Abstract: An annunciator device operable to record and store a message can be disposed in close proximity to a user for playback of the message if the user becomes incapacitated or otherwise unable to respond. The annunciator device includes an actuator or button to initiate recording or playback of the message. A mode selector switch determines whether recording or playback will occur. Once recorded, the message is stored in a memory and can be broadcast to others by triggering the actuator to initiate playback. The stored message can contain information such as name, address, medical conditions, persons to contact, and other information which may assist emergency personnel, bystanders, and others in providing appropriate care and attention should the user become incapacitated or unable to respond.

Abstract: With present invention helps you to bring about driver's self-awareness by direction indicating light with voice and special sounds. And it helps to make maximum effect of advertisement. If you hear family's, lover's voice or comfortable and classic music instead of clicking machine sounds, it is helpful for you to reduce traffic accident.

Abstract: A phase angle determining circuit for determining a phase angle from a first input signal and a second input signal includes an input circuit configured to receive the first input signal and the second input signal and to provide a third signal, and an output circuit configured to receive the third signal and to provide an output signal representative of the phase angle. The first and second signal may be provided by a transducer. The transducer may be a steering wheel transducer and the phase angle determining system may be utilized in a vehicle system to control a vehicle system based on the phase angle of the steering wheel.

Abstract: A child safety seat comprises a safety seat unit. An alarm unit is coupled to the safety seat unit. The alarm unit sounds an alarm to remind occupants of the vehicle when a child is sitting in the child safety seat after the ignition of the vehicle in which the child safety seat is installed is turned off.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for warning when a child has been left in a baby car seat and when one or both of: (i) a vehicle door has been opened, and (ii) a key ring remote unit is not within a predetermined zone about the vehicle.

Abstract: A system for determining fuel usage within a jurisdiction includes a control computer operable to control fueling of an internal combustion engine and an auxiliary computer coupled thereto, wherein the auxiliary computer forms part of an operator interface unit. The control computer is operable to broadcast current fuel usage information in a number of fuel usage categories, and the auxiliary computer is operable to accumulate such fuel usage information within each jurisdiction traveled by the vehicle. In one embodiment, a GPS receiver provides the auxiliary computer with information relating to a current vehicle jurisdiction, and in an alternate embodiment, an auxiliary switch is provided wherein manual actuation of the auxiliary switch indicates entrance into a new jurisdiction.

Abstract: A system for automatically resetting an oil condition alarm light after an oil change includes an in-vehicle digital processing apparatus electrically coupled to a warning lamp and to an oil sensor installed in an engine oil pan. The digital processing apparatus further includes a warning lamp reset module to automatically reset the oil sensor following an oil change, based on an oil parameter difference value.

Abstract: A device for providing and indication of seatbelt use to observers following a vehicle such that when a seat that is occupied by a person, does not have a connected seatbelt, an indicator in the rear window of the vehicle which has multiple lights corresponding to each seat belt in the vehicle, illuminates each light corresponding to that seat belt that has not been connected.

Abstract: A weight-sensitive mat or other sensor determines whether a child seat in a vehicle is occupied, a transmitter is proximate to the sensor, and a keychain fob or other portable unit includes a receiver and an alarm. Generally, if the child seat is occupied and the keychain fob is removed from proximity to the transmitter, the transmitter communicates this to the keychain fob receiver and the alarm is activated. Exemplary embodiments include an add-on kit including a base unit with a transceiver for use with existing car seats having a base and a detachable shell, an add-on kit without the base unit for use with existing unitary car seats, and a car seat with the child sensor, transmitter, and/or base unit built into it.

Abstract: In a multimedia information and control system for use in an automobile, at least one interface is employed which enables a user to access information concerning the automobile and control vehicle functions in an efficient manner. The user may select one of a plurality of displayed options on a screen of such an interface. Through audio, video and/or text media, the user is provided with information concerning the selected option and the vehicle function corresponding thereto. Having been so informed, the user may activate the selected option to control the corresponding vehicle function.

Abstract: A hand brake system (40) for a rail vehicle providing a hand brake position alarm (76) before a train is moved with a hand brake not fully released. A switch (56) detects the position of a hand brake drive chain (18) to provide a brake engaged signal (60). The weight of the drive chain is supported through a load path that bypasses the switch. A master controller reverser handle position detector (74) provides a reverser handle position signal (72) when the reverser handle is moved out of neutral in preparation for providing power to the locomotive drive motors (15). A relay (70) is used to actuate the multiunit wheel slip indicator (54) and the general alarm bell (52) in every locomotive of the train consist when the brake engaged signal is coincident with the master controller reverser handle position signal. This combination of alarms, which normally indicates a locked axle when the train is above a predetermined speed, is interpreted as a hand brake position alarm when the train is at rest.

