Abstract: Disclosed is a data broadcasting guidance system and method which guides a user and enhances the availability of the data broadcasting. The data broadcasting guidance system includes means for extracting guidance information while a data broadcasting is displayed; means for requesting a guidance on the data broadcasting; and means for notifying the extracted guidance information in response to the request from the requesting means. Accordingly, the guidance information to navigate the data broadcasting is supplied and the remote controller is controlled more exactly and faster so that the user's attention is drawn to the data broadcasting and the broadcast gets popular.

Abstract: An antitheft system includes a main controller mounted in a car for controlling an overall operation of the antitheft system, and a wireless keypad provided on a front side with numbered keys, and on a rear side with a clip. The wireless keypad may be attached to a car door edge of all versions of different brands of cars via the clip without the risk of separating from the door easily. The wireless keypad also allows a user to enter and transmit a code to the main controller to release or enable the antitheft system just beside the car, and is therefore a humanized design.

Abstract: A system, computer product and method for monitoring and disseminating data form a plurality of electronic devices via the Internet is provided. The plurality of electronic devices, or further electronic devices connected to the plurality of electronic devices, generate signal data. A computer product of the present invention is loaded on the electronic devices such that the signal data is collected via the Internet at a remote web server. The web server stores this data in a database such that a client can monitor its signal data by means of the web server, via the Internet. The present invention also permits the client to disseminate the signal data, including signal data meeting alarm parameters, based on business rules established by the client. A method for deploying the system of the present invention across a plurality of electronic devices, including electronic devices across a plurality of locations is also provided.

Abstract: A comparator is supplied with a hold visit code and a visit guidance message, which are received by a receiver from a broadcasting device via radio waves. Alternatively, the comparator is supplied with a hold visit code and a visit guidance message, which are received by a communicating unit from a server through a public circuit network, a wireless link, a cellular phone unit, and another wireless link. The comparator then compares the supplied HVC with an HVC that is stored in a message table in a storage unit. If the HVCs compared by the comparator agree with each other, then an information output unit resets the HVC stored in the message table, and outputs the visit guidance message to an output unit.

Abstract: After a door of a vehicle is locked, a touch switch and a lock switch is disabled for a predetermined time period. A predetermined operation of a holder of a handheld unit to a door handle during the predetermined time period causes a device mounted in the vehicle to perform a certain function other than unlocking the door. Thus the predetermined operation solely to the door handle after the door of the vehicle is locked can serve as an instruction for the device mounted in the vehicle to execute the certain function.

Abstract: An electric wiring system of a motor vehicle with control devices that communicate with each other via a data bus, and with at least a first communication apparatus inside the vehicle for data exchange with a remote communication station outside the vehicle via a communication channel is provided. To make an authentication of the electric wiring system possible, the first remote communication station outside the vehicle transmits at least one cryptographic key and/or at least one certificate for storage in a first control device of the plurality of control devices via the communication channel to the communication apparatus inside the vehicle. The first control device stores the at least one key and/or the at least one certificate in coded or decoded form and the at least one key and/or the at least one certificate is/are used at least in the framework of an authentication.

Abstract: An anti-carjacking system includes a transmitter programmed to receive a selected vehicle identification number or other code for use with a car assigned with that particular number or code. The system further includes a receiver associated with the computer system of the car so identified by the selected vehicle identification number and means for disabling normal driving operation of the car. There is further provided means for sending a disable command from the transmitter to the receiver so that the particular car with the selected vehicle identification number is rendered non-operational. The system may be implemented in various embodiments including a modified car radio system and a RFID embedded license plate configuration. Methods related to vehicle operation and occupant safety are also provided.

