Abstract: A method of obtaining a copy key includes the steps of acquiring characteristic parameters of the original using a detection system; identifying operating instructions to reproduce the characteristic parameters so acquired; requiring authorization to load into a duplicating machine and/or use by a duplicating machine the operating instructions for creating the copy key; only if the authorization is given, loading the operating instructions into the duplicating machine and/or making the operating instruction available for use by the duplicating machine; controlling the duplicating machine so as to obtain, on the basis of the operating instructions previously loaded and/or made available, at least one copy key; and after the at least one copy key is obtained, removing the operating instructions from the duplicating machine.

Abstract: A method for controlling access to a vehicle, the vehicle being equipped with an access module and a keypad, an user having a portable device configured to communicate with said access module, the access module being designed to determine a relative position of the portable device with respect to the vehicle, the keypad being positioned outside the vehicle, wherein when the access module detects that the portable device is inside the vehicle and is in an inactive state, wherein said portable device is unable to authorize user access to the vehicle and start of the vehicle, then vehicle unlocking is authorized by a multiple switch operation in a predetermined sequence on the keypad, and wherein after vehicle unlocking, the access module puts the portable device in an active state, wherein said portable device is able to authorize user access to the vehicle.

Abstract: A method for selectively recalling at least one motor vehicle. The method includes the steps of selecting at least one parameter from among the plurality of parameters, sending to the communications module, via the mobile node, a message indicating the parameter selected, collecting from the electronic control unit at least one data item relating to the selected parameter, this collection being performed by the communications module, sending the collected data item from the communications module to the mobile node, sending the sent data item by the mobile node to the management server, analyzing by the management server of the data item received, detecting a defect with the equipment on the basis of the analyzed data item, and determining a subset of vehicles including the equipment for which a defect has been detected so as to be able to proceed with recalling these.

Abstract: A system includes a processor configured to detect a vehicle condition associated with a warning light. The processor is also configured to obtain explanatory information explaining the cause of the warning light. The processor is further configured to present the explanatory information via a vehicle display. Also, the processor is configured to present a plurality of options for further action with the explanatory information and, upon selection of one of the options, take further steps in accordance with the selection option.

Abstract: This invention relates to security systems. Previously, vehicle vandals and thieves were difficult to stop. Embodiments of the present invention use a vehicle security system (100) includes at least two image capture devices (ICD), sensors, a global positioning system tracking module (GPSTM), a control module (CM), and a monitoring device. The ICD are positioned at predetermined locations of the vehicle for capturing and transmitting images of a target object. The CM receives the captured images and sensor data variables. The CM analyzes the received images and sensor data variables based on predefined criteria to trigger auxiliary units. The CM transmits the images and sensor data variables based on the predefined criteria to the monitoring device. A graphical user interface displays the images for monitoring the vehicle and notifies the user.

Abstract: Various embodiments are generally directed to an apparatus, method and other techniques for detecting, by one or more sensor components, at least one sensor input, and executing, by logic, at least one instruction to cause an event on a wearable wireless device, the event comprising at least one of a change in a physical parameter on the wearable wireless device and a wireless communication with a computing device via a transceiver.

Abstract: Systems and methods for generating vehicle operation logs are provided. According to certain aspects, an electronic device may receive and analyze image data depicting an individual located within a vehicle. The electronic device may also interface with a set of sensors to retrieve or access relevant data related to the operation of the vehicle, such as time and date information, location information, and other data. The electronic device may generate a vehicle operation log that associates the individual depicted in the image data with the vehicle operating parameters.

Abstract: Systems and methods for altering an in-vehicle presentation are provided. One embodiment includes receiving a media signal at a vehicle that includes content, providing an in-vehicle presentation of the content for viewing as the media signal is being received, and determining a triggering action to alter output of the in-vehicle presentation in a predetermined manner. Some embodiments include altering the in-vehicle presentation in the predetermined manner in response to receiving the triggering action, beginning recording of the content in response to altering the in-vehicle presentation, and providing an option to store the content that is being recorded.

Abstract: A body controller may monitor a vehicle bus for diagnostic requests received from a scan device connected to a diagnostic port when a vehicle perimeter alarm of a body controller is armed. The body controller may reset a predetermined lockout timeout responsive to receipt of a session request from the scan device. Upon expiration of the lockout timeout, the body controller may request to establish the session with the body controller from the scan device for a predetermined access timeout. When the session is established, the body controller may allow a user to program entry devices to the body controller and/or download software updates to the body controller.

