JP2008115870A - Remote starting control device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a remote starting control device simply and inexpensively constructed to be mounted on a vehicle having an immobilizer function. <P>SOLUTION: The remote start control device 31A is mounted on the vehicle equipped with an immobilizer part 6 which permits the start of the engine when a code output in accordance with the insertion of an ignition key 1 into a key cylinder 4 is input and the input code is determined to be a code inherent in the vehicle, for controlling the start of the engine in accordance with an instruction from a portable transmitter 37. It comprises a means for storing in an EEPROM 36 the code firstly supplied to a signal line L2 after a power is supplied, and a means for supplying the code stored in the EEPROM 36 to the immobilizer part 6 when receiving an engine starting instruction from the portable transmitter 37. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a remote start control device, and more particularly to a remote start control device for mounting on a vehicle having an immobilizer function.

  Recently, vehicles equipped with an anti-theft function called an immobilizer have been increasing. In order to realize the immobilizer function (for the engine), as shown in FIG. 8, an ignition key 1 that stores a specific code and has a tip 3 having a transmission function in the grip portion 2, and a key cylinder 4 And a transponder 5 attached to the key cylinder 4, a vehicle-specific code, an immobilizer unit 6 having a function of preventing theft, and an engine control unit 7 for controlling engine starting and the like. Yes.

  When the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4 by the driver (or when the ignition key 1 is rotated to the ACC output position or the IG output position of the ignition switch), the key insertion detection signal becomes high. The immobilizer unit 6 that has received the signal transmits an activation signal to the transponder 5 via the signal line L1.

  When the transponder 5 receives the activation signal, the transponder 5 performs wireless communication with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1 inserted in the key cylinder 4, thereby acquiring the specific code stored in the chip 3 and acquiring the acquired code. A specific code is output together with the clock signal to the immobilizer unit 6 via the signal line L2.

  The immobilizer 6 determines whether or not the specific code sent from the transponder 5 matches the vehicle-specific code stored in advance, and if these codes match, the ignition key 1 is pressed. The driver inserted into the key cylinder 4 is regarded as a regular driver, and a permission signal for permitting engine start is given to the engine control unit 7.

  When the engine control unit 7 receives the starter signal output from the key cylinder 4 after receiving the permission signal, the engine control unit 7 controls the engine such as fuel and ignition timing. When the starter signal is received without receiving a signal, the engine control is not performed.

  Thus, the engine cannot be started unless the code stored in the chip 3 of the ignition key 1 is a code unique to the vehicle. Therefore, the engine cannot be started and the vehicle can be prevented from being stolen by the direct connection of an unauthorized ignition key or ignition switch.

On the other hand, a remote start control device for starting an engine such as an engine by remote operation has been put into practical use. As shown in FIG. 9, when the remote start control device 18 receives a signal instructing engine start from a portable transmitter 19 carried by the driver, the normal ignition key 11 is rotated to the starter output position. Are supplied to the signal line L3 of the ignition switch, and these pseudo signals are transmitted to the engine control unit 17.
As a result, even if the ignition key 11 is not inserted into the key cylinder 14 and rotated, the engine can be started only by transmitting a signal instructing the engine start from the portable transmitter 19.

  However, when the above-described remote start control device 18 is additionally installed in a vehicle having the above-described immobilizer function, the vehicle-specific code stored in the immobilizer unit 6 is matched, that is, the normal ignition key 1 is replaced with the key cylinder 4 Therefore, there is a problem that the engine cannot be started even if the pseudo signal (pseudo signal of ACC signal, IG signal, and starter signal) is given to the engine control unit 7.

  In order to solve such a problem, a vehicle-specific code is stored in the remote start control device, and when an engine start instruction is received by remote operation, the vehicle-specific code is sent from the remote start control device to the immobilizer. And the immobilizer unit gives the permission signal to the engine control unit (see Patent Document 1 below), or a small transmitter (that is, a vehicle) taken out from a regular ignition key. A unique code is stored and corresponds to the above-described chip 3) and a transponder attached to the key cylinder is electrically connected via an antenna, and an engine start instruction is received from a portable transmitter. And operating the transponder and transmitting the vehicle characteristic transmitted from the small transmitter via an antenna. The code, there is the invention such is sent to the immobilizer unit (see Patent Document 2 below).

However, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, the mode switching (selection of the setting mode) is performed when the vehicle-specific code is stored in the remote start control device, and the mode switching is performed. However, there is a problem that the operation unit is newly required and the cost is increased. On the other hand, the invention described in Patent Document 2 also has a problem that a regular ignition key must be prepared separately, which also increases the cost.
JP-A-10-176642 JP 2001-270424 A

Means for solving the problems and their effects

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a remote start control device that can be mounted on a vehicle having an immobilizer function with a simple configuration and at low cost.

