Abstract: A battery system has a cell including a container, a substrate mounted to the container, and circuitry on the substrate. The substrate defines antennas, a microprocessor, switches, and a transceiver. The microprocessor sequentially activates the switches to respectively connect the transceiver to the antennas to establish a location relative to a transmitter, and prevents communications with the transmitter responsive to the location falling outside a predefined range.

Abstract: An apparatus, a key partner, methods and computer programs for a key module of a vehicle and a vehicle. The apparatus for the key module includes a communication interface for radio communication with a key partner of the vehicle, a motion sensor, and a control module for controlling an operating state from operating states of the key module based on the information about the motion of the key module. The operating states include at least a first operating state, a pre-shutdown operating state and a shutdown state. The control module activates the first operating state if the motion of the key module is above a motion limit value and activates the pre-shutdown operating state if the motion of the key module is below the motion limit value over a period of time.

Abstract: A system includes a processor and a memory storing program instructions executable by the processor to determine that a steering wheel is one of engaged and disengaged with a steering based on a detected deflection of a steering torsion bar. The memory stores instructions to actuate the steering based on the determination.

Abstract: Systems and methods for automatically generating a commercial driver logbook based on vehicular data is disclosed herein. An example system includes a processor; and memory, the processor being configured to execute instructions stored in memory to perform a first type of authentication of a user based on an identifier received from a mobile device, unlock a door of a vehicle when the first type of authentication is complete, perform a second type of authentication of the user that is based on verification of a code transmitted to the user in response to completion of the first type of authentication, allow a key on event for the vehicle when both the first type of authentication and the second type of authentication are complete, and automatically generating a commercial driver logbook based on real-time drive time data collected from the vehicle.

Abstract: A hybrid vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine, a hybrid system, a parking brake, a gear box and an electronic control system is provided. A method for controlling the method comprises charging the hybrid vehicle by receiving and storing electric energy, which enables a safe way of starting the internal combustion engine during the charging. An electronic control system is configured to: detect a starting attempt of the internal combustion engine during the receiving and storing of electrical energy; ensure that the hybrid vehicle is ready for a start of the internal combustion engine, which includes ensuring that the gear box is in a neutral gear and that the parking brake is applied; and thereafter start the internal combustion engine during the receiving and storing of electrical energy.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that performs multi-factor authentication with respect to a hardware assembly. In one example, a method includes: storing a cryptographic identifier of a vehicle hardware assembly; transmitting, to the assembly, a validation message; receiving a response message; decrypting the response message using the identifier; and determining whether the assembly is authenticated.

Abstract: A solenoid system includes a solenoid, a primary power source, solenoid control circuitry, flyback charging circuitry, and voltage regulator circuitry. The primary power source is configured to provide a primary voltage to at least the solenoid. The solenoid control circuitry is configured to control current provided to the solenoid. The solenoid generates a flyback voltage spike each instance the current provided to the solenoid is interrupted as controlled by the solenoid control circuitry. The flyback charging circuitry is configured to charge in response to each instance of the flyback voltage spike. The voltage regulator circuitry is configured to provide a regulated supply voltage from the flyback charging circuitry to the solenoid control circuitry if the flyback charging circuitry is charged to a secondary voltage that is greater than the primary voltage.

Abstract: The invention relates to an automated construction site management and support system for a preparation of a construction site during a construction rest period, and for determining a current state of a construction site during the rest period. The system comprises at least one server means, storing a general construction database with digital construction plan information, and a mobile support system being adapted for automatic movement and positioning on the construction site, and for executing auxiliary preparatory tasks for a construction work package such as tagging construction markings and information to the construction site, and for executing controlling tasks on the construction site for determining a current state of an object entity of a physical construction component. Sequences of auxiliary preparatory tasks or a set of controlling tasks are automatically defined based on the current state of the construction database, and, if applicable, a defined outcome for a work package.

