HK1092511B - Key for vehicle and drunken driving preventing device - Google Patents

Description

Key for vehicle and drunk driving preventing device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a key for a vehicle and a drunk driving prevention device for starting a prime mover of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile.

Background

Traffic accidents caused by drunk driving have become a problem in recent years. Particularly, since the quality of professional drivers who drive trucks or buses is reduced, serious accidents caused by drunk driving of the professional drivers are prominent. In addition to drunk driving, there is also a person who drives in a state of taking a medicine such as an anesthetic or a thaneur (thinner).

As means for suppressing drunk driving, there are a mobile phone equipped with an alcohol sensor (see patent document 1), an alcohol detector attached to a vehicle interior mirror of an automobile (see patent document 2), and the like.

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2001-313696

Patent document 2: japanese patent laid-open No. Hei 09-292354

However, the alcohol sensor detects only alcohol contained in the breath of the user, and cannot prevent drunk driving. And it is impossible to prevent the driving for taking medicine.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a vehicle key and a drunken driving prevention device that can prevent drunken driving and/or drug-taking driving.

In order to achieve the above object, a vehicle key according to claim 1 of the present invention is a vehicle key to be inserted into a keyhole of any one of vehicles such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile to start a prime mover of the vehicle, the vehicle key including: a key part, the front end part of which can be inserted into a key hole of a vehicle; a shank provided at a proximal end of the key section; an insertion prevention unit that may protrude from the shank portion, thereby preventing the key portion from being inserted into a key hole of a vehicle; and an exhalation composition detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in the exhalation of the user.

The insertion prevention unit includes: a protruding member protruding from the shank along the key portion; a spring for urging the projecting member in the projecting direction; a lock mechanism that locks and holds the protruding member in a protruding state, the lock mechanism releasing the lock of the protruding member according to a detection result of the breath component detection unit.

The lock mechanism is configured to include: a plunger (plunger) which is a member capable of engaging with a recess provided in a side surface of the protruding member, and which is provided on the stem so as to be linearly movable from an engagement position where the plunger engages with the recess of the protruding member to a retracted position where the plunger does not engage with the recess of the protruding member; and a drive unit capable of moving the plunger from an engagement position to a retreat position according to a detection result of the breath component detection unit. In another aspect, the breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls on/off of the drive unit based on an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor. In addition, the protruding member is provided on the key section.

A key for a vehicle according to claim 2 of the present invention is a key for a vehicle, which can be inserted into a key hole of any vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, and is used for starting a prime mover of the vehicle, the key comprising: a key part, the front end part of which can be inserted into a key hole of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheel vehicle and an automobile; a shank slidably holding a base end portion of the key portion and capable of accommodating at least a part of a tip end portion of the key portion; a holding unit that holds the key portion in a state of being accommodated in the shank portion; a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in breath of a user; and a protrusion unit that protrudes the entire front end portion of the key section so as to be insertable into the key hole, based on a detection result of the breath component detection unit.

Ideally: the holding unit is configured to urge the key section in a housing direction so that the tip end portion is in a state of being not insertable into the keyhole, and the protruding unit is a pressing mechanism that protrudes the entire tip end portion of the key section against the urging force of the spring so as to be insertable into the keyhole, based on a detection result of the exhalation component detection unit. At this time, the breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls the pressing mechanism to be turned on/off according to an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor.

A key for a vehicle according to claim 3 of the present invention is a key for outputting a start permission signal to any one of vehicles such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, and for starting a prime mover of the vehicle or bringing the prime mover of the vehicle into a startable state, the key comprising: a signal output unit for outputting the signal; a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in breath of a user; and a prevention unit that prevents the start permission signal output from the signal output unit from reaching the vehicle according to a detection result of the exhalation component detection unit.

The prevention unit includes: a masking unit for masking the start permission signal output from the signal output unit; and a drive unit that moves the shielding unit from a shielding position at which the start permission signal of the signal output unit can be shielded to a retracted position at which the start permission signal cannot be shielded, according to a detection result of the respiratory component detection unit.

The breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls the signal output unit or the drive unit to be turned on/off according to an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor, thereby functioning as the prevention unit.

The vehicle key according to the 1 st, 2 nd and 3 rd aspects of the present invention may be configured to have a sensing unit for reading a physical characteristic of a user. The breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that performs authentication determination as to whether or not the user is the user based on the sensing data of the sensing unit, and that performs alcohol and/or drug determination as to whether or not the alcohol and/or drug is contained in the breath of the user based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or drug sensor, the control unit having a function of: and controlling the driving unit, the pressing unit or the signal output unit to be turned on/off when the authentication determination result is determined to be not the user or when the alcohol and/or drug determination result is determined to be alcohol and/or drug contained in the breath of the user.

Ideally: the control unit has a function of performing alcohol and/or drug determination within a predetermined time before and after the authentication determination. In this case, it is desirable that: the sensing unit is a voice detection unit for detecting voice of a user or a photographing unit for photographing an iris of an eye of the user.

The vehicle key according to claim 1 of the present invention may include: a position detection unit for detecting that the protruding member is accommodated in the shank portion; and a storage unit for recording a detection result of the position detection unit.

The vehicle key according to any one of aspects 1, 2 and 3 of the present invention may be configured to include a GPS (global positioning system) transmitter.

Further, a drunk driving prevention device according to claim 1 of the present invention is a drunk driving prevention device that is mounted on or built in any of vehicles such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, the drunk driving prevention device including: a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in breath of a user; and an insertion prevention unit that prevents a key from being inserted into a key hole of the vehicle according to a detection result of the breath component detection unit.

The drunk driving prevention device according to claim 2 of the present invention is mounted on or built in any of vehicles such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, and includes: a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in breath of a user; and an operation prevention unit that disables the operation of a start operation unit that starts a prime mover for starting the vehicle, based on a detection result of the exhalation component detection unit.

A drunk driving prevention device according to claim 3 of the present invention is a device that is installed in or built in any of vehicles such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, and that activates a prime mover in response to receiving an activation permission signal output from a vehicle key, the device including: a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in breath of a user; and an opening/closing means for openably/closably covering a receiving section of the vehicle start permission signal based on a detection result of the breath component detection means.

The breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls opening/closing of the insertion prevention unit, the operation prevention unit, or the opening/closing unit based on an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor.

The drunk driving prevention device according to any one of aspects 1, 2 and 3 of the present invention may be configured to include a sensor unit for reading a physical characteristic of a user. The breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that performs authentication determination as to whether or not the user is the user based on the sensing data of the sensing unit, and that performs alcohol and/or drug determination as to whether or not the alcohol and/or drug is contained in the breath of the user based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or drug sensor, the control unit having a function of: and controlling the insertion prevention unit, the operation prevention unit, or the opening/closing unit to open/close when the authentication determination result is determined to be not the user's own person or when the alcohol and/or drug determination result is determined to be that alcohol and/or drug is contained in the breath of the user.

Ideally: the control unit has a function of performing alcohol and/or drug determination within a predetermined time before and after the authentication determination. In this case, it is desirable that: the sensing unit is a voice detection unit that detects voice of a user or a photographing unit that photographs an iris of an eye of the user.

The alcohol sensor may be an individual who is additionally provided. Also, a GPS transmitter may be provided.

When using a vehicle key according to one aspect of the present invention, the vehicle key is configured to: the insertion prevention unit protrudes from the handle, thereby preventing the key portion from being inserted into a key hole of the vehicle, and the insertion prevention unit can be housed in the handle according to a detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit. That is, the insertion prevention unit may be received in the handle when alcohol and/or medicine is not detected in the exhalation of the user by the exhalation composition detection unit. Thus, the key part can be inserted into the keyhole of the vehicle, and the driving part of the vehicle can be started. On the other hand, when alcohol and/or medicine is detected in the user's breath by the breath component detection unit, the key portion cannot be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle since the insertion prevention unit maintains the state of protruding from the handle portion. Therefore, the key portion cannot be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle, and the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. This can effectively prevent drunk driving and/or medicine-taking driving. And because the design change of the vehicle is not needed, the method can be applied to the existing commercial vehicles.

When the vehicle key of the second invention is used, the structure is as follows: the insertion prevention unit includes: a protruding member protruding from the shank along the key portion; a spring for urging the projecting member in a projecting direction; and a lock mechanism that locks and holds the protruding member in the protruding state. Thus, since the insertion prevention unit can be realized with a simple structure, there is an advantage in that cost reduction can be realized.

When the vehicle key of the third invention is used, the structure is as follows: the locking mechanism includes: a plunger provided on the handle so as to be linearly movable from an engagement position where the plunger engages with the recess of the protruding member to a retracted position where the plunger does not engage with the recess of the protruding member; and a drive unit that moves the plunger from an engagement position to a retreat position. In this way, the lock mechanism can be configured by combining existing components, and therefore, there is an advantage that cost reduction can be achieved.

When the vehicle key of the fourth aspect of the present invention is used, the existing alcohol sensor and/or drug sensor can be used, and therefore, the cost can be further reduced.

In the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the protrusion is provided on the key portion, the protrusion cannot be inserted into the key hole in a state where the protrusion protrudes. Therefore, drunk driving and/or medicine-taking driving can be effectively prevented as with the key.

In the sixth aspect of the present invention, when the vehicle key is used, the holding means detects alcohol and/or medicine contained in the breath of the user by the breath component detection means in a state where at least a part of the tip end portion of the key portion is held in the handle portion, and the protrusion means protrudes the entire tip end portion of the key portion so as to be insertable into the key hole based on the detection result of the breath component detection means. That is, when alcohol is not detected, the entire tip portion of the key portion protrudes from the shank portion, and therefore the key portion can be inserted into the key hole to start the motor of the vehicle. On the other hand, when alcohol and/or medicine is detected, the key portion cannot be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle and the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started because a state in which a part of the tip portion of the key portion is accommodated in the shank portion is maintained. This can effectively prevent drunk driving and/or medicine-taking driving. And since there is no need to change the design of the vehicle, it can be applied to existing commercial vehicles.

In the seventh aspect of the present invention, the vehicle key includes a spring that biases the key section in the housing direction so that the tip end portion is not insertable into the key hole, and the projecting means is a pressing mechanism that can project the entire tip end portion of the key section against the biasing force of the spring so as to be insertable into the key hole, based on the detection result of the exhalation component detecting means. Thus, the present invention can be realized with a simple structure, and thus has an advantage that cost reduction can be achieved.

When the vehicle key of the eighth aspect of the present invention is used, the existing alcohol sensor and/or drug sensor can be used, and thus the cost can be further reduced.

When the key for a vehicle of the ninth aspect of the present invention is used, the alcohol and/or the drug contained in the breath of the user is detected by the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor, and the preventing unit prevents the start permission signal output from the signal output unit from reaching the vehicle based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor. That is, when alcohol and/or medicine is not detected, the start permission signal is output from the signal output unit to the vehicle, whereby the prime mover of the vehicle can be started or brought into a startable state. On the other hand, when alcohol and/or medicine is detected, the prevention unit prevents the signal output unit from outputting the start permission signal to the vehicle, and therefore the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started or brought into a startable state. This can effectively prevent drunk driving and/or medicine-taking driving. And because the design change of the vehicle is not needed, the method can be applied to the existing commercial vehicles.

When the key for vehicles of the tenth invention is used, the preventing unit comprises: a masking unit for masking the start permission signal outputted from the signal output unit; and a drive unit that moves the shielding unit from a shielding position at which the start permission signal of the signal output unit can be shielded to a retracted position at which the start permission signal cannot be shielded, according to a detection result of the exhalation component detection unit. Thus, when alcohol and/or medicine is not detected, the signal output means can output the start permission signal to the vehicle by moving the shielding means to the retreat position, and therefore, the prime mover of the vehicle can be started or brought into a startable state. On the other hand, when alcohol and/or medicine is detected, since the shielding unit remains in the state of the shielding position, it is not possible to start or bring the prime mover of the vehicle into a startable state. This can effectively prevent drunk driving and/or medicine-taking driving. And because the design change of the vehicle is not needed, the method can be applied to the existing commercial vehicles.