  To achieve the above object, the remote start control device (1) according to the present invention takes in a predetermined code output based on a predetermined operation, and whether or not the acquired predetermined code is a vehicle-specific code. If it is determined that these codes match, the remote start is performed in the vehicle equipped with the start control device that permits the start of the engine such as the engine, and the start control of the engine is performed by remote operation. In the control device, storage means for storing the code, storage control means for storing the predetermined code output based on the first predetermined operation after power is supplied, in the storage means, remote control Supply control means for supplying the predetermined code stored in the storage means to the start control device when receiving an engine start instruction signal by operation; It is characterized in that.

  The predetermined code output based on the predetermined operation (for example, an ignition key that stores the predetermined code and inserts a chip having a transmission function in a grip portion is inserted into the key cylinder) For example, when the ignition key is authorized, it matches the vehicle-specific code.

  According to the remote start control device (1), the predetermined code output based on the predetermined operation is stored in the storage means. Accordingly, the predetermined code (that is, the vehicle-specific code) that is output based on the insertion of the regular ignition key into the key cylinder is stored in the storage means.

  Further, when a start instruction signal of the engine (for example, engine) by remote control is received, the predetermined code (that is, the vehicle-specific code) stored in the storage means is supplied to the start control device. It has become so. Examples of the engine include a power generation device such as an engine of an internal combustion engine vehicle and a motor of an electric vehicle.

  Therefore, even when there is an instruction to start the engine by remote control, the vehicle-specific code can be supplied to the start control device in the same manner as when a regular ignition key is inserted into the key cylinder. The start control device can give permission to start the engine. Thus, the engine or the like can be started by remote operation without inserting a regular ignition key into the key cylinder and turning it.

  Furthermore, according to the remote start control device (1), the predetermined output that is output based on the first predetermined operation after power is supplied (for example, after being mounted on a vehicle and connected to a battery). Are stored in the storage means. In other words, the predetermined code output based on the predetermined operation after the second time after the power is supplied is not stored in the storage means. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an illegal code or an incorrect code from being written in the storage means.

  Thus, unlike the invention disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is no need to switch modes, so that the predetermined code can be stored in the storage means without bothering the user. Further, since there is no need to provide an operation unit for switching modes, the cost can be reduced.

  The remote start control device (2) according to the present invention is suitable for causing the storage means to store the predetermined code output based on the predetermined operation in the remote start control device (1). A determination unit for determining whether or not the code is an appropriate code; and when the determination unit determines that the predetermined code is a code suitable for storage in the storage unit, the storage control unit However, the predetermined code is stored in the storage means.

  By the way, in the remote start control device (1), the predetermined operation (for example, an ignition key that stores the predetermined code and incorporates a tip having a transmission function in the grip portion is inserted into the key cylinder). ) Is stored in the storage means. For example, if the ignition key inserted into the key cylinder is not a proper one, an incorrect code ( That is, there is a problem that an engine such as an engine cannot be started by remote control.

  However, according to the remote start control device (2), only when it is determined that the predetermined code output based on the predetermined operation is a code suitable for being stored in the storage means. Since the predetermined code is stored in the storage means, it is possible to prevent an erroneous code from being stored.

  Embodiments of a remote start control device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically showing a main part of an engine start system employing a remote start control device according to an embodiment (1). Here, the same components as those in the engine start system shown in FIG.

  The engine starting system stores a vehicle-specific code, and has an ignition key 1 that incorporates a chip 3 having a transmission function in the grip portion 2, a key cylinder 4, and a transponder 5 attached to the key cylinder 4. An immobilizer unit 6 that stores a vehicle-specific code and has a function of preventing theft, an engine control unit 7 that controls engine start, a remote start control device 31, and a portable transmitter 37. It consists of

  The remote start control device 31 includes a microcomputer 32, an antenna 33 for receiving a signal transmitted from the portable transmitter 37, a receiving means 34, an EEPROM 35 in which a remote ID code is stored, and the vehicle-specific An EEPROM 36 for storing codes is included. Further, the remote start control device 31 can take in an alternator drive signal for use in determining whether or not the engine is started, and can control the opening and closing of the switch 5a connected to the transponder 5. ing.

  The portable transmitter 37 includes a microcomputer (not shown), an antenna 38 for transmitting a predetermined signal to the remote start control device 31, an EEPROM (not shown) in which a remote ID code is stored, A button switch 39a for instructing start of the engine from a remote location and a button switch 39b for instructing stop of the engine are configured.

