JP7620439B2 - Electronic Key System - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an electronic key system that performs authentication between a control target and a portable device, and enables the control target to operate if authentication is successful.

Conventionally, electronic key systems (smart key systems) that allow the locking and unlocking of doors and permission to start the engine, etc., through wireless communication have been known for automobiles and other vehicles. In this type of electronic key system, the user approaches the vehicle carrying a portable device (smart key) such as a smartphone or a dedicated electronic key, and the door can be unlocked by performing a predetermined user authentication between the portable device and the in-vehicle device.

Moreover, in recent electronic key systems, various technologies have been proposed to counter so-called relay attacks, in which unlocking and other operations can be performed by establishing communication using a repeater even when the portable device is out of range of communication with the vehicle.

For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that prevents relay attacks by enabling the operation of an electronic key by tapping the electronic key, and sending a signal (request signal) to an in-vehicle device to request locking or unlocking depending on the number of times the electronic key is tapped.

JP 2010-275701 A

However, with the technology disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, for example, a third party who has stolen the electronic key can perform unlocking and other operations by performing a specified tapping motion, making it difficult to effectively prevent vehicle theft. In response to this, it is possible to configure the electronic key so that unlocking and other operations are permitted only when multiple different patterns of motion are performed on the electronic key, but such a configuration may reduce the convenience of the electronic key system.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide an electronic key system that can ensure sufficient security without compromising convenience.

An electronic key system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a door unit installed in a locking target, a portable device that can be carried by a user, and an installed device that is installed in the locking target and allows the door unit to be unlocked based on the results of wireless communication with the portable device, the electronic key system comprising: an action detection means that is provided in the portable device and detects specific action information when the user carrying the portable device performs an intentional specific action on the portable device, and general action information when the user carrying the portable device performs a general action other than the specific action; a key comparison means that is provided in the installed device and compares registered key information preregistered in the installed device with key information transmitted from the portable device; and a detection means that detects the specific action information of the user carrying the portable device when the user carries out a general action other than the specific action. a specific action comparison means for comparing the specific action information with the registered specific action information of the user, a general action comparison means for comparing the general action information with registered general action information of the user that has been registered in advance, and an unlock permission means for permitting unlocking of the door unit when the key information matches the registered key information, the specific action information matches the registered specific action information, and the general action information matches the registered general action information, wherein the specific action comparison means and the general action information match the registered general action information, and the specific action comparison means are provided in the portable unit, and the general action comparison means compares the registered general action information with the general action information after the specific action comparison means determines that the registered specific action information matches the specific action information.

The present invention provides sufficient security without compromising convenience.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic key system according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an electronic key system applied to a vehicle according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing a notification control routine for prompting a user to perform a specific action. A flowchart showing a routine for determining permission to transmit radio waves to an in-vehicle device according to the first embodiment. A flowchart showing a routine for verifying a user's actions. A flowchart showing a radio wave transmission control routine for the vehicle-mounted device. A flowchart showing the unlock determination routine. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating waveforms associated with the user's movements. A flowchart showing the process from when a user approaches a vehicle to when the vehicle is unlocked. 10 is a flowchart showing a motion matching routine for a user's motion according to a second embodiment. A flowchart showing a radio wave transmission control routine for the vehicle-mounted device. A flowchart showing the unlock determination routine. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an electronic key system according to a third embodiment. A flowchart showing a radio wave transmission control routine for the vehicle-mounted device. A flowchart showing the unlock determination routine. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic key system according to a modified example. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an electronic key system applied to a vehicle according to the first embodiment.

The present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Figures 1 to 9 relate to a first embodiment of the present invention, and Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic key system.

The electronic key system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of a portable device 2 that can be carried by a user, an on-board device 3 that is installed in the vehicle 10 to be locked, and a door unit 4 that is installed in the door of the vehicle 10.

The portable device 2 is, for example, a smartphone or a dedicated electronic key. The portable device 2 is configured with a radio wave receiving unit 21, a notification unit 22, a motion sensor 23, a portable device control unit 24, and a radio wave transmitting unit 25.

The radio wave receiving unit 21 is composed of, for example, a receiver for receiving an LF signal (Low Frequency signal). This radio wave receiving unit 21 receives polling signals and the like modulated into LF signals by the vehicle-mounted device 3 within the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3. The radio wave receiving unit 21 then demodulates the received polling signals and the like and outputs them to the notification unit 22 and the portable device control unit 24.

The notification unit 22 has a vibrator, a speaker, etc. (not shown). When a polling signal is input from the radio wave receiving unit 21, the notification unit 22 generates vibrations or sounds through the vibrator, the speaker, etc. In this way, the notification unit 22 notifies the user that the portable device 2 has entered the communication range of the vehicle-mounted device 3.

The motion sensor 23 is configured with an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and the like. This motion sensor 23 detects vibrations and the like applied to the portable device 2 by the user as motion information. In other words, the motion sensor 23 detects specific motion information when a user holding the portable device 2 intentionally performs a predetermined specific motion on the portable device 2. In addition, the motion sensor 23 detects general motion information transmitted to the portable device 2 when a user holding the portable device 2 performs a general motion other than a specific motion.

Specifically, a specific action performed by a user may be, for example, an action in which a user holding the portable device 2 taps the portable device 2 a predetermined number of times at a predetermined rhythm. A general action performed by a user may be, for example, an action that is not intentionally performed on the portable device 2 by a user holding the portable device 2, such as walking. The motion sensor 23 detects the vibration waveforms input to the portable device 2 due to these specific actions and general actions, for example, as action waveform signals (specific action waveform signals and general action waveform signals). The motion sensor 23 then outputs the detected action waveform signals to the portable device control unit 24. In this way, in this embodiment, the motion sensor 23 realizes the function of action detection means.

For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the amplitude of a specific action waveform signal resulting from a specific action such as tapping is generally greater than the amplitude of a general action waveform signal resulting from a general action such as walking. Also, the wavelength of a specific action waveform signal is generally shorter than the wavelength of a general action waveform signal.