When the vehicle key of the eleventh aspect of the present invention is used, the alcohol and/or the drug contained in the breath of the user is detected by the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor, and the control unit functions as the preventing unit by controlling the on/off of the signal output unit based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor. That is, when alcohol and/or medicine is not detected, the signal output means is put into an operating state (i.e., a state in which the start permission signal can be output) and the start permission signal is output, so that the prime mover of the vehicle can be started or brought into a startable state, while when alcohol and/or medicine is detected, the signal output means is kept in an off state (i.e., a state in which the start permission signal cannot be output), so that the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started or brought into a startable state. The drunk driving and/or the medicine taking driving can be effectively prevented through the structure.

In the twelfth aspect of the present invention, a control unit of an exhalation composition detection unit that performs authentication determination of whether a user is the user or not by a sensing unit and determines whether alcohol and/or a drug is contained in the exhalation of the user or not based on an output signal of an alcohol sensor and/or a drug sensor of the exhalation composition detection unit has a function of: as a result of the determination, when the authentication determination result is determined to be not the user's own person, or when the alcohol and/or drug determination result is determined to be that alcohol and/or drug is contained in the breath of the user, on/off of the driving unit, the pressing unit, or the signal output unit is controlled. That is, the prime mover of the vehicle can be started when the person using the key is the user himself and the user does not contain alcohol and/or medicine in the breath, and the prime mover cannot be started when it is determined that the person not using the key is not the user himself or it is determined that the alcohol and/or medicine is contained in the breath of the user. This prevents unauthorized use of the key, such as exhalation of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor by a person other than the user. In addition, since a person other than the user cannot start the prime mover of the vehicle with the vehicle key, theft of the vehicle with the key can be prevented.

When the key for a vehicle according to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention is used, the alcohol and/or drug determination is performed within a predetermined time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds) before and after the authentication determination, and therefore, there are advantages in that: it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the key by a person other than the user, such as a person who has exhaled the alcohol sensor and/or the medicine sensor instead of the user.

In the case of using the key for a vehicle according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a voice detection unit for detecting a voice of a user or an imaging unit for imaging an iris of an eye of the user is used as the sensing unit. Therefore, the user himself/herself must exhale into the alcohol sensor within a predetermined time (1 to 2 seconds) before and after the voice detection means detects the voice uttered by the user himself/herself or before and after the camera captures the iris of the user, and therefore, it is difficult for a person other than the user to exhale into the alcohol sensor instead of the user within the predetermined time. This has the advantage that improper use can be further prevented.

When the vehicle key according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention is used, the position detection means detects that the protruding member is accommodated in the shank portion (i.e., the user is riding in the vehicle), and records the detection result in the storage unit as a record of the user riding in the vehicle. Thus, if the data in the storage unit is periodically outputted to the outside, the history of the user riding the vehicle can be known, which is advantageous for the operation management of the vehicle.

Since the vehicle key according to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention includes the GPS transmitter, the vehicle key can be used for searching the position of the user or managing the operation of the vehicle by receiving the GPS signal from the GPS transmitter by a management center or the like.

In the seventeenth invention, when alcohol and/or medicine is detected in the breath of the user by the breath component detection means, the insertion prevention means can prevent the key from being inserted into the keyhole, and thus the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. This can effectively prevent drunk driving.

When the driving prevention device after drinking according to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention is used, the operation prevention means prevents the start operation of the start operation unit when alcohol and/or medicine is detected in the breath of the user by the breath component detection means, and therefore the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. This can effectively prevent drunk driving.

When the alcohol and/or drug is detected in the breath of the user by the breath component detection means in the use of the device for preventing drunk driving according to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the receiver is covered by the opening and closing means, and therefore, the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. This can effectively prevent drunk driving.

When the drunk driving prevention device of the twenty-first aspect of the present invention is used, the cost can be reduced because the existing alcohol sensor and/or drug sensor can be used.

In the twenty-first alcohol driving prevention device according to the present invention, the controller of the breath component detection unit performs authentication determination of whether the user himself or herself is present by the sensing unit and determines whether alcohol and/or a drug is contained in the breath of the user based on an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor of the breath component detection unit, and the controller has a function of: and controlling the insertion prevention unit, the operation prevention unit, or the opening/closing unit to open/close when the authentication determination result is determined as not being the user's own person or when the alcohol and/or drug determination result is determined as alcohol and/or drug contained in the breath of the user. That is, the prime mover of the vehicle can be started when the person using the key is the user himself and the breath of the user does not contain alcohol and/or medicine, and the prime mover cannot be started when the person using the key is not the user himself or it is determined that the breath of the user contains alcohol and/or medicine. This prevents unauthorized use of the key, such as exhalation of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor by a person other than the user. In addition, since a person other than the user cannot start the prime mover of the vehicle with the vehicle key, theft of the vehicle with the key can be prevented.

When the alcohol and/or drug determination is performed within a predetermined time (for example, 1 to 2 seconds) before and after the authentication determination, the twenty-two alcohol and/or drug driving prevention device according to the present invention has the following advantages: it is possible to prevent unauthorized use of the key by a person other than the user, such as a person who has exhaled the alcohol sensor and/or the medicine sensor instead of the user.

When the drinking driving prevention device of twenty-third of the present invention is used, a voice detection unit that detects the voice of the user or a photographing unit that photographs the iris of the eyes of the user is used as the sensing unit. Therefore, the user himself/herself must exhale into the alcohol sensor within a predetermined time (1 to 2 seconds) before and after the voice detection means detects the voice uttered by the user himself/herself or before and after the camera captures the iris of the user, and therefore, it is difficult for a person other than the user to exhale into the alcohol sensor instead of the user within the predetermined time. This has the advantage that unauthorized use can be further prevented.

When the alcohol sensor of the twenty-four driving prevention device of the present invention is used, the alcohol sensor is separately provided, so that it can be installed and held in a position where it is easy to use (convenient to breathe). This improves the practicability.

In the case of using the twenty-fifth drunk driving prevention device according to the present invention, since the device is configured to include the GPS transmitter, the GPS signal of the GPS transmitter is received by a management center or the like, and thus the device can be used for position search of a user or operation management of a vehicle.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a shank of a vehicle key according to embodiment 1 of the present invention in a perspective state.

Fig. 2 is a circuit diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

Fig. 4 is a schematic view of a vehicle key according to embodiment 2 of the present invention, where (a) is a view showing one housing and (b) is a view showing the other housing.

Fig. 5 is a schematic view of another housing showing a state in which the projecting member of the vehicle key according to embodiment 2 of the present invention is accommodated.

Fig. 6 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 2 of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

Fig. 8 is a schematic front view of a shank of a vehicle key according to embodiment 3 of the present invention in a perspective state.

Fig. 9 is a circuit diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 3 of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

Fig. 11 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 4 of the present invention.

Fig. 12 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

Fig. 13 is a schematic view of a vehicle key according to embodiment 5 of the present invention, where (a) is a view showing a state where a signal of a signal output unit is shielded, and (b) is a view showing a state where a signal of the signal output unit is not shielded.

Fig. 14 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 5 of the present invention.

Fig. 15 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

Fig. 16 is a view showing a design modification of the shielding means of the vehicle key according to embodiment 5 of the present invention, where (a) is a view showing the shielding means rotated by the driving of the motor, (b) is a view showing the shielding means moved in the longitudinal direction of the shank portion by the driving of the motor, and (c) is a view showing the pair of shielding means covering the signal output means by the driving of the motor.

Fig. 17 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 6 of the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a flowchart of an authentication determination/alcohol determination routine.

Fig. 19 is a schematic view of another housing of a vehicle key according to embodiment 7 of the present invention.

Fig. 20 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 7 of the present invention.

Fig. 21 is a flowchart of the ride recording routine.

Fig. 22 is a view showing a design modification of the vehicle key according to embodiment 7 of the present invention, where (a) is a view showing a state where the key unit and the signal output unit are opened, and (b) is a view showing a state where the key unit and the signal output unit are stored.

Fig. 23 is a schematic view of a drunk driving prevention device according to embodiment 8 of the present invention.

Fig. 24 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

Description of the reference symbols

100: a key section; 110: a front end portion; 120: a base end portion; 200: a handle; 300: a protruding member; 400: a spring; 500: an expiratory component detection unit; 600: a locking mechanism; 900: a signal output unit; 1000: a prevention unit; 2000: a sensing unit; 3000: a position detection unit; 4000: a storage section.

Detailed Description

Next, a vehicle key according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

Example 1

First, a vehicle key according to embodiment 1 will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic front view of a shank of a vehicle key according to embodiment 1 of the present invention in a perspective state. Fig. 2 is a circuit diagram of the key for a vehicle. Fig. 3 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

The vehicle key shown in fig. 1 includes: a key unit 100 having a tip end portion 110 inserted into a key hole (not shown) of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile; and a shank 200 provided on the base end 120 of the key portion 100. Here, the front end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is a key body to be inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle.

The handle 200 is a rectangular housing with: an insertion prevention unit protruding from the handle portion 200 and thereby preventing the key portion 100 from being inserted into a key hole of a vehicle; a breath component detection unit 500 for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user; a power switch 700; and a power supply battery not shown.

On one end face of the handle 200, there are provided: a mounting hole 210 for the key portion 100; and through holes 220, 220 located at both sides of the mounting hole 210 and capable of protruding the protruding member 300 of the insertion prevention unit. In addition, the surface of the handle is provided with: an air intake hole (not shown) located at a position opposite to the alcohol sensor 510 of the exhalation composition detecting unit 500; and a mounting hole (not shown) of the power switch 700.

The insertion prevention unit includes: a protruding member 300 protruding from the shank 200 along the key part 100; a spring 400 for urging the projecting member 300 in the projecting direction; and a locking mechanism 600 that locks and holds the protruding member 300 in a protruding state according to the detection result of the exhalation composition detecting unit 500.

The protruding member 300 is a resin member, and includes: an inverted コ -shaped front end 310 protruding from the through holes 220, and a rear end 320 connected to the front end 310. On the rear end portion 320: the convex portions 321 and 321 abutting against one end portion of the spring 400, and the concave portion 322 locking the plunger 620 of the lock mechanism 600.

The spring 400 uses a coil spring. The spring 400 is interposed between the protrusions 321 and 321 of the rear end 320 of the protruding member 300 and the inside of the other end surface of the shank 200, thereby biasing the protruding member 300 in the protruding direction of the key part 100.

The lock mechanism 600 has: an electromagnet (i.e., a driving unit) that is excited according to the detection result of the exhalation component detecting unit 500; and a plunger 620 that is linearly movable by the electromagnet 610 and is engageable with the concave portion 310 provided in the protruding member 300. Specifically, as shown in fig. 1(a), in a state where the electromagnet 610 is not excited, the plunger 620 is projected to engage with the recess 322 provided in the projecting member 300. This locks the protruding member 300, and holds the protruding member 300 in the protruding state (engagement position). On the other hand, when the electromagnet 610 is excited according to the detection result of the exhalation component detecting unit 500, as shown in fig. 1(b), the plunger 620 engaged with the recess 322 is retracted, and the lock (retracted position) is released.

The power switch 700 is a push switch of a commercially available product. By pressing the power switch 700, the power switch is turned on.

