Abstract: A sensing catheter having an outer flexible sheath and a distal section containing a sensing system having a sensing means, a radiant energy providing means and radiation transmitting means, preferably all housed within a fluid channel.

Abstract: A user carried electronic device and method therefore is provided for directing the user to a parked vehicle using several modes of operation. The device includes a display, a memory, an interface for receiving information downloads from the vehicle and a controller coupled thereto for managing operation of the device. The controller stores the downloaded information in the memory and presents RETURN-TO-VEHICLE information on the display in response to a user request. The downloaded information desirably includes photographic information concerning the parked vehicle's environment obtained by vehicle camera(s) or otherwise. Vehicle location information and vehicle location accuracy information may be included. The device desirably includes location tracking elements that, when operating, provide graphical directions back to the vehicle based on vehicle location information in the download.

Abstract: A key fob for a vehicle that provides a certain vehicle function depending on the motion applied to the key fob. The key fob includes a switch that is pressed when the vehicle operator wishes to transmit a command. Pressing the switch causes a device, such as a camera or accelerometer, to be put in a motion detecting mode, where a subsequent motion of the key fob causes the key fob to transmit a command associated with that motion. For example, the vehicle operator can press the switch on the key fob and make an upward motion, which will cause the vehicle door locks to unlock. Likewise, pressing the switch on the key fob and making a downward motion may cause the door locks to lock.

Abstract: A multi-mode portable electronic fob and method allows a user to control various vehicle functions and obtain information about the relative location of the vehicle and fob. The information presented to the user can include the vehicle status, vehicle location and/or maps, photos and directions to assist the user in returning to a parked vehicle. The visual information display can share a fob surface with various functional control buttons of the fob or a larger area display can be provided that pulls, folds or swings out from the fob so that the display area is not reduced by the space needed for the control buttons. In a still further embodiment, the display projects the desired information on an available nearby external surface or on a passive screen that extends from the fob. Thus, a larger and a more detailed display image can be obtained.

Abstract: A user carried electronic device and method therefore is provided for directing the user to a parked vehicle using several modes of operation. The device includes a display, a memory, an interface for receiving information downloads from the vehicle and a controller coupled thereto for managing operation of the device. The controller stores the downloaded information in the memory and presents RETURN-TO-VEHICLE information on the display in response to a user request. The downloaded information desirably includes photographic information concerning the parked vehicle's environment obtained by vehicle camera(s) or otherwise. Vehicle location information and vehicle location accuracy information may be included. The device desirably includes location tracking elements that, when operating, provide graphical directions back to the vehicle based on vehicle location information in the download.