Abstract: A two-wheeled vehicle is provided including a frame, front and rear ground-engaging members each supporting the frame, a straddle-type seat, a handlebar for steering the vehicle, at least one light device configured to operate in a hazard mode, an engine supported by the frame and operably coupled to the ground-engaging members, a tilt sensor, and a vehicle control unit in communication with the tilt sensor. The vehicle control unit is operative to detect a tilt angle of the vehicle based on output from the tilt sensor. The vehicle control unit is operative to determine a tip-over condition of the vehicle based on the detected tilt angle exceeding a threshold tilt angle. The vehicle control unit activates the hazard mode of the at least one light in response to the determination of the tip-over condition.

Abstract: A vehicular secure gateway system for a vehicle includes a central security gateway disposed at the vehicle. The vehicular secure gateway system includes a connected gateway and a secure gateway. The connected gateway receives wireless communications emanating from external of the vehicle. The vehicular secure gateway system is operable to enable a particular security measure based on determination of a need for that particular security measure. The particular security measure provides enhanced isolation of an on-board diagnostic interface at the secure gateway and enhanced protection of a data communication network of the vehicle. Wireless communications received at the connected gateway are routed through the secure gateway for communication, via a data communication network of the vehicle, to a driving assist system of the vehicle.

Abstract: A control unit (40A) includes an operation state determination unit (43) that determines an operating state of a driving source (21) and a communication state determination unit (46) that determines a communication state between an authentication unit (2) and a remote key (4), and the control unit (40A) disables a starting of the driving source (21) by a driving source starting unit (21a) when the control unit (40A) is in an ON state, the operation state determination unit (43) determines that the driving source (21) is in a non-operating state, and the communication state determination unit (46) determines that communication with the remote key (4) is lost.

Abstract: A system and method for identifying a type of vehicle occupant based on locations of a portable device that include receiving a plurality of communication signals from the portable device. The system and method also include evaluating received signal strength measurements of the plurality of communication signals to determine the locations of the portable device as the portable device is moved from an external surrounding area of a vehicle to an interior portion of the vehicle and identifying the type of vehicle occupant as a driver of the vehicle or a non-driving occupant of the vehicle based on the locations of the portable device. The system and method further include controlling at least one vehicle system by executing vehicle settings associated with the type of vehicle occupant.

Abstract: An electrical device can include at least one electrical device component and at least one sensor that measures at least one parameter. The electrical device can also include an integrated control interface disposed on a housing of the electrical device and coupled to the at least one electrical device component, where the integrated control interface allows for manual control of the at least one electrical device component. The electrical device can further include an access controller communicably coupled to the at least one electrical device component and the at least one sensor. The access controller can receive, from the at least one sensor, a communication sent by a user. The access controller can also control, based on determining that the user has the authority to control the at least one electrical device component, the at least one electrical device component based on instructions.

Abstract: A control device is installed in a vehicle including an electrical storage device to which is connected a plurality of electrical paths. The vehicle includes an external signal recognition device that recognizes a predetermined image or signal based on an image outside of the vehicle or a signal from outside of the vehicle, an external environment recognition device that recognizes a predetermined environment based on a surrounding environment of the vehicle when the predetermined image or signal is recognized by the external signal recognition device, regardless of whether a system of the vehicle is started, and a relay connected to at least one object electrical path. The control device includes a processor that turns the relay off when a count of times of the external environment recognition device continuously recognizing the predetermined environment for no shorter than a predetermined time is no less than a predetermined count of times.

Abstract: A networked cattle tracking system may track cattle using a base station, smart tags for cattle, and a mobile device. Tags are placed on each animal within a group of cattle. The tags may communicate with each other and with a base station. The tags may communication animal location and other information, including temperature, movement, blood information, and so on. A user may track cattle location, behavior, health, and other information at a base station monitor or a remote wireless device in communication with the base station and plurality of tags.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for remote starting of engines via vehicle keypads. An example vehicle includes a keypad, a communication module to communicate with a mobile device designated as a wireless key, and a vehicle activator. The vehicle activator is to remote start an engine in response to receiving a first code entered via the keypad when a battery of the mobile device is discharged and authorize control of the engine in response to the communication module establishing communication with the mobile device.