As shown in fig. 2, the respiratory component detection unit 500 includes: an alcohol sensor 510; and a control unit 520 for controlling the excitation of the electromagnet 610 based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

The alcohol sensor 510 uses a semiconductor gas sensor having: a 1 st gas sensor 511 that detects the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user as a voltage; and a 2 nd gas sensor 512 for detecting carbon dioxide in the exhalation of the user as a voltage.

The control unit 520 uses a single chip microcomputer. The input end of the control unit 520 is connected to the 1 st gas sensor 511, the 2 nd gas sensor 512, and the power switch 700, and the output end of the control unit 520 is connected to the electromagnet 610 via the power switch 700 and the amplifier. The memory of the control unit 520 stores the alcohol concentration of 0.25mg/L in the breath as a reference value.

That is, the control unit 520 has the following functions: carbon dioxide in the exhaled breath of the user is detected from the output signal of the 2 nd gas sensor 512, it is determined whether the user has exhaled breath, the alcohol concentration in the exhaled breath of the user is measured from the output signal of the 1 st gas sensor 511, the measured value is compared with the reference value, and as a result, the electromagnet 610 is excited when the measured value does not exceed the reference value.

In addition, the memory stores an alcohol concentration measurement program (fig. 3) that is operated by pressing the power switch 700. The control unit 520 executes the program to realize the above-described functions.

The control unit 520 incorporates a timer circuit, and the timer circuit is set to be turned off when a predetermined time has elapsed after the power switch 700 is pressed.

The operation of each part of the vehicle key configured as described above will be described below, and the method of use will be described below.

First, in the off state, the protruding member 300 receives the urging force of the spring 400 and is locked by the lock mechanism 600, thereby maintaining the protruding state. Therefore, even if the key part 100 is inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle, only a part of the tip end part 110 of the key part 100 is inserted into the keyhole since the tip end part 310 of the protrusion member 300 abuts against an edge part of the keyhole.

When the user rides on the vehicle, the power switch 700 is pressed. Then, the control unit 520 runs the alcohol concentration measurement routine shown in fig. 3 and operates the timing circuit.

Then, it is determined whether or not carbon dioxide is detected based on the output signal of the 2 nd gas sensor 512 (S1). That is, it is determined whether the user exhales toward the alcohol sensor 510 of the handle 200.

As a result, if it is determined that the breath is not present, the process of step 1 is repeated, and if it is determined that the breath is present, the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the 1 st gas sensor 511, and it is determined whether or not the alcohol concentration is equal to or higher than the reference value (S2).

As a result, when it is determined that the alcohol concentration is equal to or less than the reference value, the electromagnet 610 is excited to retract the plunger 620, thereby releasing the lock of the protrusion member 300 (S3). Then, the execution of the program is ended.

In this way, in a state where the protruding member 300 is unlocked, the user inserts the key portion 100 into the keyhole of the vehicle. At this time, the tip end 310 of the protruding member 300 abuts against the edge of the keyhole, but since the lock is released, the protruding member 300 can be pushed into the shank 200 against the biasing force of the spring 400, and the tip end 110 of the key section 100 can be inserted into the keyhole entirely. Thereby enabling the prime mover of the vehicle to be started.

On the other hand, in step 2, when it is determined that the alcohol concentration is equal to or higher than the reference value, the program operation is terminated. That is, since the state in which the holding plunger 620 is engaged with the recess 322 and the state in which the holding protrusion member 300 protrudes are maintained, the user cannot start the motor of the vehicle.

In the process of steps 1 to 3, the timer circuit operates, and becomes an off state when a predetermined time has elapsed. Specifically, when the power switch 700 is pressed, if the alcohol sensor 510 is not exhaled for a predetermined time, the state becomes off. In step 3, after the electromagnet 610 is excited and the locking of the protruding member 300 is released, if a predetermined time has elapsed, the state is turned off. Thus, since the electromagnet 610 is not excited, the protruding member 300 is locked again. Thus, the alcohol measurement is performed immediately before driving. In addition, by turning off the switch for a predetermined time in this manner, power can be saved.

When the key unit 100 is inserted into the keyhole (i.e., during driving), the key unit is turned off when a predetermined time has elapsed as described above. At this time, the electromagnet 610 is not excited and the plunger 620 protrudes, but the plunger 620 does not engage with the recess 322 of the protrusion 300 because the protrusion 300 is pushed down by the edge of the keyhole and is kept pressed into the handle 200.

When the user pulls out the key from the key hole after the driving is finished, the protrusion member 300 is protruded by the biasing force of the spring 400. At this time, the plunger 620 is locked in the recess 322 of the protrusion member 300, and the protrusion member 300 is locked again.

When the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is equal to or lower than the reference value when the vehicle key is used, the protrusion 300 is unlocked, and therefore the protrusion 300 is pushed into the handle 200 against the biasing force of the spring 400, and the entire distal end portion 110 of the key section 100 can be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle. On the other hand, when the alcohol concentration in the exhaled breath of the user is equal to or higher than the reference value, the lock of the projecting member 300 is not released and the projecting member 300 is held in a state of projecting along the key section 100, and therefore the entire front end portion 110 of the key section 100 cannot be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle, and the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. Therefore, drunk driving can be effectively prevented.

Example 2

Next, a vehicle key according to embodiment 2 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 4 is a schematic view of a vehicle key according to embodiment 2 of the present invention, where (a) is a view showing one housing and (b) is a view showing the other housing. Fig. 5 is a schematic view of another housing showing a state in which the projecting member of the vehicle key is accommodated. Fig. 6 is a block diagram of the key for a vehicle. Fig. 7 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

The key for a vehicle shown in fig. 4 includes: a key part 100 having a tip part 110 insertable into a key hole (not shown) of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile; and a shank 200 provided on the base end 120 of the key portion 100. Here, the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is a key body to be inserted into a key hole.

The handle 200 is a two-piece structure having housings 201, 202. The proximal end 120 of the key portion 100 is fixed to the housing 201 by resin. A mounting hole 210 for the key section 100 is opened in one end surface of the housing 201. On the other hand, the case 202 incorporates therein: an insertion prevention unit; an expiratory component detection unit 500; a start switch 700'; a power supply battery not shown, and an LED lamp not shown. A through hole 220 through which the protruding member 300 can protrude is formed in one end surface of the case 202, and the case 202 has: an air intake hole (not shown) for the alcohol sensor 510 of the breath component detection unit 500; a mounting hole (not shown) for exposing the start switch 700'; and a mounting hole (not shown) for exposing the LED lamp.

As shown in fig. 4 and 5, inside the case 202 are provided: a 1 st guide part 230 for guiding the protrusion member 300 of the insertion prevention unit such that the protrusion member 300 can linearly move along the key part 100; a 2 nd guide part 240 disposed at a right angle with respect to one wall surface of the 1 st guide part 230; and a standing wall 250 disposed at the rear end in the moving direction of the 1 st guide part 230. The 1 st guide 230 is a pair of walls erected on the housing 202. The opposing portion of the wall of the pair of walls that opposes the 2 nd guide 240 is cut out. The 2 nd guide 240 is a cylindrical body having an open top surface, and guides the plunger 620 of the lock mechanism 600 of the insertion prevention unit such that the plunger 620 can linearly move. One end of the 2 nd guide part 240 is open and communicates with the cutout part of the 1 st guide part 230. Thereby, the plunger 620 can enter the 1 st guide part 230. Further, an opening (not shown) for protruding the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620 is provided on the bottom surface of the 2 nd guide portion 240. The standing wall 250 holds the spring 400 of the insertion prevention unit between it and the rear end surface of the protrusion member 300. The spring 400 biases the protrusion member 300 in a direction protruding from the through hole 220.

The insertion prevention unit includes: a protruding part 300 protruding from the shank 200 along the key section 100; a spring 400 for urging the projecting member 300 in the projecting direction; and a locking mechanism 600 that locks and holds the protruding member 300 in a protruding state according to the detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit 500.

The protrusion member 300 is a rod-shaped member that is linearly movably guided by the 1 st guide part 230 of the housing 202. The projecting member 300 projects from the through hole 220 of the housing 202 along the key section 100 by the urging force of the spring 400. Further, a recess 301 capable of engaging with the plunger 620 is provided at the rear end of the protruding member 300.

The lock mechanism 600 includes: a plunger 620 guided by the 2 nd guide 240 and linearly moving from an engagement position where it engages with the recess 301 of the projection member 300 to a retreat position where it does not engage with the recess 301 of the projection member 300; a spring 630 fitted in the 2 nd guide 240 and urging the plunger 620 to the engagement position; a motor 610 (i.e., a driving unit) that moves the plunger 620 from the engagement position to the retreat position via the gear portion 650 in accordance with the detection result of the exhalation composition detecting unit 500; and a position detection switch 640 that is in an on state when the plunger 620 is at the retreat position.

The plunger 620 is a rod-shaped member, and has a projection 621 projecting from the opening on the bottom surface of the 2 nd guide 240 on the lower surface thereof, and a contact portion 622 capable of coming into contact with the position detection switch 640 on one side surface in the width direction thereof.

The gear portion 650 has gears 651 to 655, and the gears 651 to 655 are engaged with each other and can convert the rotational motion of the head of the motor 610 into the linear motion of the plunger 620. The gear 651 is engaged with the head of the motor 610. The gear 655 is disposed below the 2 nd guide portion 240 of the housing 202, and is provided with a cam portion 655a that can abut against the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620. Gears 652-654 mesh between gear 651 and gear 655. That is, the cam portion 655a of the gear 655 is rotated by the rotation of the motor 610 through the gears 651 to 654, and the cam portion 655a abuts against and presses the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620, so that the plunger 620 moves from the engagement position to the retracted position against the biasing force of the spring 630.

The position detection switch 640 is disposed at such a position: when the plunger 620 is at the retracted position, it can abut against the abutment portion 622 of the plunger 620. When the plunger 620 abuts against the abutting portion 622, the position detection switch 640 is turned on, and an output signal is output to the control unit 520 of the respiratory component detection unit 500.

As shown in fig. 6, the respiratory component detection unit 500 includes: an alcohol sensor 510; and a control unit 520 for controlling the on/off of the motor 610 based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

The alcohol sensor 510 is a known semiconductor gas sensor, and is configured to: when the patient exhales for a predetermined time (about two seconds), the internal resistance of the sensor changes, and the change in the internal resistance is output as an output signal. That is, when alcohol is contained in breath, the alcohol adheres to a catalyst in the alcohol sensor 510, so that the internal resistance changes greatly. Alcohol attached to the catalyst is combusted and evaporated by heating the sensor.

The control unit 520 uses a microcomputer. The input end of the control unit 520 is connected to the alcohol sensor 510, the position detection switch 640, and the start switch 700', and the output end of the control unit 520 is connected to the motor 610 and the LED lamp. The memory of the control unit 520 stores the alcohol concentration of 0.14mg/L in the breath as a reference value.

That is, the control unit 520 has the following functions: the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510, the measured value is compared with the reference value, and when it is determined that the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value, the motor 610 is driven.

In addition, the memory stores an alcohol concentration measurement program (see fig. 7). The control unit 520 executes the program to realize the above-described functions. The control unit 520 incorporates a timer circuit.

The content of the alcohol concentration measurement program executed by the control unit 520 will be described in detail below, and the operation and the method of use of each part of the vehicle key will be described.

First, in the standby state, it is determined whether or not the start switch 700' is pressed (s 1). At this time, the protruding member 300 is biased by the spring 400 and locked by the lock mechanism 600 (that is, the plunger 620 biased by the spring 630 is engaged with the recess 301 of the protruding member 300 and locked), thereby being held in a protruding state. Therefore, even if the key part 100 is intended to be inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle, only a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key part 100 can be inserted into the keyhole since the tip end portion of the protruding member 300 abuts against an edge portion of the keyhole.

