Abstract: An enhanced vehicle key fob includes a controller that is coupled to a power source, an antenna, and an accelerometer that measures the acceleration of the enhanced vehicle key fob and outputs the measurement to the controller, wherein the enhanced vehicle key fob controls a vehicle function of a vehicle using the output of the accelerometer.

Abstract: An enhanced vehicle key fob includes a controller that is coupled to a power source, an antenna, and an accelerometer that measures the acceleration of the enhanced vehicle key fob and outputs the measurement to the controller, wherein the enhanced vehicle key fob controls a vehicle function of a vehicle using the output of the accelerometer.

Abstract: In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, an augmented virtual reality game is provided for a vehicle. A method comprises receiving a real-time video image during operation of a vehicle from a camera mounted on the vehicle and merging the real-time video image with one or more virtual images to provide an augmented reality image. The augmented reality image is then transmitted to a display of a gaming device during the operation of the vehicle. A system comprises a camera providing a real-time video image and a controller coupled to the camera. Additionally, a database provides the controller with one or more virtual images so that the controller may provide an augmented reality image by merging the real-time video image with the one or more virtual images. Finally, a transmitter is included for transmitting the augmented reality image to a display of a game device during the operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: A dual-redundant propulsion-by-wire control architecture with robust monitoring is presented to increase system availability without compromising safety. The dual-redundant controllers are able to cross-monitor and self-monitor. Self monitoring is effected at the application level and built-in system tests are performed. The monitor functions are set as high priority tasks. The first controller controls operation of a first propulsion system, monitors operation of a second controller, and, self-monitors. The second controller controls operation of a second propulsion system, monitors operation of the first controller, and, self-monitors. Each controller is operable to identify faults occurring in the first and the second controller, and implement an alternate operating control scheme for the respective propulsion system when a fault is identified. The first controller is signally connected to the second controller by substantially redundant communications buses.

Abstract: A system and method for reintegration of a redundant controller after occurrence of a fault is provided, comprising synchronizing outputs of a primary controller with outputs of secondary controllers. The controller is placed in a different mode of operation in which its output is not used in system control. A meta-controller is activated to drive the primary controller to the same states at which the secondary or redundant controllers operate. A voting mechanism is used to determine a fault in an output to a controlled device. Control of the device using the secondary outputs is effected. The primary controller recalculates the primary output, based upon the primary output; a feedback signal; and, the secondary outputs. Control using the primary output is permitted when the primary output is within an allowable range of the secondary outputs.

Abstract: A control system and method for use in vehicles, such as automotive vehicles. The control system and method is particularly adapted for use in vehicles having by-wire control systems. The control system uses three system controllers. Each of the controllers is adapted to receive redundant control inputs from at least one input device, such as a steering actuator, an accelerator actuator and a brake actuator. Each controller is adapted to receive a different unprocessed actuator sensor signal and a processed actuator sensor signal which are associated with the input device. Each controller may also be adapted to receive a sensor status signal which is also associated with the input device. In accordance with the method of the invention, these signals may be used to determine a sensor signal which may be used as the basis for control of control systems or components in response to the input device.