Abstract: A child seat alarm including a car seat portion adapted for being positioned within a motor vehicle. The car seat portion includes child engagement straps. The child engagement straps include a male buckle and a corresponding female receptacle. The male buckle is lockably received within the female receptacle in a locked orientation. An alarm is disposed within the car seat portion. The alarm includes a pair of speakers for broadcasting an audible alarm. The alarm is in an activated orientation when the male buckle is lockably received within the female receptacle. The alarm is in a deactivated orientation when the male buckle is removed from the female receptacle. The alarm is in communication with an electrical system of the vehicle whereby a shut down of the motor vehicle's engine or an opening of a driver's door will sound the alarm when the alarm is in the activated orientation.

Abstract: The present invention was achieved in order to provide a key lock-in prevention system whereby a warning of a failure to remove a key can be properly given to a driver when the driver has forgotten to remove the ignition key, while when such warning is not required, it is possible to give no warning, wherein no warning of a failure to remove a key is given to the driver when the ignition key is inserted into the key cylinder during the driver's seat side door's open state, even if three conditions, that is, the ignition key is in a state of inserted in the key cylinder (Condition 1), the driver's seat side door is open (Condition 2) and the ignition switch is in the off state (Condition 3) are met at the same time.

Abstract: A personal sensory reminder system includes an audio circuit that stores an audio message and which is responsive to a first signal for outputting the audio message. The system includes a switch that is responsive to an event for outputting a second signal and a clock circuit that is responsive to (i) the second signal for outputting the first signal to the audio circuit, (ii) the second signal for outputting the first signal to the audio circuit during an activation interval of the clock circuit and for withholding the output of the first signal to the audio circuit during a deactivation interval of the clock circuit or (iii) a change from a deactivation interval to an activation interval for outputting the first signal to the audio circuit.

Abstract: A car door rearview mirror structure having a mirror disposed on a rear side of the main body of the rearview mirror and electrically adjustable in inclination angle. A front cover body is mated with front side of the main body and a partitioning board is disposed in the main body to separate the front cover body from the mirror. A camera lens is disposed on the surface of front side of the partitioning board. The front face of the front cover body is formed with a window in front of the camera lens with a transparent cover fitted in the window to seal the window. By means of the camera lens and through the transparent cover, the view of a dead corner on a front side of the car is transmitted to a display arranged in the car so as to ensure driving safety.

Abstract: A bus safety system for reminding a driver to search a bus for passengers comprising a receiver module incorporating a microprocessor, the receiver module programmed to control an alarm based on at least one selected time interval following activation; a wire harness attachable between the receiver module and an electrical system of the bus; and a transmitter incorporating an alarm deactivation switch and adapted to send RF signals; wherein the receiver module is adapted to receive the RF signals from the transmitter.

Abstract: A reminder system operating at a specified location is provided. When an information ID (such as an “address C, B, AA, and bookstore”) transmitted from a small antenna station agrees with information (such as an “address C, B, AA, and bookstore”) stored in a memory of a reminder passing by the installation location of the small antenna station, the reminder outputs an alarm, and displays free messages (“The address here is C, B, AA” and “There is a bookstore”) on the display of the reminder. Thus, a user carrying the reminder is alerted to the business input in advance to the reminder.

Abstract: Apparatus for reminding a person to perform a plurality of periodically repeating tasks includes a first and a second user-accessible interface each having at one least task switch. A first and a second signal device each correspond to the respective first and second user-accessible interfaces. A surface supported by the apparatus can be imprinted with first and second task identifications which are aligned proximate to the corresponding signal devices and user interfaces. The apparatus includes an electronic processor configured to set a first alarm interval and a second alarm interval in response to the at least one task switch of the respective first or second user-accessible interface being accessed by a user a single time. The processor measures the passage of time using an electronic timing device and activates the first or second signal device when the measured passage of time exceeds the respective first or second alarm interval.

