it is less likely that the access criteria can be satisfied unintentionally.

[0031] Optionally, the first access action may comprise initiating presentation of one of a near-field communication (NFC) token or an ultra-wideband (UWB) token proximate an access sensor, and the second access action may comprise terminating presentation of said one of the near-field communication (NFC) token or the ultra- wideband (UWB) token proximate the access sensor. By determining that a wireless token presentation has been maintained for a time period greater than or equal to a threshold time, it can be determined that a ‘tap and hold’ process has been performed. Accordingly, it is less likely that the access criteria can be satisfied unintentionally.

[0032] Optionally, the second access state may comprise initiating the actuation of one or more powered doors of the vehicle. Closing of powered doors of the vehicle as a part of entering an access state enables easier securing of the vehicle.

[0033] Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and / or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and / or combination, unless such features are incompatible. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and / or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

[0036] Figure 1 shows a representation of a control system for controlling access to a vehicle according to embodiments of the invention;

[0037] Figure 2 shows a flow chart showing a method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle according to embodiments of the invention;

[0038] Figure 3 shows a flow chart showing a further method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle according to embodiments of the invention;

[0039] Figure 4 shows a flow chart showing a further method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle according to embodiments of the invention;

[0040] Figure 5 shows a flow chart showing a further method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle according to embodiments of the invention; and

[0041] Figure 6 shows a vehicle in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0042] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] A control system 105 for controlling an access system of a vehicle, and an associated method, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is described herein with reference to the accompanying Figure 1. As shown in Figure 6, the access system is installed in a vehicle 600. The control system 105 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may be configured to carry out a method as described in any of Figures 2 to 5. Embodiments described herein provide a control system for controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle between different access states, such as a single locked access state and a double locked access state, using various access actions which can be used to lock or unlock a vehicle. For example, sequences of access actions such as presentation of a wireless token or pressing of a button may be used to determine whether the vehicle is secured in a first access state or a second access state.

[0044] With reference to Figure 1 , there is illustrated an access system 100 for a vehicle. The access system comprises a control system 105. The control system 105 comprises one or more controller 110. The control system 105 as illustrated in Figure 1 comprises one controller 110, although it will be appreciated that this is merely illustrative. The controller 110 comprises processing means 120 and memory means 130. The processing means 120 may be one or more electronic processing device 120 which operably executes computer-readable instructions. The memory means 130 may be one or more memory device 130. The memory means 130 is electrically coupled to the processing means 120. The memory means 130 is configured to store instructions, and the processing means 120 is configured to access the memory means 130 and execute the instructions stored thereon.

[0045] The control system 105 is configured to receive signals indicative of one or more access actions from one or more access sensors and determine whether an access criteria is satisfied by the access actions. The controller 110 may then output a control signal to control an access state of an access system of the vehicle.

[0046] The controller 110 comprises one or more input means 140, 145. The input 140 is arranged to receive a token access signal from a token access sensor. The token access sensor signal is an electrical sensor which is indicative of presentation of a wireless token proximate the token access sensor. In some embodiments, the wireless token may comprise one of a near field communication (NFC) token or an ultra-wideband (UWB) token. The input 145 is arranged to receive a switch actuation signal from a switch access sensor. The switch actuation signal is an electrical signal which is indicative of the actuation of a switch access sensor. In some embodiments, the switch actuation signal may be indicative of one of: a rising edge of an actuation of the switch access sensor, a falling edge of an actuation of the switch access sensor, or a change of state of the switch access sensor. The switch access sensor may comprise a mechanical switch or a sensor-based switch, such as a capacitive or resistive sensing-type switch.

[0047] The controller 110 comprises one or more output means 150, 155, 160, 170, 175, 180. The output 150 is arranged to output a powered door actuator control signal operable to drive one or more doors of a vehicle between an open position and a closed position. The output 155 is arranged to output a window actuator control signal operable to drive one or more windows of the vehicle between an open position and a closed position. The output signal 160 is arranged to output an alarm control signal for controlling an alarm. The alarm may comprise one or more audible or visual indicators that are arranged to operate in response to the alarm control signal. The output signal 170 is arranged to output an external handle control signal for controlling enabling or disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle. The output signal 175 is arranged to output an internal handle control signal for controlling enabling or disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more internal handles of the vehicle. The output signal 180 is arranged to output a tailgate handle control signal for controlling enabling or disabling operation of a locking mechanism of a tailgate of the vehicle by a tailgate handle of the vehicle.