Abstract: A method of controlling vehicle functions is provided that includes receiving at a service provider, security data from a vehicle function system. The security data is related to a security code required to activate one or more functions controlled by the vehicle function system. The method also includes receiving a vehicle function request at the service provider from a remote device. The vehicle function request indicates a request to activate a particular function of a vehicle. In addition, the method includes sending a vehicle function command from the service provider to a mobile wireless device. The vehicle function command is adapted to cause the mobile wireless device to transmit a wireless signal to activate the particular function of the vehicle and the vehicle function command includes the security code or authentication information related to the security code.

Abstract: An audio signal system for a vehicle remote locking mechanism provides an audio signal that is more intricate than a simple, sounding of the vehicle's horn or beep tone. Preferably, the audio signal may be varied among many possible sounds by the operator. More preferably, the system includes a digital audio source with a signal amplifier and loudspeaker. Most preferably, the digital audio source is programmable with recorded sounds that can be transferred from a remote bank of digital sounds, for example by being downloaded from an internet website.

Abstract: A remote controller for automobile trunk is disclosed, wherein a frequency receiving host device is coupled to a device or component of an anti-burglary host device that is originally installed in an automobile by an automobile maker. The frequency receiving host device is connected by a cable to a driving motor for a trunk of the automobile and is set to receive the frequency of a user-operated remote-control transmitter originally provided by the automobile maker. The frequency receiving host device, after detecting a releasing operation initiated by a signal transmitted from the remote-control transmitter to the anti-burglary host device to release an anti-burglary system of the automobile, receives a continuously transmitted signal from the remote-control transmitter, which signal extends for a predetermined period of time, and consequently the frequency receiving host device issues a control signal through the cable to the trunk driving motor to open the trunk lid.

Abstract: A vehicle remote control system can have a transmitter transmitting a signal, a receiver receiving the signal, and a control device in communication with the receiver and controlling at least one operation of the vehicle. A selected operation may be executable by the signal. The vehicle remote control system includes a microphone that can determine an ambient noise volume and an ambient noise frequency in an area around the vehicle and is in communication with the control device. Furthermore, the vehicle remote control system includes a speaker that is able to generate an answer signal to confirm that the selected operation was executed. The speaker is in communication with the control device which generates an answer signal as a function of ambient noise volume and the ambient noise frequency in the area surrounding the vehicle.

Abstract: A battery operated controller for a door operator includes a keypad backlit by a light emitting diode operably connected to a microcontroller which also controls operation of the controller. The microcontroller periodically measures ambient light as sensed by the light emitting diode and when a voltage level related to a predetermined light intensity decreases below a predetermined level the light emitting diode is energized to provide backlighting for the controller keypad. The intensity of backlighting may be varied in accordance with the amount of ambient light illuminating the keypad and above a certain intensity of ambient light the light emitting diode is de-energized to conserve battery power.

Abstract: Systems and processes for automatically bringing a vehicle into compliance with a regulation are provided in order to control for unusual situations, inexperience, reduced ability, and willful disregard by a vehicle operator. An inventive system includes a signal receiver for wirelessly receiving a signal directed specifically to the motorized vehicle while the vehicle is in operation. The signal pertains to a regulation and or emergency command. For example, a signal contains speed limit information and comparison of a parameter of vehicle operation with the requirements of the regulation allows determination of whether the vehicle is in compliance with the regulation. A signal may also include a command by an authority directing the vehicle to slow down or stop, such as in an emergency situation. Where the vehicle is not in compliance with the regulation or command, a control signal is sent to an effector to bring the vehicle into compliance.

Abstract: A remote entry system for a vehicle includes a portable transmitter and a vehicle-mounted receiver. The receiver alternates between a monitoring state lasting for a monitoring period and a sleep state lasting for a sleep period. A remote control is manually activated and a message sequence is transmitted to the receiver in response to the manual activation for initiating a function of the remote entry system. The message sequence comprises a plurality of blocks transmitted at a predetermined block interval, the blocks including a preamble block and at least one message block. If the receiver detects the preamble block then it enters a reception state for detecting the message block. The preamble block has a predetermined preamble length and is comprised of a plurality of bytes separated by respective off intervals between successive bytes. Each off interval comprises a predetermined off period greater than the predetermined byte period.