In step 1, when the start switch 700' is pressed, the control unit 520 operates the timer circuit. Further, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned on, and the alcohol sensor 510 is started to be prepared (heated). When the heating is completed, the green LED lamp is turned on as a preparation.

Then, whether or not a predetermined time (here, 6 seconds) has elapsed since the start switch 700' was pressed is determined with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 2). When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed as a result of the determination, the off state of the motor 610 is maintained, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is maintained (s 3). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 10 described later is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined whether the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510 is input (i.e., whether the breath is being exhaled to the alcohol sensor 510) (s 4).

If it is determined that no exhalation has occurred as a result of the determination, the process returns to step 2. On the other hand, when it is determined that the output signal is input and there is breath, the alcohol concentration contained in the breath of the user is measured from the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

Then, the measured value is compared with the reference value stored in the memory, and it is determined whether or not the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., whether or not the alcohol equal to or greater than the reference value is contained in the exhalation of the user) (s 5). If it is determined that the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., the alcohol in the exhaled breath of the user is equal to or greater than the reference value) as a result of the determination, the off state of the motor 610 is maintained, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is maintained (s 6). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 30 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 10 is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the measured value is smaller than the reference value, the green LED lamp is turned on, and the motor 610 is driven. Then, the gears 651 to 655 rotate, and the cam portion 655a of the gear 655 abuts on and presses the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620. The plunger 620 is thereby moved from the engagement position to the retracted position against the biasing force of the spring 630. When the plunger 620 is at the retracted position, the position detection switch 640 is turned on, and outputs an output signal. When the output signal is input, the driving of the motor 610 is stopped and the timing circuit is operated. Thus, the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is released (s 7).

Thus, when the lock is released, the user can insert all of the key portion 100 into the keyhole of the vehicle (see fig. 5). When the key portion 100 is inserted into the key hole, the tip end portion of the protruding member 300 abuts against the edge portion of the key hole, and the protruding member 300 is accommodated in the shank portion 200 against the urging force of the spring 400. This allows the front end portion 110 of the key unit 100 to be inserted into the key hole, and the prime mover of the vehicle to be started.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the lock release with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 8). When the determination result determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the green LED lamp is turned off and the motor 610 is driven. Then, the gears 651 to 655 rotate, and the cam portion 655a of the gear 655 does not abut on the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620. In this way, the plunger 620 moves linearly from the retracted position by the biasing force of the spring 630, and the position detection switch 640 is turned off. When the position detection switch 640 is turned off and the output signal thereof cannot be input, the driving of the motor 610 is stopped. Thereby becoming a state in which the lock of the lock mechanism 600 can be restored (s 9).

In this step 9, when the key portion 100 is not inserted into the key hole, the plunger 620 is fitted into the recess 301 of the protruding member 300, thereby restoring the locking of the lock mechanism 600. When the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is inserted into the key hole, the plunger 620 abuts against the side surface without engaging with the recess 301 of the protruding member 300 because the protruding member 300 is accommodated in the shank 200. When the key portion 100 is pulled out from the keyhole, the protrusion member 300 is moved in a direction protruding from the handle portion 200 by the biasing force of the spring 400. In this process, the plunger 620 is embedded in the recess 301 of the protruding member 300, thereby restoring the locking of the lock mechanism 600.

Then, a standby process is performed to turn off the LED lamp, turn off the alcohol sensor 510, and the like (s10), and the process returns to step 1.

When the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is less than the reference value when using the vehicle key, the protrusion 300 is unlocked, and therefore the protrusion 300 can be pushed into the handle 200 against the biasing force of the spring 400, and the entire distal end portion 110 of the key portion 100 can be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle. On the other hand, when the alcohol concentration in the exhaled breath of the user is equal to or higher than the reference value, the lock of the projecting member 300 is not released and the projecting member is held in a state of projecting along the key section 100, and therefore the entire distal end portion 110 of the key section 100 cannot be inserted into the keyhole of the vehicle, and the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. Thereby effectively preventing drunk driving.

The vehicle key according to embodiments 1 and 2 is insertable into a keyhole of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile, and is used for starting a prime mover of the vehicle, and includes: a key part having a front end portion insertable into a key hole of a vehicle; a shank portion provided at a proximal end portion of the key portion; an insertion prevention unit protruding from the shank portion and thereby preventing the key portion from being inserted into a key hole of a vehicle; and a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user, wherein the insertion prevention unit can be accommodated in the handle portion according to a detection result of the breath component detection unit, and any design change can be made as long as the insertion prevention unit has the above-described structure.

The protrusion 300 may have any shape as long as it can protrude from the shank 200 and prevent the tip 110 of the key portion 100 from being inserted into the keyhole. Therefore, the protrusion member 300 may be provided on the key part 100. For example, a through hole may be provided in the entire longitudinal direction of the key part 100, and the rod-shaped protrusion member 300 may be inserted into the through hole so as to protrude from the tip end of the tip end portion 110 of the key part 100.

Although the lock mechanism 600 has been described by way of example using an electromagnet or a motor, any means may be used as long as the same function can be achieved.

The breath component detection unit 500 includes the alcohol sensor 510 and the control section 520, but may take any form as long as the same function as described above can be achieved. The reference value stored in the memory of the control unit 520 is an exemplary description, and may be set arbitrarily. Further, the reference value may not be set, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 may not be released as long as even a small amount of alcohol is detected by the alcohol sensor 510.

The power switch 700 and the start switch 700' may be provided arbitrarily. At this time, the alcohol sensor 510 needs to be normally open. It is apparent that various switches can be used for the power switch 700 and the start switch 700'.

Example 3

A vehicle key according to embodiment 3 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 8 is a schematic front view of a shank of a vehicle key according to embodiment 3 of the present invention in a perspective state. Fig. 9 is a circuit diagram of the vehicle key. Fig. 10 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

The vehicle key shown in fig. 8 includes: a key unit 100 having a tip end portion 110 insertable into a keyhole of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile (not shown); and a shank portion that slidably holds the base end portion 120 of the key portion 100 and is capable of accommodating at least a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100. Note that the same components as those of the vehicle key of embodiment 1 are not described.

The key part 100 is substantially the same as the key part 100 of embodiment 1, and is different in that convex parts 121 and 121 are provided on both sides of the base end part 120.

The handle 200 is a substantially rectangular case as in example 1, and is different in that guide rails 220, 220 as ribs for slidably holding the base end 120 of the key section 100 are provided. In addition, as in example 1, the handle 200 was provided with: a mounting hole 210 for the key portion 100; an intake hole (not shown) located at a position opposite to the alcohol sensor 510 of the breath component detection unit 500; and a mounting hole (not shown) of the power switch 700.

The handle 200 incorporates therein: springs 400, 400 for urging the key part 100 in the housing direction so that the tip end part 110 cannot be inserted into the key hole; a breath component detection unit 500 for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user; a pressing mechanism 800 capable of protruding the key section 100 against the urging force of the spring 400 so as to be inserted into the keyhole, based on the output signal of the exhalation component detection unit 500; a power switch 700; and a power supply battery not shown.

The springs 400 and 400 are coil springs. These are respectively interposed between the convex portions 121, 121 of the base end portion 120 of the key portion 100 and the inside of one end surface of the shank portion 200, thereby biasing the key portion 100 in the direction of being housed in the shank portion 200.

The pressing mechanism 800 includes: an electromagnet 810 that can be excited according to the detection result of the exhalation component detection unit 500; and a plunger 820 connected to the electromagnet 810 and pressing the base end 120 of the key section 110 in the protruding direction. Specifically, as shown in fig. 8(a), in a state where the electromagnet 810 is not excited, the plunger 820 is retracted, and a part of the tip portion 110 of the key portion 100 is housed in the shank 200. On the other hand, when the electromagnet 810 is excited according to the detection result of the exhalation component detecting unit 500, as shown in fig. 8(b), the plunger 820 is projected and the base end portion 120 of the key portion 100 is pressed, so that the entire distal end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is held in a state of being projected and inserted into the key hole.

The power switch 700 uses the same switch as in embodiment 1.

As shown in fig. 9, the respiratory component detection unit 500 includes: an alcohol sensor 510; and a control unit 520 for controlling the excitation of the electromagnet 810 based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510. The alcohol sensor 510 used was the same device as in example 1.

The control unit 520 uses the same one-chip microcomputer as in embodiment 1. The control unit 520 is connected to the electromagnet 810.

Therefore, the control unit 520 has the following functions: the carbon dioxide in the exhalation of the user is detected based on the output signal of the 2 nd gas sensor 512 to determine whether the user exhales, the alcohol concentration in the exhalation of the user is measured based on the output signal of the 1 st gas sensor 511, the measured value is compared with the reference value, and the electromagnet 810 is excited when the measured value does not exceed the reference value as a result.

In addition, the memory stores an alcohol concentration measuring program (fig. 10) that is operated by pressing the power switch 700, instead of the alcohol concentration measuring program in fig. 3. The control unit 520 executes the program to realize the above-described functions.

The control unit 520 incorporates a timer circuit that is set to be turned off after a predetermined time has elapsed since the power switch 700 was pressed.

The operation of each part of the vehicle key configured as described above will be described below, and the method of use will be described below.

First, in the off state, the key portion 100 is biased by the springs 400 and 400, and thus a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is held in the state of being accommodated in the shank 200. Therefore, even if the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is intended to be inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle, the entire tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 cannot be inserted into the keyhole.

When the user rides on the vehicle, the power switch 700 is pressed. Then, the control unit 520 operates the alcohol concentration measurement routine shown in fig. 10 and operates the timing circuit.

Then, it is determined whether or not carbon dioxide is detected based on the output signal of the 2 nd gas sensor 512 (S10). That is, it is determined whether the user exhales toward the alcohol sensor 510 of the handle 200.

As a result, if it is determined that the breath is not present, the process of step 10 is repeated, and if it is determined that the breath is present, the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the 1 st gas sensor 511, and it is determined whether or not the alcohol concentration is equal to or greater than the reference value (S11).

As a result, when it is determined that the alcohol concentration is equal to or less than the reference value, the electromagnet 810 is excited, and the plunger 820 presses the key section 100, thereby holding the entire distal end portion 110 of the key section 100 in a state in which it is projected and can be inserted into the key hole (S12). Then, the processing of the program is ended.

In this way, when the entire distal end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is kept protruding, the user can insert the key portion 100 into the keyhole, and thus the prime mover of the vehicle can be started.

On the other hand, in step 11, when it is determined that the alcohol concentration is equal to or higher than the reference value, the operation of the routine is terminated. That is, since the electromagnet 810 is kept in the non-excited state and a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is kept in the state of being housed in the shank portion 200, the user cannot start the prime mover of the vehicle.

In steps 10 to 12, the timer circuit operates and turns off when a predetermined time has elapsed. Specifically, when the power switch 700 is pressed, if the alcohol sensor 510 is not exhaled for a predetermined time, the state becomes off. In step 12, after the plunger 820 is pushed and the entire distal end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is projected and can be inserted into the keyhole, the state is turned off when a predetermined time has elapsed. In this way, since the electromagnet 810 is not excited, the plunger 820 is retracted, and a part of the tip portion 110 of the key section 100 is accommodated in the grip 200 again. Thus, the alcohol measurement is performed immediately before driving. In addition, by turning off the switch for a predetermined time in this manner, power can be saved.

When the key unit 100 is inserted into the keyhole (i.e., during driving), the key unit is turned off when a predetermined time has elapsed as described above. At this time, since the electromagnet 810 is in the non-excited state, even if the plunger 820 tries to retreat, since the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is held in the keyhole, a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is not accommodated in the shank portion 200.

When the user pulls out the key from the keyhole after the driving is finished, the key portion 100 is biased by the springs 400 and 400, and therefore, a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is accommodated in the shank portion 200.