Abstract: A vehicle messaging method (600) and system (100) can include any number of data sources (101-103), an interface (104) that formats messages and addresses from the data sources, and a corresponding number of messaging servers (111-113) that receive targeted messages intended for a predetermined subset of subscribers associated with a vehicle identification number (VIN). Each messaging server can include a corresponding controller (121-123) programmed to assign (604) targeted messages to a predetermined channel and encode (606) the addresses of the targeted messages to the predetermined subset of subscribers using a VIN or portion thereof. The controller can be further programmed to transfer (608) the targeted messages and addresses to a satellite uplink (107) and satellite (110) via a messaging uplink interface (106) for retransmission and reception by a plurality of selective call receivers 109 addressable individually using a predetermined VIN or portion thereof.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for retrofitting a vehicle are presented. The method relates to a vehicle with a factory-installed first apparatus which communicates with a factory-installed second apparatus through a vehicle data bus using a first message. The method includes electrically disconnecting the vehicle data bus between the first apparatus and the second apparatus and electrically connecting a retrofit apparatus to the vehicle data bus. The method further includes transmitting a second message from the retrofit apparatus to the first apparatus which is indistinguishable from the first message.

Abstract: A computing device for use in selecting a range for communication between a key fob and a vehicle is described. The computing device is located in the vehicle. The computing device is configured to receive a designation of a desired range for communication between the vehicle and the key fob, and transmit a signal corresponding to the designated range to the key fob.

Abstract: A clustered instrument panel on a display of a dashboard in a transportation apparatus is disclosed. The clustered instrument panel may be used to combine multiple individual instrument panels, such as the odometer, tachometer, temperature meter, battery meter, navigation screen and any other instrument panels that are traditionally presented separate and independent from other instrument panels. The individual instrument panels may be layered on top of each other to form the clustered instrument panel, with gradual increase in size from the first instrument panel to the nth instrument panel. Information associated with a given instrument panel in the clustered instrument panel may be presented in the gap area between the given instrument panel and the neighbor instrument panel in the clustered instrument panel. In one embodiment, the clustered instrument panel is a triple-circle meter.

Abstract: A system may include a wireless transceiver configured to scan for advertised services; and a processor programmed to receive a service identifier of a service from the wireless transceiver, verify a name included in the service identifier indicates that the service identifier is an in-vehicle component, and decode, from the service identifier, a relative location within the vehicle, a zone controlled by the in-vehicle component, and a category of functionality of the in-vehicle component. A method may include enumerating characteristics of a service of an in-vehicle component describing configurable functions of the in-vehicle component; retrieving a control state of the in-vehicle component using a read characteristic of the service; generating a user interface of the in-vehicle component indicating the configurable functions and the control state; and updating the control state of the in-vehicle component using a write characteristic of the service responsive to user input to the user interface.

Abstract: A clustered instrument panel on a display of a dashboard in a transportation apparatus is disclosed. The clustered instrument panel may be used to combine multiple individual instrument panels, such as the odometer, tachometer, temperature meter, battery meter, navigation screen and any other instrument panels that are traditionally presented separate and independent from other instrument panels. The individual instrument panels may be layered on top of each other to form the clustered instrument panel, with gradual increase in size from the first instrument panel to the nth instrument panel. Information associated with a given instrument panel in the clustered instrument panel may be presented in the gap area between the given instrument panel and the neighbor instrument panel in the clustered instrument panel. In one embodiment, the clustered instrument panel is a triple-circle meter.

Abstract: A method for providing interaction with an operator of a vehicle includes receiving request, from the operator of the vehicle and using a telematics system of the vehicle, for support or assistance regarding use of the telematics system, establishing a remote voice communication link between the vehicle and a remotely located call center, using the telematics system, and establishing a remote data communication link between the vehicle and the remotely located call center, using the telematics system. The method further includes providing verbal interaction or instruction regarding the use of the telematics system through the established remote voice communication, using the telematics system and/or providing audio/visual remote control, demonstrating or executing the use of the telematics system through the established remote data communication link, using the telematics system.

Abstract: A keyless entry system including multiple portable devices and an in-vehicle device controlling smart lock and smart unlock of a vehicle door is disclosed. The in-vehicle device includes an vehicle-cabin-inside portable determination section, which when locking the vehicle door by the auto-lock function, determines whether or not there is the portable device located inside the vehicle cabin, and a disabled state release section that releases the disabled states of all of the portable devices when the vehicle-cabin-inside portable determination section determines that there is no portable device located inside the vehicle cabin.

Abstract: A multi-vehicle surveillance system includes vehicles that sense alarm-triggering events and activate various surveillance devices that can best capture data relating to the alarm-triggering events. The surveillance devices are activated based on the location and other information relating to the vehicle where the alarm-triggering event is sensed.

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: When vehicle position information at a time of parking start is available, a remote starter transmits the vehicle position information at the time of parking start to an information processor. When the vehicle position information at the time of parking start is unavailable, the remote starter transmits the vehicle position information obtained just before the vehicle position information becomes unavailable, as the vehicle position information at the time of parking start to the information processor.

Abstract: A system is provided which is capable of controlling one or more parameters of a vehicle, such as vehicle speed or engine RPM. The system involves communication between a transmitter and a controller. The transmitter has memory containing information that corresponds to a vehicle parameter setting. The information is operatively transmitted from the transmitter to the controller. Once the controller receives the information, the vehicle parameter setting is identified by the controller. When the setting is identified, the controller may adjust at least one mechanism on the vehicle so as modify the vehicle parameter accordingly. One scenario in which the parameter modification is generally provided is if the controller determines that the vehicle parameter is exceeding the identified setting, which corresponds to the vehicle being operated at a level higher than that intended for the vehicle operator.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method for programming keys to a vehicle to establish primary keys and secondary keys to control vehicle functionality is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a key identification signal from a first key. The method further comprises generating a key status signal indicative of whether the first key is one of a primary key and a secondary key in response to the key identification signal. The method further comprises transmitting the key status signal to a vehicle interface display. The method further comprises allowing a user to change a status of at least one of the first key and an additional key with the vehicle interface display in response to determining that the key status signal corresponds to the primary key.

Abstract: A universal remote control (URC) is programmed to control a particular type and make of electronic consumer device using a graphical user interface. A plurality of images is displayed on the user interface. Each image of the plurality of images is a digital photograph of an electronic consumer device or a remote control device usable to control the corresponding electronic consumer device. A user selects the digital photograph of the particular type and make of electronic consumer device or its corresponding remote control device. Codeset information associated with the selected device is transmitted to the URC such that the URC is programmed to control the selected device. If the codeset information is a codeset identifier, then it is displayed on the user interface. The user enters the codeset identifier into the URC such that the URC is programmed to control the selected device.

Abstract: A remote control device includes: a vibration power generator configured to convert externally applied vibrations to electric power; a storage section charged with the electric power obtained by the vibration power generator; a switch provided between the vibration power generator and the storage section; and a control circuit configured to output a vibration instruction signal and turn the switch on when the remaining power of the storage section becomes smaller than a predetermined amount. The electronic apparatus instructs the user to vibrate the remote control device in response to the vibration instruction signal.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable media deliver a variety of personalized information to a member of an association. In embodiments, information intended for delivery to a member, with or without request by the member, may be delivered via a television transmission, a telematic transmission to a vehicle, or a read-only memory. A password or biometric may be used to authenticate the intended viewer of the delivered information prior to displaying it.

Abstract: A system for using at least one mobile terminal in a motor vehicle, such as a passenger automobile or a two-wheeled vehicle in particular, having at least one mobile terminal, a display device situated in the vehicle, an operating device provided in the vehicle, and a communication interface between the vehicle and the mobile terminal are provided. The mobile terminal and/or a terminal integration device provided in the vehicle be provided with a terminal sequence controller, which calls up an operating and/or display interface on the vehicle display device for operating functions and/or software applications of the mobile terminal and is operated via the vehicle operating device.

Abstract: A media client receives, from a remote control device, a signal to launch a selected interactive television application and sends, to the remote control device, a client program for reprogramming buttons on the remote control device. The media client sends, to the remote control device, a script, for button functions of the remote control device, which are based on the selected interactive television application. The remote control device executes the script on the client program to reprogram the buttons functions. The media client presents, on a display device, a button map that corresponds to the script, and receives, from the remote control device, a signal based on the scripting.

Abstract: There is provided a remote control system which changes the functions corresponding to a specific operation unit provided for a controlling apparatus in accordance with distance, thereby improving the convenience for a user. The remote control system includes a controlled apparatus such as a TV set and a controlling apparatus such as a remote controller which remotely controls the controlled apparatus. A measuring unit measures the distance between the controlled apparatus and the controlling apparatus. A changing unit changes the functions to be executed when a specific one of a plurality of operation units provided for the controlling apparatus is operated, in accordance with the measured distance.

Abstract: An entertainment system for a vehicle, including a media player and a control panel having an option that allows a user to select either a first communication mode or a second communication mode, wherein the first communication mode sets the entertainment system to respond to a transmitted first set of codes and the second communication mode sets the entertainment system to respond to a transmitted second set of codes.

Abstract: An anti-theft system for a vehicle that registers ID information at the time of replacement of a lock controller. A portable device, such as a key, has exclusive ID information. A lock controller locks or unlocks a control target device according to an authentication result of the portable device. An auxiliary controller transmits and receives data to and from the lock controller and stores the ID information of the portable device as backup data. The lock controller receives the ID information from the auxiliary controller, and transmits a response requiring signal for searching the portable device which has the ID information received from the auxiliary controller and is present within a predetermined detection range. Then, the lock controller stores the ID information of the portable device which has transmitted a response signal to the response requiring signal.

Abstract: An interface system including a vehicle system having an operational data representing a setting of the associated vehicle system and an interface module in communication with the vehicle system to directly modify the operational data of the vehicle system based upon a personalized data, wherein the personalized data is in a platform independent format.

Abstract: A method for duplicating electronic keys with mutual authentication includes: applying temporarily, to an original electronic key, an inductive reader for signals exchanged between the key transponder and the vehicle immobilizer control unit; activating the vehicle instrument panel at least twice with the original key to cause the inductive reader to acquire the RDN1, RDN2, SIG1 and SIG2 codes transmitted by the control unit; connecting the inductive reader to a transponder reader/writer to transfer all acquired data; determining the non-readable SK code of the immobilizer control unit via the reader/writer by using a function inverse to that creating the SIG code from the ID, RND, SK codes and the acquired data; reading from the original key, via the reader/writer, using the non-readable SK code, any other data memorized therein, reading the ID code from the original key, via the reader/writer; and memorizing in a new key all the read data.

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: A communications system utilizing a portable communications device for controlling functions in a vehicle includes a first display for controlling vehicle operating functions and a first transceiver connected to the first display device. A multifunctional control switch is connected to the first display device, while a second transceiver is used for communicating with either the first transceiver or a remote keyless entry (RKE) receiver depending upon whether the second transceiver is located inside or outside the vehicle. The second transceiver operates to configure operational parameters of the display device when those controls have not been readily integrated into the vehicle center stack.

Abstract: A driver authentication and safety system and method for monitoring and controlling vehicle usage by high-risk drivers. A centralized database comprising a software application can be accessed by an authorized user via a data communications network utilizing a remote computer in order to configure a desired operating profile that matches requirements of the high-risk driver. The operating profile can be loaded to a driver identification and data logging device in conjunction with the remote computer. A master control unit receives a unique identification code from the data logging device to authenticate the high-risk driver and to operate the vehicle within the desired operating profile. A slave control unit receives commands from the master control unit and generates a real time alarm signal if the driver violates the preprogrammed operating profile unique to the driver.

Abstract: An information processing system includes an information processing device arranged in a vehicle, a portable device storing unique information, a specification information recording unit configured to record specification information having a predetermined relationship with the unique information, a first transmission unit configured to transmit a request signal requesting transmission of the unique information, a first reception unit configured to receive the unique information transmitted from the portable device, a position specifying unit configured to compare the received unique information with the specification information and specify whether or not the portable device is inside the vehicle, a detection unit configured to detect a human inside the vehicle, an alarm unit configured to set off an alarm, and an alarm control unit.

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 system for receiving data for training a trainable transmitter used to subsequently transmit a modulated RF signal having the received data includes an antenna, a capacitive detection circuit and a control circuit. The capacitive detection circuit is coupled to the antenna and configured to detect data provided in a control signal of a remote control transmitter used to remotely actuate a device. The control circuit is coupled to the capacitive detection circuit and is configured to store the received data and to generate the RF signal having the received data to be transmitted by the trainable transmitter to actuate the device.

Abstract: An unlocking device for automobiles that is able to be mounted on the interior of an automobile's rear window to facilitate reentry inside the automobile once a driver is locked out. The unlocking device is rectangular in shape and is mounted on the glass with suction cups. It is a stand alone module that is non evasive of the oem electronics of the automobile. The device is designed to receive dtmf tones from a cellphone operating in bluetooth mode. The device is universal in nature in that it is designed to enable unlocking for any automobile manufacturer's vehicle that uses an oem keyfob transmitter.

Abstract: A remote starting ECU includes a command recognizing unit and a tuner connecting unit. The remote starting ECU starts an engine of a vehicle when the command recognizing unit receives an engine start command from a remote key or when the tuner connecting unit receives an engine start request from a remote controller.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multimedia device comprising a remote control system for wirelessly controlling a multimedia appliance. In order to establish a connection between a remote control system and a multimedia appliance, the remote control system must identify itself to the multimedia appliance, by means of a hardware device, especially a SIM card. The individual user must also identify him/herself to the multimedia appliance, by means of a hardware device for detecting biometric data. The respective identification data is encoded by means of asymmetrical cryptography. During the initialization process between said two appliances, data encoded for the identification of the remote control system and each person is transmitted to the multimedia appliance and stored therein in an encoded manner.

Abstract: A method of transmitting driver specific vehicle data includes entering driver specific hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) operating parameter settings for a plurality of drivers into a vehicle controller; identifying a vehicle driver; displaying driver specific HEV data within the vehicle; and configuring HEV operating parameters in accordance with the driver specific HEV operating parameter settings.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method for programming keys to a vehicle to establish primary keys and secondary keys to control vehicle functionality is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a key identification signal from a first key. The method further comprises generating a key status signal indicative of whether the first key is one of a primary key and a secondary key in response to the key identification signal. The method further comprises transmitting the key status signal to a vehicle interface display. The method further comprises allowing a user to change a status of at least one of the first key and an additional key with the vehicle interface display in response to determining that the key status signal corresponds to the primary key.

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: The invention relates to an electronic device (1) that is to be incorporated into a motor vehicle. Said device (1) comprises a radio module (18) for establishing a short-distance wireless connection to an authorized cellular telephone (2) which is identified based on an identification key for the authorized cellular telephone (2) stored in a memory element (28) of the electronic device (1). In order to make it easier to retrieve the electronic device after the same has been stolen, the electronic device (1) further comprises means for detecting dismounting of the electronic device (1) from a motor vehicle as well as means for automatically establishing a short-distance wireless connection to another cellular telephone and automatically initializing a mobile wireless connection to said other cellular telephone when an identification key for the other cellular telephone is to be or is stored for the first time in the memory element (28) after restarting the electronic device once dismounting has been detected.

Abstract: A remote engine start confirmation and vehicle monitoring and control system includes a transmitter and a controller capable of receiving and processing transmitter signals, the controller comprising a monitoring circuit for detecting a first pulsed voltage pattern and a second pulsed voltage pattern across the battery during an engine start procedure, a signaling circuit for signaling the disengagement of the starter from the engine after a detection of the termination of the first pulsed voltage pattern and the start of the second pulsed voltage pattern, and an initiation circuit for initiating the monitoring of a vehicle condition, such as overheating or low fuel, after the detection. A method for controlling the vehicle operation includes detecting an occurrence of a vehicle condition and performing an operation based on the detection, such as terminating ignition voltage or fuel supply or notifying the operator of the vehicle condition via the transmitter.

Abstract: A system and method for activating electromechanical systems of a vehicle may include at least one antenna coupled to a vehicle and configured to receive wireless communications signals. At least one microphone may be coupled to the vehicle and configured to receive sounds external to the vehicle. A control unit may be in communication with the antenna(s) and be configured to receive the wireless communications signals. A voice recognition system may be in communication with the microphone(s). A transponder/keyfob may be utilized to determine when a user is locally external to the vehicle and, in response to determining that the user is locally external to the vehicle, the microphones may be polled to receive a voice command from the user to activate an electromechanical system.

Abstract: A method for selectively monitoring one or more vehicle systems is disclosed. The method includes recognizing, at the vehicle, an activation device that is configured to trigger predetermined setting(s) for the one or more vehicle systems. The telematics unit transmits to a secure server a signal indicative of the fact that the activation device is in use. Access to the secure server for monitoring the one or more vehicle systems via an Internet-enabled program is selectively enabled. A system for monitoring one or more vehicle systems is also disclosed. Further, a method for controlling vehicle system parameters is disclosed herein.

Abstract: A vehicle includes a passenger compartment, a touch-screen for receiving an input signal from an occupant when the occupant touches the touch-screen, an output device, and a controller. The controller changes a characteristic of an electromagnetic wave in the form of visible light and/or an audible sound, which is transmitted into the passenger compartment via the output device in response to the input signal. The output device includes light sources, such as light-emitting diodes (LED) or electro-luminescent (EL) ribbon and a speaker. The controller presents a predetermined set of lighting and/or sound options on the touch-screen which the occupant can touch to generate the input signal, thus selectively illuminating the light sources or playing a particular sound file. The controller can also play a digital sound file whenever a corresponding vehicle condition is detected.

Abstract: A remote control system for a vehicle is disclosed. The system comprises a mobile device that transmits a signal ordering the vehicle to perform an opening operation, and an in-vehicle electronic device that performs the opening operation in response to the signal. In the system, the in-vehicle electronic device includes a determination part that determines whether a manipulation mode of the mobile device should be set; and a setting part that sets the manipulation mode of the mobile device in accordance with the determination result.