  When the button switch 39a is pressed, the microcomputer of the portable transmitter 37 transmits a signal including the remote ID code and the engine start instruction code from the antenna 38 to the outside. When 39b is pressed, a signal including the remote ID code and the engine stop instruction code is transmitted from the antenna 38 to the outside.

  When the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4 by the driver (or when the ignition key 1 is rotated to the ACC output position or the IG output position of the ignition switch), the key insertion detection signal becomes high. The immobilizer unit 6 that has received the signal transmits a pulse-like activation signal to the transponder 5 via the signal line L1, and requests a vehicle-specific code.

  When the transponder 5 receives the activation signal, the transponder 5 wirelessly communicates with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1 inserted in the key cylinder 4, thereby acquiring the code stored in the chip 3 and clocking the acquired code. Along with the signal, the signal is output to the immobilizer unit 6 through the signal line L2.

  The immobilizer unit 6 determines whether or not the code sent from the transponder 5 matches a vehicle-specific code stored in advance, and these codes match (that is, the regular ignition key 1 is If it is determined that it is inserted into the key cylinder 4, a permission signal for permitting engine start is given to the engine control section 7.

  On the other hand, when the code sent from the transponder 5 does not match the code unique to the vehicle, the activation signal is transmitted to the transponder 5 again after a short time. This operation is repeated until both codes match (however, an upper limit is set).

  When the engine control unit 7 receives a starter signal output from the key cylinder 4 after receiving the permission signal, the engine control unit 7 performs engine control such as fuel and ignition timing. When the starter signal is received without receiving a signal, the engine control is not performed.

  Thus, if the code stored in the chip 3 of the ignition key 1 is not the same code as the vehicle-specific code stored in the immobilizer unit 6, the engine cannot be started. Therefore, the engine cannot be started and the vehicle can be prevented from being stolen by the direct connection of an unauthorized ignition key or ignition switch. The remote start control device 31 is connected to the signal lines L1 to L3, and can transmit and receive various signals using these signal lines L1 to L3.

  Next, the processing operation <1> -1 (main routine) performed by the microcomputer 32 in the remote start control device 31 according to the embodiment (1) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, a flag, a counter, and the like are cleared by performing initialization (step S1), and then it is determined whether or not a signal has been received via the antenna 33 and the receiving unit 34 (step S2). If it is determined that the signal has been received, it is determined whether or not the ID code included in the received signal matches the remote ID code stored in the EEPROM 35 (step S3).

  If it is determined that the ID code included in the received signal matches the remote ID code (that is, the signal transmitted from the portable transmitter 37 carried by the authorized driver is received), then It is determined whether or not an instruction code for starting the engine is included in the signal (step S4). If it is determined that the instruction code for starting the engine is included in the signal, the process proceeds to step S5 to start the engine. (See FIG. 3 for details), and then, the process proceeds to step S8 to perform program processing to be described later, then proceeds to step S9 to perform other processes, and returns to step S2.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine start instruction code is not included in the signal, it is then determined whether or not the signal includes an engine stop instruction code (step S6). If it is determined that the stop instruction code is included, engine stop processing is performed to turn off all of the key insertion signal, the ACC signal, and the IG signal, and the engine is stopped (step S7). If it is determined that neither the engine start nor the engine stop instruction code is included in the signal, the process proceeds to step S8.

  In step S2, it was determined that no signal was received, or in step S3, a signal was received, but a signal transmitted from a portable transmitter 37 carried by an authorized driver was received. If it is determined that it is not, it is not necessary to perform processing such as engine start and engine stop, and the process directly proceeds to step S8.

  Next, the processing operation <1> -1a (engine start processing in step S5 in FIG. 2) performed by the microcomputer 32 in the remote start control device 31 according to the embodiment (1) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. To do. The processing operation <1> -1a is an operation performed when the engine start is instructed from a remote place by operating the portable transmitter 37.

First, the remote start flag f _{1 is set} to 1 (step S11), and then the key insertion detection signal, the ACC signal, and the IG signal that are output when the normal ignition key 1 is rotated to the IG signal output position. Are supplied to the signal line L3 of the ignition switch, these pseudo signals are transmitted to the immobilizer unit 6, the immobilizer unit 6 is operated (step S12), the switch 5a is closed, and the transponder 5 The power supply is cut and the operation of the transponder 5 is prohibited (step S13).

  Next, it is determined whether or not an activation signal output from the activated immobilizer unit 6 has been received (step S14). If it is determined that the activation signal has not been received, the process returns to step S14 to return the activation signal. Wait for it to be sent. On the other hand, if it is determined that the activation signal has been received, the counter c is set to 0 (step S15), and then the code stored in the EEPROM 36 is transmitted to the immobilizer 6 via the signal line L2 (step S16). Thereafter, it is determined whether or not the activation signal is received again from the immobilizer unit 6 within a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds) (steps S17 and S18). The activation signal is originally transmitted to the transponder 5, but since the operation of the transponder 5 is prohibited, no problem arises.