Abstract: An exemplary method for controlling a vehicle includes providing a vehicle steering system including a moveable steering column assembly and a moveable steering wheel assembly, a first actuator and a second actuator, the first and second actuators configured to move vehicle steering system from a first position to a second position, providing a plurality of sensors, the sensors configured to measure a force characteristic, providing a controller electronically connected to the sensors and the vehicle steering system, monitoring first sensor data received from the first sensor and second sensor data received from the second sensor, generating a reference model based on a desired output displacement and the first and second sensor data, calculating, a revised output displacement based on the reference model, and automatically generating a first control signal to control the first actuator and a second control signal to control the second actuator.

Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a main printed circuit board (PCB) assembly, a radio frequency identification (RFID) assembly, a starter assembly, and an RFID tag. The main PCB assembly may be configured to determine whether an activation sequence of a motor vehicle is correct, whether an RFID tag is in close physical proximity to the RFID reader, and whether the RFID tag is a valid RFID tag. The main PCB assembly may transition the vehicle security system into a disarmed state to allow the starter assembly to start the motor vehicle in response to determining that the RFID tag is valid. The main PCB assembly may deactivate a critical component of the motor vehicle in response to determining that the activation sequence is not correct, that that the RFID tag is not in close physical proximity, or that that the RFID tag is not valid.

Abstract: Techniques for managing device interaction between components of an inventory management system are described herein. User input associated with an operational state of the user device may be received at the user device and the user device may begin operating in a particular operational state. While operating in this state, the user device may transmit a wireless signal having a predetermined frequency. A mobile drive unit of the system, upon receipt of the wireless signal, may slow or stop. Operational state information may be transmitted to other components of the inventory management system indicating that the wireless signal is being transmitted and/or that the user device is operating in a particular operational state and a fault detection process may commence. The user device may provide an indication (e.g., via visual, audible, and/or haptic feedback devices) that the user device is operating in the particular operational state.

Abstract: A vehicle brake pedal lock that is fixedly installed under a brake pedal. The brake pedal lock prevents the arm of a brake pedal from being depressed. The brake pedal lock uses a linear servomotor to position a bolt under the brake pedal arm. The linear servomotor is activated using a wired safety switch and a radio frequency remote to minimize inadvertent activation.

Abstract: The method for configuring a home-automation apparatus (1) includes: at least one control point of a first type (3A, 4A) intended to communicate according to a first mode; and at least one actuator (5A, 6A) intended to communicate, after performing the configuration method, according to the first mode with at least one control point of the first type (3A, 4A) during usage mode, and which can communicate according to a second mode, secured by an encryption key, with a configuration device (2) during configuration mode. The configuration device implements the method which includes determining at least one actuator (5A, 6A) that can be configured, obtaining a temporary encryption key having a limited period of validity, sending a message containing the temporary encryption key to the at least one actuator, communicating according to the second mode, secured by the temporary encryption key, with the at least one actuator in configuration mode.

Abstract: A method for controlling access of a user to a physical device which is provided with an access control unit that can block and release access to functions of the physical device includes the provision of a central control platform and a mobile access device. An identification check of the user is carried out, the user being identified by the mobile access device. Following a successful identification check, a wireless communication link is established between the mobile access device and the access control unit of the physical device. Identification information and unique access data are transmitted from the mobile access device to the access control unit. The access control unit ascertains the access rights of the user to the physical device using the received information and additional information from the central control platform.

Abstract: A vehicle includes an engine, an input device for controlling a speed of the engine, a seat for an occupant of the vehicle, a seat belt for securing the occupant in the seat, and a seat belt sensor for detecting when the seat belt is buckled. A controller may be operatively connected to the seat belt sensor and the engine for controlling the vehicle in a first mode when the seat belt is buckled and a second mode when the seat belt is unbuckled. The controller may perform various different functions, such as cutting fuel to the engine when the vehicle speed is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold while operating in the second mode, or receiving input indicating that the input device is released before switching the vehicle to the first mode when the seat belt is buckled while the vehicle is operating in the second mode.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method including the steps of: detection of a presence of an access authorization verification apparatus in surroundings of an access control apparatus by first communication means of the access control apparatus, and prompting, when the presence of the access authorisation verification apparatus in the surroundings of the access control apparatus is detected, of a change of operating mode for second communication means of the access control apparatus. In addition, the disclosure relates to an access control apparatus, a computer program, a recording apparatus, a system and a use for an access authorisation verification apparatus.