Abstract: A modular vehicle key device system for controlling vehicle access and operation. The device is formed by joining at least two separable modules, a first key device module containing vehicle access and/or operation authorizing elements, such as a keyless entry transmitter and/or an ignition key, and a module for off-vehicle storage of personal adjustment settings and/or other data. With each use of the modular key device, the data in the storage module is transferred to the vehicle to ensure the operator's settings and information are always present. Separating the storage module from the key device module allows others to operate the vehicle while ensuring the operator's personal data cannot be lost. Separation also enables easy transfer of an operator's settings to a like vehicle. Other embodiments allow the operator to allow vehicle operation by others, such as valets, while limiting use of individual vehicle components, such as radios.

Abstract: Method, fob, and system suitable for use in directing a user to the vehicle. The direction being determined as a function of GPS coordinates determined with GPS units on a fob and vehicle. The GPS unit being activated in coordination with each other such that the GPS coordinates associated with the same are commonly inaccurate.

Abstract: The anti-theft device contains a control circuit housed in a casing. The control circuit contains a microprocessor, a memory, a detection unit, a radio unit, and a GPS unit, and is connected to a supersonic sensor, a microwave sensor, an air-pressure sensor, and one ore more image capturing elements. When the motor vehicle is broken in, the control circuit detects such an event by evaluating the multiple signals collected by the sensors, and by processing the images captured by the image capturing elements. The control circuit then dials a preset numbers and plays a pre-recorded voice message asking for help. In the mean time, the continuous images captured by the image capturing elements are delivered a predetermined mobile phone or a computer so that the owner of the motor vehicle or some other people could monitor what is happening at the scene.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for communicating wireless messages for controlling the functions of devices within a vehicle are provided. The apparatus comprises a first module having a first wireless control node positioned at a first location within the vehicle. The apparatus also includes a second module having a second wireless control node positioned at a second location within the vehicle. Devices are coupled to and controlled by each of the nodes. The first and second nodes are adapted to form a virtual network so that they can communicate the messages to each other for also controlling the devices. The apparatus also has a third wireless node positioned external to the vehicle. The third node is capable of becoming part of the virtual network so that the third node can communicate messages to at least one of the first and the second nodes to further control at least one of the devices.

Abstract: Medium-range remote communication and control for a vehicle is achieved with a wireless vehicle telematics unit, a medium-range wireless portable fob, and an unmodified wireless personal communication device. The portable fob includes a medium-range RF transceiver for bi-directional communication with the telematics unit and a short-range wireless transceiver for bi-directional communication with the personal communication device. The fob communicates with the vehicle telematics unit in a conventional manner, and also relays information between the telematics unit and the personal communication device. Communication can be initiated by the telematics unit or by the operator via the fob or personal communication device. Once communication is initiated, the fob relays: (1) menu options and status information from the telematics unit to the personal communication device; and (2) menu selections from the personal communication device to the telematics unit.

Abstract: A remote control engine starting device includes an immobilizer and a remote engine starter for starting an engine when an engine start command is given from a remote location. The immobilizer further includes an interrogating signal outputting section, which outputs an interrogating signal when a signal related to engine starting is received, and an engine start permitting section, which gives engine start permission when a remote engine starter code that the remote engine starter outputs in response to the interrogating signal matches a remote engine starter verifying code preregistered in the immobilizer. The remote engine starter further includes an engine start signal outputting sections which outputs a signal related to engine starting and a code outputting section, which in response to the interrogating signal, outputs the remote engine starter code preregistered in the remote engine starter.

Abstract: A remote operation system includes responders that detect the pressure of tires of a vehicle, an interrogator that is provided in a main body of the vehicle and communicates with the responders so as to process pressure data, a plurality of antennas that are provided in the vicinities of the tires, respectively, and are connected to the interrogator, and a portable transmitter for a remote operation that communicates with the interrogator and unlocks the doors of the vehicle. The interrogator has a reception intensity detector that detects an intensity of a received signal from the transmitter received by each antenna. When each antenna receives an unlock signal to be transmitted from the transmitter, a door closest to one of the antennas which receives a signal having the highest reception intensity is unlocked.

Abstract: A security alarm system for a vehicle having an alert device, the alert device including an audible alert device, and the security alarm system comprising an intrusion detector for detecting an intrusion event on the vehicle; and an alert controller for controlling the alert device, wherein the alert controller generates an activate instruction to activate the alert device responsive to the intrusion event detected by the intrusion detector and generates a deactivate instruction to deactivate at least the audible alert device after a first predetermined time interval from the generation of the activate instruction, and wherein the alert controller further prevents a generation of an activate instruction of at least the audible alert device during at least a second predetermined time interval after the generation of the deactivate instruction.

Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft SOS-calling device includes at least one SOS-calling device having a control unit, anti-theft detecting unit, and a rescue signal lamp board; and a remote controller having a main controller, at least one switch, and an alarming unit. The control unit has a wireless receiver and a wireless transmitter; the main controller has a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver. The rescue signal lamp board has light emitters in a shape of a word meaning rescue and fixed clearly visible on a vehicle body. The SOS-calling device is turned on and off by the remote controller to send signals to the control unit to light up the rescue signal lamp board and simultaneously the wireless transmitter of the SOS-calling device transmits signals to the wireless receiver of the remote controller, so that the data of the signals is shown on the alarming unit, indicating the vehicle being stolen.

Abstract: A remote control terminal includes an input section which allows selection of predetermined services offered from an information provider managing the services, a transceiver for obtaining a service selected by the input section from the information provider, and displaying means for displaying the contents of the service obtained by the transceiver.

Abstract: A method for remotely operating vehicle functions including receiving at least one wireless key fob signal at a kiosk system, receiving a vehicle function request at the kiosk system, and sending the wireless key fob signal from the kiosk system to a vehicle based on the vehicle function request.

Abstract: A function operation warning device according to the invention includes a receiving portion that receives a control signal transmitted from an external remote transmitter; a definition portion that stores information that is used to determine whether an audible warning is generated in response to the control signal; an audible warning setting portion that stores settings concerning at least one of enable/disable of generation of the audible warning and a sound volume; a warning determination portion that determines, using the definition portion, whether the audible warning is generated, when the control signal is received; and a warning generation portion that generates the audible warning at a predetermined sound volume regardless of the settings stored in the audible warning setting portion, when the audible warning is generated as a result of determination made by the warning determination portion.

Abstract: On condition that a holder of a portable device has manipulated an ignition switch, a main control ECU discriminates the open/closed state of a luggage compartment door. When the luggage compartment door is in the closed state, the main control ECU instructs a rear transmitter to transmit a first request signal. When the luggage compartment door is in the open state, the main control ECU instructs the rear transmitter to transmit a second request signal. A portable ECU discriminates the request signal received by a receiver. When the received request signal has been determined to be the second request signal, the portable ECU adjusts the transmission output of a response signal which is to be transmitted from a transmitter, to a second transmission output which is lower than an ordinary output.

Abstract: A remote control apparatus controls operation of a vehicular alarm apparatus. The remote control apparatus has a transmission section that transmits to the vehicular alarm apparatus (a) a first alarm instruction for causing the vehicular alarm apparatus to perform a first alarm operation and (b) a second alarm instruction for causing the vehicular alarm apparatus to perform a second alarm operation, which is different from the first alarm operation.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an antitheft apparatus mounted on a vehicle for protecting the vehicle from theft. The vehicle has a remote control device that controls a vehicle component of the vehicle in accordance with a control signal transmitted from a terminal. The antitheft apparatus includes an intruder detection part for detecting intrusion of an intruder, and an intrusion detection control part for controlling the detecting function of the intruder detection part during a period when the vehicle component is being controlled by the remote control device.