Abstract: A control system includes: an in-vehicle device; and electronic key, wherein the in-vehicle device includes a transmission device, a first operation detection device, and a first control device programmed to determine whether the electronic key is a control target electronic key, the electronic key used to perform a locking operation, and transmit a second signal from the transmission device toward the electronic key when it is determined that the electronic key used to perform the locking operation is the control target electronic key, and the electronic key includes a reception device, and a second control device programmed to set a first mode until the reception device receives the second signal, and set a second mode when the reception device receives the second signal.

Abstract: A wireless optical communication receiver is provided. The optical receiver includes an arrangement of wavelength shifting fibers preferably encased within a protective shroud. The wavelength shifting fibers provide an efficient method for capturing photons of light that strike them. Photons may strike the fibers as they first pass through a clear lens in the shroud or may strike the fibers after they are concentrated and focused by an embedded ring or hyperbolic mirror. The wireless optical receiver may be attached to a mobile vehicle in order to facilitate teleoperation of that vehicle.

Abstract: A rear vision system and a corresponding method for use with a host vehicle towing a trailer or other object. The rear vision system may include a rear facing camera, a vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) unit, vehicle dynamic sensors, a navigation unit, a control unit, and an electronic display mirror. When the towed trailer obstructs the rear facing camera, the system and method look for unseen vehicles behind the trailer and use the V2V unit to gather information from these vehicles. This information is then used to generate a rendering that graphically depicts or represents the unseen vehicle, and the rendering is superimposed on top of the video output from the rear facing camera in the form of enhanced video output, which is then displayed on the electronic display mirror. Thus, the driver is able to “see” behind the obstructing trailer without the use of additional cameras installed on the trailer.

Abstract: A transponder, such as an electronic toll transponder, is configured to recognize when it is being subjected to consistent and repeated trigger signals over an extended period of time and, in response, the transponder enters a reduced-responsiveness state. In the reduced-responsiveness state, the transponder may only intermittently respond to detected trigger signals. The transponder may recognize when the repeated trigger signal situation has been resolved and then return to normal responsiveness.

Abstract: A controller arrangement comprising a transceiver capable of communication via a wireless communication network, a controller arranged to control a physical entity at which the controller arrangement is arranged, and an interface between the transceiver and the controller is disclosed. The transceiver is arranged to provide information via the interface about present or imminent interrupts in the communication via the wireless network. The controller is arranged to operate in at least a first state when the information indicates that no interrupts are present or imminent, wherein the first state includes closed loop control from a remote entity via the wireless communication network, and a second state when the information indicates that interrupts are present or imminent, wherein the second state includes autonomous control operations by the controller. A method and computer program are also disclosed.

Abstract: A passive entry-passive start portable device detection system. A portable device includes a transceiver. At least one vehicle-based transceiver broadcasts an interrogation signal. The transceiver of the portable device transmits a response signal in response to the interrogation signal. A controller determining at least a range of the portable device as a function of the time-of-flight of the interrogation and response signals. The controller controls a measurement duty cycle of the interrogation signal as a function of the determined range.

Abstract: A security system comprises a system control panel for arming and disarming the security system. A door sensing unit comprises a first radio frequency (RF) transceiver interconnected with the system control panel over a network. The first RF transceiver is mounted proximate to a door that defines at least a portion of a perimeter around an area to be monitored by the security system. The first RF transceiver has an RF detection field proximate to the door. A disarm device comprises a second RF transceiver that automatically transmits a disarm device packet. The first RF transceiver receives the disarm device packet when the second RF transceiver is within the RF detection field. The first RF transceiver sends a disarm message to the system control panel over the network to disarm the security system based on at least the disarm device packet.

Abstract: A communication system and various methods using that communication system, including a method of providing short-range wireless communication (SRWC) in a vehicle. The method includes the steps of: (a) establishing a first wireless connection over a first communication channel between a vehicle multi-tainment unit (VMU) and a first mobile device, wherein, with respect to the first wireless connection, the VMU operates as a server and the first mobile device operates as a client; (b) establishing a second wireless connection over a second communication channel between the VMU and a second mobile device, wherein, with respect to the second wireless connection, the second mobile device operates as a server and the VMU operates as a client; and (c) following steps (a) and (b), controlling the second mobile device from the VMU to change the second wireless connection from the second communication channel to the first communication channel.

Abstract: A remote start control system is for a vehicle including a data communications bus extending through the vehicle, an engine, a window motor associated with a window and operating the window based upon a move window command on the data communications bus, and a vehicle climate control system operable based upon a climate control command on the data communications bus. The remote start control system may include a remote start transmitter to generate a remote start signal, and a vehicle remote start controller at the vehicle that may include a receiver to receive the remote start signal, and at least one processor cooperating with the receiver. The at least one processor, in response to the remote start signal, may generate the move window command on the data communications bus, generate the climate control command on the data communications bus, and start the engine.