Abstract: An engine starting device includes: a portable unit including a transmitting unit capable of transmitting an ID code; a control unit including a receiving unit receiving the ID code, and a determination unit determining whether the received ID code is a pre-registered legitimate ID; a main body part including an operation knob rotationally operated between an off position and an on position; and a regulation unit configured to regulate a rotational operation of the operation knob, and to release a rotation-regulated state of the operation knob on condition that the received ID code is determined as a legitimate ID. The regulation unit is attached to a left side part of the main body part and the control unit is attached to a right side part of the main body part, as seen from a driver seat-side of the vehicle.

Abstract: A network of collection, charging and distribution machines collect, charge and distribute portable electrical energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, supercapacitors or ultracapacitors). To avoid theft and tampering of the portable electrical energy storage devices, by default, each portable electrical energy storage device is locked in and operably connected to the vehicle to which it provides power unless the vehicle comes within the vicinity of a collection, charging and distribution machine or other authorized external device such as that in a service center. Once within the vicinity of a collection, charging and distribution machine or other authorized external device a locking mechanism in the vehicle or within the portable electrical energy storage device unlocks and allows the portable electrical energy storage device to be exchanged or serviced.

Abstract: An apparatus, including a receiver which receives information regarding a limitation or restriction for allowing or prohibiting a control operation or monitoring operation regarding a vehicle or premises, a memory which stores the information, and a first controller programmed to perform a control or monitoring operation regarding the vehicle or premises. The receiver receives a first signal transmitted from a second controller, containing information regarding the control operation or monitoring operation. The first controller determines, using the information, if the control operation or monitoring operation is allowed or disallowed. If allowed, the first controller transmits a second signal to a third controller.

Abstract: A method for evaluating signal data includes a bus signal channel supplying the signal data, a reference channel supplying reference signal values, which form the basis of the signal data, and a computer performing a signal interpretation based on an interpretable portion of the signal data and on the reference signal values, and reconstructing a signal based on the interpretation.

Abstract: A method and system perform perimeter security and control of a vehicle. The system includes a radar system arranged in the vehicle, a maximum range of the radar system being less than 100 meters, and a communication unit to communicate with the radar system. The system also includes a control system of the vehicle to control the platform based on the radar system. The control system dynamically controls each door of the vehicle according to a location of the communication unit relative to the platform.

Abstract: Method for preventing security breaches via the two-thief method of attack of passive remote keyless entry systems for vehicles. The method involves the transmission of a signal between a fob and the vehicle, where the level of the signal changes in a particular pattern. At the receiving side, anomalies in the pattern of the received signal (e.g., levels, timing) are detected and used to detect attempts to mimic the signal.

Abstract: A sharable vehicle is provided. The vehicle includes a storage that to stores registered user information and a communicator that communicates with a terminal device. A controller receives identification information of the terminal device from the terminal device when startup is performed. The controller unlocks a P stage of a transmission when it determined that the received identification information of the terminal device is the same as an identification number of the terminal device in the stored user information and locks a P stage of when it is determined that the received identification information of the terminal device is different from the identification number of the terminal device in the stored user information Additionally, the controller outputs authentication failure information of the terminal device and a display is configured to output the authentication failure information of the terminal device.

Abstract: An electromechanical locking system includes one or more moveable locking elements and one or more actuators configured to move each of the one or more moveable locking elements between positions. The system includes a receptacle configured to receive a key, a sensor, a processor; and a computer-readable storage medium. The processor causes the sensor to scan the key and detect one or more features of the key, identify a first code that corresponds to the detected features of the key, and apply one or more functions to the first code to yield a second code. The second code includes one or more characters that each character corresponds to one of the plurality of positions. The processor causes the one or more actuators to move the one or more movable locking elements to the positions that correspond to the one or more characters of the second code.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a system for recognizing environment of a vehicle and identifying collisions in real-time. The system is typically configured for continuously monitoring environment of an automobile via one or more components of the automobile, identifying at least one collision associated with the automobile based on monitoring the environment of the automobile, determining one or more users associated with the at least one collision, determining one or more third parties associated with the one or more users and the at least one collision, automatically establish a communication link with the one or more third party entities, and automatically transmitting a notification associated with the at least one collision to the one or more third party entities and the one or more users in real-time.