  When receiving the code transmitted via the signal line L2, the immobilizer unit 6 determines whether or not the received code (that is, the code stored in the EEPROM 36) matches the vehicle-specific code registered in advance. If it is determined that these codes match, a permission signal for permitting the engine start is transmitted to the engine control unit 7 and the subsequent start signal is not retransmitted. Yes. On the other hand, if it is determined that the received code does not match the vehicle-specific code, the activation signal is retransmitted repeatedly.

  Therefore, the fact that the activation signal is not re-received within 2 seconds after the transmission of the code stored in the EEPROM 36 means that the code stored in the EEPROM 36 matches the code unique to the vehicle and the immobilizer unit 6 It shows that the permission signal is transmitted to the control unit 7.

  On the contrary, if the activation signal is re-received within 2 seconds after transmission of the code stored in the EEPROM 36, the code that matches the vehicle-specific code is not registered in the EEPROM 36 or (in the EEPROM 36 This indicates that the immobilizer unit 6 has determined that there is a mismatch due to noise or the like (even if a code that matches the vehicle-specific code is registered).

  In steps S17 and S18, the activation signal is not re-received from the immobilizer unit 6 within 2 seconds (that is, the code stored in the EEPROM 36 matches the vehicle-specific code, and the immobilizer unit 6 to the engine control unit 7). In contrast, if it is determined that the permission signal has been transmitted), the switch 5a is opened, and the power cut of the transponder 5 is released (step S19).

  Next, a pseudo signal corresponding to a starter signal output when the ignition key 1 is rotated to the starter output position is continuously supplied for a predetermined period (for example, 2 seconds) to the signal line L3 of the ignition switch. The pseudo signal is transmitted to the engine control unit 7 (step S20).

Then, after providing a waiting time for a predetermined period (for example, 4 seconds) (step S21), it is determined whether or not the engine is started based on the alternator drive signal (step S22), and the engine is started. If it is determined, the remote start flag f _{1 is set} to 0 (step S23). On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine has not started, the process returns to step S20, and the pseudo signal corresponding to the starter signal is transmitted again.

  By the way, if it is determined in step S17 that the activation signal has been received again from the immobilizer unit 6, the same code as the vehicle-specific code has not arrived at the immobilizer unit 6, so 1 is first added to the counter c ( Next, it is determined whether or not the counter c obtained by adding 1 is equal to or greater than a predetermined value c ′ (for example, 10 times) (step S25).

If it is determined that the counter c is less than the predetermined value c ′, the process returns to step S16 to transmit the code stored in the EEPROM 36 to the immobilizer unit 6 again. On the other hand, if it is determined that the counter c is equal to or greater than the predetermined value c ′, that is, the code stored in the EEPROM 36 has been transmitted c ′ times, but the immobilizer unit 6 does not determine coincidence, the EEPROM 36 is regarded as the vehicle-specific code is not registered, or the code to the immobilizer unit 6 by the influence of noise or the like is not received correctly, it proceeds to a step S23, the remote starting flag f ₁ to 0 Then, the processing operation <1> -1a is ended.

  Next, the processing operation <1> -2 (program processing in step S8 in FIG. 2) performed by the microcomputer 32 in the remote start control device 31 according to the embodiment (1) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. . The processing operation <1> -2 is an operation for writing a vehicle-specific code registered in the chip 3 of the regular ignition key 1 in the EEPROM 36.

  First, it is determined whether or not the activation signal supplied from the immobilizer unit 6 to the signal line L1 is received (step S30). If it is determined that the activation signal is received, the process proceeds to step S31. If it is determined that no processing has been received, the processing operation <1> -2 is terminated.

The activation signal is supplied from the immobilizer unit 6 to the signal line L1 in the following two ways.
B) The ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4 by the driver (or the ignition key 1 is rotated to the ACC output position or the IG output position of the ignition switch), and the key insertion is detected from the key cylinder 4 to the signal line L3. When a signal is supplied.
B) When the button switch 39a of the portable transmitter 37 is pressed by the driver and a pseudo signal such as a key insertion detection signal is supplied from the remote start control device 31 to the signal line L3. In this case, the remote start flag f ₁ is 1 (see steps S11 and S12 in FIG. 3).

In step S30, it is judged that it has received the start signal, then, for remote starting flag f ₁ determines whether it is 1 (step S31). If it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is not inserted into the key cylinder 4, the processing operation <1> -2 is ended as it is.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is not 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4, then the code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 (ie, the transponder 5) Is received (code obtained by performing wireless communication with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1) (step S32).