When the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is equal to or lower than the reference value when using such a vehicle key, the electromagnet 810 is excited, and the plunger 820 presses the base end portion 120 of the key portion 100 against the biasing force of the springs 400 and 400, whereby the entire front end portion 110 of the key portion 100 can be projected and inserted into the keyhole of the vehicle. On the other hand, when the alcohol concentration in the exhaled breath of the user is equal to or higher than the reference value, the electromagnet 810 is not excited, the plunger 820 retracts, and a part of the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 remains housed in the grip portion 200, so that the entire tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 cannot be inserted into the key hole of the vehicle, and the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. Therefore, drunk driving can be effectively prevented.

The key for a vehicle according to embodiment 3 is a key that can be inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile to start a prime mover of the vehicle, and includes: a key part with a front end part capable of being inserted into a key hole of a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle and an automobile; a shank slidably holding a base end portion of the key portion and capable of accommodating at least a part of the base end portion of the key portion; a holding unit that holds the key portion in a state of being housed in the shank portion; a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol contained in breath of a user; and a protrusion unit that protrudes the entire front end portion of the key section so as to be insertable into the key hole, based on a detection result of the breath component detection unit. Any design change may be made as long as it has the above-described structure.

The pressing mechanism 800 includes: pressing the plunger 820 of the key part 100; and an electromagnet 810 for linearly moving the plunger 820, but any means may be used as long as the same function can be achieved. For example, the plunger 820 may be linearly moved by a motor or the like.

The arrangement of the spring 400 is arbitrary. That is, at least the key section 100 may be slidably provided on the handle section 200. At this time, the key portion 100 needs to be provided on the shank 200 in such a manner that: the key portion 100 is accommodated in the shank portion 200 by a pressing force when the key portion 100 is inserted into the keyhole.

The breath component detection unit 500 includes the alcohol sensor 510 and the control section 520, but may take any form as long as the same function as described above can be achieved. The reference value stored in the memory of the control unit 520 is an exemplary description, and may be set arbitrarily. The pressing mechanism 800 may be configured not to operate unless the alcohol sensor 510 detects even a small amount of alcohol without setting the reference value.

The power switch 700 and the start switch 700' may be provided arbitrarily. At this time, the alcohol sensor 510 needs to be normally open. It is apparent that various switches can be used for the power switch 700 and the start switch 700'.

Example 4

A vehicle key according to embodiment 4 of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 11 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 4 of the present invention. Fig. 12 is a flowchart of the alcohol concentration measurement routine.

A vehicle key shown in fig. 11 is used for outputting a start permission signal to a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile, and includes: a signal output unit 900 for outputting the start permission signal; a breath component detection unit 500 for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user; and a prevention unit that prevents the signal output unit from outputting the start permission signal to the vehicle based on a detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit.

The signal output unit 900 is for outputting a start permission signal such as radio waves or infrared rays to an antenna or a receiving end provided in the vehicle. Such as an engine immobilizer (immobilizer), etc.

The start switch 700' uses the same switch as in embodiment 2.

The breath component detection unit 500 includes: an alcohol sensor 510; and a control unit 520 for controlling the on/off of the signal output unit 900 according to the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510. The control unit 520 functions as a prevention unit. In addition, the alcohol sensor 510 used was the same as that used in example 2.

The control unit 520 uses a single chip microcomputer, and has an input terminal connected to the alcohol sensor 510 and the start switch 700', and an output terminal connected to the alcohol sensor 510 and the signal output unit 900. The memory of the control unit 520 stores the same reference values as those in embodiments 1 and 2.

That is, the control unit 520 has the following functions: the alcohol concentration in the user's breath is measured according to the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510, the measured value is compared with the reference value, and as a result, the signal output unit 900 is turned off when the measured value exceeds the reference value.

In addition, the memory stores an alcohol concentration measurement program shown in fig. 12. The control unit 520 executes the alcohol concentration measuring program to realize the above-described function. The control unit 520 incorporates a timer circuit.

The operation of the control unit 520 of the vehicle key configured as above will be described, and a method of use will be described.

In the standby state, it is determined whether or not the start switch 700' is pressed (s 1). At this time, the signal output unit 900 is in an off state. And therefore cannot start the prime mover of the vehicle.

In step 1, when the start switch 700' is pressed, the control unit 520 operates the timer circuit. Further, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned on, and the alcohol sensor 510 is started to be prepared (heated). When the heating is completed, the green LED lamp is turned on as a preparation.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 6 seconds) has elapsed since the start switch 700' was pressed, with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 2). When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed as a result of the determination, the off state of signal output section 900 is maintained (s 3). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 10 described later is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined whether the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510 is input (i.e., whether the breath is exhaled to the alcohol sensor 510) (s 4).

If it is determined that no exhalation has occurred as a result of the determination, the process returns to step 2. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is an input of the output signal and there is breath, the alcohol concentration contained in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

Then, the measured value is compared with the reference value stored in the memory, and it is determined whether or not the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., whether or not the alcohol equal to or greater than the reference value is contained in the exhalation of the user) (s 5). When the determination result determines that the measurement value is equal to or greater than the reference value (that is, the alcohol in the exhalation of the user is equal to or greater than the reference value), the off state of the signal output unit 900 is maintained (s 6). Then, the standby process of step 10 is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the measured value is smaller than the reference value, the green LED lamp is turned on while the signal output unit 900 is operated. Thereby, the signal output unit 900 outputs the start permission signal to the vehicle so that the prime mover of the vehicle can be started.

Then, referring to the count value of the timer circuit, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 30 seconds) has elapsed since signal output section 900 was in the operating state (s 8). When the determination result determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the green LED lamp is turned off and the signal output unit 900 is turned off (s 9).

Then, a standby process is performed to turn off the LED lamp, turn off the alcohol sensor 510, and the like (s10), and the process returns to step 1.

When the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is equal to or lower than the reference value when using the vehicle key, the signal output unit 900 is set to the operating state. On the other hand, when the alcohol concentration in the exhaled breath of the user is equal to or higher than the reference value, the signal output unit 900 is turned off, and therefore, the user cannot start the motor of the vehicle. Thereby effectively preventing drunk driving.

Example 5

Next, a vehicle key according to embodiment 5 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 13 is a schematic view of a vehicle key according to embodiment 5 of the present invention, where (a) is a view showing a state where a signal of a signal output unit is shielded, (b) is a view showing a state where a start permission signal of the signal output unit is not shielded, fig. 14 is a block diagram of the vehicle key, fig. 15 is a flowchart of an alcohol concentration measurement routine, fig. 16 is a view showing a design modification of a shielding unit of the vehicle key, (a) is a view showing a shielding unit that rotates in accordance with driving of a motor, (b) is a view showing a shielding unit that moves in a longitudinal direction of a handle in accordance with driving of the motor, and (c) is a view showing a pair of shielding units that cover the signal output unit in accordance with driving of the motor.

A vehicle key shown in fig. 13 is used for outputting a start permission signal to a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or a car, and for starting a prime mover of the vehicle, and includes: a signal output unit 900 for outputting the start permission signal; a breath component detection unit 500 for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user; a prevention unit 1000 that prevents the signal output unit 900 from outputting a start permission signal to the vehicle based on the detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit 500; and a handle 200 in which an exhalation component detection unit 500, a signal output unit 900, a prevention unit 1000, a power supply battery, an LED lamp, and the like are incorporated. The following describes each part in detail.

The handle 200 is a rectangular case, and a portion opposite to the output port of the signal output unit 900 is formed as an opening, in which the transparent plate 210 is mounted. The handle 200 is provided with a mounting hole, not shown, for exposing the start switch 700' or the LED lamp, in addition to the opening. The handle 200 is provided with a guide 220, and the guide 220 guides the shielding unit 1100 of the preventing unit 1000 to be linearly movable. The guide part 220 is a cylindrical body having an open upper surface, and one end thereof is open. This enables the front end of the shielding unit 1100 to protrude. Further, a groove, not shown, is provided along the longitudinal direction on the lower surface of the guide portion 220. The groove portion is a groove for fitting the shielding plate 1110 and the convex portion 1120 of the shielding unit 1100 of the preventing unit 1000, and one end portion thereof is opened so that the shielding plate 1110 can protrude.

The signal output unit 900 is a signal output device for outputting a start permission signal such as radio waves or infrared rays to an antenna or a receiving end provided in a vehicle. Such as an engine immobilizer system, etc.

The preventing unit 1000 includes: a shielding unit 1100 that is guided by the guide portion 220 of the handle 200 and linearly moves from a shielding position at which it is possible to shield the signal output unit 900 from outputting the start permission signal to the vehicle to a retracted position at which it is impossible to shield the signal output unit 900 from outputting the start permission signal to the vehicle; a spring 1200 embedded in the guide 220 for urging the shielding unit 1100 to the shielding position; a drive unit 1400 (motor) that moves the shielding unit 1100 from the engagement position to the retracted position via the gear portion 1300 based on the detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit 500; and a position detection switch 1500 that is in an on state when the shielding unit 1100 is in the retracted position.

The shielding unit 1100 is a rod-shaped member, and a shielding plate 1110 for shielding the start permission signal of the signal output unit 900 is provided at the tip end portion thereof. As the material of the shielding plate 1110, for example, a ferromagnetic iron-nickel alloy (permalloy) which is easy to machine is used. The shielding plate 1110 moves into and out of the groove of the guide part 220 according to the movement of the shielding unit 1100. At the rear end of the shielding unit 1100, a convex portion 1120 that is movably fitted into the groove portion of the guide portion 220 is provided on the lower surface, and an abutting portion 1130 that can abut against the position detection switch 1500 is provided on one side surface in the width direction.

The gear part 1300 has gears 1310 to 1350, and the gears 1310 to 1350 are engaged with each other to convert the rotational motion of the head of the driving unit 1400 into the linear motion of the shielding unit 1100. The gear 1310 is engaged with the head of the driving unit 1400. The gear 1350 is disposed below the guide portion 220 of the handle 200, and is provided with a cam portion 1351 that can abut against the convex portion 1120 of the shield unit 1100. Gears 1320-1340 mesh between gear 1310 and gear 1350. That is, by the rotation of the driving unit 1400, the cam portion 1351 of the gear 1350 is rotated by the gears 1310 to 1340, and the cam portion 1351 abuts against and presses the convex portion 1120 of the shielding unit 1100, so that the shielding unit 1100 moves from the shielding position to the retracted position against the biasing force of the spring 1200.

The position detection switch 1500 is disposed at such a position: when the shielding unit 1100 is at the retracted position, it can abut against the abutting portion 1130 of the shielding unit 1100. When the position detection switch 1500 abuts against the abutting portion 1130 of the mask unit 1100, it is turned on, and outputs an output signal to the control unit 520 of the respiratory component detection unit 500.

As shown in fig. 14, the respiratory component detection unit 500 includes: an alcohol sensor 510; and a control unit 520 for controlling the driving unit 1400 to be turned on/off according to an output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

The alcohol sensor 510 is a known semiconductor gas sensor, and is configured to: when the patient exhales for a predetermined time (about two seconds), the internal resistance of the sensor changes, and the change in the internal resistance is output as an output signal. That is, when alcohol is contained in breath, the alcohol adheres to a catalyst in the alcohol sensor 510, and the internal resistance changes greatly. The alcohol attached to the catalyst is combusted and evaporated by heating the alcohol sensor 510.

The control unit 520 uses a microcomputer. An alcohol sensor 510, a position detection switch 640, and a start switch 700' are connected to an input end of the control unit 520, and a motor 610 and an LED lamp are connected to an output end of the control unit 520. The memory of the control unit 520 stores the alcohol concentration of 0.14mg/L in the expired air as a reference value.

That is, the control unit 520 has the following functions: the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510, the measured value is compared with the reference value, and when it is determined that the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value, the motor 610 is driven.