Abstract: A starter device for a work machine may include a ring switch surrounding a housing. The ring switch may be rotatable between a first ring position and a second ring position. A push button may be surrounded by the housing and may be operatively engageable between a first button position and a second button position within the housing. A controller may be in communication with the ring switch and the push button. The controller may be configured to start a prime mover of the work machine when the ring switch is in the second ring position and the push button is operatively engaged from the first button position to the second button position. The controller may be configured to stop the prime mover using delayed shutdown when the ring switch is rotated from the second ring position to the first ring position.

Abstract: A steering system for an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle is provided. The steering system includes a controller that is in communication with an electric power steering system and a transmission control system. The controller is programmed to, in response to a first signal indicative of a non-verified operator and a request to operate, place the electric power steering system in a standby mode and inhibit the transmission control system from changing at least one of a transmission operational state and a transmission operational position.

Abstract: A method for controlling access of a user to a physical device which is provided with an access control unit that can block and release access to functions of the physical device includes the provision of a central control platform and a mobile access device. An identification check of the user is carried out, the user being identified by the mobile access device. Following a successful identification check, a wireless communication link is established between the mobile access device and the access control unit of the physical device. Identification information and unique access data are transmitted from the mobile access device to the access control unit. The access control unit ascertains the access rights of the user to the physical device using the received information and additional information from the central control platform.

Abstract: A method of defense against an attack relay action on a remote activation of a function present in an automotive vehicle. The attack relay receives a frame of electromagnetic waves emitted by the activation module and retransmits it to the at least one activation device, nevertheless out of range of emission of the activation module, which dispatches a response frame of electromagnetic waves to the activation module. There is performed, out of range of emission of the activation module, an at least partial interception of a retransmitted frame of electromagnetic waves originating from the attack relay in the direction of the activation device. An at least partial destruction of the retransmitted frame at the activation device and/or of the response frame of the activation device toward the activation module rendering the activation of the function inoperative is performed.

Abstract: It is presented a portable access control communication device comprising: a housing for protecting a key device, the access control communication device; a socket arranged to hold a blade of a key device, the socket comprising a connector for communication with the key device; a cellular radio communication module; and a controller. The controller is arranged to communicate, using the cellular radio communication module, with an access control device over a cellular communication network when a key device is provided in the socket such that there is electric contact between the key device and the socket. A corresponding method, computer program and computer program product area also presented.

Abstract: A mobile vehicle communications system and a method of determining the legitimacy of a wireless sensor signal received by an electronic control unit (ECU) in a vehicle. The method includes the steps of: receiving at the electronic control unit (ECU) a first wireless signal identified as being from a first vehicle sensor; performing a correlation procedure at the ECU using the first wireless signal; and based on the correlation procedure, determining whether the first wireless signal is a legitimate signal sent by the first vehicle sensor.

Abstract: A steering column system includes a steering column shaft, a steering input device coupled to the steering column shaft, an energy absorbing mechanism operatively engaged with at least one of the steering column shaft and the steering input device, a column adjustment assembly configured to translate the steering column shaft between a retracted position and a driving position, and at least one signal indicating if the steering column shaft is in the retracted position or the driving position. When the steering column shaft is in the retracted position, directional control of a vehicle is automated, and when the steering column shaft is returned to the driving position as indicated by the at least one signal, the energy absorbing mechanism is operational.

Abstract: An equipment item comprising a key and a humanoid-type robot comprising several mechanisms that can be actuated from outside the robot, wherein each of the mechanisms comprises a connection interface into which the key can be inserted, the connection interface of each of the mechanisms being configured such that the insertion of the key actuates the mechanism. The key comprises two slender fingers inserted simultaneously into two longitudinal orifices.