Abstract: This application describes a method and system for transmitting information from a vehicle, machine or equipment in order to conduct its prescribed maintenance. The method sources the data from either of distance traveled, hours operated or its condition. The typical maintenance is defined by preventive or condition monitoring or service activities. The system generates the appropriate signal to deliver, via wireless, the signal to alert or alarm that the critical set point measurement is arrived at, or exceeded. This signal informs by email and further selects the elements of maintenance activities from an electronic database and forwards it to conduct the said service activities.

Abstract: A secondary seat belt warning system for a motor vehicle includes at least one control module for activating at least one secondary warning signal. The secondary seat belt warning system also includes a driver seat belt sensor for producing an input signal indicative of a state of a driver seat belt between a buckled and unbuckled condition. The secondary seat belt warning system includes at least one passenger seat belt sensor for producing an input signal indicative of a state of at least one passenger seat belt between a buckled and unbuckled condition. The at least one control module communicates with the driver seat belt sensor and the at least one passenger seat belt sensor for activating the at least one secondary warning signal to alert a corresponding occupant of the motor vehicle if the state of at least one of the driver seat belt and the at least one passenger seat belt is the unbuckled condition.

Abstract: Occupant sensing system (12) for detecting the presence of an occupant within an automotive vehicle (10) includes a seat belt sensor (14) for detecting a buckled condition of the seat belt. An ignition sensor (24) generates an ignition-off signal. An indicator (30) is coupled to a controller (20), the seat belt sensor (22), and the ignition sensor (18). The controller controls the indicator in response to the seat belt buckled signal and ignition-off signal.

Abstract: A passenger detection system is provided to determine if a passenger is present or not because the weight value corresponding to when the seat is empty has shifted. The passenger detection system detects when the door has changed from the closed state to the open state based on a signal from a door switch. The passenger detection system then senses the decrease in weight that occurs thereafter and stores the weight value obtained after the decrease as the empty seat value.

Abstract: An entertainment device is provided. The entertainment device includes a main processing station which provides an output signal. The main processing station includes a control interface. A front panel is removably connected to the control interface. The front panel includes a memory for storing multimedia content. The front panel provides control parameters to the main processing station. The content of the memory is provided to the main audio processing station for output. In addition, the front panel processes and presents the stored multimedia content as a portable device. Both control parameters and multimedia (e.g. audio or video) information may be exchanged between the front panel and the main processing station. The front panel also includes a telecommunications device and an alarm transponder.

Abstract: A method for alerting a vehicle owner of recommended maintenance on the vehicle the initial step of entering vehicle identification data into a computer system. The computer system includes a database with vehicle maintenance data, a processor for processing the vehicle identification data and selecting appropriate vehicle maintenance data for the owner's vehicle, and a monitor for displaying the selected vehicle maintenance data. The computer will then alert the vehicle owner of specific service items needing attention from the selected vehicle maintenance data displayed. The step of alerting the vehicle owner includes visually alerting the owner with a flashing graphic display for particular service items needing attention.

Abstract: A vehicle door handle has a fixed part, a movable part and a sensor. The sensor is a magnet and a magnet-actuated switch. Movement of the movable part relative to the fixed part causes the magnet to activate the switch. A flux blocker is arranged between the magnet and the switch to prevent magnetic flux from the magnet actuating the switch. The flux blocker is arranged to expose the switch to magnetic flux when the movable part moves relative to the fixed part.

Abstract: An alarm assembly is provided alerting the operator through one of a visual, audible, or tactile signal, the occurrence of a specified event. The alarm assembly includes a locking mechanism coupled to a substrate which has a natural frequency. The locking mechanism is maintained in a condition which inhibits the natural frequency of the substrate unless commanded to do so by an electronic circuit which includes sensors for monitoring one or more specific criterion. The locking mechanism is preferably a non-Newtonian flow fluid locking mechanism which uses a magneto-rheological fluid to dynamically adjust the locking strength of the locking mechanism as well as the natural frequency of the substrate based upon user inputs and dynamic events. The alarm assembly can be dynamically “tuned” in and out of the natural frequency of the substrate so the substrate vibrates, produces an audible noise, or generates a current upon the occurrence of a predetermined event.

Abstract: A safety system for reminding an operator of a motorcycle to remove a lock from a disc rotor of a brake of the motorcycle and for reminding the operator to replace the lock in a storage location on the motorcycle, the motorcycle requiring function of an electrical circuit for starting the motorcycle, is disclosed. The system comprises a sensing mechanism for sensing that the lock is present in the storage location, the sensing mechanism operatively connected to, a switching mechanism operatively connected to the required electrical circuit of the motorcycle for controlling current flow through the required electrical circuit, whereby the motorcycle is prevented from starting unless the lock is present in the storage location.

