Abstract: A method of monitoring a vehicle. The method includes the steps of establishing a first wireless connection between a first portable wireless device and a vehicle communications system thereby creating a data transfer network between the first portable wireless device and the vehicle communications system, monitoring, by the vehicle communications system, at least one sensor for a specific vehicle activity, and if the specific vehicle activity occurs, sending a notification via the wireless connection from the vehicle communications system to the first portable wireless device via the data transfer network.

Abstract: A system for wireless device based vehicle communications. The system includes a vehicle electronics bus, at least one or more vehicle electrical systems electrically connected to the vehicle electrical bus, a monitoring and control system electrically connected to the vehicle bus, at least one sensor electrically connected to the monitoring and control system, and a wireless transceiver electrically connected to the monitoring and control system wherein the wireless transceiver is configured to transmit vehicle information from the monitoring and control system to a wireless device and to receive instructions from the wireless device.

Abstract: A method of commanding a vehicle to perform a task. The method includes the steps of establishing a first wireless connection between a first wireless device and a vehicle communications system creating a data transfer network between the first wireless device and the vehicle communications system, transmitting a command from the first wireless device to the vehicle communications system via the data transfer network, receiving the command at the vehicle communications system, and instructing, by the vehicle communications system, an appropriate vehicle system to perform a task based upon the command.

Abstract: A method of monitoring a vehicle. The method includes the steps of establishing a first wireless connection between a first portable wireless device and a vehicle communications system thereby creating a data transfer network between the first portable wireless device and the vehicle communications system, monitoring, by the vehicle communications system, at least one sensor for a specific vehicle activity, and if the specific vehicle activity occurs, sending a notification via the wireless connection from the vehicle communications system to the first portable wireless device via the data transfer network.

Abstract: The invention features an engine operation simulation system for training maintenance and service personnel to diagnose and repair engines. The engine operating simulation system utilizes an actual electronic control unit for controlling an engine. A processor is provided to perform an simulation of engine operating parameters. The processor interfaces with the engine electronic control unit. A mechanism is provided for generating inputs and is connected to the processor and to the engine electronic control unit to provide parameters that represent engine operating characteristics. The parameters are applied to the engine electronic control unit. The input generating mechanism provides a plurality of simulated input signals that monitor the engine operation. There is also provided a mechanism for simulating a malfunction in the engine so that the processor can alter the desired operating parameters.

Abstract: This invention relates to an automobile driving range so laid out that the ability of a driver to carry on normal motor vehicle driving activities can be automatically tested and graded. The driving range contains two-way traffic lanes separated by sensing switches so that a vehicle's presence in the improper lane is readily detected. Each vehicle temporarily has attached to it a radio transmitter having a very limited range and transmitting an identifying signal for the particular vehicle. Buried throughout the range are sensing loops which receive the transmissions from the vehicles and combine the vehicle identification with vehicle operation information being generated at the moment. In those portions of the driving range where driving tracks cross, the intersections can be controlled by stop signs, traffic lights, or any other traffic control devices. Motion detectors at such intersections indicate whether or not a vehicle is in motion at any time.