Functionally, the portable device control unit 24 has a transmission permission determination unit 26, a waveform storage unit 27, and a waveform comparison unit 28.

The transmission permission determination unit 26 receives a polling signal from the radio wave receiving unit 21 and an operating waveform signal from the motion sensor 23. When a polling signal is input, the transmission permission determination unit 26 is turned on and outputs a transmission permission signal to the radio wave transmitting unit 25. On the other hand, when a set time has elapsed in a state in which no polling signal has been input from the radio wave receiving unit 21 and no specific operating waveform signal has been input, the transmission permission determination unit 26 is turned off and cancels the output of the communication permission signal.

Whether or not a specific operation waveform signal has been input can be determined, for example, by checking whether or not an operation waveform signal showing an amplitude equal to or greater than a preset threshold (see FIG. 8) has been input from the motion sensor 23. Alternatively, whether or not a specific operation waveform signal has been input can be determined, for example, by checking whether or not an operation waveform signal showing a wavelength less than a preset threshold has been input from the motion sensor 23.

The owner of the portable device 2 (the owner himself or her family, etc.) can register specific action information and general action information in advance in the waveform storage unit 27. Specifically, the specific action waveform signals and general action waveform signals obtained by the owner performing specific actions and general actions in advance can be registered in the waveform storage unit 27 as registered specific action waveform signals (registered specific action information) and registered general action waveform signals (registered general action information). Registration of registered action waveform information in the waveform storage unit 27 can be performed for one or more people at a dealer, etc.

The waveform comparison unit 28 compares the motion waveform signal input from the motion sensor 23 based on information from the waveform storage unit 27. That is, when a motion waveform signal having an amplitude equal to or greater than a preset threshold value (see FIG. 8 ) is input, for example, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out the registered specific motion waveform signal from the waveform storage unit 27 and compares the input motion waveform signal with the read out registered specific motion waveform signal. Then, when these motion waveform signals and the registered specific motion waveform signal match under preset conditions, the waveform comparison unit 28 outputs a key signal (identification information) preset in the portable device 2 to the radio wave transmission unit 25. That is, in this embodiment, the key signal also serves as specific motion comparison completion information indicating that the specific motion waveform signal matches the registered specific motion waveform signal of the owner, etc.

On the other hand, when a waveform signal having an amplitude less than a preset threshold is input, for example, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out a registered general action waveform signal from the waveform storage unit 27 and compares the input action waveform signal with the read out registered general action waveform signal. Then, when the action waveform signal and the registered general action waveform signal match under preset conditions, the waveform comparison unit 28 outputs a general action comparison completion signal that is preset in the portable device 2 to the radio wave transmission unit 25.

In this way, in this embodiment, the waveform comparison unit 28 functions as a specific action comparison means and a general action comparison means.

The radio wave transmitting unit 25 is, for example, configured with a transmitter for transmitting an RF signal (Radio Frequency signal). When a key signal or a general action matching completion signal is input from the waveform comparing unit 28, this radio wave transmitting unit 25 appropriately outputs (transmits) an RF signal modulated from the input signal to the surrounding area, provided that a communication permission signal is input from the transmission permission determining unit 26.

The vehicle-mounted device 3 is configured with a radio wave transmitting unit 31, a radio wave receiving unit 32, and a vehicle-mounted device control unit 33.

The radio wave transmitting unit 31 is, for example, configured with a transmitter for transmitting an LF signal. This radio wave transmitting unit 31 repeatedly transmits an LF signal modulated from a preset polling signal or the like at set intervals. The reach of this LF signal is set, for example, to a radius of about 2 m from the vehicle-mounted device 3 (see the two-dot chain line in FIG. 2).

The radio wave receiving unit 32 is, for example, configured with a receiver for receiving RF signals. This radio wave receiving unit 32 receives various signals, such as the key signal modulated into an RF signal and the operation verification completion signal, within the communication range with the portable device 2. The radio wave receiving unit 32 then demodulates the various received signals and outputs them to the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33.

Functionally, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 has a key matching unit 34 and an unlock determination unit 35.

The key matching unit 34 receives a key signal from the radio wave receiving unit 32. When the key matching unit 34 receives a key signal from the radio wave receiving unit 32, it matches the input key signal with registered key information (registered key signal) that has been registered in advance in the vehicle-mounted device 3. When the input key signal matches the registered key signal, the key matching unit 34 outputs a key matching completion signal to the unlock determination unit 35. Thus, in this embodiment, the key matching unit 34 functions as a key matching means.

The key matching unit 34 also determines whether the portable device 2 is inside or outside the vehicle cabin based on, for example, the radio wave reception status of the radio wave receiving unit 32. The key matching unit 34 then outputs, for example, an interior/exterior determination signal indicating whether the portable device 2 is inside or outside the vehicle cabin to the unlock determination unit 35.

The unlock determination unit 35 receives an operation verification completion signal from the radio wave receiving unit 32, as well as a key verification completion signal and a vehicle interior/exterior determination signal from the key verification unit 34. In addition, the unlock determination unit 35 receives an unlock request signal (described later) from the door unit 4.

The unlock determination unit 35 then determines whether to permit unlocking of the doors on the condition that a key matching completion signal has been input, an interior/exterior determination signal indicating that the portable device 2 is outside the vehicle has been input, and an operation matching completion signal has been input. Furthermore, when an unlock request signal (described later) is input from the door unit 4 within the time period from when the determination to permit unlocking of the doors has been made until a set time has elapsed, the unlock determination unit 35 outputs an unlock instruction signal to the door unit 4. Thus, in this embodiment, the unlock determination unit 35 functions as an unlock permission means.

The door unit 4 is provided in each door of the vehicle 10. The door unit 4 includes a touch sensor 41 and a door lock actuator 42.

The touch sensor 41 is provided, for example, adjacent to the door handle of the vehicle 10 or on the back side of the door handle. When the touch sensor 41 is touched by a user or the like, the touch sensor 41 outputs a predetermined unlock request signal to the unlock determination unit 35.

