JP7736740B2 - Control System - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a control system.

Technology for linking vehicles and mobile devices has been available in the past. Patent Document 1 discloses an information providing device for vehicles that displays a display on a display device inside the vehicle to guide the vehicle occupants to acquire information on their mobile devices.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-156255

It is desirable to reduce the operational burden on users when getting on or off a vehicle. For example, if a vehicle's equipment needs to be switched between a driving operation mode and a non-driving operation mode by user operation, the operational burden on the user increases. For example, if a mobile device needs to be switched between a driving operation mode and a non-driving operation mode by user operation, the operational burden on the user increases.

The object of the present invention is to provide a control system that reduces the operational burden on the user.

The control system of the present invention comprises a vehicle-mounted device having a communication unit that communicates wirelessly with a mobile terminal, and a control unit, wherein the control unit includes at least one of a vehicle-mounted control unit that changes the operating mode of the vehicle-mounted device in accordance with the radio wave strength of the wireless communication, or a terminal-mounted control unit that changes the operating mode of the mobile terminal in accordance with the radio wave strength of the wireless communication.

In the control system according to the present invention, the control unit includes at least one of a vehicle-side control unit that changes the operating mode of a vehicle-side device in accordance with the radio wave strength of wireless communication, or a terminal-side control unit that changes the operating mode of a mobile terminal in accordance with the radio wave strength of wireless communication. The control system according to the present invention has the advantage of reducing the operational burden on the user.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a control system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a control system according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating radio wave intensity. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating changes in radio wave intensity. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating changes in radio wave intensity. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a vehicle-side device and a mobile terminal according to a modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a control table of a control system according to a modified example of the embodiment.

A control system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. Furthermore, the components in the following embodiment include those that would be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art or that are substantially identical.

[Embodiment]
An embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5. This embodiment relates to a control system. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the control system of the embodiment, Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the control system of the embodiment, Fig. 3 is a diagram explaining radio wave intensity, and Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 are diagrams explaining changes in radio wave intensity.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the control system 1 of this embodiment has a vehicle-side device 3 and a control unit 4. The control unit 4 of this embodiment has a terminal-side control unit 21 and a vehicle-side control unit 31. The control unit 4 changes the operating mode of at least one of the mobile terminal 2 and the vehicle-side device 3 depending on the radio wave strength of the wireless communication between the mobile terminal 2 and the vehicle-side device 3. The mobile terminal 2 is, for example, a portable computer such as a smartphone or tablet. The vehicle-side device 3 is a device installed in the vehicle 100, for example, an on-board device that controls devices installed in the vehicle 100.

As shown in FIG. 2, the mobile terminal 2 has a terminal-side control unit 21 and a communication unit 22. The communication unit 22 has a communication circuit for wireless communication. The communication unit 22 has the function of performing short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and Wi-Fi. The communication unit 22 also has the function of performing mobile communication such as 4G (4th Generation)/LTE (Long Term Evolution) and 5G (5th Generation).

The terminal-side control unit 21 changes the operating mode of the mobile device 2 depending on the radio wave strength of the wireless communication. The terminal-side control unit 21 may be, for example, an independent application program executed on the mobile device 2, or may be part of an application program. The terminal-side control unit 21 may also be a control program that cooperates with other application programs to control those other application programs.

The vehicle-side device 3 has a vehicle-side control unit 31 and a communication unit 32. The vehicle-side control unit 31 controls the device 110 installed in the vehicle 100. The device 110 may include, for example, any one of the vehicle's 100 lamps, mirrors, displays, audio equipment, key locks, door locks, seat heaters, air conditioning equipment, window opening and closing equipment, etc., or may include other devices. The vehicle-side control unit 31 may communicate with the ECU that controls the vehicle 100. In this case, the vehicle-side control unit 31 can obtain the status of the device 110 via the ECU. The vehicle-side control unit 31 can also output commands to the ECU to change the status of the device 110. The vehicle-side control unit 31 may communicate with the device 110 via CAN communication.

The communication unit 32 has a communication circuit that performs wireless communication. The communication unit 32 has the ability to perform short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi, and performs wireless communication with the communication unit 22 of the mobile device 2. The communication unit 32 may also have the ability to perform mobile communication such as 4G (4th Generation)/LTE (Long Term Evolution) or 5G (5th Generation).

The vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2 work together, exchanging information via wireless communication. For example, the vehicle-side device 3 transmits information about the vehicle 100 to the mobile terminal 2. For example, the mobile terminal 2 operates the vehicle 100 via the vehicle-side device 3. The vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2 can work together if they are capable of wireless communication with each other. For example, the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2 can work together regardless of whether the mobile terminal 2 is inside the vehicle 100 or not.

In this embodiment, the vehicle-side device 3 has a driving mode and a non-driving mode as its operating modes. The driving mode is the operating mode when the vehicle 100 is driving. In other words, the driving mode is the operating mode when the vehicle 100 is being driven by the driver.

The non-driving mode is an operating mode when the vehicle 100 is not driving, for example, when the vehicle 100 is stopped or parked. In other words, the non-driving mode in this embodiment is an operating mode when the driver temporarily leaves the vehicle 100. The vehicle-side control unit 31 changes the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3 depending on the radio wave strength of the short-range wireless communication received by the communication unit 32. The radio wave strength is, for example, the received signal strength RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) of the communication unit 32.

As shown in Figure 3, the radio wave strength varies depending on the distance L1 between the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2. When the distance L1 is short, the radio wave strength received by the vehicle-side control unit 31 is strong, and when the distance L1 is long, the radio wave strength received by the vehicle-side control unit 31 is weak. The vehicle-side control unit 31 has a radio wave strength threshold and determines the degree of radio wave strength based on the threshold.

When the radio wave strength is stronger than the threshold, the vehicle-side control unit 31 sets the operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 to driving mode. On the other hand, when the radio wave strength is equal to or less than the threshold, the vehicle-side control unit 31 sets the operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 to non-driving mode. The threshold is, for example, a value used to determine whether the mobile terminal 2 is outside the vehicle 100. The threshold may have hysteresis. That is, a first threshold may be used to determine whether the radio wave strength has switched from strong to weak, and a second threshold may be used to determine whether the radio wave strength has switched from weak to strong. The second threshold may be a value indicating that the radio wave strength is stronger than the first threshold.

In non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 controls the devices 110 of the vehicle 100 to a predetermined state. If there are multiple devices 110, the non-driving mode state is set for each device 110.

An example of the settings of the device 110 in non-driving mode is shown below. The high beam state in non-driving mode is off. For example, when transitioning to non-driving mode with the high beams on, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the high beams. The low beam state in non-driving mode is off. For example, when transitioning to non-driving mode with the low beams on, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the low beams. In this case, the command from the vehicle-side control unit 31 takes priority over the position of the switch on the vehicle 100. In other words, the low beams are turned off even if the switch that operates the low beams is in the ON position.

In non-driving mode, the hazard lights are flashing. When the vehicle enters non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 issues a command to flash the hazard lights. In non-driving mode, the side mirrors are folded. When the vehicle enters non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 moves the side mirrors to the retracted position. In non-driving mode, the interior lamps are off. When the vehicle enters non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the interior lamps. In non-driving mode, the multimedia display is off. When the vehicle enters non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the multimedia display, including the navigation system and audio.

The audio state in non-driving mode is stopped. When the vehicle transitions to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 stops the audio. The key lock state in non-driving mode is locked. When the vehicle transitions to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 sets the key lock to the locked state. This prevents the vehicle 100 from being driven.

In non-driving mode, the seat heater is off or at low power. When the vehicle transitions to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 stops the seat heater or reduces its output. In non-driving mode, the air conditioner is off or at low power. When the vehicle transitions to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 stops the air conditioner or reduces its output.

In non-driving mode, the windows are closed. When the vehicle transitions to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 closes the windows of the vehicle 100. This provides theft prevention while the driver is away from the vehicle 100. In non-driving mode, the lights are OFF. For example, if the vehicle transitions to non-driving mode with the headlights on, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the headlights. In this case, the command from the vehicle-side control unit 31 takes priority over the position of the switch on the vehicle 100. In other words, the headlights are turned off even if the switch that controls the headlights is ON.

As described above, the state of device 110 in the non-driving mode may include a state that prevents vehicle 100 from driving, a state that reduces power consumption in vehicle 100, a state that notifies those around that vehicle 100 is stopped, and a state that prevents theft and vandalism.