If it is determined that the code has not been received, the process returns to step S32 to wait for the code to be transmitted. On the other hand, if it is determined that the code has been received, the timer t _{1 is set} to 0 and started (step S33). Next, based on the alternator drive signal, it is determined whether or not the engine has been started (step S34). ).

  The code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 is received not only by the remote start control device 31 but also by the immobilizer unit 6, so that the code matches the vehicle-specific code (that is, the normal ignition key 1). Is inserted into the key cylinder 4), the permission signal is given to the engine control unit 7.

Therefore, when the regular ignition key 1 is rotated to the starter output position, the engine is started. In other words, if the start of the engine can be detected, it can be determined that the code is a code unique to the vehicle.
Accordingly, if it is determined in step S34 that the engine has been started, it is determined that the code is a vehicle-specific code, and the code (vehicle-specific code) transmitted from the transponder 5 is stored in the EEPROM 36. (Step S35).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine has not been started, it is determined whether or not the timer t ₁ has passed a predetermined period T ₁ (eg, 6 seconds) (step S36), and the timer t ₁ has a predetermined period T. If it is determined that ₁ has not elapsed, the process returns to step S34 to determine again whether or not the engine has been started. On the other hand, if the timer t ₁ determines that the predetermined period T _{1 has} elapsed, the processing operation <1> -2 is terminated without writing the code to the EEPROM 36.

Note that the engine does not start during the predetermined period T ₁ even if the regular ignition key 1 is not inserted into the key cylinder 4 or even if the regular ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4. by a period T ₁ of the passes, which if they are not rotated to the starter output position.

  Although the case where the received code is stored in the EEPROM 36 when the engine is started is described here, in another embodiment, the received code is stored in the EEPROM 36 every time the code is received regardless of the engine start. You may make it let it. In that case, the processing operations in steps S33, S34, and S36 may be deleted.

  According to the remote start control apparatus according to the above embodiment (1), the vehicle-specific code output based on the insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4 is stored in the EEPROM 36. When receiving an engine start instruction by remote control, the code stored in the EEPROM 36 (that is, the code unique to the vehicle) is supplied to the immobilizer unit 6.

Accordingly, even when an engine start instruction is issued by remote control, the vehicle-specific code can be supplied to the immobilizer unit 6 in the same manner as when the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4, and the immobilizer unit 6 Can give permission to start the engine. Thus, even if the ignition key 1 is not inserted into the key cylinder 4 and rotated,
The engine can be started by remote control.

  Further, when the vehicle-specific code is output based on the insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4, the vehicle-specific code is automatically stored in the EEPROM 36. Since it is not necessary to switch the mode as in the invention disclosed in the above, the vehicle-specific code can be stored in the EEPROM 36 only by performing a normal start operation without bothering the user. . Of course, it is not necessary to provide an operation unit for switching modes, so that the cost can be reduced.

  Furthermore, according to the remote start control device according to the above embodiment (1), whether or not the engine is started when the code output based on the insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4 is stored in the EEPROM 36. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an erroneous code from being stored.

  Next, an engine start system employing the remote start control device according to the embodiment (2) will be described. However, the engine start system is the same as the engine start system shown in FIG. 1 except for the remote start control device 31 and the microcomputer 32 constituting the remote start control device 31, and therefore the remote start control device. , And microcomputers are given different reference numerals, and other explanations are omitted here.

  Further, the processing operation <2> -1 (main routine) and the processing operation <2> -1a (engine start processing) performed by the microcomputer 32A in the remote start control device 31A according to the embodiment (2) are shown in FIG. The processing operation <1> -1 shown in FIG. 3 and the processing operation <1> -1a shown in FIG.

  The processing operation <2> -2 performed by the microcomputer 32A in the remote start control device 31A according to the embodiment (2) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. The processing operation <2> -2 is a modification of the program processing in step S8 in FIG. 2, and an operation for writing a vehicle-specific code registered in the chip 2 of the normal ignition key 1 in the EEPROM 36. It is.

  First, it is determined whether or not the activation signal supplied from the immobilizer unit 6 to the signal line L1 has been received (step S40). If it is determined that the activation signal has been received, the process proceeds to step S41. If it is determined that it has not been received, the processing operation <2> -2 is terminated.

The activation signal is supplied from the immobilizer unit 6 to the signal line L1 in the following two ways as described above.
B) The ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4 by the driver (or the ignition key 1 is rotated to the ACC output position or the IG output position of the ignition switch), and the key insertion is detected from the key cylinder 4 to the signal line L3. When a signal is supplied.
B) When the driver presses the button switch 39a of the portable transmitter 37 and a pseudo signal such as a key insertion detection signal is supplied from the remote start control device 31A to the signal line L3. In this case, the remote start flag f ₁ is 1 (see steps S11 and S12 in FIG. 3).