In addition, the memory stores an alcohol concentration measurement program (see fig. 15). The control unit 520 executes the program to realize the above-described functions. The control unit 520 incorporates a timer circuit.

The content of the alcohol concentration measurement program executed by the control unit 520 will be described in detail below, and the operation and the method of use of each part of the vehicle key will be described.

First, in the standby state, it is determined whether or not the start switch 700' is pressed (s 1). At this time, the shielding unit 1100 is biased by the spring 1200 and is in the shielding position. Therefore, the start permission signal output from the signal output unit 900 is shielded by the shielding plate 1110 of the shielding unit 1100. Therefore, the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started.

In step 1, when the start switch 700' is pressed, the control unit 520 operates the timer circuit. Then, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned on, and the alcohol sensor 510 is started to be prepared (heated). When the heating is completed, the green LED lamp is turned on as a preparation.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 6 seconds) has elapsed since the start switch 700' was pressed, with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 2). When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed as a result of the determination, the off state of the driving unit 1400 is maintained, and the shielding unit 1100 is maintained in the shielding position (s 3). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 10 described later is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined whether the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510 is input (i.e., whether the breath is being exhaled to the alcohol sensor 510) (s 4).

If it is determined that no exhalation has occurred as a result of the determination, the process returns to step 2. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is an input of the output signal and there is breath, the alcohol concentration contained in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

Then, the measured value is compared with the reference value stored in the memory, and it is determined whether or not the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., whether or not the alcohol in the exhalation of the user is equal to or greater than the reference value) (s 5). When the determination result determines that the measurement value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., the alcohol in the exhalation of the user is equal to or greater than the reference value), the off state of the driving unit 1400 is maintained, and the shielding unit 1100 is maintained in the shielding position (s 6). Then, the standby process of step 10 is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the measured value is smaller than the reference value, the green LED lamp is turned on, and the driving unit 1400 is driven. Thus, the gears 1310 to 1350 rotate, and the cam portion 1351 of the gear 1350 abuts against and presses the convex portion 1120 of the shielding unit 1100. Accordingly, the shielding unit 1100 moves from the shielding position to the retracted position against the biasing force of the spring 1200. When the shielding unit 1100 is at the retracted position, the position detection switch 1500 becomes on, and outputs an output signal. When the output signal is input, the driving of the driving unit 1400 is stopped, and the timing circuit is operated. Thus, the signal output unit 900 is in a state where the start permission signal can be output to the vehicle (s 7). Therefore, by outputting the start permission signal of the signal output unit 900 to the vehicle, the user can start the motor of the vehicle.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the lock release with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 8). When the determination result determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the driving unit 1400 is driven while turning off the green LED lamp. Then, the gears 1310 to 1350 rotate, and the cam portion 1351 of the gear 1350 does not abut on the convex portion 1120 of the shielding unit 1100. In this way, the shielding unit 1100 moves linearly from the retracted position to the shielding position by the biasing force of the spring 1200. Thereby, the position detection switch 640 is turned off, and when the output signal of the detection switch 640 is not inputted, the driving of the shielding unit 1100 is stopped. Thereby, the signal output means 900 can be restored to be able to output the start permission signal to the vehicle and be shielded by the shielding means 1100 (s 9).

Then, a standby process is performed to turn off the LED lamp, turn off the alcohol sensor 510, and the like (s10), and the process returns to step 1.

When such a vehicle key is used, the signal output unit 900 can output the start permission signal when the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is less than the reference value, and thus the prime mover of the vehicle can be started. On the other hand, when the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is equal to or higher than the reference value, the signal output unit 900 is kept in a state of being shielded from the output of the start permission signal to the vehicle by the shielding unit 1100, and therefore the start permission signal of the signal output unit 900 cannot be output to the vehicle. That is, the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. Thereby effectively preventing drunk driving.

The vehicle key according to embodiments 4 and 5 is used for outputting a start permission signal to a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or a car to start or bring a prime mover of the vehicle into a startable state, and includes: a signal output unit for outputting the signal; a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol contained in breath of a user; and a prevention unit that prevents the signal output unit from outputting the start permission signal to the vehicle based on a detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit. Any design change may be made as long as it has the above-described structure. That is, as described above, the present invention can be applied not only to a vehicle in which the prime mover is started by the start permission signal of the signal output means, but also to a vehicle in which the prime mover is started by pressing a start button or the like provided in the vehicle after the prime mover is set to a startable state by the start permission signal.

The preventing unit 1000 may take any form as long as it can prevent the signal output unit 900 from outputting the start permission signal to the vehicle. For example, the signal output unit 900 may be rotated to output a start permission signal of the signal output unit to a portion other than the plate 210 of the handle 200.

The shielding unit 1100 is a rod-shaped member having a shielding plate 1110 at its distal end, but may be of any form as long as it is configured to shield the start permission signal of the signal output unit. For example, as shown in fig. 16(a), a cylindrical shielding unit 1100 made of ferromagnetic iron-nickel alloy or the like may be used, and the signal output unit 900 may be covered by rotating the shielding unit 1100 by driving the motor 610. As shown in fig. 16(b), the cylindrical shielding unit 1100 may be moved in the longitudinal direction of the handle to cover the signal output unit 900. At this time, since the output portion of the signal output unit 900 is always shielded, it is necessary to strengthen the signal of the signal output unit 900. As shown in fig. 16(c), a shielding unit 1100 having: a 1 st shielding part 1101 fixed to the handle 200 or the like, and a 2 nd shielding part 1102 covering the signal output unit 900 and a part of the 1 st shielding part 1101 in accordance with driving of the motor 610.

The breath component detection unit 500 includes the alcohol sensor 510 and the control section 520, but may take any form as long as the same function as described above can be achieved. The reference value stored in the memory of the control unit 520 is an exemplary description, and may be set arbitrarily. Further, the following configuration may be adopted: if the alcohol sensor 510 detects even a small amount of alcohol without setting the reference value, the signal output unit 900 is not turned on or the driving unit 1400 of the prevention unit 1000 is not operated.

The setting of the start switch 700' is arbitrary. At this time, the alcohol sensor 510 needs to be normally open. It is apparent that various switches can be used for the power switch 700 and the start switch 700'.

Example 6

Next, a vehicle key according to embodiment 6 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 17 is a block diagram of a vehicle key according to embodiment 6 of the present invention. Fig. 18 is a flowchart of an authentication determination/alcohol determination routine.

The vehicle key shown in fig. 17 has substantially the same configuration as the vehicle key of embodiment 2, and is different in that it includes a sensor unit 2000 that reads the physical characteristics of the user. Hereinafter, the difference will be described in detail, and the description of the overlapping portions will be omitted.

As the sensing unit 2000, for example, an imaging unit such as a fingerprint authentication sensor, a camera for reading a blood vessel pattern, iris, appearance, signature, or the like, a voice detection unit for detecting flesh sound (voice) of a user, or the like can be used. That is, the sensing unit 2000 detects physical characteristics of the user (reading a fingerprint, a blood vessel pattern, an iris, a shape, and a signature of the user, or flesh (voice) of the user) as sensing data to be output to the control section 520 of the exhalation composition detecting unit 500.

The input terminal of the control unit 520 is connected to the sensing unit 2000. In the memory of the control unit 520, an authentication determination program and an alcohol determination program as shown in fig. 18 are recorded instead of the alcohol concentration measurement program. In the memory, reference data of physical characteristics of the user himself (for example, image data of a fingerprint, a blood vessel pattern, an iris, a shape and a signature, voice data of flesh sound of the user, and the like) is recorded in advance. This reference data is read by the sensor unit 2000 at the time of initial setting and recorded in the memory. The control unit 520 performs the alcohol determination and the authentication determination by processing the authentication determination and the alcohol determination program.

The following describes in detail the contents of the authentication determination and alcohol determination program executed by the control unit 520, and the operation and use method of each part of the vehicle key.

First, in the standby state, it is determined whether or not the start switch 700' is pressed (s 1). At this time, the protruding member 300 is biased by the spring 400 and locked by the lock mechanism 600 (that is, the plunger 620 biased by the spring 630 is engaged with the recess 301 of the protruding member 300 and locked), thereby maintaining the protruding state (see fig. 4). Therefore, even if the key part 100 is intended to be inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle, only a part of the tip end part 110 of the key part 100 can be inserted into the keyhole because the tip end part of the protruding member 300 abuts against an edge part of the keyhole.

In step 1, when the start switch 700' is pressed, the sensor unit 2000 is turned on, and at the same time, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned on, so that the alcohol sensor 510 starts to be prepared (heated) (s 2). When the heating is completed, the green LED lamp is turned on as a preparation. At the same time, the timing circuit is operated.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 6 seconds) has elapsed since the start switch 700' was pressed, with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 3). When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed as a result of the determination, the off state of the motor 610 is maintained, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is maintained (s 4). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. At the same time, the timing circuit is turned off. Then, the standby process of step 16 described later is performed, and the process returns to step 1.

When it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed as a result of the determination in step 3, it is determined whether or not the sensing data of sensing section 2000 is input (s 5). If the determination result indicates that no input has been made, the process returns to step 3, and if it is determined that an input has been made, detection data (for example, image data of a user's fingerprint, blood vessel pattern, iris, appearance, and signature, voice data of the user, and the like) is generated from the sensing data, and the detection data is compared with the reference data in the memory, thereby performing authentication determination as to whether the user is the user himself or herself (s 6). When the result of the authentication determination is that the user is not the user, the off state of the motor 610 is maintained and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is maintained (s 7). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. Then, the standby processing of step 16 is performed, and the process returns to step 1.

When the authentication determination result in step 6 is that the user is the user, the green LED lamp is turned on as the authentication is passed. At the same time, the reset timer circuit refers to the count value of the timer circuit to determine whether a predetermined time (1-2 seconds) has elapsed since the authentication determination (s 8). The predetermined time is a time to the extent that, after the authentication determination is made, a person other than the user cannot make an alcohol determination, which will be described later, in place of the user. When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed as a result of the determination, the off state of the motor 610 is maintained, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is maintained (s 9). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. At the same time, the timing circuit is turned off. Then, the standby processing of step 16 is performed, and the process returns to step 1.

When it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed as a result of the determination in step 8, it is determined whether or not the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510 is input (i.e., whether or not the exhalation has been performed on the alcohol sensor 510) (s 10). If it is determined that there is no exhalation as a result of the determination, the process returns to step 8. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is an input of the output signal and there is breath, the alcohol concentration contained in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

Then, the measured value is compared with the reference value stored in the memory, and it is determined whether or not the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., whether or not the alcohol equal to or greater than the reference value is contained in the exhalation of the user) (s 11). If the result of the determination is that the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (that is, the alcohol equal to or greater than the reference value is contained in the exhalation of the user), the off state of the motor 610 is maintained, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is maintained (s 12). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 30 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 15 is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the measured value is smaller than the reference value, the green LED lamp is turned on and the motor 610 is driven at the same time. Then, the gears 651 to 655 rotate, and the cam portion 655a of the gear 655 abuts on and presses the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620. Accordingly, the plunger 620 moves from the engagement position to the retracted position against the biasing force of the spring 630. When the plunger 620 is at the retreat position, the position detection switch 640 becomes on state, and outputs an output signal. When the output signal is input, the driving of the motor 610 is stopped and the timing circuit is operated. Thus, the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is released (s 13).