When transitioning from non-driving mode to driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 restores the state of the device 110. For example, if the high beams were on before transitioning to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns on the high beams when returning to driving mode. In other words, when transitioning from driving mode to non-driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 memorizes the state of the device 110 in driving mode. When returning from non-driving mode to driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 controls the state of the device 110 to the memorized state. This reduces the operational burden on the driver when they return to the vehicle 100.

The terminal-side control unit 21 changes the operating mode of the mobile terminal 2 depending on the radio wave strength of the short-range wireless communication signal received by the communication unit 22. The radio wave strength is, for example, the received signal strength RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) of the communication unit 22.

When the radio wave strength is stronger than the threshold, the terminal-side control unit 21 sets the operation mode of the mobile device 2 to riding mode. On the other hand, when the radio wave strength is equal to or less than the threshold, the terminal-side control unit 21 sets the operation mode of the mobile device 2 to non-riding mode. The threshold is, for example, a value used to determine whether the mobile device 2 is outside the vehicle 100. The threshold may be provided with hysteresis. That is, a first threshold may be used to determine whether the radio wave strength has switched from strong to weak, and a second threshold may be used to determine whether the radio wave strength has switched from weak to strong. The second threshold may be a value indicating that the radio wave strength is stronger than the first threshold.

The terminal-side control unit 21 may cooperate with the vehicle-side device 3 in the riding mode. For example, the riding mode may be an operating mode as an input/output device for the vehicle 100. In this case, the mobile terminal 2 displays, for example, input/output images for the vehicle 100 on the screen of the mobile terminal 2. The input/output images may include, for example, an image for setting the status of the device 110, or a navigation image for route guidance. If the mobile terminal 2 has a navigation system, both the navigation image and the input/output images may be displayed on the screen.

In non-riding mode, the mobile device 2 may display an image that is different from the image in riding mode. For example, in non-riding mode, the mobile device 2 may not display an image of input/output to the vehicle 100. For example, in non-riding mode, the mobile device 2 may display an image of input/output to the vehicle 100 in a different format than in riding mode.

The vehicle-side control unit 31 and the terminal-side control unit 21 may share the timing for switching the operating mode. For example, either the vehicle-side control unit 31 or the terminal-side control unit 21 may determine the timing for switching the operating mode. If the vehicle-side control unit 31 determines the switching timing, the vehicle-side control unit 31 may send an operating mode switching command to the terminal-side control unit 21. If the terminal-side control unit 21 determines the switching timing, the terminal-side control unit 21 may send an operating mode switching command to the vehicle-side control unit 31.

The vehicle 100 may be driven by a worker who collects and delivers packages. In this case, the non-driving mode of the vehicle-side device 3 may be a collection/delivery parking mode, which is a mode used when the worker temporarily leaves the vehicle 100 to collect or deliver packages.

In the collection and delivery parking mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 sets devices such as headlights, hazard lights, side mirrors, room lamps, multimedia display, audio, key lock, seat heater, and air conditioner to the collection and delivery parking mode state. When returning from the collection and delivery parking mode to the driving mode, the vehicle-side control unit 31 returns the state of each device to its original state. The delivery worker repeatedly gets in and out of the vehicle at each collection and delivery destination. The control system 1 of this embodiment can reduce the driver's burden of operating the devices 110 associated with getting in and out of the vehicle.

The portable terminal 2 may be used by a worker who collects and delivers packages. In this case, the riding mode of the portable terminal 2 may be a travel mode, which is the mode used when moving the vehicle 100 to each collection and delivery location.

In travel mode, the mobile terminal 2 may display a list of delivery destinations and a delivery route. In travel mode, the mobile terminal 2 may display route guidance to the next delivery location or the next collection location. In travel mode, the mobile terminal 2 may issue a warning if the mobile terminal 2 has been left behind. For example, the mobile terminal 2 outputs a warning sound if the radio wave intensity is strong when the door of the vehicle 100 is opened. This warning notifies the worker that the mobile terminal 2 has been left behind in the vehicle 100.

When the portable terminal 2 is used by a worker collecting and delivering packages, the non-riding mode of the portable terminal 2 may be a collection and delivery work mode. The collection and delivery work mode is a mode in which the worker performs collection and delivery work outside the vehicle.