In step S40, it is judged that it has received the start signal, then, for remote starting flag f ₁ determines whether it is 1 (step S41). If it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is not inserted into the key cylinder 4, the processing operation <2> -2 is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is not 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is inserted in the key cylinder 4, then it is determined whether or not any data is already stored in the EEPROM 36 ( Step S42). If it is determined that the data is stored in the EEPROM 36, that is, it is not in a clear state (there is a high possibility that a vehicle-specific code is registered), the processing operation <2>- 2 is finished. On the other hand, if it is determined that the EEPROM 36 is in a clear state, a code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 (that is, a code obtained when the transponder 5 performs wireless communication with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1) is received. It is determined whether or not (step S43).

If it is determined that the code has not been received, the process returns to step S43 to wait for the code to be transmitted. On the other hand, if it is determined that the code has been received, the timer t _{1 is set} to 0 and started (step S44). Next, based on the alternator drive signal, it is determined whether or not the engine has been started (step S45). ).

  Since the code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 is received not only by the remote start control device 31A but also by the immobilizer unit 6, when the code matches the code unique to the vehicle (that is, the normal ignition key 1). Is inserted into the key cylinder 4), the permission signal is given to the engine control unit 7.

  Therefore, when the regular ignition key 1 is rotated to the starter output position, the engine is started. In other words, if the start of the engine can be detected, it can be determined that the code is a code unique to the vehicle.

  Accordingly, if it is determined in step S45 that the engine has been started, it is determined that the code is a vehicle-specific code, and the code (vehicle-specific code) transmitted from the transponder 5 is stored in the EEPROM 36. (Step S46).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine has not been started, it is determined whether or not the timer t ₁ has passed a predetermined period T ₁ (eg, 6 seconds) (step S47), and the timer t ₁ has a predetermined period T _1. If it is determined that ₁ has not elapsed, the process returns to step S45 to determine again whether or not the engine has been started. On the other hand, if the timer t ₁ determines that the predetermined period T _{1 has} elapsed, the processing operation <2> -2 is terminated without writing the code to the EEPROM 36.

  According to the remote start control device according to the above embodiment (2), the EEPROM 36 is in a clear state (for example, a state immediately after being mounted on a vehicle and connected to a battery, that is, a state immediately after power is supplied). Only at certain times, a code output based on the insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4 is stored in the EEPROM 36. In other words, once the code is written in the EEPROM 36 after the power is supplied, the code output based on the subsequent insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4 is not stored in the EEPROM 36. Yes. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an illegal code or an incorrect code from being written in the EEPROM 36.

  Next, an engine start system in which the remote start control device according to the embodiment (3) is employed will be described. However, the engine start system is the same as the engine start system shown in FIG. 1 except for the remote start control device 31 and the microcomputer 32 constituting the remote start control device 31, and therefore the remote start control device. , And microcomputers are given different reference numerals, and other explanations are omitted here.

  Further, the processing operation <3> -1 (main routine) and processing operation <3> -1a (engine start processing) performed by the microcomputer 32B in the remote start control device 31B according to the embodiment (3) are respectively shown in FIG. The processing operation <1> -1 shown in FIG. 3 and the processing operation <1> -1a shown in FIG.

  A processing operation <3> -2 performed by the microcomputer 32B in the remote start control device 31B according to the embodiment (3) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. The processing operation <3> -2 is a modification of the program processing in step S8 in FIG. 2, and an operation for writing a vehicle-specific code registered in the chip 2 of the regular ignition key 1 in the EEPROM 36. It is.

  First, it is determined whether or not the activation signal supplied from the immobilizer unit 6 to the signal line L1 has been received (step S50). If it is determined that the activation signal has been received, the process proceeds to step S51. If it is determined that it has not been received, the processing operation <3> -2 is ended as it is.

In step S50, it is judged that it has received the start signal, then, for remote starting flag f ₁ determines whether it is 1 (step S51). If it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is not inserted into the key cylinder 4, the processing operation <3> -2 is ended as it is.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is not 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is inserted into the key cylinder 4, then the write flag indicating that the code has been written to the EEPROM 36. It is determined whether f ₂ is 1 (step S52). If it is determined that the write flag f ₂ is 1, that is, the code is written to the EEPROM 36 (the possibility that a vehicle-specific code is registered is high), the code is not rewritten to an incorrect code. Then, the processing operation <3> -2 is finished as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the write flag f ₂ is not 1, the code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 (that is, the code obtained when the transponder 5 performs wireless communication with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1). Is determined (step S53).