Abstract: A method of providing a user with an option to access a protected system by satisfying a reduced security measure is disclosed. An attempt by the user to access the protected system is detected. It is detected that a first security token system is within a first proximity to the protected system. Based on the detecting of the attempt by the user to access the protected system and the detecting that the first security token system is within the first proximity, the user is provided with the option to access the protected system by satisfying the reduced security measure.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems receive information, via at least one sensor, indicating an ergonomic characteristic of a user of a computing device. The information is user to determine if the ergonomic characteristic of the user is within a reference ergonomic boundary. In response to determining the ergonomic characteristic of the user is not within the reference ergonomic boundary, processing is executed to determine an adjustment for the user to make so that the ergonomic characteristic of the user is within the reference ergonomic boundary, the adjustment to include at least one of an adjustment to the ergonomic characteristic of the user and an adjustment to the computing device.

Abstract: Systems, software and methods are disclosed for using a mobile phone (1640) in conjunction with a head unit (1620) of a vehicle. The user interface of a user application program (1644) executing on the mobile phone is extended to utilize a generic display screen (2104) of the head unit, so that custom or per application development of head unit software can be avoided. Preferably, a handset application proxy (HAP) software application (1642) is installed and executable in the mobile phone; and a head unit proxy (HUP) software component (1630) is executable on the head unit. The HAP and the HUP communicate messages (1814, 1824) between the head unit and the mobile phone. Preferably, the HAP (1700) includes a scripting language component (1710) associated with the user application (Nomadic Appn), and having a template message translator component (1712).

Abstract: A communication system includes an object communication unit provided in a controlled object, a portable machine having an identification code registered in the controlled object, the portable machine including a portable machine communication unit conducting wireless communications with the object communication unit, and a portable terminal including a portable terminal communication unit conducting wireless communications with the object communication unit and the portable machine communication unit.

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: A primary portable device can access a vehicle by transmitting an activation message including a vehicle access credential to the vehicle. The primary portable device can additionally enable a secondary portable device to access the vehicle by transmitting the vehicle access credential to the secondary portable device. The connections between the primary portable device, secondary portable device, and vehicle can be based on a short-range wireless protocol, such as Bluetooth or Bluetooth LE.

Abstract: A vehicle comprising a keyless go system, and at least one key fob, said keyless go system being operatively connected to a locking/unlocking subsystem and an engine start subsystem, said vehicle further comprising at least one LF transmitter, at least one LF receiver, at least one HF transmitter and at least one HF receiver, said vehicle further comprising an aftermarket keyless go system interfacing with said keyless go system, wherein at least one of said at least one key fob is embedded into said vehicle, and wherein when a user sends a lock/unlock command, or a start command with a portable device, said aftermarket keyless go system interacts with said embedded key fob to selectively enable and disable low frequency communication between said embedded key fob and said keyless go system.

Abstract: A vehicle system for determining that at least one mobile electronic device is generally stationary and is potentially forgotten is provided. The system includes a vehicle data bus and a control module. The vehicle data bus transmits a signal indicating at least one trigger event. The trigger event indicates a vehicle exit condition. The control module is in communication with the mobile electronic device and the vehicle bus. The control module is in communication with the mobile device through a data connection to receive information. The control module includes control logic for receiving the trigger signal from the vehicle data bus. The control module includes control logic for determining if the mobile electronic device has moved based on information received from the data connection. The control module includes control logic for determining if the mobile electronic device is generally stationary if the trigger signal is received.

Abstract: In an example, a processing device sends, to a remote network device, a request for an application of a mobile device to utilize a resource of a vehicle head unit, the request including a first profile of the vehicle head unit and a second profile of the mobile device. Responsive to sending the request, the processing device receives an instruction from the remote network device, the instruction to be executed by embedded software of the vehicle head unit so as to enable the application to utilize a resource of the vehicle head unit.

Abstract: An image display apparatus capable of allowing a user to stably and conveniently check an image provided from a mobile terminal while driving a vehicle, by extracting a text corresponding to a screen image provided from the mobile terminal, by converting the extracted text into an audio signal according to a vehicle speed, and then by outputting the audio signal. The image display apparatus mounted to a vehicle includes a communication unit configured to receive an image from a mobile terminal, a display unit configured to display the received image, a controller configured to acquire a text corresponding to the displayed image, to acquire a vehicle speed, and to convert the acquired text into an audio signal when the speed exceeds a threshold speed, and an audio output unit configured to output the audio signal.