In the collection and delivery operation mode, the mobile terminal 2 may be used as a processing terminal for the worker to perform each process of the collection and delivery operation. For example, the mobile terminal 2 may execute a process in which the worker checks the package to be delivered in the loading dock of the vehicle 100. In this case, the mobile terminal 2 may check the ID attached to the package by reading the code attached to the package using a camera or the like.

In the collection and delivery operation mode, the mobile device 2 may be used to input information about the delivery status of a package. For example, when delivery of a package is complete, the mobile device 2 may display an input screen for the recipient to enter a signature. The entered signature data may be associated with the delivered package and registered on the server.

In the collection and delivery operation mode, the mobile terminal 2 may be used to record the completion of delivery. For example, when delivery is completed, the mobile terminal 2 may capture an image of the left package using a camera. The captured image of the package may be associated with the delivered package and registered on the server.

In collection and delivery operation mode, the mobile terminal 2 may be used to handle absences. For example, the worker inputs into the mobile terminal 2 that the delivery recipient was absent and the package could not be delivered. Data on the undelivered package due to absence may be associated with the package that could not be delivered and registered on the server.

The mobile terminal 2 may manage the radio wave strength of wireless communication in multiple stages. For example, the mobile terminal 2 may manage the radio wave strength of wireless communication in three stages: strong, medium, and weak. In this case, when the radio wave strength is strong, the operation mode of the mobile terminal 2 is set to mobile mode. When the radio wave strength is medium or weak, the operation mode of the mobile terminal 2 is set to collection and delivery mode.

The collection and delivery operation mode may have multiple sub-modes. The multiple sub-modes include, for example, a package confirmation mode and a status input mode. The package confirmation mode is a mode in which the mobile terminal 2 performs processing to confirm packages for delivery.

When the worker parks the vehicle 100 at the delivery location, he or she exits the vehicle 100 to check the package. At this time, as shown in Figure 4, the distance L1 between the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2 changes from a short distance to a medium distance. The mobile terminal 2 transitions from travel mode to package check mode in response to this change in distance L1. In other words, package check mode is set when the radio wave strength changes from strong to medium.

In package confirmation mode, the mobile terminal 2 determines whether the ID of the package read by a camera or the like matches the ID of the package to be delivered next. The mobile terminal 2 may display the determination result on a screen, or may output the determination result by voice or the like. If a delivery method has been specified for the confirmed package, the mobile terminal 2 may display the specified method. The mobile terminal 2 may display, for example, whether or not delivery is possible, the location where the package should be left if it is left at the door, etc.

The status input mode is a mode that accepts input about the delivery status of a package. Once the worker has confirmed the package to be delivered, he or she takes the package and moves to the delivery destination building, etc. At this time, the distance L1 between the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2 changes from a medium distance to a long distance. The mobile terminal 2 transitions from the package confirmation mode to the status input mode in response to this change in distance L1. In other words, the status input mode is set when the radio wave strength changes from medium to weak.

In the status input mode, for example, inputs such as delivery completion, drop-off completion, and absence of the delivery recipient are made. Note that the condition for transitioning to the status input mode may include completion of the package confirmation mode. For example, the mobile terminal 2 may transition to the status input mode on the condition that all packages to be delivered have been confirmed in the package confirmation mode. The mobile terminal 2 may prohibit transitioning to the status input mode if there is a package to be delivered that has not been confirmed in the package confirmation mode. In this case, the mobile terminal 2 may issue a warning that there are other packages to be delivered.

When distance L1 changes from a long distance to a short distance, the mobile terminal 2 transitions from collection/delivery operation mode to travel mode. Note that the condition for returning to travel mode may include completion of status input mode. For example, the mobile terminal 2 may prohibit transition to travel mode if there is a package that has been confirmed in package confirmation mode but whose status has not been entered in status input mode. In this case, the mobile terminal 2 may prompt the worker to enter the status of the package.

When returning from collection/delivery mode to travel mode, the mobile device 2 may set the next delivery location or collection location. This will automatically start route guidance to the next location in travel mode.