Abstract: An adjustable delay turn signal reminder device adapted for mounting on a motorcycle and other vehicles. The reminder device is designed with safety in mind and give a vehicle operator a visual and/or audio signal, after a predetermined time, that a left turn signal or right turn signal on the vehicle needs to be turned “off”. The reminder device includes an electrical circuit housing with housing carrier and straps for securing the housing on the instrument panel of the motorcycle. The electrical circuit housing includes electrical leads for connecting the housing to the vehicle's left and right turn signals, a lead for connecting to the vehicle's battery for providing a power source to the housing, leads connected to an audio/visual unit mounted on the instrument panel and a lead connected to the motorcycle's brake signal light. Also, the circuit housing includes an audio/visual control knob and a time delay control knob.

Abstract: This disclosure provides a system for remotely communicating with a vehicle including a wireless device, a security gateway, an on-board computer coupled to one or more sensors or controls, and a web interface that provides for graphical interface between the vehicle and a remote individual. More particularly, a vehicle owner uses the Internet to directly communicate with the vehicle and, using this linkage, can monitor vehicle status (e.g., oil level and quality), read vehicle statistics such as odometer reading and interrogate other sensors as sampled by the on-board computer. Preferably, the owner can also change security functions such as door lock, alarm on, ignition kill “on,” and similar functions using this web interface.

Abstract: A device is provided for alerting a driver of an automotive vehicle as to the onset of fatigue, characterized by eyelid droop, head droop and a like condition wherein the eyes of the driver are not directed straight ahead onto the road. The device includes a unit adapted to be affixed to the sun visor of the automotive vehicle so as to be located at the upper periphery of the field of vision of the driver. The unit includes a light element, preferably a red light emitting diode (LED), viewable by the driver in the periphery of the field of vision of the driver. A control circuit controls the LED so as to provide illumination thereof after a predetermined time interval. A driver controlled pushbutton controller connected to the control circuit provides initial energization of the LED while a reset pushbutton provides resetting of the time interval upon depression thereof by the driver.

Abstract: An adjustable delay turn signal reminder device adapted for mounting on a motorcycle and other vehicles. The reminder device is designed with safety in mind and give a vehicle operator a visual and/or audio signal, after a predetermined time, that a left turn signal or right turn signal on the vehicle needs to be turned “off”. The reminder device includes an electrical circuit housing with housing carrier and straps for securing the housing on the instrument panel of the motorcycle. The electrical circuit housing includes electrical leads for connecting the housing to the vehicle's left and right turn signals, a lead for connecting to the vehicle's battery for providing a power source to the housing, leads connected to an audio/visual unit mounted on the instrument panel and a lead connected to the motorcycle's brake signal light. Also, the circuit housing includes an audio/visual control knob and a time delay control knob.

Abstract: The present invention improves the maintainability of a vehicle by properly identifying a worn endless belt in a belt-type automatic transmission and informing a driver of the proper belt replacement interval. The belt replacement timing annunciator relies upon the radii of the endless belt wound around a drive pulley and around a driven pulley that vary to produce shifting change gear ratios. Various operating conditions and the actual change gear ratio for the specific operating condition are detected, and a comparison between a reference change gear ratio and the actual change gear ratio is made to determine if belt replacement is necessary. A timer device provides a predetermined observation interval for avoiding erroneous readings and a display is also provided for indicating the necessity of belt replacement.

Abstract: A method for alerting a vehicle owner of recommended maintenance on the vehicle includes the initial step of entering vehicle identification data into a computer system. The computer system includes a database with vehicle maintenance data, a processor for processing the vehicle identification data and selecting appropriate vehicle maintenance data for the owner's vehicle, and a monitor for displaying the selected vehicle maintenance data. The computer will then alert the vehicle owner of specific service items needing attention from the selected vehicle maintenance data displayed. The step of alerting the vehicle owner includes visually alerting the owner with a flashing graphic display for particular service items needing attention.

