Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for obtaining information on the whereabouts of a vehicle key-fob. The apparatus comprises a transmitter, a receiver, a motion detector, memory, and a controller operatively coupled thereto. The controller uses instructions stored in the memory to operate the transmitter in response to a first signal provided by the motion detector indicating that the key-fob is in motion and a second signal provided by the receiver when the key-fob is in range of a communication node, to send thereto via the transmitter information useful in tracking the key-fob. The user interrogates the node to retrieve the location information deposited thereon by the key-fob. The stored information may be a time dated list of nodes the key-fob has visited or current position information generated within the key-fob itself and/or the nodes, or a combination thereof.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for remotely registering a user's biometric signature to a vehicle. A remote control comprises a user input, a wireless transmitter, biometric input, memory, user output and microcontroller coupling the other elements. The biometric input reads a user's biometric signature that is compressed, optionally encrypted and sent via the transmitter to the vehicle for registration. This identifies WHO is authorized to issue commands to the vehicle. After registration, the key-fob may send a biometric signature with each command that is compared with signatures stored in the vehicle memory and the command executed when there is a match. An optional user access level associated with each signature determines WHAT commands the vehicle will execute for that individual. The vehicle electronics system includes a receiver, microcontroller and memory for receiving, decrypting, storing, comparing biometric signatures and executing commands.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for vehicle entry control using an imaged keypad. The apparatus includes a virtual interface for entry control of a vehicle having an imaging surface that defines a field of view. The interface includes a projected keypad image on the imaging surface having at least one image of a reconfigurable key within the field of view and a gesture detector and translator having a scope of operation within the field of view. The image of the reconfigurable key may have a configuration based on a user preference.

Abstract: A sound processing system for use in an automotive vehicle of the type which includes at least one door and at least one door-lock comprises at least one sound sensor coupled to the vehicle for receiving a sound external to the vehicle, an alert generator for notifying an occupant of the vehicle when the external sound is an emergency signal, and a door control module coupled to at least one door-lock for unlocking at least one door. A sound processor is coupled to the sound sensor, the alert generator, and the door control module and receives and compares the external sound to first and second sets of characteristics. The sound processor activates the alert generator if the sound substantially matches the first set and the door control module if the sound substantially matches the second set.