If it is determined that the code has not been received, the process returns to step S53 to wait for the code to be transmitted. On the other hand, if it is determined that the code has been received, the timer t _{1 is set} to 0 and started (step S54). Next, based on the alternator drive signal, it is determined whether or not the engine is started (step S55). ).

  Since the code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 is received not only by the remote start control device 31B but also by the immobilizer 6, the case where the code matches the vehicle-specific code (that is, the normal ignition key 1). Is inserted into the key cylinder 4), the permission signal is given to the engine control unit 7.

  Therefore, when the regular ignition key 1 is rotated to the starter output position, the engine is started. In other words, if the start of the engine can be detected, it can be determined that the code is a code unique to the vehicle.

Accordingly, if it is determined in step S55 that the engine has been started, it is determined that the code is a vehicle-specific code, and the code (vehicle-specific code) transmitted from the transponder 5 is stored in the EEPROM 36. is (step S56), then the write flag f ₂ to 1 (step S57).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine has not been started, it is determined whether or not the timer t ₁ has passed a predetermined period T ₁ (eg, 6 seconds) (step S58), and the timer t ₁ has a predetermined period T. If it is determined that ₁ has not elapsed, the process returns to step S55 to determine again whether or not the engine has been started. On the other hand, if the timer t ₁ determines that the predetermined period T _{1 has} elapsed, the processing operation <3> -2 is terminated without writing the code to the EEPROM 36.

According to the remote start control device according to the above embodiment (3), the code is output based on the insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4 and is a code suitable for being stored in the EEPROM 36 (that is, the engine code) that can be started, and state (e.g., write flag f ₂ is 0, it is mounted on the vehicle, immediately after being connected to the battery state, i.e. the state) immediately after the power is supplied In this case, it is stored in the EEPROM 36. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an illegal code or an incorrect code from being written in the EEPROM 36.

  Next, an engine start system employing the remote start control device according to the embodiment (4) will be described. However, the engine start system is the same as the engine start system shown in FIG. 1 except for the remote start control device 31 and the microcomputer 32 constituting the remote start control device 31, and therefore the remote start control device. , And microcomputers are given different reference numerals, and other explanations are omitted here.

  Further, the processing operation <4> -1 (main routine) and processing operation <4> -1a (engine start processing) performed by the microcomputer 32C in the remote start control device 31C according to the embodiment (4) are respectively shown in FIG. The processing operation <1> -1 shown in FIG. 3 and the processing operation <1> -1a shown in FIG.

  The processing operation <4> -2 performed by the microcomputer 32C in the remote start control device 31C according to the embodiment (4) will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. The process operation <4> -2 is a modification of the program process in step S8 in FIG. 2, and an operation for writing a vehicle-specific code registered in the chip 2 of the regular ignition key 1 in the EEPROM 36. It is.

  First, it is determined whether or not the activation signal supplied from the immobilizer unit 6 to the signal line L1 has been received (step S60). If it is determined that the activation signal has been received, the process proceeds to step S61. If it is determined that it has not been received, the processing operation <4> -2 is terminated.

In step S60, it is judged that it has received the start signal, then, for remote starting flag f ₁ determines whether it is 1 (step S61). If it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is not inserted into the key cylinder 4, the processing operation <4> -2 is terminated as it is.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the remote start flag f ₁ is not 1, that is, the ignition key 1 is inserted in the key cylinder 4, then it is determined whether or not any data is already stored in the EEPROM 36 ( Step S62). If it is determined that no data is stored in the EEPROM 36, that is, it is in a clear state, the code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 (that is, the transponder 5 performs wireless communication with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1). It is determined whether or not the obtained code has been received (step S63).

If it is determined that the code has not been received, the process returns to step S63 and waits for the code to be transmitted. On the other hand, if it is determined that the code has been received, the timer t _{1 is set} to 0 and started (step S64). Next, based on the alternator drive signal, it is determined whether or not the engine has been started (step S65). ).

  Since the code supplied from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2 is received not only by the remote start control device 31C but also by the immobilizer unit 6, when the code matches the code unique to the vehicle (that is, the normal ignition key 1). Is inserted into the key cylinder 4), the permission signal is given to the engine control unit 7.

  Therefore, when the regular ignition key 1 is rotated to the starter output position, the engine is started. In other words, if the start of the engine can be detected, it can be determined that the code is a code unique to the vehicle.