Abstract: A portable electronic parking location reminder device that may be easily carried on a key chain or key ring has an electronic display screen and contains a battery powered microcontroller with memory and timer features. User input keys on the housing allow the user to enter letters and/or numbers corresponding to the location of a parked vehicle, store the entered data, and later retrieve and display the data when it is desired to find the parked vehicle. The user input keys include a mode key for selecting between an alpha mode for entering letters of the alphabet (A-Z), a numeric mode for entering numerals (0-9), and a direction mode for entering letters representing geographical directions (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W,). Data is entered and displayed in several distinct fields that correspond to an aspect of the location of the parked vehicle.

Abstract: A transponder system for a motor vehicle includes a transponder that transmits an access signal as a response to a query signal, and a signal processing device that transmits the query signal and receives the access signal, which the transponder transmits in response to the query signal. The signal processing device transmits the query signal as a transponder check signal if the motor vehicle is deactivated, a warning signal being generated if the access signal is received in response to the transponder check signal.

Abstract: The present invention is directed at a volume control for an automobile turn signal indicator. The volume control allows the driver to raise or lower the volume of the clicking sound that is produced when a turn signal indicator is activated. As such, the driver is able to increase the volume of the audible clicking sound when operating in a environment having a high background noise (i.e. a radio or traffic) or when the driver is hearing impaired.

Abstract: A self contained, buckle attachable and actuated alarm device apparatus is provided having an actuation bracket having a blade receiving slot designed to receive and be supported by a seat belt buckle insertion tab. The seat belt buckle insertion tab is impinged between a retention orifice and a stop flange. An alarm device is attached to to an underside of a “U” shaped buckle housing. The actuation bracket including a vertical actuation surface designed to align with and impinge against a plunger type insertion switch.

Abstract: A cruise control alert system that both visually alerts drivers in other vehicles that a cruise control is operating and the specific speed the cruise control is set. A voice chip within the vehicle informs the driver to set the cruise control at a given preset speed to prevent speeding. The display may be operator controlled or may be tied in to the cruise control to automatically display the notice the cruise control is operating and the speed at which set.

Abstract: A shutter assembly includes a structure which surrounds an opening and a shutter including a plurality of laths hingedly connected together at their longitudinal edges and moveable across the opening in a direction substantially normal to those longitudinal edges between an opened position and a closed position to respectively open and close the opening. A latch mechanism is operable to retain the shutter in the closed position. The latch mechanism includes at least one latch member mounted on the shutter and, for each latch member, at least one keeper mounted on the structure and which has a portion with which the respective latch member may be engaged to latch the shutter in the closed position.

Abstract: The invention is intended to extend the receiving distance in a remote keyless entry system for automobile, and minimize the direction limitations. To achieve the object, the invention comprises a column combination switch main body (1) having a light control switch unit (2) and a wiper control switch unit (3), and also includes receiving means for receiving signals from a transmitter main body (12) of a remote keyless entry system, thereby constituting a column combination switch for automobile incorporating a remote key less entry system wide in the receiving range.

Abstract: A sensor which is installed in a vehicle, for sensing an object or a person, is operated for adjustment purposes in a test mode. The installation position of the sensor or of the device in the vehicle is changed with an adjustment device as a function of the evaluation of the test data which are determined. Alternatively, or in addition, a message can be issued as a function of the result of the evaluation. The invention ensures that the device is installed at a precise location in the vehicle and the position of vehicle occupants is thus determined precisely.

Abstract: A self-contained accessory for an analog metering device such as a speedometer or tachometer. The accessory includes a sensor which is selectively adjustable to align with a plurality of positions in the range of movement of an output needle of the analog metering device. In the preferred embodiment, the sensor is alignable with gradation marks, e.g., miles per hour indicia on a speedometer, and the accessory provides a clear indication when a needle reaches a selected gradation. The indication alerts a user that a selected gradation has been reached by an output needle of the analog metering device. The accessory attaches to a cover of the analog metering device and allows adjustment of sensor position without removal of the accessory from the cover.

Abstract: A park system alarm is provided which is energized when operation of the park mechanism fails to open the park system switch, even though the shift lever is in the park position, and the driver initiates the process of opening his or her door. An external alarm is also energized through the park system switch and a seat switch if the driver leaves his normal driving position when the shift lever is not in park and when the shift lever is in park but the park system is broken or maladjusted. A put-in-park alarm is energized through the park system switch, a gear switch, and a door switch if the driver initiates the process of opening his or her door with the shift lever in any position except park. A seat switch circuit causes the parking pawl to engage the parking gear if the driver leaves the vehicle without placing the shift lever in park.