[0048] Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle may comprise one or more of: retracting one or more powered external handles such that the external handle cannot be operated, controlling one or more handle securing means such that the external handle cannot be operated, disconnecting one or more mechanical linking components between an external handle and a locking mechanism of the door such that operation of the external handle does not operate the locking mechanism of the door, or disconnecting one or more electrical linking components between an external handle and a locking mechanism of the door such that operation of the external handle does not operate the locking mechanism of the door. The exterior handles may be connected to a door latching mechanism by a Bowden cable (a flexible cable used to transmit mechanical force or energy by the movement of an inner cable relative to a hollow outer cable housing). Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle may comprise detaching a Bowden cable from a latch mechanism to inhibit the exterior handles. The detaching of the Bowden cable may be driven by a motor in the door latch. The exterior handles may be operable to actuate a swich or sensor, the switch actuating a software function to drive a locking mechanism or latch of a door, for example, by driving a pawl lever to enable a claw to rotate out of the way of a striker to allow opening of a door. Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle may comprise disabling operation of a software function which drives the pawl lever.

[0049] Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more internal handles of the vehicle may comprise one or more of: controlling one or more handle securing means such that the internal handle cannot be operated, disconnecting one or more mechanical linking components between an internal handle and a locking mechanism ofthe door such that operation of the internal handle does not operate the locking mechanism of the door, or disconnecting one or more electrical linking components between an internal handle and a locking mechanism ofthe door such that operation of the internal handle does not operate the locking mechanism of the door. The interior handles may be connected to a door latching mechanism by a Bowden cable. Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more interior handles of the vehicle may comprise detaching a Bowden cable from a latch mechanism to inhibit the interior handles. The detaching ofthe Bowden cable may be driven by a motor in the door latch. The interior handles may be operable to actuate a swich or sensor, the switch actuating a software function to drive a locking mechanism or latch of a door, for example, by driving a pawl lever to enable a claw to rotate out of the way of a striker to allow opening of a door. Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more interior handles of the vehicle may comprise disabling operation of a software function which drives the pawl lever.

[0050] Disabling operation of a locking mechanism of a tailgate of the vehicle by a tailgate handle of the vehicle may comprise one or more of: retracting one or more powered tailgate handles such that the tailgate handle cannot be operated, controlling one or more handle securing means such that the tailgate handle cannot be operated, disconnecting one or more mechanical linking components between a tailgate handle and a locking mechanism of the tailgate such that operation of the tailgate handle does not operate the locking mechanism of the tailgate, or disconnecting one or more electrical linking components between a tailgate handle and a locking mechanism of the tailgate such that operation of the tailgate handle does not operate the locking mechanism of the tailgate. The tailgate latch may be electrically driven by a controller of the vehicle, the controller comprising software operable to decide whether or not conditions are correct to drive a release of a tailgate latch based on a locking state of the vehicle.

[0051] A locking mechanism of a vehicle space such as a bonnet, front loadspace lid, or front trunk (trunk) may be operated by a respective handle. Operation of said locking mechanism may be disabled by means of one or more of: retracting one or more powered handles such that the respective handle cannot be operated, disconnecting one or more mechanical linking components between a handle and a respective locking mechanism of the respective vehicle space such that operation of the handle does not operate the respective locking mechanism, or disconnecting one or more electrical linking components between a handle and a respective locking mechanism of a respective vehicle space such that operation of the handle does not operate the respective locking mechanism.

[0052] Figure 2 illustrates a method 20 according to an embodiment of the invention. The method 20 is a method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle. In particular, the method 20 is a method of controlling an access state between a first access state and a second access state. The method 20 may be performed by the access system 100 illustrated in Figure 1. In particular, the memory 130 may comprise computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the processor 120, perform the method 20. At step 200, a signal indicative of a first access action is received. At step 210, in response to receiving the signal indicative of the first access action, a first control signal is output to set a state of the access system of the vehicle to a first access state. At step 220, a signal indicative of a second access action is received. At step 230, it is determined whether at least one of the first access action and the second access action satisfy an access criteria. If it is determined that the access criteria is not satisfied, the method proceeds to step 235. If it is determined that the access criteria is satisfied, the method proceeds to step 240. At step 235, in response to determining that the access criteria is not satisfied, the access state is maintained in the first access state. At step 240, in response to determining that the access criteria is satisfied, a second control signal is output to set the state of the access system to a second access state.