As described above, the control system 1 of this embodiment has a vehicle-side device 3 and a control unit 4. The vehicle-side device 3 is mounted on the vehicle 100 and has a communication unit 32 that communicates wirelessly with the mobile terminal 2. The control unit 4 includes at least one of a vehicle-side control unit 31 or a terminal-side control unit 21. The vehicle-side control unit 31 changes the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3 depending on the radio wave strength of the wireless communication. The terminal-side control unit 21 changes the operating mode of the mobile terminal 2 depending on the radio wave strength of the wireless communication. The control system 1 of this embodiment can reduce the operational burden on the driver when getting in and out of the vehicle.

In this embodiment, the vehicle-side device 3 is an on-board device that controls devices possessed by the vehicle 100. The control unit 4 includes a vehicle-side control unit 31 that changes the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3. When the radio wave strength of the wireless communication is strong, the vehicle-side control unit 31 sets the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3 to driving mode, and when the radio wave strength of the wireless communication is weak, the vehicle-side control unit 3 sets the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3 to non-driving mode. The control system 1 of this embodiment can reduce the burden on the driver of operating the vehicle-side device 3.

The control unit 4 of this embodiment includes a terminal-side control unit 21 that changes the operation mode of the mobile device 2. When the radio wave strength of the wireless communication is strong, the terminal-side control unit 21 sets the operation mode of the mobile device 2 to riding mode, and when the radio wave strength of the wireless communication is weak, the terminal-side control unit 2 sets the operation mode of the mobile device 2 to non-riding mode. The control system 1 of this embodiment can reduce the burden on the driver of operating the mobile device 2.

The riding mode may be an operation mode in which the mobile terminal 2 functions as an input/output device for the vehicle 100. In this case, when the radio wave intensity is strong, the mobile terminal 2 can operate as an input/output device for the vehicle 100.

The non-riding mode may be an operating mode that functions as a processing terminal for collection and delivery work. In this case, the mobile terminal 2 can be operated as a processing terminal when the driver is outside the vehicle and the radio wave strength is weak.

The vehicle 100 may be driven by a worker who collects garbage and recyclable materials. In this case, the non-driving mode of the vehicle-side device 3 may be a collection parking mode, which is a mode used when the worker temporarily leaves the vehicle 100 to collect items. The non-riding mode of the mobile terminal 2 may be a collection operation mode, which is a mode used when the worker is outside the vehicle to collect items.

The mobile terminal 2 and vehicle-side device 3 may change their operating mode depending on the state of the vehicle 100 in addition to the radio wave strength. For example, if the vehicle 100 has a door on the loading platform for loading and unloading luggage, the decision to change the operating mode may be made based on the state of this door. The vehicle-side device 3 may transition from driving mode to collection and delivery parking mode when the radio wave strength changes from strong to medium and the door for loading and unloading luggage is operated. In this case, the door operation may be, for example, unlocking or opening the door for loading and unloading luggage. The mobile terminal 2 may transition from travel mode to collection and delivery operation mode when the radio wave strength changes from strong to medium and the door for loading and unloading luggage is operated.

The state of the vehicle 100 used to determine the operating mode may be a state related to the driving state of the vehicle 100, such as the driving speed or shift position of the vehicle 100. The control system 1 may prohibit a mode change to the non-driving mode or the non-riding mode when the vehicle 100 is in a driving state.

In addition to radio wave intensity, the conditions for changing the operating mode may also be based on the detection results of the vehicle 100's seat occupancy sensor, a sensor that detects whether the seat belt is fastened, a driver monitor, etc.

Vehicle 100 may be a vehicle having at least one of an engine and a traction motor. For example, vehicle 100 may be an electric vehicle or a hybrid electric vehicle. In this case, vehicle-side control unit 31 may set the state of device 110 to reduce power consumption in vehicle 100 in non-driving mode. Vehicle 100 may be an ultra-compact electric vehicle with a passenger capacity of one person. Vehicle 100 may also be a two-wheeled vehicle or a three-wheeled vehicle.

Note that the vehicle-side device 3 is not limited to an in-vehicle device that controls the device 110. The vehicle-side device 3 may be, for example, a navigation system, an ECU that controls the vehicle 100, or any other device installed in the vehicle 100.

[Modification of the embodiment]
A modified example of the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 shows a vehicle-side device and a portable terminal according to the modified example of the embodiment, and Figure 7 shows a control table of a control system according to the modified example of the embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the vehicle-side device 3 according to the modified example is an in-vehicle device having a holder 33 for holding a portable terminal 2.