In this embodiment, the touch sensor 41 is provided only in the door units 4 provided on each door, for example, only in the front door on the driver's seat side, or only in the front door and back door on the driver's seat side, but it can also be provided in the door units 4 of other doors. Also, instead of the touch sensor 41, the switches and sensors provided in the door unit 4 can be, for example, a switch that outputs an unlock request signal when pressed by the user.

The door lock actuator 42 is an actuator for locking and unlocking the doors of the vehicle 10. The door lock actuator 42 unlocks the doors when an unlock command signal is input from the unlock determination unit 35 of the vehicle-mounted device 3.

Next, the notification control in the notification unit 22 of the portable device 2 will be described with reference to the notification control routine flowchart shown in FIG. 3. This routine starts when the portable device 2 moves from outside the communication range of the vehicle-mounted device 3 into the communication range and a polling signal is input from the radio wave receiving unit 21 to the notification unit 22.

When the routine starts, the notification unit 22 outputs a notification to the user in step S101. That is, the notification unit 22 notifies the user that the portable device 2 has entered the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3, for example, by vibrating the vibrator or by outputting a notification sound through the speaker.

In the next step S102, the notification unit 22 checks whether a polling signal is periodically input from the radio wave receiving unit 21. In other words, the notification unit 22 checks whether the radio wave receiving unit 21 is receiving a polling signal periodically transmitted from the radio wave transmitting unit 31 of the vehicle-mounted device 3.

Then, in step S102, if it is determined that a polling signal is being input periodically, the notification unit 22 continues to wait.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S102 that a polling signal has not been input periodically, the notification unit 22 terminates the routine.

By this control, the notification unit 22 can notify the user only immediately after the portable device 2 enters the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3. Therefore, it is possible to prevent notifications from being repeatedly made while the portable device 2 is within the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3, thereby reducing annoyance to the user, etc.

Next, the radio wave transmission permission determination in the transmission permission determination unit 26 of the portable device 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the radio wave transmission permission determination routine shown in FIG. 4. This routine starts when the portable device 2 moves from outside the communication range of the vehicle-mounted device 3 into the communication range and a polling signal is input from the radio wave receiving unit 21 to the transmission permission determination unit 26.

When the routine starts, the transmission permission determination unit 26 turns on the transmission permission signal in step S201. That is, in step S201, the transmission permission determination unit 26 starts outputting the transmission permission signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25 on the condition that the portable device 2 has entered the communication range of the vehicle-mounted device 3.

In the next step S202, the transmission permission determination unit 26 checks whether a polling signal is being periodically input from the radio wave receiving unit 21. That is, the transmission permission determination unit 26 checks whether the portable device 2 is remaining within the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3 based on whether the radio wave receiving unit 21 is receiving a polling signal periodically transmitted from the radio wave transmitting unit 31 of the vehicle-mounted device 3.

If it is determined in step S202 that a polling signal is being periodically input, the transmission permission determination unit 26 waits as is. As a result, the transmission permission determination unit 26 continues to output a transmission permission signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S202 that a polling signal has not been input periodically, the transmission permission determination unit 26 proceeds to step S203.

When the process proceeds from step S202 to step S203, the transmission permission determination unit 26 checks whether or not a specific motion waveform signal has been input from the motion sensor 23. That is, in step S203, the transmission permission determination unit 26 checks whether or not a motion waveform signal is currently being input from the motion sensor 23. Furthermore, if a motion waveform signal has been input, the transmission permission determination unit 26 checks, for example, whether or not the amplitude of the motion waveform signal is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value.

If it is determined in step S203 that a specific operation waveform signal is currently being input, the transmission permission determination unit 26 returns to step S202. That is, if it is determined in step S203 that an operation waveform signal is currently being input and that the amplitude of the operation waveform signal is equal to or greater than a preset threshold, the transmission permission determination unit 26 returns to step S202. As a result, the transmission permission determination unit 26 maintains the output of a transmission permission signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S203 that a specific operation waveform signal is not currently being input, the transmission permission determination unit 26 proceeds to step S204. That is, if it is determined in step S203 that an operation waveform signal is not currently being input, or if it is determined that an operation waveform signal is currently being input but the amplitude of the operation waveform signal is less than a preset threshold, the transmission permission determination unit 26 proceeds to step S204.

When the process proceeds from step S203 to step S204, the transmission permission determination unit 26 checks whether a preset time has elapsed since the polling signal was no longer periodically input and the specific operation waveform signal was no longer input.

If it is determined in step S204 that the set time has not yet elapsed, the transmission permission determination unit 26 returns to step S202. As a result, the transmission permission determination unit 26 continues to output the transmission permission signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S204 that the set time has elapsed, the transmission permission determination unit 26 proceeds to step S205, turns off the transmission permission signal, and then ends the routine. That is, in step S205, the transmission permission determination unit 26 cancels the output of the transmission permission signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25, and then ends the routine.

In this manner, in this embodiment, the portable device 2 includes a transmission permission determination unit 26, which mainly issues transmission permission to the radio wave transmission unit 25 when the portable device 2 is within the communication range of the vehicle-mounted device 3. This makes it possible to suppress unnecessary radio wave output from the radio wave transmission unit 25, and effectively suppresses battery consumption of the portable device 2, etc.

Next, the motion matching in the waveform matching unit 28 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the motion matching routine shown in FIG. 5. This routine starts, for example, when a specific motion waveform signal is input from the motion sensor 23.

When the routine starts, in step S301, the waveform comparison unit 28 checks whether a polling signal is currently being periodically input from the radio wave receiving unit 21.

If it is determined in step S301 that the polling signal is not currently being periodically input, the waveform comparison unit 28 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S301 that a polling signal is currently being input periodically, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S302 and compares the specific movement waveform. That is, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out the registered specific movement waveform signal from the waveform storage unit 27, and compares the specific movement waveform signal input from the motion sensor 23 with the read registered specific movement waveform signal. Note that if registered specific waveform signals relating to multiple users, etc. are registered in the waveform storage unit 27, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out all the registered specific waveform signals, and compares the specific movement waveform signal input from the motion sensor 23 with all the read registered specific waveform signals.