Thus, when the lock is released, the user can insert all of the key portion 100 into the keyhole (see fig. 5) of the vehicle. When the key portion 100 is inserted into the keyhole, the tip end portion of the protruding member 300 in the protruding state abuts against the edge portion of the keyhole, and the protruding member 300 is accommodated in the shank portion 200 against the urging force of the spring 400. This allows the front end portion 110 of the key unit 100 to be inserted into the key hole, and the prime mover of the vehicle to be started.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 30 seconds) has elapsed since the lock release with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 14). When the determination result determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the green LED lamp is turned off and the motor 610 is driven. Then, the gears 651 to 655 rotate, and the cam portion 655a of the gear 655 does not abut on the convex portion 621 of the plunger 620. In this way, the plunger 620 moves linearly from the retracted position by the biasing force of the spring 630, and the position detection switch 640 is turned off. When the position detection switch 640 is in the off state and the output signal cannot be input, the driving of the motor 610 is stopped. This returns the lock of the lock mechanism 600 (s 15).

In step 15, when the key portion 100 is not inserted into the key hole, the plunger 620 is fitted into the recess 301 of the protruding member 300, thereby restoring the locking of the lock mechanism 600. On the other hand, when the tip end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is inserted into the keyhole, the plunger 620 abuts against the side surface without engaging with the recess 301 of the protruding member 300 because the protruding member 300 is accommodated in the shank portion 200. When the key portion 100 is pulled out from the keyhole, the protrusion member 300 is moved in a direction protruding from the shank portion 200 by the biasing force of the spring 400. In this process, the plunger 620 is embedded in the recess 301 of the protruding member 300, thereby restoring the locking of the lock mechanism 600.

Then, the LED lamp is turned off, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned off, and the process waits for the process (s16), and the process returns to step 1.

When such a vehicle key is used, the same effects as those of embodiment 2 can be obtained. Further, since the alcohol sensor has a sensor unit that reads the physical characteristics of the user and performs the alcohol determination after performing the authentication determination based on the sensing data of the sensor unit, it is possible to suppress the unauthorized use in which the lock of the lock mechanism 600 is unfairly released by a person other than the user who exhales into the alcohol sensor instead of the user. In addition, since the key for the vehicle cannot be used by a person other than the user, the vehicle can be prevented from being stolen by using the key, and the security function is provided.

In particular, when a voice detection unit or an imaging unit (iris camera) for reading an iris is used as the sensing unit 2000, the user himself or herself must exhale the alcohol sensor 510 for a predetermined time (1 to 2 seconds) after the voice detection unit detects a voice uttered by the user himself or after the iris of the user is imaged by the camera. That is, since a person other than the user cannot exhale the alcohol sensor 510 instead of the user, it is possible to prevent the lock of the lock mechanism 600 from being unfairly released. In this case, a microphone or the like having directivity for collecting only a sound in a predetermined direction is used as the sound detection means. The sensitivity of the microphone is such that: sound collection is possible for sound at a distance (approximately 1cm to 20cm) between the microcomputer and a sound generation source (i.e., a mouth). By using such a directional microphone, the following becomes impossible: in a state where a person other than the user holds the key for the vehicle and intends to exhale the alcohol sensor 510, the voice detection means detects the voice of the user by the user sounding the voice around the person other than the user, and the control unit 520 performs the authentication determination.

Further, although the control unit 520 performs the authentication determination and then performs the alcohol determination within the predetermined time, the authentication determination and the alcohol determination may be performed simultaneously, or the authentication determination may be performed within the predetermined time after the alcohol determination is performed. Further, the control unit 520 may be configured to have the following functions: when the result of the authentication determination is that the user is the user himself, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned on. Thus, even if a design change is made, the same effect as described above can be basically obtained. The authentication determination may be repeated a plurality of times when the user is determined not to be the user. In addition, it is desirable that: the memory may record, as the reference data, not only the physical characteristics of one person but also the physical characteristics of a plurality of persons of the user. However, it is desirable that: the reference data is recorded in the memory not by the user but only in a shop or the like where the vehicle key is sold. In addition, when the fingerprint authentication sensor is used, the sensor can be used in place of the power switch or the start switch.

In addition, the sensing unit 2000 may not be provided on the handle 200. That is, only the sensor unit 2000 is separately provided and connected to the vehicle key through a wireless or wired communication line.

The vehicle key according to embodiment 6 has the configuration in which the vehicle key according to embodiment 2 includes the sensor unit 2000, and this is described, but the vehicle key according to embodiment 1, 3, 4, or 5 may include the sensor unit 2000. Of course, the same program as the authentication determination program or the alcohol determination program may be used as the program to be run by the control unit 520.

Example 7

Next, a vehicle key according to embodiment 7 of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, fig. 19 is a schematic view showing another housing of the vehicle key according to embodiment 7 of the present invention, fig. 20 is a block diagram of the vehicle key, fig. 21 is a flowchart of a riding program, fig. 22 is a view showing a design modification of the vehicle key, (a) is a view showing a state where a key unit and a signal output unit are opened, and (b) is a view showing a state where the key unit and the signal output unit are stored.

The vehicle key shown in fig. 19 and 20 has basically the same configuration as the vehicle key of embodiment 2, and is different in that it includes: a position detection unit 3000 for detecting that the protrusion member 300 is housed in the housing 202 of the handle 200; a storage section 4000 for recording the detection result of the position detection unit 3000; and an output unit 5000 for outputting the data of the storage unit 4000 to the outside. Hereinafter, the difference will be described in detail, and redundant description will be omitted.

A position detection switch is used as the position detection unit 3000. The position detection unit 3000 is disposed at a position: when the projecting member 300 is entirely housed in the housing 202 of the handle 200, the position detection unit 3000 can abut against a part of the projecting member 300. The position detection unit 3000 is brought into an open state by being brought into contact with a part of the protruding member 300, and outputs an output signal to the control unit 520 of the respiratory component detection unit 500. By detecting the storage position of the protruding member 300 in this way, it is detected that the user is riding in the vehicle.

The storage section 4000 records data in accordance with the command of the control section 520. The storage 4000 stores an event indicating that the output signal of the position detection unit 3000 has been input (i.e., indicating the time when the user is riding in the vehicle) and the time of the event.

The control unit 520 uses a microcomputer having a built-in clock unit 521 for measuring time. The control unit 520 has an input terminal connected to the position detection unit 3000 and the storage unit 4000, and an output terminal connected to the storage unit 4000 and the output unit 5000. The control unit 520 has the following functions: when the output signal of the position detection unit 3000 is input, this event is recorded in the storage portion 4000 as the user is riding in the vehicle, and the current time is recorded in the storage portion 4000 with reference to the clock portion 521. The riding record program shown in fig. 21 is recorded in the memory of the control unit 520. The control unit 520 performs the above-described functions by running the ride record program.

The output unit 5000 is an output terminal. That is, by connecting a computer or the like to the output unit 5000, data recorded in the storage unit 4000 can be read.

The contents of the ride record program executed by the control unit 520 will be described in detail below, and the operations of the respective units will be described. First, in the standby state, it is determined whether or not the output signal of position detecting section 3000 is input (s 1). That is, it is determined whether the user is riding in the vehicle. The front end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is inserted into a key hole, and the front end portion 110 of the key portion 100 is accommodated in the case 202 of the handle portion 200 (that is, the user is riding in the vehicle) by abutment of the protruding member 300 with an edge portion of the key hole, and at this time, a part of the protruding member 300 accommodated in the case 202 of the handle portion 200 abuts against the position detection unit 3000, whereby the position detection unit 3000 is turned on and outputs an output signal. In this way, when it is determined in step 1 that the output signal of the position detection unit 3000 is input, the fact that the output signal has been input is recorded in the storage section 4000 as the fact that the user is riding in the vehicle, and the current time is recorded in the storage section 4000 with reference to the clock section 521 (s 2). Then, the process returns to step 1, and the process is repeated.

The data (input of the output signal of position detection section 3000 and history of the time) thus recorded in storage section 4000 is output to the outside through output section 5000 every predetermined period.

When such a vehicle key is used, the history of the user riding in the vehicle and the time of the riding are recorded in the storage unit 4000. Therefore, if the data in the storage unit 4000 is outputted to the outside at predetermined intervals, the data can be used for operation management because the data is data of the user riding the vehicle.

In addition, the position detection unit 3000 is a position detection switch, but any device may be used as long as the same function can be achieved. The output unit 5000 may be a communication unit that sequentially transmits data in the storage unit 4000 to a management center, not shown.

The vehicle key of the above embodiment may have other devices. As other devices, include: a GPS transmitter; a charging circuit for charging a battery for a power supply; a remote-controlled door lock mechanism for remotely operating a door lock by outputting a signal to a vehicle.

When a GPS transmitter is provided, the GPS receiver can be used for position detection for detecting the position of a vehicle key holder or for managing the operation of a vehicle associated with a vehicle key by receiving a GPS signal from the GPS transmitter by a GPS satellite or the like.

When a charging circuit is provided, for example, an AC adapter is connected to the charging circuit, whereby a battery for a power supply can be charged. At this time, the remaining capacity of the power supply battery is detected, and when the detected value is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the user can be notified by lighting an LED lamp or the like.

In the above-described embodiment, the breath component detection means has been described as having an alcohol sensor for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user, but the alcohol sensor may be replaced with a drug sensor for detecting a drug such as anesthetic or denafil water. Of course, a structure having both an alcohol sensor and a drug sensor is also possible.

The vehicle key according to embodiment 1, 2 or 3 and the vehicle key according to embodiment 4 or 5 may be combined. For example, as shown in fig. 22, a signal output unit 900 is provided at the base end portion 120 of the key portion 100, and the base end portion 120 is rotatably held in the shank portion 200. A screw groove engaged with the gear portion is formed in the rotating shaft 121 of the base end portion 120, and the motor 610 is connected to the gear. That is, the control unit 520 drives the motor 610 in accordance with the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510, thereby rotating the key unit 100 around the rotating shaft 121 of the base end portion 120, and in accordance with this rotation, the tip end portion 110 of the key unit 100 moves from a position (see fig. 22 b) housed in the handle 200 to a position (see fig. 22 a) protruding from the handle 200, and the output port of the signal output unit 900 moves from a position facing the inside of the handle 200 (see fig. 22 b) to a position facing the outside (see fig. 22 a). In this case, the motor 610 functions as a holding means and a protruding means.

It is needless to say that the vehicle key in combination with the above-described embodiment may be combined with embodiments 6 and 7.

Example 8

The following describes an after-drinking driving prevention device according to embodiment 8 of the present invention with reference to the drawings. Fig. 23 is a schematic diagram of the drunk driving prevention device according to embodiment 8 of the present invention, and fig. 24 is a flowchart of an alcohol concentration measurement routine.

The drunk driving prevention device shown in fig. 23 is mounted on a vehicle 10 such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile, and has a configuration substantially similar to that of the vehicle key of embodiment 2. The difference is in the shape of the handle 200, and the insertion prevention unit is an insertion prevention unit that prevents a key from being inserted into a key hole of the vehicle 10. Hereinafter, description of overlapping portions will be omitted, and different points will be described in detail.

The handle 200 is a cylinder attached to the vehicle 10 and has a hole portion 210 for exposing the keyhole 11. The handle 200 is mounted to the vehicle 10 by an adhesive or the like. The hole portion 210 is a hole into which a vehicle key is inserted and used to insert the key into the key hole 11.

The insertion prevention unit includes: an opening/closing door 6100 rotatably attached to the handle 200; and a driving unit 6200 such as a motor that rotates the opening and closing door 6100 from an open position that opens the hole portion 210 to a closed position that closes the hole portion 210. Further, a gear portion (not shown) that meshes with a head portion (not shown) of the driving unit 6200 is provided on the pivot shaft portion of the opening/closing door 6100. That is, by the driving of the driving unit 6200, the head of the driving unit 6200 is rotated, whereby the opening and closing door 6100 opens or closes the hole portion 210 of the handle 200.