The vehicle-side device 3 has a fixed unit 34 that is fixed to the vehicle 100, a display unit 35, and a holding unit 33. The display unit 35 has a display surface that displays various information. For example, the display unit 35 displays driving speed, driving distance, shift position, turn signal, remaining battery charge, brake status, etc.

The holding unit 33 is a cradle that holds the portable device 2. The holding unit 33 is positioned above the display unit 35. The holding unit 33 holds the portable device 2 with the display surface 23 of the portable device 2 exposed. The portable device 2 is inserted into the holding unit 33 from above. The holding unit 33 has a frame that holds the edge of the inserted portable device 2.

The holding unit 33 holds the portable device 2 in a predetermined orientation. For example, the holding unit 33 holds the portable device 2 so that the tilt angle of the display surface 23 is equal to the tilt angle of the screen of the display unit 35. In the following description, the orientation of the portable device 2 when held by the holding unit 33 is referred to as the "held orientation." The held orientation is an orientation in which the display surface 23 of the portable device 2 is horizontally long.

Providing the holding unit 33 on the vehicle-side device 3 maximizes the radio wave strength for communication between the vehicle-side device 3 and the portable terminal 2. This increases the change in radio wave strength when the portable terminal 2 is taken out of the vehicle 100, improving the accuracy of determining the operating mode based on radio wave strength.

The operation of the control system 1 according to a modified embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 shows the driver's actions during delivery, the distance L1, the operation of the mobile device 2, and the state of the device 110, broken down into steps S1 to S8. Distance L1 is divided into four stages: close, medium, far, and farthest. "Close" refers to the value of distance L1 when the mobile device 2 is held by the holding unit 33, and is, for example, a value of 20 cm or less. "Medium" refers to the value of distance L1 when the driver is inside the vehicle 100 while holding the mobile device 2, and is, for example, a value greater than 20 cm and less than 1 m. "Far" refers to the value of distance L1 when the driver is near the vehicle 100, and is, for example, a value greater than 1 m and less than 2 m. "Farthest" refers to the value of distance L1 when the driver is far away from the vehicle 100, and is, for example, a value greater than 2 m.

In step S1, the driver performing the delivery task selects a delivery destination. At this time, the application program on the mobile terminal 2 displays a list of scheduled delivery destinations. The driver holds the mobile terminal 2 in his or her hand while inside the vehicle and selects a delivery destination from the displayed list. The distance L1 at this time is "medium."

In step S2, the driver drives the vehicle 100 toward the delivery destination. At this time, the mobile terminal 2 is set in the holding unit 33 of the vehicle-side device 3. Therefore, the distance L1 is "near." The operating mode of the mobile terminal 2 is set to the riding mode. In the riding mode, the mobile terminal 2 displays a navigation screen that provides route guidance to the delivery destination.

In step S3, the vehicle 100 arrives at the delivery destination. The driver removes the mobile terminal from the holder 33 of the vehicle-side device 3. This changes the distance L1 from "close" to "medium," and the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3 transitions from driving mode to non-driving mode. The vehicle-side control unit 31 starts flashing the hazard lights, applies the electromagnetic parking brake to turn the brake ON, and sets the shift position of the electronically controlled shift lever to P range. Additionally, if the vehicle 100 has outward-facing signage, the vehicle-side control unit 31 causes the signage to display "Work in progress."

In step S4, the driver exits the vehicle and removes the package to be delivered from the loading platform. When the driver exits the vehicle carrying the mobile terminal 2, distance L1 becomes "far." This causes the operation mode of the mobile terminal 2 to transition from riding mode to non-riding mode. The mobile terminal 2 displays a package details screen. At this time, the mobile terminal 2 displays information about the package to be delivered and the delivery method on the screen. The driver also captures the two-dimensional code of the package using the camera of the mobile terminal 2 or the like, and confirms the package to be delivered. The two-dimensional code is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). If there are multiple packages to be delivered, the two-dimensional codes are read repeatedly for each package.

If the mobile device 2 is left behind inside the vehicle, the mobile device 2 issues a warning that the mobile device 2 has been left behind. The warning is issued, for example, through cooperation between the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile device 2. The warning is issued when the vehicle 100's door for getting in and out is open and the distance L1 is "near."