Abstract: A method of controlling vehicle functions is provided that includes receiving at a service provider, security data from a vehicle function system. The security data is related to a security code required to activate one or more functions controlled by the vehicle function system. The method also includes receiving a vehicle function request at the service provider from a remote device. The vehicle function request indicates a request to activate a particular function of a vehicle. In addition, the method includes sending a vehicle function command from the service provider to a mobile wireless device. The vehicle function command is adapted to cause the mobile wireless device to transmit a wireless signal to activate the particular function of the vehicle and the vehicle function command includes the security code or authentication information related to the security code.

Abstract: A wireless key system and location detection method determine whether a wireless key is located inside or outside a main body. A communication device in the main body transmits a wireless signal using an inner antenna and an outer antenna outside the main body having a different directivity. A wireless key measures direction of movement of the wireless key when the wireless signal is received by one of antennas having different directivities, detects one of the antennas receiving the highest signal level of the wireless signal as a first antenna, selects one of the antennas having the same directivity as the inner antenna as a second antenna according to the measured direction of movement and detected directivity of the antenna, and decides that the wireless key is inside the main body based on the signal levels of the wireless signals received by the first and second antennas.

Abstract: A device for controlling an adaptive cruise control system based on driver status is provided. The device comprises a controller configured to receive at least one driver status signal indicative of the driver being either a primary driver or a secondary driver and to determine whether the driver of the vehicle is the one of the primary driver and the secondary driver based on the at least one driver status signal. The controller is further configured to allow control by a primary driver over operating parameters of an ACC system and to allow the primary driver to establish a restricted mode in which a secondary driver is prevented from making certain dis-allowed changes in the operating parameters.

Abstract: An engine starting/stopping switch device is provided that includes a switch unit that switches over switching modes in response to linear movement of a movable member, a push button that is linked to the movable member so as to drive the movable member in response to a pushing operation, and a coil antenna that outputs transponder drive radio waves for generating an electromotive force in a transponder built into a portable device, wherein the coil antenna (15) is disposed coaxially with the push button (14) so that at least part of the coil antenna (15) is inserted into the interior of the push button (14). This enables the operability of a push button to be improved and enables the size in the radial direction of the push button to be reduced.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a polling signal transmitted from a vehicle that is received by a key fob held by an authorized user of the vehicle as the user approaches the vehicle, where the polling signal is a pulsed polling signal in the VHF-UHF band. The polling signal tells the key fob to transmit a command signal that causes the vehicle to perform a predetermined vehicle operation. Alternately, the polling signal is transmitted by the key fob where the vehicle sends an authorization message back to the key fob if it receives the polling signal that tells the key fob to transmit the command signal.

Abstract: Systems and methods which allow a spotter external to a vehicle to provide signals to a driver of the vehicle in order to facilitate safe backup operations of the vehicle are disclosed. A wireless transmitter, in wireless communication with a receiver positioned within the vehicle, is operated by the spotter. An indicator, also in communication with the receiver, is configured to provide a plurality of audible and/or visible signals perceivable by the driver in response to a wireless signal received by the receiver from the transmitter. The audible and/or visible signals may comprise selected patterned tones and lights which inform the driver whether they should proceed to backup the vehicle or stop the vehicle.

Abstract: A license plate (401) is shown configured to be attached to a vehicle such that when so attached the license plate appears substantially similar to a conventional license plate. The license plate includes a concealed housing (403). Inside the housing, there is provided a position detection device (404) and a communication device (405). A battery 406 may also be provided within the housing 403 concealed battery 406 may be recharged from a battery present within the vehicle or it may receive electrical power from a photo-voltaic source 407.

Abstract: A system and method of initializing a vehicle TPMS using a moving TPMS antenna that tracks vehicle movement over some distance. Data received from the moving TPMS antenna is transmitted to a central data storage device. Stored TPMS data is subsequently retrieved by a downstream device connected to a controller of a vehicle TPMS and TPMS information is written to the controller, which may be the vehicle ECU.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a device for controlling one or more vehicle features for a primary driver and a secondary driver is provided. The device comprises at least one controller that is configured to receive at least one driver status signal indicative of the driver being one of the primary driver and the secondary driver and to determine whether the driver of the vehicle is the one of the primary driver and the secondary driver based on the at least one driver status signal. The controller is further configured to control one or more vehicle features and to prevent the one or more vehicle features from being disabled in response to determining that the at least one driver status signal indicates that the driver of the vehicle is the secondary driver.

