Abstract: An automatic power supply control device of a battery management system (BMS) includes a converter receiving power of a battery to convert the power to power needed for a load, wherein the power input from the battery is controlled by a manual control signal IGON) generated by a button operation of a user or by a controller (MCU), a manual control signal generator generating the manual control signal (IGON) for controlling the converter, a control signal conversion part configured to, when the manual control signal (IGON) is activated and a predetermined time has elapsed, transmit a signal (NIG) to the controller (MCU) and inactivate the manual control signal (IGON), and the controller (MCU) driven by output power of the converter and configured to activate a signal (MWAKEUP) for controlling the converter and control power supplied to the load when the signal (NIG) is received.

Abstract: A mobile device intermediary for vehicle adaptation is disclosed. A mobile device intermediary can access driver profile information and vehicle profile information from a remotely located device, determine vehicle adaptation information based on the driver profile information and vehicle profile information, and facilitate access to the vehicle adaptation information to facilitate adapting an aspect of a first vehicle. The mobile device intermediary can further receive other vehicle profile information related to a second vehicle associated with a driver profile and include the other vehicle profile information in determining the vehicle adaptation information. The vehicle adaptation information can be related to adapting a performance aspect of the first vehicle. The vehicle adaptation information can also be related to adapting an amenity aspect of the first vehicle.

Abstract: Systems and methods of the invention relate to managing an inventory of items within a storage container. A storage container can house one or more items for distribution among one or more users such as, for instance, employees. The storage container discussed herein provides authentication of a user, tracking of the inventory each user removes or returns, video/image capture of user during access of the storage container, wireless tracking of items housed within the storage container, among others.

Abstract: An antitheft security system for a motor vehicle includes a license plate locking mechanism and a control module. The license plate locking mechanism functions to secure a license plate to the motor vehicle. The control module includes a controller configured to interrupt power from a power source of the motor vehicle in response to disconnection of the license plate from the motor vehicle. A related antitheft method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the execution of law enforcement duties is disclosed. More particularly, according to one aspect of the invention, an electronic system is configured to facilitate the performance of law enforcement duties by quasi-instantaneously providing actionable intelligence to its users, such as front-line law enforcement officers, in response to a real-time query (e.g., accessing immigration and customs information). According to another aspect of the invention, a system implements a set of automated status classifications for subjects with suspected or confirmed involvement in criminal and/or terrorist activities. The status classifications specifically and concisely establish the subject's involvement in criminal and/or terrorist activities. According to yet another aspect of the invention, a system is configured to conduct a search for a stored archive record in response to an archive record query by a system user.

Abstract: A system and method displays information using a vehicle-mount computer. The system includes (i) an input device and a display device for inputting and displaying information; (ii) a motion detector for detecting vehicle motion; (iii) a proximity sensor for detecting proximity to an item; and (vi) a vehicle-mount computer in communication with the input device, the display device, the motion detector, and the proximity sensor, the vehicle-mount computer including a central processing unit and memory. The vehicle-mount computer's central processing unit is configured to store information associated with user-selected information from the input device and to display a zoomed view of the user-selected information on the display device. Further, the vehicle-mount computer's central processing unit is configured to override screen-blanking when user-selected information is displayed.

Abstract: An in-vehicle communication system includes: a plurality of local ECUs (vehicle control devices) connected to networks of buses, and configured to control an in-vehicle device; an OBDII port which is a communication port to an outside; and an illicit act detection sensor configured to detect an illicit act on a vehicle. Each local ECU includes a reprogramming receiver and a reprogramming controller. The reprogramming receiver receives a reprogramming request signal and reprogramming data from a reprogramming device connected to the OBDII port. Reprogramming for rewriting a software program of a target local ECU is executed according to the reprogramming request signal and the reprogramming data. When the illicit act detection sensor detects an illicit act, the reprogramming controller prohibits execution of reprogramming.

Abstract: In system and methods for loss mitigation, accident data associated with a vehicle accident involving a driver may be collected. The accident data may be analyzed, and a likely severity of the vehicle accident may be determined based upon the analysis of the accident data. A communication related to emergency assistance or an emergency assistance recommendation may be generated based upon the determined likely severity of the vehicle accident, and transmitted, via wireless communication, from one or more remote servers to a mobile device associated with the driver. A wireless communication from the driver indicating approval or modification of the emergency assistance or emergency assistance recommendation may be received. A third party may be notified, via a communication sent from the remote server(s), of requested emergency assistance as approved or modified by the driver. An estimated insurance claim may also be generated based upon vehicle accident likely severity.

Abstract: A method for policing and managing the operation of a flying, unmanned aircraft in the event of usurpation of control of, malfunction of, or ill-intentioned use of, this aircraft includes the steps of (a) detecting inappropriate operation of the aircraft; (b) transmitting a takeover command to the aircraft to interrupt control of the operation of this aircraft by a first pilot and relinquish control of the aircraft to a second pilot; and (c) transmitting control commands to the aircraft to control its operation by the second pilot, until the need for alternate pilot control of the aircraft has ended or until the aircraft has landed safely.

Abstract: Computer-implemented techniques for replication-lag constrained deletion of data in a distributed data storage system. In some aspects, the techniques improve the operation of a computing system by preventing too high of a delete rate that causes severe replication lag while at the same time increasing and decreasing the delete rate over time to a maximum allowable delete rate constrained by measured replication lag in terms of both local replication lag and geographic replication lag. In one implementation, the delete rate is adjusted by increasing or decreasing a pause interval that determines how long a database data deletion process pauses between submitting database deletion commands to a database server.

Abstract: Mesh node modules are associated with vehicles and companion nodes can dynamically form a mesh network which uploads location information of the nodes and in some cases additional information, e.g., road condition or proximity to objects.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the execution of law enforcement duties is disclosed. More particularly, according to one aspect of the invention, an electronic system is configured to facilitate the performance of law enforcement duties by quasi-instantaneously providing actionable intelligence to its users, such as front-line law enforcement officers, in response to a real-time query (e.g., a query related to paper currency). According to another aspect of the invention, a system implements a set of automated status classifications for subjects with suspected or confirmed involvement in criminal and/or terrorist activities. The status classifications specifically and concisely establish the subject's involvement in criminal and/or terrorist activities. According to yet another aspect of the invention, a system generates and sends investigative alert notifications that contain information related to a law enforcement operation.

Abstract: A method for coupling a mobile device with a host computer of a vehicle includes establishing a connection relationship between the mobile device and the host computer, sending an invitation to the mobile device according to the established connection relationship, and coupling the mobile device to the host computer after accepting the invitation. The invitation is sent by the host computer automatically after the host computer is turned on. The mobile device couples to the host computer automatically through a corresponding coupling mechanism after accepting the invitation.

Abstract: A telemetry system coupled to a vehicle can communicate with a remote site using the overhead control channels of a wireless network, such as a cellular mobile radiotelephone network. The telemetry system can monitor or control aspects of the vehicle's operations based on remote user input. The telemetry system can receive a command from a data processing center and, based on the command, perform an action at the vehicle such that a user can remotely interact with the vehicle.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling a transmission of a transit vehicle. A Vehicle Logic Unit (VLU) authenticates an operator of the transit vehicle, upon start-up of the transit vehicle and the VLU. The VLU transmits a signal enabling operator control of the transmission of the transit vehicle, when the operator of the vehicle is authenticated.

Abstract: A method and apparatus teach a plurality of keys to an authorization device in a vehicle. The keys that are in a reception range of a transmission unit of the authorization device receive a test signal from the authorization device. The respective key ascertains a key-specific time window from at least one signal parameter of the test signal that is dependent on the physical location of the key, during which the respective key transmits a response signal that can be received by the transmission unit and recorded by the authorization device.

Abstract: The CAN based vehicle immobilizer is a vehicle immobilizer which utilizing the CAN bus of the engine (powertrain) CAN connection on the OBDII/J1962 port or the vehicle CAN system, will completely immobilize a vehicle, preventing use of said vehicle and the starting of said vehicle engine. The vehicle immobilizer system can be installed by a 3rd party on an aftermarket basis and used to immobilize a vehicle despite an immobilization system being already present on said vehicle is not accessible by said 3rd party. The vehicle immobilizer system enables a user to immobilize the vehicle engine efficiently without shorting the CAN network bus lines, and with a minimum of modifications to the vehicle. The vehicle immobilizer system enables a user to immobilize a vehicle from starting the engine and from being driven with minimal modifications to vehicle wiring and with limited to no changes to the vehicle electrical system.

Abstract: A three-dimensional (3D) input sensing system includes a 3D input device, a host, and a power managing unit. The 3D input device includes at least one 3D motion sensing unit, and transmits a radio frequency (RF) signal obtained from detected motion of the 3D input device. The host receives the RF signal from the 3D input device and obtains 3D coordinate information of the 3D input device. The power managing unit controls supply of power in the 3D input device upon determining that the latter has remained motionless for a predetermined time period.

Abstract: A system for golf course vehicle management can include a tag device having a transceiver and a vehicle management process. The vehicle management process includes an application service for receiving the location of the tag device from the transceiver, at least one geographical zone, and a tracking module for comparing the location to the zone and generating an alert when the location is within the zone. Also included in the process is a control module for recognizing the alert. The control module can initiate an action, such as performance of a vehicle control action by a vehicle controller device.

Abstract: An authorization system for permitting an apparatus to function normally in the presence of an authorized user includes complementary apparatus and user parts of a wireless communication device, which communicate within a spatial envelope defining a permissible working relationship and communication link for authorizing normal functioning of the apparatus. The system responds to interruption of the communications link with the apparatus inhibited from normal functioning after a delay, as measured in time or distance, that permits a separation to be established between the user and the apparatus, so that if the apparatus is forcibly taken from the authorized user, the user's safety is not jeopardized by the proximity of the non-functional apparatus. Inhibition of functionality may include a vehicle, or any apparatus, becoming immobile or constrained as to maximum operating speed.

Abstract: A method performed by a vehicle computing system includes detecting the triggering of a vehicle sensor indicating an abnormal vehicle condition and determining one or more likely abnormal vehicle conditions associated with the triggering of the sensor. The method also includes accessing a vehicle database to determine one or more pieces of information relating to the one or more abnormal vehicle conditions. The method further includes electronically presenting the one or more pieces of information to a vehicle user.

Abstract: An anti-theft security device for a vehicle coupling, in particular a fifth wheel coupling (1), includes a security apparatus (2) and a control apparatus (3) which are electrically connected to each other. The control device (3) is connected to at least one vehicle-side system (10a, b, c) having an emergency function. Upon the triggering of at least one emergency function of the vehicle-side system, the control apparatus (3) deactivates the control apparatus (2) directly or indirectly.

Abstract: A telemetry system coupled to a vehicle can communicate with a remote site using the overhead control channels of a wireless network, such as a cellular mobile radiotelephone network. The telemetry system can monitor or control aspects of the vehicle's operations based on remote user input. The telemetry system can receive a command from a data processing center and, based on the command, perform an action at the vehicle such that a user can remotely interact with the vehicle.

Abstract: A monitoring device and method is utilized to monitor certain individuals. A processor receives input from at least one if not a plurality of sensors. In preferred embodiments, if multiple sensors reach certain milestones relative to certain limits, an alarm condition is provided to alert a predetermined recipient of the alarm condition, such as the authorities in the case of a person going above a certain speed limit and moving at least one of his feet to correspond to braking and/or accelerating events. Another sensor such as near the wrist of an individual could be utilized to coordinate with directional headings of the individual to create a condition appearing to be steering of a car wheel.

Abstract: Disclosed is an antitheft, emergency system for a vehicle. The system may include a system activation switch, at least one emergency switch, an engine shutoff element connected to the engine, and an emergency transmitter. The at least one emergency switch may trigger the engine shutoff element to render the engine inoperational and may simultaneously, covertly trigger an emergency transmitter to transmit a distress signal.

Abstract: A motor vehicle theft protection and disablement system that is safe, not easy to circumvent, and offers benefits to vehicle owners as an incentive for their participation. The system is for preventing vehicle theft and carjacking. The system comprises five elements, a motor vehicle, a programmable safety switch, a keypad transmitter, an automatic security switch, and at least one remote activation transmitter.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for disabling a vehicle. An exemplary system includes, but is not limited to an antenna that is adapted to be attached to the vehicle. The antenna is configured to transmit and receive communication transmissions. A telematics unit is communicatively connected to the antenna. The telematics unit is adapted for attachment to the vehicle and is configured to communicatively connect to a necessary sub-system of the vehicle, to receive telecommunications from a user through the antenna, and to disable the necessary sub-system in response to receiving an instruction from the user to disable the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and method for generating an alert signal for an asset. Proper truck/trailer matching is based on a proximity analysis between position reports for a truck and position reports for a trailer. In one embodiment, this proximity analysis is triggered by a detection of movement in a trailer. In the proximity analysis, unexpected deviations in proximity between a truck and a trailer would lead to a generation of an alert signal that is sent to the appropriate management system for investigation.

Abstract: A method of activating a device involves establishing communication between the device and another device and receiving, at the other device, a message including activation information from a third party facility. The activation information includes a header and a mobile dialing number. The method further includes using the header to identify the message as an activation message for the device and, via the device, retrieving the identified message from the other device. The mobile dialing number is stored in a memory associated with the device, where the mobile dialing number enables the third party facility to initiate communication with the device.

Abstract: A method of contacting a public safety answering point (PSAP) that includes determining the location of a vehicle, communicating the location of the vehicle to a PSAP location service, identifying a PSAP proximate to the location of the vehicle, determining a direct inward dialing (DID) number associated with the identified PSAP, communicating the DID number to the call center from the PSAP location service, contacting the identified PSAP using the DID number, and transmitting the DID number of the identified PSAP and the location of the vehicle to the PSAP.

Abstract: A multi sensor detection and disabling lock system includes detector cases for holding interchangeable detectors that sample for chemical, biological and radiological compounds, agents and elements, with each detector case disposed in or upon the monitored product whereupon light alarm indicators (color coded) on the detector case light up when a specific compound or agent is detected whereupon the detector case transmits detection information to a monitoring computer terminal and transmits a signal to a lock disabler engaged to the product to lock or disable the product's lock thereby preventing untrained, unauthorized and unequipped individual's from gaining access and entry to the product, and also preventing further contamination of the area. An authorized individual resets the detection system, and the system's power source is electrical, battery or computer generated.

Abstract: A wireless communication device (and its related method of operation) includes, if invoked, password protected access to data stored therewithin and/or to normal device operations and further includes duress password checking logic that automatically causes a duress message to be sent if a duress password has been entered. The duress message is preferably sent without maintaining any user accessible indication of such sending. It is also preferred that the password checking logic automatically cause an end-of-duress message to be sent if a normal password is entered after a duress password has been entered. A plurality of different duress passwords may be entered into a duress password portion of data memory in the device.

Abstract: An audio integrator monitors the outputs of a plurality of audio sources, and a controller prioritizes the audio sources. An active audio detection circuit determines when one or more of the audio sources become active. When the two or more audio sources are active simultaneously, the controller directs the highest priority audio source to one or more speakers. If a lower priority audio signal is currently playing, newly active voice communication audio, such as communications or directional information, is delayed to preserve the beginning of the message during an audio switch-over. A currently-playing, lower-priority audio signal may be decreased in volume, and a tone unique to the new audio source sounded, prior to the switching the audio to the higher-priority source. During audio input (e.g., while actuating a push-to-talk button on a microphone), all active audio sources are quieted.

Abstract: Hand held Remote Transponder Breathalyzer comprises of a portable breathalyzer device having a breath sensor circuitry used for converting given breath sample content into electronic signals; and a processor for storing a toxic breath setting and processing received conditioned electronic signals, and for comparing the received electronic conditioned signals with a preset threshold setting stored in the memory storage of the processor, and accordingly controlling the functional operation of a uniquely coded transponder circuitry. If given breath sample into the transponder breathalyzer sensor generated electronic conditioned signal is below toxic breath setting threshold. The processor upon receipt of the non-toxic electronic signal transmits a signal to activate for a preset time the functional operation of the transponder circuitry.

Abstract: An anti-carjacking system includes a transmitter programmed to receive a selected vehicle identification number or other code for use with a car assigned with that particular number or code. The system further includes a receiver associated with the computer system of the car so identified by the selected vehicle identification number and means for disabling normal driving operation of the car. There is further provided means for sending a disable command from the transmitter to the receiver so that the particular car with the selected vehicle identification number is rendered non-operational. The system may be implemented in various embodiments including a modified car radio system and a RFID embedded license plate configuration. Methods related to vehicle operation and occupant safety are also provided.

Abstract: A method of activating a device involves establishing communication between the device and another device and receiving, at the other device, a message including activation information from a third party facility. The activation information includes a header and a mobile dialing number. The method further includes using the header to identify the message as an activation message for the device and, via the device, retrieving the identified message from the other device. The mobile dialing number is stored in a memory associated with the device, where the mobile dialing number enables the third party facility to initiate communication with the device.

Abstract: A method and system for providing a telematics readiness mode including receiving a first readiness mode input at a telematics unit, initiating a readiness mode responsive to the received first readiness mode input, receiving a second readiness mode input at the telematics unit while in the readiness mode, and determining a readiness action based on the received second readiness mode input. A computer usable medium with suitable computer program code is employed for providing a telematics readiness mode.

Abstract: A system and method for generating an alert signal for a trailer. Proper truck/trailer matching is based on a proximity analysis between position reports for a truck and position reports for a trailer. In one embodiment, this proximity analysis is triggered by a detection of movement in a trailer. In the proximity analysis, unexpected deviations in proximity between a truck and a trailer would lead to a generation of an alert signal that is sent to the appropriate management system for investigation.

Abstract: A vehicle security system for securing a vehicle against theft, the system comprising, a driving function disablement component configured to bias against a moveable vehicle component, thereby to disable a driving function when biased, a remotely operable transducer configured to maintain or release biasing in the driving function disablement component, and a wireless handheld transceiver configured to transmit a wireless drive-activating signal to operate the transducer.

Abstract: An improved motion sensing and alarm technique and apparatus for monitoring unauthorized movement of vehicles or the like and notifying the owner thereof, wherein the motion sensors in the vehicle are microprocessor controlled to be automatically armed when the owner is not in the vicinity of the vehicle, but disarmed or de-activated in the presence of the owner and the owner's radio-coded identification transmitter associated with the owner's key fob, and with energy saving features as well.

Abstract: A vehicle disabling device with a remote control able to wirelessly disable an essential component of a vehicle. The essential component of the vehicle is required to maintain the normal operation of the vehicle. The present invention is able to help prevent car thefts by stopping the vehicle from driving away or disabling the vehicle when it is parked. The present inventions can be used by car owners and enforcement officers.

Abstract: A wireless communication device (and its related method of operation) includes, if invoked, password protected access to data stored therewithin and/or to normal device operations and further includes duress password checking logic that automatically causes a duress message to be sent if a duress password has been entered. The duress message is preferably sent without maintaining any user accessible indication of such sending. It is also preferred that the password checking logic automatically cause an end-of-duress message to be sent if a normal password is entered after a duress password has been entered. A plurality of different duress passwords may be entered into a duress password portion of data memory in the device.

Abstract: A telemetry system coupled to a vehicle can communicate with a remote site using the overhead control channels of a wireless network, such as a cellular mobile radiotelephone network. The telemetry system can monitor or control aspects of the vehicle's operations based on remote user input. The telemetry system can receive a command from a data processing center and, based on the command, perform an action at the vehicle such that a user can remotely interact with the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and method for communicating vehicular information with remote locations may include communicating data from a wireless interface of a vehicle with a locally positioned wireless device. The wireless device may be configured to enable a user to communicate with other users of wireless devices. Receipt of the internal signal may cause the wireless device to communicate the data to a remote location. The remote location may be a service provider or public safety organization located on a network, such as the public switched telephone network or wireless communications network (e.g., mobile telephone network).

Abstract: Medium-range remote communication and control for a vehicle is achieved with a wireless vehicle telematics unit, a medium-range wireless portable fob, and an unmodified wireless personal communication device. The portable fob includes a medium-range RF transceiver for bi-directional communication with the telematics unit and a short-range wireless transceiver for bi-directional communication with the personal communication device. The fob communicates with the vehicle telematics unit in a conventional manner, and also relays information between the telematics unit and the personal communication device. Communication can be initiated by the telematics unit or by the operator via the fob or personal communication device. Once communication is initiated, the fob relays: (1) menu options and status information from the telematics unit to the personal communication device; and (2) menu selections from the personal communication device to the telematics unit.

Abstract: A safe driving support apparatus in a vehicle is used in a manner that prevents an over-reliance of a driver on a safety device by an application of a technique. That is, for example, an evaluation of driving operation is lowered when the vehicle has been under control of an avoidance control for avoiding an unsafe situation of the vehicle, and the lowered evaluation of driving operation is recorded on a memory medium as well as being notified for the driver after evaluation is being changed. A provision of the avoidance control may result in a suppression of a vehicular function that contributes to a comfort in the vehicle among functions provided by in-vehicle devices.

Abstract: A vehicle antitheft system and method detects the starting of a vehicle and starts a first timer. If the first timer times out without the system having detected a first predetermined sequence, the system actuates a vehicle system warning signal and starts a second timer. If the second timer times out without detecting a second predetermined sequence, which may be the same as or different from the first predetermined sequence, the system disables the vehicle. The system may send vehicle location information to a monitoring service or the like. The vehicle remains disabled until the antitheft system is reset.

Abstract: A theft prevention apparatus of a leisure vehicle equipped with a rider's seat which opens outside is disclosed.

Abstract: An RFID equipped vehicle includes a computer system for controlling operating functions of the vehicle, an RFID fob for use by an operator of the vehicle, an RFID emitter for use by a passenger of the vehicle, and logic means associated with the computer system for determining when the RFID fob of the operator is out of range of the vehicle and the passenger RFID emitter is within range of the vehicle so that the computer system may notify the operator that the passenger has remained in the vehicle.

Abstract: Hand held Remote Transponder Breathalyzer comprises of a portable breathalyzer device having a breath sensor circuitry used for converting given breath sample content into electronic signals; and a processor for storing a toxic breath setting and processing received conditioned electronic signals, and for comparing the received electronic conditioned signals with a preset threshold setting stored in the memory storage of the processor, and accordingly controlling the functional operation of a uniquely coded transponder circuitry. If given breath sample into the transponder breathalyzer sensor generated electronic conditioned signal is below toxic breath setting threshold. The processor upon receipt of the non-toxic electronic signal transmits a signal to activate for a preset time the functional operation of the transponder circuitry.