In step S4, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the headlights, turns on the room lamp, turns off the audio/display, turns off the seat heater, turns off the air conditioner, and unlocks the key lock of the luggage compartment. The room lamp that is turned on is, for example, a lamp located in the luggage compartment.

In step S5, the driver heads to the delivery destination to hand over the package. As the driver moves away from vehicle 100, distance L1 becomes "farthest." The mobile terminal 2 displays a delivery result registration screen. The driver enters the delivery result into the mobile terminal 2. If an input indicating that delivery is complete is made, a signature input screen is displayed on the mobile terminal 2. If an input indicating that the delivery destination was absent is made, a registration screen for taking the package back is displayed on the mobile terminal 2. If an input indicating that delivery has been completed is made, a camera screen is displayed to capture an image of the completed delivery.

In step S5, the vehicle-side control unit 31 turns off the interior lamp, locks the key lock of the luggage compartment, and displays "Delivery in progress" on the signage.

If the vehicle 100 has a tailgate lifter, the mobile device 2 may display a warning that the tailgate lifter has been left in its original position. The warning display for the tailgate lifter is executed, for example, through cooperation between the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile device 2. For example, if the distance L1 becomes "farthest" without the tailgate lifter being returned to its initial position or stored position, the mobile device 2 displays a warning that the tailgate lifter has been left in its original position.

In step S6, the driver returns to vehicle 100. When the driver approaches vehicle 100 and distance L1 becomes "far," mobile terminal 2 determines whether registration has been forgotten. If none of delivery completion, take-home due to absence, or delivery completion has been registered on the delivery result registration screen, mobile terminal 2 warns the driver that registration has been forgotten.

In step S6, the vehicle-side control unit 31 determines whether to unlock the key lock on the luggage compartment. This determination is made, for example, through cooperation between the vehicle-side device 3 and the mobile terminal 2. The vehicle-side control unit 31 obtains the delivery result registered in step S5 from the mobile terminal 2. If the obtained delivery result is "taken back due to absence," the vehicle-side control unit 31 unlocks the key lock on the luggage compartment. If the delivery result is "taken back due to absence," the vehicle-side control unit 31 may also turn on the room lamp in the luggage compartment.

In step S7, the driver returns to the vehicle and selects the next delivery destination. When the driver returns to the vehicle, distance L1 changes from "far" to "medium," and the mobile terminal 2 returns to riding mode. The mobile terminal 2 displays a list of delivery destinations and prompts the driver to select the next delivery destination.

In step S7, the vehicle-side control unit 31 returns the operating mode of the vehicle-side device 3 to the driving mode. The vehicle-side control unit 31 returns the state of the headlights to their original state. For example, if the headlights that were on until then were automatically turned off in step S4, the headlights are turned on. Similarly, the vehicle-side control unit 31 returns the states of the audio/display, seat heaters, and air conditioner to the states before they were changed in step S4. If the key lock of the luggage compartment is unlocked in step S6, the vehicle-side control unit 31 locks the key lock in step S7. In other words, if the delivery result registered in step S5 is "taken home due to absence," the vehicle-side control unit 31 automatically locks the key lock when the driver gets in the vehicle. If the delivery result is "taken home due to absence," the vehicle-side control unit 31 may also turn off the room lamp in the luggage compartment.

In step S8, the driver places the mobile device 2 in the holder 33 of the vehicle-side device 3 and drives the vehicle 100 toward the next delivery destination. Distance L1 becomes "near," and the mobile device 2 displays the navigation screen. The route shown at this time is the driving route to the delivery destination selected in step S7. Note that when distance L1 becomes "near," the mobile device 2 may display a warning that the tailgate lifter has been forgotten to be returned. In this case, the mobile device 2 can display the warning before the driver begins driving.

In step S8, the vehicle-side control unit 31 stops flashing the hazard lights and turns off the signage. The processes from step S3 to step S8 are repeatedly executed as long as the next delivery destination is set.

As described above, the non-riding mode in this modified embodiment includes multiple sub-modes. The operating mode of the portable terminal 2 in step S4 is the baggage confirmation mode. The operating mode of the portable terminal 2 in step S5 is the status input mode. The operating mode of the portable terminal 2 in step S6 is the forgotten registration confirmation mode.