[0053] In embodiments, the first access action may comprise one of: initiating presentation of a wireless token proximate a token access sensor, terminating presentation of a wireless token proximate a token access sensor, initiating actuation (pressing) of an access switch, or terminating actuation (releasing) of an access switch. A wireless token may comprise a near-field communication (NFC) token, an ultra-wideband (UWB) token, other radio-frequency (RF) capable device, or similar. A wireless token may comprise a keyfob, a keycard, a mobile device such as a smartphone, a wearable device such as a smart watch, or similar. A token access sensor may comprise an NFC transceiver, an UWB transceiver, or similar, configured to communicate wirelessly with the wireless token. An access switch may comprise a mechanically actuated switch, an electrically actuated switch, a touch-sensitive element, or similar. The access switch may be located on or proximate an external handle of the vehicle, or located on or proximate a door of the vehicle.

[0054] In some embodiments, the second access action may be the same as the first access action, such that performing the second access action is a repetition of the first access action. Where a first access action is a first presentation of a wireless token and the second access action is a second presentation of the wireless token, then the process for entering a second access state may be considered a ‘double tap’ of the wireless token. Where a first access action is a first actuation of a switch and the second access action is a second actuation of the switch, then the process for entering a second access state may be considered a ‘double click’ of the switch. In some embodiments, the second access action may be different to the first access action. In some embodiments the first access action may comprise initiation of an action and the second action may comprise termination of an action. Where the first action comprises initiating presentation of a wireless token proximate a token access sensor, and the second action comprises terminating presentation of the wireless token proximate the token access sensor, the process for entering a second access state may be considered a ‘tap and hold’ of the wireless token. Where the first action comprises initiating actuation of a switch, and the second action comprises terminating actuation of the switch, the process for entering a second access state may be considered a ‘press and hold’ of the switch.

[0055] In some embodiments, the access criteria may be dependent upon a time elapsed between the first access action and the second access action. In some embodiments, the access criteria may be satisfied when the time elapsed between the first access action and the second access action is less than a threshold time. For example, entering a second access state may be dependent upon the first access action and the second access action being performed within a certain period of time. In some embodiments, the access criteria may be satisfied when the time elapsed between the first access action and the second access action is greater than or equal to a threshold time. For example, where the first access action comprises initiation of an action and the second action comprises termination of an action, the access criteria functions to ensure that the action is being maintained for a certain minimum duration in order to enter a second access state. Where the first action comprises initiating presentation of a wireless token proximate a token access sensor, and the second action comprises terminating presentation of the wireless token proximate the token access sensor, the access criteria may function to determine that the wireless token is maintained in proximity to the access sensor for at least a certain duration in order to enter the second access state. Where the first action comprises initiating actuation of a switch, and the second action comprises terminating actuation of the switch, the access criteria may function to determine that the switch is maintained in an actuated (or ‘pressed’) state for at least a certain duration in order to enter the second access state.

[0056] In some embodiments, the access criteria may be dependent upon whether the first access action and the second access action are performed simultaneously. In this sense, simultaneously means that there is overlap between a period during which the first access is being performed and a period during which the second access action is being performed. The access criteria may be considered satisfied where the second access action is initiated prior to the first access action being terminated. For example, where the first access action comprises presentation of a wireless token and the second access action comprises actuation of a switch, the access criteria may be considered satisfied where the switch is actuated whilst the wireless token is being presented proximate an access sensor.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first access state may comprise a single locked state. A single locked state may comprise disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle, whilst maintaining operation of the locking mechanism by one or more internal handles of the vehicle. The single locked state enables an occupant inside of the vehicle to exit the vehicle, whilst maintaining the security of the vehicle from the outside of the vehicle. The single locked state may further comprise setting an arm state of an alarm of the vehicle to an armed state. The single locked state may further comprise retracting one or more external handles of the vehicle.

[0058] In some embodiments, the second access state may comprise a double locked state. A double locked state may comprise disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle both by one or more external handles of the vehicle and by one or more internal handles of the vehicle. The double locked state enables the vehicle to remain secure even in the event that a window of the vehicle is broken or opened in an attempt to gain access to the vehicle by means of an internal handle. The double locked state may further comprise setting an arm state of an alarm of the vehicle to an armed state. The double locked state may further comprise retracting one or more external handles of the vehicle.

[0059] Figure 3 illustrates a method 30 according to an embodiment of the invention. The method 30 is a method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle. In particular, the method 30 is a method of controlling an access state between a first access state and a second access state. The method 30 may be performed by the system 100 illustrated in Figure 1. In particular, the memory 130 may comprise computer- readable instructions which, when executed by the processor 120, perform the method 30. At step 300, a signal indicative of a first access action is received. At step 310, in response to receiving the signal indicative of the first access action, a first control signal is output to set a state of the access system of the vehicle to a first access state. At step 320, a signal indicative of a second access action is received. At step 330, it is determined whether at least one of the first access action and the second access action satisfy an access criteria. If it is determined that the access criteria is not satisfied, the method proceeds to step 335. If it is determined that the access criteria is satisfied, the method proceeds to step 340. At step 335, in response to determining that the access criteria is not satisfied, a third control signal is output to set the state of the access system to a third access state. At step 340, in response to determining that the access criteria is satisfied, a second control signal is output to set the state of the access system to a second access state.

[0060] In some embodiments, one or more of the first access state, the second access state, and the third access state may comprise an unlocked state. An unlocked state may comprise enabling operation of a locking mechanism by one or more external handles of the vehicle and one or more internal handles of the vehicle. The unlocked state may further comprise enabling operation of a tailgate of the vehicle by a tailgate handle of the vehicle. In some embodiments, one or more of the first access state, the second access state, and the third access state may comprise a tailgate access state. A tailgate access state comprises enabling operation of a tailgate of the vehicle by a tailgate handle of the vehicle. The tailgate access state may further comprise disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle. The tailgate access state may permit access to the tailgate without affecting whether operation of a locking mechanism by one or more internal or external handles of the vehicle is enabled or disabled. In some embodiments, one or more of the first access state, the second access state, and the third access state may comprise one or more of a bonnet access state, front loadspace access state, or front trunk (trunk) access state. A bonnet access state, front loadspace access state or trunk access state comprises enabling operation of a bonnet, front loadspace or trunk of the vehicle by a bonnet, front loadspace or trunk handle of the vehicle. The bonnet access state, front loadspace access state or trunk access state may further comprise disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle. The bonnet access state, front loadspace access state or trunk access state may permit access to the bonnet, front loadspace or trunk without affecting whether operation of a locking mechanism by one or more internal or external handles of the vehicle is enabled or disabled.

[0061] In some embodiments, one or more of the first access state, the second access state, and the third access state may comprise a globally closed state. A globally closed state may comprise one or more of: driving one or more windows of the vehicle from an open position to a closed position, and driving one or more doors of the vehicle from an open position to a closed position. The globally closed state may further comprise driving a tailgate of the vehicle from an open position to a closed position. The globally closed state may further comprise driving a bonnet, front loadspace lid, or front trunk (trunk) of the vehicle from an open position to a closed position. The globally closed state may further comprise one or more of: disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle, and disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more internal handles of the vehicle. The globally closed state may further comprise setting an arm state of an alarm of the vehicle to an armed state. The globally closed state may further comprise retracting one or more external handles of the vehicle.

[0062] In some embodiments, one or more of the first access state, the second access state, and the third access state may comprise a guardian mode state. A guardian mode may comprise one or more of: disabling one or more wireless communication transceivers of the vehicle, transmitting a notification signal to an external device in response to operation of one or more external handles of the vehicle, and transmitting an notification signal to an external device in response to operation of a tailgate handle of the vehicle. The guardian mode state may further comprise one or more of: disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more external handles of the vehicle, and disabling operation of a locking mechanism of one or more doors of the vehicle by one or more internal handles of the vehicle. The guardian mode state may further comprise setting an arm state of an alarm of the vehicle to an armed state. The guardian mode state may further comprise retracting one or more external handles of the vehicle. Figure 4 illustrates a method 40 according to an embodiment of the invention. The method 40 is a method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle. In particular, the method 40 is a method of controlling an access state between a first single locked access state and a second double locked access state. The method 40 may be performed by the system 100 illustrated in Figure 1. In particular, the memory 130 may comprise computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the processor 120, perform the method 40. At step 400, a first signal is received, the first signal indicative of the presentation of one of a nearfield communication (NFC) token, an ultra-wideband (UWB) token, or RF capable token proximate an access sensor of the vehicle. At step 410, in response to receiving the signal indicative of the presentation of the NFC token, the UWB token, or RF capable token proximate the access sensor, a first control signal is output to set a state of the access system of the vehicle to a single locked access state. At step 420, a second signal is received, the second signal indicative of an actuation of a switch of the vehicle. At step 430, it is determined whether a time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is less than a threshold time. If it is determined that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is not less than the threshold time, the method proceeds to step 435. If it is determined that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is less than the threshold time, then the method proceeds to step 440. At step 435, in response to determining that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is not less than the threshold time, the access state is maintained in the single locked access state. At step 440, in response to determining that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is less than the threshold time, a second control signal is output to set the state of the access system to a double locked access state.

[0063] Figure 5 illustrates a method 50 according to an embodiment of the invention. The method 50 is a method of controlling an access state of an access system of a vehicle. In particular, the method 50 is a method of controlling an access state between a first single locked access state and a second double locked access state. The method 50 may be performed by the system 100 illustrated in Figure 1. In particular, the memory 130 may comprise computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the processor 120, perform the method 50. At step 500, a first signal is received, the first signal indicative of an initiation of presentation of one of a near-field communication (NFC) token, an ultra-wideband (UWB) token, or RF capable token proximate an access sensor of the vehicle. At step 510, in response to receiving the signal indicative of the initiation of presentation of the NFC token, the UWB token, or RF capable token proximate the access sensor, a first control signal is output to set a state of the access system of the vehicle to a single locked access state. At step 520, a second signal is received, the second signal indicative of a termination of presentation of the one of the near-field communication (NFC) token, the ultra-wideband (UWB) token, or RF capable token proximate the access sensor of the vehicle. At step 530, it is determined whether a time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is greater than a threshold time. If it is determined that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is not greater than the threshold time, the method proceeds to step 535. If it is determined that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is greater than the threshold time, then the method proceeds to step 540. At step 535, in response to determining that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is not greater than the threshold time, the access state is maintained in the single locked access state. At step 540, in response to determining that the time elapsed between reception of the first signal and reception of the second signal is greater than the threshold time, a second control signal is output to set the state of the access system to a double locked access state. Figure 6 illustrates a vehicle 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 600 comprises a control system 100 as illustrated in Figure 1 . The control system 100 may be configured to perform a method according to any of Figures 2 to 5.

[0064] It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the present application.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A control system for controlling an access system of a vehicle, the control system comprising one or more processors collectively configured to: receive a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, output a first control signal to set a state of the access system to a first access state; receive a second signal indicative of second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determine whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy an access criteria; and in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, output a second control signal to set the state of the access system to a second access state.

2. The control system of claim 1 , wherein determining whether the access criteria has been satisfied comprises determining whether a time elapsed since reception of the first signal indicative of the first access action is less than a predetermined threshold time.

3. The control system of claim 1 , wherein determining whether the access criteria has been satisfied comprises determining whether the first access action is performed simultaneously with the second access action.

4. The control system of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein one of the first access action or the second access action comprises presenting one of a near-field communication token or an ultra-wideband token proximate an access sensor.

5. The control system of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein one of the first access action or the second access action comprises actuation of a switch.

6. The control system of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first access state comprises a single locked state.

7. The control system of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second access state comprises a double locked state.

8. The control system of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one or more processors collectively are further configured to: in response to determining that the access criteria has not been satisfied, output a control signal to set a state of the access system into a third access state.

9. The control system of claim 8, wherein the third access state comprises an unlocked state.

10. A vehicle comprising the control system of any of claims 1 to 9.

11. A method for controlling an access system of a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a first signal indicative of a first access action; in response to receiving the first signal, outputting a first control signal to set a state of the access system to a first access state; receiving a second signal indicative of a second access action, wherein the second access action is different to the first access action; determining whether at least one of the first and second access action satisfy an access criteria; and in response to determining that at least one of the first and second access action satisfy the access criteria, outputting a second control signal to set the state of the access system to a second access state.

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein determining whether the access criteria has been satisfied comprises determining whether a time elapsed since reception of the first signal indicative of the first access action is less than a predetermined threshold time.

13. The method of claim 11 , wherein determining whether the access criteria has been satisfied comprises determining whether the first access action is performed simultaneously with the second access action.

14. The method of any of claims 11 to 13, wherein the first access state comprises a single locked state and the second access state comprises a double locked state.

15. Computer readable instructions which, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform the method according to any of claims 11 to 14.

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