Abstract: An alarm system for a vehicle having a door and a seat belt that includes: a door position sensor; a seat belt position sensor; an alarm, operable when the vehicle is running, that sounds only when the door position sensor determines the door is open and the seat belt position sensor determines the seat belt is inactive. A method of preventing unsafe vehicle operation and a vehicle having the alarm system are also disclosed.

Abstract: An RFID tag is provided with a timing module to measure elapsed time and an environment module to detect certain environmental conditions. The RFID tag includes a transmitter/receiver, memory module, antenna module, converter, and the timing and environment modules. In an embodiment of the invention, the timing module enables the user, upon interrogating the RFID tag, to determine the precise length of time from the previous charge of the RFID tag. The environment module enables the user to determine how long the RFID tag has been exposed to certain environmental conditions that have been pre-defined by the user.

Abstract: The vehicle monitoring system comprises: an on-vehicle unit provided in a vehicle, the on-vehicle unit comprising: a vehicle condition monitor for monitoring a condition of the vehicle and outputting vehicle condition data; and an on-vehicle communicator for sending the vehicle condition data output from the vehicle condition monitor; a data server for communicating with the on-vehicle unit, the data server comprising a server communicator for receiving the vehicle condition data sent from the on-vehicle communicator; a storage section for storing the vehicle condition data; and an abnormality determining section for determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the vehicle, based on the vehicle condition data stored in the storage section, and for outputting an abnormality informing signal when the abnormality has occurred in the vehicle.

Abstract: A parking meter device that is devoted to a separate person or vehicle comprises a housing unit 10 that has an LED 11 that in use is clearly visible from outside the vehicle. The device includes a two-way radio circuit 12, a display 14 and a keyboard 15. The unit also includes a computer 19. In use, the user communicates, using the keyboard 15, with a remote central parking service provide via radio data network channels to demand a parking period. The parking service provider checks the authenticity of the demand and approves the parking request. During lawful, paid for, parking the LED 11 remains ON so that a patrolling parking attendant can easily monitor that parking approval has been given. The parking meter device is in effect a personal device and overcomes disadvantages and limitations inherent for usual side-of-the-road parking meter devices that are devoted to parking bays or zones rather than individuals.

Abstract: A secondary seat belt warning system for alerting a vehicle occupant when a seat belt is unbuckled. The secondary seat belt warning system includes an ignition switch for generating a signal indicating an ignition in an on position, a seat belt sensor for generating a signal indicating that the seat belt is unbuckled, and a seat belt indicator for producing an audible and visible indicator to the vehicle occupant. The secondary seat belt warning system also includes a control module to activate the seat belt indicator in response to the input from the ignition switch and seat belt sensor. The secondary seat belt warning system further includes a vehicle speed sensor to activate the secondary seat belt warning system when the control module receives a signal above a predetermined threshold from the speed sensor indicative of the vehicle speed.

Abstract: A semi-automatic transmission for a vehicle having a diesel engine is provided which, upon start up of an engine ignition, goes through a warm up stage before the engine begins normal operation. An electronic controller is connected to the engine, a clutch, a gear box, and a signal transmitter. During start up of the engine, the electronic controller cause the signal transmitter to emit a signal which notifies the driver of the vehicle, based upon the position of an ignition key in the ignition lock, to disengage the clutch. Alternatively, during start up of the engine, the electronic controller detects whether the gear box is in a neutral position and whether the clutch is not disengaged. If the gear box is not in the neutral position or if the clutch is not disengaged, the electronic controller causes the signal transmitter to emit a signal which notifies the driver of the vehicle to disengage the clutch.

Abstract: A system (10) for a vehicle (12), wherein the system includes transmitter components (26, 28), located at the vehicle, that are operable to send communication that conveys a vehicle system status. A portable receiver unit (14) is operable to receive the communication that conveys the vehicle system status. An operator (76) of the vehicle (12) carries the portable receiver unit (14) upon leaving the vehicle. A controller (22) senses a condition indicative of the vehicle operator (76) leaving the vehicle (12) and enables the communication from the transmitter components (26, 28) to the portable receiver unit (14) in response to the sensed condition indicative of the vehicle operator (76) leaving the vehicle (12). Preferably, a device (44) enables operation of the portable receiver unit (14) in response to the sensed condition indicative of the vehicle operator (76) leaving the vehicle (12).