Abstract: The various embodiments set forth an apparatus comprising an earpiece, a sensor configured to measure an inherent attribute associated with a user, a wireless transceiver configured to communicate with a wireless access point of a wireless communication network, and a controller. The controller is configured to establish authenticated access to the wireless communication network based on the inherent attribute associated with the user. An advantage of the disclosed embodiment is that a hearable device can conveniently authenticate user access to a network with enhanced security, based on one or more inherence factors that are measured by the hearable device.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is directed to devices with multiple chips for facilitating small purchase transactions through a stored value account while also permitting other transactions through a network as directed by the user. According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method and system for performing at least one transaction may involve identifying a token used to perform a transaction wherein the token is read at a reader associated with a service provider, the token comprising at least two chips, a first chip associated with a first protocol accessing a local system and a second chip associated with a second protocol accessing a central controller via a network; identifying an appropriate protocol for the transaction; routing the transaction to the appropriate protocol; identifying at least one account for funding the transaction; authenticating the transaction; and funding the transaction through the at least one account.

Abstract: A remote startup control device and method in consideration of an operational state of a parking brake is disclosed. The remote startup control device includes an air processing device for supplying compressed air to a parking brake chamber, a relay valve for controlling an air line connecting the air processing device to the parking brake chamber, and a control unit for determining whether to permit remote startup based on whether an input switch and an output switch of the relay valve are in an activated state.

Abstract: An envoy device configured to perform a transaction with a further device. The envoy device comprises: a data store; a processor; communication circuitry for communicating with the further device; and a display. The envoy device is configured to respond to detection of the further device being within a predetermined physical proximity to trigger initiation of a transaction between the devices; and to respond to the transaction completing to display an object related to the transaction that it is determined the user may wish to select to initiate a subsequent action.

Abstract: A novel and non-obvious method, system and computer program product for controlling movement of assets is provided. A method for controlling movement of assets can include reading a first information from a first electronic marker coupled to an asset and reading a second information from a second electronic marker of a transport mechanism in possession of the asset. The method can further include storing in a record the first and second information and a third information comprising a location of the asset. The method can further include retrieving at least one rule comprising at least one value and an action. The method can further include executing a statistical test on the information in the record and executing the action of the at least one rule if a result of the statistical test is outside a predefined confidence level. Information from the record is then added to the empirical data.

Abstract: A system for detecting a position of a dual solenoid device includes device configured to move between first and second positions, and a controller. The controller has first and second monitoring circuits in operable communication with first and second channels, respectively. The first and second channels are in operable communication with first and second solenoids, respectively. Each solenoid is configured to selectively operate as an active solenoid to move the device when the solenoid and its respective channel are in an active mode, and as a passive solenoid when the solenoid and its respective channel are in a passive mode to passively move with the active solenoid. Each of the monitoring circuits is configured to determine a position of the device when the channel the monitoring circuit is associated with is operating in the passive mode by monitoring an electrical parameter of the passive solenoid associated with that channel.

Abstract: An opening-and-closing device for vehicle door includes: a close-latch mechanism which holds a door at a closed position; an open-latch mechanism which holds the door at an opened position; an electric-powered releasing mechanism which operates the close-latch mechanism; an open-latch interlocking mechanism which operates from an initial position toward a canceling direction in conjunction with an operation of the open-latch mechanism from an unlatched position to a latched position; and a relay mechanism which changes a state of a transmission path of releasing operation from a connected state to a disconnected state to allow returning of a first ratchet which has stopped in a releasing position.

Abstract: A system and method for allocating drivers to procure targets, such as automobiles. These targets are then transported to a desired drop-off destination. The entire system is automated, such that a requestor may hire drivers that are certified by the system and would satisfy requirements associated with the target, such as proper driver's license and location of the driver relative to the target. The system is powered by an internet based mobile application that is designed to match individual drivers to auto dealers, auction houses, driving transport companies and other businesses and individuals (“requestors”) seeking to move automobiles, goods, services, tasks, etc. from one location to another. The system has been designed to find, organize, and manage drivers and all aspects of the trip on a real time basis and reduce the cost of the existing system.