Abstract: A welcoming system for welcoming a user of an automobile has a host communication means provided in the automobile or a facility around a parking location of the automobile. The system further has a distance detecting means for detecting a distance between the user and the parking automobile. A welcoming control means operates a welcoming operating means, such as a head lamp of the automobile, in such a manner that a content of the welcoming operations will be selected and changed depending on the detected distance between the user and the automobile.

Abstract: A car hands-free unit (HFU 140) with a Low-Power Radio-Frequency (LPRF) module 141 (typically a Bluetooth module) configured to receive an identifier 134 from a car key 133. Different drivers are provided with different car keys 133. When receiving the identifier 134 first time, the HFU stores trusted data to pair with a driver's phone. Thereafter, the HFU automatically connects to the driver's phone when the same car key 133 is used. The hands-free unit typically comprises a microphone and a loudspeaker, and can also have a display and/or a camera. In operation the HFU provides automatic link 160 with a compliant LPRF enabled mobile phone without need to touch the mobile phone, allowing its use even when the mobile phone is placed in a boot of a car 101.

Abstract: A remote signaling receiver system includes a receiver that operates in two different modes of demodulation to accommodate different types of signals from different types of transmitting devices. A first demodulator, preferably an ASK demodulator, is adapted to process signals from a signal transmitter that generates a first type of signal. A second demodulator, preferably one that is not sensitive to amplitude modulation such as a FSK demodulator, is adapted to process signals received from at least one other type of device, which provides a second type of signal. A system designed according to this invention is particularly useful as a remote keyless entry system for a vehicle where one or more sensors are provided on the vehicle to provide an indication of a chosen condition of one or more of the vehicle components.

Abstract: A portable unit locating system is incorporated in a vehicle equipment control system including a portable unit and an in-vehicle unit, which communicate each other for controlling vehicle equipment such as doors. The in-vehicle unit includes inside transmitters, a receiver, a comparison ECU and a display. The transmitters transmit respective request signals in a vehicle compartment. The comparison ECU determines whether any response signal has been received from the portable unit in response the request signals, while gradually varying output levels of the request signals. The comparison ECU then specifies a location of the portable unit based on a change in determination results. The display visually or audibly notifies the specified location of the portable unit to a vehicle user.

Abstract: A method of operating a remote signal communication system to reduce entry latency includes the steps of remotely starting a vehicle, and periodically communicating a signal to a plurality of locations of the vehicle subsequent to starting the vehicle.

Abstract: In a system for alerting an operator of a vehicle to a highest priority fault condition, the operating conditions of the vehicle are obtained and compared to predetermined values in order to identify the fault conditions of the vehicle. Each of the fault conditions of the vehicle has a corresponding operator action associated therewith which identifies the actions that must be performed by the operator in order to manage the fault condition. By prioritizing the fault conditions on the basis of the operator actions that are necessary to manage the faults, the system is able to output to the operator only the operator action associated with the highest priority fault condition, without any compromise in safety or additional risk of damage to the vehicle, while providing the ability for the operator of the vehicle to manage all of the active fault conditions by performing only the operator action associated with the highest priority fault condition.

Abstract: Disclosed is a vehicle security system, which includes a security controller and a remote controller. The security controller is electrically connected to sensors and alarms, respectively, and has a memory storing an anti-thief alert grade table. The anti-thief alert grade table records at least two alert grades each having a respective sensitivity default value corresponding to each sensor. The sensitivity default value of each alert grade for each sensor defines the critical actuation value of the respective sensor for the respective alert grade. The remote controller has a control button for pressing to control the security controller to enter the desired alert grade of the alert mode.