  Therefore, if it is determined in step S65 that the engine has been started, it is determined that the code is a vehicle-specific code, and the code (vehicle-specific code) transmitted from the transponder 5 is stored in the EEPROM 36. (Step S66).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine has not been started, it is determined whether or not the timer t ₁ has passed a predetermined period T ₁ (eg, 6 seconds) (step S67), and the timer t ₁ has a predetermined period T _1. If it is determined that ₁ has not elapsed, the process returns to step S65 to determine again whether or not the engine has been started. On the other hand, if the timer t ₁ determines that the predetermined period T _{1 has} elapsed, the processing operation <4> -2 is ended without writing the code to the EEPROM 36.

  By the way, if it is determined in step S62 that the data is stored in the EEPROM 36, that is, it is not in a clear state (there is a high possibility that a vehicle-specific code is registered), then, from the transponder 5 to the signal line L2. It is determined whether or not the supplied code (that is, the code obtained when the transponder 5 performs wireless communication with the chip 3 of the ignition key 1) is received (step S68).

  If it is determined that the code has not been received, the process returns to step S68 to wait for the code to be transmitted. On the other hand, if it is determined that the code has been received, it is determined whether or not the received code is the same code as the code stored in the EEPROM 36 (step S69).

If it is determined that the received code is the same as the code stored in the EEPROM 36, it is not necessary to rewrite the code, so the processing operation <4> -2 is terminated as it is. Meanwhile, code the received, it is judged that the same is not the code stored in the EEPROM 36, the timer t ₁ is set to 0 and started (step S70), then, based on the alternator drive signal, engine It is determined whether or not the engine has been started (step S71).

  If it is determined that the engine is started, it is determined that the code is a code unique to the vehicle, and the code (vehicle-specific code) transmitted from the transponder 5 is stored in the EEPROM 36 (step S72). That is, the ignition key is exchanged, and it is determined that the vehicle-specific code has been converted to a new code, and the code is rewritten.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the engine has not been started, it is determined whether or not the timer t ₁ has passed a predetermined period T ₁ (for example, 6 seconds) (step S73), and the timer t ₁ has a predetermined period T. If it is determined that ₁ has not elapsed, the process returns to step S71 to determine again whether or not the engine has been started. On the other hand, if the timer t ₁ determines that the predetermined period T _{1 has} elapsed, the processing operation <4> -2 is ended without writing the code to the EEPROM 36.

  According to the remote start control apparatus according to the above embodiment (4), if a specific code output based on the insertion of the ignition key 1 into the key cylinder 4 does not match the code stored in the EEPROM 36. If it is determined and it is determined that the specific code is a code suitable for storage in the EEPROM 36, the code stored in the EEPROM 36 is rewritten. Therefore, for example, even if the ignition key or the immobilizer unit 6 is replaced and the vehicle-specific code is changed, the changed vehicle-specific code can be stored in the EEPROM 36 by a normal start operation.

  In the remote start control device according to the embodiment (4), the vehicle-specific code is rewritten. However, in the remote start control device according to another embodiment, the vehicle-specific code is rewritten. May be stored, and may be additionally stored instead of rewritten.

When a plurality of codes are stored and an instruction to start the engine by remote operation is given, only the latest code (the code stored last) is supplied to the immobilizer unit 6, or What is necessary is just to make it supply to the immobilizer part 6 alternately in order, whenever a several signal receives a starting signal.
Further, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, the engine start determination can be applied to any engine that can be determined to start, such as the engine speed.

It is the block diagram which showed roughly the principal part of the engine starting system by which the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) of this invention was employ | adopted. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (1) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (2) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (3) performs. It is the flowchart which showed the processing operation which the microcomputer in the remote starting control apparatus which concerns on embodiment (4) performs. It is the block diagram which showed roughly the principal part of the conventional engine starting system. It is the block diagram which showed roughly the principal part of the engine starting system by which the conventional remote starting control apparatus was employ | adopted.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Ignition key 4 Key cylinder 5 Transponder 6 Immobilizer part 31, 31A-31C Remote start control device 32, 32A-32C Microcomputer 35, 36 EEPROM

Claims (2)

When a predetermined code output based on a predetermined operation is captured, it is determined whether the captured predetermined code is a vehicle-specific code, and when it is determined that these codes match,
In a remote start control device that is mounted on a vehicle equipped with a start control device that permits start of an engine such as an engine, and performs start control of the engine by remote operation,
Storage means for storing the code;
Storage control means for storing in the storage means the predetermined code output based on the first predetermined operation after power is supplied;
Remote start control comprising: supply control means for supplying the predetermined code stored in the storage means to the start control device when receiving a start instruction signal for the engine by remote operation apparatus. Suitability determination means for determining whether or not the predetermined code output based on the predetermined operation is a code suitable for being stored in the storage means,
When it is determined by the suitability judging means that the predetermined code is a code suitable for being stored in the storage means,
2. The remote start control device according to claim 1, wherein the storage control means stores the predetermined code in the storage means.

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