When the process proceeds from step S302 to step S303, the waveform comparison unit 28 refers to the comparison result of step S302 and checks whether the specific operation waveform signal matches any of the registered specific waveform signals within a predetermined error range.

If it is determined in step S303 that the specific action waveform signal does not match any of the registered specific action waveform signals, the waveform comparison unit 28 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S303 that the specific action waveform signal matches any of the registered specific action waveform signals, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S304, outputs the key signal of the portable device 2 to the radio wave transmission unit 25, and then proceeds to step S305. That is, the waveform comparison unit 28 outputs a unique key signal that has been registered in advance in the portable device 2 to the radio wave transmission unit 25, instead of a specific action comparison completion signal indicating that the specific action waveform signal matches the registered specific waveform signal.

When the process proceeds from step S304 to step S305, the waveform comparison unit 28 checks whether a polling signal is currently being periodically input from the radio wave receiving unit 21.

If it is determined in step S305 that the polling signal is not currently being periodically input, the waveform comparison unit 28 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S305 that a polling signal is currently being input periodically, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S306 and checks whether a set time has elapsed since this routine was started by inputting a specific operation waveform signal.

If it is determined in step S306 that the set time has elapsed since the start of this routine, the waveform comparison unit 28 ends the routine. Here, when a sufficient amount of time has elapsed since the specific operation waveform signal was input, it is possible that, for example, a user who performed a specific operation on the portable device 2 while within the communication range of the in-vehicle device 3 lost interest in getting in the car midway and timed out. Alternatively, it is possible that, while within the communication range of the in-vehicle device 3, the user accidentally performed a specific operation on the portable device 2 placed on a table, etc. Alternatively, it is possible that, outside the communication range of the in-vehicle device 3, the user performed a specific operation at the time of a relay attack by a third party, for example.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S306 that the set time has not elapsed since the start of this routine, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S307 and performs a comparison of the general action waveform. That is, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out a registered general action waveform signal from the waveform storage unit 27. Then, when a general action waveform signal is input from the motion sensor 23, the waveform comparison unit 28 compares the general action waveform signal with the read out registered general action waveform signal. In this case, it is desirable for the waveform comparison unit 28 to read out only the registered general action waveform signal of the user, etc. that corresponds to the specific action waveform signal that is currently determined to match.

When the process proceeds from step S307 to step S308, the waveform comparison unit 28 refers to the comparison result of step S307 and checks whether the general operation waveform signal and the registered general operation waveform signal match within a predetermined error range.

Then, if it is determined in step S308 that the general operation waveform signal does not match the registered general operation waveform signal, the waveform comparison unit 28 returns to step S305.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S308 that the general action waveform signal matches the registered general action waveform signal, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S309, outputs a general action comparison completion signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25, and then ends the routine.

In this way, in this embodiment, the general action waveform signal is not compared with the registered general action waveform signal until the specific action waveform signal matches the registered specific action waveform signal. This reduces the computational load for waveform comparison in the portable device 2, and suppresses battery consumption in the portable device 2.

In addition, when the waveform memory unit 27 has registered specific action waveform signals and general action waveform signals for multiple users, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out only the registered general action waveform signal corresponding to the registered specific action waveform signal with which the specific action waveform signal matches, and performs comparison of the general action waveform signal only for the registered general action waveform signal that has been read out. This reduces the computational load for waveform comparison in the portable device, and suppresses battery consumption in the portable device 2.

Furthermore, for example, when matching of the specific action waveform is completed, the waveform matching unit 28 outputs a key signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25 instead of a specific action matching completion signal. Therefore, the radio wave transmission unit 25, which will be described later, does not need to transmit the specific action matching completion signal and the key signal separately, and it is possible to suppress consumption of the battery of the portable device 2 due to radio wave transmission.

Next, the radio wave transmission control in the radio wave transmitter 25 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the radio wave transmission control routine shown in FIG. 6. This routine starts, for example, when a transmission permission signal is input from the transmission permission determination unit 26.

When the routine starts, in step S401, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 checks whether the transmission permission signal is still being input.

If it is determined in step S401 that a transmission permission signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S401 that a transmission permission signal is being input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds to step S402 and checks whether a key signal has been input from the waveform comparing unit 28.

If it is determined in step S402 that a key signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 returns to step S401.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S402 that a key signal has been input, the radio wave transmission unit 25 proceeds to step S403, transmits the input key signal, and then proceeds to step S404. That is, the radio wave transmission unit 25 modulates the key signal into an RF signal and transmits the modulated key signal.

When the process proceeds from step S403 to step S404, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 checks whether the transmission permission signal is still being input.

If it is determined in step S404 that a transmission permission signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S404 that a transmission permission signal is being input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds to step S405 and checks whether a general action comparison completion signal has been input from the waveform comparing unit 28.

If it is determined in step S405 that the general action matching completion signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 returns to step S404.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S405 that a general motion matching completion signal has been input, the radio wave transmission unit 25 proceeds to step S406, transmits the general motion matching completion signal, and then ends the routine. That is, the radio wave transmission unit 25 modulates the general motion matching completion signal into an RF signal and transmits the modulated general motion matching completion signal.

In this manner, in this embodiment, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 transmits various signals on the condition that a transmission permission signal is being input from the transmission permission determining unit 26. This makes it possible to reduce power consumption due to radio wave transmission, and thus to reduce battery consumption of the portable device 2.

Next, the unlock determination in the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 of the vehicle-mounted device 3 will be described according to the unlock determination routine shown in FIG. 7. This routine starts, for example, when a key signal is input from the radio wave receiving unit 32.

When the routine starts, in step S501, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks whether the portable device 2 is outside the vehicle compartment.

If it is determined in step S501 that the portable device 2 is present in the vehicle cabin, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 ends the routine. Although a detailed description is omitted, if the portable device 2 is present in the vehicle cabin, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 performs a separate unlock determination.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S501 that the portable device 2 is outside the vehicle compartment, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 proceeds to step S502 and checks whether the key signal received from the portable device 2 matches a registered key signal preregistered in the vehicle-mounted device 3. That is, in step S502, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks, based on the key signal received from the portable device 2, whether the portable device 2 is the portable device 2 associated with the vehicle-mounted device 3 of the vehicle 10. Furthermore, based on the input of the key signal, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 indirectly checks whether the specific operation signal detected in the portable device 2 matches a specific operation signal preregistered in the portable device 2 by the user.

If it is determined in step S502 that the key signals do not match, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S506, determines that unlocking of the doors is not permitted, and then ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S502 that the key signals match, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S503 and checks whether a set time has elapsed since the key signal was received.

If it is determined in step S503 that the set time has elapsed since the key signal was received, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 proceeds to step S506, determines that unlocking of the doors is not permitted, and then ends the routine. In other words, if a general action matching completion signal (described later) is not received within the set time since the key signal was received, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 determines that there is a possibility that a third party who has stolen the portable device 2 has performed a specific action on the portable device 2 while posing as the user, etc., and determines that unlocking of the doors is not permitted.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S503 that the set time has not elapsed since the key signal was received, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 proceeds to step S504, where it checks whether the radio wave receiving unit 32 has received a general action matching completion signal. That is, in step S504, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks whether the detected general action signal in the portable device 2 is determined to match a registered general action signal previously registered by the user.

Then, if it is determined in step S504 that the general action matching completion signal has not been received, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 returns to step S503. That is, if the general action signal has not yet been detected in the portable device 2, or if the detected general action signal does not match the registered general action signal as specified, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 returns from step S504 to step S503.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S504 that a general operation matching completion signal has been received, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S505, determines whether to permit unlocking of the door, and then ends the routine.

As a result, the unlock determination unit 35 outputs an unlock instruction signal to the door lock actuator 42 on the condition that a touch sensor signal is input from the touch sensor 41 of the door unit 4 within the set time after the unlock determination unit 35 determines that unlocking is permitted. When this unlock instruction signal is input, the door lock actuator 42 unlocks the door.

By these controls, the door lock actuator 42 of the door unit 4 is unlocked in the following procedure, for example as shown in Figure 9.

First, when a user carrying the portable device 2 approaches the vehicle 10 and the portable device 2 enters the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3 of the vehicle 10, the portable device 2 receives a polling signal periodically transmitted from the vehicle-mounted device 3 and notifies the user through the notification unit 22 to prompt the user to perform a specific action (see S31, S10, S21, and S32 in FIG. 9).

When the user receives a notification from the portable device 2 and gives the portable device 2 a specific action, the portable device 2 recognizes and verifies the specific action, and allows communication on the portable device 2 side. This turns on radio communication on the portable device 2 side, and the key information is sent to the vehicle-mounted device 3 (see S33, S22, S23 in FIG. 9).

When the vehicle-mounted device 3 receives the key signal from the portable device 2, the vehicle-mounted device 3 recognizes that the portable device 2 is near the vehicle 10 and compares the received key signal with the registered key signal (see S11 and S12 in FIG. 9).

In addition, when the user, after giving the portable device 2 a specific action, starts walking toward the vehicle 10, the portable device 2 measures (detects) a general action waveform, extracts feature points of the measured general action waveform, and compares it with a registered general action waveform signal (see S24 and S25 in FIG. 9). Then, when the comparison of the general action waveform is completed, the portable device 2 transmits a general action comparison completion signal to the vehicle-mounted device 3 (see S26 in FIG. 9).

When the vehicle-mounted device 3 receives a general action matching completion signal from the portable device 2 and recognizes that the key matching and general action matching are complete, it unlocks the door lock actuator 42 on the condition that the user touches the touch sensor 41 (see S13, S35, and S14 in FIG. 9).

According to this embodiment, the portable device 2 detects a specific action signal when the user performs an intentional specific action and a general action signal when the user performs a general action other than a specific action, and compares the detected specific action signal with a registered specific action signal and also compares the detected general action signal with a registered general action signal. When the vehicle-mounted device 3 confirms that the key signal received by wireless communication from the portable device 2 matches the registered key signal, that the specific action signal matches the registered specific action signal, and that the general action signal matches the registered general action signal, it allows the door unit 4 to be unlocked, thereby ensuring sufficient security without compromising convenience.

In other words, not only are the results of checking specific action signals resulting from intentional specific actions such as tapping the portable device 2 checked, but the results of checking general action signals resulting from general actions such as the user walking while carrying the portable device 2 are checked, and unlocking is not permitted if at least one of these does not match, ensuring sufficient security against theft of the portable device 2 and so-called relay attacks.

In this case, the general action signal compared by the portable device 2 is not intentionally given to the portable device 2 by the user, but is due to general actions such as walking that the user makes after entering the communication range with the vehicle-mounted device 3 before reaching the vehicle 10. Therefore, identity authentication can be performed without forcing the user to make multiple patterns of bothersome intentional actions, ensuring security while maintaining high convenience.

Next, Figs. 10 to 12 relate to a second embodiment of the present invention, with Fig. 10 being a flowchart showing an action matching routine for user actions, Fig. 11 being a flowchart showing a radio wave transmission control routine for an in-vehicle device, and Fig. 12 being a flowchart showing an unlock determination routine. Here, the main difference between the first embodiment described above is that general action matching is performed after specific action matching is completed, whereas the second embodiment performs specific action matching and general action matching in any order. Note that explanations of configurations and operations similar to those of the first embodiment described above will be omitted where appropriate.

First, the operation comparison in the waveform comparison unit 28 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the operation comparison routine shown in FIG. 10. This routine starts, for example, when a polling signal is input from the radio wave receiving unit 21.

When the routine starts, in step S601, the waveform comparison unit 28 checks whether a polling signal is currently being periodically input from the radio wave receiving unit 21.

If it is determined in step S601 that the polling signal is not currently being periodically input, the waveform comparison unit 28 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S601 that a polling signal is currently being periodically input, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S602 and performs a comparison of the specific action waveform. That is, if a specific action waveform signal is input from the motion sensor 23, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out the registered specific action waveform signal from the waveform storage unit 27. Then, the waveform comparison unit 28 compares the input specific action waveform signal with the read out registered specific action waveform signal. Note that if registered specific waveform signals relating to multiple users, etc. are registered in the waveform storage unit 27, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out all the registered specific waveform signals and compares the specific action waveform signal input from the motion sensor 23 with all the read out registered specific waveform signals. In this case, if a comparison result indicating that the general action waveform signal and the registered general action waveform signal match has already been obtained in the process of step S605 described later, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out only the registered specific action waveform signal relating to the user corresponding to the registered general action waveform signal, and compares it with the specific action waveform signal.

When the process proceeds from step S602 to step S603, the waveform comparison unit 28 refers to the comparison result of step S602 and checks whether the specific operation waveform signal matches any of the registered specific waveform signals within a predetermined error range.

If it is determined in step S603 that the specific action waveform signal does not match any of the registered specific action waveform signals, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S605.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S603 that the specific action waveform signal matches any of the registered specific action waveform signals, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S604, outputs a key signal of the portable device 2 to the radio wave transmission unit 25, and then proceeds to step S605. That is, the waveform comparison unit 28 outputs a unique key signal that has been registered in advance in the portable device 2 to the radio wave transmission unit 25, instead of a specific action comparison completion signal indicating that the specific action waveform signal matches a registered specific waveform signal.

When proceeding from step S603 or step S604 to step S605, the waveform comparison unit 28 performs a comparison of the general action waveform. That is, when a general action waveform signal is input from the motion sensor 23, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out a registered general action waveform signal from the waveform storage unit 27. Then, the waveform comparison unit 28 compares the input general action waveform signal with the read out registered general action waveform signal. Note that, when registered general waveform signals related to multiple users, etc. are registered in the waveform storage unit 27, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out all registered general waveform signals and compares the general action waveform signal input from the motion sensor 23 with all the read out registered general waveform signals. In this case, when a comparison result indicating that the specific action waveform signal and the registered specific action waveform signal match has already been obtained in the process of step S602 described above, the waveform comparison unit 28 reads out only the registered general action waveform signal related to the user corresponding to the registered specific action waveform signal, and compares it with the general action waveform signal.

When the process proceeds from step S605 to step S606, the waveform comparison unit 28 refers to the comparison result of step S605 and checks whether the general operation waveform signal matches any of the registered general waveform signals within a predetermined error range.

If it is determined in step S607 that the general operation waveform signal does not match any of the registered general operation waveform signals, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S609.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S607 that the general action waveform signal matches any of the registered general action waveform signals, the waveform comparison unit 28 proceeds to step S608, outputs a general action comparison completion signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25, and then proceeds to step S609.

When the process proceeds from step S607 or step S608 to step S609, the waveform comparison unit 28 checks whether all signals have been output, i.e., whether output of the key signal and general action comparison completion signal to the radio wave transmission unit 25 has been completed.

Then, if it is determined in step S609 that not all signals have been output, the waveform comparison unit 28 returns to step S601.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S609 that all signals have been output, the waveform comparison unit 28 ends the routine.

Next, the radio wave transmission control in the radio wave transmitting unit 25 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the radio wave transmission control routine shown in FIG. 11. This routine starts, for example, when a transmission permission signal is input from the transmission permission determining unit 26.

When the routine starts, in step S701, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 checks whether the transmission permission signal is still being input.

If it is determined in step S701 that a transmission permission signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S701 that a transmission permission signal is being input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds to step S702 and checks whether a key signal has been input from the waveform comparing unit 28.

If it is determined in step S702 that a key signal has been input, the radio wave transmission unit 25 proceeds to step S303, transmits the input key signal, and then proceeds to step S704. That is, the radio wave transmission unit 25 modulates the key signal into an RF signal and transmits the modulated key signal.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S702 that a key signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds directly to step S704.

When the process proceeds from step S702 or step S703 to step S704, the radio wave transmission unit 25 checks whether a general action comparison completion signal has been input from the waveform comparison unit 28.

If it is determined in step S704 that a general motion matching completion signal has been input, the radio wave transmission unit 25 proceeds to step S705, transmits the input general motion matching completion signal, and then proceeds to step S706. That is, the radio wave transmission unit 25 modulates the general motion matching completion signal into an RF signal and transmits the modulated general motion matching completion signal.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S704 that the general action matching completion signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds directly to step S706.

When the process proceeds from step S704 or step S705 to step S706, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 checks whether all signals have been transmitted, i.e., whether transmission of the key signal and the general action matching completion signal has been completed.

If it is determined in step S706 that not all signals have been transmitted, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 returns to step S701.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S706 that all signals have been transmitted, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 ends the routine.

Next, the unlocking determination in the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 of the vehicle-mounted device 3 will be described according to the unlocking determination routine shown in FIG. 12. This routine starts, for example, when the radio wave receiving unit 32 receives radio waves from the portable device 2. That is, in this embodiment, this routine starts, for example, when the key signal or general action verification completion signal received by the radio wave receiving unit 32 from the portable device 2 is input to the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33.

When the routine starts, in step S801, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks whether the portable device 2 is outside the vehicle compartment.

If it is determined in step S801 that the portable device 2 is present in the vehicle cabin, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 ends the routine. Although a detailed description is omitted, if the portable device 2 is present in the vehicle cabin, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 performs a separate unlock determination.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S801 that the portable device 2 is outside the vehicle, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S802 and checks whether all signals have been input, i.e., whether the radio wave receiving unit 32 has completed receiving the key signal and the general action matching completion signal.