Abstract: A method for controlling a feature of a telecommunications device includes determining a proximity of a user to the telecommunications device by detecting the body heat of the user. In response to determining proximity of the user, a feature of the telecommunications device is toggled between an activated state and a deactivated state.

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: 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 system for determining abandonment of a child or infant in a vehicle. The system features a remote key in communication with sensors operatively connected to seatbelts in a vehicle. If a user presses the lock button on the remote key the sensors determine if any seatbelt has been left engaged. If a seatbelt is engaged an alarm is activated on the remote key. If no seatbelt is left engaged, the vehicle doors become locked. To override the alarm, and override button must be pushed on the remote key. An unlock button on the remote key unlocks the vehicle doors and the system is reset.

Abstract: A mobile system and method of operation thereof, comprising a radio frequency system, adapted to derive information relating to a position within an environment, based on communications with at least one terrestrial or extraterrestrial transmitter, and remotely transmit to and receive radio frequency information-bearing communications; a memory adapted to store at least a vehicle itinerary or position-related information; a controller, receiving the derived information and controlling a communication of the information-bearing communications relating to at least the stored itinerary or position related information; and a user interface, having a functionality defined by the controller, adapted to interface a user for receipt or presentation of information relating at least one of the itinerary or position-related information and the communicated information.

Abstract: A remote control system for a vehicle of a type including a data communications bus extending throughout the vehicle and connecting a plurality of vehicle devices within the vehicle may include a remote transmitter and a vehicle remote function controller being responsive to the remote transmitter. The vehicle remote function controller may include a controller data link interface. The remote control system may include a multi-controller data bus adaptor for adapting the vehicle remote function controller to communicate via the data communications bus and may include an adaptor data link interface coupled to the controller data link interface. The multi-controller data bus adaptor may be operable with a given set of controller codes for the vehicle remote controller from among a plurality of different sets of controller codes for a plurality of different vehicle function controllers.

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: 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 tire air pressure detection system and a remote key entry system have first and second receiver units, respectively. The first receiver unit has a change-over switch, which selectively outputs to a chassis ECU an output signal of either one of the first and second receiver units. Thus, the chassis ECU can receive any one of the output signals by only one interface.

Abstract: In a vehicle door control system, a portable unit stores registration of an instruction of automatic door-opening to a vehicle unit, when predetermined registration processing is made on the portable unit. In response to a request signal from the vehicle unit, the portable unit transmits a response signal including an ID code and the instruction of the registered automatic door-opening operation. The vehicle unit unlocks a vehicle door without any manual door-unlocking operation by a user and automatically opens the vehicle door, when the response signal includes the instruction and the ID code matches a predetermined ID code.

Abstract: A vehicle control apparatus that informs that a smart key has been dropped at a location as proximate to a location of the dropping the smart key as possible while minimizing consumption of a battery of the smart key. A transmitting/receiving circuit transmits to the smart key a code request signal for confirming whether the smart key is disposed within a predetermined range of a motorcycle by a predetermined transmission period, and receive a code signal transmitted from the smart key receiving the code request signal. A code checking portion checks a code of a code signal received by the transmitting/receiving circuit. A control portion changes a period of transmitting the code request signal in accordance with a situation of running the motorcycle to detect dropping of the smart key.

Abstract: A motorcycle handlebar lock system (10) includes a control section (16) that executes a process of authenticating information necessary for driving a motorcycle (30), and a switch part (12L, 12R) for initiating the authentication process, the switch part being disposed within a grip (61 or 62) of a handlebar (31) of the motorcycle.

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 remote locator (RL) continuously transmits multi-frame pings in a slow ping mode. The user activates a transponder/micro-transponder (MT) to receive at least a portion of the multi-frame ping and transmits a reply to the RL. The RL calculates a distance between the RL and the MT using the time-of-flight between the transmission of the ping and the receipt of the corresponding reply. The RL continues to send pings to the MT, where the ping includes distance measurements encoded therein. The user initiates sending a message from the MT to the RL to change to a fast ping mode, where the RL transmits pings at an increased rate. The MT includes a compass to capture readings while receiving and replying to pings. The MT determines a directional location for the RL with the collected measurements and received information and can provide a distance and directional readout to the user.