Abstract: A two-way automotive remote control system for a vehicle having a data bus includes a factory enhancement module, a wire harness adapted to connect the factory enhancement module with the data bus of the vehicle, an antenna, and a remote communicating with the factory enhancement module electronically. The factory enhancement module has a data bus interface, a microcontroller, an antenna interface, and a power supply, and activates the remote in predetermined situations of the vehicle. The data bus interface of the factory enhancement module and the antenna interface are monitored continually. The factory enhancement module accepts and decodes the outputs from the alarm system of the vehicle through the data bus interface. The outputs from the alarm system includes messages according to a predetermined communication standard, which includes J1850. The factory enhancement module accepts and decodes predetermined command messages from the remote in an electromagnetic wave transmission.

Abstract: A security apparatus (2) monitors movement of users carrying security controllers (3a) through (3c) into and out of a security area (50), and controls security operations. The security apparatus (2) includes a communication unit (4) for communicating with each of the security controllers (3a) through (3c) and obtaining position information on the respective security controllers (3a) through (3c), a storage unit (11) for storing a security controller monitoring table (30), and a left-controller determining section (26) for judging whether any of the security controllers (3a) through (3c) has been left within the security area (50) and determining whether setting or canceling of the security mode is commanded automatically or based on the input operations by the users.

Abstract: A system and method for communicating vehicular information with remote locations may include communicating data from a wireless interface of a vehicle with a locally positioned wireless device. The wireless device may be configured to enable a user to communicate with other users of wireless devices. Receipt of the internal signal may cause the wireless device to communicate the data to a remote location. The remote location may be a service provider or public safety organization located on a network, such as the public switched telephone network or wireless communications network (e.g., mobile telephone network).

Abstract: A method which protects mobile entities typically shipping containers (111) and vehicles Wireless transceivers (101, 105), preferably with sensors attached, are installed on the entities and a master transceiver and a master transceiver is periodically selected from among the wireless transceivers The master transceiver communicates with at least some of the wireless transceivers which form a cluster (21) Positive status information from each of the wireless transceivers of the cluster (21) is continuously transferred to the master transceiver A communications tamper on one or more of the wireless transceivers is suspected and the master transceivers performs an alert when the positive status information is not received from one or more other transceivers of the cluster (21)

Abstract: A modular vehicle key device system for controlling vehicle access and operation. The device is formed by joining at least two separable modules, a first key device module containing vehicle access and/or operation authorizing elements, such as a keyless entry transmitter and/or an ignition key, and a module for off-vehicle storage of personal adjustment settings and/or other data. With each use of the modular key device, the data in the storage module is transferred to the vehicle to ensure the operator's settings and information are always present. Separating the storage module from the key device module allows others to operate the vehicle while ensuring the operator's personal data cannot be lost. Separation also enables easy transfer of an operator's settings to a like vehicle. Other embodiments allow the operator to allow vehicle operation by others, such as valets, while limiting use of individual vehicle components, such as radios.

Abstract: An on-vehicle controller performs smart control for transmitting a transmission request signal to a predetermined area and for unlocking a door of a vehicle based on a return signal transmitted by a portable device receiving the transmission request signal, security control for providing a warning if improper conduct to the vehicle is detected, remote keyless entry control for locking or unlocking the door according to a manual operation signal, which is transmitted from the portable device according to button manipulation thereof, and immobilizer control for permitting an engine start if an identification code transmitted from a transponder of the portable device coincides with an identification code stored in the vehicle. If a mode switch is switched to an off position, the controller is switched to a power-saving mode for performing only the immobilizer control.

Abstract: A security system is disclosed having a base controller, a base transceiver, a remote control, and a passive locking prevention device. The passive locking prevention device includes a detection device preferably located within the passenger compartment of the vehicle for detecting the remote control. The detection device preferably has a detection range extending only to the inside of the vehicle. The passive locking prevention device is configured such that the vehicle will not passively lock when the passive locking prevention device detects the remote control. The passive locking prevention device can be connected to the base controller via a wired or wireless connection. The remote control can contain an emission device that emits a detectable signal by the detection device, and upon such detection, the vehicle is prevented from locking. The system can visibly or audibly alert a vehicle owner if the vehicle is not passively locked.