The expiratory component detection unit 500 has substantially the same structure as the expiratory component detection unit 500 of embodiment 2. The difference is that the control unit 520 has the function of: the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is measured based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510, the measured value is compared with the reference value, and the drive unit 6200 is driven when the measured value is determined to be equal to or greater than the reference value as a result.

The memory of the control unit 520 stores the same alcohol concentration reference value as in example 2 and the alcohol concentration measurement program shown in fig. 24. The control unit 520 executes the alcohol concentration measuring program to realize the above-described function. The control unit 520 incorporates a timer circuit.

Next, the content of the alcohol concentration measurement program in fig. 24 executed by the control unit 520 will be described in detail, and the operation and the use method of each part of the vehicle key will be described.

First, in the standby state, it is determined whether or not the start switch 700' is pressed (s 1). At this time, the opening/closing door 6100 is in the closed position, closing the hole portion 210 of the handle section 200. Therefore, the vehicle key cannot be inserted into the key hole.

In step 1, when the start switch 700' is pressed, the timer circuit is operated. Further, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned on, and the alcohol sensor 510 is started to be prepared (heated). When the heating is completed, the green LED lamp is turned on as a preparation.

Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 6 seconds) has elapsed since the start switch 700' was pressed, with reference to the count value of the timer circuit (s 2). When it is determined that the prescribed time has elapsed as a result of this determination, the off state of the drive unit 6200 is maintained (s 3). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 5 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 10 described later is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed, it is determined whether or not the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510 is input (i.e., whether or not the breath is being exhaled to the alcohol sensor 510) (s 4).

If it is determined that no exhalation has occurred as a result of the determination, the process returns to step 2. On the other hand, when it is determined that there is breath when the output signal is input, the alcohol concentration contained in the breath of the user is measured from the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510.

Then, the measured value is compared with the reference value stored in the memory, and it is determined whether or not the measured value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., whether or not the alcohol equal to or greater than the reference value is contained in the exhalation of the user) (s 5). When the determination result determines that the measurement value is equal to or greater than the reference value (i.e., the user has alcohol in his or her breath that is equal to or greater than the reference value), the off state of the drive unit 6200 is maintained (s 6). At this time, the red LED lamp was turned on for 30 seconds. Then, the standby process of step 10 is performed, and the process returns to step 1. On the other hand, when it is determined that the measured value is smaller than the reference value, the green LED lamp is turned on, and the driving unit 6200 is driven. Then, the opening/closing door 6100 rotates from the closed position to the open position. At the same time, the timing circuit is made operative. Thus, the opening/closing door 6100 is in the open position (s 7). Thus, since the hole 210 of the shank 200 is opened, a key can be inserted into the keyhole 11.

Then, referring to the count value of the timer circuit, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time (here, 30 seconds) has elapsed from the opening timing of the opening/closing door 6100 (s 8). When the determination result determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed, the process is repeated. On the other hand, when it is determined that the prescribed time has elapsed, the green LED lamp is turned off, and the driving unit 6200 is driven. Then, the opening/closing door 6100 is rotated from the open position to the closed position (s 9). Thereby, the hole portion 210 of the handle 200 is closed again.

Then, the LED lamp is turned off, the alcohol sensor 510 is turned off, and the process waits for the process (s10), and the process returns to step 1.

When such a drunk driving prevention device is used, the opening/closing door 6100 is rotated from the closed position to the open position when the alcohol concentration in the breath of the user is less than the reference value, and the hole 210 of the handle portion 200 is opened, so that the key can be inserted into the key hole 11. On the other hand, when the alcohol concentration in the exhaled breath of the user is equal to or higher than the reference value, the opening/closing door 6100 is in the closed position, and the hole portion 210 of the handle portion 200 is kept closed, so that the key cannot be inserted into the key hole 11, and the prime mover of the vehicle cannot be started. Thereby effectively preventing drunk driving.

In addition, the drunk driving prevention device is mounted on or built in a vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, or an automobile, and includes: a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol contained in breath of a user; and an insertion prevention unit that prevents a key from being inserted into a keyhole of the vehicle based on a detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit, and various setting changes can be made as long as the above-described configuration is provided.

That is, the breath component detection unit 500 includes the alcohol sensor 510 and the control unit 520, but any type of device may be used as long as the same function as described above can be achieved. The reference value stored in the memory of the control unit 520 is an exemplary description, and may be set arbitrarily. Further, the reference value may not be set, and the lock of the lock mechanism 600 may not be released as long as even a small amount of alcohol is detected by the alcohol sensor 510. In the above-described embodiment, the structure in which the breath component detection unit 500 has an alcohol sensor for detecting alcohol contained in the breath of the user has been described, but the alcohol sensor may be replaced with a drug sensor for detecting a drug such as anesthetic or denafil water. Of course, a structure having both an alcohol sensor and a drug sensor is also possible.

The insertion prevention unit includes an opening/closing door 6100 and a drive unit 6200 for rotating the opening/closing door 6100, but any type of device may be used as long as it can prevent a key from being inserted into the key hole 11. For example, a structure may be such that: instead of opening and closing the door 6100, a protruding member protrudes so as to cover at least a part of the key hole 11, so that a key cannot be inserted into the key hole 11. The opening/closing door 6100 may be configured to close the hole portion 210 of the handle 200 to such an extent that the key cannot be inserted into the key hole 11.

The insertion prevention unit functions as an operation prevention unit: in a vehicle having a start operation unit (for example, a start button) for starting the motor in place of the keyhole 11, the start operation unit cannot be operated according to the detection result of the exhalation component detection unit 500. Further, the insertion prevention unit functions as an opening/closing unit: the vehicle having a receiver for receiving a start permission signal for starting the prime mover, which is output from a vehicle key, is openably covered with the receiver of the vehicle based on the detection result of the exhalation composition detection unit 500 in place of the keyhole 11. At this time, the opening/closing door 6100 is configured to close the entire hole portion 210 of the handle section 200. The operation preventing unit and the opening/closing unit cannot be configured to have a protruding member. In addition, when the receiver is provided near the key hole 11 or the start operation unit, the key hole 11 or both the start operation unit and the receiver can be covered by the opening and closing means.

As described above, the drunk driving prevention device can be built in a vehicle. At this time, the insertion prevention means is configured to block the front surface or the internal space of the key hole 11 by opening and closing the door 6100, or configured to block the insertion of the key by protruding the front surface or the internal space of the key hole 11 by a protruding member, for example. The operation preventing means is configured to, for example, close the front surface of the start operation unit by opening and closing the door 6100 so as to disable the pressing operation, or configured to engage a protruding member with a part of the start operation unit so as to disable the pressing operation of the start operation unit. The opening/closing means is configured to close the front surface of the start operation unit by opening/closing the door 6100 so that the pressing operation is disabled.

In addition, the drunk driving prevention device may be provided separately from the alcohol sensor 510. At this time, the output signal of the alcohol sensor 510 is output to the control unit 520 via a wireless or wired communication line. When a wireless communication line is used, a portable information terminal such as a remote controller may be used, or a communication unit may be incorporated in a portable information terminal such as an existing portable telephone. When a wired communication line is used, a portable information terminal such as a remote controller may be installed in a vehicle, or may be incorporated in a steering wheel of a vehicle.

The drunk driving prevention device according to embodiment 6 may be incorporated with the sensor unit 2000 of the vehicle key and the related structure thereof. The sensing unit 2000 may be integrated with the alcohol sensor 510 or may be a separate body.

Claims (15)

1. A key for a vehicle, which can be inserted into a key hole of any vehicle such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, and which is used for starting a prime mover of the vehicle, comprising:

a key part, the front end of which can be inserted into a keyhole of a vehicle;

a shank provided at a proximal end of the key section;

an insertion prevention unit that can protrude from the shank portion, thereby preventing the key portion from being inserted into a key hole of a vehicle; and

an exhalation composition detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in the exhalation of the user,

the insertion prevention unit includes: a protruding member protruding from the shank along the key portion; a spring for urging the projecting member in the projecting direction; and a lock mechanism that locks and holds the protruding member in a protruding state and releases the locking of the protruding member according to a detection result of the breath component detection unit,

the locking mechanism includes: a plunger which is a member capable of engaging with a recess provided in a side surface of the protruding member, and which is provided in the handle so as to be linearly movable from an engagement position where the plunger engages with the recess of the protruding member to a retreat position where the plunger does not engage with the recess of the protruding member; and a drive unit capable of moving the plunger from an engagement position to a retreat position according to a detection result of the breath component detection unit.

2. The vehicle key according to claim 1,

the breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls on/off of the drive unit based on an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor.

3. The vehicle key according to claim 1, wherein the protruding member is provided on the key portion.

4. The key for vehicles according to claim 1, comprising:

a position detection unit for detecting that the protruding member is accommodated in the shank portion; and

and a storage unit for recording the detection result of the position detection unit.

5. The vehicle key according to claim 1,

the lock mechanism further includes a spring for urging the plunger to an engagement position,

the drive unit has a structure in which: the drive unit presses the plunger against the urging force of the spring to a retracted position according to a detection result of the exhalation component detection unit, and releases the plunger after a predetermined time has elapsed.

6. The vehicle key according to claim 5,

the locking structure further has: a gear for depressing the plunger; and a position detection switch which is turned to an ON state by moving the plunger to a retreat position,

the drive unit is a motor having a gear engaged with a head thereof, and is operated in accordance with a detection result of the breath component detection unit, and the drive unit presses the plunger through the gear, stops when the position detection switch is turned on, and then operates when the predetermined time has elapsed, releases the plunger through the gear, and stops when the position detection switch is turned off.

7. The vehicle key according to claim 1,

the handle is a two-piece construction having a 1 st shell and a 2 nd shell,

the 2 nd housing contains the exhalation composition detecting unit and the insertion preventing unit,

the proximal end portion of the key portion is fixed to the 1 st housing by resin.

8. A key for a vehicle for outputting a start permission signal to any one of vehicles such as a train, a two-wheeled vehicle, and an automobile, and for starting a prime mover of the vehicle or bringing the prime mover of the vehicle into a startable state, comprising:

a signal output unit for outputting the signal;

a breath component detection unit for detecting alcohol and/or medicine contained in breath of a user; and

and a prevention unit that prevents the start permission signal output from the signal output unit from reaching the vehicle according to a detection result of the exhalation component detection unit.

9. The vehicle key according to claim 8,

the prevention unit includes: a masking unit for masking the start permission signal output from the signal output unit; and a drive unit that moves the shielding unit from a shielding position at which the start permission signal of the signal output unit can be shielded to a retracted position at which the start permission signal cannot be shielded, according to a detection result of the respiratory component detection unit.

10. The vehicle key according to claim 8,

the breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls the signal output unit to be turned on/off according to an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor, thereby functioning as the prevention unit.

11. The vehicle key according to claim 9,

the breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit that controls the driving unit to be turned on/off according to an output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor, thereby functioning as the prevention unit.

12. The vehicle key according to claim 1 or 9,

has a sensing unit for reading the physical characteristics of the user,

the breath component detection unit includes: alcohol and/or drug sensors; and a control unit for performing authentication determination of the user based on the sensing data of the sensing unit, and determining whether the alcohol and/or the drug are contained in the breath of the user based on the output signal of the alcohol sensor and/or the drug sensor,

the control unit has the functions of: and controlling the driving unit to be turned on/off when the authentication determination result is determined to be not the user's own person or when the alcohol and/or drug determination result is determined to be that the alcohol and/or drug is contained in the breath of the user.

13. The vehicle key according to claim 12,

the control unit has a function of performing alcohol and/or drug determination within a predetermined time before and after the authentication determination.

14. The vehicle key according to claim 13,

the sensing unit is a voice detection unit that detects a voice of a user or a photographing unit that photographs an iris of an eye of the user.

15. The vehicle key according to claim 1 or 8,

with a GPS transmitter.