If it is determined in step S802 that all signals have been input, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S804.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S802 that all signals have not been input, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S803 and checks whether a preset time has elapsed since the start of this routine.

If it is determined in step S803 that the set time has not elapsed, the vehicle device control unit 33 returns to step S802 and waits until all signals have been input.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S803 that the set time has elapsed, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S806.

When the process proceeds from step S802 to step S804, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks whether the key signal matches a registered key signal previously registered in the vehicle-mounted device 3. That is, in step S804, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks whether the portable device 2 is the portable device 2 associated with the vehicle-mounted device 3 of the vehicle 10 based on the key signal received from the portable device 2. Furthermore, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 indirectly checks, based on the input of the key signal, whether the specific operation signal and general operation signal detected in the portable device 2 match the registered specific operation signal previously registered in the portable device 2 by the user.

If it is determined in step S804 that the key signals match, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S805, determines whether to permit unlocking of the doors, and then ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S804 that the key signals do not match, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S806.

When the process proceeds from step S803 or step S804 to step S806, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 determines that unlocking of the door is not permitted, and then ends the routine. One possible case in which the key signal is not input within the set time is when, for example, a user carrying the portable device 2 is walking away from the vehicle 10 and a third party commits a so-called relay attack on the portable device 2.

As a result, the unlock determination unit 35 outputs an unlock instruction signal to the door lock actuator 42 on the condition that a touch sensor signal is input from the touch sensor 41 of the door unit 4 within the set time period after the determination that unlocking is permitted. When this unlock instruction signal is input, the door lock actuator 42 unlocks the door.

According to this embodiment, it is possible to achieve substantially the same effects as the first embodiment described above.

Next, Figures 13 to 15 relate to a third embodiment of the present invention, with Figure 13 being a schematic diagram of an electronic key system, Figure 14 being a flowchart showing a radio wave transmission control routine for an in-vehicle device, and Figure 15 being a flowchart showing an unlock determination routine. Here, the main difference between the first and second embodiments is that the verification of specific and general actions is performed by the portable device 2, whereas in this embodiment, the verification of specific and general actions is performed by the in-vehicle device 3. Note that explanations of configurations and operations similar to those of the first and second embodiments will be omitted where appropriate.

As shown in FIG. 13, in the electronic key system 1 of this embodiment, the waveform memory unit 36 and the waveform comparison unit 37 are provided in the vehicle-mounted unit control unit 33 instead of the portable unit control unit 24. Therefore, the operating waveform signal detected by the motion sensor 23 is directly input to the radio wave transmission unit 25. The waveform memory unit 36 and the waveform comparison unit 37 have substantially the same functions as the waveform memory unit 27 and the waveform comparison unit 37 described in the first embodiment above.

Next, the radio wave transmission control in the radio wave transmitting unit 25 will be described with reference to the flowchart of the radio wave transmission control routine shown in FIG. 14. This routine starts, for example, when a transmission permission signal is input from the transmission permission determining unit 26.

When the routine starts, in step S901, the radio wave transmission unit 25 transmits a key signal that has been preregistered in the portable device 2.

In the next step S902, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 checks whether the transmission permission signal is still being input from the transmission permission determining unit 26.

If it is determined in step S902 that a transmission permission signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S902 that a transmission permission signal is being input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds to step S903 and checks whether an operation signal is being input from the motion sensor 23.

If it is determined in step S903 that an operation signal has not been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 returns to step S902.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S903 that an operation signal has been input, the radio wave transmitting unit 25 proceeds to step S904, transmits the input operation signal, and then returns to step S902.

Next, the unlocking determination in the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 of the vehicle-mounted device 3 will be described according to the unlocking determination routine shown in FIG. 15. This routine starts, for example, when the radio wave receiving unit 32 receives radio waves from the portable device 2. That is, in this embodiment, this routine starts, for example, when the key signal received by the radio wave receiving unit 32 from the portable device 2 is input to the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33.

When the routine starts, in step S1001, the vehicle unit control unit 33 checks whether the portable unit is outside the vehicle compartment.

If it is determined in step S1001 that the portable device 2 is present in the vehicle cabin, the vehicle device control unit 33 exits the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1001 that the portable device 2 is outside the vehicle compartment, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks in step S1002 whether the key signal matches a registered key signal that has been registered in advance in the vehicle-mounted device 3. That is, in step S1002, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 checks, based on the key signal received from the portable device 2, whether the portable device 2 is the portable device 2 associated with the vehicle-mounted device 3 of the vehicle 10.

If it is determined in step S1002 that the key signals do not match, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S1009, determines that unlocking of the doors is not permitted, and then ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1002 that the key signals match, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 proceeds to step S1003 and performs a comparison process for the motion waveform signal. That is, if a motion waveform signal is received from the portable device 2, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 reads out the registered specific motion waveform signal and registered general motion waveform signal that are pre-registered in the waveform storage unit 36, and compares them with the received motion waveform signal.

When proceeding from step S1003 to step S1004, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 refers to the result of the comparison process in step S1003 and checks whether the specific motion waveform signal matches the registered specific motion waveform signal.

If it is determined in step S1004 that the specific operation waveform signal matches the predetermined waveform, the vehicle control unit 33 proceeds to step S1006.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1004 that the specific operation waveform signal does not match the predetermined signal, or if it is determined that the comparison process in step S1003 was not a comparison process of the specific operation waveform signal in the first place, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 proceeds to step S1005.

When proceeding from step S1004 to step S1005, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 refers to the result of the comparison process in step S1003 and checks whether the general operation waveform signal matches the registered general operation waveform signal.

If it is determined in step S1005 that the general operation waveform signal matches the predetermined waveform, the vehicle unit control unit 33 proceeds to step S1006.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1005 that the general operation waveform signal does not match the predetermined signal, or if it is determined that the comparison process in step S1003 was not a comparison process of the general operation waveform signal in the first place, the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 returns to step S1003.

When the process proceeds from step S1004 or step S1005 to step S1006, the vehicle control unit 33 checks whether all matching processes have been completed, i.e., whether matching processes have been completed to determine whether the specific operation waveform signal and the general operation waveform signal match as specified.