Abstract: A remote starting ECU includes a command recognizing unit and a tuner connecting unit. The remote starting ECU starts an engine of a vehicle when the command recognizing unit receives an engine start command from a remote key or when the tuner connecting unit receives an engine start request from a remote controller.

Abstract: A processing apparatus is mounted on a to-be-equipped body, transmits/receives signals to/from a portable transmitter portably carried by a user, and activates one of functions provided in the to-be-equipped body in accordance with instruction information included in an instruction signal transmitted from the portable transmitter. The processing apparatus includes a receiving unit, a transmitting unit, a judgment unit, a control unit, and an adjustment unit. The receiving unit receives the instruction signal transmitted from the portable transmitter. The transmitting unit transmits a response signal. The judgment unit judges whether or not an acknowledgement signal has been received from the portable transmitter. The control unit activates a function to be activated by the instruction information when the judgment unit concludes that the acknowledgement signal has been received.

Abstract: A theft prevention system capable of preventing theft of a target object by disabling the authorized key of the target object in the case where the authorized key has been stolen. When the authorized key is lost, a mobile telephone 100 instructs a vehicle control device 300a to set a warning mode. On receipt of this warning mode instruction, the vehicle control device 300a sets warning mode, generates an electronic key, and transmits the generated electronic key to the mobile telephone 100, which receives and stores the electronic key. Once the warning mode is set in the vehicle, locking and unlocking are only possible using the electronic key. If the authorized key is found, the mobile telephone 100 instructs the vehicle control device 300a to set the normal mode. Upon receipt of this normal mode instruction, the vehicle control device 300a sets the normal mode in the vehicle. Once the normal mode is set in the vehicle, locking and unlocking are only possible using the authorized key.

Abstract: A remote start control system may include an engine speed data bus reader at the vehicle for reading the engine speed signal on the vehicle data communications bus, and a remote start controller at the vehicle and connected to the engine speed data bus reader for operating the engine starter based upon a remote start transmitter and based upon the engine speed signal. In some embodiments, the engine speed signal may include a digital code, and the engine speed data bus reader reads the digital code and converts the digital code into a pulsed tachometer emulation signal for the remote start controller. In other embodiments, the engine speed data bus reader generates an output level based upon the digital code exceeding at least one threshold, such as an engine started or engine overspeed threshold. The remote start control system is readily interfaced to a vehicle having a data communications bus to thereby be able to operate using an engine speed signal.

Abstract: The present invention is a hand held portable remote such as a key fob that allows a user to interact with the security system using a flat panel touch-pad. The touch-pad input allows a user to rapidly select and control a large number of security functions, such as Arm, Disarm, Panic, garage door open, lamp on/off, and lamp dimming control, etc. The security device comprises a housing, a wireless communication port for interface with the security system, a touch-pad input device, and processing circuitry. In order to operate the security device, the user generates a user input by creating a contact motion on the touch-pad input device with a fingertip. The contact motion may consist of a swiping motion, a tapping, or a circular motion. In order to distinguish the contact motion clearly, when the fingertip contact comprises a wider than normal contact, it causes the processing circuitry to not generate an output signal.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for securing a wireless fob in a vehicle. The fob has a control thereon for controlling a vehicle function. The system comprising a first vehicle region having an opening for receiving the fob. The opening is configured to render the control accessible from the exterior of the vehicle. A second vehicle region is capable of having first and second positions with respect to the first vehicle region. The opening receives the fob when the second vehicle region is in the first position. The second vehicle region prevents removal of the fob from the opening when the second vehicle region is in the second position.

Abstract: An apparatus for managing a notification from an in-vehicle device to a person to be notified includes an information acquiring unit that acquires information on the person; and a means selecting unit that selects a notification means based on the information acquired. The information includes at least a relative position of the person with respect to a vehicle.