Abstract: A method and a management server for automatically deducing a trailer is physically coupled with a vehicle are described. First location data including locations for the vehicle is received, from a first gateway device located on the vehicle. Second location data are received from second gateway devices, where each one of the second gateway devices is on a respective trailer from a set of trailers and each second location data includes locations for the respective trailer. For each trailer that meet a set of criteria, a score is calculated based at least in part on the first location data and the second location data of the trailer, where the score estimates a measure of association of the trailer with the vehicle. A first trailer is selected, based on the scores of the trailers, to be associated with the vehicle indicating that the first trailer is physically coupled with the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle control apparatus includes: a vehicle-mounted transmitter which transmits a first response request signal; a vehicle-mounted receiver which receives, from a portable device, a response signal to the first response request signal; and a controller which allows an operation for welcoming a user carrying the portable device to a vehicle according to a reception state of the response signal. When intermittently transmitting the first response request signal at predetermined intervals via the vehicle-mounted transmitter, the controller determines whether condition set in advance is established. When the condition is established, the controller transmits a second response request signal different from the first response request signal. When the vehicle-mounted receiver receives a response signal which is transmitted from the portable device as a response to the second response request signal, the controller continues to transmit the second response request signal via the vehicle-mounted transmitter.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed to facilitate vehicle locking. An example vehicle comprises an engine, wheels, a door, a door lock, a torque lock, and a processor and memory. The torque lock is to disable torque transfer from the engine to the wheels. The door lock is to secure the door. The processor and memory are in communication with the torque lock and the door lock and configured to: engage the torque and door locks based on receipt of at least one lockout code and, if received authentication information matches the at least one lockout code, disengage the torque and door locks.

Abstract: A remote vehicle disabling system and method. The remote vehicle disabling system includes a master unit in communication with a slave unit. The slave unit is operably connected to a vehicle and one or more operational components of the vehicle. The slave unit can activate or deactivate the operational component and immobilize the vehicle. If the slave unit needs to be overridden, an override switch may be actuated to provide electrical power to the operational components, which form an operational group. The slave unit and master unit are in periodic communication with each other. If the time between communication between the units exceeds a certain amount of time, then the operational component disables the vehicle.

Abstract: An auto-start system for a work vehicle includes a data store containing first start and stop initiation conditions; sensors configured to detect information indicative of at least a first parameter; and a controller including at least a start module and a monitoring module and operating in at least a monitoring mode or a cycling mode. In the monitoring mode, the monitoring module evaluates the first start initiation condition in view of the first parameter. In the monitoring mode, the start module generates a start command when the first parameter satisfies the first start initiation condition. Upon generating the start command, the controller operates in the cycling mode. In the cycling mode, the monitoring module evaluates the first stop initiation condition. In the cycling mode, the start module generates a stop command when the first stop initiation condition is satisfied.

Abstract: An input keypad assembly on a vehicle is provided and includes a keypad located on a vehicle body member and configured to receive a user input on an exterior of the vehicle, and a lamp configured to illuminate light in an interior of the vehicle.

Abstract: A keyless entry system for remotely controlling a door and a window of a vehicle includes: a remote control key that stores a plurality of function codes, selects a function code corresponding to an on-duration time of a lock switch or an on-duration time of an unlock switch, modulates the selected function code to a wireless signal, and transmits the wireless signal; and a receiving device that receives the wireless signal, demodulates the wireless signal into the function code, and outputs a door control signal or a window control signal according to the modulated function code, where the function code is divided into a basic function code field and a window function code field.

Abstract: A method for controlling a charging connector anti-theft apparatus includes: verifying a connection between a socket of a vehicle and a charging plug included in a charging connector outside of the vehicle; locking the socket and the charging plug upon initiation of charging the vehicle; determining unlock conditions of the charging plug through communication with a smart-key; and outputting a warning sound or warning light upon reception of a separation signal indicating that the socket and the charging plug have been separated when the determined unlock conditions are not satisfied.

Abstract: A system for detecting operation of a motor includes a ripple voltage detector module including a ripple voltage detector unit, an input operatively connected to the ripple voltage detector unit and connectable to an alternator, and an output operatively connected to the ripple voltage detector unit and connectable to a starter motor control system. The ripple voltage detector module provides a motor operation signal to the starter motor control system upon detection of a ripple voltage produced by the alternator.