If it is determined in step S1006 that all matching processes have been completed, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S1008, determines whether to permit unlocking of the doors, and then ends the routine.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1006 that all matching processes have not yet been completed, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S1007 and checks whether a preset time has elapsed since the start of this routine.

If it is determined in step S1007 that the set time has not elapsed, the vehicle unit control unit 33 returns to step S1003.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1007 that the set time has elapsed, the vehicle device control unit 33 proceeds to step S1009, determines that unlocking of the door is not permitted, and then ends the routine.

According to this embodiment, it is possible to achieve substantially the same effects as the first and second embodiments described above. In addition, in this embodiment, the comparison of the specific action and the general action is performed on the vehicle-mounted device 3 side, so that the battery consumption of the portable device 2 can be suppressed.

In each of the above-described embodiments, in order to obtain the general operation waveform signal more accurately, it is also possible to detect the approach of a user carrying the portable device 2 to the vehicle 10 based on position information from a GPS or the like before the user enters the communication range between the radio wave transmitting unit 31 and the radio wave receiving unit 21. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, a GPS receiving unit 29 and a relative position calculating unit 30 are added to the portable device 2 in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1 of the first embodiment described above.

The GPS receiver 29 receives positioning signals from multiple satellites to determine the current position (absolute coordinates) of the portable device 2. The current position of the portable device 2 thus determined is output to the relative position calculation unit 30.

The relative position calculation unit 30 calculates, for example, the relative distance between the vehicle 10 and the portable device 2 when the vehicle is stopped. For this reason, the relative position calculation unit 30 stores, for example, the current position determined by the GPS receiving unit 29 at the timing when the ignition switch of the vehicle 10 is turned off, as the position of the vehicle 10 (reference position).

The relative position calculation unit 30 then calculates the relative distance of the portable device 2 to the vehicle 10 based on the coordinates of the stored reference position and the coordinates of the current position of the portable device 2 measured by the GPS receiver 29. That is, the relative position calculation unit 30 sequentially calculates the relative distance between the vehicle 10 after the ignition switch is turned off and the user (the user carrying the portable device 2) who has left the vehicle 10.

Furthermore, for example, after the ignition switch of the vehicle 10 is turned off, when the relative distance between the vehicle 10 and the portable device 2 becomes greater than the set distance R0 (e.g., 10 m) and then becomes equal to or less than the set distance R0 again (see FIG. 17), the relative position calculation unit 30 outputs a signal equivalent to a polling signal to the notification unit 22 and the waveform comparison unit 28.

This modified example allows a sufficient distance to be secured for acquiring general motion waveform signals resulting from the user's walking, etc.

In the above embodiment, the portable device control unit 24 and the vehicle-mounted device control unit 33 are configured with a well-known microcomputer equipped with a CPU, RAM, ROM, non-volatile storage unit, etc., and its peripheral devices, and the ROM stores programs to be executed by the CPU and fixed data such as data tables in advance. Note that all or part of the functions of the processor may be configured with logic circuits or analog circuits, and the processing of various programs may be realized by electronic circuits such as FPGAs.

The invention described in the above embodiments is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications can be made in the implementation stage without departing from the gist of the invention. For example, in each of the above embodiments, an example of applying an electronic key system to a vehicle is described, but the present invention is not limited to this, and can also be applied to a house, etc. For example, applying an electronic key system to the front door or back door of a house can prevent house break-ins using relay attacks, improving security. Furthermore, security measures using such electronic key systems can realize security measures that are less expensive and less cumbersome than theft systems using security cameras, etc.

For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, an example of a configuration in which the radio wave transmission unit of the portable device transmits an RF signal and the radio wave transmission unit of the vehicle-mounted device transmits an LF signal is described, but the signals transmitted by each radio wave transmission unit are not limited to these, and other signals can also be used.

Furthermore, each of the above forms includes inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriate combinations of the multiple constituent elements disclosed.

For example, if some constituent elements are deleted from the total constituent elements shown in each form, and the problem described can still be solved and the effect described can still be obtained, then the configuration from which these constituent elements have been deleted can be extracted as the invention.

1...electronic key system 2...portable device 3...vehicle-mounted device 4...door unit 10...vehicle 21...radio wave receiving unit 22...notification unit 23...motion sensor 24...portable device control unit 25...radio wave transmitting unit 26...transmission permission determination unit 27...waveform memory unit 28...waveform comparison unit 29...GPS receiving unit 30...relative position calculation unit 31...radio wave transmitting unit 32...radio wave receiving unit 33...vehicle-mounted device control unit 34...key comparison unit 35...unlock determination unit 36...waveform memory unit 37...waveform comparison unit 41...touch sensor 42...door lock actuator

Claims (3)

An electronic key system including a door unit provided in a locking target, a portable device that can be carried by a user, and an installation device that is provided in the locking target and permits unlocking of the door unit based on the result of wireless communication with the portable device,
a motion detection means provided in the portable device for detecting specific motion information when the user carrying the portable device performs an intentional specific motion on the portable device, and general motion information when the user carrying the portable device performs a general motion other than the specific motion;
a key collating means provided in the installed machine for collating registered key information preregistered in the installed machine with key information transmitted from the portable machine;
a specific action matching means for matching the specific action information with registered specific action information of the user that has been registered in advance;
A general action checking means for checking the general action information of the user registered in advance against the general action information;
an unlock permission means for permitting unlocking of the door unit when the key information matches the registered key information, the specific operation information matches the registered specific operation information, and the general operation information matches the registered general operation information ,
the specific action verification means and the general action verification means are provided in the portable device,
The general action comparison means compares the registered general action information with the general action information after the specific action comparison means determines that the registered specific action information and the specific action information match . 2. The electronic key system according to claim 1, wherein the specific action information and the general action information are waveform signals of vibrations generated in the portable device by the user's actions. 3. The electronic key system according to claim 1, wherein the object to be locked is a vehicle.

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