Abstract: A motor vehicle control system includes a pair of cameras for producing first and second images of a passenger area. A distance processor determines distances that a plurality of features in the first and second images are from the cameras based on the amount that each feature is shifted between the first and second images. An analyzer processed the distances and determine a size of an object on the seat. Additional analysis of the distance also may determine movement of the object and the rate of that movement. The distance information also can be used to recognize predefined patterns in the images and thus identify the object. A mechanism utilizes the determined object characteristics in controlling operation of a device, such as deployment of an air bag.

Abstract: Access to a motor vehicle is controlled by periodically transmitting an interrogation signal from a control circuit on the vehicle. Upon receiving the interrogation signal, a hand-held remote control transmits a reply signal to the control circuit. The control circuit measures the strength of the reply signal and the activates a first function, such as unlocking a door of the vehicle, when the strength exceeds a first threshold level. Thereafter, when the signal strength exceeds a second threshold level, the control circuit activates a second function, for example enabling the engine to be started. When the signal strength drops below a third threshold activates a third function, such as locking the door.

Abstract: A device on a motor vehicle is controlled by selecting a function for the device to perform. The selection is conveyed to a control circuit which wirelessly transmits a message using the Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications protocol, wherein the message identifies the device and function. A controller receives the message and recovers the identification of the device and the function and then responds by activating the device to perform that function.

Abstract: A vehicle has a memory which stores operational data regarding the vehicle's performance. When the vehicle malfunctions the operational data can be transmitted from a control circuit in the vehicle by a radio frequency signal using the Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications protocol. That radio frequency signal is received at a telephone and the operational recovered. The telephone transfers the operational data via a telephone network to diagnostic computer system which analyzes the operational data to diagnose the cause of the malfunction. The results of the diagnose can be transmitted back to the vehicle.

Abstract: A keyless control system is disclosed which may be employed to gain entry to a motor vehicle and start an engine. When using this system, a user activates a remote control by selecting a function for the motor vehicle to perform. In response, a challenge number is exchanged and used in an encryption algorithm by both the remote control and a control circuit in the motor vehicle to produce independently of each other separate algorithm answers. A first verification indication is produced when the control circuit finds both answers to be the same. The remote control also sends its unique remote control identification and a designation of the selected function to the control circuit. If the received remote control identification matches is on an authorized remote control list stored in the control circuit, a second verification indication is produced.

Abstract: An angle sensor for detecting the angular position of a rotating body. The angle sensor includes a plurality of digital patterns positioned on a surface that rotates with a rotating body. A source of light illuminates the patterns, and a multi-pixel optical device receives light from the patterns and converts the light into electrical signals. A processing circuit receives the electrical signals and identifies the illuminated patterns.