The non-driving mode in this modified embodiment includes multiple sub-modes. The operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 in step S3 is an arrival transition mode for transitioning the vehicle 100 to a stopped state. The operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 in step S4 is an opening mode for opening the luggage compartment for removal of the luggage. The operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 in step S5 is a standby mode for waiting until the delivery work is completed. If the delivery destination is absent in step S6, the operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 is an acceptance mode for unlocking the luggage compartment for storage of the luggage.

The control system 1 of the modified example may determine the operation mode based on the attitude of the portable terminal 2. For example, when the attitude of the portable terminal 2 is the held attitude, the operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 may be maintained in the running mode. The vehicle-side control unit 31 may allow the operation mode to be changed from the running mode to the non-running mode when the attitude of the portable terminal 2 is different from the held attitude. When the attitude of the portable terminal 2 is the held attitude, the operation mode of the portable terminal 2 may be maintained in the riding mode. The terminal-side control unit 21 may allow the operation mode to be changed from the riding mode to the non-riding mode when the attitude of the portable terminal 2 is different from the held attitude.

In a modified example, the vehicle-side device 3 may have a sensor that detects whether the portable terminal 2 is held in the holding unit 33. In this case, when the holding unit 33 holds the portable terminal 2, the operation mode of the vehicle-side device 3 may be maintained in the driving mode. The vehicle-side control unit 31 may permit a change in the operation mode from the driving mode to the non-driving mode when the holding unit 33 is not holding the portable terminal 2. The portable terminal 2 acquires information from the vehicle-side device 3 regarding whether the holding unit 33 is holding the portable terminal 2. When the holding unit 33 holds the portable terminal 2, the operation mode of the portable terminal 2 may be maintained in the riding mode. The terminal-side control unit 21 may permit a change in the operation mode from the riding mode to the non-riding mode when the holding unit 33 is not holding the portable terminal 2.

The contents disclosed in the above embodiments and variations can be implemented in any suitable combination.

1: Control system 2: Portable terminal 3: Vehicle-side device 4: Control unit 21: Terminal-side control unit 22: Communication unit 31: Vehicle-side control unit 32: Communication unit 33: Holding unit 34: Fixing unit 35: Display unit 100: Vehicle 110: Device

Claims (3)

a vehicle-side device that is mounted on a vehicle and has a communication unit that performs wireless communication with a mobile terminal;
A control unit;
Equipped with
the control unit includes at least one of a vehicle-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the vehicle-side device in accordance with the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication, or a terminal-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the mobile terminal in accordance with the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication,
the vehicle-side device is an in-vehicle device that controls a device provided in the vehicle,
the control unit includes a vehicle-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the vehicle-side device,
The vehicle-side control unit sets the operation mode of the vehicle-side device to a driving mode when the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication is strong, and sets the operation mode of the vehicle-side device to a non-driving mode when the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication is weak.
A control system comprising: a vehicle-side device that is mounted on a vehicle and has a communication unit that performs wireless communication with a mobile terminal;
A control unit;
Equipped with
the control unit includes at least one of a vehicle-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the vehicle-side device in accordance with the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication, or a terminal-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the mobile terminal in accordance with the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication,
the control unit includes a terminal-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the mobile terminal,
the terminal-side control unit sets the operation mode of the portable terminal to a riding mode when the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication is strong, and sets the operation mode of the portable terminal to a non-riding mode when the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication is weak;
The riding mode is an operation mode for an input/output device for the vehicle.
A control system comprising: a vehicle-side device that is mounted on a vehicle and has a communication unit that performs wireless communication with a mobile terminal;
A control unit;
Equipped with
the control unit includes at least one of a vehicle-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the vehicle-side device in accordance with the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication, or a terminal-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the mobile terminal in accordance with the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication,
the control unit includes a terminal-side control unit that changes the operation mode of the mobile terminal,
the terminal-side control unit sets the operation mode of the portable terminal to a riding mode when the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication is strong, and sets the operation mode of the portable terminal to a non-riding mode when the radio wave intensity of the wireless communication is weak;
The non-riding mode is an operation mode as a processing terminal for collection and delivery work.
A control system comprising: